Spring at Blueberry Bay

Hope Island #1

by Holly Martin

Welcome to beautiful Hope Island where the sea sparkles, the daffodils are blooming and a blossoming romance is just around the corner…

Bella has always had a sunny outlook and caring nature, despite recently falling on hard times. When she finds a handsome homeless man on her doorstep, her kind heart tells her she must help him. So, she invites Isaac into her cottage and into her life in ways she could never have imagined…

But Isaac is not what he seems. He’s keeping a huge secret from Bella, yet he never expected to fall for this open, generous and charming woman.

Bella can’t ignore the chemistry between her and Isaac, but she’s had her trust badly broken in her past. Will she run when she learns the truth about Isaac, or will he be the one man who can help Bella believe in love again?

A gorgeously romantic and heartwarming story to completely lose yourself in. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Jane Costello and Miranda Dickinson.

Read what everyone is saying about Holly Martin:
‘I am in love. I am in love. I am in love. Holly, you are a writing goddess.' Book in Wonderland

'This story had everything that I utterly adore... absolutely gorgeous in every single way possible.' Becca's Books

Like getting a huge hug from your best friend, after you haven't seen them for a while…a fabulously sweet and cosy romance.’ Rachel’s Random Reads 

‘Warm and heart-lifting and pretty perfect. If you are after a feel good book then look no further...one I recommend putting in your suitcase for your holiday read!’ Escapades of a Bookworm 

‘This story has everything you look for in a contemporary romance story. It is funny, engaging and warm. The characters are quirky, honest, and lovable.’ What’s Better Than Books

‘A lovely relaxing book full of wit and romance, this a book which will leave you feeling uplifted and with a smile on your face.’ Shelley Back Books 

‘Holly Martin writes about life and love with such big-hearted warmth and flair.’ Belinda Jones

'Romantic and written with the fabulous humour that makes Holly's books such a delight… utterly gorgeous, funny, and swoonsome.' Rachael Lucas

‘The characters seem to jump out of the pages and into your head and heart.’ Fiona’s Book Reviews

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Fiction, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance, Adult

352 pages, Paperback

First published April 7, 2017

About the author

Holly lives in a little white cottage by the sea. She studied media at university which led to a very glitzy career as a hotel receptionist followed by a even more glamorous two years working in a bank. The moment that one of her colleagues received the much coveted carriage clock for fifteen years’ service was the moment when she knew she had to escape. She quit her job and returned to university to train to be a teacher. Three years later, she emerged wide eyed and terrified that she now had responsibility for the development of thirty young minds. She taught for four years and then escaped the classroom to teach history workshops, dressing up as a Viking one day and an Egyptian High Priestess the next. But the long journeys around the UK and many hours sat on the M25 gave her a lot of time to plan out her stories and she now writes full time, doing what she loves.

Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.

Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor

Reviews

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

They weren't far off the mark when they said this was "an utterly perfect feel good romantic comedy". Why I've not read Holly Martin before is a mystery as her style is right up my street and, with a fantastic bunch of characters, Spring at Blueberry Bay was a superb introduction to her writing.



What quickly became evident when I picked this up was how down-to-earth, relatable, and loveable the characters of Hope Island are. In Bella's case we have a smart, focussed, stubborn woman who at the same time has a fragility about her. She doesn't believe in love, she believes she's unlovable, but she has the kindest heart imaginable.

"Sometimes bad things happen and it’s nobody’s fault. We all need a little help sometimes and it’s OK to ask for it."

There was nothing not to love about Isaac. His and Bella's first meeting may have been based around a little white-lie, but it was with the best of intentions and from his small thoughtful gestures to the sexy moments when he takes control to those where his more vulnerable side creeps in, he was wonderful. And whilst his and Bella's feelings for one another moved at a fair old rate of knots, it didn't feel rushed or unrealistic.

"...we’re going to believe in wishes and magic and dreams coming true."

This story was what I wanted, what I needed and if you're looking for feel good romance with the perfect blend of humour, intimacy and those little moments of frustration that make each character imperfectly perfect, then Spring at Blueberry Bay is a book to indulge in. And with the wheels set in motion for Bella's siblings, Eden and Rome, Holly Martin has paved the way for future books nicely. I'm now off to one-click her back catalogue.

Copy received courtesy of Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

10☆  - Fabulous and extremly Addictive!

Spring at Blueberry Bay has it all, humour, romance, sizzling sex scenes, heartache, love, lust and New Beginnings.

I was literally hooked, drawn in and couldn't put it down. I fell in love with Bella and Isaac and I felt I was every bit part of their journey together.

Bella is down on her luck after her previous job as an events organiser ends due to a huge scandal. No one want to give an ex employee a job where embezzlement has occured.
She has no money for rent or food but is too proud to accept help from her family.

She applies for a job at the homeless charity Umbrella Foundation. Isaac is the CEO and has a very unconventional way of testing applications. He poses as a homeless person to see the person's reaction towards him.
He is extremely wealthy and learns people are out to use him so this is he's way of testing if people are genuine.

It's here he meets Bella. He camps outside her gate. Bella has no money or possessions so she takes pity and invites him in to stay the night. He is blown away by her sincerity and trusting nature.

Sparks sizzle between them. Both extremely attracted to each other. Urging the other to make the first move.Issac knows this is extremely unprofessional but he can't help himself he is hooked! Although they both refrain themselves.

The next day he leaves. But comes back he just can't prize himself away he just wants to ravish her. They end up kissing and things start to heat up. He has a sudden wake up call...he could be her future boss what is he playing at...he jumps up and runs outside. Only to be set upon by some teens.Bella comes to he's rescue but ends up smashing her head and passing out.

Isaac takes her to the hospital. She comes round the next day and realises she's going to be late for her interview. She has nothing to wear. She shows up in a wedding dress lol I laughed so hard!!!
She got the job but was furious with Isaac for not telling her the truth.

Both Isaac and Bella have huge trust issues. Bella's parents left her when she was small and her Aunt and Uncle raised her with their children. She has always felt she didn't deserve to be loved. Which got to me. Bella is charming, loveable and has a HUGE heart if anyone deserves to be happy it's her. I just wanted to climb in and hug her, tell her she's amazing and she deserves to be happy and loved.


Bella and Isaac just can't stay away from each other. No matter how hard they try they can't stop flirting. The sexual chemistry between them is electric.
 Holly does a fantastic job creating the tension between the two of them. Bella is smouldering hot and Isaac wants a piece of the forbidden fruit.
In the end neither can resist. Their kisses alone made me hot under the collar!!

Bella is damaged, she just can't give herself fully to Isaac she is so guarded. When he tells her he loves her she throws up her wall and tries to run away.
It's heart breaking to see how much her parents have had such a negative impact on her adult life.

I don't want to give any more away.
It's just so so good you will just have to trust me and see for yourself.

Holly is a fabulous writer. The characters were so loveable I fell in love with them. I felt their pain, happiness, I laughed alot.
Although there was sex scenes it was classy and more for the reader to use their imagination. They was hot and steamy but not erotic or too graphic.

It was such an easy read I couldn't put it down.
The ending to me felt like one door closes another is due to open hopefully with book 2.

I urge everyone to read this Fantastic book. Its addictive, charming, exciting and I didn't want it to end which is my only critiscm.... I wanted more!!!

I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.

[Теодор Панов · Rating 3 out of 5]

* Book Review #300 *

Този път това мое ревю /номер 300 (юбилейно)/ ще протече по малко по-различен начин. Ще бъде разгърнато в две половини: 1. За книгата; 2. Специална част.

1. За книгата
„Мандариново небе“ беше моя тазгодишен избор за лятно четиво (и запълва предвидената ми годишна квота от 1 книга, която отделям за този жанр). Преди време бях чел от тази авторка „Коледа под боровинковия залез“ и бях останал с горе-долу прилични впечатления, макар че и там имах проблем с представената от авторката романтична връзка. Вярно е, че тези книги никога не са били „някаква висока топка“, но има и някои, които може и да минат за приятно неангажиращо развлечение.

При „Мандариново небе“ обаче съвсем не е така. Първо са персонажите, които не са просто картонени, а са направо едноизмерни, скучни и без интригуващо развитие. Конфликтите между тях са крайно повърхностни. А отношенията помежду им изглеждат като между 13 годишни, а не като между 33-годишен мъж и 27-годишна жена. И двамата не знаят какво искат и често изпадат в противоречия – казват едно, а след това правят друго. (Не че и в реалността няма такива хора, но поне в книгите е добре да се следва някаква логика в поведението на персонажите). На книгата сериозно ѝ липсва каквато и да била прилична интрига. Ако имаше някакви комични моменти можеше да спасят малко положението (например като в „Книжно братство под прикритие“ – миналогодишния ми избор), но такива тук няма. Лятна атмосфера също няма. Издателството определено ме подмами с тази подчертано лятна корица, чак по-късно видях, че в оригинал книгата се казва „Spring at Blueberry Bay“, едва във втората книга действието ще протича през лятото, но както и да е…

Оценката ми за „Мандариново небе“ е: 2.5 ⭐



2. Специална част
И тъй като това е моето ревю #300, което се нарежда като специално и заслужава да има своя специална част. А тази специална част я посвещавам на всички онези книжни приятели, тук в Goodreads, с които често обменяме книжни идеи и предложения и така заедно достигаме до страхотни книжни съкровища (🤩), както и с онези, с които редовно си разменяме лайкове (превърнахме го като нещо в наша си традиция 👍 👌), също и с тези, с които ни се е случвало да водим интересна комуникация по някаква тема 🤗. Та на всички вас пожелавам да имате едно прекрасно, вълнуващо и незабравимо лято, изпълнено с все хубави приключения.

Подготвил съм и един специален летен плейлист с 33 любими мои песни за лятото, който ще споделя с вас. И ако сред моя плейлист, откриете и вашата лятна песен, то да знаете, че тя е там специално за вас! 💖 💖 💖

🎶 My Summer '22 playlist 🎶


🌊 🏄‍♂️ 🍺

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 - "My burning light in the darkness." Stars!

Holly Martin took me away for an enjoyable adventure on Hope Island, with Spring at Blueberry Bay, filled with sweeping views, charming characters and more than a few giggles along the way, Bella and Isaac’s story was one that I found hard to put down.



It’s been a while since I have read any of Holly’s books and I was taken back to the joy I experienced when I read The GuestBook, and One Hundred Proposals although Spring at Blueberry Bay didn’t quite reach the stratosphere of awesomeness that those two stories hit, it came a close second for me.

"I rather wish the path that led me to here had never happened because it’s something I can’t undo…"

The crux of the book is basically boy-meets-girl, but Holly manages to take the normal and turn it into the unique with the little extras she adds to the tale and the unusual situations the characters find themselves in with its telling. I loved Isaac, if ever there was a man that went out on a limb for the woman he was falling in love with it was this guy, having been hurt in the past due to who he is, made putting his heart out there to be trampled on again a real act of courage, I won’t say I liked the way Holly tied up this aspect of the story between him and Bella, but she didn’t drag it out so I didn’t have chance to get annoyed with it.

"You have me under your spell… I want to spend every single second with you."

Bella was a harder sell, for the most part I did warm to her, and I understood that her childhood had a massive impact on her adult relationships, but at times I did find her actions and reactions to be bordering on the juvenile in the way they were written and how she verbalized her thoughts and feelings. That-said though there were nuggets of gold in her character, in that she was shamelessly free with her affection, not in a slutty way, but in that she wasn’t scared to let Isaac know how much she felt for him, even if truth be told she didn’t really understand it herself. Her escapades bought more than a few giggles to the fore as well, because if there was a chance her plans could go wrong, chances are the author made sure it was spectacularly so, and with hilarious consequences.

We are also introduced to many of the Hope Island residents in the telling of this story as well as Rome and Eden, Bella’s siblings, and the author did a really good job of teasing the reader with titbits about both of them and whom their potential love interest may be. Summer at Buttercup Beach is due for release at the end of June, so thankfully we won’t have long to wait for Rome to have his story told.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy brilliant, emotive romances, don’t bother reading my review, read this book instead! IMHO this is another winner from Holly Martin - her books come to life in the imagination of the reader with superb settings, believable characters and intricate plots that keep the reader enthralled and entertained as they escape into a fantastic romance. I loved this story!

The story starts when a wealthy CEO goes undercover to help select the most caring candidate for the post of homeless charity events manager and discovers that one of the candidates is so kind and trusting she’ll invite a stranger into her home, sharing the last of her food and offering him the opportunity to get clean and have somewhere to sleep for the night. The two enjoy talking for hours and really click. However, he doesn’t reveal his true identity even when he returns to visit again the following night. With a huge secret like that, her past history of being loved and left and even more secrets to be revealed will they stand any chance of achieving their HEA together?

This story has it all - a close community, problematic childhood experiences, trust issues and even a devastating fire! The characters are so brilliantly portrayed they feel like people you actually know and both dogs are also fantastic. The plot has many twists and turns, keeping the reader enthralled in the glorious setting and events. This is a real page-turner and I didn’t want to put it down till the very end. I thoroughly enjoyed this start to a new series and can’t wait to read future stories in this series and others by this author in future. Absolutely no hesitation from me about highly recommending this and all the other books I’ve previously read by this highly talented author.

[Justkeepreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Publishers and Holly Martin for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.

You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On goodreads.com/karenwhittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.

This is a great read for the summer. A must buy must read for romance and chick lit lovers.

Yes this book is a tad predictable but do you know what. I didn't care. Because the characters are simply lovely and the descriptions of blueberry bay are just delightful. I'd love a break in this stunning place.

I think woman all around the world will fall in love with the delectable and lovely Issac.

Bella reminds me of me. She wears her heart on her selves and is such a wonderful heroine. I felt sorry for her at the beginning of the book as her life simply wasn't where she wanted it to be.

This isn't just about romance, love, family, friendship, changing someone's phobia about love and making them trust you. But also about homelessness and how it can happen to anyone at any time. Reminding all of us to treat each other with kindness and how we would like to be treated.

It is also Holly at her best. I love Hollys books and all of them are wonderful and never fail to make me smile. This is a hug in a book and I found it simply delightful.

As always let me know what you think.

Happy reading everyone

[Liina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bella recently lost her job due to a scandal she actually had nothing to do with and now she is hoping to get a new job at the homeless charity Umbrella Foundation. Bella is hard-working,creative, determined and caring and when a homeless man appears at her door, she doesn't hesitate to help him. Right from the start there's a spark between them, but Isaac has a huge secret, which can change everything. Bella and Isaac both have had difficult times in their past and it has resulted in not trusting other people. When Isaac's secret comes out, can Bella and him make it work?

It's another great book by the author and once again I really enjoyed reading about the characters and the setting was terrific as well. I liked how close everyone were and how much they cared for one another and how attentive they were. It was a heart-warming story that made me laugh out loud at times. I had a great time reading this wonderful book and I'm eagerly waiting for the next masterpiece.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! I think ive just fell in love with the amazing Isacc!

The characters are just fantastic and incredibly loveable.

Bella and Isaac's relationship is like a rollercoaster, so many ups and downs, a few false starts but they get over each hurdle and it is clear to see that these are two people destined to be together.

The book is jam packed with romance, passion and fun.

This is one of the loveliest romances ive ever read.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastically romantic book, that teaches you about love, and has one of my favourite book boyfriends of the year in it. In fact Isaac is just the sort of man I love reading about, sexy and full of romantic gestures both big and small. It was one of those gestures that had me declaring my own undying love for the guy, many chapters before Bella sorted out her own feelings.

Bella is a heroine that I connected with immediately, she wears her heart on her sleeve, and although allowing a homeless man she has only just met, to spend the night in the house where she lives alone, may be dangerous, she clearly has a very trusting nature and takes people at face value. She is struggling herself after having had immense bad luck in her previous job, she is down to the last of her money, as she tries to find a new job.

Bella in a charity events fundraiser and has plenty innovative ideas for events, especially with Easter coming up. My favourite idea is where Pokemon Go meets an Easter Egg hunt, to create a brand new game. Isaac is the boss at the foundation, and there is plenty of chemistry between the two of them from the start.

I also loved Bella's family, and how close they all are. Erin and Rome clearly look out for Bella's best interests at all times, and Claudia, Isaac's PA tries to protect him too. Bella though doesn't really believe in love so its up to her friends and family, plus Isaac to try and convince her of its merits.

This was a story that really reached out to me, and at points I was almost in tears, just due to feeling so connected with the characters, that I was really able to empathise with them.

Spring at Blueberry Bay is Holly Martin at her best, the story was incredibly easy to get into, but equally I was interested in the characters from the first chapter, where the introduction to them is rather unique. I also love the setting of Hope Island in the Scilly Isles, which has loads of picturesque sounding locales on the island, and the island setting, and its remoteness adds a certain something to the story. If you are a fan of the author then I'm positive you will enjoy this book as much as I do, and I'm already eagerly looking forward to hearing more about any future books with this setting.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Alison · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 11%.

This was just so saccharine sweet that I could feel my fillings ache as I was reading, I know that 11% isn't really giving the story a chance but I couldn't face reading any more.

Bella Roussel lives on tiny Hope Island. She worked as an events manager for a charity called Magic Wishes but it transpired that her boss was stealing from the charity and Bella has been tarred by association, despite being exonerated by the Police investigation, she has been unemployed for three months. Despite the fact that she has a brother and sister who would help her (and indeed offer to do so frequently) and she rents her house from her uncle, she has resorted to living off porridge and has sold off most of her possessions. Despite that, she continues to help her elderly neighbours, volunteer for worthy causes, wants to adopt an unwanted dog and invites a homeless man to stay the night in her spare room (and eat her last bowl of porridge).

Of course, the homeless man is actually Isaac Scott the wealthy head of a charity called the Umbrella Foundation which helps the homeless. Bella has applied for a job with the Umbrella Foundation and Isaac makes it a point to test new applicants' commitment to helping the homeless by observing their reactions when confronted by a homeless person on their doorstep. He is totally blown away by Bella's attitude, she is clearly one step away from being destitute herself but is kind enough to give way what little food she has to a complete stranger and offer him a bed for the night.

Bella was just such a Mary Sue I couldn't face reading further, I totally expected her to have a step-mother and two ugly sisters, or at least have bluebirds flying around her head as she tripped around Hope Island.

Sorry, maybe it got more realistic later but I had the sinking feeling that she might start thanking the one true lord for her daily bread at any second. Not for me. Be warned by the "utterly perfect feel good romantic comedy" tagline.

I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Agi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly Martin is one of my most favourite authors. No matter how are you feeling, her books will make you feel better, that's guaranteed. Lately however I had some problems as Holly's books started to see very similar to each other and I had a feeling that only the names of the characters and the places changed but still they were brilliant, humorous reads with quirky heroines and heroes sexier than sex gods. It's no different with "Spring at Blueberry Bay" - the book is set on a gorgeous island, it has a bouncy main character Bella and it has sex scenes to die for. Don't wait long, just buy the book and start reading it, and I am telling you this right now, at the beginning of my review!

Holly Martin, I am not sure how she does it, but she can perfectly write about blossoming romances. Here the chemistry between Bella and Isaac was Undeniable with a capital U, you could see the sparks and feel the sizzling. This relationship is like the wildest rollercoaster ride ever, with some false starts, with ups and downs which only made it feel so much more realistic and feasible (even with the fact how it actually began, with Bella inviting a strange man to her home and kissing him, but whatever, I did buy it). I also adored both of them, they were great. Bella was not a wuss, oh no, even though she had a much more sensible side to her and it was relatively easy to hurt her, as she wears her heart on the sleeve. There was fire in this girl, she had a great spirit and a heart made of gold. Isaac, oh my word, guys, give me Isaac any time, pretty please. Feisty, romantic, responsible and I could go on and on about him. Yes, I probably fell head over heels for Isaac, the fictional character. Kill me.

At first maybe I thought, mhm, the characters, it happens so quickly, and they are so honest, and they speak so openly and honestly with each other about the most personal thoughts, experiences and sex, mhm, really? But then I though, oh heck, maybe it's just like it should be, no beating around the bush, just tell how it is. Maybe it was also because Bella is a total opposite of me, I wouldn't dare to storm into somebody's office just like she did but you know what? I secretly admired her for her wit, for being so feisty and for not letting sleeping dogs lie and I would love to be like Bella, so direct and to be able to take care about myself in a way she does. So in the end I though, hats off to Holly for writing this story without messing around and only getting straight to the point. There was nothing of this never - ending will they/won't they plays, the characters got straight down to business and it was so different and so nice to read, without endless introductions and descriptions.

Of course Ms Martin has created another brilliant setting. Hope Island is a place that you immediately want to go and stay for ever. It just seemed so magical, so colourful, the descriptions of the cottages made me long to pack my things and move in there. This novel was full to the brims with humour, the most hilarious one - liners and scenes (just think about naked Bella hiding behind sofa, or her going for the interview and many, many more) and many very intense sex scenes. There was a moment I was scared this book is going to turn into some kind of shades, but no worries, it is all so very well balanced and they are also full of feeling and emotions. This book was really like a breath of fresh air.

"Spring at Blueberry Bay" very strongly reminded me of one of Holly's previous novels written under a pseudonym, "Tied Up with Love", which was absolutely my number 1 by this author. So no wonder that in the end I just adored "Spring at Blueberry Bay". There was just my kind of humour - you know the one when characters talk to each other with poker faces when in fact this what they say is hilarious, and just imagining them telling this had me in stitches. It had one of the most gorgeous yet down - to - earth heros who must be my new favourite character right now and I think he's going to be my crush, instead of Enrique Iglesias. Just saying. So imagine how brilliant he must be. It had one of the most realistic, warm, smartass heroine with the best one - liners in the world. It had a brilliant plot, it had dogs, it had fantastic setting, it was about family bonds. It had the best sex scenes ever - touching, full of fire, full of humour, beautiful. Yes, the first 20 % dragged on a bit and I had a feeling we are going in circles but after that there was nothing stopping the story and the author - this must me be my second favourite novel by Holly Martin, guys, and it's telling really something, as I loved all of her novels. Highly recommended!

Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.

[Piper · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first few chapters of this book might as well have been
the beginning of a crime novel.
What rational woman that lives alone lets a complete stranger in her house
and let him stay the night?
I know this is just a silly romance novel but come on.
So the guy left his dog with a burning candle alone at home and the
house burned to the ground and the girls reply is: Oh don´t worry it was an
accident you can´t blame yourself? I say, Yes you can and you should.
What idiot leaves an animal locked in with a burning candle?
By the way, the dog is fine!


I am no fan of Holly Martin.
This book is as silly as the others.
You are really making a grown man kneel down in front of her in order to
convince the girl to work for him?
I am sorry but No.
I get this is romance but there is good romance and then there is this.
If you like a lot of schmaltz this book is for you.

Some of the dialogue is just atrocious:
Girl: I am quite an affectionate person. Cuddling is properly my favorite part of being in a
relationship. Sadly most men are not big on cuddling.
Boy: Cuddling is your favorite part of being in a relationship?
Girl: Most men´s favorite part of being in a relationship is regular sex
Boy: And you don´t like sex?
Girl: Sex is great. I had some pretty amazing sex over the years. But sex isn´t affectionate
is it?
Boy: It isn´t?
Girl: It´s just a physical need. (...) Sex just fulfills a need.
Sorry but that is just sad and also wrong.

[Nemo ☠️ (pagesandprozac) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted something light and fluffy as a palate cleanser, but this was just BORING AF.

[Rea Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spring at Blueberry Bay is the first book I have read by Holly Martin, the synopsis really called out to me so I wasted no time in downloading my copy and starting it immediately but I never expected to finish it the same day.
Bella Roussel has not had the best start in life and now she finds herself jobless and struggling financially with only enough porridge for the next day so she is pinning all her hopes on the job interview the following day. What she didn’t expect as she approached her house is to see a homeless guy laying outside her house, she does no more than to offer him a place to sleep that night out of the wind.
Isaac has never been offered a place to stay before, typically he would be ignored or at best given food or money but this kind woman has invited him in to her home. Now he really feels guilty at the secret he is keeping.
Bella Roussel is a genuine kind hearted and loveable character, yes she seemed very naïve and also has vulnerability about her too but this all adds to the charm of her character. She was still a very determined and strong woman too who wanted to stand on her own two feet but she also has trust issues and she had built up walls so high to protect herself from being hurt again.
I loved Isaac even if his actions were wrong at the beginning part of the book I could see his reasons behind what he done and I forgave him straight away. He was a very charming and ambitious character who I loved and hoped he would get his happy ever after.
The book is set on Hope Island and the author describes the setting beautifully making it easy to view the vibrant houses, the stunning views and the characteristics of the Island easily in my mind. The author has such a light and easy writing style that flows effortlessly making this the perfect read to take away with you on holiday this year. Full of romance and a few steamy scenes too this is the perfect read for hopeless romantics but what I also loved was the light humour too, I found myself at times chucking away along with the characters without even realising it which just shows how easy the characters were to connect too.
I really enjoyed this book and I would not hesitate to pick up another by this author, I will be sad to leave Hope Island and the characters behind I do hope the author revisits these characters in a future novel to see how they are doing.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book on a recommendation from a Goodreads friend and am I glad I did. I needed a feel good read and this fit the bill and more. This is a romance that has it all, great characters, a good story, lust, sex, family drama, new beginnings and a great setting.

Bella is a young woman who is down on her luck. She has no money for food or rent. She is eating porridge for every meal. She lost her job when the charitable organization she worked for shut down due to the founders embezzling funds. Unfortunately she has a questionable cloud over her, even though she had nothing to do with it. She was abandoned by her parents at a very young age and feels she is completely unlovable. She has erected walls around herself to keep safe from falling for any man, until Issac walks into her life.

Bella has applied for a job as the events coordinator for the Umbrella Organization. Issac, the CEO and founder, has a unique way of testing his applicants for the job. He dresses as a homeless man and meets them at their homes to see how they respond. Bella, with a heart of gold, not only offers to help him, but invites him in to shower, eat and spend the night on her couch. They begin to talk and Issac finds out what a giving, smart, fun person Bella is. Of course, she does not have any idea who this man is. When she finds out, sparks fly. I do not want to say anymore about the story because you need to read it and learn about their story on your own, it will draw you right in.

The setting of the small island where everyone knows everyone else's business is great. It seems everywhere Bella goes she either runs into someone she knew from school, or someone is asking her about something going on in her life before she has even told anyone. Her family, aunt, uncle, and cousins, who she lived with and that raised her, are great. They love her like she is a daughter and sister and they are the only ones she trusts and loves. There are introductions of other characters, who I hope will be the love interests of Eden and Rome in further books in this series, and I am looking forward to them. This book will make a wonderful summer/beach/poolside read. Pick it up, you won't regret it. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.

[emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

spring at blueberry bay is a cute beach read for the summer despite being set during the spring. it is precisely what you would expect from a book titled as this one is - a feel-good romance with a blend of comedy and drama. sweet and a page-turner for sure.

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Release Date: April 7, 2017
Genre: Chick Lit

Awe! This is such a sweet and lovely read that it left me with the biggest smile when I finished it. Now, while a familiar trope is used in the story (a sort of co-workers/office romance) the author presented it in a unique and utterly charming way! I won't spoil the story for you so that's all I will say on that topic, but I really loved how it developed and came together. With that, this book is perfect for those enjoy chick lit and women's fiction novels. There are moments of hilarity, moments where you want to rip out your hair (those are few and far between), moments of tears, and most of all, moments of joy. Holly Martin used exact precision when describing the scene as well, and I truly felt like I was there with the characters. Being from America, I haven't ever been to London or the surrounding areas, but I felt like I was there when reading this one. Even more important is that the language and use of British words are not overused so there was no confusion or HMM moments while reading. While I appreciate the difference in language of course, some writers from different countries can cause confusion for those who live in other international areas but that's not the case with this one. Well done!!!

A little more about this story: Spring at Blueberry Bay is a gem of a novel and the characters absolutely sparkle! Bella is as sweet and charming as they come and is more than willing to help those in need. She has a heart of gold but her life has taken a bit of a turn and she is almost destitute. This however doesn't change her demeanor and when she meets a homeless man who is in need of assistance she jumps right in to help.

Issac is a charming guy that swept my heart away. He's a bit dishonest in the beginning but his intentions are pure and make sense once you get into the moral of the story. He's also the type of man that WANTS love, so when his meets this charming lady who doesn't believe in it he essentially makes it his mission to change her mind about love.

With a few bumps and some little white lies, this story is bound to have an impact on any reader. It is absolutely sweet and a must read for all fans. For me, I am quite new to the author (I have only read one other book written by her) but I am most certainly going to be putting her on my watch list for any upcoming and past releases.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A truly fun read! I've read several books by this author and she is fast becoming one of my favorites. First, I will read anything that has water/a beach/pretty cover. Or, at least, I will try them. However, this one is a winner from start to finish! I especially loved the characters, including the dog. This book has everything; laughter, tears, great story and great characters.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for allowing me to read and provide an honest review of "Spring at Blueberry Bay."

[Charlotte (Escapades of a Bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read a Holly Martin book I fall more and more in love. As always this was an easy book to pick up, get lost in and fall in love with. Every page of this book was delicious and impossible to put down.

The characters may be quirky and overly honest but they are each brilliant and lovable in their own way. Each time they made me fall in love with them again and again. I fell in love with Issac at the same time as Belle – page one. He was adorable, and kind and generous. He was the perfect gentleman.

I loved that most of the story was told from Belle’s perspective with only the occasional, and very rare, thought from Issac. She gave me all the feels of a perfect romance. And I loved that nothing was easy or straight-forward, they both have flaws that they need to work on. Their relationship is like a roller coaster. Luckily there are more ups than downs.

And I loved the supporting cast. I cannot wait to see more of these guys – especially Eden and Dougie (please let these two be the main couple in the next book). All of them made me want to reach out and as them to be my friends. I also loved Camille, Issac’s PA who always turned up at the right moments to save the day. Or to just let Bella and Issac get on with their relationship. She never stood in their way.

The setting was incredible – I’ve never been to the Scilly Isles but they sound idyllic and picturesque. And lots of sunshine. Which is always important. Add the fact that this is an island, not that close to the mainland means that there is a certain uniqueness to the tale. Although being a small community means that everyone knows everyone’s business and has an opinion. And this is no different.

This was a beautifully written tale, that was funny and well thought out. A charming tale that will always find a way into my heart. Swoonsome, flirty and downright gorgeous this is one book I promise that you do not want to miss out on.

Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm

[Emma Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

So if the colourful and stunning cover for Spring at Blueberry Bay by Holly Martin doesn't immediately grab your attention and scream read me now, then the opening chapter certainly will. I was drawn straight into the story on the very first page as we meet Bella Roussel aged 29. She has grown up on Hope Island in the isles of Scilly and loves it there but recent events in her past have tarnished her outlook on life and she is at that breaking point where if a job doesn't materialise she really doesn't know what she can do. Even within the first chapter I felt we really got to know an awful lot about Bella and how she thinks and feels and how she has reached the point she is at today.

At the same time Holly Martin created such a lovely picture of Hope Island that I think every reader wishes it was real so they could go on holiday or if lucky enough to move there. With names like Buttercup Beach, Mistletoe Cove, Blueberry Bay and even the horse shoe shaped rainbow cottages where Bella lived with their unique names just seemed so magical and a place where all your worries would disappear. Sadly though this wasn't the case for Bella her worries only seem to be growing stronger as searching for a new job hasn't been as fruitful as she would have wished. An incident from her previous job that she has become tarnished with (even though she had been cleared of all blame) has prevented any of her applications being successful. But is this all about to change as an interview for The Umbrella Foundation – a charity working to help the homeless is on the horizon but will everything go to plan. Bella has almost been in a cocoon of her own making in recent months and now it may just be her time to emerge and shine and shoe everyone what an incredible woman she truly is.

I really felt there was no messing around here with the usual endless setting up that often is found in a book in this genre. The author really got straight down to business and slotted in the back-story where needed. It brought the story forward rather than pushing it backwards and it remained like this for the rest of the book. Instantly I loved Bella as our main female heroine, she was clearly going through so much and her childhood had clearly impacted the person she was today. She was kind, caring and always there for others putting their needs first but I loved how her family siblings - Rome and Eden and her parents were always there for her. Rome could see Bella was struggling and helped her out but in the most unobtrusive way possible as he knew Bella still had her pride and wouldn't want to be worrying others. But when someone has resorted to selling anything of value and is now down to her last bag of porridge as her only source of food you can't stand back and let someone go on like this and I'm glad Rome didn't.

If Bella gets this job hopefully it would turn her life around. On her way back to Blossom Grove with her cottage full of books which would never be sold ' Books also don't judge her for being different. They were loyal, steadfast and always made her feel happy' Bella sees a homeless man sitting outside and this is where her true nature shines through. Bella although she more or less has nothing herself invites the man in and offers him food and to have a shower and get himself sorted. My instant gut reaction was woah what on earth are you doing Bella? That is so dangerous and foolish? But I suppose given the nature of her previous job and the charity she now wants to work for Bella felt she could but do nothing else. This spur of the moment decision will change Bella's life for ever and I couldn't read the pages fast enough to discover would Bella find the happiness she so clearly deserved.

This man that was waiting at the door whose real name is Issac was instantly likeable. OK I'll go further than saying likeable he was drop dead gorgeous and had a personality to match. I had glanced through some reviews before reading the book and everyone was mentioning how Issac was 'the' book boyfriend and everyone would love him. I thought hmm I'm not sure of the use of the term book boyfriend, it seemed so clichéd and over used. How can a reader really fall that so much in love with a fictional character? Boy was I wrong and I'll admit it. I fell head over heels for Issac and I could see why Bella had similar feelings. It was just so unfortunate as to how they met and the fact that Issac had to lie to her. He had created a perfectly reasonable scenario and I wished he had come clean earlier to her but he seemed to dig himself into such a deep hole that it was difficult to get out of it. Bella wears her heart on her sleeve. She is honest and open and I could see why she was really hurt when the truth comes to light. Yet the intensity between the pair when they are at the cottage only gets stronger and stronger throughout the story that you know something will have to give.

There is such a connection between the pair it was oozing from the pages. It all felt so real and you could only wish that you would experience the same in life at one point or other. Given that Bella was so deeply hurt in her past, and now has little or no friends bar her family, and the scars of her past are still clearly visible you wonder whether she can let herself go and open herself up to such a deep what could be lasting love? This must have been really hard to even attempt and the reader can see there is always that niggle growing ever more persistent at the back of her heart and in her mind saying don't let yourself get hurt again, you're better off the way you are. Surely allowing love in is much better than the situation Bella finds herself in when we first meet her?

Spring at Blueberry Bay was packed full of humour as well as plenty of steamy, intense scenes. Don't get me wrong this wasn't overdone or could be likened to some of those books you see with covers of topless men. That's a whole other genre. These intense scenes needed to be there and they really did help the reader get a feel for the emotions and situations the characters were going through and in a way resistance was futile. As for the humour I mentioned it's not often I laugh out loud at a book but here I did several times over. Oh poor poor Bella when she goes for the interview a weaker woman may have just given up, sat down on the floor and cried but no she kept going. In a way I was mortified for her but it showed her strength of character and how she really wanted the job.

When Bella gets the job even though things are very complicated I loved how another side of her character came into play demonstrating just how much of a multi layered person she really was. Her ideas for raising money were creative and inspiring. That Pokemon Go type Easter Hunt was ingenious and really someone should jump on it and make it a reality. Towards the end this was used in such an incredible way that it couldn't fail to melt even the most hardened of hearts. I loved how everything began to unfold and how things weren't plain sailing. I was there with Bella every step of the way. I laughed alongside her and yes even shed a tear or two. As for Issac well I think anyone who reads this book will want an Issac in their lives. Why can't he be real and come waltzing into my life one day? His gesture with a dog was easily the most incredibly romantic thing I have ever read. It was so heartfelt and although some may think this was a simple gesture it was so much more than that and my heart melted when he did it. I sincerely wished Bella's fear of love, of letting people or even mixing business with pleasure wouldn't prove to be huge stumbling blocks in the path to find true love and happiness.

There were other characters mentioned and normally I would want more of their story but this was truly the story that belonged to Bella and Issac and so it didn't bother me in the slightest that there wasn't more people featured. The spotlight was placed firmly on a pair that you wished you could be friends with in real life and Holly certainly made me feel as if I knew every little detail of their lives. The characters were warm and lovable and that's the overall feeling I got from this book as well.

Spring at Blueberry Bay was utter perfection from beginning to end. In a genre where we are flooded with books on a daily basis and at times a genre which I think is becoming slightly jaded and the usual love story has been done to death Holly Martin is a breath of fresh air. It takes a lot for me to rave about a love story these days in the chick lit genre as I feel they have become too repetitive and predictable. This wasn't the case with Spring at Blueberry Bay. The author has written with such flair creating the fabulous setting of Hope Island and with characters you truly care about and only want good things for. Holly has that magic writing touch that will want you coming back for more time and time again.

I said Christmas Under a Cranberry Sky was the best Christmas book I have ever read and now Spring at Blueberry Bay is up there as one of my favourite Holly Martin books. It blew me away and I hope my return visit to Hope Island in the summer will do the same all over again.

[Jasmin Jace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I woke up this morning wishing I were in a different place. Somewhere far from wherever I am right now. Somewhere refreshing where I could clear my mind. And since I don't have the means to do it, I did the only thing I could; and that is to read a book. A book that will take me far far away from here. So I read Spring at Blueberry Bay.



This book is very much fun to read. It gave me just what I needed. It took me to a beautiful place with wonderful characters alongside it. I didn't only fall in love with the story and characters but I fell in love with Hope Island as well. I love how the author described each scenery and the community. It sounded like a very beautiful place to live.



Bella and Isaac are both beautiful characters inside and out. They have great chemistry and they are both wonderful people. I enjoyed reading their serious moments, their funny moments and of course, their sweet moments. They may have met under false pretenses but other than that, they're both straightforward to what they feel for each other and that's what I love about them.



This is my first read of this author and surely will not be my last. Just a note though: I still believe that letting a stranger in your home where you live on your own is not a very wise thing to do. :D

[Steffi · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page I loved the wonderful scenery and setting Holly Martin has created another time. Hope Island comes up with another wonderful atmosphere which makes me feel at home immediately.

Bella and Isaac are wonderful characters. I loved how they met and the chemistry between them was absolutely sizzling. It was heart-warming how they two got to know each other better and better. As much as I loved Bella, I loved Isaac more. He would make every girl's heart melt.

The humour in this book was absolutely hilarious. There were several scenes which made me laugh out loud.

Holly Martin's writing style is so enjoyable to read and I love her talent for creating romances which make my heart swoon and make me feel at home.

[Renita D'Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely FAB story! Holly Martin does it again! I LOVE Holly's books and this one is brilliant! A beautifully written, feel good, fun, charming tale that grabs you from the first page. Adored it and highly recommend to everyone.

[Lekkerlezenmetlau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wat een heerlijk boek was dit weer. Ik denk niet dat de boeken van Holly Martin mij ooit zouden vervelen. Steeds weer weet ze de lezer mee te nemen naar een sprookjesachtige bestemming waar buiten een boel liefde in allerlei vormen ook een fijne diepere laag wordt aangebracht. Ik kan nu al niet wachten op deel 2.

[Carmen De Kwant · Rating 4 out of 5]

De cover van dit boek vond ik zooooo mooi en sprak mij ook meteen aan. Net zoals alle covers van de boeken van Holly Martin, ze maken me altijd zo vrolijk.

Vanaf het begin van dit verhaal word je al meegesleurd in het verhaal van Bella, je leeft met haar mee in haar moeilijke situatie want ze is nog blutter dan blut maar zal haar laatste eten nog met iemand delen en met haar eigenwijze karakter wilt ze het allemaal zelf regelen en accepteert geen hulp. Ze heeft zoveel liefde te bieden maar is tegelijkertijd zo bang het kwijt te raken. Een mooi hoofdpersonage als je het aan mij vraagt.

De Eilanden in dit boek maakten mij erg nieuwsgierig en wisten mij dan ook zeker te betoveren. IK WIL HIERHEEN!! Dit werd ook erg mooi omschreven.

Het is een mooi, grappig, hartverwarmend verhaal. Het boek leest erg vlot en de verschillende onderwerpen in dit boek zijn erg origineel. Dit boek heb ik gelezen met een lach op mijn gezicht en maakte mij zo vrolijk door de hoofdpersonage Bella.

Ik wacht met smart op deel twee van deze serie.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just as I think I have found my favourite Holly Martin book she excels herself and produces another one, is there no limit to this lady’s genius!?

Just take a look at the cover .. who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to Hope Island, it looks idyllic and Bella is lucky enough to live there. That is where her luck stops though, at the start of the book poor Bella is down on her luck, she has been accused of being part of a huge scandal at work and no longer has a job. Short of money, scraping the barrel for food she is existing on porridge as the last resort. Too proud to ask her family for help, so when a vacancy arises within a company for an event manager she begins to believe it must be made for her.

Zack huddles next to the gate, homeless and hungry .. Bella sees him outside and immediately without any thought for her own problems or safety invites him in, offers him the remainder of her porridge and a hot shower. Rather unwisely or maybe naively she also offers him a bed for the night. They chat, flirt and have a connection .. could Bella be falling in love or is it too much to hope her life will take a turn for the better?

This is such a charming story, full of hope and a lesson in learning to trust, a little white lie by Zack has the potential to scupper everything!

The humour is spot on .. lime green dress and pink Barbie shoes spring to mind and sums up Bella the redhead perfectly. She is the woman we would all secretly love to be, caring, generous, kind, fiery but also extremely vulnerable so making her a cutie and irresistible.

Isaac, well what can I say about him other than PHWOAR! What a hottie, I think I fell a little bit in lust with him. What a hero, gorgeously sexy, generous, funny thoughtful and a smart business man .. but he also has trust issues.

The romance in this book is sweet but gets a little steamy, you just know the vibes are there to create a fantastic relationship if only the couple can get themselves sorted out.

There is potential to follow on the story with Bella’s siblings, Rome and Eden hopefully. A great mix of characters that you immediately feel at home with makes this a joy to read. Escape to Hope Island for the duration and I guarantee you will have a five star stay!

My thanks go to Holly, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this gem and participate in the blog tour. I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ecopy of Spring at Blueberry Bay as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review, something I am more than happy to do.

Holly Martin is one of my all time favourite, feel good authors. You know before you even open the first page that you're going to fall in love. Everything from the cover, which I have to say is one of my favourite, to the characters and location were just perfect.

Spring at Blueberry bay introduces us to Bella, her sunny, effervescent character leaps from the page - she's open and far too honest for her own good, the truth just falls from her mouth and to hilarious consequences,not always at the right time. But, she also has an alter ego who is vulnerable and struggles to trust, believing herself to be unloveable. surface.

Spring at Blueberry Bay introduces us to her extended family and friends and from the very first chapter gives us a clear understanding of the 'real' Bella. Despite being out of work and penniless herself when she encounters a homeless person camped outside her house her heart melts and she invites Zac into her home, offering him a bed for the night and shares the last food in her cupboard with him.

This was a book that made me smile throughout, there are hilarious moments that made me laugh out loud. One such moment which I shall refer to as the 'sofa tango' had me literally crying laughing and at a totally inappropriate moment - I was sat on the train, next to a total stranger, that coupled with the 'incident' made me lose control. This happens all the time when reading a book by Holly Martin - she adds empathy and warmth to all her characters with comic timing that is just perfect.

The one thing that shines out from this book for me is that with the support, love and trust of family and friends, determination, loyalty and a strong will anything is possible and Bella proves just that in Spring at Blueberry Bay.

I highly recommend this book, it truly is a another perfect slice of deliciousness by Holly Martin - a dream like book that totally melted my heart. I cannot wait for the next instalment. Bring on summer!

[Fiona Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say I loved this story is a huge understatement. I read it in one sitting and honestly could not put it down once I started.

This isn't your usual boy meets girl and falls in love story. Bella is a young woman who has had a hard start in life. She is struggling to make ends meet, yet still finds enough kindness in her heart to invite a homeless man into her home and shares her last meal with him. What she doesn't know, is that Isaac isn't actually homeless. His intentions are good, but perhaps he has gone about them wrong, especially as Bella isn't the type of person who takes kindly to being lied to.

Bella is a lovely character, but she had such a bad start in life that she has put huge barriers up around her heart which will take a force of nature to bring down. Given the not so great start to their friendship, Isaac has to go some to find a way to explain his motives when Bella finds out the truth about him. From that moment on the story kicks up a gear.

I loved reading all the ideas that Bella comes up with, what a creative mind the author has to come up with everything she does. Being a huge fan of the game she uses as the basis for one of Bella's most ambitious ideas, I totally related to that part of the story in particular.

The characters are all very well written, the story flows throughout, and I loved every minute of it.

Huge thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy.

[Hannah Clarke (Love Books Actually) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m never disappointed with a Holly Martin book and this is another fun filled read! This is the first book in the ‘Hope Island’ series and having read the third book at Christmas (Christmas at Mistletoe Cove) I kind of ruined the ending of this but that didn’t spoil the story at all. ‘Spring at Blueberry Bay’ focuses on Bella, a character I really enjoyed reading about. I felt so sorry for her at times, no matter how tough her life got, she was always so selfless and put others first. Overall this is a fun read about family, love and learning to put your trust in people.

[Book Addict Shaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Martin is one of my absolute favourite storytellers when I want a book that will leave me with that happy, glowing feeling inside. She is the Queen of the Happy Ever After and when I read the blurb for Spring at Blueberry Bay, I couldn't wait to read it and just a few short hours later, I wasn't disappointed. What I especially love about Holly's books is the worlds that she creates, and even the lives and jobs that she gives her characters. She comes up with these beautiful sounding places that I just want to live in, and gives her characters unique jobs as opposed to just churning out a typical chick lit type novel where our unlucky in love heroine lives in a huge city, falls in love with the nearest hunky man she accidentally trips over and shags her way to a happy ever after. Don't get me wrong the sex and hunk factor in Holly's books is amazing, it's just not the only thing her books have going for them.

I read the blurb for Spring at Blueberry Bay and found out that our main character, Bella, was about to invite a homeless man into her home and that Isaac, said homeless man, was about to change her life in ways she could never imagine. I was quite alarmed that a woman could invite a man into her home so easily, and I wondered where Holly was going to take the story but all is not as it seems and we soon find out that Isaac isn't a homeless man but the CEO of a company that Bella has applied to work for and that this is his way of finding out more about her ahead of the interview. It's only a tiny spoiler to reveal that piece of information because it is revealed to the reader right at the start of the story and I felt it could have worked out as more of a shock to the reader had Holly dragged it out for a little bit longer. That said the opening allowed us to see the kind of woman that Bella is, and I found myself instantly endearing myself to her because she was just such a lovely, kind-hearted person that it would be impossible for readers not to like her straightaway. Isaac himself is also a man of mystery, not just to Bella but to the reader also and I enjoyed learning more about him.

I really wanted to just climb into this book and live there because Holly has created not only a fantastic setting but another batch of truly unforgettable characters, not just in Bella and Isaac but in the supporting characters such as her family members Erin and Rome who I just loved. The road to the happy ever after that Holly Martin always delivers is never a smooth one, and that's also the case in Spring at Blueberry Bay. The reader is screaming for the characters to get together, but we know that it will be the closing pages that finally gives us the ending we have been waiting for. Throughout there are some wonderful scenes between the characters, and I absolutely loved how Holly Martin created something akin to Pokemon Go (I was addicted months ago but the craze has long passed me now) and used that in helping one of the characters create a truly amazing grand gesture. Holly's books are just perfect for escaping into and in the past they have really helped me through some difficult times. She is an author I know I can always rely on to deliver and some of her love stories have been some of my absolute favourites of the last few years. How she manages to do it time and time again I have no idea, I just know that we as readers are incredibly lucky that she does. I can't wait for the next book in the Blueberry Bay series and to meet these characters again.