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Love at the Northern Lights
‘Climbing out the window in her dress and tiara wasn’t exactly how Frankie imagined her wedding day…’
Runaway bride Frankie Ashford hops a plane to Norway with one goal in mind - find her estranged mother and make peace with the past. But when a slip on the ice in Oslo lands her directly in Jonas Thorsen’s viking-strong arms, her single-minded focus drifts away in the winter winds.
When it comes to romance Jonas knows that anything he and Frankie share has an expiration date - the British heiress has a life to return to in London that’s a world away from his own. But family is everything to Jonas and, as the one man who can help Frankie find the answers she’s seeking, he’ll do whatever it takes to help her reunite with her mother.
Now, as Christmas draws closer and the northern lights work their magic Frankie and Jonas will have to make a choice...play it safe or risk heartbreak to take a chance on love.
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2018
119 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Darcie Boleyn
33 books196 followersDarcie Boleyn has a huge heart and is a real softy. She never fails to cry at books and movies, whether the ending is happy or not. Darcie is in possession of an overactive imagination that often keeps her awake at night. Her childhood dream was to become a Jedi but she hasn’t yet found suitable transport to take her to a galaxy far, far away. She also has reservations about how she’d look in a gold bikini, as she rather enjoys red wine, cheese and loves anything with ginger or cherries in it – especially chocolate. Darcie fell in love in New York, got married in the snow, rescues uncoordinated greyhounds and can usually be found reading or typing away on her laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
September 28, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Frankie Ashford is running away from her own wedding. After getting an earful from her Grandmother she heads to the airport still wearing her dress and tiara and pulling the suitcase she was meant to take on her honeymoon. She doesn’t have a plan on where she is going, she just knows that she has to get far away.
Sitting drinking a brew she pulls out the postcard she has been carrying around with her for years, a postcard from her mum who she hasn’t seen since she was just a baby. She doesn’t know whether her mum will still be at the same address, but she decides to find out and heads to the destination on the card, Norway.
Once in Oslo, Noway she sets out to find her mum and comes across gorgeous Jonas on her quest. What will the future hold for Frankie and her mum Freya? Only time will tell.
Love at the Northern Lights is a gorgeous book, it is filled to the brim with wonderful characters, beautiful scenery and just an adorable plot that will have you wishing for snow or a trip to Norway.
Frankie is one of those characters that you instantly adore and can’t wait to find out more about. She has had enough of being pushed around by others and decides it’s time to live her own life, starting with leaving a man she doesn’t love.
Freya has been waiting for Frankie to find her for so long. She had her reasons for leaving when Frankie was just a baby. I’d gathered the person responsible for the reasons from quite early on – Well there has to be one character to dislike in the book.
The story just flowed effortlessly and I found myself eagerly turning the pages wanting to know more and getting sucked further and further into the plot. Norway sounds delightful and I can’t wait to visit one day.
This is a must read to get you in the mood for the colder, winter weather heading our way, which for once I am looking forward to it.
Frankie Ashford is running away from her own wedding. After getting an earful from her Grandmother she heads to the airport still wearing her dress and tiara and pulling the suitcase she was meant to take on her honeymoon. She doesn’t have a plan on where she is going, she just knows that she has to get far away.
Sitting drinking a brew she pulls out the postcard she has been carrying around with her for years, a postcard from her mum who she hasn’t seen since she was just a baby. She doesn’t know whether her mum will still be at the same address, but she decides to find out and heads to the destination on the card, Norway.
Once in Oslo, Noway she sets out to find her mum and comes across gorgeous Jonas on her quest. What will the future hold for Frankie and her mum Freya? Only time will tell.
Love at the Northern Lights is a gorgeous book, it is filled to the brim with wonderful characters, beautiful scenery and just an adorable plot that will have you wishing for snow or a trip to Norway.
Frankie is one of those characters that you instantly adore and can’t wait to find out more about. She has had enough of being pushed around by others and decides it’s time to live her own life, starting with leaving a man she doesn’t love.
Freya has been waiting for Frankie to find her for so long. She had her reasons for leaving when Frankie was just a baby. I’d gathered the person responsible for the reasons from quite early on – Well there has to be one character to dislike in the book.
The story just flowed effortlessly and I found myself eagerly turning the pages wanting to know more and getting sucked further and further into the plot. Norway sounds delightful and I can’t wait to visit one day.
This is a must read to get you in the mood for the colder, winter weather heading our way, which for once I am looking forward to it.
September 23, 2018
Is there anyone who cannot fall in love with this amazing cover? Well, I certainly is not one to resist a book as beautiful as the Northern Lights. Being set in Norway mostly, the story is full of wintry feelings and Christmas magic. A tale of redemption, quest for truth and a sizzling romance with a Thor like man -- Boleyn has knit them all together effortlessly.
The blurb was a bit confusing giving me the impression that Frankie and Jonas are going to search for her mother which was not the case. Her mother, Frey, was Jonas' employer and both meet and recognise each other at the beginning itself. Trouble was confessing to each other their true identity and reconciling her mother to the little rich family she has left behind.
But it all proceeds wonderfully on par with the true spirit of Christmas and the overall atmosephere Boleyn creates is magical and will fill your hearts with happiness. That being said, there was one thing that kept disturbing me. The thoughts and indecisions that were passing through the minds of Frankie and Jonah. It has become so repetitive that towards the end I started skipping some paragraphs because they all conveyed the same thing. A series of dialogues with their confidante would have been a better way to reveal their true feelings to readers. But apart from that, this was a highly satisfying read that should be definite addition to your Christmas TBR.
The blurb was a bit confusing giving me the impression that Frankie and Jonas are going to search for her mother which was not the case. Her mother, Frey, was Jonas' employer and both meet and recognise each other at the beginning itself. Trouble was confessing to each other their true identity and reconciling her mother to the little rich family she has left behind.
But it all proceeds wonderfully on par with the true spirit of Christmas and the overall atmosephere Boleyn creates is magical and will fill your hearts with happiness. That being said, there was one thing that kept disturbing me. The thoughts and indecisions that were passing through the minds of Frankie and Jonah. It has become so repetitive that towards the end I started skipping some paragraphs because they all conveyed the same thing. A series of dialogues with their confidante would have been a better way to reveal their true feelings to readers. But apart from that, this was a highly satisfying read that should be definite addition to your Christmas TBR.
August 21, 2018
From its stunning cover, the hilarious first few chapters, and then the way the story develops, well this is just fabulous. A heartwarming tale taking in a runaway bride, a trip to Norway, finding a parent and even more, discovering yourself too.
Where do I start in explaining how much I loved this book - when I wasn't reading it I was wondering why, when I was I was hoping the ended would never appear, as I was enjoying the story so much.
There are many directions and subplots, most of which I didn't predict which just added to the compelling qualities of this story. There were some fabulous storylines, great writing, beautiful descriptions, some emotion, plenty of laughs and some romance too - I mean what else do you need - and I did I mention it also features a trip to see the Northern Lights, a sexy photographer, a quaint art gallery and a good idea of what Oslo is like in November.
I would say this is more of a wintery book, perfect to read curled up by the fire, although I may have been just as content reading it in the sun during August! Most of the story is set in November, so its not what I would classify a Christmas book per se, more one that could be read at any time of the year, although Christmas does feature.
I loved almost all the characters in this, apart from Frankie's grandma, but I could understand her towards the end at least. I just got such a great feeling reading this that I can't really put into words, and' I don't really want to to comment on the plot as I think its best left to be discovered for yourself.
This really is a wonderful book to add you your must reads stack for this winter, and its one of my favourites from this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Canelo for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Where do I start in explaining how much I loved this book - when I wasn't reading it I was wondering why, when I was I was hoping the ended would never appear, as I was enjoying the story so much.
There are many directions and subplots, most of which I didn't predict which just added to the compelling qualities of this story. There were some fabulous storylines, great writing, beautiful descriptions, some emotion, plenty of laughs and some romance too - I mean what else do you need - and I did I mention it also features a trip to see the Northern Lights, a sexy photographer, a quaint art gallery and a good idea of what Oslo is like in November.
I would say this is more of a wintery book, perfect to read curled up by the fire, although I may have been just as content reading it in the sun during August! Most of the story is set in November, so its not what I would classify a Christmas book per se, more one that could be read at any time of the year, although Christmas does feature.
I loved almost all the characters in this, apart from Frankie's grandma, but I could understand her towards the end at least. I just got such a great feeling reading this that I can't really put into words, and' I don't really want to to comment on the plot as I think its best left to be discovered for yourself.
This really is a wonderful book to add you your must reads stack for this winter, and its one of my favourites from this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Canelo for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 26, 2018
5 Words: Family, attraction, secrets, love, forgiveness.
Blog Tour: Book Review: Love at the Northern Lights by Darcie Boleyn
This book gets off to a cringey start - in a good way. It opens with Frankie on the hen-night from hell, filled with everything I would dread in a hen night. And Frankie feel exactly the same as I would and it meant that I felt a pretty instant connection to her. Considering that her life couldn't be more wildly different from mine, this was a very good thing.
Although most of the characters in this book are moneyed, this book focuses more on the expectations of others rather than the implications of wealth. It was perhaps a little handy that Frankie didn't really urgently want for anything, but she did have her own job too and it helped to ground the character and make her more relatable - yes, she had family wealth, but she worked hard too.
I loved how this book started. From the cringey hen night to the disaster of a wedding, with the run to the airport and the snap decision to get on the plane. I loved the urgency of it all, the panic and confusion. It's very physical feeling, a different pace from what I'm used to and I raced through the beginning. And I loved how that all changed as she reached her destination.
As much as Love at the Northern Lights is a story about finding yourself, it's also a story about giving yourself the chance to love. And familial expectations be damned.
This is a gorgeous book with a bit of festive flair, and I only wish I'd read it closer to Christmas!
Blog Tour: Book Review: Love at the Northern Lights by Darcie Boleyn
This book gets off to a cringey start - in a good way. It opens with Frankie on the hen-night from hell, filled with everything I would dread in a hen night. And Frankie feel exactly the same as I would and it meant that I felt a pretty instant connection to her. Considering that her life couldn't be more wildly different from mine, this was a very good thing.
Although most of the characters in this book are moneyed, this book focuses more on the expectations of others rather than the implications of wealth. It was perhaps a little handy that Frankie didn't really urgently want for anything, but she did have her own job too and it helped to ground the character and make her more relatable - yes, she had family wealth, but she worked hard too.
I loved how this book started. From the cringey hen night to the disaster of a wedding, with the run to the airport and the snap decision to get on the plane. I loved the urgency of it all, the panic and confusion. It's very physical feeling, a different pace from what I'm used to and I raced through the beginning. And I loved how that all changed as she reached her destination.
As much as Love at the Northern Lights is a story about finding yourself, it's also a story about giving yourself the chance to love. And familial expectations be damned.
This is a gorgeous book with a bit of festive flair, and I only wish I'd read it closer to Christmas!
September 15, 2018
4,5 stars
Frankie runs from her wedding and as she doesn't have a place to stay, she goes to the airport and decides to go to Norway. She wants to find her mother, who left her, when she was a baby. When Frankie locates her mother's gallery, she also meets Jonas and the two feel mutual attraction right from the start. The trip to Norway did good to Frankie and her mother, they finally have a chance to talk about everything. Frankie was finally able to overcome her doubts and fears about her mother and her past. A handsome Norwegian man also has a special place in her heart since they met for the first time.
I really liked the book in general, but the parts that were set in Norway I absolutely adored. I loved the description of the cold and snowy weather, watching the northern lights while laying on the reindeer skin by the fire and the local food. The characters were are likeable, except Frankie's grandmother, who didn't really want to consider other people's opinions or feelings. Frankie came from money, but she wasn't snooty or spoiled at all and Jonas was a real gentleman, a bit modest but really caring and sweet. Overall I found it well written book with interesting characters and a lot of emotion in the story.
Frankie runs from her wedding and as she doesn't have a place to stay, she goes to the airport and decides to go to Norway. She wants to find her mother, who left her, when she was a baby. When Frankie locates her mother's gallery, she also meets Jonas and the two feel mutual attraction right from the start. The trip to Norway did good to Frankie and her mother, they finally have a chance to talk about everything. Frankie was finally able to overcome her doubts and fears about her mother and her past. A handsome Norwegian man also has a special place in her heart since they met for the first time.
I really liked the book in general, but the parts that were set in Norway I absolutely adored. I loved the description of the cold and snowy weather, watching the northern lights while laying on the reindeer skin by the fire and the local food. The characters were are likeable, except Frankie's grandmother, who didn't really want to consider other people's opinions or feelings. Frankie came from money, but she wasn't snooty or spoiled at all and Jonas was a real gentleman, a bit modest but really caring and sweet. Overall I found it well written book with interesting characters and a lot of emotion in the story.
September 18, 2018
This is another brilliant 5* romance from this highly talented author, IMHO, possibly her best story so far. Starting with a hen party, then Frankie Ashford absconding from her own wedding, this story has a hilarious start and is an emotive adventure as Frankie travels to Oslo hoping to meet her mother who left when Frankie was just a baby. It is a story of discovering what happened in the past, reuniting and moving forward to a new destiny.
There are plenty of sub plots interwoven into this story to create a beautiful tapestry of events. The evocative descriptions of Norway bring it to life and make it easy to believe you're actually there - including tasting some of the delicious foods on offer, which were mouthwateringly portrayed. It has really made me want to visit to see it all for myself! The characters are easy to relate to, many feeling like people you really know as their motivations both now and in the past, together with their actions and emotions are described, bringing them to life in the imagination of the reader. There isn't just one romance in this story, there's a new one for Frankie and a second-chance one for another couple. It is a story of heartbreak but is also heart warming, I loved it and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
There are plenty of sub plots interwoven into this story to create a beautiful tapestry of events. The evocative descriptions of Norway bring it to life and make it easy to believe you're actually there - including tasting some of the delicious foods on offer, which were mouthwateringly portrayed. It has really made me want to visit to see it all for myself! The characters are easy to relate to, many feeling like people you really know as their motivations both now and in the past, together with their actions and emotions are described, bringing them to life in the imagination of the reader. There isn't just one romance in this story, there's a new one for Frankie and a second-chance one for another couple. It is a story of heartbreak but is also heart warming, I loved it and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
August 22, 2018
This is my first book by this author the cover really attracted me to the book and so glad it did as simply brilliant and didn't want it to end as so good. The characters are excellent and the plot to the story is brilliant and so true to life. Didn't want to put it down at all and full of romance, finding family members and deciding what is best for you instead of being told by others. It's heartbreaking but heartwarming to. Also about being who you want to be and happiness. Worth far more than the five stars I have given it and now want to read more from this author.
Hayley is getting married but on the day her father says she needs to what is best for her age if that means not marrying he is fine with that but she realises it isn't what she wants and she's trying to please her grandmas who has brought her up and wants her to marry someone in the same class as her and with money but when she tells her grandmother and tells her she's not marrying and is going away to which she is told if she does that she will never be able to return she she will be cut out of her will. She's upset and decides to go and find her mother who left when she was a baby she recieved a letter when she was 18 saying where she lived but she has know idea if still there. She heads to Oslo and googles her mothers name as she knows she's an artist she finds her but at the gallery Jonas works for her mother and he's handsome and not normally Hayley's type. Jonas is set on getting mother and daughter back together but he knows he will not be able to stay with Hayley if they do love each other as she knows she has a life to go back to in England. With she learn the truth to why her mother left and will she be able to have a relationship with her again what will her grandmother say when she's heard she is with her mother and how will her father react as she was his only love. Will Hayley and her father find happiness and move forward or will they still be under the thumb of the grandmother.
Simply brilliant read and so hooked and didn't want it to end.
Hayley is getting married but on the day her father says she needs to what is best for her age if that means not marrying he is fine with that but she realises it isn't what she wants and she's trying to please her grandmas who has brought her up and wants her to marry someone in the same class as her and with money but when she tells her grandmother and tells her she's not marrying and is going away to which she is told if she does that she will never be able to return she she will be cut out of her will. She's upset and decides to go and find her mother who left when she was a baby she recieved a letter when she was 18 saying where she lived but she has know idea if still there. She heads to Oslo and googles her mothers name as she knows she's an artist she finds her but at the gallery Jonas works for her mother and he's handsome and not normally Hayley's type. Jonas is set on getting mother and daughter back together but he knows he will not be able to stay with Hayley if they do love each other as she knows she has a life to go back to in England. With she learn the truth to why her mother left and will she be able to have a relationship with her again what will her grandmother say when she's heard she is with her mother and how will her father react as she was his only love. Will Hayley and her father find happiness and move forward or will they still be under the thumb of the grandmother.
Simply brilliant read and so hooked and didn't want it to end.
September 23, 2018
Oh what a truly wonderful and delightful read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this whilst curled up on my sofa.
The author draws you right in to the story pretty quickly with meeting and getting to know all of the characters and experiencing the illidicit and picturesque setting/location of Norway, was so very easy to lose myself in this story.
I loved my visits to Norway, really did feel like I was there for real, as it was all so well described and well written. The mentions of the Northern Lights just sounded beautiful, although as much as I'd love to see them for real, not sure I could have coped with the extreme cold weather conditions lol.
The story was lovely, a very nice easy read with a few emotional and heartfelt moments throughout. Loved the characters, getting to know Frankie, Freya, Hugo and Jonas, and seeing how things progress and develop with them all throughout the story.
Oh and I absolutely adored Luna, who is Jonas husky dog, I just wanted to cuddle her all the time, but then I do have such a soft spot for them.
The author draws you right in to the story pretty quickly with meeting and getting to know all of the characters and experiencing the illidicit and picturesque setting/location of Norway, was so very easy to lose myself in this story.
I loved my visits to Norway, really did feel like I was there for real, as it was all so well described and well written. The mentions of the Northern Lights just sounded beautiful, although as much as I'd love to see them for real, not sure I could have coped with the extreme cold weather conditions lol.
The story was lovely, a very nice easy read with a few emotional and heartfelt moments throughout. Loved the characters, getting to know Frankie, Freya, Hugo and Jonas, and seeing how things progress and develop with them all throughout the story.
Oh and I absolutely adored Luna, who is Jonas husky dog, I just wanted to cuddle her all the time, but then I do have such a soft spot for them.
September 15, 2018
It is extremely rare that I give a book only 1 star, but I just found this book such a drag. I’m usually very keen on Darcie Boleyn’s work, so I was rather surprised that ‘Love at the Northern Lights’ just didn’t deliver in the way I had hoped it would. I have quite the weakness for a cheesy chick lit read, as I find them uplifting and a great bit of escapism from reality. However, this book had a very slow-moving plot, it wasn’t very adventurously written, and the writing itself left a lot to be desired. It felt like it had been rushed. The plot was very predictable, which it often is with books of this genre, but this isn’t a problem as long as the writing makes up for it. I would certainly recommend other books for Darcie Boleyn, but I’m afraid not this one.
September 24, 2018
What a beautiful story! I picked up this book as loved the sound of a Christmas theme and I love the northern lights and this book did not disappoint.
It was a beautiful story of the lovely Frankie, who the morning of her wedding decides she needs to take ownership of her life and do what she wants to do. A story about relationships, finding happiness and having the confidence to follow your heart.
I was enthralled once I picked it up and did not put it back down until I had finished the story of how Frankie embarks on a quest to find happiness and write her own destiny
It was a beautiful story of the lovely Frankie, who the morning of her wedding decides she needs to take ownership of her life and do what she wants to do. A story about relationships, finding happiness and having the confidence to follow your heart.
I was enthralled once I picked it up and did not put it back down until I had finished the story of how Frankie embarks on a quest to find happiness and write her own destiny
September 20, 2018
Darcie Boleyn is one of my favourite romance authors so it’s always a pleasure reading her latest book. She consistently manages to sweep me away to wonderful locations and Love at the Northern Lights is no different. Norway is a place that I’ve never even thought about visiting but the descriptions of Oslo made me want to “do a Frankie” and jump on the next plane over there!
Leaving your fiancé at the alter takes a lot of courage but Frankie did exactly that! Although I couldn’t blame her once I met aforementioned fiancé but still, it seemed a very extreme way to end a relationship. Frankie wasn’t the most likeable of characters to begin with, I found her a little spoilt and shallow but that soon changed once she arrived in Oslo. The journey to reconnect with the mother who abandoned her as a baby was a brave one to take but it lead to her meeting Jonas, the Thor lookalike, who lives a life a million miles away from the one enjoyed by Frankie. Their resulting romance is a sweet, and almost innocent, meeting of perfect soulmates that brought a warm fuzzy glow to my heart.
This is a captivating tale of lost opportunities, forgiveness and taking chances that pulled me immediately into the beautifully written storyline. I adored Jonas, especially his outlook on life, so I think we definitely need more Norwegian men in romantic fiction! And now I’m off to price up that weekend break in Oslo!
Great romance highly recommended by me.
Leaving your fiancé at the alter takes a lot of courage but Frankie did exactly that! Although I couldn’t blame her once I met aforementioned fiancé but still, it seemed a very extreme way to end a relationship. Frankie wasn’t the most likeable of characters to begin with, I found her a little spoilt and shallow but that soon changed once she arrived in Oslo. The journey to reconnect with the mother who abandoned her as a baby was a brave one to take but it lead to her meeting Jonas, the Thor lookalike, who lives a life a million miles away from the one enjoyed by Frankie. Their resulting romance is a sweet, and almost innocent, meeting of perfect soulmates that brought a warm fuzzy glow to my heart.
This is a captivating tale of lost opportunities, forgiveness and taking chances that pulled me immediately into the beautifully written storyline. I adored Jonas, especially his outlook on life, so I think we definitely need more Norwegian men in romantic fiction! And now I’m off to price up that weekend break in Oslo!
Great romance highly recommended by me.
September 23, 2018
Visit Norway and find yourself a viking!
I do love a bit of escapism with Darcie Boleyn.Off to the Northern Lights with this one and it’s very fluffy and nice to just head off with Frankie, spend time with her and her Viking man and then head to the wonders of Tromso. And oh that cake! There’s lots to enjoy here, it’s all very cosy but then sometimes this is just what you need.
The scene setting as ever is lovely with little snippets of history and observations thrown in. The colours of the sky, lying underneath reindeer skins….it might be a Christmas set read but I enjoyed this in the middle of September.
January 30, 2021
We read this as a our January book club read! I didn’t love it at all.
It felt unrealistic, flat and devoid of any emotion, which was a shame.
I’d love to have read more about Oslo and had more realistic dialogues and reactions throughout.
Wasn’t for me unfortunately.
It felt unrealistic, flat and devoid of any emotion, which was a shame.
I’d love to have read more about Oslo and had more realistic dialogues and reactions throughout.
Wasn’t for me unfortunately.
September 17, 2018
When we first meet Frankie she is due to be married to Rolo, when her dad tells her its not too late to back out, if she doesn't want to marry him. Frankie runs off, but not before a chastisement from her grandmother. Heading to the airport with just her suitcase that was packed for her honeymoon. Frankie isn't sure what to do next. The scene in the airport bathroom had me laughing. Trust me I'm sure it will make you laugh too. While pondering what to do next Frankie decides to head to Norway its time to find her mum. Darcie Boleyn does a lovely job of describing the scenery, you really feel as if you are with Frankie. With a little internet search Frankie tracks down her mum Freya. She also meets the lovely Jonas too, who is a great help at facilitating the relationship between mother and daughter. Jonas feels an attraction to Frankie but realises nothing can become of it as she will be going back to her world. When the grandmother is taken ill Frankie rushes back home with her mother and Jonas with her. When we first meet the grandmother she isn't a likable person, but we find out what has made her that way, she does redeem herself a little. I really enjoyed my time with Frankie and co, as they navigate their way to a happy ending.Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance ARC received from Net Galley and the publishers Canelo. In exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
September 27, 2018
Another great holiday read! Yes it was a little predictable but was a very easy and pleasant read with likeable characters and a heartwarming story of love, disappointment and reunions at its heart!
It was lovely to read about Norway and the northern lights within this great little read. This is the first book from this author that I have read and I will be seeking out more!
Many thanks to netgalley for an arc of this book in return for an honest review.
It was lovely to read about Norway and the northern lights within this great little read. This is the first book from this author that I have read and I will be seeking out more!
Many thanks to netgalley for an arc of this book in return for an honest review.
January 14, 2019
#loveatthenorthernlights #netgalley
Beautiful Norwegian backdrop, a runaway bride looking for her long lost mother, a grieving husband/father and a handsome Viking, not too dissimilar to Thor, what’s not to love about this book?
A joyful romp through the Norwegian countryside, with some serious issues thrown in, I throughly enjoyed this easy to read story. It was a real holiday pick me up!
Thank you #netgalley
Beautiful Norwegian backdrop, a runaway bride looking for her long lost mother, a grieving husband/father and a handsome Viking, not too dissimilar to Thor, what’s not to love about this book?
A joyful romp through the Norwegian countryside, with some serious issues thrown in, I throughly enjoyed this easy to read story. It was a real holiday pick me up!
Thank you #netgalley
August 24, 2018
Words cannot describe just how much I LOVED this novel. It was romantic, it was adventurous and was just overall a really lovely, cosy novel. The cover is absolutely stunning - I love the colours of the sky, the snowy trees and the cute little buildings with the huge Christmas tree in the centre! Everything draws you in and automatically makes you want to read it.
The story itself was completely gripping - straight from the first page. I felt so sorry for Frankie and everything that she'd been through and I was so happy for her when she ran away from her own wedding! I was so pleased that she decided to get away from her awful relationship and I'll be honest I found myself getting so irritated with Frankie's grandmother! I just thought, how dare she speak to Frankie like that? That's why I was shocked when Frankie decided to go back to England - but to be fair, family is family in the end.
Jonas was an absolute dreamboat and I loved him! He was such a gentleman and I was so hoping that him and Frankie would work out their differences and be together! It was such a romantic setting, what with the snow, the northern lights and then Christmas. It was just such a great novel and I cannot praise it enough. Another part of the novel that I loved was Frankie and her mother, Freya's relationship. It was so lovely to see their relationship blooming and going from strength to strength. One of my favourite parts was when they were baking together. It just made me feel so warm inside and it was lovely to read.
Overall, I cannot recommend this novel enough. It deserves more than 5 stars and I urge you to read this. It was a perfect novel to cosy up with and Darcie Boleyn at her finest. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
The story itself was completely gripping - straight from the first page. I felt so sorry for Frankie and everything that she'd been through and I was so happy for her when she ran away from her own wedding! I was so pleased that she decided to get away from her awful relationship and I'll be honest I found myself getting so irritated with Frankie's grandmother! I just thought, how dare she speak to Frankie like that? That's why I was shocked when Frankie decided to go back to England - but to be fair, family is family in the end.
Jonas was an absolute dreamboat and I loved him! He was such a gentleman and I was so hoping that him and Frankie would work out their differences and be together! It was such a romantic setting, what with the snow, the northern lights and then Christmas. It was just such a great novel and I cannot praise it enough. Another part of the novel that I loved was Frankie and her mother, Freya's relationship. It was so lovely to see their relationship blooming and going from strength to strength. One of my favourite parts was when they were baking together. It just made me feel so warm inside and it was lovely to read.
Overall, I cannot recommend this novel enough. It deserves more than 5 stars and I urge you to read this. It was a perfect novel to cosy up with and Darcie Boleyn at her finest. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
September 24, 2018
This story gives you arranged marriages for family business and dynastic importance... where love is not important just prestige and money ... so the brides runs away from her over-bearing grandmother and rather weak willed father who arranged the wedding. And her fiancee who doesn't love her, but thought that they could come to an 'arrangement' that suited the families and left him free as long as the heir and the spare were produced.
She runs (by chance) to Norway and finds some surprises.
I thought this a rather hackneyed storyline and found the idea of her settling down in Norway unlikely; the author didn't convince me that she could forgive her mother so easily.
I also thought the issues of post-partum depression could have been better discussed and been made more central to the story - this would permit the forgiveness of the daughter better.
I was also not convinced about her being able to set up a fashion house with all the necessary manufacturing and shipping etc so easily even if her designs were interesting. She had been sewing each item herself for instance. I think again, the author, could have made more of this.
Am I getting too cynical?
She runs (by chance) to Norway and finds some surprises.
I thought this a rather hackneyed storyline and found the idea of her settling down in Norway unlikely; the author didn't convince me that she could forgive her mother so easily.
I also thought the issues of post-partum depression could have been better discussed and been made more central to the story - this would permit the forgiveness of the daughter better.
I was also not convinced about her being able to set up a fashion house with all the necessary manufacturing and shipping etc so easily even if her designs were interesting. She had been sewing each item herself for instance. I think again, the author, could have made more of this.
Am I getting too cynical?
September 17, 2018
Love at the Northern Lights is another wonderful, heart-warming read from Darcie Boleyn. It is the perfect winter read.
Frankie Ashford is due to marry into a well-respected family but she knows that it isn’t right although she doesn’t want to disappoint her family….so she makes a run for it! In a spur of the moment decision, Frankie finds herself at the airport and booking in for a flight to Norway to attempt to find her estranged mother. Frankie has grown up without her mother in her life other than the odd letter or postcard but she has no idea as to why she left in the first place so Frankie is determined to get some answers.
In Oslo, she meets gorgeous Jonas Thorsen who is determined to reunite a family as he can see from both sides that mother and daughter need each other back in each other’s lives. But Jonas finds himself falling for the beautiful and caring Frankie but he’s concerned that their lives are so different.
Split between Oslo and London, Boleyn’s descriptions of both locations really transports her reader to the cities. I loved the scenes set in Norway as I am fascinated by the Northern Lights and would really like to see them…even more so after reading this book!
The writing is beautiful and each of the characters are well-developed and likeable (well other than Frankie’s Grandma, although I did slightly warm to the cantankerous and domineering woman!). I adored Frankie who shines in this book, she is real and very relatable, Love at the Northern Lights is more than a romance story, whilst championing for Frankie and Jonas to get together throughout the book, what struck me most was Frankie’s desire to follow her heart and find herself. Walking away from a doomed marriage and standing up to her controlling Grandma was just the first step, Frankie realises that there are other changes she needs to make to be truly happy.
Love at the Northern Lights is an enjoyable read throughout but the second half really stood out to me and I literally couldn’t put it down. It is the perfect read on a cold day, curled up in front of the fire with a cup of hot chocolate!
Frankie Ashford is due to marry into a well-respected family but she knows that it isn’t right although she doesn’t want to disappoint her family….so she makes a run for it! In a spur of the moment decision, Frankie finds herself at the airport and booking in for a flight to Norway to attempt to find her estranged mother. Frankie has grown up without her mother in her life other than the odd letter or postcard but she has no idea as to why she left in the first place so Frankie is determined to get some answers.
In Oslo, she meets gorgeous Jonas Thorsen who is determined to reunite a family as he can see from both sides that mother and daughter need each other back in each other’s lives. But Jonas finds himself falling for the beautiful and caring Frankie but he’s concerned that their lives are so different.
Split between Oslo and London, Boleyn’s descriptions of both locations really transports her reader to the cities. I loved the scenes set in Norway as I am fascinated by the Northern Lights and would really like to see them…even more so after reading this book!
The writing is beautiful and each of the characters are well-developed and likeable (well other than Frankie’s Grandma, although I did slightly warm to the cantankerous and domineering woman!). I adored Frankie who shines in this book, she is real and very relatable, Love at the Northern Lights is more than a romance story, whilst championing for Frankie and Jonas to get together throughout the book, what struck me most was Frankie’s desire to follow her heart and find herself. Walking away from a doomed marriage and standing up to her controlling Grandma was just the first step, Frankie realises that there are other changes she needs to make to be truly happy.
Love at the Northern Lights is an enjoyable read throughout but the second half really stood out to me and I literally couldn’t put it down. It is the perfect read on a cold day, curled up in front of the fire with a cup of hot chocolate!
December 30, 2018
The more I think about this book, the less I like it.
On first finishing it the other day, I was satisfied enough. It was a pleasant enough experience with a sweet ending.
But then all the problems started ruminating in my mind.
First and foremost, this is presented as a romance novel, and yet the romance is barely a feature of the story. The focus is 90% on Frankie searching for and getting to know her mother. There just happens to be a guy involved who is Nice, Hot Guy #10128312. You could take the romantic arc out and still have pretty much the same story. Jonas could have still just been a friend, and he may has well have been for all the chemistry I felt between him and Frankie throughout. As a pure romance novel, this didn't work for me. There were a couple of kisses??? That's it! So I would personally not have marketed this as a romance novel.
Ok, if not a romance novel, what could it be? It's more contemporary fiction about a woman searching for her mother – and also herself. But it lacked the emotional depth that you would usually find in this story. Yes, there's a bit of anger and resentment, but things go too smoothly between Frankie and her mother when they meet, and then her mother is far too nice about everything. Everyone is just so nice, and it was just not believable at all.
So no emotional development on the romance side nor the family side? Then what was this book doing? Because, to me, it seemed like it was having an identity crisis.
And do not get me started on how everyone was just ok with the pictures douchebag Rolo and co. posted on social media. Jeez.
Ultimately, the sweet ending I mentioned before had nothing to do with the story or the characters. I liked it only because of the northern lights.
On first finishing it the other day, I was satisfied enough. It was a pleasant enough experience with a sweet ending.
But then all the problems started ruminating in my mind.
First and foremost, this is presented as a romance novel, and yet the romance is barely a feature of the story. The focus is 90% on Frankie searching for and getting to know her mother. There just happens to be a guy involved who is Nice, Hot Guy #10128312. You could take the romantic arc out and still have pretty much the same story. Jonas could have still just been a friend, and he may has well have been for all the chemistry I felt between him and Frankie throughout. As a pure romance novel, this didn't work for me. There were a couple of kisses??? That's it! So I would personally not have marketed this as a romance novel.
Ok, if not a romance novel, what could it be? It's more contemporary fiction about a woman searching for her mother – and also herself. But it lacked the emotional depth that you would usually find in this story. Yes, there's a bit of anger and resentment, but things go too smoothly between Frankie and her mother when they meet, and then her mother is far too nice about everything. Everyone is just so nice, and it was just not believable at all.
So no emotional development on the romance side nor the family side? Then what was this book doing? Because, to me, it seemed like it was having an identity crisis.
And do not get me started on how everyone was just ok with the pictures douchebag Rolo and co. posted on social media. Jeez.
Ultimately, the sweet ending I mentioned before had nothing to do with the story or the characters. I liked it only because of the northern lights.
October 5, 2018
I love stories like this, an easy read with plenty to keep me interested. Having read this author before I was looking forward to this one.
The author starts with some very funny chapters, I laughed so much at the hen night antics. She then takes us on a journey to places I would love to visit some day. I have always dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights.
The story is very well told, there is plenty of intrigue throughout as Frankie attempts to find out the secrets of her past and try to find out if she can have a relationship with the mother who abandoned her.
The characters are written well, the story flows throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
The author starts with some very funny chapters, I laughed so much at the hen night antics. She then takes us on a journey to places I would love to visit some day. I have always dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights.
The story is very well told, there is plenty of intrigue throughout as Frankie attempts to find out the secrets of her past and try to find out if she can have a relationship with the mother who abandoned her.
The characters are written well, the story flows throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
December 2, 2020
Pred malo več kot tednom dni sem dokončala tole luštno zgodbo. Prav zapasalo mi je prebrati nekaj lahkotnega in božično obarvanega. V mislih sem vsekakor imela tipično zimsko romanco.
Love at the Northern Lights pa ni ravno tipična. Gre za počasno, umirjeno zgodbo, kjer se hkrati ne zgodi veliko a po drugi strani se.
Po pričakovanju mi je bil začetek všeč, saj je hiter, rahlo dramatičen in kot iz filma. Potem pa predvsem spremljamo Frankie, njeno mamo in Jonasa.
Knjiga ni ravno romantična, čeprav se vse vrti okoli odnosov, a me to pravzaprav ni zmotilo.
KAJ MI JE BILO VŠEČ?
Pritegnilo me je predvsem to, da liki niso kuhali zamer ampak so se namesto tega pogovorili. Precej očitno rešitev ne? No, v večini drugih knjig pač ne.
ALI JO PRIPOROČAM?
Knjigo vsekakor priporočam!
Love at the Northern Lights pa ni ravno tipična. Gre za počasno, umirjeno zgodbo, kjer se hkrati ne zgodi veliko a po drugi strani se.
Po pričakovanju mi je bil začetek všeč, saj je hiter, rahlo dramatičen in kot iz filma. Potem pa predvsem spremljamo Frankie, njeno mamo in Jonasa.
Knjiga ni ravno romantična, čeprav se vse vrti okoli odnosov, a me to pravzaprav ni zmotilo.
KAJ MI JE BILO VŠEČ?
Pritegnilo me je predvsem to, da liki niso kuhali zamer ampak so se namesto tega pogovorili. Precej očitno rešitev ne? No, v večini drugih knjig pač ne.
ALI JO PRIPOROČAM?
Knjigo vsekakor priporočam!
December 21, 2018
What a gloriously festive read!
It’s everything you could wish for in a Christmas story… and more. But be prepared to feel sad when you turn that last page - you might just want to read it all over again!
Frankie’s journey of self-discovery finds you emotionally invested in pushing her forward. There are some tough relationship truths with which many people will, sadly, empathise. But as Frankie moves on past the roller-coaster of emotions there is hope and a magical setting that will surely see everyone adding Norway to their ‘must see’ list.
Be prepared to read this in one sitting as you find yourself effortlessly turning those pages late, late, late into the night!
It’s everything you could wish for in a Christmas story… and more. But be prepared to feel sad when you turn that last page - you might just want to read it all over again!
Frankie’s journey of self-discovery finds you emotionally invested in pushing her forward. There are some tough relationship truths with which many people will, sadly, empathise. But as Frankie moves on past the roller-coaster of emotions there is hope and a magical setting that will surely see everyone adding Norway to their ‘must see’ list.
Be prepared to read this in one sitting as you find yourself effortlessly turning those pages late, late, late into the night!
November 18, 2018
When Frankie realises what a mistake she is making and runs away from her own wedding she decides to run to Norway and find her long lost mother.... but she also finds the gorgeous Jonas!
Another lovely book by this author, I have loved all of her books and this one doesn't disappoint, there are plenty of twists and turns and great characters, even the mean grandmother! Great book to curl up in front of a fire with
Another lovely book by this author, I have loved all of her books and this one doesn't disappoint, there are plenty of twists and turns and great characters, even the mean grandmother! Great book to curl up in front of a fire with
December 31, 2018
4.5 out of 5
December 28, 2023
this was readable, but not amazing, it was just very predictable and unrealistic but the characters were mwahhh and such a good easy christmas book
November 30, 2023
Sweet, easy, wintery, and comforting
A nice change from my recent, weightier, genres, and I enjoyed it. Finished in 2 sittings
A nice change from my recent, weightier, genres, and I enjoyed it. Finished in 2 sittings
October 14, 2018
Frankie is about to say ‘I do’ to a man she doesn’t love. Her grandmother has made another important decision about Frankie’s future, but she’s finally had enough. She runs away from her own wedding and decides to go to Norway. It’s time to find out more about the mother she’s never known. Frankie has her address, but doesn’t know much else about the woman, what will happen if she finds her, will her large number of questions be answered and is there still time to connect? Will Frankie’s heart be broken once more or will meeting her mother be good for her?
When Frankie meets Jonas she instantly feels a spark. He’s different from the arrogant men she’s used to deal with in her social circles and his sincerity and honesty are refreshing. Jonas shows her his city and he takes her to see the northern lights, but there’s one thing he doesn’t think he can give Frankie. Will he ever be brave enough to risk his heart? Frankie has just ended her relationship, is it too soon for her to fall in love again or will the magic of Norway awaken feelings she’s never had before?
Love at the Northern Lights is a wonderful feelgood story. Frankie doesn’t have much confidence, her life has always been ruled by others. She’s gorgeous, talented and smart, but she’s never been able to openly follow her dreams and it’s time for a change. I loved witnessing her transformation and enjoyed every single moment of her fascinating journey. It was fun to see Norway through Frankie’s eyes. She also has an interesting family and I was intrigued by the complexity of the relationships and the consequences this has on Frankie’s behavior. I liked how Frankie finally opens her heart, so she can let love in. Her story captivated me from beginning to end.
Darcie Boleyn has a terrific warm writing style that’s easily recognizable, I love how she clearly puts her stamp on every story she writes. She describes feelings in a fantastic matter of fact way that always makes me smile. Love at the Northern Lights is an original story with many different layers. There’s romance, but family, friendship and fighting for happiness are also playing an important role. I admired this versatility and together with the stunning setting it makes the story fabulously complete. Love at the Northern Lights is a true gem, it’s a story that made my heart melt.
When Frankie meets Jonas she instantly feels a spark. He’s different from the arrogant men she’s used to deal with in her social circles and his sincerity and honesty are refreshing. Jonas shows her his city and he takes her to see the northern lights, but there’s one thing he doesn’t think he can give Frankie. Will he ever be brave enough to risk his heart? Frankie has just ended her relationship, is it too soon for her to fall in love again or will the magic of Norway awaken feelings she’s never had before?
Love at the Northern Lights is a wonderful feelgood story. Frankie doesn’t have much confidence, her life has always been ruled by others. She’s gorgeous, talented and smart, but she’s never been able to openly follow her dreams and it’s time for a change. I loved witnessing her transformation and enjoyed every single moment of her fascinating journey. It was fun to see Norway through Frankie’s eyes. She also has an interesting family and I was intrigued by the complexity of the relationships and the consequences this has on Frankie’s behavior. I liked how Frankie finally opens her heart, so she can let love in. Her story captivated me from beginning to end.
Darcie Boleyn has a terrific warm writing style that’s easily recognizable, I love how she clearly puts her stamp on every story she writes. She describes feelings in a fantastic matter of fact way that always makes me smile. Love at the Northern Lights is an original story with many different layers. There’s romance, but family, friendship and fighting for happiness are also playing an important role. I admired this versatility and together with the stunning setting it makes the story fabulously complete. Love at the Northern Lights is a true gem, it’s a story that made my heart melt.
December 15, 2018
I have to say when I read the blurb of this book I thought it was going to be a winner, a guy described as a Viking, the northern lights, a Christmas setting and some family drama, with of course a dollop of romance.
It started off well with Frankie making a run from her wedding and basically being disowned by her Grandmother for doing so, then the decision to go to Norway, which I loved as a setting. Everything the author describes gives me the urge to want to get on a plane to see the place for myself. The northern lights are definitely on my bucket list and definitely the kind of atmosphere that would feel magical and romantic with the right person.
However, once Frankie arrives in Norway I realised that the blurb had been somewhat misleading. I had figured that this would be the story of Jonas helping Frankie to find her mother during which they would fall hopelessly in love, instead, Frankie finds her mother straight away and the story is essentially a family reconnecting.
I have to admit to a little disappointed because I was really hoping for a crazy, doubt-ridden journey around Norway with a lot of romantic tension and I didn’t get it. That’s not to say that what I read wasn’t good, it was but I don’t think I would really class it as a romance book.
It was more of a family drama, although there really wasn’t that much drama. Surprisingly, considering how many big moments that could have caused a lot of emotional turmoil, everyone was very forgiving and exceptionally reflective. Which I have to say I didn’t find very believable, I mean I am all for Christmas miracles but there’s no way that you carry around that much hurt and then forgive someone in an instant.
The characters were all nice, the only one who wasn’t was the grandmother who went from being a heinous, battleaxe type individual to being nice and whilst it made for pleasant reading it didn’t make me feel particularly involved with them.
The ‘romance’ over the whole book between Jonas and Frankie was more like the tiny spark that you would find at the start of a romance book before it delves further into it and gets emotional. It was subtle but maybe a little bit too subtle and could do with a bit more to make you really root for it.
Love At The Northern Lights is an enjoyable book, good for a bit of light reading but I think for me being a bit mislead meant that it didn’t live up to its full potential.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
It started off well with Frankie making a run from her wedding and basically being disowned by her Grandmother for doing so, then the decision to go to Norway, which I loved as a setting. Everything the author describes gives me the urge to want to get on a plane to see the place for myself. The northern lights are definitely on my bucket list and definitely the kind of atmosphere that would feel magical and romantic with the right person.
However, once Frankie arrives in Norway I realised that the blurb had been somewhat misleading. I had figured that this would be the story of Jonas helping Frankie to find her mother during which they would fall hopelessly in love, instead, Frankie finds her mother straight away and the story is essentially a family reconnecting.
I have to admit to a little disappointed because I was really hoping for a crazy, doubt-ridden journey around Norway with a lot of romantic tension and I didn’t get it. That’s not to say that what I read wasn’t good, it was but I don’t think I would really class it as a romance book.
It was more of a family drama, although there really wasn’t that much drama. Surprisingly, considering how many big moments that could have caused a lot of emotional turmoil, everyone was very forgiving and exceptionally reflective. Which I have to say I didn’t find very believable, I mean I am all for Christmas miracles but there’s no way that you carry around that much hurt and then forgive someone in an instant.
The characters were all nice, the only one who wasn’t was the grandmother who went from being a heinous, battleaxe type individual to being nice and whilst it made for pleasant reading it didn’t make me feel particularly involved with them.
The ‘romance’ over the whole book between Jonas and Frankie was more like the tiny spark that you would find at the start of a romance book before it delves further into it and gets emotional. It was subtle but maybe a little bit too subtle and could do with a bit more to make you really root for it.
Love At The Northern Lights is an enjoyable book, good for a bit of light reading but I think for me being a bit mislead meant that it didn’t live up to its full potential.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
September 25, 2018
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This is a gorgeous book to read and it has a stunning cover!
I love this authors books and was delighted to see that she had a new release out for Christmas 2018 and after reading the blurb I knew it was a book I wanted to get my hands on and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
The author managed to completely transport me to the locations in the book, I have been lucky enough to see the Northern Lights myself on a couple of occasions so it brought back some lovely memories too!
Five stars from me, another superb book from this author – a complete treat for Christmas – I loved it!!
This is a gorgeous book to read and it has a stunning cover!
I love this authors books and was delighted to see that she had a new release out for Christmas 2018 and after reading the blurb I knew it was a book I wanted to get my hands on and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
The author managed to completely transport me to the locations in the book, I have been lucky enough to see the Northern Lights myself on a couple of occasions so it brought back some lovely memories too!
Five stars from me, another superb book from this author – a complete treat for Christmas – I loved it!!
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