Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved

Roseford #4

by Fay Keenan

When the ceiling of preloved clothing shop Roseford Reloved falls in at the height of Christmas season, owner Polly Parrott is in despair. She can see her fortunes draining away as quickly as the water is pouring through her roof. What makes it worse is that standing right underneath the deluge is Will Sutherland, sporting hero and new owner of Parson’s Grange, the new modern mansion in Roseford. Polly and Will’s first meeting is about as far from a success as it can be, but over a festive season of Christmas markets, a Yuletide Ball and inconvenient snowfalls, can they forge a friendship or even more, despite their unpromising beginning? Or will the complications in both of their lives end their romance before it even begins? Curl up with Fay Keenan’s latest festive romance, perfect for fans of Holly Martin, Cathy Bramley and Jo Bartlett. What authors and readers say about Fay Keenan’s ‘Written with warmth and humour.' Jessica Redland ‘Guaranteed to put a spring in your step. Feel-good, frisky and great fun with a hearty dash of romance and intrigue.' Julie Houston 'This is fast becoming a favourite series of mine. If you enjoy my books I'm sure you will love Fay's too!' Sarah Bennett 'This novel has such a gorgeous setting. A lovely light read and the perfect book to pack in your suitcase and take on holiday. Recommended.' Della Galton 'A gorgeous rural romance full of warmth and charm.' Victoria Connelly 'Moving, funny, thoughtful and romantic. Bring on the next one!' Jenny Kane ‘ Wonderful escapism . The loveable and relatable characters set in beautiful settings make for another great read. I’d like tea and cake at Roseford cafe and a stroll through the grounds of the hall during sunset.' Amazon reviewer 'Fay Keenan’s books never fail to leave me feeling uplifted and she has come up trumps yet again with this enchanting and escapist contemporary romance. A heartwarming, emotional and engrossing tale about second chances, new beginnings and finding happiness, this beautifully told tale is layered with hope, sensitivity and warmth and will sweep readers away to an idyllic rural village they will not want to leave.' Amazon reviewer ‘Oh Roseford how I love my visits back to you. Roseford is such a picturesque, beautiful village, you forget its fictional. I loved seeing what had been happening to the other characters since my last stop here so much so that I devoured this book in a day. I do love Fay's books, they are easy reading, it's like sitting down with an old friend .’ Amazon reviewer

Genres: Romance, Christmas, Contemporary, Fiction, Adult

294 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2023

About the author

Fay 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!

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite having a rather limited interest in football, I really enjoyed this cosy offering from Keenan. And I was totally there with the Gareth Southgate reference!

Even though this book is set at winter, I don’t think the writer makes it too festive. I quite liked this as I have read several Christmas books recently, so this was more of a winter romance story with the added bonus of returning to Roseford – a series I have really enjoyed.

Yet, these books can be read individually, although I liked the passing reference to characters from previous books. In this story, the focus is on Polly and her second hand clothes store – a great concept and one that is certainly on trend. Re-fashioning pre-loved clothes, Polly’s business is just about ticking along nicely… until the shop roof falls in on itself… on top of a customer.

This customer is none other than Will. Ex-footballer, a bit of a hunk and a new arrival to Roseford. As soon as I saw the writer’s dedication, I could not but imagine this character as a mirror image of Gareth Southgate. (Readers, check his picture out to see exactly what I mean.) He has an interesting backstory – inevitably football – but I don’t think Keenan presents this in a way that alienates non-footy fans – for this I was grateful. Will is struggling with the move to Roseford as not only has his new-build not been exactly popular with the locals, his daughters are in a spin from his recent divorce. Added to that, Will has some emotional baggage that he needs to confront and it is his connection with Polly that allows him to unburden at last.

Although there is an undeniable attraction between Polly and Will, fate seems to try and keep them apart. Supporting his elder daughters during a difficult time, Polly is aware of the need to tread carefully. Furthermore, the appearance of Will’s ex-wife reveals a different side to Will’s character that Polly is not sure if she wants to be a part of.

I liked seeing how Polly runs her business. Not everything is perfect for her and her business struggles made her character even more realistic. When she starts to receive more orders through her online shop, I felt the same satisfaction that Polly did, particularly after the disastrous opening scenes with the roof collapsing. Like the other Roseford books, it ends with Polly’s business on the up once more and I hope that should the writer return to this series, we see more of Polly in future.

A great read if you are after a sweet, uncomplicated story that will encourage you to snuggle beneath the blankets and enjoy a lovely romance between a footballer and retailer.

With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[mrsljgibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.

Roseford Village sounds like such a beautiful, picturesque place and through the authors wonderful style of writing, i honestly felt as though i was there, experiencing all of the Wintery goodness!

This was such an easy book to read and i soon became engrossed in the story. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened in the story and so i read it in a couple of settings!!

Polly was such a wonderful character and i really enjoyed becoming immersed in her story.

Winter Wishes At Roseford Reloved was such a wonderful, Christmassy, heartwarming, festive, romantic story and i really enjoyed every single delicious second of it………….

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Roseford, it's such an absolute delight to visit, the people see so friendly and I love the sense of community spirit.

Were you rooting for Polly and Will throughout? I was, they were made for each other and the chemistry between them was so obvious to everyone else...apart from them! It was great to catch up with some of the characters from previous books too - it's always nice to know they're doing well.

Roseford Reloved is a heartwarming festive read, full of Christmas spirit, hope, family and friendships.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very beginning of this lovely book, I really took poor Polly to my heart – her boutique selling re-loved dresses is barely ticking over, surviving only through additional on-line sales, and the current problem with the roof might just be the end of her dream. And when the leak soaks Will, a celebrity who’s just moved to the area – a former football manager, living in the modern mansion that’s just a bit out of place in the traditional village of Roseford – it looks as if she might just be facing a court case too.

But one of his two daughters, Maeve, convinces him that he’s rather over-reacted – although the other, Harriet, remains distinctly hostile, even as an unexpected friendship begins to develop between Will and Polly. And Will certainly has more than his share of life’s baggage, searching for purpose after the premature end of his career, but made lighter by the sunshine Polly brings into his life – there’s a really strong chemistry between them (once his initial grumpiness passes – but he does have a lot on his plate…!) and their developing romance was one I entirely believed in.

There’s a nice focus on family – Harriet’s continuing bad behaviour, post-divorce complications – and on friendship too as much-loved characters from the earlier books make welcome cameo appearances. And it’s almost Christmas – and that’s the season Roseford was made for, with all the festive occasions and snowfall and emotional touches that you could possibly hope for. There’s a perfect balance between light and dark too – a few serious issues sensitively handled, but plenty to make you smile.

Heartwarming, hopeful, uplifting, romantic – and just a thoroughly lovely read. This is a series I’m very much enjoying – and I hope there will be many more books to come.

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been lovely being back in Roseford again and seeing Polly making her Reloved business a success. The chemistry between her and Will was obvious from the start and I loved how they got to know eachother. Meeting up with Lucy and Lizzie again together with Simon at the Hall was wonderful. This is a sweet festive read, full of love and hope and another great feel good story from Fay Keenan.

[Karen Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

And just like that we are back in the clutches of Roseford. I love this village and love the residents just as much.

Polly and Will meet in the worse kind of circumstances and their journey continues with bumps a plenty. I warmed to Polly a lot and really liked her character.

Fay writes books that are easy to follow, easy to fall in love with and easy to get lost in.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[RomanceByTheBook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another delightful and sweet instalment in the Roseford series.

I’m just adoring everything about this book series. It’s fun, heartwarming, and has oodles of charm. Now, for bookworms new to the series, you don’t have to have read the previous books to understand what is going on. Each book in this series reads as a stand-alone, and Fay does a fantastic job at bringing readers up to speed with everything happening in Roseford. Fans of the series will be delighted to know that MCs from the previous books make an appearance in this story, which I loved. This book returns to Roseford just before the Christmas season starts. We meet Polly, whose clothing business is going through a bit of a rough patch. The ceiling literally falls down around her and lands on Will’s head. Maybe not the meet-cute Polly was hoping for, LOL. I enjoyed this story. Y’all know that I love a book with a lot of drama. The only time I don’t want my romance books to have an abundance of drama is when I am reading a Christmas romance, which is why I was thrilled that Fay didn’t dump a lot of relationship and work drama into this book. I liked the lightness of the story. There are plenty of swoony moments, some that made me laugh and others that melted my heart. Maeve (Will’s youngest daughter) is an absolute delight and adds that extra charm and humour to the story.

If you are a fan of single dad and small-town romances, you will enjoy this love story. Will and Polly’s relationship doesn’t start in the greatest way, probably because Polly’s ceiling fell on Will’s head; it was definitely a more memorable meet-cute for me. But watching these two slowly progress from weary acquaintances to lovers was sweet. Their relationship journey wasn’t smooth sailing. Will’s eldest daughter disapproves of their relationship, Will’s ex and her new husband make an appearance, which creates a bit of a kerfuffle, and Polly is trying to save her failing business. I really enjoyed those quiet moments when Polly and Will could have meaningful conversations or just kiss the heck out of each other.

Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved is a story that will give readers so much holiday joy.

Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved by Fay Keenan

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

When the ceiling of preloved clothing shop Roseford Reloved falls in at the height of Christmas season, owner Polly Parrott is in despair. She can see her fortunes draining away as quickly as the water is pouring through her roof. What makes it worse is that standing right underneath the deluge is Will Sutherland, sporting hero and new owner of Parson’s Grange, the new modern mansion in Roseford. Polly and Will’s first meeting is about as far from a success as it can be, but over a festive season of Christmas markets, a Yuletide Ball and inconvenient snowfalls, can they forge a friendship or even more, despite their unpromising beginning? Or will the complications in both of their lives end their romance before it even begins? 

My Opinion

This book is part of a series but could easily be read as a standalone. For me I thought that this was a feel-good book with a lot going on. Whilst it was lovely being back in Roseford with some familiar characters, it was great to meet some new characters in this lovely, festive read.

Keenan has added another great book to this series. When I see that there is an upcoming addition to this series there is no hesitation, I know that I have to read it.

Rating 4/5

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you have read earlier books in the series, you will recognise several characters and welcome being able to follow how their stories continue. Added to this, Poppy takes centre stage. She is a determined young woman who has returned to the village and set up a dress shop of pre-loved clothes. You realise from this that she is keen to merge sustainable issues with her life as a business woman. At first, business is struggling but somehow she keeps going, supported by her grandfather.

In contrast to Poppy’s more solitary life, Will proves to have a complicated home life. Family dynamics are complex and he has his work cut out trying to cope with his two teenage daughters. You sense that they have consumed his life since the breakup of his marriage and that he is struggling to find room for himself. Will has issues from his marriage, as well as from his working life as a well known footballer and manager, to come to terms with. Poppy has to work out whether she wants to be involved in his difficult life and whether heart or head will win. The community of Roseford emerges to help Poppy when disaster strikes and friendships are a great source of support. This makes for a feel good, escapist romantic read which fits perfectly into the series.

In short:follow your heart

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read the rest of the books in the Roseford series, and they are a pure delight. I am familiar with these characters and it's like a homecoming to read about them in the additional books in the series. A pure escapist read, perfect for getting lost in for the afternoon with your cat and cup of tea at your side.
Hoping and praying won't prevent the ceiling from collapsing at Roseford Reloved a used clothing boutique owned by Polly Parrott. With finances low she is afraid she'll be sued when the ceiling falls on the head of Will Sutherland. He is new in town and the owner of a fabulous mansion in town. Beyond humiliated, she is more than surprised when the upcoming festive holiday season finds them together in a friendly manner. He has two daughters with his ex-wife, and they add to the family dynamics. One accepts her and one not so much, at first. It's always hard to accept a parent moving on to another relationship.
A heartwarming story, I enjoyed the beautiful setting and read the book all in one sitting. The story is so charming, I look forward to being back in Roseford again.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roseford is always a place I love to visit as I love to visit story written by Fay Keenan as it’s like travelling to a lovely place where people is friendly and ready to help, there may be problems but also a solution.
There’s fun, there’s a lot of emotion and be sure you will find love.
This is this type of book on steroid and even if it was a bit complex to read it, like starting another book and experience a sort of deja vu before discovering you already read it.
That said I loved Polly, Will, was glad to catch up with the characters and it was a great way to pass time while I was commuting even if it was early, grey and cold. This novel made me smile, root for the characters, and turn pages trying to understand what was going to happen and not miss my station.
That said I loved it and it’s recommended. It can be read as a standalone but read the rest of the series for the best experience.
Many thanks to Boldwood and Rachel’s Random Resources for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

[Colin Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Polly's preloved clothing store is struggling when suddenly the ceiling literally falls in - on Will's head. He is a former England football manager and doesn't take this very well. After this inauspicious start is there any chance of a future relationship between the two?
This is the first book by this author that I've read, although it is the type of small town series that I enjoy, but it certainly won't be the last. Although I haven't read the previous books in this series this didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. I really took to Polly, she sounds like a lovely person, Will not so much, but the reasons for his grumpiness become clearer as the story develops. It covers the problems of being involved with someone famous, the effect of divorce on the children, but overall it is a feel-good story that kept me happily involved whilst reading it.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always with Fay’s stories this is delightful, and whilst a romantic read, also focuses on family, friendships, community and of course Christmas. There’s plenty of drama and emotion, the sensitive issues balanced so nicely along with humour and lightheartedness too.

I adored Polly and Will’s story in Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved, the chemistry between them both was there to see (to read) from the very beginning and to watch them become friends and see their relationship develop is always my favourite part of reading romantic stories.

This is very much a feel good read, full of hope, romance and so very uplifting. I thoroughly recommend this and the previous books, as I can confirm this is a series that I’m very much excited whenever there’s a new book out and I’m hoping for more to come.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sporting hero and new local, too,
Will has already upset quite a few -
His new mansion plans and construction
Especially causing local ructions!

What an inauspicious start
When Polly's shop ceiling falls apart!
Pouring water and plaster over Will
Thank goodness looks don't kill!

As a first encounter it really was bad
As the state it left him in made him mad.
However will Christmas celebrations and more
Give them a fresh chance romance to explore?

Whilst it is great to catch up on characters who
I first met in other books in this set, too,
I believe this will work as a standalone read
Though probably then the previous books you'll need!

A story with family dilemmas, romance and surprises, too,
That I highly recommend to you!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you -
As I share with you my honest review.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful series with delightful characters and stories.

Amazon synopsis:
When the ceiling of preloved clothing shop Roseford Reloved falls in at the height of Christmas season, owner Polly Parrott is in despair. She can see her fortunes draining away as quickly as the water is pouring through her roof. What makes it worse is that standing right underneath the deluge is Will Sutherland, sporting hero and new owner of Parson’s Grange, the new modern mansion in Roseford.

Polly and Will’s first meeting is about as far from a success as it can be, but over a festive season of Christmas markets, a Yuletide Ball and inconvenient snowfalls, can they forge a friendship or even more, despite their unpromising beginning? Or will the complications in both of their lives end their romance before it even begins?

Curl up with Fay Keenan’s latest festive romance, perfect for fans of Holly Martin, Cathy Bramley and Jo Bartlett.

[Laura Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Polly faces a holiday disaster when the ceiling of her preloved clothing shop collapses during the Christmas season. As her fortunes seem to crumble along with the building, she discovers Will Sutherland, the new owner of Parson’s Grange, standing amidst the chaos. Their initial meeting is far from ideal, but as they navigate Christmas markets, a Yuletide Ball, and unexpected snowfalls, the two find themselves drawn together. The novel weaves a festive tale of friendship and potential romance, exploring whether Polly and Will can overcome the complications in their lives and turn their unpromising start into a lasting connection amid the holiday cheer of Roseford.

[SW_myreviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cozy romance story that takes place leading up to and over the holiday season. The flirting was cute and not really any angist but there were akward moments. I found the book light harted and left me with a cozy feeling.

Here you will find:
- Enemies ish to lovers
- Not looking for romance but I might like you
- Kids from a previous relationship in the mix
- New Beginnings and business owner troubles
- Small town close community
- Light spice

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. These thoughts are my own.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A return to Roseford, this time to Polly's Preloved clothes shop, which, although becoming successful, is in a building that could do with some repairs. Torrential rain leads to a roof disaster and an inauspicious meeting with Will, former professional football and now coach. Despite the disastrous meeting, there is a positive connection between the two but many conflicts to their romance. I love the Roseford community, the gentle romance and the realistic conflicts in Polly and Will's relationship.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Carole at From My Carolina Home · Rating 4 out of 5]

A vintage clothing store owner meets the newest town resident when her roof collapses on his head, soaking him in rainwater. Divorced dad, Will, is dealing with the fallout of the collapse of his marriage and a tragedy in his career while trying to cope with two teenaged daughters. Over the Christmas season, they forge a tenuous friendship then a bit more, only to have it complicated by the actions of others. Sweet story, full of the imagery of a small English village. Overall, and enjoyable holiday read.

[TF · Rating 3 out of 5]

Polly and Will meet under less than ideal circumstances when her shop ceiling literally falls on his head, but will the magic of Christmas and machinations of matchmaker Maeve manage to turn this terrible start in to a Christmas fairy tale?
Winter Wishes at Roseford Reloved is set in the Christmas season and is a light festive read, like a Christmas Hallmark movie but in book form. It is the fourth book in a series, I haven't read the others and I don't think it impacted on this story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.

[Sarah Tummey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The part of this book I enjoyed most was the beginning. Nothing like a ceiling falling in on someone to get you into the story! But I could also relate to all the characters and enjoyed seeing how their problems resolved themselves, and it was only in the epilogue when he talked about a missed penalty wearing that shirt that I saw the similarity to Gareth Southgate. I guess he'd be flattered that the hero of a novel was modelled on him.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A pleasant visit in England. A sweet romance with family issues galore. Delightful reading the various phrases and words that are unique to that part of the world. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.

A return to Roseford and this time to a preloved boutique. On the whole an enjoyable read, however, not my favourite of Fay Keenan's.

[Julie Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story in Roseford

I absolutely loved this book from the first page to the last. This book did not disappoint. Polly and Will had to overcome some obstacles but love win in the end.

[Jan Martindale · Rating 5 out of 5]

inspirational, second chance at love

I have one regret: wanting to know if the memoir discussed what happened with Marius, shined a light on homophobia, how the team & coaches were united in their decision to forfeit die to the ugly behavior of their opponents’ & opponents’ fans?

[Rene Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

easy read

Good book,keeps your attention.
Love story with much emotional story.
Would recommend reading this book.
Story takes place in a small community outside of London.
Great author

[patricia mctaggart · Rating 4 out of 5]

hi i liked , but dis we really need the bedroom stuff .

[Sharon Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this so much. I love reading fay's books perfect for this time of year. Could not put it down.

[Mrs Maureen Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

Another brilliant story from Kay. Look forward to reading more.
Couldn't put it down. I can definately recommend this book

[Mrs. Kath Mudie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing and interesting novel, with interesting plot and characters. I recommend reading it,