Tizi’s Book Review

When the dream is so close, things must go awry somehow, right?

Synopsis

Booksellers Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed are just three weeks away from their dream wedding. Between hand-selling beloved classics, unveiling Ed’s enchanting window displays and hosting lively book readings with local authors, they’ve managed to plan an intimate ceremony that promises to be everything they’ve ever hoped for – filled with literary delights, lots of laughter and the love of those closest to them. 

But when Ed’s mother Dawn arrives unannounced on their doorstep, Florrie’s world is thrown into chaos like confetti. Dawn claims she’s come to help with the wedding preparations, yet she’s never shown the slightest interest in her son before. As she starts dismissing their carefully curated shelves and snooping around their cosy cottage, Florrie can’t shake the feeling that Dawn’s plans stretch far beyond simply choosing flowers and cake.

With her close-knit group of friends rallying around her and the bookshop’s loyal customers offering support, can Florrie protect her relationship and the bookshop that means everything to them both? Or will their happily ever after slip through their fingers like pages torn from one of her treasured books?

My review

Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed feel that everything is falling into place. Their bookshop is running well, Ed can let his inspiration run wild with enchanting window displays, and their wedding is just a few weeks away. A wedding that will be an intimate one, with many literary references and the people they love the most. But when Ed’s mother, Dawn, appears on their doorstep, Florrie just knows that chaos will ensue. Where other parents would be delighted with the success of their children, Dawn’s presence especially is one that worries everyone, as Dawn never showed any interest in Ed at all, and always has a personal agenda… Luckily Florrie is surrounded by the best friends she could ever imagine, as they always have her back, even if they cannot stop themselves by teasing Florrie with absurd hen do activities. And the customers of the bookshop couldn’t be more loyal. But will that be enough to let Florrie and Ed have their happily ever after? Or will it all slip through their fingers anyway?

When I started reading this book, I was wondering what could possibly happen next to this wonderful couple that already had to face a lot of challenges. Why couldn’t they just get their happily ever after without any hiccup? But on the other hand, if they did, we wouldn’t be falling in love even more with not only Florrie and Ed, but all their friends and family.

At the start of the book, it was truly great to see how happy Florrie and Ed were. We know that they have had their struggles before, and having found their happy place, it was just heartwarming to read. They have both grown so much throughout the books, with also a few ups and downs, but they seemingly made it.

I am not engaged or married myself, so I have not had the experience of having a hen do. But I could understand Florrie’s worries, as it is all out of her hands, and while she trusts her friends and loves them a lot, well, they are a crazy bunch, aren’t they 😊.

How hilarious was it to read how easily Florrie is made believe that her hen do will be something terrible! It isn’t a sign of Florrie being somehow gullible, but more of how persuasive her friends are, and how well they know her and love her. Because each activity is not just right for Florrie, but just spot – on!

But also in time of need can Florrie count on her friends, not only to unload her worries, but also to be there, to help her out, to comfort her and advise her. Because in this book, there are several moments that Florrie need to be surrounded by her friends, to help her trough her and Ed’s turmoil…

When Dawn appears, I knew that she would be changed even a bit. And the more the story progressed, the more it felt that Dawn’s character even worsened. How can a person be so vile,; mean, devious? And poor Ed, going through that all, at the hand of his own family…

But I also liked it, in a twisted kind of way, seeing how Ed is standing up for himself, expressing himself. Not only towards Dawn, but in a sweeter way, how Ed is also expressing his feelings towards Florrie, and how Florrie herself appreciates the grow he has been through.

And for Florrie, what happens for sure is a challenge, because if Dawn’s appearance and scheming wouldn’t be enough, she has to face one of her biggest fears…

But no matter what challenge the pair is facing, the love, the connection between them, is strong enough to go through it all, to get even closer and united. And that is the real strength of the story.

Because if you have this connection with someone, if you have already been through so much together, you as a couple can be strong enough for all the new curveballs. Even when things may seem to go downwards, as long as the love is there, the communication is there, the unity is there, after every rainfall there will be sunshine again.

Eliza J Scott put so much in this story, so much feelings (mainly good ones, but also disappointing ones concerning behaviour), so much heart, so much love that made me devour this book. Not that I expected any less from her!

When the voices of the past makes you want to uncover the truth about a well – known injustice

Synopsis

Now: When Ruthie gets the part of one of Macbeth’s famous three witches she can’t wait to get started. Inspired by the beauty of the film’s Scottish locations and the camaraderie of the cast and crew, she can leave behind the expectations of her family and her lacklustre love life, at least for now. But as echoes from the past begin whispering in Ruthie’s ear and a restless spirit draws her further into its centuries-old secrets, it soon becomes clear that only she can uncover the truth of a terrible injustice.

1050 Scotland: Isobel and her two sisters have learnt about healing from their loving mother Sidheag, and she in turn has kept them safe. But without the protection of their late father, Sidheag knows that her daughters must find husbands or their futures are at risk.

Isobel believes in love over duty and when she catches sight of King Macbeth’s stepson Lulach she can picture a happiness she had hardly dare imagine. But as heir to a Scottish throne that is drenched in blood, Lulach’s destiny is to be a warrior. When Isobel’s actions leave her and her sisters vulnerable to accusations of witchcraft there may be nothing that can keep the three women safe, not even the great Macbeth himself.

As the calls from the past grow ever louder, Ruthie has no choice. Macbeth’s witches have a story that needs to be told and the truth can no longer stay hidden…

My review

Ruthie cannot believe that she has been chosen to play one of the three witches of Macbeth’s story. And of course, it helps that all the scenes are being shot at Scottish locations, far away from the disappointing remarks from her family, and the remarks of her non – existing love life. While she befriends her fellow actors and the locals, she starts to hear and see things that are in away inexplicable. Because it would appear that there is a restless spirit lurking around… A spirit that would be of Isobel, who used to live with her two sisters in 1050’s Scotland. Isobel that has learned about how nature can heal, but without any protection from their late father, must need to find a husband for a happy future. But not like her sisters, Isobel isn’t looking for a husband, until she meets King Macbeth’s stepson, Lulach.  And then Isobel starts to believe in a happy future, with Lulach. But Lulach is destined to become not only a warrior, but also a King. And when the rumours of the sisters being witches, the siblings’ lives are more than ever at risk…

As an Italian Belgian/ Belgian Italian, I am of course familiar with the works of Shakespeare. But while I know the stories in detail, I cannot tell you exactly what happens in which story. Or at least not of every story. And unfortunately, that is applicable for Macbeth…

But on the other hand, as this story uses Macbeth as inspiration, it gave me a clear and open – minded view on the story of Isobel, witches in general and the story of ‘side – characters’ beside Macbeth himself.

Of course there is a dual timeline, where we get to know both Ruthie and Isobel at the same time. Their lives are obviously very different, not only because they live in different eras, but they are both at a different stage in their lives.

What I loved about Ruthie from the start of the book, is her passion for acting. She knows that it isn’t what her family want for her and her future, but acting is what makes her heart skip a beat. And even if it isn’t the career that brings in the big moneys, she cannot imagine doing anything else. That is truly admirable, how she keeps on chasing her big dream.

And I liked it how Ruthie is this open person. She is kind towards everybody, and even when people aren’t that equally kind, she doesn’t change her behaviour. She remains that kind and understanding person.

Upon hearing and seeing the strange things in Scotland, I think I would be more terrified than Ruthie is. I am already a scaredy – cat in general, but seeing things in the shadows, seeing things in the fire, and hearing the rumours about the past and the connection with Macbeth, I think I would be running away screaming like a mad woman! But Ruthie, while scared herself, she wants to discover the truth. And that makes her cross paths with like – minded people, people that have the same passion for the truth.

A truth that is showing us the terrors of the past, that we are all aware of, of how people, especially women were accused of witchcraft…

Reading Isobel’s story truly broke my heart, because of the injustice she had to face, of the heartbreaks she had to endure. And all that while in fact, she is just an innocent young woman, just wanting happiness for her sisters and herself.

At the start of the book, everything is going rather okay with Isobel and her family. And I liked it how they all use the wonders of the nature for ailments. And how everyone from their village goes to all of them, to get the healing they need.

Isobel is a normal young woman, just wanting to be happy and content with her life. And she wishes her sisters all the love they deserve.

Their lives may be one of living in the woods, but Isobel and especially her mother, are respected by everyone, even by the queen. Their mixtures of herbs, their ‘visions’ in the flames, everyone relies on their help somehow.

Even with Isobel’s mother passing, Isobel is the one people turn in to for help. And I liked reading how Isobel is growing more confident over time, knowing how to help. But Isobel also becomes more responsible, as she wants to protect her sisters, even if they are older than herself, from the evils of the world.

Evils that she cannot protect herself of, as she falls into the ‘spell’ of love herself… Evil, because while love should be a lovely thing, we know not only from Shakespeare himself, but also from the start of the book, that things will not end well for poor Isobel…

Evil that truly angered me, because we see how easily opinions are changed, how easy things turn for the worst for the three sisters, even fatally… All that because of the cowardice of people, the fear of people, the ignorance of people.

And I could understand why Isobel’s spirit is still haunting in the presence, due all the injustice she had to face… Even if I don’t truly believe in lingering and haunting spirits, I could understand it…

I said it also before, I found it admirable of Ruthie how she is yes, a  bit scared of what she experiencing, but she also want to find out what happens. And the more she uncovers, the more justice she wants for the young woman that was treated so badly in the past.

I found this a bittersweet story, as we see how Ruthie is making progress in her own life, while for Isobel her life is taking a turn for the worse. Yet no matter how badly things got for Isobel, at the end of the story, I felt in a way hopeful, because all the wrongdoings she had to endure are going to get a sort of redemption. Too late of course, but better late than never? And it also gives us hope as we see how Ruthie is looking forward to her own future, filled with happiness and love.

How one old cottage in the woods changes a life

Synopsis

Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can’t Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage’s story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.

My review

Libby is a single mother hiding in a hostel from an abusive relationship. With money being a struggle and not having anyone to help her, she accept the offer and the substantial sum of money. What she has to do, is clear out an old cottage in the woods. Would be easy-peasy, But the woman living in the derelict cottage with a bunch of scary birds doesn’t want to leave her home at all. So with Rob chasing Libby to clear the cottage, and Isobel refusing to budge, Libby finds herself between two fires. She also finds herself invested in the story of Elm Cottage and also the reason why Rob cannot empty it himself. And then there is the issue with Rob, who clearly shows an interest in Libby. But with so many fears, Libby needs to face them first, before she can even think about anything else…

Before I start with my actual review of the book, I have to say that with this title, the genre could have perfectly been also a thriller or a horror 😊.

But, as it is a Jane Lovering, of course it is not a terrifying thriller or horror!

Right from the start, it is so obvious that Libby is not living her life, rather just surviving. With her lovely daughter Tilly, Libby is trying to make the best out of her current situation. But anyone can see that it isn’t a healthy situation they are living in. Not that Libby is a bad mother, but her fear is holding her back. And while she tries to be more courageous, to not show Tilly her fears, it isn’t easy.

And seeing that situation, truly saddened me. It shows us how left to your own devices you can be. Because yes, Libby is in hiding, and she for sure could use more help from authorities, but she is struggling on every possible level.

Despite all her struggles, Libby tries to be the best possible mother to Tilly, under these difficult circumstances. She wants her little girl to feel save, to enjoy her childhood. But she also wants to protect her from all the dangers in the world.

So when Rob ‘hires’ Libby to make sure Elm Cottage is being cleared out asap, I could understand Libby’s wariness. It is a strange request, and when Rob makes clear that money isn’t an issue, it sounded even more and more strange even to me.

I had several question marks with Rob’s behaviour, and I wondered why he cannot clear out the cottage himself. How hard can it be, right?

However, while his behaviour may look a bit shady initially, there is a logical explanation for it all, and even the money – issue made sense after Rob’s explanation.

Rob doesn’t make the best of first impressions, but the further the story evolves, the more we see how he tries to comprehend Libby and how he can support her. And while I would have expected him to want to help Libby more out, I could see how him just supporting Libby and wanting to solve everything for her, is not only the best solution for Libby, but also for Rob himself, with his background.

Libby’s fear for birds was something I could easily relate with. I am also afraid of everything with wings, but not as much as Libby. So when reading how Libby enters the cottage filled with birds, I just got terrible goosebumps! I would be running outside, screaming like a madwoman 😊.

Yet it amazed me how all those terrifying birds were somehow trained by Isobel, the woman living in the cottage.

To say that Isobel is a character, would be an understatement. She chose to not talk anymore, and that alone is already something unique. But she is also a remarkable woman, as without any words, she sees and understands everything that is happening around her. And without any words, she is able to pass her thoughts and remarks.

And yes, it is thanks to Isobel, that there are changes taking place. Not only with Libby and Tilly, but also Rob gets some important insights, that without Isobel perhaps would be kept hidden.

There is also an important message about mental health in this story. I am not going to divulge into it, as it is something you need to read and understand yourself. But what I can say, is that it made me realize that things aren’t always what they seem to be, and that it isn’t easy to understand what is truly going on. There still isn’t a clear map about how the brains and the mind function, making it also more difficult for the people around to act in the right way, without scaring away the person involved.

Perhaps this issue was handled a little bit too hasted, as I for sure found myself looking up for more information. But on the other hand, this isn’t a psychological book.

Because this book shows us how a woman living in fear, with meeting perhaps random people, can start to become a little bit more courageous. It can go from not being too scared around birds, to trust people, to let people back in your life. And perhaps even allow your heart to open up again…

While perhaps Libby’s story will not be too relatable to you, as it didn’t always was to me, it for sure worked as an inspiration, as a moment that made me want to know more. And of course, as accustomed with this lovely author, this book gave me the need to just keep on reading!

When things start to settle, do they really?

Synopsis

The winds of change are sweeping through the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping.

After a tumultuous few months, Tess Alexander is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat, a beautiful lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage.

With her daughter Hannah home from her travels in Australia and her mother, Marjorie, acting out of character, Tess has to juggle many demands on her attention. Even her flourishing relationship with dashing Rob Templeton is put to the test when he faces an emotional dilemma from his past and Barney, her beloved beagle, has her at her wits end.

Tess can weather most storms with the unbridling support of her close friends Dilly, Gina and Suzy but when a passing remark in the local pub causes her to question one of those friendships, she wonders who can she really trust?

Can Tess overcome the obstacles in her path to find the happy ending she truly deserves?

My review

Tess Alexander had to face a lot of changes the last few months. But now things are finally coming along, and Tess is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat in her garden. And even if things started a bit rocky, her relationship with Rob Templeton made her believe in love again. However, Tess quickly realizes that her worries are far by over, as her daughter is back home from Australia with more than just a broken heart, Tess’s own mother is acting completely out of character, and even Rob is acting differently as his past is catching up with him again. And even a passing remark in the local pub makes her question the loyalty of her best friends. So can Tess find her silver linings again, can she reclaim her happy ending that she for sure deserves?

It is always a bit scary starting a second book in a series. Because the story previously wrapped up perfectly, and with a new book, you are a bit afraid for what is looming around the corner once again for the main characters.

We left Tess previously with a happy feelings, as after her marriage falling apart, with her own ‘stubbornness’, she has been able to turn her life around, find a purpose again and even found love again. At the start of this book, I was still proud of how far Tess has come and how she was looking forward to her changed yet better future.

But of course life always keeps on throwing curveballs, that is just how life goes. And with each curveball, we see how much Tess has grown.

For example: when her lovely daughter is at a crossroad again, it would be easy as a mother to tell her what to do. But Tess knows that the best way to learn, is to make your own choices and perhaps even mistakes. And Hannah is old enough to know what she wants, or what she doesn’t want, or that she just doesn’t know yet. Tess is being the supportive mother that Hannah needs her to be, without judgement, but just being by her side.

However, Tess is still a worrier 😊 Not only does her daughter cause Tess worries, but also her own mother. We know that all the women of the family are strong women, so seeing the matriarch acting out of character, made me worry too. It couldn’t be that something terrible would be happening to this fierce woman?

And when Rob also starts to act different, or is apparently keeping things from her, we see how previous doubts and insecurities start to resurface. It was for sure recognizable, because no matter how growth we have been through, it is easy to fall back into traps of the past.

But we see with the struggles that Tess is facing, whether it is with her own thoughts about her daughter, her worries about her mother, the doubts with Rob, that communication is key. Of course communicating openly about things is easier said than done, as there is the risk that you may hear things you don’t want to hear, but especially in this case, it would have avoided many worries for Tess.

Yet also in this story Tess keeps on growing, she is more courageous. She has the guts to stand her ground, to clearly show her borders, and doesn’t let anyone walk over her that easily anymore.

And like the title says, also her heart is healing. Where it already was opening up with Rob, matters of the heart are always a work in progress.

This isn’t a story that is filled with drama over drama over drama. Yes, there is *some* drama 😊 but it isn’t always earth – shattering. There is drama that could happen to any of us, and how it is handled is how any sensible person would.

But no matter what curveball is thrown, Tess never loses her ‘Tess-ness’, as she doesn’t act indifferent no matter who is in front of her. She never stops caring, worrying and loving. And that is the strength of her character, but also of the story in itself. Because with heart, even if it is still a healing one, the right thing will always be done. And with heart, even a healing one, love (any kind of love) always will be victorious.

When getting together was the easy part…

Synopsis

Scarlett Hope has found a surprising rhythm at Haddon House. Just months into life with Laird Edward Cameron-Reid, their chemistry is electric, and the future feels full of promise – but something inside her is stirring. She’s traded city charm for estate calm yet still feels caught between worlds. 

Then Harry shows up. A famous music producer – and a blast from Scarlett’s past – he’s in town to film with a renowned band. His arrival is magnetic, disruptive, and the last thing she ever expected. Scarlett loves Edward, but Harry’s presence reawakens the version of herself she thought she’d left behind. 

When Edward’s daughter announces she’s pregnant and moves in full-time, the pressure only grows. And when Scarlett meets Sophie, a young woman struggling to make a home for her unborn child, one small act of kindness turns into something far bigger – a project that might just change everything. But as tragedy strikes, Scarlett faces a deeper choice – not between two men, but between who she was and who she’s becoming. 

Too Much to Hope For is a high spice, emotionally layered story of love, legacy, and identity – about staying rooted in love while growing into something more. Perfect for readers who loved the emotional fire of A New Hope in the Highlands, the small-town heart of Things We Never Got Over, and the soul-deep reckoning of After I Do.

My review

Scarlett Hope couldn’t be happier now that everything fell into place. The bond with her mother is slowly restoring, and she is happily in love with Edward Cameron – Reid. After everything she has been through in the past, she has finally find a place to call home in Haddon House, with people she can trust and love. Yet Scarlett cannot shake the feeling that she cannot be truly be herself, as she also doesn’t has all the answers to her own questions about who the real Scarlett truly is and what would give her real purpose. To add further complications, not only is Edward struggling with holding everything together, but also an old friend from Scarlett arrives and ads extra pressure on the already frail relationship. And then there is unexpected news from Edward’s family that shakes the boat even more. How much can both Scarlett and Edward take and how strong is their relationship, as there must be a limit to their strength…

In many books, the story ends when the main characters finally get together. But in real life, we all know that getting together is the easiest part. Being in a relationship means to open up, let the other person completely in, to find compromise, to communicate and be honest. All easier said than done, but it is always a work in progress, no matter how big the love is.

We know that there is a lot of passion and desire between Edward and Scarlett, but we also know that Scarlett comes with a lot of baggage and that Edward needs to find a way to open up and let Scarlett truly in. And they should not just give in to their desire to each other, but also find a way to openly communicate about, well, everything.

And to be honest, while I loved reading the passion and the love between Edward and Scarlett, it was a bit frustrating to see how especially Scarlett is always facing a brick wall. Edward does his best, but it is difficult to let go of some habits. And it also frustrated me a bit reading how Edward doesn’t always seem to understand Scarlett. And mainly, it angered me also to see how he doesn’t always think before he speaks, hurting Scarlett more than just once in the process.

Now, I need to admit too, that Edward for sure has a lot on his plate, and things are just added on the immense pile… He truly is trying to be the man that Scarlett deserves, but you know, old habits…

When Harry enters the scene, I was truly worried about Edward and Scarlett, because not only does Edward shows a level of jealously (righteously or not…) but I could see how Harry’s presence could risk things even furthermore…

On the other hand, I was happy for Scarlett to see her old friend back, as he could remind her of the Scarlett she used to be. And perhaps that remembering the shared past, Scarlett could find her real self again. And I could see that Harry was a real supportive friend to her, even if it was crystal clear to me that his feelings perhaps weren’t just amicable…

Another thing I need to admit, is that the author for sure has a cruel streak, because Edward, Scarlett and their families are going through several hardships. Life for sure isn’t always fair to any of them, and they are all tested to their limits…

Cruel author too, as Rachel Debrave at one point made several hearts break in this book, but mine included… Again it shows how Life goes, and just how unfair and frail it all is…

In this book, Edward and Scarlett for sure are tested, not only as individuals, but also as a couple, especially as a couple. The both of are on a learning journey, where Scarlett learns and rediscovers the old Scarlett again. And she learns to stand up for herself and knows that love isn’t a free pass for one’s behaviour.

And Edward learns that love is worth the change. That being the old Edward is not what will keep the love alive and being his old self will only push Scarlett, and his loved ones further away.

This book is about change. Change that is necessary, change to just be your real self, change to let love win. Change to survive whatever curveball Life throws you. Change to become a stronger person than you already are. And that all for love’s sake…

When the risk of losing your home makes you open your home to help others

Synopsis

The heartwarming new novel from the author of the million-copy bestselling CockleberryBay series

Seahaven Bay has always been a place where the sparkling tides bring laughter, love and a lot of fun. But when Rita Jory’s beloved husband Archie dies in a tragic accident, she’s left alone on their failing Cornish farm with nothing but her grieving heart, a mountain of debt and some very badly behaved goats. Faced with selling the home she loves or finding a way to make it pay, Rita has a moment of desperate inspiration. She decides to transform her beloved Seahaven Farm into a place where broken souls can heal by the sea.

With help from her sharp-tongued mother-in-law, loyal best friend, daughter and new friends, the rundown farm soon blossoms into a haven of healing, creativity and community. Rita dares to believe her future might still shimmer with possibility – and even admits her growing attraction to Jago, the gorgeous neighbouring farmer with whom the Jorys had a decades-long feud.

But just as Rita begins to find peace, long-buried secrets about Archie’s past begin to surface, forcing her to question everything she believed about the life they built together.

Rita must discover the truth and decide if she’s ready to open her heart again – to love, to hope, and to the possibility that even after loss, life can still be full of surprises.

A tender, uplifting and hilarious tale of resilience, friendship and finding light in the darkest moments, perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Jojo Moyes and Amanda Prowse.

My review

After meeting Archie, Rita Jory left her life in London behind and moved to Seahaven Bay. While the differences couldn’t be more different, Rita enjoyed her married life on the farm with all their animals. With now her adult children having left home, and Archie dying in a tragic accident, Rita is now all left alone and with a mountain of debts she didn’t know about. The only idea she can come up with to save her beloved home and animals, is to transform her Seahaven Farm into a haven where people can heal, find their creativity (back)and find a sense of community. With the help of her best friend, her daughter, new friends and unexpectedly her mother – in – law, Rita is proud of her safe haven. And slowly Rita starts to see a bright future again, especially as there may be some growing feelings for Jago, her neighbour. But falling for Jago is dangerous, as the Jorys have a decades – long feud with the gorgeous and kind farmer… And then there are secrets from Archie’s past to surface, and Rita’s own son that doesn’t understand his own mother, jeopardizing once again Rita’s whole life…

Before I started with this book, I made sure I was comfortable, I made sure that for a while I wouldn’t be disturbed and I was all ready to get swept away by another great story of an author that is only able to write wonderful stories!

Obviously, it saddened me that Rita lost her beloved husband Archie. And that now she is trying to cope with all there is left. On the other hand, I liked it how deep the love between the married couple was. Of course there are the usual disagreements between husband and wife, but Archie and Rita loved each other very much. And that was in a way refreshing, because often in a book, the main character has been facing some wrongdoing, or things ended badly. And yes, Archie died, so Rita is heartbroken, but you get what I want to say, right? 😊

Yet it saddened me also to read in how much trouble Rita is now. She didn’t know the depth of the debts, and she already made the difficult decision to sell some of the land. But it is just not enough…

But while initially Rita is a bit down, and doesn’t see any silver linings, she comes up with a great idea. The idea may have come out of desperation, but for sure it is a great one. In a world with too many expectations, too much stress and too many temptations, a Seahaven Farm is exactly what a lot of people could and would need in their lives.

And the revamped Farm is also what Rita needs at this moment in her life. Because it is clear that while she keeps her head up high, she still finds it difficult to be in a life where there is no Archie anymore. And it broke my heart to see how difficult Rita finds it to talk about her loss, to even her own daughter…

Rita truly starts to live up again when the wheels have been set into motion, and seeing this Rita, full of energy in a way, with a determination to make it all work, was just lovely to read. The matter of opening her Farm up for those who need a helping hand in any way, makes her realize that her life isn’t over and that there is still so much that Rita can do, and that she still matters.

It also warmed my heart reading how Rita is making new friends. New friends that perhaps you and I would chase away. But it is a testament to Rita’s character, that she accepts everyone how they are. She doesn’t have any prejudice, and even when a big secret is being revealed, she shows with her actions that she is one of the good ones.

Talking about secrets… It would be strange if everything would go straightforward for Rita. There is the mystery of the will, the weird behaviour of her son, and a mother – in – laws who helps her, but also warns her to stay away from her neighbour and let the past rest.

A past that haunts her, as secret messages are telling her that the truth will be revealed at the right time…  A past that somehow yet mysteriously also involves her neighbour Jago.

As an Italian, I know how feuds works, and how they can last for decades 😊 But I was also very curious how Jago fitted into the whole picture.

Because the Jago we see in this book, is perhaps a bit standoffish at the start, but we also see that he doesn’t hesitate to help Rita in one way or another. So I couldn’t understand how this nice man could be part of a feud between families lasting for so long.

Despite that feud, I was cheering for Rita and Jago, because it is clear that there is attraction between them. And even if it went against my own hopes, I liked it how Nicola May made it a attracting and pulling away story. The one moment things seem to evolve positively, while the next, something (even inexplicable) happens, pulling Rita and Jago even further away…

It may seem that there isn’t a lot happening in this book, it isn’t filled with action. But don’t be fooled, it isn’t because there isn’t a lot of action, that there aren’t a lot of things going on. Rita for sure has her hands full with making her vision become reality. But there is also a calmness in this book, which is infectious to the readers.

Nicola May let us met with a wonderful, kind and open main character, who shows us that it is never too late to start again. But also that grief and hurt isn’t something that easy to get over, but that it works differently to each of us. And that same grief and hurt can let us act in a way that isn’t us.

I truly loved this book, as it shows us so many emotions, from the ugly ones to the beautiful ones. And it shows us how one idea can be the right incentive to see life again brightly. And how happiness can be found again, if you just are courageous enough.

What an inspiring and heartwarming story once again from an amazing author!