Humorous fiction

Book SynopsisChloe Marr is young, beautiful and so irresistible that countless people fall in love with her, and friends are hypnotized by her charm and warmth. Her origins are a mystery and, in London society, such mystique carries both allure and suspicion. But when an untimely exodus pulls Chloe from the people around her, they soon realise nobody really knows the truth about anybody else… A. A. Milne’s ability to portray interwar society is second to none, and this classic novel of an elusive Mayfair delivers his signature humour and lightness of touch.Trade Review'He is sensitive. He can write charmingly… and his prose is at once facile and precise' * New York Post *'There is an astringent realism about Milne’s mind and work… and an unassuming sureness of balance lightened with so serene and deft a wit' * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisWhen a cosy country cottage goes up for sale in Combe Tollbridge, a small fishing village tucked away on a quiet corner of the Exmoor coast, young couple Jane and Jasper decide to make the move. But whilst Jane is returning to the place of happy childhood memories by the sea, another recent newcomer to the village, Angela, has sadder reasons for her move. Receiving a warm welcome from the colourful residents who call the village home, all three soon become embroiled in rural life, and find it not as sedate as they might have once imagined...Trade Review'A fun and entertaining book that was a joy to read. Combe Tollbridge is full of quirky and loveable characters that I'll look forward to meeting again' Rachel Burton, author of The Tearoom on the Bay 'Moving to Combe Tollbridge is an entertaining, richly textured novel of village life that lifts the spirits and makes you smile. I loved the characters, learned a lot from their experiences and believed in them as people. I'm moving in as soon as the next cottage is on the market' Peter Lovesey, author of Showstopper

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Book SynopsisDear Aline, You asked me to write to you and tell you things about life in England, so here I am again… Alasdair Took, resident of Knaresbridge (based on Knaresborough, North Yorkshire), keeps up a regular correspondence with a woman in Vermont he met only once; the escapades of his daily life seem utterly fantastical and too odd to be true, but is that really the oddest part of all of this? Alasdair’s letters certainly raise more questions than can possibly be answered, including (but not limited to): Why is it always Tuesday in Knaresbridge, and why hasn’t anyone noticed? Why does his daily, Mrs Daley, blame everything on the Bossa Nova? Why has her husband Ted been hiding in the woods for three years? (Or has he?) Why does Alasdair collect clock ticks? What about the tocks? Told in the style of a light, slightly surreal epistolary novel, Alasdair Took’s Letters to America boasts a cast of lovably eccentric characters doing silly things that are sure to bring a smile to your face.

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Book Synopsis'A loveable heroine and a swoonworthy hero - yes please! The perfect mix of humour, heart and romance.' Sandy Barker Mercy Alexander doesn’t believe in love, let alone love at first sight.There’s one sure fire way of steering clear of heartbreak, and that’s not to get your heart involved in the first place. So what is that irritating flutter she feels every time she sees Brooks Hudson, and why is she finding him so hard to ignore?Brooks Hudson can’t understand where he’s going wrong.Doting single father to six-year-old Ali, supportive co-parent with his ex, much-loved friend and respected colleague, not to mention he’s smoking hot. So why is he constantly being dumped, told in no uncertain terms he’s ‘too nice’? Since when was being nice a crime?Mercy is in serious need of someone to restore her faith in men, and Brooks needs a girl he likes to stick around long enough for him to believe in love again. But when Mercy’s past threatens to remind her of everything she’s scared of, will love be enough to save the day?You won’t be able to put Aimee Brown’s new sexy, swoony, sultry romance down. Perfect for all fans of Sariah Wilson, Lindsey Kelk and Abby Jiminez.What readers say about Aimee Brown:‘Loved, loved, loved this book. After reading The Lucky Dressthis was next in line to see if one of the characters gets a happy ending. Well all I’m going to say is please read it, an amazing book.’‘I really enjoyed this fun, whirlwind romance, which I can really imagine on the big screen. I give this 5 out of 5.’‘I just loved this novel, the characters are authentic, the story is gorgeous and it won't fail to bring a smile to your face.’‘This is a book that any romantic lover will enjoy and the ones that are not fans of romance will not be disappointed, the story has a happy ending, of course, but the characters will have their path till the ending, because sometimes you have to be happy with yourself before starting a new relationship, don’t you think?’

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Book SynopsisThe lives of a bereaved young woman and her neighbour who is consumed by her affair with a married man entwine in this dark, compelling and compassionate coming-of age novel.'A poignant, deft portrayal of love, obsession and grief' STYLIST'Susannah Dickey is a phenomenal talent and I loved this novel.' ELIZABETH DAY'I loved Common Decency . . . such a propulsive joy to read too.' MEGAN NOLAN FROM THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED AUTHOR OF TENNIS LESSONSIn an apartment building in Belfast, two women wrestle with the sorrows and spectres of love and loss.Since her mother's death, Lily has withdrawn from the world, trapped between grief and anger. She has to break out of this damaging cycle - but how?Upstairs, Siobhán is consumed by her affair with a married man. Her days revolve around his sporadic texts and rare visits. She barely notices the strange girl who lives below and dawdles in the foyer.But Lily is keeping a close eye on her neighbour, whose life seems so much better and more fulfilling than her own. When resentment evolves into something darker and more urgent, she decides to teach Siobhán a lesson...'Sharp as tacks, extremely funny and deeply moving. This novel is very good company.' JAN CARSONTrade ReviewElizabeth Day's Book of the Year * Daily Mail, Best Books of 2022 *[A] treat . . . vividly compelling . . . a rare talent, and certainly one to watch * Sunday Times *A vivid and beautifully written novel that confirms [Dickey] as one of literature's major new talents ... its quiet despair is genuinely affecting * Observer *Common Decency is a study of alienation and connection, of love and grief, written by an author who truly cares about language and understands its power from within. Susannah Dickey is a phenomenal talent and I loved this novel. * Elizabeth Day *I loved Common Decency, a perfectly judged glimpse at two variations of loneliness and how they inform and relate to one another. Such a surprising, clever, sad and strange book which I am still thinking about long after finishing - and yet such a propulsive joy to read too. * Megan Nolan *Susannah Dickey has an uncanny ability to get right to the dark heart of her characters, blending acidic observation with a generous side of kindness. Common Decency is sharp as tacks, extremely funny and deeply moving. This novel is very good company.' * Jan Carson *With hints of Fleabag, Ottessa Moshfegh and Sally Rooney, it's strong, compelling and occasionally very funny stuff...seriously readable * Daily Mail *Quite simply, one of the funniest and most insightful novelists writing today. Her turn of phrase, ear for dialogue, wry humour and power of observation is masterful. * Nell Frizzell *A poignant, deft portrayal of love, obsession and grief * Stylist *Rich and absorbing . . . a writer coming into her own, assured in what it is she is trying to do. . . thrilling and engaging. We are carried along by the prose; we trust it knows where it's going. * Irish Times *

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Book Synopsis'An electric, utterly unique workplace romance that burrowed deep into my heart' Rachel Lynn Solomon, author of The Ex Talk'A wonderfully layered, completely unique romance novel that is sure to stick with you' Culturefly----Lauren Fox is the bookkeeper for Cold World, a tourist destination that's always a winter wonderland despite being located in humid Orlando, Florida. Sure, it's ranked way below any of the trademarked amusement parks and maybe foot traffic could be better. But it's a fun place to work, even if 'fun' isn't exactly Lauren's middle name.Her coworker Asa Williamson, on the other hand, is all about finding ways to enliven his days at Cold World - whether that means organizing the Secret Santa or teasing Lauren.When the owner asks Lauren and Asa to propose something (anything, really) to raise more revenue, their rivalry heats up as they compete to come up with the best idea. But the situation is more dire than they thought, and it might take these polar opposites working together to save the day...----Real readers are LOVING With Love, From Cold World:'One of those wonderful, dreamy romances that I just couldn't put down' 5 star reader review'Alicia Thompson is back at it with the perfect read... This is a must-read for any romance reader!' 5 star reader review'This romance was original, witty, touching, and so, so swoony' 5 star reader review'This book seriously rocked me; please be prepared to have every piece of your heart deconstructed, cleaned, tuned, lovingly polished, and reassembled' 5 star reader review'Very tender while dealing with tough issues - funny and lighthearted at times too' 5 star reader reviewTrade ReviewAn electric, utterly unique workplace romance that burrowed deep into my heart... With Love, From Cold World is a steamy delight sure to keep you warm all through the winter. I need everything Alicia Thompson writes beamed directly into my brain * Rachel Lynn Solomon *A wonderfully layered, completely unique romance novel that is sure to stick with you * Culturefly *Alicia Thompson writes stories that are so uniquely real to me, with characters who are flawed and lovable and achingly relatable... I was invested in Lauren, Asa, and the quirky world of Cold World from the jump, and I loved their story every step of the way. A new forever favourite * Anita Kelly *I fell hard for the characters in this world - Asa and Lauren are complicated and flawed and so easy to root for, and I loved watching them become tentative friends, passionate lovers, and, finally, committed, confident partners to each other. Imaginative and sexy and thoughtful, With Love, From Cold World will warm you from the inside out * Kate Clayborn *Unique, sexy, hilarious, charming... the perfect beach read for anyone who loves witty banter, intelligent plotting, and compelling characters... The true crime is NOT reading this novel! * Ali Hazelwood on Love in the Time of Serial Killers *A criminally addictive romance... this book is sheer perfection from beginning to end * Rachel Lynn Solomon on Love in the Time of Serial Killers *A heartwarming rom-com brimming with smart, snappy dialogue, sizzling chemistry, and lovable side characters. Fans of Christina Lauren and Rachel Lynn Solomon will adore this ode to true crime and its poignant message of opening your heart to love, even when that's the scariest thing of all * Amy Lea on Love in the Time of Serial Killers *Love in the Time of Serial Killers is funny, sharp, and thoughtful * Sarah Hogle on Love in the Time of Serial Killers *Smart, clever, and slow-burn steamy, Love in the Time of Serial Killers is a fresh, lovable rom-com that tackles facing our fear of not only the worst life can bring but the very best and being brave enough to take a chance on love * Chloe Liese on Love in the Time of Serial Killers *

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Book SynopsisOn the day that her youngest child leaves home, Alice Hatton discovers two disturbing truths in a matter of hours.The Empty Nest cliche is true.And she does not love her husband Peter at all. Now in her fifties, Alice is appalled to realise that she is no longer considered her own person, but is instead defined by her relationships – mother to her adult children, wife to her husband. Horrified by the thought of spending another thirty years with Peter in their North London suburb, Alice decides to take matters into her own hands.What follows is a triumphant and liberating breaking of all the rules. But when Alice must cope with loss for the second time in as many years, she discovers what even the most apparently ‘respectable ‘woman is capable of.Join Amanda Brookfield as she revisits her first novel, Alice Alone, and rediscover how she got her well-deserved reputation for writing about women’s lives with humour and honesty. Includes a brand new foreword from the author.Praise for Amanda Brookfield:'An engaging, emotionally-charged and intriguing story' Michelle Gorman'No one gets to the heart of human relationships quite so perceptively as Brookfield.' The Mirror'Unputdownable. Perceptive. Poignant. I loved it.' bestselling author Patricia Scanlan on Before I Knew You'If Joanna Trollope is the queen of the Aga Saga, then Amanda Brookfield must be a strong contender for princess.' Oxford TimesWhat readers are saying about Amanda Brookfield:‘I felt so involved in this story that I found myself thinking about it a lot during the day. A fantastic read. Gripping, moving, characters you care about, highly recommend.’‘Packed with suspense, (I actually held my breath during some of the scenes) and full of relatable characters, this book will draw you in from the first page. Highly recommend.’ ‘The tension builds on every page, the characters, as always with this author’s books, are drawn beautifully. I couldn’t put it down and am looking forward greatly to Amanda Brookfield’s next offering hopefully before too long!’‘Brookfield is undoubtedly one of Britain's foremost chroniclers of human relationships. It goes without saying that this novel is another page turner – guaranteed to make you read the last 50 pages before sleep, even though you know you have an early start in the morning – but it is much, much more.’

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Book Synopsis'If you've ever felt like the only person in the world who isn't perfect . . . this is what you need to read' Daisy BuchananMeet Robin Wilde: mum, newly-appointed official girlfriend, make-up artist extraordinaire and general plate-spinning, life-juggling, balance-seeking badass. Or so she likes to think.Everything seems to be slotting into place, not just for Robin but for her close-knit little world of friends and family too. Yet despite all that, she still feels like she's blagging it.Although things seem pretty great on paper, cracks are beginning to show. Robin's best friend Lacey is struggling to bond with her baby, her Auntie Kath suddenly seems distant and her daughter Lyla is finding it hard to adapt to having a man in their lives. For once everybody is depending on Robin, but the pressure is mounting and she's starting to feel overwhelmed.So, when Robin's asked to go to the States for work, it seems like the getaway they all need. Look out New York, Robin and her girls are on their way! But will the city that never sleeps make or break them? *** This is what you've been saying about the Robin Wilde books:'Amazing''Had me gripped from start to end''I just loved it so much''So real, so relatable, so inspiring''Uplifting, touching and very true to life''Witty and heart-warming'Praise for the Robin Wilde books:'Warm, engaging . . . [Robin Wilde] is a chatty winning yet poignant heroine'SOPHIE KINSELLA'I fell in love with Robin and her family before the end of the first page . . . A fabulous mix of escapism and relatability, this is a hug of a book'DAISY BUCHANAN'Wonderfully written and full of humour. Funny, heartfelt, tender and empowering'GIOVANNA FLETCHER'Hilarious, moving and extremely well written'SUNDAY TIMES STYLE 'If it's great big belly laughs you're after, then meet Robin Wilde'FABULOUS MAGAZINECan't wait to read more from Louise Pentland? Look out for her new non-fiction book, MumLife: What Nobody Ever Tells You About Being A Mum. Search 9781788702928. Trade ReviewHilarious * My Weekly *

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Book Synopsis'I laughed. I cried. I laughed again' Sinéad Moriarty'An enthralling read with . . . so many laughs along the way' Liz Nugent'A funny, poignant and moving read' My WeeklyFrom bestselling Irish writer Anna McPartlin, Waiting for the Miracle is an uplifting novel about how good friends can help you see the funny side of life, even in the darkest of days. Perfect for fans of Sheila O'Flanagan and Marian Keyes.2010Caroline can't get pregnant, Janet can't hold a pregnancy, Natalie's sperm donor is a stoner with a bad attitude and Ronnie is, well, no one knows Ronnie's story. When the women meet in an infertility group, they quicklyform a firm - if slightly odd - friendship and their lives begin to change.1976When 16-year-old Catherine's pregnancy is revealed, she's sent to a convent to give birth. Her baby is taken from her, and she re-emerges into the world, down but not out, determined to fight back. She finds work, a home and acceptance with gay hairdresser and fellow outsider and her life begins again.Waiting for the Miracle is story about finding your tribe, at any age. It's about love, loss, friendship andlaughing at yourself. It's about life.'Takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions...you'll be laughing through your tears at the sharp and funny dialogue' NFOP magazinePraise for Anna McPartlin: 'Anna McPartlin's novel is brilliant, funny and immensely moving' Catherine Isaac, author of You, Me, Everything'It's such a gorgeous examination of grief while also being honest, hilarious and totally relatable. I LOVED this book!' Fionnuala Kearney, author of The Book of Love'When I wasn't reaching for the Kleenex to wipe away a little tear, I was guffawing with laughter - Anna has the gift of being able to make you laugh and sob, and all on a single page.' Claudia Carroll, author of The Women of Primrose Square Readers love Waiting for the Miracle:'Who will have the happy ever after dream and who will settle for the dream never happening? I raced though it in 2 days to find out. I particularly loved the flitting between current day and the character Catherine's story from the past and was eager to see how the 2 would come together. Wrap yourself up in a duvet and start reading. You won't be disappointed.''You will be gripped by both stories and wonder where the book is going ... but it gets better and better.''Loved loved loved it! As always an amazing story with real life issues, read it in 3 days couldn't put it down going to work was a bit of inconvenience lol can't wait for the next one, thanks Anna''Another emotional rollercoaster read about loss, hope, courage & friendship, I was hooked right from the very start, I loved how the story changed between current day and the past with Catherine's story, have your tissues ready.''Didn't want it to end.''McPartlin excels in the one-liner, and finding something to laugh about in the darkest of times.''I do not hesitate to recommend this magnificent book to everyone. Sure to be in my top books of this year.''A story of hope over heartbreak told with Irish humour and charm.''Anna McPartlin has done it again! Another stunning read that ends with me in tears yet also smiling.'Trade Review'Takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions...you'll be laughing through your tears at the sharp and funny dialogue' NFOP magazine'Beautiful. A joy' Sinead Moriarty author of the Devlin Sisters novelsPraise for Anna McPartlin:'Anna McPartlin's novel is brilliant, funny and immensely moving' - Catherine Isaac, author of You, Me, Everything'It's such a gorgeous examination of grief while also being honest, hilarious and totally relatable. I LOVED this book!' - Fionnuala Kearney, author of The Book of Love'When I wasn't reaching for the Kleenex to wipe away a little tear, I was guffawing with laughter - Anna has the gift of being able to make you laugh and sob, and all on a single page.' - Claudia Carroll, author of The Women of Primrose Square

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Book SynopsisOne man in need of an overhaul. Two women determined to drag him there. Neville Watkin's life is so rubbish surely things can't get any worse. Yes they can, because his wife leaves him, he loses his job, has a car crash and ends up in hospital. Feisty Laura, the other party in the car crash, befriends him and sets out to turn his life upside down. For reasons he struggles to understand, Caroline, her equally feisty mother, seems to like him. Rather a lot. All in all things are looking up, but is Neville courageous enough to seize these new opportunities?

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Book SynopsisRobert wants nothing more than to become a serious art historian. But his hopes for an academic life are put on hold when he's driven from London to Venice to escape one lover and seek out another: the enigmatic Bulgarian refugee Lina Pancev. In Venice, Robert encounters a grand carnival of lust, lies, blackmail, cocktail parties and regicide. As he chases Lina, his heart's desire, the city itself provides a priceless education in love, art and beauty.Trade ReviewBeautifully put together and effortlessly entertaining . . . a hilarious account of political and romantic intrigue in Venice -- Edmund White * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisA gang of Hells Angels rips through the village bringing mayhem and a generational shift to traditional enmities between Don Camillo and Peppone. The year is 1966, a time ripe for rebellion, for overturning conventions - a time, above all, to be young. Meanwhile, beset by the third young progressive leftwing priest with a mandate to steer him into the modern world, Don Camillo digs in and finds a surprise ally in Peppone as he fights to save the three-metre high figure of il Cristo through which he conducts his famous conversations with God. ; 'Guareschi's was one of the most prescient and perceptive voices of the twentieth century.' Tobias Jones, author of The Dark Heart of Italy. ; 'Guareschi's tales are absolutely delightful in their satirical swipes at human weakness.' Paul MertonTrade Review'Giovanni Guareschi's tales of Don Camillo, the Italian priest with a hefty left hook, are absolutely delightful in their satirical swipes at human weakness.' Paul Merton 'Inimitable, delicious, full of pure fun' The Observer 'Instinctive humanity and compassion' The Guardian 'Charming and enchanting . . . Witty and wise' Edinburgh Evening News 'Written with such warmth and simplicity, so concerned with the trivialities of everyday life and giving us so shrewd a glimpse into the minds of the people . . .' Evening News 'You'll find Don Camillo not just enchanting and lovable, and at times hilariously funny, but also strangely moving in his simply but certain faith.' BBC Radio - 'Books by the Fire' 'These haunting stories about this haunting place... Somehow Guareschi made people laugh at their own predicament at a time when humour was sorely needed.' BBC Radio Four

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Book SynopsisRyouran High School is a private arts academy full of geniuses in every field-music, dance, fashion. But in reality, it's looks, not talent, that decide its students' success. My sister, Shika Ikebukuro, is a shut-in who can't do anything without her older brother, and I was sure that devastating lack of charisma would doom her. But I know a secret. Behind her mask, the internet sensation VSINGER is none other than my sister Shika! Her voice is one-of-a-kind, but will it be enough to overcome Ryouran High's entire social order?

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Book SynopsisPsmith, Journalist is a delightful comedic novel written by the renowned British Author P. G. Wodehouse. Set in the early 20th century, this story follows the adventures of the charming and also eccentric character, Rupert Psmith. With an amusing blend of wit and other one satire, Wodehouse takes readers on a lighthearted journey into the world of journalism. The plot unfolds as Psmith, bored with his current employment, decides to seek excitement and a fresh start by joining the editorial staff of the Cosy Moments magazine. His clever and other one unconventional approach to reporting quickly sets him apart, and he soon finds himself embroiled in a series of humorous escapades. From interviewing a cricket-playing bishop to investigating a scandalous slum landlord, Psmith's unorthodox methods lead to hilariously unpredictable situations. Wodehouse's trademark wit shines throughout the novel, and his keen observations of human nature create a colorful and also memorable cast of characters. Psmith's suave demeanor, combined with his uncanny ability to find himself at the center of peculiar circumstances, makes him a captivating protagonist.

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Book SynopsisWelcome to Batch Magna, a place where anything might happen. And often does... Sir Humphrey has offered to play Father Christmas at the local hospital, but disaster strikes when he realises he won’t be able to buy the sack of toys he’d promised the children. Rupert, a gentleman of the road, is found asleep in an old car in the Hall’s coach house. He is scrubbed up and given a room at the Hall, where two guests are already staying: a businessman and his rather young female companion. When money goes missing from their bedroom, Rupert is accused, and Miss Wyndham, the village’s amateur sleuth, decides to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, local author Phineas Cook has come up with the idea of a resident ghost at the Hall to attract paying guests. All goes smoothly until the ghostly actors spend too long in the pub one evening and their performance descends into sword-wielding chaos. As always in Batch Magna, events somehow manage to turn out all right in the end – but in the most unexpected manner…

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Book SynopsisThe steamy and addictive workplace-enemies-to-lovers, When-Harry-Met-Sally-inspired romance from bestselling author Meghan Quinn''JP IS THE LOVE OF MY LIFE'' 5***** Reader Review''OBSESSED'' 5***** Reader Review''A HOT, SWEET AND HILARIOUS ENEMIES TO LOVERS ROMANCE'' 5***** Reader Review_______Am I in love with JP Cane?Ha! He certainly thinks so . . .He''s annoyingly loud, obnoxiously handsome, and having watched When Harry Met Sally is convinced that men and women can''t just be friends.So when we have to fly to San Francisco for work and stay in the same penthouse, I''m happy to prove him wrong.Yet with his continuous flirting and his polished good looks, I''m soon finding it hard to sleep at night.But guess who can control herself? This girl.Because if there is one thing I know for certain, it''s that JP Cane is wrong.Men and women CAN just be friTrade ReviewIn true Meghan Quinn style, this story was an easy read with steamy scenes. Steamy is not even a strong enough word. These scenes were panty-melting hot and I love each one of them...So Not Meant to Be made me blush, smile, laugh, and lose myself in the story -- A Soccer Mom's Book BlogOnce again, I was laughing out loud through this entire book! Meghan is an absolute QUEEN when it comes to writing stories that are not only funny but have a lot of heart in them too -- Elle's Book BlogSo Not Meant To Be can be read as a standalone, but if you haven't read A Not So Meet Cute I highly recommend binging the two books. You won't regret it -- A Novel Glimpse

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Book SynopsisPreorder Mhairi''s new novel YOU BELONG WITH ME coming soon!Two strangers.One big coincidence.Driving each other crazy is just the beginningHarriet Hatley is running away from everything.Getting married.Her boyfriend's family.Her past.A dream house-share seems like the perfect place to hide, but her unlikely housemate Cal is no stranger to running away himself. And he''s also hiding secrets of his own . . .Can these two take a crazy risk, face the past and finally find a reason to stay?____________________I love, love, love Mhairi . . . I read this with delight and envy' MARIAN KEYESGorgeous, funny, life-affirming' JENNY COLGANFunny, poignant, full of insight . . . a triumph' KATIE FFORDE'Mhairi's writing is always just super witty with layered, emotional depth . . . Loved. Adored. All-star.' LIZZY DENTA compelling, clever story, while still being so ridiculously funny and heartwarming' LUCY VINEA plot that gets under your skin, and one scene in particular that will have women everywhTrade Review'My heart always soars at a new Mhairi novel, I love love love her. She's so great at treading the narrow line between humour and loss. I read this with delight and envy' Marian Keyes, Again, Rachel ‘I ADORED IT! So funny, so sad in parts, and just so sharp and heartwarming. Mhairi at her absolute finest with an exquisite balance of light and shade’ Lia Louis, Eight Perfect Hours ‘It's so funny, so moving, so perfectly paced, so everything. She is absolutely brilliant, the kind of writer you feel lucky to be around … I'm in awe of her talent’ Emma Hughes, No Such Thing As Perfect ‘Mhairi McFarlane just gets better and better. Mad About You was such a joy to read – it’s laugh out loud funny, devastatingly moving, and delightfully swoony, all at once. McFarlane is in a league of her own’ Louise O’Neill, Idol ‘I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a book so much. A hero and heroine to root for, a plot that races along with the pace of a thriller and the heart of a romance, and an ending I will never forget’ Gillian McAllister, That Night ‘What a gorgeous, funny, life-affirming writer Mhairi is. She just makes me laugh’ Jenny Colgan, The Christmas Bookshop Praise for Mhairi McFarlane 'Brilliant on relationships, friendships and emotions… I loved, loved, loved this book’ Marian Keyes, #1 bestselling author of Grown-Ups ‘Gorgeously romantic, as well as a story about friendship and grief and loss; I never wanted it to end’ Beth O’Leary, #1 bestselling author of The Flatshare ‘A luminous, heart-achingly beautiful love letter to friendship’ Josie Silver, #1 bestselling author of One Day in December ‘An effortlessly brilliant read – will have you laughing when you shouldn’t and sobbing when you least expect it’ Giovanna Fletcher

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Book SynopsisThe #1 New York Times bestselling author of It Happened One Summer and Hook, Line, and Sinker returns with a unique, sexy rom-com about a young married couple whose rocky relationship needs a serious renovation... Rosie and Dominic Vega are the perfect couple: high school sweethearts, best friends, madly in love. Well, they used to be anyway. Now Rosie’s lucky to get a caveman grunt from the ex-soldier every time she walks in the door. Dom is faithful and a great provider, but the man she fell in love with ten years ago is nowhere to be found. When her girlfriends encourage Rosie to demand more out of life and pursue her dream of opening a restaurant, she decides to demand more out of love, too. Three words: marriage boot camp. Never in a million years did Rosie believe her stoic, too-manly-to-emote husband would actually agree to relationship rehab with a weed-smoking hippie. Dom talking about feelings? Sitting on pillows? Communing with nature? Learning love languages? Nope. But to her surprise, he’s all in, and it forces her to admit her own role in their cracked foundation. As they complete one ridiculous—yet surprisingly helpful—assignment after another, their remodeled relationship gets stronger than ever. Except just as they’re getting back on track, Rosie discovers Dom has a secret... and it could demolish everything.“Her voice feels as fresh and contemporary as a Netflix rom-com.” —Entertainment Weekly*Named one of the Best Romances of 2020 by Insider and Oprah Magazine + Marie Claire''s Best New Books of 2020*Trade Review“Books by Tessa Bailey are an insta-buy for me.” — Sally Thorne, USA Today bestselling author of The Hating Game and 99 Percent Mine “Bailey writes banter and rom-com scenarios with aplomb, but for those who like their romance on the spicier side, she’s also the Michelangelo of dirty talk. She wields filth like Da Vinci does a paintbrush, and there’s a lot to be said for an author who can fill such exchanges with all the requisite heat, enthusiastic consent, and yes, even humor, of such a scenario without veering into corny territory...” — Entertainment Weekly on Fix Her Up "Bailey loads the story with humor and chemistry while still tackling heavy emotions. Sensual sex scenes and irresistible characters will draw readers in to this sweet romance." — Publishers Weekly "Bailey once again hits it out of the park in this companion novel to Fix Her Up... From no sex to phone sex to a striptease to an orgy in the woods, Bailey is an expert in those lusty, sexually powered scenes. Perfect for fans looking for a sexy romp with a side of heart." — Booklist "a juicy rom-com" — Marie Claire (The Most Anticipated Books of 2020) "Bailey crafts an emotionally wrenching and compelling story of a marriage and how the spouses' different love languages cause them to miss each other’s signals... a powerful story of a marriage in trouble." — Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisFor seven-year-old Bertie Pollock, life in Edinburgh''s most celebrated fictional street has just got immeasurably better. The enforced absence of his endlessly pushy mother Irene - currently consciousness-raising in a Bedouin harem (don''t ask) - has manifold and immediate blessings: no psychotherapy, no Italian lessons and no yoga classes. Bliss.For Scotland Street''s grown-ups, life throws up some new dilemmas. Matthew makes a discovery that could make him even richer but also leaves him worried. Pat makes one that could make her poorer and her father miserable - unless that uber-narcissist, Bruce, can help her out. And the Duke of Johannesburg, we discover, isn''t exactly who he says he is.From what happens behind Edinburgh Airport''s luggage carousel to Machiavellian manoeuvrings at the Association of Scottish Nudists, Alexander McCall Smith guides us through the brighter, lighter and frankly unexpected side of Edinburgh life. As ever with his 44 Scotland Str

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Book SynopsisA delightful new series set in a quaint old bookshop, for fans of Julia Quinn and Jenny Colgan. Where happy ever after is only a page awayOnce upon a time in a crumbling London bookshop, Posy Morland spent her life lost in the pages of her favourite romantic novels.So when Bookend's eccentric owner, Lavinia, dies and leaves the shop to Posy, she must put down her books and join the real world. Because Posy hasn't just inherited an ailing business, but also the unwelcome attentions of Lavinia's grandson, Sebastian, AKA The Rudest Man In London.Posy has a cunning plan and six months to transform Bookends into the bookshop of her dreams if only Sebastian would leave her alone to get on with it. As Posy and her friends fight to save their beloved bookshop, Posy's drawn into a battle of wills with Sebastian, about whom she's started to have some rather feverish fantasiesLike her favourite romantic heroines, will she get her happy ever after too?Trade Review‘Completely hilarious and breathtakingly romantic’ Cressida McLaughlin ‘Sophisticated, romantic, compelling and absolutely charming. A brilliant new addition to the romantic comedy genre, I loved it’ Alex Brown ‘Get ready to fall in love … an instant heart-warmer’ RED ‘A delightful romcom’ PRIMA

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Book SynopsisMeet Yinka. And Yinka''s mum. And Yinka''s aunties. Who are all asking . . . YINKA, WHERE IS YOUR HUZBAND? --------''Your bookself needs this . . . full of heart'' Jendella Benson, Hope and Glory''Love story? Nah, more of a self-love story!'' Reader *****Yinka wants to find love. Her problem? Her mum wants to find it for her.She also has too many aunties who frequently pray for her delivery from singledom. Plus there''s her preference for chicken and chips over traditional Nigerian food, and a bum she''s sure is far too small as a result. Oh, and the fact that she''s thirty-one and doesn''t believe in sex before marriage might be a bit of an obstacle too . . .So when her cousin gets engaged, Yinka commences ''Operation Find A Date for Rachel''s Wedding''. Armed with a totally flawless, incredibly specific plan, will Yinka find herself a huzband?What if the thing she really needs to find is herselfTrade ReviewWarm and fun and sweet, great on female friendships and extended families -- Marian KeyesSuch a warm, funny and relatable book -- Jendella BensonYou'll fall in love with Yinka in this witty and heartwarming romantic comedy * Red *

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Book SynopsisIn Espresso Tales, Alexander McCall Smith returns home to Edinburgh and the glorious cast of his own tales of the city, the residents of 44 Scotland Street, with a new set of challenges for each one of them. Bruce, the intolerably vain and perpetually deluded ex-surveyor, is about to embark on a new career as a wine merchant, while his long-suffering flatmate Pat MacGregor, set up by matchmaking Domenica Macdonald, finds herself invited to a nudist picnic in Moray Place in the pursuit of true love. Prodigious six-year-old Bertie Pollock wants a boy''s life of fishing and rugby, not yoga and pink dungarees, and he plots rebellion against his bossy, crusading mother Irene and his psychotherapist Dr Fairbairn. But when Bertie''s longed-for trip to Glasgow with his ineffectual father Stuart ends with Bertie taking money off legendary Glasgow hard man Lard O''Connor at cards, it looks as though Bertie should have been more careful what he wished for. And all the time it appears that Trade ReviewIt is hard to think of a contemporary writer more genuinely engaging...(his) novels are also extremely funny: I find it impossible to think about them without smiling * Craig Brown, Mail on Sunday *A treasure of a writer whose books deserve immediate devouring * Marcel Berlins, Guardian *As warm as cocoa, as cosy as thermal underwear, and just what the doctor ordered for the cold winter evenings * THE TIMES *

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Book SynopsisTHE SEVENTH BOOK IN THE BELOVED NO. 1 LADIES'' DETECTIVE AGENCY SERIESThe one with the witch who flew away . . .Mma Ramotswe is happily married to Mr J. L. B. Matekoni, but her work seems more hectic than ever. Among the raft of cases coming the way of the No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency are blackmail, witchcraft and theft, all calling for the wisdom of a traditionally built detective.It''s enough to make her wonder what the secret of happiness is, and whether she is right to find it in small things such as a pair of blue shoes, a slice of cake, or a red sunset over Kalahari.Trade ReviewNothing spoils [McCall Smith's] vision of Botswana as a place where decent people triumph over mischief-makers * Telegraph *Nothing will dim the charm of McCall Smith's series, with its portraits of goodness, its sorrow over greed and its profound love of Africa. They are among the greatest comfort-reads of all time, written in plain, elegant prose * Sunday Times *[BLUE SHOES AND HAPPINESS has] the quiet sophistication of the previous novels and its simplicity is deceptive . . . these novels take us through the looking glass into an Africa we rarely hear about, but their main purpose is to hold a mirror to our own society -- Amanda Craig * Independent *

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Book SynopsisCassie Wright, porn princess, intends to cap her legendary career by breaking the world record for serial fornication. On camera. With six hundred men. Snuff unfolds from the perspectives of Mr 72, Mr 137 and Mr 600, who await their turn on camera in a very crowded green room...Trade ReviewIt's glorious, gloriously depraved. Gloriously funny, gloriously heartbreaking and gloriously outrageous, just what you might expect from a writer continually pushing at the boundaries of literature...confirms Palahniuk once again as a compelling, daring and vital writer * Herald *Every bit as dangerous as it sounds... Snuff is a deliciously disturbing, superbly paced and graphically obnoxious read * Maxim *Snuff is a Chernobyl of taboos...Palahniuk investigates his novels for months before he begins to write, so they always have a journalistic reek of authenticity and immediacy: he is like Tom Wolfe on acid... Think of it as The Bonfire of the Inanities. Once you have come down and mopped up the vomit, you will be glad you snorted this particular Snuff * Independent *You'll bite your pillow laughing * Arena *Palahniuk is a deeply talented and original satirist...a class act of characterisation and situation comedy, wrapped up in something much more important * Daily Mirror *

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Book SynopsisIf you love Julia Quinn''s Bridgerton, you won''t want to miss Martha Waters'' ingenious, laugh-out-loud and sweepingly romantic historical rom-com, To Marry and to Meddle!''Sweet, sexy, and utterly fun'' Emily Henry''Awash with light, witty banter, unadulterated confessions of love, and plenty of steamy, corset-unravelling sex scenes'' Kirkus Reviews''Meshing the classic Regency theme of defying societal expectations with all the wit and humour of a rom-com . . . a fun romp full of smiles'' Publishers Weekly''Waters'' prose harkens back to Georgette Heyer, but Emily and Julian''s individual journeys of learning to like their authentic selves are timeless'' BookPage..............................Marriage isn''t always smooth sailing . . . Lady Emily Turner should really be married by now, but

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Book SynopsisThe perfect pick me up romcom for fans of Beth O'Leary, Emily Henry and Ali Hazelwood!Not an expert, not even close, not in any of this. But nobody will try harder than me to make you happy.Sally is a classic romantic and Harry is a classic cynic, but when a drunken bet leads the new flatmates to (badly) recreate the lift' from Dirty Dancing, and the video goes viral (#EpicRomcomReenactmentFailure), they both realise there's potential financial benefit in blundering their way through the romcom lexicon for their suddenly vast social media following.Now, as Harry and Sally bring major romcom moments to new life including recreating that classic diner scene their faking it turns to makingout and suddenly they're living a real life romcom of their own! But like all the greatest love stories, the road to happily ever after is paved with unexpected challenges for this hero and heroineEveryone LOVES this book!Fuzzies, chills, goosebumps and more1000% the romcom of the year' ?????Gave me ALTrade Review Readers can’t get enough of The New Guy: ‘Seriously love this twist on an office romance’ Christina Parker, Netgalley ‘Their chemistry was off the charts’Mad Mom Life ‘Better than most rom coms I’ve watched and read!’ Jennifer Arnold, Netgalley ‘Reads like the perfect rom-com movie’ Sinead, Librarian ‘Very sexy and very sweet’ Morgan Shulman, Goodreads ‘Warmed my heart and read like a movie…What a beautiful sweet surprise this was’ Kelsey Peterson, Goodreads ‘You have yourself a page turning, don’t want it to end story, in essence an absolutely cracking read!’ Margaret Harris, Netgalley ‘A gorgeously sweet romance!’ From Rachael Claire ‘It's got laugh out loud moments, heart wrenching moments but most important that feel good factor’ Chantiece Bates, Goodreads

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Book Synopsis''Laugh-out-loud funny, filled with joy, as deliciously swoony as it is downright steamy'' CHLOE LIESEThe next sizzling and swoonie rom-com from the author of the TikTok-hit A Brush with Love which readers gave FIVE SHINING STARS!''Oh my TOOTH FAIRY!! This book was so much more than I expected and swept me off my feet'' ''Swoony, steamy, adorable . . . Read. This. Book. You won''t be disappointed. It''s a keeper and Mazey Eddings is on my auto-read list forever''''There was so much to love about this book . . . Thank you to Mazey Eddings for this romance with its messy, true, and painfully real representation of anxiety . . . We need more books like this in the world''...............................Chaotic, messy and madly in love. Lizzie Blake has made endless mistakes. Kitchen fires, pyramid schemes, you name it, she''s done it . . . and made a mess of it too. One mist

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Book SynopsisJoanna and Roger have been married for over forty years. Children of the sixties, they're still free spirits, drawn together by their passion for music - and each other. Conversations from a Long Marriage is exactly that: following conversations that take them from the local café, to their kitchen table, taking in her resentment of new glasses - a symbol of ageing - and fury at being lectured by the dental hygienist. He has a dodgy knee and is on statins, and when they discuss the marriage break-up of their closest friends, Sally and Peter, there's jealousy and talk of affairs. She suggests there are advantages to single beds and separate holidays, and wants to go clubbing in Ibiza for her imminent 'big' birthday. Witty, big-hearted and a whole lot of fun, Conversations from a Long Marriage will resonate with couples of any age - but especially those who are still dancing in the kitchen, singing in the car and trying to keep the passion alive.Trade ReviewSublimely funny, touching ... Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam have had illustrious acting careers but can they ever have done anything better than Jan Etherington's two hander? This is a work of supreme craftsmanship * Radio Times *Witty and warm * The Spectator *Jan Etherington is a brilliant writer and these books are sheer joy -- Joanna LumleyConversations is a brilliant vehicle for tackling difficult subjects, like ageing and mortality, with a kind of clever, gentle, sardonic and affectionate humour, laced with human insight that makes you chuckle but can also unexpectedly move you. * Suffolk Magazine *Beautifully written * Observer *Sitcom is what most marriages are really like - repetitive and ridiculous - and Jan's words are some of the best ever written on the subject -- Richard CurtisAstute ... They are unlike anyone I actually know but, truly, I like them * The Times *This book gives me hope ... that life and marriage might permanently include taking the absolute piss while simultaneously dancing in the kitchen -- Emma FreudOne of the best writers for radio ... Her dialogue works because it is so true -- Simon BrettAn endearing portrait of exasperation, laced with hard won tolerance - and something like love * Guardian *Not just comedy but also a compelling, well-rounded drama. Brilliantly crafted, delightfully funny and perceptive ... they sparkle and spring vividly to life * Mature Times *Pin-sharp * The Lady *Exquisitely simple ... it captures the rhymes and language of spousal life [and] in these [Jan Etherington] hands it works perfectly -- Ben Dowell * The Times Pick of the Week *Comedies about likeable people are not common. Treasure this one * Sunday Times *Beautifully captured in Etherington's sparkling dialogue ... the couple whose flirty, combative relationship, ... made famous by Joanna Lumley and Roger Allam ... is now so beloved -- Simon O'Hagan * i Newspaper *This warm, witty portrait of a 40-year marriage is written with a pin-sharp perception. Sublimely funny, touching ... couple Joanna and Roger remain passionate about life, music and each other, as their conversations veer from reading glasses and dodgy knees to clubbing in Ibiza, separate beds and affairs. Lumley and Allam have had illustrious acting careers but can they ever have done anything better than Jan Etherington's two hander? A funny, relatable read ... this is a work of supreme craftsmanship * Radio Times *

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Book SynopsisSEIZE THE CAPITALAccompanied by Princess Shalliceres, Haruka sets out for the capital—and rescues the crown prince from an ambush along the way! Meanwhile, the city falls under the control of the second prince in a coup d’etat backed by the Merchant Kingdom. Haruka is determined to break through the capital’s defenses, but he’ll have to get past the Merchant Kingdom’s trump card: the Seven Swords. Does this loner stand a chance against the world’s mightiest magic swordsman?

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Book SynopsisCute, witty and fun! Relatable and heart-warming. Loved it!' NetGalley Review ?????Meet Jen. Flight attendant. Mum to a grown-up daughter. Permanently single. Age: Fifty (gulp)Number of children: OneNumber of husbands: Zero (it's complicated)Number of failed first dates in the last month: Too depressing to contemplateNumber of tickets for a romantic, once-in-a-lifetime trip: TwoNumber of days left to find her Mr Right to take on holiday: Quickly running outA heart-warming and hilarious novel that proves age is just a number and it's never too late for a second chance. Fans of Kristen Bailey, Sophie Kinsella and Jill Mansell will be totally hooked from the very first page.Readers love The Woman Who Took a Chance:An honest to goodness sublime and funny five-star read Do not miss this great story if you are after funny, but real' NetGalley Review ?????Fabulous, warm and witty Lots of laugh-out-loud moments Fun-filled with a big heart' NetGalley Review ?????I adored this book. Genuinely lTrade Review‘A real “smiler” of a book … You’ll be cheering her on as she explores new endeavours, including an unexpected love interest’ WOMAN & HOME ‘A sharp, witty tale’ NORTHERN ECHO ‘A terrifically entertaining, cheery romance, with an endearing heroine’ SUNDAY MIRROR ‘Warm, funny and poignant’ DAILY MAIL ‘Warm, witty and fun’ MY WEEKLY ‘The voice of modern women’ MARIE CLAIRE ‘More than funny, it’s true’ ELLE ‘Warm, funny and endearing’ BEST

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Book SynopsisThe perfect pick me up romcom for fans of Beth O'Leary, Sophie Kinsella and Sophie Ranald!Mia Abbott's move to Manchester was supposed to give her time and space from all the disastrous romantic choices she's made in her past. But then the hot guy who lives opposite the one who works out every day at exactly 10 a.m., not that Mia has noticed thank-you-very-much starts leaving notes in his windowfor her.Bar owner Luke Doyle has his own issues to deal with but as he shows Mia the sights of her new city he also shows her what real romance looks like for the first time. And when he cooks up a signature cocktail in her honour, she realises that the man behind the bar is even more enticing than any of his creations. And once she's had a taste she knows it will never be enough!Readers are falling for Mr Right Across the Street:This 5-star romcom had all the feelsFor those looking for a great feel-good romance with a side of giggles, this is the book you need' NormaPerfect for those who loveTrade Review Readers can’t get enough of The New Guy: ‘Seriously love this twist on an office romance’ Christina Parker, Netgalley ‘Their chemistry was off the charts’Mad Mom Life ‘Better than most rom coms I’ve watched and read!’ Jennifer Arnold, Netgalley ‘Reads like the perfect rom-com movie’ Sinead, Librarian ‘Very sexy and very sweet’ Morgan Shulman, Goodreads ‘Warmed my heart and read like a movie…What a beautiful sweet surprise this was’ Kelsey Peterson, Goodreads ‘You have yourself a page turning, don’t want it to end story, in essence an absolutely cracking read!’ Margaret Harris, Netgalley ‘A gorgeously sweet romance!’ From Rachael Claire ‘It's got laugh out loud moments, heart wrenching moments but most important that feel good factor’ Chantiece Bates, Goodreads

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Book SynopsisHUSTLERS meets BIG LITTLE LIES in the heist of the summerA NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERPropulsive and captivating' VogueDarkly comedic' Daily MailMeet Ava: rule-abiding lawyer who has ticked all of life's boxes. She's married to a successful surgeon and has just taken an indefinite career break to raise her adorable toddler. A picture-perfect life.Meet Winnie: Ava's old college roommate. Once awkward, quiet and apparently academically challenged, she left Stanford in a shroud of scandal. But now, she is charismatic, wealthy and has returned to town dripping in designer accessories. An actual perfect life.When the two women bump into one another at a local coffee shop, it seems like fate has intervened: Winnie's new-found success is courtesy of a shady business and she needs a favour; Ava is realising she is not built for the stay-at-home life. But what starts as one favour turns into two, then three, and soon Ava is in far deeper than she ever imagined.Now Ava has to make the ultimate decTrade Review PRAISE for Counterfeit: ‘Darkly comedic with serious undertones, Chen shines a light on secrets, shame and the many ways in which women can be sidelined’ Daily Mail ‘Counterfeit is an entertaining, luxurious read — but beneath its glitz and flash, it is also a shrewd deconstruction of the American dream and the myth of the model minority … innovative and subversive’ New York Times ‘A smart take on complicated friendships and murky tales in the world of counterfeit handbags’ Financial Times ‘Clever, sharp, and slyly funny … A delightfully different caper novel with a Gone Girl–style plot twist’ Kirkus Reviews ‘Riveting and energetic … Chen deftly guides readers through the exploits of old friends Ava and Winnie while also exploring the intricacies of friendship, class, culture, and survival’ Balli Kaur Jaswal, acclaimed author of Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows ‘Sly and thoroughly compelling … Chen's ingenious plot will keep you breathless to the last page’ Claire Messud, New York Times bestselling author of The Burning Girl ‘Sly and subversive, an examination of motherhood and an incisive look at culture and class’ Booklist starred review ‘Counterfeit is decadent and delicious … A true delight for mind and heart from beginning to end’ Jean Kwok, New York Times bestselling author of Searching for Sylvie Lee ‘A clever, multi-layered story about friendship and fakery that will keep you gripped’ Best

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Book SynopsisI loved this book so much I actually read the whole thing in a day, did not want to put it down! A delightfully well written, funny, romantic and intriguing book.' Reader review ?????It's funny, like I just laughed out loud on the tube funny!!!!' Reader review ?????Helen Pines is far from where she thought she would be. Whilst her ex-boyfriend is now engaged, Helen's ordering Deliveroo for one, dreaming of her last first date.Determined to give online dating a go, she matches with drop-dead gorgeous Brody One date later, Helen's heart is still singing. Brody's sexy, charismatic, and the perfect gentleman. But then she receives an error message on the app all her contacts have been deleted.With nothing but Brody's name and job title to go on, Helen is determined to track him down.But despite the initial chemistry, Helen knows surprisingly little about her mystery man Was it really love-at-first like, or will she find a new love along the way?From international dating expert Hayley Quinn

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Book SynopsisThe Christmas Wish meets Groundhog Day in this hilarious Christmas rom com readers are calling festive', feel good' and so funny'! ??Absolutely joyous everything you want in a Christmas book and more! Five sparkly festive stars'Reader review ??????????Zoey Beake is having a bad December. She might be an elf in the local toy shop's Christmas department, but it's hard to stay festive when you've just been dumped, you've had an extremely unfortunate haircut, and your boss volunteers you to walk on stilts in the toy shop's Christmas parade.But then something incredible happens. ?Zoey is sent back to the start of December, with the chance to live the whole month again. The catch? She has to match six true-love couples by Christmas Eve. Now it's not just her own love life she needs to fix Grab the mistletoe, the Christmas Cupid is ready to matchmake!Tropes?? Finding the magic of Christmas?? Matchmaking? Time travel?? True love?? Festive fun!Readers LOVE The Christmas Cupid!A lovely, feel good, festive read Well written and will leave you with all the festive feels'Reader review ??????????There is Christmas all around in this book. And I loved it, so festive, and fun, and has a wonderful cast of characters to get to know'Reader review ??????????It''s laugh-out-loud funny to the point where you shouldn''t read it late at night in case you wake the household up by laughing too loud (Oops!) Absolutely joyous everything you want in a Christmas book and more! Five sparkly festive stars'Reader review ??????????Once I started this book, I honestly couldn''t put it down. I loved watching the characters fall in love, friendships blossom, the aspect of Christmas alongside this. It was just a beautiful read'Reader review ??????????This needs to be a movie! I absolutely loved this book. It fits right in with my cheesy Christmas romcoms I''m always watching this time of year. The storyline is great, and I love the characters. And nothing beats a good ending!'Reader review ??????????Trade Review ‘Laugh-out-loud funny… Everything you want in a Christmas book and more!’ Jaimie Admans ‘A warm, cozy story that will have you curling up and reading the entire book in one sitting! I really enjoyed this book!’ NetGalley reviewer, ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ ‘Wow, really enjoyable read. Totally recommend.’ NetGalley reviewer, ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ ‘A really cute lighthearted holiday romance.’ NetGalley reviewer, ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ ‘I loved it, so festive, and fun.’ NetGalley reviewer, ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

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Book SynopsisIn the whole delightful world of Wodehouse, the English clergy offers some of the richest sources of good-natured good humour. Confronted by burglars or belted earls, they plough serenely on with the Advent sermon or the opening of the village fete - until that is, they are swept uncontrollably into fiendish plots which only a well-disposed devil or member of the Drones Club could have contrived.No bishop is more endearingly plump and pompous than a P.G. Wodehouse bishop, no vicar more a pillar of his community (provided his sermons aren''t too long), and in this collection of short stories we watch as they are plunged into one hilarious scenario after another.Trade ReviewYou don't analyse such sunlit perfection, you just bask in its warmth and splendour -- Stephen FryThe greatest comic writer ever * Douglas Adams *The funniest writer ever to put words to paper -- Hugh LaurieP.G. Wodehouse wrote the best English comic novels of the century -- Sebastian FaulksSublime comic genius -- Ben Elton

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Book SynopsisCaitlin Moran is the eldest of eight children, home-educated on a council estate in Wolverhampton, believing that if she were very good and worked very hard, she might one day evolve into Bill Murray.She published a children's novel, The Chronicles of Narmo, at the age of 16, and became a columnist at The Times at 18. She has gone on to be named Columnist of the Year six times. At one point, she was also Interviewer and Critic of the Year - which is good going for someone who still regularly mistypes the' as hte'. Her multi-award-winning bestseller How to Be a Woman has been published in 28 countries, and won the British Book Awards' Book of the Year 2011. Her two volumes of collected journalism, Moranthology and Moranifesto, were Sunday Times bestsellers, and her novel, How to Build a Girl, debuted at Number One, and is currently being adapted as a movie. She co-wrote two series of the Rose d'Or-winning Channel 4 sitcom RaTrade ReviewWho better than Caitlin Moran to bring fame down to earth with a bump -- HELEN FIELDING, bestselling author of Bridget Jones's DiaryIt's quite a ride, this book. It's laugh-out-loud funny, sweetly romantic and fiercely angry. Often all at once ... beautifully written * THE TIMES *A deeply satisfying tale of sex, drugs, britpop, unrequited love, London, and a narrator I completely adore. This is funny, philosophical, and poignant in equal measure. Glorious and life-enhancing -- NINA STIBBEBrilliantly funny, caustic social commentary with the best-wish fulfilment revenge scene I've read, like, ever * THE POOL *A rollicking fantasy which leaves a rosy afterglow -- Book of the Day * GUARDIAN *

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Book Synopsis''The funniest person in the world'' Caitlin Moran''My comfort read. The best diaries ever written - with apologies to Samuel Pepys, Bridget Jones and me'' ADAM KAYThe hilarious SEVENTH BOOK in Sue Townsend''s bestselling series, sees Adrian fall in love, be inconvenienced by the war and face his new nemesis: a swan from the local canal . . . _____________ Wednesday April 2nd My birthday. I am thirty-five today. I am officially middle-aged. It is all downhill from now. A pathetic slide towards gum disease, wheelchair ramps and death. Adrian Mole is middle-aged but still scribbling. Working as a bookseller and living in Leicester''s Rat Wharf; finding time to write letters of advice to Tim Henman and Tony Blair; locked in mortal combat with a vicious swan called Gielgud; measuring his expanding bald spot; and trying to win-over the voluptuous Daisy . . . Adrian yearns Trade ReviewCelebrate Adrian Mole's 50th Birthday with this new edition of the seventh book in his diaries where Adrian falls in love, is inconvenienced by the war and faces his new nemesis: a swan from the local canal * from the publisher's description *As funny as anything Townsend has written, in which the loft-dwelling Mole wrestles with credit-card debt, WMD and where to find a dentist * Sunday Times *The funniest book of the year. I can think of no more comical read -- Jeremy Paxman * Sunday Telegraph *He will be remembered some day as one of England's great diarists * Evening Standard *The funniest person in the world * Caitlin Moran *

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Book SynopsisLizzie Vogel''s story continues in Reasons to be Cheerful, the brilliantly comic sequel to Nina Stibbe''s hilarious books Man at the Helm and Paradise Lodge.WINNER OF THE BOLLINGER EVERYMAN WODEHOUSE PRIZE FOR COMIC FICTION WINNER OF THE COMEDY WOMEN IN PRINT PRIZE ''I read all of Reasons To Be Cheerful in one glorious gulp'' CAITLIN MORAN***** Teenager Lizzie Vogel has a new job as a dental assistant. This is not as glamorous as it sounds. At least it means mostly getting away from her alcoholic, nymphomaniacal, novel-writing mother. But, if Lizzie thinks being independent means sex with her boyfriend (he prefers bird-watching), strict boundaries (her boss keeps using her loo) or self-respect (surely only actual athletes get fungal foot infections?) she''s still got a lot more growing up to do.From the bestselling author of Love, Nina comes a brilliantly funny and heartbreaking story of growing up and finding the independence you might not actually want . . .*****''Funny, charming, odd-in-the-best-way and gorgeously uplifting! A delight from start to finish'' MARIAN KEYES ''Pitch perfect vintage comedy'' GUARDIAN ''Lives up to its title'' SUNDAY TIMES ''Joyful. Stibbe''s comedy probes what it means to become an adult'' DAILY TELEGRAPH ''Loved it! I so love Lizzie. She is brave and kind and funny and totally original'' KATIE FFORDE ''Comedy gold . . . Reasons To Be Cheerful is just the read you need right now'' STYLIST ''Nina Stibbe is an author of such effortless wit that she could turn a shopping list into a bestseller'' WOMEN AND HOMENINA STIBBE''S NEW NOVEL ONE DAY I SHALL ASTONISH THE WORLD IS AVAILABLE NOWTrade ReviewPitch perfect vintage comedy * Guardian *Lives up to its title * Sunday Times *My friends, you will UTTERLY ADORE Nina Stibbe's latest novel Reasons To Be Cheerful . . .It is SO SO funny, charming, odd-in-the-best-way and gorgeously uplifting! A delight from start to finish -- Marian KeyesStibbe's comedy probes what it means to become an adult, and how we form our financial, sexual, moral and political selves * Daily Telegraph *So dense with amusing detail that I thought about holding the book upside down to see if any extra funny bits might spill from the creases between the page * New York Times * I read all of Reasons To Be Cheerful last night in one GLORIOUS gulp and it's SUCH a joy - Nina Stibbe turns out more perfect, sharp, unique sentences than anyone else in the game. It just CARTWHEELS -- Caitlin MoranIf you loved Adrian Mole you'll adore Lizzie Vogel . . . quirky and witty, it also packs an emotional punch * Sun *Comedy gold . . . Reasons To Be Cheerful is just the read you need right now, seamlessly weaving together the big themes of life with charm and warmth * Stylist *Reasons to be Cheerful's tone has been compared to Sue Townsend's but I could haul in Alan Bennett, Barbara Pym and even Jane Austen . . . she writes brilliantly * The Times *The true heir to Sue Townsend -- Caitlin MoranFull of comedy, but with moving themes of loss and grief, it's an utterly charming coming of age story. A reason to be cheerful indeed * Sunday Mirror *A joyfully meandering, episodic novel that probes what it means to become an adult * Daily Telegraph *Very few writers can find the delicate balance between heartbreak and hilarity like Nina Stibbe * Red Magazine *This made me laugh and broke my heart, it's a gorgeous, profound, tender book about growing up and discovering that other humans are charming, obnoxious, enlightening and odd. I think Stibbe is one of the all time greats -- Daisy BuchananFunny, charming, odd-in-the-best-way and gorgeously uplifting! A delight from start to finish -- Marian Keyes'Nina Stibbe is an author of such effortless wit that she could turn a shopping list into a bestseller' -- Isabelle Broom * Women and Home *Loved it! I so love Lizzie. She is brave and kind and funny and totally original . . . I couldn't have liked it more (as I think Noel Coward said.) -- Katie FfordeA wonderfully funny novel . . . Nina Stibbe is still on sparkling form. * Oldie *There's a strong Sue Townsend/Alan Bennett flavour to it all . . . funny and sweet * Daily Mail *An idiosyncratic, bittersweet coming-of-age tale that certainly justifies its title * Kirkus *

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Book SynopsisFrom the prize-winning author of Supper Club comes a wickedly funny and slyly poignant new satire on modern life - for fans of My Year of Rest and Relaxation, Convenience Store Woman, and J. G. Ballard''s High Rise''This book is a serious vibe'' Cosmopolitan''Lara Williams is the queen of smart modern satire. I could read her all day'' Emma Jane UnsworthMeet Ingrid. She works on a gargantuan luxury cruise liner, where she spends her days reorganizing the merchandise and waiting for long-term guests to drop dead in the changing rooms. On her days off, she disembarks from the ship and gets blind drunk on whatever the local alcohol is. It''s not a bad life. And it distracts her from thinking about the other life she left behind five years ago.Until one day she is selected for the employee mentorship scheme - an initiative run by the ship''s mysterious captain and self-anointed lifestyle guru, Keith, who pushes InTrade ReviewSlyly poignant and wickedly funny... A serious vibe * Cosmopolitan *Readers who enjoy Melissa Broder and Ottessa Moshfegh will appreciate this surreal trip through a troubled woman's psyche * Booklist *Lara Williams is the queen of smart modern satire. I could read her all day -- Emma Jane Unsworth, author of 'Adults'Williams succeeds in satirising the seemingly unmockable: the overwhelming absurdities of modern life... * Literary Review *I have never read anything like this... Deliciously unpredictable -- Mateo Askaripour, author of 'Black Buck'Equal parts satire and elegy, coming from the very edge of the abyss... Unsettling, risk-taking, profoundly moving - I loved it -- Livia Franchini, author of 'Shelf Life'Astonishing, subversive and darkly funny - another dazzler of a novel from Lara Williams -- Zeba Talkhani, author of 'My Past is a Foreign Country'Mischievous and thought-provoking * Sheerluxe *Slyly humorous, sharp, courageous and at times devastating... The Odyssey is a wildly original satire -- Frances Cha, author of 'If I Had Your Face'

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Book SynopsisUm, holy shit...This novel will be the most fun you''ll have this summer. -Emily Temple, Literary HubRemy and Alicia, a couple of insecure service workers, are not particularly happy together. But they are bound by a shared obsession with Jen, a beautiful former co-worker of Remy''s who now seems to be following her bliss as a globe-trotting jewellery designer. In and outside the bedroom, Remy and Alicia''s entire relationship revolves around fantasies of Jen, whose every Instagram caption, outfit, and new age mantra they know by heart.Imagine their confused excitement when they run into Jen, in the flesh, and she invites them on a surfing trip to the Hamptons with her wealthy boyfriend and their group. Once there, Remy and Alicia try (a little too hard) to fit into Jen''s exalted social circle, but violent desire and class resentment bubble beneath the surface of this beachside paradise, threatening to erupt. As small disturbances escalate into outright horror, we find ourselves tumbling with Remy and Alicia into an uncanny alternate reality, one shaped by their most unspeakable, deviant, and intoxicating fantasies. Is this what self-actualization looks like?Part millennial social comedy, part psychedelic horror, and all wildly entertaining, A Touch of Jen is a sly, unflinching examination of the hidden drives that lurk just outside the frame of our carefully curated selves.

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Book SynopsisAs the war continues it brings its own set of trials to the the village of Northbridge. Eight officers of the Barsetshire Regiment have been billeted at the rectory, and Mrs Villars, the Rector''s wife, is finding the attentions of Lieutenant Holden (who doesn''t seem to mind that she is married to his host) quite exhausting. The middle-aged ladies and gentlemen who undertake roof-spotting from the church tower are more concerned with their own lives than with any possible parachutist raids. There is the love triangle of Mr Downing, his redoubtable hostess Miss Pemberton and the hospitable Mrs Turner at the Hollies. And, to add to Mrs Villar''s woes, egocentric, imperious Mrs Spender, the Major''s wife, is foisted on the rectory when she is bombed out of her London home. First published in 1941, Northbridge Rectory is a captivating comedy of an English village in the War years.Trade ReviewYou read her, laughing, and want to do your best to protect her characters from any reality but their own * New York Times *The novels are a delight, with touches of E. F. Benson, E. M. Delafield and P. G. Wodehouse -- Christopher Fowler * Independent on Sunday *Charming, very funny indeed. Angela Thirkell is perhaps the most Pym-like of any twentieth-century author, after Pym herself -- Alexander McCall Smith

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Book SynopsisA 2023 best book to look forward to in Vogue, Bustle, GQ and the New Statesman''A superbly observed exploration of intimacy and its failings'' Megan Nolan''West-Knights is a masterful, hilarious and humane story-teller'' Olivia Sudjic''A sharp and clear-eyed portrait of familial love and the ways it makes us mad'' Monica HeiseyBillie and Tom have just lost their father. It should be a time to comfort each other, but there''s always been a distance to their relationship. Determined to change this, Billie boards a flight to her brother in Paris.Dazed by grief, the siblings spend days wandering the streets, both helping and hurting each other in the process. When their explorations lead them to the infamous Paris catacombs, they will finally be forced to face the secrets lurking in their past that illuminate the questions in their present.Funny, moving and unexpected, DEEP DOWN is an empathetic and hard-hitting look at both the struggles and the joys of sibling relationships, and the realities of grieving the loss of someone who was already an absence.Trade ReviewThe novel is a serious and very accomplished examination of what it means to love and grieve for someone who might seem unlovable. It wrestles, too, with the timeless question of how to form one's own distinct adult identity in the shadow of a difficult parent. But it's also immensely funny. * Guardian *A dry comedy that's as astute as her reported writing - and funny too * Vogue *DEEP DOWN is a beautifully constructed and unnervingly assured debut which deeply moved and impressed me. Imogen West Knights reveals family silence and repression in a way which feels almost agonisingly true to life. There are no histrionics here, nor any glib resolutions, but a superbly observed exploration of intimacy and its failings. Not to be missed -- Megan NolanI am in awe of this genius debut novel. A brilliant page-turner - I also wanted to pause every few paragraphs and read aloud as a treat for whoever happened to be sitting next to me. West-Knights is a masterful, hilarious and humane story-teller. -- Olivia SudjicI read Deep Down in one go, staying up late to finish it. West-Knights takes the tradition of the British family novel - with all its resentment, over-drinking and passive aggression - and transcends it: Deep Down is funny, sad, tender and hopeful. A fantastic bookAs a longtime fan of Imogen West-Knight's writing, I was thrilled to discover her fiction is just as charming: a sharp and clear-eyed portrait of familial love and the ways it makes us mad -- Monica Heisey, author of REALLY GOOD, ACTUALLYThis perceptive account of the undercurrents that shape our family relationships and the ways in which they play out in adulthood had me gripped. A tender, moving novel with heart, by a new talent in fiction -- Rhiannon Lucy CosslettDeep Down is a nuanced and sensitive study of family and abuse, of the unbridgeable gulfs in communication that render us inert and helpless, of the truths we can't bear to confront, and the loyalties we can't bear to betray -- Susannah DickeyA sensitive look at grief, families, ambition, anger and the complexity of loving and hating someone all at once. * Bookseller *An intimate, emotional and witty take on grief and complicated relationships -- Justin MyersDeep Down examines that which we would rather suppress - grief, shame, hurt - with unflinching verve while treading a careful line between finding the absurd in the humane, and the humane in the absurd. West-Knights has written a book with real heart -- Jo HamyaImogen handles complicated family dynamics and the unspoken things that come between us with remarkable sensitivity and insight, as well as perfect dark humour that is so much a part of navigating grief. I honestly can't believe this is a debut -- Emma HughesA lot of novels spin around grief, trauma, abuse and emotional disconnection. But not many can emotionally sucker punch you with one sentence and have you in tears of laughter the next. One of the remarkable things about Deep Down is how finely attuned it is to the way grief is intimately tangled up with ridiculousness. -- Eloise Hendy * Dazed *Deep Down is a wonderfully astute and often hilarious look at sibling relationships, intimacy and family repression. * iNews *West-Knights casts an adult's ear to the hopes and fears particular to the young child's mind, and the result is a thing of beauty -- Conrad Landin * Westminter Extra *I read Deep Down in one go, staying up late to finish it. West-Knights takes the tradition of the British family novel - with all its resentment, over-drinking and passive aggression - and transcends it: Deep Down is funny, sad, tender and hopeful. A fantastic book. * Yara Rodrigues Fowler *

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Book SynopsisReaders have fallen in love with Paige and Noah:''Totally touched my heart''''I completely LOVED this book''''I''m now obsessed with this author and can''t wait to see what she does next!''''A hilarious and heartwarming novel ... a definite five star read''''If you''re a fan of rom-coms, you HAVE to pick this up!''''I adored this book and raced through it''---------------------------Two men to choose from. One fantastic mistake.Paige might bake wedding cakes for a living but that doesn''t mean shes dreaming about her own perfect day. Far from it.Trusting people is hard after she was badly let down by her family and boyfriend just when she needed them most. And to make things worse, her ex has just walked into her bakery with his new fiancée...Needing a little no-strings-attached fun, Paige goes to a party where her friend knows just the guy - the guy in the blaTrade ReviewThis is genuinely so funny and so moving. I could not stop reading. Paige and Noah are my new favourite rom com couple * Sophie Cousens *A gorgeous, uplifting read that packs a real emotional punch * Gillian Harvey, author of Perfect on Paper *A funny, relatable and life-affirming tale * CULTUREFLY *Funny, poignant and smart all at the same time. A life-affirming read that made me laugh and simultaneously broke my heart. I loved, loved, loved this book * Nicola Gill, author of We are Family *Holly strikes a perfect balance between raw and relatable, funny and heartwarming. I feel like pitching up in Paige's cake shop - I didn't want to leave her when the book ended! * Abigail Mann, author of The Lonely Fajita *I loved this book so much. You can't help but root for Paige and Noah. I laughed. I cried. I didn't want this book to end * Mary Hargreaves, author of This is Not a Love Story *A fresh, funny and achingly relatable read that celebrates the gift of life in all its messy, wonderful ways. It's perceptive, surprisingly steamy and so very touching * Hannah Tovey, author of The Education of Ivy Edwards *This heartwarming rom-com is the perfect summer read * Woman's Own *This star-crossed romance is a great holiday read * Peterborough Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisThe sixth novel in the beloved Tales of the City series, Armistead Maupin's best-selling San Francisco saga.Maupin''s adeptness at fluid dialogue, his flair for shaping characters who thread the needle between pop archetypes and singular human beings are all on display' New York Times____________________A fiercely ambitious TV talk show host finds she must choose between national stardom in New York and a husband and child in San Francisco. Caught in the middle is their longtime friend, a gay man whose own future is even more uncertain. Wistful and compassionate yet subversively funny, Sure of You is Armistead Maupin's addictively entertaining observation on family, friendship and every relationship in between.Hurdling barriers both social and sexual, Maupin leads the eccentric tenants of Barbary Lane through heartbreak and triumph, through nail-biting terrors and gleeful coincidences in 1980s San FranciscoTrade ReviewLike those of Dickens and Wilkie Collins, Armistead Maupin's novels have all appeared originally as serials...it is the strength of this approach, with its fantastic adventures and astonishingly contrived coincidences, that makes these novels charming and compelling * Literary Review *A consummate entertainer...It is Maupin's Dickensian gift to be able to render love convincingly * Times Literary Supplement *San Francisco is fortunate in having a chronicler as witty and likeable as Armistead Maupin * Independent *I know I was not the only one who was up until two in the morning, promising myself to stop after just one chapter -- David Feinberg * The New York Times Book Review *Armistead Maupin's acclaim is richly deserved. He uses suspense, mystery and coincidence far more inventively than the more typical novelist -- Jonathan Coe * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisBran's Southern California upbringing is anything but traditional. After her mother abandons her and joins a Buddhist colony, Bran is raised by her common-law stepfather' on Bourdon Farms a plant nursery that doubles as a cover for a biker gang. She spends her days tending plants, slogging through high school and imagining what life could be if she had been born to a different family.Then she meets Peter a charming, troubled college student from the East Coast who launches his teaching career by initiating her into the world of art. The two begin a seemingly doomed long-distance relationship as Bran searches for meaning in her own surroundings. She knows how to survive, but now she must learn how to live.''Avalon observes beautifully the shifting terrain of teenage intimacy: its intensity and its fragility . . . it's a hilarious, heartbreaking and of course extremely weird novel.'' Sunday Times

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