Make or Break at the Light House B&B (say that five times fast) was my first experience with author Portia MacIntosh. It was also my first approved arc for review on Netgalley so, naturally, I went into it with high hopes and utter excitement. I cannot say I was disappointed.

Our girl Lola is a small town girl living in the big city with a rather unique career as a celebrity matchmaker. She’s got the hot boyfriend and ritzy friends. So, naturally, she loses it all in a cringy tumble off six inch Louboutins at her friend’s grossly over-the-top wedding (I mean, there was a swan as ring-bearer. Talk about extra.) Now hobbled by a wheelchair that makes it impossible for her to live in her own apartment, she’s ultimately forced to return to her tiny home town and the converted lighthouse her folks turned into a Bed & Breakfast when her turns-out-not-so-great boyfriend and equally shitty supposed best friend brush her real life problems aside.

I really enjoyed this book as a quick weekend read. It’s light, fun and, as an American, a great look into life as a Brit. Because of that there were a few euphemisms that I didn’t get but just accepted them for what they were and carried on. Lighthouses are some of my favorite kind of historic landmarks so to read a story about a family that actually lives in one was very interesting, especially because it was on a tidal island. Which meant access to the lighthouse via a causeway was completely dependent on the tide. I do wish there was some more touring of Marram itself, but this is only one book among two or three others that are set in the same town/world, so my interest in picking up the others has piqued. Also, I REALLY hope we get a Kim & Robbie story because I WAS INVESTED. Robbie was adorable and I need more of him.

Anyway, we have Lola who reunites with an old schoolmate that is now a doctor named Will. At first glance, their romance seems pretty apparent and then something happens that totally turns that on its head, which, if I’m being honest I was not a fan of. Especially, after the whole revelation with her big city boyfriend (I can’t even remember dudes name), which also, seemed a little flat. We only ever meet him at the beginning of the story and then never again except through Lola’s inner monologue as she is deciphering his likely infidelity. It just started to feel like a “woe is me” sort of deal.

On the other hand, Dean, our second love interest in this weak triangle, was a much better suitor and I was a bit disappointed it took him so long to make an appearance when his sister tricks him (pretty much) into joining the singles looking for love group Lola was running. He is cheeky and difficult but very genuine and has a good heart. He turns into the man that all of the others in Lola’s life were not. They go on fun outings that weren’t actually dates but to the reader were CLEARLY dates. Also, he’s a detective which turns into a basis for quite a few of their outings.
Before I sign off, I also want to mention the members of the singles group were all so fun, especially (again forgot her name) the elderly woman that was absolutely down with the young people and savvy of new technologies.

ANYWAY, I’ve rambled here. I haven’t quite gotten concision down just yet with writing reviews. Ultimately, I was pleased with this book. It wasn’t mind-blowing but entertaining and I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3158882205
I am not sure if this link is going to work so i will write few things just in case.
This is my first read by this author so i wasnt sure what to exoect because i am a reader who can only read certain authors and this book is one of those books you cant put down and can add to your favourite author pile.
It begins in the big city of London with her big fancy weddings, celebrity parties and clubbing but that comes crashing down along with her fibia when it breaks at her best friends wedding party, couldnt have been at a worse time. Her boyfriend and all of her friends are all too busy to look after her so she has to go home back to Hope island in Yorkshire to her parents B&B, Life cant get any worse for Lola..
Lolas mother has to wash and dress her and she isnt feeling too great about it. Her mother sets up a singles group so she can help single people come together so she has a small group of unmatchables but by the end of the book, all of these singletons are infact dating whther or not they were meant to be but its all fun and games. Lola likes the Dr, the Dr likes any female with a heartbeat... She goes on stakeouts, she goes on fake dates to her singletons and really begins to let her hair down, the only thing that is letting her down is having to be carried everywhere due to her badly broken leg.
The story is fun, flirty and really readable, i couldnt put it down. I love these books and i feel priviledged to have had a copy given to my netgalley. loved it.,

When Lola injured herself at a friends wedding, Lola soon realises what she has, the people surrounding her aren’t all they seem. Lola is forced to return home to her childhood home. Lola meets new people, but can these people be relied on, do they care? Can Lola learn to trust again.
Start to finish in 5 hours! Absolutely brilliant. Easy reading with a few surprises along the way! Praise to Portia on this absolutely lovely read.

This was a pure guilty pleasure for me. I've never been one for chick lit or anything remotely like that, but every once in a while a read a blurb and I am like 'this book, I need to read this book'. That's exactly what happened with this book and here we are, writing a 4 star review.

At first I did not like the main character, Lola. In the first chapter she just seems to enable her clearly selfish 'best friend', not calling her friend out on her crappy behaviour, and for a few chapters after, consistently tries to make excuses for why none of her so called friends and boyfriend could be bothered to help her in her time of need. Luckily her parents are more than happy to have her home and help her recover, and it's great seeing her character develop and begin to realise how terrible her friends in London were for her, and makes some unusual friends back at home at the B&B. 

So something that happens later in the book, or rather it happens before the book takes place but it is brought up in conversation between characters, it really hit home with me, I actually had to put the book down and take a break (it was a short break, I finished this book in a matter of hours). I don't want to add spoilers but something we find out about Dean's ex wife makes me hate her for many personal reasons.

This book definitely would not be for everyone; its a little predictable and cheesy - the line 'I could kick myself, or I would if I could' is used at least three times by the main character who has broken her leg and made me cringe after the first time. BUT I know at least one person who I'll be recommending this too as they will love it.

Lovely story. I enjoyed it very much. A book like a long, warm cuddle.

Lola is the sort of heroine I like: confident in most matters, insecure in others.

The supporting cast are all lovely and not too quirky.

Thirty-one-year-old matchmaker Lola James had it all – until she broke her leg at a wedding and discovered that her so-called ‘best friend’ was suddenly too busy to call, her flat had far too many steps, and her boyfriend replaced her quicker than you can say ‘crutches’.

And so she’s back at her parents’ B&B, sleeping in the living room (she can’t get upstairs) and having her hair washed by her mum (she can’t get in the shower).

Freshly single and with a lot of time on her hands, Lola is only too pleased to run into gorgeous Dr Will, an old friend who has definitely improved with age… And then there’s Dean, a divorcé who’s convinced he’s better off alone – no matter how lonely he is.

Can Will help mend Lola’s broken heart as well as her leg? Can she help Dean find love? As a wise man once said, sometimes the one for you is right under your nose, all along…

Poor Lola is not as successful in her love life as the people she helps with theirs. Lola seems to jump to a lot of conclusions (like a lot of people) and not getting to the right answer! Both Lola and her mother think her father is having an affair, but yet again they have jumped to the wrong conclusion that does have a happy ending.

I loved this story and it kept me occupied until I had read the whole book. It was obvious that love would come for her eventually and yes it was right under her nose. I did get angry at the beginning with her so called friend not even checking on her when she broke her leg even though she was a bridesmaid at her wedding and wearing shoes that just were not suitable.

All's well that ends well though, another successful book I would recommend for a light read.

So here I am falling in love with a new author. I am so happy I finally picked up one of Portia Macintosh books. I was looking for a light-hearted read this weekend and this was just perfect! The characters were likable, flawed, and endearing. The setting was sublime and described so well, it makes you want to visit the countryside for a holiday. Honestly this was supposed to be 4.5-star rating for me but when I read that "Geese" scene that part totally made my day. I was like, "nope this one definitely deserves a five-star rating." So thank you very much, that was the clincher.

It's my first book by MacIntosh and certainly won’t be the last!
This book will be released on February 14, 2020, a perfect Valentine's Day read!

A big thank you to Portia McIntosh, HQ Digital, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this book, Portia Macintosh gets better and better. Life on an island with only the causeway and the tides to keep in touch. New friends made and new romances blossom. It is amazing how a broken leg can change your life and make you see the truth about other people and how low they can be. This is at least a 5 star novel and I recommend everyone reads this and enjoys it as much as I have done..Well done Portia Macintosh

This book was such a delight to read. A good mix of interesting characters. It really got going for me when Lola, the main character meets Dean. I loved the setting of the story, especially the description of the causeway, having driven over them myself. This book is a funny and I found myself struggling to put it down.
It also had me reminiscing about the crisp butties we had as kids..read it to find out what I mean. I definitely recommend grabbing yourself a copy.

**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.**

Title Make or Break at the Lighthouse B&B

Author Portia MacIntosh

Release Date February 14, 2020

Description from Amazon

Welcome to beautiful Hope Island, where the sun is shining, the locals are welcoming, and Lola is about to find a second chance at love…

Thirty-one-year-old matchmaker Lola James had it all – until she broke her leg at a wedding and discovered that her so-called ‘best friend’ was suddenly too busy to call, her flat had far too many steps, and her boyfriend replaced her quicker than you can say ‘crutches’.

And so she’s back at her parents’ B&B, sleeping in the living room (she can’t get upstairs) and having her hair washed by her mum (she can’t get in the shower).

Freshly single and with a lot of time on her hands, Lola is only too pleased to run into gorgeous Dr Will, an old friend who has definitely improved with age… And then there’s Dean, a divorcé who’s convinced he’s better off alone – no matter how lonely he is.

Can Will help mend Lola’s broken heart as well as her leg? Can she help Dean find love? As a wise man once said, sometimes the one for you is right under your nose, all along…

Initial Thoughts

This story sounded like a cute rom-com and I was really in the mood to read one of those. I’m glad I was approved for this title – it came right at the perfect time.

Some Things I Liked

Witty dialogue. I loved the conversations Lola had with everyone, especially with Dean.
The Unmatchables. I loved the group that Lola formed (or rather, her mother formed) that she ended up helping. Their interactions were hilarious and I loved seeing their stories pan out.
Setting. I loved Hope Island and the local culture that came with it. I loved the way the island was described and I would love to go visit!

Series Value

While this story feels complete as a standalone, I loved all of the characters. I’d love a sequel with Lola matching more “unmatchables”. I thought the dialogue was charming and the characters were engaging and I’d love to see more of that set on Hope Island.

Final Thoughts

This book was super cute. I loved everything about it. If you’re looking for a rom-com for Valentine’s Day (or any time) check this one out!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommendations for Further Reading

Christmas at Frozen Falls by Kiley Dunbar – although this is a holiday story, the vibes are so similar. If you like stories about revisiting the past in order to discover what your future has in store, try this holiday story by Kiley Dunbar.
The Move by Whitney Dineen – if you like clean, rom-coms about starting over in a new place with hilarious, sometimes over-bearing parents, try this book by Whitney Dineen.
Coming Home to Glendale Hall by Victoria Walters – if you liked the themes of re-discovering yourself that Lola experiences in Make or Break at the Lighthouse B&B, try this book by Victoria Walters – the sequel came out last week.

This is the first book by Portia MacIntosh I've ever read - and I'll be happily looking out for her other books in the future as I enjoyed this one so much! She is a great storyteller and was able to weave all the various plot points together brilliantly. Would really recommend it as a holiday read!

When Lola breaks her leg at her friends wedding her London life crumbles. Her friends are too busy to help, her boyfriend abandons her in favour of work and her boss sees her wheelchair as a disadvantage to the image of the company. Lola has no choice but to go back home to her parents B&B attached to the lighthouse where she has a bedroom on the top floor.

I really enjoyed reading about Lola’ s life back at the lighthouse, this is where the story became really interesting as she made friends helping them find that special person. A lovely light hearted read, where Lola realised what was really important in her life. Will she return to her old life in London? Read the book you will love it

I've not read a book of Portia's for quite some time now, so it was great to get back in to her books with this gorgeous read. I really enjoyed Lola's story after having her terrible accident, forcing her to return home until her leg was healed up, however, what she was eventually going to learn, is that it couldn't have been a better decision.

I completely devoured this book within a day, every page making me want more and more. I absolutely adored how the story played out, and I'm glad one of the twists I was hoping for became a reality! Every character - except for one slimy little worm - were so loveable and brought so much to Lola's life. Her Unmatchables group really made for an interesting story-line and had me giggling to myself many times.

There is nothing faulty about this story whatsoever - it was an absolute delight to read and I'm already on to my next Portia read, 'My Great Ex-Scape'. Congratulations Portia, on another wonderful book.

3* Not as good as My Great Ex-Scape, unfortunately. Got boring once Lola arrived at the B&B.

This isn't a bad read, and in fact, all the way til maybe the first week in Yorkshire, I did find myself smiling a lot, but then it turned into a bit of a Carry On movie, and there were too many cooks to keep track of. Seriously, there were so many characters that I couldn't remember who was who, and the male lead of the tale didn't make an appearance until about 2/3 of the way through, after a would-be boyfriend had been found wanting and discarded (the second in the tale, btw).

There was a lot of pretty mundane stuff happening and some not-so-mundane stuff and I alternated between being not really that interested and not believing. Tbh, the tale didn't feel as natural or as organic as the above-mentioned one, and this has put me off reading more from this author - it started well, but it felt as if the author tried too hard with too many things in an effort to make the book LOL all the way through, and interesting; she didn't succeed, or at least not in my book, no pun intended.

ARC courtesy of HQ Digital and NetGalley, for my reading pleasure.

Really enjoyed this book. The story of Lola. After having an accident at her best friends wedding and breaking her leg and finding none of her friends there in her hour of need, goes back home to rest and take thing easy. Whilst home she also finds out her boyfriend has been cheating on her.
Once home she meets up with old friends and her mom sets her up on social media about her helping people with matchmaking, amongst other things.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was funny and serious in places. Would definitely recommend it.

My experience to date has been hit or miss with chick lit book. I don't tend to read lots of them as often the romances are just not developed enough for me, yet every year I find a handful of book blurbs that I just can't resist. Well this book was a hit for me. It had a nice blend of "finding herself", humour and romance. Light drama, nothing over the top, and characters that were likeable. Overall, a very enjoyable funny story. *I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. Lola, the main character was both likeable and relatable (living back under your mum's roof when you're in your 30s is enough to make anyone regress to a sulky 15yo!!). I also thought the parents and the supporting characters were well written.
The setting sounded beautiful, and if I had one criticism it would be that perhaps more could have been made of that (both the lighthouse and the causeway).
Overall thought, a fun easy read. I've not read any of Portia Macintosh's other books but I'll definitely be looking out for them in future.

Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. This was just what the doctor ordered for a dreary miserable January, I want to go to Hope Island. Great storyline, characters.

This was a fun and easy read. There was humor and friendship abound. Let’s not forget romance and often not where expected!

Wasn’t 100% sure on this novel when I first started reading but the more I read the more it grew on me. I enjoyed Portia’s style of writing, it was quite elegant. And I found myself enjoying it more and more after Lola moved back home as her character became more relatable and likeable.