Learning to Love

by Sheryl Browne

Exploring the Fragility of Love, Life, and
Relationships

Widower, Dr David Adams, has recently moved to the village – where no one knows him, ergo there's no fuel for neighbourhood gossip – to start afresh with is ten year old son, if only he can get to a place where his son wants to speak to him. Angry and withdrawn, Jake blames his dad for the death of his mother, and David doesn't know how to reach him.

Andrea Kelly has too many balls in the air. With three children and a "nuts" mother to care for, her fiancé can't fathom why she wants to throw something else into the mix and change her career. Surely she already has too much on her plate? Because her plates are skew-whiff and her balls are dropping off all over the place, Andrea points out. She needs to make changes. Still her fiancé, who has a hidden agenda, is dead-set against it.

When Andrea's house burns mysteriously to the ground and Andrea and her entourage are forced to move in with the enigmatic Dr Adams, however, the village drums soon start beating, fuel aplenty when it turns out someone does know him – the woman carrying his baby.

Genres: Drama, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Romance

259 pages, ebook

First published July 18, 2013

About the author

Hi, I’m Sheryl Browne writing psychological thriller. My latest psychological thriller MY LOVING HUSBAND is published by fabulous BOOKOUTURE. A member of the Crime Writers’ Association and the Romantic Novelists’ Association, I have several books published and two short stories in Birmingham City University anthologies, where I completed my MA in Creative Writing. I live in Worcestershire with my partner and a variety of disabled dogs. According to readers of my thrillers, I also apparently make an excellent psychopath. ;) Follow my @Bookouture Mailing List and grab a FREE short: https://t.co/bIigwwALCs
𝘼 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚. 𝘼 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝘼 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡…
MY LOVING HUSBAND – Can I really trust the man I married?
Do I Really Know You? – She's the friend you trust with your life. But can she trust you with hers?
The Invite – Kaitlin has been looking forward to her engagement party for weeks, but as the champagne corks pop, her dream party soon becomes her worst nightmare…
The Liar's Child – I’ll do anything to protect my daughter…
My Husband's Girlfriend – She told my little boy a secret and now he’s gone…
The Second Wife – SHE MADE HER BED. YOU'LL LIE IN IT.
The Affair – You trusted her. You shouldn't have.
The Babysitter – She's perfect. Too Perfect.
After She's Gone – He's killed your child and kidnapped your wife. What would YOU do?
Sins of the Father - What if you’d been accused of one of the worst crimes imaginable?
Deadly Intent - Tormented to the edge of sanity …
The Rest of My Life - “You can’t run away from commitment forever … “ Two damaged hearts, a sizzling sexual connection. Can love find a way to bring Adam and Sienna together?
Learning to Love – Sometimes help comes from the most unlikely places …
Somebody to Love – Sigh with contentment, scream with frustration. At times you will weep.
Warrant for Love - Blackmail, lies, adultery, heartache. Three love stories wrapped up in one sexiliciously hilarious package.
A Little Bit of Madness – White Knight in Blue rescues The Harbour Rest Home.

Reviews

[Stace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com

Andrea Kelly lives with her partner Jonathan and three children Ryan, Sophie and toddler Chloe. Plus, there is also her elderly mother and the family pet dog, Dougal.

Andrea and Jonathan have been going through a rough patch. Jonathan has become very secretive and off-hand with Andrea. When the two are supposedly meeting to have dinner together, Jonathan is nowhere to be seen. At the same time the family home burns down.

To the rescue is newcomer to the neighbourhood, Dr David Adams and his teenage son Jake. The pair are going through a difficult time after the death of their wife/mother. David invites Andrea and her family to stay with them until their home is fixed. But will Andrea’s eyes be opened to how caring and attentive David is compared to Jonathan, and will David realise that it’s okay to move on with his life?

Sheryl Browne has a writing style that grips you and hooks you to the pages until the very last word. Her characters are all very realistic and the situations plausible. It often felt like I was stood watching someone else’s life play out in front of me, not just reading about it.

The characters are all worth investing your time in, okay maybe not Jonathan, but then there is always one!! The storyline is tender, and is one of love, loss and life, told in the most caring and mindful manner.

The title ‘Learning to Love’ fits the book perfectly, with both Andrea and David having to do just that. I gasped at each twist and turn that Ms. Browne so cleverly created for them.

The whole book from beginning to end was just a delight to read, it pulled at my heart-strings and had me eager to devour it in just two sittings.

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four and a half stars.
In a small village like Hibberton, neighbours will often rally around in times of crisis. But when Andrea Kelly’s house burns down along with all her worldly possessions, it is Dr David Adams, a person she least expected who offers help and a practical solution for her and her three children and Andrea's mother who is suffering from dementia. Where is Jonathon, Andrea’s fiancé and father of baby Chloe while all this drama is going on? As she gets to know David and his troubled 10 year old son,jake, who is struggling to deal with the death of his mother, Andrea begins to see she is not the only one who needs help adapting to the changes life has handed out. And what is Andrea to make of her mother Dee’s suspicions. Are they just the ramblings of a muddled mind? Or is there much more to the story?
I found this an enjoyable read. It was easy to feel for Andrea as her whole life shifts on its axis. I liked the way people of the community banded together to help in creative ways. Also liked the way Andrea’s teenagers Ryan and Sophie stepped up to the plate to help. Amid all this the heartbreak is the fact of Dougal, the family dog who has gone missing.
It all leads to an action packed ending. This is a story of love, loss, grief, family and friendship. Perhaps a little predictable but I did not care. I really enjoyed it. A recommended read.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic way to spend a Saturday afternoon, I have managed to read Learning to Love in one sitting, and loved every second of it. It has everything you could want in a story, from a dishy doctor, village of friends, family with some wonderful children, a dastardly villain and a large helping of drama and action. This is a fast paced story, that will leave you gasping for more.

David Adams has just moved in opposite the Kelly family, with his 10 year old son Jake. They don't have the best of relationships, and the last thing in theory they need is what does happen. For within a few days, the Kelly house is on fire, and David helps rescue Andrea's children and elderly mother. Then offers the family a place to stay, while they get back on their feet.

Friends all rally around to help Andrea and her family, and her two teenage children Ryan and Sophie go overnight from being typical teenagers to reasonably responsible people trying their hardest to help out or at least not make life harder

There is one noticeable exception to this, Jonathan, her fiancee and father to her youngest child. He is absent during the fire, and then doesn't reappear for a few days. Let's just say any bad vibes you get from him once you are introduced to the character, should not be ignored!

I loved seeing the dynamic in the Adams household gradually change, as you learn why it is father and son don't seem overly close, and how the introduction of the Kellys changes all of their lives. There is an incredibly close friendship brewing and it leaves Andrea needing to make decisions.

I am not going to spoil the finale, but to say it was action packed and drama filled would be the only indication I can give, and I'm so glad I was able to read it all un-interrupted. Learning to Love teaches you how to love in difficult circumstances, and is a wonderful story. Being a huge fan of Sheryl Browne's work, I had been slightly apprehensive as to whether this would be as good as some of her other books, and I can safely say it definitely is, if not better still.

Thank you to Netgalley and Choc Lit for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nearing middle age and wanting a career change Andrea is living with Jonathan, has a toddler by him, has a teenage son and daughter by her first husband, is a teacher, and multi-tasks like a champion…oh, she also has her slightly dotty mother living in the same house, too! When her house burns down a new neighbor steps in and offers space to them till they can get the insurance settled. Little did either of them realize that the fire was just the beginning of fireworks yet to come.

I enjoyed the growth of friendship and eventual love between David and Andrea. I found the children believable in their behavior and interactions. I could relate to how the adults felt. I am not sure Sally was necessary for the story but how she behaved and how others behaved toward her did prove interesting. I thought the idea of the small town rallying to support someone who has lost everything heartwarming.

There were twists and turns, some slapstick comedy, and a bit of foreshadowing with a rather tense conclusion to one thread of the story. The story concluded well for most of the characters and provided the HEA I was rooting for. In some ways it reminded me of books by Jilly Cooper read long ago.

Thank you to NetGalley and ChocLit for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

3.5 Stars

[Suze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea and Jonathan are going through a rough patch in their relationship. When they are supposed to have dinner at their favorite restaurant together he even stands her up. At the same moment their house burns down. Andrea, who's taking care of her forgetful mother and three children, has nowhere to go. Fortunately her new neighbor David, who's just moved into the area, offers them a place to stay. Andrea and her family bring some much needed liveliness into their new temporary home. David is getting used to raising a son by himself and he needs help to improve their relationship. He's a GP and seems to be able to be there for others, but not for himself.

While Andrea is waiting for insurance money Jonathan keeps being absent. There's something strange going on and she has no idea what. While being away from Jonathan she has the chance to think about her fiancé-to-be and what they still mean to each other. He doesn't want her to follow her dream of opening her own shop and he isn't particularly friendly about her mother. David on the other hand is kind and he's there when she needs him, while the man she's supposed to get married to is nowhere to be seen. Andrea has lost so much, will she lose even more or will she also gain something from these unfortunate circumstances?

Learning to Love is a wonderful romantic story. Andrea and David are both warm and caring people and it was a joy to read about their kindness. They went through a lot and they truly deserve happiness. Life is unfair sometimes and Sheryl Browne writes about the sad parts in an empathetic way. I could feel the grief and the misery. The happy times are being described in a spirited cheerful way and they put a smile on my face. There's a great balance between the positive and the negative, which is something I enjoyed very much.

Sheryl Browne's writing is energetic and uplifting. Her stories are whirlwinds made of beautifully controlled chaos. I love that she has such a unique characteristic style. The enthusiasm she has for writing oozes of the pages, which is absolutely fantastic. I like that she writes about people who are human, characters with flaws. It makes them more realistic and approachable and they're even more lovable because of those character traits. It takes me seconds to start sympathizing with them and I laugh when they are happy and cry when they are going through a difficult time. I really like this way of telling a story.

Learning to Love is set in a small town and I'm a big fan of them. Andrea doesn't have a rich social life and David's just moved there, so there aren't that many nosy neighbors, but the inhabitants who are on the scene are fascinating. Sheryl Browne loves writing about animals and the dogs in the story have distinct personalities. I absolutely adored them. The joint families are good together and I loved the cozy feeling of the household. Every detail in this story is exactly as it should be. I really enjoyed reading this brilliant book, it's compelling, gripping, moving and heartwarming.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning to love by Sheryl Browne.
A lovely feel good read. I loved the story and characters apart from Jonathan. I also didn't like Sally. I didn't trust him or her. I loved Sophie and how she was. I loved the ending. 5*.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning to Love is a story that weaves itself around family, everyday life and community spirit. Andrea Kelly is no different to many women, she is living her life day to day, effortlessly, but not without drama; juggling the many balls needed as that of a wife, mother, daughter and carer as well as holding down a demanding job.

There are hairline cracks in the fabric of her life and it only takes one ball to drop and everything shatters. The one person who should be stood, shoulder to shoulder with her as she tries to come to terms with everything that happens, turns out to be the person she can trust and rely on the least.

Sheryl has woven a story that won't fail to touch your heart, a story of endings and new beginnings, of family and friends both old and new who come together to help and support as Andrea tries to piece her families lives back together again.

Opposite Andrea's house lives David Adams. He is the new doctor in town and it is fair to say he and his son Jake haven't exactly hit it off with their new neighbours - the tension between the two of them is palpable and Andrea having previously been caught in the crossfire vowed to give them a wide berth. It comes as a shock to all concerned when she finds herself, her dotty mother and three children taking refuge and being on the receiving end of their hospitality when they are rendered homeless, losing everything in a house fire.

I love Sheryl Browne's style of writing, she's not scared to get under the skin of her characters, weaving real life into each and every one of them. They always leave an impression and I always get a gut feeling and a strong sense of who they are from almost the first moment they enter the story. Forming lasting impressions of the main characters is an important part of reading for me - I need to engage and feel something, although I don't have to like them all. After all I don't like every person I come across in real life. I find Sheryl doesn't pad out a story with useless characters, each one included in a story is necessary to the plot and is woven intricately into the story with their lives forming sub-plots.

Time and again Sheryl's puts her characters and readers through the wringer and brings us back out the other side all the better for the experience - her stories are so vivid and true to life it's very easy to immerse yourself and lose track of time - it's like reading about people you know.

This was at times an emotional read, hard facts had to be faced and decisions that affected many peoples lives made. But, at the same time there was so many moments that had me howling out loud. Humour and lighter moments provided by the younger characters and tongue in cheek banter of characters in their latter years was the antidote to the more serious topics covered. All in all an insightful read that demonstrates how communities can and do put aside their own lives to come together to help at times of need. Sometimes the hardest experiences to endure in life make us stronger people, giving us the backbone to ride the next storm.

You've done it again Sheryl, an afternoon at sea, lost in your book was a journey worth taking - until the next time, thank you.

[Carol W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea, a strong woman who is a born survivor, is in a relationship with Jonathan (not to be trusted). She is not aware of what Jonathan is up to as she is a busy mum, teacher, carer for her fragile mother as well as a partner.

Dr David Adams lives across the street with his son. Their relationship is very strained. Andrea does not know the family and is rather wary of him after witnessing a scene between David and his son.

A tragedy in the street throws Andrea and David together and these two characters work through their family problems supporting each other.

With a supporting cast including a doggie (animals always feature in Sheryl's books) who are very strong in their own right, there is plenty of drama going on in this small community.

I always enjoy Sheryl Browne's novels. I know that I can expect real situations, real emotions and real characters.

In Learning to Love, Sheryl Browne does not patronise the reader with those scenes where the author engineers a real life situation, for that entertainment factor so that it just doesn't quite ring true. The scenes at times are very raw and heart wrenching. There are some lighter moments woven in and this is a feel good read.

Tissue box at the ready reader!

review copy

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
Juggling a romantic relationship with three children and an aging mother in the initial phase of dementia isn’t easy but, somehow, the heroine in “Learning to Love”, Andrea, handles it all with aplomb.
In the beginning the hero – a widower with a troubled ten year son - seems cold-hearted and indifferent but we soon realize that he’s hurting and he’s really a very caring and sensitive man, that immediately becomes the knight in shining armor for the heroine when her house burns down. The realization that he’s in love with Andrea happens too quickly and it was quite a surprise (I felt the same awkwardness when we’re told that the heroine had fallen in love with David).
In the midst of family dramas, financial crime and some extra interferences they find time to bond, with the help of some of the family members, namely Dee, Andrea’s mother, and Ryan, her eldest, who turns out to be a lovely character.
I liked the main characters, regretted that David lost his tortured edge too soon; I guess mature women will identify themselves with Andrea’s struggles of raising three children and caring for a beloved fragile mother who, despite her dementia, is often sager than others. There’s a cast of secondary characters quite interesting too and an appealing small British village atmosphere.
Im grateful to the publisher, Choc Lit, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a feel good reminder that there are still some good people out there then I highly recommend you read this book.

Andrea is an overwrought, worn out Mum with 2 teenagers(Ryan & Sophie) a toddler(Chloe) from her new relationship with fiancé Jonathan, who doesn't exactly pull his weight in the household as he thinks of himself as a big time insurance broker, taking care of the villages insurance needs. Then as if she doesn't have enough to deal with she also has her Mum(Dee) to care for as she's showing the early signs of dementia and she tries to help her daughter when she has lucid moments. On top of that her new neighbour is a very cool some may even say grumpy widowed doctor & his 10 year old son, who has serious problems with his Dad, also Dr David Adams is trying to deal with the death of his wife & trying to reach Jake & help him over the loss of his Mum but it's not going well.

On top of all this Andrea really has her heart set on opening a second hand clothing store selling designer label retro/antique clothing but Jonathan can't see why she wants to do this on top of all she does with the family & being a school teacher, he fails to see that she can dress in charity shop clothes & look terrific because she has this kind of understanding of what looks right for her & being a busy Mum & teacher doesn't give her much time to spend on herself yet she is lucky enough to be one of those women who can get dressed quickly yet look as if she's spent hours getting ready, but she desperately wants a change from teaching but he can't or won't understand this need she has to do something for herself, to fulfil a dream.

Then the breaking point comes when the worst thing that could happen to a family, there is a terrible fire, did Dee forget she was trying to cook, was it faulty wiring, more importantly where was Jonathan when his family needed him????
The small community band together & Andrea & children are homeless with only the clothes they are wearing to their names but Dr Adams steps in with no second thoughts & welcomes them all into his & Jake's home, will it be break or make time for both families, Andrea thinks David is rude, grumpy & has no idea how to be a parent to a young boy. He thinks she is juggling far too many balls & wonders why Dee isn't in a care home to help make Andrea's life a little easier & distrusts Jonathan for a reason he can't put his finger on.
Not going to spoil the story but this book shows small communities aren't always bad things but more importantly first impressions aren't always right.

[J.B (Debbie) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doctor David Adams has moved into the quiet village of Hibberton with his young son. Dr Adams appears to be a deep and moody character beneath his sexy good looks. He has moved opposite Andrea Kelly who isn't that keen on the good doctor. She's worried about his son, who appears less than happy in the company of his father.

Andrea herself however doesn't have an ideal home situation either. She is juggling a teaching career, caring for her family, which includes her mother, and a less than supportive man! Andrea wants to find some time for herself and that means a career change. However, that's not going to be an easy dream to achieve. Circumstances conspire to make life as difficult as possible for Andrea and she and her family find themselves having to rely on Doctor Adams when their house burns down. Is the dishy doctor all he seems?

Yet again Sheryl Browne has penned another hit book. I am a huge fan of Sheryl's work and that is simply because all of her books never fail to keep me glued to the pages and entertain me throughout. Learning to Love is just such a book. The characters in the book are all so likable, particularly Andrea's mum who I just loved! Some of her one-liners had me laughing out loud and the dynamics within Andrea's family are hugely entertaining. It sounds like a total madhouse in the Kelly home and so true to real life! The family dynamics and the interaction between characters make this such a good story. Its a book about love, fear and trust. It's about making that leap and taking a chance on another person when you are so afraid of a broken heart.

Andrea is a strong character who is doing what lots of women do and try to multi-task to superhuman levels! This book contains that magic mix of ingredients for a good rom-com - fun, laughter, romance, love, passion and that feel good factor! I couldn't help but swoon after the hunky doctor and some parts of the book left my pulse racing just a little! This book will have you smiling, grinning big soppy grins, going all mushy, gasping and laughing your socks off! I'd highly recommend this book! Well done Sheryl Browne..............again!

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Posted originally http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2014...

Sheryl Browne’s great style of writing brings us real characters in believable, moving yet amusing scenarios. Learning to Love is no exception to this and is another brilliant book from such a talented author. Learning to Love mixes just the right amount of humour in with a more serious outlook on life. It’s about family, as beautifully chaotic as they can be, and it’s about overcoming the obstacles life throws your way and finding love in the right place. It’s an addictive, gorgeous read.

Here we meet Andrea and her family – fiancé Jonathan, teenagers Ryan and Sophie, toddler Chloe, mother Dee and dog Dougal. I had a hard time typing that, never mind living with all them on a daily basis. Andrea was an inspiring character – she’s strong and hard-working and frankly when her instantly unlikeable fiancé disappears, I liked her all the more. Just when you think Andrea’s life couldn’t get any more stressful, her house burns down and she finds herself moving in with neighbour David and his son Jake. David on first impressions to me, and to Andrea too, came across as rude and moody but we find there’s a lot more to him than that.

I loved this book for its real sense of community. Seeing your house burn down must make you feel so alone but there are always people who will surprise you, in a good way and try to help you pick the pieces back up. It feels weird to call it uplifting, given the circumstances, but this book just made me smile. I also adored so many of the characters, as I always do in Sheryl’s books. In Learning to Love especially, she explores all generations of a family so well and we get some wonderful characters. My favourite was Dee – she brought so much to this book and was the character that first persuaded me I was going to love this book. Andrea’s teenagers were also standout characters for me but then then I’m forgetting so many fab characters. Reading Learning to Love really makes me appreciate what I have and what’s around me – it’s a gem of a novel.

[Wendy Janes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea has her hands full with two teens, a baby, an ageing mother, an unsupportive partner, and a teaching job. She’s on the verge of a big career change when her house burns down, throwing her life into a tailspin. Things become further complicated when the handsome widower Dr Adams offers her family a temporary safe haven. How will Andrea’s work, family and love life ever get back on track?

Andrea could win awards for her ability to multi-task. She’s strong and warm, and although that makes her sound like a cup of tea, it’s actually not far from the truth, in that she soothes and comforts. She also has fabulous hair, which is where the tea image totally breaks down! So let’s move swiftly on to the dreamy Dr Adams. He is a man who is struggling with demons from his past and rather too many from his present. While many women in the village may lust after him, it’s the chemistry between Andrea and Dr Adams that simmers and sizzles through the pages.

A couple of plot points aren’t wholly successful for me, but these are outweighed by a story that is packed full of events and a lively cast of main and supporting characters. The portrayal of the children in the story is very realistic, and this comes over especially well through the dialogue.

Sheryl Browne has whipped up yet another lovely, light, entertaining read, with a dash of grit and a good helping of soul. The more thoughtful, heartfelt moments give a little more weight to the fluffier elements of the story. The scene where Andrea finds Dr Adams in his study and notices his “eyes where dark shadows danced” is a one of those moments. And my stand-out favourite sequence occurs in Chapter 20, which travels from funny to sad to farce in a wonderful way.

In the interests of disclosure I’d like to mention that I won this book in a competition.

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming, moving and exceptionally authentic!

This is a charming story that reminds us that life is unpredictable and full of curve balls and it's how we approach and handle these highs-and-lows and ups-and-downs that truly make all the difference.

The writing is precise and smooth. The characterization is well done, with a variety of characters that are genuine, compassionate, strong, quirky and lovable. And the plot is a compelling, engaging, emotional tale of heartache, loss, grief, jealousy, friendship, family dynamics, manipulation, mysterious mishaps and romance.

Overall, this is a sweet, enjoyable read about multi-generational, blended families that will have you laughing, weeping and certainly cheering until the very last page.

Thank you to Sheryl Browne and Choc Lit for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.

All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com

[Ann Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Sheryl's books and this one is brilliant. We meet David Adams and his son just after they have moved in and we are immediately introduced to the problems between them, although we have no idea why.
We then meet Andrea and Jonathan, their children, Andrea's mum, the dog and chaotic lifestyle, in complete contrast to David's more orderly home.

A tragedy occurs and Andrea and her family, mum, dog and all, temporarily move in with David and his son.

From the off, suspicion surrounds Jonathan, but Andrea seems to be oblivious. The neighbours rally round (with some hysterically funny conversation - especially with Dee, Andrea's mum) and we learn more about all them.

Complicated lives cause complicated problems and, sometimes, the solutions are also complicated. And other times, very simple. This book has it all. I can't imagine how Sheryl kept track of it all when she was writing it!

It's one of those books that, when real life interrupts my reading, I can't stop thinking about the story and the people. I usually refer to them as characters in my reviews......but in Learning to Love, they are people. Solid and 3-dimensional people.

There are funny moments, there are incredibly sad moments and the emotions all feel very raw at times. A wonderful book about wonderful people (except the baddie of course ;) )

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Choc Lit in exchange for an honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea Kelly has a lot on her plate, three children, a confused mother and a grumpy neighbour who might need a social services referral. Thankfully her fiancée is around to support her, if only he would turn up for their date. Things can’t possibly get worse, or at least that’s what Andrea thinks, until she finds her house on fire and she is forced to take shelter with grumpy neighbour, David Adams, and his grieving, angry young son, Jake.

I really enjoyed this romantic page turner, where new friendships are formed, old friendships are tested and love blossoms amongst the chaos of a modern family in crisis. David and Jake have to confront their past, whilst Andrea has to reassess her future and not everyone in their midst can be trusted to tell them the truth.

I loved all the characters in this story and found myself caring about their troubles and rooting for their happiness. This is a delicious read, to be devoured, enjoyed and savoured one page at a time.

I received a free ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

[Adele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book by Sheryl Browne that I’ve read and she’s soon becoming one of my favourite authors. Sheryl writes with such honesty and warmth you feel involved in the characters lives. This story was just perfect. It had times of poignancy and sadness; times of despair and heartache; times of love and lust; a time where the storyline gripped you so much that you couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. It also had some wonderful whit and humour thrown in to balance out the sad times. Yes, I fell in love with Andrea and David’s story.

It wasn’t your conventional journey to a new romance for mother of three Andrea and widowed parent David, who was still grieving for his wife and facing a challenging time with his distraught 10 year old son. However, a terrible ordeal brought the two families abruptly together. What follows is a wonderful story of two families overcoming traumatic ordeals and learning to help each other open their eyes and hearts and appreciate the smaller things in life and move on giving hope for the future. 5/5*

[Shani Struthers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second of Sheryl Browne's books I've read and my favourite to date. It's not laugh out loud humour, which I gather is her trademark (although there are humerous parts in it), instead it's a deeply sensitive story of ordinary people trying to get by in life - often, as so many people are, juggling far too much whilst they do so. Andrea is a born survivor, Dr David Adams is not only swoonsome he's struggling with his young son after the death of his wife and Johnathan is the villain of the piece. Teenage issues are dealt with as well as looking after elderly parents, unrequited love and lonliness. It's all very real and easy to identify with. The author's writing style draws you in from the first page and doesn't let go until the end. It's a mature book, an insightful book, a book with plenty of twists and turns. Highly recommended.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought that this book was such a great all-rounder. Sheryl created characters that are not too far removed from reality at all. She touches on very sensitive issues such as dealing with a lost one, deceit and conception and puts these brilliantly into practice and in addition Learning to Love doesn’t miss out on a romantic and passionate storyline either.

Andrea was probably my most favourite character. What a powerhouse! The things she had to deal with (taking care of her “difficult” mother and dealing with her children’s teenage tantrums to mention just a few) couldn’t have been easy.

I would have never expected the plot to go the way it did. Sheryl has a real talent for involving all the characters into the storyline and giving them each a spin into a different direction.

This was the first book I have read by this author but I will definitely look out for her other books.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms Browne describes the story best herself with a line in one of the last chapters: "Complicated lives full of secrets and lies."

David Adams and Andrea Kelly run head long into each other more than once during this delightful romance. She can't stand him, but due to circumstances, she finds herself living in his house.

He's been involved with her close friend and on top of that, Andrea has a non-comitted boyfriend, herself.

But dredging through their lives complicated by children, an aging mother, new pets and old ones, and meddling neighbors, David and Andrea fall in love.

Well done, Ms Browne.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Browne has a dynamic way of creating a character that warms the heart.

Read full review in the 2014 June/July Double Issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[Robin Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

*received from NetGalley for review*

My second Sheryl Browne book (after THE REST OF MY LIFE) and I liked this one even more. Possibly because I more easily related to the heroine, a mother of three struggling to balance work, children and relationship, and trying to find her own identity by opening a “second-chance designer” dress shop. Her live in boyfriend (not husband, as the synopsis says), the father of her youngest child, has become a little distant and emotionally unsupportive, and then on date night he stands her up, leaving her sitting alone in a restaurant. And to top off that misery, when she finally gives up waiting and goes home, her house is on fire and her children are across the street with the new neighbor, surly taciturn David, and his unhappy son, Jake.

Of course once she starts getting to know David, he's not just surly and taciturn, he's actually a man overwhelmed with grief and guilt over the death of his wife, and unable to get through to and connect with eight year old Jake, who will barely speak to him. Both Andrea and David are wonderfully written characters, as are all of the kids, and Andrea's mother, Dee. There's a lot of witty and amusing dialogue as well.

Her red and gold hair tumbling carelessly around her shoulders and a smile so radiant, she could light up Blackpool on her own. 'You could give Julia Roberts a run for her money,' he said, feeling slightly off kilter.

'Do you know he's right, you could,' Dee gazed at her daughter and then turned to David with a heartfelt sigh. 'She'd make a wonderful prostitute.'

There's also a lot of internal monologuing, which I love. The narrative alternates between three viewpoints, mostly Andrea's and David's, but we also spend some time with Andrea's friend, Sally, who becomes a pretty integral character in her own right. The children, both Andrea's and David's, are also well defined and help drive the story forward rather than just being plot moppets.

The romance between Andrea and David builds up slowly and realistically. The attraction is there from the beginning, but of course neither is looking for a relationship. Andrea is already in one, anticipating a proposal any day while wondering why Jonathan has become a little distant and distracted. David is a widower, trying to put back together the pieces of his and Jake's shattered lives.

Occasionally I felt the editing was a little lacking, with a sentence here and there that stumbled along a bit awkwardly. But overall the story drew me in and I quickly became emotionally invested in the characters and their lives. A sweet and heartwarming story.

Review first posted on my blog.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tragedy and charity: a recipe for happy families

I enjoyed reading this book. It is a sweet character-driven romance with a large cast of interesting characters, from harried mother Andrea and her unsupportive husband/fiancé/boyfriend Jonathan to awkward neighbour David and his uncommunicative son Jake. The author has a talent for large casts, to not only keep them straight, but imbue all of them with life and heart.

I loved seeing the families blend together and especially how Ryan grew up to help Jake deal with the recent upheavals in his life. The best parts of the book were as they all adjusted to living together as an large but wonderful family. I was less enamoured of the love triangle subplot and the cheating undertones, no matter how despicable one party is. In particular, I felt the triangle could've been dropped entirely. There was enough going on, both plot-wise and relationship-wise, without it.

The romance at the heart of the book felt natural, even if the two of them were by turns clueless and terrible at communication. The end felt like a 'well-finally' for all involved, including me.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author via NetGalley in return for an honest review

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea is a teacher but thinking of giving it up and starting up her own business - she is also mother to a toddler by her fiancé Jonathan and has two teenage daughters plus and eccentric slightly senile mother - talk about having to juggle your life!

Things do not seem to be going so well with Jonathan and she arranges to meet him at a restaurant to have dinner but he doesn't bother to turn up and to make matters worse while she is there her house burns down!

Now she is homeless with 3 children and a mother and so when her new neighbour David offers her a roof over her head she is moves the whole family in. David is a GP and coming to terms with living as a single parent with his son when suddenly his life is completely chaotic but gradually David and Andrea start to form a real friendship......but where is Jonathan in all of this!

A lovely story with some great fun moments and characters and a lovely read for the beach

[S.K. Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

David is struggling with his job as a doctor and raising his son. Andrea is juggling three kids, a new business venture and her ailing mother. When her house burns down, Andrea is surprised when her new neighbour David offers to let her stay. I enjoyed the story, the banter between Andrea and her kids was very realistic. The characters were well developed and interesting. I would definitely recommend it

[Mary Geraghty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read😄

Misunderstandings, love, laughter and tears. This book had everything. I loved the characters and almost wanted to boo pantomime style the villain. Lovely

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Learning To Love is a slice of life novel that the majority of us have experienced on some level. Life happens. Our children become strange creatures called teenagers. Our parents age and become, at times, people we do not know yet desperately still love. Our partners in love are aloof at best and untrustworthy at worst. And a wee toddler adds to the chaos of a life full to overflowing. Add to the mix a snappy little dog and a desire to change careers in order to make the chaos a bit more manageable and you have Andrea’s life in a nutshell.

In addition, she cannot help but be a bit concerned about the new neighbors across the way. While David Adams may be a sexy as sin doctor, the father seems unable to deal with his young son. Of course, Andrea doesn’t know all the details of their lives, but she’ll keep a watch for the child’s safety just the same.

When Andrea’s home burns to the ground, leaving all of her most precious people safe yet taking away absolutely everything else in her life – help comes from an odd source when David offers to put up her family until they can get the insurance sorted out and decide to rebuild or move. Needless to say, Andrea’s life has just taken a dive into the crapper – and where in the world is her supposed loving, soon to be husband in the midst of this tragedy? Gone missing it seems.

As two families are left to somehow mesh their lives together, at least temporarily, we get a better idea of the sadness and grief surrounding David and his son. Normally squabbling teens will grow up a bit and do their best to help in this trying and frightening situation – and a teenage boy will offer the help needed to a younger boy in pain and confusion. As their small community rallies around Andrea and her family, she must acknowledge a growing attraction for the doctor and a chilling suspicion about the man who was supposed to love her.

I’ve come to expect realistic characters from Sheryl Browne. Right now you could pick out any house on your block and this fictional family would fit right in without a hiccup. That is how effortlessly we slip into Andrea and David’s world – because we’ve all experienced a slice of their life at some point. Always trust your gut when in doubt about people or characters. We know instinctively who to mistrust without a harsh word being said, at first at least. That is the trait of a good storyteller, to direct us with emotions, a nudge in the direction they want us to go.. it’s up to us to follow or not.

Simply put, I loved Learning To Love. Andrea could be any one of us readers. In the world we live in today, it’s difficult to not be an Andrea. Yes, the romance between David and Andrea was fun, sexy and engaging – but it is the entire package of all the various personalities and situations that made this story come alive for me. This was one of those times that as I read the book I was looking into a mirror.

*I received an e-ARC of Learning To Love from the publisher, Choc Lit and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*

[Anniek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrea lives in a small town where everybody knows each other. She shares a house with her three children, her boyfriend, soon to be fiancé, Jonathan, her mother, who is suffering from early onset dementia, and her dog Dougal. Her household is full of chaos and Andrea wants to take a little bit of time back for herself. She has very good taste in vintage clothes and accessories. Andrea would love to quit her teaching job to start her own business. Jonathan is not really supportive about anything Andrea does though.

David Adams is the new doctor in town. He just moved with his son Jake to a nice quiet location. David hopes that he can find a way to get close to Jake again. The boy has lost his mother to a terrible illness. David thinks he failed his wife and this makes him feel guilty and sad. He wants his son to be connected to him again, but David doesn't think that will happen any time soon.

When Andrea is supposed to go out on a date with Jonathan he doesn't show up. On her way home she spots the fire trucks and firemen are trying to control the flames that are burning her house down. Andrea is scared for her family, but luckily her son Ryan noticed the smoke and together with David they got everybody out on time. Having nothing but the clothes on their backs David takes them in. Jonathan is nowhere to be found, so Andrea has to face these struggles alone...

While I was reading Learning to Love I was amazed with the strength Andrea showed. She is a great mother and an amazing daughter who chooses to take care of her whole family. Even with everything that is happening Andrea keeps standing tall and she has a big forgiving heart. She is going through so much and she always manages to stay positive, while many people would probably break down under the pressure. David is such a sweet and kind man. It doesn't show all the time, because of the frustration he feels about the situation, but he truly cares about people.

The eldest children are real teenagers. Sheryl Browne's descriptions of her younger characters are spot-on. Little Chloe sounds adorable and is a sweet toddler. I absolutely devoured Learning to Love. Your house burning down with your loved ones inside must be the worst possible nightmare. The story evolves naturally and I believed every word. I already was a big fan of Sheryl's work and this book only added to that.

Learning to Love will make you go through all kinds of different emotions. It is an amazing story about love, loss, betrayal and learning to love again through all the pain and chaos. Sheryl Browne writes about the early stages of dementia with so much dignity and it truly captures the essence of what it means when this happens within your family.

If Sheryl Browne is a new author to you I highly recommend any of her books, since I know she will pull you in with the fiery way she writes her stories. If you have read a book written by her you are without doubt already a fan and I'd highly recommend for you to pick up Learning to Love as soon as you can.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learning to Love is the fabulous new novel by Sheryl Browne and is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, a tear to your eye, a laugh to your belly and a warm glow to your heart.
As ever, Sheryl combines the nuances of family life with the highs and lows of love and the tenderness and sadness of real life getting in the way of moving on.
Andrea juggles being a teacher and mum to truculent teens Ryan and Sophie and toddler-with-a-chip-obsession Chloe with caring for her elderly mother, a partner who’s not very good on the domestic front and a Yorkshire terrier named Dougal. Andrea wants to start her own business selling designer second hand clothing, thus giving her a more flexible approach to work and enabling her to spend more time with her dementia suffering mother but Andrea’s partner Jonathan has other ideas.
Meanwhile, opposite the madhouse that is Andre’s home, newcomer David is struggling with his ten year old Jake after a tragedy in their lives that has left David feeling guilty and helpless; Jake lost and alone and neither knowing how to be with the other.
When Andrea’s house burns down it is David who helps to rescue them and gives them a temporary home whilst it seems Jonathan has disappeared....and Andrea’s dreams of owning her own clothing business also seem to have gone up in smoke.
With the support of friends and neighbours Andrea just about manages to get back on her feet and the presence of her own unruly children in Jake’s life, especially Ryan, seems to be having an effect on his opening up; but whilst Jonathan’s absence may not be making her heart grow fonder the presence of David is causing a flutter that means there could be more changes afoot than planned....
Sheryl has made the cast of characters so realistic and compelling that it is hard to believe they are not real! Ryan and Sophie are so credible as argumentative teens that I was certain I was reading about my own two of the same age and whilst dementia is certainly no laughing matter, she portrays Andrea’s mother and the scrapes she gets into with just the right degree of humour that the reader can empathise with both Andrea and her mum whilst appreciating that a person with dementia is still a person in their own right. As for Jake and David’s bereavement and the guilt and loneliness it has fostered, their stories are told with a sensitivity and knowledge that rings true.
A wonderful supporting cast of characters with a sub-story also told with humour and empathy, this novel is about pain and loss but ultimately, as the title says, Learning to Love and as such is a thoroughly enjoyable story that will tug at your heartstrings but will also have you feeling as if you’ve had a glimpse into the very heart of a real family and leave you smiling.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it’s fairly well known I am a huge lover of Sheryl’s books so it was a pleasure to slip into this one with the knowledge it was bound to be a stonking story!

Andrea could be classified as superwoman contending with two stroppy teenagers from a former marriage, young toddler with her fiance, her mother who is displaying early dementia, works full-time as a teacher, has the obligatory dog and just generally spins many plates hoping one doesn’t fall.

She is hoping to slow down and change direction in her career but Jonathon is totally against it, this causes friction. She needs the love and support of her partner.

They live in a small community, the type where neighbours know your business before you do. She has spotted the house across the road has new tenants … a Doctor no less and rather a scrummy one, he also has a young son. Her initial impression on meeting them was tainted by their strained relationship with each other.

The story takes a drastic turn when there is a fire at Andrea’s house, with her home wrecked and all possessions lost she is at the depths of despair, where can her and her dysfunctional family find shelter. Surprisingly Doctor David steps up and offers to play host.

But where is Jonathon? He should be there offering comfort and support, emotionally and financially but he has disappeared.

So with that premise you can then continue with all the emotion, frustration, expected when folks are thrown together under those circumstances. I felt as though I was a part of the community, proud of the way they all pulled together in a crisis. All the characters are fabulously written and the reader is able to connect on each level of their personality.

The action is fast paced incorporating, love, friendship, a dastardly villain and suitably placed humour, enough twists and turns to make you dizzy. I thought the mother (Dee) was an absolute classic. Once again Sheryl has untangled the web of estranged parents/children, softened the blows of tragedy after the tears and made me care about all the residents of Hibberton. The dishy doc was a bonus but if it’s bad boys you’re after keep an eye on Jonathon!

I smiled, wiped the odd tear, grimaced but most of all loved this book and it’s contents but then again you wouldn’t expect anything else .. Sheryl will have to keep writing to satisfy my need for ‘dramatic’ scenarios that can whisk me away from reality for a while.

My thanks to Netgalley, Choc Lit, Brook Cottage Books & Sheryl for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.