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Goodwill House #6
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House
January 1941
As the residents of Goodwill House feel the hard bite of winter, land girl Charlie Somiton is still glad of the warm friendships she has made there. Not just her fellow land girls, Daphne and Sal, but also dashing local G.P. Dr James Willoughby who looked after Charlie when she was injured at work.
Charlie likes Dr Willoughby, but she fears that there can never be more between them than just friendship. Because despite her upper-class background, Charlie carries with her a terrible secret that she can never share with James.
Dr Willoughby knows Charlie is dealing with something painful and he wishes she’d confide in him more. The war is getting ever closer and James knows all too well that life is short and happiness should be grabbed with both hands.
But is Charlie brave enough to risk her secret and her heart or will her past ruin her chances for a happy future.
As the residents of Goodwill House feel the hard bite of winter, land girl Charlie Somiton is still glad of the warm friendships she has made there. Not just her fellow land girls, Daphne and Sal, but also dashing local G.P. Dr James Willoughby who looked after Charlie when she was injured at work.
Charlie likes Dr Willoughby, but she fears that there can never be more between them than just friendship. Because despite her upper-class background, Charlie carries with her a terrible secret that she can never share with James.
Dr Willoughby knows Charlie is dealing with something painful and he wishes she’d confide in him more. The war is getting ever closer and James knows all too well that life is short and happiness should be grabbed with both hands.
But is Charlie brave enough to risk her secret and her heart or will her past ruin her chances for a happy future.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
202 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Fenella J. Miller
151 books149 followersFenella Jane Miller was born in the Isle of Man. Her father was a Yorkshire man and her mother the daughter of a Rajah. She has worked as a nanny, cleaner, field worker, hotelier, chef, secondary and primary teacher and is now a full time writer.
She has over twenty five Regency romantic adventures published plus one Jane Austen re-telling and one YA romantic fantasy.
see also Fenella-Jane Miller
She has over twenty five Regency romantic adventures published plus one Jane Austen re-telling and one YA romantic fantasy.
see also Fenella-Jane Miller
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 4, 2023
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is #6 in the Goodwill House series but can be read as a stand alone (I have not read others in the series).
In the winter of 1941, Charlie works as a Land Girl and appreciates her growing friendship with handsome Dr. Willoughby. The doctor would like to take their friendship to the next level, but Charlie has a painful secret that holds her back. Will Charlie share her secret with Willoughby and how will he react?
I love historical fiction because there’s always something new to learn. In this story, I googled to learn more about the Land Girls. and how hard they worked on farms while the men were away at war.
Stories of everyday life on the home front during WWII are intriguing and cause me to wonder what I would do. Would I be a Land Girl? Would I open my home to others? How would I cope with occasional bombings, black out curtains, rationing, and loved ones going to war? Their courage to carry on and make do is inspiring.
Even though the story includes a slow-burn romance, there’s more substance as well. Thoughtful content includes enduring through hardships, PTSD and healing from past trauma, sexual assault (referenced from the past), an ongoing war, friendship, found family, and community.
I warmly recommend Wedding Bells at Goodwill House for fans of a historical fiction/women’s fiction mashup. It’s gently told and heartfelt. If you enjoy this one, there are five more in the series.
Content Consideration: rape (off the page and in the past).
Thanks #NetGalley @BoldwoodBooks @rararesources for a complimentary e ARC of #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
In the winter of 1941, Charlie works as a Land Girl and appreciates her growing friendship with handsome Dr. Willoughby. The doctor would like to take their friendship to the next level, but Charlie has a painful secret that holds her back. Will Charlie share her secret with Willoughby and how will he react?
I love historical fiction because there’s always something new to learn. In this story, I googled to learn more about the Land Girls. and how hard they worked on farms while the men were away at war.
Stories of everyday life on the home front during WWII are intriguing and cause me to wonder what I would do. Would I be a Land Girl? Would I open my home to others? How would I cope with occasional bombings, black out curtains, rationing, and loved ones going to war? Their courage to carry on and make do is inspiring.
Even though the story includes a slow-burn romance, there’s more substance as well. Thoughtful content includes enduring through hardships, PTSD and healing from past trauma, sexual assault (referenced from the past), an ongoing war, friendship, found family, and community.
I warmly recommend Wedding Bells at Goodwill House for fans of a historical fiction/women’s fiction mashup. It’s gently told and heartfelt. If you enjoy this one, there are five more in the series.
Content Consideration: rape (off the page and in the past).
Thanks #NetGalley @BoldwoodBooks @rararesources for a complimentary e ARC of #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
May 21, 2023
For this and all my reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com and subscribe to my newsletter.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the World War II historical fiction series Goodwill House While you don’t have to have read all the books in the series, some of the previous stories and characters do pop up in the current volume. The War Girls of Goodwill House and New Recruits at Goodwill House are the previous books in the series.
There are a lot of World War II historical fiction/romance (light on the romance) stories out there, yet I find the Goodwill House series stands out above the rest. Lady Joanna comes from the upper crust of society yet allows land girls to board at the estate to help in the war effort. The girls work on local farms since most of the men who normally do so are in the service. Joanna has taken in teenaged twins and her daughter, Sarah, is in London studying to be a doctor. The focus on the books is on Joanna and a select few of the girls staying at Goodwill House.
This time around, it’s Charlie’s turn for romance, rather reluctantly at first. She hints at a sordid event in her past, and soon opens up to the other land girls that she had been raped. In a prior book, she suffered a concussion and stayed with the local physician while she healed, and later, she suffered wounds after being shot by a German fighter when she was running through a farm field to hide. She’s developed feelings for the doctor, but because of her past, doesn’t know if she could ever be intimate with a man.
Another good thing about the Goodwill House books is that the war isn’t a peripheral thing. There are frequent bombings since their village is near an air base, and buildings are hit and glass is blown out of windows. Despite living in a grand manor, much of the house must remain unheated due to said broken windows and the rationing of coal. Joanna realizes that Goodwill House is just too big and impractical to take care of and has plans to move to a smaller house in the near future. She’s also hoping that taking a step down in society will lead the young RAF pilot John back to her, whom she loves but he’s rather tired of the class wars and considers himself a socialist.
Despite the frequent air raids and bombings and rationing, there isn’t a lot of complaining and despite all the hardships, most everyone maintains a positive attitude. The Greatest Generation continues to amaze me at what they went through, when even in their darkest hour, they show a resilience and never feel a sense of hopelessness. Perhaps that’s why World War II fiction is so popular. Goodwill House is certainly a feel-good series despite the fact that it takes place during the war. I can’t wait for the next volume!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the World War II historical fiction series Goodwill House While you don’t have to have read all the books in the series, some of the previous stories and characters do pop up in the current volume. The War Girls of Goodwill House and New Recruits at Goodwill House are the previous books in the series.
There are a lot of World War II historical fiction/romance (light on the romance) stories out there, yet I find the Goodwill House series stands out above the rest. Lady Joanna comes from the upper crust of society yet allows land girls to board at the estate to help in the war effort. The girls work on local farms since most of the men who normally do so are in the service. Joanna has taken in teenaged twins and her daughter, Sarah, is in London studying to be a doctor. The focus on the books is on Joanna and a select few of the girls staying at Goodwill House.
This time around, it’s Charlie’s turn for romance, rather reluctantly at first. She hints at a sordid event in her past, and soon opens up to the other land girls that she had been raped. In a prior book, she suffered a concussion and stayed with the local physician while she healed, and later, she suffered wounds after being shot by a German fighter when she was running through a farm field to hide. She’s developed feelings for the doctor, but because of her past, doesn’t know if she could ever be intimate with a man.
Another good thing about the Goodwill House books is that the war isn’t a peripheral thing. There are frequent bombings since their village is near an air base, and buildings are hit and glass is blown out of windows. Despite living in a grand manor, much of the house must remain unheated due to said broken windows and the rationing of coal. Joanna realizes that Goodwill House is just too big and impractical to take care of and has plans to move to a smaller house in the near future. She’s also hoping that taking a step down in society will lead the young RAF pilot John back to her, whom she loves but he’s rather tired of the class wars and considers himself a socialist.
Despite the frequent air raids and bombings and rationing, there isn’t a lot of complaining and despite all the hardships, most everyone maintains a positive attitude. The Greatest Generation continues to amaze me at what they went through, when even in their darkest hour, they show a resilience and never feel a sense of hopelessness. Perhaps that’s why World War II fiction is so popular. Goodwill House is certainly a feel-good series despite the fact that it takes place during the war. I can’t wait for the next volume!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 22, 2023
I Just loved being back with the goodwill house family. This is number 6 in the series. It is light on the romance, but you get to know the.main characters well. You Will fall in love with them. But most of all I recommend to read the.books in the correct order, so you can see the growth in the characters. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
May 26, 2023
As war clouds gather, love will prevail...
It doesn't seem all that long ago I was with the women of Goodwill House and yet here we are again. While the first in this series opened with Sarah Harcourt, her romance with Squadron Leader Angus Trent and her desire to be a doctor followed by the next two which where about WAAFs Millie and Di stationed at nearby Manston airfield, book four "The Land Girls of Goodwill House" centred on new land girl Sal while book 5 "A Wartime Reunion at Goodwill House" was Daphne's story. The focus this time is on Charlie though their work as land girls feature very little, as opposed to the previous two books where we got chapter and verse on their work at Pickering Farm.
I thoroughly enjoyed being back with the Goodwill House family as the women ensconced within its walls have become so. After her daughter Sarah left to study medicine in London, Lady Joanna Harcourt decided to take in lodgers billeted to her whilst working in the home forces nearby. Firstly, it was the WAAFs as they awaited their digs at Manston to be built after which she took in Land Girls who worked at nearby farms. Then her mother in law Elizabeth arrived uninvited from France and installed herself at Goodwill House. Slowly but surely everyone became like one big family. Which was just as well as Joanna was now widowed, her only daughter was away in London and this opportunity afforded her responsibility and respect from the village. She also came to meet twins Liza and Joe early in the series and while they worked for her at first, she took them under her wing and loved them as her own, educated them and adopted them. Now both have the name Harcourt to open doors for them later in life.
In the previous two books, we met Charlie and were given the impression that she was a posh girl whose confidence had taken a bit of a battering. There were times she came across as a bit hoity-toity in taking the lead where she was just a land girl like the others. But this time we get to see the real Charlie and she's a good humoured yet independent young woman. Previously, she had been injured first with a concussion and then having been inadvertently shot by a German plane, both times having called for the services of the village doctor, Dr James Willoughby. It became apparent to those in the house that Charlie and the good doctor had formed an attraction but neither were inclined to do much about it.
Charlie had developed feelings for Dr Willoughby, of that she was sure, but because of an incident in her past she is unsure whether she could ever be intimate with a man and therefore pursuing a relationship with the doctor would be unfair. James, on the other hand, is intuitive for a male and had sensed that something untoward must have happened in her past to make her so apprehensive now. He is so thoughtful and attentive that he is prepared to wait as long as it takes for her to make whatever peace she needs to to move forward. What ensues is a delightful and easy courtship before heading down the aisle. Of course, there is the token spanner thrown in on the even of the nuptials, but I did expect something more to come of it and waited with baited breath as I read the happenings on the day of the wedding.
This wedding sees changes coming to Goodwill House and that of the Harcourt family which will all be revealed to those who make the journey alongside them. I can't wait to see what's in store next for them all and the changes that will inevitably change everything about Goodwill House. As it's only 1941 there is still a lot more to happen as yet with regards to the war, yet that is merely a backdrop. In fact it barely features at all in this book except for the odd air raid. I like that there is something more to focus on. Joanna has already put in motion the changes she is overseeing. Makes me wonder whose story is left to tell? Joanna's maybe? There was an opening at the end which could take that direction.
I did note a reference towards the end with regards to "the two WAAFs" who had lived at Goodwill the previous year. The reference made mention of the fact that they had married RAF pilots and were now both widows. I was saddened to read that Millie and Di (the two WAAFs) whose stories were the centrepiece for books 2 and 3 and their courtships to RAF pilots Ted and Freddie respectively who'd gone on to marry and Millie I believe was pregnant last we heard, to have their husbands who played such a major role in the early stories killed and them left as widows. Such is the way of war, I guess. But in respect of the series it kind of made their stories pointless and as we had grown attached to Millie and Di at the time, I was saddened.
Aside from that, WEDDING BELLS AT GOODWILL HOUSE is my favourite of the series so far. I love Charlie's humour and her candor and the camaraderie she shares with her new husband James. I do hope we continue to see a lot more of them and their rabbit-and-pheasant-hunting cat Lucky.
I would like to thank #FenellaJMiller, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
It doesn't seem all that long ago I was with the women of Goodwill House and yet here we are again. While the first in this series opened with Sarah Harcourt, her romance with Squadron Leader Angus Trent and her desire to be a doctor followed by the next two which where about WAAFs Millie and Di stationed at nearby Manston airfield, book four "The Land Girls of Goodwill House" centred on new land girl Sal while book 5 "A Wartime Reunion at Goodwill House" was Daphne's story. The focus this time is on Charlie though their work as land girls feature very little, as opposed to the previous two books where we got chapter and verse on their work at Pickering Farm.
I thoroughly enjoyed being back with the Goodwill House family as the women ensconced within its walls have become so. After her daughter Sarah left to study medicine in London, Lady Joanna Harcourt decided to take in lodgers billeted to her whilst working in the home forces nearby. Firstly, it was the WAAFs as they awaited their digs at Manston to be built after which she took in Land Girls who worked at nearby farms. Then her mother in law Elizabeth arrived uninvited from France and installed herself at Goodwill House. Slowly but surely everyone became like one big family. Which was just as well as Joanna was now widowed, her only daughter was away in London and this opportunity afforded her responsibility and respect from the village. She also came to meet twins Liza and Joe early in the series and while they worked for her at first, she took them under her wing and loved them as her own, educated them and adopted them. Now both have the name Harcourt to open doors for them later in life.
In the previous two books, we met Charlie and were given the impression that she was a posh girl whose confidence had taken a bit of a battering. There were times she came across as a bit hoity-toity in taking the lead where she was just a land girl like the others. But this time we get to see the real Charlie and she's a good humoured yet independent young woman. Previously, she had been injured first with a concussion and then having been inadvertently shot by a German plane, both times having called for the services of the village doctor, Dr James Willoughby. It became apparent to those in the house that Charlie and the good doctor had formed an attraction but neither were inclined to do much about it.
Charlie had developed feelings for Dr Willoughby, of that she was sure, but because of an incident in her past she is unsure whether she could ever be intimate with a man and therefore pursuing a relationship with the doctor would be unfair. James, on the other hand, is intuitive for a male and had sensed that something untoward must have happened in her past to make her so apprehensive now. He is so thoughtful and attentive that he is prepared to wait as long as it takes for her to make whatever peace she needs to to move forward. What ensues is a delightful and easy courtship before heading down the aisle. Of course, there is the token spanner thrown in on the even of the nuptials, but I did expect something more to come of it and waited with baited breath as I read the happenings on the day of the wedding.
This wedding sees changes coming to Goodwill House and that of the Harcourt family which will all be revealed to those who make the journey alongside them. I can't wait to see what's in store next for them all and the changes that will inevitably change everything about Goodwill House. As it's only 1941 there is still a lot more to happen as yet with regards to the war, yet that is merely a backdrop. In fact it barely features at all in this book except for the odd air raid. I like that there is something more to focus on. Joanna has already put in motion the changes she is overseeing. Makes me wonder whose story is left to tell? Joanna's maybe? There was an opening at the end which could take that direction.
I did note a reference towards the end with regards to "the two WAAFs" who had lived at Goodwill the previous year. The reference made mention of the fact that they had married RAF pilots and were now both widows. I was saddened to read that Millie and Di (the two WAAFs) whose stories were the centrepiece for books 2 and 3 and their courtships to RAF pilots Ted and Freddie respectively who'd gone on to marry and Millie I believe was pregnant last we heard, to have their husbands who played such a major role in the early stories killed and them left as widows. Such is the way of war, I guess. But in respect of the series it kind of made their stories pointless and as we had grown attached to Millie and Di at the time, I was saddened.
Aside from that, WEDDING BELLS AT GOODWILL HOUSE is my favourite of the series so far. I love Charlie's humour and her candor and the camaraderie she shares with her new husband James. I do hope we continue to see a lot more of them and their rabbit-and-pheasant-hunting cat Lucky.
I would like to thank #FenellaJMiller, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
June 24, 2023
Disjointed
Over emotionally written, very disjointed plot. Not an enjoyable read. Read whilst I had Covid and couldn't be bothered to abandon it and search for another book.
Over emotionally written, very disjointed plot. Not an enjoyable read. Read whilst I had Covid and couldn't be bothered to abandon it and search for another book.
May 21, 2023
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the World War II historical fiction series Goodwill House While you don’t have to have read all the books in the series, some of the previous stories and characters do pop up in the current volume. The War Girls of Goodwill House and New Recruits at Goodwill House are the previous books in the series.
There are a lot of World War II historical fiction/romance (light on the romance) stories out there, yet I find the Goodwill House series stands out above the rest. Lady Joanna comes from the upper crust of society yet allows land girls to board at the estate to help in the war effort. The girls work on local farms since most of the men who normally do so are in the service. Joanna has taken in teenaged twins and her daughter, Sarah, is in London studying to be a doctor. The focus on the books is on Joanna and a select few of the girls staying at Goodwill House.
This time around, it’s Charlie’s turn for romance, rather reluctantly at first. She hints at a sordid event in her past, and soon opens up to the other land girls that she had been raped. In a prior book, she suffered a concussion and stayed with the local physician while she healed, and later, she suffered wounds after being shot by a German fighter when she was running through a farm field to hide. She’s developed feelings for the doctor, but because of her past, doesn’t know if she could ever be intimate with a man.
Another good thing about the Goodwill House books is that the war isn’t a peripheral thing. There are frequent bombings since their village is near an air base, and buildings are hit and glass is blown out of windows. Despite living in a grand manor, much of the house must remain unheated due to said broken windows and the rationing of coal. Joanna realizes that Goodwill House is just too big and impractical to take care of and has plans to move to a smaller house in the near future. She’s also hoping that taking a step down in society will lead the young RAF pilot John back to her, whom she loves but he’s rather tired of the class wars and considers himself a socialist.
Despite the frequent air raids and bombings and rationing, there isn’t a lot of complaining and despite all the hardships, most everyone maintains a positive attitude. The Greatest Generation continues to amaze me at what they went through, when even in their darkest hour, they show a resilience and never feel a sense of hopelessness. Perhaps that’s why World War II fiction is so popular. Goodwill House is certainly a feel-good series despite the fact that it takes place during the war. I can’t wait for the next volume!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
There are a lot of World War II historical fiction/romance (light on the romance) stories out there, yet I find the Goodwill House series stands out above the rest. Lady Joanna comes from the upper crust of society yet allows land girls to board at the estate to help in the war effort. The girls work on local farms since most of the men who normally do so are in the service. Joanna has taken in teenaged twins and her daughter, Sarah, is in London studying to be a doctor. The focus on the books is on Joanna and a select few of the girls staying at Goodwill House.
This time around, it’s Charlie’s turn for romance, rather reluctantly at first. She hints at a sordid event in her past, and soon opens up to the other land girls that she had been raped. In a prior book, she suffered a concussion and stayed with the local physician while she healed, and later, she suffered wounds after being shot by a German fighter when she was running through a farm field to hide. She’s developed feelings for the doctor, but because of her past, doesn’t know if she could ever be intimate with a man.
Another good thing about the Goodwill House books is that the war isn’t a peripheral thing. There are frequent bombings since their village is near an air base, and buildings are hit and glass is blown out of windows. Despite living in a grand manor, much of the house must remain unheated due to said broken windows and the rationing of coal. Joanna realizes that Goodwill House is just too big and impractical to take care of and has plans to move to a smaller house in the near future. She’s also hoping that taking a step down in society will lead the young RAF pilot John back to her, whom she loves but he’s rather tired of the class wars and considers himself a socialist.
Despite the frequent air raids and bombings and rationing, there isn’t a lot of complaining and despite all the hardships, most everyone maintains a positive attitude. The Greatest Generation continues to amaze me at what they went through, when even in their darkest hour, they show a resilience and never feel a sense of hopelessness. Perhaps that’s why World War II fiction is so popular. Goodwill House is certainly a feel-good series despite the fact that it takes place during the war. I can’t wait for the next volume!
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 13, 2023
I do love a good surprise and that is exactly what I got while reading Wedding Bells at Goodwill House. Actually I was surprised quite a few times. The author had my heart all a twitter, reminding me that even in the most horrible of times if you look hard enough you can find happiness.
Goodwill House is one of my favorite historical fiction series. The author gives me enough information to make me curious to know more. I spend hours googling and reading about things mentioned. This time I didn't need to research quite as much as James and Charlie go to Chelmsford, a city I have visited many times. I got to giggle at the man telling of Marconi's, a place my cousin once worked.
The author writes very likable characters from across many social spectrums. Land girls live with Joanna at Goodwill House. Joanna, a woman of high society has opened her home and heart to others that are so different from her. I am thrilled to see that Joanna has found some happiness for herself.
The story reminds us of how lucky we are thanks to those that fought in WW2. We can easily heat our homes, while they struggled to stay warm. We can go to the grocery store for any type of meat, while they became inventive with presents from a cat. With one phone call I can have a window replaced in a day, while they waited months and months in the dead of winter to have them replaced.
The ingenuity of those during the war is amazing. The lack of goods made a wedding cake impossible. But a reception just wouldn't be the same without one. The brilliant solution had me in shock and awe. All the discussions brought back stories of my own parents wedding with rationing continuing into the early 1950s. The love the characters had for one another filled the pages, making for a wonderful read.
It was nice to read a World War Two historical fiction that wasn't all doom and gloom. Bombs dropped. Windows shattered but the good people kept calm and carried on. They showed me that you didn't need to be a pilot to be brave. You just need the determination to continue on and make the best of things. Wedding Bells at Goodwill House was a wonderful reminder, that all sacrificed during the war and that they had to grab happy when and where they could
Goodwill House is one of my favorite historical fiction series. The author gives me enough information to make me curious to know more. I spend hours googling and reading about things mentioned. This time I didn't need to research quite as much as James and Charlie go to Chelmsford, a city I have visited many times. I got to giggle at the man telling of Marconi's, a place my cousin once worked.
The author writes very likable characters from across many social spectrums. Land girls live with Joanna at Goodwill House. Joanna, a woman of high society has opened her home and heart to others that are so different from her. I am thrilled to see that Joanna has found some happiness for herself.
The story reminds us of how lucky we are thanks to those that fought in WW2. We can easily heat our homes, while they struggled to stay warm. We can go to the grocery store for any type of meat, while they became inventive with presents from a cat. With one phone call I can have a window replaced in a day, while they waited months and months in the dead of winter to have them replaced.
The ingenuity of those during the war is amazing. The lack of goods made a wedding cake impossible. But a reception just wouldn't be the same without one. The brilliant solution had me in shock and awe. All the discussions brought back stories of my own parents wedding with rationing continuing into the early 1950s. The love the characters had for one another filled the pages, making for a wonderful read.
It was nice to read a World War Two historical fiction that wasn't all doom and gloom. Bombs dropped. Windows shattered but the good people kept calm and carried on. They showed me that you didn't need to be a pilot to be brave. You just need the determination to continue on and make the best of things. Wedding Bells at Goodwill House was a wonderful reminder, that all sacrificed during the war and that they had to grab happy when and where they could
November 21, 2023
Fenella J. Miller’s fabulous wartime saga series continues with the latest poignant, captivating and emotional installment, Wedding Bells at Goodwill House.
January 1941 and although the residents of Goodwill House are all bracing themselves for a spell of freezing cold weather, land girl Charlie Somiton has blossomed in the warm embrace of the friendships she has made there. Her fellow land girls Daphne and Sal have become very good friends of hers – and so has the dashing Doctor James Willoughby, who had looked after Charlie when she had been injured at work. What started out as an innocent friendship had quickly given way to something far deeper than either one of them was expecting, however, Charlie cannot help but worry about the secret which she has been carrying around with her for so long that could put paid to any hope she might have had of a future with James.
Well aware that she is keeping something from him, James wishes with all of his heart that Charlie would find the strength and courage to confide in him. With the world at war making each day so precious and life so fragile, James wonders whether Charlie will ever be brave enough to unburden herself to him and tell him the truth about her past – or whether her fears will end up costing them dear and ruin any chance they might have had of being together.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is a terrific wartime saga by Fenella J Miller full of atmosphere, drama, intensity and emotion guaranteed to hold readers spellbound. With a fantastic cast of characters, skillfully evoked period setting, touching romance and heart-wrenching pathos, Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is an enjoyable tale saga fans will thoroughly enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 1941 and although the residents of Goodwill House are all bracing themselves for a spell of freezing cold weather, land girl Charlie Somiton has blossomed in the warm embrace of the friendships she has made there. Her fellow land girls Daphne and Sal have become very good friends of hers – and so has the dashing Doctor James Willoughby, who had looked after Charlie when she had been injured at work. What started out as an innocent friendship had quickly given way to something far deeper than either one of them was expecting, however, Charlie cannot help but worry about the secret which she has been carrying around with her for so long that could put paid to any hope she might have had of a future with James.
Well aware that she is keeping something from him, James wishes with all of his heart that Charlie would find the strength and courage to confide in him. With the world at war making each day so precious and life so fragile, James wonders whether Charlie will ever be brave enough to unburden herself to him and tell him the truth about her past – or whether her fears will end up costing them dear and ruin any chance they might have had of being together.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is a terrific wartime saga by Fenella J Miller full of atmosphere, drama, intensity and emotion guaranteed to hold readers spellbound. With a fantastic cast of characters, skillfully evoked period setting, touching romance and heart-wrenching pathos, Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is an enjoyable tale saga fans will thoroughly enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 8, 2023
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House by Fenella J Miller opens with the war still in progress. It seems now almost the norm. There’s plenty going on in and around Goodwill House, as always. Lady Joanna Harcourt us busy, as always in this case negotiating fees to house and feed some American officers who are coming to do an inspection of nearby bases to assist the American government in assessing the advisability of investing money and possibly, men into the effort. Joe and Liza, her adopted war orphans are just about adults and functioning on their own. Dr James Willoughby was functioning, not only as the GP for the surrounding area, but as general surgeon several days a week in Ramsgate, a nearby larger town with a real hospital. He is still seeing Charlie and knew he wanted her as his wife, but she needed time. Someone had hurt her in the past. He was willing to wait. Vera’s, the cook, son had had turned up out of nowhere and had proven to be very helpful in maintaining the manor.
Terrific saga, full of wonderful personalities, and story of life as it happens. There are deaths, marriages, and so much more contained within these pages. The reader comes to feel as if he/she knows the characters like they know their own neighbors. It is a different era and that makes it wonderful: to feel some of what these folks felt while their country was plunged into war. The best part is that most of the problems are worked out and people mainly life happy lives. Not strictly reality, but it is for some. I love this series. Thanks Fenella J. Miller!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Wedding Bells at Goodwill House by Boldwood Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #FennellaJMiller #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse
Terrific saga, full of wonderful personalities, and story of life as it happens. There are deaths, marriages, and so much more contained within these pages. The reader comes to feel as if he/she knows the characters like they know their own neighbors. It is a different era and that makes it wonderful: to feel some of what these folks felt while their country was plunged into war. The best part is that most of the problems are worked out and people mainly life happy lives. Not strictly reality, but it is for some. I love this series. Thanks Fenella J. Miller!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Wedding Bells at Goodwill House by Boldwood Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #FennellaJMiller #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse
May 24, 2023
Wedding Bells At Goodwill House by Fenella J Miller is the next book in the fabulous Goodwill House series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend reading the previous books first to enable you to track character progression and development. I loved catching up with the characters. It is like greeting old friends.
We join Goodwill House in early 1941 with World War II in full swing. There are continual air raids as well as the winter weather to contend with.
Familiar faces are battling trauma from the past. They feel stuck in a moment in time and need love, care and patience to heal.
Once more Fenella J Miller writes with care, compassion and an eye for detail, painting the scenes with her words. She has a marvellous sense of humor, presenting the reader with several hilarious situations which had me snorting with laughter – possibly not a book to read in public!
Nothing is certain in times of war. Where love is found, it must be seized. We witness a character re-assessing her life, who decides that love wins over the opinion of others.
You never know who is watching and listening. There could be spies amongst us. Eyes and ears need to be kept open in order to discern who is for us and who is against us!
Characters bud, blossom and bloom as they grow and mature, being given more responsibility, as everyone does their bit for the war effort.
I absolutely adore the Goodwill House series and cannot wait for more, more, more, please Fenella J Miller.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
We join Goodwill House in early 1941 with World War II in full swing. There are continual air raids as well as the winter weather to contend with.
Familiar faces are battling trauma from the past. They feel stuck in a moment in time and need love, care and patience to heal.
Once more Fenella J Miller writes with care, compassion and an eye for detail, painting the scenes with her words. She has a marvellous sense of humor, presenting the reader with several hilarious situations which had me snorting with laughter – possibly not a book to read in public!
Nothing is certain in times of war. Where love is found, it must be seized. We witness a character re-assessing her life, who decides that love wins over the opinion of others.
You never know who is watching and listening. There could be spies amongst us. Eyes and ears need to be kept open in order to discern who is for us and who is against us!
Characters bud, blossom and bloom as they grow and mature, being given more responsibility, as everyone does their bit for the war effort.
I absolutely adore the Goodwill House series and cannot wait for more, more, more, please Fenella J Miller.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2023
The sixth book in this series and Wedding Bells at Goodwill House takes us once more back in time. 1941 is the year, and World War Two is full steam ahead. We are back with the familiar characters, and I was so glad to be able to catch up with them.
Fenella J. Miller writes the most authentic historical fiction. The amount of research must be immense, as every single book in the series is so vivid and believable. She brings every emotion to her writing, and even though we return in the war, there is still laughter to be found. I was laughing myself as I read, and it was sorely needed.
It may be a hard time for all, but there are good times to be had, as we witness two order weddings and romance along the way. It does delve into sensitive issues, but the author deals with them very well and in a fitting manner, too.
The series is one that can be read however you want. I would say the best way to read them is in order, but that's me and my preference. If you are a historical fiction lover, please do yourself a favour and read this!
Thanks for the gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review of Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books.
Fenella J. Miller writes the most authentic historical fiction. The amount of research must be immense, as every single book in the series is so vivid and believable. She brings every emotion to her writing, and even though we return in the war, there is still laughter to be found. I was laughing myself as I read, and it was sorely needed.
It may be a hard time for all, but there are good times to be had, as we witness two order weddings and romance along the way. It does delve into sensitive issues, but the author deals with them very well and in a fitting manner, too.
The series is one that can be read however you want. I would say the best way to read them is in order, but that's me and my preference. If you are a historical fiction lover, please do yourself a favour and read this!
Thanks for the gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review of Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books.
June 8, 2023
I love Historical Fiction, WWII is one of my favorite time periods, there is an overwhelming amount of books these past few years on this subject, so it's important to get something unusual into the storyline. I realize Charlie's past is that hook for the reader, I found the story sweet, and interesting, the deprivations are staggering, especially with the shortages we have been facing due to Covid, and we haven't recovered yet! I found myself comparing the Greatest Generation to our present shortages, and find it depressing, that generation was willing to put up with deprivation, do work they were never intended for, ladies mucking out on farms, working all hours, doing without food, to our present generations who refuse to work 5 days a week much less 7, who refuse to understand that it's going to require us all to work above and beyond what is needed to get us back to normal. I love reading these stories, I love the strength of these ladies, the men who sacrificed so much. I appreciate your allowing me to read the Arc.
I highly recommend it for WWII enthusiast. Thank you #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks
carolintallahassee
I highly recommend it for WWII enthusiast. Thank you #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks
carolintallahassee
June 6, 2023
If you have read previous instalments in this series, you will be pleased to know that the story continues. Christmas has passed and in January 1941, the villagers are looking forward to another year of deprivations on the Home Front. However, the 'make do and mend' mentality is alive and kicking and there is plenty of period detail on how they go about doing that. The Land Girls are settled in to life in the village and have formed some strong friendships.
Charlie's story is the principal focus as she comes to terms with events in her past and has to work out if she can trust Dr Willoughby. All this is done under the scrutiny if the locals, who observe the comings and goings of each other and are at times, judgemental. However, Charlie has many friends and allies, as does the well respected doctor. Charlie is not the only character who is considering her future and making decisions which may put her under the spotlight. However, you sense how the war has brought about subtle changes in how society operates, regarding class and women's roles. This is an entertaining read. Even the moments when the war comes starkly into relief, there is a kindness and humanity about how people are dealt with.
In short: Life on the home front brings people together
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
Charlie's story is the principal focus as she comes to terms with events in her past and has to work out if she can trust Dr Willoughby. All this is done under the scrutiny if the locals, who observe the comings and goings of each other and are at times, judgemental. However, Charlie has many friends and allies, as does the well respected doctor. Charlie is not the only character who is considering her future and making decisions which may put her under the spotlight. However, you sense how the war has brought about subtle changes in how society operates, regarding class and women's roles. This is an entertaining read. Even the moments when the war comes starkly into relief, there is a kindness and humanity about how people are dealt with.
In short: Life on the home front brings people together
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
May 31, 2023
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is the sixth book in the Goodwill House series. You don't have to read the other books first because this could be read as a stand-alone but to thoroughly enjoy all of the characters and see how they develop, I advise you to read the other books first.
Despite being set in wartime this book still had some lovely lighthearted moments. There was romance, of course, and not just between the main couple in the book; Doctor Willoughby and landgirl, Charlie. There were dark moments, and not just because of the war. It's just one of those books that make you run the whole gamut of emotions.
The ending was wonderful, but it was quite abrupt. An epilogue would have been great, but as there wasn't one I am hoping that the story will continue in another book in the series! Fingers crossed.
Despite being set in wartime this book still had some lovely lighthearted moments. There was romance, of course, and not just between the main couple in the book; Doctor Willoughby and landgirl, Charlie. There were dark moments, and not just because of the war. It's just one of those books that make you run the whole gamut of emotions.
The ending was wonderful, but it was quite abrupt. An epilogue would have been great, but as there wasn't one I am hoping that the story will continue in another book in the series! Fingers crossed.
September 4, 2023
We return to Goodwill House in winter 1941. The Harcourt family are still in residence, though life is difficult with war time rationing, lack of glass to repair the broken windows and of course the constant threat of air raids ever present.
In previous books we met land girl Charlie who is billeted at Goodwill House whilst working on a nearby farm. This book is her story, and centres round her growing friendship with local Doctor James Willoughby whom she initially got to know in a previous book when she spent a while being cared for by him following a concussion.
Charlie holds a secret in her past, opening up to her closest friends that she was raped. As a result, she is wary of men & feels that she will never marry.
Whilst the book does centre round Charlie & her gentle, burgeoning relationship with the handsome doctor, there is still room for more about life at Goodwill House and other family members. There are some references to what’s happened previously in the series, including reference to two WAAFs who had married RAF pilots and were now widows.
Overall, it was nice to be back amongst the Goodwill House family, but I was left feeling “meh” at the end of the book as I wasn’t sure it really added as much to the story of Goodwill House as other books in the series.
In previous books we met land girl Charlie who is billeted at Goodwill House whilst working on a nearby farm. This book is her story, and centres round her growing friendship with local Doctor James Willoughby whom she initially got to know in a previous book when she spent a while being cared for by him following a concussion.
Charlie holds a secret in her past, opening up to her closest friends that she was raped. As a result, she is wary of men & feels that she will never marry.
Whilst the book does centre round Charlie & her gentle, burgeoning relationship with the handsome doctor, there is still room for more about life at Goodwill House and other family members. There are some references to what’s happened previously in the series, including reference to two WAAFs who had married RAF pilots and were now widows.
Overall, it was nice to be back amongst the Goodwill House family, but I was left feeling “meh” at the end of the book as I wasn’t sure it really added as much to the story of Goodwill House as other books in the series.
March 4, 2024
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I was able to find the audio version through my local library.
I enjoyed the story enough. I felt like it just focused way too much in if the couple was going to sleep with each other since his love interest was raped and didn't know if she could ever slept with another guy again. We are told this pretty much over and over and over. Then her love interest talks about it too. The author even talks about his erection through out the book and I am not sure if that was supposed to be funny but I think it was just cringe. We heard over and over how he just needs to take a cold shower. Just after a while it got old. The story itself was easy reading/listening to and is part of a series. It was just okay in the end. I usually like these series but this one was just all right.
I enjoyed the story enough. I felt like it just focused way too much in if the couple was going to sleep with each other since his love interest was raped and didn't know if she could ever slept with another guy again. We are told this pretty much over and over and over. Then her love interest talks about it too. The author even talks about his erection through out the book and I am not sure if that was supposed to be funny but I think it was just cringe. We heard over and over how he just needs to take a cold shower. Just after a while it got old. The story itself was easy reading/listening to and is part of a series. It was just okay in the end. I usually like these series but this one was just all right.
May 28, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this brilliant book
what another great edition to this lovely series about life at goodwill house for all its inhabitants
and so this is the story about charlie and her growing friendship with the good doctor willoughby , though charlie charlies carries a huge secret around her, can she overcome that to commit to the doc
and then there everyone else as life continues for them during the war and living at goodwill house with the ever present danger of being bombed during one of the raids that are still happening
this series is lovely and gives a taste of what everyone experienced during the war years
what another great edition to this lovely series about life at goodwill house for all its inhabitants
and so this is the story about charlie and her growing friendship with the good doctor willoughby , though charlie charlies carries a huge secret around her, can she overcome that to commit to the doc
and then there everyone else as life continues for them during the war and living at goodwill house with the ever present danger of being bombed during one of the raids that are still happening
this series is lovely and gives a taste of what everyone experienced during the war years
June 4, 2023
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is my favourite book of this series. It can easily be read as a standalone but too really get to know each of the characters I would recommend reading the whole series. I was overjoyed that this book focuses on Charlie as she is my favourite. I loved the development of a relationship between Charlie and Dr James. There are other romances developing too. There is also family dramas and dangers raging as the war continues. I would have liked a epilogue at the end of the book just to sum it all up as I feel it ended slightly abruptly. It was a absolutely joy of a book to read and I relished reading about the characters who feel like great friends.
May 2, 2023
Fantastic book - thank you for giving me the chance to read it!
I love reading series like this as you feel like you know the characters as friends and have a personal relationship with them that you sometimes don't get from a single book. This series is excellently written and easy to read. It was nice to read of happiness for the characters when times were so hard for them during the war.
I do hope Sarah reappears soon though as it seems sad that she never comes home nor seems to make any contact with her mother.
As always I look forward to the next book coming! Thank you!
I love reading series like this as you feel like you know the characters as friends and have a personal relationship with them that you sometimes don't get from a single book. This series is excellently written and easy to read. It was nice to read of happiness for the characters when times were so hard for them during the war.
I do hope Sarah reappears soon though as it seems sad that she never comes home nor seems to make any contact with her mother.
As always I look forward to the next book coming! Thank you!
June 7, 2023
We are back at Goodwill House, with 2 weddings for the land girls. The war continues, however the village are quite safe despite Manston and the coast nearby. Joanna still pines for her lover, they had decided to part in the previous book because of the age difference. The twins, who Joanna has adopted are doing well with there studies. Her son is counting the days to when he can join the RAF. It has become obvious to Joanna, that Goodwill House is now too big for her and is looking to downsize. This is another great read and I have no hesitation in giving 5*
May 1, 2023
After the first couple of pages I was back into the family at Goodwill House, so familiar were they. As the title suggests there are wedding bells in the air, not before some difficulties have been worked through.
I love that there is still the strong bond between Charlie, Daphne and Sal. Lady Joanna sounds friendly and kindly.
Lady Elizabeth puts me in mind of Dame Maggie Smith in Downton with the great put downs.
Than the baddie Sebastian Somiton.
I really enjoyed this book.
I love that there is still the strong bond between Charlie, Daphne and Sal. Lady Joanna sounds friendly and kindly.
Lady Elizabeth puts me in mind of Dame Maggie Smith in Downton with the great put downs.
Than the baddie Sebastian Somiton.
I really enjoyed this book.
June 1, 2023
This was an enjoyable read concerning well loved characters. I liked the way Lady Harcourt, Joanna, has evolved during this series to become the confident lady she is now. I liked the way she grasped the joy she wanted and took a leading role in achieving it. There is such a warm feeling when reading this series, how most people just got on with things, made the best of what they had and worked together for all their benefit. There was also the present danger and heartache that war brought. On the lighter side there was a romance or two and to balance it out, some dangerous people. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 30, 2023
This is book six in the Goodwill House series and I’ve loved every one of them. The war is still going but Lady Hardcourt and her land girl residents are soldiering on and dealing with each situation as it arises. This book has quite a feel good feeling to it as two of the girls get married and we see how things move on for each of the characters we’ve grown to love. I highly recommend this series and I look forward to seeing what Fenella has in store for us readers next.
May 27, 2023
I adore Fenella J Miller's books and this one lived up to my expectations. Beautifully written and with well drawn characters, I read it in on sitting and really didn't want it to end. Looking forward to the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2023
When I requested this book to read I didn’t realise it was book six in a series! Although I didn’t completely understand the full story I did really enjoy what I read. So much so I’ve downloaded the other books in the series to be able to read book 6 again and understand completely what the story is about.
June 17, 2023
This was the latest and sixth book in the WWII Goodwill House series. Deep in the Kent countryside, in the beginning years of WWII, an English lady opens her home to the land girls who are working in the countryside. These characters are fun to follow and this series has been enchanting. Still years left in the war, so I hope more books are being written for this delightful series.
October 31, 2023
Another wonderful book in the Goodwill House series. I have really enjoyed this war time drama and it's like rejoining friends when you step into the pages of a new book. It describes war time life very well in all classes of life. Land girls were an essential part of the war and though a hard job, it must have been nice to be somewhere like Goodwill House.
May 1, 2023
Another fantastic installment of the Goodwill House series. This time we follow Charlie and her story whilst still learning about Joanna and Goodwill House. I think it's fair to say this series has me hooked and I can't wait for the next book.
May 9, 2023
With grateful thanks for a copy of this absolutely fantastic book.
Was great to be back at goodwill house and Charlie and the land girls a lot took place in this book and want to give nothing away lots of twists and surprises I really can highly recommend this outstanding series
Was great to be back at goodwill house and Charlie and the land girls a lot took place in this book and want to give nothing away lots of twists and surprises I really can highly recommend this outstanding series
June 7, 2023
gripping
I just had to keep reading this book till it was finished but didn’t want it to end. I hope there is another in the pipeline, would love to know what happens next to all the characters
I just had to keep reading this book till it was finished but didn’t want it to end. I hope there is another in the pipeline, would love to know what happens next to all the characters
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