I received a copy of ‘Postcards at Christmas’ in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the original novel ‘Postcards from a Stranger’ hugely, and read it probably 18 months ago, and I had high hopes for this novella sequel.

My first problem was that I had largely forgotten the characters and the plot of the previous novel. This was a downfall for me and I should imagine that if you read them back to back it will be a seamless transition, but personally I would have liked a brief recap at the start.

The novella was an easy and light read, with likeable characters but – to me – not very profound. What annoyed me most was that it was written in the present tense, from the viewpoint of different characters, and it read like a journal, and personal diaries should really be kept private!

I’m afraid I found it over-analytical and self-obsessed with feelings. I can unfortunately say that I can personally identify with much of the situation covered by this book, without wanting to give the plot away, and although it is an extremely hard situation to be in, without any doubt, reading about somebody else dealing with it was a bit tedious to me, and the fact that the young daughter - who should have been Cara’s salvation and distracted her and given her much joy- was largely glossed over throughout the novella, rang rather untrue to me.

The author Imogen clearly has talent and seems to be churning out books at the moment, and I wonder if this need to keep producing new works (possibly under pressure from Publishers) is detracting from the quality of the finished individual novels? I find her writing style veering towards modern chick-lit which clearly has a big place in the market, but is disappointing for a reader that prefers a slightly more challenging literary style. Sorry!

Amazon review link (under profile name Salsadirect):
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07W1X79Z3?ref=cm_sw_em_r_rw_mw_KAExJhSzYQF8n

I love books by this author they’re always well written and the characters are warm and likeable. I did slightly prefer the previous postcard book by Imogen Clarke which I’ve gave four stars too hence why I gave this one a three. Definitely a recommendation though.

I enjoyed reading about Cara and Simeon’s journey through the happy and even the heartbreaking times. I really wish it could have been longer but this didn’t take away from the essence of the story.
Postcards at Christmas is the sequel to Postcards from a Stranger which I have not read yet. I had no issue reading this as a stand-alone. But, I will definitely be picking up Postcards from a Stranger to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and give my honest review about this book.

With thanks to Netgalley and Amazon for this ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.

I enjoyed Imogen`s last book Where The Story Starts and gave it a five star review. When I saw Postcards at Christmas was due to be released I was excited to read it.

Postcards at Christmas is the sequel to Postcards from a Stranger. I never read the first book but it did not spoil my enjoyment. I instantly warmed to Cara, Simeon and Beth. I can't wait to read the first book and discover the dark family secret Cara uncovered.

Although this is is called Postcards at Christmas, the story covers a 12 month period from Christmas day to Christmas eve the following year. The plot was quite dark at times when Simeon was in intensive care and his descent into clinical depression. The ending was perfect and left me glowing inside.

I recommend this story if you like Amanda Prowse.

I wish to thank Net Galley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book. I have voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is an enchanting British story about a young couple and their daughter as they wrestle with the idea of getting married. It is a short story and quick read and you will love all the people in the story. It ends way too soon as I would have loved to continue reading it. Grab a cup of hot tea and settle in for a special book. Just in time to be a holiday treasure.

I loved the name of the book. Read it and learn why.


#PostcardsatChristmas#NetGalley

I loved "Postcards From A Stranger, " so I was excited to read this. It definitely didn't disappoint, I just wish it was longer. I loved getting reacquainted with Cara, Beth and Simeon. I wasn't expecting what happened and kept hoping everything would work out for Cara and her family. Would love to read a book centered around Beth, she definitely deserves a happy ending. A perfect read for the holiday season.

Definitely recommend the book, but not as a stand alone. So much emotion wrapped up in a such a short book. Great story with wonderful characters. Look forward to reading more books by the author. The cover of the book is perfect.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Amazon Publishing UK through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I loved Postcards From A Stranger. This short story is emotional and very well written. A delight to read.

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

Ms. Clark has a knack for writing family drama with relatable, imperfect characters. Bookended by two Christmases, Postcards at Christmas tells the tale of Cara as she struggles with the emotional and physical aftermath of a loved one’s terrible accident, and it begs the question: Is there a right or a wrong when dealing with grief, love, and loyalty?
This is a follow-up to Postcards from a Stranger, which I did not read. As a result, I had to make some inferences about the significance of the postcards and about Cara’s relationship with her family, but it didn’t detract from my reading. In my opinion, this book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, but I imagine a reader would have a richer experience if they also read Postcards from a Stranger.
(Received as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)

I loved Postcards From A Stranger and was a bit worried that this novella follow up would be a bit chocolate box pretty. Sadly for Cara and Simeon (but luckily for the reader) it wasn't, with the characters going through some tough times that didn't all turn out fine. I wish this had been a longer novel as I felt it was a bit superficial at times but maybe that was just me being greedy and wanted to stay in the characters' lives a bit longer.
If you haven't read Stranger this book won't make sense, however, if you have read the first book, then dive right in to this recommended follow up.

Very decisive story right off the bat and knows exactly where it’s going from the moment you start it. It’s a bit jolting and there are a few surprises with the plot line but overall I think this book will be a perfect read for the upcoming holiday season. 5/5 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the eARC.
This is the follow up to Postcards from a Stranger, a bloom I absolutely loved. Cara, after her recent difficulties, is in a great space of her life. She's living with the love of her life, Simeon, and their baby girl, happy as she can be. When Simeon proposes, she's in two minds...she doesn't really believe in marriage after what happened to her parents. She says 'yes', hesitantly, and, with her best friend, starts making the wedding preparations.
When Simeon and his best man go on a biking trip, a horrific accident ends all planning for the happy day and plunges all of them in a nightmare.
There is of course a happy ending, but not after some seriously bad times. I liked the book a lot, not as much as Postcards from a Stranger, but it's still a lovely story. Definitely recommended!