The 13th book in my Goodreads Reading Challenge is The Cherry Tree Cafe by Heidi Swain.  Amazon synopsis states;

‘Lizzie Dixon’s life feels as though it’s fallen apart. Instead of the marriage proposal she was hoping for from her boyfriend, she is unceremoniously dumped, and her job is about to go the same way. So, there’s only one option: to go back home to the village she grew up in and to try to start again.

Her best friend Jemma is delighted Lizzie has come back home. She has just bought a little cafe and needs help in getting it ready for the grand opening. And Lizzie’s sewing skills are just what she needs.
With a new venture and a new home, things are looking much brighter for Lizzie. But can she get over her broken heart, and will an old flame reignite a love from long ago…?’

The Cherry Tree Cafe follows the story of Lizzie Dixon, a young woman who at what she believes to be her happiest moment, is unceremoniously dumped.  Whilst dealing with her heartbreak she finds herself returning home at her best friend Jemma’s request where she starts the journey back to her true self as she slowly discovers what she really wants from life.

Lizzie’s story is sadly all too typical…a young girl falls in love and finds herself changing to please the man that she adores.  It’s only when he is removed from her life that she is able to realise who she truly is, and that she never needed to change herself for the love of a good man.

This is a really light, enjoyable read – perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon in the sunshine (preferably surrounded by a sewing machine, plenty of fabric and some crafty ideas).  My only criticism would be that the romance was slightly lacking.  I enjoyed following Lizzie’s journey, and watching her make mistakes as well as great decisions however I would have enjoyed a little more romance along the way.

If you want a nice easy-read, then this is the book for you.

Rating: 3 stars out of 5