Jill Mansell and Linda Ford

Till Daph Do Us Part by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: I've been enjoying Phillipa's Charlotte Dean Mystery's and decided to read this one since it's her latest release. It sounded so good - death at a wedding!
What I liked: I just enjoy Phillipa's stories and find them very engaging. This one was funny and mysterious. Daph and John are a strong couple, having been married for 40 years, and they make a crack sleuthing team!
Other Comments: I can't wait to see where Daph and John go next in The Shadow of Daph.

Taming the Wind by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Before I got back to Charlotte, I thought I should go back to the beginning of Phillipa's linked series'. There are hints about Rivers End in the Charlotte books and even though I could still enjoy them, I really hate missing out on part of the story. So off I went to Rivers End, starting with this prequal.
What I liked: The 1960's setting and the society values it highlighted. Martha is a girl from a privileged family, so no one thinks Thomas is right for her. Except Martha, of course. The have a beautiful love story...
Other Comments: Went straight into The Stationmaster's Cottage.

The Stationmaster's Cottage by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: It was the next book, Phillipa's debut, and the beginning of the Christie Ryan, Charlotte Dean, and Daphne Jones series.
What I liked: Absolutely everything! It's been so long since I've loved a book so much. I was drawn in enough to turn off the TV and read into the night. Christie arrives in the small town of Rivers End and begins to solve the mystery of the cottage she inherits and the letters she's left written to her great-aunt Martha by her lover Thomas. But it seems they were never received. I enjoyed Christie and Derek's toxic relationship and was so pleased when she realised he wasn't the right man for her. Martin is Derek's complete opposite and the sexiest hero I've come across in forever. The ending featured a powerful reunion and Christie and Martin also found their happily ever after. Plus, there's Randall, the golden retriever who brings everyone together. This book is full of secrets, mystery, intrigue, and romance. Looooooooved it.
Other Comments: The binge reading began!

Jasmine Sea by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Binge reading the series.
What I liked: It followed on well with Derek dishing out his promised revenge for Christie leaving him. But I loved the storyline of Christie and Martin fighting to stay together, because that's my favourite kind of romance. Two people who want to be together in face of all the obstacles thrown at them. There were various villains, all interesting and needing to be brought to justice. Then there was the arrival of Charlotte Dean! Randall again was my favourite character and such a good dog. Justice was served and the series just got better.
Other Comments: The binge continued!

The Secrets of Palmerston House by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Binging!
What I liked: The multiple characters. This is the beginning of Charlotte and Trev's story while Christie and Martin's draws to an end with their imminent wedding. Bernie was a interesting villain who caused plenty of havoc. Even though I knew a bit about how it'd end since I've read Charlotte's stories, it was still engaging and mysterious. Loved it!
Other Comments: Now I'm keen to get back into Charlotte, but I have one more River's End book first!

Rivals by Sam Michaels
Why I read it: I recently read Trickster, the first book of the series, and needed to see what Georgina Garrett got up to next.
What I liked: I do enjoy this series, even though it's not my usual cup of tea. This story flowed well and I was kept in suspense as I didn't know what was going to happen next. Anything seems to go in this Battersea Underworld. Character survival is not guaranteed and Georgina was faced with quite a few challenges. I also loved the character of David Maynard.
Other Comments: I will continue reading the series, but may need a break as the books are quiet heavy reading. I need to find out what happens next!

The Christmas Key by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Binging and book four of the River's End series. Sadly, the last one!
What I liked: The doggies! This was a beautiful story uncovering the final secrets of the past that separated Thomas and Martha. Christie and Martin live happily after after and Angus finds his home with Elizabeth. The perfect Christmassy ending to the series.
Other Comments: I loved this series and highly recommend it! Now, back to Charlotte!

The Farmers Friend by Fiona McArthur
Why I read it: Fiona's latest release with Penguin! I love her books about practicing medicine in rural Australia.
What I liked: Gracie and Nell were both very interesting women. I loved the community spirit in this story and how everyone pulled together to survive the bushfire threatening the town.
Other Comments: A beautiful rural fiction story. I can't wait to catch up on the backlist books I have on my shelf! 

Deadly Secrets by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Book three of the Charlotte Dean mysteries. 
What I liked: Everything! This series just gets better. This story involves an old crime, so it's hard to tell what may have happened. Trev and Charlotte are onto it though. I love that he's now living in Kingfisher Falls, which allows his relationship with Charlotte to brew. But then Charlotte's drawn away to assist with her mother, giving her a different mystery to solve. Charlotte finds the answers she was searching for, which also begs more questions, and she's set free. 
Other Comments: Jumped straight into the next book, Deadly Past!

Deadly Past by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Book four of the Charlotte Dean mysteries. 
What I liked: Hey, it was another great Charlotte story. I loved how there were many layers to this story. Again, it had both a personal mystery and an crime - murder! Hints of this story have been placed in the previous, so it felt like lots of loose ends were tied. I also just love Charlotte and her relationship with Trev, Rosie, and the other people in town.
Other Comments: I felt like I was drawn out of this story because I was busy with a bit of travel, but still can't wait for the next one!

To The Moon And Back by Jill Mansell
Why I read it: I picked it up off the $5 book shelf and was drawn to it by the line on the blurb "If only she'd pay him the same attention she lavishes on his dog."
What I liked: It was a new author for me and I love stories about grief and widows. I have no idea why. Both Ellie and Zack were great characters though. I enjoyed his love at first sight story and the other two romances that occur in the book. Multiple characters work for me. Elmo was also a very adorable dog and I loved him very much.
Other Comments: I'd read Jill again as I love English chick lit.

Rodeo and Juliet by Linda Ford
Why I read it: I got it cheap or free through Book Bub, which I signed up for this month. It's awesome. I chose this because I wanted something to read at work, but didn't want to read Charlotte because of the distractions. 
What I liked: A strong horse character! Star runs away from Rodeo, finds Juliet, and almost insists that they be together as much as a horse can. Rodeo has a cool career travelling around with Star performing their show, but now Star will only perform for Juliet. Rodeo and Juliet have a lovely sweet romance contemporary to their 1880's setting. This was a very enjoyable story.
Other Comments: I want to read Juliet's sister Josephine's story!

Snowy Mountains Daughter by Alissa Callan
Why I read it: I've always meant to buy it as it's the first in Alissa's new series. I picked it up at the local hospital book fair and randomly chose to start it out of my new pile of rural romances.
What I liked: Bundy the community share dog! Bundy doesn't have one owner, he is loved by the whole town of Bundilla. The story was lovely and I'm a big fan of best friend's sibling and friends to lovers romances, so this one was a hit!
Other Comments: This is a new series for me to look forward to. Book two is coming out soon!

The Giving Tree by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Because it was the fifth - and sadly final! - book of the Charlotte Dean mysteries. I was going to savour it, but I couldn't hold out for long. I had to read!
What I liked: Everything was tied up. Jonas was finally brought to justice, Charlotte has found answers to all the questions that have been bothering her about herself during the series, and she gets her happily ever after with Trev. It completes the series nicely.
Other Comments: I'm so sad it's over! I guess I'll now just have to content myself with the Daphne series.

Erin Grace, Anna Foxkirk, Rebecca Raisin, Sam Michaels, and Desney King

Love in Ruins by Erin Grace
Why I read it: I've been meaning to for a while now as Erin was on my list of authors to read. The boxset was on sale, so I finally bought it.
What I liked: Good writing! I started this after starting a few other books I just couldn't get into and it captured me straight away. The story was marvellous and very well told. I looooved Ewan and I'm always a sucker for archaeologists. I had a very Jamie vibe, except Ewan is a few centuries older than Jamie and therefore a lot more rugged. Hotter? Maybe...
Other Comments: I went straight into book 2!

From the Ashes by Erin Grace
Why I read it: It was book two and, see above, I enjoyed the first.
What I liked: Just as good as the first. Full of exciting characters and intrigue. I loved Callum talking about his time 700 years into the future, missing things like fish and chips. It was very fun.
Other Comments: I'll read more of Erin, I think!

Holly Ever After by Anna Foxkirk
Why I read it: It was a short novella I received from a newsletter signup and it caught me when I was flipping through Kindle.
What I liked: Locking two people in a closet? Yeah, that was fun! This was a short quirky novella and a great intro to this new author. Plus, Christmas stories are always fun!
Other Comments: Anna has a fun voice and I'd be keen to read more when her books come out.

The Garden of Hopes and Dreams by Barbara Hannay
Why I read it: Ahh...cos it's Barbara's new book! And I wanted to at least have a bit of it read before attending her book launch - I was halfway through!
What I liked: It was such a warm and comforting story! I loved both Vera and Maddie and the touch of romance in their lives. There were so many different people of various ages and backgrounds, which made for an interesting read. I enjoyed seeing them all come together and build their community garden on the roof.
Other Comments: I bought more plants after reading this. Hopefully I'll be able to keep my peace lily alive!

Aria's Travelling Book Shop by Rebecca Raisin
Why I read it: I follow Rebecca on social media and was excited that she had her first print book in Australia, so I thought I'd buy it.
What I liked: For some reason, I'm drawn to widows and grief. I don't know why. So I really enjoyed this story. But Aria was also an awesome bookworm character, and that's always fun too!
Other Comments: I may have to read the other Travelling Nomads!

Trickster by Sam Michaels
Why I read it: Just another one of those things you see on Facebook, a series by a friend and the first book was only 99p, so I gave it a go!
What I liked: It was so different to what I usually read - itty gritty gangland crime in the early 1900s. There were some things that made me recoil, but that's good! It was contemporary to the time, place, and made for a very interesting read. There were plenty of characters and despite the horrible things that happened, there was a satisfying ending. 
Other Comments: I have book two, Rivals, waiting!

Transit of Angels by Desney King
Why I read it: I heard there was a dog in it and liked the free sample. Again, a widow dealing with grief! So I read it.
What I liked: It was different and captivating in it's way it spoke about dealing with grief. I did enjoy the little dog Tashie and the setting of the remote little river community. This was a lovely story.
Other Comments: An interesting read, probably great for fans of literary fiction.

A Kiss for Carter by Davina Stone
Why I read it: I love this series and can't believe I forgot to pre-order! But I got it on release day and devoured it.
What I liked: There's just something refreshing about this series. I don't know how to describe it. The previous book The Polly Principle is set over the same timeline as this one, so there were hints about Judith and Carter and therefore, I was already sold. But I guess what I liked the most was that the characters had not just psychological worries about sex, but physical concerns and I don't see that a lot. I just loved this book.
Other Comments: I'm now a loyal fan and can't wait for The Felicity Theory!

Deadly Falls by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: I was scrolling through my Kindle after trying to start a few other books and decided to see what Charlotte was up to. At least this one hooked me!
What I liked: I wanted to catch up with what Charlotte was doing as I really enjoyed the first of the Charlotte Dean mysteries last month. This book jumped straight on in. I loved the mystery and intrigue of this story - murder, stalkers, secrets, and trust. Plus, a brewing romance. I couldn't put it down!
Other Comments: Book one was good, but this one made me a fan. I don't want to read anything else until Charlotte is done, although I'm also in the middle of a few other books.

I decided to enter Publishable because I'm addicted to feedback and competitions. I submitted two manuscripts to the program and would have submitted a third, but alas, there was too much else to do. My Own Worst Enemy is the new title for my Strawberry Book. This was my fresher piece and still needs work, but I thought I'd give it a go. But Home Among the Palm Trees has been with me for almost ten years now, so I'm thrilled that the readers of the program have considered this manuscript 'Publishable'.

I received some lovely feedback about this story during my online consultation, with a few suggestions about what I can tweak to enhance the story. This was very positive and I got to work.

Our first workshop was about finding a work life balance with Natasha Lester. It was an interesting informative workshop about goal setting, motivation, and making time to write. It was fun to participate in, but considering this is what I do for a living, I've got it down. I write every day the moment my afternoon walk is complete, this gives me 1-2 hours depending on the day to sit down and work with my book until dinner is ready. Then it's TV time! It's important as a writer to establish a routine and get the book done. If you don't make a plan, it doesn't happen, which is what I tell people when I'm encouraging them to exercise.

The second workshop was about finding an editor and what editors can do for your work. This was similar to the third workshop provided by Ally Blake about working with an editor. Both were interesting and helpful sessions to set us all up for what is to come in our writing careers.

After that, I tweaked the manuscript and resubmitted the first fifty pages.

Considering Home Among the Palm Trees has already been rejected by the major publishers who currently print rural romance, I didn't see where else I could go with this program, so wasn't surprised when I wasn't shortlisted. However, the Queensland Writers Centre did offer me a Writers Surgery, a wonderful program that can be very helpful for writers to develop their novel and work out where to go next.

Overall, I enjoyed this experience. I am still working on Home Among the Palm Trees ​and have a solid plan in place.

H.M. Hodgson, Joanne Austen Brown, Sara Hartland, Suzanne Cass, and Phillipa Nefri Clark.

Magpie's Bend by Maya Linnell
Why I read it: I really liked the idea of this story, had finally read book two Bottlebrush Creek, and was catching up on all my rural romance.
What I liked: I love a series, so it was nice to catch up with old characters. I really loved the community spirit and goal in this story - to save the local store. Everyone got together to pitch in and it drew the characters together. I also loved that they were runners. I'm always keen to see characters exercise!
Other Comments: Very interested to see what Diana's story will be...book four is coming, yes?

The Last Keeper by H.M. Hodgson
Why I read it: It was Heather's debut novel and I support fellow writers and friends, even though I don't read a lot of paranormal or fantasy romance.
What I liked: It was amazing! Maybe because I don't usually read this stuff? I'm not sure. But I loved India and Thrane. He was definitely hot. The Keeper's job is to protect the 'World Tree' and I loved how there was so much importance about something as simple as a tree. Now every time I see a massive tree, I think 'World Tree?'
Other Comments: Looking forward to what comes next! Well done, Heather!

Always Louisa by Joanne Austen Brown
Why I read it: Cos I should have bought it at it's release, but I was slack and didn't really read regency romance then. Thank you Bridgerton for changing that!
What I liked: This was soooo up my alley! Romance and an unknown villain who rapes and kills. Hehe! Does that make me strange? Nope, just a reader who likes to keep turning a page. 
Other Comments: I have to read Always Elspeth now! Poor Elspeth...she had such a hard time in this book. She needs a happy ending.

When You Are Mine by Michael Robotham
Why I read it: Because it's Michael's new book. Need I say more?
What I liked: Domestic violence is right up my alley. I don't know why I'm so passionate about it. Maybe because it's the subject of my most dearest book? Either way, Phil was an amazingly tough heroine as she tried standing up for the women she saved in domestic violence situations as a police officer. Unfortunately, it didn't really go her way...until there was a happy ending!
Other Comments: The thought of reading Michael's backlist makes me tired...

Ryan's Return by Sara Hartland
Why I read it: Ruby finalist! I don't think I'll read all the finalists, but I gave it a go because I looooove rural romance.
What I liked: It was a simple, short novella that had strong characters and an interesting outback setting. I always love a bad boy and Ryan lives up to that. 
Other Comments: Good luck with the Rubys!

Rain on a Tin Roof by Suzanne Cass
Why I read it: I think this boxset was on sale? Either way, I bought it. The second book has a border collie on the cover so I was sold!
What I liked: This captured me from the first moment. Finding a hypothermic girl on the side of the mountain? I have to keep reading! It was hot and steamy without sex and the perfect example of a very short good story.
Other Comments: I was keen to read the rest.

Lost and Found by Suzanne Cass
Why I read it: Border collie!
What I liked: The border collie! The story was pretty good too. I like how James just joined in the search and rescue.
Other Comments: More books need border collies.

Rescue His Heart by Suzanne Cass
Why I read it: It was book three.
What I liked: Nathaniel! I love Americans in Australia. And he had a very interesting background. I'm glad he joined in the search and rescue despite his trauma.
Other Comments: I may be a fan of Suzanne...

Deadly Start by Phillipa Nefri Clark
Why I read it: Sounded good, may have been on sale, and I wanted something different by a new author.
What I liked: Christmas theme, small town, mystery! What's not to love? There was a lot of interesting town dynamics in this story and I'm keen to read the rest to see how Charlotte settles into Kingfisher Falls.
Other Comments: I better get onto book two.

Whoa! Mamma Mia!
Music blasts in my ears. The seven and a half kays are up, but I may as well keep running to the school.
I did it! It’s the longest I’ve ever run, but I can keep going. I can make fifty minutes. I’m almost there.
Here we go again!
Legs pump. Hip’s a bit uncomfy, but I can keep going. There’s my fifty minutes! I can slow. Slow down…walk it off.
Nah, let’s make the eight kays. Two hundred metres to go. I can do it. It’s just around the corner.
My my, how can I resist you?
I’m not sweating. Not dying. It’s a cool, beautiful morning in the park. There’s no one around.
I’m almost there. Ah, stupid phone! Just stay open!
I open the app…
Eight kilometers! Yes! Oh, eight point one! Ha! Okay. Now I can slow down. Let’s walk it off. Breathe. Go home and get on the tready. Warm down.
The ten kilometre run next week will be a breeze.
Maybe I should do this every Sunday?

Book Count: ​Single title 12 ; Novellas - 3; Mills and Boons 8 ; Total 23
New Authors I Read: Cassie Hamer, Alison Stuart, Darry Fraser, Juanita Kees, Tea Cooper, Liz Fielding, Alissa Callen, Andrea Bolter, Barbara Wallace.

 Ranchers Twins: Mum Needed by Barbara Hannay
Why I read it: I wanted something by Barbara and an easy small book on the treadmill. 
What I liked: I seem to really like reading an American and Aussie falling in love. In this book, Holly takes her cousin's children to Australia after her cousin dies so that they can live with their cattleman father. I enjoyed reading about Holly, a Vermont farmgirl, experiencing the outback for the first time. She loved it! I also enjoyed Gray's inner struggle with his inability to read or write. This was a deeply emotional story and I just loved it. Can't go wrong with a Barbara story.
Other Comments: I'm just glad I have a whole bunch of old Barbara romances to read and even a few of her recent bigger books. I've bought them all, but have been slack on reading them. Be prepared to see a lot of Barbara Hannay appearing on my reading list very soon!

After the Party by Cassie Hamer
Why I read it: I've been keen since I picked up this book sometime last year and decided to give it a go.
What I liked: I liked the secrets and watching the plot unfold. The characters of the three little girls were well developed. I liked the motherhood theme. Overall, it was an enjoyable story.
Other Comments: It ended sort of quickly and it would have been nice to have a more nail-biting ending.

The Postmistress by Alison Stuart
Why I read it: This story has been on my mind too and I wanted to read it before the next book The Goldminer's Sister came out. I read the prologue when I bought it last year and was quite keen. It's just, I don't usually read historicals.
What I liked: I just loved the setting and time period of the 1870s. It was very enjoyable to read about the world at this time. I loved the characters and the 19th century medical aspects of this story. It was just fantastic!
Other Comments: I'm hooked into historicals now and I blame this book

A Nanny Called Alice by Barbara Hannay
Why I read it: I love Barbara's work and got an ARC for this book!
What I liked: I love Americans in Australia stories. The little orphaned girls in this book also really tugged at the heart strings. I loved the ending of this story.
Other Comments: I really enjoy the Brides of Wirralong series from Tule and this one didn't disappoint. I can't wait for the rest of the new books in this series.

Moonlight Plains by Barbara Hannay
Why I read it: It was a Barbara book and historical crossover that's been on my shelf since it was released. As it's set in Townsville, I always wanted to read it. Now that I'm catching up on Barbara's books and enjoying historicals, I finally read it! Soooo happy!
What I liked: I loved reading about characters in Townsville, especially those during the World War II years. This was a story with romances contemporary to both time periods in this book. I loved reading about Townsville in WWII and learning about my town's history in the process.
Other Comments: I want to read more Townsville in WWII books - so I bought Judy Nunn's Khaki Town.

The Widow of Ballarat by Darry Fraser
Why I read it: I was drawn by the blurb when I picked this up off the Better Reading's top 100 books. It's also another Victorian Goldrush story, like the Postmistress, so I figured I'd give it a go.
What I liked: ...
Other Comments: ...

Summer on Seashell Island by Sophie Pembroke
Why I read it: I ordered this from Book Depository because I was very intrigued and have recently discovered Sophie's books, which I think are wonderful.
What I liked: I enjoyed the three main characters and their individual conflicts. It was fun to read with the island setting over summer. And I loved Lucy the llama!
Other Comments: Can't wait to read more of Sophie's books! I might need to order the Wedding on Mistletoe Island...

Montana Baby by Juanita Kees
Why I read it: A free kindle download and I needed to kill time, which is what I use my kindle for. I was attracted to this story as it sounded sweet, I hadn't read anything by Juanita before, and Cathryn Hein had it on her Favourite Reads list this month.
What I liked: I liked the characters and the Calhoun family. This was a fun, sweet story and with an interesting conflict. Charlie's dad wanted to sell her baby!
Other Comments: It was a little hard reading a couple named Charlie and Chase just because they both started with C.

The Goldminer's Sister by Alison Stuart
Why I read it: I didn't want to leave it long after just finishing The Postmistress. I started this book prior to attending A Fireside Chat with Alison Stuart and Darry Fraser.
What I liked: This was a fantastic book! It was complex with interesting characters in dire situations, plus a nice mix of secondary characters whose storylines added to the main plot. I loved visiting the Victorian goldrush. I liked Eliza as a schoolmistress and learning about mine engineering in the 1870s.
Other Comments: Marveouslly written and plotted. Couldn't put it down. Even better than The Postmistress.

Pregnant on the Earl's Doorstep by Sophie Pembroke
Why I read it: I needed to catch up on Mills and Boon Forever Romances and something small to fit on the treadmill. I chose this because it was a Sophie book, of course, and was followed on by an Ally Blake.
What I liked: The family orientated story, the multiple conflicts, and the ghost! This was a sweet but very tense story and well crafted.
Other Comments: I still love Sophie's work and can't wait to read more!

The Good Woman of Renmark by Darry Fraser
Why I read it: Continuing on my historical fiction binge reading. The deal I made with myself was to read this, then I could buy Elsa Goody Bushranger.
What I liked: The opening was fantastic! I loved that this was quite the adventure story and I'm learning a lot about Australia and Australian history in the process. I love this time period of the late 1800s where they travel by horses, carriage, riverboats, or sometimes just need to walk!
Other Comments: Such an amazing, adventure book. I loved it.

Undara by Annie Seaton
Why I read it: I was keen for this when it came out almost a year ago because I live near the Undara Lava Tubes, but I just hadn't got around to reading it. So I put it on my TBR pile and started it after The Good Woman of Renmark before buying Elsa Goody.
What I liked: It was a good story. I'll admit, I wasn't immediately hooked, but I persisted and really enjoyed the book. It was interesting with a good crime story. I liked that the two main characters formed a friendship and were able to fix their marriages, rather than falling in love with each other.
Other Comments: Felt very homey for me. I love reading books set in North Queensland.

A Week With the Best Man by Ally Blake
Why I read it: Printed with Pregnant on the Earl's Doorstep and I needed something to read on the treadmill. I also enjoy Ally's stories.
What I liked: It was a sweet, interesting story with strong characters. I like stories about weddings and Harper and Cormac were bridesmaid and best man. Can't go wrong with a book that opens with a hero throwing a stick for his dog.
Other Comments: I didn't like all the partying scenes.

The Woman in the Green Dress by Tea Cooper
Why I read it: Even though I had Elsa Goody at home, I was browsing the shelves in Big W and saw this one on the Top 100. I hadn't read any Tea Cooper and after the blurb and opening scene hooked me, I bought it. I was keen for another historical.
What I liked: Everything! This book had lots of intrigue with twists and turns and a soft touch of romance. The jumping dual timelines continue to hook you through to keep reading. I enjoyed the 1919 timeline post World War I and experiencing Sydney in this time - before the Harbour Bridge even existed! But the more historic, the better, so the 1840s timeline was even more intriguing. Everything connected at the end and it was a fabulous book! I'll be buying more Tea Cooper.
Other Comments: Learning about taxidermy was interesting. I loved the time periods and the history that was included. It was awesome.

A Secret, A Safari, and a Second Chance by Liz Fielding
Why I read it: I've been getting behind on my Mills and Boons, I needed a fun story that was the second in the double print so I could read it on the treadmill, and I've never read a Liz Fielding!
What I liked: The safari and African setting was definitely fun and enjoyable. I really liked spending time with the animals. But what I really liked was how Kit didn't get too angry or anything when he found out Eve had had his baby. He was hurt and she felt bad, but they worked it out easily without making a big mess of things. I also loved that he was a sailor and there was the sport/athlete aspect to this story.
Other Comments: I didn't read the blurb, so I didn't realise it was secret baby, but I still liked it. There was definitely something special about this story, which I think is what makes Liz Fielding special. I'm keen to read more of her books.

The Purple Hills by Alissa Callen
Why I read it: Free kindle read to kill time on my phone.
What I liked: It was a short quick read, but didn't lack emotional depth or conflict. A sweet story with a cute pony named Jelly Bean, Jack Russell puppies, and two health professionals finding love with each other.
Other Comments: I feel I'd really enjoy Alissa Callan's work. I do have at least one of her books, I know.

Daughter of the Murray by Darry Fraser
Why I read it: Another Aussie historical and Darry's first. I realised that a few were loosely linked, so I thought I better go back to the beginning.
What I liked: ​It was a fantastic, epic adventure story. There was a lot going on and the characters were very interesting with conflict that was contemporary with the time period. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Other Comments: Very keen to read Where The Murray River Runs now.

Just One Wish by Rachael Johns
Why I read it: Ruby awards readalong and it was on sale at QBD. I also needed to break up my historical reading.
What I liked: There was interesting conflict and I enjoyed the first person narrative. The characters were interesting and I liked Ged. I wanted to see how her story unfolded.
Other Comments: I felt like I was getting a lesson in social politics and feminism, which took away the enjoyment of the story. The points made in this book came on too strong. 

Captivated By Her Parisian Billionaire by Andrea Bolter
Why I read it: Treadmill Mills and Boon read - Paris!
What I liked: I could really relate to Jules conflict with his parents. I also really enjoyed visiting Paris. The scene with the dinner cruise on the Seine reminded me of my own magical Seine cruise in Paris and I just loved it. Also a good story.
Other Comments: A wonderful, feel good story with a fit, healthy hero - easy to fall in love with.

Mr Right Now by Karly Lane
Why I read it: It was in my actual To Read pile! I wanted to catch up on Karly Lane's books and I read the first of the Callahan series earlier this year, so I thought I better read this one.
What I liked: It was an easy read. There was enough conflict, but it didn't go overboard. I really enjoyed the reunion and siblings best friend tropes. I really like the Callahan family, was glad to see things working out for the characters in the last book and this one set up the third and final book really well.
Other Comments: Reminds me why I love rural romance and family series.

Cinderella's New York Fling by Cara Colter
Why I read it: It's the first book in the current A Fairytale Summer series. I did pick up Sophie Pembroke's first, but then realised I should read them in order. 
What I liked: It was fun visiting New York, especially as it felt so real. I've found in the Mills and Boon books that 'real' things are brushed over. They use 'social media' instead of Facebook. They don't mention names of movies or shows. But not in this one! There were plenty of references to real movies - Beauty and the Beast and Pretty Woman - and they went to see Phantom of the Opera. Of course, that won me over really well and I enjoyed reading about two characters seeing my favourite show of all time. It felt more real and I really enjoyed visiting New York again through this book. I also enjoyed the characters and the story.
Other Comments: I love Viv, the 'fairy godmother' who is granting gifts to the three girls who rescued her dog. This was a good book and I can't wait to read Sophie Pembroke's and Ally Blake's.

Italian Escape with her Fake Fiance by Sophie Pembroke
Why I read it: Picked it up a few hours after finishing Cara's above. I was keen for the new Sophie Pembroke.
What I liked: I liked the fake relationship in this story. Daisy and Jay, both musicians, went through the motions of a whole relationship without realising that they were indeed falling in love. There was just something special about this story and I enjoyed it very much. The Italian village was lovely, the conflict was real, emotion was deep, and I loved the addition of the pet goat!
Other Comments: Sophie Pembroke is definitely my new fav!

A Year With The Millionaire Next Door by Barbara Wallace
Why I read it: It was printed with the Sophie Pembroke book above and I have not yet read a Barbara Wallace book. I was hooked the moment I read the Dear Reader letter and learned that it was about a woman who left her inheritance to the cat.
What I liked: I like neighbour romances. They're intimate without the forced intimacy of forced cohabitation or flatmates. I also liked Stella's conflict of needing to find her self worth. I enjoyed the fact the story was set over a year, loved the London setting, and of course, loved Toffee the rich cat.
Other Comments: ​I will read more of Barbara Wallace and simply love how many different stories I'm finding in the Mills and Boon Forever line.

- I learned of a new book publisher - Bookouture.
- A synopsis may not need to evoke emotion, it is more of a tool to help an editor understand the book, plot, and character arcs.
- No matter what, editors just want good stories with well structured plots, developed characters, and a solid beginning and end.

- Book bloggers don't just love to read and review books, but also enjoy author Q&A's, giveaways, and other book promotional materials.
- Blog tours sound like an interesting experience and are a great way to share and promote your book.
- I should read more book blogs.

- Objects and places can create symbolism and metaphors for your characters, which allows you to show their personality, backstory, and conflict.
- Internal and external conflicts should link, interact, and play off each other to create interesting and emotional stories, allowing the character arc to evolve.
- There are plenty of fun and interesting ways to create characters and just the smallest thing can give you a lot of information about a character - eg, a colour, trait, object, room, etc.

- Setting realistic goals and working on your book each day, which includes just thinking about it, is still considered the best way to make progress on your novel.
- Keep working on something new and getting your work out there.
- I'm well on track and confident with my writing career.

- Romance will always be popular because readers never stop wanting escapism, hope, and happiness.
- Character-focused stories with strong internal conflicts are still the best!
​- I definitely want to write Mills and Boon stories.

I didn't attend this session live because it was on at 1:30am my time. I'm waiting to see if we get to access the webinars later...

Book count: I reached my annual target of 75 books!

Best Book in June​: Claimed in the Italian's Castle by Caitlin Crews. It had a very memorable twist!

New Authors I read: Cara Colter, Jennifer Faye, Katrina Cudmore, Kelly Hunter, Cathy Williams, Caitlin Crews, Pippa Roscoe, Kali Anthony, and Christy McKellen.

A character is more than just a person with a story to tell. Your character is a tool you use to tell the story. But to make them real isn't as easy at it sounds. Like people, characters need to have many layers. They are complex. If you fail to make them so, then you end up with a flat, cardboard cutout character.

Your reader is going to be spending a lot of time with your character, therefore it is essential to make them likable or, at least, relatable. You want your reader to empathise with your character and enjoy the journey you take them on.

​A character driven story is a story that develops from the character's goals, motivations, and actions.

Every character must have:
- A goal: what does your character want? This is essentially what the book is about.
- Motivation: why do they want this goal and what will they do to achieve it? These are the action sequences in your story.
- Conflict: what is stopping them from reaching this goal? This is the tension and the obstacles your character faces.

Characters must also have:
- A backstory: they did not just appear on page one. They have lived a life before this story started. What happened in their past before this story takes place? What has shaped their lives? What has led your character to this moment?

Characters are not perfect. Make sure you give your character:
- A flaw: this plays into their relationships with others and maybe even their goals
- A fear: this creates doubt and insecurities.

This is delving deep into psychology. The Big 5 Personality Traits are:
- Extroversion
- Agreeableness
- Conscientiousness
- Neuroticism
- Openness

Deciding where your character fits on the scale of these five traits can help you keep them consistent as human beings and make them seem more real. Remember, this is a SCALE so a character doesn't need to be one or the other, but can lean to one end of the scale more than the other. They may act on either end of the scale in different situations too.

Extroversion - Outgoing or Reserved?
More outgoing characters enjoy being the centre of attention, like to start conversations, make friends easily, and like people.
More reserved characters prefer solitude, find socialising exhausting, think carefully before they speak, and don't like small talk.

Agreeableness - Friendly or Cold?
Friendlier characters take an interest in other people, care about others, feel empathy, and enjoys helping other people.
Colder characters take little interest in others, express less empathy, and may even insult or belittle others.

Conscientiousness - Organised or Careless?
More organised characters prepare, finish important tasks right away, pays attention to details, and enjoys schedules.
Less organised characters dislike structure, make messes, don't take care of things, fails to return items, and procrastinates.

Neuroticism - Sensitive or Secure?
Emotionally sensitive characters may experience a lot of stress, get upset easily, feel anxious, and worry about many things.
Emotionally secure characters are more stable, relaxed, don't worry much, rarely feel sad or depressed, and deal well with stress.

Openness - Curious or Cautious?
Curious characters are creative, try new things, take on new challenges, and are happy to think about abstract concepts.
Cautious characters dislike change, don't enjoy new things, resist new ideas, and are not very imaginative.

Other things to think about when you are creating your character may include the finer details such as:

- Habits
- Grievances
- Beliefs
- Education
- Health
- Family
- Relationship status/history
​- Relationship with others
- Likes
- Dislikes
- Talents

You may choose to or not choose to describe your character. In romance, a character description is more important because, let's face it, looks create physical attraction. In other genres, you may choose not to describe your character as much.

So consider:
- Hair colour/cut/looks - how do they often wear their hair?
- Eye colour and shape
- Height
- Body type
- How the character carries themselves and acts
- What do they wear? How do they dress? What is their personal style?

Last of all, create yourself a profile for your character building. Having this as a tool when creating all characters will help you to remember every little detail.

Build a character profile that works for YOU. Some people, like myself, like to fill in a table that addresses every little detail. Other authors find pictures to represent their characters which help them remember hair and eye colour. 

​Have a play and create yourself a character profile that you can use time and time again.