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Wish Upon A Star
A wonderful warm festive treat from Sunday Times bestseller Trisha Ashley.
The perfect gift isn’t always under the tree…
Single mum Cally’s life is all about her little girl Stella. She’s resigned to the fact that the only romance she’s going to get is from the rom-coms she watches, and with her busy job and her daughter, she doesn’t have time to even think about love.
But life gets very tough when Stella gets sick. Balancing her job as a recipe writer and looking after Stella is all consuming, so when Cally meets handsome baker Jago the last thing she wants to do is fall in love, especially when she’s been badly burned by a Prince Charming from her past.
Can laid-back, charming Jago unlock Cally’s frozen heart and help her find true love and magic under the mistletoe?
Come home for Christmas with this gorgeous read, perfect for fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell.
The perfect gift isn’t always under the tree…
Single mum Cally’s life is all about her little girl Stella. She’s resigned to the fact that the only romance she’s going to get is from the rom-coms she watches, and with her busy job and her daughter, she doesn’t have time to even think about love.
But life gets very tough when Stella gets sick. Balancing her job as a recipe writer and looking after Stella is all consuming, so when Cally meets handsome baker Jago the last thing she wants to do is fall in love, especially when she’s been badly burned by a Prince Charming from her past.
Can laid-back, charming Jago unlock Cally’s frozen heart and help her find true love and magic under the mistletoe?
Come home for Christmas with this gorgeous read, perfect for fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell.
513 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2013
117 people are currently reading
1675 people want to read
About the author
Trisha Ashley
50 books1,096 followersTrisha Ashley is now a full-time novelist, but she has been known to work for stained glass makers and/or plumbers. She likes to paint, eat, drink, and read literary biographies. Her previous hobbies included getting divorced and packing to move. She claims to have once actually eaten Bronte burgers at the Branwell café, but her publisher declines to verify this. She lives in North Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
December 21, 2018
Single mum Cally, has two main passions in life. One is ensuring the best for her daughter, Stella who was born with a heart condition. The other is an abiding interest in baking and writing about cake making. When Cally is informed doctors in England have done all they can for Stella, she is determined to take matters further. She has been told of a doctor using experimental techniques with good results. It’s very risky but one she is prepared to take. After selling her home in London, Cally and Stella lands back in Sticklepond, staying with Cally’s mother. Ma (short for Martha) is an artist with a fascination for angelic beings. Since her fiancé Adam walked away when he found out she was pregnant, Cally has no time for men and love. But just maybe Jago, a handsome baker who specialty is croquembouche wedding cakes, might just make her change her mind? Or will other people and events preclude that happening?
I picked this as a light Christmas themed book and a contrast to the last more serious book I read. On the whole it was an enjoyable read. Cally and Jago are interesting characters. I had a laugh when I read that Cally’s mother had named her after a character from Blake’s 7. My husband and I used to watch that and enjoy it back in the day too. Stella is a precocious three year old that certainly knows how to get her own way at times.
Jago’s ex fiancé and Cally’s ex both turn up at one stage. Self-obsessed and shallow they are almost like caricatures of themselves. And yet, we see people like that in our world so maybe not such caricatures after all. The townsfolk are an eclectic collection, all ready to help Cally raise the thousands necessary for the trip to America. I thought the author got a bit carried away adding in witches and warlocks, along with the angels as well as orthodox Christians and some definitely not. Also the raising of the money and the time before the planned operation went on for a long time. Then the ending happened all in a rush. So pacing could have been better handled. At times information was repeated unnecessarily. Despite those issues I did enjoy it. It’s a story of family and community. Just the light, sort of easy to read, schmaltz for this time of the year.
I picked this as a light Christmas themed book and a contrast to the last more serious book I read. On the whole it was an enjoyable read. Cally and Jago are interesting characters. I had a laugh when I read that Cally’s mother had named her after a character from Blake’s 7. My husband and I used to watch that and enjoy it back in the day too. Stella is a precocious three year old that certainly knows how to get her own way at times.
Jago’s ex fiancé and Cally’s ex both turn up at one stage. Self-obsessed and shallow they are almost like caricatures of themselves. And yet, we see people like that in our world so maybe not such caricatures after all. The townsfolk are an eclectic collection, all ready to help Cally raise the thousands necessary for the trip to America. I thought the author got a bit carried away adding in witches and warlocks, along with the angels as well as orthodox Christians and some definitely not. Also the raising of the money and the time before the planned operation went on for a long time. Then the ending happened all in a rush. So pacing could have been better handled. At times information was repeated unnecessarily. Despite those issues I did enjoy it. It’s a story of family and community. Just the light, sort of easy to read, schmaltz for this time of the year.
November 16, 2013
It looks that my adventure with Trisha Ashley will be like a rollercoaster ride, from very low to very high. This time it was unfortunately low.
After reading "Good Husband Material" I hoped that all other Trisha's books will be likewise brilliant and I started "Wish Upon a Star" with big, big hopes. Unfortunately, reading it further and further I have found myself totally loosing interest.
Cally must fund - raise money for her daughter Stella who must be as soon as possible treated to an operation because of her heart condition. To do it, she sells her flat and moves to good, old Sticklepond to live with her mother. Although there are some issues from the past connected with Cally and her family, the whole village helps of course to raise the money.
Welcome Jed. After breaking with his girlfriend and winning some money in the lottery, he is looking for premises for his own wedding - cake business and in the meantime works with his friend in his macaron shop. Cally and Jago get to know each other, they spend more and more time together but there are two people who want to destroy the new happiness, namely exes of both of them.
So. While I find the idea of the book very nice and full of hope, I found the book itself much, much to slow. The beginning was not that bad but after then actually nothing happened. There were again many, many repetitions of the same conversations, the same ideas chewed through and through and I skipped really a lot without a feeling that I'm missing something. I felt for Stella, of course, she was actually the funniest character in the book but there was a moment that I couldn't care less if they raise the money for her operation or not. There was not any tension about this fact, the raising itself was nothing original, there was no development at all.
There was a lot of talking about this experimental operation in Boston but when it came to this fact, it was over after few pages.
Also, Cally and Jago are in my eyes two of the biggest pushovers and doormats that I have read about. The conversations and interactions with both of the exes were ridiculous and I really can't understand a real person being such persistent and silly as Aimee and Adam. Too unrealistic.
We meet some of the old characters from the previous books as well but they are just mentioned and they don't add much to the whole story, except Raffy perhaps.
What saved the book for me were the nice recipes and baking. Yes, I am a sucker when it comes to baking and I love every mention of macarons, cakes or cupcakes in the stories. The writing was very detailed but for me unfortunately too slow. Of course, it is heart - warming and optimistic but I won't be reading it second time. Nevertheless, hope for another Trisha's book.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
After reading "Good Husband Material" I hoped that all other Trisha's books will be likewise brilliant and I started "Wish Upon a Star" with big, big hopes. Unfortunately, reading it further and further I have found myself totally loosing interest.
Cally must fund - raise money for her daughter Stella who must be as soon as possible treated to an operation because of her heart condition. To do it, she sells her flat and moves to good, old Sticklepond to live with her mother. Although there are some issues from the past connected with Cally and her family, the whole village helps of course to raise the money.
Welcome Jed. After breaking with his girlfriend and winning some money in the lottery, he is looking for premises for his own wedding - cake business and in the meantime works with his friend in his macaron shop. Cally and Jago get to know each other, they spend more and more time together but there are two people who want to destroy the new happiness, namely exes of both of them.
So. While I find the idea of the book very nice and full of hope, I found the book itself much, much to slow. The beginning was not that bad but after then actually nothing happened. There were again many, many repetitions of the same conversations, the same ideas chewed through and through and I skipped really a lot without a feeling that I'm missing something. I felt for Stella, of course, she was actually the funniest character in the book but there was a moment that I couldn't care less if they raise the money for her operation or not. There was not any tension about this fact, the raising itself was nothing original, there was no development at all.
There was a lot of talking about this experimental operation in Boston but when it came to this fact, it was over after few pages.
Also, Cally and Jago are in my eyes two of the biggest pushovers and doormats that I have read about. The conversations and interactions with both of the exes were ridiculous and I really can't understand a real person being such persistent and silly as Aimee and Adam. Too unrealistic.
We meet some of the old characters from the previous books as well but they are just mentioned and they don't add much to the whole story, except Raffy perhaps.
What saved the book for me were the nice recipes and baking. Yes, I am a sucker when it comes to baking and I love every mention of macarons, cakes or cupcakes in the stories. The writing was very detailed but for me unfortunately too slow. Of course, it is heart - warming and optimistic but I won't be reading it second time. Nevertheless, hope for another Trisha's book.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
December 27, 2015
Escolhi este livro para ser o último do ano, mas foi mal escolhido.
Não é o primeiro livro que leio da autora mas este tornou-se aborrecido. As personagens não têm grande personalidade, a história não me encantou como seria de esperar.
Não é o primeiro livro que leio da autora mas este tornou-se aborrecido. As personagens não têm grande personalidade, a história não me encantou como seria de esperar.
December 15, 2015
3.5 *
Por muito que me custe dar 3 estrelas a este livro... terei de o fazer. Não que 3 estrelas seja uma coisa má, que não é. Sou super super fã dos livros da Trisha. Adoro-os e geralmente, aquilo que algumas pessoas vêem como falhas, eu considero sempre pontos a favor. Mas neste caso especifico, este livro conta com 2 protagonistas absolutamente estúpidos, fracos e ligeiramente simplórios demais. Tanto o Jago como a Cally me irritaram ao longo do livro, pela sua infantilidade constante e incapacidade total de se afirmarem. Foram ambos simplesmente irreais e inacessíveis para mim. Impossível fazer click com os dois...
Tudo o resto foi muito bom e daí ser um 3.5. Foi muito bom regressar a personagens antigas, tornar a sentir o ambiente mágico da aldeia e viver a magia do Natal com a pequena Stella. Recomendo para os fãs e também para quem quer passar uma tarde a namorar um livro. =)
Por muito que me custe dar 3 estrelas a este livro... terei de o fazer. Não que 3 estrelas seja uma coisa má, que não é. Sou super super fã dos livros da Trisha. Adoro-os e geralmente, aquilo que algumas pessoas vêem como falhas, eu considero sempre pontos a favor. Mas neste caso especifico, este livro conta com 2 protagonistas absolutamente estúpidos, fracos e ligeiramente simplórios demais. Tanto o Jago como a Cally me irritaram ao longo do livro, pela sua infantilidade constante e incapacidade total de se afirmarem. Foram ambos simplesmente irreais e inacessíveis para mim. Impossível fazer click com os dois...
Tudo o resto foi muito bom e daí ser um 3.5. Foi muito bom regressar a personagens antigas, tornar a sentir o ambiente mágico da aldeia e viver a magia do Natal com a pequena Stella. Recomendo para os fãs e também para quem quer passar uma tarde a namorar um livro. =)
December 31, 2016
Ideal para ler nesta época do ano...
Trata-se de um romance ternurento que mostra como a união das pessoas e a vontade de ajudar podem contribuir enormemente para um final feliz.
Trata-se de um romance ternurento que mostra como a união das pessoas e a vontade de ajudar podem contribuir enormemente para um final feliz.
November 25, 2015
8,5 de 10*
Desengane-se quem pensa, ao olhar para a capa, que se trata de um livro fofinho e natalício. A trama principal desta história é muito intensa e dramática uma vez que envolve a doença cardiaca de uma criança de 4 anos e da luta da sua mãe para a salvar.
Há romance, claro, e é lindo... mas não é o foco principal do livro e isso torna-o muito especial.
Comentário completo em:
http://abibliotecadajoao.blogspot.pt/...
Desengane-se quem pensa, ao olhar para a capa, que se trata de um livro fofinho e natalício. A trama principal desta história é muito intensa e dramática uma vez que envolve a doença cardiaca de uma criança de 4 anos e da luta da sua mãe para a salvar.
Há romance, claro, e é lindo... mas não é o foco principal do livro e isso torna-o muito especial.
Comentário completo em:
http://abibliotecadajoao.blogspot.pt/...
December 15, 2022
I liked this book but it wasn’t really a Christmas book. It was nice to read and I liked the talk of cake and the characters were likeable mostly but it was quite predictable. Like the setting and the mention of previous characters in some of her other novels.
October 16, 2013
Review originally posted to my blog on:
http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/201...
Three year-old Stella has a serious heart condition, which makes her small and fragile for her age and something as simple as the sniffles can have serious consequences for her. She has already had major surgery to try and help her as best as possible but doctors in the UK have done as much as they can and Stella's mother Cally has to face the fact that her precious little girl will not live a long and healthy life. That is, until she hears about a doctor in America who has done experimental surgery like the one Stella needs. From that moment onwards Cally's life is consumed by raising the money needed so the two of them can make the trip to Boston for this life-changing operation.
In an attempt to spruce up the Stella's Stars fund as quickly as possible Cally sells her flat in London and moves back in with her mother, who lives in the town of Sticklepond. Cally and Stella are soon embraced by the villagers who organise a whole slew of fundraising events to help them. Amongst these guardian angels is another newcomer to the area, Jago. He is a baker working for his best friend David's macaron shop until he's found the premises to open his own business making croquembouches, which is a special French wedding cake.
Jago is instantly taken by Cally and the sweet Stella but with Cally's mind so focused on getting Stella to America it leaves little time in her life and heart for romance. Add to that their selfish exes Aimee and Adam wriggling their way into Sticklepond and back into their lives - and despite the obvious mutual attraction and compatibility, the relationship between Cally and Jago seems doomed from the start.
Wish Upon a Star was written in such detail that it was very easy to visualise the village of Sticklepond and its quirky inhabitants, however it also made it slow to begin with as nothing much was happening in terms of story development. Thankfully this was only the case for the first few chapters and once I got further into the book I found myself fully immersed into the lives of Cally, Jago, Stella and the villagers. The three leading characters were absolutely wonderful to read about and I really feel like I've made some new friends while reading this novel.
I was also inspired by the kindness and generosity shown to Cally and her daughter by these virtual strangers. It was simply heartwarming and makes you remember that despite all the horrible things often dominating the headlines, there are still plenty of wonderful and honest people out there. People such as Aimee and Adam being the obvious exception of course, but while I felt an instant intense dislike for both of them I do realise these characters were needed in the novel to give it some much needed perspective and ensure it didn't became too sugary sweet or unrealistic.
What I also loved were the recipes and mentions of delicious baked goods that ran throughout the novel. Cally writes for two publications and even has cookbooks published and Jago is a baker by trade, so the two of them together have a wealth of baking knowledge and as they inspire each other with new ideas they indirectly also give some great tips to the reader. On top of that author Trisha Ashley has included some full recipes at the end of the book that budding bakers can try their hands at themselves.
Wish Upon a Star is an emotional novel as it deals with a very young child struggling with a serious illness, but it is also heartwarming as the people surrounding Cally and Stella show them kindness and hope - which is a beautiful and inspiring message leading up to Christmas.
http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/201...
Three year-old Stella has a serious heart condition, which makes her small and fragile for her age and something as simple as the sniffles can have serious consequences for her. She has already had major surgery to try and help her as best as possible but doctors in the UK have done as much as they can and Stella's mother Cally has to face the fact that her precious little girl will not live a long and healthy life. That is, until she hears about a doctor in America who has done experimental surgery like the one Stella needs. From that moment onwards Cally's life is consumed by raising the money needed so the two of them can make the trip to Boston for this life-changing operation.
In an attempt to spruce up the Stella's Stars fund as quickly as possible Cally sells her flat in London and moves back in with her mother, who lives in the town of Sticklepond. Cally and Stella are soon embraced by the villagers who organise a whole slew of fundraising events to help them. Amongst these guardian angels is another newcomer to the area, Jago. He is a baker working for his best friend David's macaron shop until he's found the premises to open his own business making croquembouches, which is a special French wedding cake.
Jago is instantly taken by Cally and the sweet Stella but with Cally's mind so focused on getting Stella to America it leaves little time in her life and heart for romance. Add to that their selfish exes Aimee and Adam wriggling their way into Sticklepond and back into their lives - and despite the obvious mutual attraction and compatibility, the relationship between Cally and Jago seems doomed from the start.
Wish Upon a Star was written in such detail that it was very easy to visualise the village of Sticklepond and its quirky inhabitants, however it also made it slow to begin with as nothing much was happening in terms of story development. Thankfully this was only the case for the first few chapters and once I got further into the book I found myself fully immersed into the lives of Cally, Jago, Stella and the villagers. The three leading characters were absolutely wonderful to read about and I really feel like I've made some new friends while reading this novel.
I was also inspired by the kindness and generosity shown to Cally and her daughter by these virtual strangers. It was simply heartwarming and makes you remember that despite all the horrible things often dominating the headlines, there are still plenty of wonderful and honest people out there. People such as Aimee and Adam being the obvious exception of course, but while I felt an instant intense dislike for both of them I do realise these characters were needed in the novel to give it some much needed perspective and ensure it didn't became too sugary sweet or unrealistic.
What I also loved were the recipes and mentions of delicious baked goods that ran throughout the novel. Cally writes for two publications and even has cookbooks published and Jago is a baker by trade, so the two of them together have a wealth of baking knowledge and as they inspire each other with new ideas they indirectly also give some great tips to the reader. On top of that author Trisha Ashley has included some full recipes at the end of the book that budding bakers can try their hands at themselves.
Wish Upon a Star is an emotional novel as it deals with a very young child struggling with a serious illness, but it is also heartwarming as the people surrounding Cally and Stella show them kindness and hope - which is a beautiful and inspiring message leading up to Christmas.
December 8, 2013
The original review is posted here:
http://thischickreads.wordpress.com/2...
Cally is a recipe writer living with her boyfriend, who dumps her just before she finds out that she is pregnant. When Stella is born with a heart condition, Cally’s life turns upside-down. The only thing that matters to her is her daughter Stella. One heart surgery after another, Stella grows into a very smart and beautiful four-years old girl. But there is only one surgery that can save her life and help her to survive and live a normal life, an experimental heart surgery performed only by one doctor in the USA. But Cally doesn’t have the money for it. So, she sells her apartment in London and moves in the old village of Sticklepond where her mother lives. Her friends raise a fond through a web site called Stella’s Stars, in order to collect money. And whole village joins together to save the little girl’s life.
I must confess, this is my first book by Trisha Ashley, but it certainly won’t be the last. The story is heart-warming, and literally melted my heart.
It’s a heartbreaking story about an unconditional mother’s love for her child. Cally gives up everything in her life just to save her daughter’s life. Her only wish for Christmas is to see Stella running around healthy like every normal child at that age.
And, there is Yago, who makes croquembouches in a bakery shop in the village. Love sparkles are in the air, but Stella always comes first. Love just will have to wait. Or maybe it was always there.
This surely is a lovely, festive, heart-warming story. Just what I needed for Christmas. It has cooking, recipes, friendship, love and a bit of romance. The recipes are amazing and mouth-watering. Before reading this book, I really had no idea what croquembouche was, and I had to google it.
I highly recommend ‘Wish Upon A Star’, it’s a warm, poignant read you will never forget. Well done Ms. Ashley, you’ve just earned yourself a new fan. I will definitely be checking out her other books.
http://thischickreads.wordpress.com/2...
Cally is a recipe writer living with her boyfriend, who dumps her just before she finds out that she is pregnant. When Stella is born with a heart condition, Cally’s life turns upside-down. The only thing that matters to her is her daughter Stella. One heart surgery after another, Stella grows into a very smart and beautiful four-years old girl. But there is only one surgery that can save her life and help her to survive and live a normal life, an experimental heart surgery performed only by one doctor in the USA. But Cally doesn’t have the money for it. So, she sells her apartment in London and moves in the old village of Sticklepond where her mother lives. Her friends raise a fond through a web site called Stella’s Stars, in order to collect money. And whole village joins together to save the little girl’s life.
I must confess, this is my first book by Trisha Ashley, but it certainly won’t be the last. The story is heart-warming, and literally melted my heart.
It’s a heartbreaking story about an unconditional mother’s love for her child. Cally gives up everything in her life just to save her daughter’s life. Her only wish for Christmas is to see Stella running around healthy like every normal child at that age.
And, there is Yago, who makes croquembouches in a bakery shop in the village. Love sparkles are in the air, but Stella always comes first. Love just will have to wait. Or maybe it was always there.
This surely is a lovely, festive, heart-warming story. Just what I needed for Christmas. It has cooking, recipes, friendship, love and a bit of romance. The recipes are amazing and mouth-watering. Before reading this book, I really had no idea what croquembouche was, and I had to google it.
I highly recommend ‘Wish Upon A Star’, it’s a warm, poignant read you will never forget. Well done Ms. Ashley, you’ve just earned yourself a new fan. I will definitely be checking out her other books.
June 16, 2015
I got this book as a present, however this was my first and last Trisha Ashley.
Cally is a single mother and her four year old daughter Stella has a heart condition. Cally is told at the beginning of the book that Stella's condition is only going to get worse and worse and there is nothing that doctors in the UK can do. However, there is treatment available in Boston, so Cally sets about fundraising for taking Stella to Boston for this life saving operation.
The plot focuses on Cally and her life in the village of Sticklepond as they fundraise money for Cally and Stella to go to Boston and Cally's relationship with the new guy in town, Jago. However, the romantic tension between the two was painfully obvious yet frustratingly slow. I found I could easily skip several pages at a time as Trisha Ashley packed in pages and pages of unnecessary descriptions and repetitions of previous conversations. Often I felt that the whole thing just dragged on and on. Considering the operation in Boston was the primary goal of the book, its description was very brief and the whole thing was over in just a few pages.
Only the ex's added a bit of excitement in this story and stirred up trouble, but even then they were one dimensional and not very realistic. Aimee's scheming especially was quite juvenile and seemed like something out of an American high school movie.
Usually I love a good chick lit, but this book was not for me. The plot was too predictable with very little conflict or drama to keep me interested. Its an easy read, and if you like a straightforward chick lit, then this does the job. But for me, there are other books in this genre with much more substance and are more worth your time.
Cally is a single mother and her four year old daughter Stella has a heart condition. Cally is told at the beginning of the book that Stella's condition is only going to get worse and worse and there is nothing that doctors in the UK can do. However, there is treatment available in Boston, so Cally sets about fundraising for taking Stella to Boston for this life saving operation.
The plot focuses on Cally and her life in the village of Sticklepond as they fundraise money for Cally and Stella to go to Boston and Cally's relationship with the new guy in town, Jago. However, the romantic tension between the two was painfully obvious yet frustratingly slow. I found I could easily skip several pages at a time as Trisha Ashley packed in pages and pages of unnecessary descriptions and repetitions of previous conversations. Often I felt that the whole thing just dragged on and on. Considering the operation in Boston was the primary goal of the book, its description was very brief and the whole thing was over in just a few pages.
Only the ex's added a bit of excitement in this story and stirred up trouble, but even then they were one dimensional and not very realistic. Aimee's scheming especially was quite juvenile and seemed like something out of an American high school movie.
Usually I love a good chick lit, but this book was not for me. The plot was too predictable with very little conflict or drama to keep me interested. Its an easy read, and if you like a straightforward chick lit, then this does the job. But for me, there are other books in this genre with much more substance and are more worth your time.
November 25, 2014
“Wish Upon a Star” is another novel from Trisha Ashley set in the fictional village of Sticklepond. I was not only looking forward to reading a new Sticklepond book but also catching up with characters featured in previous books. However, this book could be quite easily read as a standalone book as previous characters play no great role in the story –they are just there in the background. The main characters have not featured in any previous Sticklepond book.
Cally is a single mum with a little girl Stella, who has a heart condition. She decides to sell her London flat to help fund life saving treatment in America and moves back home to her mum’s house in Sticklepond. Jago is a single man who, after having won a small amount on the lottery, abandons London and goes into the bakery business with his friend in a town nearby to Sticklepond.
When Cally and Jago meet by chance will their mutual love of baking be enough to melt their hearts after the heartbreak they both have suffered at the hands of previous partners? I decided to read “Wish Upon a Star” as one of my Christmas reads to get me in a festive mood I thought that given the cover there would be a good helping of tinsel and Christmas in the novel but this was not the case so beware if you are looking for a festive read then this may not be the book. However, if you are looking for a really good and heart warming story than this is definitely the book for you. So although this was not the book I thought it was going to be – it did turn out to be a lovely read with touching and moving story (but not overly sentimental). Perfect to curl up with on a cold winters evening – the story will leave you with a lovely warm glow inside you!
Cally is a single mum with a little girl Stella, who has a heart condition. She decides to sell her London flat to help fund life saving treatment in America and moves back home to her mum’s house in Sticklepond. Jago is a single man who, after having won a small amount on the lottery, abandons London and goes into the bakery business with his friend in a town nearby to Sticklepond.
When Cally and Jago meet by chance will their mutual love of baking be enough to melt their hearts after the heartbreak they both have suffered at the hands of previous partners? I decided to read “Wish Upon a Star” as one of my Christmas reads to get me in a festive mood I thought that given the cover there would be a good helping of tinsel and Christmas in the novel but this was not the case so beware if you are looking for a festive read then this may not be the book. However, if you are looking for a really good and heart warming story than this is definitely the book for you. So although this was not the book I thought it was going to be – it did turn out to be a lovely read with touching and moving story (but not overly sentimental). Perfect to curl up with on a cold winters evening – the story will leave you with a lovely warm glow inside you!
November 9, 2013
It wouldn't be the run up to Christmas without the magic of Trisha Ashley! If you've read any of her other books about the residents of Sticklepond then you won't be dissapointed when you meet them all again, plus some new arrivals, in Wish Upon A Star!
Cally moves back with her daughter Stella, to discover secrets old and new about her family. She is welcomed and supported by everyone and soon becomes part of the Sticklepond life, and in turn brings with her a little magic of her own.
Another fantastic book by Trisha, a great chance to catch up with characters of old, and new faces to love plus a few who you might not like so much.
It really is a book that deserves it's Christmassy cover, and to make it perfect it should come with a comfy chair, a warm blanket and a huge mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream & marshmallows!
(Am off now to re-read my collections of Christmas magic written by Trisha Ashley, so I can read this again before Christmas!!)
Cally moves back with her daughter Stella, to discover secrets old and new about her family. She is welcomed and supported by everyone and soon becomes part of the Sticklepond life, and in turn brings with her a little magic of her own.
Another fantastic book by Trisha, a great chance to catch up with characters of old, and new faces to love plus a few who you might not like so much.
It really is a book that deserves it's Christmassy cover, and to make it perfect it should come with a comfy chair, a warm blanket and a huge mug of hot chocolate with whipped cream & marshmallows!
(Am off now to re-read my collections of Christmas magic written by Trisha Ashley, so I can read this again before Christmas!!)
July 18, 2016
I would love to like Trisha Ashley's books a lot more, I like the basic storyline, love the cozy settings but the amount of repetitive phrases and the too detailed writing style make that the books just drag and drag on. I had a hard time finishing this particular book, it was way too long and the amount of repetition (for example: the explanation of what a croquembouche is, the fact that the mother was living pretty isolated and would hardly go out etc.) was bordering on the ridiculous, it didn't add anything to the story. Furthermore I thought the part before Stella's surgery was way too long and the part after the surgery felt rushed, like the book needed to be finished fast to make the deadline. I'm hoping the repetitive and detailed writing style will be less in her other books but I have a feeling that Trisha Ashley's books are just not my cup of tea.
January 2, 2016
Gosto muito dos livros de Trisha Ashley, romances ternos e sempre recordando personagens de anteriores livros.
Mas este não foi um dos seus melhores livros na minha opinião.Embora seja uma estória bonita, de solidariedade com a pequena Stella, que precisa de dinheiro para fazer uma cirurgia cara ao coração, e toda uma aldeia se movimenta em torno de Stella para ajuda-la, a personagem da sua mãe Cally não me convenceu, assim como Jargo.Personagens muito paradas na narrativa, romance tão insonso que até doí, para uma estória assim pedia-se mais energia aos personagens principais.
Salvou-se a estória em si, e não o romance, o ambiente de amizade e entre ajuda, a época natalícia e o sonho de uma criança que quer continuar a sonhar e a ser uma criança normal.
Mas este não foi um dos seus melhores livros na minha opinião.Embora seja uma estória bonita, de solidariedade com a pequena Stella, que precisa de dinheiro para fazer uma cirurgia cara ao coração, e toda uma aldeia se movimenta em torno de Stella para ajuda-la, a personagem da sua mãe Cally não me convenceu, assim como Jargo.Personagens muito paradas na narrativa, romance tão insonso que até doí, para uma estória assim pedia-se mais energia aos personagens principais.
Salvou-se a estória em si, e não o romance, o ambiente de amizade e entre ajuda, a época natalícia e o sonho de uma criança que quer continuar a sonhar e a ser uma criança normal.
December 27, 2018
Cally é mãe solteira e vive para a sua filha Stella, que tem um grave problema de coração e quando a única perspectiva de melhoria é uma operação nos EUA, Cally decide vender a sua casa em Londres e ir viver para a casa da sua mãe. Na aldeia, toda a comunidade decide juntar-se e ajudar também Cally a conseguir o dinheiro, e numa pequena cidade, perto da aldeia, conhece Jago, um pasteleiro, e rapidamente se tornam amigos.
Este é o terceiro livro que leio de Trisha Ashely e apesar de não ter gostado tanto como gostei de Noite de Reis, foi uma leitura que me aqueceu o coração (e pronto, acho que está "provado" e afinal gosto de alguns romances românticos eheheh). É certo, que como é habitual em livros do género, o par romântico é previsível mas gostei mesmo muito desta leitura. Como também é habitual, temos também algumas personagens mais "irritantes" e que estão decididas a "dificultar" a vida aos nossos protagonistas mas, sabemos que no fim tudo irá acabar bem.
Um ponto importante, e que poderá afectar a leitura, temos muitas e muitas referências e bolos e sobremesas, pelo que podem ficar a salivar enquanto lêem o livro ;)
Vejam também a minha opinião em vídeo, AQUI.
Este é o terceiro livro que leio de Trisha Ashely e apesar de não ter gostado tanto como gostei de Noite de Reis, foi uma leitura que me aqueceu o coração (e pronto, acho que está "provado" e afinal gosto de alguns romances românticos eheheh). É certo, que como é habitual em livros do género, o par romântico é previsível mas gostei mesmo muito desta leitura. Como também é habitual, temos também algumas personagens mais "irritantes" e que estão decididas a "dificultar" a vida aos nossos protagonistas mas, sabemos que no fim tudo irá acabar bem.
Um ponto importante, e que poderá afectar a leitura, temos muitas e muitas referências e bolos e sobremesas, pelo que podem ficar a salivar enquanto lêem o livro ;)
Vejam também a minha opinião em vídeo, AQUI.
April 21, 2024
Soooooooo much repetition. Seriously. How many times does anyone need what a Croquembouche is explained to them during the course of one book? There is also no need to have the parent explain her daughter's heart condition to every single person she meets. It gets really tiresome after the 15th time. I wish I could say those were the only issues, but seriously, if you remove all repetition from this book, what's left will be around 70 pages long!
It's also a bit heavy-handed on the religion for my tastes, and don't get me started on the ridiculousness of the MCs exes' storyline...
All in all, not one of the better books I've read so far this year.
It's also a bit heavy-handed on the religion for my tastes, and don't get me started on the ridiculousness of the MCs exes' storyline...
All in all, not one of the better books I've read so far this year.
November 23, 2013
It's no secret that I love Trisha Ashley's books and the interconnecting characters and worlds she creates. I eagerly awaited this book, and pre-ordered it on my Kindle. Sadly, I left said Kindle at home when I took a recent trip to England. Good came from bad, since I wound up with a print copy that is so festive and charming, I don't mind owning two copies. The gorgeous cover, with its foil ornaments and sparkly snow, is like a holiday present unto itself. And what was inside was my first Christmas read of the season: And it turned out to be a real treat!
Set in the Lancashire village of Sticklepond, the book introduces new characters and revisits old favorites. I'd be quite content if Trisha did nothing but write daily episodes describing the goings-on of the village. I also luxuriate in her descriptions of the shops, buildings, decorations, and festivals that take place in the north of England. Of course, I enjoy her plots, and hang on every word until the end, but what I come back to this author for time and again are the worlds she paints so vividly.
This book features a single mother named Cally, abandoned and told to get an abortion by her childish, selfish boyfriend who's cheating on her in Antarctica, while on a scientific expedition. Cally bravely forges on with her pregnancy and births Stella, a wise and bright little girl with a defective heart that requires a frightening and risky surgery that can only be done overseas. On top of the emotionality of the situation, the young mother doesn't readily have the funds, and is actually quite alone in the world as the book begins.
She must give up her home and career in London to move back in with her distracted but caring artist mother. Now ensconced in village life, she meets caramel-eyed Jago who looks like a sexy pirate, and is nursing his own broken heart. Cally has no time for anything but the task at hand, so she talks herself out of the attraction she feels, and focuses on friendship.
Despite the fact that Cally's family, the Almonds, are black sheep of the village for some very hush-hush reasons, the townsfolk band together to help raise money to care for the child in need. The colorful cast of characters is led by a former rockstar turned vicar, and includes a warlock in the vein of Dumbledore, various kind-hearted busybodies and gossips, a 102-year-old landowner and fan of the ill little girl, and a young mothers' group.
It was so much fun to watch the friendship between Cally and Jago develop, and to watch it turn the corner into the first blossoms of love. Personally, this is what I want from a romance novel: For the people I care about to get together despite obstacles. This novel gave me what I wanted but not without some nail-biting and "what ifs?".
Here's a warning, though: If you are dieting, proceed with caution. Cally is a food writer and a baker and Jago makes specialty French wedding cakes from stacks of profiteroles, joined by webs of sugar strands. Few pages go by without a luscious description of something delicious to eat. My take on it was this, though — it's the holidays, and not time for restraint. If you wind up drinking a glass of wine, and eating mince pies or plates of cookies while cozied up with Wish Upon a Star, it's how it should be. This book is meant to bring comfort and joy. That's what I came for, and that's what I got.
I gave it 5 stars because it delivered on its promise. From the cover and the blurb (and the author's reputation) I expected a warm, rich, witty, quirky tale with lots of atmosphere and a happy ending. She nailed it! I only wish there were another just like it in my queue, because I already miss Sticklepond.
*Extra bonus: This book would make an excellent hostess gift for any romance lover you know. You don't even have to wrap it! It's so pretty, just tie on a ribbon, and hand it over as you walk in out of the cold. My guess is that you'll be rewarded with a big, fat hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine.
Set in the Lancashire village of Sticklepond, the book introduces new characters and revisits old favorites. I'd be quite content if Trisha did nothing but write daily episodes describing the goings-on of the village. I also luxuriate in her descriptions of the shops, buildings, decorations, and festivals that take place in the north of England. Of course, I enjoy her plots, and hang on every word until the end, but what I come back to this author for time and again are the worlds she paints so vividly.
This book features a single mother named Cally, abandoned and told to get an abortion by her childish, selfish boyfriend who's cheating on her in Antarctica, while on a scientific expedition. Cally bravely forges on with her pregnancy and births Stella, a wise and bright little girl with a defective heart that requires a frightening and risky surgery that can only be done overseas. On top of the emotionality of the situation, the young mother doesn't readily have the funds, and is actually quite alone in the world as the book begins.
She must give up her home and career in London to move back in with her distracted but caring artist mother. Now ensconced in village life, she meets caramel-eyed Jago who looks like a sexy pirate, and is nursing his own broken heart. Cally has no time for anything but the task at hand, so she talks herself out of the attraction she feels, and focuses on friendship.
Despite the fact that Cally's family, the Almonds, are black sheep of the village for some very hush-hush reasons, the townsfolk band together to help raise money to care for the child in need. The colorful cast of characters is led by a former rockstar turned vicar, and includes a warlock in the vein of Dumbledore, various kind-hearted busybodies and gossips, a 102-year-old landowner and fan of the ill little girl, and a young mothers' group.
It was so much fun to watch the friendship between Cally and Jago develop, and to watch it turn the corner into the first blossoms of love. Personally, this is what I want from a romance novel: For the people I care about to get together despite obstacles. This novel gave me what I wanted but not without some nail-biting and "what ifs?".
Here's a warning, though: If you are dieting, proceed with caution. Cally is a food writer and a baker and Jago makes specialty French wedding cakes from stacks of profiteroles, joined by webs of sugar strands. Few pages go by without a luscious description of something delicious to eat. My take on it was this, though — it's the holidays, and not time for restraint. If you wind up drinking a glass of wine, and eating mince pies or plates of cookies while cozied up with Wish Upon a Star, it's how it should be. This book is meant to bring comfort and joy. That's what I came for, and that's what I got.
I gave it 5 stars because it delivered on its promise. From the cover and the blurb (and the author's reputation) I expected a warm, rich, witty, quirky tale with lots of atmosphere and a happy ending. She nailed it! I only wish there were another just like it in my queue, because I already miss Sticklepond.
*Extra bonus: This book would make an excellent hostess gift for any romance lover you know. You don't even have to wrap it! It's so pretty, just tie on a ribbon, and hand it over as you walk in out of the cold. My guess is that you'll be rewarded with a big, fat hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine.
October 18, 2017
Not really sure why this is labelled a Christmas book? It's even less so than "The Magic of Christmas". But it's so sweet and adorable that I loved it all the same, and was actually disappointed when I turned the last page.
Trisha Ashley writes little-town communities so very well. True, her books do get a bit formulaic, but they're so charming that I don't really mind. I loved Cally, Stella and Jago, and would have liked to read more about them. And it was so refreshing to read about main characters with a spine for a change! Even if Aimee and Adam need need more than subtle clues to finally get the point!
Lovely book, and though total fluff, it still deserves a five star rating for pure enjoyment and a fairly realistic description of subconscious courting :-)
Trisha Ashley writes little-town communities so very well. True, her books do get a bit formulaic, but they're so charming that I don't really mind. I loved Cally, Stella and Jago, and would have liked to read more about them. And it was so refreshing to read about main characters with a spine for a change! Even if Aimee and Adam need need more than subtle clues to finally get the point!
Lovely book, and though total fluff, it still deserves a five star rating for pure enjoyment and a fairly realistic description of subconscious courting :-)
May 2, 2014
Heart warming Christmas book which fills you with feel good factor throughout. Cally is a single mum to her seriously ill daughter Stella. The only hope for future life for Stella is private treatment abroad. Cally sells her home and moves into a small village in which her mother lives and they all have to learn to live together. The village takes Stella's health on as their mission and they all go about fundraising. Jago, a baker comes into Cally's life and it takes Cally a while to let her guard down after being very let down from Stella's dad. Lovely warm Christmas feeling to this happy ever after book. I loved it.
December 8, 2016
Every time I read a Trisha Ashley book I think it can't be better than the last one but this certainly was excellent from the first page. Excellent to be back in the small village and hear familiar names. Cally has a daughter who is ill and nothing can be done to save her in this country so she decides to sell her flat in London and move to her mums and raise funds to take her daughter to America where they think they can help. The child's father turned his back on them before cally had her child so she is alone but can she find love and does someone's ex cause problems for her and bring her ex back. Can she find love and can her daughter get to America in time. Well worth reading.
October 19, 2018
This touching chick lit tale has nice characters and is a relaxing easy read, but the book is slow and overly long. The author’s tendency to restate the same facts over and over again is a little tiresome, and there are huge sections of the story where nothing really happens. I also thought that Trisha Ashley’s writing style could have been sharpened up in a few places. Interestingly my copy includes the start of her next book ‘Every Woman for Herself’ and the writing seems more punchy, so I may try another Trisha Ashley novel in the future.
June 13, 2017
While I'm usually not expecting great literature with this type of books I was disappointed by the writing. The story is interesting but there were some moments, especially in dialogues,- where it didn't make sense, one character talking about something and the other talking about something else. And the beginning is quite messy. It took me time to get myself in the story.
I definitely prefer Jenny Colgan's style.
I definitely prefer Jenny Colgan's style.
November 10, 2013
'Wish upon a Star' is a heart warming tale with characters that leap off the page and engage with the reader. Not often a novel brings a lump to my throat or a tear to my eye but this managed it. Excellently crafted writing, this is Trisha Ashley at her best!
December 31, 2013
It took me a while to get into, because there seemed to be a lot of wittering in this book. Having got into it, I did enjoy this, it's a light hearted read, which was perfect for the lazy days around Christmas.
November 28, 2014
A fabulous festive and heart - warming read. Loved everything about this book and it certainly was a treat from Trisha. It was my first visit to Sticklepond and i will definitely be visiting again with some of the other previous books.
November 19, 2021
Oh my goodness, so boring! Full of dull conversations that just drivel on. You can skip whole chunks of the story and you don’t miss anything.
I really enjoyed The Twelve Days of Christmas but this was obviously churned out for Christmas sales.
I really enjoyed The Twelve Days of Christmas but this was obviously churned out for Christmas sales.
December 28, 2019
Well... of all the books I’ve read this Christmas season, this was the only one that truly disappointed me up until now (I still have one more to go)!😫
The story follows Cally and her sick daughter Stella, she was born with a rare heart condition, and only an American doctor can do the necessary operation to save her. So Cally, in order to gain the money she needs to help her child, sells her apartment in London and moves back to her mother’s place in a little town called Sticklepond. Soon, all the inhabitants of the town know about Stella’s condition and try they’re best to help raise the money for the girl!
So.... in short, I truly hope it’s due to the portuguese translation that I couldn’t stand this book, in fact, half way in I even tried a speed reading method cause, to be honest, I was almost to the point of DNF this book all together, so this was the only way to get done with it! I felt dumb reading it, with the author saying random facts along the way (a prologue just to say things it didn’t matter to anyone? Common! It’s like the author thought her readers are a bunch of dummies!), about characters and stories that didn’t matter, at least for me, and the constant and repeated facts, like ‘Stella is sick and only a operation can save her”, I mean, I already know that, but the characters kept always saying that in they’re conversations!! The story line could have worked if it wasn’t for the way it was written and for the predictable ending, even the twists that were there weren’t even well constructed and where dispatched too quickly! I’m hopping that the English version is better that the Portuguese one, cause I suddenly got mortified when I remembered I still have one other book of this author to read!🤦♀️
Hope the second one is better and translated by another person, cause this one surely made a poor job out of it!!
Crossing my fingers that the last book I’m gonna read this year can save my spirits from this Christmas reading disaster!🤞
*
Have you read any book by Trisha Ashley? What did you thought about it?🤔
********************************************
The story follows Cally and her sick daughter Stella, she was born with a rare heart condition, and only an American doctor can do the necessary operation to save her. So Cally, in order to gain the money she needs to help her child, sells her apartment in London and moves back to her mother’s place in a little town called Sticklepond. Soon, all the inhabitants of the town know about Stella’s condition and try they’re best to help raise the money for the girl!
So.... in short, I truly hope it’s due to the portuguese translation that I couldn’t stand this book, in fact, half way in I even tried a speed reading method cause, to be honest, I was almost to the point of DNF this book all together, so this was the only way to get done with it! I felt dumb reading it, with the author saying random facts along the way (a prologue just to say things it didn’t matter to anyone? Common! It’s like the author thought her readers are a bunch of dummies!), about characters and stories that didn’t matter, at least for me, and the constant and repeated facts, like ‘Stella is sick and only a operation can save her”, I mean, I already know that, but the characters kept always saying that in they’re conversations!! The story line could have worked if it wasn’t for the way it was written and for the predictable ending, even the twists that were there weren’t even well constructed and where dispatched too quickly! I’m hopping that the English version is better that the Portuguese one, cause I suddenly got mortified when I remembered I still have one other book of this author to read!🤦♀️
Hope the second one is better and translated by another person, cause this one surely made a poor job out of it!!
Crossing my fingers that the last book I’m gonna read this year can save my spirits from this Christmas reading disaster!🤞
*
Have you read any book by Trisha Ashley? What did you thought about it?🤔
********************************************
July 29, 2022
When a generational secret is wkept and the true story is never know… The whole family is absorbed by him… And if we add to this one of the greatest trials that exist? Are your foundations strong enough not to make it fall apart?
This is the story of Cally, a single mother, who after being abandoned pregnant by her “prince charming”, she finds himself forced to “move worlds and founds” to secure a future for her little Stella, three years, who suffers from a serious heart problem.
In this book, Trisha shows us the true definition of mother. The way Cally is described in the course of the pages… its strength, its persistence, its ability to achive the tireless… All this make us realiza how extraordinary and strong the feeling of a mother to her child and how “unnecessary” her own hapiness is, if he is well.
Although the framing of the story is done in very detail, making it difficult to read, with the progress of it, it becomes completely irrelevant given the message it sends to us.
Never, but never, doubt the size of love, nor the strength it can have. Be supportive. This is the main message. Help te other, because at some point in your life, if you need it, that help will come back.
This book is a true inspiration of kindness, and if you’re looking for a sweet story to read… This is the one. (PS: recipes will not miss 😉)
Are you willing to see how far human strength can go? I think there’s only one way to find out dear reader… The perfec3t gift isn’t always under the Christmas tree ✨
This is the story of Cally, a single mother, who after being abandoned pregnant by her “prince charming”, she finds himself forced to “move worlds and founds” to secure a future for her little Stella, three years, who suffers from a serious heart problem.
In this book, Trisha shows us the true definition of mother. The way Cally is described in the course of the pages… its strength, its persistence, its ability to achive the tireless… All this make us realiza how extraordinary and strong the feeling of a mother to her child and how “unnecessary” her own hapiness is, if he is well.
Although the framing of the story is done in very detail, making it difficult to read, with the progress of it, it becomes completely irrelevant given the message it sends to us.
Never, but never, doubt the size of love, nor the strength it can have. Be supportive. This is the main message. Help te other, because at some point in your life, if you need it, that help will come back.
This book is a true inspiration of kindness, and if you’re looking for a sweet story to read… This is the one. (PS: recipes will not miss 😉)
Are you willing to see how far human strength can go? I think there’s only one way to find out dear reader… The perfec3t gift isn’t always under the Christmas tree ✨
July 27, 2023
When a generational secret is kept and the true story is never know… The whole family is absorbed by him… And if we add to this one of the greatest trials that exist? Are your foundations strong enough not to make it fall apart?
This is the story of Cally, a single mother, who after being abandoned pregnant by her “prince charming”, she finds herself forced to “move worlds and founds” to secure a future for her little Stella, three years, who suffers from a serious heart problem.
In this book, Trisha shows us the true definition of mother. The way Cally is described in the course of the pages… its strength, its persistence, its ability to achive the tireless… All this make us realize how extraordinary and strong the feeling of a mother to her child and how “unnecessary” her own hapiness is, if he is well.
Although the framing of the story is done in very detail, making it difficult to read, with the progress of it, it becomes completely irrelevant given the message it sends to us.
Never, but never, doubt the size of love, nor the strength it can have. Be supportive. This is the main message. Help te other, because at some point in your life, if you need it, that help will come back.
This book is a true inspiration of kindness, and if you’re looking for a sweet story to read… This is the one. (PS: recipes will not miss)
Are you willing to see how far human strength can go? I think there’s only one way to find out dear reader… "The perfect gift isn’t always under the Christmas tree."
This is the story of Cally, a single mother, who after being abandoned pregnant by her “prince charming”, she finds herself forced to “move worlds and founds” to secure a future for her little Stella, three years, who suffers from a serious heart problem.
In this book, Trisha shows us the true definition of mother. The way Cally is described in the course of the pages… its strength, its persistence, its ability to achive the tireless… All this make us realize how extraordinary and strong the feeling of a mother to her child and how “unnecessary” her own hapiness is, if he is well.
Although the framing of the story is done in very detail, making it difficult to read, with the progress of it, it becomes completely irrelevant given the message it sends to us.
Never, but never, doubt the size of love, nor the strength it can have. Be supportive. This is the main message. Help te other, because at some point in your life, if you need it, that help will come back.
This book is a true inspiration of kindness, and if you’re looking for a sweet story to read… This is the one. (PS: recipes will not miss)
Are you willing to see how far human strength can go? I think there’s only one way to find out dear reader… "The perfect gift isn’t always under the Christmas tree."
December 21, 2025
I'd been wanting a nice, lighthearted Christmassy read, and this seemed to fit the bill nicely.
I must admit I did feel like giving up at times as the writing style wasn't really my cup of tea; it was very simplistic and the dialogue often didn't feel believable.
Cally is a single mum to her daughter, Stella. Stella was born with a heart condition and has to go to Boston for a life-saving operation. In order to make enough money to go to Boston, Cally sells her flat in London and moves in with her mum in a small village in the north of England. There, she meets handsome baker, Jago.
I like romances occasionally, but I like the gradual buildup as two people get to know and like each other, there was none of that with Cally and Jago; they basically went from strangers to behaving like a sexless, old married couple. Even the obstacles that usually crop up in a romance were pointless; Cally's ex, who is also Stella's father makes a very brief appearance that could've been exciting, but wasn't. And Jago's ex fiancée, Aimee also turns up and causes minimal trouble.
It was a happy book, perhaps a bit too sweet for my tastes though and I would've liked a bit more drama. At times, it felt like I was reading a slightly mundane diary.
I did enjoy the last sixty pages or so though.
I must admit I did feel like giving up at times as the writing style wasn't really my cup of tea; it was very simplistic and the dialogue often didn't feel believable.
Cally is a single mum to her daughter, Stella. Stella was born with a heart condition and has to go to Boston for a life-saving operation. In order to make enough money to go to Boston, Cally sells her flat in London and moves in with her mum in a small village in the north of England. There, she meets handsome baker, Jago.
I like romances occasionally, but I like the gradual buildup as two people get to know and like each other, there was none of that with Cally and Jago; they basically went from strangers to behaving like a sexless, old married couple. Even the obstacles that usually crop up in a romance were pointless; Cally's ex, who is also Stella's father makes a very brief appearance that could've been exciting, but wasn't. And Jago's ex fiancée, Aimee also turns up and causes minimal trouble.
It was a happy book, perhaps a bit too sweet for my tastes though and I would've liked a bit more drama. At times, it felt like I was reading a slightly mundane diary.
I did enjoy the last sixty pages or so though.
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