The Vintage Village Bake Off

by Judy Leigh

Now in his seventies, Robert Parkin is stunned to find himself the unlikely sex symbol of the village gardening club.Living in happy solitude with his cat Isaac Mewton in the Devon village of Millbrook, entertained by his mischievous chickens and goats, Robert has never figured out the rules of romance. But as the local ladies vie for his company, it soon becomes clear that Robert’s Victoria Sponge cake is the lure, and as his baking prowess grows, so does his confidence.Cheesecakes, meringues, puddings, Robert can do it all, but his real masterpieces are his scones – ginger, rosemary, coconut, fruit, his recipes are inspired and soon come to the attention of the local media. Which county does the best cream tea – Devon or Cornwall? It’s time for an age-old debate to be settled with a competition.Robert’s sisters Bunty and Hattie are both at crossroads in their lives, so news of their brother’s baking competition is the perfect excuse to bring them to Millbrook. And as the siblings relish each other’s company, and Robert relishes being at the heart of his community, a summer of scones may just light the way to long-lasting happiness for them all.Enjoy Judy Leigh’s wonderful world of family, friendship and feasting in this perfect feel-good story for all fans of Maddie Please, Dawn French and Caroline James.Readers love Judy ‘I have been a fan of Judy's work for quite a while now. I love the way in which she writes such fun, feel good, heart-warming and uplifting stories.’‘Judy Leigh is a refreshing writer that writes about older characters… and I have to say that I do not hesitate to pick up a book when Judy has written it. They are always such delightful reads that teach us that life doesn't have to become boring when you get old… A true pleasure to read.’‘Judy Leigh’s writing is special. She understands people and relationships; she writes of strong, authentic, inspirational women. She realises that becoming older brings health concerns but it’s not all doom and gloom, the women in her books shine! They don’t have perfect lives, but they are survivors, they keep going and achieve new things.’‘What an absolutely heart-warming story about lifelong friendships set in a wonderful community in a delightful village. The central characters are strong but gentle who support each other through life's ups and downs as well as supporting others in need. This was such a great story that I would save and read again.’‘The Golden Oldies’ Book Club is an entertaining read, written with warmth, humour and a message not to let chances slip by. Themes of friendship, community and navigating life and its opportunities run throughout.’‘A lovely warm read about family and closeness. This author never disappoints, always a joy to find one of her books which I haven’t read.’‘Such a good read. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their lives as we are gradually introduced. It's refreshing to have a cast of older characters in the lead - reminds everyone that life isn't over when you reach middle age and beyond.’‘A captivating cosy read written with warmth and humour—friendship, emotion, love, joy, and laughter are abundant throughout the pages of this wonderful story.

Genres: Fiction, Romance, Audiobook, Chick Lit, Womens Fiction, Humor, Contemporary Romance

336 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2023

About the author

Judy Leigh has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset. After teaching theatre, writing lyrics for a punk band and setting up Shakespeare Festivals, she completed an MA in Professional Writing.

She is a prolific writer, but when she is not at her computer you will find her on the beach, walking, doing yoga or splashing in the sea. She is also a Reiki healer, a vegan and an animal lover. She has three black cats and she enjoys live music, theatre and football.

Reviews

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another of my favourite authors who writes about mature characters is Judy Leigh. Robert Parkin is a septuagenarian, living happily with his cat Isaac Mewton in the Devon village of Millbrook. When the women in the village start fawning over him, he is surprised. Right around the same time, his sister, Hattie is dealing with her marriage ending as her boor of a husband has run off with another woman. The third sibling, Bunty shows up at Hattie's house to have an affair with a man she just met. Hattie leaves Bunty and her lover at her house, and heads to Robert's. Now Robert is quite the baker and it appears that is what is attracting most of the new members of The Gardening Club. When the media gets wind of Robert's skills, he becomes part of a contest to see which county does the best cream tea – Devon or Cornwall?

The Vintage Village Bake Off is a story of life and never being too old to enjoy it or make the most of it. It is also a story about family, specifically siblings. The Bunty storyline frustrated me as I am not a huge fan of affair stories, but I did like to see her growth and realization that she needs to decide what she wants out of life. I really liked Hattie. She was a people pleaser and her bully of a husband was nasty to her. She had completely lost herself in her marriage doing what he wanted, so it was nice to see her come into her own and make decisions in her best interest for a change. And then there's Robert. He was just a nice guy. He enjoyed his gardening and his baking and was a bit unnerved with the attention from the ladies in the village. He did not want to compete in the baking contest, but I love how it all worked out. The animals in this book are also important characters, especially the goats. This was a fun story, demonstrating that we all need to live life to the fullest and enjoy ourselves. It also reminds people to talk to one another, especially in the face of tragedy and that it is never to late to change your life. The Vintage Village Bake Off doesn't have recipes for food, but it could be a recipe for life. I recommend this one if you enjoy humor and mature characters in a story.

[Louise Steer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. The characters are lively, and the baking descriptions mouthwatering. Judy Leigh believes that age should not slow us down and we can still find love, community and something to do along the way. It takes a while for the characters to get to Devon, where the bake off is held, but when they love humdrum Sussex for Devon, all their wishes and dreams come true. Written with good humour, it's a light enjoyable read.

[Davida Chazan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars! Well, the only kind of "wars" I like are the kind that include some kind of cooking, and this one has a "scones war" so... just the ticket! Read my full #bookreview of this fun novel on my book blog here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2023/11/2...

[Allison]

A fun, believable story

I want to go to England to meet these people. They must be real, I've grown so fond of them as I spent time in their company... This really made me laugh out loud as well as grinning an awful lot. I finished the book in two days, I was so enthralled.

[Jill · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just bad. Dnf

[Sonia Bellhouse]

I’m a bit surprised that the blurb for the book starts with Robert as he only appears halfway through the story. Initially, we are introduced to Hattie who is regaining her confidence after her controlling husband left her. It’s a delight to see her venture into new territory encouraged by her good neighbour. Then Bunty arrives having left her marriage, and Hattie is forced to assert herself. Robert lives in Devon and is a doyenne of the local gardening club. His sense of humour is revealed in the names of his animals, but his romantic senses are lacking. The local ladies vie subtly and not so subtly for his attentions. The cookery competition between the rival counties is a highlight. Mouthwatering concoctions are mentioned and it’s a shame the book didn’t to include a recipe section.

[Kelly Knits · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful book. I enjoyed all of the characters. I really enjoyed that they are all senior citizens who found love, friendship, and purpose. You are never too old to enjoy any of those things. We all deserve them.

[Lisa Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. A delicious treat about village life, sibling connections, second chance love... and scones. A sweet, lovely read.

[Kathy Prazenica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yummy fun

Loved getting to know the characters and was very touched by the ending. Looking forward to reading more by Judy Leigh

[Gina Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a darling story. Lighthearted and sweet! Highly recommend.

[Dynise · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, light-hearted, positive, easy-to-read little book. I don’t usually go for novels like this, but it was actually just what I needed during a difficult time in my life. Adorable and rejuvenating

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Light engaging read.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book weaves throughout it a number of serious issues but at the same time flows easily from one page to the next of love, humour, strength of family. A lovely story that highlights whatever your age, it’s never too late!

[Lynn Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun story

Love the under the theme. It is never to late to find joy. Looking forward to reading more of Judys books.

[Bskinner · Rating 3 out of 5]

If this book were a cake it would be one made from a sugar-free cake mix. I rounded up from 2 stars to 3 because the narrator was delightful.

[Caroline Mattinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A light easy read with some fun characters.

[June Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story that seems to focus on the idea that it's never to late to live your life. To make every moment count. While it'll surely speak loudest to readers like me with a few years under our belts, there is much for younger readers to absorb, too. I mean, a pastor's daughter who's a member of a punk band with the name Armpit? Hattie, who I'd pick as the character who spoke loudest to me, undergoes several transformations during the book, not the least of which is performing with said band on keyboards. Nope, not telling you how she got to that point but you'll enjoy the ride. It's a leisurely ride, true, one whose slow pace took a moment to adjust to, particularly as the blurb had me expecting Robert, Hattie's brother, to be the focus of the book. Hattie and sister Bunty are barely a blip in the blurb while, in actuality, Robert is initially not much more than a blip in the first few chapters. After the siblings are united, however, the story really begins and the message of living in the moment and taking chances picks up steam.

I won't try to detail the plot. It's nuanced and has multiple narrators, so you get more than on viewpoint of what is going on. Aside from Geoffrey, a nasty piece of work and a bully to boot, you'll probably wind up liking all the characters involved, even the pushy ones. Heck, even Jacko, a selfish sort, might ultimately stir a few moments of sympathy from you...but not many. Hattie has spent her life trying to please others, losing herself along the way, so watching her blossom is a delight. Bunty was the outgoing, cute sister, doing what she wanted, ironically rather losing herself, too, after a tragedy in her marriage. Robert strikes me as the typical nice guy. An older man, he's rather unsettled to find himself the target of so many single ladies in the community. Than, to top it off, he's caught up in a bit of a baking war to be televised. How that works out will both amuse and please you, particularly as he shudders at the idea of everything always having to be a competition. His opponent...well, you'll see. You'll also meet his critters along the way, their names giving insight into his quirky personality. Bet you can figure out what I mean when I say his goats are named after....oh, nope, not telling. Reading or hearing the names for the first time is too much fun to ruin it for you. Let's just say, I love his sense of humor. Gotta love those feisty goats.

Bottom line, lots of growth, even for these largely 70-something characters that are surrounded by some fun, quirky characters in a lovely setting. Marriages broken, shaken, and ultimately brought to a satisfying conclusion. Romance? Oh, yeah, definitely. I didn't note who said it, but they discover that the biggest risk may be not taking that risk at all. Humor and pathos sound like an odd mix, but they're also there. You know, like in real life. That is perhaps what I love most about Leigh's writing. She captures the real face of life and relationships via engaging characters and allows us to watch them both flounder about and grow as we read. Seriously, I cannot recommend this one too highly. It's a winner and shouldn't be missed. Thanks #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for allowing me to enter the intriguing, complicated world of these three siblings. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it, even the ones that left me in search of a tasty treat.

[JenBsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this a lot. Very cute, clean (there is some sex happening, but all closed door) ... and it had a couple laugh-out-loud moments for me. Featuring the "older" crowd (the three main characters are all in their 70s). And cooking ... quote at the start "Cooking is love made visible."

I felt like the blurb here was a little misleading (and I know it's not necessarily the author writing it, or responsible for it). Yes, this IS about Robert and his little Bake-Off ... but it's his sister Hattie who seems to be the main character, or at least the book starts off with her. It's her wedding in the prologue, then her history and happenings in the first few chapters. It's not until Chapter4 that we meet "a very English gentleman in a pale shirt" ... who is Robert. It's all 3rd person(past tense), but the POV shifts between the three siblings, Hattie, Robert and Bunty. Bunty joins Hattie at her home, Hattie then goes to visit Robert, then Bunty comes there. Sections feature just one sibling, two together, then all three together, as well as many other secondary characters. Just basic chronological chapters (38 of them).

My KindleUnlimited subscription was expiring, this was one of the last books I squeezed in (text only) ... the audio was available on Hoopla/Library. I went with the audio edition, but had the Kindle copy handy for reference and highlights/notes. Single narrator (female/older) and British accent (as it should be). British spellings in text (ie sombre).

One thing I note, is when a song is happening (sung by characters) is it sung by the narrator, or spoken? Here ... I wasn't really sure, it was rather "rap" type that even "sung" has a spoken feel. This was also my LOL moment ...

"I'm Say-say-say-say-Satan's slave..."
"I'm sorry, that's my daughter Tilda. She has a rock group, they're practising ... it's a bit inappropriate - on a Sunday - in a manse."

Then there were the animal's names ... A little over the top, but adorably so. The chicken's, Dora-the-EGGSplora (I missed this originally in audio, the narrator didn't enunciate the pun enough. Luckily I happened to notice it when I was reviewing the text). There was also Princess Lay-a and Hen Solo. The goats ... The Great Goatsby and Vincent Van Goat. The cat is Issac Mewton.

Hattie and lived in a miserable marriage and is finally learning to live on her own. Robert has never married, but excels at cooking/baking, and the older ladies are taking notice. Older woman babe magnet! Bunty ... Bunty, Bunty. I really just wanted to slap her silly. Felt SO sorry for her husband, and didn't quite find that part believable (that he'd be so forgiving). It was a little annoying, the dropped hints about "what happened" in their past that they hadn't gotten over. It's not even a spoiler at all (and was as I guessed, the death of a child) but when "what had happened" is referenced multiple times, but that's as much info as we (the reader) get ... I find it annoying. It is finally revealed, but I don't know why the reveal took so long.

I'll have very fond memories of this, and plan on checking out some additional books but this author. I'm just in my 50s ... interesting to read about these crazy lives of people 20+ years older than me.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved every one of the author’s contemporary second chance romances, but I really think I might have found my new favourite. The characters were simply wonderful and soon found their places in my heart, their wealth of life experience and paths to future happiness so very easy to identify with, and the whole story had a warmth and lightness of touch that I found totally adorable.

Hattie never really was a fuddy duddy, but fifty years of marriage to the horrendous Geoffrey had taken away every bit of her confidence and self belief – but with the encouragement of a close friend and a new determination not to allow her age to define her, she begins to rediscover her sparkle. Then sister Bunty arrives on her doorstep – always the butterfly that Hattie aspires to be, she’s walked away from her marriage and become involved with a man who seems to offer the excitement she’s missing in her life, but who might just not be quite everything she wants him to be. Brother Robert is content with his solitary life in Devon, surrounded by his animals, a keen gardener, he’s developed rather a passion for baking – and he’s rather good at it too, if a little perplexed by the attention he’s attracting from every woman in the vicinity all eager to become hands-on with more than just his scones.

When Bunty’s antics become a little too much to bear, Hattie leaves her to it for a while and takes an overdue break in Devon – where she has time to breathe, and is warmly welcomed by a community of individuals who need her interventions as much as she needs their support and friendship. And as word spreads about Robert’s baking, he finds himself caught up in a televised contest where he rather uncomfortably finds himself needing to hold up the reputation of his county against stiff Cornish competition – to take place on the newly built patio he’s always wanted, if it can be completed in time.

But while those are the bare bones of the story, this book is so much more than that. All three siblings go on a journey, realising that life is for living, that age is no barrier to new experiences and the possibility of romance, finding new happiness in their different ways, and bringing joy to others whose lives they touch. The cast of characters, both major and minor, is quite wonderful – every individual beautifully drawn with their own stories, every one of them entirely real. The humour is gentle, and the smile it brought to my face never wavered through the ups and downs of the story – and, at times, it’s immensely touching as each of them face up to their mistakes and wrong turns in life, but discover that they have so much to offer and that the future holds more promise than they could ever imagine.

And the Scone Wars? Well, that whole storyline was just perfect… this whole book was an absolute delight, and I really couldn’t recommend it more highly.

[Katherine Hayward Pérez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 1 of Dewey’s 24 Hour Readathon October 2023.

I’ve enjoyed all Judy Leigh’s books that I’ve reviewed and was happy when I found she had a new novel. The first thing I noticed about The Vintage Village Bake Off was the powerful prologue and first chapter. They were amazing!

The second thing I noticed was the sense of community. So many friendly people. Lots of yummy food, lots of debate about the best scones and lots of mentions of scones and other sweet treats as well as other traditional British food.

It’s a relaxing book. However, I felt there were so many characters that I didn’t get into their backstory well, which was a shame.

I’m not sure where the idea of “vintage” fits in either, especially in relationship to the village. The characters that stood out to me most were Hattie and her sister, Bunty. I felt they were the best developed of all the characters. Bunty was quirky, I liked her. I also felt she was vulnerable and Jacko was just annoying and immature. I grew up in Oxfordshire, and I sincerely disliked his comments about it being “a dull, flat county, and he’d hate to live there.” .

I didn’t agree with Dennis about the fact that Oxford is too many people, old buildings and spires”. Each to their own on what they think of it, but I personally love it.

I loved how Hattie stood up to him and defended Bunty. I felt she was someone to root for. I loved the natural and realistic way they saw each other again after years.I liked Glenys and felt she was a good friend.

Both she and Bunty have a difficult time where love is concerned. I felt as scared as Hattie that Jackie may come back, yet proud she tried to be stronger about what had happened with him.
Geoffrey was beyond horrible to Hattie. I was glad they divorced.

Kay had great life lessons for Bunty, and I liked Kay’s house.I liked how Bunty gave Hattie’s home a makeover.

I loved Tilda’s singing while Hattie played the organ and the importance of the church and organ music in bringing people together.

Thanks to Judy Leigh, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

3 stars.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Vintage Village Bake Off by Judy Leigh is the most charming contemporary novel that will warm your heart and make you smile.
The lead characters are three siblings in their seventies. They have a lifetime of experience behind them but prove that you are never too old for a fresh start or a new direction. The future is theirs to grab with both hands. “Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose.”
We witness a character brow beaten by forty nine years of marriage to a bully who exerted control, squashing the very life out of her. She believes everything he spoke over her – that she is a worthless fuddy duddy in boring clothes. It is beautiful to witness her transformation from black and white to glorious technicolour.
Another character has always been a colourful butterfly but beneath her exterior lies heartache and pain. Her choices to flit about lead to regrets. Is it too late for a do-over?
And the third sibling has had a sensible career as a teacher and then headteacher. Retirement is a time to shine as a new hobby is picked up. Baking is a very popular choice.
I loved the names of the animals owned by a character – Isaac Mewton was a cat. The other names were equally witty and well thought out.
The book opens in Oxfordshire but quickly moves to Devon. Here the air is clean and the village is warm and welcoming, pulling together when needs are identified.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Vintage Village Bake Off. It was a light hearted fun read showing that life is for living to the full, whatever your age.
I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“Life is a treasure and we’ll help ourselves to the riches.”
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always fall upon Judy Leigh’s books with glee and she has once again outdone herself with her gorgeous new novel, The Vintage Village Bake Off.

Robert Parkin is in his seventies and is perfectly content living alone in the Devon village of Millbrook with his cat Isaac Mewton and his chicken and goats to keep him company. Having never got to the grips with the rules of romance, Robert is surprised to find the local ladies all vying for his company and it soon transpires that it is his baking prowess that is luring them all like moths to a flame. Robert quickly begins to give Mary Berry a run for her money with his meringues and puddings and he has hit the jackpot with his scones. As his fame grows so too does his confidence and when the local media come calling, a competition to judge which county does the best cream tea soon has everyone running to their ovens.

Hearing about their brother’s competition has sisters Bunty and Hattie – who are both at a crossroads in their lives – deciding to go visit Robert. As the siblings enjoy getting closer and spending more and more time together, they soon realise that happiness might be within all of their reach – but only if they stop hiding in the shadows and take a leap of faith and a chance on themselves…

Judy Leigh is just fabulous. I was smiling, laughing and thoroughly enjoying myself from the second I picked up her latest novel, The Vintage Village Bake off. A heartwarming, uplifting and feel-good tale about stepping out of your comfort zone, the power of community, friendship, love and laughter, The Vintage Village Bake Off is a delicious, delightful and delectable charmer from a writer who never disappoints: Judy Leigh.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hattie was married to Geoffrey for forty nine years. Now he’s gone she has finally realised that it’s her time. Geoffrey wasn't a nice man to the point that family and friends wouldn't visit because of him and Hattie now wonders how she put up with him for so long. She is slowly changing her mindset and looking forward to doing all the things she wasn't able to previously because of his harsh criticisms. One day her sister Bunty arrives, suitcase in hand- she’s left her husband and wants to stay for a while to sort herself out. When it turns out that Bunty isn’t quite telling the whole story, Hattie ups and leaves to go to her brother Robert’s. Robert has been single all his life and loves his animals, gardening and baking which appears to attract the ladies of the village he lives in. Maybe baking could lead to romance finally, but he wants someone to love him for him and not just his scones. When there is a possible scone competition he is unsure whether he wants the limelight or to stay in the shadows as he always has.

This is another one of Judy’s terrific reads that is more than thoroughly enjoyable. It's more than a story- it's perhaps a message to all of us about “ Carpe Diem” and taking hold of life with both hands whilst we can. The characters are wonderful and leap from the page like old friends. There are plenty of smiles and of course lots of baking and cakes. There are a few wise words amongst the story about such things as “ breathing in hope and breathing out insecurities and fears”. An uplifting read that left me with a smile and more. I’m off to investigate raspberry and white chocolate scones! Loved it.

For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog

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[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the last couple of years, Judy Leigh (also writing as Elena Collins) has become one of my favourite authors. I love how she has older characters living their best lives and I try to read all her books, so I was very excited to see she had a new book out. What was also exciting was the title. Being a fan of The Great British Bake Off on TV, I figured this book was going to be a great read.
The novel begins with a prologue set 49 years ago at the wedding of Harriet (known as Hattie) and Geoffrey. We meet the main characters of the novel - Hattie is a secretary, her brother Robert is a schoolteacher, her younger sister Bunty is there too.
Then we move to the present day and discover Hattie and Geoffrey are divorced. Hattie is living in Oxfordshire and hasn’t seen her siblings as much as she would have liked – but that’s about to change. Bunty turns up at her house after leaving her husband for another man. Robert is in his seventies and lives in Devon with his cat Isaac Mewton (who is a great character in her own right!). Robert is fond of reading, gardening and baking. Soon, Hattie and Bunty end up in Devon to see their brother – who has unwittingly become the most eligible bachelor in the village!
Judy’s characters are so well drawn that you warm to them straight away and are interested in their stories. Her style of writing is beautifully readable and her descriptions of people are particularly good. Add in a healthy mixture of baking and a competition between two counties and there’s certainly enough to hold your interest throughout this charming story. That’s not to say everything is idyllic in the village though and there are a few “bad guys” to contrast with the many lovely characters. Overall, it’s a great, fun read and I really enjoyed it.

[Piper · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first, I was curious if I would enjoy the book I picked up. The first few pages didn't quite grab me, and I had to force myself to keep reading. However, as I continued to read, I enjoyed the story and fell in love with the characters. Reading a book that focused on older individuals who still had much to offer the world was refreshing. The story follows three siblings in their 70s: Robert, who has taken up baking after retirement and has become quite skilled at it; Hattie, who is coming out of her shell after a divorce from her domineering husband; and Bunty, who is having a fling while away from her husband and is beginning to regret it.
It took me a while to get into this story, but I persevered and ended up loving it. The tale is about second chances and is accompanied by beautiful food. Without giving too much away, there is a discussion on whether the jam or cream should go on a scone first, but one of the characters wisely says that it doesn't matter when both ways are delicious. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy slower, thoughtful books.

Harriet's willingness to become a new person develops confidence in herself, demonstrating a strength of character. Her relationship with her brother, Robert, and sister, Bunty, provides a nice flavour of encouragement and caring. In fact, even the supporting characters, such as the "hot to trot" ladies who were outrageously flirting with Robert, were entertaining and made me laugh or roll my eyes. I would love to visit Devon and meet the people in the gardening club.

#Thevintagevillagebakeoff '#bookreview #bookblogger #booktour

[Jo Lynn Bruno-Diehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of 3 siblings. Hattie recently divorced from an overbearing husband, Bunty, a free spirit who has run away from a husband who seems to have lost interest in her, and Robert, a bachelor who loves to garden and bake and has never been in love. Like many of Judy Leigh's book characters they are all in their seventies.
Hattie decides to break out of her "fuddy duddy mold" with new clothes, hairdo and attitude. As she begins her new life Bunty comes to "visit" with her new lover in tow. Unable to deal with all that Hattie decides to visit Robert who lives a few villages away.
Robert fills his time with his garden and animals and bakes wonderful creations that the village garden club(especially the women) are in love with. All of this is sprinkled with quirky villagers creating minor plot lines. It's really a lot of fun.
It took 3/4 of the book to find out what the Village Bake Off was. A made for TV contest to find the best scones in the area. The characters were so engaging the whole TV thing felt anti-climatic. Still it was necessary so that Robert could finally find love.
Judy Leigh's books resonate with me because she always portrays older women as strong, independent and intelligent people. Being able to identify with those characters I will continue to read her books.

[Marz Hare · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful read! Whilst it's not the type of book I usually go for, I saw the cover and the title on NetGalley and I was sold (thank you for the ARC, by the way!).



It's rare to find books with elderly protagonists rediscovering the delights of life like the characters of this book do. There is a cosy setting, cream teas, righting of wrongs, and some charming personalities I couldn't help but root for (I have to admit, even a character I initially disliked -Bunty- grew on me as the story went on).



I would recommend this book to anyone looking for something really cosy and uplifting, particularly if you'd like a glimpse of British village life and older characters finding empowerment and happiness. Also, for the Good Omens fans out there, Robert gave me major Aziraphale vibes, so that's that

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

She stood grimly between Aunt Maud and Aunt Dorothy, who sported matching sour faces, pillar-box-red lipstick and jackets with fur collars that looked as if rats had died simultaneously around their necks.

Robert was perplexed. Women were an unknown land that he’d seldom visited and he didn’t know where to buy a map.


My Review:

One, Two, Three, Four - There's going to be a SCONE WAR!

Another fun and delightful read from Judy Leigh, I can always count on her for giggle-snorts as well as several good belly laughs during perusal. This missive has three senior citizen siblings reconnecting after a lifetime of poor choices for one, lack of choices for another, and handfuls of missed opportunities for the third. They fell into their second chances and found “gardening groupies” at seventy, we should all be so lucky!

Ms. Leigh’s clever humor and observant insights sparkled throughout with quirky villagers, battling journalists, vamping widows, and witty monikers given to chickens such as Hen Solo, Jabba the Cluck, Princess Lay-a, and Dora the Eggs-plorer; goats named Vincent Van Goat and The Great Goatsby; and a cat named Isaac Mewton. I dare anyone to keep a straight face while reading. In fact, I’m tossing out a double-dog dare!

[Debbie Southwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Judy Leigh book but I will certainly be reading more. It was lovely to read about the older generation enjoying life and having the same issues in life that everyone faces but also overcoming them and showing that life can be fun even when older. . It was also wonderful that this was about siblings Bunty, Robert and Hattie who come back together following Hattie’s divorce from her abusive bullying Husband, Bunty’s fling due to her feeling her Husband loves the horses more than her and Robert becoming a magnet for all the women in his village due to his wonderful baking. There is a mixture of humour and serious topics in this book and the story moved at a lovely pace with cross generational interactions as well as such descriptive writing of the village I could easily imagine it and would love to move to a village like that in my retirement. The fact that the siblings hadn’t seen each other for a while but had the loving bond made me smile. A charming read that I would highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwoods books for an advance copy of this book however my opinions is completely my own.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first opened this book and read the first few pages, I was not sure I was going to like it. I had to force myself to keep picking it up and reading another chapter. But I ended up really enjoying the story and fell in love with the characters. It is delightful to read a book that focuses on mostly older people who discover they still have something to offer to the world. Harriet’s willingness to become a new person who developed confidence in herself and demonstrated a strength of character. The relationship she has with her brother, Robert, and sister, Bunty, provided a nice flavor of encouragement and caring. In fact, even the support characters were entertaining and had me laughing or rolling my eyes, for example, the “hot to trot” ladies who were outrageously flirting with Robert. I think I would love to visit Devon and get to meet the people in the gardening club.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

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