Coffee, Tea, the Caribbean, & Me

Coffee, Tea #2

by Caroline James

From Cumbria to the Caribbean...

Flying solo again in their middle years, can life really begin again for Jo and Hattie? Is there hope for the newly single baby boomers and can romance happen?

Continuing the Coffee Tea... series, join Jo and Hattie as they romp into their future and prove that anything is possible!

Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me is a stand-alone read but also the sequel to Coffee Tea The Gypsy & Me which shot to #3 on Amazon and was E-Book of the week in The Sun Newspaper.

"A story about friendship and loss...is there hope for those of a certain age?"

‘The time to be happy is now...’ Jo remembers her late husband’s words but is struggling to face the lonely future that lies ahead. A heartbroken widow, Jo finds herself alone with ghostly memories at Kirkton House - a Cumbrian Manor that until recently, she ran as a thriving hotel. Her two sons have moved away, Jimmy to run a bar in Barbados, and Zach to London to pursue a career as a celebrity chef. Middle-age and widowhood loom frighteningly and Jo determines to sell up and start again, despite protestations from colourful friend, Hattie and erstwhile admirer Pete Parks.

Hattie convinces Jo to postpone any life-changing decisions by enjoying a Caribbean holiday but their holiday sets off a course of events that brings mayhem and madness to Jo and her family. Confused and anxious for her future, can life really begin again for Jo?

Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me was a finalist at The Write Stuff - London Book Fair 2015. The judge’s comments included, “Caroline is a natural story-teller with a gift for humour in her writing.”

Caroline's books are stand-alone stories but characters do make appearances throughout. The best order to read them is:

Coffee Tea The Gypsy & Me
So, You Think You're A Celebrity...Chef?
Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me

Genres: Fiction

356 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 27, 2012

About the author

Caroline James is the celebrated author of later-life fiction, including THE CRUISE, the #1 best-seller that has captivated cruise ship passengers worldwide, and her eagerly anticipated follow-up novels, THE CRUISE CLUB, and THE ARCTIC CRUISE are out now. THE NILE CRUISE will be published in July.

ATTICUS ARNOTT’S GREAT ADVENTURE is described as “A heartwarming and uplifting read where the characters shine from the page.”

Caroline’s vibrant storytelling stems from her colourful career. Before becoming a full-time writer, she carved out a fascinating path in the hospitality industry, owning a charming country house hotel and a lively pub. As a media agent, she worked closely with celebrity chefs, giving her an insider’s perspective on the glitz, glamour, and grit of the culinary world. When she finally turned her focus to writing, she discovered her true calling, penning best-selling novels that have garnered her legions of fans.

When she’s not writing in her cosy writing retreat, Caroline enjoys tranquil walks with Fred, her Westie, and refreshing swims in a local lake. As a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the SoA, ARRA, and the Society of Women’s Writers & Journalists, Caroline is a champion of lifelong creativity.


Books by Caroline James:

The Nile Cruise
The Arctic Cruise
Atticus Arnott's Great Adventure
The Cruise Club
The Cruise
The French Cookery School
The Spa Break
Boomerville at Ballymegille
The Best Boomerville Hotel
Hattie Goes to Hollywood
Jungle Rock
Coffee Tea the Caribbean & Me
Coffee Tea the Chef & Me
Coffee Rea the Gypsy & Me

Contact Caroline:

website: www.carolinejamesauthor.co.uk
Twitter: @carolinejames12
Facebook: Caroline James Author
Insta: Caroline JamesAuthor

Reviews for Caroline’s books:

"Caroline is a natural story-teller with a gift for humour in her writing." The Write Stuff, London Book Fair.

"A fabulous Story, it made me shriek with laughter and I loved every twist and turn." Valentina Harris, Author, Chef and International Cookery School Host.

"Caroline James has spun a tale that is enjoyable, funny, charming, believable and page-turning." Nigel May, TV Personality & Author

"A strong plot with likeable characters makes it a great read." Ebook of the week - The Sun:

"Caroline writes quite beautifully - great descriptions, vividly drawn characters, sparkling humour, a touch of real sadness - this book was the perfect escape."

"A thoroughly enjoyable read that takes you from the loneliness of single life in the wet UK through to the magic of the Caribbean. An indulgent feast of the best things in life - sun, rum, fun, love and laughter."

"Caroline James has served up a comedic masterpiece that proves retirement doesn't mean retreating—it means going full throttle with absolutely zero effs left to give."

Reviews

[Nerdish Mum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was extremely lucky to receive an e-book copy of Coffee, tea, the Caribbean and Me directly from the author Caroline James in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Coffee, Tea, the Caribbean and Me was like a breath of fresh air, the writing was extremely beautiful and when I finished reading it, I had to check whether I'd picked up a tan from the Caribbean sun I was so immersed.

The story follows Jo and Hattie and their escapades after they have suffered a divorce and a death, It shows real people reacting in realistic ways to things that can happen to anybody. There is a lot of fun thrown in and a lot of dream situations too (Long Tom Hendry - just trust me on this) and there is such a great feeling of warmth and family throughout the book.

I'd have to say that Hattie is my absolute favourite character, she's so much fun and takes life on the chin. She says yes to everything and will try anything once. Everyone needs a Hattie in their life to remind them that life doesn't always have to be serious.

There are highs and lows throughout and you will 100% need a tissue at one point so do be warned!

I really enjoyed reading the perspectives of all the different people as well as the main two characters of Jo and Hattie, they were all very well done and it was very clear who you were with and they all had their own voice,

I absolutely loved this book and it's a big recommendation from me.

To see my review and an interview with the author, please check out my blog http://lifeofanerdishmum.blogspot.co.uk/

[Joanne Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven't read the first book about Jo and Hattie- Coffee, Tea, The Gypsy and Me-but when I was offered a review copy by Caroline James and saw that gorgeous cover and read the synopsis I knew it was a book I would enjoy. It can be read as a standalone as we are filled in at the beginning with what has happened in the years following that first book.

Jo is now a widow, her only companion is her friendly Labrador Meg as her son's have also left the nest. Jimmy now runs a bar in the Caribbean and Zach is a Michelin star chef who is now being touted in London as the next big thing. Hattie is also on her own now that Maurice has been exposed as a serial philanderer and she is worried about Jo, who has decided to put Kirkton Manor, her country house hotel, up for sale. So she comes up with the idea of a holiday in Barbados to visit Jimmy and our fifty plus ladies leave Cumbria for a much hotter climate and much more besides!

This would have been an ideal holiday read for me as I just wanted to be sitting on a sunlounger somewhere with a cocktail in my hand like Jo and Hattie! As a lady of a similar age, I really took to the pair of friends especially Hattie who I loved for her healthy appetite for food and life! She really made me laugh with her confidence and attitude, without a care in the world about what others thought of her. Their adventures in Barbados introduced a whole host of fabulous characters although I wanted to shake Jo at times to make her realise what she had back at home-her business and a man who had loved her for a long time and was just waiting for her to realise what was under her nose the whole time!

This really is a feel good read and you can't help but smile throughout the various situations Jo and Hattie find themselves in. It also showed an emotional side to a very real lifestyle change that can affect women in their fifties, those who have to rebuild their lives after divorce or death of a life partner. The holiday in the Caribbean is only part of this funny but sympathetic novel that helps Jo especially come to terms with the way her life has changed.

I will certainly be reading the follow up to this book Coffee, Tea, The Boomers and Me which promises more humour as we follow Jo and Hattie into the next exciting stage in their lives.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually feel like I have just got back from a wonderful vacation and now have the holiday blues after reading this novel.

Part of the novel is set in the Caribbean and through the wonderful descriptions I felt I was with Jo and Hattie on their holiday. I could almost feel the sun on my face as well as hear the sea. You certainly can't help but get caught up in the whole holiday feel.

Jo is still trying to get over the loss of her husband and even though she is still trying to figure out which direction to take her life, I did want to give her a good shake so she could see what was right under her nose back in Cumbria.

Poor Pete is head over heels in love with Jo. To be fair I think Jo does take advantage of Pete to a certain extent and doesn't treat him as well as he deserves. He really is a lovely man and is determined to try and win Jo over even though his attempts don't always go as well to plan.

Hattie is very much a larger than life characters in more ways than one. She certainly brings a sense of fun to the whole story.

Coffee, Tea, the Caribbean & Me is a light hearted and lovely read that will brighten up your day and bring some fun and sunshine into your life whatever time of the year it is.

Many thanks to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review and more can be found at www.whatsbetterthanbooks.com

Light-hearted, whimsical, and highly entertaining!

This book is witty, interesting, and engaging. And it reminds us to always live life to the fullest, and to embark on new adventures, experience new love, and indulge at any age.

The prose is beautiful and descriptive. The characters are sweet, amusing, and endearing. The setting takes us from the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean, to the idyllic peacefulness of the English countryside. And the plot is captivating with its multiple escapades, misgivings, cheeky banter, and brief glimpse into cookery.

This truly is a lovely, easy, heartwarming story that will definitely make you smile.

Thank you to Caroline James, the author, for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. It was a pleasure to read.

[Donadee's Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me Bk 2 – Written by Caroline James – Reviewed 2/8/18 – Read 1/29-1/30/18
A story about friendship and loss...is there hope for those of a certain age?

‘The time to be happy is now...’ Jo remembers her late husband’s words but is struggling to face the lonely future that lies ahead. A heartbroken widow, Jo finds herself alone with ghostly memories at Kirkton House - a Cumbrian Manor that until recently, she ran as a thriving hotel. Her two sons have moved away, Jimmy to run a bar in Barbados, and Zach to London to pursue a career as a celebrity chef. Middle-age and widowhood loom frighteningly and Jo determines to sell up and start again, despite protestations from a colorful friend, Hattie and erstwhile admirer Pete Parks. Hattie convinces Jo to postpone any life-changing decisions by enjoying a Caribbean holiday, but their holiday sets off a course of events that brings mayhem and madness to Jo and her family. Confused and anxious about her future, can life really begin again for Jo?

What did I like? Well, being in the age range that this book covers the subject matter really hit me. I loved the thought of now is the time to happy and how the girls went about it. Very heartfelt read.

What will you like? A quirky cast of characters, a little mystery, a love story in the making, a lot of laughter, and a little heartache. This has a great cast of characters that will keep the book moving and the mystery of the outcome is enough to carry the book. I loved the final decisions that were made and of course, the love that blossoms and blooms! A really good read that will hold your attention.

[Rita Sheppard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed it. The friendship between Jo and Hattie was heartwarming. The antics these two went through, especially Hattie, were hilarious. I also loved reading where Jo and Hattie were in Barbados with the picturesque descriptions of the area. The characters in the book were colorful, friendly, and neighborly.

It was great to read of two "middle aged" widows finding love and happiness again.

[Kelly Spillane · Rating 4 out of 5]

hotel after the sudden and shocking death of her husband. Her best friend, Hattie, having also suffered a relationship breakdown feels that what the two women need is a holiday. With this in mind, they head off to the Caribbean to visit Jo’s son, Jimmy, who runs a bar. Meanwhile, Jo’s other son, Zach, is the next big thing and is an up and coming chef trying to find his way in London. Pete has recently lost his wife and has always had a soft spot for Jo. Now that they are both single, Pete wonders if he can have a second chance at love with Jo. But with Jo considering selling up the business and moving away, it’s up to Hattie and Pete to convince to her to stay.

I had heard a lot about this book on social media so I jumped at the chance when I was asked to review it. This book was exactly what I thought it would be. It was funny, heartwarming and I couldn’t get enough of it. It was only after I had it read that I realised that it is the second book in a series, the first one being, Coffee, Tea, The Gypsy and Me. Had I known this before I read it, I probably would have read that first but this book works brilliantly as a stand alone and I’m sure that a lot of what happened in the first book was covered in this one, which meant that I didn’t have fill in the gaps to the story that I had missed.

Coffee, Tea, the Caribbean and Me is a beautiful book about love and friendship. It shows that you are never too old to have fun. What I liked most about this book was that fact that the main characters, Jo and Hattie, are in their fifties and not the usual kind of characters that you find in many books in this genre. I loved how the characters interacted with each other throughout the book.

This book is a light-hearted, easy read and I read it in a matter if hours. I loved how the story moved between the characters of Jo, Hattie, Jimmy, Zach and Pete. I enjoyed being able to see the story from the point of view if the various characters. The pages seemed to turn themselves, and this was definitely a “one more chapter” kind of book. The characters are what makes this book and I adored all of them.

Caroline James has transported me to the Caribbean with this book and I can see this book accompanying many readers to the beach this summer. Coffee, Tea, the Caribbean and Me, made me laugh out loud and put a huge smile on my face throughout. It also made me shed a tear or two towards the end. My only regret is that I didn’t read the first book in the series first, because now I feel that I have lost out on time with these characters. I am so looking forward to meeting Jo and Hattie again and I am really looking forward to digging into Caroline’s other books, while I wait for the sequel to this one. This is a must read and I can’t recommend it highly enough. With a great storyline, beautiful imagery of beaches and fantastic characters, this is shaping up to be the perfect summer read.

[Katrina Fankhauser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me by Caroline James
Review by Kat Fankhauser-Taylor
Carolina James has written her latest novel, Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me, well. The characters evoke real emotions for the reader because they are relatable and real. We have all experienced loss and grief sometimes in our life, whether it is through death, divorce or the end of a relationship. The characters do normal day to day chores, such as buying clothes, preparing dinner, taking the dog for a walk, so again readers can relate to the characters.
The use of so many clichés might put some readers off, however using them again encourages reality and normality. Every day someone uses at least one cliché a day (probably heaps). The whole novel is written informally, meaning this James uses words, that are spoken in normal conversations. This is particularly true in the dialogue between the characters. Conversations flows well, and portrays the nationality of each character. Case in point, is Jimmy’s friend who is a native of the Caribbean. This exchange of dialogue is written just like the reader would expect a local to sound.

“Yo, Rasta!” Jimmy smiled and they touched knuckles in greeting.
“Yo, Jimmy, you mek sport?” the man asked.
“No, man, I have to work,” Jimmy replied. “Are you coming to the bar later?”
A popular reggae band was playing live music on the deck that evening.
“Sure t’ing, sweet fuh days…” The man waved and strolled casually along the beach. He pointed towards another plane that was descending along the flight path, “I see you later!” (James chapter three).
James, has written the characters, especially the minor, in a way that they have personalities of their own but are connected to the main protagonist. This can be seen in chapter five. Because of this interconnection, the novel continues to flow and is easy to follow.
Bob thought it sounded like the back of beyond but had spoken to the chef’s mother, a charming woman by the name of Jo, who had been pleased to arrange a meeting with her son. (James chapter five)
Overall, this novel is an easy enjoyable read, and deserves at least four stars. The descriptions of characters, and locations use the appropriate amount of adjectives by not going overboard.
. . . “the young man oozed sexuality, in a rough and tousled way. . . He wondered if the chef was tee-total as he gazed at the magnetic blue eyes and thick mop of dark wavy hair . . . (James chapter five).

On a personal note, I loved the book. I can relate to the main characters. Hattie is hilarious and sometimes annoying, but loveable. A lot like me, l think, except she says what she thinks and I stay silence.
Here is the link to buy the book: http://mybook.to/CTTCMJ
Kat

[Amanda ChocolatePages · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book starts off telling us about Jo and Hattie in Westmorland, unfortunately they are both single again in their later years. But they have a great friendship which we can see throughout the book. The story takes us from Westmorland to the Caribbean to London and back again. You can tell that the Author has a love for all of these places. The way Caroline describes Barbados made me want to go on holiday, and as I couldn’t just jump on a plane to the Caribbean, I made do with a rum punch. ;-)

Caroline’s writing is smooth and easy reading with great descriptions. She totally puts the reader in the place, so you can just imagine yourself sitting on the white sands drinking cocktails.

“..secluded beach-fronted gardens and palm trees swayed, as the turquoise waters lapped..”

I knew before I started this book that I was going to see characters that I had ‘met’ before, and was excited to see what Caroline had in store for them. We also got to meet new lovely characters. We meet Jo’s second son Zach, who is dubbed the ‘Gypsy Chef’. I was especially happy to read of this new character as I love Caroline’s foodie descriptions. There are the deliciously English cooked breakfasts, Caribbean food – mmm Caribbean cake, and of course Zach’s ‘Gypsy Chef’ cooking.

“..chop a bunch of nettles. He tossed them into a pan to saute, along side finely diced wild garlic..”

There are such a wide range of characters in this book. I love the positivity from Hattie, she is always there for her friend Jo with uplifting words, fun and laughter. One of the side characters was Lottie. I would like to hear more from her in Caroline’s future books. She reminds me of Bubble from Ab Fab. I love the way Caroline describes her dress sense, it gives such a sense of her character.

This is what Lottie wore to a birthday party – “..a tight green body stocking, that emphasized every bone and a bright red bob hat. The ensemble reminded Bob of a giant match”

This book is very cleverly written whereby, if like me you have read Caroline’s two previous books you can see how all the characters link up. And wow there are some surprises there with some of the characters. I wasn’t expecting that!! (No spoilers, so you will have to read and find out for yourself).

I loved this book, it gave me an easy read with a great range of characters. There is love, comedy, emotion and food! What more can you ask for?! It was brilliant. ♥

I had a great interview with Author Caroline James. If you missed it, you can catch up here on my blog. -
https://chocolatepages.wordpress.com/...

[Anne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy books that feature rather more mature characters, people I can actually identify with. When I saw this book described as setting out to prove it can be fabulous to be fifty, I was immediately engaged - and the book didn't disappoint one bit.

Caroline writes quite beautifully - very readable conversational style, great descriptions, vividly drawn characters, sparkling humour, a touch of real sadness - and this book was the quite perfect escape from a wet couple of days in Yorkshire. The Barbados setting is wonderfully done - I really felt I'd been on my holidays too, drinking (in Hattie's case, too many!) cocktails on the beach, swaying to the reggae rhythms, swimming with turtles, eating fresh caught fish, with a bit of romance on the side - wonderful stuff.

But this book is a great deal more than "what I did on my holidays". The two main characters are quite excellent - Jo trying to move on after a time of great sadness and loss, Hattie the perfect friend to lift her spirits. I loved Jo, and really felt for her - but I developed a really soft spot for Hattie, straight talking, earthy, exceptionally entertaining and the best friend anyone could wish for. There were little touches I loved throughout this book, many involving Hatty, mostly involving her appetite for food and other things - I can picture her so vividly, in her many unsuitable outfits.

But the other characters are really engaging too - I'd like a Pete of my own please, Tom was much more complex than he first appeared, and I really enjoyed everyone involved in the parallel story of Jo's son and his developing career as a TV chef. Even the characters that appear very briefly are wonderful - especially Poppy in her body stocking and tutu (and unsuitable t-shirt) and the barmaid making Pete offers he can only too easily refuse. And can a dog be described as a character? Meg certainly is, and captured my heart.

The main story isn't all Barbados and its swaying palms - if Kirkton House had a website I'd be on there tomorrow, making my booking. It's described quite perfectly - I'd like a seat somewhere between the gypsy caravan and the croquet lawn please - and becomes another character in this thoroughly enjoyable book.

I really enjoyed this book - well done Caroline for making me laugh so much, making me cry, and letting me escape from real life between the pages of this lovely read. Highly recommended. (And I really should mention that although I haven't read Caroline's other books, this one worked quite perfectly as a stand-alone - but if you have her others on your kindle too, why deny yourself the pleasure?).

[J.B (Debbie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story begins with a very despondent and heartbroken Jo who is a widow facing an uncertain future. She feels unable to move on from her husbands sudden death and can see no further than one day at a time. She is stuck in limbo and knows she must make a decision about her future and that of the hotel they owned. Her children have flown the nest, each involved in their own new venture and Jo feels surplus to requirements. She knows she needs to carve out a new future for herself and that means a possible move away from all that is familiar to her.

Jo's best friend Hattie is feeling equally despondent. Her rat of a husband has treated her badly. Despite Jo warning Hattie about her husbands infidelity, Hattie choose to ignore it until finally realising Jo was right. Now, she too is alone. However, Hattie isn't going to let the small matter of a broken heart stop her and she manages to talk Jo into having a holiday visiting Jo's son in Barbados. And, so the two women set off on their own little adventure.

I really enjoyed this book and I adored Hattie! She was totally nuts and one of a kind. Despite giving the impression of someone who was simply crashing through life, swatting away all her own hurt and pain, Hattie is actually quite a worldly wise woman with a sensible head (whenever she chooses) and a heart as big as the Caribbean itself. Her exploits in the book had me laughing out loud at times. But, through all her bravado, Hattie is as vulnerable as Jo.

Set in the beautiful Caribbean, the story introduces such a wealth of wonderful and colourful characters who really add such a fun dimension to the book. And, thankfully Hattie fits right in with her over enthusiastic embrace of all things fun (and alcoholic!). The story reminds us that life and fun don't have to end just because we are a certain age. Life is still full of second chances and lots of love if we just open our eyes and look hard enough. Sometimes its closer than we think.

What I loved most about the book is the strong bond between Jo and Hattie despite being two completely different women from different backgrounds. They were such great friends who clearly love and support one another in their very different ways. This was a fun read with a serious message and I highly recommend it. Although the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone and I didn't feel at anytime at a disadvantage for not having read the first book in the series.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Coffee Tea The Caribbean & Me, it is a fabulous sequel to Coffee Tea The Gypsy & Me, and is set over twenty years later. If you have read the first book, then it fills in the gaps of what has happened between the two books, and if you haven't then don't worry as this is easily readable as a standalone.

Jo and Hattie have both had a tough time of it recently. Jo's husband suffered a shock diagnosis and death, and she is clearly still mourning him. Hattie's husband left her, after a string of affairs, and although she is upset and coming to terms with it, she is far more concerned about Jo. She decides that what they both need is a Caribbean holiday to re-energise them.

Jo's sons are now grown up Jimmy (formerly Thomas) now runs a bar and entertainment venue in Barbados, and Zach has become a Michelin starred chef, who has just moved to London, and his agents are trying to make him into the next big thing.

Jo may feel like giving up on love, but she has no shortage of male admirers, with one being a fresh character to this book, and the other is Pete Parks, who has been her friend for many, many years.

Throughout the book we have various focuses, as the story has many different threads. There are not only spotlights on Hattie, Jo and her two sons, but also on his agent, the various love interests. This gave a very well rounded view of many people's lives, and I felt like I knew them a lot better because of it.

The Caribbean holiday is a big part of this story, as it changes the ladies outlooks on life. Although I didn't really get a great feel of Barbados, its clear that the locals are very friendly, and that there are some great cocktails available.

As someone who had read the first book, it was fantastic to see Thomas (now Jimmy) as an adult, and to see just how he turned out. I did find it a bit odd that there was no mention of his biological father, and I couldn't help but wonder what had happened to him.

I'm loving Caroline James' writing style, and her sense of humour is very entertaining. This is a lovely sunny book, with some slightly more mature characters, approaching the middle of their lives, and it's very heartening to see how they deal with what life throws them.

Very much looking forward to reading the next book in this amusing and friendly series.

Thank you to Brook Cottage Books for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I read this book, the dull skies of summer in North East England where replaced by the sun of Barbados as I joined Hattie and Jo on their Caribbean holiday.

Jo and Hattie are friends in their fifties who have recently gone through big changes in their lives. While Jo figures out how she is going to move on in her life and come to terms with what has happened, the friends go on holiday to Barbados.

One of the things I really liked about this book is that it centred on older women, rather than the women in their twenties and thirties that you normally see in novels of this genre. This made such a refreshing change and it was so nice to have the perspective of women at a different stage in their lives. Caroline writes about relationship losses, children leaving home and wondering where to go in life following these changes with feeling and yet also with humour.

I loved the characters, especially the larger-than-life Hattie. She is exactly how you would hope to be as a woman in that age group or who you would want as a friend when going through a tough time. She is carefree and funny and I warmed to her instantly. Jo is the more sensible friend, and the characters together are just perfect.

The descriptions of Barbados are great, and I really felt (and wished!) I was away with them. After reading it would be a bit of a shock coing back to the reality that is Sunderland in August!

The only criticism I would have of the book is that I found it a bit slow moving to begin with and I struggled to keep my attention on it initially. Some of the chapters felt a little superfluous with not a lot happening. However, it picked up in the latter half of the book and I again became interested in the decisions that Jo had to make and what would become of the two friends.

Coffee, Tea the Caribbean and Me is the second novel featuring Jo and Hattie, however, it works just as well as a stand alone novel as I have not read the first in the series.

It is a light and easy read that would be a great companion by the pool or on the beach while on your jollies.

Thank you to Caroline James for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Shell Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Caroline james and definitely won't be my last I thoroughly enjoyed it. I read this in one afternoon I just couldn't put it down. First one all I have to say what a amazing cover it has, It makes me want to dive into the picture. I so love the little picture motifs at the start of every chapter. For me this is a lovely added touch.

So Hattie who has had her fair share of problems convinces heartbroken widow Jo to go on a much deserved holiday to the caribbean. But their holiday sets off a course of events that brings mayhem and madness to Jo and her family. Confused and anxious for her future, can life really begin again for Jo?

Jo's two grown up sons have moved away, Jimmy to runs a bar in Barbados, and Zach who went to London to pursue a career as a celebrity chef.

Jo feels like middle age is looming and feels like giving up on love although Pete parks is totally smitten with her or should I say totally fallen for her.

Theses are all characters which you can relate to although I have to say my heart did go out to Jo, I really did feel sorry for her. And Hattie, well what a character she did make me laugh. Yes you guessed it, there are plenty of laugh out loud moments in this light hearted read. I love Caroline's style of writing the descriptions are so well written and pictures I felt like I was there at the Caribbean with them.

Not having read the first book I can definitely say that this can read has a standalone. But I will without a shadow or a doubt be reading the first one to find out how it all began.

So if you're looking for a fun, entertaining, enjoyable read this is the book for you which I highly recommend and I am giving it 4 stars.

Thank you Brook Cottage Books for a copy of this in exchange for a honest review.

[Rachel (Rae) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About the book:

From Cumbria to the Caribbean...

Flying solo again in their middle years, can life really begin again for Jo and Hattie? Is there hope for the newly single baby boomers and can romance happen?

Continuing the Coffee Tea... series, Join Jo and Hattie as they romp into their future and prove that anything is possible!

My thoughts:

Jo and Hattie are great characters and their friendship made the book even more entertaining. My favourite character has to be Hattie though. She is really comical and at times she reminded me of myself with her appetite! I think that the grief Jo was going through after losing John was well written. Jo knows that she has to move on but it is easier said than done.

I really enjoyed the story it moved at a brisk pace and once I started reading I hardly put it down. It was lovely to read from different points of view I think it definitely added to the story. The story is packed with emotion but also has its funny moments that help lighten the tone. This book deals with grief and divorce but also new beginnings. The writing was descriptive and I could almost feel the warmth from the Caribbean sun as I read.

Overall:

Coffee, Tea, The Caribbean & Me is funny, heartwarming and would make a perfect holiday read!

Four stars from me!

Thank you to Caroline James who kindly sent me a copy to read and review. This is my honest opinion.

[Julie Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main two characters of this book are mature single ladies who are best friends. Jo, recently widowed, is sensible, serious but lonely. Hattie, a divorcee, is everything Jo isn’t and more! I loved her crazy character and she certainly provided many LOL moments.
The three different settings of Cumbria, Barbados and London intermingle beautifully.

Barbados is my favourite location as it offers sun, sand and ’what happens on the Island stays on the Island ‘.Home to Jimmy Jo’s son this exotic Isle gives Jo and Hattie a holiday to remember.

Cumbria is home where decisions inevitably have to be made and can’t be put off much longer.

London is where Jo’s other son Zack has recently moved to chasing his dream job as a celebrity chef.

This Rom-Com is a breath of fresh air and although is the sequel to Coffee, Tea, The Gypsy & Me, can be read as a stand-alone. It offers friendship, love and lots of fun and as if that’s not enough the great news is that the sequel Coffee, Tea, The Boomers & Me is coming out soon!



Thank you Caroline for sending me this delightful book in exchange for an honest review –it was a pleasure to read.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

fabulous read Caroline you have done it again cannot wait for bloomerville yo u had me not wanting to put the book down in the beginning to not wanting to pick it back up near the end because that would of been that no more Jo for ages .. the characters are so much like my friend and I that it brought Back fabulous memories and the story line was brill thank you x hurry up bloomerville x

[Andrea Wetton · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE SUN IS SHINING

was unaware of Caroline James before reading the prequel to this book and so looked forward to reading what happens next, and I wasn't let down, another brilliant book,booking forward to reading the next book.
Was languishing in the Caribbean with every sentence, Nice!!!!

[ERICA PERSCHKY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected ending

I have read all 3 books in this trilogy. The first two are stand alone stories. This 3rd one combines all the characters from the first two books. I just loved it!! But for me, an unusual, and not expected ending. Characters and storylines vivid and enjoyable. I will certainly read books by this author again. Great stuff

[Bashful jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caroline James coffee tea and me

I actually felt I was in Barbados
The Caribbean
What a lovely emotional good read happy little sad happy but so easy to relate to be it you're 17 yrs old or 70 yeah great book 😊

[Dianne Selwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this much more than the first book (though I guess it helped a little to already know most of the characters, but you could certainly this without reading the first book) great easy to read story, loved the sons, and Barbados

[Sandra Rhodes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coffee tea the Caribbean & me by Caroline James

Great book couldn't put it down if you like a good story romance and a bit of a laugh you will love this book ...

[Tracey Harrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fab read, plenty of life to live!

[Lesley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not for me, found it very plodding.

[Mrs Nicole M Middleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

Funny and sad, but never maudlin. Love Caroline’s books and they never disappoint. Following the main characters is like hearing old friends catching* up on the gossip.

[Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. After her husband's death, Jo and her friend Hattie head for a holiday in Barbados. Jo's son Jimmy lives there and runs a bar on the beach. A story of finding yourself again.

[Mrs.A.Cumpsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caroline James

Loving her books. Each one gets better and better. Loved this one.
Recommended as a must read on your list

[edward ennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

a good read

A really nice story, good middle, interesting ending if a little predictable. Very enjoyable. What more can you ask from a book?

[Irene bunce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coffee tea the Caribbean and me

Loved everything from the description of people and places. Thank you.looking forward to reading more from Caroline James.uplifting from the start

[Donna R. Horbachuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book from my favorite author!