traceyroberts's reviews
636 reviews

Last Christmas by Clare Swatman is a delightful story which explores how the decisions we make can shape our lives and impact on those people around us.  

Bea is standing looking at the departures board at Heathrow Airport with one question on her mind.  Should she stay in London, in a relationship that has grown stale or should she go to New York and live her dream.  What if Bea could live both lives?

This was a festive romance with a difference and I just couldn't put it down. I loved the unique take on a dual timeline where the chapters alternate to show Bea's life if she stayed and then if she goes.  I might sound confusing but I found it written in a way that made it easy to follow. 

I was utterly entralled with this heart warming read and loved the cast of characters.   Although it was an emotional read at times with a focus on depression, 9/11, dementia and miscarriage, it was perfectly balanced with uplifting and heartfelt moments. 

I liked that it wasn't overly Christmassy and could definitely be read at any time of the year.  I've also found myself contemplating fate and destiny and if our decisions really have an impact on them. Or do different paths lead to the same destination? 

Overall I found this a very enjoyable read and I will definitely be investigating this author's backlist. 

Thank you to Boldwood Books for inviting me to read this book and providing me with a digital copy.  

Lucie is furious to discover ex-husband Miles has not only left her in debt but is also about to marry a much younger woman.  He also has the nerve to send her an invitation to their influencer style wedding in France.  Lucie will not be attending.  That is until her pregnant daughter needs a lift to get there, and her nephew needs help to get there too. So Lucie reluctantly agrees to drive them but she will NOT be attending the wedding.

This was an easy and fun read, but a little silly at times and a bit predictable.  There were some touching and humourous moments and I feel this would have worked better as a mother and daughter story without all the unnecessary tangents. 

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for providing me with a digital copy for review purposes.