Rising to the Occasion by Linda Taylor is a heartwarming and witty contemporary novel that explores family, love, and self-discovery. When Cathy Gordon, adopted at birth, learns that she has a living grandfather, she sets off for Oxford to meet him—despite her overbearing boyfriend’s objections. Her newfound relative, Frank, is a grumpy, cricket-obsessed old man, but Cathy is determined to build a relationship with him.
As Cathy navigates her new family dynamic, she finds unexpected support in Barry, Frank’s eccentric lodger, who encourages her to embrace life fully—though his flirtations complicate things. Just as she starts making sense of her feelings, the arrival of the irresistibly charming Nick shakes things up even further. Caught between personal growth, romantic entanglements, and a desire to connect with her past, Cathy embarks on a journey filled with humor, heart, and unexpected twists.
With its engaging characters, lively humor, and emotional depth, Rising to the Occasion is perfect for fans of feel-good fiction with a touch of romance. Readers who enjoy novels about family relationships and self-discovery will find it a delightful read.
