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Love Lindisfarne #1
Love Lindisfarne
LOVE LINDISFARNE…Take a Christmas trip to magical Northumberland and find love amongst the stars in this feel-good novel, which will transport you to iconic Holy Island where dreams really can come true!
Dumped at the office Christmas party, Ellie is about to vent her spleen on social media when a photo of a cute little dog advertising a charity catches her eye. Her world suddenly changes dramatically when she is offered a month’s stay in Northumberland to help look after rescue animals.
Ellie isn’t too sure where Northumberland is, but accepts, eager to start a new life away from London. Her destination is Lindisfarne, and her arrival on the small island in the North Sea is terrifying, fearing for her life on the causeway as the tide comes crashing in.
Ellie finds herself living in a hilltop castle, and far from the cats and dogs she expected she would be looking after, she is faced with all kinds of furry and feathery animals - and she doesn’t have a clue about any of them!
Welcomed to island life by the warm-hearted residents, she quickly embraces living in this special place, and from the moment she spots the mesmerising Zen with the gorgeous coffee bean eyes, her plans to stay single and mingle begin to fade fast.
Thanks to a severe storm, Lindisfarne is cut off from the mainland, and the islanders work together to salvage the planned Christmas events. Ellie is kept so busy that she hasn’t much time to think about her future when her time on the island ends.
Will the universe give Ellie its blessing? Will she find her happy ever after on the enchanting island of Lindisfarne? If it’s in the stars, then it’s in the stars…
Dumped at the office Christmas party, Ellie is about to vent her spleen on social media when a photo of a cute little dog advertising a charity catches her eye. Her world suddenly changes dramatically when she is offered a month’s stay in Northumberland to help look after rescue animals.
Ellie isn’t too sure where Northumberland is, but accepts, eager to start a new life away from London. Her destination is Lindisfarne, and her arrival on the small island in the North Sea is terrifying, fearing for her life on the causeway as the tide comes crashing in.
Ellie finds herself living in a hilltop castle, and far from the cats and dogs she expected she would be looking after, she is faced with all kinds of furry and feathery animals - and she doesn’t have a clue about any of them!
Welcomed to island life by the warm-hearted residents, she quickly embraces living in this special place, and from the moment she spots the mesmerising Zen with the gorgeous coffee bean eyes, her plans to stay single and mingle begin to fade fast.
Thanks to a severe storm, Lindisfarne is cut off from the mainland, and the islanders work together to salvage the planned Christmas events. Ellie is kept so busy that she hasn’t much time to think about her future when her time on the island ends.
Will the universe give Ellie its blessing? Will she find her happy ever after on the enchanting island of Lindisfarne? If it’s in the stars, then it’s in the stars…
- GenresRomanceContemporary
401 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2023
52 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 28, 2025
4.5⭐
Genre ~ Romantic Comedy
Setting ~ Northumberland, England ~ Holy Island
Publication date ~ September 12, 2023
Page Count ~ 403 (38 chapters)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ animals up the wazoo, island life, small town, insta attraction, slow burn, no steamage
Loveidy love loved!
After Ellie has been publicly dumped by Matt she drunkenly emails Santa Paws and the next thing she knows she quits her job and is leaving London to help take care of some animals in Northumberland. I loved all the animals, but Wilma and Wonky, the two donkeys in love, were my favorite.
When she meets Zen there's an instant attraction. He's a sweet, helpful fella, that could do with a hair cut, with coffee bean colored eyes that are easy to get lost in.
Small town, or island rather, living where everyone knows your name, and business, and all residents lend a helping hand whenever and wherever they are needed, no matter the circumstances. If I wasn't such an introvert I'd want to live there. It's described well and as an all around lovely place, except when the storms hit.
Everything happens for a reason, so thank the bloody stars Matt was such a tool or Ellie would have never met the delightful Zen, or Meg & Bert, or Aurora. Now that's not to say she didn't have delightful friends in London because she certainly did. There were only 2 awful characters out of so many, which is pretty good odds to me.
Overall, there were so many hilarious moments and one liners that kept me entertained throughout. I was not feeling the whole bit with Aidan, but other than that this was near perfect. It's one of the slowest burns of my life, but I didn't hate it for these 2 because they both have trust issues and needed to work through them. Maybe we can get a sequel with their happily ever after? Update - sequel coming May 23, 2024 woo hoo!
*Thanks to Kimberley Adams and Rachel's Random Resources for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ Romantic Comedy
Setting ~ Northumberland, England ~ Holy Island
Publication date ~ September 12, 2023
Page Count ~ 403 (38 chapters)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ animals up the wazoo, island life, small town, insta attraction, slow burn, no steamage
Loveidy love loved!
After Ellie has been publicly dumped by Matt she drunkenly emails Santa Paws and the next thing she knows she quits her job and is leaving London to help take care of some animals in Northumberland. I loved all the animals, but Wilma and Wonky, the two donkeys in love, were my favorite.
When she meets Zen there's an instant attraction. He's a sweet, helpful fella, that could do with a hair cut, with coffee bean colored eyes that are easy to get lost in.
Small town, or island rather, living where everyone knows your name, and business, and all residents lend a helping hand whenever and wherever they are needed, no matter the circumstances. If I wasn't such an introvert I'd want to live there. It's described well and as an all around lovely place, except when the storms hit.
Everything happens for a reason, so thank the bloody stars Matt was such a tool or Ellie would have never met the delightful Zen, or Meg & Bert, or Aurora. Now that's not to say she didn't have delightful friends in London because she certainly did. There were only 2 awful characters out of so many, which is pretty good odds to me.
Overall, there were so many hilarious moments and one liners that kept me entertained throughout. I was not feeling the whole bit with Aidan, but other than that this was near perfect. It's one of the slowest burns of my life, but I didn't hate it for these 2 because they both have trust issues and needed to work through them. Maybe we can get a sequel with their happily ever after? Update - sequel coming May 23, 2024 woo hoo!
*Thanks to Kimberley Adams and Rachel's Random Resources for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
August 11, 2025
Enjoyed this cosy read full of Northumberland scenery. Not having read a book by this author before I was glad to find it very readable with interesting characters
December 23, 2024
Love Lindisfarne offered a sweet, festive and comforting read for when I was feeling homesick for Northumberland. The story moves at a quick pace, making it an ideal pick for cozy reading during the lead-up to Christmas.
While it did what it set out to do, I did, however, find the descriptions repetitive and the plot predictable. I also found that several grammatical errors and awkward formatting choices (such as a new paragraph starting mid-sentence on p 156) disrupted the flow of the narrative.
Still, for a cozy, one-time read, it serves its purpose.
While it did what it set out to do, I did, however, find the descriptions repetitive and the plot predictable. I also found that several grammatical errors and awkward formatting choices (such as a new paragraph starting mid-sentence on p 156) disrupted the flow of the narrative.
Still, for a cozy, one-time read, it serves its purpose.
October 6, 2023
Ellie has her heart broken on the night she proposed to Matt. Little did she know he had been seeing someone else. So when she sees an ad needing someone to look after some animals while their owners are gone she jumps at the chance.
Lindisfarne sounds like a lovely island and all the characters in the book just as nice. The animals are cute sounding. It will make you wish you were there helping.
It’s a really nice story, perfect to loose yourself in.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for the copy
Lindisfarne sounds like a lovely island and all the characters in the book just as nice. The animals are cute sounding. It will make you wish you were there helping.
It’s a really nice story, perfect to loose yourself in.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for the copy
July 28, 2024
Let me just say from the off I don’t read romance however I got this shortly after visiting Lindisfarne (Holy Island in Northumberland) and I’ve only just got around to reading it. It’s a really lovely book set almost completely on Lindisfarne. The book opens with our heroine Ellie proposing to her boyfriend in a drunken state at an office party only for the office cougar to jump up saying he’s in love with her! Back home and still very inebriated Ellie donates to a dog charity and asks Santa Paws to make her dream come true. In true magical fashion he does and Ellie packs her bags and leaves London to spend a month over Christmas pet sitting.
Briefly, arriving at the island Ellie falls foul of the notorious tides and is rescued by local man Zen and is instantly attracted to his coffee bean coloured eyes. Shocked when she finds her jobs is not looking after a couple of dogs but a menagerie including horses, donkeys, a goat, alpacas, geese and of course cats and dogs - and the goat has to be milked twice a day! However, there are compensations in the form of luxurious accommodation, her new best friend Nacho and the friendly and supportive islanders (with a few exceptions) and of course eye candy Zen.
Although this is a romance and that was cute, it’s also a lot more. I loved the descriptions of the island and island life and could envisage much of what was described. But what I got most of all from this book was friendship, her fabulous supportive friends back in London and the wonderful people of Lindisfarne who greeted her, almost exclusively, with open arms. And the animals but then anyone who knows me knows I’m a sucker for animals. I could have done without the hamster story though! An enjoyable and entertaining book, romance with a dash of humour, fun at any time of year but great for anyone who likes a cozy Christmas read.
Briefly, arriving at the island Ellie falls foul of the notorious tides and is rescued by local man Zen and is instantly attracted to his coffee bean coloured eyes. Shocked when she finds her jobs is not looking after a couple of dogs but a menagerie including horses, donkeys, a goat, alpacas, geese and of course cats and dogs - and the goat has to be milked twice a day! However, there are compensations in the form of luxurious accommodation, her new best friend Nacho and the friendly and supportive islanders (with a few exceptions) and of course eye candy Zen.
Although this is a romance and that was cute, it’s also a lot more. I loved the descriptions of the island and island life and could envisage much of what was described. But what I got most of all from this book was friendship, her fabulous supportive friends back in London and the wonderful people of Lindisfarne who greeted her, almost exclusively, with open arms. And the animals but then anyone who knows me knows I’m a sucker for animals. I could have done without the hamster story though! An enjoyable and entertaining book, romance with a dash of humour, fun at any time of year but great for anyone who likes a cozy Christmas read.
October 5, 2023
✨My Thoughts✨
Thanks to the Blog Tour organiser and the author for my spot on this tour.
The first chapter had me laughing so much but also cringing for Ellie and feeling so sorry for her after she’s dumped at the works Christmas Party.
Ellie’s friendship group are just the best and they rally around her and admit they never really liked Matt anyway.
Ellie is in a drunken stupor and emails a dog charity the night she got dumped which leads to unexpected invitation and chance for a fresh start.
This story was magical from beginning to end, you’ll be drawn into the book from the first couple of pages, what made me love it so much was the realism, I could imagine myself and my family talking like Ellie and her friends did, my favourite characters are Bert & Meg though.
Lindisfarne seems like such an amazing place to live and you can really tell the author knows about it’s magic.
The animals that have been rescued are so so cute too and full of character and are often hilarious which I loved.
It’s honestly one of the best books of the year for me and I really hope it’s a series because I need more of this heartwarming place and charming characters. (especially Nacho)
Thanks to the Blog Tour organiser and the author for my spot on this tour.
The first chapter had me laughing so much but also cringing for Ellie and feeling so sorry for her after she’s dumped at the works Christmas Party.
Ellie’s friendship group are just the best and they rally around her and admit they never really liked Matt anyway.
Ellie is in a drunken stupor and emails a dog charity the night she got dumped which leads to unexpected invitation and chance for a fresh start.
This story was magical from beginning to end, you’ll be drawn into the book from the first couple of pages, what made me love it so much was the realism, I could imagine myself and my family talking like Ellie and her friends did, my favourite characters are Bert & Meg though.
Lindisfarne seems like such an amazing place to live and you can really tell the author knows about it’s magic.
The animals that have been rescued are so so cute too and full of character and are often hilarious which I loved.
It’s honestly one of the best books of the year for me and I really hope it’s a series because I need more of this heartwarming place and charming characters. (especially Nacho)
February 21, 2025
What a great debut novel. I really enjoyed reading it and having visited Holly Island myself I was able to picture it so much better.
I love reading books about places that are near me or I have been too, it creates a connection.
The characters were interesting and I loved the Christmas nativity improvisations. Island life is fascinating. Ellie and Zen are a great combination and I liked their slow burn. I’ll be adding the sequel to my reading list.
I love reading books about places that are near me or I have been too, it creates a connection.
The characters were interesting and I loved the Christmas nativity improvisations. Island life is fascinating. Ellie and Zen are a great combination and I liked their slow burn. I’ll be adding the sequel to my reading list.
January 24, 2024
I'm not a romance novel reader, but I picked this as it's Northumberland based. It was a great read, putting the places on Holy Island with fictitious people together and imagining the people described in the shops that exist in real life on the island. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
April 30, 2025
I don’t have enough words to say how much I loved this book. It made me laugh, it made me smile, but most of all it made me want to get in my car and drive to Lindisfarne immediately. I will definitely go this summer now. The characters were by turn hilarious and heartwarming. So much warmth, wit and humour. I’m just about to start another of the author’s books. Love, love, loved it!
September 2, 2023
I loved everything about this book from the beautiful cover to each individual character and the animals. This author certainly knows Lindisfarne well which shows through her descriptive writing about the island itself, weather conditions, and the close knit community. I felt like I was taken on a journey and became part of the community.
Ellie lives in London with her best friends close by but after a relationship breakdown Ellie gets an offer to go to Northumberland to help look after some rescue animals and it’s here that Ellie’s life begins to change.
How does Ellie end up in danger when she arrives on the island of Lindisfarne?
Who are Nacho and Pacino?
Who are Zen and Adain and what impact do they have on Ellie’s life?
I felt like I was friends with the characters they are so heartwarming especially Meg and Bert. The characters are a real pleasure to read about apart from Isla who has a very vindictive streak.
What I also thoroughly enjoyed were the authors quirky one liners.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book for an honest review and I give this book an easy 5 stars.
With this book set around Christmas, if you want a feel good story and a different Christmas read to other books, pick up Love Lindisfarne, It really is the one to read.
Ellie lives in London with her best friends close by but after a relationship breakdown Ellie gets an offer to go to Northumberland to help look after some rescue animals and it’s here that Ellie’s life begins to change.
How does Ellie end up in danger when she arrives on the island of Lindisfarne?
Who are Nacho and Pacino?
Who are Zen and Adain and what impact do they have on Ellie’s life?
I felt like I was friends with the characters they are so heartwarming especially Meg and Bert. The characters are a real pleasure to read about apart from Isla who has a very vindictive streak.
What I also thoroughly enjoyed were the authors quirky one liners.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book for an honest review and I give this book an easy 5 stars.
With this book set around Christmas, if you want a feel good story and a different Christmas read to other books, pick up Love Lindisfarne, It really is the one to read.
November 9, 2025
I absolutely loved this book!
If you love animals, if you love Christmas, if you love meeting characters who would definitely be your friends in real life…you will love this book!
In case you haven’t guessed, I highly recommend ‘Love Lindisfarne’ and I’m really looking forward to reading the rest of Kimberley’s books.
If you love animals, if you love Christmas, if you love meeting characters who would definitely be your friends in real life…you will love this book!
In case you haven’t guessed, I highly recommend ‘Love Lindisfarne’ and I’m really looking forward to reading the rest of Kimberley’s books.
October 8, 2023
You’d need a heart of stone not to feel for Ellie when she’s so very publicly humiliated – and it was a good thing that she had such a great group of friends to support her. But a fresh start is what she really needs for so many reasons – some drunken emails get her entangled with an animal charity and (although she’s really not sure where Northumberland is) she ends up travelling to Lindisfarne for Christmas as a volunteer (avoiding near disaster on the way – who knew it was an island?). A few dogs, she thought – she’d already fallen for the loveable little Nacho, and a few more wouldn’t make life too difficult. But no – horses, alpacas, donkeys, turkeys and more, and she needs to learn quickly. And, after a short time staying with the lovely Meg and Bert who help her find her feet, she finds herself living in an apartment in the castle – with one gorgeous man on hand (Zen) who she’d love to get closer to, and another (Aidan) that she struggles to keep at arm’s length (and is sometimes none too sure whether she wants to).
I will admit that I did have a moment at the beginning of this book when I did wonder if it might not be the book for me – and I only mention that in case you find yourself feeling the same. It was only because I was finding everything a little bit… maybe raucous would be the right word? But I soon got over that – even before Ellie began to find her feet on Lindisfarne, showing she was capable of caring and working hard, making friends across the generations (and with some of the more difficult animals, giving them a good talking to!), and I entirely took her to my heart. But all the characterisation really was excellent – Meg and Bert (both elderly) were beautifully drawn and impossible not to adore, I enjoyed her new friendship with Aurora, and Zen certainly had a lot more to make you love him than his shaggy hair and coffee bean eyes. Aidan’s an absolute hoot, refusing to take no for an answer but with nothing about his dogged persistence remotely uncomfortable (even if I couldn’t quite see the attraction!) – and there’s also a bit of a baddie (mean girl…) making life that little bit more difficult for everyone.
It’s a very contemporary story, and I know an old pensioner like me would probably never have been its target audience – but it really is so beautifully told. There’s that community feel where everyone pulls together when the going gets tough that always draws me to a book – and it’s set at Christmas, adding all the right emotional touches. And the setting really is absolutely perfect – that part of the Northumberland coast is a real personal favourite, and the author’s love for it is something you can feel in every lovely description. Mind you, I’ve never been there in the depths of winter, when life is rather less comfortable for everyone when the storms come in – so there are some well written moments of particular drama too. The central romance – a particularly slow-burn one – was one I could really feel and totally believed in. And there’s plenty of humour, with some of the best one-liners I’ve come across in a while – but there are many other moments that are both touching and extremely moving. The ending was a tad unexpected (and I’m certainly not going to spoil it…), but I really thought it was absolutely perfect.
This was a romantic comedy I’d thoroughly recommend – and an author I’d certainly love to read again. In fact, I’d be more than happy to read a sequel, find out what happened next – or if not, definitely another book with that gorgeous Northumberland setting. A really lovely read.
I will admit that I did have a moment at the beginning of this book when I did wonder if it might not be the book for me – and I only mention that in case you find yourself feeling the same. It was only because I was finding everything a little bit… maybe raucous would be the right word? But I soon got over that – even before Ellie began to find her feet on Lindisfarne, showing she was capable of caring and working hard, making friends across the generations (and with some of the more difficult animals, giving them a good talking to!), and I entirely took her to my heart. But all the characterisation really was excellent – Meg and Bert (both elderly) were beautifully drawn and impossible not to adore, I enjoyed her new friendship with Aurora, and Zen certainly had a lot more to make you love him than his shaggy hair and coffee bean eyes. Aidan’s an absolute hoot, refusing to take no for an answer but with nothing about his dogged persistence remotely uncomfortable (even if I couldn’t quite see the attraction!) – and there’s also a bit of a baddie (mean girl…) making life that little bit more difficult for everyone.
It’s a very contemporary story, and I know an old pensioner like me would probably never have been its target audience – but it really is so beautifully told. There’s that community feel where everyone pulls together when the going gets tough that always draws me to a book – and it’s set at Christmas, adding all the right emotional touches. And the setting really is absolutely perfect – that part of the Northumberland coast is a real personal favourite, and the author’s love for it is something you can feel in every lovely description. Mind you, I’ve never been there in the depths of winter, when life is rather less comfortable for everyone when the storms come in – so there are some well written moments of particular drama too. The central romance – a particularly slow-burn one – was one I could really feel and totally believed in. And there’s plenty of humour, with some of the best one-liners I’ve come across in a while – but there are many other moments that are both touching and extremely moving. The ending was a tad unexpected (and I’m certainly not going to spoil it…), but I really thought it was absolutely perfect.
This was a romantic comedy I’d thoroughly recommend – and an author I’d certainly love to read again. In fact, I’d be more than happy to read a sequel, find out what happened next – or if not, definitely another book with that gorgeous Northumberland setting. A really lovely read.
October 14, 2023
I was excited to read Love Lindisfarne by Kimberley Adams, because it is set in Northumberland, where I have visited quite a lot, including Seahouses, Bamburgh Castle, Lindisfarne/Holy Island and even the Grace Darling museum, which are all included in the novel. It also has one of the best book covers I’ve seen all year.
We begin the story at the office Christmas party, where we meet Ellie, our main character and straight away, we love her. She decides to propose to her boyfriend of three years – Matt. But it doesn’t go according to plan. Later on, after drunkenly emailing a dog charity – Dogs Are For Life – she is invited to visit them, so she leaves her home in Peckham (a flat shared with her friend Sophie) to meet Santa Paws. She is offered a month looking after some rescued animals, which means she has to go up to Northumberland, somewhere she has never been before.
Her job is helping Bert and Meg look after James and Grace’s animals, who are a varied mix of wonderful creatures! While there, she meets the adorable Zen with the coffee bean eyes! Well, I think we all fell in love with Zen during this book.
The book has nice, short chapters and it’s really easy to get into. From the first chapter, you love Ellie. Then there’s all the gorgeous Santa Paws stuff. I’m always a fan of cute dogs in books and here we have Nacho the dog, plus the added bonus of cute rescue animals of all kinds. (I think the alpacas were my favourites!)
The humans are amazing too. My favourite characters were Bert and Meg, but there are loads of others including Zen’s sister Aurora and the cute kids Amelia and William. Plus there’s a real baddy who’s a total witch (cough).
I was pleased to see there were no major swear words and the romance was just how I like to read it - sweet, not too saucy, a slow burn that seemed authentic and believable between two characters who are so well-suited to each other, but first need to recover from their pasts. I wasn’t quite so sure about Aidan, who appears a bit full on for my liking, but I was pleased with how events unfurled.
The setting is great, very atmospheric being on an island and the sense of community came across strongly. I loved all the social events organised like the pub quiz and Christmas jumper soiree.
I loved the writing style, which has some wonderful funny bits too. For a debut author, Kimberley’s writing is beautiful and flows perfectly.
We begin the story at the office Christmas party, where we meet Ellie, our main character and straight away, we love her. She decides to propose to her boyfriend of three years – Matt. But it doesn’t go according to plan. Later on, after drunkenly emailing a dog charity – Dogs Are For Life – she is invited to visit them, so she leaves her home in Peckham (a flat shared with her friend Sophie) to meet Santa Paws. She is offered a month looking after some rescued animals, which means she has to go up to Northumberland, somewhere she has never been before.
Her job is helping Bert and Meg look after James and Grace’s animals, who are a varied mix of wonderful creatures! While there, she meets the adorable Zen with the coffee bean eyes! Well, I think we all fell in love with Zen during this book.
The book has nice, short chapters and it’s really easy to get into. From the first chapter, you love Ellie. Then there’s all the gorgeous Santa Paws stuff. I’m always a fan of cute dogs in books and here we have Nacho the dog, plus the added bonus of cute rescue animals of all kinds. (I think the alpacas were my favourites!)
The humans are amazing too. My favourite characters were Bert and Meg, but there are loads of others including Zen’s sister Aurora and the cute kids Amelia and William. Plus there’s a real baddy who’s a total witch (cough).
I was pleased to see there were no major swear words and the romance was just how I like to read it - sweet, not too saucy, a slow burn that seemed authentic and believable between two characters who are so well-suited to each other, but first need to recover from their pasts. I wasn’t quite so sure about Aidan, who appears a bit full on for my liking, but I was pleased with how events unfurled.
The setting is great, very atmospheric being on an island and the sense of community came across strongly. I loved all the social events organised like the pub quiz and Christmas jumper soiree.
I loved the writing style, which has some wonderful funny bits too. For a debut author, Kimberley’s writing is beautiful and flows perfectly.
October 4, 2023
Love Lindisfarne by Kimberley Adams
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
LOVE LINDISFARNE…Take a Christmas trip to magical Northumberland and find love amongst the stars in this feel-good novel, which will transport you to iconic Holy Island where dreams really can come true!
Dumped at the office Christmas party, Ellie is about to vent her spleen on social media when a photo of a cute little dog advertising a charity catches her eye. Her world suddenly changes dramatically when she is offered a month’s stay in Northumberland to help look after rescue animals.
Ellie isn’t too sure where Northumberland is, but accepts, eager to start a new life away from London. Her destination is Lindisfarne, and her arrival on the small island in the North Sea is terrifying, fearing for her life on the causeway as the tide comes crashing in.
Ellie finds herself living in a hilltop castle, and far from the cats and dogs she expected she would be looking after, she is faced with all kinds of furry and feathery animals - and she doesn’t have a clue about any of them!
Welcomed to island life by the warm-hearted residents, she quickly embraces living in this special place, and from the moment she spots the mesmerising Zen with the gorgeous coffee bean eyes, her plans to stay single and mingle begin to fade fast.
Thanks to a severe storm, Lindisfarne is cut off from the mainland, and the islanders work together to salvage the planned Christmas events. Ellie is kept so busy that she hasn’t much time to think about her future when her time on the island ends.
Will the universe give Ellie its blessing? Will she find her happy ever after on the enchanting island of Lindisfarne? If it’s in the stars, then it’s in the stars…
My Opinion
The cover for this really appealed to me, so I just had to read it to see if it lived up to my expectations. Of course it did. There is a large number of animals contained within these pages, so this will appeal to animal lovers.
I have never been to Lindisfarne, but this book really made it sound like somewhere to visit. With such sweet characters you will really enjoy your time on the island. This was such a charming book to read it will allow you to escape for a few hours.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
LOVE LINDISFARNE…Take a Christmas trip to magical Northumberland and find love amongst the stars in this feel-good novel, which will transport you to iconic Holy Island where dreams really can come true!
Dumped at the office Christmas party, Ellie is about to vent her spleen on social media when a photo of a cute little dog advertising a charity catches her eye. Her world suddenly changes dramatically when she is offered a month’s stay in Northumberland to help look after rescue animals.
Ellie isn’t too sure where Northumberland is, but accepts, eager to start a new life away from London. Her destination is Lindisfarne, and her arrival on the small island in the North Sea is terrifying, fearing for her life on the causeway as the tide comes crashing in.
Ellie finds herself living in a hilltop castle, and far from the cats and dogs she expected she would be looking after, she is faced with all kinds of furry and feathery animals - and she doesn’t have a clue about any of them!
Welcomed to island life by the warm-hearted residents, she quickly embraces living in this special place, and from the moment she spots the mesmerising Zen with the gorgeous coffee bean eyes, her plans to stay single and mingle begin to fade fast.
Thanks to a severe storm, Lindisfarne is cut off from the mainland, and the islanders work together to salvage the planned Christmas events. Ellie is kept so busy that she hasn’t much time to think about her future when her time on the island ends.
Will the universe give Ellie its blessing? Will she find her happy ever after on the enchanting island of Lindisfarne? If it’s in the stars, then it’s in the stars…
My Opinion
The cover for this really appealed to me, so I just had to read it to see if it lived up to my expectations. Of course it did. There is a large number of animals contained within these pages, so this will appeal to animal lovers.
I have never been to Lindisfarne, but this book really made it sound like somewhere to visit. With such sweet characters you will really enjoy your time on the island. This was such a charming book to read it will allow you to escape for a few hours.
Rating 4/5
October 8, 2023
As the synopsis explains, when we first meet Ellie, she is reeling from a shocking discovery that will impact both her private and working life. This sequence was so expertly portrayed that I could almost feel her overwhelming despair and was wholly on board with her opportunity to up-sticks and spend time in Northumberland. It’s a part of the country that I have yet to explore, but I genuinely feel like I’ve now visited. This is not the first book that has been set there, and I certainly intend to visit in person.
This book is packed with beautifully drawn characters who I immediately took to. Some were fun, some were supportive, and a couple were certainly leaning towards gorgeous. Yes, there’s more than one hot heartthrob and although it could have gone either way, I believe that Ellie knew what was best for her.
Zen was a gentle, new-age soul, who was a coffee roaster. Having been raised by his hippy parents, he was the type of guy that you’d easily entrust with your deepest secrets and your innermost dreams. Then there was Aidan, born with a silver spoon and could have easily stepped straight off the pages of a Jilly Cooper novel, he was the obvious choice for helping Ellie get over her bruised heart.
With a fabulous supporting cast, including the marvellous Meg and Bert, I was quickly immersed in this fantastic, ultimately festive read. However, the real star of the show would have to be Nacho and the other animals that Ellie was left in charge of. Special mention to the donkey romance and the near-feral Shetland pony.
If you are a fan of romantic comedy, then this is definitely a book for you. I laughed regularly and loved every moment. It’s written with warmth, joy, and a real understanding of the heart’s idiosyncrasies. I wholeheartedly recommend that you escape to Lindisfarne and discover this fabulous book.
This book is packed with beautifully drawn characters who I immediately took to. Some were fun, some were supportive, and a couple were certainly leaning towards gorgeous. Yes, there’s more than one hot heartthrob and although it could have gone either way, I believe that Ellie knew what was best for her.
Zen was a gentle, new-age soul, who was a coffee roaster. Having been raised by his hippy parents, he was the type of guy that you’d easily entrust with your deepest secrets and your innermost dreams. Then there was Aidan, born with a silver spoon and could have easily stepped straight off the pages of a Jilly Cooper novel, he was the obvious choice for helping Ellie get over her bruised heart.
With a fabulous supporting cast, including the marvellous Meg and Bert, I was quickly immersed in this fantastic, ultimately festive read. However, the real star of the show would have to be Nacho and the other animals that Ellie was left in charge of. Special mention to the donkey romance and the near-feral Shetland pony.
If you are a fan of romantic comedy, then this is definitely a book for you. I laughed regularly and loved every moment. It’s written with warmth, joy, and a real understanding of the heart’s idiosyncrasies. I wholeheartedly recommend that you escape to Lindisfarne and discover this fabulous book.
September 2, 2023
Having spent many a wonderful time on 'Holy Island' aka Lindisfarne {though thankfully never having arrived anywhere near as dramatically as two of the characters} I cannot tell you what a delight it was to be back there where Ellie, Zen and so many other memorable characters, both two legged and four, awaited me with a welcome so typical of the region.
A book that my late nana would describe as being able to warm the cockles of your heart {for those not familiar with the term, to give someone warm and happy feelings}, Love Lindisfarne is an engaging mix of island life, drama, comedy, romance ... and cute animals; I mustn't forget the cute animals given that one of the sweetest romances {to my mind anyway} was not as you might have expected but rather that of love-torn donkeys, Wonky and Wilma.
Definitely one of my favourite reads of 20223, perfect for those wintery days when you just want to escape into a book that delights. A Northumberlander herself, author Kimberley Adams obviously has a love of Northumberland and {my home town} the not too far away Newcastle which shows in both the charmingly painted descriptions of Lindisfarne, an island as bewitchingly beautiful as it is potentially treacherous, and the warm humour with which she writes, bringing to life a place and characters that you won't want to leave behind.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... An ARC received from the author with thanks. Agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own. No financial compensation was asked for nor given. Threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
A book that my late nana would describe as being able to warm the cockles of your heart {for those not familiar with the term, to give someone warm and happy feelings}, Love Lindisfarne is an engaging mix of island life, drama, comedy, romance ... and cute animals; I mustn't forget the cute animals given that one of the sweetest romances {to my mind anyway} was not as you might have expected but rather that of love-torn donkeys, Wonky and Wilma.
Definitely one of my favourite reads of 20223, perfect for those wintery days when you just want to escape into a book that delights. A Northumberlander herself, author Kimberley Adams obviously has a love of Northumberland and {my home town} the not too far away Newcastle which shows in both the charmingly painted descriptions of Lindisfarne, an island as bewitchingly beautiful as it is potentially treacherous, and the warm humour with which she writes, bringing to life a place and characters that you won't want to leave behind.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... An ARC received from the author with thanks. Agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own. No financial compensation was asked for nor given. Threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
January 6, 2026
Life has gone a bit (alot!) tits up for Ellie. After a drunken night, lots of embarrassment, and a wild social media request, Ellie finds herself travelling from London to Lindisfarne (Northumberland).
It's here she meets an array of characters. At first she believes helping out with the animals will just be dogs and cats, but nope! There are turkeys, goats to milk, donkeys to pair up in love, and grumpy cats here and there! There's also a beautiful bunch of found family. Ellie isn't necessarily looking for love, especially with what happened in London, but with Zen hanging about... that might prove difficult.
And how will Ellie return to London after this trip? It's not just the animals, or the people, but the environment too. How can she ever call London home again when this place is in her soul?
Beautiful. Heartwarming. Funny. I loved it all. I want to go to Lindisfarne and admire the views with a nice coffee in my hands. Ellie felt like my friend, and Meg and her husband = so cute!!
Something that was also very refreshing was how much Ellie's friends and parents back in London loved, encouraged, and respected her... even with the discussions of potential new beginnings away from them.
Anyway, a wonderful book. Eager to get the others so I can go back to Lindisfarne and hang out with these wonderful people again, and the animals!
It's here she meets an array of characters. At first she believes helping out with the animals will just be dogs and cats, but nope! There are turkeys, goats to milk, donkeys to pair up in love, and grumpy cats here and there! There's also a beautiful bunch of found family. Ellie isn't necessarily looking for love, especially with what happened in London, but with Zen hanging about... that might prove difficult.
And how will Ellie return to London after this trip? It's not just the animals, or the people, but the environment too. How can she ever call London home again when this place is in her soul?
Beautiful. Heartwarming. Funny. I loved it all. I want to go to Lindisfarne and admire the views with a nice coffee in my hands. Ellie felt like my friend, and Meg and her husband = so cute!!
Something that was also very refreshing was how much Ellie's friends and parents back in London loved, encouraged, and respected her... even with the discussions of potential new beginnings away from them.
Anyway, a wonderful book. Eager to get the others so I can go back to Lindisfarne and hang out with these wonderful people again, and the animals!
October 8, 2023
I really did 'Love Lindisfarne', I have to say,
The island, the people and what came Ellie's way.
A beautiful read that's magical, too,
With a great community and romance to share with you.
The office Christmas party and a proposal that's so wrong
Being dumped after being together so long.
Emails sent in drunken misery
Lead to a life changing opportunity!
A castle, a menagerie and new friends who care
Are amongst the things Ellie finds out there.
How to care for the animals she learns from others
And a new lifestyle, new skills and friends she discovers.
A truly heartwarming read full of surprises and more
As adventurous new possibilities Ellie starts to explore.
She's determined not to succumb to romance
But what happens when there's more than one chance?
This is definitely a read to put a huge smile on your face
And to leave you wanting to explore this fascinating place!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
The island, the people and what came Ellie's way.
A beautiful read that's magical, too,
With a great community and romance to share with you.
The office Christmas party and a proposal that's so wrong
Being dumped after being together so long.
Emails sent in drunken misery
Lead to a life changing opportunity!
A castle, a menagerie and new friends who care
Are amongst the things Ellie finds out there.
How to care for the animals she learns from others
And a new lifestyle, new skills and friends she discovers.
A truly heartwarming read full of surprises and more
As adventurous new possibilities Ellie starts to explore.
She's determined not to succumb to romance
But what happens when there's more than one chance?
This is definitely a read to put a huge smile on your face
And to leave you wanting to explore this fascinating place!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
October 10, 2023
Now I know it seems early to be reading a Christmas book, but it just sounded so good I couldn't help myself and sometimes we need a little bit of Christmas magic no matter the time of year. Oh, poor Ellie, I so wanted to give her a hug in those first few chapters, her ex was a complete A*******! And I don't know how she picked herself up so quickly to go to the fundraiser, I know I wouldn't if it had been me. But I loved how her friends rallied around and supported her through it all, everyone needs a group of friends like those! It was lovely to watch Ellie make her way through the heartache and out the other side of it, and who doesn't love Lindisfarne! It was nice to be able to read about somewhere I know too, While I love stepping into a world an author creates it's sometimes nice to read a place you recognise.
It definitely gives me all the cosy Christmas read vibes, which is exactly how I like my Christmas reads and i can see myself rereading this nearer to the festive season. I'm hoping we get some more books from Kimberley Adams soon!
It definitely gives me all the cosy Christmas read vibes, which is exactly how I like my Christmas reads and i can see myself rereading this nearer to the festive season. I'm hoping we get some more books from Kimberley Adams soon!
October 8, 2023
Absolutely adored this, I can’t believe that this is a debut full length novel, it reads like a seasoned professional author, the writing is so good and I loved the story so much, this is definitely going to make it into my favourite reads of the year.
I loved the characters Kimberley created , so loveable, relatable and heartwarming (well obviously there are characters who aren’t lovely but that’s to be expected and just like real life, not everyone is lovely) I loved the community and the friendly feel I got whilst reading this, it really was a welcoming and warm tale.
I also particularly enjoyed the humour, some very sharp lines in here, I nearly choked on my tea a few times because I laughed so hard, if you are looking for an uplifting read, that is seasonal but not quite like other Christmas reads, a funny and romantic read, slow burn and gorgeous this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the characters Kimberley created , so loveable, relatable and heartwarming (well obviously there are characters who aren’t lovely but that’s to be expected and just like real life, not everyone is lovely) I loved the community and the friendly feel I got whilst reading this, it really was a welcoming and warm tale.
I also particularly enjoyed the humour, some very sharp lines in here, I nearly choked on my tea a few times because I laughed so hard, if you are looking for an uplifting read, that is seasonal but not quite like other Christmas reads, a funny and romantic read, slow burn and gorgeous this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 18, 2023
Welcome to Lindisfarne... what a truly enjoyable read this book has been from the first page to the last page.
The story telling is perfect, the setting is amazing and the characters make the book!
My heart fell hock, line and sinker for this book... follow Ellie from her busy miserable life in London as she goes on a beautiful journey to a beautiful place to meet amazing people... santa paws really did come good on his magical present!
As she arrives on Lindisfarne she finds herself on a self discovery, she bonds with some very special animals and truly falls in love with her new addition Nacho who is by her side through it all.... its Christmas time on the island and what could be more magical than a nativity, a wedding and of course a pub quiz... could it be falling in love???
This book is so deserving of five stars!!
The story telling is perfect, the setting is amazing and the characters make the book!
My heart fell hock, line and sinker for this book... follow Ellie from her busy miserable life in London as she goes on a beautiful journey to a beautiful place to meet amazing people... santa paws really did come good on his magical present!
As she arrives on Lindisfarne she finds herself on a self discovery, she bonds with some very special animals and truly falls in love with her new addition Nacho who is by her side through it all.... its Christmas time on the island and what could be more magical than a nativity, a wedding and of course a pub quiz... could it be falling in love???
This book is so deserving of five stars!!
January 15, 2024
What an absolutely wonderful book, I was captivated from the first few pages. This was the authors first full-length novel, and I can't wait to read more.
Ellie has embarrassed herself in front of her colleagues and has finally found out what her boyfriend has been up to. She resigns her pr position, and in a drunken state, she ends up at a Christmas party for dogs telling 'Santa's Paws' about her humiliation. She finally ends up on Lindisfarne (The Holy Island) after a scary crossing and is employed for a few weeks over Christmas to look after the animals.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the island, a place I've wanted to visit for so long, and after reading this book, I'm more determined to visit the place.
I really hope there's more to come from Lindisfarne and this talented author. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like romance at Christmas.
Ellie has embarrassed herself in front of her colleagues and has finally found out what her boyfriend has been up to. She resigns her pr position, and in a drunken state, she ends up at a Christmas party for dogs telling 'Santa's Paws' about her humiliation. She finally ends up on Lindisfarne (The Holy Island) after a scary crossing and is employed for a few weeks over Christmas to look after the animals.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the island, a place I've wanted to visit for so long, and after reading this book, I'm more determined to visit the place.
I really hope there's more to come from Lindisfarne and this talented author. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like romance at Christmas.
May 28, 2024
"Love Lindisfarne" by Kimberley Adams is a heartwarming holiday romance set in the enchanting locale of Northumberland's Holy Island. Ellie, reeling from a breakup at her office Christmas party, seizes the chance for a fresh start by helping rescue animals on Lindisfarne. Expecting a simple task, she's surprised by the variety of animals and the warm welcome from the island's residents. Amidst picturesque landscapes and the island's unique challenges, Ellie meets Zen, a captivating local who begins to change her mind about staying single. As a storm cuts off Lindisfarne from the mainland, Ellie becomes integral to the community's Christmas preparations. This feel-good novel promises a magical journey of love and self-discovery.
January 14, 2026
Kimberley Adams - Love Lindisfarne
Audiobook review
When Kimberley Adams first released #LoveLindisfarne there was a real buzz about It within the book community. At the time I was gutted that it wasn't available as an audiobook.
Finally, it’s here. My FOMO is eased and I honestly couldn’t wait to get my hands and ears on a copy.
I hit this book with high expectations, having heard so many bookish people rave about it.
From the first words, you are welcomed into this story. There is no slowly luring you in, it’s immediate.
Straight away the characters feel familiar and you will find yourself there at the heart of the action.
Ellie plans a public marriage proposal to her boyfriend. She ends up a few too many sheets to the wind and things don’t go to plan. The alcohol combined with the local cougar and the fact that her boyfriend is an absolute rat, mean that things don’t go quite as Ellie had hoped.
Hammered and heartbroken, Ellie drunkenly pours out her heart to Santa.
Incredibly, in her inebriation, Ellie opens a new chapter in her life.
A fresh start on Holy Island awaits for Ellie. All she has to do is get there safely, look after a few dogs and fit in with the locals. What could be easier?
Kimberley Adams’ writing is wonderfully descriptive and plants just the right amount of local knowledge without the reader/listener feeling overloaded.
Lindisfarne has been on my list of places that I want to visit for many years. After reading Love Lindisfarne, I feel like I really got a sense of the place.
#LoveLindisfarne is full of northern charm and quick witted humour.
The story skips along at a good pace and kept me listening keenly for, ‘just one more chapter!’
I loved the journey this book took me on and I hope the other books in this series will make it to audio in the not too distant future.
Of course I can’t review an audio book without mentioning the narrator. Colleen Predergast is the queen of narrators and was a perfect fit for this book.
Love Lindisfarne is a 5⭐️ read for me.
Good luck Kimberley Adams. I hope your writing career flies high and gains the recognition that you deserve.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audiobook review
When Kimberley Adams first released #LoveLindisfarne there was a real buzz about It within the book community. At the time I was gutted that it wasn't available as an audiobook.
Finally, it’s here. My FOMO is eased and I honestly couldn’t wait to get my hands and ears on a copy.
I hit this book with high expectations, having heard so many bookish people rave about it.
From the first words, you are welcomed into this story. There is no slowly luring you in, it’s immediate.
Straight away the characters feel familiar and you will find yourself there at the heart of the action.
Ellie plans a public marriage proposal to her boyfriend. She ends up a few too many sheets to the wind and things don’t go to plan. The alcohol combined with the local cougar and the fact that her boyfriend is an absolute rat, mean that things don’t go quite as Ellie had hoped.
Hammered and heartbroken, Ellie drunkenly pours out her heart to Santa.
Incredibly, in her inebriation, Ellie opens a new chapter in her life.
A fresh start on Holy Island awaits for Ellie. All she has to do is get there safely, look after a few dogs and fit in with the locals. What could be easier?
Kimberley Adams’ writing is wonderfully descriptive and plants just the right amount of local knowledge without the reader/listener feeling overloaded.
Lindisfarne has been on my list of places that I want to visit for many years. After reading Love Lindisfarne, I feel like I really got a sense of the place.
#LoveLindisfarne is full of northern charm and quick witted humour.
The story skips along at a good pace and kept me listening keenly for, ‘just one more chapter!’
I loved the journey this book took me on and I hope the other books in this series will make it to audio in the not too distant future.
Of course I can’t review an audio book without mentioning the narrator. Colleen Predergast is the queen of narrators and was a perfect fit for this book.
Love Lindisfarne is a 5⭐️ read for me.
Good luck Kimberley Adams. I hope your writing career flies high and gains the recognition that you deserve.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 5, 2023
Ellie has just been dumped at the work Christmas Party and in the worst possible way. On social media a picture of a gorgeous little dog may change everything for Ellie and be the answer to all her dreams. Well if you know me you know I am a sucker for anything involving dogs but this book also has some other cute and quirky animals that I instantly fell in love with. The characters are charming and relateable and the setting is somewhere I have never heard of but after reading this, it is somewhere I would love to visit. A fun and flirty story that I enjoyed escaping with for a few good hours!
September 22, 2023
As someone who loves Lindisfarne this debut novel was a joy to read. The island and the characters, both two and four legged, are loveable and relatable...well, apart from a couple, but I won't spoil the story for you!
There are laugh out loud moments and if you need cheering up this might just be the tonic.
If you have never visited Lindisfarne, you might just find yourself planning a trip after reading this book...and you might just find yourself falling in love too.
P. S Kim, if you read this, I need to know what happens next so hurry up, put pen to paper, and get a follow up written.
There are laugh out loud moments and if you need cheering up this might just be the tonic.
If you have never visited Lindisfarne, you might just find yourself planning a trip after reading this book...and you might just find yourself falling in love too.
P. S Kim, if you read this, I need to know what happens next so hurry up, put pen to paper, and get a follow up written.
October 8, 2023
I loved this book so, so much! Love Lindisfarne is a sparkling debut and I can't wait to read more from Adams in the future. Is this a standalone or is it the beginning of a new series? I'm sure I'm not the only one wanting to hear more from the residents of Lindisfarne.
Apart from Matt (for obvious reasons) I adored all of the characters and the animals. They were such a friendly bunch, so warm and welcoming to Ellie.
Love Lindisfarne is a gorgeous story to escape into for a few hours. It's heartwarming, magical and will give you all the festive feels.
Apart from Matt (for obvious reasons) I adored all of the characters and the animals. They were such a friendly bunch, so warm and welcoming to Ellie.
Love Lindisfarne is a gorgeous story to escape into for a few hours. It's heartwarming, magical and will give you all the festive feels.
August 6, 2025
Ellie and zen
A interesting read new to this author.Loved Zen and Ellie, found parts a little far fetch but was a fun read.Loved her elf moment with the idiot funny laugh out loud moments but cringe at the kissing did not want her to come across thickal, did it really have to go there (In my eyes, I like loyalty, even if you have to be patient)
Worth reading for the sliping in the mud very funny.
A interesting read new to this author.Loved Zen and Ellie, found parts a little far fetch but was a fun read.Loved her elf moment with the idiot funny laugh out loud moments but cringe at the kissing did not want her to come across thickal, did it really have to go there (In my eyes, I like loyalty, even if you have to be patient)
Worth reading for the sliping in the mud very funny.
February 8, 2024
I loved this book. I'm not a romance book lover but this one certainly made me think again. I suppose it might be because Northumberland is a special place to me. As a family we have visited Lindisfarne many many time over the past 30 odd years, in fact my youngest daughter moved to Northumberland in 2023.
It might be a bit cheesy but it was a good read.
It might be a bit cheesy but it was a good read.
October 13, 2023
Stunning book
Beautiful settings described so well. Characters you feel as If you have known all your life. Make this your next read.
Beautiful settings described so well. Characters you feel as If you have known all your life. Make this your next read.
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