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Holly Berry Sweet Shop #4
High Hopes at the Sweet Shop of Second Chances
Special delivery for Miss Holly Berry
A successful summer has seen Holly Berry’s shop thriving for the first time since she bought it, and she has high hopes for the future of Just One More. However, it is not only her business prowess that has been growing. In a little over a month she will be trying to run the shop with a baby on her hip.
If only her love life was so easily managed. With things far from solid with Ben, and Giles back on the scene, Holly might find herself changing more than nappies.
A successful summer has seen Holly Berry’s shop thriving for the first time since she bought it, and she has high hopes for the future of Just One More. However, it is not only her business prowess that has been growing. In a little over a month she will be trying to run the shop with a baby on her hip.
If only her love life was so easily managed. With things far from solid with Ben, and Giles back on the scene, Holly might find herself changing more than nappies.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2022
162 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Hannah M. Lynn
44 books978 followersHannah Lynn is a multi award winning novelist. Publishing her first book, Amendments – a dark, dystopian speculative fiction novel, in 2015. Her second book, The Afterlife of Walter Augustus – a contemporary fiction novel with a supernatural twist – went on to win the 2018 Kindle Storyteller Award and the Independent Publishers Gold Medal for Best Adult Ebook.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 17, 2024
I enjoyed returning to Holly’s tale, especially as she is nearing her due date with the little one. However, there is so much bickering between her and Ben that it takes away the excitement of Holly’s pregnancy. There’s a fair amount of underlying tension with Holly and Ben, not making this the happy ever after I was looking forwards to.
In this book, Ben and Holly’s relationship is incredibly strained. I could not understand why they were still together, suspecting it was due to Holly’s pregnancy. Whilst they are having relationship counselling, the fact they are working so hard at trying to make a success of things, I thought it all felt rather hollow – especially as Holly is not exactly being truthful.
Characters from previous books continue to make an appearance here: it is definitely worthwhile to have read the rest of the series so far. Surprisingly, Lynn creates a bit of a love triangle with Holly and I could not foresee how this would conclude. One thing it does do, is add to the tension in Holly’s relationship and I found I was growing frustrated with her two-faced actions: expecting one thing from Ben but doing the opposite herself. This aspect was quite disappointing because over the books, I had grown to admire her independence and business acumen. In terms of her love life however, she seems a complete disaster.
I enjoyed this book because of the little sub-plots featuring Jamie, Drey and Holly’s family. It added more colour to the novel and, surprisingly, the sweet shop itself takes more of a back seat in this novel. Having seen so much of it in previous books, this story is more about the people that make the sweet shop. With a baby on the way, secrets and plenty of angst, this was a read that shows how so many of the characters have high hopes but life does not always allow this to be achieved.
I am looking forward to reading the next few books in the series, but I really hope that Holly sorts herself out! She needs a jolly good talking to and with a baby to look after, stability is essential. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the love theme is less complicated and more sweet than this sour portrayal between Holly and Ben.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this book, Ben and Holly’s relationship is incredibly strained. I could not understand why they were still together, suspecting it was due to Holly’s pregnancy. Whilst they are having relationship counselling, the fact they are working so hard at trying to make a success of things, I thought it all felt rather hollow – especially as Holly is not exactly being truthful.
Characters from previous books continue to make an appearance here: it is definitely worthwhile to have read the rest of the series so far. Surprisingly, Lynn creates a bit of a love triangle with Holly and I could not foresee how this would conclude. One thing it does do, is add to the tension in Holly’s relationship and I found I was growing frustrated with her two-faced actions: expecting one thing from Ben but doing the opposite herself. This aspect was quite disappointing because over the books, I had grown to admire her independence and business acumen. In terms of her love life however, she seems a complete disaster.
I enjoyed this book because of the little sub-plots featuring Jamie, Drey and Holly’s family. It added more colour to the novel and, surprisingly, the sweet shop itself takes more of a back seat in this novel. Having seen so much of it in previous books, this story is more about the people that make the sweet shop. With a baby on the way, secrets and plenty of angst, this was a read that shows how so many of the characters have high hopes but life does not always allow this to be achieved.
I am looking forward to reading the next few books in the series, but I really hope that Holly sorts herself out! She needs a jolly good talking to and with a baby to look after, stability is essential. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the love theme is less complicated and more sweet than this sour portrayal between Holly and Ben.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2024
Suk, nu skal jeg igen finde en ny serie at kaste mig over, indtil de næste bøger i serien bliver oversat ☹️
October 23, 2022
I really enjoy Hannah's books. The characters are always relatable. It's nice to get lost in other people's lives for a while. There's a theme of a need for honesty with ourselves and others throughout the story, which we all know can be hard when humans and emotions are involved! A very enjoyable read :o)
February 15, 2024
So 4 in 4 for me with this series and the last audiobook to start!
Oh Holly, Holly, Holly!! What are you doing!! As if the drama from the last book wasn't enough with the baby and then Giles turning up. We had to create some more!
I love that Finn was a good guy all along and he and Jamie are just too darn cute! He is so thoughtful and caring not only to Jamie but to Holly too.
Holly, what are you doing to yourself and me!! I get now what you see with Ben, and it's sad but he only wants what is best for you. However, at the end of the book, I saw the old Holly sparkling through. She's coming back! I am hoping she starts to behave again now!
These books are like a slice of your favourite cake, incredibly sweet and leave you wanting more! I can't wait to find out what happens next! I am becoming slightly obsessed with Hannah and her books that is for sure! They are filled with laughter, love and tears. Even Holly's Dad and Drey had to get in on some of the drama action!
I can't wait for more!
Oh Holly, Holly, Holly!! What are you doing!! As if the drama from the last book wasn't enough with the baby and then Giles turning up. We had to create some more!
I love that Finn was a good guy all along and he and Jamie are just too darn cute! He is so thoughtful and caring not only to Jamie but to Holly too.
Holly, what are you doing to yourself and me!! I get now what you see with Ben, and it's sad but he only wants what is best for you. However, at the end of the book, I saw the old Holly sparkling through. She's coming back! I am hoping she starts to behave again now!
These books are like a slice of your favourite cake, incredibly sweet and leave you wanting more! I can't wait to find out what happens next! I am becoming slightly obsessed with Hannah and her books that is for sure! They are filled with laughter, love and tears. Even Holly's Dad and Drey had to get in on some of the drama action!
I can't wait for more!
July 26, 2023
I've whirled through this series so far and have loved every second. The setting, the shop everything was picturesque.
Holly was funny and really didn't know what she wanted bless her. She is such a dreamer.
The ending wasn't what I expected but it was lovely and I'm too excited for September to bring instalment number 5.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Holly was funny and really didn't know what she wanted bless her. She is such a dreamer.
The ending wasn't what I expected but it was lovely and I'm too excited for September to bring instalment number 5.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 14, 2023
Brilliant had to put it down to sleep, but as soon as I was awake this morning I finished it. Look forward to the next one.
June 13, 2023
This was the next instalment of
This cosy sweet shop series and could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend starting from
The beginning for the full series and enjoyment.
This chapter focused on hollies continuing relationship between Ben and Giles and kept the reader on their toes as to where her loyalties lied and also focused on the other aspects of her life and how things were progressing since she took over
The sweet shop and focused on the highs and lows she faced in her loved life and in running her own business.
Look forward to the next instalment to see where her life takes her next
This cosy sweet shop series and could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend starting from
The beginning for the full series and enjoyment.
This chapter focused on hollies continuing relationship between Ben and Giles and kept the reader on their toes as to where her loyalties lied and also focused on the other aspects of her life and how things were progressing since she took over
The sweet shop and focused on the highs and lows she faced in her loved life and in running her own business.
Look forward to the next instalment to see where her life takes her next
October 26, 2022
This was a quick read and having read the previous books in the series there were sufficient reminders to get me quickly back on track with what was happening. The pace of the story was good and I liked the sub plot with Drey. Unfortunately I was less keen on the love triangle - Holly’s indecision, dishonesty and borderline infidelity towards a man who didn’t deserve to be treated in such a way left me lacking in sympathy for her. The only time I felt she was taking any action on her own behalf was right at the end, which was disappointing considering this is a woman who won my respect by establishing herself in a business and community in the first book.
I was given a free advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a free advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2022
Lovely
I really enjoyed reading this book in the series, poor pregnant Holly is with Ben the babies father but her feelings for him aren't strong enough for her to know she will not be happy with him. Giles is there for.Her also he helps Holly with her weekly shop and makes her laugh while Ben is so serious.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I really enjoyed reading this book in the series, poor pregnant Holly is with Ben the babies father but her feelings for him aren't strong enough for her to know she will not be happy with him. Giles is there for.Her also he helps Holly with her weekly shop and makes her laugh while Ben is so serious.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
July 3, 2023
Only when writing this review I found out that this is not the last in the series. There is to be one more. I decided to write the reviews together and decided not to wait to read the next.
This fourth book is a culmination of the arc that began in book two, at least in some ways. Holly is heavily pregnant when the story starts, and she is struggling with everything around her. She is considering her job/shop and her emotional reliance on two men, both of whom have good and bad to recommend to them. She spirals into keeping things from both, and given her state, it is no wonder when she is unable to cope.
There are some more emotional moments here, and it does take an even more serious stance about Holly's life than previously attempted.
If it had not ended the way it did, including the conversations between the lead characters at the very end, i might not have liked it as much as I did.
This series is the kind that is a joy for people who enjoy books that continue a tale. No one book is enough to close the chapter of Holly's growth arc. There was something satisfying about seeing her tackle her life bit by bit. I may have liked some of the books more than others, but I highly recommend this series for people who like to follow a single lead protagonist with minimal distractions as she learns and changes.
The author's writing is simple, to the point and flows, making each book a quick and easy read, even with emotional ups and downs.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
This fourth book is a culmination of the arc that began in book two, at least in some ways. Holly is heavily pregnant when the story starts, and she is struggling with everything around her. She is considering her job/shop and her emotional reliance on two men, both of whom have good and bad to recommend to them. She spirals into keeping things from both, and given her state, it is no wonder when she is unable to cope.
There are some more emotional moments here, and it does take an even more serious stance about Holly's life than previously attempted.
If it had not ended the way it did, including the conversations between the lead characters at the very end, i might not have liked it as much as I did.
This series is the kind that is a joy for people who enjoy books that continue a tale. No one book is enough to close the chapter of Holly's growth arc. There was something satisfying about seeing her tackle her life bit by bit. I may have liked some of the books more than others, but I highly recommend this series for people who like to follow a single lead protagonist with minimal distractions as she learns and changes.
The author's writing is simple, to the point and flows, making each book a quick and easy read, even with emotional ups and downs.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
November 2, 2023
The story begins with Holly heavily pregnant, struggling with her life choices, including her job and her complex emotional connections with two men, both of whom have their merits and flaws. As she spirals into keeping secrets from them, her situation becomes overwhelming due to her pregnancy.
This installment delves deeper into the emotional aspects of Holly's life, taking a more serious approach than before. The story's ending and the conversations between the main characters significantly influenced the reader's overall enjoyment. The series offers continuous storytelling and doesn't conclude Holly's personal growth in any single book. Witnessing her gradual journey of confronting life's challenges is gratifying. While some books in the series may resonate more with readers than others, it's highly recommended for those who prefer following a single lead character with minimal distractions as she learns and evolves.The author's writing is straightforward and concise, making each book a quick and accessible read, even when dealing with emotional ups and downs.
This installment delves deeper into the emotional aspects of Holly's life, taking a more serious approach than before. The story's ending and the conversations between the main characters significantly influenced the reader's overall enjoyment. The series offers continuous storytelling and doesn't conclude Holly's personal growth in any single book. Witnessing her gradual journey of confronting life's challenges is gratifying. While some books in the series may resonate more with readers than others, it's highly recommended for those who prefer following a single lead character with minimal distractions as she learns and evolves.The author's writing is straightforward and concise, making each book a quick and accessible read, even when dealing with emotional ups and downs.
August 13, 2024
pleaseeeee please please, don't prove em righttt🎶🎸🎤 JILES CAVITY THE MAN THAT YOU ARE.
holly tries to navigate relationship with ben, despite her heart not being in it. she encapsulates her feelings accurately when she said jiles was the only person she could be free of the mom-guilt and pressure. where she doesn't need to be perfect. and she realizes she doesn't just want a mundane, scraping to live a very static day-to-day that she's having with ben.
jiles REALLY made amends in this book. with just making her feel great during their grocery runs, looking out for her PARENTS, and giving her a lift absolutely everywhereee😩😩😩😩
r.i.p. jiles cavity to right person wrong time trope, for the second time now💔💔
holly tries to navigate relationship with ben, despite her heart not being in it. she encapsulates her feelings accurately when she said jiles was the only person she could be free of the mom-guilt and pressure. where she doesn't need to be perfect. and she realizes she doesn't just want a mundane, scraping to live a very static day-to-day that she's having with ben.
jiles REALLY made amends in this book. with just making her feel great during their grocery runs, looking out for her PARENTS, and giving her a lift absolutely everywhereee😩😩😩😩
r.i.p. jiles cavity to right person wrong time trope, for the second time now💔💔
May 21, 2023
3.5 stars.
Main character Holly was a little annoying in this novel. She was moany and I didn’t like the relationship triangle between her, Giles and Ben. To be honest even the ending confused me because right up until the end she had basically been leading the 2 men on and then right at the end she changed her mind completely.
It’s a shame because I enjoyed the first 2 in the series and I would be interested if there were any more but this one just didn’t do it for me unfortunately.
Main character Holly was a little annoying in this novel. She was moany and I didn’t like the relationship triangle between her, Giles and Ben. To be honest even the ending confused me because right up until the end she had basically been leading the 2 men on and then right at the end she changed her mind completely.
It’s a shame because I enjoyed the first 2 in the series and I would be interested if there were any more but this one just didn’t do it for me unfortunately.
June 30, 2023
A cute story that made me smile and root for the characters. I loved the atmosphere and the storytelling.
Wasn't always a fan of Holly but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
It's the 4th in a series but it can be read as a stand alone.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Wasn't always a fan of Holly but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
It's the 4th in a series but it can be read as a stand alone.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 12, 2023
Holly and Ben are having a baby, however their relationship is not good. They are attending counselling, and hoping to become a family unit. So much miscommunication between them doesn’t help. Holly is still busy with her sweet shop, and Ben has taken a new job at the bank which requires some travel. In the meantime, Holly keeps running into Giles who makes her laugh.
December 8, 2023
Enjoyable but felt a bit frantic. I had ent read the third instalment but the narrative quickly brings you up to speed. I felt Holly and Ben were disconnected and felt slightly confused why they were together at all. I will continue with the series as I’d like to see how the story developed but I felt this wasn’t as good as the first two books in the series.
Thank you Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley
May 31, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the Arc of high hopes at the second chances sweet shop, by Hannah Lynn.
It’s part of a series but can be read as a stand alone, I don’t recommend you do that though. Read them all and be fully immersed.
August 8, 2024
I continue to enjoy this series to find out how Holly's future unfolds. Within this book I wish their could have been to her pregnancy rather than so much bickering with Ben. Holly does want to make me scream at her at times! Can't wait to see what next instalment brings.
February 3, 2025
Yeah the books has lost a little of their charms. The story, while ok was not special in any way, and to have Holly be confused for almost the entire story, got boring. The characters did not bring anything new to table.
It was still an "alright" story, I had just hoped for a little more.
It was still an "alright" story, I had just hoped for a little more.
April 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This wasn't quite as funny as the previous book int he series but it made up for it by giving us more on the characters others then Holly, Ben and Giles. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
This wasn't quite as funny as the previous book int he series but it made up for it by giving us more on the characters others then Holly, Ben and Giles. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
June 6, 2023
This is a light and fun read with interesting and relatable characters. Would recommend.
Thank you to Hannah Lynn, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books for the arc of this book.
Thank you to Hannah Lynn, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books for the arc of this book.
November 12, 2023
Oh my
Oh my didn't see that coming, how could Holly choose between Ben and Giles, both had good qualities, what happpens now.
Oh my didn't see that coming, how could Holly choose between Ben and Giles, both had good qualities, what happpens now.
December 14, 2023
Holly learns she's pregnant with Ben's baby but their relationship is strained and Giles is back that bastard.
January 8, 2024
via Kindle Unlimited
April 23, 2024
Fabulous
May 4, 2024
Fantastic as always
Another lovely story, looking forward to reading the next one in the series!
Lovely to see Holly being strong and realising what is best for her in this story.
Another lovely story, looking forward to reading the next one in the series!
Lovely to see Holly being strong and realising what is best for her in this story.
October 21, 2024
Loved this book, finally he decides what she wants, now baby hope is here, can’t wait to see how it all goes
July 19, 2025
Wonderful carry on series for the sweet shop .fabulous read.ready for series no 5 next one .to see how the progress that comes with the sweet shop .Holly baby Hope and all their family x friends
September 12, 2025
Amazing Read
Another great instalment, already downloaded the next book to continue reading the ongoing adventures of Holly and Ben and Giles.
Another great instalment, already downloaded the next book to continue reading the ongoing adventures of Holly and Ben and Giles.
November 22, 2022
I'm torn.
First this was a very good book and I've enjoyed the series so far. However, I didn't like the turns this story took and really didn't like the ending. I also disliked the way Holly and Ben would get together at the end of a book and then break up at beginning of the next book. The back and forth left me disgruntled.
On the other hand I do have to recognize excellent work and this was excellent. There are things I do like about the ending and I'm glad there's going to be another book but having to wait a year is a bit much for me. I'm not that invested in reading more about Holly. So, I'm torn.
First this was a very good book and I've enjoyed the series so far. However, I didn't like the turns this story took and really didn't like the ending. I also disliked the way Holly and Ben would get together at the end of a book and then break up at beginning of the next book. The back and forth left me disgruntled.
On the other hand I do have to recognize excellent work and this was excellent. There are things I do like about the ending and I'm glad there's going to be another book but having to wait a year is a bit much for me. I'm not that invested in reading more about Holly. So, I'm torn.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews