This really is feel good fiction. Jenny's life comes crashing down on her head and she finds herself in a small village- with a small village of women in particular who help her, and themselves reset their attitudes and move forward.

Jenny has been living a wonderful life, but when it comes crashing down one day, she has to create a new life for herself and her daughter. It’s difficult and different at first, especially for her daughter April, but in time everything settles into place. Can Jenny and April find happiness after such a big life change?

It’s a great book, way more thought-provoking and deeper than I’d expected from the colorful cover. I loved how strong and determined Jenny was and how she made everything work despite the fact how her husband treated her. It had a great combination of serious topics and light hearted moments. A great read!

Good story. I related well to the characters and enjoyed the writing style.

The New Beginnings Coffee Club was created to gives it's owners just that - A New Beginning, but it is somewhere Jenny feels she would never need for that reason. She is wife to a gorgeous millionaire, lives in a mansion and has a wonderful daughter who is loving life at her privileged private school. However, her little dream isn't set to last when she very quickly loses everything and ends up drowning her sorrows with tea and coffee at The New Beginnings Coffee Club.

What begins as a friendly ear from the owners Noah & Elle turns into a place to stay and a job to get her back on her feet. It really is the second chance she needs, but feels she doesnt deserve. That been said, Jenny then throws herself into creating a new life for her and April. With no help from her ex, and a constant battle from April who is missing her old life - can it really all work out?

Samantha has done it again, she has created a wonderful venue to stop by for a chat with Noah & Elle. Noah and Elle are wonderful people, who have been through there own personal battles and just want to give people somewhere to visit when they need another chance. Noah is a sweet man who could answer any question you would possibly have about coffee. Elle makes for the perfect housemate, a lover of musicals and seeking a new BFF the team just work together so well.

The New Beginnings Coffee Club goes deeper than just a second chance read, it tackles some deeper issues which i didn't expect, but it does it in a wonderful way. It was heart warming and sweet, I loved watching the characters change and discover who they really were and for me that was my favourite thing, especially watching April change from a reality tv obsessed child who didnt want cake to someone miles away from that.

If you are after something soul warming then visit The New Beginnings Coffee Club

Jenny’s life as she knows it is about to end. After husband Zak drops a couple of big bombshells on her, she packs up and leaves with their 10-year-old daughter, April. The local coffee shop owner, Noah, offers her a job as well as a place to stay and Jenny strives to survive away from her pampered world.
As the title suggests, this story focuses on new beginnings – and not just for the main character, Jenny. The journeys of April and housemate Elle were also particularly endearing. In fact, I found the characters and story grew on me the more I read. All in all, a pleasant way to while away the day.

A feel good summer story. Although the storyline is unite predictable, this easy reading book is perfect fo a light holiday read. I read most of it whilst waiting to board a flight.

Loved it. Brilliant summer read, definitely the book to take on a holiday.

I enjoyed this book very much. It is a feel good story and perfect for holiday reading. Jenny and her daughter April move into the local coffee shop cottage. She has split up with her cheating husband and has left a very large villa behind. Noah the owner of the coffee shop has given Jenny a job. Jenny and April share the cottage with him and Elle, Noah's friend who works in the coffee shop too. Jenny worries about April because she can't keep her in the style that they used to live in. Can she and her daughter find happiness? Read on.

Another great read from Samantha Tonge. Very enjoyable heartwarming story with lovely characters.

For a while I didn’t feel this book was especially chick-lit ish, despite the cover and the blurb. I can’t put my finger on why, but maybe it lacked a certain ‘cosiness’ which many books of this genre display. Gradually, thought, the tone and feel of the book changed for me, until, at the end, I felt the book reflected the cover and my expectations.
Reading about how Jenny discovered her real self was lovely and encouraging, and the message throughout the story (and emphasised at the end) was especially relevant I thought, when all of us are faced with pressures to conform and fit in. Ms Tonge deals with several issues (I’m not going to go into details because I HATE spoilers) with sensitivity and compassion.

Most of the characters develop throughout the course of the story, and discover things about themselves, and learn self-acceptance and acceptance of others.
The New Beginnings Coffee club is a tale of hope and of searching out the good things even when surrounded by the bad.
It also reaffirms the belief that money can’t buy happiness and that some things, like love, are priceless.

A variety of stories combine to create new beginnings for several people at the enticing coffee club...

Another warm and engaging story from Samantha Tonge 4*

What can i say about this book. i adored it. It was everything i imagined it to be. Was a lovely feel good read and i was so sad when it ended

The New Beginnings Coffee Club sounded like the perfect summer read, just the thing to kick off the weeks of sunshine and cool drinks (frappuccinos, anyone?) ahead.

Sadly, once I started reading the book, I found that it lacked the spark I thought it might have after sampling the summary. It relies quite heavily on cliches of the genre: a wife, whose entire identity has become wrapped up in her husband and child, finds out her husband is cheating on her (with her "best friend" no less) and she must find the strength to create a new life for herself and her daughter.

Jenny, the protagonist and wife in question, was perplexing. She didn't come from money and while she's gotten used to certain comforts being married to a millionaire, her utter lack of sense regarding the real world astounded me. Surely she couldn't have forgotten everything in only ten years? What it's like to not pay hundreds or even thousands for silly little things? It was odd when compared to the fact that she was the only one between her and her husband that could see selling their mansion was the only way to make some dent in their near bankrupt state. She got slightly better over time, getting back to the fashion ideas she had as a college student, so that is something in the way of her development.

What I didn't like about her, even as we got toward the end of the book, was that she kept making excuses for Zak's behavior regarding her friend/housemate, Elle, and their own relationship. He says and does things that are reprehensible and yet Jenny makes excuse after excuse. I get that he is the father of her child, but that doesn't mean letting him get away with murder like this.

Aside from the problems I had with Jenny's character, I didn't get much of a sense of familiarity with many of the people that she came into contact with in the village: Noah (the new love interest), Martini (a grandmother whose grandchild makes friends with April), etc. The person I liked the most was Elle, whose story I found much more fascinating that Jenny's, to be honest. Something I noticed was that the gossip that is alluded to in the summary actually has next to nothing to do with Jenny at all and more to do with Elle and the revelation that she's transgender. It's strange that they make Elle's story about Jenny and how it affects her. It didn't rub me wrong in the moment, but thinking back on it I get an off feeling and don't care for how Elle's unwilling outing was used as a plot device.

The writing was a letdown as well. It didn't have anything special to offer, which saddened me, because good writing can make up for an awful lot in a substandard or bare bones plot, but I didn't get any of that here. This was, regrettably, not the summer escape read I thought it would be.

I truly loved this book lots of issues covered so well written and so out of the blue twists. Full review will be on www.hayleyreviews10.wordpress.com

Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. What a great funny, witty and lovely book

I loved this book so much I read it twice! The premise is one which has been used a lot, and I was worried that this would mean the story wouldn't stand out. I couldn't have been more wrong. The way the author tells the story it most definitely stands out.

The storyline isn't as simple as you would first assume as the author takes all of the characters on their own journeys, each of which is extremely relevant to the overall storyline. Some of the back stories shocked me, but not in a bad way. I was more surprised because I honestly didn't see some of the twists coming. Those surprises throughout made this book an amazing read rather than simply a good read.

The characters are all written extremely well, the story is told in such a way that I was gripped throughout. The author is a favourite of mine and this story goes to show she continually produces books which will keep the reader wanting more.

Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.

An ensemble story, bringing together the stories of Jenny, April, Noah, Elle and tangentially, Zak, the story starts with a bang and life-changing news for Jenny and her daughter April with her soon to be ex-husband Zak. Until the revelation that blew her life apart, Jenny thought she had no reasons to complain: she still loved her husband even though they married young, her daughter April was happy, if more than slightly mercenary and Kardashian obsessed, she had a nice house, money to do with as she pleased, and no great waves in her future. But, Zak changed all of that in an instant, and her own emotional devastation combined with her own belief that she was the subject of gossip, not to mention the need to support April AND keep her unaware of the wagging tongues is foremost in her mind. Of course, April is aware that things changed – she doesn’t have the pocket money for one, but her belief in her mother’s ability to make things right is refreshing.

Enter Noah and Elle, and their coffee shop with a job offer and a place to stay for both Jenny and April – and a softly accepting and kind manner that makes the best of a situation that isn’t ideal, and offers Jenny hope. Hope in he support and ears leant to her questions and stories, hope in the acceptance of April and her moments, and generally being kind all around……but they too, have secrets.

What a wonderful introduction to this author and her writing. The depth of emotion was palpable and each character’s personality was clearly displayed during their interactions with one another and in quieter moments. With the addition of simple quirks, likes and dislikes, each character comes alive and demands that you pay attention to them, coming to befriend them and care about their happiness and secrets. With revelation of those secrets, the story gains an unexpected depth, handing difficult moments and situations with care, providing insight into the characters’ actions, choices and just why some things took longer to reveal than others. Truly a testament to friendship and the supportive environment’s ability to offer options for growth and healing, this was a wonderful book and great introduction to the work of Samantha Tongue. For those readers who often ‘pooh-pooh’ the fluffiness of woman’s fiction, or wish for depth WITH a story that is just a bit different from the norm, this is the book for you.

I received an eArc copy of the ttle from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” http://wp.me/p3OmRo-92n”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>

This was the first book I have read from this author and I really loved it. Easy reading, perfect for your holiday reading on the beach, super characters who all blend together so well, in fact there could be a second book about the coffee club. The one thing that stood out for me was the underlying message that fun and making memories does not have to cost anything, I really think people have forgotten the way a bit as so much revolves around technology these days. Definitely a page turner that I could not put down and an easy five stars.

The New Beginnings Coffee Shop by Samantha Tonge
Contemporary Romantic Fiction comes in two flavours (at least from my experience); light, fluffy and warms the cockles of the heart, and the kind that makes you think. The latter are usually written by authors that have been around for a while and have taken their time to hone their craft. Now, I could find out for how long Ms Tonge has been an author, but that’s immaterial as within the first couple of chapters, I knew, simply knew, that her was the story that has elevated Ms Tonge’s writing to a new level.
And my reason for this sweeping statement? Strangely enough, it’s from the presence of a secondary character and I couldn’t be more pleased to say that. The main characters, Jenny and Zak separate early on and the main narrative is to do with how Jenny and her daughter April cope with their drastically changed situation. Jenny married Zak early in life, Zak being a millionaire, and had known no life different to her pampered existence, until now. Taken in by local coffee shop owner Noah and, the source of my joy at discovering her, Elle.
Jenny, though at first a little difficult to feel sympathy for and therefore an atypical protagonist in the first place, may be the central person around whom everything centres, but it’s the relationship she forges with Elle that made such an impact on this reader. I’d love to tell you just what it is about her, other than the fact that she’s such a well-written character, but I can’t. Suffice to say, there’s one central thing about her that I simply can’t tell you. Buy the book to find out and you won’t be disappointed.
I never give away anything about the story in my reviews – there are plenty of other reviews around if you want to know more about the story but I can and will say that this is one of the most enjoyable stories I’ve read in a while. There are surprises at virtually each turn of the page, and delightedly, not every storyline is tied up neatly at the end; don’t worry, the book doesn’t suffer for that as that is life, not everything comes with a bow around it.
Do yourself a favour, of all the books that are currently out there, this should be the one that you start to read now. Hit that ‘Buy Now’ type button.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book.

Before I began reading this new book from Samantha Tonge I had seen someone mention how with this story the author's writing had really been upped a level and everything was going in a more serious direction. I was intrigued to see would I agree with this statement as having read several of her books I know what to usually expect - light, fun, easy reads with some humour and romance thrown in. Now having finished reading The New Beginnings Coffee Club (don't worry this is not another one of those club/shop/group books) I completely agree that Samantha's writing has certainly shifted to a new level and the overall storyline was really relevant to our times today. I liked the serious undertones coming through with good, strong messages for the reader to take from the story. Yes it is a departure for the author but in a really good way. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed her earlier stories and not to detract from them in any way but sometimes you need that change of direction to keep the writing fresh and the readers wanting to come back to your books time and time again. With this story Samantha will earn lots of new readers and pleasantly surprise those who have followed her work since her début Doubting Abbey was published in 2013.

The New Beginnings Coffee Club is a story of a journey, a transformation, of battling through the rough and unexpected times and with the help, support and care of others our main character may begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I really enjoyed accompanying our main character Jenny Jarvis as she embarks upon a new start in life. Although she may have thought her warm, cushy world was forever it's when we least expect things to change that they do through unfortunate, unforgiving circumstances and perhaps at the time the most soul destroying of ways.

We meet Jenny in a brief prologue as she reminisces about her childhood. She thought back then if she ever has a child she wants to be a mum just like her own mother - baking, crafting and creating wonderful memories for her child to savour. Fast forward many years later and Jenny is 32 and happily married to a handsome high flyer Zachary Masters. The couple have a daughter April aged ten who is on the cusp of that tween phase where celebrity and peer pressure play such an influential role on their later teenage years. The references throughout the story to the Kardashians and celeb culture were spot on. I loved how the author had a point to put across as to how celebrity is becoming like a modern religion and not in a good way so much so that the influence and remarks of April's friends play a huge part in the way she is feeling and the persona she puts across. Food, calories, makeup and hair trends seemed to be such an obsession for the young girls. This issue wasn't too in your face but well meshed with the overall storyline amongst all the other little plot lines. If it had been a very dominant theme I think it would have strayed too far with what we have known Samantha to write before. Yes the book ventured down new writing avenues for the author but not too much too soon.

Jenny enjoys a very nice life with Zach - his business Elite Eleganz has afforded the family a life of privilege and luxury. April attends a fee paying school where competition to be the best is rife amongst the girls. Jenny can buy anything she wants and thinks she is in the 'in club ' with fellow mum Chanelle who owns a nail salon. Things really couldn't be better for Jenny. The author did a brilliant job of painting such a picture of a wonderful life for a loving and happy family that when it all comes crashing down your heart instantly goes out to Jenny. Even in the beginning I never felt Jenny herself had come across as truly spoilt but I could see when everything disappears she has a battle on her hands to re- accustom herself to a 'normal life'. Jenny thinks a lovely romantic meal is in store for her when she goes out with Zach but he turns up late, a fight ensues and the truth finally emerges and it's not what Jenny ever thought she would hear. This was such a brutal uncessary putdown from Zach.'Oh Jenny .... you're just a housewife. And it's not enough anymore'. My picture of Zach as this hunk who works hard and earns plenty of money disappeared and for the rest of the book I disliked him intensely. All Jenny's safe, secure world comes crashing down and she is out on her ear and someone she thought quite close to her is in her place.

Lack of money becomes a huge issue but maybe really this is the wake up call Jenny needed to create a better life for herself and April. The only trouble is having had so much how can she cope with so little? 'Bit by bit my perfect life was crumbling - jagged chunks of it smashing through my ignorance'. Jenny now can't fall apart as April really needs her. I could sense that's what she wanted to do but she desperately needed to find some inner strength to keep moving forward and put the past behind her and forge a new and happy future. Although I did think she was quite down on herself believing she had always been handed everything and now wasn't capable of achieving anything on her own.

Before starting the book I did think it could be about a group of women forming a coffee club where all their woes and ups and downs were discussed. Thankfully this couldn't have been further from the truth. The coffee club in question is a café run by Noah with the help of Elle. It's unique and special as Noah puts so much time and effort into sourcing so many various flavours of coffee beans in a bid to attract as many customers as possible into such a warm and inviting place. Noah was an instantly likeable character, I think he felt a certain affinity with Jenny and wanted to reach out and help her. His advice was so sound and useful. I did think though offering her a job and a place to stay with April was quite rushed but it could just be do with his kind nature. I sensed Noah had been through a lot and having been so wanted to help others in need. These simple brilliant words are just what Jenny needed to hear 'Just be true to yourself. Listen to your heart. The rest will follow. Everyone has problems. You aren't alone'. As Jenny battles to adjust to a whole new way of life she also has to contend with Zach still in her life after all he is Jenny's father but also April has her own little issues. April was such a sweet character and brought plenty of humour to the story but also spoke a lot of sense for someone so young. The wishes she requested were magical and such a nice touch to the story.

The story moved along at a nice pace once Jenny gets the job and we get to know Elle and Noah that little bit better too. I enjoyed seeing how Jenny slowly became more confident as she found her feet and became more independent. Yet it wasn't all plain sailing and therefore very much reflective of life especially after a break up. There were a few twists and turns throw in towards the end of the book and a few dramatic scenes. A surprising revelation I would never have seen coming in a million years but bravo Samantha Tonge for including this subject and handling it with such sensitivity.

The New Beginnings Coffee Club is well worth a read. I flew through it in two sittings and I found both its themes and characters really resonated with me. This is a warm, inviting book with characters you won't want to leave behind. I so thoroughly enjoyed Jenny's path to finding her inner voice and searching for a positive, hopeful future. Does Jenny get a happy ending or will there be a few spanners thrown in the works? Pick up this delightful book to discover the answers for yourself.