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Little Somerby #3
Sommerglück im Apfelgarten
Sophie Henderson loves her job at Carter's Cider in the picturesque Somerset village of Little Somerby, but with summer dawning before yet another picking and pressing season, and her boss David showing no signs of wanting to hang up his cider jug, perhaps it is time to move on.She's all set to hand in her notice when Alex Fraser , an intern from Vancouver, comes to Little Somerby to learn everything he can about the cider business. With Sophie as his mentor, attraction between them starts to grow alongside the apples.For Alex, however, being in Little Somerby is about more than cider, and as the summer grows warmer, and his relationship with Sophie blossoms, can he find the courage to tell her the truth before it's too late?Fay Keenan's charming, funny and deliciously romantic Little Somerby novels are sure to delight all fans of Jilly Cooper, Fern Britton and Katie Fforde.'Moving, funny, thoughtful and romantic. Bring on the next one!' JENNY KANE.
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About the author
Fay Keenan
23 books121 followersFay Keenan lives and works in Somerset. When Fay is not chasing her children around or writing, she teaches English at a local secondary school. Fay writes ‘heart thumping romantic fiction’ and likes to cover subjects of interest in her novels, including UK Parliament, the Air Ambulance and the international cider making industry. Her novels explore relationships, country living and hopefully have a good sprinkling of escapism, too!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 9, 2019
5☆ A Heartwarming, Endearing and Touching story, I couldn't put down.
SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD is the third book in the series, but can be read as a standalone perfectly fine. Although I have read all 3 books, I think in order to really relate to the characters I would recommend reading them all.
This time round it's Sophie's Story.
She has just gone through a painful breakup with Ex Mark after finding out he cheated on her.
Nursing a broken heart she is sworn off men! Like we always say lol
Sophie has been working at the Carter Cider Company for a long while. So when they decide to mentor interns they can think of no better person than Sophie to help run the program.
In walks Alex! He certainly has the swoon factor!
He has come over from Vancouver where he is just starting out in the Cider Business with his new venture.... Adelaide’s, and has come to Carter's to learn the ropes from the best.
But Alex is hiding something!
Something big!.... that has the potential to blow people's lives into chaos.
(I just want to add, the mystery behind the secret I had my suspicions, i did guess right 😊 However I wish the reveal happened sooner as I felt it was slightly drawn out)
It's quiet obvious from the start that Sophie and Alex are sexually attracted to one and other. You can literally feel the heat sparking off them.
So I for one was routing for them. But I was really hoping that Alex who is a true gent won't break Sophie's heart.
It was so great to be back in Little Somerby and catch up with everyone.
Once again Sophie's Grandmother Lily stole my heart, she's a quirky loveable character, you can't help loving.
But also I must mention fur Baby, Barney the Weimaraner, what an adorable cheeky pup. Any book that has dogs in it is a winner for me 💕🐶.
SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD is an Endearing and Touching story of New Beginnings, Family, Friendships, Romance, Secrets, Drama, a dash of Mystery, Betrayal, Relationships, Starting Over and plenty of Scrumptious Cider.
Be warned it may leave you craving an Ice Cold Cider!
Once again Fay has weaved her magic, she writes the most heartwarming
and endearing stories, with beautifully warm and loveable characters who spring to life on the page.
She just has a way of making u feel part of the story, so much so you never want to leave.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD and I hope there is more to come as I would love Merry to have a story!
Although in the title it's a summer read i was thankful for this lil ray of sunshine as I love Summer!
So whether you just want to escape the winter or you fancy a sunbed summer read, or maybe even a picnic or a hot soak in the bath, SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD truly is the perfect ANYTIME read!
Enjoy!
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD is the third book in the series, but can be read as a standalone perfectly fine. Although I have read all 3 books, I think in order to really relate to the characters I would recommend reading them all.
This time round it's Sophie's Story.
She has just gone through a painful breakup with Ex Mark after finding out he cheated on her.
Nursing a broken heart she is sworn off men! Like we always say lol
Sophie has been working at the Carter Cider Company for a long while. So when they decide to mentor interns they can think of no better person than Sophie to help run the program.
In walks Alex! He certainly has the swoon factor!
He has come over from Vancouver where he is just starting out in the Cider Business with his new venture.... Adelaide’s, and has come to Carter's to learn the ropes from the best.
But Alex is hiding something!
Something big!.... that has the potential to blow people's lives into chaos.
(I just want to add, the mystery behind the secret I had my suspicions, i did guess right 😊 However I wish the reveal happened sooner as I felt it was slightly drawn out)
It's quiet obvious from the start that Sophie and Alex are sexually attracted to one and other. You can literally feel the heat sparking off them.
So I for one was routing for them. But I was really hoping that Alex who is a true gent won't break Sophie's heart.
It was so great to be back in Little Somerby and catch up with everyone.
Once again Sophie's Grandmother Lily stole my heart, she's a quirky loveable character, you can't help loving.
But also I must mention fur Baby, Barney the Weimaraner, what an adorable cheeky pup. Any book that has dogs in it is a winner for me 💕🐶.
SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD is an Endearing and Touching story of New Beginnings, Family, Friendships, Romance, Secrets, Drama, a dash of Mystery, Betrayal, Relationships, Starting Over and plenty of Scrumptious Cider.
Be warned it may leave you craving an Ice Cold Cider!
Once again Fay has weaved her magic, she writes the most heartwarming
and endearing stories, with beautifully warm and loveable characters who spring to life on the page.
She just has a way of making u feel part of the story, so much so you never want to leave.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD and I hope there is more to come as I would love Merry to have a story!
Although in the title it's a summer read i was thankful for this lil ray of sunshine as I love Summer!
So whether you just want to escape the winter or you fancy a sunbed summer read, or maybe even a picnic or a hot soak in the bath, SUMMER IN THE ORCHARD truly is the perfect ANYTIME read!
Enjoy!
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
December 17, 2018
This was a lovely little romance story that tugged at the heartstrings and shared a few laughs with us too.
It is about Sophie, who works at a cider farm - being from Devon myself, I know plenty about these - and her new trainee Alex.
Alex is from Canada and has come over to learn the tricks of the trade to take back home with him.
Sparks start to fly, and with the promise of a secret, Alex must think long and hard about what he going to tell Sophie.
This is the third in the series and I haven't read the other two.
A sweet read, one that I imagine would be good to read on a beach somewhere. It is relaxing and emotional at the same time.
A good story, nothing particularly new or fantastic about it, but still one I would recommend.
It is about Sophie, who works at a cider farm - being from Devon myself, I know plenty about these - and her new trainee Alex.
Alex is from Canada and has come over to learn the tricks of the trade to take back home with him.
Sparks start to fly, and with the promise of a secret, Alex must think long and hard about what he going to tell Sophie.
This is the third in the series and I haven't read the other two.
A sweet read, one that I imagine would be good to read on a beach somewhere. It is relaxing and emotional at the same time.
A good story, nothing particularly new or fantastic about it, but still one I would recommend.
November 19, 2018
I quite like this series! This one was fun and quirky just like it's predecessors :c) Keep 'em coming Ms. Keenan :c)
January 10, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Fay Keenan and, although it is the third book set in Little Somerby and based around Carter’s Cider, it works completely as a standalone novel and I did not feel I was missing any detail from the first two books which would have helped me enjoy this book more.
This book is primarily the story of Sophie, a cider taster and blender at Carter’s Cider in the small village of Little Somerby and how her seemingly ordered life is disrupted by the arrival of a handsome stranger from Canada in the form of Alex Fraser. But is he all that he seems? The book is also told from Alex’s perspective, so the reader is privy to information about him that Sophie is not, and we can see how things are moving towards a collision course before the characters can, which adds a pleasing frisson of tension to the reading experience.
The characters of both Sophie and Alex are sympathetic enough to carry the story and make you care about what happens to them and I became deeply involved in the development of their relationship, to the point where I ended up with a lump in my throat and a pricking behind my eyes towards the end, which I was not expecting to be honest. I had anticipated a light and frothy book that would not move me with that level of emotion, so I was very pleasantly surprised. The supporting cast of characters are also extremely appealing (with one or two exceptions!), to the point where I know I definitely need to go back and get better acquainted with them via the first two books in the series.
I particularly enjoyed the setting of the novel. One of the very great pleasures for me of reading is to learn new things and, as I have never read a book set around cider production before, I really enjoyed reading more about it. Despite this being primarily a book of romantic fiction, the author has obviously done meticulous research into the background business against which the book is set and included just enough detail about it to make it interesting and informative without bogging the prose down with too much. I found it perfectly pitched and it added an additional layer of depth and interest to the story.
The book is set throughout the sunny, summer days of a Somerset apple growing and pressing season, and includes a county fair, al fresco parties and lazy evenings in country beer gardens. The scent of the apples and flowers leaches out of the pages and I could hear the lazy buzzing of bees and feel the fizz of the cider on my tongue; a delightful and sensual read.
All in all, this book turned out to be a wonderful surprise, combining a delicious reminder of a warm English summer, a moving love story, with hidden depths that I wasn’t expecting. A very rewarding investment of a few hours reading.
This book is primarily the story of Sophie, a cider taster and blender at Carter’s Cider in the small village of Little Somerby and how her seemingly ordered life is disrupted by the arrival of a handsome stranger from Canada in the form of Alex Fraser. But is he all that he seems? The book is also told from Alex’s perspective, so the reader is privy to information about him that Sophie is not, and we can see how things are moving towards a collision course before the characters can, which adds a pleasing frisson of tension to the reading experience.
The characters of both Sophie and Alex are sympathetic enough to carry the story and make you care about what happens to them and I became deeply involved in the development of their relationship, to the point where I ended up with a lump in my throat and a pricking behind my eyes towards the end, which I was not expecting to be honest. I had anticipated a light and frothy book that would not move me with that level of emotion, so I was very pleasantly surprised. The supporting cast of characters are also extremely appealing (with one or two exceptions!), to the point where I know I definitely need to go back and get better acquainted with them via the first two books in the series.
I particularly enjoyed the setting of the novel. One of the very great pleasures for me of reading is to learn new things and, as I have never read a book set around cider production before, I really enjoyed reading more about it. Despite this being primarily a book of romantic fiction, the author has obviously done meticulous research into the background business against which the book is set and included just enough detail about it to make it interesting and informative without bogging the prose down with too much. I found it perfectly pitched and it added an additional layer of depth and interest to the story.
The book is set throughout the sunny, summer days of a Somerset apple growing and pressing season, and includes a county fair, al fresco parties and lazy evenings in country beer gardens. The scent of the apples and flowers leaches out of the pages and I could hear the lazy buzzing of bees and feel the fizz of the cider on my tongue; a delightful and sensual read.
All in all, this book turned out to be a wonderful surprise, combining a delicious reminder of a warm English summer, a moving love story, with hidden depths that I wasn’t expecting. A very rewarding investment of a few hours reading.
January 11, 2019
The Blurb :
Sophie Henderson loves her job at Carter's Cider in the picturesque Somerset village of Little Somerby, but with summer dawning before yet another picking and pressing season, and her boss David showing no signs of wanting to hang up his cider jug, perhaps it is time to move on.
She's all set to hand in her notice when Alex Fraser, an intern from Vancouver, comes to Little Somerby to learn everything he can about the cider business. With Sophie as his mentor, attraction between them starts to grow alongside the apples.
For Alex, however, being in Little Somerby is about more than cider, and as the summer grows warmer, and his relationship with Sophie blossoms, can he find the courage to tell her the truth before it's too late?
My Thoughts :
I have really enjoyed this series so far and was looking forward to reading the third installment.
This can be read as a standalone but best if read in order to get a feel of the charactors and Little Somerby.
We meet Sophie Henderson, Sophie has been working at Carter’s Cider Farm forever and when an intern from Canada arrives to learn the ropes for his own company back in Vancouver, Canada. Sophie takes it upon herself to show the handsome Alex Fraser the workings and dealings of a Cider farm as this is her niche. Suffering from a broken heart, Sophie has no interest in romance so throws herself into her job. There is a mutual attraction between the couple but Alex is hiding a secret that the reader is learning from Alex’s perspective in the story that Sophie is not yet aware of.
Will there be a happy ending for Sophie or was she right to protect her heart all along.
Parts will leave you with a lump in the throat as we revist the past for both Alex and Sophie.
It was great to be back in the village of Little Somerby and it felt like we were back with old friends.
I love the residents who live here, especially the Carter brothers Jonathan and Matthew, Sophie’s Gran Lily and Merry, who is Matthew’s Daughter. We can not forget the adorable dog Barney.
Fay Keenan once again delivers a delightful story of love, family, friendships and new beginnings.
Sophie Henderson loves her job at Carter's Cider in the picturesque Somerset village of Little Somerby, but with summer dawning before yet another picking and pressing season, and her boss David showing no signs of wanting to hang up his cider jug, perhaps it is time to move on.
She's all set to hand in her notice when Alex Fraser, an intern from Vancouver, comes to Little Somerby to learn everything he can about the cider business. With Sophie as his mentor, attraction between them starts to grow alongside the apples.
For Alex, however, being in Little Somerby is about more than cider, and as the summer grows warmer, and his relationship with Sophie blossoms, can he find the courage to tell her the truth before it's too late?
My Thoughts :
I have really enjoyed this series so far and was looking forward to reading the third installment.
This can be read as a standalone but best if read in order to get a feel of the charactors and Little Somerby.
We meet Sophie Henderson, Sophie has been working at Carter’s Cider Farm forever and when an intern from Canada arrives to learn the ropes for his own company back in Vancouver, Canada. Sophie takes it upon herself to show the handsome Alex Fraser the workings and dealings of a Cider farm as this is her niche. Suffering from a broken heart, Sophie has no interest in romance so throws herself into her job. There is a mutual attraction between the couple but Alex is hiding a secret that the reader is learning from Alex’s perspective in the story that Sophie is not yet aware of.
Will there be a happy ending for Sophie or was she right to protect her heart all along.
Parts will leave you with a lump in the throat as we revist the past for both Alex and Sophie.
It was great to be back in the village of Little Somerby and it felt like we were back with old friends.
I love the residents who live here, especially the Carter brothers Jonathan and Matthew, Sophie’s Gran Lily and Merry, who is Matthew’s Daughter. We can not forget the adorable dog Barney.
Fay Keenan once again delivers a delightful story of love, family, friendships and new beginnings.
May 26, 2019
review to come
March 10, 2024
The eBook I read actually had the ISBN13 as 9781786694904, which would give you
, a paperback, and when Googling, I am in fact seeing both results, so I'm just like, fine but mine's definitely not a physical copy and it has the yellow orange boarder, so using the Kindle edition for substitution. It's again a pretty average chick-lit, I thought a certain breakup could have been more elaborated upon, but seeing that the gal and her possible new BF isn't even the main couple of this book, I suppose it's understandable that it's not mainly about them. The WTH moment for me for this book, is the forced identity reveal, or more precisely, people reactions towards it. I feel like it was blow way out of proportion. Yes, he hid his identity, but y'all acting like everything he ever did was a complete lie, THAT and he killed and raped kids or something (HE DID NOT). So yeah, another 3 (and I feel like I'm actually being generous). I guess the book needed a conflict but man it did not feel realistic at all.
A digitized ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
(This was one of those ARCs I forgot to shelve. I got it at least before 2018/12/3. Not sure why it was forgotten, or how many other books are in similar situations. 2018 was the year I finally finished my degree, and I was pretty much dying (due to exhaustion) at the time. I probably didn't have time to check GR often.)
, a paperback, and when Googling, I am in fact seeing both results, so I'm just like, fine but mine's definitely not a physical copy and it has the yellow orange boarder, so using the Kindle edition for substitution. It's again a pretty average chick-lit, I thought a certain breakup could have been more elaborated upon, but seeing that the gal and her possible new BF isn't even the main couple of this book, I suppose it's understandable that it's not mainly about them. The WTH moment for me for this book, is the forced identity reveal, or more precisely, people reactions towards it. I feel like it was blow way out of proportion. Yes, he hid his identity, but y'all acting like everything he ever did was a complete lie, THAT and he killed and raped kids or something (HE DID NOT). So yeah, another 3 (and I feel like I'm actually being generous). I guess the book needed a conflict but man it did not feel realistic at all.A digitized ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
(This was one of those ARCs I forgot to shelve. I got it at least before 2018/12/3. Not sure why it was forgotten, or how many other books are in similar situations. 2018 was the year I finally finished my degree, and I was pretty much dying (due to exhaustion) at the time. I probably didn't have time to check GR often.)
November 20, 2018
I really enjoyed this third instalment of the Somerby trilogy - although it works perfectly as a standalone too. It's the story of s family, and of a village and the interconnectedness of humans. It's part mystery, part heartstopping romance and I enjoyed every glorious moment. I know all kinds of interesting things about cider now too!!
December 16, 2018
A vibrant cover and a vibrant story! The 3rd in a series that I adored - it pulled in all the previous characters and some new ones to fall in love with too; such a feel good book!
As mentioned this is the 3rd in a brilliant series but it could easily be read as a standalone - we're introduced to Sophie, a long-standing employee of the Carter cider company. She agrees to mentor an overseas (I can hear the delicious Canadian accent!) cider newcomer, Alex, who is trying to learn the ropes for his own cider company back home.
As Sophie shares the knowledge with Alex a part of her heart begins to be shared too - but Alex has a secret and could it be the end before it's barely started? Well....to be honest because the synopsis alluded to a secret of Alex's when I began reading it quickly became clear to me what that 'secret' was but don't let this put you off as it's all about the story leading up to the reveal and, of course, the all important outcome. There were some sad stories shared between Sophie and Alex who both had loss in their lives that added some genuine sentiment and I had a lump in my throat a few times.
The main characters were Sophie and Alex, but with very large-part cameos from brothers Matthew and Jonathan Carter and their families that all appeared in the previous novels and I really appreciated the update on their lives too. I especially loved reading about Sophie's very wise grandmother Lily and Matthew's daughter Merry. I so hope a further book is planned with Merry taking centre stage!
Overall this was a welcome break from the festive romance books at this time of year. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will certainly be keeping an eye out on future releases from this author!
My thanks to Aria via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
As mentioned this is the 3rd in a brilliant series but it could easily be read as a standalone - we're introduced to Sophie, a long-standing employee of the Carter cider company. She agrees to mentor an overseas (I can hear the delicious Canadian accent!) cider newcomer, Alex, who is trying to learn the ropes for his own cider company back home.
As Sophie shares the knowledge with Alex a part of her heart begins to be shared too - but Alex has a secret and could it be the end before it's barely started? Well....to be honest because the synopsis alluded to a secret of Alex's when I began reading it quickly became clear to me what that 'secret' was but don't let this put you off as it's all about the story leading up to the reveal and, of course, the all important outcome. There were some sad stories shared between Sophie and Alex who both had loss in their lives that added some genuine sentiment and I had a lump in my throat a few times.
The main characters were Sophie and Alex, but with very large-part cameos from brothers Matthew and Jonathan Carter and their families that all appeared in the previous novels and I really appreciated the update on their lives too. I especially loved reading about Sophie's very wise grandmother Lily and Matthew's daughter Merry. I so hope a further book is planned with Merry taking centre stage!
Overall this was a welcome break from the festive romance books at this time of year. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will certainly be keeping an eye out on future releases from this author!
My thanks to Aria via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2022
What a truly great read this has been. There was plenty going on, with a fair few heartfelt moments throughout plus some sad bits and even a bit of action involving a no good ex-boyfriend trying to cause trouble.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, some of whom I’d already met from having read books one and two to this three part book series, so it was definitely fun getting reacquainted with the and seeing how they were all doing. But it was especially lovely to get to know the two main characters of this story being Sophie and Alex. As to Alex’s secret that he was keeping fro everybody, I did in fact guess what this secret was very early on in the story but in no way did that spoil my enjoyment of the story.
I loved the storyline, which was well written. The setting of the book sounded very quaint and I even learnt a bit about the Cider business.
This is in fact book 3 to the Little Somerby series which can easily be read as a standalone but having read books 1 and 2 I can highly recommend that you read them in series order so as to gain benefit of the background stories and that of getting to know all the individual characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the characters, some of whom I’d already met from having read books one and two to this three part book series, so it was definitely fun getting reacquainted with the and seeing how they were all doing. But it was especially lovely to get to know the two main characters of this story being Sophie and Alex. As to Alex’s secret that he was keeping fro everybody, I did in fact guess what this secret was very early on in the story but in no way did that spoil my enjoyment of the story.
I loved the storyline, which was well written. The setting of the book sounded very quaint and I even learnt a bit about the Cider business.
This is in fact book 3 to the Little Somerby series which can easily be read as a standalone but having read books 1 and 2 I can highly recommend that you read them in series order so as to gain benefit of the background stories and that of getting to know all the individual characters.
February 13, 2019
Sophie likes working at Carter's Cider but she is starting to feel it is time to move on when Alex arrives from Canada to learn the business and things are definitely looking up, but Sophie is suffering from a broken heart and not interested in getting another one! Alex however is hiding a secret..... can things work out for these two?
It is great to be back in Little Somersby and this was as a lovely story with a bit of intrigue as well as romance
It is great to be back in Little Somersby and this was as a lovely story with a bit of intrigue as well as romance
May 12, 2024
Enjoyed it, bit slow at times.
January 8, 2019
I was looking forward to the latest from Fay Keenan after having reviewed the ARC of Springtime at the Cider Kitchen (Little Somerby Book #2). Summer in the Orchard is a sweet romance and is book 3 in the series. We catch up with old characters and this book focuses around Sophie, the owner of Carter Cider, and Alex, who's over from Canada and wanting to see how the company works to get an insight into changes to benefit his own.
They get on and sparks fly. But, he has a secret. but with very large-part cameos from brothers I enjoyed Matthew and Jonathan Carter (his brothers') part in the story and Sophie's grandmother Lily was lovely. Summer in the Orchard is feelgood, romantic realistic dramatic and enjoyable. I was intrigued to learn more about Somerset and the West Country and the visuals revealing landscape and customs were appreciated. Although I'm English and have been to Dorset and Devon as well as Cornwall a few times, Somerset is an unexplored county for me. I felt transported there by this book. It has such an easy relaxing pace and I finished it in no time. Now, I hope to review book 1 when I get a copy. I'm curious to see how the series started.
I enjoyed book 2.and 3 very much. I'd love to see more from Fay Keenan.
Thanks to Fay Keenan and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and my slot on the blog tour for this title. My second book by Fay Keenan. 4 stars
They get on and sparks fly. But, he has a secret. but with very large-part cameos from brothers I enjoyed Matthew and Jonathan Carter (his brothers') part in the story and Sophie's grandmother Lily was lovely. Summer in the Orchard is feelgood, romantic realistic dramatic and enjoyable. I was intrigued to learn more about Somerset and the West Country and the visuals revealing landscape and customs were appreciated. Although I'm English and have been to Dorset and Devon as well as Cornwall a few times, Somerset is an unexplored county for me. I felt transported there by this book. It has such an easy relaxing pace and I finished it in no time. Now, I hope to review book 1 when I get a copy. I'm curious to see how the series started.
I enjoyed book 2.and 3 very much. I'd love to see more from Fay Keenan.
Thanks to Fay Keenan and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and my slot on the blog tour for this title. My second book by Fay Keenan. 4 stars
May 31, 2019
This is the third Little Somerby Book I've read and I enjoyed them all. Loved the setting and the characters.
March 1, 2019
When I agreed to take part in the blog tour for ‘Summer In The Orchard’, I didn’t realise that it was actually the third book in the Little Somersby series. That doesn’t matter though because it can be read just as well as a standalone. The positive thing is that I have two other books in the series to catch up on. I am a bit OCD in that I have to read a series in order and from the beginning. Anyway enough about me so back to the review I do go. To get back to the point, I read and loved ‘Summer In The Orchard’ but more about that in a bit.
I couldn’t help but take to the characters of Sophie and Alex. Sophie is a hardworking, determined, friendly, kind, genuine young lady. It’s clear that she has ambitions and that she has a list of things that she would like to do. Sophie is still grieving the loss of a parent, whilst her other parent lives abroad. Sophie lives in the same village as her grandmother and she likes to keep an eye on her. Sophie is afraid of anything happening to her Gran, who has had a couple of health scares in the not too distant past. Sophie’s love life hasn’t fared too well and her most recent relationship finished when she discovered her boyfriend getting a bit too close to his colleague. One to one time politely describes what he was getting up to. Sophie isn’t particularly looking for romance when Alex appears on the scene but it’s clear from their first meeting that they have one hell of a chemistry and sparks definitely flew. Alex is a bit of a mystery when he turns up in the village. At first he says that he is there at the cider factory to gain experience in the field because he is hoping to set up his own cider company back home. However, it soon becomes clear that he has another reason for being in the village, which isn’t immediately apparent. Alex is the mirror image of Sophie in a way – both are polite, kind, gentle, loving human beings who are not afraid of hard work. Will Sophie and Alex get together? Well for the answer to that question you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
‘Summer In The Orchard’ is just the sort of book I needed to read at the moment. It is a light hearted, uncomplicated, fun romantic read with characters that you can’t help but take a liking to. I would say that I became addicted to this book from the first couple of pages onwards. I just had to keep reading to see what fate had in store for Sophie and Alex. The pages turned over at speed and the time flew by whilst I was reading this book. For me ‘Summer In The Orchard’ was simply unputdownable. My Kindle wasn’t glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it came everywhere with me. The village just sounded idyllic in a way and I found that I started to compare their village with the village where I live. I could certainly recognise certain similar characteristics and I found myself nodding along in agreement. I also found that this book made me chuckle in places at something I had read and pictured in my mind.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer In The Orchard’ and I will definitely be recommending it to other readers. I hope to read the complete series in order and from the beginning. I just know that I will enjoy the rest of the series just as much as I enjoyed this book. I can’t wait to read what Fay comes up with next. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out 5*.
I couldn’t help but take to the characters of Sophie and Alex. Sophie is a hardworking, determined, friendly, kind, genuine young lady. It’s clear that she has ambitions and that she has a list of things that she would like to do. Sophie is still grieving the loss of a parent, whilst her other parent lives abroad. Sophie lives in the same village as her grandmother and she likes to keep an eye on her. Sophie is afraid of anything happening to her Gran, who has had a couple of health scares in the not too distant past. Sophie’s love life hasn’t fared too well and her most recent relationship finished when she discovered her boyfriend getting a bit too close to his colleague. One to one time politely describes what he was getting up to. Sophie isn’t particularly looking for romance when Alex appears on the scene but it’s clear from their first meeting that they have one hell of a chemistry and sparks definitely flew. Alex is a bit of a mystery when he turns up in the village. At first he says that he is there at the cider factory to gain experience in the field because he is hoping to set up his own cider company back home. However, it soon becomes clear that he has another reason for being in the village, which isn’t immediately apparent. Alex is the mirror image of Sophie in a way – both are polite, kind, gentle, loving human beings who are not afraid of hard work. Will Sophie and Alex get together? Well for the answer to that question you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
‘Summer In The Orchard’ is just the sort of book I needed to read at the moment. It is a light hearted, uncomplicated, fun romantic read with characters that you can’t help but take a liking to. I would say that I became addicted to this book from the first couple of pages onwards. I just had to keep reading to see what fate had in store for Sophie and Alex. The pages turned over at speed and the time flew by whilst I was reading this book. For me ‘Summer In The Orchard’ was simply unputdownable. My Kindle wasn’t glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it came everywhere with me. The village just sounded idyllic in a way and I found that I started to compare their village with the village where I live. I could certainly recognise certain similar characteristics and I found myself nodding along in agreement. I also found that this book made me chuckle in places at something I had read and pictured in my mind.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer In The Orchard’ and I will definitely be recommending it to other readers. I hope to read the complete series in order and from the beginning. I just know that I will enjoy the rest of the series just as much as I enjoyed this book. I can’t wait to read what Fay comes up with next. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out 5*.
January 7, 2019
It’s coming to the time of year when summery stories are all I crave, after the rush of the holidays and the prospect of colder and grey days in sight. In this story, we return to Carter’s Cider but the Carter family is only a piece of the puzzle. Sure there are visits and moments with Matthew, Johnno, Meredith and the whole gang, but with the increasing popularity of the long-standing brand of cider and their many varieties, the business has decided to take on an intern from British Colombia, and Sophie, the ‘associate taster’ is to be their contact person. Sophie has been with the business since leaving school, her affinity for blending and her thorough knowledge of the process to make a bottle of cider have moved her, along with her palate, up to second in command in the tasting / production end of things. Her first impression of Alex is “wowza”, but still reeling from her last breakup and wholly unwilling to trust anyone, not to mention the complications of someone she’ll be working with for the next few months have her stepping back and away.
Alex has purchased an old orchard outside of Vancouver, initially planning a ‘kitchen’ level operation to test his skills and fulfill a dream – one that was partly meant to give his mother and stepfather a retirement space where he could be close. He’s applied for the internship at Carter’s to learn all he can about the production from tree to bottle, although his choice of Carter’s for was not a random one – he comes with secrets, secrets he’s not sure he’s ready to share yet -but that is for another time. Perhaps before he and Sophie got so close and came to rely on one another in ways that extended far past the workplace.
I love this setting and series, with the characters who are so wonderfully drawn and complex, while the cidery is a bit of a ‘tribe’ in the band together sense, the heart of the place all comes back to the founding father of the current generation of management, Jack. Jack was a salesman and charmer to his core, and unfortunately that behavior left some tidal waves in relationships and family dynamic, but the family seems to always manage to come together and find the brightness that seems to be behind the shadows. A lovely and complex story that is far more than expected.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at < a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-ad7/” > I am, Indeed
Alex has purchased an old orchard outside of Vancouver, initially planning a ‘kitchen’ level operation to test his skills and fulfill a dream – one that was partly meant to give his mother and stepfather a retirement space where he could be close. He’s applied for the internship at Carter’s to learn all he can about the production from tree to bottle, although his choice of Carter’s for was not a random one – he comes with secrets, secrets he’s not sure he’s ready to share yet -but that is for another time. Perhaps before he and Sophie got so close and came to rely on one another in ways that extended far past the workplace.
I love this setting and series, with the characters who are so wonderfully drawn and complex, while the cidery is a bit of a ‘tribe’ in the band together sense, the heart of the place all comes back to the founding father of the current generation of management, Jack. Jack was a salesman and charmer to his core, and unfortunately that behavior left some tidal waves in relationships and family dynamic, but the family seems to always manage to come together and find the brightness that seems to be behind the shadows. A lovely and complex story that is far more than expected.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at < a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-ad7/” > I am, Indeed
August 3, 2025
Ein Problem war auf jeden Fall, dass ich nicht wusste, dass dieses Buch Band 3 einer Reihe ist. Dadurch haben mich die vielen Charaktere und Sichtweisen verwirrt und ich hatte Probleme mir zu merken, wer wer ist und in welcher Verbindung sie zu den anderen Personen stehen. Auch viele Hinweise auf vergangene Ereignisse habe ich so nicht verstanden. Das hat unter anderem alles dazu beigetragen, dass ich einfach nicht wirklich warm mit den Charakteren und der Handlung geworden bin.
Auch die Liebesgeschichte war zwar am Anfang ganz süß, der Konflikt am Ende jedoch total vorhersehbar und vermeidbar, wenn die Protagonisten einfach miteinander geredet und einander zugehört hätten.
Leider war dieses Buch also nichts für mich, auch wenn mir das sommerliche Setting gut gefallen hat
Auch die Liebesgeschichte war zwar am Anfang ganz süß, der Konflikt am Ende jedoch total vorhersehbar und vermeidbar, wenn die Protagonisten einfach miteinander geredet und einander zugehört hätten.
Leider war dieses Buch also nichts für mich, auch wenn mir das sommerliche Setting gut gefallen hat
February 21, 2022
I won't tell more, because I don't want to spoil...
The last book about Carter's Cider Farm. I really loved this series, although the books aren't that easy to read for me. They really are written for native speakers 🙈 But I get through them and think I've learned a lot 😎
I love that the books always tell more about the characters, although it's generally about someone else. And I love it, that they switch the POV all the time, so you never miss the thinking of anyone 😎
Fay's books aren't easy reads. They always have lots of emotion. Many things happen and often it's about losses. But it always has a HEA 😊 And it shows you can manage everything. I love that.
The last book about Carter's Cider Farm. I really loved this series, although the books aren't that easy to read for me. They really are written for native speakers 🙈 But I get through them and think I've learned a lot 😎
I love that the books always tell more about the characters, although it's generally about someone else. And I love it, that they switch the POV all the time, so you never miss the thinking of anyone 😎
Fay's books aren't easy reads. They always have lots of emotion. Many things happen and often it's about losses. But it always has a HEA 😊 And it shows you can manage everything. I love that.
January 19, 2019
I had not read the previous books in this series but did enjoy this book. There were references to the previous books in the story which has piqued my interest and I will now read the first two books in the series.
A light hearted story of family, friendship, relationships and cider making. I really enjoyed the setting in the cider factory - although it made me want to drink some cider. I liked and empathised with the characters. A lovely easy read which I enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
A light hearted story of family, friendship, relationships and cider making. I really enjoyed the setting in the cider factory - although it made me want to drink some cider. I liked and empathised with the characters. A lovely easy read which I enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2019
Sophie Henderson loves her job at Carter's Cider, but with her boss David showing no signs of wanting to hang up his cider jug and in the aftermath of a break-in, she wonders whether it might be time to move on.
Alex Fraser, an intern from Vancouver, comes to Little Somerby to learn everything he can about the cider business. But he has more personal reasons for picking to work for the Carter's.
As the summer grows warmer, and a relationship with Sophie starts to blossom, can he find the courage to tell her the truth before it's too late?
I was really happy when the publisher approved me for an ARC of this book after thoroughly enjoying its predecessor.
After meeting Sophie in the previous installment it felt like picking up where I left off with an old friend.
Alex was a typical male lead, handsome and lovable. I felt his "secret" was obvious from the start but I'm not sure the author intended for it to be hidden in the first place. There were hints throughout the story, however this didn't affect my enjoyment.
As with all series, it was lovely to further the stories of the previous protagonists. Keenan is very clever at incorporating the ongoing plots with these characters without the reader feeling as though the current theme is being overshadowed.
An easy read of another lovely story that leaves the reader eager to return to Little Somerby and rural village life.
** Thanks to Aria, via NetGalley for this ARC **
For more reviews please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
Alex Fraser, an intern from Vancouver, comes to Little Somerby to learn everything he can about the cider business. But he has more personal reasons for picking to work for the Carter's.
As the summer grows warmer, and a relationship with Sophie starts to blossom, can he find the courage to tell her the truth before it's too late?
I was really happy when the publisher approved me for an ARC of this book after thoroughly enjoying its predecessor.
After meeting Sophie in the previous installment it felt like picking up where I left off with an old friend.
Alex was a typical male lead, handsome and lovable. I felt his "secret" was obvious from the start but I'm not sure the author intended for it to be hidden in the first place. There were hints throughout the story, however this didn't affect my enjoyment.
As with all series, it was lovely to further the stories of the previous protagonists. Keenan is very clever at incorporating the ongoing plots with these characters without the reader feeling as though the current theme is being overshadowed.
An easy read of another lovely story that leaves the reader eager to return to Little Somerby and rural village life.
** Thanks to Aria, via NetGalley for this ARC **
For more reviews please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
January 28, 2019
Wonderful book!!!! First time I read a book from Fay Keenan! I wasn't sure that I was going to enjoy it as this book is a third in a series but if you are like me and haven't read the rest of the series, don't be afraid! You can totally understand everything of what's going on in this book. I absolutely adored it. I loved the characters, the setting (an orchard in a little village in England), the intrigue, the mystery around this hot guy coming to work as an intern at the orchard, the cute romance and the fact we follow several characters perspective and not only the main character ones. I recommend you this book!!!! It's such a lovely read!
November 26, 2018
This was a lovely read, different and definitely not your run of the mill chick lit. I really enjoyed the characters and the plot was very unique and individual. I especially loved the details.
Overall it was a really nice fresh read.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall it was a really nice fresh read.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2019
This is the 3rd book in a series. Really enjoyed this easy to read story. Love how the author develops a new character in each book but still keeps you in touch with the characters you have grown to love in previous books. Fingers crossed for book 4 and hopefully it will focus on Meredith.
February 23, 2019
It was lovely to return to Little Somerby. With the flavour of cider and the backdrop of village life, not only do we get to see a new love life blossom (or two), we get little updates on the rest of the Carter family.
Great third instalment to the Carter dynasty.
Enough conflicts and romance to give the perfect escapism.
I have to say my favourite minor character had to be Lily.
Great third instalment to the Carter dynasty.
Enough conflicts and romance to give the perfect escapism.
I have to say my favourite minor character had to be Lily.
September 12, 2020
Wonderful story. I loved this series!
November 22, 2021
Loved this book so much!
December 21, 2022
Great read
Loved this book as much as the last. Great storyline, lovely characters. Look forward to reading more from fay keenan.
Loved this book as much as the last. Great storyline, lovely characters. Look forward to reading more from fay keenan.
March 16, 2019
The last book in the Little Somerby book series. It's a fitting end to a lovely series.
Sophie has worked at the Cider Farm since leaving school and loves it there, but unable to see progression she's considering leaving. Alex has come over from Canada and is working as an intern at the Cider Farm to gain insight before he sets up his own Cider Farm in Canada. But, he's not all as he purports to be!
I did guess who he was quite early on in the book, but it didn't in any way detract from the story.
A lovely storyline and great end to the series.
Sophie has worked at the Cider Farm since leaving school and loves it there, but unable to see progression she's considering leaving. Alex has come over from Canada and is working as an intern at the Cider Farm to gain insight before he sets up his own Cider Farm in Canada. But, he's not all as he purports to be!
I did guess who he was quite early on in the book, but it didn't in any way detract from the story.
A lovely storyline and great end to the series.
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