I’m really delighted to join the first birthday celebrations today for Jungle Rock by Caroline James. I’m particularly pleased to be joining in, because this was the wonderful book that finally got me reading again after last year’s problems made me think I might never finish a book again. It’s a romantic comedy novella – and I absolutely loved it.
Handsome young chef Zach Docherty is feeling the heat. Following an exposé in a national newspaper, his fiancée Poppy Dunlop has broken their engagement. Heartbroken at the thought of life without Poppy, Zach drowns his sorrows and, when his agent suggests that Zach becomes a contestant in a reality TV show, Jungle Survival, he reluctantly agrees. Plunged deep in the jungle, into a bizarre mix of talent and trials, Zach meets glamour model Cleo Petra, and the cameras go crazy. Will Zach survive and be crowned Jungle King? Or will his latest exploits push Poppy further away…
“If you’re looking for a highly entertaining story, look no further.” Linda’s Book Bag
“Another really good book from Caroline James.” Rachel’s Random Reads
“A fun romantic read – 5 stars!” My Chestnut Reading Tree
“Fans of ‘I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’ will love this book!” Nikki Ashton, best-selling romcom author
And here’s my review again…
You don’t have to be a fan of I’m A Celebrity… to enjoy this one, but the Australian jungle setting for much of the action will be very familiar to you if you are. While Zach faces up to the trials, Poppy is on the other side of the world looking after another celebrity chef – and a rather attractive one – as he competes for a top prize in Disneyland. Meanwhile, back at the hotel in Cumbria, mother Jo watches on television – and best friend Hatty joins in the action in her inimitable fashion, with laugh out loud moments and some real drama. And it’s rather good to see more of agent Bob too.
Caroline James is a wonderful comedy writer, but turns her hand equally well to the more tender and touching moments. This novella might be just 80 pages long, but it’s a great story, with quite a large cast of characters perfectly drawn. Real fun, and such an enjoyable read – don’t miss it!
And here’s a wonderful extract for you to enjoy…
The celebrities were hungry. With only four of them left to face the next trial, Zach felt concern for Rod. Lenny and Cleo were holding up well on their diet of rice and beans but Rod seemed to lack energy and Zach was determined that the old rocker be next over the suspension bridge to receive a decent meal in Happy Valley. As they gathered to hear what Ava had in store, Zach wondered what the viewing public thought about his own pathetic attempts to win the tasks.
The Gypsy Chef, known for foraging and living off the land, had turned into a wimp. Zach knew that he was losing weight through lack of food and his lethargy towards winning anything would surely mean that he’d soon be voted off the show. But right now, his concern was for others and he needed to make sure that Rod was on his way to decent meal.
Zach focussed on what the host was saying.
“So guys, find a box and we’ll begin.” Ava swept her arm in the direction of four upright Perspex boxes, which were open from above.
Zach nodded at Rod and gave him a reassuring wink, then climbed into a box.
“You’ve got ten minutes, after that its sudden death and only two of you will go through.” Ava smiled. “And you may have company! Remember guys, if you want to get out you just have to raise your hand and we’ll have Mac the Med get you right outta there.”
Zach looked around. Lenny was laughing and seemed slightly hysterical while Cleo sat forward to ease her cleavage into position. Rod had his eyes tightly closed. Zach wondered how many minutes the contestants could endure.
“Are you ready?” Ava said. “Let’s go!”
Giveaway
Sign up to Caroline James’ mailing list to be entered into a draw to win a £20 Amazon voucher. Giveaway open internationally and closes 30th November 2017. Winner will be announced by Caroline via email.
Caroline James Author Mailing List
About the author
Caroline James has owned and run businesses encompassing all aspects of the hospitality industry – a subject that features in her novels. She is based in the UK and spends her time writing, climbing mountains and running a consultancy business. Caroline has a great fondness for the Caribbean and escapes to the islands whenever she can. She is a public speaker, reviewer and food writer and loves cooking and baking, especially cake. Her next novel, The Best Boomerville Hotel is coming soon…
Anne, I feel very humbled by your comment here. You are such a wonderful book reviewer and bring pleasure and help to so many readers who would all join with me and say that we were thrilled that you started reading again, both for yourself and to share your reviews with others. I am so happy that you enjoyed Jungle Rock and as always, massive thanks for all your support. C xx
Apologies Caroline, totally missed this comment – and thank you for your lovely words (and your wonderful books) xx
Amen, Caroline. x
Ah, you guys… thank you! 😘 xx
Yes this is brilliant.
Fantastic, all done .x