The Truth About Love and Dogs by Lilly Bartlett

Scarlett in her working role as a dog behaviourist is an expert at sorting dogs and at times their owners out with a whole range of issues, but when it comes to a serious issue that occurs in her own life, and it puts her relationships with both her husband and best friend at risk. Scarlett struggles to find a way through the behaviour of those closest to her.

Although this book is very entertaining and humorous, it does have a more serious and deeply emotional side to the story, that is deeply touching. I really have enjoyed reading all the books by this author for those reasons. I also like that with the fast pace of the storyline you cannot help but read the book in one sitting, which made my train journey pass so much more quickly.

The Big Dreams Beach Hotel by Lily Bartlett

After living her dream life in the Big Apple, Rosie unexpectedly finds herself back in her home town of Scarborough, where she is now running a run-down old-fashioned Victorian hotel. The hotel is filled with its own community of permanent residents who are used to the laid-back and gently atmosphere of the hotel. A far-cry from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

All is set to change when the hotel is bought by two eccentric American brothers, who even though have never been to see the hotel decide to make some very big changes and transition manager Rory comes in to oversee the renovation.

With a cast of colourful characters and a lively and witty narration to the book you are in for an entertaining read. I like the way the story has the theme of two story-lines from the past and present running parallel along side each other. A perfect beach, or by the pool holiday read. I also have a soft spot for Scarborough as it is my home town and having spent time myself in New York, I think Scarborough is just as charming and charismatic and you get that feel from the book. 

The Second Chance Café in Carlton Square by Lilly Bartlett

Emma a busy mum of twins, takes a chance of turning a disused pub into a café to help give young people a second chance at turning their lives around for the better, by offering them traineeships for them to learn all aspects of working in a café and also help provide a warm and friendly atmosphere for customers.

A nice and easy read which is fast-paced, lively and very entertaining and the story will make you laugh out loud in places. There is a great mix of characters and it is a story that does not over do it on the drama, but is a down to earth realistic, everyday sort of plot line. This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone.