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The Promise of Summer #1
With this Ring…
This is the first part in a brand new four-part serial from Bella Osborne.
Ruby’s life is about to change for ever…
After years of dating losers, cheats and one guy who did something unrepeatable to her kettle, Ruby has all but given up on romance. But then a stranger sits next to her on a train to London and explains his plan to propose to the woman of his dreams. Maybe true love does exist after all?
When the man accidentally leaves the engagement ring behind, Ruby is determined to save the day. But she hasn't counted on fellow passenger Curtis stepping in and insisting he should be the one to track the stranger down.
As summer closes in, the unlikely pair make a promise to reunite the ring with its owner. But can they find their own happy ever after along the way?
Ruby’s life is about to change for ever…
After years of dating losers, cheats and one guy who did something unrepeatable to her kettle, Ruby has all but given up on romance. But then a stranger sits next to her on a train to London and explains his plan to propose to the woman of his dreams. Maybe true love does exist after all?
When the man accidentally leaves the engagement ring behind, Ruby is determined to save the day. But she hasn't counted on fellow passenger Curtis stepping in and insisting he should be the one to track the stranger down.
As summer closes in, the unlikely pair make a promise to reunite the ring with its owner. But can they find their own happy ever after along the way?
95 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2021
43 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 17, 2021
4 stars.
SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :
This read was fast-paced & I breezed through the pages in a day. It dives into the action right away, without sacrificing the backstory of the characters. It is the perfect book for summer! Ruby is our quirky, spirited protagonist that gets herself into a series of hilariously awkward situations, all starting from her meeting with a boy who left his engagement ring behind on the train.
In an effort to return the ring and to rescue the proposal that was supposed to take place that evening, Ruby embarks on an unusual trip to London with Curtis -- a tech genius who Ruby met on the same train -- who insisted he tag along. Follow Ruby through her mishaps as she travels across London with Curtis silently picking up her pieces. It is a love story just about to bloom.
All I can say is that I need more. I loved how strong the voices of the characters & their interactions with each other brings a smile to my face every time. I cannot wait to read more.
So why four stars?
Simply because it is Part One and I am completely unsatisfied!!
EDIT (18 June 2021) : Avon Books loved my review so much they gave me access to the full book even without me requesting for it! I AM ECSTATIC. I want to start reading right away.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Netgalley and AvonBooks UK for providing me with this free e-arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are genuine & entirely my own.
SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :
This read was fast-paced & I breezed through the pages in a day. It dives into the action right away, without sacrificing the backstory of the characters. It is the perfect book for summer! Ruby is our quirky, spirited protagonist that gets herself into a series of hilariously awkward situations, all starting from her meeting with a boy who left his engagement ring behind on the train.
In an effort to return the ring and to rescue the proposal that was supposed to take place that evening, Ruby embarks on an unusual trip to London with Curtis -- a tech genius who Ruby met on the same train -- who insisted he tag along. Follow Ruby through her mishaps as she travels across London with Curtis silently picking up her pieces. It is a love story just about to bloom.
All I can say is that I need more. I loved how strong the voices of the characters & their interactions with each other brings a smile to my face every time. I cannot wait to read more.
So why four stars?
Simply because it is Part One and I am completely unsatisfied!!
EDIT (18 June 2021) : Avon Books loved my review so much they gave me access to the full book even without me requesting for it! I AM ECSTATIC. I want to start reading right away.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Netgalley and AvonBooks UK for providing me with this free e-arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are genuine & entirely my own.
October 23, 2021
This book has only one flaw: it's just part one and it flies by leaving you wanting to read more.
It's a funny, witty read, humorous and entertaining, exactly what you need to curl up with and forget the rest of the world. Ruby's character is a blast and her laugh out loud banter with practical Curtis is enjoyable and delightful.
And Kim's secret letter is still to be revealed, so I really can't wait to read part two, three and four.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's a funny, witty read, humorous and entertaining, exactly what you need to curl up with and forget the rest of the world. Ruby's character is a blast and her laugh out loud banter with practical Curtis is enjoyable and delightful.
And Kim's secret letter is still to be revealed, so I really can't wait to read part two, three and four.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2021
I have read a few books by this author and I have always enjoyed them, her latest book is another fabulous addition. It is the first book in a four four-book series.
Ruby hasn't had much luck as far as relationships go, she is a believer in romance, finding the one and wants to be whisked off her feet, get married, have children and live happily as they do in romance novels.
A train journey makes Ruby felt that romance is truly alive and real, for some people that is. When a fellow passenger tells of his proposal to his girlfriend and then loses the ring she tries her best to think of ways to reunite the ring with its owner. Another passenger also has the same idea.
Curtis is the other helper. He is so different to Ruby and the contrasts between the characters are great. Ruby is impulsive, gets swept up in the moment while Curtis is staid, organised and plans, literally, he will plan everything.
This is such a wonderful story that doe shave quite a few different threads going on in it. Ruby and Curtis are the main characters and they are joined with a wonderful supporting cast of friends. The story starts as trying to return a ring but then gradually deepens. Friendships grow and it is the friendship that is the key for me to this story. Yes, there is a bit of a romantic thread, but friendship rules here.
This is a story that has coincidences, and through these connections are made. And I have to say there are a couple of heartbreaking moments that did cause me to well up a little. I read this book in one sitting so I was well and truly invested in the characters and what happened to them.
I did feel that this story stood out more and this is down to the differences between the characters. I thought the author really drew Curtis out and made him so interesting and the friendship that grows was important to the development.
I adored this one and enjoyed the feel-good vibes it left me with. A contemporary fiction that is heart-warming and it is one I would definitely recommend.
Ruby hasn't had much luck as far as relationships go, she is a believer in romance, finding the one and wants to be whisked off her feet, get married, have children and live happily as they do in romance novels.
A train journey makes Ruby felt that romance is truly alive and real, for some people that is. When a fellow passenger tells of his proposal to his girlfriend and then loses the ring she tries her best to think of ways to reunite the ring with its owner. Another passenger also has the same idea.
Curtis is the other helper. He is so different to Ruby and the contrasts between the characters are great. Ruby is impulsive, gets swept up in the moment while Curtis is staid, organised and plans, literally, he will plan everything.
This is such a wonderful story that doe shave quite a few different threads going on in it. Ruby and Curtis are the main characters and they are joined with a wonderful supporting cast of friends. The story starts as trying to return a ring but then gradually deepens. Friendships grow and it is the friendship that is the key for me to this story. Yes, there is a bit of a romantic thread, but friendship rules here.
This is a story that has coincidences, and through these connections are made. And I have to say there are a couple of heartbreaking moments that did cause me to well up a little. I read this book in one sitting so I was well and truly invested in the characters and what happened to them.
I did feel that this story stood out more and this is down to the differences between the characters. I thought the author really drew Curtis out and made him so interesting and the friendship that grows was important to the development.
I adored this one and enjoyed the feel-good vibes it left me with. A contemporary fiction that is heart-warming and it is one I would definitely recommend.
May 22, 2021
I've read a couple of Bella Osbourne's books in the past and found them pleasant to read. This one, or part one of The Promise of Summer, was no different.
Ruby's life is passing by. She's in her mid-thirties, with no real aim in life, no partner, and a job she enjoys, with no real future.
A huge decision, made after a comment made by her mother on her deathbed, causes her to take a trip that will change her life.
On the train to London, she meets not one but two men whose inputs into her day change the course of her destiny,
Then there's Kim, owner of the florist Ruby works at. She's got her own secrets,
I don't know what more to say, without giving too much away, but in all honesty, I can't tell you much more, anyway, because this was just a short part one of this story!
We were left with many open-ended threads that make this the tale it is. What will happen with Ruby and Curtis, What about Lewis? And that letter that Kim hasn't opened yet?
It took me a little while to get into the beginning of the story but once in, I was gutted that it stopped where it did!
Roll on the 26th, when I hope we get to read the full story!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ruby's life is passing by. She's in her mid-thirties, with no real aim in life, no partner, and a job she enjoys, with no real future.
A huge decision, made after a comment made by her mother on her deathbed, causes her to take a trip that will change her life.
On the train to London, she meets not one but two men whose inputs into her day change the course of her destiny,
Then there's Kim, owner of the florist Ruby works at. She's got her own secrets,
I don't know what more to say, without giving too much away, but in all honesty, I can't tell you much more, anyway, because this was just a short part one of this story!
We were left with many open-ended threads that make this the tale it is. What will happen with Ruby and Curtis, What about Lewis? And that letter that Kim hasn't opened yet?
It took me a little while to get into the beginning of the story but once in, I was gutted that it stopped where it did!
Roll on the 26th, when I hope we get to read the full story!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2021
Bella Osborne has a way of writing that is delightful and fun! Again, Bella had me smiling and laughing out loud with her witty writing! The characters are so warm and funny and likeable and it’s easy to get instantly invested in their situations. This is part one in a four part series and as previously, I am in anticipation of the next part in the series!
On her way to London for a life changing appointment, Ruby finds herself in a pickle when a fellow passenger, Lewis borrows her phone and gets off the train still talking on it unbeknownst to Ruby until it’s too late! In all his haste, Lewis drops the engagement ring he planned to propose to his girlfriend with that very afternoon!
With the help of another fellow passenger Curtis, Ruby and Curtis set off together to make their own meetings/appointments and get to Lewis’s proposal location in time to get the ring back to him . The destiny of Ruby’s day certainly changes course as the day goes on and I was left with so many unanswered questions by the end of the first part, leaving me desperate for part two and the outcomes of those questions lingering in my mind!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the advanced review copy.
On her way to London for a life changing appointment, Ruby finds herself in a pickle when a fellow passenger, Lewis borrows her phone and gets off the train still talking on it unbeknownst to Ruby until it’s too late! In all his haste, Lewis drops the engagement ring he planned to propose to his girlfriend with that very afternoon!
With the help of another fellow passenger Curtis, Ruby and Curtis set off together to make their own meetings/appointments and get to Lewis’s proposal location in time to get the ring back to him . The destiny of Ruby’s day certainly changes course as the day goes on and I was left with so many unanswered questions by the end of the first part, leaving me desperate for part two and the outcomes of those questions lingering in my mind!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the advanced review copy.
May 25, 2021
I've been a fan of Ms. Osborne's novels of long standing, she's outdone herself with the opening line. Talk about gripping one from the outset!
As is the norm for this author, this is the first part of (presumably) 4 parts and so I was able to settle down to read this in one long stretch.
I hope I'm not wrong here, but I'm certain the author has at least seen the comedy, 'The Big Bang Theory', as the male protagonist so reminds me of one of the leads. This is not put me off at all, as I was able to relax into the story straight away. Curtis and Ruby (a quite old-fashioned name, but more the memorable for that reason) are an ill-matched pair, yet bounce off each other so well that I cannot wait to find out what happens next in their journey.
My thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the reading copy.
As is the norm for this author, this is the first part of (presumably) 4 parts and so I was able to settle down to read this in one long stretch.
I hope I'm not wrong here, but I'm certain the author has at least seen the comedy, 'The Big Bang Theory', as the male protagonist so reminds me of one of the leads. This is not put me off at all, as I was able to relax into the story straight away. Curtis and Ruby (a quite old-fashioned name, but more the memorable for that reason) are an ill-matched pair, yet bounce off each other so well that I cannot wait to find out what happens next in their journey.
My thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the reading copy.
May 16, 2021
Absolutely loved this initial part of the book and can't wait to see how it progresses. Warm, funny with extremely likable characters.
Ruby is on her way to London for a life changing appointment . Whilst on the train she lends her phone to a stranger who is going to propose to his girlfriend that afternoon. As he leaves the train with Rubys phone, he leaves the engagement ring behind. In turmoil Ruby meets Curtis a fellow passenger and they begin the quest to find the ring owner whilst also attending their own appointments in London.
2 very different lead characters which just complement each other so well.
Highly recommend and eagerly await part 2.
Ruby is on her way to London for a life changing appointment . Whilst on the train she lends her phone to a stranger who is going to propose to his girlfriend that afternoon. As he leaves the train with Rubys phone, he leaves the engagement ring behind. In turmoil Ruby meets Curtis a fellow passenger and they begin the quest to find the ring owner whilst also attending their own appointments in London.
2 very different lead characters which just complement each other so well.
Highly recommend and eagerly await part 2.
May 14, 2021
With This Ring is the first part of Bella Osborne’s new book, The Promise of Summer. I read this in a couple of hours and found it impossible to put down and just a few pages in knew I was going to love the main character Ruby. In this instalment, Ruby’s life is about to change forever. She’s spent years dating Mr Wrong and has given up on romance when a chance meeting with a stranger on a train explains his plans to propose to his girlfriend. Perhaps true love does exist. I adored part one and can’t wait to read the next three parts. Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books and the author for the chance to review.
May 24, 2021
Thank you Netgalley, Bella Osborne and Avon Books UK for the ARC of The Promise of Summer: Part One. This is my personal review.
I am a fan of Bella Osbornes writing. This book is a hit for me, and I am excited to read more of this one.
Ruby, Kim, and Curtis fall into place and gave me so much to find out what happens next. The story is given out in installments. And I got to the end of this installment way too fast and now the wait begins for the next.
I am a fan of Bella Osbornes writing. This book is a hit for me, and I am excited to read more of this one.
Ruby, Kim, and Curtis fall into place and gave me so much to find out what happens next. The story is given out in installments. And I got to the end of this installment way too fast and now the wait begins for the next.
May 25, 2021
What a brilliant start to a story. Fun and witty writing with great characters. Just enough information to get your hooked and wanting more. I loved Ruby and Curtis together - so different but worked so well as a pair. I can’t wait to see if they track down Lewis and if we find out more about Kim. A great start to a story.
May 14, 2021
With an opening line like this one I knew this book would be right up my street.
I love Ruby she is a bit of a wild child and is Lewis a thief or was it just a pure accident.
We will await part 2 and find out.
I didn't like Curtis at first on the train but really warmed to him in the end.
Really looking foward to see what is in store next for Ruby.
Fantastic
I love Ruby she is a bit of a wild child and is Lewis a thief or was it just a pure accident.
We will await part 2 and find out.
I didn't like Curtis at first on the train but really warmed to him in the end.
Really looking foward to see what is in store next for Ruby.
Fantastic
May 21, 2021
With thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Ruby is 35 and is planning some big changes in her life. An ill~fated train journey, brings fellow passenger Curtis into Ruby’s life. Together they embark on a day in London, that leads them into all sorts of adventures.
Back at home, Ruby’s boss, Kim is dealing with ghosts from her own past.
I am a big fan of Bella Osborne’s books. She writes with real warmth and humour, while her characters are both believable and relatable.
This is part one of what will be a four part story. All four parts will be released together as one book after their seperate publications.
This book was thoroughly enjoyable and i’m very excited to read what comes next for these likeable characters.
Ruby is 35 and is planning some big changes in her life. An ill~fated train journey, brings fellow passenger Curtis into Ruby’s life. Together they embark on a day in London, that leads them into all sorts of adventures.
Back at home, Ruby’s boss, Kim is dealing with ghosts from her own past.
I am a big fan of Bella Osborne’s books. She writes with real warmth and humour, while her characters are both believable and relatable.
This is part one of what will be a four part story. All four parts will be released together as one book after their seperate publications.
This book was thoroughly enjoyable and i’m very excited to read what comes next for these likeable characters.
June 14, 2021
This story is hilarious! It is also heartwarming, sad at times and optimistic. Ruby is a unique person, has a heart of gold and is a bit of an accident waiting to happen, however she always has the best intentions. Nothing planned works out, and sometimes that is for the best! Curtis is extremely intelligent, very talented in his career and dreadfully socially awkward. When fate brings these two together, it makes at an amazing tale.
If you have not read anything by Bella Osborne in the past, this is a great way to be introduced to her writing. I think you will love this story and her other work.
I enjoyed Part One so much and am anxious to read the rest of this series!
I want to thank NetGalley and Avon Books UK for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is done freely as a hobby of mine, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
If you have not read anything by Bella Osborne in the past, this is a great way to be introduced to her writing. I think you will love this story and her other work.
I enjoyed Part One so much and am anxious to read the rest of this series!
I want to thank NetGalley and Avon Books UK for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is done freely as a hobby of mine, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
May 19, 2021
Welcome to Part One of Bella Osborne’s utterly hilarious and joyous new novel which radiates sunshine, happiness and positivity. This is your glass half full kind of read,with characters who manage to charm your socks off within the first few minutes of their introduction. Bella Osborne knows exactly which buttons to press in order to engage her readers and keep the laughter rolling.
Meet Ruby Edwards, who works alongside Bloom with a View flower shop owner Kim in their home town of Sheffield. Her story really begins aboard a train destined for London St Pancras, heading for an appointment that could change the course of her life when she strikes up a conversation with the stranger sitting next to her. Lewis is planning to propose to his girlfriend aboard the London Eye, a discussion which proves to Ruby true love and romance DOES exist outside of the movies. Just not for her! Still single at nearly thirty five she’s more or less given up on finding The One so when it transpires Lewis has inadvertently left the engagement ring behind, Ruby automatically resolves to reunite the piece of jewellery with its rightful owner before the proposal is due to take place. Enter into the frame, fellow passenger Curtis, a geeky tech guy who feels he should join forces with Ruby in her mission. Her plans for the day may already have been derailed but how much worse can it get? Cue much hilarity as Bella Osborne ramps up the comedy element without further ado.
I loved the pairing of Ruby and Curtis without reservation. Straightaway I could tell that the straight laced, responsible and practical Curtis would be the perfect contrast to the haphazard, chaotic, head in the clouds Ruby. They are a winning combination! Everything points to Ruby bringing fun, laughter and mayhem into Curtis’s rigid daily routine whilst this man who speaks like a robot and displays an encyclopaedic knowledge of the underground system may just instil some calm, order and sensibility into hers. Watch this space, it’s bound to be fun, fun, fun all the way!
The Promise of Summer (part one) is escapist fiction at its very best and a book I would happily devour in one sitting given the opportunity! My first impressions are that this storyline (so far!) warrants a massive thumbs up and a resounding ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a huge smile on my face for the very short space of time it took me to read these first chapters. If like me you’re in need of a mood boost, this is cheerful with a capital C!
Thank you to Avon books and Netgalley for this sneak preview into the world of Ruby and Curtis and the other delightful characters who’ve already made an appearance. I cannot wait to discover how their stories unfold. It promises to be entertaining!
Meet Ruby Edwards, who works alongside Bloom with a View flower shop owner Kim in their home town of Sheffield. Her story really begins aboard a train destined for London St Pancras, heading for an appointment that could change the course of her life when she strikes up a conversation with the stranger sitting next to her. Lewis is planning to propose to his girlfriend aboard the London Eye, a discussion which proves to Ruby true love and romance DOES exist outside of the movies. Just not for her! Still single at nearly thirty five she’s more or less given up on finding The One so when it transpires Lewis has inadvertently left the engagement ring behind, Ruby automatically resolves to reunite the piece of jewellery with its rightful owner before the proposal is due to take place. Enter into the frame, fellow passenger Curtis, a geeky tech guy who feels he should join forces with Ruby in her mission. Her plans for the day may already have been derailed but how much worse can it get? Cue much hilarity as Bella Osborne ramps up the comedy element without further ado.
I loved the pairing of Ruby and Curtis without reservation. Straightaway I could tell that the straight laced, responsible and practical Curtis would be the perfect contrast to the haphazard, chaotic, head in the clouds Ruby. They are a winning combination! Everything points to Ruby bringing fun, laughter and mayhem into Curtis’s rigid daily routine whilst this man who speaks like a robot and displays an encyclopaedic knowledge of the underground system may just instil some calm, order and sensibility into hers. Watch this space, it’s bound to be fun, fun, fun all the way!
The Promise of Summer (part one) is escapist fiction at its very best and a book I would happily devour in one sitting given the opportunity! My first impressions are that this storyline (so far!) warrants a massive thumbs up and a resounding ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a huge smile on my face for the very short space of time it took me to read these first chapters. If like me you’re in need of a mood boost, this is cheerful with a capital C!
Thank you to Avon books and Netgalley for this sneak preview into the world of Ruby and Curtis and the other delightful characters who’ve already made an appearance. I cannot wait to discover how their stories unfold. It promises to be entertaining!
July 20, 2021
This is the first part of a four part story!
Ruby is a 35 year old woman that has been burned out by the dating scene! She has a desire to have a baby despite not having a partner so she decides she is going to pay for a sperm donor! On her way to meet the donor, Ruby meets Lewis, a man who is on his way to propose to his girlfriend at the London Eye. After lending Lewis her phone, she discovers he has left the engagement ring on the train. And as the train pulls away from the station, she also discovers he left the train and has her phone. Willing to do anything to stop the train even if it means pulling the emergence button, she is about to pull it when another passenger, Curtis, steps in her way and tries to convince her he is the one that should track the man down and return the ring. Not willing to surrender to Curtis, Ruby and Curtis will find themselves entangled on the adventure of finding the owner of the ring. But might this adventure turn into them finding their own HEA?
This first part was so adorably cute! I loved Ruby. She was so strong and witty. She was such a likeable character and had a lot of mishaps that made her a person I would want as a best friend. Ruby had a wonderful partnership with her business partner Kim. They seemed to have a great sense of what the other needs in terms of supporting one another. Curtis was a riot! He is so practical and has such a dry humor. I loved watching Ruby and Curtis spend time together as they embarked on finding the owner of the ring. Ruby was such a great match for Curtis. She was able to bring him out of his cycle of work home! She had such great ideas on how to spend his days off.
I can't wait to read part two!
Thanks NetGalley, author Bella Osbonre, and Avon publishing for giving me a free arc copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Ruby is a 35 year old woman that has been burned out by the dating scene! She has a desire to have a baby despite not having a partner so she decides she is going to pay for a sperm donor! On her way to meet the donor, Ruby meets Lewis, a man who is on his way to propose to his girlfriend at the London Eye. After lending Lewis her phone, she discovers he has left the engagement ring on the train. And as the train pulls away from the station, she also discovers he left the train and has her phone. Willing to do anything to stop the train even if it means pulling the emergence button, she is about to pull it when another passenger, Curtis, steps in her way and tries to convince her he is the one that should track the man down and return the ring. Not willing to surrender to Curtis, Ruby and Curtis will find themselves entangled on the adventure of finding the owner of the ring. But might this adventure turn into them finding their own HEA?
This first part was so adorably cute! I loved Ruby. She was so strong and witty. She was such a likeable character and had a lot of mishaps that made her a person I would want as a best friend. Ruby had a wonderful partnership with her business partner Kim. They seemed to have a great sense of what the other needs in terms of supporting one another. Curtis was a riot! He is so practical and has such a dry humor. I loved watching Ruby and Curtis spend time together as they embarked on finding the owner of the ring. Ruby was such a great match for Curtis. She was able to bring him out of his cycle of work home! She had such great ideas on how to spend his days off.
I can't wait to read part two!
Thanks NetGalley, author Bella Osbonre, and Avon publishing for giving me a free arc copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
May 24, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and AVON/HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. for a copy of "The Promise of Summer: Part One-With this Ring..." in exchange for my honest review.
The Part One of this book is totally engaging and hooks the reader from the every first page. We meet Ruby Edwards (35) who works at 'Bloom With A View' in Sheffield with her friend and boss Kim. Ruby is fed up waiting for her happy-ever after to happen. She's giving up on finding someone to love her and make her dreams come true.
Ruby is off on a secret mission to London. She's so frazzled that she rushes on a train without buying a ticket. Once on the train she ends up debating a man about the seat she chose. Then her new seat-mate Lewis, shows her a gorgeous engagement ring that he plans to use to propose to his girlfriend at 4pm on the London Eye. When Lewis' phone runs out of battery, she lends him hers. At Derby he gets off the train to continue his call but then the train starts leaving the station, he doesn't get back on the train. Ruby finds the engagement ring that Lewis must have somehow dropped under the seat. Ruby is frantic to get her phone back and now to return the ring to Lewis. Curtis comes up with a plan that involves Ruby coming with him to an important business meeting. Then he goes with her to her "secret" appointment. Then they head to the London Eye to find Lewis.
This part ends with Curtis hiring Ruby on a trial basis to be his assistant and he will in exchange introduce her to suitable men so that she could ultimately fulfil her dreams of being a mother.
The next part of this book promises to be fun and light-hearted. It will be interesting to see where Ruby and Curtis end up going. Will they ever be able to return the engagement ring to Lewis?
The Part One of this book is totally engaging and hooks the reader from the every first page. We meet Ruby Edwards (35) who works at 'Bloom With A View' in Sheffield with her friend and boss Kim. Ruby is fed up waiting for her happy-ever after to happen. She's giving up on finding someone to love her and make her dreams come true.
Ruby is off on a secret mission to London. She's so frazzled that she rushes on a train without buying a ticket. Once on the train she ends up debating a man about the seat she chose. Then her new seat-mate Lewis, shows her a gorgeous engagement ring that he plans to use to propose to his girlfriend at 4pm on the London Eye. When Lewis' phone runs out of battery, she lends him hers. At Derby he gets off the train to continue his call but then the train starts leaving the station, he doesn't get back on the train. Ruby finds the engagement ring that Lewis must have somehow dropped under the seat. Ruby is frantic to get her phone back and now to return the ring to Lewis. Curtis comes up with a plan that involves Ruby coming with him to an important business meeting. Then he goes with her to her "secret" appointment. Then they head to the London Eye to find Lewis.
This part ends with Curtis hiring Ruby on a trial basis to be his assistant and he will in exchange introduce her to suitable men so that she could ultimately fulfil her dreams of being a mother.
The next part of this book promises to be fun and light-hearted. It will be interesting to see where Ruby and Curtis end up going. Will they ever be able to return the engagement ring to Lewis?
June 3, 2021
If you are looking for someone who knows how to write these multi part series, four novellas that make one big story then look no further than Bella Osborne. This new series just cements her role as the queen of this kind of fiction. She ends the short chapters on cliffhangers, she creates characters you can't wait to meet again and she writes in these bite size chunks that are just perfect for a satisfying read in a single afternoon.
I loved getting to know florists Ruby and Kim. Ruby intrigued me from the word go and although we found a lot out about her as this story progressed, I feel like there is so much more to her than meets the eye. She has some missions in life and I cant' wait to find out whether she achieves those missions or if something or someone along the way will cause a diversion.
Kim is also incredibly intriguing because we don't get to find an awful lot about her in this signalment despite having several moments in each chapter devoted to her story. She clearly has an awful lot of her plate right now and I am really looking forward to finding out what those things are.
This book has an awesome journey through London via train, tube and bus and the description of each stop along the way just had mea yearning to be walking in these characters footsteps. I loved the adventure aspect of this first in the series and I really hope it continues into parts 2, 3 and 4. Of course we get left on a cliffhanger at the end of this part and so I will have to wait with bated breath to find out what happens with Ruby and her friends next!
I loved getting to know florists Ruby and Kim. Ruby intrigued me from the word go and although we found a lot out about her as this story progressed, I feel like there is so much more to her than meets the eye. She has some missions in life and I cant' wait to find out whether she achieves those missions or if something or someone along the way will cause a diversion.
Kim is also incredibly intriguing because we don't get to find an awful lot about her in this signalment despite having several moments in each chapter devoted to her story. She clearly has an awful lot of her plate right now and I am really looking forward to finding out what those things are.
This book has an awesome journey through London via train, tube and bus and the description of each stop along the way just had mea yearning to be walking in these characters footsteps. I loved the adventure aspect of this first in the series and I really hope it continues into parts 2, 3 and 4. Of course we get left on a cliffhanger at the end of this part and so I will have to wait with bated breath to find out what happens with Ruby and her friends next!
May 17, 2021
The Promise of Summer: Part One - Bella Osborne
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Avon Books and Netgalley.
Ruby’s life is about to change for ever…
After years of dating losers, cheats and one guy who did something unrepeatable to her kettle, Ruby has all but given up on romance. But then a stranger sits next to her on a train to London and explains his plan to propose to the woman of his dreams. Maybe true love does exist after all?
The Promise of Summer will be released in four parts, this is just a review of the first 10 chapters (part one). I am already hooked on this book and cannot wait for part two to reveal more of the story.
In this part we are introduced to Ruby who is on her way to London for the day, on the way she meets Lewis who explains that he is on his way to London to propose to his girlfriend. Lewis accidentally leaves the engagement ring on the train and Ruby attempts to reunite the ring with it’s owner with the help of Curtis, a fellow passenger who thinks that Ruby is untrustworthy.
As this is only the first part of the book, it is a very quick read. It is a lovely light-hearted book to read and if you have not read any other books by Bella Osborne, this is a fantastic introduction to her beautiful writing style.
Rating 4/5
I think this is a very clever way of releasing a book!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to Avon Books and Netgalley.
Ruby’s life is about to change for ever…
After years of dating losers, cheats and one guy who did something unrepeatable to her kettle, Ruby has all but given up on romance. But then a stranger sits next to her on a train to London and explains his plan to propose to the woman of his dreams. Maybe true love does exist after all?
The Promise of Summer will be released in four parts, this is just a review of the first 10 chapters (part one). I am already hooked on this book and cannot wait for part two to reveal more of the story.
In this part we are introduced to Ruby who is on her way to London for the day, on the way she meets Lewis who explains that he is on his way to London to propose to his girlfriend. Lewis accidentally leaves the engagement ring on the train and Ruby attempts to reunite the ring with it’s owner with the help of Curtis, a fellow passenger who thinks that Ruby is untrustworthy.
As this is only the first part of the book, it is a very quick read. It is a lovely light-hearted book to read and if you have not read any other books by Bella Osborne, this is a fantastic introduction to her beautiful writing style.
Rating 4/5
I think this is a very clever way of releasing a book!
May 17, 2021
I love Bella Osborne's books so when I saw her new four-part serial out, I could not wait to read Part One - The Promise of Summer: With This Ring. Thank you very much for my advanced copy.
A really lovely read, with great characters and very very funny! Ruby, a florist, is so determined, she is just brilliant! Along with Curtis, they make a great team. The storyline is different - I would have never guessed what Ruby's important appointment was.
I loved the setting, I loved reading about their trip on the London Underground and especially the London Docklands Light Railway. You could imagine yourself travelling with them. Everyone needs Curtis with them as he has extensive knowledge of the London Underground and can tell you exactly when the next train is due!
I cannot wait for Part Two to see how the relationship between Ruby and Curtis develops and whether or not they can reunite the owner with their precious ring. Did the proposal go ahead? Will Ruby achieve her dream? What did the letter that Ruby’s boss, Kim receives say? So many questions!! When the book ended, I kept trying to turn the page on kindle as I so wanted to read more and more!!
This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
A really lovely read, with great characters and very very funny! Ruby, a florist, is so determined, she is just brilliant! Along with Curtis, they make a great team. The storyline is different - I would have never guessed what Ruby's important appointment was.
I loved the setting, I loved reading about their trip on the London Underground and especially the London Docklands Light Railway. You could imagine yourself travelling with them. Everyone needs Curtis with them as he has extensive knowledge of the London Underground and can tell you exactly when the next train is due!
I cannot wait for Part Two to see how the relationship between Ruby and Curtis develops and whether or not they can reunite the owner with their precious ring. Did the proposal go ahead? Will Ruby achieve her dream? What did the letter that Ruby’s boss, Kim receives say? So many questions!! When the book ended, I kept trying to turn the page on kindle as I so wanted to read more and more!!
This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
December 8, 2021
I loved this story. It is a lovely mix of laugh out loud funny, and sad. Ruby has not had much success in her romantic life, she has chosen badly, and since her mother died she is very aware that the clock ticking. But she has a plan … ! She works for Kim in a small flower shop. Kim’s husband died and she realises that she is very lonely. She also has a thorn in her side that needs to be sorted out, and she has been avoiding it.
Ruby takes a day off to go to London and put her plan into effect. The train journey events are extremely funny, and add far more events to her day than she could possibly have imagined! She meets a man called Curtis, a brilliant businessman but seemingly totally useless in social interactions. But as the story progresses he does rather grow on you. There is a fourth character who has a small part in this part of the story, but you know you are going to hear more about him in the rest of the series.
So part one contains all the hooks to draw you in, and I have purchased the complete book of four parts. I couldn’t bear to not know what happens to these lovely people. I am not a fan of books that are split up like this into parts as a rule, but this one is a good story.
Ruby takes a day off to go to London and put her plan into effect. The train journey events are extremely funny, and add far more events to her day than she could possibly have imagined! She meets a man called Curtis, a brilliant businessman but seemingly totally useless in social interactions. But as the story progresses he does rather grow on you. There is a fourth character who has a small part in this part of the story, but you know you are going to hear more about him in the rest of the series.
So part one contains all the hooks to draw you in, and I have purchased the complete book of four parts. I couldn’t bear to not know what happens to these lovely people. I am not a fan of books that are split up like this into parts as a rule, but this one is a good story.
May 28, 2021
This was a cute prequel/novella. The book, presumably, will follow 2 women, Ruby and Kim and their romantic escapades.
Kim is a flower shop owner and is not actively searching for love= I admit to being a little confused about where this story is going but overall, I really like Kim, who is Ruby, the other woman's boss.
Ruby is who this story is following most closely. Ruby is on the train to go to an appointment. The reason for the appointment is known towards the middle of the book so I won't discuss it here but on the train, she meets two men- One man who has the perfect proposal planned but through a series of events, forgets the ring on the train. The second man, Curtis, is initially a jerk but becomes her partner in crime to find the man who wants to propose.
The prequel is amusing but I have to admit that I didn't like how Ruby was postured- a little bit of an airhead, she does silly things that I think were intended for a few chuckles but I think that female heroines can do funny things without appearing like airheads. However, overall, it was an easy read and I thank NetGalley for the early copy.
Kim is a flower shop owner and is not actively searching for love= I admit to being a little confused about where this story is going but overall, I really like Kim, who is Ruby, the other woman's boss.
Ruby is who this story is following most closely. Ruby is on the train to go to an appointment. The reason for the appointment is known towards the middle of the book so I won't discuss it here but on the train, she meets two men- One man who has the perfect proposal planned but through a series of events, forgets the ring on the train. The second man, Curtis, is initially a jerk but becomes her partner in crime to find the man who wants to propose.
The prequel is amusing but I have to admit that I didn't like how Ruby was postured- a little bit of an airhead, she does silly things that I think were intended for a few chuckles but I think that female heroines can do funny things without appearing like airheads. However, overall, it was an easy read and I thank NetGalley for the early copy.
May 15, 2021
Loved it!!! Bella Osborne's books never disappoint. I enjoyed this book from the very start. At first I didn't care for Curtis, but I believe he is the voice of reason for Ruby. Her choices in life are very questionable. Then again she dated a man who peed in her kettle. I would have never guessed the reason she was going to London. Do people really do that????? It seems completely unhygienic and creepy. Kim is definitely hiding something and I don't think she has been truthful with what happened to her husband. Will Ruby get her phone back? Will they ever track down Lewis?
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the story, writing style and characters- everything. I can't wait to find out what's going to happen next with Curtis and Ruby. I'm sure there will be craziness. Look forward to reading more books by the author. Love the cover of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Avon Books UK through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the story, writing style and characters- everything. I can't wait to find out what's going to happen next with Curtis and Ruby. I'm sure there will be craziness. Look forward to reading more books by the author. Love the cover of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Avon Books UK through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 15, 2021
With the prospect of a summer coming where we can actually go outside & meet up with friends, let's hope this is the tonic many need for banishing the lockdown blues! 🌞
Love, love, love these four part novella reads. Easy reading with a quirky original storyline. Ruby was so relatable to me & is such a fun character. I can't wait to see how this story unfolds & the characters develop.
The perfect uplifting, feelgood read to start my weekend with 😊
Ruby is on the train to London when a stranger sits next to her, then explains he's on his way to propose to his girlfriend. He asks to borrow her phone & steps onto the platform to make his call, but unfortunately doesn't make it back onto the train before its departure. Turns out he's gained a phone, but left the ring behind! Ruby teams up with fellow passenger Curtis to reunite the ring with its owner, but can they find their own happy endings on their travels?
Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC in return for my honest review.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
Love, love, love these four part novella reads. Easy reading with a quirky original storyline. Ruby was so relatable to me & is such a fun character. I can't wait to see how this story unfolds & the characters develop.
The perfect uplifting, feelgood read to start my weekend with 😊
Ruby is on the train to London when a stranger sits next to her, then explains he's on his way to propose to his girlfriend. He asks to borrow her phone & steps onto the platform to make his call, but unfortunately doesn't make it back onto the train before its departure. Turns out he's gained a phone, but left the ring behind! Ruby teams up with fellow passenger Curtis to reunite the ring with its owner, but can they find their own happy endings on their travels?
Many thanks to Netgalley for my ARC in return for my honest review.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
Oh, I am so happy I read this! And totally looking forward to how the story unravels (as this was only Part one out of four!).
We are following a woman who is heading to London for an important meeting which we do not know the nature of until much later. She is a florist with a gift in writing greeting cards :)
On the train to London she meets two men who will make that day in London certainly unforgettable to say the least.
Funny, unexpected, refreshing plot and two characters that are like night and day but somehow work well together despite first or even fifth appearances :D
I picked this one up after I read *The Library* by Bella Osborne and I definitely love her writing, her characters, and the wholesomeness that comes out of experiencing her writing. I am genuinely happy to have discovered a new beloved author to me and warmly recommend you to read one of her works if you wish for your heart to warm up, especially when the world might seem grim at times.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this e-copy of 'The Promise of Summer - Part One'. I am very grateful for it!
We are following a woman who is heading to London for an important meeting which we do not know the nature of until much later. She is a florist with a gift in writing greeting cards :)
On the train to London she meets two men who will make that day in London certainly unforgettable to say the least.
Funny, unexpected, refreshing plot and two characters that are like night and day but somehow work well together despite first or even fifth appearances :D
I picked this one up after I read *The Library* by Bella Osborne and I definitely love her writing, her characters, and the wholesomeness that comes out of experiencing her writing. I am genuinely happy to have discovered a new beloved author to me and warmly recommend you to read one of her works if you wish for your heart to warm up, especially when the world might seem grim at times.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this e-copy of 'The Promise of Summer - Part One'. I am very grateful for it!
May 16, 2021
Aaaarggghhhh! It can’t stop there!!! What an amazing start to this book. There is so much going on, I love the dual story lines and I love the brilliant mix of characters. I totally feel for Ruby, so optimistic about love when it comes to others but her need to feel fulfilment by having a baby touched my heart, and then in the next sentence made me laugh out loud with Curtis knocking on the door and the turkey baster exploding.
Curtis is a great characters, he seems the complete opposite to Ruby, he’s socially awkward sometimes, everything is straight and narrow with him and he calls it how he sees it. Ruby is a total mess compared to him, yet together they seem to make a great team and as the book continues they seem to be becoming great friends.
Kim is interesting, I wondered about Adrian and his regular Friday visit, and now a mysterious letter from her dead husband, just what is going on there??
I seriously can’t wait for the next part.
Curtis is a great characters, he seems the complete opposite to Ruby, he’s socially awkward sometimes, everything is straight and narrow with him and he calls it how he sees it. Ruby is a total mess compared to him, yet together they seem to make a great team and as the book continues they seem to be becoming great friends.
Kim is interesting, I wondered about Adrian and his regular Friday visit, and now a mysterious letter from her dead husband, just what is going on there??
I seriously can’t wait for the next part.
July 17, 2021
Great start to an enchanting series romance😊
💍💐Sweet, fun and addictive😍
Bella Osborne has produced a real winner of a romance here, with plucky, optimistic lead Ruby looking for someone to love and a decidedly staid but somehow irresistible fellow who barges into her life. There's also a secondary plot involving Kim, Ruby's florist employer, whose got a big secret and a desire for more of an after-work life.
I was hooked by the excellent writing, well-drawn characters and both Ruby's and Kim's search for that perfect companion. You must read all four books in the series for the full effect and happy endings.
I loved the mix of poignant, romantic and humorous moments. There's nary a thing about this romance serial that I did not adore. It's one of the top romances I've read in 2021!
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
💍💐Sweet, fun and addictive😍
Bella Osborne has produced a real winner of a romance here, with plucky, optimistic lead Ruby looking for someone to love and a decidedly staid but somehow irresistible fellow who barges into her life. There's also a secondary plot involving Kim, Ruby's florist employer, whose got a big secret and a desire for more of an after-work life.
I was hooked by the excellent writing, well-drawn characters and both Ruby's and Kim's search for that perfect companion. You must read all four books in the series for the full effect and happy endings.
I loved the mix of poignant, romantic and humorous moments. There's nary a thing about this romance serial that I did not adore. It's one of the top romances I've read in 2021!
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
May 20, 2021
Ugh... it’s finished? I was so caught up in the story that I did not see the end coming.
The writing style was great as was expected with a Bella Osborne story. It just flows so smoothly and is such a pleasant read.
I love how the main focus is on just 4 characters, well two main characters, florists Kim and Ruby and then the supporting acts go to Adrian (a regular at the flower shop) and Curtis a fellow passenger on the train when Ruby takes a day trip to London. Most of this Part 1 takes place in just one day. All 4 characters are completely different and Ruby’s not to bright moments really make for some funny scenes with Curtis who is literally 1 point shy of being a genius.
I would like to thank Bella Osborne, the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this story in exchange for an honest review.
The writing style was great as was expected with a Bella Osborne story. It just flows so smoothly and is such a pleasant read.
I love how the main focus is on just 4 characters, well two main characters, florists Kim and Ruby and then the supporting acts go to Adrian (a regular at the flower shop) and Curtis a fellow passenger on the train when Ruby takes a day trip to London. Most of this Part 1 takes place in just one day. All 4 characters are completely different and Ruby’s not to bright moments really make for some funny scenes with Curtis who is literally 1 point shy of being a genius.
I would like to thank Bella Osborne, the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this story in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
3.5 stars
The Promise of Summer (part 1) is the first instalment in @bellaosborneauthor’s newest release and sets the scene for the instalments to come.
We are introduced to our two main characters, friends and co-workers Ruby and Kim. There is a bit of an age gap between the characters so they’re at different stages in their life albeit both single.
Ruby has a desire to have a family of her own and funnily enough this is the second book I’ve read in the last few weeks where the main character decides to take having a baby into her own hands! Kim has a burgeoning friendship with a regular, married, customer and you can tell there’s going to be something going on there.
The first book I read by this author was also in instalments so I was happy to receive a copy of this from the publisher via @netgalley.
The Promise of Summer (part 1) is the first instalment in @bellaosborneauthor’s newest release and sets the scene for the instalments to come.
We are introduced to our two main characters, friends and co-workers Ruby and Kim. There is a bit of an age gap between the characters so they’re at different stages in their life albeit both single.
Ruby has a desire to have a family of her own and funnily enough this is the second book I’ve read in the last few weeks where the main character decides to take having a baby into her own hands! Kim has a burgeoning friendship with a regular, married, customer and you can tell there’s going to be something going on there.
The first book I read by this author was also in instalments so I was happy to receive a copy of this from the publisher via @netgalley.
May 18, 2021
The Promise Of Summer is part one in this series and is a joyous quick reward.
I read this first part in under an hour and I don’t know if it is because it is a quick read or not but I really enjoyed this first part. Ruby is the main character, she is nearly 35 years old and works at a local floristry shop. We meet her as she is taking a day off work for a meeting in London. Ruby is hilarious throughout this short part and I grew to like her very quickly. She has no luck with men but is the trip to London going to change that? Hopefully I won’t have to wait too long for part two to find out!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
I read this first part in under an hour and I don’t know if it is because it is a quick read or not but I really enjoyed this first part. Ruby is the main character, she is nearly 35 years old and works at a local floristry shop. We meet her as she is taking a day off work for a meeting in London. Ruby is hilarious throughout this short part and I grew to like her very quickly. She has no luck with men but is the trip to London going to change that? Hopefully I won’t have to wait too long for part two to find out!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon, and Bella Osborne for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a fun story! I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into when I was asked to read this, but I really enjoyed it! My read went by so quick, I cannot wait for the other parts!
I think this is a unique story and I have not read another with this storyline. I do love reading about women who are trying to take control of certain decisions in their lives (albeit poorly executed haha) and just making the decisions that are best for them! I really enjoyed our male and female mains, and think their banter and true kindness toward strangers is fun to watch and be part of.
Can I read the next one yet???? I have a big smile on my face just thinking about what direction it could go in!!!
What a fun story! I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into when I was asked to read this, but I really enjoyed it! My read went by so quick, I cannot wait for the other parts!
I think this is a unique story and I have not read another with this storyline. I do love reading about women who are trying to take control of certain decisions in their lives (albeit poorly executed haha) and just making the decisions that are best for them! I really enjoyed our male and female mains, and think their banter and true kindness toward strangers is fun to watch and be part of.
Can I read the next one yet???? I have a big smile on my face just thinking about what direction it could go in!!!
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