I am Ella Buy Me - Joan Ellis (2014)

Ella David is a copywriter at CBA, a top advertising agency in Soho. It's the 1980s - and Ella is bright, articulate and good at her job. Yet she is a woman working in a man's world. Constantly undermined by her lecherous boss Peter and fending off his unwanted attentions and cruel putdowns, Ella battles daily in this chauvinist world. Ella has sacrificed much for her career; fuelled by her broken childhood, she supports her divorced mother, feeling she is to blame for her parents' break-up. Ella's personal life is also tumultuous; she becomes involved with Tom Tyler, a would-be rock star on the path to fame. Ella cannot believe her luck with Tom but her womanly intuition suspects he is only using her for a place to stay or to get his hands on her flat. Yet desperate for love and tainted by the damage her estranged father has left on her psyche, she ignores her own gut feelings and turns the blinkers on. Yet Ella's life changes forever when she attends a teambuilding session organised by her work; here she has an epiphany and her life changes irrevocably. Ella finally learns that although much in life comes with a price, sometimes the things that matter are not for sale. This book offers a realistic depiction of the chauvinistic world in which Ella struggles to survive. Ella is a very empathetic, if lost character. She has many demons in her past which she never really faced. Ella finds she cannot turn to her parents for the reassurance and guidance she needs but thankfully has two friends - Adam and Wal - who help her through life. As the story progresses Ella begins to realise what is important in life and how fickle the environment she is in. Her epiphany enables her to realise her own true worth and live her life on her own terms. Well written and played out with an array of interesting characters, this is a novel which will strike a chord in all those who have ever had an unpredictable boss or unsuitable boyfriend. It shows that sometimes happiness comes from where we least expect it and how sometimes it is only when we confront our past and take control of our lives that we can grow and move forward. (LP)

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Ice Creams At Carrington's - Alexandra Brown (2014)

This third book in the series invites us back into Georgie and Tom's world where things couldn't be sweeter. I mean, what's better than being able to wake up next to Tom Carrington every morning?! But, unfortunately, things start to get a little tricky as the summer regatta is fast approaching and whilst Georgie wants to ensure the regatta goes without a hitch, she's also offered the opportunity of a lifetime that she just can't turn down. She begins to stretch herself to try to do a little bit of everything and finds herself having to question where her loyalties lie. Her best friend Sam needs her more than ever, Tom wants his girlfriend back and Eddie just wants to have some fun ... can she keep everyone happy as well as keeping her head above water? The thing I relished most about this book is how real Alex made this one - whilst the other two in this series touch on more serious issues, this book was a really in-depth look at myriad sensitive issues, which added a really lovely new layer to the plot. Instead of the love story dominating, we were able to learn more about the characters' lives - especially Sam and Georgie's dad. There is still the perfect balance of romance and humour stuffed into the pages and I found myself laughing loudly one minute and close to tears the next. Alex writes with such warmth and as you read page after page you can't help but feel the love seeping out which makes every single sentence richer and more enjoyable. I think it might just be my favourite Carrington's book so far! A beautiful story with love, laughter and family at the heart. (LL)

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I Did a Bad Thing - Linda Green (2007)

Birmingham newspaper reporter Sarah Roberts is living with her schoolteacher boyfriend Jonathan, a vegetarian Amnesty International crusader. Then two blasts from her past reappear - Nick Hardwich, who she used to work with on another local newspaper, and Colin Leake, a councillor and story source from those days. In a series of flashbacks to 1997, it is revealed that Sarah first slept with Nick the night of Colin's parliamentary election - she didn't get around to voting and he lost by a single vote. She's been tormented by guilt ever since - about both events.

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I Do (But I Don't) - Cara Lockwood (2003)

Lauren Crandell's qualities as a neat freak and organisational guru makes her the perfect wedding planner (even though she has uncontrollable curly hair and is divorced). When two weddings go haywire on the same day - a parachuting groom gets stuck in a tree and a bride faints after spotting a stalker ex-girlfriend dressed as a bridesmaid - hunky firefighter Nick Corona comes to the rescue. With sparks flying between them, Lauren is put on to a new client who knows Nick - the beautiful but Psycho Bride Darla. Although the cases of mistaken identity were as obvious as a bride wearing a big meringue dress, it's an entertaining read with a delightful heroine. The story was turned into a 2004 TV movie starring Denise Richards as Lauren and Dean Cain as Nick. The sequel about Lauren's sister, Lily, is called I Did (But I Wouldn't Now).

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I Do, I Do, I Do - Samantha Scott-Jeffries (2009)

Isabelle is PA to the chief of a London TV production company. But she is sent packing when she shoots off a draft email her boss never intended to send. With her art director boyfriend Harrisson always away on shoots, Izzy thinks she needs a fresh start so applies for a job as a wedding planner in Majorca. This has lots of the chick lit staples like a gay friend (Ray), a stylish shopaholic friend (Remi), and a new love interest (Tomas). But Izzy is not a particularly convincing character - she's prone to getting herself into embarrassing situations but is more than capable of pulling things together in the face of wedding mayhem. She actually lost me right at the start when she doesn't even ask why she's been fired. Read it instead for all the captivating, behind-the-scene wedding preparations, inspired no doubt by the author's own experience as a Majorca wedding planner. The sequel is due in June 2010.

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Idol - Carrie Duffy (2011)

Jenna Jonsson has a glittery pop career and when she meets rock band Phoenix and they suggest a collaboration Jenna jumps at the chance of working with her idols. But will Jenna be able to work whilst keeping her hands off ladies man Nick Taylor, and earn the respect of fellow band mates serious Zac and family man Ryan? Sadie Laine, on the other hand, had her big break stolen from her, yet her fortune starts to change when she arrives in Las Vegas. The two girls battle to get to the top of their game professionally and in love, and tensions rise as the childhood competitors cross paths once again. Sometimes you can judge a book by its cover. The cover for Idol is hot pink, with the title spelt out in sparkly flashbulb lights; you instantly know it is going to be a glitzy chick lit read, full of glamorous characters. It's raunchy and cheesy, and I really enjoyed it. The perfect read if you're looking for a real easy-to-read, lighthearted bonkbuster at the end of a long day. (AB)

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I Don't Know How She Does It - Allison Pearson (2002)

This is a classic story about a woman who tries to juggle too much in an age where women are wondering about the myth of 'having it all'. Hedge-fund manager Kate Reddy is a frazzled mother of two who's trying to make store-bought mince pies look homemade for the school Christmas party. Married to architect Richard, Kate feels endless guilt about not being a good-enough mother, especially because she has to travel a lot for work. When one of her trips brings her into contact with attractive client Jack Abelhammer, her family life is tested even more.

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If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend - Alison Pace (2005)

Holding an MA in Art History, Jane Laine works for the most influential artist of all time - Dick Reese - in his art gallery. However, her boss is as obnoxious as you can imagine. Jane thought that she could quit her job and "live happily ever after" when she marries her Mr Right - Jack Davis - right up until he ends their two-year relationship. Devastated about her love life, she commits the grave mistake of ordering the wrong size Reeses Peanut Butter Cups for an important art show. As a punishment, Jane is sent on a five-month international art fair tour with British artist Ian Rhys Fitzsimmons - whom she thinks is a big fraud. Will this trip be a total disaster? Or will it blossom into something better? (XT)

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If I Could Turn Back Time - Nicola Doherty (2013)

Shop girl Zoe is bummed out that her boyfriend, David, ended things. She's been moping around since the split and doesn't see any way of getting him back. Then one day, after a particularly rowdy night out, she wakes up to find she's gone back in time and is now re-living the previous few months. Knowing what's coming next gives Zoe a chance to do things right this time - like not obsess over David's best friend, Jenny - but is it really worth it in the end? Is David really the man for her? While this is a cute story and the characters are likeable enough, it's slightly predictable. It would have been a better ending if the last chapter didn't exist at all because it kind of ruined the story and what seemed to have happened. Overall, however, it's a fun and light read that is enjoyable enough to keep the reader interested. (AS)

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If the Shoe Fits - Megan Mulry (2013)

Devon Heyworth is the younger playboy brother of the Duke of Northop. Dashingly handsome Devon is a paparazzi favorite known for his revolving door of women. Sarah James is a level-headed American entrepreneur who has built a successful shoe designing business. Devon is the best man in his brother Max's wedding and Sarah is the maid of honour for her best friend Bronte. The couple have a whirlwind weekend fling. But both are relationship phobic and committed to keeping a no-strings arrangement. Their attraction keeps forcing them together and meddling friends and relatives seem to think they know what is best for them. This novel is a follow-up to the author's previous novel, A Royal Pain. If you think Prince Harry is adorable, then you are sure to fall in love with Devon Heyworth. This book is a fun modern-day fairytale with the perfect combination of beautiful shoes and hot British men. (AO)

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If This is Paradise, I Want My Money Back! - Claudia Carroll (2009)

Charlotte Grey is in a coma after being in a car crash. She can hear everything her visitors are saying, from her mother's incessant chatter about everyday events to her sister Kate's confession about her infertility woes. Then film producer James swings by - the boyfriend her family and friends hate and the guy she had a terrible row with just before her crash. As he's telling her about how he's fallen for someone else, everything fades to white as the medical team rushes into her room. Next thing Charlotte is being greeted by her late father. But when Charlotte discovers the afterlife is more about playing cards and watching the horse racing with a bunch of geriatric relatives, she signs up for angel training. She heads back to earth as a ghost-like angel - and since only James can hear her, the devilish side of Charlotte begins to mess with his mind. But maybe she can also help those she loves, including Kate and her best friend Fiona.

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If You Could See Me Now - Cecelia Ahern (2005)

Also known as A Silver Lining

Interior decorator Elizabeth Egan likes to keep everything organised. She has lots of responsibilities in her life, including bringing up her six-year-old nephew, Luke - son of her wayward sister Saoirse. Then Luke is befriended by Ivan. Elizabeth thinks he is one of his friend's fathers but there are much more magical elements at play.

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If You Lived Here, You'd Be Home Now - Claire LaZebnik (2010)

Rickie became a single mum at 19 and even now that her son Noah is six, she still doesn't feel like she's moved on with her life. She's dropped out of college, is back living with her parents and Noah even goes to the same private LA school she attended. And she certainly doesn't fit in with the other mums - it's not just her age, her tattoos, punky hairstyle and tattered clothing set her apart. Noah is a sweet but complicated child who doesn't make friends easily and shies away from sports. But then school coach Andrew takes him under his wing. And just maybe he has some lessons for Rickie too. This is a beautifully crafted, feel-good story about the bond between mother and child - and why it's never too late to grow up.

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If You Only Knew - Zanna Mackenzie (2014)

Faith has sworn off men since her last relationship ended badly and she focuses totally on running her coffee shop. Then one day, in walks Zane and all her convictions fly out the window. Everything is going well until his business partner arrives - horror of horrors, it is Faith's ex, Matt, who she has tried so hard to forget. I could totally relate to Faith's distrust where men were concerned, and Zane's erratic behavior did not make anything easier. Added to all this stress, with Matt being back in town and being the confusing mess that he was, she did quite well keeping her head screwed on the right way. Everyone seemed to have a secret and did not even realise that they were their own worst enemy. Everything could have been so much simpler! This story kept me guessing to the end. (KARM)

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If You're Not the One - Jemma Forte (2014)

When 38-year-old Jennifer Wright's plans to seduce her husband, Max, devastatingly backfire, she finds herself in the unique position of being trapped in a coma in which she can access the different versions of her life that may have occurred with past boyfriends . Firstly there's holiday romance Aidan, young, fun and carefree; then there's university boyfriend, Tim, hardworking, ambitious and loyal, and finally loving, kind and caring Steve, the one before the one. How would each of these lives have panned out, and has Jennifer made the right decision with Max? Refreshing and original, this novel makes you consider the big what-ifs. I enjoyed the multiple threads in this story, and each of the different pathways felt fully fleshed out and distinct, playing out very different scenarios and realities. What I enjoyed most however was the fact that the author doesn't opt for a quick, easy and obvious route for the heroine but leaves a lot up to the reader, including (perhaps unappealingly for some) the ending. Max is certainly no flawless hero but would life with Aidan, Tim or Steve have been any better? (JC)

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If You Were Here - Jen Lancaster (2011)

After city life gets to be too much for them, Mia and Mac decide it's time to move to the Chicago suburbs. They find the home of their dreams but for entirely different reasons. Mac loves the fact that it's a fixer-upper and has a panic room (seriously) and Mia because the house was featured prominently in a John Hughes movie (duh). They move into their idyllic neighbourhood only to discover the house is in way worse shape than they originally thought and when the neighbours effectively come after them like villagers with torches, they realise the remodelling is disrupting more than just their lives. With Mac insisting he can do the work himself and Mia facing a deadline for her latest Amish-zombie-teen romance, they begin to wonder if their marriage can withstand the chaos of home repairs, and more than one instance of someone (including pets) getting trapped during the construction. Told with Jen Lancaster's trademark dry wit, this novel is a hilarious look at what happens when people watch too much HGTV. Being familiar with Lancaster's non-fiction work, it was hard for me to separate Jen and her husband, Fletch, from Mia and Mac. However, once I got into the story, the characters became more real and the comparisons to the author's life melted away. Fans of Lancaster will not be disappointed with her first foray into fiction. (LEK)

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If You Were Me - Sheila O'Flanagan (2014)

Carlotta is a high-powered businesswoman, flying in and saving companies by finding efficiencies and sometimes recommending redundancies. Carlotta, who has given up on finding heart-pounding love, is planning a simple wedding to Chris, an eye doctor, and is happy with her choice. Neither care about the location or all the fuss - just the vows. But Chris' mother does not accept Carlotta as a future daughter-in-law so it surprises her when the grand dame steps in to organise their reception when the hotel falls through. But then everything changes once Carlotta travels to Spain on business. The never-forgotten first love Luke appears in Seville. Friends first, the two of them reconnect and then in the last minute before the train leaves - he kisses her. All her feelings come back and she begins to question her life and her love for Chris. With no way of reaching out to Luke, she struggles to decipher the meaning of the kiss with her best friend Sivi. Her friend is very critical and urges her to leave her feelings for Luke behind by going back to Seville - she believes if Carlotta seems him one more time she will realise that her feelings are not real. What will Carlotta do? Marry Chris? Find Luke? Walk away from everything? This engaging book includes lovely details about Spain which will make you want to visit very soon. (MS)

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I Hate Cinderella - Amanda Cole (2009)

This is a big girls' fairytale that follows Lucy Summers' identity crisis after she breaks up with her long-term boyfriend. Lucy is wallowing in self-pity and questioning who she really is without her man by her side. As Lucy is flying for business, her plane crashes into the ocean and she is rescued by a beautiful mermaid, Obelia, who mends her broken heart. While she spends time in the ocean with Obelia, she begins to realise what life is really all about and understands she can survive this break-up. This is an imaginative book unlike anything I have read since I was a child complete with mermaids and magic. This book touches on some big issues but in a simplified way. To read it you need to open your mind and think like you were 10 again but dealing with adult issues. (GF)

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I Heart Hollywood - Lindsey Kelk (2010)

Angela heads to Hollywood after British movie star James Jacobs specifically requests that she interview him. With best friend Jenny along for the ride, Angela soon discovers that celebrity life in Hollywood is not all that glamorous. When a paparazzo catches her and James in a compromising shot, Angela finds herself becoming the story. Can she convince her boss and her musician boyfriend not to believe everything they read? This continues on from where the debut, I Heart New York, left off and all of our favourite characters are back, bigger and better than ever before. With a few new characters added into the mix and a plot twist that comes completely out of the blue, this book is light and frothy, and highly, highly entertaining. (KC)

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I Heart London - Lindsey Kelk (2012)

Angela Clark is back for the final time and while she's fixed her Visa situation it seems that fate still wants her back in London - and pronto. When she's summoned back home, Angela is joined by her lovely boyfriend, Alex, and her crazy best friend, Jenny. Though she is dreading the trip home - to see her parents, her friends and the life she left behind abruptly two years earlier - she's also a tiny bit excited for Alex and Jenny to meet her other best friend, Louisa, and her new baby, Grace. Of course, nothing goes to plan and as always Angela finds herself in a variety of predicaments that no one else ever would, but they're believable and not at all outlandish considering how Angela's life usually goes. With a wedding on the horizon, two best friends who may or may not see eye to eye and an ex-boyfriend across the pond who broke her heart and sent her on her journey to New York, this story is probably the best of the entire I Heart series. It's wonderful because readers finally get to see Angela come full circle and face all her demons. It's also a bittersweet goodbye to a character that will remain forever in the hearts of fans worldwide. Lindsey Kelk has brought Angela back with all her wit and humour for a final farewell that will leave you wanting more. (AS)

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I Heart New York - Lindsey Kelk (2009)

What would you do if you found out your long-term boyfriend was cheating on you? For Angela it meant ruining her best friend's wedding by screaming at the bride and making her cry, breaking the groom's hand with her shoe and then fleeing to New York City. Checking into a hotel, she quickly makes friends with Jenny who gives her a makeover and after a whirlwind tour of the city and a major shopping spree it's not long before she's dating two cute guys. Oh and the best thing of all? She gets to write about it in her new blog for fashion magazine The Look. Although the premise of this book may not be all that realistic, it is without a doubt a fantastic read with some really hilarious moments thrown in for good measure. Pure escapism and chick lit at its best! (KC)

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I Heart Paris - Lindsey Kelk (2010)

Angela Clark started out in London, moved to New York and now is visiting Paris in the third instalment of the I Heart series. When Angela is offered a job for chic Belle magazine and her boyfriend, Alex, asks her to go to Paris at the same time, Angela is on cloud nine. However, when they arrive in Paris, things don't go as planned. Angela had romantic plans of walking with Alex by the Eiffel Tower wearing berets and whispering sweet nothings to each other, but what she gets is a whole other story. Alex is too busy practising with his band for a huge festival. Plus, Angela has her first piece for Belle to work on, which she may have actually made some progress on if only her luggage hadn't gotten blown up at the airport. Oh, and if someone wasn't conspiring to make her look like a fool. When Alex's beautiful ex-girlfriend, Solene, shows up and tries to reclaim him, Angela feels her Parisian getaway is really taking a turn for the worse. So, when she is faced with the choice to go back to London or stay in Paris and watch Alex and Solene flirt, Angela lets her heart lead her - though that may not be the smartest thing to do. This novel continues to make the I Heart series one of my favourites. Angela is funny, sweet and extremely relatable. The whole story just makes you root for her even more and it has an especially heart-warming ending. It's one definitely not to be missed! (AS)

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I Heart Vegas - Lindsey Kelk (2011)

Angela Clark is back in the fourth instalment of the I Heart series. This time, Angela finds herself at a crossroads. With no foreseeable employment, a visa that is about to expire and a friend who is going crazy over her ex's impending wedding, Angela heads to Vegas, where problems are a thing of the past. However, for Angela, trouble seems to show up no matter where she is. In the land of glitz, glamour and lots of sins, the British import finds herself in more trouble than she bargained for. As she sees her life fall apart before her eyes - in the course of one measly weekend in Sin City - Angela has to figure out what she wants for herself and how she's going to get it before it's too late. Will she find herself in the chapel of love or will she find herself nursing a broken heart? With all the wit, warmth and humour that we've come to expect from Angela throughout the series, this novel certainly doesn't disappoint. You just can't help rooting for the lovable, bumbling Brit who gets herself in over her head pretty much every time she steps out the door. The return of some favourite characters (such as gay actor James Jacobs) is also a plus. So, at the end of the day, if you can't get away to Vegas, consider yourself lucky because the Strip is not always so nice and you don't always win (contrary to what the ads tell you). You're better off reading about the perils of Las Vegas from Angela's point of view. It's more fun that way (and you'll spend less money!) so it's a win-win situation. (AS)

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I'll Have Who She's Having - Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke (2008)

TV producer Kate is depressed and drinking a lot after her latest boyfriend dumps her, while her younger sister Kelly is feeling the strain of being a young married mother. When Kelly meets a gorgeous guy at Starbucks, she convinces her sister to sign up together for his volleyball classes. Once Kate meets coach Tim, she decides he could well be the man of her dreams. But he is too busy making a play for Kelly. Told in alternate chapters from each sister's viewpoint (Fenton wrote the Kelly chapters, while Steinke wrote for Kate.)

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I love Capri - Belinda Jones (2002)

When you first meet translator Kim she seems to reflect the English weather, a bit grey and sad. She wasn't always in this rut though ... there are small references sprinkled throughout the first few chapters alluding to the fact that her current hermit-like lifestyle was the result of a severely broken heart. Thankfully for Kim (and readers), life throws her a curve ball when her estranged grandfather dies and her mother inherits his clothing store in Capri. Kim, albeit reluctantly, agrees to leave behind the security of her comfy lounge to escort her mum to the sunny isle as her translator. Here her life changes completely - soon her thoughts of liposuction are a distant memory as the adoring attention of Italian men puts most of her insecurities to rest. Her grandfather's store is run by the gorgeous Luca. Kim finds him irresistible (as will most readers) as he embodies the bad guy turned OH (!) so good character who is just oozing romance! Kim realises that nothing is quite as it seems and in the twists and turns of life, challenging your ideals and getting out of your comfort zone may be just what the doctor ordered. A lot of sunshine in a little book, I loved it! (VF)

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I'll Take What She Has - Samantha Wilde (2013)

Nora and Annie are lifelong friends. Annie is the sleep-deprived mother of two young children, while Nora is desperate for a baby. They have both ended up at a Boston co-ed boarding school. Nora is the English teacher, while Annie's partner Ted also works there as a teacher. Annie has been promised she'll be moving into Meadow House on campus because they have the biggest family. But then Cynthia, the new history teacher with the Pamela Anderson rack and Grace Kelly face, comes to town, stealing not only the house but Nora's friendship too. This story focuses on the choices women make and reveals that the grass is not necessarily greener.

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I Love the 80s - Megan Crane (2011)

Jenna's obsession with the 80s means she's totally suited for her job at New York music channel Eighties TV. She has an enviable knowledge of all things of the era and she still dresses like a member of Bananarama. Even her office walls are plastered with posters of 80s pop idols, including her childhood crush Tommy Seer, lead singer of the Wild Boys, who died in his prime. Her best friend, Aimee, wishes she would instead start living in the 21st century. A freak accident sees Jenna hurled back in time to 1987, where she gets to work with Tommy up close and personal in the months leading up to his death. Can Jenna save him from his fate and is he really worthy of being the man of her dreams? Crane pretty much had me at the title with this one. A teen of the 80s myself, it was great to go back in time and compare that world to the one we live in now. Although I would have loved to see even more pop cultural references, this funny and totally absorbing time-travel romance story works for readers from any generation.

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I'm in No Mood for Love - Rachel Gibson (2006)

Clare Wingate wakes up the night after her best friend Lucy's wedding in a hotel room wearing only a pink thong. She panics when she hears water running in the bathroom and sees a faded pair of Levi's thrown across a small couch. Before she can escape, sexy Sebastian Vaughan, her crush from years ago, strolls out of the bathroom. Clare recently caught her fiance with the Sears serviceman, so the last thing she needs is a rebound relationship. Clare and Sebastian keep finding themselves thrown together and Clare fights with all her might to deny their chemistry. (AO)

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I'm Not Julia Roberts - Laura Ruby (2007)

Lupe Klein may resemble the stepmom Julia Roberts portrayed in the movie of the same name but she's definitely not as lucky as her. When she married Ward, other than knowing that her life was more or less screwed up by his three less-than-endearing kids, she certainly hadn't expected that his plump ex-wife Beatrix would constantly send her threatening messages. As for Beatrix, her life isn't any better, with her stepdaughter Liv proving to be a strangely sarcastic teen. Liv's mother Roxie is also dating a divorced man - and the chain of blended families goes on. It's just like when Stepmom meets Desperate Housewives, but just not as interesting. (XT)

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Imperfect Bliss - Susan Fales-Hill (2012)

This takes us into the life of the Harcourt family in modern-day America. Harold Harcourt and his wife Forsythia have four daughters - Victoria, Elizabeth, Diana and Charlotte. Forsythia is obsessed with everything royal and hopes that by naming her children after the British royal family, they will one day meet their princes and live happily ever after. The family though are about to enter into a world of chaos when Diana is chosen to star on a new reality TV show, similar to The Bachelor, called The Virgin. Now the family must work together as their everyday life is broadcast. Elizabeth, aka Bliss, is back home after a messy divorce and never seems to have a shortage of men. But unfortunately they all seem to be unavailable one way or another. Meanwhile her four-year-old daughter Bella dreams of being a princess and elder sister Victoria faces an on-screen marriage proposal. With Diana's romantic on-screen antics and Charlotte - the one who reminded me of Lydia - Imperfect Bliss is one of the best Pride and Prejudice-inspired stories that captures the whole Bennet clan rather than focusing on Elizabeth and Darcy. (PP)

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I'm So Happy for You - Lucinda Rosenfeld (2009)

Wendy and Daphne have been best friends for 15 years. During that time, Wendy has always been there for Daphne, offering a shoulder for Daphne to cry on and giving her much-needed advice when she gets in over her head. And the truth is that Wendy likes it this way. She prefers to be the strong one in the relationship, always coming to the rescue of her overly dramatic wreck of a best friend. However, when Daphne's life begins to turn around and she marries the perfect husband, renovates her dream brownstone in the best part of Brooklyn, and becomes pregnant with the child that Wendy can't seem to conceive, Wendy finds herself having a very hard time being happy for her best friend. In fact, she realises that she is downright jealous of Daphne and the way her life is moving forward, while Wendy seems to be stuck in a dead-end job with a slacker husband in a run-down apartment. The author does an excellent job of exploring the often tenuous relationships between best friends and the surprising feelings that come to light as their lives begin to travel down different paths. At times during the book, you will find yourself sympathetic to both Daphne and Wendy, always aware that there is sometimes a fine line between love and hate in female friendships. Anyone who has ever had a hard time being happy for a friend's good fortune when your life seems to be stuck will relate to this story. (LEK)

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I'm with Stupid - Elaine Szewczyk (2008)

This follows New Yorker Kas and her friends Max and Libby as they go on a South African safari. Kas is an awfully boring one-dimensional 20-something who has been dumped by her boyfriend and is stuck in a post-breakup depression. To make things worse, Kas sees her ex, Richard, out at a club with his new girlfriend, who actually ends up being his fiancee of two years! Max decides to enact revenge on Richard in various ways such as telling all his neighbours he's a convict and putting up signs around town advertising his escort services. Max's antics are about the only thing that is funny about this novel. On the African safari, Kas has a fling with handsome park ranger William who saves the group from certain death. After going back to New York, Kas thinks William is out of her league. When he unexpectedly sends an email and says he is coming to New York (believing that Kas has offered him a place to live) Kas is ecstatic but her excitement fades when she realises William is not playing with a full deck of cards. He has an obsession with Big Apple-themed souvenirs and psychics. So it's a case of the girl gets the guy but wishes all along that she hadn't. But the characters are boring and the chapters are far too long (at over 100 pages just for chapter one!) The way it is written feels like you're reading the ramblings of someone with hyper activity disorder - it's all over the place and hard to follow. (AS)

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In Accord - Kristin Chambers (2014)

The In Accord Book Club was formed by four best friends living in Buffalo, trying to cope with life's many challenges. Hannah is a school principal whose teenage daughter was caught drinking while on a field trip, Julie is re-entering the dating world after a failed marriage, Maggie is coping with cancer in a way that could threaten her husband's career, and Ellen is tempted to stray from her husband. When their latest book club selection comes to a less-than-satisfying conclusion, they decide to rewrite it themselves. The events that shape the lives of these women over the next few months lead to them writing four very different scenarios, reflective of their own situations. I would have preferred a little more humour or light-heartedness in this book as most of the story is quite heavy, but I appreciated the concept. (LB)

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Inappropriate Men - Stacey Ballis (2004)

Sidney Stein is married to her college boyfriend. After nine years, her marriage has become stale and unexciting. Sidney starts a crazy affair with Geoff, a much older married man who is also a colleague of her father's. Sidney ends her marriage, however, it is obvious that Geoff will never leave his wife. The book follows Sidney as she continues to sleep with Geoff while dating disastrous men that she finds from her personal ad. The novel is interspersed with rather random poems that at times are very long and boring. I found this to be a rather disappointing read because the main character is so unlikeable and annoying. (AO)

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I Never Fancied Him Anyway - Claudia Carroll (2007)

Cassandra has been able to predict the future since she was a little girl and she is used to others asking her what is in store for them. Sometimes, she has good news for them; other times what she sees is disturbing. Despite being able to predict everyone else's future, she has never been able to see anything about her own. However, one quick flash late at night shows her that her friend Charlene has met a handsome man at a club but that man is going to end up with her. Of course, she doesn't really have the time to worry about her vision as she is busy with her popular column at Tattle magazine and the piles upon piles of people writing in to ask what she sees in their futures. When Charlene drops the bombshell that she has met The One, Cassandra has to act surprised. Jack is a huge television producer and he wants Cassandra to come on his morning show The Breakfast Club. Her segment is a huge hit ... that is until Jack walks into the studio and she blanks out completely. She can predict nothing when he is around, which has never happened to her before. Throw in another smarmy television producer and a gang of Charlene's trust fund friends and you've got quite a story. With many comic moments and beautifully crafted characters, this is one book you'll want to read all the way through without putting it down. (AS)

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Infidelity - Tara Palmer-Tomkinson (2012)

In this sequel to Inheritance, Lyric Charlton, rehabbed party girl, has changed her ways and is ready to settle down with her wonderful fiance, Philippe. But, fate seems to have its own mind and things don't go as planned. Before Lyric knows it, tragedy has hit her family, not once or twice but three times and two of those times something (or someone) sinister seems to be behind it. But who? Meanwhile her brother, Edward, is falling for the mysterious and beautiful Amba - who is not at all what she seems - and her mother is living in a drug-fuelled haze. The only person holding her family together is her father, George, but everyone knows he is not in the best of health. Will Lyric and Phillippe work out their differences before it's too late and will someone be at fault for the loss that shakes the Charlton family to its core? Once again, Tara Palmer-Tomkinson has written a stellar novel with an air of luxury that only someone who comes from wealth and glamour could know. It's obvious that Tara knows her subject and knows how to write about it with warmth and humility while also creating well-rounded characters. The Charlton family oozes wealth and entitlement but what is all of it worth at the end of the day if you don't have love and family to enjoy it with? No one knows this better than the main character, Lyric, and the author herself. (AS)

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Inheritance - Tara Palmer-Tomkinson (2010)

When IT girl Lyric Charlton is exposed as a drug user, her family decides it is in her best interest to send her off to rehab. But they are unaware that this decision will start a series of events which will change all of their lives forever. When Lyric returns from her stint in a US rehab facility, she is drug free and a completely new person. However, soon rumours start spreading that Lyric is still using and this creates a rift between her and her best friend, Treeva. On top of that, Lyric has lost her boyfriend, Ralph, who first introduced her to drugs but is now too toxic for her to be around. All of these dilemmas are going on, while in the background of the Charlton family, there is a dark horse who is trying to bring Lyric down to prevent her learning a secret so big that it will shake the whole family to the core. Lyric, however, is oblivious to this, and as a result her life is in danger. In a world where drugs are always available, money is of no concern, and trips to exotic locales are regular events, will Lyric be able to stay clean, discover the secret and find out who wants her dead before it's too late? This is a story filled with romance, suspense, drama and over-the-top glitz and glamour. Lyric somehow is so utterly sweet, beautiful and kind-hearted that you root for her all the way through. Through there are some issues with the timeline - it can be a bit confusing - overall this is an amazing debut with shades of the author's own life and is sure to skyrocket up to the bestseller list. (AS)

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In Her Shoes - Jennifer Weiner (2002)

Sisters Rose and Maggie Feller have nothing in common apart from the same shoe size, a dead mother and a wicked stepmother Sydelle. But they have stuck together through thick and thin. But then Rose, a down-to-earth attorney, catches the wild and gorgeous Maggie with her boyfriend, colleague Jim, and throws her out of her apartment and life. Maggie, who fails an MTV screen test because of her dyslexia, takes off to Princeton University where she squats in the library. Rose quits her job, takes up dog walking and starts dating former colleague Simon. Then Maggie rediscovers her grandmother Ella, and heads to stay with her in Florida. The book was adapted into a film starring Toni Collette (Rose) and Cameron Diaz (Maggie).

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In Love Again - Megan Mulry (2013)

Claire Heyworth Barnes, the Marchioness of Wicks, was stuck in a twenty-year loveless marriage to a British aristocrat. When her marriage finally dissolves, she is broke and alone. Her American sister-in-laws encourages her to move to New York City and begin a new life. Claire lands a job as an assistant to an interior designer. Her first job assignment is in Connecticut. The clients are in the middle of a divorce and the remodelling project has to be wrapped up as soon as possible so the clients can sell the property and split the proceeds. Claire soon realises that her new client is Ben Hayek, her teenage first love. Ben and Claire have to decide if their relationship is best kept in the past, or if they can start over. This is the third book in the Unruly Royals Series. Readers of A Royal Pain and If the Shoe Fits will remember Claire Barnes as the stuffy older sister to Devon and Max Heyworth. The author does a fantastic job of making Claire transform from a misunderstood righteous character to a loveable woman who only wants to find happiness. (AO)

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In My Sister's Shoes - Sinead Moriarty (2007)

Kate O'Brien has just landed her dream TV presenting job in London when her older sister, Fiona, finds out she has breast cancer. Kate owes her sister big time since Fiona selflessly brought her and brother Derek up after their mother died of the same disease. So Kate heads back to Dublin to step into her sister's shoes and look after her boisterous five-year-old twin boys.

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In Office Hours - Lucy Kellaway (2010)

Stella and Bella work for the same international energy company in London. Stella as head of the economics department is its most senior woman, while single mother Bella is a personal assistant. Bella is just about to get a new boss because her former one, a woman, has left the firm over an affair with a colleague. Bella not only ends up working for James, the married man involved in the affair, she also begins a fling with him. Meanwhile Stella, who is married to a documentary maker, is involved in secret liaisons with a junior and finds it difficult to keep her eye on her ever-increasing responsibilities. As the two affairs play out almost in tandem, the risks for both women mount. Kellaway, a Financial Times columnist, obviously has a good grasp on corporate life amid a market meltdown and presents a compelling story which will have you questioning why is it usually the women who take the fall when an illicit relationship is exposed.

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Insatiable - Meg Cabot (2010)

With the plethora of paranormal (vampire) fiction, it's hard to find one that has the elements of mystic, romance and originality - but Meg Cabot has hit the spot. At first glance, it probably might seem like another soapy romantic story of a depressed vampire boy meeting an ordinary human girl but Insatiable goes beyond that. It narrates the story of Meena Harper, a dialogue writer for a soap opera called Insatiable, who subsequently finds herself in a series of frustrating events - losing her well-deserved promotion, compromising the storyline to meet the demands of sponsorship, and having to deal with her next-door neighbour trying to fix her up with a new man. To others, Meena comes across as a normal woman dealing with the messed- up realities of her life. But she has the supernatural ability to see the demise of people around her and Meena goes all the way to prevent these events from happening - until she meets a young immigrant woman whose incoming death becomes the igniting factor of the story. Lucien Antonescu, a 500-year-old vampire, is more than just a bloodsucking machine - he's the son of Dracula and the new Prince of Darkness. When a series of vampire killings strike New York, Lucien leaves his teaching job and hometown behind, determined to stop the carnage and find the culprit before another woman is killed. But his mission is not without obstruction as Alaric Wulf, who works for the Palatine Guard, thinks that Lucien is behind all of it. I absolutely loved the first half of the story, where the tension started to build up and the relationship between Meena and Lucien raised questions about the possibility of a vampire-human romance and how it came to be a threat to her loved ones. But somehow I was a little bit disappointed by the second half of the story as it seemed to be a little scattered and predictable. (XT)

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In Search of an Impotent Man - Gaby Hauptmann (1995)

Insurance agent Carmen Legg, a flame-haired 35-year-old, is sick of men trying to crack on to her, so she places a personal ad for a man with higher things on his mind - because he's impotent. Surprisingly a lot of men reply and Carmen meets them in turn. This book was originally written in German and sometimes reads a bit clunky because of the translation.

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In the Bag - Kate Klise (2012)

Professional chef Daisy is taking her teenage daughter CoCo to Paris as an early graduation gift. CoCo is happy to go on the trip but that suddenly changes when she picks up the wrong bag at the airport. She can't have fun in Paris with a bag full of boys clothing. Daisy just wants a nice trip with her daughter that doesn't include dealing with her moodiness over the bag mix-up. She has her own worries including not having a job and dealing with a creep who slipped a note into her bag after spilling wine on her on the plane. Andrew has brought his teenage son Webb with him to Madrid while he works on an art installation. He wants to keep his son away from computer and video games. He realises this will be impossible since Webb picked up the wrong bag from the airport and is spending the whole trip on the hotel computer trying to track down his bag. It isn't helping Andrew that he's dealing with a demanding coordinator at the art museum and he can't get the woman that he spilled wine on out of his head. He hopes she e-mails him after he left a charming note in her bag to apologize. CoCo can't believe her luck when she gets an e-mail from the person who has her bag and he wants to meet in Paris to swap bags. Should she meet this stranger who she is exchanging flirty e-mails with or is he a pervert posing as a teenage boy? Webb is concocting a plan to get to Paris and retrieve his bag while not letting on to his father. The girl of his dreams may have his bag and he cannot let his father stop him from meeting her. This is a fun story about four very different people thrown together due to a lost bag. The story is told from four different points of view and set in two great cities. This is an enjoyable read with a unique take on chance encounters. (AR)

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In the Mirror - Kaira Rouda (2014)

Jennifer had it all - a loving family, two beautiful children and her own business until she started feeling ill after her second child and discovered she had cancer. The story takes place in Shady Cove, a cancer treatment centre, and shows how Jennifer feels she has lost everything and has become distant from her family. Then her first love Alex turns up and he gives Jennifer a small inkling of hope, lust and revitalisation. I was wondering whether husband Henry was distant from Jennifer because he was having an affair with the nanny but that topic never came up and I loved her son Hank - he was such a cutie. In The Mirror is not only a story about cancer, it is also a romance with suspense as we discover that sometimes our fantasies aren't all that they are cracked up to be and if we aren't careful our decisions can lead to danger. If you are wanting a contemporary romance with a touch of edginess and don't mind the emotional theme, then you will love In the Mirror as much as I did. (PP)

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In the Stars - Sabrina Simon (2012)

Taking a leave of absence from her job as a sports reporter, Lyla Garcia is preparing to head to Japan with her boyfriend, Stedman, a professional golfer, for his latest tournament. But then Stedman unexpectedly breaks up with her. Left with weeks of free time before she is due back at work and a broken heart, Lyla turns to her three best friends, Ava, Chloe and Marissa, who convince her to use her time off to write a book about astrology and dating. Armed with her newly acquired 'booty-berry', Lyla sets out to discover how various sun signs work in relationships, starting with filling in the gaps in her own dating history. And so the adventures begin as Lyla seeks to find her missing astrological partners and to see if the key to relationships really is in the stars. After several disappointments, Lyla gets rid of her dating phone and concentrates on finishing her book and getting back to work, where she faces opposition from the misogynist anchor, Nash. When Lyla meets someone she clicks with, her recent dating exploits are threatening to jeopardise her relationship. This novel is really unique, not least because of the astrological tidbits that are scattered throughout. The sports world that forms the backdrop of this novel is also refreshing and will appeal to readers who enjoy sports. A great read with plenty of ingenuity. (JC)

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In the Summer Time - Judy Astley (2013)

Miranda is returning to Cornwall, where she used to holiday as a teenager, to scatter her stepfather's ashes. Along for the ride is her mother Clare, who is naturally more withdrawn than usual. Even her flighty sister, Harriet, turns up, fleeing a scandal involving her footballer boyfriend. Despite the passage of time, Miranda runs into a few familiar faces, including her friend Jessica and her first love Steve. While their children - the next generation - get to know one another, the adults revisit the past and try to reconcile their differences. This is a lovely read that's as warm and enjoyable as a summer's day at the beach.

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I Only Have Eyes For You - Bella Andre (2012)

True love must run its course through a family of eight siblings, a bar and a handful of tattoos. Sophie Sullivan, the youngest of eight Sullivan offspring (along with her twin, Lori), has loved Jake McCann for 20 years, ever since she was five. But she believes the love is entirely one-way. Her six brothers make romance difficult for her, as they strive to protect the twin they call "Nice" (Lori is "Naughty") from untoward advances. So imagine Jake's surprise when Sophie shows up on his doorstep the night of her brother Chase's wedding, demanding that they continue the kissing she initiated during the reception. Jake tries to scare her off but Sophie is determined. It turns out that Jake, too, is determined - first to fight his attraction to her, and then to make her his. Bella Andre writes some hot love scenes, and she does not confine them to the bedroom. Sophie and Jake enjoy their way around a bar stool, a swimming pool and a few different beds. She may be a librarian but Sophie has no problem taking her clothes off and demanding sexual satisfaction from Jake. And he has no problem pleasuring her. If Sophie and Jake are a bit too predictable and generalized, it is difficult to get too frustrated, because we do feel like we get to know them. He's the bad boy bar owner, she's the book-loving librarian. I haven't read other books in the Sullivan Series but I imagine they are as fast-paced as I Only Have Eyes For You. This is a quick read that will leave you feeling warm and cozy. (AP)

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IOU - Helen Warner (2012)

This is a story about widow Jennifer and her two daughters Amy and Kate. Amy has to abandon her extravagant lifestyle after husband Ben's company runs into financial trouble. With Ben suffering a nervous breakdown, Amy has to find a strength and resourcefulness within herself that she never knew she had. Her sister, Kate, a nurse, meets Jack when she has a car accident in a shopping carpark. Drawn to her knight in shining armour, she finds herself dissatisfied with her life and marriage to council worker Miles. And an old flame returns into Jennifer's life in the form of Hugh, the man she turned down to marry Michael all those years ago. But why does she feel like she is betraying her late husband? This is a well-conceived story about instant attraction, temptation and dealing with past debts, and shows that the two generations have more in common than they first thought.

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I Remember You - Harriet Evans (2009)

Tess Tennant and Adam Smith were best of friends growing up, they did everything together and were each other's first loves. Everything was going great until they reached 18. Tess was offered a place at the University College London while Adam was offered a full-ride scholarship to Cambridge. Adam was about to leave when his mother Phillipa died suddenly, leaving him alone and disillusioned, passing on university to stay in their small town. Fast forward to years later, Tess is desperate to get away from a broken relationship so decides to come back to her hometown and take up a job at Langford College as a Classics teacher. Seeing Adam again stirs up some long-forgotten feelings but he's pre-occupied with his girlfriend. So Tess jumps at the opportunity to go on a class trip to Rome. But when a holiday romance turns sour, Tess heads home - to find Adam gone. Tess then once and for all has to decide to stop running and choose where she wants to be and with whom. This is a wonderful story all about trying to find your place in the world and never forgetting who you are. It makes you realise that you will always remember your first true love. (PP)

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I Say Tomato - Katie Wall (2010)

Sunny Triggs is an Australian actress looking for her big break in Hollywood. Having left a broken relationship behind in Sydney, she spends her days chasing auditions, navigating the road system and doing yoga; her nights at bars and hanging out with friends from back home. Then she meets a potential co-star, Sam, who shows her the red carpet lifestyle. This may have a colourful cast of characters, some laughs through cross-cultural mix-ups and some tongue-in-cheek insider insights into the Hollywood scene. But if it showed up at an audition looking for a part as a "charming rom-com", I would have rejected it.

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I Should Be So Lucky - Judy Astley (2012)

Viola's unlucky in love. One husband left her for another man, and the second, Rhys, died in a car accident. Viola fled to live in her mother's annexe after Rhys' death. Now Viola's ready to go back to her own house, but her family don't think she's ready to leave. When she meets a guerilla gardener at the dead of night, is she just tempting fate? Or can Viola be third time lucky in love? The beauty of this book is that you feel that you instantly know Viola, and that you're part of the family. The story itself is highly readable, and I genuinely wanted to know what was going to happen. A few parts of the plot were quite predictable, but at the same time I wanted to know how the secrets were going to tumble out. All in all, a good book if you're looking for an easy read with warm characters. (AB)

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Isobel's Wedding - Sheila O'Flanagan (1999)

Isobel has just tried on her gorgeous wedding gown when fiance Tim announces he's not ready for marriage. Isobel is heartbroken as she cancels all the arrangements and heads off on what should have been her Mediterranean honeymoon with her friend Julie. Needing a fresh start, Isobel takes up a job offer in Spain and makes up for lost time on the men front. As she starts finding her feet, both in her training job and with new boyfriend Nico, she is called back to England, where she finds Tim is having second thoughts again.

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I Take This Man - Valerie Frankel (2007)

When Penny is jilted at the altar by Bram, the mother-of-the-bride immediately swoops into action. Esther finds the groom in the bridal suite, clonks him over the head with a bottle of Dom Perignon and drags his unconscious body back to an unused attic in her mansion. There she imprisons him until he pays for humiliating her daughter. By eating his way through the uneaten reception food, including 80 servings of prime rib, 70 servings of grilled salmon, 50 roast chickens and 30 pounds of shrimp cocktails. He also needs to write all the return labels for the wedding gifts and admit why he got cold feet. But with Bram's father on the hunt for the runaway groom, Esther realises that kidnapping sure isn't a piece of (wedding) cake. Especially when you throw in some suspicious injuries, a mysterious death, a predatory friend and a calculating Russian servant.

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Italian for Beginners - Kristin Harmel (2009)

New York accountant Cat Connelly is used to playing things safe, always looking out for her younger sister and father ever since her mother left them. At her sister's wedding, she meets restaurant owner Michael, and he encourages her to return to Rome, where she spent her last carefree time years ago. Disappointed when she discovers Michael is married, she does take off to Rome, planning to reunite with Francesco, her lover from all those years ago. But soon Cat finds herself alone in the Eternal City and embarks on her own Roman Holiday-inspired adventure, complete with Vespa. A romantic holiday read about one woman's need to leave home to find herself.

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It Felt Like a Kiss - Sarra Manning (2014)

Ellie works at an upmarket London art gallery owned by Vaughn (from the 2009 novel Unsticky). She's never met her rock-star father Billy Kay - the guy her hippie mother, Ari, had a love affair with. Most people in Ellie's life don't know about her heritage but then her ex-boyfriend, Richey, stumbles across her secret and sells the story to a tabloid. Now she's being stalked by the paparazzi, portrayed as a sex-crazed gold-digger. She is forced to turn to her father's lawyer, David Gold, for help. How can she prove to him she's not the girl the media makes her out to be? This story shines a light on what it is like to be thrown into the spotlight, at the mercy of the British press. Although my interest in the storyline waned throughout, the hounding of Ellie and the back story of her mother's relationship with Billy were highlights. The downsides: the chemistry between Ellie and David felt more like a peck, than a smouldering kiss, and Vaughn was simply awful - was he still such an obnoxious jerk at the end of Unsticky? But despite this, readers looking for a satisfying way to spend a few hours shouldn't go past a Sarra Manning novel.

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It Girl - Nic Tatano (2014)

When New York news reporter Veronica gets a shot at anchoring the morning news program, she isn't exactly enthusiastic. Those breakfast shows need a perky presenter, not a hard-nose journalist like herself. And fuhgedd about all those inhumane 2am wake-up calls! But with the carrot of becoming night news anchor dangled in front of her and a chance to work with her good friend Scott, Veronica reluctantly accepts. Lack of sleep means she's more snarky than perky but the audience still laps it all up. Then Veronica is cast on a celebrity dance show, after clashing with its hunky British judge Dexter. The chemistry between Veronica and Dexter is as fiery as her red hair, although the clash between their cultures does get a little grating at times (do Americans really not understand all those English terms?) Tatano - one of chick lit's best finds of the past year - is an entertaining writer, penning snappy, witty dialogue and throwing in sub-plots at just the right times to keep the narrative bubbling along.

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It Had to Be You - Ellie Adams (2014)

For Lizzy, it doesn't get much more humiliating than being dumped at a birthday party, while dressed as Henry VIII. But then the video of her break-up with boyfriend Justin goes viral and she becomes known in the media as the girl who got jilted. As a PR assistant she is more used to trying to scrounge media coverage for her clients' hard-to-sell products ranging from constipation aids to headband boppers for clearing auras. But she's helped over the trauma by her two single friends Poppet, who is obsessed with Matt Damon, and Nic, a ball-busting, jetsetting executive. Then Lizzy encounters obnoxious business journalist Elliot Anderson, who not only looks down on her industry and is completely out of her league, he's also engaged to a gorgeous fashion designer. But they soon strike up an unlikely friendship. This is funny, classic chick lit, with an adorable heroine, great supporting cast and a leading man who'll grow on you. Very much liking this new direction by Jo Carnegie.

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It Had to Be You - Sarah Webb (2004)

In Burnaby village, three women are discovering that it's all fair in love, politics and business. Molly Harper is manager of Ireland's only dedicated romance bookshop, Happily Ever After. She suspects the new owner Milo Jones is up to no good but at least he has a very attractive son, Sam. Her best friend Paige Brady is a councillor who is contesting the next general election. But a newspaper smear campaign and family matters may put her out of the race. Kate Bowan is a shoe shop assistant who runs a dummy dating service at night. She gets more than she bargained for with one of her clients.

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It Had to Be You - Janice Thompson (2010)

In the third and final book of the Weddings by Bella series, several weddings are taking place and there are engagements galore. The story focuses on the marriage of Laz and Rosa who finally after many years of debate and stubbornness over who was better - Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra - have put their views aside and are ready to commit to one another. Bella and her family couldn't be more over the moon, however this wouldn't be a Weddings By Bella book if trouble didn't arise in more than one way. With Bella trying to organise two weddings, she really needs an extra pair of hands but when her best friend disappears, Bella is left to try to organise everything in time for the perfect day. When Laz's best man, former mobster Sal Lucci, turns up always putting in his two cents worth, will he tear the happy couple apart? And will Bella be able to pull off not only one perfect wedding but two? This is the perfect finish to a wonderful series. (PP)

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It Happened in Paris - Molly Hopkins (2011)

Evie Dexter is determined to change her career and become a tour guide in Paris. Unfortunately she has no experience nor does she even know much about France. With her witty humour and her skill in bluffing her way through her interview, she lands a job at Insignia Tours guiding up to 50 people to tour Paris for the weekend. But her first day doesn't get off to a good start when she forgets her passport and her much-needed supplies of make-up. Upon arriving at the train she meets Rob, the tour bus driver, and he helps guide her through Paris so she doesn't lose her job. Evie may find that this is the job of her dreams which comes with the man of her dreams. This is a hilarious tale about self-discovery and learning more about your strengths and weaknesses. Evie shows us how to have the drive and determination to make something work for you - even if you know nothing about it, whether that be a job, place or even man. It's a great debut from Molly Hopkins and I'm looking forward to the next one based in Venice. (CG)

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It Happened In Venice - Molly Hopkins (2012)

Evie Dexter is happy to be back with her fiance Rob who cheated on her once but promises to never do it again. She is lucky to have a job as a tour guide which takes her to amazing destinations such as Paris, Amsterdam, Dublin and Venice as well as a totally drop-dead gorgeous and rock-solid friend Nikki, who is kind enough to give her a part-time job at his bar but cruel enough to make her work long hours. Rob wants her to quit her jobs, sell her flat and move in with him so they can spend more time together. She is not happy with the idea of giving up as a tour guide but she does want to move in with Rob and take things to another level. Just when she is considering the idea of putting her flat up for sale, she comes face to face with a lie Rob has told her. Devastated, she runs to mega tycoon John Jackson, who's not only her client but also a man who listened to her drunken confession when Rob cheated on her. John not only tries to talk her out of her post-break-up trauma but much to her delight showers her with expensive designer gifts and posh dinners. Evie is not sure if she can ever stop loving Rob and is toying with John's idea of getting him out of her system for good when her friends Tina and Nikki make a plan to keep her busy so that she gets no time to even think about forgiving him. This sequel to It Happened in Paris is packed with drama and beautiful locations. The writing is smart, funny and quirky. The protagonist may not come across as a particularly strong girl but she will still make you laugh, cry and totally love her.(SS)

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It Happened One Summer - Polly Williams (2011)

Nell became estranged from her family after her boyfriend Jeremy ditched her for her sister five years ago. Now she is about to venture on a summer that will change her and others' lives forever. Nell, a single mother of a four-year-old daughter, decides to take a chance when she is invited back to her family home in Cornwall. However, she is about to discover that she wasn't the only one invited and her mother, Valerie, has an ulterior motive. Jeremy and her sister Heather are about to get married and Valerie hasn't got long to live. This is an engaging novel about strained family ties and explosive secrets. (PP)

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It Happened One Wedding - Julie James (2014)

Sidney Sinclair's last relationship ended when she was confronted by the women her fiance was sleeping with. Sidney is now done with commitment-phobic playboys and has a list of thirty-four required items for a potential boyfriend. Special agent Vaughn Roberts is exactly the kind of man Sidney is avoiding. When Vaughn tries his best lines on Sidney at a local coffee shop, he is surprised that she quickly denies his advances and calls out his playboy ways. Minutes later, Sidney and Vaughn meet again at a restaurant only to learn that Sidney's sister is marrying Vaughn's brother. As best man and maid of honour, this unlikely duo are thrown together to help plan the wedding. Sidney is determined to stick to her list of thirty-four requirements and Vaughn is equally determined to win Sidney over. Fantastic dialogue and strong witty characters will entertain readers. Fans of the author will also be happy with updates of characters from past novels. (AO)

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I Heart Christmas - Lindsey Kelk (2013)

Angela has always loved the festive season and this year she's looking forward to spending a quiet one with her husband Alex. But when her boss informs her that she's going on a three-month sabbatical and Angela will be new interim editor, her plans for a calm, relaxing Christmas suddenly go out the window. And that's not all, her parents have decided to spend Christmas with Angela and Alex and have booked their flights, then Louise and her daughter, Grace, turn up unannounced too. When best friend Jenny brings up her baby plans, Angela has to face Alex's own baby questions and it's the last thing she's ready for. This was my first foray into the I Heart series (I know, I know) and it's clear I've been missing out. Riotous fun, awkward situations, rowdy friends, true romance, all wrapped up with a festive bow, this is pure chick lit gold. (JC)

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I Think I Love You - Allison Pearson (2010)

Back in 1974, Welsh teenager Petra was a mad-keen David Cassidy fan. She and her best friend, Sharon, devoured every photo and tidbit contained in The Essential David Cassidy Magazine. But, of course, The Partridge Family star and singer didn't have anything to do with the magazine. Instead his missives to the fans were penned by Bill, a frustrated music journalist. Twenty-four years later, Petra discovers that she had won the magazine's ultimate fan quiz and should have received tickets to meet her heart-throb on the set of his TV show. So she goes to belatedly claim her prize but will the moment live up to expectations? This will appeal to anyone who's lusted after a celebrity - no matter what generation your pin-up comes from. It's a funny but poignant story that was well worth the wait. And the book ends with an interview the author did with her own teen hero, and answers that most vital of questions: is brown really Cassidy's favourite colour?

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It Must Be Love - Sharon Owens (2008)

Photographer Sarah is all set to marry her older fiance, lord of a Scottish manor Mackenzie, on Christmas Eve. But when she overhears him talking about his late wife, she realises she can't go through with the wedding. Taking off in the middle of the night, Sarah heads to Redstone, a village on the Irish west coast where her parents once lived. There she gets caught up in the troubled lives of her new friends Miriam, Gemma and Aurora and even falls for a new man Ethan, who has his own shameful past. A heartwarming tale which contrasts nicely with its wintery setting.

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It Must be Love - Rachel Gibson (2000)

Gabrielle Breedlove is convinced she is being stalked by a hunky man. At the park one day she attacks her stalker with a can of hairspray. It turns out her "stalker" is actually Joe Shanahan, an undercover cop investigating a stolen Monet painting. The police suspect Gabrielle's business partner, Kevin Carter, the co-owner of a curio shop. The cops threaten Gabrielle that if she doesn't cooperate with them, they will convict her of assaulting a police officer. Gabrielle reluctantly agrees to allow Joe to pose as her boyfriend and do some handyman work in the curio shop to find evidence of the stolen Monet. Gabrielle is convinced of Kevin's innocence and finds the whole scenario ridiculous. She is a new-age hippie who would never date a straight-laced, yet totally irresistible, cop. A few fake kisses to convince Kevin of their relationship leave both Joe and Gabrielle breathless and fighting their mutual attraction. This is a predictable read with cute characters that will entertain you for a few hours. (AO)

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It Must Have Been the Mistletoe - Judy Astley (2014)

Thea's parents, Anna and Mike, have decided to get divorced after many happy years of marriage but they want to have one more big happy family Christmas before everything changes. For this occasion, they have rented a big holiday home in Cornwall where all family members are expected to spend the holidays. While her siblings Emily and Jimi will bring their partners and children, Thea knows she will be going alone after her long-time boyfriend decided it wasn't working out between the two of them. Thea wants to do anything to keep her mind off her broken heart, and with the new partners of her parents unexpectedly arriving in Cornwall, combined with the visits of handsome holiday home owner Sean, there is more than enough to keep her distracted... What's not to love about this novel? There's an interesting storyline, a great cast of characters, and I personally fell head over heels in love with the setting, the holiday home in Cornwall. Judy Astley managed to make it sound like such an incredible place; the beautiful home near the sea, the snow, and combined with that magical Christmas feeling it seemed just perfect. Thea was a great protagonist who is easy to warm to. Her family members are all entertaining characters as well, and I also specifically liked Sean, the owner of the holiday home the family is staying at. He's an amazing guy, and in my opinion a Christmas novel is never complete without a touch of romance! Judy Astley's writing style is well-paced and detailed; she's a great storyteller and I will definitely pick up more of her works in the future. It Must Have Been the Mistletoe is a wonderfully festive read that is all about family and being with the ones you love and a novel that definitely has that magic touch of Christmas. (JoH)

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It's A Kind of Magic - Carole Matthews (2008)

When Emma's irresponsible but loveable boyfriend Leo turns up to her 30th birthday dinner very late and awfully drunk, she can't help wishing that he was different. And after realising she'll never change him, she tells him that the magic is gone and so begins the next phase of her life without him. That night Leo runs into the mysterious Isobel and falls under her spell. As this fairy girlfriend waves her wand and sprinkles her fairy dust around, Leo starts becoming more like the man Emma wished he was. Even if you don't like books with magical themes, read it for the hilarious cardboard box scene.

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It's a Man's World - Polly Courtney (2011)

Alexa has done wonders to transform Hers, an over-50s magazine, from near-bankruptcy to a profitable enterprise. Now Senate Media would like her to do the same on another of their titles, Banter. The problem is that Banter is a lads mag, and Alexa is unsure if she morally approves of such a magazine. Despite her reservations and the disapproval of her friends and family, she takes the job, but she doesn't fully comprehend the adversity she will face as the female boss in a predominately male environment. And when her plans for a mobile and tablet application receive media attention, she finds herself the target of a human rights organisation who oppose the sexual objectification of women. What she has achieved at Banter has made the company millions but at what price? Is Alexa really cut out to work in such a man's world? This is a wonderfully written book that deals with some very serious issues. Alexa is faced with some very difficult choices and it really makes you think about where you stand on the issue of lads mags and the effect they have on society . A heavy read in some ways but I really enjoyed it. (LO)

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It's Got to Be Perfect - Claire Allan (2010)

Is there ever such a thing as the perfect relationship? That's the question Annie Delaney is facing. All she's ever wanted is her happy-ever-after, encompassing the ideal man, the fantasy "big day out" and the dream home. It's a shame then that her boyfriend is less a dream than a nightmare, and as for the sexy (and hairy) man currently in her bed - well, that's a whole other disaster in the making. With her life heading into a tailspin, Annie realises she has to rethink her blueprint for happiness - a task that isn't helped by her best friend Fionn's imminent zoom towards the altar with her own Mr Right, or her sister Darcy's strong relationship with her partner. Everyone around her is happy - or are they? When Annie begins to discover the truth about her best friend and her sister's relationships, she's forced to ask herself if the perfect relationship is an attainable goal after all... The cover of It's Got To Be Perfect describes it as 'a hug in a book', and that is a wonderfully accurate reflection of just what I felt as I read the book. Claire Allan's writing is warm and empathetic, and you cannot fail to fall in love with her characters. I adored Annie and despite her flaws and sometimes erratic behaviour, my sympathy for her never waned - and she made me laugh on many an occasion too. The relationship between Annie and Darcy is touching and realistic, and the author nails the depiction of the ups and downs of friendship through Annie and Fionn's relationship. As always, Claire Allan has delivered a book that will make you feel like you're sitting down with your best friend. (SBB)

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It's Got To Be Perfect - Haley Hill (2013)

This novel is a really interesting and in-depth look into the modern dating scene. Haley Hill has a lot of knowledge in this area; she set up the UK's largest matchmaking agency which enabled her to experience all kinds of interesting things in the dating scene! While she claims in the beginning of the book that all characters and scenarios are fictitious, you are almost positive that she has drawn on some of the things she learnt during her time as a matchmaker to create the eclectic cast of characters. The protagonist of this novel, Ellie, is engaged to Robert but is distraught when she finds out he's been cheating on her. Deciding she doesn't need a man like him in her life, she hurls the engagement ring into the gutter, picks herself up, dusts herself off and begins the quest to find real, true love. However, the road to true love isn't very clear and she begins to realise she's not the only one struggling to find love. Ellie takes it upon herself to help match other singles and sets up her own matchmaking agency. Five years later, Ellie is in charge of a huge empire and with so many successful matches under her wing, those around her are trying to help Ellie improve her own love life. Ellie has to face the question of whether everything really does have to be perfect.... I enjoyed reading this from the first page and was drawn into the crazy world of Ellie and her friends. Whilst her friends played an important role in the novel, I was far more interested and focused on Ellie's journey; although I did enjoy meeting Steve, Victoria and Mr Marbella along the way. The style of It's Got To Be Perfect was different from what I'm used to. It felt like it was non-fiction at times as the situations the characters found themselves in were so believable, it could have easily been real. Haley's writing is really sharp and clever plus it's easy to read which is my favourite kind of writing. The only small problem I had were the character names. There were so many characters mentioned in the book that at times I was confused as to who was who. Aside from that, I really enjoyed this book and think a lot of other people will too. It's an interesting look at the modern dating scene that would be a great read for a single woman but also would be enjoyed by someone who already has found the love of their life. (LL)

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It's Not Me, It's You - Mhairi McFarlane (2014)

Delia Moss' life is turned upside down when she discovers her boyfriend is sleeping with someone else. Absolutely shocked, she thinks she is to blame, but they've been together for so long and they loved each other, didn't they? She actually proposed to him, thinking they were so solid and they were perfect for each other! In an attempt to give herself some time to figure things out, she moves to London for an extended visit to see her best friend. Delia finds a job, and slowly starts building a life for herself that doesn't revolve around Paul and slowly starts picking up the pieces of her shattered heart and finds herself in a most unlikely pickle with her new boss. Complications also abound when a reporter starts to seemingly turn up everywhere he's not wanted. This was a long book but I was hooked from the get-go and it was so worth it. Delia was suitably a very confused character, and what can I say but I've lived a piece of Delia's life to some degree, so to me, and maybe lots of others, this book would be very relatable. The author does a great job of painting a very vivid picture of the emotions and thoughts that anyone on the receiving end of infidelity would face. The most unlikely character slowly became my favourite, maybe sometimes more than Delia. This is my first read from Mhairi McFarlane and it definitely won't be my last - I like her style. (KARM)

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It's Not You, It's Me - Allison Rushby (2004)

Charlie is at the airport leaving for a trip to Europe when she hears over the announcement system a name from her past - Jasper Ash. It's her former flatmate, a songwriter who has gone on to great things as Zamiel in supergroup Spawn. The last time she saw him was when they nearly slept together - until he backed away at the last moment proclaiming 'it's not you, it's me'. When Jas joins her on a bus tour to Oktoberfest in Munich (even though Charlie hates beer), they slip straight back into their easy banter. But That Night looms over them as an undiscussed topic. Both seem at a crossroad in their lives - why is Jas ignoring all his phone calls and why has Charlie still not finished uni or got stuck into creating her sculptures? Not just a light frothy read. You'll also get some great survival tips in case you ever find yourself at Oktoberfest with a group of Australians from a Beer-drinking Society.

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It's Now or Never - Carole Matthews (2010)

Annie and Lauren are twins in need of a change. On the night of their older sister Chelsea's 40th birthday they make a pact that they will change their boring lives. Annie intends to go on a Peru trip that her office is doing for a team-building charity event. But once she starts to raise money for the adventure, her husband isn't keen on the idea of her going abroad and leaving him behind. Lauren, who has been in a relationship with a married man for five years, says that this is the year he will leave his wife and be with her. This is a great read about finally changing your life when you're not happy with it. You will laugh out loud at the crazy things these sisters do in order to shake things up. (CG)

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It's Raining Men - Milly Johnson (2013)

This is a story of three women, who work really hard and love their men more than anything else. But their world is turned upside down when they realise that their men don't love them that much in return. May is in love with a liar. Lara has fallen head over heels for someone who sees her as the full-time caretaker of his children. And Claire is with a man who loves his job more than their relationship. The three friends make plans to escape on a luxurious holiday, spending time at a fabulous spa and taking a break from their men. But destiny comes into play when their booking gets messed up and they end up in the small, mysterious village Ren Dulhem, which strangely has scores of male residents but few women. The women are determined to enjoy their days in the dullest village on earth - and slowly they start to fall in love with the most unlikely men in this village which has a secret no one talks about. This book is full of drama and I liked Milly's swift storytelling skills. Her way of putting twists and turns and mystery into the story when you least expect is fantastic. If you are looking for a lazy summer read, then this one is perfect. (SS)

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Irrepressible You - Georgina Penney (2014)

Amy is a hair salon owner who loves dressing like a 50s movie star. Ben is a British comedian who is avoiding a media storm at home involving his former celebrity girlfriend. When the pair meet, they fall hard for one another. But Amy is hiding a few secrets and Ben is using Amy's quirky lifestyle as fodder for his newspaper column. Set in my hometown, this story pretty much revolves about Ben and Amy's relationship. Amy is a delightful and memorable character, from her cute outfits and immaculate make-up to her leaky outhouse and slobbering dog. Her abusive past and close relationship with her sister adds a more serious element. Meanwhile Ben is cocky, quick-witted and will have readers falling for him too. It all adds up to an entertaining story full of spicy romance and witty dialogue.

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It Started at Sunset Cottage - Bella Osborne (2015)

According to the summary, It Started at Sunset Cottage tells the story of Kate, a writer whose husband passed away a few years ago. She has been coping with that tragedy in her own way, living a simple, quiet life surrounded by her best friend Sarah, Sarah's daughter Amy, and her late husband's brother Andy. However, when her book is optioned for a film, Kate is invited to work on the screenplay at a cottage where she meets the film's leading man, Tim, who draws Kate out of her comfort zone. I was surprised that Sarah played such a major role in this book, given that the summary focuses so much on Kate. Truth be told, I found Sarah was the more compelling character, and her story was more interesting what with her ex-husband causing so much drama. I also thought that the development of Tim and Kate's relationship was drawn out and I never truly got a sense of any chemistry between them. On the other hand, while Sarah and Andy's relationship was predictable, it was also a lot more believable and I had more interest in it. Nonetheless, I enjoyed It Started at Sunset Cottage, and I believe Bella Osborne should be proud of her debut. (LB)

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It Started with a Kiss - Miranda Dickinson (2011)

It's close to Christmas and Romily Parker feels the need to tell her best friend, Charlie, that she is in love with him. What better time than the present? But, the result is not at all what she expected. The bad part: He doesn't feel the same. The good part: His rejection sends her inadvertently into the arms of a handsome stranger who kisses her and then dashes off never to be seen again. And this amazing, once-in-a-lifetime kiss is what starts Romily on a quest that will change her life in many ways. After feeling as though the stranger is The One for her, Romily embarks on a year-long quest to find the mystery man whom she and her friends begin to call "PK", short for "Phantom Kisser". The quest, however, takes on a life of its own after she starts a blog about it. With the help of her aunt and uncle and her band the Pinstripes, Romily seems to have more support than ever to find the man of her dreams. But can she do it? And will she still feel the same if she sees him again? This is a wonderful Christmas read that will captivate you right from the start. Romily is likeable, sweet and following her heart - which is something we could all learn from. The ending is by far the best part because just as you think it's over and Romily has found her happy ending, something happens that will make her realise she shouldn't just settle for what is presented to her and needs to do what she believes is right, no matter what anyone else thinks. You don't want to miss it! (AS)

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It Started with a Kiss - Lisa Heidke (2015)

Friday Jones is blindsided when her husband, Liam, decides he wants to take a break from their marriage. Although he still keeps in contact with their two teenage daughters, the radio producer moves in with his bachelor brother Brad, and pursues his stand-up comedy dream. When Friday, a naturopath, heads off to regroup at a spa retreat, she certainly isn't expecting to find herself attracted to someone else. And with her friend, Rosie, signing her up for a dating website, soon Friday has more men on her plate than she can handle. This continues Heidke's tradition of writing about women reaching a crossroads in their lives and provides a snapshot of a couple in crisis - caused by the wear and tear of domestic life. Fairly entertaining, fairly predictable.

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It's The Little Things - Erica James (2008)

It's been several years since Dan and Sally, and their friend Chloe, survived the Boxing Day tsunami. Dan and Sally now have a little boy, Marcus, conceived in the disaster's aftermath - Dan is a stay-at-home dad while Sally is rarely home as she spends long hours working as a divorce lawyer. Chloe, who followed her father's footsteps into his medical practice, is single - after her long-term boyfriend dumped her when they returned from their life-changing experience in Phuket. When she meets Seth, everyone including Chloe is hoping he may be The One. But there's something Seth hasn't been upfront about. And Sally is going to get caught up in an act of deception.

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It's Up to You, New York - Tess Daly (2013)

Holly Collins is stuck in a telesales job she hates and it seems that nothing better is ever going to come along. That is until she is selected to appear on a reality show searching for the next modelling star. The show offers her the chance to really make something of her life but her boyfriend, James, isn't convinced by the whole reality TV spectacle and even Holly couldn't have predicted the direction her life would take off the back of the show. I was looking forward to reading this book but it wasn't as I had expected. Firstly, only around a third of the novel is set in the New York of the title and it's not really as integral to the story as it would suggest. Secondly, I felt the modelling story was rather rushed and undeveloped. In essence, I felt that the two parts of the story - the modelling show and the New York story - could probably each command their own novels and as such both felt limited. I also found Holly a hugely frustrating character and was never convinced by the question of James' betrayal. Having said all that, this is an easy, girly read, suitable if you're after something light and escapist. But for me there were too many gaps in the narrative. (JC)

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I've Got Your Number - Sophie Kinsella (2012)

Poppy has lost her fiance Magnus' engagement ring - an heirloom that has been in his family for generations. Despite being a physiotherapist, she already feels considerably dim around his family of academics (the reason you'll find footnotes in this book) and now she has to avoid showing them her left hand until she can figure out a way to get the ring back. To make matters worse, her phone - and lifeline - has been stolen. So when Poppy spots an abandoned phone, she borrows it. Discovering it belongs to businessman Sam, Poppy convinces him to let her keep the phone for a bit, promising to send on any messages to him. In the process she starts interfering in his life - both professional and personal. This is pure chick lit comedy, with Kinsella at her absolute best.

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I Will Marry George Clooney (By Christmas) - Tracy Bloom (2014)

Michelle cast aside dreams of becoming a top chef and instead works in a chicken factory to provide the best for her teenage daughter Josie. She's upset to discover that Josie is preparing to take the next step with her unsavoury boyfriend, Sean. So Michelle makes a desperate bet - that Josie won't, if her mother is able to convince George Clooney to marry her. She embarks on a crazy escapade to meet the Hollywood heart-throb, even setting up a charity event to donate to his favourite cause. Meanwhile, Rob, the boyfriend of her late sister Jane, returns and Michelle realises she must have a long-overdue conversation with him. I would say somewhere between the conception and release of this novel that perennial bachelor George Clooney surprised everyone by finally settling down and getting married again - a fact alluded to in the prologue and epilogue. Nevertheless, the concept still works and Bloom weaves a very humorous story of a woman on a madcap mission. The supporting cast are terrific, especially DJ friend Daz, who continually espouses the virtues of One Direction. I will definitely be seeking out another book by this author (by Christmas).

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I Wished For You - Amy Huberman (2012)

Grace may be almost 30 and in a long-term relationship but that doesn't mean she is ready to get married. In fact, she wishes more than anything that people would stop asking her when she'll be walking down the aisle. She'll do it when she's ready ... and that won't be too soon. When her perfect, sweet, reliable boyfriend Robbie gets down on bended knee to pop the question, Grace freaks out and says no. She then has a breakdown at work and ends up alone with no one but her evil cat and a weird man named Norman for company. Feeling like she's lost her way, Grace thinks her luck has turned when she stumbles upon Vintage Queen Verity. The old woman is mysterious and kind to Grace at her lowest point but what's she hiding? Written with so much warmth and humour, you can't help but fall in love with Grace, Robbie and Verity. You'll be rooting for Grace to find her heart's true wish all the way and enjoying some laugh-out-loud moments in the process. (AS)

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It Would be Wrong to Steal My Sister's Boyfriend (Wouldn't It?) - Sophie Ranald (2013)

When Ellie Mottram meets Oliver it's love at first sight. Unfortunately though he happens to be her sister Rose's new boyfriend. And despite knowing better, Ellie is determined to entice Oliver away. Getting spruced up, finding a new job and frequenting the glamorous hotspots, Ellie takes on Rose's lifestyle as she tries to win over Oliver. But is he worth risking her sister's love? I expected there to be more tension between the sisters given the plot of the story, however this never really comes to a head and in fact Rose never finds out about Ellie's dalliances with Oliver which seemed to me to skirt around the potential issue of the novel. And indeed at times, the novel felt a bit anticlimactic. However, in Sophie Ranald we find a naturally funny and gifted writer and the quality of her voice and wit carries this novel through. I thought this was a very solid effort for a debut and certainly think good things can be expected in the future. (JC)

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