WAGs at the World Cup - Alison Kervin (2010)

The uber fabulous WAG Tracie Martin is back with lots of glamour, trouble and WAG-ishness like only a true footballer's wife can do. When her husband, Dean, is promoted through the England coaching ranks, Tracie is beyond ecstatic. So, even though her husband swears her to secrecy until the team makes the announcement, Tracie can't help but go and help out some guys at the local TV station make a promo video to get more funding. The result is a fiasco and it turns into the most-watched YouTube video of all time. The team decide it would be best for them if Tracie heads off to South Africa, where the World Cup will be held, a little early to get away from the British press. Of course, Tracie continues to be a media magnet even when she has the best of intentions. Her open drunkenness is not popular among the South Africans and she is not warmly welcomed. And she is still desperate to become best of friends with the Wonder WAGS like her idol Victoria Beckham. But no matter what she does - including buying a telescope to spy on them - goes over too well. When Tracie discovers there is a betting syndicate out to make England lose the World Cup, she just won't have her beloved Dean losing after he's worked so hard. So, what's a WAG to do? Besides making sure she is orange enough, drunk enough and thin enough, Tracie must find a way to stop the betting syndicate in its tracks. Of course, doing it all in her best bikini wasn't part of the plan, but that's life for a WAG. This book - the third in the series - is absolutely hilarious with many laugh-out-loud moments. Tracie's escapades are so fantastic that you won't want it to end. Who wouldn't want to live vicariously through one of the coolest WAGS out there? It's an essential read - even when the World Cup is over - and an instant classic. (AS)

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Wait for the Rain - Maria Murnane (2015)

Daphne White is turning forty and is not at all happy about it. With her ex-husband getting re-married and her teenage daughter becoming more independent, Daphne feels her best years are behind her and that she's lost the person she was once going to be. Reluctantly, she agrees to a Caribbean vacation with her two best friends from college to celebrate the new decade they are all entering. After some much-needed girl time with her friends and meeting a very cute, younger man, Daphne begins to realise there are still good times to be had and that turning forty is really the beginning of her next chapter, not the end of her life. I really enjoyed Daphne's journey back to herself during her time away with her girlfriends. It was nice to read about a more mature woman entering the next phase of her life and all of the angst that comes with it. The characters were likable and the story progressed nicely; it felt very realistic and was a good reminder that all we need to move forward sometimes is a little encouragement from our friends and some much needed self-confidence. (LEK)

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Waiting on You - Kristan Higgins (2014)

Colleen O'Rourke enjoys her life as the feisty town matchmaker. She thrives on giving love advice to all the patrons of the bar she co-owns with her twin brother. Colleen swore off relationships after her heart was broken 10 years ago by her high school boyfriend, Lucas Campbell. Since then, Colleen is happy flirting with the town locals and the occasional fling. Lucas Campbell had a tragic childhood and was sent to live with his aunt and uncle after his father went to jail. His life took a positive turn when he met Colleen. Even though they were young, he knew she was the girl he would marry. They stayed together through college, but a horrible misunderstanding resulted in their break-up. Colleen stayed in their small town and Lucas moved away and married someone else. Lucas, now divorced, returns home when his uncle becomes ill. Colleen is determined not to get her heart broken again by Lucas. She tries to keep her distance but their past is hard to escape. This novel is the third novel in the Blue Heron series. With several laugh-out-loud moments and fun sexy characters, throw this book into your summer reading beach bag. (AO)

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Waking Beauty - Elyse Friedman (2004)

Allison Penny is an unattractive and overlooked office cleaner, who has to deal with a flatmate from hell, an alcoholic mother and an absent father. So what happens when one day she wakes up as a gorgeous blonde? Do blondes have more fun and is life better when you're beautiful?

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Walking In Circles Before Lying Down - Merrill Markoe (2007)

Twice divorced, with no stable job and an unconcerned family, Dawn Tarnauer's life is a series of rejections and abandonment. When she thinks that her life can no longer get any better (after her latest relationship ended), she finds herself being able to communicate with her dog, Chuck. This is a light and easy read about a woman's search for love and her journey of growing up, and reveals that a dog's instincts are sometimes more reliable. (XT)

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Walk of Fame - Sharon Krum (2000)

Tom Webster is an average, boring financial writer. He finds himself alone when his wife leaves him for his best friend, Jake. Tom is suddenly offered $100,000 by a trendy magazine if he can make himself famous within 30 days. At the end of that period, Tom must write a tell-all article describing his quick rise to fame. Tom convinces Alexandra West, a blonde bombshell actress, into meeting him publicly. Alexandra wants to be taken more seriously as an actress, so she uses Tom in order for the public to view her differently. The couple is stalked by the paparazzi and the tabloids nickname them the modern-day Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller. Tom's life changes drastically as he quickly rises to fame and adjusts to how differently people treat him. The author does a fantastic job writing on celebrity society and why certain people are famous for doing nothing. (AO)

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Wallflower in Bloom - Claire Cook (2012)

Deirdre works as assistant to her new age guru brother, Tag, and lives on the family compound. One day, after her ex announces he's having a baby with his new partner, Deirdre gets so fed up with her brother that she quits and drowns all her sorrows in vodka. Using Tag's extensive online following, she gets herself voted in as a last-minute replacement on Dancing With the Stars. Partnered with professional dancer Ilya, Deirdre steps out of her brother's shadow and into the limelight. This is a heartwarming story and Deirdre is quite a sassy heroine despite her shrinking violet status. There is not much DWTS stuff though and at under 300 pages, the story ends on the night of the first performance.

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Wanderlove - Kristen Hubbard (2012)

Eighteen-year-old Bria Sandoval is tired of taking a backseat in life and letting others think she isn't impulsive so she decides to head off on a trip even after her two best friends back out. When she finds the flyer for Global Vagabonds - a guided tour of Central America - she embarks on what she thinks will be the adventure of a lifetime. She's wrong. First off, her tour group is filled with old ladies and men, not young adults, looking for adventure, like herself. Secondly, the group is staying on the beaten path and not actually immersing themselves in the beautiful culture and environment that surrounds them. So, when Bria bumps into the beautiful Starling and her brother, Rowan, in Guatemala, she thinks she'd rather be travelling with them than her own tour group. These backpackers take her under their wing and so begins her journey to becoming a real world traveller and contracting the affliction known as "wanderlove". The whole point of Bria's trip was to prove to herself, her friends and her ex that she can do things on her own and doesn't always have to hang back and watch. She promised herself she'd only hook up with guys she didn't care about but does that apply to the sexy and often shady Rowan? He's a bad boy, she's a good girl, so what could they possibly see in each other? From the street markets of Guatemala to the beaches of Belize, Bria slowly finds herself once again - even if it is amidst weird insects and filthy hostels. But can her happiness last or is she doomed to ruin things by not taking chances? Written by an author who has a voice for travel and definitely knows her way around Central America, this is an inspiring and exciting story that will leave you wanting to get up and see the world from a whole new perspective. (AS)

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Want to Know a Secret? - Sue Moorcroft (2010)

Diane thinks the policemen has it wrong when he tells her that her husband Gareth has been injured in an accident. Yet she soon discovers that flying in helicopters isn't the only secret he's been keeping. Diane struggles to come to terms with the lies which all revolve around the money they never had. There are less skeletons in James' cupboard, in fact his family's problems are open enough for him to bear the brunt of them. But will Diane and James realise that at some point they need to stop protecting everyone else around them and work out how they can make themselves happy? This is a real page-turner as every time you think you've sussed what the secret is, there's another twist to the plot. Fast paced and definitely keeps you on your toes. (AB)

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Warnings of Gales - Annie Sanders (2005)

Control freak Imogen rents a beachside cottage in Cornwall, which she shares with the families of easy-going friend Sophie and last-minute rope-in, single mother Jo. Amid rainy weather, tensions rise in the house until an incident forces them to club together.

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Watching Willow Watts - Talli Roland (2011)

When small-town girl Willow Watts is coaxed into dressing up as Marilyn Monroe at the annual Belcherton's summer fair and is videoed singing Happy Birthday Mr President, the only member of the town's tourism board includes her crooning in a YouTube video to showcase the town - with a picture of Marilyn's face floating over Willow in case there is any doubt as to who she is impersonating. Someone makes a comment that the floating image is the ghost of Marilyn and that Willow is Marilyn reincarnate, causing the video to go viral - and before Willow knows what's happening, she's an overnight internet sensation. Fans of Marilyn flood into Belcherton to meet Willow, and when a hot-shot agent tries to lure Willow into signing with him to cash in on her newfound fame, Willow sees his suggestion as a solution to the debt problems her father is facing. Willow decides to embrace her new identity and does her best to become Marilyn - but as she changes, a ghost from her past appears and Willow starts to wonder if just being plain old Willow Watts was so bad after all. If you can get past the implausibility of certain aspects of the plot and take the book as a tongue-in-cheek read, there are plenty of positives in Watching Willow Watts - a fresh and well-thought-out narrative, likeable characters, dry wit and an interesting perspective on overnight fame. (SBB)

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Watch Over Me - Daniela Sacerdoti (2011)

Eilidh runs away from her cheating husband and her failed fertility treatments, to her childhood home in the Scottish Highlands. As she tries to get her life back on track, she gets entangled with childhood friend, Jamie, now a single father, and his daughter Maisie. With both Eilidh and Jamie putting up barriers, circumstances and even ghosts keep trying to get them together. Can they help each other to get over their problems and start living their lives again? This impressive debut is a reflective and poignant story which tackles some difficult subjects - miscarriage, infertility and infidelity. Yet even though the topic can see gloomy the book doesn't feel dark. In fact written from the perspectives of both Eilidh, Jamie and Jamie's late mother you do get a real sense of hope and a feeling that you're going to get a happy ever after. (AB)

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Watermelon - Marian Keyes (1996)

Claire Walsh's husband, James, tells her he's leaving for another woman moments after she's given birth to their daughter, Kate. Claire returns to her family home in Dublin and takes to her room. At first she sinks into a depression, then a rage before she emerges ready to look after herself and Kate. Then James reappears, saying he made a mistake.

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Waxed - Robert Rave (2010)

Three sisters Carolina - glamorous, chic and a bit of a neat freak; Anna - a recent divorcee with three children trying to find herself again; and Sofia - a newlywed unsure if she wants to be a domestic goddess or a party girl, are brought together by Carolina's own much raved about waxing salon - Impresario, where all of New York City's elite and famous go to get plucked, waxed and trimmed. The novel follows each sister's experiences - both the public and the private - from her own viewpoint. On the surface these sisters have a perfect life but you quickly learn that each has a skeleton in her closet that surprisingly makes you relate to and like her even more. This is a definite must-read. (AV)

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We Ain't the Brontes - Rosalyn McMillan (2011)

This is about the rivalry between two sisters. Lynzee is a big-name science fiction author and is living the high life with limos, award ceremonies and fat paychecks. Charity is a housewife and mother - and struggling author. Lynzee wants everything for herself, including Charity's husband Jett who she once dated in high school. She decides now is the time to reveal he fathered the daughter she gave up for adoption. Now with that daughter, April, back on the scene and with Charity and Jett's marriage under increasing strain, is this all the ammunition that Lynzee needs to gather what she believes is rightfully hers? (PP)

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We Are All Made of Stars - Rowan Coleman (2015)

Writing letters for patients at the end of their lives in her job at a hospice, Stella has the power to offer hope, pass on memories and build bridges. But in her own life, Stella finds herself unable to reach the one person she lives for - her husband. Returned home injured from Afghanistan, Vincent has become emotionally distant and difficult, and Stella finds herself unable to fix him. Twenty-one-year-old Hope is recuperating at the hospice. Suffering from cystic fibrosis, she understands her own mortality but when she meets fourteen-year-old Issy, she vows to make the most of her second chance at life. Hugh has a great job, a nice house and lives a comfortable, single life but even though he tries to ignore it, there is still a void in his life that was left when his mother died when he was ten. All of these characters are brought together by the hospice, a place not only of pain and sadness but of hope and love. Rowan Coleman has delivered another astounding novel. From the first page, she manages the incredible feat of emotionally engaging her readers and continues to do so until the very last word. In Stella, Hope and Hugh, she creates three completely believable and authentic characters, and as if they are not enough, she punctuates each of their impressive narratives with the often moving, always heartfelt letters from other patients to their loved (and sometimes not loved!) ones. And despite the fact that this novel deals with loss, it's not one long sob-fest, but a beautiful balance between poignant, somber moments and uplifting, hopeful moments. Coleman takes you to the brink one moment and pulls you back the next, but the book's message is not one of despair and angst but aptly hope. I did have some slight misgivings about exactly what Stella sees as being her mistake in her relationship with Vincent, but really this is inconsequential in the wider context. For this is a memorable, brilliant book that celebrates love rather than mourns death. (JC)

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Wedded Blitz - Tina Reilly (2005)

A tale of warring spouses, embarrassing parents and the battle of the hairdressing salons. When hairdresser Jane discovers another salon is opening up down the road, she enters a hairdressing competition to help woo customers. On the home front, her husband, Jim, has moved out so her mother moves in. Then an accident makes Jane and Jim relive a past tragic event and forces them to confront what drove them apart in the first place.

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Wedding Belles - Beth Albright (2013)

I loved this book, the second in the Sassy Belles series. Vivi is finally getting married to her prince charming Lewis Heart and she and her best friend Blake O'Hara are fixin' for the wedding of the century! They've got amazing event planners to work with and family and friends helping them. All the characters were a hoot, even Dallas who could be annoying to some. There was so much support and family and in spite of everything going on, my heart was filled with joy and excitement. I was rooting for Vivi and Lewis from the get-go... It was filled with Southern charm and love. I can't wait to start reading Sleigh Belles... (KARM)

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Wedding Belles - Zoe Barnes (2006)

Green Goddess shop assistant Belle Craine is planning her wedding to local journalist Kieran when Australian model Mona - her father's unknown daughter - turns up on the doorstep. In disgrace, her father and mother have to move out of the vicarage and into a new parish in a very undesirable area. Then Kieran starts spending too much time with Mona and Belle starts thinking the worst.

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Wedding Night - Sophie Kinsella (2013)

Lottie just lost the best thing in her life after her boyfriend's "big question" turns out to be about a trip rather than a proposal as she was expecting. The fact that they've been together for years and he hasn't even talked about marriage makes Lottie decide their future is bleak so she decides to break up with him and then ends up doing something her sister, Fliss, would call an "unfortunate choice" to quell her pain. Ben, handsome, rugged and extremely rich, was Lottie's fling years ago while in Greece, so when he shows up out of the blue and proposes, how can a girl say no? Luckily for Lottie, there are people in her life who don't want her to make the biggest mistake ever, including Fliss who is entwined in a never-ending divorce battle. But will they save Lottie in time or is she destined to regret the worst "unfortunate choice" she's ever made for the rest of her life? Written from both Lottie and Fliss' point of view, this novel is a bit different than Kinsella novels of past. It's good, don't get me wrong, but not as good as her prior stand-alone novels. Either way, it's still a fun and humorous story that will leave you thinking the next time you want to do something crazy after a break-up. (AS)

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Wedding Season - Katie Fforde (2008)

Wedding planner Sarah gets involved in two of the biggest ceremonies of her life - her sister Lily's and celebrity Carrie's - on the same day. Lily, who's getting married before her bump shows, is looking to economise on her big day while Carrie's budget knows no limits. With dress designer Elsa and hairdresser Bron on hand to help, Sarah pulls together the weddings while pining for photographer Hugo. Sarah, like all wedding planners you read about, doesn't believe in love - in this case because a boyfriend once broke off with her sometime in her distant past. With the dialogue more painful than a pair of too-tight bridesmaid shoes (what Gen-Xer talks or flirts like these people?), I had to force myself to finish it.

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Wedlocked - Bonnie Trachtenberg (2011)

Rebecca had always been drawn to following in her grandmother's footsteps as an actress. Unfortunately after years of trying and the failure of her romance with a Hollywood director, Rebecca returns home to Long Island with her tail between her legs. Rebecca's mother has also had a long-term dream. To see each of her daughters happily married to a nice Jewish boy. Suddenly Rebecca finds herself beginning to fulfil the dream when she marries Craig Jacobs who everyone thinks is Prince Charming. Once on her honeymoon though Rebecca discovers Craig is anything but. When he is arrested, Rebecca is left to find a way to get them both out of the situation they have become caught up in as well as herself out of the marriage. (LM)

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Weekend in Paris - Robyn Sisman (2002)

Molly Clearwater has moved from her small town to London but is stuck in a low-level job. One day her boss Malcolm Figg offers her the chance to accompany him on a business trip to Paris. Molly, who's never been outside of England, is really excited but her happiness comes crashing down when she overhears him talking about his intentions to seduce her. Molly storms out of the office and jumps on the train with the sole purpose of spending a weekend in Paris on her own. Within a few hours of stepping into the most romantic city in the world, Molly makes friends with party girl Alicia, falls in love with a bohemian artist who just seems to be after a fun hook-up, and bumps into the last person she expected to see. This book was way too predictable and full of cliches. (SS)

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Welcome to My World - Miranda Dickinson (2010)

Travel agent Harri Langton loves the thrill of travelling the world. Her dream destination is Venice with all its romance and splendour. However, the closest Harri has ever come to seeing her beloved Venice is through travel books and TV programs. Though she's happy with her life, there is a nagging feeling of emptiness which won't go away. When Harri's boyfriend, Rob, is tied up with work and Harri is left on her own, she finds herself persuaded to help travel fanatic Alex on his quest for love. In doing so, Harri finds herself enveloped in a whole new set of problems. With Venice at the tip of her fingers, will Harri ever get to see her dream city? Or will she be forever destined to be an armchair traveller, only hearing about other people's experiences? This is a wonderfully heartfelt book that will thaw even the coldest heart. Harri is so passionate about what she wants yet she lets herself get stepped on like so many of us out there. Reading her story, despite the fact that it's fiction, should be enough to make you want to break free of the chains that bind you and go out and chase your dreams. (AS)

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Welcome to Rosie Hopkins' Sweetshop of Dreams - Jenny Colgan (2012)

Rosie Hopkins was fairly happy with her life in London. She had a long-term boyfriend, a job and a place to call home. She never thought about leaving and was reluctant to do so, but her frail Aunt Lillian needs her help and since there is no other family in the area, Rosie must head off to the country to sort out Lillian's sweet shop. After a seemingly endless bus ride, Rosie arrives in a quaint town that looks as it if has been the same for generations. There are no signs of big department stores or grimy streets, just small family-run businesses. It's such a drastic difference from Rosie's London life. Lillian is a little frosty at first, not wanting to admit she needs any help. However, she does need it and Rosie can see it. What she can't see though, is how much the few weeks she is planning on spending in the country are going to change her and her outlook on life or how many mishaps she'll get into in the process. Written with flashbacks to Lillian's World War II childhood, where the sweet shop was bustling with children, this is a novel that will bring back memories and make you want to pop out and buy some nostalgic sweets (or better yet, you can make them yourself with the included recipes). Rosie and Lillian, along with the rest of the colourful characters they encounter throughout the story, are perfectly cast against each other. It's hard to imagine a better-written novel with its perfect blend of the past, the present and the future. As a result, it's definitely a story that will stay with you long after you've read the last page. (AS)

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Welcome to Temptation - Jennifer Crusie (2000)

Sophie Dempsey is the responsible sister in her dysfunctional family. When she and her wild sister, Amy, arrive in Temptation, a small conservative town in Ohio, Sophie believes they are filming a short movie audition tape. Rumours about the sisters immediately start and preppy mayor Phin Tucker arrives to investigate the film's intentions. Sophie immediately catches Phin's attention and they have a chemistry that they can't deny. Sophie begins to realise that the video they are filming is turning into an erotic video and Phin is pressured to stop the filming to keep the town respectable. Gossip, blackmail, murder and lots of sex keep the citizens of Temptation busy. With a huge cast of funny secondary characters, this is a quick read that will keep you laughing. (AO)

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Welcome to the Real World - Carole Matthews (2006)

Fern Kendal is a struggling bar singer who desperately needs a break. She takes on an extra job as personal assistant to opera star Evan David, but finds she can't let him know about her singing dream. So Fern throws away her chances on TV talent show Fame Game when she discovers Evan is one of the judges. Evan's every whim is catered for by his agent, trainer, chauffeur, chef and a cast of thousands, but memories of a childhood tragedy keep him from truly enjoying all he's achieved. Though Fern can't seem to master her assistant duties, she brings a rare smile to Evan's face so when she goes on the run, he finds he can't forget her.

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Wellesley Wives - Suzy Duffy (2012)

Boston society wife Popsy Power lives in Wellesley, where the women have less body fat and higher net worth than the average American woman. Her husband, Peter, has just splashed out on a red Ferrari for her birthday but all is not well with his business. Will he and his partner Jack succeed at a last-ditch effort to seal a big deal? Jack is married to Popsy's best friend Sandra, a second wife who had promised she didn't want children but is now desperate for a baby. Popsy's two daughters have their own problems - Lily can't admit to her family about the real love of her life while Rosie is shocked when her pilot husband Marcus announces he wants them to go to a resort for swingers. This is an entertaining story about life not being as glossy as it seems and reinforces the bonds of friendship as the two Wellesley wives take a trip to Ireland.

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West End Girls - Jenny Colgan (2006)

Lizzie and Penny are twin sisters (but complete opposites) who live dowdy and unfulfilling lives. Penny dreams that one day she will be rescued from her unsatisfactory life while Lizzie is quite happy eating crisps on her mother's couch. When their grandmother, who had all but forgotten them, is admitted to hospital, the girls are given the task to house-sit her fancy West End apartment which provides the opportunity to start a new life. Life in the West End is harder than they thought and the boys are just as difficult. Set in Chelsea, England, this is a feel-good, entertaining novel that has all the favourite elements such as love, transformation and most importantly a happy ending with a twist. (GF)

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What a Girl Wants - Lindsey Kelk (2014)

In this sequel to About a Girl, Tess gets herself in a spot of trouble when she tries to sneak stuff out of her flat without flatmate Vanessa noticing. She is also faced with a big decision - does she stay in London and set up an advertising agency with best friend Charlie, who's just admitted he loves her, or does she accept a dream photography assignment in Milan. Meanwhile Nick, the writer she fell for in Hawaii, isn't answering her calls because he's mad she lied about her identity. Despite not having read the prequel, the storyline was easy enough to follow but perhaps I wasn't as invested in the characters. Tess is one of those girls who gets herself in a pickle wherever she goes and no doubt many readers will delight in her twenty-something antics and the Charlie-Nick love triangle. The story lost a bit of momentum through the middle but the many hilarious scenes and Kelk's easy writing style certainly made up for it overall. But don't expect a neat ending as there's another book to come.

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What Alice Forgot - Liane Moriarty (2009)

Alice Love comes to after hitting her head in the gym - to discover that she's lost 10 years of memories. Instead of being 29 and pregnant with her first child, she finds she's a 39-year-old mother of three. Instead of being madly in love with her husband Nick, they are in the process of getting divorced and their do-me-up house is now all done up. And somewhere along the past decade it seems as if she's had a personality transplant - why is her relationship with her sister so strained, why is she the queen bee of school activities, and what on earth was she doing at the gym in the first place? As her memories slowly resurface, including the role a woman called Gina played in her life, Alice is wondering whether she took a wrong turn somewhere. With twists and turns that will bring out both the smiles and the tears, plus a totally satisfying ending, this is one book you won't forget in a hurry.

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What Becomes of the Broken Hearted? - Claire Allan (2012)

Kitty Shanahan is the owner of the Bridal Nook, and her world falls apart one day when a routine phone call informs her that her husband has left his job, and a letter at home confirms that he has left her. Award-winning journalist Erin Brannigan is planning her wedding with the love of her life. However, Paddy is battling cancer, and planning their big day down to the very last detail, which is driving her a bit mad. When Erin goes to the Bridal Nook to purchase her wedding dress, the two women's lives become intertwined. When Erin is tasked with writing a feature about her wedding, Paddy's battle with cancer and her previous relationship which ended in disaster, things begin to get a little out of control. And while Kitty is still reeling from her husband walking out on her, her life starts to get even more complicated. Can broken hearts ever be mended? Written in Allan's usual informal and humorous style, this book was laugh-out-loud funny. The journey of discovery that the characters embark on clearly shows their growth and development throughout the novel. Both Erin and Kitty are believable and relatable characters, however I was a little disappointed that their lives didn't intertwine a bit more - at times it felt like reading two completely unlinked stories. While there are some good plot twists, I found some to be too predictable. But overall I enjoyed it and I look forward to reading more from Claire Allan. (LO)

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What Came First - Carol Snow (2011)

Laura, a hard-working attorney, is a single mother. She is desperate for a sibling for her eight-year-old son, Ian. Wendy and her husband struggled for years to conceive a child. After numerous failed fertility treatments, they finally have twins. But now Wendy is unhappy in a dull marriage with two hellion children. Vanessa lives with her long-time boyfriend Eric. All she wants is a ring and a family, however, Eric has no interest in marriage or children. When Laura starts a search for the sperm donor of her son, these women find their lives woven together. The author wrote a brilliant original story about infertility and the strong desire of women to become mothers. (AO)

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What Do You Do All Day? - Amy Scheibe (2005)

Jennifer Bradley used to work at an auction house but is now a stay-at-home mum who is wondering if this is her lot in life. When her husband, Thom, announces he's off to Singapore on business for three months, things get even more difficult for her.

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Whatever It Takes - Adele Parks (2012)

Hostess with the mostest Eloise leaves London to follow her husband Mark to Dartmouth, where he is to take over his father's solicitor practice. Despite missing the big city and leaving behind her friends, she'll have her mother-in-law Margaret on hand to help with their three daughters. But Margaret is finding it increasingly difficult to get through the day. Meanwhile friend Sara has become so consumed with the need for a baby, that her husband Charlie, a plumber, comes to live with Eloise's family to do up their bathroom. Adele Parks is a master of weaving unpredictable stories about tangled relationships and handles sensitive topics with great aplomb. This story has its slow points throughout but the exceptional ending more than makes up for it.

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What Happens to Men When They Move to Manhattan - Jill Knapp (2014)

Amalia has moved to New York to do a master's degree. She's sharing a nice apartment in West Village with two roommates and has a lovely caring boyfriend in Nicholas. But she is somewhat besotted with fellow classmate Michael. He has a girlfriend, though, and Amalia spends a lot of time trying to convince her best friend Cassie that she's not actually in love with him at all. With relatable characters and an easy writing style, this is a story about a girl trying to map out her future and decide whether she has found the right guy or not. There are no earth-shattering events but this doesn't detract from the book at all, in fact it only reinforces its strength as an authentic reflection of real life for those in their early 20s. Readers who like heroines who show a bit of spirit will embrace the ending, with the promise of more of Amalia's story to come in a future book. The oddest part was the title itself - taken from a brief reference within the story - which didn't truly reflect what you get within the pages at all.

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What I Did for Love - Susan Elizabeth Phillips (2009)

When America's sweetheart Georgina York's husband leaves her for a Hollywood A-lister, the story is splashed across the tabloids. Off to Las Vegas to give her heart a lift with a party, she wakes up in bed with her nemesis: former co-star and off-screen bad boy Bramwell Shepard. Making matters worse: she had almost no memory of the night before, except finding a piece of paper on her pillow and a cheap plastic ring on her hand. So she decides to take advantage of a fake marriage for both their careers. Although one can't help but wonder whether Bram, with his dwindling career, has more to benefit by being associated with do-good Georgie. Don't let the title fool you into thinking this is just a cheesy romance. If you want humour with a tasteful bit of mush, Phillips has mashed up just the right mix of snappy dialogue and cheeky characters for you. (SARI)

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What I Did on My Holidays - Chrissie Manby (2012)

Sophie Sturgeon cannot wait for her summer holiday - a trip to Majorca with boyfriend Callum. But on the eve of their flight, Sophie doesn't hear from Callum until 8 o'clock at night - ruining a romantic dinner she had planned to kick-start their vacation. Instead Callum sends her a text message advising that he is dumping her. Unable to understand what has just happened, Sophie doesn't get on their flight the next morning. And when her sister Clare comes in to water her plants, she hides behind a door frame rather than admit what has happened. But eventually she is forced to come clean - even if it's just to stop her sister trying on her Jimmy Choos. Clare comes up with a plan to pretend that Sophie had gone on that trip to Majorca and that Clare has flown out to her rescue. She desperately needs a break from her fiance Evan. Once Sophie decides to go along with her sister's plan she has no idea what is in store for her. Will she get Callum back or will they get caught out? This is a great book about sisters coming together in their time of need. It's a hilarious tale on how far you are willing to go to get your boyfriend back. (CG)

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What If? - Martina Reilly (2013)

Lily Flynn is suffering from Alzheimer's disease but before she loses her memory completely, she gets out her old diary and fills in the gaps. Five years later, she is admitted into Lakelands Nursing Home, and she requests that the diary be read aloud to her while her daughter Deirdre is present. Lily wants Deirdre to know the details of her life that Lily has kept a secret all these years, and hopes she will understand why she did. Deirdre has her own gardening radio show but when a new producer is brought in she begins to doubt if she is really satisfied with her life. Zoe is the helper who reads the diary, and her own domestic happiness is shattered when she takes a reflective look at her relationship with partner Abe. All three ladies are drawn together once a week for the diary reading, and as Lily's story unfolds it inspires change in all their lives. I liked the idea behind this book, and when looking at things from Lily's present perspective, I think the author captured well how Alzheimer's affects a person's mind. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster throughout this novel, it was at times extremely funny, and others poignant. I enjoyed being taken back in time to Lily's past, and felt a little disappointed every time I was brought back to present day as I was so eager to hear more. Zoe's story was linked in well, and I liked how Lily's diary inspired her to go on a journey of self-discovery. The second half of the book was particularly gripping, and I had to read it all in one sitting as I couldn't bear to leave it down. The only downside was that I had guessed the twist at the end before I reached it, but another great read from Martina Reilly. (LO)

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What If He's The One? - Kathy Jay (2014)

Fashion stylist Magenta finds herself working with TV's hottest vampires, brothers Alex and Nick Wells, on a magazine shoot. The last time she saw Alex, she was doing the walk of shame from his bedside dressed as a sexy Santa. Then he went to LA and never contacted her again. But the chemistry is still there after all these years. Trouble is, Magenta has gone ahead with artificial insemination - believing there is no point hanging around waiting for The One before she starts her family. Publishers, please please please don't put an eye-catching chick lit cover on a run-of-the-mill romance. I'm expecting a story where the female character does stuff - outside her mooning over her love interest. Not much happened in this story that wasn't connected to Alex. Even the donor sperm side plot wasn't particularly convincing. The story has lots of hearts hammering, pulses racing, cheeks blushing and seductive eyes sparkling - you know that sort of thing. So if that is what you love to read about, you may well enjoy this. But for me, this definitely was NOT the one.

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What I Love About You - Rachel Gibson (2014)

High school sweethearts turned husband and wife, Natalie and Michael Cooper, were Truly, Idaho's power couple. When they finally conceived their first child, after years of fertility issues, it was supposed to cement their relationship even further. But Michael had been keeping secrets and walked out on Natalie to start life with a new girlfriend, with fraud charges hanging over his head. With Michael now imprisoned, Natalie and daughter Charlotte are their own dream team and perfectly capable without a man. The last thing Blake Junger, Natalie's new neighbour, wants is the responsibility of a mother and her child, but Charlotte wants to make friends and Blake can't help but appraise her mother. After being so ceremoniously dumped by Michael, Natalie only wants total commitment, whilst Blake knows no other way but no-strings-attached. As a hot contemporary romance, Rachel Gibson hits the right notes. Throw in some cute moments from daughter Charlotte and it's an affirming read about family. However, the story itself is somewhat flat, with no real crisis and little plot development. Both Blake's alcoholism, which is outlined at the start, and Michael's release, which occurs about halfway through, offered interesting points for elaboration and dilemma but neither were really fulfilled. Similarly, the relationship between Natalie and Blake progresses really quickly and everything just seemed too uncomplicated and neat. (JC)

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What Kate Did Next - Lisa Heidke (2010)

Married mother-of-two Kate is realising that somewhere along the way she has put her dreams of being an acclaimed photographer on hold. So when a friend rings with a temporary job offer on a food magazine, Kate decides to plunge back into the working world. As she spends her days dealing with the temperamental creative director Graeme Grafton - a former Cleo Bachelor of the Year, she also has to contend with her 13-year-old daughter Lexi going through a rebellious stage, her sister Robyn ringing up daily claiming she's in labour and her estranged father re-entering her life with a bang. Meanwhile Kate is harbouring fantasies about her son's well-fit soccer coach. Heidke's witty sophomore effort proves she's got the depiction of the domestic battleground down to a fine art. Will be very interested to see what she does next.

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What My Best Friend Did - Lucy Dawson (2009)

Photographer Alice meets kids TV presenter Gretchen on a photo shoot in Los Angeles. Now Alice has a new fun-loving, bubbly friend to hang out with - and she even comes with the added attraction of a cute brother, travel writer Bailey. But Gretchen has a secret which will drag Alice and her boyfriend Tom down. This is one book where it works not to know much about the plot before you begin. It is a real page-turner right from its explosive, dark start. But be warned: if you enjoy stories with a nice epilogue that wraps up all the characters' lives, Dawson seems to be developing a reputation as master of the hanging ending.

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What's New, Pussycat? - Alexandra Potter (2011)

This is the updated version of Alexandra Potter's debut novel, which was first published in 2000. When Delilah's boyfriend Lenny proposes, she realises she doesn't want to spend the rest of her life with him in Yorkshire. Instead, after meeting charismatic TV producer Charlie and throwing in her waitressing job, she packs up her beloved Tom Jones record collection and takes off to London. Delilah (yes, she was named after that Tom Jones song) winds up in Notting Hill, hoping to run into Charlie again and kick-start a completely new life. Instead she meets cafe chef Sam and moves in with his trust fund friend, Vivienne, as you do. Another run-of-the-mill rom-com - possibly would have seemed a bit more unusual back in 2000.

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What Nora Knew - Linda Yellin (2014)

Molly works for online newsmagazine EyeSpy, writing about a whole lot of wacky assignments from aerial yoga to undercover bra fitting. What she really wants is to score her own column. When Molly is asked to write a piece about romance in New York City in the vein of Nora Ephron, this could be her chance to prove herself but she is somewhat lost for words. Divorced from a divorce lawyer, she is now in a "pleasant relationship" with chiropractor Russell. But is he her soul mate - the type of man she'd rush up the Empire State Building to meet, just like the characters in Ephron's Sleepless in Seattle movie? Then Molly meets crime novelist Cameron Duncan; other women can't stop gushing about how great he is but she finds him plain annoying. This is a well-written story with plenty of witty observations and an ending that fittingly pays homage to the rom-com screenwriter.

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What Pretty Girls Are Made Of - Lindsay Jill Roth (2015)

Alison trades in her acting aspirations to become executive assistant for a New York cosmetics queen. Always having had a fascination for make-up, Alison is soon revelling in her new role and taking on more and more responsibilities. She loves her job - if only she didn't have to deal with her diva boss, Sally Steele. As Alison faces frequent tongue lashings and unreasonable demands, she wonders if she can survive the ugly elements of the beauty industry. This has been touted as a Devil Wears Prada for the cosmetics industry, and in Sally Steele, the author delivers on the promise of a ghastly boss. Although the story doesn't delve that deep, it is still an enjoyable and satisfying read.

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What the Nanny Saw - Fiona Neill (2011)

Ali has been the nanny in the Skinner household for a couple of years. Nick and Bryony are a power couple of the London financial world. He is an investment banker with Lehman Brothers while Bryony works magic with her own financial clients. They have four children, twins Hector and Alfie who have such strong bond it worries their mother; teenager Izzy who starts rebelling to gain attention; and university student Jake who spends most of his time wrapped up with his girlfriend. Ali has become so much a part of the furniture that when a scandal breaks involving the family, all eyes are on what she heard and witnessed behind closed doors. This is a dark domestic tale set amid the financial meltdown.

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What's Yours is Mine - Tess Stimson (2010)

aka Who Loves You Best

Grace is the successful sister - happily married to doctor Tom, living in a four-bedroom house with a career as a forensic accountant. Her estranged sister, Susannah, is the problem child - she's been divorced several times, her two sons are in foster care and she has dreadlocks and tattoos. But Grace's life isn't complete - she is devastated to discover that she is never going to have a baby. When their mother Catherine has a stroke, Susannah returns to England from Florida and offers to carry a child for Grace. But can two so different sisters share such a major experience? Stimson's novels keep getting better and better - this one is certain to be one of the top releases of 2010. Written from the viewpoints of the sisters and their mother, it's a gripping tale with lots of twists and turns.

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What the Lady Wants - Jennifer Crusie (1995)

Mitch Peatwick is defeated. The timeline on his bet is coming to an end and he hasn't made the $20,000 he projected. Wallowing in his sadness is where Mae Sullivan finds him. She needs his help, she believes her uncle and guardian has been murdered. Of course, he takes the case, her money will complete his bet and her looks will serve his Maltese Falcon fantasies very well. This case is supposed to be cut and dry, Mae claims that if Mitch finds the uncle's missing journal then it will point towards the murderer. But when Mitch starts the investigation, he realises that Mae left some things out. For example, she's the local big king thug's favourite niece and he would do anything to protect her, and her other living uncle is happy to ruin the life of anybody who crosses him. While Mitch and Mae search for clues they become closer until secrets are revealed about both of them and their partnership changes forever. (SN)

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What Women Want - Fanny Blake (2011)

Bea, Kate and Ellen are women who know what they want, only they realise they can't always get it. Bea wants a man, and to keep her job in publishing. Kate wants her marriage to work and Ellen wants her family to accept her new lover. Only as the three women grapple with what they need, or at least what they think they need, their friendship is put to the test. The novel follows the three women as they learn to adjust to divorce, teenagers and empty nest syndrome. With a few mysteries and secrets to unravel, it's a nice, easy read. (AB)

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What Would Mary Berry Do? - Claire Sandy (2014)

Marie Dunwoody's children have signed her up to make a cake for the school fete. But not just any cake, the show-stopper! And they've just informed her ... on the day of the fete. This might not be so bad if she was Lucy Gray, Stepford wife, model mother and resident Nigella, but Marie's idea of cooking is something mass-produced and ready-made. Her store-bought fondant fancies are definitely a show-stopper, but for all the wrong reasons and once again Lucy Gray is on hand to show her up. So Marie vows to learn to bake and she turns to the authority on the subject - English TV chef Mary Berry. From Victoria sponge to croquembouche, Marie follows Mary's wisdom culminating in another attempt at the show-stopper a year later. The writing in this novel is effortless and enjoyable. The author has both a natural humour and an ability to draw a wide array of different characters convincingly. Although the story centres on Marie, we also see and hear from her twin daughters and their older brother Angus as they cope with their own issues outside of Marie's remit as well as husband Robert. I must admit I did get a bit frustrated with Marie for abandoning her family at times to bake, and her complete ignorance of Angus' lot and the subplot with the twins only reinforced this. But it was refreshing to see a family that stuck together, that didn't fall out and implode at the first sign of change and a husband who supported his wife unerringly. For me, the resolution of Marie and Lucy's relationship felt too premature, Robert's baking too superfluous and the subplot with a rival dentist too contrived but the plot is held together wonderfully by the changing tides of family life, friends and work across the year. This book is bursting with warmth and joy and is a pleasurable way to spend a few hours ... perhaps with a cake (or two!) on hand. (JC)

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What You Don't Know - Lizzie Enfield (2011)

Helen's husband, Alex, has just booked an appointment to have a vasectomy when she interviews new author Graham Parks. Even though he's not half as good looking as her actor husband, Helen, a part-time journalist and mother of two, realises she fancies Graham and so begins their secretive liaisons. Meanwhile she is worried that Alex, who is often away filming his TV show in Manchester, may have a thing for his new sexy co-star, Venetia. With lots of clever observations, this cautionary tales looks at what happens in a long-term marriage when partners are tempted to look elsewhere.

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What You Wish For - Kerry Reichs (2012)

When you want a child, you have a vision of how it will happen. You will meet the perfect partner, get married and have the baby. But what happens when life intervenes and things don't go exactly as planned? Dimple, Maryn and Wyatt all want to be parents. However, the road to parenthood is not as smooth as they were hoping it would be and they soon learn to adjust their idea of what makes a family. Although a bit confusing in the beginning due to the number of characters and intermingled stories introduced all at once, I soon found this book hard to put down. Each character's situation is one real people struggle with every day, which made the book highly relatable. The added uncertainty of how each story would wrap up made for a great read to the very end. (LEK)

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When Good Friends Go Bad - Ellie Campbell (2009)

Jen, Meg, Georgina and Rowan became firm friends at school in the 1980s. But after an escapade went awry, they all went their separate ways. They had one tense reunion 12 years later, when Rowan - the shyest of them all - asked the girls to meet her one night but never showed up. Now in the present day, free-spirited single mum Meg has got back in touch, asking Jen and Georgina for help tracking down Rowan over a 'life or death' matter. Georgina now runs a successful fashion business with her husband, while Jen is in the midst of a divorce. But what ever happened to Rowan? As the three women join forces to find their old friend, all sorts of secrets from the past surface. You'll need to keep your wits about you as the first few chapters swing between the three time periods. But as it develops, the storyline will keep you guessing all the way through to one gripping confrontation.

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When I Fall in Love - Miranda Dickinson (2012)

Eighteen months ago Elsie Maynard made a promise. When an impromptu singing performance leads to her starting a choir, it seems like now is the time to start acting on her talent. With Elsie's confidence growing along with her new choir, she meets Olly Hogarth, a handsome surfer and web designer. But something is holding Elsie back from Olly. As the choir get an offer in Paris that they can't refuse, Elsie realises she has to confront her past to allow her to find her future. If you're looking for a book that will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside, look no further than When I Fall in Love. I immediately warmed to Elsie as she embarked on a new chapter in her life and I felt that I could emphasise with the conflicting thoughts and emotions she had. Whilst she was a typical nice girl, I loved that one character in particular always bought out her mean streak and made her seem just that bit more human. There's also a fabulous supporting cast of colourful characters. It's a definite feel-good read of happy endings and new beginnings. (AB)

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When I Met You - Jemma Forte (2015)

Marianne Baker and her older sister, Hayley, haven't seen their dad since he upped sticks and left them to move to Australia. Or so their mum told them. But one night he suddenly walks back into Marianne's life, explaining what really happened, and it's not an easy pill to swallow. It's time to make amends, but unfortunately Marianne's dad, Ray, doesn't have time on his side. Marianne is desperate to forge a bond with him, but Hayley's not one for quick forgiveness and it's not going to be easy with Marianne's spirited mother against the idea too. She also doesn't want to upset her easy-going stepdad, and then there's the matter of Andy, her holiday fling, who's landed on her doorstep and got his feet firmly under the family table when Marianne can't for the life of her remember what she ever saw in him. And with Ray, keen to know his daughters' lives will be settled, he's not afraid to dish out a few home truths. Once again Jemma Forte has produced an amazing novel, replete with a credible heroine, a larger-than-life cast of characters and a story that is engrossing and honest. There have been a spate of novels about terminal illness in recent times but the success of this one is that it doesn't get bogged down in sentiment. Indeed, although there's never any doubt over where the story is heading, Forte gives it incredible light and shade throughout by making this more than just a novel about illness, and packing it with humour. So whilst the ending is inevitably tear-jerking, Forte doesn't drag this out too long so this is much more than a sentimental, maudlin piece. And it's testament to Forte's skill as a writer that she very much keeps the comedic element alive in the novel. I would have liked to see an epilogue to complete Marianne's story but that aside there's little to dislike about this deceptively wise and powerful novel. (JC)

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When in Rome - Gemma Townley (2004)

Georgie may be happy with her dependable accountant boyfriend David but she still daydreams about bumping into her cad of an ex, Mike, looking gorgeous while on the arm of Brad Pitt. The record company exec was last seen leaving her two years ago, on the arm of an unidentified skinny blonde. Then one day, unfortunately while bedraggled and carrying a curtain rod, Georgie does bump into Mike, and he begins wooing her. When he invites her away for a weekend getaway to Rome, Georgie is torn - this is where David always planned to take her for an Audrey Hepburn-inspired Roman Holiday. But since he never has, Georgie decides to go with Mike - even though David has warned her to keep away from him. But things get complicated when she spies David at the airport and Mike is too caught up in his business dealings to see the sights.

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When In Doubt, Add Butter - Beth Harbison (2012)

Gemma is 37, single and a private chef. She seems like she has everything she wants, with a busy schedule making people happy with her food. However, fate has other things in mind. With a client list that holds everyone from a gay man who believes in her talents to a woman who is hell-bent on making her life a living hell, there's no room for dating or marriage or, even children. One quick hook-up later and Gemma's life is turned upside-down. She really enjoyed the company of this man, yet she doesn't know who he is, not even his name. Intent on finding him, but wondering if fate has other things in mind, Gemma will soon realise what she really wants out of her life and may realise that love is a lot closer than she ever believed. This is an excellent story with an easy-going main character and lots of charm. It is slightly predictable in parts but at the same time it unfolds well and the ending is better than expected. Definitely one to check out as Beth Harbinson is a master story-teller. (AS)

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When It Happens to You - Molly Ringwald (2012)

Told as a series of short stories that interlink, this is an engrossing, exquisitely written fiction debut from the actress, best known for her roles in 80s Brat Pack movies such as The Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink. From a woman who finds out her husband is cheating; to a grandmother who is desperate to save her drug-addicted grandson; to a mother dealing with her young son's desire to dress like a girl; and a mourning wife befriending a young girl - the emotional stories adeptly display the author's observations about ordinary people's lives and offer poignant insights into each character's motivations. Working out the thread of how characters from one story relate to those of another is half the fun. I certainly hope Ringwald has many more books to come.

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When Sparrows Fall - Meg Moseley (2011)

Miranda Hanford, a widow and mother to six children, has been living in fear that her children will be taken off her by social services. When the pastor of her church, Mason, faces allegations, he insists that God is calling him to move their church to another State and he persuades his flock to follow him like sheep. Miranda, though, has no intention of moving until Mason threatens to expose her secrets. Fate intervenes with Miranda finds herself in hospital after an accident and turns to the one person she can count on - her husband's half-brother Jack Hanford. When Jack arrives, it seems that the overly sheltered Hanford household is about to be turned upside down as his ways and viewpoints are the complete opposite of Miranda - he introduces the kids to Frosted Flakes, Dr Seuss and jeans. When Miranda recovers enough to return home, she begins questioning her religious views - can she finally break free? (PP)

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When the Boys are Away - Sarah Webb (2007)

Meg Miller has returned to Dublin with her two children, Dan and Lily, after becoming fed up with trailing around the globe after her partner Simon, a professional sailor. But life is far from smooth sailing at home, what with the home renovations, annoying in-laws and her own infuriating family. So Meg teams up with her neighbour Tina, whose banker husband works in London all week, and finds that sometimes life is easier without the men around. But as a secret from Simon's past is revealed, will Meg jump overboard?

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When You Walked Back Into My Life - Hilary Boyd (2013)

After eight years together, Flora's boyfriend Fin suddenly leaves without explanation or goodbye and Flora is forced to move on. Now her days are filled with her job, looking after the elderly Dorothea. But just as suddenly as he left, Fin returns with new promises for Flora. And despite her sister's reluctance and her own concerns, Flora still has feelings for Fin and decides to make a second go of it. She just hopes this time he sticks around. With this her third book, Hilary Boyd is fast proving to be a really talented and unique writer. As well as the drama of Flora and Fin's relationship, the book also touches on care of the elderly and abuse. Although I would have liked more from this subplot, it was refreshing for the novel to explore this difficult subject matter and Boyd's novels always offer something challenging and different. Whilst Boyd continues to write a more mature novel and characters, this book felt younger than her two previous books and I think would appeal across a wider age group. Perhaps a nice place to start for anyone new to Hilary Boyd and Boyd is certainly an author that's worth a read. (JC)

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When You Were Mine - Elizabeth Noble (2011)

Susannah is 40, divorced, childless and has been dating a closed-off man named Doug for more than eight years. She is helping Amelia - her smart-mouthed, brazen best friend since high school - through chemotherapy. You could say her days are full of tasks and void of fun. Susannah's life takes an interesting turn when she runs into Rob - her first love - at her brother's wedding, and he isn't wearing a wedding band. Things get complicated when they decide to become friends again, even though Susannah can't help but fantasise about him and reminisce about their good times. For the first time in her life, Susannah has some hard choices to make alone. Not your average chick lit, this book had many well-fleshed-out characters and a surprise ending. I liked the book but not the constant change in storytelling perspective, which came choppily and without warning. (AV)

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When We Fall - Emily Liebert (2014)

More than a decade after her husband's death, Allison moves back to her hometown with her son, having her family nearby is great and the change of pace from the hustle in New York City is welcomed. She's making new friends with some of the mums at her son Logan's new school and it seems that Allison and Charlotte will be good friends. On the outside, Charlotte seems to have it all - a husband, a daughter, financial security but inside she feels as if her life is falling apart. Charlotte's husband happens to be her deceased husband's best friend and it all seems to be falling into place for Allison, even with the cute guy at the bistro. I found this book to be emotionally challenging to read, and there were characters that although I did empathise with their plight, how dense could they be? I was sad for Allison but thought she was irritatingly naive, could she not as a friend see what it would have been like for her if the shoe was on the other foot? I rooted for Charlotte the most, it seemed that almost everyone preyed on her insecurities, and she just wanted a friend who did not need or expect anything from her. I liked this author's ability to expose the emotions that surface when dealing with some of life's tragedies, but also how animosity can appear when there is no balance in friendship and family. (KARM)

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When We Were Friends - Elizabeth Joy Arnold (2011)

Growing up Lainey and Sydney were the best of friends. They did everything together until they reached 16 and Sydney chose to climb the popularity chain leaving Lainey behind. Fast forward 18 years and Lainey is now an artist living at home caring for her mother. When Lainey gets asked to paint a mural at the local occult store Six of Swords, the last person she expects to run into is Sydney. Sydney, now a mother of a young daughter Jacqueline, is in the midst of a nasty divorce from her abusive husband David. She later turns up at Lainey's door hurt and begs her to look after Jacqueline. And when Lainey turns on the news that night, on screen is none other than Sydney with her husband proclaiming that Jacqueline has been kidnapped. Lainey, not having anyone to turn to, changes the girl's name to Molly and goes on the run, meeting Alex, a good Samaritan with secrets of his own. Can Lainey live her new life and protect Molly or when the going gets tough, will she have to return her to Sydney? This is a fast-paced novel about trust and deception that will keep you entranced as it debates what lengths you should go to for a friend. (PP)

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Where'd You Go, Bernadette - Maria Semple (2012)

This is the story that daughter Bee pieces together of what leads to her mother Bernadette's disappearance. Bernadette is an award-winning architect who buys a ramshackled big house in Seattle when her husband Elgie goes to work for Microsoft. He becomes a star and money is no object but the house remains a leaking wreck. Bee is a highly capable student and much loved at her school but her standoffish mother doesn't endear herself to the other parents. She even uses a virtual assistant in India to help organise her life. Bernadette is reluctant to go on a family cruise to Antarctica where she will have to deal with seasickness and people in close quarters but she has promised Bee. So what happens to Bernadette that makes her disappear without telling her beloved daughter where she's gone? Bernadette is indeed a quirky character, with loads of layers that are peeled back during the story. Her skirmishes with the school mums, including the conniving Audrey with the blackberry problem, are very funny. Told from Bee's viewpoint, with a series of emails and letters included from various characters, the first three-quarters of the book was far more enjoyable - I think I must have missed Bernadette once she disappeared.

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Where Love Lies - Julie Cohen (2014)

Felicity Bloom leads a good life together with her husband Quinn, who loves her to the moon and back and is willing to do whatever it takes to make Felicity happy. Together they live in a beautiful cottage in a small town, close to Quinn's family, and they've settled in very nicely. Then one day Felicity starts to smell the sweet flowery scent of frangipani in the air, a smell that immediately brings back memories of her ex-boyfriend and first love, Ewan. Felicity starts to smell the distinctive scent more and more often and it is somehow combined with deep feelings of love. But love for whom - Quinn or Ewan? Felicity finds herself starting to doubt everything in her life and she knows she will have to take a step back into the past to discover what it is she is feeling. Where Love Lies is a unique story and I can honestly say I've never read anything quite like it before. The book deals with some serious and fascinating topics and Julie Cohen's writing is simply wonderful; so captivating and descriptive, easily bringing the story to life with her writing style. I was intrigued by mainly Felicity's character from the first few pages and was really curious to see what would happen to her and how things would eventually work out for her and Quinn. While reading, I had mixed feelings when it came to Felicity. One moment I really felt for her and kept my fingers crossed for a happy ending for her, but at other times she made me quite angry with the decisions she made. Quinn is a wonderful husband and I think many female readers will develop a little crush on him, just like I did. I really cared about the two of them as a couple and I can't even start to imagine what it would be like if something like this would happen to someone I love. Once again, Julie Cohen has managed to treat us to a thought-provoking, original and heart-wrenching read that definitely made an impact. (JoH)

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Where Rainbows End - Cecelia Ahern (2004)

Also known as Rosie Dunne

Rosie Dunne and Alex Stewart have been friends since childhood. Just as they are reaching their final year at school, they are separated when Alex's family moves from Dublin to America. Rosie finds she's lost without him and applies to go to college in Boston so they can be reunited. Except on the eve of her departure, something happens that changes her life forever. Through marriages, divorces and work trials, Rosie and Alex are there for each other. But are they meant to be more than just good friends? One of my all-time favourite books.

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Where the Love Gets In - Tara Heavey (2010)

Actress Sarah heads to an Irish coastal town, wanting her autistic seven-year-old daughter Maia to get up close with the dolphins. She believes that the sea creatures will help unlock whatever has kept Maia silent until now. As they head out daily to spot dolphin Star with fisherman Aidan, who runs dolphin tours in his trawler, Sarah finds she is falling for him. Her guilt compounds when his wife Fiona, a doctor, tries to befriend her. But soon all her worries are focused on a fight to protect her daughter's future. This book may not jump off the shelf at you but the story about a love triangle is particularly heart-wrenching and is well worth your attention. It totally exceeded all expectations.

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Where We Belong - Emily Giffin (2012)

Marian Caldwell has the perfect life. She is an executive producer for a hit television show in New York and she has the perfect boyfriend in Peter. Everything is going great except she is ready to get married and have kids but Peter is questioning getting married again after he has just divorced. One night Marian opens her door to find 18-year-old Kirby who has always wondered who her real mother is. Marian had never told a soul that she had given her baby up for adoption when she was a teenager. So now both of them have to get to know one other, while Marian has to deal with telling everyone she has a child. This is a heart-wrenching story on adoption and decisions that have to be made at a young age. (CG)

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Where We Belong - Catherine Ryan Hyde (2013)

Angie is a fourteen-year-old girl who lives with her mum and her younger sister Sophie, who has a specific form of autism. Angie's mum is not the typical mothering type, and the three of them often find themselves without a home or a place to go to. When they move in with their Aunt Vi, something unexpected happens when Sophie develops a friendship with Rigby, the dog of Paul, the isolated and slightly grumpy neighbour. But then Paul decides to move away to the mountains for personal reasons, and Angie realises their life will go back to the way it was. Angie's mum is not ready to give up so easily and decides to follow Paul and Rigby, so Sophie can continue to be with the dog. Angie develops a close friendship with Paul, but will this time everything work out the way she wants, for both herself and her family, even when she decides to risk everything? This book managed to exceed all my expectations. The novel includes a cast of fascinating characters, such as teenager Angie who is trying to find her place in the world, her little sister Sophie who has autism and develops a simply wonderful relationship with Rigby the dog, and Paul, the neighbour who doesn't want to let anyone into his life but doesn't have a choice but to let both Sophie and Angie in. I quickly warmed to Angie, the main protagonist of the story; she's really grown-up for a 14-year-old and the role reversal between her and her mother was interesting to read, but heart-breaking at the same time. Next to the great character development, the story is written in a comfortable pace and the author has her own distinctive voice. Where We Belong is a novel about family, friendship and discovering yourself; touching, well-written and hopeful. (JoH)

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While I'm Falling - Laura Moriarty (2009)

Veronica, a pre-med student at the University of Kansas, is struggling to find a balance in her disorientated life. She is juggling the stresses of her failing studies, her dorm assistant job and her parents' messy divorce. Then Veronica lands herself in a spiral of unfortunate events and bad decisions, including a terrible car accident, and her mother Natalie only adds to her problems. Realistically written from different perspectives of the family, it delves deeper into the complexity of the relationship between the characters and their hopes and fears in life, and how they resolve their conflicts and misunderstandings. However, the tone for the entire story was too melancholy and it became a little dry near the end. But overall, it was a compelling and deep read. (XT)

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While We Were Watching Downton Abbey - Wendy Wax (2013)

Claire Walker, Brooke MacKenzie, and Samantha Davis couldn't be more different from one another. It seems the only thing they have in common when they first meet is their address, an historic apartment building in Atlanta named the Alexander. When the concierge of their building, Edward Parker, orchestrates weekly screenings of Downton Abbey for the residents of the building, Claire, Brooke and Samantha discover that despite their different lifestyles and backgrounds, their love of the British drama brings them together every week and ignites a surprising friendship for all of them. Wendy Wax again creates likable, strong female characters dealing with everyday issues most of us can relate to. The story of their friendship reminds us just how important it is to have trustworthy, loyal allies in our corner for the times we need them the most. Pairing the story with the popularity of Downton Abbey was nothing short of brilliant. (LEK)

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Whistlin' Dixie in a Nor'easter - Lisa Patton (2009)

Southern belle Leelee Satterfield would do anything for her husband, Baker, the love of her life. Anything, it seems, including reluctantly leaving her life in Memphis and moving to Vermont so he can pursue his dream of running the Vermont Haus Inn. Leelee knows the move will mean complete culture shock but nothing can prepare her for the long winters, mud season, and the cast of characters that comes with life in Vermont. When Baker abruptly leaves her for another woman, Leelee must make a decision - return with her daughters to Memphis or try to make a go of running the inn on her own. With a little help from friends, old and new, and a lot of humour, Leelee learns just what she is made of. This is a humorous, fish-out-of-water tale that will have you rooting for the underdog. From the minute I started reading, Leelee's Tennessee twang and gumption came through loud and clear. (LEK)

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White Girl Problems - Babe Walker (2012)

White Girl Problems may sound like it has a lot of promise but reader beware you're either going to love or hate the rich, overly obnoxious Babe Walker. The book starts out good, talking about Babe in rehab for going on a spending spree at Barney's. Then she begins to chronicle her life and all of her "problems". Everything from the time she lost her virginity (to her gay best friend) to the time she tried to get a job but got bored is told in a witty way. However, there are some parts that readers might find offensive. For example, Babe feels that her woman parts don't look right and she needs to get them fixed ASAP. In this section, she compares her odd-looking vagina to a child with Down Syndrome, which just didn't sit well with me, personally. Instead of being funny, it came of as offensive and stupid. Other than that, Babe is just ridiculous and pretentious, not offensive. So, if you don't mind a bit of dark humour, you'll probably enjoy this book, but if you're looking for a funny, light read you might want to give this one a pass. After all, there are enough of these real socialite types on TV to last a lifetime, who needs to read about one too? (AS)

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White Wedding - Milly Johnson (2012)

Three brides-to-be meet at the White Wedding bridal shop, run by Freya. Bel, the heiress to a chocolate company, is planning her wedding to Richard. But she's not letting anyone else help her and it seems she has her reasons for keeping all the arrangements under her control. Driven career woman Max, who has been with Stuart since they were teenagers, was only going to have a quick registry wedding. But as the day approaches, she gets hooked watching the gypsy brides on TV and starts planning her own big fat wedding, without telling her fiance. Violet is just going through the motions with her wedding to the overly attentive Glyn and instead pours her passion into her new ice-cream parlour. These characters and the heartwarming storyline, with its mix of humour and sadness, will draw you in immediately. It's the author's best book since her first. And watch out for the connection to the next character, Eve, from A Winter Flame.

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Who Do I Talk To? - Neta Jackson (2009)

Gabrielle Fairbanks knew that after the phone call she had left at her husband's work, she would have pushed his buttons. But she didn't realise exactly how upset her husband was with her. Coming home, she is faced with the reality of becoming homeless as her husband has changed the locks on their house, cancelled her credit cards and up and left with her two sons. Now Gabrielle, her elderly mother and their dog Dandy are living in Manna House - a homeless shelter where Gabrielle has worked for the past two months. Can Gabrielle regain her confidence and with the assistance of her boss Mabel and Legal Aid lawyer Lee get back what she has lost? Another book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series, this is a story about the value of friendship and family. In the last place she ever imagined she'd be, Gabby will discover what she's made of. (PP)

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Who Do You Love - Jennifer Weiner (2015)

Rachel and Andy meet in hospital as eight-year-old kids - she's a regular patient with her heart defect, while he's come into the ER department alone with a broken arm. Several years later, as teenagers they are thrown into contact with one another again and the differences in their lives couldn't be more apparent. Rachel lives a comfortable college-bound existence in Florida with her parents, while Andy and his single mum scrape by in Philadelphia. Running is his passion and his way of escaping the feeling that he never fits in because he is biracial. I loved every second of this story. It again demonstrates what a masterful storyteller Weiner is, as we follow Rachel and Andy over three decades, seeing what brings them together and what drives them apart.

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Who Gets Fluffy? - Judith Summers (2008)

It's not such a festive occasion when personal shopper Annie Curtis discovers on Christmas Day that husband Mark has been cheating on her again. As the main breadwinner, she is more than happy to offer him a very generous, amicable divorce settlement - until he demands custody of her pooch Fluffy. Flashbacks reveal how both boys came into Annie's life - she rescued the mongrel from a homeless man and then hired Mark to be her dog-walker. A hilarious, cleverly written and heart-warming tale about the lengths people will go for their furry best friend.

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Who Is My Shelter? - Neta Jackson (2011)

In this fourth book in the Yada Yada House of Hope series, Gabrielle Fairbanks' life has been a series of ups and downs since her husband, Philip, kicked her out of her home, cut all her finances and left her virtually poor. Now working her way up through the chain at Manna House, it seems Gabrielle's life is looking up for a change. Her work has had a dedication towards for a lovely mural, she is attending church regularly and has a good steady relationship with legal aid lawyer Lee. So when her ex-husband Philip is beaten up by thugs due to gambling debts and more, why does Neta feel guilty? For the sake of her sons, should she sacrifice what she has worked so hard for and go back to Philip or will she suddenly realise that she has an awesome thing going with Lee? This novel shows readers that when all else has failed, no matter what a family member has done to hurt you, blood is thicker than water. (PP)

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Who Killed Tom Jones? - Gale Martin (2014)

Ellie Overton, a secretary at a rest home, is obsessed with Tom Jones. When she attends a festival of Tom Jones impersonators and catches up with an old friend who happens to be married to one, hilarity and mystery ensues. With the help of some of the residents at the aged care home, Ellie sets out to find Mr Right ... and the murderer. Gale Martin's novel is a pure delight - it's a hilarious romantic comedy/murder mystery with a lot of twists and turns in every chapter. It will definitely keep you guessing and cheering! (JP)

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Who's Afraid of Mr Wolfe? - Hazel Osmond (2011)

Advertising copywriter Ellie gets a new boss in Jack Wolfe, who every woman in the office has an instant crush on despite his brooding nature. Recognising her under-utilised talents, Jack urges Ellie to smarten up her act - and appearance. But he has a rule about not seeing anyone from the office and so has to fight his attraction to Ellie. And that pretty much sums up the storyline, apart from singing knickers and Ellie's heart-warming relationship with her eccentric, life-embracing great-aunt Edith. It may sound as if there is not much to the story but even over nearly 500 pages, this light-hearted, entertaining read keeps your interest throughout. And just when you think Jack is the most despicable love interest of all time - he makes Heathcliff seem warm and fuzzy - you begin to hope that he will redeem himself. I certainly won't be afraid to pick up the next book from this promising debut author (who is an advertising copywriter).

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Whose Life Is It Anyway? - Sinead Moriarty (2008)

aka Keeping It In The Family

Niamh (pronounced Neev) O'Flaherty grew up in a proud Irish household in London - where the garden gnomes are leprechauns, the doorbell rings out Danny Boy and Irish dancing lessons are compulsory. When she becomes the first family member to get into university, she goes to Dublin where it was hoped she'd meet a nice Irish lad. So when she falls for Pierre, she knows her family are not going to be happy. Not only is he older, French, non-Catholic - he's also black. And Pierre, a professor, knows that his own cultured parents will need a bit of time to get used to his tabloid columnist girlfriend, especially since they're going to get married immediately and head to Vancouver for his job. With hilarious flashbacks to Niamh's childhood with her larger-than-life family members, it won't be just Irish eyes that'll be smiling.

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Whose Wedding Is It Anyway? - Melissa Senate (2004)

Eloise Manfred is offered a $100,000 wedding in exchange for featuring in a bridal magazine. With her mother dead and her father's whereabouts unknown, she accepts the offer to be the Modern Bride. But when faced with a Bird Bird gown, a vegan menu and a Leap Year wedding date, Eloise soon learns there's no such thing as a free wedding.

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Who's That Girl? - Alexandra Potter (2009)

Imagine if you could meet your younger self - what advice would you give her? That's exactly what happens to 31-year-old Charlotte Merryweather. Charlotte has come a long way over the past 10 years - she runs her own PR company, wears great clothes; is about to enter the property market with boyfriend Miles; and religiously follows all sorts of dietary advice. When Charlotte spots her 21-year-old self driving her VW Beetle around town, she follows herself and meets up with Lottie - a girl still dreaming of being a writer, who lives in a slobby apartment, parties hard - and worse smokes, suntans and wears PVC trousers. As Charlotte tries to stop her younger self from making all sorts of mistakes, such as having a one-night stand with rock singer Billy Romani, it seems Lottie has some advice that the 30-something should heed.

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Why Can't I Be You - Allie Larkin (2013)

Jenny Shaw is suddenly dumped by her long-term boyfriend on the way to the airport. She arrives in Seattle for her business conference devastated. When Myra sees Jenny in a hotel lobby, she mistakens her for Jessie Morgan, a woman she bears a resemblance to. To escape her pain, Jenny on a whim goes along with pretending to be Jessie Morgan. She is suddenly surrounded by Myra and her high school friends, who all believe Jenny is Jessie, the former ringleader of their high school clique. Jenny finds herself falling in love with her fake life and new friends. Only when a secret from Jessie's past surfaces, does Jenny's lies start to catch up with her. While the premise of this book is completely unrealistic, the author made it a fun and entertaining read. (AO)

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Why Not? - Shari Low (2002)

When political researcher Jess is propositioned by her Conservative MP boss Basil Asquith, she's got no better offers on the table and so launches into a secret affair with him. But he continues to drag his feet about leaving his wife. So along comes boyfriend no. 2, journalist Mike Chapman, who caused a media scandal when he outed the MP's extra-curricular activities. But when Mike leaves her pregnant and alone, Jess - together with her loyal band of girlfriends - sets about wreaking revenge on the pair of them.

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Wicked Ambition - Victoria Fox (2013)

Robin, Turquoise and Kristin are all famous - although some profess to be more famous than the others. The novel tells the story of the drama that comes with their fame and the ties that connect them. Victoria Fox does well in keeping the reader guessing, and doesn't make the ties too obvious. The novel is full of sex scenes which are graphic without being cringeworthy. Overall this is a good read centred around the celebrity lifestyle. It's one to pack in the suitcase to read lying by the pool with a cocktail and some oversized sunglasses. (SG)

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Wicked Games - Sasha Wagstaff (2010)

Judd Harrington has returned from America to ruin a long-time rival, recording company chief Lochlin Maguire. Moving into a manor house across the valley, he starts a recording company and one of his first ploys is to steal Lochlin's clients, including his yet-unsigned daughter Iris, an amazingly beautiful and talented singer. Iris takes up his offer of training with a top singing teacher in LA, unaware Judd's also lined up his racing driver son, Ace, to break her heart. Meanwhile as he appoints his mistress Darcy to toy with Shay, the Maguire heir-apparent, his own chip-off-the-old-block Sebastian is too busy having an affair to keep his mind on the job and an old fling comes back to haunt him. This is an absolutely riveting bonkbuster of a story that would have been even better without some of the ridiculous and totally implausible plot developments. But if you're after a truly vile villain and feuding families from the Shakespearean/Dynasty mould - this is particularly wicked.

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Wicked Wives - Anna-Lou Weatherley (2013)

In the prologue the scene is set - on a luxury yacht in a breaktaking location, someone is out to get their revenge on Tom Black. As the story returns to the recent past, Tom is exposed as a playboy who makes enemies nearly every step he takes as he gambles with other people's lives and livelihoods. The women he crosses include dance teacher Ellie, who can't forget Tom despite not having seen him for years; money-grabber Loretta who has an interesting merger proposal for the debt-ridden gambler; and bestselling author Victoria who is desperate to have a baby. This is a pacy and racy read, which will leave readers wondering which of the characters will be left holding the loaded gun. Despite relying on a sudden death as a plot ploy once too often, it seems Weatherley may be emerging as a contender for the bonkbuster queen crown.

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Wife Goes On - Leslie Lehr (2008)

It's time for Diane to move on - she's packing up her family home after breaking up with her gambling husband, Steve. Her home is bought by icy divorce lawyer Annette, who was married to a gay artist. Homecoming queen Bonnie went the white picket fence route when she married her high school sweetheart and football star Buck. Now in her early 20s and with two young kids, he's become an unbearable bully. The women are all brought together at a furniture shop where Lana works. She is a former actress who disappeared from the spotlight when she left her leading man Lucas after his on-set affair. The four women are all members of the divorce club - ready to face life happier ever after.

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Wife in the Fast Lane - Karen Quinn (2006)

Former Olympic runner Christy Hayes has built up her Baby G sports shoe label into a multi-million-dollar company. But her business partner, Katherine, leaks some negative stories about Christy and the company to the media and forces the board into making her CEO. So Christy decides to throw herself into being a wife and mother, with the new motto 'Marriage, children, career - pick two.' She falls for successful businessman Michael Drummond, who comes with a ready-made daughter, Ali. And so Christy enters the cruel competitive world of the yummy mummy mafia at Colby Girls' School.

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Wife Living Dangerously - Debra Kent (2006)

Despite working for a sex research institute, Julia Flanagan has always played by the rules and put her family first, so her best friends dare her to live a little dangerously. But did they ever expect her to take up with Evan, a university poetry tutor; try to uncover whether husband Michael is having an affair with his band's singer; and worse yet - lie to her family that their pet rat is actually a dwarf Norwegian flat-coated guinea pig?

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Wife 22 - Melanie Gideon (2012)

Alice Buckle fears she has become more roommates than lovers with her husband William when she agrees to do an anonymous online survey about their 20-year marriage. The survey delves into how they met - he was her boss and was dating another colleague; his irritations - pee on the bathroom floor and jeans inside-out in the laundry basket; and the effects of parenthood - she fears her daughter Hannah has an eating disorder and thinks son Peter is gay. And soon the self-deprecating Wife 22 - as she is known - finds it easier opening up to a stranger - her Researcher 101 - than communicating with her own husband. This takes an unusual writing format, including survey answers (the questions are at the back of the book); Google searches, Facebook updates and play scripts of events. My only disappointment was working out less than halfway through the reference that gives away the ending. But this is still a terrific book, with a protagonist you'll feel like friending on Facebook. A very promising debut.

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Wild Things - Jo Carnegie (2010)

In this third book in the series centred around the residents of Churchminster, matriarch Clementine is delighted to discover the village has been nominated as a finalist in Britain's Best Village contest. But she's less-than-delighted to find they're up against her smug arch-enemy Veronica, from Maplethorpe. As Clementine forms a garden party committee to ensure the village is looking its best (particularly as it's still recovering from a devastating flood), the village becomes the set for a Hollywood historical romance film. As her granddaughter Calypso is swept away by the charms of leading man Rafe, Camilla finds that her boyfriend Jed is acting out of character. Can the village triumph, particularly as vandals seem intent on wreaking havoc on the village? This falls a bit flat through the middle but all loose ends are suitably resolved by the end - some unexpectedly, others predictably. Perhaps not the wildest read of your life but may be just your thing if you want to indulge in an escapist story.

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Will You Remember Me? - Amanda Prowse (2014)

Poppy Day is a 32-year-old mother who is happily married to her husband Martin, who works in the army, and together they have two lovely children, Peg and Max. As a family, they have been through quite a lot and Poppy is incredibly happy to have Martin back home, safe and sound, for the time being. However, while Poppy is busy taking care of the kids and making sure Martin enjoys his time back at home, she forgets to take good care of herself and suddenly finds a lump growing on her breast. Their comfortable and familiar family life is suddenly turned upside down. Everyone knows that if there is one person strong enough to beat cancer it has to be Poppy, but what if the disease just doesn't want to be beaten? Poppy first appeared in Prowse's Poppy Day, a book which I had not read before starting Will You Remember Me? Even though I did occasionally wonder about things that had happened to the group of characters in the past, you can definitely read this book as a stand-alone. Prowse is an amazing author and she really touched me with her writing. The emotions in this book are so raw and realistic and I think every reader will be able to imagine themselves in a situation like the one Poppy and her family find themselves in and imagine how horrible it would be. There's a simply wonderful cast of warm and easily loveable characters at the core of this book. Poppy and Martin make such an amazing couple and their two children are the cutest. I felt like a part of their little family and I don't think anyone would be able to read this novel without caring for and warming to these characters. This is a simply heartbreaking, well-written and incredibly emotional read; a book I definitely recommend, but make sure you have a box of tissues handy! (JoH)

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Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow? - Claudia Carroll (2011)

Annie lives in a rural town in Ireland with her husband, Dan. The two of them have been together since they were 15 but lately things have changed. Annie feels unappreciated by Dan and his family as well. He's always too busy with his work as a veterinarian to spend any time with her and she is always expected to understand that his work is important as the only vet in the village. So when a chance comes up for Annie to fulfil her acting dreams and appear on Broadway in New York, she jumps at it, even though it would mean one full year away from her husband. While leaving Dan is hard, she knows it is the right thing to do - and it's not like he'll miss her since he barely even notices she's there most of the time. The only promise they make to each other is to meet one year later in Rockefeller Centre in New York. But is it too late for their marriage to be saved or will time apart make them realise what they have is special? This is an entertaining and wonderful story about the value of true love. (AS)

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Wing Girl - Nic Tatano (2013)

As an investigative TV reporter, Belinda is known for her no-holds-barred approach which leaves corrupt politicians quivering in her wake. But she certainly isn't known for her social charms. So much so that any man approaching her is usually quickly turned off by her prickly attitude and lack of feminine appeal. So her closest girl friends band together for an intervention, in which Belinda is made over and instructed in dating etiquette. When she re-emerges as a totally hot news babe, her tip line runs hot with viewers asking about her hair and clothes. So she has to prove to everyone she still has the credentials to break great stories, like the possible cooking the books at the council office. It seems Belinda's new look has arrived just in time for a romance with Scott, a charming guy she met volunteering at the cat haven. So why does one of her friends keep trying to set her up with her annoying cousin, Vincent? This is a fantastic, fun story. Forget for a minute that seasoned investigative reporters don't blab about their inquiries to guys they've just met, that the wing girl angle really isn't explored at all and you know from the word go who the bad guy is and what he's up to. Nic Tatano has done an admirable job immersing himself into a females world (despite the fact no woman would refer to another's 'rack'). The heroine is sassy, the dialogue is razor-sharp and the romance is sweet. Well worth a read.

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Winter Wonderland - Belinda Jones (2012)

Krista travels to Quebec to cover the Winter Festival for her travel company Va-Va-Vacation! Mending a broken heart, Krista gets more than she bargains for, from romantic rolls in the ice with a sexy photographer to run-ins with the mysterious wolfman Jacques. Whilst Krista tries to save Jacques, she soon realises that he could be the key to saving her. This has fabulously vivid descriptions that transport you to a magical winter destination. It will leave you searching for snow boots as you'll want to visit Quebec. It's a nicely written love story with a few twists and turns along the way, but the real treat in this book is the armchair vacation that you'll take. Perfect winter reading when you're all tucked up warm inside! (AB)

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Wishes and Stitches - Rachael Herron (2011)

This is the third novel in the Cypress Hollow series. Naomi Fontaine has always dreamed of practising medicine in a small town. Her former patient, knitting guru Eliza Carpenter, convinced her to move to Cypress Hollow to follow her dream. However, no matter how hard Naomi tries, she can't seem to fit into the close-knit town. Her patients view her as a rather cold, yet competent doctor. When Rig Keller, a former doctor for oil rigs, takes over half of Naomi's practice, he is immediately welcomed with open arms into the community. Rig has witnessed his father and brother suffer excruciating pain after the loss of their spouses. He has no interest in ever loving someone that much. Naomi has closed her heart to love. Her work is her life and she has no intentions of getting involved with her new partner. As Rig and Naomi work together, their hearts begin to get the best of them. The characters from previous novels make appearances throughout the book. And there is a bonus pattern for a beautiful knitting shawl at the end of the novel. (AO)

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Wishful Thinking - Melissa Hill (2005)

Three women are facing some personal trials - and somehow are connected through a fatal train crash in Dublin. Widow Rosie finds her two grown-up children are taking advantage of her. Daughter Sophie only seems to want her around to support her ridiculous mortgage, while son David's marriage has broken up so he wants to move back home. Lawyer Dara has just recently married a sweet man called Mark but knows her heart really belongs to the one that got away, Noah. And Louise is drowning in debt but is under pressure from her friends to maintain her expensive social life. She's hoping a looming court case will help her clear her debts. With Hill's trademark twists, some slowly revealed connections between the characters and the story building towards the train crash climax, it'll be wishful thinking for you to think you can put this book down before you reach the end.

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Wishful Thinking - Kamy Wicoff (2015)

Jennifer is a busy working mother who often wishes she could be in two places at once. She wants to spend time with her sons Julien and Jack, as well as bring to fruition her ambitious plan for a new type of community centre for disadvantaged New Yorkers. When she loses her phone, a physicist neighbour places an app called Wishful Thinking on it, which allows Jennifer to time-travel so she can do a full day at work plus spend quality time after school with her kids. What could possibly go wrong? This is a totally absorbing debut novel, with plenty to keep you fully engaged in the story. With enough explanation to satisfy the non-scientific reader, and a poignant message about burning the candles at both ends, this is a thought-provoking book that is well worth tearing yourself away from your own hectic life for.

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Wish Upon A Star - Sarah Morgan (2011)

This contains two stories both set in the Lakes District. The first is Christy and Alessandro's tale. A few months earlier, Christy was fed up and decided to up and leave with her children to stay with her brother Pete in London. Expecting husband Alessandro to come chasing her, she stayed but alas he never came. Angry, she thinks he doesn't want to save their marriage but when her two children Kate and Ben want to go home for Christmas, Christy tags along. Kate and Ben have only one wish - to get their parents back together. The second story is about Miranda and Jake. Jake has always been seen as a ladies man, with a different girl each week. But he has only ever loved one women - Christy, the wife of his best friend Alessandro. One day when working with the mountain rescue team he comes across Miranda who has slipped during a climb. Jake feels an instant connection with her, but unfortunately every time he tries to get close, Miranda pushes him away. For a relationship to work, one must rely on complete honesty but can the pair of them face what's holding them back in order to move on? When Miranda can't hide her dark secret anymore about her past relationship history, will Jake stand by her and prove to her that their connection is unbreakable or will he too be running for the mountains? Wish upon a Star is all about second chances, relationship do's and don'ts and the Christmas spirit. (PP)

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Wish Upon a Star - Tina Reilly (2006)

Lucy's seven-year-old daughter, Fainne, wants to meet her father. But Lucy never told her college boyfriend Jason that she was pregnant and she doesn't even know where he is. Despite her promise to her daughter to track down Jason, best friends Maddie and Gray think no good can come from Lucy delving into her past. Although Lucy enjoys being a receptionist for vet Doug, she really aspires to be an actress. Growing up in the shadow of her sister Tracy, Lucy finds it hard to deal with the fact that her sister - a model, not an actress - has scored a starring role in a Hollywood film. Meanwhile Lucy's only auditions are for advertisements. This is a cleverly crafted tale with regular doses of humour.

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Wish Upon a Star - Trisha Ashley (2013)

Cally's life revolves around her little girl Stella, who needs a live-saving operation. Unfortunately, the only doctor that can do the operation is in Boston, which means it's going to cost a fortune. Putting Stella first, she gives up her London life, selling her flat and moving in with her mum. Romance is the furthest thing from Cally's mind as she starts to fundraise to pay for Stella's operation but then she meets fellow baker Jago. Will Cally find a way to let him into her life? I loved the way this book was written in the main from Cally's perspective as it gave it a warm and cosy feel. Stella's story is so tragic and you couldn't help but emphasise with the family from the get-go. It's set in the village of Sticklepond, which is an idyllic Lancashire village that features in a few of Ashley's novels, and there are some nice nods to the previous residents who have had their stories already told. The only downside, if you can call it that, is that Cally is a recipe writer and there are a lot of cakes mentioned which will have you craving them all. It's a real heart-warming, uplifting story and a perfect winter read. (AB)

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Wish You Were Here - Phillipa Ashley (2007)

When Beth Allen applies for a job with specialist travel company Big Outdoors, she's unaware she's about to face its new CEO, Jack Thornfield - a man she'd had a holiday romance with eight years earlier. He'd proposed but then disappeared. Although she doesn't want to spend time with the man who broke her heart, Beth takes the job, relieved she is able to help out her injured father and aspiring drama student sister Louise. She heads to London, leaving behind boyfriend Marcus. Will she find out what made Jack disappear and could they finally be in the right place at the right time? With the dialogue in this book so forced and the plot lacking any surprises, it was really a case of 'wish I'd never heard of this book'. But if you can't get enough of lines like: 'Why? Is the boss a prick?' 'Lou!' exclaimed Beth. She swore herself, but couldn't really complain. It was the thought of Jack and that part of his anatomy together that had shocked her . . . then throw this in your suitcase for a holiday read.

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Wish You Were Here - Victoria Connelly (2013)

Alice Archer is and always has been something of a Plain Jane, fading into the background compared to her younger sister, Stella. When Stella's latest boyfriend breaks up with her, she reluctantly asks Alice to accompany her on their planned holiday to the Greek island of Kethos. As Stella lazes by the pool, Alice immerses herself into the island venturing to the Villa Argenti where she meets local gardener Milo. It is said that the statue of Aphrodite housed in the garden of the Villa grants wishes for love and Alice nonchalantly wishes that men really notice her. But wishes can't really come true, can they? I'm not really much of a fan of magical or supernatural plot elements so I was a bit apathetic towards the direction this novel moved with the wish plot, particularly as I found the novel, the characters and particularly the predicament of Alice and her relationship with Stella engrossing enough. However, the magic adds something whimsical and lively and contributes to the enchanting feel of the novel. A nice summer read. (JC)

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With A Friend Like You - Fanny Blake (2014)

Beth and Megan have been friends for years but when Beth's daughter, Ella, turns to Megan for advice, Beth sees Megan's failure to tell her about Ella as an undermining of her and an affront to their friendship. Whilst Beth tries to tackle Ella about her news, she succeeds only in pushing her daughter further away and the wedge between Beth and Megan grows. With a strain on domestic life and the relationship between the two families following their fallout, the two women attempt to make an effort, but the damage has been done and the tension serves only to bring out some disastrous home truths that threaten not only friendship but family. Billed as a wickedly funny look at female friendship, I was expecting this to be a light, amusing portrayal of two friends falling out. However, this is a much more sombre and earnest novel, without any laughs. The fallout between the two women is not some superficial squabble but a very real and serious matter of loyalty and expectation. It is perfectly pitched but don't expect a riotous comedy. The feud between the friends and the wider context of their disagreement offers a great subject matter for the story, but for me there was no question over where my sympathies lay or whose side I took. I never really understood Beth's response to Megan and I couldn't find fault in Megan's actions. And whilst Megan came across as a fair, warm woman, Beth was uncompromising, self-absorbed and standoffish. Aside from one moment of madness from Megan towards the end of the book which felt out of character, Blake draws these two very different characters extremely well, but it was difficult to tolerate Beth. That Megan is the one who does all the chasing and building of bridges too, despite being little to blame, and Beth the one who holds all of the cards further divides sympathy. I wasn't sure what to make of the final paragraphs and what the future held for these two divided families, but I enjoyed the fact that Blake maintains the frostiness and enmity between the pair throughout. (JC)

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With a Little Luck - Caprice Crane (2011)

Beryl "Berry" Lambert is extremely superstitious. She won't walk under a ladder and keeps a four-leaf clover in her wallet. She doesn't believe in luck however, subscribing to the theory that everything happens for a reason. As a radio DJ, Berry often gets the chance to voice her opinions on certain things and get varied responses. Sometimes, she makes the mistake of speaking too freely about her love life - or lack of it - forgetting that there are a lot of people listening and judging her. But Berry doesn't care. She's had two bad relationships in a row so as a firm believer that everything comes in threes, Berry is prepared to meet her third Mr Wrong. So when she meets DJ Ryan Riley she knows it can't work. Yes, he's funny and sweet, not to mention good looking too, but the relationship is bound to fail. That's just the way her luck goes. But after years of playing by the rules of superstition, it might be good for Berry to roll her dice and hope for the best because unless she takes a chance, she'll never know what could have been. Will she finally risk it all on Ryan? This is an enjoyable romantic comedy, with Berry as a witty and completely captivating character. (AS)

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With All My Love - Patricia Scanlan (2013)

Briony is helping her mother, Valerie, settle into her new life in Spain. When she finds a forgotten letter, she realises her mother has lied about why she never sees her paternal grandparents. The story then returns to the past, revisiting Valerie's burgeoning relationship with Jeff. His mother, Tessa, never took to Valerie and after his sudden death Valerie moves away, taking Briony with her. Now with Briony threatening to take her own daughter Katie away, can Valerie finally come to terms with what she has done? And can her daughter ever forgive her and understand why she acted the way she did? This is a beautifully wrought, emotionally raw tale about three generations of women, who have had to bear the most terrible losses. It gives a fantastic insight into a time when falling pregnant out of wedlock was enough to ruin a whole family's life and is ultimately a wonderfully heartwarming and uplifting read.

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With Friends Like These - Sally Koslow (2010)

Quincy, Talia, Chloe and Jules met when they shared a Manhattan flat in the early 90s. They have remained tight over the years but their friendships are about to be sorely tested. Quincy and her husband have spent ages looking for a suitable apartment and finally get the early word on a too-good-to-be-true place. But Jules reveals the information to her boyfriend, who also puts in an offer. Talia job-shares with Chloe at an ad agency. Talia is married to a public school teacher, while Chloe enjoys a more prosperous life as the wife of a hedge fund manager. So when a headhunter comes calling for Chloe, Talia doesn't pass the message on and instead pursues the job herself. The pair are also vying to get their sons into a prestigious school with limited vacancies. This is a well-crafted story that puts a magnifying glass up to women's friendships - do these relationships have expiry dates; can you forgive a betrayal and reveals why sometimes your best friends can be your worst enemies.

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With Love at Christmas - Carole Matthews (2012)

Juliet Joyce (remember her from That Loving Feeling?) loves Christmas and she can't understand why there are people who hate it. After all, it's a time for family, friends and magical moments. What's not to love? Sadly, Juliet's husband, Rick, couldn't care less about the festive holiday, a sentiment shared by her pregnant daughter, Chloe, and her lazy son, Tom. Despite this, Juliet is still going all out to make this year the most special yet. However, poor Juliet has her hands full with more than most women could ever handle. But even a tragedy and a birth won't ruin the magic of Christmas for Juliet. With more characters than you can count on one hand, you'd think it would be hard to keep track, however, Carole Matthews kept each character perfectly involved. It all worked brilliantly and this is a Christmassy read that will be sure to warm your heart and make you feel the magic of the season. (AS)

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With or Without You - Carole Matthews (2004)

When Lyssa's latest IVF attempt fails, boyfriend Jake leaves, saying he needs space. But Jake, who works in advertising, isn't being 100 per cent honest about his reason for leaving. With Lyssa's work colleagues worried that her working for a baby magazine isn't helping matters, she decides to take off on an adventure - all the way to Nepal, on a hiking trip. There she meets tour guide Dean and suddenly begins to see her old life in an entirely new way. This is an engaging story about a girl breaking out of her rut to discover that travel does indeed broaden the mind - and romantic options as well. The vivid descriptions of life in Nepal may well encourage some to follow in Lyssa's footsteps.

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Without Him - Fiona O'Brien (2010)

Shelley's husband, Charlie, has disappeared after his Irish business empire collapses. With her three children, Olivia, Emma and Mac, she is left to move in with his estranged mother, Vera. It appears that Charlie has headed off to Cape Town, where he is seen with another woman. Meanwhile, Shelley starts working in an art gallery, where she draws the attention of a Russian oligarch, Lukaz, who has ties to Charlie. Told from various viewpoints, including Charlie, his family members, his former girlfriend Caroline; and Lukaz; it is slowly revealed what Charlie is up to and why he fell out with his mother all those years ago. The intrigue turns this into a real page-turner, with its deft slow reveals engaging the reader's interest throughout.

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With You And Without You - Deborah J. Wolf (2006)

Life with Patrick isn't the smooth journey Allyson Houlihan had imagined. For him, she gave up her teaching career, became a stay-at-home mum to daughters Lydia and Becca, and even tolerated his kowtowing to his arrogant mum, Barbara. With Patrick's infrequent stays at home due to his job, she becomes increasingly aware of her apparent failure as a mother. With things already in a bad state, Allyson ends up having to deal with the loss of her husband and her girls' father. It was so easy to relate to this story, especially the interactions between Allyson and her two daughters, and also how she as a mother deals with her own personal frustrations, of getting old, and falling in love once again. (XT)

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Wives and Girlfriends - Shireen Lolesi (2009)

Angel may look like she's got the dream life, married to rugby league star Drew but behind closed doors their marriage is in trouble. Drew has become moody and withdrawn, secretly indulging in the sex, drugs and alcohol lifestyle that accompanies these feted football players. But Angel is also hiding a secret - an affair with one of Drew's Gladiators teammates which may have lead to the conception of her son Charlie. Written amid real-life football scandals, Shireen Lolesi has said she wrote the book as self-therapy after her marriage breakdown to an NRL rugby league player. While the writing won't score extra points, this story tackles how easily the fame, money and groupies can convert the scrum into scum. It will appeal to those after a sizzling insider's view into the life of a WAG.

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Wives v Girlfriends - Katie Agnew (2009)

Glamour model Jasmine has risen from an unfortunate background - and is now getting married to premiership soccer player Jimmy. But Jimmy is having trouble controlling himself when he drinks, someone is blackmailing her about a shameful secret from her past and her godfather Charlie has his own troubles running from his ex's powerful underworld father. Meanwhile her next-door neighbour, actress Lila, is worried that her age and fading beauty is making her Oscar-nominated husband Brett play away. Lila's friend, Maxi, is three times divorced but still desperate to get another ring on her finger - this time courtesy of her older Latin lover, singer Carlos. Then there is Grace, who as a journalist, wants to get to the bottom of all their stories. Set between London and Marbella in Spain, this mixes glamour with a dark plot that will keep you guessing to the end.

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Wolves in Chic Clothing - Carrie Karasyov and Jill Kargman (2005)

When Pelham jewellery store salesgirl Julia Pearce delivers a necklace to Lell, the store's heiress, on her wedding day, it gives her a pass into a different world. Lell and her friends, bitchy Polly and sweet Hope, adopt natural beauty Julia like modern day Henry Higgins. Lell gives the aspiring jewellery maker a job as her assistant and introduces her into Park Avenue society. But then Lell's new husband Will lets his roving eye land on Julia and the pack turn on her.

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Woman to Woman - Cathy Kelly (1997)

Best friends Aisling Moran and Jo Ryan think they have it all. Then Aisling discovers a lingerie receipt in her husband's pocket and Jo watches a blue line appear on a pregnancy test.

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Wonderboy - Fiona Gibson (2005)

City girl Ro Skews is miserable when her husband, Marcus, insists that they move from London to the country with their young son, Tod. Ro notices that Marcus is withdrawing and spending many nights on business in London. When Marcus whispers another woman's name in his sleep, Ro begins to question the motives of their move. My favourite part of the novel was the mother and child relationship between Ro and Tod. Tod, a brilliant child with compulsive interests and social awkwardness, would probably be labelled as having Asperger's syndrome. Ro is an overwhelmed protective mother who handles her son's differences with humility and humour. (AO)

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Wonder Women - Rosie Fiore (2013)

Starting her own business has always been a dream of Jo's, one that she thinks won't happen after the arrival of her two gorgeous toddlers. The idea she has in mind is a kids clothing shop with a twist. Will Jo's new venture take off or will reversing roles with her husband be too much to handle? Holly and Mel spring into Jo's life in the shape of her new sales assistants. They become more than new recruits though, they become lifelines and friends. South Africa had turned sour for Holly and back in London family life brings things to a head. Meanwhile Mel's teenager daughter is spoiling their close relationship by hiding changes in her life. Can these women survive these obstacles? I first discovered Rosie Fiore when I read her first book, Babies in Waiting which in my opinion was one of the best debut novels out there. I loved the idea for this new book and felt it was unique. In my opinion Jo's husband was a bit too perfect, always doing things right and not putting a foot wrong but I still enjoyed reading about him. Especially when he decides to pursue his passion for being creative and the many struggles he faced being a stay-at-home dad. (KD)

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Woodrose Mountain - RaeAnne Thayne (2012)

Evie Blanchard left her life as an occupational therapist in Los Angeles after a personal tragedy. She moved to Hope's Crossing, Colorado, to start a new life working in a bead store. Brodie Thorne's teenage daughter, Taryn, was severely injured in a car accident months ago. Taryn is finally returning home after being kicked out of her rehab centre. Her outlook is poor and Brodie knows that his daughter's future depends on getting her the rehabilitation she needs. Brodie has always viewed Evie as a flaky outsider, however, he knows his daughter needs Evie's help. After much convincing, Evie reluctantly agrees to help out temporarily to set up therapy for Taryn. As Evie becomes entwined in the life of Brodie and his daughter, she fights the feelings she begins to feel for Brodie. Although a bit predictable, this is a well-written love story about a small town. This is the second book in the series set in Hope's Crossing. (AO)

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Worlds Apart - Ber Carroll (2014)

Erin and Laura are cousins living in Dublin. Laura is the hectic wife, mother and business owner. Erin is a single high school teacher yearning for more in life. They are surrounded by a large, Irish family including Erin's mum Moira who has dementia and Cathy, Laura's distant and reluctant mother. Struggling with life in Dublin, Erin makes the brave decision to move to Sydney, leaving behind her ill mother. The family pitches in to help care for Moira but in return she releases a long-held family secret that will have repercussions for everyone but particularly Erin and Laura. Will Erin find happiness in Sydney and will Laura learn the trick to living happily in amongst the chaos of her life? A delightful tale that spans Ireland and Australia as is Carrroll's style. (LF)

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Would I Lie to You? - Clare Dowling (2012)

Hannah is reeling after her long-term partner Ollie walks out on her and their daughter Cleo. So she heads to France with friend Barbara to stay with Ellen, who has followed her husband Mark's dreams of selling up in Britain and buying a farmhouse in Brittany. Even though she discovers Ellen has hardly escaped to an idyllic rural lifestyle, Hannah finds comfort in being there. Meanwhile Barbara's mind is on an important phone call while back home Ollie's mother is airing all of her husband's dirty laundry, including casting aspersions about his involvement in the dog's disappearance. Then something happens in France which could tear Hannah's friendships apart.

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Would You? - Deanna Kizis (2006)

Also known as Finishing Touches

When Jesse's best friend dies after a car accident, she finds the only person who understands her pain is Cecile's widower, Zach. Is their friendship turning to romance, and if it does, will Jesse lose all her other friends in the process?

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Wow! - Claudia Pattison (2001)

Ruby Lake is a feature writer for Wow! celebrity magazine. She is well-versed in churning out gushing copy about stars' homes and romances (think 'curvaceous' for fat, and 'lavish' for ludicrous). And she's also attracted her own stalker, a man who spies on her outside her home and leaves her well-thought-out gifts. Her biggest story at the moment is the upcoming nuptials of a movie star and a supermodel - can the crack security team keep all the details under wraps until the magazine hits the news stands? With lots of juicy insider information about showbiz journalism (the author once worked for OK! magazine).

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Wrapped Up in You - Carole Matthews (2011)

Janie Johnson is a hairdresser who was dumped by her boyfriend of seven years. She hasn't had a love interest since the break-up and spends most of her time working or home with her neurotic cat, Archie. When her ex comes to the salon to tell Janie that he is getting married and expecting a child, Janie quickly tells him that she is going on a holiday - to Africa! And now that she's told him, she might as well go. But what she doesn't expect to find is love while on a safari with lions and hippos. But she falls for her Maasai warrior tour guide, Dominic, and by the end of the trip is broken-hearted to leave him behind. Janie returns to work and her old life nevertheless. Determined to make the long-distance relationship work, Janie makes another very costly trip to see Dominic at Christmas. Things don't go as planned however and Janie must decide if she wants a love who lives across the world or if she loves someone who is a lot closer to home. Cleverly written with witty dialogue and interesting characters, this is a novel that can be read at Christmas or anytime you're looking for a sweet and romantic story. (AS)

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Write In Front Of Their Eyes - Marianne Nelson (2008)

Mia thinks teaching high-school kids is like a Jello commercial, "it appears to be what you want, but when you take a bite out of it, it can be a little bit of a letdown". Unsatisfied with her career and marriage, Mia finds a new love interest, wondering if an affair would hurt or help her marriage. She also decides to make her professional (or not so professional) life more complicated by trying to pen a book while at school teaching. She uses steamy office romances, funny interactions with her students and funny conversations with her best friend and carpool partner Jill as material for her book. As her new office tryst heats up, Mia doesn't seem concerned about the effect it will have on her 15-year marriage. Will Mia regret her choices? This was an interesting short read. I liked Nelson's sense of humour but her writing style didn't really work for me. (AV)

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Writing Jane Austen - Elizabeth Aston (2010)

Author Georgina Jackson has a slight problem. Her first book didn't do as well as she had hoped and she can't seem to get beyond the first chapter of her second book. When she is suddenly summoned to the office of her shrill agent, Livia Harkness, Georgina assumes she will be on the first plane back to America, her writing career all but over. She couldn't be more wrong. Livia swears her to secrecy and offers her a substantial commission to complete a recently discovered unfinished manuscript by none other than Jane Austen...in the writing style and voice of Jane Austen. Okay, so maybe she has more than a slight problem. The story that follows is a delightful and often humorous tale of procrastination, fear and self-doubt. With help from Henry, Maud and Anna, Georgina is finally able to focus on the daunting task before her, finding her writing voice once again in the process. The story keeps you guessing as to the outcome of the situation and provides a nice little twist at the end. Although it seemed at times that Georgina's use of phrases and mannerisms are more English than American, I found the characters very likable and the plot believable. For anyone who is a fan of Jane Austen, and wishes she had written more than six books, this story will most definitely appeal to you. (LEK)

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Written in the Stars - Ali Harris (2014)

Bea Bishop is haunted by her past. Her self-confidence is at rock bottom, and she doesn't trust herself to make the right decisions anymore. When she sees an old face in the crowd on her wedding day, she slips walking down the aisle and falls unconscious. At that moment, her life splits into two parallel versions - the one where she gets married, and the one where she doesn't. But which one is the right version for her? I loved the concept of this book. How much do your decisions change the course of your life? I was immersed in this plot from the first page, Bea was such a vulnerable and likeable girl. I was intrigued to see how the two parallel existences would eventually tie together again, and my desire to find out meant that I just couldn't put it down. A very cleverly written plot with a creative and original idea makes this a real winner for me, I would highly recommend it. (LO)

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