I usually do not wish to read any book twice. I mostly read all my novels slowly, living each page and then I'm done. This book became an exception. This is one book, I know, I wouldn't mind reading again. It's emotional, with a beautiful description of the countryside, which made me feel throughout like I'm living in that part of England and experiencing the place myself. Its got lessons in it, sentiments, romance, anger, betrayal, and everything else. It's simple and yet beautiful, and is just all in all a great, cozy, read. I loved it! And I hope I come across many more such books which make me want to read them over and over again!

Gentle family saga, set in Cornwall. Similar vibes to “The Shell Seekers”. Content warning to anyone who’s lost a spouse or partner- there’s a fair bit of grieving

"Selina. Maudie's stepdaughter, immediately makes plans to acquire the property, but Rob Abbot, the contractor who has lovingly restored the stone house, and developed a passion for it, wants it too. And so does Melissa Clayton, a young woman with something to hide, who discovers all she's ever wanted at Moorgate. Now one week in winter will make all the difference as an old betrayal surfaces, an unexpected love affair blossoms and lives are forever changed."
~~back cover

This is the third book I've read by this author, and the style and the plots remain very similar: various subsets of people, many of whom have something to hide or are broken & grieving, wind up in a little corner of Cornwall and then gradually are drawn together by chance. What's different about the style (& the plots) is that there's not always an HEA (although often there is), leading often to a tear-jerker end to a subplot. The books are well written, but not great literature by any means.

Loved this book. Fabulous story set in England, centered around a house and a family. Gorgeous descriptions.

Charming story.

This is a darling book perfect for the Christmas season, without being too "Christmasy" or Hallmark-y. It reminded me of Rosamunde Pilcher's Winter Solstice, which is high praise!

This is a dysfunctional family story, a blended family story, and a "found-family" family story. I really enjoyed its coziness without being too overtly sweet.

This is not a new book- 2001. It had the feeling of a Maeve Binchy type of book. The author lives in England and the book takes place there. A good story with some interesting characters. I liked it. Made my trip to the Skaneateles Library sale last summer worthwhile!

Did not care for bitchy older woman that took up too many pages in an otherwise good book.

3.5 stars. While O found it cozy and quite a relaxing read from the heavier and more action packed books I've read recently it wasn't quite a favorite. I had a good time with it but maybe not entirely!u cup of tea

I'd never heard of this book or its author, but I found it on clearance at B&N and was intrigued enough to pick it up. All in all, it was okay. I'm not sure whether I'll read it again.

PROS: The imagery (the novel is set in the English countryside) was GORGEOUS. The author really makes you feel as if you were there. The characters were relatable and likable, and the conclusion was tidy and generally happy. The story is told from several perspectives, which I enjoyed.

CONS: Adultery plays a major role in this novel. Though it's not glamourized, I wish it had been left out. Also, there are mentions of sex, though there are no graphic scenes of any kind - rather it's mentioned in passing. Neither of these elements were necessary and lowered my opinion of the book. Also, it's rather slow moving - I never felt as though I couldn't wait to get back to it. Still, I was obviously enamored enough to finish when it wasn't even on my 'currently reading' list...

4.25

This book is about a widow, a house and several step children and step grandchildren and oh yes, a dog and house remodeler. Maud is the widow and must deal with a house she does but intends to sell and all the step relatives. It's a calm interesting book.