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Foodie Romance Journeys #8
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar
River and Alice miss Somerset. Christmas isn’t Christmas without family and friends, even when you live in quaint Cornwall.
When River’s Aunt Sheba dies unexpectedly, leaving him her ancient VW campervan, nostalgia nudges him and Alice back to Glastonbury - and the surrounding villages - to rediscover their roots whilst serving the most decadent hot chocolate and delectable gingerbread from their renovated ‘bar on wheels’.
A bar on wheels complete with a fold-up stage to host local talent competitions rivalling anything Simon Cowell could dream up, even if he’d gorged on a truckle of Cheddar cheese!
As the villagers sip their cocoa and ice their gingerbread houses amidst the festive backdrop of song, dance, and slightly more unconventional talents, River and Alice find themselves in an unexpected race against time:
Zara, their chocolate supplier is leaving Glastonbury on the twelfth day of Christmas, keen to put a string of disastrous relationships behind her to make a fresh start.
Bruno, their gregarious and gorgeous baking supplier is secretly smitten with Zara - ticking every box on her New Year’s wish list.
If only they can get them together for one experimental kiss under the mistletoe...
They’ve even enlisted their customers’ help in their mission to wrap this budding romance up in all the jingle bells and whistles. How hard can it be?
So, ho, ho VERY tricky, as it turns out...
When River’s Aunt Sheba dies unexpectedly, leaving him her ancient VW campervan, nostalgia nudges him and Alice back to Glastonbury - and the surrounding villages - to rediscover their roots whilst serving the most decadent hot chocolate and delectable gingerbread from their renovated ‘bar on wheels’.
A bar on wheels complete with a fold-up stage to host local talent competitions rivalling anything Simon Cowell could dream up, even if he’d gorged on a truckle of Cheddar cheese!
As the villagers sip their cocoa and ice their gingerbread houses amidst the festive backdrop of song, dance, and slightly more unconventional talents, River and Alice find themselves in an unexpected race against time:
Zara, their chocolate supplier is leaving Glastonbury on the twelfth day of Christmas, keen to put a string of disastrous relationships behind her to make a fresh start.
Bruno, their gregarious and gorgeous baking supplier is secretly smitten with Zara - ticking every box on her New Year’s wish list.
If only they can get them together for one experimental kiss under the mistletoe...
They’ve even enlisted their customers’ help in their mission to wrap this budding romance up in all the jingle bells and whistles. How hard can it be?
So, ho, ho VERY tricky, as it turns out...
Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2023
33 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Isabella May
22 books129 followersIsabella May lives in (mostly) sunny Andalusia, Spain with her husband, daughter and son, creatively inspired by the mountains and the sea. She grew up on Glastonbury's ley lines and loves to feature her quirky English hometown in her stories.
After a degree in Modern Languages and European Studies at UWE, Bristol (and a year working abroad in Bordeaux and Stuttgart), Isabella bagged an extremely jammy and fascinating job in children's publishing... selling foreign rights for novelty, board, pop-up and non-fiction books all over the world; in every language from Icelandic to Korean, Bahasa Indonesian to Papiamento!
All of which has fuelled her curiosity and love of international food and travel - both feature extensively in her cross-genre novels, fused with a dollop of romcom, and a sprinkle of magical realism.
Isabella is also a Level 4 Pranic Healer and a stillbirth mum.
You can follow her Foodie Romance Journey series at the following hang-outs:
www.isabellamayauthor.com
Twitter - @IsabellaMayBks
Instagram - @isabella_may_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaMayA...
After a degree in Modern Languages and European Studies at UWE, Bristol (and a year working abroad in Bordeaux and Stuttgart), Isabella bagged an extremely jammy and fascinating job in children's publishing... selling foreign rights for novelty, board, pop-up and non-fiction books all over the world; in every language from Icelandic to Korean, Bahasa Indonesian to Papiamento!
All of which has fuelled her curiosity and love of international food and travel - both feature extensively in her cross-genre novels, fused with a dollop of romcom, and a sprinkle of magical realism.
Isabella is also a Level 4 Pranic Healer and a stillbirth mum.
You can follow her Foodie Romance Journey series at the following hang-outs:
www.isabellamayauthor.com
Twitter - @IsabellaMayBks
Instagram - @isabella_may_author
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaMayA...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 4, 2021
5☆ A Scrumptious, Festive Read!
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Bar is a Heart warming story, full of festive charm, it can be read as a standalone but I think it's best enjoyed after reading the first book The Cocktail Bar 🍹
It was great to be back with River and Alice and finding out how they were getting on in the Cornish Town of Pasty.
Alice and River's relationship is absolutely thriving and they couldn't be more in love, however their business isn't doing great, in fact it's fair to say it's sinking and with no customers, River isn't sure how long it will last.
Both are really unhappy with the way things are going, and with news of a death, is it the pull they need to go back to Glastonbury where there heart, family and friends are!
Can a VW campervan and the most delicious chocolate goodies be the boost they both need?
Will Alice ever get River to propose! You will just have to read it to find out!
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar is a scrumptious delight, it's full of Christmas Sparkle, Romance, Warmth and mouth-watering treats...so best not read on an empty tummy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/1...
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Bar is a Heart warming story, full of festive charm, it can be read as a standalone but I think it's best enjoyed after reading the first book The Cocktail Bar 🍹
It was great to be back with River and Alice and finding out how they were getting on in the Cornish Town of Pasty.
Alice and River's relationship is absolutely thriving and they couldn't be more in love, however their business isn't doing great, in fact it's fair to say it's sinking and with no customers, River isn't sure how long it will last.
Both are really unhappy with the way things are going, and with news of a death, is it the pull they need to go back to Glastonbury where there heart, family and friends are!
Can a VW campervan and the most delicious chocolate goodies be the boost they both need?
Will Alice ever get River to propose! You will just have to read it to find out!
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar is a scrumptious delight, it's full of Christmas Sparkle, Romance, Warmth and mouth-watering treats...so best not read on an empty tummy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/1...
August 14, 2021
I had a hard time getting into this book. The characters didn’t seem real to me, and the plot seemed far-fetched. I also didn’t find it to be a laugh out loud comedy. I was disappointed in the book.
September 30, 2021
Please be warned - stock up on hot chocolate, gingerbread, and all manner of festive sweet treats before you start reading this book, or you will end up having major cravings for them while reading.
In fact everything about this book made me feel rather hungry. The foodie descriptions were completely yummy and tantalised my tastebuds, and were easily my favourite thing about this book and what kept me reading!
I also loved all the descriptions of the various villages in Somerset that are visited.
I did though feel that I was at a slight disadvantage having not read The Cocktail Bar yet, and this was clearly a sequel, and although it's clear where the memory prompts are for those that have read it, it just reminded me that I hadn't yet. There was also mentions in passing of characters or happenings that would have related to some of this authors other books too.
i enjoyed getting to know River and Alice, and loved how the book was written into chapters focusing on various of the main characters so you could really feel as though you knew them.
And the delights that are Zara and Bruno, especially what they can produce but also the clear connection between the two, even if Zara is determined to ignore all blatant matchmaking attempts and her true feelings at times too.
Everything to do with the Twinkle Twinkle, Little Bar had me smiling and I could picture everything so so clearly. It was a joy to be able to read this.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
In fact everything about this book made me feel rather hungry. The foodie descriptions were completely yummy and tantalised my tastebuds, and were easily my favourite thing about this book and what kept me reading!
I also loved all the descriptions of the various villages in Somerset that are visited.
I did though feel that I was at a slight disadvantage having not read The Cocktail Bar yet, and this was clearly a sequel, and although it's clear where the memory prompts are for those that have read it, it just reminded me that I hadn't yet. There was also mentions in passing of characters or happenings that would have related to some of this authors other books too.
i enjoyed getting to know River and Alice, and loved how the book was written into chapters focusing on various of the main characters so you could really feel as though you knew them.
And the delights that are Zara and Bruno, especially what they can produce but also the clear connection between the two, even if Zara is determined to ignore all blatant matchmaking attempts and her true feelings at times too.
Everything to do with the Twinkle Twinkle, Little Bar had me smiling and I could picture everything so so clearly. It was a joy to be able to read this.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
November 4, 2021
I love discovering new authors and Isabella May is certainly a new author for me. I read the synopsis for ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ and it certainly sounded like the fun and light hearted read that I so needed at that moment in time. So without further ado, I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and settled down for a fun afternoon of reading. Overall I really enjoyed reading ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the synopsis, I knew that I was in for a treat and then some. To say that reading ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ became addictive is a bit of an understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives & loves of the characters, that I would still be sat there reading over half a dozen chapters later. I was swept along by the fun and feel good story. It seemed to take me no time at all to get through the story and I was soon saying goodbye to River, Alice and the gang. I found ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar; to be a joy to read. This is a fun story with some lovely characters and left me with a smile on my face.
‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ is well written. Isabella has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Isabella’s books reads more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintains a fairly gentle pace throughout. Isabella cares about her characters and this shines through in her storytelling. Isabella describes the characters so vividly that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Isabella makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Isabella’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 4* out of 5*.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’. In fact by the time I got to the bottom of the synopsis, I knew that I was in for a treat and then some. To say that reading ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ became addictive is a bit of an understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story and in the lives & loves of the characters, that I would still be sat there reading over half a dozen chapters later. I was swept along by the fun and feel good story. It seemed to take me no time at all to get through the story and I was soon saying goodbye to River, Alice and the gang. I found ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar; to be a joy to read. This is a fun story with some lovely characters and left me with a smile on my face.
‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ is well written. Isabella has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Isabella’s books reads more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me, the story hits the ground running and maintains a fairly gentle pace throughout. Isabella cares about her characters and this shines through in her storytelling. Isabella describes the characters so vividly that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Isabella makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Isabella’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 4* out of 5*.
October 9, 2021
My review of Isabella May twinkle twinkle little bar
As with all of this authors books this was an amazing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read and perfect escapism. This author has the ability to draw you in and wrap you up in a comforting embrace by taking you on a journey of enchanting food and perfect locations as well as drawing on things that am sure many of us will be able to pick out as being familiar from our childhoods and from growing up and make us smile while reading.
This story evokes Christmas in every turn of the page and the descriptions of the mouthwatering hot chocolate and ginger bread delights had me feeling like I could taste and smell them while reading and needless to say gave me a craving for wanting them. This was such a comforting read and perfect for curling up with in front of the fire on a cold dark snowy winters day.
I also liked that it was so much more than just a Christmas read it was a story of love loss and friendship and how life sometimes takes an extraordinary twist of fate and if something is meant to be then it will be meant to be. This was a standalone read but also enjoyed the references to the previous book bubble gum and blazers and the characters contained within it.
As with all of this authors books this was an amazing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read and perfect escapism. This author has the ability to draw you in and wrap you up in a comforting embrace by taking you on a journey of enchanting food and perfect locations as well as drawing on things that am sure many of us will be able to pick out as being familiar from our childhoods and from growing up and make us smile while reading.
This story evokes Christmas in every turn of the page and the descriptions of the mouthwatering hot chocolate and ginger bread delights had me feeling like I could taste and smell them while reading and needless to say gave me a craving for wanting them. This was such a comforting read and perfect for curling up with in front of the fire on a cold dark snowy winters day.
I also liked that it was so much more than just a Christmas read it was a story of love loss and friendship and how life sometimes takes an extraordinary twist of fate and if something is meant to be then it will be meant to be. This was a standalone read but also enjoyed the references to the previous book bubble gum and blazers and the characters contained within it.
August 23, 2021
With chocolate treats, indulgent hot chocolate and gingerbread delights I throughly enjoyed this festive foodie extravaganza. Perfect to snuggle under a blanket with many festive treats. Christmas brings it's own magic. A festive hallmark hug in a book. Full of joy throughout.
River and Alice's hearts are in Glastonbury, and home is where the heart is. I loved the idea of trusting the path to take. There are signs everywhere. Joining River and Alice and a host of fabulous characters his beloved aunts camper van spreads festive cheer across picturesque Somerset, with romance.
As with any book by Isabella the mouthwatering food just sounded divine. Always make sure you have plenty of treats whilst reading. I now have a sudden need for gingerbread houses, cointreau and orange infused chocolate nutcrackers, and milk chocolate and honeycomb hot chocolate stirrers. I just couldn't help but smile throughout. An enjoyable festive, heartwarming, mouthwatering delight.
River and Alice's hearts are in Glastonbury, and home is where the heart is. I loved the idea of trusting the path to take. There are signs everywhere. Joining River and Alice and a host of fabulous characters his beloved aunts camper van spreads festive cheer across picturesque Somerset, with romance.
As with any book by Isabella the mouthwatering food just sounded divine. Always make sure you have plenty of treats whilst reading. I now have a sudden need for gingerbread houses, cointreau and orange infused chocolate nutcrackers, and milk chocolate and honeycomb hot chocolate stirrers. I just couldn't help but smile throughout. An enjoyable festive, heartwarming, mouthwatering delight.
November 8, 2021
Thank you to Isabella May and Rachels Randoms Resources for gifting me a digital copy of twinkle, twinkle little bar in exchange for an honest review.
As the evenings cool down warm up with this cosy novel; in twinkle, twinkle little bar we follow ex rockers and band mates River and Alice who’s new dream of running a cocktail bar isn’t working out how they dreamed. So what do they do now? With a rough road ahead of them, will a gifted van and a potential new dream on the horizon help save more than just their dreams?
I loved reading Bruno and Zara’s story they practically sizzled on every page, I would of loved a whole book on them. I really enjoyed reading this book and following twinkle, twinkle little bar crew across the Somerset countryside. I wish I could of joined them on their many adventures with a warm cocoa and gingerbread on the side.
As the evenings cool down warm up with this cosy novel; in twinkle, twinkle little bar we follow ex rockers and band mates River and Alice who’s new dream of running a cocktail bar isn’t working out how they dreamed. So what do they do now? With a rough road ahead of them, will a gifted van and a potential new dream on the horizon help save more than just their dreams?
I loved reading Bruno and Zara’s story they practically sizzled on every page, I would of loved a whole book on them. I really enjoyed reading this book and following twinkle, twinkle little bar crew across the Somerset countryside. I wish I could of joined them on their many adventures with a warm cocoa and gingerbread on the side.
September 24, 2021
A fabulous Christmas book full of beautiful scenery, fun characters and delicious-sounding hot chocolate and gingerbread. What else could one what for the holidays? I really enjoyed The Cocktail Bar so it was great to see what former rock star River and angelic Alice were up to in this story, and I enjoyed their adventures in returning home for the holidays, and attempts at playing cupid. Great fun, food, romance and travel, this is a warm, witty and feel-good read perfect in the lead up to Christmas.
October 20, 2021
What a wonderful story, perfect for Christmas! When River and Alice decide to up roots and travel around Cornwall in a green VW camper van, taking Christmas spirit and lots of chocolate goodies to the locals, they don't expect the magical mayhem that ensues!
Full of Isabella May's trademark delicious narrative that will make your mouth water, mixed with lots of fun and romance, this is a wonderful read to lose yourself in for a few hours. You'll take a trip through Glastonbury and the surrounding towns and meet some eccentric characters on the way!
Now I want a mug of hot chocolate and some gingerbread! A great read, highly recommend.
Full of Isabella May's trademark delicious narrative that will make your mouth water, mixed with lots of fun and romance, this is a wonderful read to lose yourself in for a few hours. You'll take a trip through Glastonbury and the surrounding towns and meet some eccentric characters on the way!
Now I want a mug of hot chocolate and some gingerbread! A great read, highly recommend.
November 5, 2021
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
What do you do when you’re at a crossroads in life and unsure of where the future might take you? You hop into a campervan, travel to various villages, and sell holiday-themes wares!
I always appreciate a unique storyline, and that was given here in abundance within Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar. I’ve yet to read any other premise like this one, in any other book. River and Alice find themselves in a situation where they’re not sure where they’re headed, not only as a couple, but for their futures, and River has had hot chocolate and gingerbread on the brain. Their “bar on wheels” becomes the catalyst for bringing joy to others, and also buys them time in deciding what they want to do with the rest of their lives. I only wish to have a "bar on wheels" travel into my neighborhood, particularly at this time of year. It really is a clever idea!
Thrown into the mix are Zara and Bruno, two characters who define to a T the phrase, “opposites attract.” There is a bit of background provided into Zara’s previous love life disasters, with a brief mention of Bubblegum and Blazers, another great read by Isabella May, and from her description alone it’s not hard to see why she’s been so careful in trying to protect her heart from everyone, even men as gorgeous as Bruno. But Bruno seems to always get off on the wrong foot with her, only adding to the hilarity of the situation.
I really appreciated the scenic routes taken, and the description of the villages and the people within it. From the get go, the reader learns that the “bar on wheels” isn’t always up to par, as with one of their first stops and an unusual beverage request that might just derail the whole thing. And the two buddies they have hanging around for comedic entertainment with Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” seemed like it would be pretty interesting to see in person. (Another friend can play beats with spoons, ala Spoonman.) There were a lot of interesting moments that were totally off the beaten path, making this a very quirky, fun holiday read!
What do you do when you’re at a crossroads in life and unsure of where the future might take you? You hop into a campervan, travel to various villages, and sell holiday-themes wares!
I always appreciate a unique storyline, and that was given here in abundance within Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar. I’ve yet to read any other premise like this one, in any other book. River and Alice find themselves in a situation where they’re not sure where they’re headed, not only as a couple, but for their futures, and River has had hot chocolate and gingerbread on the brain. Their “bar on wheels” becomes the catalyst for bringing joy to others, and also buys them time in deciding what they want to do with the rest of their lives. I only wish to have a "bar on wheels" travel into my neighborhood, particularly at this time of year. It really is a clever idea!
Thrown into the mix are Zara and Bruno, two characters who define to a T the phrase, “opposites attract.” There is a bit of background provided into Zara’s previous love life disasters, with a brief mention of Bubblegum and Blazers, another great read by Isabella May, and from her description alone it’s not hard to see why she’s been so careful in trying to protect her heart from everyone, even men as gorgeous as Bruno. But Bruno seems to always get off on the wrong foot with her, only adding to the hilarity of the situation.
I really appreciated the scenic routes taken, and the description of the villages and the people within it. From the get go, the reader learns that the “bar on wheels” isn’t always up to par, as with one of their first stops and an unusual beverage request that might just derail the whole thing. And the two buddies they have hanging around for comedic entertainment with Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” seemed like it would be pretty interesting to see in person. (Another friend can play beats with spoons, ala Spoonman.) There were a lot of interesting moments that were totally off the beaten path, making this a very quirky, fun holiday read!
November 2, 2021
This brings together everything I love about Christmas. To me family is important and love to share part of Christmas with them. There is so many wonderful different smells that reminds me of Christmas. Isabella May encapsulated all of this in this terrific Christmas novel. It was full of Christmas cheer, except when River’s aunt Sheba died. River was an ex-rock star along with his long-term girlfriend Alice. River and Alice had decided to return to Somerset from Cornwall as they were unable to settle there. Aunt Sheba had left River her VW camper van. Thinking fast on his feet he decides to turn it into a decadent chocolate bar and taking it around the surrounding area of Glastonbury. Making chocolate drinks tasting of all things that smell of Christmas. The villagers think it is a wonderful idea and flock to sample the brilliant hot chocolate. River had hit on a magnificent idea.
River and Alice gets Zara on board to supply them with tasty and novel chocolate pieces and Bruno with delectable gingerbread goodies. Is there a spark between them? Their friends believe so and work hard to try and get them together. However, Zara is moving to Tuscany at the beginning of January.
The characters were larger than life and so believable. River and Alice seemed to be well suited. All Alice wanted though was for River to propose. Bruno was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. He was a pleasure to meet whilst reading the book. Zara was a woman who I admired for her principles and stuck to them. Hayley, the taxi driver, made me laugh. I would definitely want her on my side. The other characters were all true friends. A refreshing Christmas novel getting me in the mood for Christmas. I want one of those VW camper vans turning up in my location. Isabella, May you have not disappointed. Your writing is so descriptive it felt I was there enjoying all those magnificent smells.
River and Alice gets Zara on board to supply them with tasty and novel chocolate pieces and Bruno with delectable gingerbread goodies. Is there a spark between them? Their friends believe so and work hard to try and get them together. However, Zara is moving to Tuscany at the beginning of January.
The characters were larger than life and so believable. River and Alice seemed to be well suited. All Alice wanted though was for River to propose. Bruno was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. He was a pleasure to meet whilst reading the book. Zara was a woman who I admired for her principles and stuck to them. Hayley, the taxi driver, made me laugh. I would definitely want her on my side. The other characters were all true friends. A refreshing Christmas novel getting me in the mood for Christmas. I want one of those VW camper vans turning up in my location. Isabella, May you have not disappointed. Your writing is so descriptive it felt I was there enjoying all those magnificent smells.
November 6, 2021
I was really looking forward to this book, especially after reading Flora’s Travelling Christmas Shop recently, where she heads out in a campervan to live out her own personal hallmark movie. The idea of a mobile hot chocolate and gingerbread van sounds so amazing doesn’t it! How much I’d love to stumble across one of those one day soon!
This did have a little bit of a slow start and I found myself wanting to get to the van part sooner than we did but I think the build up was needed as it gave a bit more insight into River and Alice’ relationship and the significance of Glastonbury to them both.
As soon as we got to the hot chocolate bit though I was hooked and found myself not wanting to put down my kindle, what I did want was to make myself a massive vat of hot chocolate with all the whipped cream and marshmallows. Although I think I’m be having to try everything that was on their menu – especially the peppermint white hot chocolate with mini candy canes… yes please!
I loved all the little villages that got mentioned and featured in this book, Glastonbury is definitely somewhere that I want to visit one day and this book has just made that even clearer. Trundling through the tour with River, Alice and team was so enchanting and I mean the treats just had me so so hungry!!!
There was also a little bit of matchmaking going on in this book, even if those attempts only seemed to push Zara and Bruno further and further away for each other. I have to say, I did chuckle at Zara’s spot of revenge though – although that definitely wouldn’t have been the case if it was me on the receiving end!!!
I’m now going to find myself the biggest hot chocolate I can and indulge myself, if only I could find some gingerbread men to…
This did have a little bit of a slow start and I found myself wanting to get to the van part sooner than we did but I think the build up was needed as it gave a bit more insight into River and Alice’ relationship and the significance of Glastonbury to them both.
As soon as we got to the hot chocolate bit though I was hooked and found myself not wanting to put down my kindle, what I did want was to make myself a massive vat of hot chocolate with all the whipped cream and marshmallows. Although I think I’m be having to try everything that was on their menu – especially the peppermint white hot chocolate with mini candy canes… yes please!
I loved all the little villages that got mentioned and featured in this book, Glastonbury is definitely somewhere that I want to visit one day and this book has just made that even clearer. Trundling through the tour with River, Alice and team was so enchanting and I mean the treats just had me so so hungry!!!
There was also a little bit of matchmaking going on in this book, even if those attempts only seemed to push Zara and Bruno further and further away for each other. I have to say, I did chuckle at Zara’s spot of revenge though – although that definitely wouldn’t have been the case if it was me on the receiving end!!!
I’m now going to find myself the biggest hot chocolate I can and indulge myself, if only I could find some gingerbread men to…
November 1, 2021
It was great to meet up with River and Alice who first featured in The Cocktail Bar, In this festive read, you follow them back from Cornwall to their beloved Glastonbury, via a tour around Cornwall in their quirky camper van. Cue descriptions of the most delicious festive food which they sell at their pop-up van. Gingerbread, in all its incarnations and the most appetizing hot chocolate drinks mean that you are permanently hungry as you read this book!
As River and Alice travel around, you meet up with a whole crowd of individuals who are full of heart and humour. I also enjoyed Zara and Bruno's friendship (if you can call it that) as Zara works her way through her issues and Bruno is a little perplexed at how every meeting seems to end up in disaster, despite their obvious chemistry. Romance, humour and a huge dollop of Christmas mix together to cook up a delicious festive read.
In short: A festive journey
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
As River and Alice travel around, you meet up with a whole crowd of individuals who are full of heart and humour. I also enjoyed Zara and Bruno's friendship (if you can call it that) as Zara works her way through her issues and Bruno is a little perplexed at how every meeting seems to end up in disaster, despite their obvious chemistry. Romance, humour and a huge dollop of Christmas mix together to cook up a delicious festive read.
In short: A festive journey
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
November 3, 2021
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar - Isabella May
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily
River and Alice miss Somerset. Christmas isn’t Christmas without family and friends, even when you live in quaint Cornwall.
When River’s Aunt Sheba dies unexpectedly, leaving him her ancient VW campervan, nostalgia nudges him and Alice back to Glastonbury - and the surrounding villages - to rediscover their roots whilst serving the most decadent hot chocolate and delectable gingerbread from their renovated ‘bar on wheels’
I read this book in one sitting, curled up under a blanket - I even treated myself to a delightful hot chocolate. This is an enjoyable festive read. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know River and Alice; especially as each of them got their own dedicated chapters.
If you are reading this book then please ensure that you have plenty of snacks as the writing will leave you wanting festive food. After reading this, I have been left with that warm festive feeling.
Rating: 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily
River and Alice miss Somerset. Christmas isn’t Christmas without family and friends, even when you live in quaint Cornwall.
When River’s Aunt Sheba dies unexpectedly, leaving him her ancient VW campervan, nostalgia nudges him and Alice back to Glastonbury - and the surrounding villages - to rediscover their roots whilst serving the most decadent hot chocolate and delectable gingerbread from their renovated ‘bar on wheels’
I read this book in one sitting, curled up under a blanket - I even treated myself to a delightful hot chocolate. This is an enjoyable festive read. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know River and Alice; especially as each of them got their own dedicated chapters.
If you are reading this book then please ensure that you have plenty of snacks as the writing will leave you wanting festive food. After reading this, I have been left with that warm festive feeling.
Rating: 4/5
October 14, 2021
This book should come with a warning. Make sure you are stocked up on hot chocolate and gingerbread before you dive into Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar.
River and Alice return to Somerset from living in Cornwall after River inherits his aunts campervan. They turn the van into a business and travel around the villages of Somerset selling hot chocolate and gingerbread, sourced and made by local friends Zara and Bruno.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar is full of Christmas magic as well as a will-they-won’t-they romance.
I found that it was the descriptions of the villages that the team were visiting that drew me in as well as all the foodie descriptions.
I found it hard to connect to the two main characters to start with, but this may be because this is the second time these characters are featured by the author, with their debut in The Cocktail Bar, which I haven’t previously read.
If you’re looking for some festive magic, then this is one for you.
River and Alice return to Somerset from living in Cornwall after River inherits his aunts campervan. They turn the van into a business and travel around the villages of Somerset selling hot chocolate and gingerbread, sourced and made by local friends Zara and Bruno.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar is full of Christmas magic as well as a will-they-won’t-they romance.
I found that it was the descriptions of the villages that the team were visiting that drew me in as well as all the foodie descriptions.
I found it hard to connect to the two main characters to start with, but this may be because this is the second time these characters are featured by the author, with their debut in The Cocktail Bar, which I haven’t previously read.
If you’re looking for some festive magic, then this is one for you.
November 1, 2021
As someone who loves Christmas, and also food - especially sweets! - cozy stories and romance, I was excited to see my first Christmas read of the year promised to deliver all of that - and it didn't disappoint!
Although containing some references to an author's previous book, the stoty and characters are fully relatable and enjoyable as a stand-alone read, too. So relatable, and so enjoyable, that I found myself pausing my reading to grab a cup of hot cocoa and some cookies (not gingerbread, but oh, well), a couple of times.
So, get comfortable, get some cocoa, and get ready for an enjoyable story to early-start the season off right.
Although containing some references to an author's previous book, the stoty and characters are fully relatable and enjoyable as a stand-alone read, too. So relatable, and so enjoyable, that I found myself pausing my reading to grab a cup of hot cocoa and some cookies (not gingerbread, but oh, well), a couple of times.
So, get comfortable, get some cocoa, and get ready for an enjoyable story to early-start the season off right.
September 27, 2021
Isabella May really has a way with words… she paints a picture so vividly in the readers mind. The images of a green camper van, the smell of rich chocolate, and gingerbread, and the sounds of joy of the locals watching the talent show - these were all described so perfectly that they were brought to life for me!
I loved the way the story is told with a different chapter per character and I just enjoyed meeting the characters in this book. The dynamics of the group were wonderful throughout.
What a joyous book to get the reader right into the Christmassy spirit 🎄
I loved the way the story is told with a different chapter per character and I just enjoyed meeting the characters in this book. The dynamics of the group were wonderful throughout.
What a joyous book to get the reader right into the Christmassy spirit 🎄
October 17, 2021
This book is like a warm cup of coco that wraps you up and draws you in which is a bonus seeing how coco and gingerbread are a strong theme in this book. I didn't know it was the 2nd one with River and I would have preferred to read the 1st one beforehand but it didn't take away the enjoyment of the book! I must confess Zara annoyed me quite regularly throughout the book but by the end I was rooting for her
The book takes you on a journey throughout the west country and all I wanted to do was pack my bag and join them on that journey.
Lovely book to curl up and get lost in to
The book takes you on a journey throughout the west country and all I wanted to do was pack my bag and join them on that journey.
Lovely book to curl up and get lost in to
September 25, 2021
Awwww, I really enjoyed this journey through Somerset/Devon/Cornwall county. A return to the Isabella May I love. Cleverly layered, yet simple to grasp, this had me cheering for each and every one of the characters although Zara did get a little frustrating at times. Bless her 😅
Wanted to devour my favourite chocolate drink with coconut and had me yearning for the next best thing from Costa.
Just great!
Wanted to devour my favourite chocolate drink with coconut and had me yearning for the next best thing from Costa.
Just great!
October 13, 2021
Set in the beautiful Somerset Cornwall county, this book will take you into the delicious world of food. I was left craving and my mouth was watering reading the wonderful descriptions. A perfect book to curl up with with a cup of hot chocolate by the fire place during the holidays.
Thank you Isabella May for your ARC in return for my honest review. It was a sheer delight reading this book.
Thank you Isabella May for your ARC in return for my honest review. It was a sheer delight reading this book.
September 25, 2021
What a journey River and Alice took us on in the VW camper van left to River by his Aunt Sheba. Touring through Somerset they are joined by some quirky characters as they serve up delicious hot chocolate and gingerbread with style, panache and a whole lot of festive fun. Foodie fans will love this book with its delicious concoctions. Hot chocolate and gingerbread will be on my Christmas wish list ❤️
October 18, 2021
Absolutely adored this book, lovely characters a fun storyline and a VW camper all wrapped up in a cozy Christmas scene.
Well written with a perfectly lovely festive plot full of hot chocolate and Christmas treats
Well written with a perfectly lovely festive plot full of hot chocolate and Christmas treats
October 21, 2021
Christmas overload. Stock up on all your hot chocolate and goodies, you’ll need hem reading this book. I’ve read several Isabella May books and they never disappoint. Love the characters and the story line.
October 31, 2021
Frothy Concoction
Well paced romantic comedy, not initially obvious who the lead characters are which was a nice surprise. Quirky collection of supporting cast as well, could imagine this as a festive tv program. Lovely read 👍
Well paced romantic comedy, not initially obvious who the lead characters are which was a nice surprise. Quirky collection of supporting cast as well, could imagine this as a festive tv program. Lovely read 👍
January 9, 2022
Isabella May's novel, Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Bar, is a fantastic story with quirky characters, a collection of Christmas food treats such as gingerbread men, frosted reindeer, and decadent hot cocoa made with exotic flavors and spices. There's a bit of mystery and unanswered questions to keep you interested until the end. Will Zara admit Bruno into her heart? What did Aunt Sheba leave to her heirs in her will? Will River and Alice stay together? The reader will hang on to the little subplots that make stories on their own.
Plenty of heat and romantic tension builds throughout the story. The little catering van with the troop of characters traveling from villages and small towns in England is a perfect backdrop for this novel. I loved the people the author wrote into the novel-chefs, cooks, musicians, bartenders, bakers, and talent show entertainers. It all blends into a romantic suspenseful ending that you won't forget.
Isabella May's writing is new to me and now she has a new fan. I plan to read all of her books!
Plenty of heat and romantic tension builds throughout the story. The little catering van with the troop of characters traveling from villages and small towns in England is a perfect backdrop for this novel. I loved the people the author wrote into the novel-chefs, cooks, musicians, bartenders, bakers, and talent show entertainers. It all blends into a romantic suspenseful ending that you won't forget.
Isabella May's writing is new to me and now she has a new fan. I plan to read all of her books!
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September 23, 2021As a Cornishwoman I was of course offended at the wrong use of jam then cream on page 1. (Joking).
A perfect Christmas story.
A perfect Christmas story.
September 29, 2021
Twinkle twinkle little bar by Isabella May.
River and Alice miss Somerset. Christmas isn’t Christmas without family and friends, even when you live in quaint Cornwall.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting. I loved the story and characters. Especially Zara and Bruno and River and Alice. I love Isabella books. 5*
River and Alice miss Somerset. Christmas isn’t Christmas without family and friends, even when you live in quaint Cornwall.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting. I loved the story and characters. Especially Zara and Bruno and River and Alice. I love Isabella books. 5*
September 30, 2021
This was a wonderful Christmassy book which I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish. The story centred around four people, Jackson, Alice, Zara and Bruno with a whole host of supporting characters. I really liked all of them and loved the way they interacted/meddled. The book had a great ending without being too schmaltzy, perfect December read.
November 29, 2021
Took me a while to get to finish this but I wish it had been on my Xmas list of books as it's cosy and gets you in the mood for Xmas ! The characters were so realistic and the storyline very well written
October 15, 2021
I really loved this book, it's stuffed with romance, dream jobs, festivities and a some emotional parts too. The relationship between River and Alice is so nice to follow. I also loved the romance dramas between Zara and Bruno, they made me chuckle.
I loved this book from start to finish and couldn't put it down.
I really love that from something sad River can bring his dream of helping communities to fruition.
I would recommend this to anyone, brilliant book.
Also how adorable is the front cover! I love it!
I loved this book from start to finish and couldn't put it down.
I really love that from something sad River can bring his dream of helping communities to fruition.
I would recommend this to anyone, brilliant book.
Also how adorable is the front cover! I love it!
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