Summer in Tuppenny Bridge

Tuppenny Bridge #1

by Sharon Booth, Elizabeth Bower (Narrator)

It’s July in Tuppenny Bridge. The warm air swirls with butterflies and violets tumble from the window boxes of the pretty stone cottages lining the market square. Summer Fletcher – handy barmaid, devoted stablehand and definitely her mother’s daughter – is ready for a lazy summer in the Yorkshire Dales, but fate has other plans…

Summer and her mum soon find their hands full with the arrival of her future stepsister, Frankie – a blue-haired teen firecracker who's nothing like the sweet little girl they remember. Meanwhile, local vet Ben is struggling – buried under a mountain of responsibility with trying to keep his crumbling family home Monk’s Folly standing, while supporting his reclusive mother and errant younger brother.

When Summer and Ben unexpectedly cross paths in the local bookshop, sparks fly… but despite Summer’s name, it isn't all sunshine and roses. In Tuppenny Bridge, gossip travels fast, and each of them has their own demons they can’t quite leave behind. Will the weight of their pasts tear them apart just when they need each other the most?

With more than one heart in need of mending, a beloved old horse named Shadow, a missing pair of young lovers, and a family wedding on the cards – it will be a summer that the residents of Tuppenny Bridge will never forget.

A heartwarming love story set against the backdrop of the charming market town of Tuppenny Bridge. Grab a chocolate biscuit and a fresh cup of tea, because this is a tale you'll want to get lost in.

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

Audiobook

Published May 24, 2023

Reviews

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an easy, sweet read. It just glided along and the story was although something I’d read similar in other books it wasn’t a spoiler. The characters were lovely and made this all the more special. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Alli B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness. This book left me feeling like I was floating! I adored every single character and relationship built through out the story. I absolutely loved Tuppenny Bridge and genuinely felt like I was with the in the english countryside.

This novel is about Summer Fletcher, who's going through some big family changes. Her mother has found the love of her life after being with her father, a serial cheater, for decades. Summer finds herself unable to commit to relationships (due to her father) and is working through that, all while being a barmaid at her family pub AND getting acquainted with a new teenage step-sister, Frankie, for the summer.

Then there's Ben, who's given everything humanly and financially possible to keep his father's home, Monk’s Folly, from being taken after this father and older brother's passing. The house is crumbling around his family as he tries to keep it together and bring his mom a small bit of happiness by keeping his little brother in private school

One day, Summer and Ben run into each other. Despite knowing each other their whole lives, something is different. There's spark and butterflies. As they spend more time with each other, they learn and grow together and to accept themselves and life as it comes.

This is the ultimate summer beach read, in my opinion. You won't regret picking up this darling novel.

Special thank you to Dreamscape Media, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for this beautiful audiobook ARC!

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Summer in Tuppenny Bridge, by Sharon Booth, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Its July in tuppenny Bridge and Summer has a lot going on. A wedding to plan and be in, an evil future stepsister (Frankie), and a new love interest, will this be the best or worst summer, of Summer's life? Summer and Ben are a lovely couple, and Frankie changed her tune, all in all a good beach read.

[Sarah Kingsnorth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon Booth - Summer In Tuppenny Bridge.

Welcome to Tuppenny Bridge. A small market town with a lot going on.

Summer Fletcher and her mother Sally are awaiting the arrival of Sally’s fiancé and his daughter Frankie.
Once a sweet little thing, Frankie has now morphed into a blue haired teen with attitude.

Ben Callaghan, the local vet, lives in his crumbling family home with his reclusive mother and his troubled younger brother Jamie.

It’s July, and summer is in full swing. Tuppenny Bridge is buzzing with life. There’s a wedding to look forward to, secret love and rebellious teens. It’s all shaping up to be a memorable summer in Tuppenny Bridge.

This book is a joy. From the beautiful cover, to it’s idyllic Yorkshire setting and its heart warming story, it will leave you with all the feels.

Tuppenny Bridge is a lovely setting. Described in such vivid detail. The small town bursts into life in my minds eye.

There are a wonderful array of characters in this story. The main players are all likeable and interesting, with some other colourful characters adding sparkle to the story.

Summer In Tuppenny Bridge is a charming tale. It’s warm, sweet and utterly feel good.
It’s full of the value and upheavals of family, both blended and biological.
It also brims with love and romance, and is guaranteed to leave you with a satisfied sigh and a smile on your face.

Sharon Booth is a gifted writer, who deserves great success. She has written some outstanding books. If she is a new author to you, take a look at some of her other books - you won’t be disappointed.

Summer In Tuppenny Bridge is a glorious 5 star read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

With thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for a digital arc of this title.

[Booklover BEV · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Market town of Tuppenny Bridge in the Yorkshire Dales.

Summer Fletcher and her mother Sally live above the The White Hart inn, Rafferty Kingston who her mother is marrying turns up with his wild firecracker daughter Frankie it's been a few years since they had last seen her and they are gobsmacked how she has changed in looks now all grown up. And they are all looking forward to the wedding.

Ben Callaghan the local vet is still living at home Monks Folly with his mother and brother Jamie and they are scraping by with money he is finding it hard keeping up the bill on the private school St Egberts and his mother just wont listen, Jamie has a thing for Frankie, and Ben and Summer also have feelings they just need a gentle push and arrange a first date quietly unknown to any of the villagers.
How is all the romance going to end?

This is so enchanting to read, a breath of fresh air to find a quiet spot and a drink, I loved the story right through.
it's a must read for the romantic readers that you just don't want to put down.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book in the Tuppenny Bridge series.
Tuppenny Bridge is an idyllic Yorkshire town , best known as the home of Georgian artist, Josiah Lavender, for its thriving twice weekly market and its annual sheep fair.
Summer Fletcher, Barmaid and stable hand, her soon to be married mum and newly acquired step sister, Frankie all live within Tuppenny Bridge.
Ben, the vet is Summer’s potential new love interest, helped along by Clemmie, Summer’s bookshop friend.
An enjoyable family life saga, with realistic characters and believable families in all their shapes and sizes, both blended and biological.
Loved the idyllic Yorkshire setting and gave a lovely community feel.
Well written and can’t wait to see what happens to the characters in the next book in the series.
Thanks @sharonboothwriter @stormbooks_co & @netgalley for the eARC

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read, if not predictable,with some lovely characters.

If you fancy a lighthearted read that doesn't require a lot of thinking, then you will love this. It's a story of love, hope and happiness.

TW: an animal dies in this book

[bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently saw Sharon Booth's upcoming release, Coming Home to Tuppenny Bridge [out July 8 from Storm Publishing] and I thought I would go back to the beginning of this series to catch up. Or so I thought!

Summer Fletcher is enjoying a summer in the Dales. Working at her family pub and the local horse refuge, she loves her life and is looking forward to all her family getting together as her mom walks down the aisle to the love of her life, Rafferty. However there is about to be more to Summer's life when her path collides with local vet, Ben Callaghan, who she has a crush on.

I adore British romances. I don't know why but there is something about a small village and romance that go together. Well... like toast and marmalade! Summer in Tuppenny Bridge was my first book by Sharon Booth and it most definitely won't be my last. I instantly fell for this cute little town and it's inhabitants. While the main story features Summer and Ben, the readers learns more about the other village folk, and I just fell head over heels for all of them. Especially the Lavender Ladies, who put bets on anything and everything that happens in the village... including when Summer and Ben will get together!

While Summer in Tuppenny Bridge is a cute contemporary romance, the story also goes deeper with Ben's family dealing with the grief of losing their father and eldest son, Leon, some ten plus years ago. The grief has held onto the family and Ben has to try to find the right path for his family to move on. This brought a tenderness to the story and one that absolutely pulled on my heartstrings.

This is the perfect book for anyone that loves a village romance... and of course James Herriot.

'Never,' Ben whispered deliberately slow, 'disrespect All Creatures Great and Small. James Herriot was a god.'

In starting Summer in Tuppenny Bridge I thought I had started at the beginning of the series, but I didn't. There is another series that leads into this series and starts with the story of Sally, Summer's mom, and Rafferty starting with At Home. I will definitely be going back and starting that series as well, as I just can't get enough of these characters!

[Cristina Elena | LaaA · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Summer in Tuppenny Bridge" by Sharon Booth is a delightful, feel-good romance that transports its audience straight into the charming English countryside. Set in the idyllic village of Tuppenny Bridge, this story abounds with warmth, endearing characters, and a sense of community that makes it a perfect summer read.

Sharon Booth does an excellent job of setting up a rich tapestry of characters, each with their own stories and quirks. The central plot revolves around Summer Fletcher and Ben, two characters who have known each other their whole lives but begin to see each other in a new light. Summer is navigating significant changes in her life, including her mother's new relationship and the arrival of a teenage stepsister, Frankie. Ben, on the other hand, is dealing with the aftermath of family losses and the immense responsibility of keeping his father's home, Monk’s Folly, from falling apart. Summer and Ben's journey is heartwarming and genuine, filled with moments of self-discovery, healing, and unexpected love. Despite the challenges they face, their relationship blossoms beautifully, leading to a satisfying happily-ever-after that feels well-earned.

The picturesque descriptions of the Yorkshire setting add an extra layer of charm to the story, making it easy to imagine oneself amidst the rolling hills and cozy village life.

What stands out in "Summer in Tuppenny Bridge" is the balance between the lighthearted romance and the deeper emotional struggles the characters face. The story touches on themes of family, loss, and resilience, making it more than just a typical romcom.

"Summer in Tuppenny Bridge" is a heartwarming and entertaining read that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a perfect escape into a world of love, community, and the simple joys of life. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a cozy, uplifting summer read.

If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #SummerInTuppennyBridge #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning

Note: This review is based on an ARC copy

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer in Tuppenny Bridge by Sharon Booth

Blurb

It’s July in Tuppenny Bridge. The warm air swirls with butterflies and violets tumble from the window boxes of the pretty stone cottages lining the market square. Summer Fletcher – handy barmaid, devoted stable hand and definitely her mother’s daughter – is ready for a lazy summer in the Yorkshire Dales, but fate has other plans…

Summer and her mum soon find their hands full with the arrival of her future stepsister, Frankie – a blue-haired teen firecracker who's nothing like the sweet little girl they remember. Meanwhile, local vet Ben is struggling – buried under a mountain of responsibility with trying to keep his crumbling family home Monk’s Folly standing, while supporting his reclusive mother and errant younger brother.

When Summer and Ben unexpectedly cross paths in the local bookshop, sparks fly… but despite Summer’s name, it isn't all sunshine and roses. In Tuppenny Bridge, gossip travels fast, and each of them has their own demons they can’t quite leave behind. Will the weight of their pasts tear them apart just when they need each other the most?

With more than one heart in need of mending, a beloved old horse named Shadow, a missing pair of young lovers, and a family wedding on the cards – it will be a summer that the residents of Tuppenny Bridge will never forget.

My Opinion

Summer in Tuppenny Bridge was an easy, sweet read. This is the first book in the Tuppenny Bridge series and I already have plans to read more of this delightful series. An enjoyable read with some great characters.

Rating 4/5

[Anjana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I requested this very early on when audiobooks started to become available on Netgalley. It’s taken me a while to get around to reviewing it.

Even though it’s the first in a series, it feels like a middle book. The central plot of this book, however, is cute and worth the visit even if all the other information is not something that readers are aware of. There are hints of prior stories about the people in the book.

The pair whose story is the central focus here are a vet and someone who enjoys working with horses. Their story has been encouraged by all who know them, but they are wary. The male protagonist has very deep-running problems at home, some of which were different from others I’ve encountered in this genre.

There’s a happily ever after in this, but everyone puts in an effort to ensure that it finds its way.

The author has set up an interesting array of characters. I would recommend this book in this format to fans of the genre.

I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own listening experience.

[Anne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

On a sunny summer’s afternoon, there’s nowhere lovelier than a village in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales – and Tuppenny Bridge was immediately somewhere I felt entirely at home. A village of the author’s creation, she’s done a quite wonderful job of the detail – the church, the cottages, the flowers, the market place, the thriving bookshop, and the horse sanctuary on its fringes. And she’s peopled it with a cast of really well drawn characters – at first, I did think there just might be too many, but I soon got a fix on where Dolly and Clemmie fitted in, who the Lavender Ladies were, and got to know the lovely Jacob at the Whispering Willows horse sanctuary. And at the story’s centre is Sally, splitting her time between being a barmaid at The White Hart – the pub run by her mother Sally and partner Rafferty, preparing for their upcoming wedding, his rather wild young daughter Frankie the first to arrive – and doing a bit of everything to support Jacob’s efforts with the horses he cares for.

Ben is one of the two vets at the village’s practice – and he lives with his mum and brother Jamie at Monk’s Folly, a lovely old house that’s far bigger than they need and falling into disrepair, a money pit that’s giving him sleepless nights. His mother is fragile in the wake of loss, and needs particularly careful handling – and his money problems are only made worse by her insistence on providing Jamie with a private education, a commitment Ben’s finding it increasingly difficult to afford. Despite all his issues, he’s very much attracted to Summer and wishes their friendship could be something more – and he makes her heart beat rather faster too, but they’re going to need a bit of a push if they’re ever going to get together.

This really is the loveliest read, as the relationship between Summer and Ben begins to gently build – at first, keeping is quiet to avoid the interference of all the well-meaning villagers who think they’re made for each other. And life sometimes has its complications – Jamie and Frankie, their new friendship a cause of concern, Ben’s need to make some difficult decisions to ease his financial issues coupled with the legacy of guilt that’s damaged him so badly, and the day-to-day dramas at the struggling sanctuary. But there’s plenty to bring a smile to the face too – the friendships, the family relationships, the excitement over the forthcoming wedding, and the slow and faltering progress of the really lovely romance at the story’s centre, all with the perfect emotional touch. It’s a beautifully told story – there’s a bit of history introduced too, with nicely drawn parallels to the present day story – and with a heartwarming and uplifting conclusion that was everything I wanted it to be.

I’ll look forward to returning to Tuppenny Bridge – I read this book in a single sitting in the sunshine, wrapped up in its lovely story, and really didn’t want to leave. A gentle and heart-warming read I really loved – and one I’d very much recommend.

[Adrienne Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holding onto Summer at Tuppenny Bridge

A longtime fan of books by the wonderful Sharon Booth, this gorgeous hug of a book was no exception. Her warmth, humour and at times achingly poignant tales of family, friends and lovers set in the most wonderful communities are the perfect curl up cosy read and Summer at Tuppenny Bridge is a perfect example of her wonderful storytelling.
With a fabulous cast of characters, all with their own back stories, wishes and dreams intertwining with one another as they get on with life, overcoming trials and tribulations and of course, falling in love. The gentle story of Summer and Ben really made this book shine for me, but great characters Jacob, Clemmie, Frankie and Dottie all had their place.
The perfect foil to the changing of the seasons, a heartwarming read whatever time of year.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meeting Tuppenny bridge and locals

I found this very slow the storyline is really just woman fancys the vet, the vet fancy the women but he has some things holding him back.
In truth this is about a family suffering from grief and the (older son) man of the house (the vet) Is at breaking point with bills and silly demands from his mum.Plus a love interest.
It says a feel good read but I disagree it is a little depressing.
Saying that I did like the town loved the characters, even the two main leads the vet and summer are sweet lovely people (just the storyline was shaded of grey) plus I found the journey slow in telling.New to this author but I will read the next book looks like it's Kat who just had a baby girl and no one knows who the daddy is she will not tell.she was not in this book was talked about, the town is good for gossip.

[Gwyn Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Summer in Tuppenny Bridge. What a comfortable cosy read this is. I was transported to Yorkshire where Summer and Ben are the focus of the story, but are surrounded by a big cast of quirky characters that fill the book with colour and interest. The enigmatic Ben has a secret which keeps you guessing right to the end, and almost derails him and their romance. A real dose of cosy British romance set in an idyllic location and a story that will have you turning the pages until the end. If you want a cosy British romance to warm your heart and make you smile, then Summer in Tuppenny Bridge will do the job.
I received an advance review copy of this from the publisher and this is my honest review.

[N.W. Moors · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely story set in the Yorkshire Dales. It revolves around the village of Tuppenny Bridge and many of its inhabitants, but the main story is about Summer and Ben. She volunteers at an equestrian rescue center, and he's a local vet. Both have a crush on the other, but their pasts seem to get in the way of romance.
Meanwhile, Summer's mother is remarrying, her future step-sister Frankie is spending time with Ben's brother Jamie, and the Lavender Ladies are holding a betting book on Summer and Ben's romance.
There are some strong James Herriot vibes which I really loved with Ben's occupation as a vet and the horses and other animals. There are some fun moments and some sad ones, but this is a delightful story in a charming village.

[Hsiau Wei · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Fletcher is navigating major family shifts, grappling with commitment issues due to her father's infidelity, and adjusting to a new teen step-sister, Frankie, all while working at her family pub. Concurrently, Ben is struggling to preserve his ancestral home, Monk’s Folly, after the death of his father and brother. Despite knowing each other for years, when Summer and Ben cross paths again, an undeniable spark ignites. As they grow closer, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and love.

This book delves into the themes of mourning a loss and seizing a second chance at the life one deserves. While I admire Ben's sense of responsibility, his occasional obliviousness to its effects on him can be frustrating. Nonetheless, I found the read to be thoroughly enjoyable.

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

The start of a new series set in a beautiful Yorkshire town which was described in such detail I could imagine popping into The White Hart Inn for a drink or browsing the shelves at The Corner Cottage Bookshop. Summer is a lovely character and as for Ben I liked him but couldn’t help wanting to shake him! Rafferty and Sally’s wedding is approaching and their families are all gathering in Tuppenny Bridge. Full of larger than life characters, a great storyline which was beautifully written and I was engrossed from the first chapter through to the end. I can’t wait to read more about the community of Tuppenny Bridge.

[Nicole R. · Rating 3 out of 5]

An ARC was sent to me, for an honest review.

What a pleasant, enjoyable read this is. I was whisked away to Yorkshire, where Summer and Ben are the main characters of the novel, but they are surrounded by a large cast of oddball people who give the book colour and interest. The mysterious Ben has a secret that almost puts an end to their romance while keeping you wondering until the very end. A genuine serving of comfortable British romance set in a beautiful setting, with a gripping narrative that will keep you flipping pages until the very end. Summer in Tuppenny Bridge will do the trick if you're looking for a pleasant British love story to cheer you up and warm your heart.

[Mierfie Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going out in secret? Drive half an hours to meet up so people cant gossip about them? Cringe. If Ben cant be proud with Summer outside why bother to going out? Even he doing it to play safe. Then, Summer agree. Oh girl.. anyway the story was good, Ben really take all responsible to his family house, his mother and his nrother. Summer herself really understanding.

Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.

#SummerinTuppennyBridge #SharonBooth #StormPublishing #NetGalley #ARC

[Shawn-Joy Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer and Ben are living their lives basically on autopilot. Summer is afraid of a relationship after how her dad treated her mom and how her ex did the same to her. Ben is just struggling through, trying to support his recluse mom and brother in school and keeping up a falling apart house. Ben's brother and dad have passed away and since his mother basically shut down life but holds Ben to putting his younger brother through school. Ben and Summer both have their eye on the other but obviously are both shy about it. Thankfully they finally get their heads out.

[Vanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer in Tuppenny Bridge by Sharon Booth Narrated by Elizabeth Bower was a lovely romantic easy sweet read. This book, just took my breath away. It was a feel good book and a great holiday read or a day off relaxing read. I adored every single character and all the relationships that built through out the story.
This book was a gem to listen to/read. I felt that Tuppenny Bridge was genuinely and I was with the in the English countryside not my back garden with a cup tea!

I highly recommend this book and the narrator was brilliant Elizabeth Bower bought this book alive!

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet, tender and very touching story set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Ben is the local vet, hard working, compassionate and kind, but carrying the weight of guilt and grief from his dad and brother's deaths 14 years before when he suddenly had to step up and become the man of the house. Summer is bright and bubbly but has had to deal with issues in a previous relationship so she's a little gun-shy. But, between them, they each work through their issues together to find a way forward. I really enjoyed this read!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, small town, summer read. The characters were sweet and well developed. The story line and plot kept me entertained. It was a lovely read.
Summer and Ben, while knowing each other their whole lives start to see something more that they didn't see before. While Summer is going through some mental and emotional changes in her life, she likes that Ben is there to Support her. Ben and his family has issues of their own with death, coping and moving on. But Ben being the oldest male in the family has some choices he needs to make to make their lives better, despite how much his mother begrudges him for it.
I listened to the audio version of it and was thrilled. It took me a minute to get used to the accent of the narrator, but I'm used to American narrators.
Special thank you to Dreamscape Media, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for this beautiful audiobook ARC!

[Andrea McCool · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, light-hearted book! I enjoyed Summer and Ben’s story, and the characters of their families and community members as well. I loved the small town feel to the story and how it all came together. I do wish there could have been more romance/build-up to Summer and Bens story, but overall really enjoyed it!

Thank you to NetGalley for the free ARC for this honest review.

[Laura Prindable · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to Net Galley and Dreamscape Media for an audio copy of Summer in Tuppenny Brudge for an honest review.

This is the perfect summer read. The main characters, Summer and Ben, have a slow burn love story. This book has misunderstandings, love, friendship and guilt. It was a fun audiobook to listen to..

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the audio version.
I really enjoyed this book a lot. It is a light heart read. About forgiveness and family with love stories thrown in there too.
I really enjoyed the narrator also, she did a great job. I loved all the characters and the older ladies were amazing! I got a kick out of them. I would read from this author again.

[JLTobias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good-Hearted

Sharon Booth’s Summer in Tuppenny Bridge delivers what it advertises: a happy ending for a good-hearted hero and heroine. An aspect that I appreciated was that the plot turned on the hero’s lingering guilt in the wake of a family tragedy. The hero’s trauma is sensitively drawn and elevates a narrative that otherwise might have lacked tension.

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book uses a well-known plot, set in a small town, with characters that are mostly likeable. A sweet, clean read, with nothing heavy or complicated.

I finished this easy, quick read in an hour.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell in love with the lovely cover and thoroughly enjoyed this story that made me smile and helped to relax.
Well plotted, entertaining and compelling.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine