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Art Café #3
Escape to the Art Cafe
Make a wish . . .
Flora Bexton’s perfect birthday has just been ruined. Dumped by her boyfriend on the eve of turning thirty, she does what any sane-minded person would do.
She steals his motorbike and runs away to her mum’s cottage on the Welsh coast. Flora’s practically drowning in self-pity.
But all isn’t lost. Aussie lifeguard Jake comes to the rescue. And it doesn’t hurt that he could be a swimwear model . . .
Jake brings some very welcome excitement to Flora’s solo trip. But she’s afraid of getting her heart broken. Sparks are flying but she doesn’t want to risk getting hurt again. Maybe they should just be friends.
But her ‘holiday’ feels more like home with every passing day. And the closer she gets to Jake, the more she thinks about taking that risk . . .
Flora Bexton’s perfect birthday has just been ruined. Dumped by her boyfriend on the eve of turning thirty, she does what any sane-minded person would do.
She steals his motorbike and runs away to her mum’s cottage on the Welsh coast. Flora’s practically drowning in self-pity.
But all isn’t lost. Aussie lifeguard Jake comes to the rescue. And it doesn’t hurt that he could be a swimwear model . . .
Jake brings some very welcome excitement to Flora’s solo trip. But she’s afraid of getting her heart broken. Sparks are flying but she doesn’t want to risk getting hurt again. Maybe they should just be friends.
But her ‘holiday’ feels more like home with every passing day. And the closer she gets to Jake, the more she thinks about taking that risk . . .
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2020
50 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 7, 2020
Hairdresser Flora Bexton quit her job at the salon after one too many harassments from her boss and headed home, only to find her boyfriend in a compromising situation. Disgusted and distraught, she grabbed his Ducati (borrowed? stole?) and headed to the cottage on the Gower peninsula on the Welsh coast where they’d been going for a “romantic weekend”. The cottage was owned by her mother and Flora had been a local until she was eleven – her family holidays were something she remembered fondly.
When Jake Foley rescued a young woman from the waves, putting his Aussie Life Saving skills to the test, he wondered who the petite firebrand was. It wasn’t long before everyone in the small town knew Flora and she soon made friends with the young people at the Art Café on the promenade, overlooking the ocean. It was a special place and she enjoyed the cakes and hot chocolate, often with Jake by her side. But once again, things went wrong for Flora…
Escape to the Art Café is my first by author Sue McDonagh and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light and entertaining, with laugh out loud moments, it made for a delightful read. Happiness, sadness, angst, misunderstandings and troubled minds filled Escape to the Art Café, and even though it’s #3 in the Art Café series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone. Highly recommended.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When Jake Foley rescued a young woman from the waves, putting his Aussie Life Saving skills to the test, he wondered who the petite firebrand was. It wasn’t long before everyone in the small town knew Flora and she soon made friends with the young people at the Art Café on the promenade, overlooking the ocean. It was a special place and she enjoyed the cakes and hot chocolate, often with Jake by her side. But once again, things went wrong for Flora…
Escape to the Art Café is my first by author Sue McDonagh and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light and entertaining, with laugh out loud moments, it made for a delightful read. Happiness, sadness, angst, misunderstandings and troubled minds filled Escape to the Art Café, and even though it’s #3 in the Art Café series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone. Highly recommended.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2020
This is the third book in the Art Café series, but it can so easily be read as a stand-alone believe me I know this is true as this is the first of the series I have read myself – in fact, this is the first of the author’s books I have read and I was instantly enchanted by Sue McDonagh’s relatable, witty and sparkling writing, and I can’t wait to read from her.
There is so much covered in this book, we have hairdressing biker chicks, Aussie-Welsh surfing lifeguards…aw, Jake – I will get to him later drama, family, heartache, friendship and hot chocolate…plus, did I mention Thor-like Jake? Honestly, all this man needs is a hammer and a cape and he would be thunderous Thor…deep sigh!!
Oh, he is fabulous, I don’t usually go all gooey-eyed at blonde’s as I have always prefered dark-haired heroes, but Jake…well, what can I say? Cheeky, handsome, witty, secretive, handsome…did I just say that? Well, he is, plus there is very little left to the imagination when he is wearing that wetsuit….my mind went into the completely wrong direction in those scenes.
I was instantly taken with this, the back blurb caught my imagination I wanted to know what Flora was running from, I wanted to get know Jake and the residents of those who frequent the Art Café and I wasn’t disappointed, I love the way the author grasped your attention from the first page, you are instantly intrigued as to why Flora is stuck on a bodyboard in the middle of the Welsh sea, then we get little hints of something that occurred to her and I love how we get to Flora’s story. The same has to be said about Jake, who has returned from Australia the whole tale about his return is one that keeps the reader guessing.
This is one of the easiest and relaxing books to read, literally sit back grab a cuppa and enjoy let your mind and imagination wander into the lives of Flora and Jake. They are two hugely fascinating and complex individuals, two people who have a past, there are secrets which do become unravels as the story plods along and I thoroughly enjoyed finding out all the little hidden secrets.
To be perfectly honest I at first wouldn’t have put Jake and Flora together as a couple, they seemed far too different there is an atmosphere between them but once you get to know them as people you understand that sharpish behaviour. I loved the inclusion of the biking community which is one that is so misunderstood – I don’t the likes of the tv show; Son’s of Anarchy does genuine and responsible bikers much good, I know that they can be amazing and good people so it was nice to see that side put in the spotlight.
There is so much to like about this book, the pacing is perfect you get to know everything at the right time in the story, the opening and the first introduction to Flora and Jake is another great part of the story, you instantly are intrigued and want to know more.
This is such a great summery book, it makes you smile from beginning to end, there is lots of fun, humour, drama, and a fabulous cast of character’s, I cannot recommend it enough!
There is so much covered in this book, we have hairdressing biker chicks, Aussie-Welsh surfing lifeguards…aw, Jake – I will get to him later drama, family, heartache, friendship and hot chocolate…plus, did I mention Thor-like Jake? Honestly, all this man needs is a hammer and a cape and he would be thunderous Thor…deep sigh!!
Oh, he is fabulous, I don’t usually go all gooey-eyed at blonde’s as I have always prefered dark-haired heroes, but Jake…well, what can I say? Cheeky, handsome, witty, secretive, handsome…did I just say that? Well, he is, plus there is very little left to the imagination when he is wearing that wetsuit….my mind went into the completely wrong direction in those scenes.
I was instantly taken with this, the back blurb caught my imagination I wanted to know what Flora was running from, I wanted to get know Jake and the residents of those who frequent the Art Café and I wasn’t disappointed, I love the way the author grasped your attention from the first page, you are instantly intrigued as to why Flora is stuck on a bodyboard in the middle of the Welsh sea, then we get little hints of something that occurred to her and I love how we get to Flora’s story. The same has to be said about Jake, who has returned from Australia the whole tale about his return is one that keeps the reader guessing.
This is one of the easiest and relaxing books to read, literally sit back grab a cuppa and enjoy let your mind and imagination wander into the lives of Flora and Jake. They are two hugely fascinating and complex individuals, two people who have a past, there are secrets which do become unravels as the story plods along and I thoroughly enjoyed finding out all the little hidden secrets.
To be perfectly honest I at first wouldn’t have put Jake and Flora together as a couple, they seemed far too different there is an atmosphere between them but once you get to know them as people you understand that sharpish behaviour. I loved the inclusion of the biking community which is one that is so misunderstood – I don’t the likes of the tv show; Son’s of Anarchy does genuine and responsible bikers much good, I know that they can be amazing and good people so it was nice to see that side put in the spotlight.
There is so much to like about this book, the pacing is perfect you get to know everything at the right time in the story, the opening and the first introduction to Flora and Jake is another great part of the story, you instantly are intrigued and want to know more.
This is such a great summery book, it makes you smile from beginning to end, there is lots of fun, humour, drama, and a fabulous cast of character’s, I cannot recommend it enough!
June 23, 2020
Escape to the Art Cafe is the third book by Sue McDonagh set in the beautiful Gower peninsula in Wales and featuring the Art Cafe. You don't need to have read the other two books to enjoy this one - although I would recommend it anyway as they are lovely books. Each book is a standalone featuring different main characters. It was lovely though to see characters from the previous books popping up every now and again. That beautiful front cover was painted by the author who obviously has many talents as she also crocheted the blanket which features on the cover!
Flora, it's fair to say, has had a bad day. Her creep of a boss goes too far, and she quits her hairdressing job. Arriving home early, she finds her boyfriend, who she'd thought might be about to propose, in bed with another woman! Devastated she heads off to her mother's holiday cottage in Wales, the location for many happy childhood holidays, on her boyfriend's powerful and expensive motorbike. And so she spends her 30th birthday alone, surfing. When she gets into difficulties she is rescued by handsome lifeguard Jake, recently returned from travelling in Australia and working in his grandparents' hotel.
Both Flora and Jake could be rather prickly characters but they both had things in their past which made them that way. I so enjoyed reading about them ever so gradually getting to know each other and learn more about each other. Although the attraction between them was clear from the outset, they didn't immediately act upon it and there was a really natural feel to their developing friendship.
There were more than a few intriguing parts of the story too. Why did Jake's gran Molly have something against bikers and what did she have against The Art Café? What would happen when Flora's secret mission came to light - I must admit I was dreading that part! The Art Cafe is not so much a focal point of the story in this book as in the previous two but does play a significant part and there are some rather dramatic scenes which take place there.
Both Jake and Flora have very interesting pasts and more than a few secrets are being kept by several members of their families. There is lots about the biking community and how welcoming and friendly, though sometimes misunderstood it is. Surfing features in this book too and cooking and hairdressing. Somehow, the author brings all these seemingly unconnected ideas together in a very satisfying read. Community is a very important theme throughout the book with the hotel being a focal point for many community activities. I very much enjoyed my Escape to the Art Cafe.
Flora, it's fair to say, has had a bad day. Her creep of a boss goes too far, and she quits her hairdressing job. Arriving home early, she finds her boyfriend, who she'd thought might be about to propose, in bed with another woman! Devastated she heads off to her mother's holiday cottage in Wales, the location for many happy childhood holidays, on her boyfriend's powerful and expensive motorbike. And so she spends her 30th birthday alone, surfing. When she gets into difficulties she is rescued by handsome lifeguard Jake, recently returned from travelling in Australia and working in his grandparents' hotel.
Both Flora and Jake could be rather prickly characters but they both had things in their past which made them that way. I so enjoyed reading about them ever so gradually getting to know each other and learn more about each other. Although the attraction between them was clear from the outset, they didn't immediately act upon it and there was a really natural feel to their developing friendship.
There were more than a few intriguing parts of the story too. Why did Jake's gran Molly have something against bikers and what did she have against The Art Café? What would happen when Flora's secret mission came to light - I must admit I was dreading that part! The Art Cafe is not so much a focal point of the story in this book as in the previous two but does play a significant part and there are some rather dramatic scenes which take place there.
Both Jake and Flora have very interesting pasts and more than a few secrets are being kept by several members of their families. There is lots about the biking community and how welcoming and friendly, though sometimes misunderstood it is. Surfing features in this book too and cooking and hairdressing. Somehow, the author brings all these seemingly unconnected ideas together in a very satisfying read. Community is a very important theme throughout the book with the hotel being a focal point for many community activities. I very much enjoyed my Escape to the Art Cafe.
July 1, 2020
Another cute book which had all the feels with a story twist and many a humorous dialogue. Author Sue McDonagh sure gave me a couple of hours of escapism.
Flora had a bad day with groping hands and a betraying love. So she drove away on her infidel boyfriend’s bike and later surfed into the sea only to be saved by a hunky Aussie Jake. And Art Café was their focal point for coffee and cakes.
My first book by this author though third in the series, each is a standalone. The friendly characters enveloped the book with their cheer and goodwill. Flora was quite complex but with a mouth which had no filters. That made some funny moments, had to giggle at her innuendos.
I loved how Jake was initially quite shocked with some of them until he got it. He got her in the book;their relationship progressed slowly down the pages. The path of true love would always have the author wanting to create thorns. And Sue McDonagh too made them walk through different emotions.
Real characters, twisty plot, many emotions made this quite a fun read.
Flora had a bad day with groping hands and a betraying love. So she drove away on her infidel boyfriend’s bike and later surfed into the sea only to be saved by a hunky Aussie Jake. And Art Café was their focal point for coffee and cakes.
My first book by this author though third in the series, each is a standalone. The friendly characters enveloped the book with their cheer and goodwill. Flora was quite complex but with a mouth which had no filters. That made some funny moments, had to giggle at her innuendos.
I loved how Jake was initially quite shocked with some of them until he got it. He got her in the book;their relationship progressed slowly down the pages. The path of true love would always have the author wanting to create thorns. And Sue McDonagh too made them walk through different emotions.
Real characters, twisty plot, many emotions made this quite a fun read.
June 30, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I always love returning to the Art Café books, and ‘Escape to the Art Café‘ was certainly no exception to that steadfast reaction of mine whenever a new adventure is set to start. This time Flora will find herself on a holiday all on her own and questioning her choices and decisions regarding men and life in general. She has no clue that while another man is about to enter her life, this time will be so different, and so much more than she could have ever expected.
Sometimes “home” finds us when we least expect it. That thought kept running through my mind as Flora and Jake found each other and the pieces of their lives separately and together began to fall into place. How does a near-disastrous surfing accident lead to a much happier future? When the person rescuing you is the one you’ve been searching for without even realizing it. Flora’s discovery of her jerk of a boyfriend’s (now ex-boyfriend’s) cheating, and her taking off on his lovely, expensive bike to head to her mother’s holiday cottage to escape all that’s happening in her life right now might have been impulsive, but it certainly was the right thing to do for so many reasons – but most importantly that it brought her to the Art Café and to Jake.
I had such fun with ‘Escape to the Art Café‘. Jake and Flora each have secrets, each has a few trust issues right now, but the attraction and chemistry between them are strong and not to be ignored. I adored watching their adventure of falling in love and working out the other parts of their lives as well. We’ll meet up briefly with old book friends, experience the magic of cake and hot chocolate once more, and simply have a delightful time back in the ‘Art Café‘ world once again. If you haven’t yet read the previous stories don’t worry about diving into Jake and Flora’s romance. While there are some central to all stories things (like the location), there is no definitive thread woven throughout the series that needs to be closely followed. Simply excellent romances, with engaging people, and issues that need to be faced to pave the way for that happily ever after ending. Although, I’m betting that you’d go back for the earlier stories once you finish this one. I loved being back in this world so indulge yourself and enjoy the falling in love adventure of two very likable people who deserve happiness.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I always love returning to the Art Café books, and ‘Escape to the Art Café‘ was certainly no exception to that steadfast reaction of mine whenever a new adventure is set to start. This time Flora will find herself on a holiday all on her own and questioning her choices and decisions regarding men and life in general. She has no clue that while another man is about to enter her life, this time will be so different, and so much more than she could have ever expected.
Sometimes “home” finds us when we least expect it. That thought kept running through my mind as Flora and Jake found each other and the pieces of their lives separately and together began to fall into place. How does a near-disastrous surfing accident lead to a much happier future? When the person rescuing you is the one you’ve been searching for without even realizing it. Flora’s discovery of her jerk of a boyfriend’s (now ex-boyfriend’s) cheating, and her taking off on his lovely, expensive bike to head to her mother’s holiday cottage to escape all that’s happening in her life right now might have been impulsive, but it certainly was the right thing to do for so many reasons – but most importantly that it brought her to the Art Café and to Jake.
I had such fun with ‘Escape to the Art Café‘. Jake and Flora each have secrets, each has a few trust issues right now, but the attraction and chemistry between them are strong and not to be ignored. I adored watching their adventure of falling in love and working out the other parts of their lives as well. We’ll meet up briefly with old book friends, experience the magic of cake and hot chocolate once more, and simply have a delightful time back in the ‘Art Café‘ world once again. If you haven’t yet read the previous stories don’t worry about diving into Jake and Flora’s romance. While there are some central to all stories things (like the location), there is no definitive thread woven throughout the series that needs to be closely followed. Simply excellent romances, with engaging people, and issues that need to be faced to pave the way for that happily ever after ending. Although, I’m betting that you’d go back for the earlier stories once you finish this one. I loved being back in this world so indulge yourself and enjoy the falling in love adventure of two very likable people who deserve happiness.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Choc Lit/Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
June 30, 2020
Book 3 in the Art Cafe series introduces us to 2 totally new characters and wow!! What an introduction!! I love this series, and it delivers once more with a wonderful setting, and fabulous storylines to escape into - and a new swoonsome hunk to drool over in the shape of Jake!! Where do I get to meet blokes like these?! I need to move myself to Wales I think!
This book centres around Flora who finds herself in Wales at her parents holiday home and she's got plenty to escape from after the ultimate betrayal. But she's not so sweet and innocent herself as she's stolen her boyfriends' motorbike to escape on - that'll teach him!! But it's not the 30th birthday to remember as she finds herself alone and in trouble in the water - Jake to the rescue! He's recently returned from Australia where he was a lifeguard and is staying with his grandparents in their hotel, which is in need of a bit of TLC.
The moment they meet there are sparks - who can blame Flora! - but she's very wary, and you get the impression Jake is hiding some sadness too. A pair well matched with unresolved issues from their past plaguing their present!
As always, the community surrounding the Art Cafe are welcoming to the newbies amongst them and Flora finds herself settling in really well and even thinking of starting up her own hair dressing business. But disaster is never far away and once again the power of community is brought to the fore after a devastating storm and it helps cement certain feelings and brings unknown truths out which could scupper progress made.
What I love about this series is just how relatable the characters are. How they have to face up to dilemmas in their lives and really get to know themselves when their backs are up against the wall. This can easily be read as a stand alone but you'll be wanting to go back to visit the others in the series once you read this! Wonderful!!
This book centres around Flora who finds herself in Wales at her parents holiday home and she's got plenty to escape from after the ultimate betrayal. But she's not so sweet and innocent herself as she's stolen her boyfriends' motorbike to escape on - that'll teach him!! But it's not the 30th birthday to remember as she finds herself alone and in trouble in the water - Jake to the rescue! He's recently returned from Australia where he was a lifeguard and is staying with his grandparents in their hotel, which is in need of a bit of TLC.
The moment they meet there are sparks - who can blame Flora! - but she's very wary, and you get the impression Jake is hiding some sadness too. A pair well matched with unresolved issues from their past plaguing their present!
As always, the community surrounding the Art Cafe are welcoming to the newbies amongst them and Flora finds herself settling in really well and even thinking of starting up her own hair dressing business. But disaster is never far away and once again the power of community is brought to the fore after a devastating storm and it helps cement certain feelings and brings unknown truths out which could scupper progress made.
What I love about this series is just how relatable the characters are. How they have to face up to dilemmas in their lives and really get to know themselves when their backs are up against the wall. This can easily be read as a stand alone but you'll be wanting to go back to visit the others in the series once you read this! Wonderful!!
May 10, 2021
Een nieuwe toekomst op een plek uit het verleden?
Een handtastelijke baas en een romantische vakantie die, al voordat deze is begonnen, compleet in het water valt, zorgen ervoor dat alle stoppen doorslaan bij Flora. Zonder erbij na te denken besluit ze om alleen op vakantie te gaan, en uit wraak doet ze dat op de geliefde motor van haar vriendje.
Eenzaam hoeft Flora zich niet te voelen op haar vakantieadres in Wales. Op de plek waaraan ze veel warme herinneringen heeft, komt ze al snel in contact met mensen waarbij ze zich gelijk op haar gemak voelt. In het Kunstcafé vindt Flora gelijkgestemde motorliefhebbers en belandt ze in een warm bad vol lieve mensen.
“Ze staarde hem even stil aan en klapte toen dubbel van het lachen, waardoor ze een hele andere kant van haar persoonlijkheid liet zien. Het was alsof de zon verscheen vanachter een donkere wolk.” Sue McDonagh
Terwijl Flora steeds closer wordt met de knappe Jake, begint ze zich af te vragen of ze op deze plek misschien een nieuwe toekomst op zou kunnen bouwen.
Thuis in het Kunstcafé van Sue McDonagh is een feelgood verhaal waarin de lezer kennismaakt met nieuwe personages, tegen de achtergrond van het Kunstcafé, dat je misschien al kent uit eerdere boeken rondom dit café.
In dat geval zal dit verhaal waarschijnlijk voelen als op bezoek gaan bij vrienden die je een tijdje niet hebt gezien, maar waar je je gelijk weer thuis voelt. Mocht je voor het eerst kennismaken met het Kunstcafé, dan zul je net als Flora merken dat je moeiteloos wordt meegenomen door de fijne personages in de aantrekkelijke kustplaats.
Door gebeurtenissen uit haar jeugd brengt het personage van Flora een aantal interessante verhaallijnen met zich mee. Lijnen die in het heden zorgen voor allerlei emoties, confrontaties en misverstanden. Hierdoor is Flora genoodzaakt om bepaalde pijnpunten nu echt eens aan te pakken.
De karakters van Flora en Jake passen naadloos bij de personages uit de eerdere Kunstcafé boeken. Samen met hun familie en vrienden zorgen ze voor wat onverwachte en verwachte wendingen. Maar dat je bepaalde ontwikkelingen wel ziet aankomen, betekent niet dat ze daardoor minder leuk zijn.
Thuis in het Kunstcafé doet waar je op hoopt: het bezorgt je een fijn en ontspannen gevoel. Dit verhaal van Sue McDonagh krijgt 4 sterren van mij.
Deze recensie schreef ik voor, en is terug te vinden op, de blog In de Boekenkast: https://indeboekenkast.com.
Een handtastelijke baas en een romantische vakantie die, al voordat deze is begonnen, compleet in het water valt, zorgen ervoor dat alle stoppen doorslaan bij Flora. Zonder erbij na te denken besluit ze om alleen op vakantie te gaan, en uit wraak doet ze dat op de geliefde motor van haar vriendje.
Eenzaam hoeft Flora zich niet te voelen op haar vakantieadres in Wales. Op de plek waaraan ze veel warme herinneringen heeft, komt ze al snel in contact met mensen waarbij ze zich gelijk op haar gemak voelt. In het Kunstcafé vindt Flora gelijkgestemde motorliefhebbers en belandt ze in een warm bad vol lieve mensen.
“Ze staarde hem even stil aan en klapte toen dubbel van het lachen, waardoor ze een hele andere kant van haar persoonlijkheid liet zien. Het was alsof de zon verscheen vanachter een donkere wolk.” Sue McDonagh
Terwijl Flora steeds closer wordt met de knappe Jake, begint ze zich af te vragen of ze op deze plek misschien een nieuwe toekomst op zou kunnen bouwen.
Thuis in het Kunstcafé van Sue McDonagh is een feelgood verhaal waarin de lezer kennismaakt met nieuwe personages, tegen de achtergrond van het Kunstcafé, dat je misschien al kent uit eerdere boeken rondom dit café.
In dat geval zal dit verhaal waarschijnlijk voelen als op bezoek gaan bij vrienden die je een tijdje niet hebt gezien, maar waar je je gelijk weer thuis voelt. Mocht je voor het eerst kennismaken met het Kunstcafé, dan zul je net als Flora merken dat je moeiteloos wordt meegenomen door de fijne personages in de aantrekkelijke kustplaats.
Door gebeurtenissen uit haar jeugd brengt het personage van Flora een aantal interessante verhaallijnen met zich mee. Lijnen die in het heden zorgen voor allerlei emoties, confrontaties en misverstanden. Hierdoor is Flora genoodzaakt om bepaalde pijnpunten nu echt eens aan te pakken.
De karakters van Flora en Jake passen naadloos bij de personages uit de eerdere Kunstcafé boeken. Samen met hun familie en vrienden zorgen ze voor wat onverwachte en verwachte wendingen. Maar dat je bepaalde ontwikkelingen wel ziet aankomen, betekent niet dat ze daardoor minder leuk zijn.
Thuis in het Kunstcafé doet waar je op hoopt: het bezorgt je een fijn en ontspannen gevoel. Dit verhaal van Sue McDonagh krijgt 4 sterren van mij.
Deze recensie schreef ik voor, en is terug te vinden op, de blog In de Boekenkast: https://indeboekenkast.com.
June 30, 2020
Woohoo, we are back in Wales and meet up with the people at the Art Café. I am so glad to see them again, because I really missed them.
This is book 3 in the series but you don't have to hold back if you have not read the two previous ones yet. If you pick up this one, you will be seduced by the lovely writing style and great story line, which will lead you to buying the other two as well. You will be very tempted to know what happened to Jo (book 1) and Lucy (book 2).
This time the spotlight is on Flora who is a bundle of energy and you just have to love her. Her future is not looking so bright at the moment, but this being a feel good book, you already know that this is going to change. How, where and when and which mountains she will have to climb first, is for you to find out. :)
I just adored this book. The author really knows how to entertain her readers. 5 stars.
Thank you, Sue McDonagh and Choc Lit
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
This is book 3 in the series but you don't have to hold back if you have not read the two previous ones yet. If you pick up this one, you will be seduced by the lovely writing style and great story line, which will lead you to buying the other two as well. You will be very tempted to know what happened to Jo (book 1) and Lucy (book 2).
This time the spotlight is on Flora who is a bundle of energy and you just have to love her. Her future is not looking so bright at the moment, but this being a feel good book, you already know that this is going to change. How, where and when and which mountains she will have to climb first, is for you to find out. :)
I just adored this book. The author really knows how to entertain her readers. 5 stars.
Thank you, Sue McDonagh and Choc Lit
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
June 30, 2020
After receiving an unwelcome shock from her long term boyfriend, Flora pinches his motor bike and rides off to her mother's holiday cottage in Wales intending to escape her heartache. Newly single and seeking adventure, she nearly drowns after a misguided attempt at bodyboarding. She's saved when Jake the lifeguard he plucks her from the sea. After that things can only get better - and they certainly do as she befriends the locals and gets to know Jake better.
The third in the mini series based around The Art Cafe in the Welsh Gower. If you've read others in the series you'll recognise a few characters, Escape to the Art Cafe may be read as a stand alone book.
This should be included in the book category of, feet up for a relaxing read.
Still chuckling at the Welsh Salad: you'll have to read the book to understand.
ARC generously supplied by the publisher, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
The third in the mini series based around The Art Cafe in the Welsh Gower. If you've read others in the series you'll recognise a few characters, Escape to the Art Cafe may be read as a stand alone book.
This should be included in the book category of, feet up for a relaxing read.
Still chuckling at the Welsh Salad: you'll have to read the book to understand.
ARC generously supplied by the publisher, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
January 21, 2021
I don't usually read contemporary romance novels, but I was drawn to this because of its beautiful cover and great reviews.
I think it would make good holiday read (not that many of us are holidaying much at moment). The characters are likeable and the plot well structured. You know from the start there'll be a cosy 'feel good' ending. The writing's good - I could imagine the coastal scenes and characters are described vividly. You can tell the author is writing about what she knows - art and motorbikes - because she does it so well. So why only 3 stars? I think it's just that I'm new to this genre and it's not my favourite sort of gritty read. However if you're looking for an uplifting narrative, you won't go wrong with this.
I think it would make good holiday read (not that many of us are holidaying much at moment). The characters are likeable and the plot well structured. You know from the start there'll be a cosy 'feel good' ending. The writing's good - I could imagine the coastal scenes and characters are described vividly. You can tell the author is writing about what she knows - art and motorbikes - because she does it so well. So why only 3 stars? I think it's just that I'm new to this genre and it's not my favourite sort of gritty read. However if you're looking for an uplifting narrative, you won't go wrong with this.
June 30, 2020
I somehow wasn’t quite gripped immediately with this book (down to me I think) so after a few chapters I put it down for the night. However, I picked it up again next day and then couldn’t put it down at all – I kept reading till it was finished. It is a good story with new characters, featuring our Art Cafe again, and it was lovely to meet earlier characters once more to add to their stories. I can only award a good 4 stars – who will we meet next time?
June 30, 2020
Adored this story. Jake seems like a stereotypical lifeguard - handsome, cool and so sexy; however there are many sad secrets in his past. Can he moved past them to find happiness with Flora, who has escaped from a bad relationship? The characters and the setting are both wonderful. I highly recommend this novel from a very talented writer - you will love it!!
October 31, 2025
Een heel erg leuk verhaal met pit in de hoofdpersonages!
April 5, 2024
Fijne serie boeken om bij weg te dromen. Qua personages vond ik dit denk ik een van de beste. Hoe de ouders van Flora zijn gescheiden.
Jammer jammer dat ik ze allemaal uit heb.
September 18, 2020
I have read and really enjoyed the other books in this lovely series and was really looking forward to reading this latest installment. I wasn't disappointed, this was another fabulous book.
This book is part of the Art Cafe series but could easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel. But I highly recommend all three books to be read in order as they are all lovely books.
Wonderfully written, with engaging characters - I loved Flora on her stolen motorbike! The coastal location of the book in beautiful Wales is brought to life by the wonderful writing of Sue McDonagh. I would love to go on holiday here and visit this gorgeous cafe. It is a joy to escape into this lovely series of books.
A perfect feel-good read which I highly recommend. I can't wait for the next one!
This book is part of the Art Cafe series but could easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel. But I highly recommend all three books to be read in order as they are all lovely books.
Wonderfully written, with engaging characters - I loved Flora on her stolen motorbike! The coastal location of the book in beautiful Wales is brought to life by the wonderful writing of Sue McDonagh. I would love to go on holiday here and visit this gorgeous cafe. It is a joy to escape into this lovely series of books.
A perfect feel-good read which I highly recommend. I can't wait for the next one!
September 18, 2020
Great easy read
Loved this book & couldn’t put it down. Easy reading & with a great cast of characters but not so many you get confused by who is who. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Loved this book & couldn’t put it down. Easy reading & with a great cast of characters but not so many you get confused by who is who. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
August 30, 2020
A surprising little gem
This book was an easy read , it was a simple love story about two people who loved and lost and how they found their way out of it with some very unexpected situations along the way, of course there was a HEA . I’ll be honest it’s taking all of my will power not to say what the surprises are ( I wish I was in a book club so we could discuss it).
This book was an easy read , it was a simple love story about two people who loved and lost and how they found their way out of it with some very unexpected situations along the way, of course there was a HEA . I’ll be honest it’s taking all of my will power not to say what the surprises are ( I wish I was in a book club so we could discuss it).
January 22, 2021
Third book in the Art Café series, hurray! ☺
This time neither of the two main characters is directly connected to the café, but it's still the setting of some memorable scenes, and we get to see again... practically everyone from the previous books, including during an outing between bikers (Flora is one).
Both Flora and Jake have interesting backstories, and their respective families have secrets, so there's quite a lot going on in addition to their becoming friends then more. I enjoyed all that.
Of course, this new story is particularly recommended to people who already know and love the series, but I think new readers could easily start with this book without feeling lost (then I bet they'd want to read the others too).
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day.
This time neither of the two main characters is directly connected to the café, but it's still the setting of some memorable scenes, and we get to see again... practically everyone from the previous books, including during an outing between bikers (Flora is one).
Both Flora and Jake have interesting backstories, and their respective families have secrets, so there's quite a lot going on in addition to their becoming friends then more. I enjoyed all that.
Of course, this new story is particularly recommended to people who already know and love the series, but I think new readers could easily start with this book without feeling lost (then I bet they'd want to read the others too).
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day.
August 14, 2020
Escape to the Art Cafe is exactly what it says in the title: an escape to a better place, a hopeful and lovely place, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery while watching a fun and brilliant story enfold. The descriptions of the hotel on the Welsh coast is the kind of place you want to stay and never leave. I held my breath when Flo and Jake went out at sea on a board (no idea what that is, sorry) and when the storm hit. I love the memories Jake had from when he grew up in the hotel. And I loved Flos feisty temper. And the bikes, oh, the bikes. In short; the story made me happy.
This is the third book in the Art Cafe series, and the writer just gets better and better.
The characters are like old friends, and I'm so happy that there are more coming.
This is the third book in the Art Cafe series, and the writer just gets better and better.
The characters are like old friends, and I'm so happy that there are more coming.
August 13, 2020
Best one yet
I do so love the Art Cafe series. The characters are so well written I want to sit down in the cafe with them and have a chat over that gorgeous sounding afternoon tea. Just another example of Choc-Lit’s amazing stable of fantastic books and even more awesome writers.
Plucky Flora is a character we would all love to be. She is honest, sometimes to a fault, but is such a pocket rocket that she gets away with it. And where do I even start with dreamboat Jake? Yum. Can you send me one of those please. This is just a lovely all round sweet romance. A bit of angst in the middle makes for a riveting story. Thank you again Sue.
I do so love the Art Cafe series. The characters are so well written I want to sit down in the cafe with them and have a chat over that gorgeous sounding afternoon tea. Just another example of Choc-Lit’s amazing stable of fantastic books and even more awesome writers.
Plucky Flora is a character we would all love to be. She is honest, sometimes to a fault, but is such a pocket rocket that she gets away with it. And where do I even start with dreamboat Jake? Yum. Can you send me one of those please. This is just a lovely all round sweet romance. A bit of angst in the middle makes for a riveting story. Thank you again Sue.
May 11, 2021
Mijn volledige recensie is terug te vinden op:
https://linda-linea-recta.nl/thuis-in...
Thuis in het kunstcafé is het derde deel van The Art Café-serie en is een een compleet los te lezen boek. Het speelt zich in hetzelfde café af als Zomer in het kunstcafé en Ontmoeting in het Kunstcafé.
Hoofdpersonages zijn Flora en Jake, beide hebben de nodige problemen. Kunnen ze elkaar hiermee helpen?
FLORA
Wanneer Flora haar baas van de kapperszaak vraagt om wat eerder te mogen vertrekken vraagt deze om een gunst voor een gunst oftewel sexuele intimidatie. Als antwoord hierop verkoopt ze haar baas een kopstoot en is ze werkloos.
Hij duwde zich zichzelf tegen haar aan zodat ze zich schrap moet zetten tegen de wasbak of ze zou over het gezicht van de klant vallen. Ik kan je een gunst verlenen als je mij ook een gunst verleent, fluistert hij in haar oor. Even verbijsterd keek ze om terwijl hij haar handen beetpakte. Harop zei hij: Nee Flora, zo doe je een hoofdmassage! terwijl hij met zijn steeds harder wordende kruis tegen haar kont aanwreef.
Woedend en met haar handen gevangen, stampte Flora hard op zijn voet en schoot met haar hoofd achteruit tegen zijn gezicht
Boos verlaat ze haar werk en wordt thuis geconfronteerd met een vreemdgaande vriend. In een opwelling vertrekt ze, met de motor van haar inmiddels ex, alleen naar het schiereiland Gower in Zuid-Wales. Als klein kind heeft ze hier vele vakanties met haar ouders doorgebracht.
Ze had hier een romantisch verjaardagsweekend gepland maar is nu alleen. Eenmaal ter plekke aangekomen besluit Flora om te gaan bodyboarden.
Tijdens het bodyboarden laat ze haar gedachten gaan en ongemerkt drijft ze te ver af. Gelukig wordt ze gered door Jake, een strandwacht. Flora bezoekt het Kunstcafé en daar ontmoet ze Jake weer. Ze bied aan om zijn haar te doen, en zo gaat het balletje rollen. Al snel raakt ze bevriend met de mensen (lees bekenden) uit het KunsCafé.
JAKE
Na lange tijd over de wereld gezwerfd te hebben, leek Jake zijn plek in Australië gevonden te hebben als professionele strandwacht. Hij behoorde tot de top van Surf Life Saving. Maar na twee jaar daar gewoond te hebben is hij nu toch terug bij zijn grootouders. Terug in het hotel waar hij opgegroeid is nadat zijn ouders waren overleden. Hier loopt niet alles van een leien dakje.
Na de ontmoeting met Flora stemt hij in om een transformatie, knipbeurt door Flora, in het Kunstcafé te ondergaan, terwijl hij gefimd wordt.
CONCLUSIE
Het is een heerlijk verhaal vol humor. In vergelijking met de vorige twee boeken vind ik dat Sue McDonagh zichzelf enorm verbeterd heeft. Ik heb genoten van dit boek, het warrige, wat mij in haar vorige boeken stoorde is volkomen verdwenen. In plaats daarvan zet ze hier een volwaardige feelgood neer waar ik enorm van genoten heb.
https://linda-linea-recta.nl/thuis-in...
Thuis in het kunstcafé is het derde deel van The Art Café-serie en is een een compleet los te lezen boek. Het speelt zich in hetzelfde café af als Zomer in het kunstcafé en Ontmoeting in het Kunstcafé.
Hoofdpersonages zijn Flora en Jake, beide hebben de nodige problemen. Kunnen ze elkaar hiermee helpen?
FLORA
Wanneer Flora haar baas van de kapperszaak vraagt om wat eerder te mogen vertrekken vraagt deze om een gunst voor een gunst oftewel sexuele intimidatie. Als antwoord hierop verkoopt ze haar baas een kopstoot en is ze werkloos.
Hij duwde zich zichzelf tegen haar aan zodat ze zich schrap moet zetten tegen de wasbak of ze zou over het gezicht van de klant vallen. Ik kan je een gunst verlenen als je mij ook een gunst verleent, fluistert hij in haar oor. Even verbijsterd keek ze om terwijl hij haar handen beetpakte. Harop zei hij: Nee Flora, zo doe je een hoofdmassage! terwijl hij met zijn steeds harder wordende kruis tegen haar kont aanwreef.
Woedend en met haar handen gevangen, stampte Flora hard op zijn voet en schoot met haar hoofd achteruit tegen zijn gezicht
Boos verlaat ze haar werk en wordt thuis geconfronteerd met een vreemdgaande vriend. In een opwelling vertrekt ze, met de motor van haar inmiddels ex, alleen naar het schiereiland Gower in Zuid-Wales. Als klein kind heeft ze hier vele vakanties met haar ouders doorgebracht.
Ze had hier een romantisch verjaardagsweekend gepland maar is nu alleen. Eenmaal ter plekke aangekomen besluit Flora om te gaan bodyboarden.
Tijdens het bodyboarden laat ze haar gedachten gaan en ongemerkt drijft ze te ver af. Gelukig wordt ze gered door Jake, een strandwacht. Flora bezoekt het Kunstcafé en daar ontmoet ze Jake weer. Ze bied aan om zijn haar te doen, en zo gaat het balletje rollen. Al snel raakt ze bevriend met de mensen (lees bekenden) uit het KunsCafé.
JAKE
Na lange tijd over de wereld gezwerfd te hebben, leek Jake zijn plek in Australië gevonden te hebben als professionele strandwacht. Hij behoorde tot de top van Surf Life Saving. Maar na twee jaar daar gewoond te hebben is hij nu toch terug bij zijn grootouders. Terug in het hotel waar hij opgegroeid is nadat zijn ouders waren overleden. Hier loopt niet alles van een leien dakje.
Na de ontmoeting met Flora stemt hij in om een transformatie, knipbeurt door Flora, in het Kunstcafé te ondergaan, terwijl hij gefimd wordt.
CONCLUSIE
Het is een heerlijk verhaal vol humor. In vergelijking met de vorige twee boeken vind ik dat Sue McDonagh zichzelf enorm verbeterd heeft. Ik heb genoten van dit boek, het warrige, wat mij in haar vorige boeken stoorde is volkomen verdwenen. In plaats daarvan zet ze hier een volwaardige feelgood neer waar ik enorm van genoten heb.
May 14, 2021
2 Mensen komen terug op de plek die ooit een mooie herinnering was. Ze ontmoeten elkaar in het kunstcafé waar Lucy nog steeds de scepter zwaait. Ze nemen allebei een rugzak met herinneringen en bagage uit het verleden mee en het is de vraag of ze die ooit af kunnen gooien om naar de toekomst te durven kijken.
Sue Mac Donagh is met dit deel rondom het bekende café in Wales weer een nieuw avontuur begonnen! Heerlijke romantiek, Ogenschijnlijke onoplosbare problemen en een flinke dosis humor voor de beelddenker onder de lezer staan centraal in dit boek.
Het is puur plezier als Flora met Jake en zijn vrienden een dagje uit gaan, ze hoort er helemaal bij en ze veroordelen niet maar accepteren haar zoals ze is. Dan is er ontroering als wederom blijkt dat mensen waar je het niet van verwacht toch voor je klaarstaan. En natuurlijk veel romantiek en vonken die ervan af spatten. De afwisseling van emoties maken het boek veelzijdig en heerlijk om te lezen. Je kunt door de mooie beschrijvingen van de locatie waar alles zich afspeelt helemaal het gevoel hebben dat je op reis bent met een boek. Ik kijk uit naar een volgend deel want dit café zal vast nog meer bezoekers verwachten.
Sue Mac Donagh is met dit deel rondom het bekende café in Wales weer een nieuw avontuur begonnen! Heerlijke romantiek, Ogenschijnlijke onoplosbare problemen en een flinke dosis humor voor de beelddenker onder de lezer staan centraal in dit boek.
Het is puur plezier als Flora met Jake en zijn vrienden een dagje uit gaan, ze hoort er helemaal bij en ze veroordelen niet maar accepteren haar zoals ze is. Dan is er ontroering als wederom blijkt dat mensen waar je het niet van verwacht toch voor je klaarstaan. En natuurlijk veel romantiek en vonken die ervan af spatten. De afwisseling van emoties maken het boek veelzijdig en heerlijk om te lezen. Je kunt door de mooie beschrijvingen van de locatie waar alles zich afspeelt helemaal het gevoel hebben dat je op reis bent met een boek. Ik kijk uit naar een volgend deel want dit café zal vast nog meer bezoekers verwachten.
November 26, 2021
Well I can honestly say, my third trip to Wales and The Art Cafe is my favourite.
I guess you could read it without having read the other two, as there is plenty of background information on returning characters, but seriously read them all in order if you can.
So back to Escape To The Art Cafe. Flora Bexton has done just that, escaped, stealing her cheating boyfriends motorbike to do so.
Her work life has also gone pear shaped, with her boss harassing her once too often.
Far from feeling lonely as she expected to do, Flora finds not only comfort, but friendship too at the fabulous Art Cafe.
But is potential disaster on the horizon, before Flora even begins her 'holiday' ?
Well enter Welsh/Aussie lifeguard Jake Foley, who saves Flora when she gets into trouble whilst swimming in the sea.
Throughout the book, we do discover, why Jake has returned from Australia, after quite a period of time away from Wales, and it also then becomes clear why he is initially, frustrated with feisty Flora.
There is so much more to like about this book, especially the unexpected ( by me at least ) drama towards the end !
Very much looking forward to the next instalment.
I guess you could read it without having read the other two, as there is plenty of background information on returning characters, but seriously read them all in order if you can.
So back to Escape To The Art Cafe. Flora Bexton has done just that, escaped, stealing her cheating boyfriends motorbike to do so.
Her work life has also gone pear shaped, with her boss harassing her once too often.
Far from feeling lonely as she expected to do, Flora finds not only comfort, but friendship too at the fabulous Art Cafe.
But is potential disaster on the horizon, before Flora even begins her 'holiday' ?
Well enter Welsh/Aussie lifeguard Jake Foley, who saves Flora when she gets into trouble whilst swimming in the sea.
Throughout the book, we do discover, why Jake has returned from Australia, after quite a period of time away from Wales, and it also then becomes clear why he is initially, frustrated with feisty Flora.
There is so much more to like about this book, especially the unexpected ( by me at least ) drama towards the end !
Very much looking forward to the next instalment.
June 8, 2022
Van de andere twee boeken in deze serie heb ik genoten, vandaar dat ik er naar uit keek om dit boek te gaan lezen. Het stelde zeer zeker niet teleur. Ik kon niet stoppen met lezen omdat ik meer wilde weten over Flora en Jake en die heerlijke plek waar ze waren aan de kust met als rode draad het kunstcafé.
Flora had haar verjaardagsweekend weg iets anders voorgesteld dan zonder baan en zonder vriend, maar met de motor van haar nu ex. Zelfs de zee in gaan gaat bijna fout, maar Jake redt haar.
Flora is heel eerlijk en daarin niet altijd even tactisch. Jake is weer terug in het hotel van zijn grootouders vanuit Australië. Beiden moeten uitvinden wat voor toekomst ze willen en of ze die samen willen doorbrengen.
Fantastisch om de bekenden uit de andere boeken weer tegen te komen. Dit boek kun je trouwens prima als een losstaand boek lezen, maar als je nog meer wilt genieten van het kustplaatsje dan kan ik je de andere twee boeken ook aanraden om te lezen.
Flora had haar verjaardagsweekend weg iets anders voorgesteld dan zonder baan en zonder vriend, maar met de motor van haar nu ex. Zelfs de zee in gaan gaat bijna fout, maar Jake redt haar.
Flora is heel eerlijk en daarin niet altijd even tactisch. Jake is weer terug in het hotel van zijn grootouders vanuit Australië. Beiden moeten uitvinden wat voor toekomst ze willen en of ze die samen willen doorbrengen.
Fantastisch om de bekenden uit de andere boeken weer tegen te komen. Dit boek kun je trouwens prima als een losstaand boek lezen, maar als je nog meer wilt genieten van het kustplaatsje dan kan ik je de andere twee boeken ook aanraden om te lezen.
July 28, 2021
The 3rd book in the Art Cafe Series. Although each book can be read as a stand alone as they centre around different characters. Loved this book as much as the other two. Fab, well written series, definitely worth reading.
Flora Bexton is having a real bad day. After one too many run ins with her boss, she quits and heads home. Only to find her boyfriend in a compromising position with someone else. Angry and upset Flora takes his Ducati motorbike and heads off to the shower Peninsula to the holiday cottage her mums owns.
Whilst there she gets into trouble and runs into local lifeguard Jake. And gets to meet all the other regulars at the Art Cafe. Lots of twists and turns In the story with everyone’s lives intertwined. With secrets being uncovered. Will Flora ever settle anywhere in her life. It’s a must read to find out
Flora Bexton is having a real bad day. After one too many run ins with her boss, she quits and heads home. Only to find her boyfriend in a compromising position with someone else. Angry and upset Flora takes his Ducati motorbike and heads off to the shower Peninsula to the holiday cottage her mums owns.
Whilst there she gets into trouble and runs into local lifeguard Jake. And gets to meet all the other regulars at the Art Cafe. Lots of twists and turns In the story with everyone’s lives intertwined. With secrets being uncovered. Will Flora ever settle anywhere in her life. It’s a must read to find out
July 1, 2020
A fabulously fun novel that I found hard to put down. Flora has run off to the Gower Peninsula after resigning from her hairdresser job (she head-butted her lecherous ex-boss after he’d harassed her too many times) and dumped her cheating boyfriend.
Jake helps run his grandparents’ hotel and is also a part-time lifeguard (plus he looks like Chris Hemsworth!). Jake meets Flora when he rescues her out at sea after she goes body boarding but is out of her depth. It’s a terrible start to her 30th birthday but she goes to the Art Café and ends up chatting to Jake over a cake & hot chocolate. They both have painful pasts but become friends and help each other.
Lots of laugh out loud moments and sensitive subjects dealt with beautifully. A great summer read.
Jake helps run his grandparents’ hotel and is also a part-time lifeguard (plus he looks like Chris Hemsworth!). Jake meets Flora when he rescues her out at sea after she goes body boarding but is out of her depth. It’s a terrible start to her 30th birthday but she goes to the Art Café and ends up chatting to Jake over a cake & hot chocolate. They both have painful pasts but become friends and help each other.
Lots of laugh out loud moments and sensitive subjects dealt with beautifully. A great summer read.
June 30, 2020
I really loved this book. The heroine, Flora, makes a grand entrance and gets you rooting for her from the very beginning. The hero, Jake, wow, male to dream of! He has everything, looks, personality, sensitivity and a sense of humour. The story romps along and I found I had finished it in three bites, none of the times did I realise I'd been reading for so long! The story is very well written with lots of threads to keep you alert and wanting to see what will happen next, all the way through the book. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. I am now looking forward to Sue's next book.
Read
July 1, 2020My favourite books are the ones like this where the author knows what they are talking about. Without it being intrusive or lecturing Sue McDonagh uses her knowledge to create stories and situations that are totally involving and really do let you Escape to the Art Cafe. Although based in rural seaside Wales the Art Cafe stories are never inward looking and this one particularly has a wide cast of characters in terms of geography and age.
There are several themes in the book-change, trust, secrets -and how the people deal with their challenges, both personal and professional is an absorbing read.
There are several themes in the book-change, trust, secrets -and how the people deal with their challenges, both personal and professional is an absorbing read.
July 14, 2020
Flora loses her job and her boyfriend on the same day and so has to go in the romantic holiday she had planned for the two of them in Wales on her own....... she gets her own back though by going on his motorbike! Things to start looking up though when she has to be rescued by the gorgeous life guard Jake and she finds the Art Cafe run by Lucy the biker. Soon she finds she is feeling totally at home and part of the community, what has she got to go back for!
Another lovely book in this great series, it's like coming home and meeting all of the characters from the previous books again, perfect lighter summer read
Another lovely book in this great series, it's like coming home and meeting all of the characters from the previous books again, perfect lighter summer read
July 20, 2020
Flora loses her job and her boyfriend on the same day and so has to go in the romantic holiday she had planned for the two of them in Wales on her own....... she gets her own back though by going on his motorbike! Things to start looking up though when she has to be rescued by the gorgeous life guard Jake and she finds the Art Cafe run by Lucy the biker. Soon she finds she is feeling totally at home and part of the community, what has she got to go back for!
Another lovely book in this great series, it's like coming home and meeting all of the characters from the previous books again, perfect light summer read
Another lovely book in this great series, it's like coming home and meeting all of the characters from the previous books again, perfect light summer read
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