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Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove
From the big city to a little yellow mobile library on the Isle of Skye ...
When Jenna Palmer agrees to the new position of mobile librarian on the tiny Arrandale peninsular of the Isle of Skye, she knows she’s signing up for difficult working conditions and mediocre wages. But Jenna needs to get away, and a little yellow mobile library called Buttercup could be her escape to happier dreams ...
However, whilst Jenna can get to grips with foggy island roads, local mermaid legends and even big purple monsters, she never expected to have to contend with a boss as grumpy as Daniel McGregor, or a young book lover as enthusiastic as his niece, Katrina.
Arrandale might represent Jenna’s safe port in a storm, but could she and Buttercup also become a beacon of hope to Daniel, Katrina and the entire island community?
When Jenna Palmer agrees to the new position of mobile librarian on the tiny Arrandale peninsular of the Isle of Skye, she knows she’s signing up for difficult working conditions and mediocre wages. But Jenna needs to get away, and a little yellow mobile library called Buttercup could be her escape to happier dreams ...
However, whilst Jenna can get to grips with foggy island roads, local mermaid legends and even big purple monsters, she never expected to have to contend with a boss as grumpy as Daniel McGregor, or a young book lover as enthusiastic as his niece, Katrina.
Arrandale might represent Jenna’s safe port in a storm, but could she and Buttercup also become a beacon of hope to Daniel, Katrina and the entire island community?
294 pages, Paperback
Published July 12, 2022
25 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Marie Laval
27 books83 followersOriginally from Lyon in France, Marie studied History and Law at university there before moving to Lancashire in England where she worked in a variety of jobs, from PA in a busy university department to teacher of French in schools and colleges. Writing, however, was always her passion, and she spends her free time making up stories. She writes contemporary and historical romance. Her titles include A SPELL IN PROVENCE, ANGEL HEART, THE LION'S EMBRACE and DANCING FOR THE DEVIL, published by Accent Press. Her new romantic comedy, LITTLE PINK TAXI, is published by Choc Lit.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 22, 2021
Jenna Palmer’s journey to Arrandale on the Isle of Skye by ferry was a rough one with the storm hitting after they left the dock, but it was what happened to the captain of the little vessel which had her terrified she wouldn’t arrive. But arrive she did – to her new position of mobile librarian in the bright yellow bus she’d named Buttercup. Jenna’s pleasure of her new job, and new home in Mermaid Cove, brightened further when she met the delightful little girl, Katrina who was the niece of her boss, Daniel McGregor. She wasn’t so sure about him though, as he was decidedly grumpy and definitely rude…
As Jenna made new friends, met the school children who loved books, and the community who were happy to see the mobile library servicing their needs, she continued to be harassed from home. Blocking his number didn’t seem to work – changing her number worked only for a short while. Would this place and the people she’d fallen in love with be her happy place, or would she be driven out by her past?
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove by Marie Laval was a delightful story, with wonderful characters (a few not so good) and a community who welcomed the newcomer in with open arms. Domestic violence was an issue and was covered well by the author; the descriptions of Mermaid Cove and the surrounding beauty had me wishing I could visit. I’m enjoying this author’s work, and Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
As Jenna made new friends, met the school children who loved books, and the community who were happy to see the mobile library servicing their needs, she continued to be harassed from home. Blocking his number didn’t seem to work – changing her number worked only for a short while. Would this place and the people she’d fallen in love with be her happy place, or would she be driven out by her past?
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove by Marie Laval was a delightful story, with wonderful characters (a few not so good) and a community who welcomed the newcomer in with open arms. Domestic violence was an issue and was covered well by the author; the descriptions of Mermaid Cove and the surrounding beauty had me wishing I could visit. I’m enjoying this author’s work, and Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is one I recommend highly.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2021
Mermaids, mobile libraries and a swoonsome hero?!! Yes please!! I loved this book and am now extremely jealous of Jenna and buttercup - her fab little yellow mobile library - as they start life afresh on the Isle of Skye!
Her first impression isn't too great though, as very bad weather makes her journey across the water to the Isle of Skye a rather treacherous and unforgettable journey. And it also makes her first meeting with her new boss, Daniel, rather unusual and leaves a lasting impression!
Jenna is looking for a simple, quiet life while she's there and Mermaid Cottage is definitely the perfect place for getting away from it all. She soon finds herself fully immersed into local life as she travels around in Buttercup, and finds a big fan in Kat who is the niece of Daniel, and a massive bookworm. She's full of stories of mermaids although Daniel is eager to squash those kind of stories. That sets off your intrigue as to more about his past and what he's hiding.
I loved the setting, the characters and all the myths and legends we get to hear about as the past begins to reveal itself showing Daniel in a different light. He also finds himself with a rival for the attention of Jenna!
The time away gives Jenna a new lease of life and you can sense her confidence beginning to grow as she comes up with new ideas, and plans to renovate the cottage garden at her new home. It's the kind of book that swallows you up, lets you escape and dream of pastures new and spending time with Jenna, Daniel and Kat was just pure joy!! More please!!
Her first impression isn't too great though, as very bad weather makes her journey across the water to the Isle of Skye a rather treacherous and unforgettable journey. And it also makes her first meeting with her new boss, Daniel, rather unusual and leaves a lasting impression!
Jenna is looking for a simple, quiet life while she's there and Mermaid Cottage is definitely the perfect place for getting away from it all. She soon finds herself fully immersed into local life as she travels around in Buttercup, and finds a big fan in Kat who is the niece of Daniel, and a massive bookworm. She's full of stories of mermaids although Daniel is eager to squash those kind of stories. That sets off your intrigue as to more about his past and what he's hiding.
I loved the setting, the characters and all the myths and legends we get to hear about as the past begins to reveal itself showing Daniel in a different light. He also finds himself with a rival for the attention of Jenna!
The time away gives Jenna a new lease of life and you can sense her confidence beginning to grow as she comes up with new ideas, and plans to renovate the cottage garden at her new home. It's the kind of book that swallows you up, lets you escape and dream of pastures new and spending time with Jenna, Daniel and Kat was just pure joy!! More please!!
June 17, 2021
The last time a publisher approved me for a novel with "mermaid" in the title, I was hooked and I was hoping to be by this, too.
I felt Jenna's feelings as she embarked on the adventure of being a mobile librarian. I have always loved books and so this seems a quirky career for a character to have. It was certainly an original choice of job.
When she meets Daniel and his niece Katrina, life gets even more interesting for her. Is Daniel trustworthy or not?
Katrina loves books and is great at coming up with her own stories.
Will Jenn get used to her new life? She has had a hard past. I was constantly wanting to know what was going to happen as she drove her library, Buttercup, (such a cute, and very apt, name) around the windy country roads.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is atmospheric with a beautiful setting and the writing flowed well.
Thanks to Marie Laval, Choc Lit and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars.
I felt Jenna's feelings as she embarked on the adventure of being a mobile librarian. I have always loved books and so this seems a quirky career for a character to have. It was certainly an original choice of job.
When she meets Daniel and his niece Katrina, life gets even more interesting for her. Is Daniel trustworthy or not?
Katrina loves books and is great at coming up with her own stories.
Will Jenn get used to her new life? She has had a hard past. I was constantly wanting to know what was going to happen as she drove her library, Buttercup, (such a cute, and very apt, name) around the windy country roads.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is atmospheric with a beautiful setting and the writing flowed well.
Thanks to Marie Laval, Choc Lit and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars.
June 22, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for very kindly forwarding me a copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
From the moment I read the blurb for this book and found out there was a yellow mobile library called ‘Buttercup’, I knew I was going to be hooked.
Jenna takes the job of mobile librarian on the Isle of Skye, to try and get away and escape.
There’s a very grumpy boss to contend with and a young book lover in his niece Katrina.
I absolutely loved this story and the characters were all lovely and down to earth.
There were myths and legends to find out about and the whole story unfolded nicely.
A wonderful read, thank you!
From the moment I read the blurb for this book and found out there was a yellow mobile library called ‘Buttercup’, I knew I was going to be hooked.
Jenna takes the job of mobile librarian on the Isle of Skye, to try and get away and escape.
There’s a very grumpy boss to contend with and a young book lover in his niece Katrina.
I absolutely loved this story and the characters were all lovely and down to earth.
There were myths and legends to find out about and the whole story unfolded nicely.
A wonderful read, thank you!
June 21, 2021
Happy Publication Day! This is a pure escapism of a read. A holiday for the mind. It starts off with a storm and accident but surely things get better from there right? Onwards and upwards… Jenna is running the new mobile library and this setting was pure heaven filled with new books, dvds and a whole new design she is serious and ready to go.
A beautiful, uplifting and happy story. This is just what I needed. Perfection. I throughally enjoyed it. I fell in love with Jennas character, the setting and Buttercup. I want my own Buttercup, now that’s the dream. A story full of myths, legends, new friendships and a new start. Loved it all. Devoured it.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I will be looking into the authors back log after this beauty. Highly recommend. A well deserved four stars from me.
A beautiful, uplifting and happy story. This is just what I needed. Perfection. I throughally enjoyed it. I fell in love with Jennas character, the setting and Buttercup. I want my own Buttercup, now that’s the dream. A story full of myths, legends, new friendships and a new start. Loved it all. Devoured it.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I will be looking into the authors back log after this beauty. Highly recommend. A well deserved four stars from me.
May 29, 2023
Milý, romanticky laděný příběh ze skotských ostrovů.
Byla to má první kniha autorky a určitě ne poslední.
Dobře se to četlo.
Byla to má první kniha autorky a určitě ne poslední.
Dobře se to četlo.
October 24, 2022
Good story quite gripping in places .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2021
How much do I LOVE this book???
I ask while holding my arms outstretched like I’m imitating a scarecrow in a crop field or a little child who says ‘I love you this much – while doing the same arm gestures you get the drift.
Firstly, check out that cover…go on scroll up, I’ll wait here…isn’t it so pretty? Choc Lit Publishers have some of the prettiest covers around, they reflect the story so perfectly!
Jenna has a lot going on which has made her flee for the picturesque Arrandale, a tiny little Scottish Isle. She has been made redundant and needs to escape her overbearing, control freak of a fiancé so she takes on the position of librarian in the Islands only Mobile Library which she goes on and bestows the moniker; Buttercup.
Her initial introduction to the library is certainly dramatic, caught in the middle of a storm while on a ferry in the middle of the sea only to have to be rescued by the gloriously growly Daniel McGregor who thinks she’s a bit of an idiot and who just happens to be her new employer. Oops!
But, seeing how good she is with the islanders, the library and his niece Daniel soon sees her as something other than a din-witted idiot who goes around in unsuitable clothing whilst out in a storm. Even though she does do that quite a bit!
Seriously though, this book has everything!!!
Gorgeous scenery.
Local myths and legends.
Fabulously likeable characters.
A gorgeous, brooding, grumpy, growly, rugged, monosyllabic Scotsman – I am all flustered.
Entertaining plot.
Flawless vivid detail and narration.
A cute as a button mobile library called Buttercup. (That alone caught my attention, after all, who doesn’t love a mobile library?)
I loved the close-knit village feel of the island, how everyone seemed to know each other and no secret can stay hidden for very long. The villages made me smile with their antic’s, they are an eclectic bunch they enjoy rubbing each other up the wrong way knowing how far to push, especially with growling, glorious, gigantic Daniel – my oh, mighty my!! He is wonderful – how much do I adore this growling, hairy, rugged, weathered giant?
I love the concept of a mobile library being the only way the villages can access library books, I was at a loss when my local library closed, losing a library rips the heart out of a community and even now I have to walk to another area or to town to visit a library. I can understand what the island felt when they lost their library and the joy of having a mobile one appear.
As with all of Laval’s writing, there is an underlying theme of mystery and magic, Happy Dreams of Mermaid Cove is enchanting, feel-good and utterly romantic. It makes you feel as though you are being wrapped in a huge bear hug (preferably from dishy Daniel 😉 ) it’s comforting and heart-warming – Which I would expect nothing less from the marvellously talented Marie Laval.
Honestly, this lovely lady can do nothing wrong in my eyes, she is an incredibly gifted author who never fails to whisk the reader away on a gorgeous adventure full of mystery and love.
I ask while holding my arms outstretched like I’m imitating a scarecrow in a crop field or a little child who says ‘I love you this much – while doing the same arm gestures you get the drift.
Firstly, check out that cover…go on scroll up, I’ll wait here…isn’t it so pretty? Choc Lit Publishers have some of the prettiest covers around, they reflect the story so perfectly!
Jenna has a lot going on which has made her flee for the picturesque Arrandale, a tiny little Scottish Isle. She has been made redundant and needs to escape her overbearing, control freak of a fiancé so she takes on the position of librarian in the Islands only Mobile Library which she goes on and bestows the moniker; Buttercup.
Her initial introduction to the library is certainly dramatic, caught in the middle of a storm while on a ferry in the middle of the sea only to have to be rescued by the gloriously growly Daniel McGregor who thinks she’s a bit of an idiot and who just happens to be her new employer. Oops!
But, seeing how good she is with the islanders, the library and his niece Daniel soon sees her as something other than a din-witted idiot who goes around in unsuitable clothing whilst out in a storm. Even though she does do that quite a bit!
Seriously though, this book has everything!!!
Gorgeous scenery.
Local myths and legends.
Fabulously likeable characters.
A gorgeous, brooding, grumpy, growly, rugged, monosyllabic Scotsman – I am all flustered.
Entertaining plot.
Flawless vivid detail and narration.
A cute as a button mobile library called Buttercup. (That alone caught my attention, after all, who doesn’t love a mobile library?)
I loved the close-knit village feel of the island, how everyone seemed to know each other and no secret can stay hidden for very long. The villages made me smile with their antic’s, they are an eclectic bunch they enjoy rubbing each other up the wrong way knowing how far to push, especially with growling, glorious, gigantic Daniel – my oh, mighty my!! He is wonderful – how much do I adore this growling, hairy, rugged, weathered giant?
I love the concept of a mobile library being the only way the villages can access library books, I was at a loss when my local library closed, losing a library rips the heart out of a community and even now I have to walk to another area or to town to visit a library. I can understand what the island felt when they lost their library and the joy of having a mobile one appear.
As with all of Laval’s writing, there is an underlying theme of mystery and magic, Happy Dreams of Mermaid Cove is enchanting, feel-good and utterly romantic. It makes you feel as though you are being wrapped in a huge bear hug (preferably from dishy Daniel 😉 ) it’s comforting and heart-warming – Which I would expect nothing less from the marvellously talented Marie Laval.
Honestly, this lovely lady can do nothing wrong in my eyes, she is an incredibly gifted author who never fails to whisk the reader away on a gorgeous adventure full of mystery and love.
June 21, 2021
The setting and the elements are major parts of this novel. From Jenna's first dramatic introduction to the Scottish island to life at Mermaid Cove, you are always aware of the weather or the beautiful countryside and how it can impact on the community's lives. Jenna has quite a past which she is trying to forget. It has affected every aspect of her previous life and the major reason she feels she has to move to such a remote place.
You also feel that mysterious myths and legends are in the background of the place. Mermaids can't possibly exist, can they? This seems to fit in nicely with the story telling which form the focus for Jenna's life as she drives the Library bus around the island. In Daniel McGregor, you have a moody hero with his own secrets and past mysteries. He is a great foil to Jenna who wears her heart on her sleeve and whose obvious sincerity is appealing to all she meets. This is a warm, uplifting romance which will always brighten any day.
In short: Mysterious secrets and Scottish myths abound.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book.
You also feel that mysterious myths and legends are in the background of the place. Mermaids can't possibly exist, can they? This seems to fit in nicely with the story telling which form the focus for Jenna's life as she drives the Library bus around the island. In Daniel McGregor, you have a moody hero with his own secrets and past mysteries. He is a great foil to Jenna who wears her heart on her sleeve and whose obvious sincerity is appealing to all she meets. This is a warm, uplifting romance which will always brighten any day.
In short: Mysterious secrets and Scottish myths abound.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book.
June 22, 2021
After escaping from a difficult situation in Manchester, Jenna Palmer relocates to Scotland and the beautiful Isle of Skye. In the fictitious town of Arrandale, Jenna takes up residence in the remote, but beautiful, Mermaid Cottage and she can be seen scurrying around the island in the newly renovated mobile library, aptly named Buttercup in honour of its sunshine yellow colour. That there are secrets in Jenna's past is obvious and it is her natural reticence, and warm personality, which endears her to the islanders, especially her boss, Daniel McGregor, who, it must be said, has his own particular share of angst.
The story which runs throughout doesn't shy away from some tough topics but it's all done with compassionate detail and a wonderful sense of time and place. The characters who make up the main cast of the story are a lovely bunch, with, maybe, a couple of exceptions, but then every story needs a good villain and there are three characters who definitely made my blood boil. However making up for them is Daniel McGregor, a wonderful tender-hearted man who on the surface is a little bit grumpy but his natural good nature makes him a worthy hero. I absolutely loved Jenna, tootling around in Buttercup she soon becomes part of the community and watching her develop her self esteem and grow in confidence was an enjoyable part of the story.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is a lovely warm-hearted story which brings to life the very essence of a small community and shows just how people in remote areas rely on community services. The mobile library is so much more than just providing reading material, it's a natural hub for local activity, encouraging children to love books and reading, offering the lonely a place to meet friends, and a chance for everyone to pull together when the going gets tough.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is also a beautifully written romance story which has everything I wanted to take me away from the mundane world of social distancing. Thanks to this talented author I have be able to escape to the beautiful Isle of Skye and, let's be honest, what's not to love about a vulnerable but determined to succeed heroine, a handsome but damaged hero, a tantalising mystery involving mermaids and hidden treasure, a yellow mobile library called Buttercup all wrapped up in story about Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove.
The story which runs throughout doesn't shy away from some tough topics but it's all done with compassionate detail and a wonderful sense of time and place. The characters who make up the main cast of the story are a lovely bunch, with, maybe, a couple of exceptions, but then every story needs a good villain and there are three characters who definitely made my blood boil. However making up for them is Daniel McGregor, a wonderful tender-hearted man who on the surface is a little bit grumpy but his natural good nature makes him a worthy hero. I absolutely loved Jenna, tootling around in Buttercup she soon becomes part of the community and watching her develop her self esteem and grow in confidence was an enjoyable part of the story.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is a lovely warm-hearted story which brings to life the very essence of a small community and shows just how people in remote areas rely on community services. The mobile library is so much more than just providing reading material, it's a natural hub for local activity, encouraging children to love books and reading, offering the lonely a place to meet friends, and a chance for everyone to pull together when the going gets tough.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove is also a beautifully written romance story which has everything I wanted to take me away from the mundane world of social distancing. Thanks to this talented author I have be able to escape to the beautiful Isle of Skye and, let's be honest, what's not to love about a vulnerable but determined to succeed heroine, a handsome but damaged hero, a tantalising mystery involving mermaids and hidden treasure, a yellow mobile library called Buttercup all wrapped up in story about Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove.
June 22, 2021
Wow! Did Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove really started out with a bang… well, a heart attack and a emergency call out any way, which is certainly not the way Jenna Palmer wanted to start her new job in Arrandale.
Jenna is nervous about starting this new job, and a new life away from her abusive ex, which would go a lot more smoother if her mother hadn’t given him her new number and if she could turn off his voice inside her head.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove has it all! Gruff boss, mermaids, a mobile library, Scottish isles, but as a warning, it handles the subject of physical and emotional abuse, so if they are triggers for you, then this is not the book for you. But if you are hoping for a book about a women who regains her voice, finds new love and works in a mobile library, well is this the book for you.
This is my second Marie Laval book I have read and it is as magical to me as the first. The author sets the scene perfectly and doesn’t scrimp on the detail while also managing to weave the perfect happy ever after.
Jenna is nervous about starting this new job, and a new life away from her abusive ex, which would go a lot more smoother if her mother hadn’t given him her new number and if she could turn off his voice inside her head.
Happy Dreams at Mermaid Cove has it all! Gruff boss, mermaids, a mobile library, Scottish isles, but as a warning, it handles the subject of physical and emotional abuse, so if they are triggers for you, then this is not the book for you. But if you are hoping for a book about a women who regains her voice, finds new love and works in a mobile library, well is this the book for you.
This is my second Marie Laval book I have read and it is as magical to me as the first. The author sets the scene perfectly and doesn’t scrimp on the detail while also managing to weave the perfect happy ever after.
June 22, 2021
Jenna has taken a job as a mobile librarian in the remote Scottish village of Arrandale. She’s escaped an abusive relationship with the narcissistic Adrian but still bears the mental scars. She flinches if anyone raises their voice at her and still has panic attacks. The cottage she is staying in makes her feel at peace.
Her new boss Daniel seems dour and she can’t seem to do anything right. However, they get to know each other better and they end up falling in love. He is a descendant of the McGregor clan and there is a curse on them. His younger brother Hugh drowned trying to find the lost treasure of an ancient ship, supposedly at the bottom of Mermaid Cove.
Really enjoyed the story. I liked the characters of Daniel & Jenna. I thought that Marie Laval accurately described the aspects of an abusive relationship (lovebombing, gaslighting, turning family against you).
Her new boss Daniel seems dour and she can’t seem to do anything right. However, they get to know each other better and they end up falling in love. He is a descendant of the McGregor clan and there is a curse on them. His younger brother Hugh drowned trying to find the lost treasure of an ancient ship, supposedly at the bottom of Mermaid Cove.
Really enjoyed the story. I liked the characters of Daniel & Jenna. I thought that Marie Laval accurately described the aspects of an abusive relationship (lovebombing, gaslighting, turning family against you).
June 21, 2021
A lovely story of starting over and taking a chance on life. Jenna is reeling from an abusive relationship. Running a mobile library on a remote Scottish island seems to be the perfect escape for her. After a dramatic start, she warms to the community that welcomes her. There are plenty of conflicts too, which give her closure and help her realise how her present circumstances are helping her heal.
Her relationships with Daniel the Laird is full of ups and downs. He hides a kind heart and pain behind his gruff manner, but gradually they both learn to trust and share their secrets. The island is wrapped in folklore and mystery, and this adds to the novel's interest.
Second chances, community and a little healing magic.
I received a copy of this book from Choc Lit in return for an honest review.
Her relationships with Daniel the Laird is full of ups and downs. He hides a kind heart and pain behind his gruff manner, but gradually they both learn to trust and share their secrets. The island is wrapped in folklore and mystery, and this adds to the novel's interest.
Second chances, community and a little healing magic.
I received a copy of this book from Choc Lit in return for an honest review.
June 22, 2021
After "Little Pink Taxi", which I loved, I was looking forward to returning to Scotland with this new, unconnected story by Marie Laval. And I was right to! The opening may be off-putting if you are not a good sailor but then things calm down-although the sea remains a key part of the story. Whilst generally the locals are welcoming of Jenna and the new library service there are professional and personal hurdles for Jenna to overcome. Finding the right relationship with her new boss is difficult, island factions and his niece lead to several unfortunate misunderstandings and then there is Jenna's own past, which she hopes will not catch up with her. Who cares if the summer is a washout if you can relax with a story like this!
June 22, 2021
Happy dreams at Mermaid Cove has everything you need for a perfect story. Great characters, great story and beautifully written. When Jenna Palmer accepts the job as mobile librarian in Arrandale she isn’t expecting to fall in love, or find such happiness in a beautiful place. Marie once again weaves a beautifully crafted story, there’s lot of tension and drama, and with a hero you could die for. Daniel McGregor is the lord of the manor, Jenna’s new boss and about as sexy as they come. I loved every minute of reading this.
June 22, 2021
HUUGEE warning for graphic domestic abuse (lots of mental/emotional and a small amount of physical). The blurb doesn’t warn you of this fact (neither do some of the reviews) and it completely blindsided me. It’s a major theme of the book and made it very difficult and triggering for me to read at times.
This was a very good book though, just prepare yourself for those harder scenes. Reminded me a lot of The Flatshare. Full review to come.
This was a very good book though, just prepare yourself for those harder scenes. Reminded me a lot of The Flatshare. Full review to come.
June 24, 2021
Jenna’s leaving a bad past behind and has taken a new job in Scotland as a librarian for a mobile library. Daniel McGregor’s a farmer and the head of a clan with a mysterious personal past. They have chemistry, but can they get over their trust issues? Throw in a sunken treasure and you have a recipe for a great romantic mystery! I highly recommend it!
June 7, 2021
The first thing I have to say is how much I loved this book, the storyline, the characters and the location and of course Buttercup the mobile library.
Jenna has moved to the Isle of Skye for a fresh start and to escape her ex-fiancé and the emotional and psychical abuse she suffered in his hands.
Jenna’s new job involves driving the mobile library around the bendy lanes of the Isle so that the people in the remote areas have access to library books but her first journey to the island is far from plain sailing when the skipper of the boat taking her across to the island is taken ill.
Her new boss is handsome and rugged Daniel McGregor, who calls himself a farmer but owns a significant amount of land and a mansion like home, as well as Mermaid’s Cottage that Jenna will be living in . Daniel has demons of his own though having lost his brother to an accident at sea.
There is also Daniel’s niece Katrina who adores her Uncle and has come to love Jenna, Katrina who misses her Mum who left her in Daniel’s care when his Brother was killed and so Daniel made up a story about her being a mermaid who sends her shells by dolphin post. However when he realises how much Katrina misses her Mum he has a difficult decision to make, one that could have dangerous consequences.
Jenna’s ex hasn’t forgotten Jenna either and the part when he reappears on the scene sent shivers down my spine.
A real page turner that had me hooked from the start, a beautiful story in a wonderful setting, as enchanting as the mermaids of the story.
Thank you to Choc-Lit for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, which is completely my own.
Jenna has moved to the Isle of Skye for a fresh start and to escape her ex-fiancé and the emotional and psychical abuse she suffered in his hands.
Jenna’s new job involves driving the mobile library around the bendy lanes of the Isle so that the people in the remote areas have access to library books but her first journey to the island is far from plain sailing when the skipper of the boat taking her across to the island is taken ill.
Her new boss is handsome and rugged Daniel McGregor, who calls himself a farmer but owns a significant amount of land and a mansion like home, as well as Mermaid’s Cottage that Jenna will be living in . Daniel has demons of his own though having lost his brother to an accident at sea.
There is also Daniel’s niece Katrina who adores her Uncle and has come to love Jenna, Katrina who misses her Mum who left her in Daniel’s care when his Brother was killed and so Daniel made up a story about her being a mermaid who sends her shells by dolphin post. However when he realises how much Katrina misses her Mum he has a difficult decision to make, one that could have dangerous consequences.
Jenna’s ex hasn’t forgotten Jenna either and the part when he reappears on the scene sent shivers down my spine.
A real page turner that had me hooked from the start, a beautiful story in a wonderful setting, as enchanting as the mermaids of the story.
Thank you to Choc-Lit for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, which is completely my own.
June 22, 2021
I loved this story from start to finish. Librarian Jenna and farmer Daniel both have secrets. When Jenna moves to the Isle of Skye to drive Buttercup, the mobile library, their paths cross. With the island backdrop, a host of local characters and a very cute child Jenna and Daniel are thrown together for adventures, fun and heartache. Highly recommend this wonderful novel!
June 28, 2021
Set on the beautiful Isle of Skye, this book was just what I needed to get me out of a book slump. From the very first page, this book had me immersed in the beauty of Scotland and its people. There’s not much more that I love than a book that can transport me to an entirely different place.
The two main characters in this book, Jenna and Daniel are endearing characters who were a joy to follow through their individual journeys. Jenna, on her journey to find herself and her self-confidence. And, Daniel, who just needed to let go of the past.
If this book was just Jenna and Daniel, that would’ve been enough. Their story was lovely. However, on top of their sweet love story, Ms. Laval, gave the readers an inspiring ensemble of characters. I could argue that these characters are the very heart of the story.
This is the first time I’ve read Ms. Laval’s work. And, if her other stories are this beautiful and descriptive, I can’t wait to read them.
The two main characters in this book, Jenna and Daniel are endearing characters who were a joy to follow through their individual journeys. Jenna, on her journey to find herself and her self-confidence. And, Daniel, who just needed to let go of the past.
If this book was just Jenna and Daniel, that would’ve been enough. Their story was lovely. However, on top of their sweet love story, Ms. Laval, gave the readers an inspiring ensemble of characters. I could argue that these characters are the very heart of the story.
This is the first time I’ve read Ms. Laval’s work. And, if her other stories are this beautiful and descriptive, I can’t wait to read them.
June 22, 2021
Another lovely, entertaining story from Marie Laval. The hero is just my kind of guy – big, rugged, Scottish …. Lots of themes to keep you interested – I can recommend this for a good read any time.
June 29, 2021
What a great story!
Wanting to leave Manchester and an abusive relationship behind Jenna moves to Skye. Her first meeting with her new boss couldn't have any worse than it was.
Read in two sittings, a real page turner.
Wanting to leave Manchester and an abusive relationship behind Jenna moves to Skye. Her first meeting with her new boss couldn't have any worse than it was.
Read in two sittings, a real page turner.
October 8, 2023
Well written and taking place in beautiful Scotland!
June 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. We meet Jenna as she takes on a new job running a mobile library on the Isle of Skye. The start to her new life is quite rocky but she keeps going.
The interaction between her, Daniel and his niece Katrina is lovely. Each character has their own storyline and I found the book very emotional at times especially when someone from Jenna's past resurfaces.
The setting on the Isle of Skye was lovely. This is my favourite Scottish Island and I couldn't help picture some of the locations.
A lovely read which I couldn't put down. This is the first Marie Laval book I have read and have already purchased another one.
The interaction between her, Daniel and his niece Katrina is lovely. Each character has their own storyline and I found the book very emotional at times especially when someone from Jenna's past resurfaces.
The setting on the Isle of Skye was lovely. This is my favourite Scottish Island and I couldn't help picture some of the locations.
A lovely read which I couldn't put down. This is the first Marie Laval book I have read and have already purchased another one.
October 4, 2021
Starting over, downsizing yet gaining so much more!
Jenna Palmer needs to start all over, she just needs to get away. So she accept the position of mobile librarian in Arrandale. Driving the yellow mobile library isn’t going to be the easiest task, and the wages won’t be making her rich, but she hopes that this move could be the escape to happier dreams. Slowly Jenna is learning to appraise her little library Buttercup and she is being welcomed by the community. And even if her boss Daniel McGregor is not the most welcoming person, his niece Katrina makes up for everything by just being her enthusiastic self. However, no matter Jenna is starting to love her life at Arrandale, with local myths of mermaids, her past is not letting her go and is even threatening to come back with a vengeance.
Reading a story of this author always makes me happy. I know the characters aren’t just superficial people falling randomly in love and live happily ever happy. And this story was just what I expected!
Jenna is running away from her former life, and starting over in a small place like Arrandale, is just perfect for her. It’s obvious that what happened to her, has changed her in this frightened woman, even afraid of the dark. But I admired her courage to just pack everything and start all over again. She is determined to put the past behind her and make her own happiness, and from now on, only having happy dreams. It was beautiful to see how she slowly finds her feet in Arrandale, and also how the community welcomes her and helps out whenever and however they can. Jenna’s presence is even “mellowing” grumpy Daniel. When his backstory is known, I couldn’t not feel sorry for him. This shows that everyone is the way he is for a reason. And the burden he is carrying…
My heart also mellowed seeing how these two somehow broken characters are slowly are finding the courage of opening their heart again, even if there are some side characters ready to jeopardize everything Jenna and Daniel are slowly building. I found this truly a beautiful story to read, very captivating. The main characters are easy to like and even side characters like Katrina, Ruby and even the mobile library Buttercup stole little pieces of my heart. The courage, determination, but also the love and kindness sparked from each page. And for the characters with less good intentions, we can always trust the Arrandale gulls for payback!
Jenna Palmer needs to start all over, she just needs to get away. So she accept the position of mobile librarian in Arrandale. Driving the yellow mobile library isn’t going to be the easiest task, and the wages won’t be making her rich, but she hopes that this move could be the escape to happier dreams. Slowly Jenna is learning to appraise her little library Buttercup and she is being welcomed by the community. And even if her boss Daniel McGregor is not the most welcoming person, his niece Katrina makes up for everything by just being her enthusiastic self. However, no matter Jenna is starting to love her life at Arrandale, with local myths of mermaids, her past is not letting her go and is even threatening to come back with a vengeance.
Reading a story of this author always makes me happy. I know the characters aren’t just superficial people falling randomly in love and live happily ever happy. And this story was just what I expected!
Jenna is running away from her former life, and starting over in a small place like Arrandale, is just perfect for her. It’s obvious that what happened to her, has changed her in this frightened woman, even afraid of the dark. But I admired her courage to just pack everything and start all over again. She is determined to put the past behind her and make her own happiness, and from now on, only having happy dreams. It was beautiful to see how she slowly finds her feet in Arrandale, and also how the community welcomes her and helps out whenever and however they can. Jenna’s presence is even “mellowing” grumpy Daniel. When his backstory is known, I couldn’t not feel sorry for him. This shows that everyone is the way he is for a reason. And the burden he is carrying…
My heart also mellowed seeing how these two somehow broken characters are slowly are finding the courage of opening their heart again, even if there are some side characters ready to jeopardize everything Jenna and Daniel are slowly building. I found this truly a beautiful story to read, very captivating. The main characters are easy to like and even side characters like Katrina, Ruby and even the mobile library Buttercup stole little pieces of my heart. The courage, determination, but also the love and kindness sparked from each page. And for the characters with less good intentions, we can always trust the Arrandale gulls for payback!
May 20, 2021
Tales of mermaids and rumours of a Spanish ship's treasure hidden near the cove make the setting of this novel (a fictional town on the Isle of Skye) intriguing, and a perfect place for its heroine to recover from an abusive relationship and start a new life that includes bringing people happy dreams through the content of a mobile library. I really enjoyed following her in a journey to happiness that proved as twisty as the island's roads.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2021
Review
This book was very entertaining, from the love ❤ that was found to the terrors that Jenna endured. All of the characters made the story very believable.
This book was very entertaining, from the love ❤ that was found to the terrors that Jenna endured. All of the characters made the story very believable.
May 18, 2021
After being made redundant from her library and a particularly nasty breakup with her domineering fiancé, Jenna Palmer applies for the position of running the mobile library in a small community on the Isle of Skye. The job sounds perfect, she’ll be as far away as possible from her ex, doing a job she loves and her home will be a small cottage above a beach.
The introduction to her job couldn’t be more dramatic, she arrives in a violent storm and her new boss shouts at her. Things can only get better.
A highly believable and absorbing plot, recommended for a comfort read.
The introduction to her job couldn’t be more dramatic, she arrives in a violent storm and her new boss shouts at her. Things can only get better.
A highly believable and absorbing plot, recommended for a comfort read.
January 1, 2022
Another heart warming read from a wonderful author
Oh I am such a fan of this author, her stories always captivate and draw me in. This one certainly did not disappoint. It had all you needed for a romantic read with great characters and creepy villains and I just loved Buttercup and its regular library visitors. So much happening on such a small island. Most enjoyable.
Oh I am such a fan of this author, her stories always captivate and draw me in. This one certainly did not disappoint. It had all you needed for a romantic read with great characters and creepy villains and I just loved Buttercup and its regular library visitors. So much happening on such a small island. Most enjoyable.
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