New Dreams at Polkerran Point

The Little Cornish Cove #1

by Cass Grafton

When Aunt Meg leaves her cottage to Anna Redding in her will, Anna immediately packs up and heads to Polkerran, the Cornish fishing village where she was so happy as a child. With ambitions to turn the cottage into a B&B, a job working for the enigmatic historian, Oliver Seymour , and the return of her childhood crush, Alex Tremayne , it seems the stars have all aligned for Anna. But Aunt Meg left behind a mystery for her to solve, and a shock discovery reveals she may be living a dream that isn’t really hers to hold. Can Anna rescue the new life she’s made for herself? Who in Polkerran can she really count on in her time of need? A charming and cosy romance for fans of Trisha Ashley, Cressida McLaughlin and Suzanne Snow. Previously published as The Cottage in the Cornish Cove. ' A gorgeous read , infused with love, a true sense of community and delightful characters finding their way into the future as they come to terms with the past.' Suzanne Snow ' The perfect read to curl up with and escape to Cornwall. Cass's descriptions of the county made me feel as if I were there , I could see Polkerran beautifully in my mind and hear the characters calling to each other as they made their way around the village.' Kitty Wilson

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Fiction

346 pages, Paperback

Published September 21, 2023

About the author

Cass began her writing life in Regency England, enlisted Jane Austen’s help to time-travel between then and the present day and is now happily ensconced in 21st century Cornwall.

Well, in her imagination and soul; her heart and physical presence reside in northern England with her ever-patient husband and Tig and Tag, their cute but exceptionally demanding moggies.

A bit of a nomad, Cass has called three countries home, as well as six different English counties, but her aspiration is to one day reunite with her beloved West Country.

In the meantime, she writes feel-good contemporary romances set in Cornwall and, in doing so, manages to live there vicariously through her characters and settings.

An Ambassador for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation, Cass is also a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the Jane Austen Society UK and the Society of Authors.

Reviews

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story set in a beautiful part of the country. I really enjoyed this story, very relaxing and one you could just loose yourself in. I hope to read more in the future. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely story with an amazing setting

[Bookworm86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'New Dreams At Polkerran Point' by Cass Grafton.

Read and reviewed for Cass Grafton, Canelo, Canelo Romance, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.


Publication date 21st September 2023

HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY CASS GRAFTON!!!

This is the first book I have read by this author but it most certainly won't be my last!!! This is the first book in 'The Little Cornish Cove series' and was previously published as 'The Cottage In The Cornish Cove'.


This novel consists of 30 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!


What an absolutely stunning read by the extremely talented Cass Grafton!!! A perfectly gorgeous book!!! The vivid descriptions left me feeling the fresh air of Cornwall and feeling the sea breeze. This may be the first book I have read by this incredible author but it most certainly won't be my last!!!The title, synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly.

This book is absolutely rammed full of love, heartache, cake, happiness, friendship, community, cats, betrayal, scenery, loss, dogs, friendship and a very cute kitten!!!! Its one of the most heart-warming and beautiful books I've read in a long time. It made me laugh, cry, smile and fall in love with Polkerran Point. I absolutely loved the gorgeous atmosphere and surroundings being based in the beautiful Cornwall. Cass's evocative writing talents ensures the reader is flown away on holiday where they feel the sand on their toes, hear the crashing of the waves, feel their hearts beating faster with Anna's and will leave you tingling with warmth, smiling with happiness and light hearted!! It is one of those stunning books that it is impossible to say just one more chapter to. I gave up even trying to lie to myself saying just one more in the end as every time I came to the end of one chapter I just HAD to know what was going to happen next and this ended up happening so many times I ended up devouring the whole book in a several hour sitting!! I just could not put my kindle down and I was absolutely gutted when I came to the end of the book! It genuinely felt like I had escaped rainy Wales for a few hours and was soaking up the sun and sea air in the beautiful Polkerran Point. I've not long come back from holiday in Looe, Cornwall, myself and found myself back there in the blink of an eye trying to work out where Cass had based this gorgeous book on. I love the fact that the storyline wasn't a typical romance and didn't end like I assumed it would so a huge well done to Cass as when it comes to romances it is extremely difficult for me not to work out how it will end or what will happen but in this case I hadn't and I also absolutely loved the unexpected twists that you threw in!! I am landed that this is the first book in a series and I cannot wait to get stuck into the next book!!! I am not a fan of classical books but I loved the lovely quotes from classical books at the beginning of each chapter which gave a hint at what was to come in that chapter. Cass does include the heartbreaking subject of Alzheimer's when speaking about Anna's 'Aunt' but doesn't go into too much detail that I felt the need to include a warning. The storyline was sweet, romantic, uplifting and everything you want in a heart warming romance and I completely fell head over heels in love!!! This book is an uplifting breathe of fresh air!!! It ended absolutely perfectly!!!

Clear your schedules and have your tissues at the ready before picking up this stunning page turner as you won't be able to put it down and will get lost on this gorgeous rollercoaster ride of emotions!!!

The characters were all strong, well defined and realistic. I fell in love with the majority of them, even if some took longer than others!! I was gutted when I came to the end. This book is a gorgeous start to what promises to be a stunning series and I cannot wait to meet most of the characters again. Anna is such a strong character and after struggling herself from being treated like rubbish by her absolute @hole of an ex I loved watching her form friendships and find happiness. I became really invested in her and she was such a sweet, caring and unique person who has absolutely no confidence to begin with but it was amazing watching her flourish in the Polkerran community! She is definitely a character I cannot wait to meet over and over again. I'm not going to say anything about the other main characters as I don't want to give anything away but I loved how everything turned out. I really enjoyed learning about all the different members of the community and it reflected a small town community perfectly. There were so many other characters that I really enjoyed meeting and who I cannot wait to meet again. To name a few I enjoyed meeting Lauren and Georgia who I am hoping will visit Anna in Polkerran Point, Oliver, Phoenix, Verity Blue, Mrs Lovelace, Daniel, Jean, Nicki, Jason, Hamish and Mrs Clegg to name a few. I have also got to include Thumper the cat, Dougal the dog and Heathcliff the cat. I am a HUGE animal lover and it is always a HUGE bonus to have animals in books, especially ones who play such big parts!!! I could go on and on but I best stop there as I don't want to give anything away and potentially spoil it for future readers!. Needless to I'm looking forward to meeting them again!!



Get wrapped up warm, put the fire on, make your self a hot chocolate or get your towel and book ready and relax on the beach and clear your schedule ready to get lost in this unputdownable heart warming, gorgeous romantic!

Well done Cass on an absolutely gorgeous book. This is exactly why I would like you to my favourite romance authors list!!! I am thoroughly looking forward to reading more of your books past and future. Congratulations on a stunning success!!


Overall an absolutely stunning page turning romance that will make you smile, laugh and keep you up all night absorbing the pages.


318 pages.

This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle and £7.65 in paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!

Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.

Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews.



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[Marles Henry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anna Redding seemed stuck in time, with A boyfriend who didn't really understand what kind of commitment she was looking fo, and living with her friends who all seemed to have a focus for their future. She suddenly finds out she has inherited Aunt Meg’s cottage. Aunt Meg really wasn't her aunt but was an important figure in her life growing up at Polkerran Point. The inheritance gives Anna an idea to rekindle lost flames from childhood, but instead she discovers an array of quirky characters in a small seaside town including grumpy author-historian Oliver Seymour, who gives her a job to keep her busy.


It is the mystery that Aunt Meg left Anna that was the most intriguing part of this book . There were lots of little clues that aren't. Meg had left all over her house like lines of shells, her old diaries and things hidden in handbags and clothing. The other old world items that were strewn through this book were references to some of Anna's favourite books like Wuthering Heights and Pride and Prejudice. You could see how the author tried to tie in the storylines of these classics in the development of Anna's relationship with Oliver, and build an understanding of what Anna was looking for in terms of her own romances she would love to have - a little too twee and rose colouree glasses.


The move to Polkerran Point was actually quite poignant for Anna , because it gave her a chance to stop and reset and think about what she really wanted out of her life and also from any future relationships. Dumping Giles was probably one of the best decisions she ever made, and realising childhood romances sometimes aren't meant to be  was equally a good epiphany.  


Thanks to #lovebooktours for the book tour spot!

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book from the beautiful cover to the story inside. Anna has been left a cottage by her Aunt Meg in Cornwall, she is unhappy in her relationship and it’s time for change. The setting of Polkerran Point sounds wonderful as do the locals who soon befriend Anna. An engaging story which kept me totally engrossed and entertained with a mystery and a romance entwined and I was sorry to say goodbye to Polkerran Point but delighted it’s the start of a new series.

[Lauren | Hartandfoxreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm excited to take part in the SummerExtravaganza @Lovebookstours Book Tour of the romance New Dreams Of Polkerran Point by @cassgraftonwriter

New Dreams at Polkerran Point is the first in Cass Grafton's The Little Cornish Cove romance series. It was a beautifully written and enjoyable read and feels like a classic romance story. I loved how each chapter began with a classic novel quote. The combination of romance interlaced with mystery really enhances the storyline and it kept me intrigued from start to finish. Everytime I planned to break from reading for the night I was hooked again and had to read another chapter. I absolutely loved this charming Cornish love story. An instant classic!!

You will love this if you like:
🩷Found Family
☕️Small Town Romance
🩷Romance Layered With Mystery
☕️Grumpy Historian MMC
🩷Cozy Romance

[ghostly_bookish · Rating 3 out of 5]

CAWPILE 5.71
3 STARS

A quick and easy story after reading some really heavy books in the last few weeks. The location sounded beautiful- I wish the author had written more about the cove and the landscape. It was predictable but I didn't go into it expecting to be shocked and surprised- a gentle read.

[Linda Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna’s life is about to change.

New Dreams at Polkerran Point is just lovely. It’s perfect escapism wrapped in an engaging and absorbing story that I loved. There’s a smooth and engaging style to the writing, with natural dialogue and a lovely smattering of humour that adds colour and makes it feel as if the things taking place are true rather than fictionalised. I found myself thinking about the book during the times when I wasn’t reading it because I felt so drawn to the story. I thought the literary quotations from authors like Austen, Bronte and Hardy at the start of each chapter were quite perfect.

The way Aunt Meg steers and influences events even though she has already passed away is beautifully handled by Cass Grafton and Meg’s presence really drives this hugely entertaining and interesting plot. There’s a mystery to be solved involving her that adds another layer of interest to this beautifully depicted romance.

What works so well for me in New Dreams at Polkerran Point is the way Anna takes time to realise just what it is she is looking for in her life. She’s surprisingly conventional in her desires, but Cass Grafton still makes her multi-layered and fascinating. Indeed, I loved meeting all the characters, especially Oliver who feels three dimensional from the very first time we encounter him, to Mrs Lovelace who brings such gentle humour through her malapropisms. I’m hoping to encounter more of the folk of Polkerran in future stories.

Equally, Polkerran feels just as much a character as the people. The descriptions, the sense of close knit community, reference to the ways Cornish villages are threatened and invaded by outsiders all serve to place the reader at its heart.

New Dreams at Polkerran Point is absolutely smashing. Written with heart and understanding, it leaves the reader with a warm feeling of fulfilment. I thought it was gorgeous.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spicy: G; scenes are behind closed doors

Will you like this book? You might if you like:

Cozy romances
Pride and Prejudice
Cornwall
Found Families
Older, grump historian hero

Thank you to NetGallery for this ARC.

I’m a huge Anglophile and on my first trip to England I went to Cornwall and just fell in love. Adorable villages, beautiful views, demonic seagulls, you know all the best stuff. So when I saw this romance about a woman who inherits a cottage on the Cornish coast, I was like, yes please. And Grafton’s novel did not disappoint.

Anna is an orphan, raised by her resentful cousin, who spent her summers in Polkerran in Cornwall with her parent’s friend, Meg. When Meg passes away, she leaves her cottage to Anna with the stipulation that she live in the house, so Anna leaves behind her home in Yorkshire and moves to the coast. Unsure what she will do for work, she decides that she might open the cottage as a B&B. In the meantime, one of the villagers, who remembers Anna from when she was a child, helps her get a job assisting the local historian who lives across the cove. The historian, Oliver, is handsome for sure but a little grumpy and a man of few works. Around the same time, Anna runs into Alex, the son of the local gentry, who she had a major crush on when she was growing up. And now Alex seems to be interested in Anna, but does he have ulterior motives?

If you are a fan of cozy romances with a great cast of characters (read nosy villagers) with a little bit of gothic mystery thrown in, this is a great book for you. Anna is sweet but not a retiring wallflower. She might have slightly questionable taste in men, but she will see the light. Oliver is a little Mr. Darcy, combined with Mr. Rochester (minus the wife) and an older Dan Jones (if you don’t know him, google him now) with a dash of Edward from Elizabeth Hoyt’s Raven Prince. It is a heart-warming story of finding your way and creating a found family in a wonderful place.

[amanda_coffee_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start off by saying where have I been. Honestly where. I had so much fun reading this book. I will be adding more of this author’s books to my tbr. I did end up buying my own ebook copy. When I was half way through this book. I have already preordered the next book. Enjoying the characters and the world the author created. My heart went out for Anna not having anyone by family. Anna had her friends/ roommates. A boyfriend who really didn’t Carre to much about Anna. I was thinking this book and story would go a different way. Boy was I wrong and I am glad. Because what I was thinking was not very good ending for Anna. Without going too much into it. I don’t want to spoil it. But Alex and Oliver were getting on my nerves. But Oliver had my heart and tears by the end of this book. I could picture myself staying with Anna and being one of her guests. Looking out that big window and admiring Mother Nature.

About Book:
Anna is a young 30 year old. Who. Lost her parents at such a young age. Living with her friends. Seeing a man that really doesn’t think of Anna first.
Anna receives some sad news. Which Anna makes some life changes and moves and gets a new job. But discovers there are something’s that are right. People whose intentions are very nice.

Thank you to Lovebooktours and the author for allowing me to read and a beautiful book. One I didn’t know I needed. My review is one hundred percent my own opinion. I honestly really love this book.

[Kirsty Hoggons · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book from NetGalley.

The first thing that struck me in this book is that I don't know how anyone could put up with Giles, luckily Anna sees this sooner rather than later.

When she moves to Cornwall, which is just a wonderful dream, it's nice to see how quickly she gets a community there. However, the way that she pines over Alex is very weird. She was a child when she first noticed him and it's a little creepy how she was pining for him for all of those years and now she's just jumping into bed with him - she doesn't know anything about him and there is definitely something off about him. The fact that they never go out and do anything is a bit of a red flag. Also, how can she let him read through Aunt Meg's diaries?! Is he trying to find something in them? Why does she tell Alex about the will? Yes, she needed to talk to someone but they're not even in a real relationship?!

Oliver on the other hand - who doesn't love a character like his? A little grumpy but you're rooting for him all the same. Man, he's the best character in the book. He's perfect.

Definitely a good read and one I'd recommend.

[Amorina Carlton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not going to spoiler you with which guy in this love triangle (one of the tropes everyone loves to hate, but I LOVE!) wins, but golly gee, this was one of those that kept me on my toes for a good long time. I was rooting for the winner from the first time we met him and didn't trust the loser as far as we could throw him. And the funny thing is that there will absolutely be people who feel that way about the opposite person. I couldn't even exactly tell you why I didn't like the one in the beginning, just a vibe, I think. But I can't go any further into that without spoilers.

Weirdly, I think my favorite character was Aunt Meg, who is dead from the get go. But the echoes of her are so vibrant, sweet, and beautiful. This is such a beautiful tribute to grief, survival, and moving on when those we love are gone. For a generally light-hearted, breezy summer read, this one actually deals with a lot of grief and trauma topics. The author did a great job of seamlessly blending those darker and lighter topics didn't allow them to drag the tone of the book down.

LIke a lot of romance books, you can find a plethora of tropes within the pages of this book. From the aforementioned love triangle (one of my favorites), to childhood crush, to grumpy/sunshine, you can find a lot of favorites (and not-so-favorites) in here. There are also some really big twists, almost like a thriller! While this isn't a detective story (the death isn't considered suspicious), there is a life-altering mystery the main character Anna has to solve. And the stakes are huge. I really enjoyed that aspect, because it added an extra dimension to he read. I adore cozy mysteries, and this made it feel like one.

I can't wait to read more by this author! This is my first book by her, but it looks like she has some Jane Austen-related books. And she also has some more books at Polkerran Point, including an upcoming Christmas one that I'm super excited about!!

Content Warnings: Divorce, Single Parenthood, Parent Death, Parent Abandonment, Classism, Trauma, Teen Pregnancy, Adoption, Grief, Betrayal

[Syrie James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this novel! Cass Grafton swept me away to Cornwall with her lovely descriptions of the village of Polkerran Point, and the story and charming characters drew me in instantly from page one. I felt as if I were there, drinking in the stunning view across the bay from the windows of the cottage Anna inherits. I loved Anna—she was smart, hard-working, sympathetic, a lover of books and children and romance, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need—yet also flawed, just enough to give her room to grow and change (and, in true Jane Austen style, to recognize her mistakes and earn her happy ending.)

This is a terrific, clean romance with elements of suspense and two possible “heroes.” I knew early on who I wanted/needed Anna to end up with, and although it takes her a while to figure it out (as these things often do in real life), it was delightful to follow her journey. A mystery arises partway through the story that adds tremendous suspense and has us worry deeply about the heroine’s—and the cottage’s—fate. I found myself turning pages long into the night because I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next!

I loved the way Grafton began each chapter with a quote from a classic novel by some of my favorite authors that mirrored the upcoming action. Two of my favorites (which hit close to home) were: “Do not give way to useless alarm… though it is right to be prepared for the worst, there is no occasion to look on it as certain.” Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice. And, “The most important thing in life is to stop saying ‘I wish’ and start saying ‘I will.’” Charles Dickens, David Copperfield. All the quotes were a delight and made me want to go back and re-read those novels.

“New Dreams at Polkerran Point” is my new favorite read of the year, just the pick-me-up romance that I needed at this moment in time, to remind me that anything is possible—as long as we hold onto our dreams. Bravo Cass Grafton and highly recommended!

[Katie Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Dreams at Polkerran Point by Cass Grafton

I’ve read many romance novels over the years, some good, some forgettable… but New Dreams at Polkerran Point by Cass Grafton is one of the best contemporary romances I’ve read in ages.

Anna Redding has a good life in Yorkshire—plenty of friends and a job she likes—but memories of childhood summers spent in Cornwall still linger. It was a place she loved. A place she still loves.

When her Aunt Meg dies, leaving her cottage at Polkerran Point to Anna, she experiences a tumult of emotions. Grief, sadness, as well as overwhelming gratitude for the precious time she spent with Meg.

It’s also a chance for a new start. Can she find the courage to leave her present life in Harrogate behind and start anew in Polkerran?

She leaves her familiar world behind and settles in at the cottage, comforted by reminders of her beloved aunt. She soon meets Alex Tremayne, once her schoolgirl crush and now a handsome, successful businessman, and Oliver Seymour, a reclusive writer working on a novel at nearby Harbourwatch.

Anna is hired as Oliver’s typist and personal assistant. She settles into her new life, falling more in love with Polkerran every day, until she learns that her aunt wrote another, earlier will.

A new will means Meg might have left the cottage to someone else. Anna is beside herself with worry. Her old life is behind her; she’s begun to build a newer, better one in Polkerran. Yet there’s a very real possibility she could lose the cottage.

Lyrical, charming, and heartfelt, New Dreams at Polkerran Point has memorable characters, a beautiful setting, and subtle nods to both Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë. I enjoyed visiting the Cornish coast and rooted for Anna to find her well deserved happy ending.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna is a character who is easy to like. The summers she spent in Cornwall with her surrogate aunt made her less-than-idyllic childhood bearable. Careerwise, she's successful, but her romantic relationships don't match the romantic novels she loved to escape into. An unexpected legacy has her leaving her old life behind, including her career, friends and mercenary boyfriend. She hopes to recapture the happiness she knew during the Summer in the Cornish cove.

This story is like a warm hug; it makes you sigh as you snuggle down and get swept away into a world full of coasts, comfort and community. As the story progresses, you realise that only some unscrupulous individuals live in the big cities. Anna's naivety in judging people risks her new life almost before it has begun.

The characters and the plot draw you in. I even offered Anna advice on who to trust, so the story is undoubtedly authentic and engaging. The pacing is gentle, and the historical inferences and parallels add depth to the story. There is a mystery to solve as Anna discovers who she is and her friends are. Her character development is good, and in the end, she realises that even though she has people to rely on, she is strong enough to succeed alone. The romance is sweet but powerful, and you are left with a lovely warmth, even though you regret saying goodbye to Anna and her friends.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

'Previously published as The Cottage In The Cornish Cove', which I read and reviewed.

[Sharey · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Dreams at Polkerran Point by Cass Grafton is a delightful and heartwarming romance set in the picturesque Cornish fishing village of Polkerran.
The story follows Anna Redding as she inherits her Aunt Meg's cottage and navigates the challenges and mysteries that come with it.
With the help of an enigmatic historian, Oliver Seymour, and the return of her childhood crush, Alex Tremayne, Anna embarks on a journey that will test her newfound dreams and relationships.
The beautiful setting of Polkerran adds another layer of charm to this captivating tale.

Grafton has created a truly enchanting story filled with romance, mystery, and self-discovery.
The characters are well-developed and endearing, making it easy to become invested in their journey.
The addition of quotes from classic novels at the beginning of each chapter adds a literary touch that enhances the overall reading experience.
The exploration of Anna's past, present, and future intertwines seamlessly, creating a compelling narrative that kept me engaged until the very end.

Overall, New Dreams at Polkerran Point is a must-read for those looking for a good heartwarming romance novels.
Grafton has crafted a story that is both uplifting and engaging, with a touch of mystery that adds depth to the plot.
I loved how the Cornish setting comes to life through her vivid descriptions, making it feel like a character in its own right.
If you're looking for a charming and immersive read, look no further than this captivating book.

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

New Dreams at Polkerran Point by Cass Grafton

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Love Books Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily

Blurb

When Aunt Meg leaves her cottage to Anna Redding in her will, Anna immediately packs up and heads to Polkerran, the Cornish fishing village where she was so happy as a child. With ambitions to turn the cottage into a B&B, a job working for the enigmatic historian, Oliver Seymour , and the return of her childhood crush, Alex Tremayne , it seems the stars have all aligned for Anna. But Aunt Meg left behind a mystery for her to solve, and a shock discovery reveals she may be living a dream that isn’t really hers to hold. Can Anna rescue the new life she’s made for herself? Who in Polkerran can she really count on in her time of need? 

My Opinion

This was my first book by Cass Grafton but it will definitely not be my last! I was easily drawn in by the lovely cover and found that this was such a delightful read.

Polkerran Point feels like such a great place to live, with the descriptions Cass Grafton has used it was easy to imagine the setting. I read this book much faster than I would have liked, but it was just so difficult to put down. Anna is offered the opportunity for a big change, but is it actually what she wants?

Now I need to go and locate a copy of the next book in the series - I am definitely not ready to leave.

Rating 4/5

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story despite reading the second in the series first. I really liked Anna in the second book, so I was determined to discover her story. I am so glad that I made that decision because it helped me understand the core characters better.
When we first meet Anna, she is living in Yorkshire and only has memories of her childhood in Polkerran. After losing her father at a tender age, she felt little warmth for her mother and came to view Aunt Meg as being true family despite not actually being related. So, it was an almighty shock to discover such a generous bequest. Packing up her worldly belongings, she relocates to Cornwall and begins her new life.
Anna’s warm and kind heart was a joy to read about. Her generosity to her new friends and neighbours spoke volumes of her generosity and willingness to help and support others. That kindness is probably what helped to create her plan to open a B&B. Along with her kind heart, she embraces fond memories of her time with Aunt Meg, and that is where she starts to find difficulty.
As the synopsis explains, Anna encounters two men, Alex and Oliver. Alex was her unrequited teenage crush, and Oliver is her new boss. There are plenty of emotions to be sifted through as she discovers that the will leaving the cottage to her may not be the current one, and another claimant may be able to end her dreams.
The warmth in the storytelling is reassuring and it kept me believing that Anna would definitely find her happy ending. The characters are all perfectly drawn, and I loved knowing that they would reappear in future books. I can honestly recommend this fabulous book and hope that you enjoy it as much as I did.

[Sams_Fireside · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Dreams at Polkerran Point is the first book in the Polkerran Point series and the first I’ve read by the lovely Cass Grafton. Cass is fast becoming one of my auto-buy authors!

I loved this story so much. I’m a sucker for anything which includes a girl giving up city life for village life in Cornwall. Throw in some romance, attractive men and nosey neighbours full of village gossip, and you have the perfect combination. Anna is our protagonist and has inherited her Aunt Meg’s cottage, so why wouldn’t she up-sticks and move across several counties from Yorkshire to Cornwall? And there begins the stories in Polkerran Point, which can’t come fast enough!

I loved that the story isn’t just a plain old romance, there is plenty of mystery and intrigue throughout and Cass kept me guessing the entire way through about, well, absolutely everything! I loved Lauren, who is Anna’s bestie in Yorkshire and is always at the end of a FaceTime call when Anna needs her - and vice versa. I liked the broody, mysterious and grumpy Oliver, but I didn’t love Alex, who quite frankly is an ass!

Cass gives us a different quote from a classic novel at the start of every chapter and they all have some relevance to what’s coming up in the next few pages. I loved this and I couldn’t wait to see which one she came up with each time.

I’ve already bought the next book in the series, and I’ve started reading it. I’ll be along to share my thoughts on that one with you all very soon.

[Kat Rac · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, not for me… the story could be half of the book. Full of little talks, I caught myself going through the page not even paying attention as I was so bored of gossips/ kettles and biscuits. Also, I personally don’t like when girls call each other mates and “mate” was used a lot…
It was pretty obvious that Mr… was a new Mr Darcy. (Strangely, he was never interested knowing what was her relationship with Meg; never asking anything…).
Meanwhile some excitement could be developed around character of her first pick of desire… his true motives are exposed at the end on one page. No dramas, no questions… He just simply disappeared. I think that was a missed opportunity as Anna could have more thoughts about him and add some spice into the story; rather than waiting for him… which then simply turned into “whatever waiting.”
(At least proper dramatic break up/ finding out by chance a love affair… at the end of the book finding the true motives and also her happiness would be more of how to say it; appreciated as this kind of nonchalant relationship slowly leading to Mr. Darcy relationship felt flat for me without much of the depth). The ending about the will was odd too; if you really care about someone; you clearly reflect this in the will at least a bit. All points were shrank into the last pages; rather than developed through out the story. However, if you look for simple and easy read… it’s just that.

[Emma Hollingworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

💕 second chance romance
💕 grumpy / sunshine
💕 work romance (sort of)
💕 found family

It took a while for me to get into, it seemed that everything happened in an instant before you really get to know any of the characters and their dynamics. Unfortunately that made the characters seem 2-dimensional to me and the relationships weren’t convincing or compelling to me to begin with.

The plot is what drew me to this book, I love the ‘you’ve been left an old rundown house in a will but you must live there you can’t sell its storyline. You always get a small community feel, eccentric supporting characters who all chip in to help with the house forming found family relationships. You do get an element of this, but it isn’t as deep as I’ve read in other books. The best bit was the added mystery of a hidden second will, and family secrets being rediscovered.

Oliver is a sweetheart and I’m glad that Anna stopped with the red flag guys. It was a sweet relationship but I wish we’d been given a bit more at the point of them realising their feelings as this was reminiscent of the beginning where it all just seemed to happen very fast, going from one extreme to another.

I don’t think there was enough character development unfortunately to give the proper cosy community vibe or make me develop any deeper feelings for them.

I received a copy of the book in exchange for a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ New Dreams at Polkerran Point is book one in a new series "The Little Cornish Cove" by a new to me author, Cass Grafton.

Anna is living in Harrogate when she learns that her 'aunt' Meg had died and left her the cottage that she stayed every summer when she was a child. Anna realises her current boyfriend is not worth and decides to move to Polkerran. Anna plans to turn the lovely home into a B&B but realises that her inheritance money is depleting, so she finds work with local author, Oliver Seymour. She bumps into her childhood crush, Alex Tremayne and discovers she still has that crush and, while trying to avoid bumping in to him again in case he realises, she would love to actually date him. Meanwhile, she's discovering that the community are still as friendly and welcoming as they were when she was a child and she is loving getting to know them.

I love books set in Cornwall and this is no exception! Having visited Cornwall a few times, I feel I can relate to the descriptions and feel as though I'm back there; a great start to the new series.


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[Katie B · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off - can we all just take a moment to gush over the beautiful cover? I want to stare at it all day, it’s just stunning. It’s a very pretty, beautiful cover - much like the book. It’s a super lovely book. I totally get the meaning of ‘cosy romance.’ This book is it! I haven’t read anything by Cass Grafton before, but I definitely will be reading more.
This book was easy to devour, I couldn’t put it down. Grafton’s writing style effortlessly flows. I like the main character, Anna. She is relatable, real, and doesn’t feel at all like a fictional character - she could be very much a real person I know - including her questionable choices in men like Giles (I have many friends who have been with men like this)... I just loved all the characters, Grafton provides such depth with each of them. I also liked how my thoughts at the end of the story about Alex & Mr Grumpy Pants Oliver were completely different from my first impressions.

The storyline is perfect as a cozy romance, I mean who wouldn’t love to inherit a beautiful cottage by the sea?! There is something for everyone in this story but for me, what I loved most of all was cosiness of the story mixed with a little bit of intrigue and mystery!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is poignant with a likable heroine who inherits a cottage by the sea. Just in time too, as her love life and career need an infusion of inspiration. Moving back to a sleepy seaside place that meant so much to her in her youth just might be what Anna needs to focus on herself and reevaluate what she wants out of life. Weighty decisions for someone in her late twenties but that felt authentic, and I liked Anna and all her insecurities as well as her thoughtfulness, loyalty, and courage. I was anxious to know what would happen when she finally met up with her teenage crush, Alex (I am a sucker for second chances), and my heart pounded almost every encounter with Oliver, the handsome mysterious writer (I loved him!) from across the bay. And there is plenty of intrigue about the cottage and her surprise inheritance that kept me turning pages well into the wee hours of the morning. I admit that this story brought a few tears to my eyes — happy tears too. This one is a MUST READ. Smart prose and inventive story—and I can’t wait for the next in the series.

[Tami Wylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this series of cozy romance is by Cass Grafton. I read another book in the series previously and loved it so was excited to read this one. Anna is stuck in a relationship that isn’t really working for her and you’re searching for a new direction. She discovers that an aunt she spent summers with in Cornwall has left her the college that she has so many fond memories of, giving her the chance at a new life she craves. I found the village life depicted in the book to be wholesome and heartwarming. The closest of the villagers and how they welcome Anna wholeheartedly was very touching. The vivid descriptions brings the setting and characters to life and jump from the page. Anna is a lovely character but a bit too trusting I think, especially where Alex was concerned. I thought the air of mystery around Oliver Was intriguing, adding a hint of curiosity to the story. I thought the ending was exactly as it should’ve been as well. I’m looking forward to reading more from this series and author.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a lovely book to read, it was a very refreshing change from the many books recently which feel like angst fests over the second home owners who are causing so many problems for locals in many areas. Although this issue was mentioned, it was by no means a main plot point, more a minor motivation which means it was raised.
This instead was more about how communities adapt and grow together and how we can overcome a bad start in life and still dream of having it all and work towards that goal of a dream home, family and happy ever after of our very own!
I admit to only having picked up this book due to being on a book tour for the third in this series, I didn't know it was part of a series when I signed up to the tour! I am so very happy I did now as buying these first two books means I got to enjoy reading this one and I am very much looking forward to reading the next and the Christmas one after that! Also, I do believe that there may be a 4th coming soon-ish too! I am very much looking forward to returning to Polkerran Point soon!

[Joanna Lambert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whilst not my usual choice of read, I have to say that New Dreams at Polkerran Point proved to be a lovely breath of fresh air.
Anna Redding has been left Westerleigh Cottage in Polkerran Point by Margaret Stansfield, known to her as ‘Aunt Meg’, a family friend she spent many summers with as a child. Memories of those happy holidays include Alex Tremayne, her first big crush. Is he still there in Polkerran Point, she wonders?
Deciding to move to Cornwall, she is soon immersed in the life there, catching up with people she remembers from her summer stays. Her ultimate plan is to turn the cottage into a B & B, but while that is being sorted, she needs a job. Anna becomes PA to writer Oliver Seymour, who lives in Harbourwatch, across the bay. Oliver is not the easiest of bosses, but gradually she begins to enjoy the company of this taciturn man, sharing his interest in history. And as for Alex? Well he lives and works in London, but is regularly home and much to her surprise, begins to show an interest in her.
This is what is termed as an ‘uplifting’ romance and indeed it is. I was right behind Anna right from the first chapter. I also loved the quirky characters in Polkerran Point, especially Mrs Lovelace, who tends to get her words wrong just like Mrs Malaprop, a character in Sheridan’s The Rivals. There was a real sense of community and people who cared about each other. From the very beginning, it’s clear there is more to Oliver Seymour than meets the eye and it was lovely to see the way Anna brings about changes in him. And as for Alex, well let’s say it’s a case of be careful what you wish for!
New Dreams at Polkerran Point is a great summer read. There are highs and lows in Anna’s life and a mystery to solve. All in all perfect for either a relaxing beach read or curling up at home with a glass of wine.
Highly recommended.
I would like to thank Canelo, Cass Grafton and Netgalley for an ARC of New Dreams at Polkerran Point in exchange for an honest review.

[Greenreadsbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good cosy romance and it's a bonus if it's set in Cornwall. I have a real soft spot for books featuring relocation and new ventures and this one has a little mystery involved too. I was a tiny bit put off by the Cornish dialect used by Phoenix, as I live in Cornwall and never hear anyone young talking like her, but I soon got used to it! There were elements that were predictable but it also kept me guessing; I felt the timescale went a little bit fast at times and there seemed to be some missing links but that might just have been my tired state to be honest! On the whole I really enjoyed the story and I definitely looked forward to reading it every evening. I loved the cosy feel of the book and Anna's neighbours coming over for coffee and cake. I liked Oliver as a character and had my fingers crossed for a good outcome for him. The element of mystery around the house and the diaries made for a good story and I was pleased with the ending

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna inherits a cottage in Cornwall from her Aunt Meg and, as there is nothing to keep her in Harrogate where she lives, decides to move down there. She plans to run in the cottage as a B&B, but takes up temporary work for a grumpy historian in the meantime.
I'll always be drawn to a story set in Cornwall, but this really brings it to life for me. I could visualise the village of Polkerran, trying to decide which actual village it was set in (I was nearly right.). A sign of how into a story I am is when I want to start telling a character that they are making a mistake and hope that they see the error of their ways. There is the romance in the story, a mystery to solve, a supporting cast of wonderful characters and all set in this beautiful location. What more can you ask?
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book and I subsequently purchased it on release.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

New Dreams at Polkerran Point

This is a perfect romance for a cozy weekend read. Set in a small English village it has a cast of villagers that add depth to the story and the main character I found myself caring about even if I wanted to shake her at times.

Anna is feeling at loose ends in London and is wondering if there is really a future with her boyfriend Giles when she gets the news that her Aunt Meg has left her a cottage in the village of Polkerran. She loved Polkerran when she visited as a child and leaves London and Giles behind. As she settles in she finds friends in neighbors that include her in village life, a job working for a reclusive novelist, a plan for the cottage, and even runs into the crush of her teen years. Things are going well until questions arise about the will. Did Aunt Meg really leave her the cottage? Will Anna have a happily ever after in Polkerran?

Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.