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New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage: The perfect feel-good festive romance
Love is worth celebrating at any time of the year . . .
The little English town of Lullbury Bay goes all out for Christmas each year, and Honor Martin loves it. After a bad breakup years ago, she’s settled into the simple pleasures of working at the local primary school and dining at the Sea Spray Café. The holiday is the high point of her year.
Artist Jago Pengethley, however, doesn’t share her merry mood. A new arrival in town, he’s here with his mother and sister to start anew after the devastating loss of his father. He’d be happy to never see another wreath or hear another carol.
But to help his little sister replace bad memories with good ones, he accompanies her to the various festivities. And as he gets to know her teacher, Honor, might she be the one to restore his Christmas spirit?
The little English town of Lullbury Bay goes all out for Christmas each year, and Honor Martin loves it. After a bad breakup years ago, she’s settled into the simple pleasures of working at the local primary school and dining at the Sea Spray Café. The holiday is the high point of her year.
Artist Jago Pengethley, however, doesn’t share her merry mood. A new arrival in town, he’s here with his mother and sister to start anew after the devastating loss of his father. He’d be happy to never see another wreath or hear another carol.
But to help his little sister replace bad memories with good ones, he accompanies her to the various festivities. And as he gets to know her teacher, Honor, might she be the one to restore his Christmas spirit?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2023
117 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 23, 2023
Avril, Jago and Merryn are starting a new life.
What a thoroughly lovely story. New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is the tale of a fresh start and the impact of the past on who we are today, all wrapped in romance and Christmas making for an interesting, entertaining and absorbing read.
The Dorset coastal setting is so well described by Georgia Hill as she places her reader right in the centre of the run up to Christmas. All the senses are catered for with wonderful food and drink, biting cold, raging seas and the touch of comforting hands so that there’s a smashing visual quality to the writing that feels immersive and convincing.
I loved meeting all the characters. There’s a real sense of community and yet everyone is distinct and appealing. The narrative is lightened by Merryn’s occasional malapropisms, and I found myself thoroughly respecting Avril as she starts over again. However, it is Jago and Honor who hold the reader rapt. I so wanted them to be together but you’ll need to read the book to find out if my wishes came true. Interestingly, I have absolutely no interest in religion, but the vicar Verity truly lived up to her name, enabling others to see the truth in their own lives without her pushing any particular religious belief so that I received the same kind of comfort from her that Jago finds.
There are dramatic moments to the plot, but I thought the real attraction of New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage came through the underpinning emotions and concepts. Indeed, alongside the exploration of family and the potential for cosy romance, Georgia Hill considers weightier themes that add depth, layers and interest. At the heart of New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is grief, a sense of responsibility and what it means to be true to yourself and honest with others. These concepts are beautifully and sensitively handled so that there’s much to think about whilst being absorbed in an entertaining, Christmassy story with a festive atmosphere created partly through a cracking playlist woven into the action.
New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is charming, heart-warming and multi-layered story imbued with the real meaning of Christmas – love, hope and family. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
What a thoroughly lovely story. New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is the tale of a fresh start and the impact of the past on who we are today, all wrapped in romance and Christmas making for an interesting, entertaining and absorbing read.
The Dorset coastal setting is so well described by Georgia Hill as she places her reader right in the centre of the run up to Christmas. All the senses are catered for with wonderful food and drink, biting cold, raging seas and the touch of comforting hands so that there’s a smashing visual quality to the writing that feels immersive and convincing.
I loved meeting all the characters. There’s a real sense of community and yet everyone is distinct and appealing. The narrative is lightened by Merryn’s occasional malapropisms, and I found myself thoroughly respecting Avril as she starts over again. However, it is Jago and Honor who hold the reader rapt. I so wanted them to be together but you’ll need to read the book to find out if my wishes came true. Interestingly, I have absolutely no interest in religion, but the vicar Verity truly lived up to her name, enabling others to see the truth in their own lives without her pushing any particular religious belief so that I received the same kind of comfort from her that Jago finds.
There are dramatic moments to the plot, but I thought the real attraction of New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage came through the underpinning emotions and concepts. Indeed, alongside the exploration of family and the potential for cosy romance, Georgia Hill considers weightier themes that add depth, layers and interest. At the heart of New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is grief, a sense of responsibility and what it means to be true to yourself and honest with others. These concepts are beautifully and sensitively handled so that there’s much to think about whilst being absorbed in an entertaining, Christmassy story with a festive atmosphere created partly through a cracking playlist woven into the action.
New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage is charming, heart-warming and multi-layered story imbued with the real meaning of Christmas – love, hope and family. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 29, 2023
New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Cottage
Jago Pengethley has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Recently divorced and sadly, bereaved by his father’s death, he wants to help protect and provide a better quality of life for his little sister, Merryn. So together with his mum, Avril, the family move to Lullbury Bay, Dorset.
Honor Martin, the kind and caring primary teacher, who adores the Christmas season, feels a deep connection to the newcomer. Should she trust her instinct? Or steer clear of complicated situations? I was rooting for her to be brave and follow her festive desires.
A cosy village setting crammed with quirky yet honest and lovable characters such as vicar Verity, landlord Lenny and numerous friends from the local social groups: the knitter and natterers, the unfortunately named LUBRATS, the animal sanctuary, the Sea Spray cafe, the local primary school and st. Winifred’s church.
Grief knows nothing of advent calendars, festive events and annual cheer. ‘He’ painfully lingers - ruining every happy moment of the present day by reminding us of our losses.
Can Jago support the ones he loves through this difficult time without losing himself completely? Can he rely upon new encounters to brighten his days when untold grief simply smoothers that Christmas spirit?
This Christmas story was a delight to read - truly a ‘feel good festive fiction’ coupled with an emotional reality, encountered by many of us. I loved that Jago’s story was the forefront in this story, it made a refreshing change to encounter a male prospective. Five tinsel covered sparkling stars.
Jago Pengethley has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Recently divorced and sadly, bereaved by his father’s death, he wants to help protect and provide a better quality of life for his little sister, Merryn. So together with his mum, Avril, the family move to Lullbury Bay, Dorset.
Honor Martin, the kind and caring primary teacher, who adores the Christmas season, feels a deep connection to the newcomer. Should she trust her instinct? Or steer clear of complicated situations? I was rooting for her to be brave and follow her festive desires.
A cosy village setting crammed with quirky yet honest and lovable characters such as vicar Verity, landlord Lenny and numerous friends from the local social groups: the knitter and natterers, the unfortunately named LUBRATS, the animal sanctuary, the Sea Spray cafe, the local primary school and st. Winifred’s church.
Grief knows nothing of advent calendars, festive events and annual cheer. ‘He’ painfully lingers - ruining every happy moment of the present day by reminding us of our losses.
Can Jago support the ones he loves through this difficult time without losing himself completely? Can he rely upon new encounters to brighten his days when untold grief simply smoothers that Christmas spirit?
This Christmas story was a delight to read - truly a ‘feel good festive fiction’ coupled with an emotional reality, encountered by many of us. I loved that Jago’s story was the forefront in this story, it made a refreshing change to encounter a male prospective. Five tinsel covered sparkling stars.
January 2, 2025
I bought this book during my summer holidays. It was wrapped in brown paper with just "festive read" written on. It didn't disappoint. It was the perfect cosy Christmas read.
September 7, 2023
My first Christmas novel of the year! I always enjoy this author's writing and this book is no exception; beautiful coastal Dorset setting which is evocatively described, great characters and some sensitive writing around grief, alongside the chuckles and the romance. 5 *s from me.
December 14, 2023
When the Pengethley family move into Christmas Tree Cottage, at the top of the hill that leads down into Lullbury Bay, what everyone sees is a close and loving family looking for a fresh start in their friendly community. What they don’t see is the difficult time that brought them there – the tragic loss of husband and father Kenan, the grief that followed, and the way Jago has held the family together. When young Merryn starts at the local school for what’s left of the Autumn term, teacher Honor is enchanted by her bubbly enthusiasm for anything and everything, including all the preparations for Christmas that she so loves – but also drawn to the attractive man holding her hand. She doesn’t know the family relationships – Jago is Merryn’s much older brother, Avril his mother – and she steers clear at first, believing him out of bounds, confused when her interest seems to be reciprocated.
Jago has always been the strong one – but with young Merryn finding her feet again, and mother Avril beginning to make new friendships through the knitting club, it might just be time for him to try to move forward too. His art has taken a back seat, but it might just be time to start thinking about making his large pieces in stained glass again – but Christmas can be a difficult time, his grief is still raw, and he’s going to need some good support to cope with it all and help the family make new memories. He finds it in a place he doesn’t expect – the local church, with vicar Verity (and what a great character she is) – and also discovers an artistic community he can become part of. And once Honor’s misunderstanding is out of the way, it also opens up the possibility of romance in both their lives.
This book is just wonderfully Christmassy – the nativity play, the turning-on of the Christmas lights, the yarn bombers and their every new display, the carol service, all an absolute delight – but this was also a book with a great deal more depth than I was expecting. It deals – exceptionally sensitively – with the challenges of moving on from grief and being able to feel happiness again, while never forgetting the loved one who was lost. And, more unusually, it deals with it from a male perspective – and I found that particularly powerful.
But I’d hate to give the impression that this book is heavy in any way, in fact it’s the absolute opposite. Its characters are just wonderful (both major and minor – and especially young Merryn, spouting her quotes from Shakespeare, and showing a wisdom beyond her years), the romantic content is strong and convincing, there’s plenty of lightness and laughter, and there’s a lovely sprinkling of four-legged friends of various persuasions. But there’s drama too, particularly well-written and that had me on the edge of my seat – as Jago makes a difficult decision to follow his heart and put himself in the path of danger, bringing uncomfortable memories of everything the family has lost.
I really loved this one – a delight from beginning to end, great storytelling, emotional and uplifting, and everything I wanted a Christmas read to be. Highly recommended, and definitely one you’ll want to add to your pre-Christmas reading list too…
Jago has always been the strong one – but with young Merryn finding her feet again, and mother Avril beginning to make new friendships through the knitting club, it might just be time for him to try to move forward too. His art has taken a back seat, but it might just be time to start thinking about making his large pieces in stained glass again – but Christmas can be a difficult time, his grief is still raw, and he’s going to need some good support to cope with it all and help the family make new memories. He finds it in a place he doesn’t expect – the local church, with vicar Verity (and what a great character she is) – and also discovers an artistic community he can become part of. And once Honor’s misunderstanding is out of the way, it also opens up the possibility of romance in both their lives.
This book is just wonderfully Christmassy – the nativity play, the turning-on of the Christmas lights, the yarn bombers and their every new display, the carol service, all an absolute delight – but this was also a book with a great deal more depth than I was expecting. It deals – exceptionally sensitively – with the challenges of moving on from grief and being able to feel happiness again, while never forgetting the loved one who was lost. And, more unusually, it deals with it from a male perspective – and I found that particularly powerful.
But I’d hate to give the impression that this book is heavy in any way, in fact it’s the absolute opposite. Its characters are just wonderful (both major and minor – and especially young Merryn, spouting her quotes from Shakespeare, and showing a wisdom beyond her years), the romantic content is strong and convincing, there’s plenty of lightness and laughter, and there’s a lovely sprinkling of four-legged friends of various persuasions. But there’s drama too, particularly well-written and that had me on the edge of my seat – as Jago makes a difficult decision to follow his heart and put himself in the path of danger, bringing uncomfortable memories of everything the family has lost.
I really loved this one – a delight from beginning to end, great storytelling, emotional and uplifting, and everything I wanted a Christmas read to be. Highly recommended, and definitely one you’ll want to add to your pre-Christmas reading list too…
November 24, 2023
Such a joyous story, about making a new life for yourself.
Avril, Jago and Merryn move to Lullbury Bay during the Autumn term, after having had a horrible year. They aren't looking forward to spending their first Christmas without Kenan, but know they have to try to make new memories, especially for Merryn.
It becomes apparent within a couple of days in their new home that Lullbury Bay is rather special location, and Honor the schoolteacher loves Christmas and is fabulous at getting Children involved and engaged.
There is a hilarious set of miscommunications that mean the romance I was wanting, took a lot longer to happen, but it was so fun seeing everything.
And the festivities in the run up to Christmas in this bay were just brilliant. I especially loved the yarn bombing, and the community spirit.
As well as really enjoying the storyline involving the RNLI, which added depth to the book and brings great awareness of such a noble group of people.
Add in a few animal friends, some new human friends, and this is a book set at the most joyous time of year, and really does help this family get over their terrible loss. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment I spent in Lullbury Bay.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Avril, Jago and Merryn move to Lullbury Bay during the Autumn term, after having had a horrible year. They aren't looking forward to spending their first Christmas without Kenan, but know they have to try to make new memories, especially for Merryn.
It becomes apparent within a couple of days in their new home that Lullbury Bay is rather special location, and Honor the schoolteacher loves Christmas and is fabulous at getting Children involved and engaged.
There is a hilarious set of miscommunications that mean the romance I was wanting, took a lot longer to happen, but it was so fun seeing everything.
And the festivities in the run up to Christmas in this bay were just brilliant. I especially loved the yarn bombing, and the community spirit.
As well as really enjoying the storyline involving the RNLI, which added depth to the book and brings great awareness of such a noble group of people.
Add in a few animal friends, some new human friends, and this is a book set at the most joyous time of year, and really does help this family get over their terrible loss. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment I spent in Lullbury Bay.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 28, 2023
Set in a picture-perfect Dorset town shortly before Christmas, Jago Pengethly moves into Christmas Tree Cottage with his recently bereaved mum and little sister, Merryn. The whole family has been devastated by the unexpected loss of Jago and Merryn’s father and they are all desperate for a fresh
start.
When Merryn starts at Lullbury Bay’s primary school, she begins to blossom with the help of her teacher, Miss Martin. And let’s just say that when Jago meets Honor Martin, the mutual attraction is strong.
But this wouldn’t be a seasonal romance without there being a whole load of problems –
miscommunication and timing issues amongst others – which seem determined to keep the two apart.
This novel has everything I love in a wintry romance – snow, obviously. Christmas lights in strange shapes, Christmas markets, carol singing, ninja knitters bombing the town with festive creations, the annual school nativity (as an ex-primary school teacher the run-up to Christmas in this book was very
nostalgic)… Hot chocolate.
There’s a great cast of characters and settings to keep the reader turning those pages and – as usual with a Georgia Hill book – the writing is wonderful.
If you’re looking for a cosy festive romance, the search is over.
start.
When Merryn starts at Lullbury Bay’s primary school, she begins to blossom with the help of her teacher, Miss Martin. And let’s just say that when Jago meets Honor Martin, the mutual attraction is strong.
But this wouldn’t be a seasonal romance without there being a whole load of problems –
miscommunication and timing issues amongst others – which seem determined to keep the two apart.
This novel has everything I love in a wintry romance – snow, obviously. Christmas lights in strange shapes, Christmas markets, carol singing, ninja knitters bombing the town with festive creations, the annual school nativity (as an ex-primary school teacher the run-up to Christmas in this book was very
nostalgic)… Hot chocolate.
There’s a great cast of characters and settings to keep the reader turning those pages and – as usual with a Georgia Hill book – the writing is wonderful.
If you’re looking for a cosy festive romance, the search is over.
January 8, 2024
*no spoilers*
After devastation the Pengethley family make the move from London to Lullbury Bay. They start a new life in a small village that has a real sense of community and just so much love and kindness.
There is some misunderstandings and family dynamics unravelled but I loved getting to know Avril, Jago and Merryn. And as for the other characters that we meet; Verity, Honour etc they are just lovely people. I liked the fact that they had flaws though, they jumped to conclusions like many of us do and lacked communication in certain situations. From an outsiders point of view I was constantly questioning 'what are you doing?!' but there's a beautifully happy ending.
Although this is a christmasy read it is so much more than that. It explores grief, family dynamics, sense of community and found family. I feel like Christmas wasn't the main theme throughout for me and I liked that.
I constantly smiled reading this book and it really warmed my heart. This book was just pure joy, a hug in a book, everything I needed. 💗 I have never come across Georgia Hill before but I will be sure to read many more of her books.
After devastation the Pengethley family make the move from London to Lullbury Bay. They start a new life in a small village that has a real sense of community and just so much love and kindness.
There is some misunderstandings and family dynamics unravelled but I loved getting to know Avril, Jago and Merryn. And as for the other characters that we meet; Verity, Honour etc they are just lovely people. I liked the fact that they had flaws though, they jumped to conclusions like many of us do and lacked communication in certain situations. From an outsiders point of view I was constantly questioning 'what are you doing?!' but there's a beautifully happy ending.
Although this is a christmasy read it is so much more than that. It explores grief, family dynamics, sense of community and found family. I feel like Christmas wasn't the main theme throughout for me and I liked that.
I constantly smiled reading this book and it really warmed my heart. This book was just pure joy, a hug in a book, everything I needed. 💗 I have never come across Georgia Hill before but I will be sure to read many more of her books.
September 27, 2023
A great read that will have you thinking about Christmas and maybe buying Baileys!
I loved reading this book, which was a complete tonic in a stressful time for me. I always say that a book that can produce an emotional reaction is a good book and this one produced not one, not two, but three heart affecting scenes that had me thinking and reaching for the tissues. A cosy read, but with serious underlying themes of starting again after loss.
The characters are likeable and relatable, particularly Jago, trying to be the responsible son and brother, whilst nursing his own demons and heartaches, Honor, the primary school teacher with a big venerable heart and the amazing vicar, Verity, who is mad on ABBA. Merryn is a very wise little girl beyond her years. Georgia Hill weaves her story around community of Lullbury Bay, with each person living there having a distinct role and backstory. It sounds like somewhere I would enjoy living. I’d even take part in the yarn bombing brigade!
Highly recommended to get you in the mood for Christmas.
I loved reading this book, which was a complete tonic in a stressful time for me. I always say that a book that can produce an emotional reaction is a good book and this one produced not one, not two, but three heart affecting scenes that had me thinking and reaching for the tissues. A cosy read, but with serious underlying themes of starting again after loss.
The characters are likeable and relatable, particularly Jago, trying to be the responsible son and brother, whilst nursing his own demons and heartaches, Honor, the primary school teacher with a big venerable heart and the amazing vicar, Verity, who is mad on ABBA. Merryn is a very wise little girl beyond her years. Georgia Hill weaves her story around community of Lullbury Bay, with each person living there having a distinct role and backstory. It sounds like somewhere I would enjoy living. I’d even take part in the yarn bombing brigade!
Highly recommended to get you in the mood for Christmas.
September 29, 2023
A fabulous, feel-good read from a favourite author!
Lullbury Bay knows how to celebrate Christmas with lots of community events and local teacher, Honor Martin, just loves the festive season! This year there's a new family in town, the Pengethleys, and the man of the house doesn't seem to share her excitement, but in order to replace last year's sad memories with better ones for the youngest family member, he tries his best to join in. Honor set it as her mission to bring the magic of Christmas to Jago . . .
I can't tell you how excited I was to get a copy of this novel; in my opinion, nobody else writes like Georgia Hill. She creates the most wonderful tales which, yes, at heart are romances but are so much more. They are about amazing communities with a wide array of marvellous characters and a touch of humour. Now, I just adore Christmas and Lullbury Bay would be my dream location. I can't find fault with this one - it's a gorgeous read and easily worth all five sparkling stars and my highest recommendation!
Lullbury Bay knows how to celebrate Christmas with lots of community events and local teacher, Honor Martin, just loves the festive season! This year there's a new family in town, the Pengethleys, and the man of the house doesn't seem to share her excitement, but in order to replace last year's sad memories with better ones for the youngest family member, he tries his best to join in. Honor set it as her mission to bring the magic of Christmas to Jago . . .
I can't tell you how excited I was to get a copy of this novel; in my opinion, nobody else writes like Georgia Hill. She creates the most wonderful tales which, yes, at heart are romances but are so much more. They are about amazing communities with a wide array of marvellous characters and a touch of humour. Now, I just adore Christmas and Lullbury Bay would be my dream location. I can't find fault with this one - it's a gorgeous read and easily worth all five sparkling stars and my highest recommendation!
December 7, 2023
I love a visit to a little cosy town setting especially round Christmas. The new residents of Christmas Tree Cottage, Avril, her grown up son Jago and her eight year old daughter Merryn are adjusting to life in a small town after leaving London due to a tragedy. Jago (ideal husband material) meets the sweet kind hearted teacher, Honour but as you would expect love is never straight forward. .
The RNLI is incorporated into the story sensitively but also highlights what an important role they play in communities.
Although there was some sadness to the story, it was a wonderful story with love and sense of community in abundance. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Lullbury Bay and it’s a lovely Christmas story to add to your baskets.
Thank you @bloodhound.books for sending me a copy. An absolute pleasure to read
The RNLI is incorporated into the story sensitively but also highlights what an important role they play in communities.
Although there was some sadness to the story, it was a wonderful story with love and sense of community in abundance. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Lullbury Bay and it’s a lovely Christmas story to add to your baskets.
Thank you @bloodhound.books for sending me a copy. An absolute pleasure to read
December 31, 2023
fabulously festive feel-good romance
I have been saving this festive read for over the Christmas break and it was everything I hoped it would be. Sweet, uplifting and thoroughly romantic. Honor and Jago were both endearing characters and were supported by some fabulous secondary players. Merryn was precocious but lovable (with frighting intellect if one so young) and the bond between her and Jago was particularly sweet. Verity (with strong Vicar of Dibley vibes) was also a highlight. The story touched on grief, but very gently, and brought a tear to my eye more than once. With misunderstandings aplenty, it was satisfying to observe how the two main characters navigated the obstacles to the ultimate happy conclusion. Thoroughly heartwarming (with the added benefit of being set in beautiful Dorset).
I have been saving this festive read for over the Christmas break and it was everything I hoped it would be. Sweet, uplifting and thoroughly romantic. Honor and Jago were both endearing characters and were supported by some fabulous secondary players. Merryn was precocious but lovable (with frighting intellect if one so young) and the bond between her and Jago was particularly sweet. Verity (with strong Vicar of Dibley vibes) was also a highlight. The story touched on grief, but very gently, and brought a tear to my eye more than once. With misunderstandings aplenty, it was satisfying to observe how the two main characters navigated the obstacles to the ultimate happy conclusion. Thoroughly heartwarming (with the added benefit of being set in beautiful Dorset).
September 22, 2023
Such a lovely read, it really put me in the mood for Christmas - in September! The Pengethley family: mum Avril, grown up son Jago and 8 year old daughter Merryn move to Lullbury Bay from London following the death of dad and husband Kenan. They settle in well to village life as christmas approaches, despite some misunderstandings. The christmas season is so difficult for them as they approach the anniversary of Kenan's christmas Eve death. I did think the school should have known the family dynamics and the will they/won't they of Jago and Honor was a a bit contrived, but this was explained and I was able to relax into it. One of the most atmospheric Christmas reads in a while. #ANewBeginningAtChristmasTreeCottage
December 11, 2023
This was my first Christmas book of the year, and it is an absolutely lovely read. It's a real feel-good Christmas book to start the season off well.
Set in a quaint seaside town in Dorset; needing a fresh start, Jago, his Mum Avril, and 8 year old kid sister Merryn relocate after a terrible tragedy. Merryn is enrolled in the local primary school and has a very supportive teacher, Honor Martin. Jago was a successful glass artist in London, but because he has lost his focus, can the people of this quaint town help restore it?
A small town, Honor, and Jago often bump into each other, but Honor seems to have the wrong idea about Jago.
This is such a lovely festive, feel-good read, and I highly recommend it if you like a good dose of romance at this time of year.
Set in a quaint seaside town in Dorset; needing a fresh start, Jago, his Mum Avril, and 8 year old kid sister Merryn relocate after a terrible tragedy. Merryn is enrolled in the local primary school and has a very supportive teacher, Honor Martin. Jago was a successful glass artist in London, but because he has lost his focus, can the people of this quaint town help restore it?
A small town, Honor, and Jago often bump into each other, but Honor seems to have the wrong idea about Jago.
This is such a lovely festive, feel-good read, and I highly recommend it if you like a good dose of romance at this time of year.
September 29, 2023
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book 📖
This is an ideal Christmas feel good book, snuggle down with a hot chocolate and read away
After a loss the previous Christmas, the Pengethley Family move to Lullabay for a fresh start.
Jago is a newly divorced man looking for love and discovering his passion for his glass work and whats missing in his life...
Avril is newly widowed and mother to Jago and Merryn who is a young girl looking to love Christmas and friendship
Honor is the local school teacher and is she ready for love again after having her ex move away?
Follow these journies from the highs to the lows
This is an ideal Christmas feel good book, snuggle down with a hot chocolate and read away
After a loss the previous Christmas, the Pengethley Family move to Lullabay for a fresh start.
Jago is a newly divorced man looking for love and discovering his passion for his glass work and whats missing in his life...
Avril is newly widowed and mother to Jago and Merryn who is a young girl looking to love Christmas and friendship
Honor is the local school teacher and is she ready for love again after having her ex move away?
Follow these journies from the highs to the lows
October 1, 2023
What a gorgeous book to be reading on a rainy autumnal weekend - this has really set me up in the mood for the colder months and Christmas.
Lullburu bay, a small seaside town is known for enjoying the festive season and after a bad break up, resident Honor is ready for the break and the distraction.
New residents, the Pengethley's aren't feeling all that festive. Avril lost her husband on Christmas Eve last year so this time of year brings bad memories rushing back to the surface - but Jago feels his little sister needs some joy back in her life so tries to get more involved with the festivities.
When Jago meets her teacher, Honor, and sees her love for Christmas, he begins to see that things can get better.
This is your classic Christmas feel-good love story and I just adored it.
I've said before, but I love that the children, being so pure and open, show the adults the way to live, move on and enjoy life again.
A classic formula that just works so well and with such gorgeous, lovable characters, there's really nothing to dislike abou this book.
This was an absolute joy to read and ends on a note that could easily lead to further books set in this area.
Lullburu bay, a small seaside town is known for enjoying the festive season and after a bad break up, resident Honor is ready for the break and the distraction.
New residents, the Pengethley's aren't feeling all that festive. Avril lost her husband on Christmas Eve last year so this time of year brings bad memories rushing back to the surface - but Jago feels his little sister needs some joy back in her life so tries to get more involved with the festivities.
When Jago meets her teacher, Honor, and sees her love for Christmas, he begins to see that things can get better.
This is your classic Christmas feel-good love story and I just adored it.
I've said before, but I love that the children, being so pure and open, show the adults the way to live, move on and enjoy life again.
A classic formula that just works so well and with such gorgeous, lovable characters, there's really nothing to dislike abou this book.
This was an absolute joy to read and ends on a note that could easily lead to further books set in this area.
September 28, 2023
This is my first book by Georgia Hill and I absolutely loved it and can't wait to read more from her.
My first Christmas book of 2023 and it was a really lovely easy read. It provided me with an excellent escapism from everyday life which is a little hard going at the moment!
Great, loveable characters and a story that really draws you in and will stay with me.
Highly recommended and would be great if there was a sequel.
Thank you so much to Georgia Hill and Bloodhound Books for the early ARC of this book.
My first Christmas book of 2023 and it was a really lovely easy read. It provided me with an excellent escapism from everyday life which is a little hard going at the moment!
Great, loveable characters and a story that really draws you in and will stay with me.
Highly recommended and would be great if there was a sequel.
Thank you so much to Georgia Hill and Bloodhound Books for the early ARC of this book.
September 14, 2023
I enjoyed this book very much indeed.
snow and christmas and a lovely town in dorset, what more do you need?
lots going on throughout the storyline, a slight misunderstanding between a couple of the characters, but once that is reolves all is well.
If you like a Christmas kind of feel good book then this book is a must read.
I received an ARC and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
snow and christmas and a lovely town in dorset, what more do you need?
lots going on throughout the storyline, a slight misunderstanding between a couple of the characters, but once that is reolves all is well.
If you like a Christmas kind of feel good book then this book is a must read.
I received an ARC and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 16, 2023
Really enjoyed this romance. I'm grateful to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
This is a real feel good read, and though I thoroughly enjoyed it now, I think it would be even better read in December.
There is the almost obligatory will they won't they between Honor and Jago, but the plot moves along at a good pace and the characters are well rounded
A great book
This is a real feel good read, and though I thoroughly enjoyed it now, I think it would be even better read in December.
There is the almost obligatory will they won't they between Honor and Jago, but the plot moves along at a good pace and the characters are well rounded
A great book
December 5, 2023
New Beginnings at Christmas Tree Farm is such a cute and festive read that I found myself flying through! I just love all the Christmas vibes in this one and honestly Lullbury Bay sounds like an absolute dream place to live! I love their dedication to the festive season!
While there are some tough topics in this one, with grief quite prominent, it was still such a lovely book about new beginnings and starting fresh. Merryn was hands down my favourite character who was just too adorable!
My only issue was the miscommunication throughout this one but that's a me problem as it's just not a trope I enjoy. Otherwise this was a enjoyable read and I'm excited to see what Georgia Hill writes next!
While there are some tough topics in this one, with grief quite prominent, it was still such a lovely book about new beginnings and starting fresh. Merryn was hands down my favourite character who was just too adorable!
My only issue was the miscommunication throughout this one but that's a me problem as it's just not a trope I enjoy. Otherwise this was a enjoyable read and I'm excited to see what Georgia Hill writes next!
September 3, 2023
A charming enjoyable read , this genre isn’t my usual one but it’s refreshing to take a break from crime fiction to read a book like this, Merryn added a lot of moments that made me smile and I think the notorious Aggie would have provided a lot of laugh out moments , I hadn’t read any of the author’s books before so I presume we’ll be seeing Honor and the others again.
September 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this seaside romance. I was willing for the true story to come out and it was well written when it did in different parts. When the characters were in their own setting I remembered well who was who but when they were all together I did have to recap which character was which. It’s a book there could be a sequel of quite easily which I’d definitely read.
September 26, 2023
A very enjoyable read. I picked this up with the intention of reading a couple of chapters. ......2 hours later and a third of the way in I thought I'd better get on with life! Loved the misunderstanding. All the characters were likeable. There could easily be a second book of which I would read.
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
September 30, 2023
Who wouldn't want to live in somewhere named Christmas Tree Cottage apart from Jago? I love Christmas, so it would be perfect!
New Beginnings is a gorgeous feel good festive fiction read, with a hint of romance waiting in the wings, ready for Honor and Jago to realise how perfect they are for each other.
The ensemble of characters are warm, likeable and I soon found myself emotionally invested in them and their stories. I'd love to hear more from them in future reads too.
It definitely gave me all the festive feels!
New Beginnings is a gorgeous feel good festive fiction read, with a hint of romance waiting in the wings, ready for Honor and Jago to realise how perfect they are for each other.
The ensemble of characters are warm, likeable and I soon found myself emotionally invested in them and their stories. I'd love to hear more from them in future reads too.
It definitely gave me all the festive feels!
September 29, 2023
A lovely story, yet felt a bit slow and drawn out. Peaks of excitement or interesting happenings were strung throughout and kept my interest in the story.
The overall story is quite good. A mistaken relationship causes confusion, yet leads to a sweet relationship developing. The book is all about new beginnings and fresh starts. A great book for the holiday season.
The overall story is quite good. A mistaken relationship causes confusion, yet leads to a sweet relationship developing. The book is all about new beginnings and fresh starts. A great book for the holiday season.
November 27, 2023
After reading ‘On a falling tide’ and being totally grabbed by the immersive characterisation, I thought I’d give Georgia Hill’s current book a go, and it didn’t disappoint. Within a few pages, Honor and Jago reached out and took me by the hand. Then it didn’t matter where we went. I usually read psychological thrillers, so the world of a cosy Christmas romance could have felt a bit alien… it didn’t. The crisp and humorous prose carried me briskly through the story, and I found myself tearing up during the final immersive event. Georgia said I would adore Jago, and she was correct!
December 7, 2023
After his divorce and bereavement over his Dad, Jago, his Mum and Sister decide on a fresh start in Dorset. A far cry from the bustling streets of London.
This book is full of Christmas feels that can melt a grieving heart and strengthen bonds. Lots of fun and frivolity and knitted characters. Oh and an eccentric vicker. So pour yourself a Baileys and enjoy.
This book is full of Christmas feels that can melt a grieving heart and strengthen bonds. Lots of fun and frivolity and knitted characters. Oh and an eccentric vicker. So pour yourself a Baileys and enjoy.
September 13, 2023
A fantastic Christmas read with a seasonal theme throughout the whole book rather than a slight mention like some supposedly Christmas books. Loved the Christmas music/song chapter titles too. A definite must read this Christmas.
October 3, 2023
What a lovely festive romance book! As a lover of Xmas & books, I love to read them at all times in the year. This did not disappoint. Likeable characters & a heart warming story, it’s a perfect Autumn read. Highly recommend!
November 4, 2023
Wonderful
This is a wonderful story of new beginnings for a family after a sad event last Christmas. Warmth and friendships and love seep into their lives and start the healing process. It's wonderfully christmasy
This is a wonderful story of new beginnings for a family after a sad event last Christmas. Warmth and friendships and love seep into their lives and start the healing process. It's wonderfully christmasy
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