REVIEW: Girls on the Home Front (Factory Girls #1)

Available here

August 1941: As war sweeps across Britain and millions of men enlist to serve their country, it’s up to the women to fight the battle on the home front.

Fran always thought she would marry her childhood sweetheart and lead a simple life in Massingham, the beloved pit village she has always called home.

But with war taking so many men to the front line, the opening of a new factory in the north-east of England presents an opportunity for Fran to forge a new path.

Against her father’s wishes and with best friends Sarah and Beth by her side, Fran signs up to join the ranks of women at the factory. It’s dangerous work but as the three friends risk life and limb for their country, they will discover that their lives are only just beginning…

My Review:

This is the first in a ‘Factory Girls’ set of books by Annie Clarke and what a wonderful start. This book is a brilliant look at a time that women were inspirational and supported men in the fight for victory. Full of spirited characters that I think other readers will really like and want the best for.

Girls at the Home Front is about some women from the pit village of Massingham, who work hard to support their families often by risking their lives as well as dealing with their personal problems. I particularly like how the characters in this book are normal, realistic people – making mistakes and having problems that aren’t easily rectified. I always enjoy this genre as women as often portrayed as determined, little forces to be reckoned with.

I really liked learning about Fran, Sarah, Beth and their families, as the book progressed, I found myself unable to put it down as I was invested in their lives.  Other characters all play their role and are wonderful additions to the book, although I think anyone that reads this can agree that Ralph is the villain of the piece.

I enjoyed this book, a heart-warming, nostalgic saga with community at its heart. I must admit it took me a while to get into it, and I struggled understanding all the local dialect, but I persevered and found it easier the more I read. It definitely opened my eyes in what communities and families had to go through during the war. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

BLOGTOUR: Review of Edie Browne's Cottage by the Sea - Jane Linfoot

Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea

Those who don’t jump will never fly…

Hurtling through the sky was supposed to be Edie Browne’s flight of independence. But when she falls head over champagne bucket while celebrating her successful landing, her life is changed in an instant.

But starting over has its benefits, and as Edie relearns the basics under the watchful eye of her Aunty Josie and an entire Cornish village of new friends and neighbours, she finds love and joy she never could have imagined in the unlikeliest of places… 

Come home to St Aidan and Periwinkle Cottage for a romance full of love, laughter and friends for life! 

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I am eternally grateful for that one-day last summer when I checked out a Jane Linfoot book from the library and opened a brand-new world of wonderful books by this incredible author. From that initial book loan, I quickly devoured every other book I could get my hands on.  To say I’m a fan is an understatement. When I got a top-secret email from the lovely Rachel at Rach’s Random Resources, asking if I’d like to be on the book tour for Jane's new book – I don’t think I could reply quick enough!!

My Review:

I was very excited to read that Edie Browne's Cottage by the Sea was set in St Aiden (if you are a fan of Jane’s work you will share that excitement!) If I could live in St Aiden I would, no doubt. I knew it would be a great trip back to a community that has already given us so many adventures and I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for Edie Browne.

   

It was comforting to get started, back in the safe hands of Jane – who has a wonderful writing style. She writes stories with great heart, with an abundance of humour yet with moments of great sensitivity, of course you have glorious, uplifting romance but also strong stories of friendship, community and of the compassion of others when you are in need.  
I thought the inclusion of each ‘epic achievement’ was inspired. I don’t want to give away too much, but I loved seeing what Edie Browne managed next. I enjoyed her progression throughout the book, and it made me consider that what may be epic is to one person is totally different to another.

Life had dealt Edie a massive blow and she must spend time ‘starting over’- a huge step forward in doing this is going to stay with her Aunt Josie in St Aiden. Her Aunt also reaps the benefit of having Edie around, so its a mutually beneficial arrangement. 

Having previous experience with St Aiden I already knew how amazing the people who live there are but yet again we discover that no matter what Edie and Josie try to do to distance themselves, the locals are a gorgeous bunch that are kind, caring, full of fun and most of all take the two ladies into their hearts instantly.  It is their support that really helps Edie progress and make great inroads into getting back to her normal self.

I was a fan of Barney from the moment we were introduced. What a cool guy – to let things progress naturally, be a source of support and understanding and for being a great role model for young Cam. 

Edie’s relationship with Cam is EVERYTHING. It was gorgeous to read the two of them together, funny, cute and so simple, with all that she has been through to meet a 6-year-old that is on her level is just one of the perfect elements to this story. Jane gave us a relationship that goes above and beyond the others.

I adored everything this book is and what it stands for – acceptance, perseverance, following your heart and being true to yourself. I love how Jane combines the highs and lows of their journey; one moment I was laughing, the next feeling quite emotional.  Well written characters who you fall in love with, root for and would love to meet again.

I cannot recommend this book enough, a heart-warming treat that will have you smiling throughout and for days after. Take a trip to St Aiden this summer, you’ll love it there. 

Purchase Links:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edie-Brownes-Cottage-Sea-heartwarming-ebook/dp/B07PPD1JD9/

US - https://www.amazon.com/Edie-Brownes-Cottage-Sea-heartwarming-ebook/dp/B07PPD1JD9/

About the Author:     

Jane Linfoot is a best selling author, who lives in a muddy cottage, up a steep hill in Derbyshire, with her family, their pets, and an astonishing number of spiders. Although she loves seeing cow noses over the garden wall, she’s happy she can walk to a supermarket.

Jane grew up in North Yorkshire where she spent a lot of her childhood avoiding horizontal gales blowing off the sea, and wrote her first book by accident, while working as an architect, and renovating country houses. While she loves to write feelgood books that let readers escape, she’s always surprised to hear her stories make people laugh, admits to (occasionally) crying as she writes, and credits her characters for creating their own story lines.

Jane’s garden would be less brambly if she wasn’t on Facebook and Twitter so often. On days when she wants to be really scared, she rides a tandem.

Her latest books include a series of stand alone novels, based around a seaside wedding shop in Cornwall. Cupcakes and Confetti – The Little Wedding Shop by the Sea, Sequins and Snowflakes – Christmas at the Little Wedding Shop, and Bunting and Bouquets – Summer at the Little Wedding Shop, and most recently, The Little Cornish Kitchen. These are all published by Harper Impulse, an imprint of Harper Collins.

Follow Jane on Twitter @janelinfoot, or find her on her Author Page Facebook or her Personal Page Facebook. She’s also on Instagram, and has lots of Pinterest boards relating to her novels.

BLOGTOUR: Review for Poppy's Recipe for Life by Heidi Swain

Order your copy here

Poppy's dream is finally coming true - she's moving into Nightingale Square. She's keen to get involved with the community garden and share her passion for preserves. Poppy is soon surrounded by friends and is determined to break the cool, grumpy exterior of her new neighbour Jacob.

The surprise arrival of Ryan, Poppy's teenage brother threatens to ruin her happy existence on Nightingale Square and, as the community gears up to win a local competition, Poppy has to decide what her priority must be. 

My Review:

I am a huge fan of Heidi Swain books, Team #SWAINETTE all the way. All of Heidi’s books are so wonderfully cosy and charming, you can't help but be swept along into a world full of community, friendship, care and cake (or in this instance pickles!) I've been looking forward to Poppy's Recipe for Life for so long as it was a very welcome return to Nightingale Square. (Fans of Heidi will recall the brilliant book - ‘Sunshine and Sweetpeas in Nightingale Square’) Don't worry if you haven't read anything of Heidi's before as they are all gorgeous standalone books; they just include characters and places you will know and love if you have. 

Poppy is a bright, confident and happy young woman. I like her a lot, she works hard and is passionate about what makes her tick, you know she hasn't got a great relationship with her family but she is surrounded by wonderful friends and that is all she needs. She sacrifices a lot for her brother, her friends and the local community - putting others needs in front of her own most of the time. I loved that in her but at the same time was willing her to do what was good for her too - nobody needs to be completely selfless all of the time. I also admired her tenacity in trying to break down the gruff exterior of Jacob. (Cue girly swoon!) 

Jacob was clearly destined to be part of the community - no matter how much he resisted; and he certainly gave that his best shot. Initially, I found him to be quite rude although it soon became clear if anyone could make him change it would be Poppy. She seems to have a way about her. A turnaround in attitude happened quite quickly, but I'm not complaining as I enjoyed the chemistry between him and Poppy.

Ryan is your typical teenager. Sullen, moody and after years of suffering, is not outwardly interested in much. I loved seeing how his character developed but also how Ryan helped Poppy. A great relationship and for me it was the most important within the whole book.

A whole host of fun and quirky characters await you in Poppy’s Recipe for Life, all so lovely in their own way and bringing different elements to the story. It's an eclectic bunch of residents in Nightingale Square that I hope we will learn more about in the future. Please say we do Heidi...  

Heidi writes with such care for her characters and settings. You think of them as friends, and Poppy is now amongst them. A firm favourite for her positive outlook on life. I love Heidi's feel good style of writing and I often wish I could live in these fictional places.  

This book is a pure uplifting, romantic comfort read. A hug in book form! I read it in a few hours - I didn't want to put it down and yet I wanted to make it last for as long as I could. Perfect to read on the beach, by the pool or snuggled up on the sofa with a cup of tea and cake.

I cannot recommend this book (and all of Heidi’s previous books!) enough - a gorgeous, feel good treat. Thank you, Heidi, for bringing us Poppy, taking us back to Nightingale Square and sharing this wonderful story with us all.

With thanks to Books and The City (@TeamBATC), Heidi Swain (@Heidi_Swain) for providing me with a copy to read and review honestly. It’s a pleasure to kick to start this wonderful blog tour. 

About the Author:

Sunday Times Best-selling author with a passion for vintage, hearth & home.

Creating wonderful communities and characters. Find out more -

Website: https://heidiswain.co.uk/ 

Check out the blog: http://heidiswain.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WriterHeidiJoSwain

Follow the rest of the BLOG TOUR:

BLOGTOUR: A Bakery at the Little Duck Pond Cafe - Rosie Green

Available Here

Ellie’s dreams of opening a bakery in Sunnybrook are finally coming true and best friends Fen and Jaz are happily rallying round, helping her to plan a fabulous grand opening day. Everything in their garden seems to be rosy – until the arrival of a newcomer brings chaos to the village and tests relationships to the limit. 
Can the bakery succeed in the face of such upheaval? And more importantly, can firm friendships survive?

My Review:

As I came to read A Bakery at the Little Duck Pond Café I realised it was part of a series – this is book 5. I was cautious that I would have perhaps missed too much but it’s written very well as it could easily be a standalone. I do not feel like I’ve missed anything and in fact, this book has just made me want to go and start at book 1!

Although Katja Skoroboganova jokingly fills in a job application in the name of Kate Baker, she has no real intention of applying but her Gran posts it in and Katja soon finds herself going to an interview. Under the name Kate Baker, she impresses and gets the job – soon moving to Sunnybrook in eagerness to start work at the bakery. Unbeknownst to Katja, she is one of two new starters and they are competing for the role. The other girl reminds Katja of someone in her past that bullied and made her life hell.

I liked Katja straight away, she has been through a lot, and it is understandable that she just wants to blend in and become just a regular part of the community without them knowing her background. She’s found something that may possibly make her truly happy and then she is hit with the realisation of Maddison.

Maddison is the kind of character you will truly dislike, she does everything to wind Kate up or make her look bad, but as you progress through the story you start to see little chinks in her armour, you feel a sense of sadness and vulnerability that may just make you reconsider your opinion of her – well slightly!

You’ve got cake, cuteness and of course – romance, what more do you need?  This is an uplifting, feel good read, very well written with characters you will adore. I devoured it in one short sitting and can’t wait to go back and catch up on all the fun and adventure I’ve missed with the other books. I cannot wait to get to Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Cafe!! Rosie Green has got a massive new fan here. 

Thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources and Rosie Green for an advanced readers copy of this book. 

About the Author:  

Rosie Green has been scribbling stories ever since she was little. Back then they were rip-roaring adventure tales with a young heroine in perilous danger of falling off a cliff or being tied up by ‘the baddies’. Thankfully, Rosie has moved on somewhat, and now much prefers to write romantic comedies that melt your heart and make you smile, with really not much perilous danger involved at all, unless you count the heroine losing her heart in love.

​

​Rosie’s brand new series of novellas is centred on life in a village café. Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Cafe will be the sixth in the series

Twitter - https://twitter.com/Rosie_Green1988

         

Breaking News - Coming Soon – Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Café 

With Ellie and Zak’s Big Day on the horizon, the sun is shining brightly on the Little Duck Pond Café community. But as dark clouds begin to roll in, threatening more than one close relationship, will the wedding of the year take place at all? 

Follow Rosie Green on Amazon to hear when its published and available for purchase - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rosie-Green/e/B07CZYV7DW

BLOGTOUR: Review of Ellie & The Harp - Hazel Prior

Purchase Here

Sometimes it takes a chance encounter to discover what your life could be like... 

Meet Ellie. She’s perfectly happy with her home and her husband and her quiet life. Happy enough, anyway. Which is why she’s so surprised to find herself drawn to an extraordinary stranger who gives her a gift - and a fresh perspective.
Meet Dan. He thinks all he needs to be happy is the time and space to carry on making harps. Sometimes people buy them, too. But the last thing he expects is for Ellie to walk into his life, a whirlwind with cherry-coloured socks, bringing a string of surprises into his ordered existence.

As Ellie and Dan get to know one another, they begin to see the world - and themselves - in an entirely new way...

 Perfect for fans of The Keeper of Lost Things and Three Things About Elsie

My Review:

This is a beautiful story that’s told in an incredibly well written and charming way. It’s a tale of finding friendship in unlikely places with unlikely people, a story of looking past your initial conceptions and in following your own path, even trying something new.  Hazel Prior is very descriptive, whether it’s about the characters, the places etc. and I think it just adds to the story and especially lends well to Dan’s character and the way he thinks.

I adored Dan. What a fantastic character! I love a book that gives us both main characters POV and I enjoyed the insight in to what went through his mind as we progressed through the story – how he dealt with occurrences beyond what he was used to, how he evolved and handled what was out of his control.  Dan’s character was explored well, his personality and traits that make him such an intriguing and beguiling character.  The type of character that you don’t see often.

Ellie is interesting, someone that is looking for more than she has but doesn’t necessarily know what it is she is looking for. She is a simple soul, who enjoys writing poetry and feeling at one with nature walking the Exmoor Country. She is seeking something to comfort her losses, give her a purpose that is truly hers. Her husband Clive is controlling, overbearing and far from what Ellie needs, didn’t like him from the moment he made her return the harp at the beginning of the book.

This is a beautiful debut novel, as you read you get a clear sense of the authors love for the subject – for the angelic sounding harps, which were described so poetically.  As I read of a blossoming friendship for these two individual souls, I had a sense of trouble looming for both Dan and Ellie but as tragedy unfolds, it isn’t over the top, over dramatised or sensationalised, it remained in keeping with the style in which Hazel Prior had created.

Ellie and the Harp Maker is such a sweet and simple story, a special read that leaves you with a warm feeling, just like a cosy hug. A real treat to read and one I recommend highly.

Thank you to Anne Cater, Hazel Prior and Penguin RandomHouse for the opportunity to read and review this book, and for the chance to take part in this blog tour.  

Hazel Prior lives on Exmoor with her husband and a huge ginger cat.

As well as writing, she works as a harpist. You can find Hazel at @HaveAHarp. #EllieandtheHarpmaker 

BLOGTOUR: Review for 'Probably the Best Kiss in the World' - Pernille Hughes

 

Probably the Best Kiss in the World

Jen Attison likes her life Just So. But being fished out of a canal in Copenhagen by her knickers is definitely NOT on her to do list. From cinnamon swirls to a spontaneous night of laughter and fireworks, Jen’s city break with the girls takes a turn for the unexpected because of her gorgeous, mystery rescuer.

Back home, Jen faces a choice. A surprise proposal from her boyfriend, ‘boring’ Robert has offered Jen the safety net she always thought she wanted. But with the memories of her Danish adventure proving hard to forget, maybe it’s time for Jen to stop listening to her head and start following her heart…

My Review:

I was really excited to become part of the blog tour for this book. I think the cover is gorgeous, it drew my interest and then the synopsis really sold it to me. I must add that the title and nod to Carlsbergs ‘Probably the best beer in the world’ was genius!

I haven’t read anything from the author previously - shame on me - so this was a nice little surprise. As a craft fan (and someone that attends many craft events myself), I loved how this book demonstrated someone having a great passion for something others may not necessarily have interest in.  Jen reminded me a little of myself in that respect (and obviously in name!)

I do enjoy a good chick lit/rom-com and I do not mind that there are similarities in books of this genre, I do admire fresh takes on the usual, some shocks, twists and turns but I do tend to find that an authors writing style is the most important in bringing something special to it. Here we have something fresh, funny and easy going, Pernille has created down to earth characters that I found really likable.

Jen is passionate young woman, but we find her working in a job she doesn’t really believe in and in a relationship that isn’t exactly setting the world on fire. I like her a lot and she is not your typical leading lady. She has flaws and faults but who doesn’t, she cheats and is fairly self-absorbed yet she does love others and especially her younger sister (even if this is more often than not a tad overbearing for Lydia).

After a fun filled, romantic sounding trip to Copenhagen (where’s my suitcase, I want to go!) where she meets the enigmatic Yakob and gets kissed, properly, firework sparking kissed – Jen’s world is about to turn.

I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Yakob and Jen develop but even more than that I enjoyed seeing how Jen developed as a person and as sister. She’s over-protective, which is understandable to an extent, but I thought it was great to see how she eventually learned to let Lydia take risk and love her own life.

Overall this is a lovely story, a refreshing and well-paced chick lit read. I sat and enjoyed in one sitting, I was so absorbed - I love to get stuck in to a book that isn’t overly complicated but contains enough drama and surprises to keep me interested. Jen and co are a lovely bunch of characters and I definitely recommend for fans of the genre – or for those with a keen interest in beer!

 Thank you to Pernille Hughes , HarperImpulse and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review this book


About the Author:
Pernille Hughes is a RomCom author and mum, whose debut novel was SWEATPANTS AT 

TIFFANIE'S, soon to be followed by PROBABLY THE BEST KISS IN THE WORLD (April 2019). Previously her writing has been printed in The Sunday Times and the fabulous SUNLOUNGER summer anthologies.

Find out about her new books at www.pernillehughes.com 

Pernille (pronounced Pernilla) studied Film & Literature at uni and took her first job in advertising, having been lured by the temptation of freebies, but left when Status Quo tickets was as good as it got. After a brief spell marketing Natural History films, she switched to working in Children's television which for a time meant living in actual Teletubbyland, sharing a photocopier with Laa-Laa.

Now, she lives in actual Buckinghamshire, sharing a photocopier with her husband and their four spawn. While the kids are at school she scoffs cake and writes RomCom stories in order to maintain a shred of sanity.

Follow Penille on Social Media:

Twitter https://twitter.com/pernillehughes

Facebook  www.facebook.com/pernillehughesauthor

Instagram www.instagram.com/pernillehughes

Bookbub  www.bookbub.com/profile/pernille-hughes

Pinterest www.pinterest.com/pernillehughes

Recent Read Round Up

It's been a wonderful few weeks of reading for me. I've had some great reads from the depths of my TBR mountain to discovering an author and promptly ordering everything she'd written. Here's a little round up of just a few:

Order here

The Olive Branch - Jo Thomas

As a new,found fan of Jo Thomas I am having a ball working my way through all her books. If you haven't read a book by Jo Thomas before, please take a look at her wonderful back catalogue as they are brilliant.

The Olive Branch is a warm, romantic book  with a wonderful story of adventure, risk taking and the rewards of hard work and determination. I love stories that give us a true sense of its setting and Jo does that wonderfully. I've never been to Italy but through such great description I could  imagine the rural, close community that Ruthie finds herself part of. 

The book is full of great characters – and very amusing guard goat! Ruthie faces opposition from the Bellanouvo family who want what they believe to belong to them and want nothing more than seeing the back of this latest outsider.  I found Marco to be charismatic and charming, I could imagine the stereotypical sexy, Italian, dark, broody man next door. 


I loved The Olive Branch, it was an interesting and enjoyable story, with a fabulous cast of characters, and delicious descriptions that'll have you whisked away to Italy. I recommend for a pleasurable and relaxing read. 

Available here

Dear Mrs Bird - AJ Pearce

Ohh how I enjoyed Dear Mrs Bird by AJ Pearce. It's an amusing, charming read and for an historical fiction book is refreshingly light hearted - for the most part. There are some absolute heartbreaking, emotive scenes which really bring home the atrocities of the time. I was absorbed as soon as I started reading, I loved how easily the story flowed and how it progressed at a steady pace.

I loved the well written characters, the lovely Emmy Lake was quite a plucky young lady. She's a positive girl who remains optimistic even in dire circumstances; she is kind, caring and I'd say inspirational. Doing as much as she did for others in difficult times. I really enjoyed reading about a strong female from this time.

I really enjoyed the parts with the advice column – it added some funny moments, especially if deemed inappropriate for Mrs Bird. Her character seemed fierce and quite easy to dislike. No wonder Emmy wanted to do something nice for those that wrote in. I'd read that inspiration for Dear Mrs Bird came from real letters from wartime publications. I found this fact really thought provoking and quite sentimental.

Available here

Still Me - Jojo Moyes 

I'm a Louisa Clarke fan; she's a character that has given us happiness, love, fun and frolics but also heartbreak, agony and despair. I know there has been much discussion about the need for a second, and now a third book but honestly, this third book – took me right back and sucked me right in to her world again. I read and enjoyed After You, I can't say I loved it but always willing to give it a try so I admit I was apprehensive going into Still Me.

I knew the second I started reading I was back with Louisa Clark and I was happy these characters were back. I was reminded of Louisa's quirky character and matching that with being in New York – perfect.

It was quite an emotional read and as expected took you on quite a journey with Miss Clark – you don't think anything is ever straight forward or easy for her do you?! Jojo Moyes is a beautiful story teller and the story she gives us throughout Still Me is nothing less than brilliant. With introductions of some colourful characters, I felt Louisa had found the place she truly should be. I love how all characters have progression throughout and the ones you can't abide sometimes turn out to be the ones that make the book worthwhile.

As I finished this book I definitely felt that that's our time with Louisa at an end, and I honestly say I was a little bit emotional. It took me a few days to stop thinking about Still Me – it took me through so many emotions but I feel it was the correct journey for her final chapter.

Available to order 

The Second Husband - Louise Candlish 

I'm a fan of Louise Candlish's books. I've been trying to work my work through them all. I knew this was written earlier than the books I'd already managed to read so I wondered if the style would be any different.

I found that this was well written, familiar style and it flowed well. I was waiting for something though, I can't put my finger on what. I love a good twist or turn that you don't see coming but as I read I found myself wanting something more to happen. As I always expect to be surprised, I think my brain was coming up with extra twists on top of any the book threw at me. I'd guessed what would happen quit early on but I did wonder how it would be resolved (which ended up being done in a fairly “normal” way).

I did enjoy the book– I liked the story telling but would've liked some more unexpected turns. 

The Little Vintage Carousel by the Sea - Jaimie Admans 
The cover attracted me to this book, it’s bright, colourful and cute. I found this read to be utterly charming - especially our leading man Nathan(iel), who sounds wonderful. I’d love to find a Train Man like him! Ness is a great character, quirky, funny and with Nathan it’s clear to see a perfect match. 

I laughed a lot throughout the book and was definitely smiling as I read their romantic tale. 

A sweet story that has such likable characters; it is a well written, feel good tale. I also loved the sound of Pearlholme; would love to return. 

Thank you to HQ Digital for the copy via Netgalley for an honest review
                                                  
 

Rachel's Pudding Pantry - Caroline Roberts

Available here

Here's the blurb:

Primrose Farm is Rachel’s very own slice of heaven. Come rain or shine there’s always a pot of tea brewing by the Aga, the delicious aroma of freshly baked puddings, and a chorus of happy memories drifting through the kitchen.

But the farm is in a spot of trouble. As the daffodils spring, Rachel must plant the seeds of change if she wants to keep the farm afloat, and it’s all resting on a crazy plan. She’ll need one family cook book, her Mum Jill’s baking magic – and a reason to avoid her distractingly gorgeous neighbour, Tom . . .

Swapping their wellies for aprons, can Rachel and Jill bake their way into a brighter future? The proof will be in the pudding!

My Review:

YUM, YUM, YUMMY!

A delicious treat of a book from Caroline Roberts. Warning: you will scour every kitchen cupboard in sight for some kind of yummy goodness whilst reading this book.

From the start we are drawn into the lives of a clearly loving, warm, family unit – Rachel, Jill and of course, Maisy, I knew from the moment I started reading I only wanted good things to happen for them – I loved the special relationships between these characters, you really did get a sense of how much they loved each other.

The characters are down to earth, relatable and so easy to like – excellently written by Caroline. The community they are part of is very endearing, wonderful neighbours and friends who want to support and encourage, I'd love to be part of it myself. I was particularly keen on Tom, the farmer next door to Rachel and enjoyed how their relationship developed. It didn't feel rushed or forced at all. He was patient, kind and considerate, just what Rachel needs after everything they have been through.

I loved how descriptive this book is, whether about the tasty delights being created, the idyllic countryside setting or the increasing pressures of running a farm. Caroline's easy, flowing writing style made this a delight to read, it was a pleasure to sit and devour it in one sitting.

It's a wonderfully cosy book that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy! A must read for romance or baking fans. Honestly, I was sad to finish this book – imagine my delight to discover we will be going back for another visit.

I cannot recommend Rachel's Pudding Pantry enough. Treat yourself!

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍