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The Women Who Wouldn't Leave: A totally uplifting escapist read to curl up with
'These two feisty and funny women stole my heart... Perfect for bookclubs.' Faith Hogan
Two women. A community under threat. Can they save their home?
In the peaceful Worcestershire village of Stonecastle, Matilda Reynolds lives a quiet, contented life with her animals for company. Then a fall lands her in hospital, and she must rely on her strange young neighbour, Connie, for help looking after her home.
Connie is coming to terms with her own trauma, and she doesn't trust easily. But just as the two women embark on an unlikely friendship, the community that brought them together comes under threat.
As they fight to save their beloved estate from a greedy developer, Connie and Matilda discover they have more in common than they thought...
'An uplifting novel about the power of community and the human spirit.' Clare Swatman
Two women. A community under threat. Can they save their home?
In the peaceful Worcestershire village of Stonecastle, Matilda Reynolds lives a quiet, contented life with her animals for company. Then a fall lands her in hospital, and she must rely on her strange young neighbour, Connie, for help looking after her home.
Connie is coming to terms with her own trauma, and she doesn't trust easily. But just as the two women embark on an unlikely friendship, the community that brought them together comes under threat.
As they fight to save their beloved estate from a greedy developer, Connie and Matilda discover they have more in common than they thought...
'An uplifting novel about the power of community and the human spirit.' Clare Swatman
384 pages, Paperback
Published May 28, 2024
442 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Scott
7 books135 followersVictoria Scott is a bestselling British author of life-affirming fiction, known for her gripping gothic historical mysteries and uplifting book club novels that explore themes of hope, resilience and the power of human friendship and love. Her books are perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley, Kate Morton, and Jojo Moyes.
Her novels, The Storyteller’s Daughter and The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave, are both Amazon Top 100 bestsellers. Her latest novel, The House on the Cliff – a haunting, atmospheric tale of secrets and second chances – is out now.
Before becoming a novelist, Victoria worked as a journalist for the BBC, The Telegraph and Al Jazeera. She now combines her love of storytelling with lecturing in journalism at Kingston University.
Victoria lives on an island in the River Thames with her husband, two children, and a cat called Alice. When she’s not writing, she is a keen (but amateur) singer and gardener.
Follow Victoria for updates and behind-the-scenes book content:
Instagram & TikTok: @VictoriaScottAuthor
Facebook: @VictoriaScottJournalist
X/Twitter: @toryscott
Her novels, The Storyteller’s Daughter and The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave, are both Amazon Top 100 bestsellers. Her latest novel, The House on the Cliff – a haunting, atmospheric tale of secrets and second chances – is out now.
Before becoming a novelist, Victoria worked as a journalist for the BBC, The Telegraph and Al Jazeera. She now combines her love of storytelling with lecturing in journalism at Kingston University.
Victoria lives on an island in the River Thames with her husband, two children, and a cat called Alice. When she’s not writing, she is a keen (but amateur) singer and gardener.
Follow Victoria for updates and behind-the-scenes book content:
Instagram & TikTok: @VictoriaScottAuthor
Facebook: @VictoriaScottJournalist
X/Twitter: @toryscott
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
June 30, 2023
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I loved both Patience and Grace by this author so I was really excited to get this one from NetGalley. I am so glad I was approved because this book was wonderful.
Told from Matilda and Connie's points of view via alternating chapters both women are hiding from life and their issues, they have deep seeded secrets and keep themselves to themselves. Connie learns to care and think of others she really grows as a person understanding her illness and how lucky she is and how good she really has it. Matilda learns to trust, share and let people into her life, finally. Didn't like either of these characters much at first but they both really grew on me and I learned to love them.
Victoria Scott loves to use vulnerable characters in her stories and this one is no different, what I most liked is that they eventually found the strength within themselves to change and they realized that can't do it alone. The author has a way of making her characters' lives feel very real, and as I learned about them I realized these are women I'd like to be friends with. I connected to these wonderful characters, flaws and all. Connie and Matilda may differ in age and personality but they are really much more alike than either realizes. I loved how Matilda's animals and nature were used as a balm for Connie's mental health issues and now I want to go and pet goats!
The dialogue is simple, very authentic and true to life. I felt so many emotions while reading, it was so sad at times, I felt angry at certain parts and I was laughing a lot. The funniest scene is when Connie tries to use her mother's printer, I was literally laughing out loud because I went through this very recently with my son and my old 2007 HP printer.
Ultimately this is a story about friendship, standing up for one's self and for what's right, belonging to a community and overcoming a traumatizing ordeal. This was such a poignant story, very heartwarming and told with compassion. And it's true what they say, you never really know a person or what they're dealing with so always be kind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
I loved both Patience and Grace by this author so I was really excited to get this one from NetGalley. I am so glad I was approved because this book was wonderful.
Told from Matilda and Connie's points of view via alternating chapters both women are hiding from life and their issues, they have deep seeded secrets and keep themselves to themselves. Connie learns to care and think of others she really grows as a person understanding her illness and how lucky she is and how good she really has it. Matilda learns to trust, share and let people into her life, finally. Didn't like either of these characters much at first but they both really grew on me and I learned to love them.
Victoria Scott loves to use vulnerable characters in her stories and this one is no different, what I most liked is that they eventually found the strength within themselves to change and they realized that can't do it alone. The author has a way of making her characters' lives feel very real, and as I learned about them I realized these are women I'd like to be friends with. I connected to these wonderful characters, flaws and all. Connie and Matilda may differ in age and personality but they are really much more alike than either realizes. I loved how Matilda's animals and nature were used as a balm for Connie's mental health issues and now I want to go and pet goats!
The dialogue is simple, very authentic and true to life. I felt so many emotions while reading, it was so sad at times, I felt angry at certain parts and I was laughing a lot. The funniest scene is when Connie tries to use her mother's printer, I was literally laughing out loud because I went through this very recently with my son and my old 2007 HP printer.
Ultimately this is a story about friendship, standing up for one's self and for what's right, belonging to a community and overcoming a traumatizing ordeal. This was such a poignant story, very heartwarming and told with compassion. And it's true what they say, you never really know a person or what they're dealing with so always be kind.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
July 10, 2023
Constance (Connie) is now at home in Stonecastle in beautiful, rural Worcestershire, trying to escape past trauma, whilst elderly Matilda has spent most of her life there, she is solitary and content with her menagerie of animals, until disaster strikes in the form of a nasty accident. This unlikely pair need each other to help them to refind their way in life. When the local council make a terrible decision, these two, ably assisted by others, become the women who wouldn’t leave. The story is told in alternating chapters by Connie and Matilda.
This is a lovely story with the beauty of the area matching a beautiful unlikely but totally wonderful emerging and burgeoning friendship. Both women have a lot of baggage, they are flawed and very vulnerable. Although they have different responses to the trauma they have experienced their growing bond comes from a place of understanding. Learning how/why/what has happened to each of them is an emotional journey.
The characterisation is excellent., You grow to love both of them, rooting for their recovery and standing shoulder to shoulder in their fight against the local council. Matilda’s eccentric, neglected garden and multitude of animals is just what Connie needs, it’s balm for a troubled soul, and though reluctant to see it, Matilda needs Connie. I love Matilda‘s obstinacy, especially with superior, supercilious council worker, Caroline Goodman. See her off Matilda! Most of the characters are very likeable, Ellen, Connie‘s mum is just fabulous, what a mother she is. I mustn’t forget Matilda‘s goats either, one is most definitely a character in her own right and is often the source of the humour.
This novel has a bit of everything, at times, it’s funny with some vivid scenes that make you smile, usually accompanied by great dialogue. It’s good on the impact of trauma, at times it’s therefore sad and poignant and some situations make you angry or shocked on characters behalf. It makes you think in lots of ways and drives home good points about issues such as affordable housing in beautiful rural areas. There is a real sense of community here, with everyone rallying round as best they can. That is a real feel good element.
Overall, it’s insightful, heartwarming, engaging and ultimately uplifting.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Aria and Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is a lovely story with the beauty of the area matching a beautiful unlikely but totally wonderful emerging and burgeoning friendship. Both women have a lot of baggage, they are flawed and very vulnerable. Although they have different responses to the trauma they have experienced their growing bond comes from a place of understanding. Learning how/why/what has happened to each of them is an emotional journey.
The characterisation is excellent., You grow to love both of them, rooting for their recovery and standing shoulder to shoulder in their fight against the local council. Matilda’s eccentric, neglected garden and multitude of animals is just what Connie needs, it’s balm for a troubled soul, and though reluctant to see it, Matilda needs Connie. I love Matilda‘s obstinacy, especially with superior, supercilious council worker, Caroline Goodman. See her off Matilda! Most of the characters are very likeable, Ellen, Connie‘s mum is just fabulous, what a mother she is. I mustn’t forget Matilda‘s goats either, one is most definitely a character in her own right and is often the source of the humour.
This novel has a bit of everything, at times, it’s funny with some vivid scenes that make you smile, usually accompanied by great dialogue. It’s good on the impact of trauma, at times it’s therefore sad and poignant and some situations make you angry or shocked on characters behalf. It makes you think in lots of ways and drives home good points about issues such as affordable housing in beautiful rural areas. There is a real sense of community here, with everyone rallying round as best they can. That is a real feel good element.
Overall, it’s insightful, heartwarming, engaging and ultimately uplifting.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Aria and Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 15, 2024
The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave is the third novel by British journalist and author, Victoria Scott. After two years of hell that forced her to give up her London PR job, twenty-nine-year-old Connie Darke has retreated to her childhood home at Number three, Roseacre Close in Stonecastle, Worcestershire, to live with her mum, Ellen. Connie’s routine now involves pre-dawn walks, resisting Ellen’s exhortations to get out and about, then days in bed with vodka and Gilmore Girls on Netflix. Anything to avoid the world.
After more than six decades at Number four Roseacre Close, ninety-year-old Matilda Reynolds has a routine too: up with the rooster (Brian), feed the girls (Jennifer, Ruth and Helen), her many cats, and Eddie and Clarrie, the goats, tend her veggie garden, open one of the many tins of food she has handily stacked for a meal, repeat in the evening.
Then a mishap with those food tins sees Matilda in hospital and a reluctant Connie feeding her animals. “Close up, the goat smelled slightly sweet, if anything, and as she patted its coarse brown hair, she felt her breathing slow and her soul swell. This was how she felt when she was out walking in the fields, she realised. It was a peace she had never experienced in London, and it was why she had come back here. There was undoubtedly solace to be found in nature. Natural things didn’t argue with her, or abuse her, or shut her down.”
Of course social services poke their noses in, and the reclusive elder with a hoarding problem faces relocation: what will happen to her animals, to her life? She can’t ever reveal the true reason she can’t leave.
Connie is surprised to find herself not only doing what she can to help, but asking other nearby neighbours to lend a hand. In the process, she discovers that the assumptions she made about the people living in Roseacre Close were mostly wrong and sometimes unkind. And both Connie and Matilda realise that they perhaps have more in common with each other than they realise: “They were both incredibly stubborn, instinctively insular, and, she thought, rather damaged.”
For one “her daily routine was a brilliant brick wall she’d constructed to keep her memories at bay. But being in here, devoid of any purpose, meant that chinks of light were beginning to break through that wall, and she was deeply unsettled by that” while for the other “the forcefield she had worked hard to erect around herself was vulnerable, and she knew that if she shared too much of her past, she might damage it.”
The immediate threat is averted with some generous help from neighbours who are handymen, plumbers and electricians, while Connie manages to make the inside liveable without disturbing too many of Matilda’s precious things. But Matilda is uneasy about the unnamed man who accompanied Mrs Social Services on the inspection: with good reason, it eventually transpires…
It soon turns out that all of the council’s tenants in Roseacre Close have a fight on their hands if they don’t want to be tossed out when a greedy developer enters the scene. But neither Connie nor Matilda is willing to give up easily, and a combination of traditional and modern methods see their protest gaining media attention.
That attention is a problem for Connie, who has tried to stay under the radar. If her secrets come out, the friends she has made are sure to abandon her, and she couldn’t blame them! Can this small community take on local government and big business, and win?
Scott gives the reader a topical, moving and heart-warming read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria and Aries.
After more than six decades at Number four Roseacre Close, ninety-year-old Matilda Reynolds has a routine too: up with the rooster (Brian), feed the girls (Jennifer, Ruth and Helen), her many cats, and Eddie and Clarrie, the goats, tend her veggie garden, open one of the many tins of food she has handily stacked for a meal, repeat in the evening.
Then a mishap with those food tins sees Matilda in hospital and a reluctant Connie feeding her animals. “Close up, the goat smelled slightly sweet, if anything, and as she patted its coarse brown hair, she felt her breathing slow and her soul swell. This was how she felt when she was out walking in the fields, she realised. It was a peace she had never experienced in London, and it was why she had come back here. There was undoubtedly solace to be found in nature. Natural things didn’t argue with her, or abuse her, or shut her down.”
Of course social services poke their noses in, and the reclusive elder with a hoarding problem faces relocation: what will happen to her animals, to her life? She can’t ever reveal the true reason she can’t leave.
Connie is surprised to find herself not only doing what she can to help, but asking other nearby neighbours to lend a hand. In the process, she discovers that the assumptions she made about the people living in Roseacre Close were mostly wrong and sometimes unkind. And both Connie and Matilda realise that they perhaps have more in common with each other than they realise: “They were both incredibly stubborn, instinctively insular, and, she thought, rather damaged.”
For one “her daily routine was a brilliant brick wall she’d constructed to keep her memories at bay. But being in here, devoid of any purpose, meant that chinks of light were beginning to break through that wall, and she was deeply unsettled by that” while for the other “the forcefield she had worked hard to erect around herself was vulnerable, and she knew that if she shared too much of her past, she might damage it.”
The immediate threat is averted with some generous help from neighbours who are handymen, plumbers and electricians, while Connie manages to make the inside liveable without disturbing too many of Matilda’s precious things. But Matilda is uneasy about the unnamed man who accompanied Mrs Social Services on the inspection: with good reason, it eventually transpires…
It soon turns out that all of the council’s tenants in Roseacre Close have a fight on their hands if they don’t want to be tossed out when a greedy developer enters the scene. But neither Connie nor Matilda is willing to give up easily, and a combination of traditional and modern methods see their protest gaining media attention.
That attention is a problem for Connie, who has tried to stay under the radar. If her secrets come out, the friends she has made are sure to abandon her, and she couldn’t blame them! Can this small community take on local government and big business, and win?
Scott gives the reader a topical, moving and heart-warming read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Aria and Aries.
October 1, 2025
This was a switch for type of stories and one that I quite enjoyed! I am drawn to British settings with my soft spot for that country. It was quite relatable in so many ways with housing shortages big time as many people are desperate, corrupt politicians and govt workers as no surprise there. The spunky older woman Matilda was one of my favourites as she was such a no nonsense character and her blunt ways :)... There were reconciliations as well as a bit of romance for even the cynical me to be pleased with. The relationships were so unconditional with the mother for her daughter...so true and touching......It was a neat insight into British life in the country as I could visualize them and imagine the accent too.....The coming together of all the neighbours in their fight to deal with shady govts and property developers was heart warming.....I would have preferred not to have the frequent f bombs and the name of Jesus taken as a curse word; dismaying there but overall I really was engrossed in this and liked it!
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June 20, 2023I was eager to start Victoria Scott’s latest novel and when I started I couldn’t stop. Connie was someone who I felt for and Matilda was someone i found interesting too. Victoria Scott has an absolute gift for depicting difficult realities. I identified with Matilda’s being vulnerable- as I am, too but because of physical disabilities instead of old age. Connie is vulnerable in her own way,
With their alternating chapters, I felt I was deeply immersed in their backstories, Both women are people to root for. The town is realistic and I identified with the social housing projects because I also have experience of those lists. The sensitivity with which Victoria deals with the very hard realities of each character is both heart wrenching and heartwarming.
Now having reviewed Patience, Grace and now The Woman Who Wouldn’t Leave, I can honestly say that Victoria Scott is one of my favorite authors.
The Woman Who Wouldn’t Leave is a novel that will not leave me, and it’s one of the best books of my year so far.
Thanks to Victoria Scott and Aria and Aries for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars but it deserves more.
With their alternating chapters, I felt I was deeply immersed in their backstories, Both women are people to root for. The town is realistic and I identified with the social housing projects because I also have experience of those lists. The sensitivity with which Victoria deals with the very hard realities of each character is both heart wrenching and heartwarming.
Now having reviewed Patience, Grace and now The Woman Who Wouldn’t Leave, I can honestly say that Victoria Scott is one of my favorite authors.
The Woman Who Wouldn’t Leave is a novel that will not leave me, and it’s one of the best books of my year so far.
Thanks to Victoria Scott and Aria and Aries for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars but it deserves more.
March 20, 2023
This was such a lovely book! Very emotional at many times. The friendship that blossomed between Connie and Matilda, two women of completely different ages, generations and backgrounds but who had a lot in common once they let each other in. Both women hiding from the world because of their own traumas, but bringing each other back into it. It was very moving. The community aspect of the book was also heartwarming. It shows that we can have perceptions of those around us but have no real clue about who they are or what they've been through. And that if you take a chance to get to know those people, they can enrich your life. So beautifully written and a book I will remember for a long time.
August 6, 2023
My thoughts -
“The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave” (not forgetting Rory the goat) is an absolute heart-breaker but at the same time is uplifting, heart warming and gives a wonderful glow to your soul whilst reading.
The strength and resilience of these two broken women (and all the characters to be fair as each have their own personal story/tragedy) was just remarkable and had me truly rooting for them, from the very first page. They were literally polar opposites to each other but had the same sad vulnerability and despondent attitude to life and other people. ‘Stubborn, instinctively insular and damaged’ I endeared to Connie and Matilda instantly, despite at times their frustrating opinions. Not knowing the extent of each other’s mental injuries just proved how much of a wall they had put up around themselves and to see this gradually broken down through friendship was just so heartwarming. How they came together in support of saving their council estate from being sold off was purely wonderful to read and had me wishing I was actually there in the book with them, to help with the protests.
I liked how Connie had little nicknames for her neighbours (don’t we all do that??) and then gradually as she got to know them, realised how wrong she was about her initial character assumptions.
I cannot lie, when the story took a huge emotional turn, I developed something in my eye and a pebble in my throat, proof of a well written and narrated chapter that I felt deep in my heart.
With a lovely colourful cover that attracts the eye, a promising premise and undeniably endearing characters, this is a must read story and for me a well deserved 5 plus stars!
(On a side note, there are some trigger subjects readers may appreciate being made aware of - eviction, personal trauma, depression, alcoholism, sexual assault, attempted suicide, swearing and an LGBTQ character. But none were graphic and perfectly acceptable to the story they were portrayed in).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus
“The Women Who Wouldn’t Leave” (not forgetting Rory the goat) is an absolute heart-breaker but at the same time is uplifting, heart warming and gives a wonderful glow to your soul whilst reading.
The strength and resilience of these two broken women (and all the characters to be fair as each have their own personal story/tragedy) was just remarkable and had me truly rooting for them, from the very first page. They were literally polar opposites to each other but had the same sad vulnerability and despondent attitude to life and other people. ‘Stubborn, instinctively insular and damaged’ I endeared to Connie and Matilda instantly, despite at times their frustrating opinions. Not knowing the extent of each other’s mental injuries just proved how much of a wall they had put up around themselves and to see this gradually broken down through friendship was just so heartwarming. How they came together in support of saving their council estate from being sold off was purely wonderful to read and had me wishing I was actually there in the book with them, to help with the protests.
I liked how Connie had little nicknames for her neighbours (don’t we all do that??) and then gradually as she got to know them, realised how wrong she was about her initial character assumptions.
I cannot lie, when the story took a huge emotional turn, I developed something in my eye and a pebble in my throat, proof of a well written and narrated chapter that I felt deep in my heart.
With a lovely colourful cover that attracts the eye, a promising premise and undeniably endearing characters, this is a must read story and for me a well deserved 5 plus stars!
(On a side note, there are some trigger subjects readers may appreciate being made aware of - eviction, personal trauma, depression, alcoholism, sexual assault, attempted suicide, swearing and an LGBTQ character. But none were graphic and perfectly acceptable to the story they were portrayed in).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ plus
July 13, 2023
I received a free copy of, The Women Who Wouldn't Leave, by Victoria Scott, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Matilda Reynolds lives a quiet life until she is injured and has to stay in hospital, she asks her young neighbor Connie to watch over her place. They get news that a developer wants their abode, they really do not want to leave it. This is nice story about friendship, fighting the political machine, and just living day to day.
June 26, 2023
What a lovely lovely book. An amazing cast of characters and such a lovely story. I’d highly recommend giving this a go!
June 9, 2023
Another beautiful story from author Victoria Scott.
Connie has run away from her life in London, back to her mother's house in a small village, away from prying eyes.
She grew up on the estate before leaving for the bright lights in the capital to live with her father.
She doesn't know much about the people there, though she knows of them, and neither does she have any interest in getting to know them better.
Matilda has lived in her house on the estate since it was built. She has been there for decades, yet she still doesn't know her neighbours and isn't interested in getting to know them. She has her house, her memories and her animals.
Both women have secrets that they'd rather keep to themselves. However, an accident somehow builds a bridge of communication that becomes stronger as time goes on, especially when there is a fear of both women losing their safe spaces.
I loved this beautiful story of friendship and resilience.
Both these characters have a tragedy-filled story behind them, which is heartrending to read, and though they are polar opposites, I loved how they connected and the development of their relationship, despite being from such different generations.
The whole community on the estate is an interesting bunch, and the animals, though noisy, were what ultimately brought them together.
A fantastic read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for an ARC.
Connie has run away from her life in London, back to her mother's house in a small village, away from prying eyes.
She grew up on the estate before leaving for the bright lights in the capital to live with her father.
She doesn't know much about the people there, though she knows of them, and neither does she have any interest in getting to know them better.
Matilda has lived in her house on the estate since it was built. She has been there for decades, yet she still doesn't know her neighbours and isn't interested in getting to know them. She has her house, her memories and her animals.
Both women have secrets that they'd rather keep to themselves. However, an accident somehow builds a bridge of communication that becomes stronger as time goes on, especially when there is a fear of both women losing their safe spaces.
I loved this beautiful story of friendship and resilience.
Both these characters have a tragedy-filled story behind them, which is heartrending to read, and though they are polar opposites, I loved how they connected and the development of their relationship, despite being from such different generations.
The whole community on the estate is an interesting bunch, and the animals, though noisy, were what ultimately brought them together.
A fantastic read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for an ARC.
July 24, 2023
The Women Who Wouldn't Leave is a crisp breath of fresh air this smoggy world of ours. It is about neighbours, friendships, perseverance, secrets, trust and hope. Author Victoria Scott's beautifully descriptive writing captured my heart immediately. I was right there with main characters Matilda and Connie as well as the animals (and other neighbours) and felt a range of emotions in the heartwarming, uplifting and poignant story.
Connie had a traumatic experience and returned home to a rural council estate to regroup and escape life. What better place than in a small and rustic community? Her elderly neighbour Matilda is not exactly congenial but as neighbours they need occasional contact. When Matilda finds herself in the hospital with no one to care for her beloved animals, Connie very reluctantly agrees to help out. Animals are not Connie's wheelhouse but she needs to have a purpose. She quickly discovers much more about herself and her capabilities than she would have dreamed. Matilda must learn to let go of what binds her and it is not easy. What a pleasure to watch them both grow individually and together as they navigate challenges which crop up.
If you crave a feel-good book to satiate you, add this to your list. Well worth enjoying.
My sincere thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this fabulous novel.
Connie had a traumatic experience and returned home to a rural council estate to regroup and escape life. What better place than in a small and rustic community? Her elderly neighbour Matilda is not exactly congenial but as neighbours they need occasional contact. When Matilda finds herself in the hospital with no one to care for her beloved animals, Connie very reluctantly agrees to help out. Animals are not Connie's wheelhouse but she needs to have a purpose. She quickly discovers much more about herself and her capabilities than she would have dreamed. Matilda must learn to let go of what binds her and it is not easy. What a pleasure to watch them both grow individually and together as they navigate challenges which crop up.
If you crave a feel-good book to satiate you, add this to your list. Well worth enjoying.
My sincere thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this fabulous novel.
April 11, 2024
Any book that makes me cry automatically gets at least 4 stars 🤩 and this one did. I enjoyed the friendship between Connie and Matilda very much and this book drew me in so I was rooting for the whole community in their fight. I will read more from Victoria.
February 29, 2024
Well written, feel good story. I enjoyed it.
August 29, 2024
An uplifting story following the lives of the residents in Roseacre Close. Great characters that you can't fail to love as the story unfolds.
July 30, 2023
We have here an engaging novel that explores the power of friendship and resilience in the face of looming danger. Set in the peaceful village of Stonecastle in Worcestershire, the book brings together two seemingly different women, Matilda Reynolds and Connie, who form an unlikely bond as they fight to protect their beloved community from the ruthless hands of a greedy developer.
The story begins with Matilda, a contented woman who cherishes her quiet life alongside her beloved animals. However, a fall lands her in the hospital, forcing her to rely on her young and enigmatic neighbor, Connie, for assistance in organizing her affairs and protecting her home. As the two women navigate their personal traumas and learn to trust each other, they uncover surprising similarities and gradually forge a deep and meaningful friendship.
Just as their bond strengthens, a tremendous threat looms over Stonecastle - a profit-driven developer plans to bulldoze the village and replace it with soulless construction. Matilda and Connie must rally their community and find a way to save their homes and the essence of their peaceful existence.
The characters in the novel are intricately developed and bring life and authenticity to the story. Matilda is a compassionate and resilient woman who values her independence, while Connie is a complex character with a troubled past, making it difficult for her to trust others. Their contrasting personalities and shared determination to protect their community create an engaging dynamic that captivates readers from the start.
The vivid descriptions of Stonecastle and its surrounding countryside transport readers into the heart of the village, immersing them in its natural beauty and the sense of community that pervades its atmosphere. The author's ability to evoke emotions and detail the struggles and triumphs faced by Matilda, Connie, and the community adds depth and dimension to the narrative.
One of the highlights of the book is its exploration of the deeper themes of friendship, trust, and the power of community in the face of adversity. Through the evolving relationship between Matilda and Connie, readers witness the transformative power of compassion, understanding, and unity. The book also sheds light on the importance of cherishing and preserving the places we call home, reminding readers of the significance of community bonds in safeguarding our shared spaces.
The story begins with Matilda, a contented woman who cherishes her quiet life alongside her beloved animals. However, a fall lands her in the hospital, forcing her to rely on her young and enigmatic neighbor, Connie, for assistance in organizing her affairs and protecting her home. As the two women navigate their personal traumas and learn to trust each other, they uncover surprising similarities and gradually forge a deep and meaningful friendship.
Just as their bond strengthens, a tremendous threat looms over Stonecastle - a profit-driven developer plans to bulldoze the village and replace it with soulless construction. Matilda and Connie must rally their community and find a way to save their homes and the essence of their peaceful existence.
The characters in the novel are intricately developed and bring life and authenticity to the story. Matilda is a compassionate and resilient woman who values her independence, while Connie is a complex character with a troubled past, making it difficult for her to trust others. Their contrasting personalities and shared determination to protect their community create an engaging dynamic that captivates readers from the start.
The vivid descriptions of Stonecastle and its surrounding countryside transport readers into the heart of the village, immersing them in its natural beauty and the sense of community that pervades its atmosphere. The author's ability to evoke emotions and detail the struggles and triumphs faced by Matilda, Connie, and the community adds depth and dimension to the narrative.
One of the highlights of the book is its exploration of the deeper themes of friendship, trust, and the power of community in the face of adversity. Through the evolving relationship between Matilda and Connie, readers witness the transformative power of compassion, understanding, and unity. The book also sheds light on the importance of cherishing and preserving the places we call home, reminding readers of the significance of community bonds in safeguarding our shared spaces.
August 3, 2023
When her life implodes, Connie returns to the sanctuary of her childhood home – a small close of council houses in rural Worcestershire – where she avoids contact with others by taking solitary early morning walks, observing (and making assumptions about) the lives of her neighbours by watching them through the window, vodka bottle in hand. Next-door neighbour Matilda – now in her 80s – has lived in the close for most of her life, caring for her beloved animals, keeping herself to herself, now confined to her front room, surrounded by her hoarded memories.
After an accident, Connie reluctantly takes on the care of her animals while Matilda is in hospital, and finds particular solace in their company (particularly one rather special goat) – and when it becomes clear that ongoing help is needed, the pair develop an initially tentative but growing supportive friendship. But life intervenes – the council and developers see an opportunity to develop the close, moving out its residents. And with Connie and Matilda leading the effort, the community pulls together to fight their decision.
The characterisation in this book is quite superb. The story is told in alternating chapters, in third person, through the eyes of Connie and Matilda, and the heartbreaking stories of both their lives slowly emerge – the trauma in their pasts, the heavy baggage they carry. Both are flawed and desperately vulnerable, but initially not particularly likeable – but as their friendship grows, so does our understanding of their respective journeys, and they both soon found a place in my heart. But I also loved the rich cast of supporting characters, the other individuals who live on the close, defying the assumptions Connie made about their lives, each with their own emotional story. And I must mention Connie’s mother – a carer in every sense of the word, and a calm and reliable presence amid the turmoil that ensues.
The whole story is immensely engaging – and beautifully written, particularly the dialogue and the emotional content. The impact of trauma is just perfectly handled, and the strength the two women at the heart of the story find in each other is tremendously uplifting, but not without a few tears along the way. There are developments in the story that made me particularly angry, but there’s always a balance of gentle humour too – plenty of moments to make you smile, the warmth of the community just wonderfully captured. It’s difficult to achieve, but it was a story I really felt part of – I could feel the hurt, share the hopelessness, experience the joy, share the tears and laughter.
This was a book I really loved – my first experience of the author’s writing, and it certainly won’t be my last. Totally unforgettable, and without question one of my books of the year – emotional, engaging, uplifting, one of those rare and perfect reads – and very highly recommended.
After an accident, Connie reluctantly takes on the care of her animals while Matilda is in hospital, and finds particular solace in their company (particularly one rather special goat) – and when it becomes clear that ongoing help is needed, the pair develop an initially tentative but growing supportive friendship. But life intervenes – the council and developers see an opportunity to develop the close, moving out its residents. And with Connie and Matilda leading the effort, the community pulls together to fight their decision.
The characterisation in this book is quite superb. The story is told in alternating chapters, in third person, through the eyes of Connie and Matilda, and the heartbreaking stories of both their lives slowly emerge – the trauma in their pasts, the heavy baggage they carry. Both are flawed and desperately vulnerable, but initially not particularly likeable – but as their friendship grows, so does our understanding of their respective journeys, and they both soon found a place in my heart. But I also loved the rich cast of supporting characters, the other individuals who live on the close, defying the assumptions Connie made about their lives, each with their own emotional story. And I must mention Connie’s mother – a carer in every sense of the word, and a calm and reliable presence amid the turmoil that ensues.
The whole story is immensely engaging – and beautifully written, particularly the dialogue and the emotional content. The impact of trauma is just perfectly handled, and the strength the two women at the heart of the story find in each other is tremendously uplifting, but not without a few tears along the way. There are developments in the story that made me particularly angry, but there’s always a balance of gentle humour too – plenty of moments to make you smile, the warmth of the community just wonderfully captured. It’s difficult to achieve, but it was a story I really felt part of – I could feel the hurt, share the hopelessness, experience the joy, share the tears and laughter.
This was a book I really loved – my first experience of the author’s writing, and it certainly won’t be my last. Totally unforgettable, and without question one of my books of the year – emotional, engaging, uplifting, one of those rare and perfect reads – and very highly recommended.
July 18, 2023
You can’t see me but I’m on my feet giving Victoria Scott a standing ovation. I didn’t think I’d love another book by her as much as I loved Grace but my word this novel is beautiful!
All of my favourite things are in here, love of the English countryside, intergenerational friendships, wit, compassion and a ‘will they, won’t they?’ cliffhanger storyline.
Scott’s ability to draw characters of all ages, of all social strata and both genders is incomparable. Matilda and Constance are so different yet so similar and both completely real to the point where I could actual smell Matilda at one point!
As in Grace there are some lovely male characters but it is Scott’s women that always come to the fore and both our two protagonists along with Ellen l; Con’s devoted mother are powerful women not to be messed with. I loved how each resident of the street began to blossom some just slightly and some like the main three, quite unrecognisably from the start of the novel.
Again there is a thread of Christianity running through the book as we hear Matilda praying and musing to herself about what her faith has done to mould her and form her opinions. Just as she did in Grace the author offers this up as simply a fact of life with no opinion offered and no agenda at play. Quietly normalising the fact that many people in Britain do hold strong faith and that it doesn’t mean they aren’t tolerant and accepting of others.
I also loved Constance’s nicknames for the other residents of the street and the backstory she invented for each of them. I also liked how Jamie then neatly demolished these fantasies in his own inimitable fashion as he introduced her to the wider community that she was seeking to hide from.
I loved this novel, loved it!! I do hope the author already has another novel in the pipeline!
All of my favourite things are in here, love of the English countryside, intergenerational friendships, wit, compassion and a ‘will they, won’t they?’ cliffhanger storyline.
Scott’s ability to draw characters of all ages, of all social strata and both genders is incomparable. Matilda and Constance are so different yet so similar and both completely real to the point where I could actual smell Matilda at one point!
As in Grace there are some lovely male characters but it is Scott’s women that always come to the fore and both our two protagonists along with Ellen l; Con’s devoted mother are powerful women not to be messed with. I loved how each resident of the street began to blossom some just slightly and some like the main three, quite unrecognisably from the start of the novel.
Again there is a thread of Christianity running through the book as we hear Matilda praying and musing to herself about what her faith has done to mould her and form her opinions. Just as she did in Grace the author offers this up as simply a fact of life with no opinion offered and no agenda at play. Quietly normalising the fact that many people in Britain do hold strong faith and that it doesn’t mean they aren’t tolerant and accepting of others.
I also loved Constance’s nicknames for the other residents of the street and the backstory she invented for each of them. I also liked how Jamie then neatly demolished these fantasies in his own inimitable fashion as he introduced her to the wider community that she was seeking to hide from.
I loved this novel, loved it!! I do hope the author already has another novel in the pipeline!
August 5, 2023
This is a novel which sweeps you along and you find yourself caring about the characters and what is going to happen to them. At first, you see different generations who are living around the cul de sac through Connie's eyes. It takes some time to work out what is the matter with Connie and why she is keeping herself hidden away. She has tried to make herself invisible and unnoticed. In truth, she is noticed. As Connie comes to realise, her impression of her neighbours was not accurate. They have their own challenges.
Matilda, Connie's elderly next door neighbour has also tried to live her life away from people. They have quite a lot in common. Her accident is the catalyst for Connie beginning to look outwards. The mystery of why Matilda is living as she does runs throughout the story. There are some emotional moments and a slow burn romance. I enjoyed this novel a great deal and found myself hoping that Victoria Scott revisits Stonecastle.
In short: an uplifting tale despite some dark issues
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Matilda, Connie's elderly next door neighbour has also tried to live her life away from people. They have quite a lot in common. Her accident is the catalyst for Connie beginning to look outwards. The mystery of why Matilda is living as she does runs throughout the story. There are some emotional moments and a slow burn romance. I enjoyed this novel a great deal and found myself hoping that Victoria Scott revisits Stonecastle.
In short: an uplifting tale despite some dark issues
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
August 7, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I bloody love a character-driven story, so at two chapters in, after I'd been introduced to both of our main characters, I knew I was going to love this. As someone with a pretty extensive career in social work and who really enjoys working with older people, I was always going to love this story (even if I hated the Social Workers in this 😂) However, I found myself loving Connie and Matilda equally.
I adore books with that community feel and the fact that The Women Who Wouldn't Leave was in the majority set in just one road meant that you really got to know the characters.
This was an emotional, thought-provoking read and I can see myself coming back to read this again in the future as a comfort read. I really loved it. So much happened and I didn't want to stop reading.
I bloody love a character-driven story, so at two chapters in, after I'd been introduced to both of our main characters, I knew I was going to love this. As someone with a pretty extensive career in social work and who really enjoys working with older people, I was always going to love this story (even if I hated the Social Workers in this 😂) However, I found myself loving Connie and Matilda equally.
I adore books with that community feel and the fact that The Women Who Wouldn't Leave was in the majority set in just one road meant that you really got to know the characters.
This was an emotional, thought-provoking read and I can see myself coming back to read this again in the future as a comfort read. I really loved it. So much happened and I didn't want to stop reading.
August 9, 2023
I started the story very much disliking both main characters: Matilda was way too abrasive and Connie was too scare of everything... But I must say, Scott knows what she's doing: slowly showing the hows and whys of their personalities, their stories and traumas and how they are more similar than we can simply see. If there's something you can take away from this book is a sense of community, friendship in the most unlikely places and that no one can determine who or how strong you are but yourself. I loved the mental health discussion (including a hoarding disorder, depression, addiction and dealing with toxic relationship and rape, please check the trigger warnings) and how love can be present in so many different ways. This was an amazing read, definitely recommend it!
April 27, 2024
I very much enjoyed this book. It's set in England, and I listened to the audio version--always fun with that thick British accent. This is a very unique story. It's not a romance, though there is romantic love. It's not merely a women's fiction story, though several women fill prominent roles. It's a story that encompasses much, but at it's heart--it's a story about what it means to be a neighbor, a part of a community, a friend.
Highly recommend.
Note: There is a bit of language, mention of an alternative lifestyle, and other "modern" situations. I didn't find that those things distracted from the story at all...in fact, it rather added to the richness of it.
Highly recommend.
Note: There is a bit of language, mention of an alternative lifestyle, and other "modern" situations. I didn't find that those things distracted from the story at all...in fact, it rather added to the richness of it.
July 22, 2023
A very engaging story about a diverse group of people - centring around eccentric elderly Matilda, living alone with her animals, and twenty-something Connie, back living with her mother Ellen - fighting to save their council homes from being sold off to a developer.
Both Matilda and Connie have their issues, and plenty of them - this looks like a light read but has some dark themes of coercive control, sexual assault and mental ill-health. Both women have withdrawn from society for their own reasons, but find themselves - initially reluctantly - being pulled back into the community.
There's a nice cast of characters, drawn from the local residents (and animals), and a dash of romance.
Thanks for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Both Matilda and Connie have their issues, and plenty of them - this looks like a light read but has some dark themes of coercive control, sexual assault and mental ill-health. Both women have withdrawn from society for their own reasons, but find themselves - initially reluctantly - being pulled back into the community.
There's a nice cast of characters, drawn from the local residents (and animals), and a dash of romance.
Thanks for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2023
Home to hide after years of disastrous decisions in London, Connie numbs herself with too much vodka and endless repeats of episodes of "The Gilmore Girls". She also spies on her neighbours from her bedroom in her mother's long time rental, giving them nicknames and creating narratives based on their appearances and habits.
Meanwhile, elderly next door neighbour Matilda lives with only her animals for company, and years of hoarded papers, food cans and grief. When Connie and another neighbour, Jamie, find Matilda incapacitated and unconscious one day, this sets off a series of events:
-Connie begins caring for Matilda's goats, cats and chickens, and taking care of Matilda's overgrown garden and vegetable patch
-Matilda begins receiving some medical care, and getting to know Connie. The two begin ever so slowly opening up to one another about their lives
-Connie becomes acquainted with the others in the council rental homes, discovering that all of the people are much more complex than she realized, and all have concerns, griefs and hopes in their pasts and presents
-The local council decides to award a contract to a local developer for the land the council homes are on, based on an assessment of Matilda''s home and its years of lack of maintenance
-The residents all decide to fight back against the proposed sale and redevelopment
Connie and Matilda are the main characters, and they both are well characterized: the women's fears and unwillingness to connect with others was believable, and their slow moves to open up were full of the hesitances two lonely and mistrustful people would feel. As well, despite their differences in ages and experiences, the two grow to love and respect one another, and Connie begins taking charge of her life after years of ignoring her mental health issues.
This is a terrific novel about friendship, and how it can flourish if one takes the time to listen and respect oneself and others. It's also about coming together as a community to fight for each other. It's moving, and left me happy and hopeful by its end.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Aria & Aries for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Meanwhile, elderly next door neighbour Matilda lives with only her animals for company, and years of hoarded papers, food cans and grief. When Connie and another neighbour, Jamie, find Matilda incapacitated and unconscious one day, this sets off a series of events:
-Connie begins caring for Matilda's goats, cats and chickens, and taking care of Matilda's overgrown garden and vegetable patch
-Matilda begins receiving some medical care, and getting to know Connie. The two begin ever so slowly opening up to one another about their lives
-Connie becomes acquainted with the others in the council rental homes, discovering that all of the people are much more complex than she realized, and all have concerns, griefs and hopes in their pasts and presents
-The local council decides to award a contract to a local developer for the land the council homes are on, based on an assessment of Matilda''s home and its years of lack of maintenance
-The residents all decide to fight back against the proposed sale and redevelopment
Connie and Matilda are the main characters, and they both are well characterized: the women's fears and unwillingness to connect with others was believable, and their slow moves to open up were full of the hesitances two lonely and mistrustful people would feel. As well, despite their differences in ages and experiences, the two grow to love and respect one another, and Connie begins taking charge of her life after years of ignoring her mental health issues.
This is a terrific novel about friendship, and how it can flourish if one takes the time to listen and respect oneself and others. It's also about coming together as a community to fight for each other. It's moving, and left me happy and hopeful by its end.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Aria & Aries for this ARC in exchange for my review.
August 3, 2023
A heartwarming novel of the power of friendship, community and resilience.
Follows a group of council tenants led by Connie & Matilda, in a small Worcestershire village fighting for their homes from being demolished.
Loved how they found their voice and felt empowered to fight for their homes.
Beautiful quirky characters who all have their secrets and loved how the animals got mentions too especially Clarrie the Goat
A brilliant holiday read and would make a perfect Book Club read.
Thanks @toryscott @ariafiction & @netgalley for the eARC
Follows a group of council tenants led by Connie & Matilda, in a small Worcestershire village fighting for their homes from being demolished.
Loved how they found their voice and felt empowered to fight for their homes.
Beautiful quirky characters who all have their secrets and loved how the animals got mentions too especially Clarrie the Goat
A brilliant holiday read and would make a perfect Book Club read.
Thanks @toryscott @ariafiction & @netgalley for the eARC
August 7, 2023
Connie and Matilda have stolen a piece of my heart. Both so alone, they’d understandably built up walls to protect themselves, and it’s only as they started to trust again did they realise what was available to them both.
I loved the community around them as they both began to trust again. Each character described so vividly- with the little traits to give them their individuality and names in Connie’s mind. Each with such an emotional hold onto the houses in the estate.
More than just a story about saving the houses, but a story of love and friendships, support and human strength.
This book has had me laughing out loud and sitting with tears rolling down my face. Such an emotional read and one that I could totally see transferred to the big screen.
I loved the community around them as they both began to trust again. Each character described so vividly- with the little traits to give them their individuality and names in Connie’s mind. Each with such an emotional hold onto the houses in the estate.
More than just a story about saving the houses, but a story of love and friendships, support and human strength.
This book has had me laughing out loud and sitting with tears rolling down my face. Such an emotional read and one that I could totally see transferred to the big screen.
September 3, 2023
This was not what I expected it to be at all.. it was so much better!! It’s a lot deeper than I thought it would be, exploring some real tough issues.
At first I couldn’t warm to Connie however as the story unfolds you start to empathise as it’s clear there’s some underlying reasons to explain her behaviour. The friendships and community spirit were just lovely, I laughed and cried!
I will be recommending this book!!
At first I couldn’t warm to Connie however as the story unfolds you start to empathise as it’s clear there’s some underlying reasons to explain her behaviour. The friendships and community spirit were just lovely, I laughed and cried!
I will be recommending this book!!
October 2, 2023
This storyline centres around the unlikely friendship of 20 something Connie, who has recently come back from London to live with her mum and is struggling with depression and alcoholism, and her eccentric hoarder neighbour Miranda, who is in her 90s.
After Miranda has a fall Connie finds herself becoming close to the older lady and falls in love with her pets (two goats, several cats and chickens) She also starts to realise how much loves her home town and reconnects with some friends. However when their little community comes under threat froma developer the residents look as though they will lose everything.
A lovely book focusing on strong women, family and friendship.
After Miranda has a fall Connie finds herself becoming close to the older lady and falls in love with her pets (two goats, several cats and chickens) She also starts to realise how much loves her home town and reconnects with some friends. However when their little community comes under threat froma developer the residents look as though they will lose everything.
A lovely book focusing on strong women, family and friendship.
August 14, 2023
I absolutely adored this book!! I instantly loved both main characters and was invested in their stories from the start. I have never read anything from the perspective of the final Matilda chapter, but it was so well written. A heart warming story to make you laugh and cry. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley, Aria & Aries, and the author for the ARC in exchange for a review.
Thank you to Netgalley, Aria & Aries, and the author for the ARC in exchange for a review.
December 9, 2023
This was a gorgeous book. Set in a fictional village in Worcestershire, it could easily have been one of the villages near my parents' house. It's strange reading a book set on your doorstep, where the people have your local accent, and I loved it.
September 2, 2023
Loved this book. Recomend it to anyone who loves a book about people and their struggles with life.
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