In Pursuit of Happiness: The perfect uplifting romantic read

Jo Campbell is leading a very safe life in her beloved Derry. Presently living with her mother and six-year old sister while her father is working in Dubai, she co-owns a bar with her brother Noah but dreams of one day being a famous writer. She hasn't even dated since she came back from her job as a holiday rep in Spain a few years ago. Safe, but maybe a bit boring? Definitely in a rut. Then two things happen to shake up Jo's life. Her neighbour's grandson Lorcan comes to visit from England and her BFF, who happens to own the local bookshop, sends Jo's manuscript to a famous author who is about to visit the bookshop for a book reading. Suddenly Jo is faced with some very real and exciting opportunities, but does she have the courage to take them? And are they mutually exclusive? I've been in a bit of a slump with the cosy British romances recently so I started this book with trepidation, and I have to admit it didn't grab me at first. But soon the novelty (for me) of a contemporary romance set in Northern Ireland and the engaging characters won me over. I believe this is the second book in a series but it could definitely be read as a stand-alone. Cute, charming, funny and choc full of lovable characters without trying too hard this was just the book to lift me out of my reading slump and make me feel good. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.