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A Cornish Love Story
The most romantic house in Cornwall has got a new owner…
Journalist Georgie Monroe has watched as it has been transformed into a high-tech glass palace, renovated by a mystery buyer.
When she’s invited to report on an event there, she comes face to face not only with her first love, architect Ethan Sparks, but also with their complicated past. Finding themselves trapped inside when the house malfunctions, Georgie realises that they — and the house — are still keeping secrets.
But have Georgie and Ethan left it too late to start again, or can they write the next chapter of their love story together?
Journalist Georgie Monroe has watched as it has been transformed into a high-tech glass palace, renovated by a mystery buyer.
When she’s invited to report on an event there, she comes face to face not only with her first love, architect Ethan Sparks, but also with their complicated past. Finding themselves trapped inside when the house malfunctions, Georgie realises that they — and the house — are still keeping secrets.
But have Georgie and Ethan left it too late to start again, or can they write the next chapter of their love story together?
- GenresAudiobook
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2025
78 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books691 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
October 6, 2025
One of my favourite Cornish writers returns with another lovely story – a romantic tale that was exactly what my heart was after. I fell in love with the narrative from the beginning, enjoying seeing how this Cornish love story developed.
The chapters alternate between present day and Georgie’s history with Ethan. Clearly something major went down between them because, when she learns that Ethan is back to have an open house, she cannot ignore the flutters of emotion. Sent to cover the story of Sterenlenn, Georgie could never foresee how her evening would unfold, thanks to a very modern house that is run by very sophisticated technology.
In my opinion, the flashbacks to Georgie’s teenage years felt very much like the writer’s other books. The developing romance, the heartache and frustrations, and even the characterisation meant it felt like McLaughlin was doing exactly as she knows best. However, the present day narrative and the circumstances surrounding Georgie’s night at Sterenlenn felt a step different and, I admit, one you do need a bit of a stretch of imagination to accept. The idea of a smart home “turning on” their inhabitants, trapping them inside felt slightly unrealistic. Yet, I found I did not mind this and I think it was because I was so distracted by the opulent surroundings and the pure romance read developing before my eyes.
Ethan and Georgie are loveable characters and I enjoyed how a book series and letters bound them together. Their memories are tied up in the property and it was lovely to re-live those moments through flashbacks. Not only that, I liked how Georgie transforms herself from her experiences, especially as it sees her finally realising her own dreams.
Once again, McLaughlin delivers a fantastic read that I loved from start to finish. A beautiful setting, a warming romance, I definitely felt satisfied from head to toe.
With thanks to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The chapters alternate between present day and Georgie’s history with Ethan. Clearly something major went down between them because, when she learns that Ethan is back to have an open house, she cannot ignore the flutters of emotion. Sent to cover the story of Sterenlenn, Georgie could never foresee how her evening would unfold, thanks to a very modern house that is run by very sophisticated technology.
In my opinion, the flashbacks to Georgie’s teenage years felt very much like the writer’s other books. The developing romance, the heartache and frustrations, and even the characterisation meant it felt like McLaughlin was doing exactly as she knows best. However, the present day narrative and the circumstances surrounding Georgie’s night at Sterenlenn felt a step different and, I admit, one you do need a bit of a stretch of imagination to accept. The idea of a smart home “turning on” their inhabitants, trapping them inside felt slightly unrealistic. Yet, I found I did not mind this and I think it was because I was so distracted by the opulent surroundings and the pure romance read developing before my eyes.
Ethan and Georgie are loveable characters and I enjoyed how a book series and letters bound them together. Their memories are tied up in the property and it was lovely to re-live those moments through flashbacks. Not only that, I liked how Georgie transforms herself from her experiences, especially as it sees her finally realising her own dreams.
Once again, McLaughlin delivers a fantastic read that I loved from start to finish. A beautiful setting, a warming romance, I definitely felt satisfied from head to toe.
With thanks to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2025
Another lovely book from Cressida. This one had everything to keep you interested. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 15, 2025
What great new book! I loved the flash back to Georgie and Ethan and friends when they were at sixth form, then sprinkled in with the current story.
What an amazing premise, an Intelligent house that seems to have gone rogue and locks them in. My nerdy brain went to an old tv series called Eureka with a smart house that did just that to its owner when it thought he was going to move away. Yes I’m nerdy! 🤣. However I loved this, there was an element of not being quite sure what was happening, and the responses Georgie sometimes got from the house really make you wonder what is going on. However, no need to worry it was all under control.
I really liked how Ethan had to work at getting back with Georgie, especially when she stops to reflect on her life and then takes bold steps to make changes. Wrapping it all in a traditional Cornish Mermaid love story was clever and beautiful. Some amazing views and descriptions in the book really made you feel that you were there
A fantastic love story to read on a Sunny Cornish beach this summer.
What an amazing premise, an Intelligent house that seems to have gone rogue and locks them in. My nerdy brain went to an old tv series called Eureka with a smart house that did just that to its owner when it thought he was going to move away. Yes I’m nerdy! 🤣. However I loved this, there was an element of not being quite sure what was happening, and the responses Georgie sometimes got from the house really make you wonder what is going on. However, no need to worry it was all under control.
I really liked how Ethan had to work at getting back with Georgie, especially when she stops to reflect on her life and then takes bold steps to make changes. Wrapping it all in a traditional Cornish Mermaid love story was clever and beautiful. Some amazing views and descriptions in the book really made you feel that you were there
A fantastic love story to read on a Sunny Cornish beach this summer.
July 31, 2025
What a treat our July Book Club title was! A locked room romance blended beautifully with a bit of mystery and artificial intelligence interference – it was the perfect escapist Summer read. A unique storyline, brilliant characters and that stunning setting of Cornwall combined with Cressida’s beautiful story-telling, created an incredible book.
This book is a perfect blend of romance, family secrets, and a touch of mystery, ideal for readers who enjoy uplifting, feel-good fiction with emotional depth. The romance is slow-burning but emotionally satisfying, avoiding clichés in favor of genuine connection and thoughtful storytelling.
A Cornish Love Story is a beautifully written tale of love, loss, and rediscovery. Fans of Lucy Diamond, Sarah Morgan, or Jenny Colgan will feel right at home.
This book is a perfect blend of romance, family secrets, and a touch of mystery, ideal for readers who enjoy uplifting, feel-good fiction with emotional depth. The romance is slow-burning but emotionally satisfying, avoiding clichés in favor of genuine connection and thoughtful storytelling.
A Cornish Love Story is a beautifully written tale of love, loss, and rediscovery. Fans of Lucy Diamond, Sarah Morgan, or Jenny Colgan will feel right at home.
July 8, 2025
3.5. Loved the story but felt like the sister deliberately went out of her way to ruin her brother's childhood and high school experiences just for attention. He missed so many milestones because his sister chose the particular days she knew he had important events, to be a criminal. Yet by the end of the book, this was excused and the poor lad essentially giving up his childhood to play parent, was deemed the right thing to do. Otherwise, it is an enjoyable book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
Fantastic as always can never go wrong with Cressida she is who made me fall in love with reading again with the cream tea series and when it ended I was scared I wouldnt have that connection with her books again but she has just delivered again and again and this is so sweet and romantic and although I sometimes struggle with time jumps this was super clear and I just loved all the twist and surprises I didn’t see coming top notch!
June 27, 2025
This story is told in alternating chapters between the initial teenage love of Georgie and Ethan, ultimately leadinp to their breakup, to the present, in which Georgie and Ethan meet for the first time in years. Some of the flashbacks dragged a bit for me, and i wanted to get on with the present story, but for the most part I enjoyed this, particularly towards the end.
July 24, 2025
I wasn’t sure what i was going to get with this book I just fancied a change from my normal type of books and I was very pleasantly surprised…. It was a really easy book to listen to while out walking my dog. It was what I would describe as a nice book easy going, I could imagine all the scenery and I really enjoyed it.. no spoilers here but if you want something light and easy to read this is your book
August 21, 2025
First time I’ve read any of Cressida’s books and thoroughly enjoyed, unique story and one that showed love in its early stages, took me back to memories of my own teenage years
October 8, 2025
Absolutley loved this book, so well written and totally unpredictable, could not put it down, thank you Cressida 🥰
September 6, 2025
Another lovely book set in a gorgeous Cornish village by the fabulous Cress McLaughlin.
Loved it!
Loved it!
August 27, 2025
I love Cressida McLaughlin’s books and this one ticked all the boxes once again.
Georgie is a journalist who attends an event at the newly renovated high-tech house. The house holds lots of memories for Georgie and she goes to investigate what the mystery buyer has done to the place when she is reunited with her first love, Ethan. The two get trapped inside the house when there’s a malfunction with the AI system and they uncover the secrets that they’d been keeping.
This story is told through both the present day and from when Georgie and Ethan were teenagers. In doing so we discover both of these characters past, learn about their relationship and how they ended up where they are now.
Georgie and Ethan are both lovable characters, both romantics at heart, who in their teenagers years were dealing with things bigger than they should have to have been. The house becomes a character itself and an important part in Georgie and Ethan’s story not just in the present day but also in the past.
This book is the best kind of love story, and Cressida’s writing means that this book is so easy to read and get lost in. I couldn’t and didn’t want to put it down.
Cressida’s books are always a must read from me and I can’t wait to read whatever comes next.
Georgie is a journalist who attends an event at the newly renovated high-tech house. The house holds lots of memories for Georgie and she goes to investigate what the mystery buyer has done to the place when she is reunited with her first love, Ethan. The two get trapped inside the house when there’s a malfunction with the AI system and they uncover the secrets that they’d been keeping.
This story is told through both the present day and from when Georgie and Ethan were teenagers. In doing so we discover both of these characters past, learn about their relationship and how they ended up where they are now.
Georgie and Ethan are both lovable characters, both romantics at heart, who in their teenagers years were dealing with things bigger than they should have to have been. The house becomes a character itself and an important part in Georgie and Ethan’s story not just in the present day but also in the past.
This book is the best kind of love story, and Cressida’s writing means that this book is so easy to read and get lost in. I couldn’t and didn’t want to put it down.
Cressida’s books are always a must read from me and I can’t wait to read whatever comes next.
October 14, 2025
This book follows Georgie Monroe, a journalist living in a quaint Cornish town who has long been enchanted by a beloved local author and the book series that shaped her teenage years. Now working for that very author, Georgie is asked to write a feature on the real-life house that inspired the novels—recently renovated and beautifully restored. But when she discovers who the new owner is, she’s faced with an unexpected reunion that brings back memories she thought were long buried.
Told through alternating past and present timelines, the story slowly reveals the connection between Georgie and Ethan, making their journey feel both romantic and real. Their shared history gives the novel emotional depth, while their present-day interactions add plenty of warmth and charm.
The house itself becomes a standout element in the book—its transformation mirroring the personal growth of the characters. It’s described so vividly, you can almost imagine yourself moving in and soaking up the Cornish air. With its engaging characters, a touch of mystery, and a good dose of humour, A Cornish Love Story is a light, lovely read that fans of cosy romance will no doubt enjoy.
Told through alternating past and present timelines, the story slowly reveals the connection between Georgie and Ethan, making their journey feel both romantic and real. Their shared history gives the novel emotional depth, while their present-day interactions add plenty of warmth and charm.
The house itself becomes a standout element in the book—its transformation mirroring the personal growth of the characters. It’s described so vividly, you can almost imagine yourself moving in and soaking up the Cornish air. With its engaging characters, a touch of mystery, and a good dose of humour, A Cornish Love Story is a light, lovely read that fans of cosy romance will no doubt enjoy.
April 28, 2025
I’m a huge fan of Cornwall, so when I saw A Cornish Love Story, I had to read it. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint! From the very first page, I was totally immersed in the Cornish setting—it felt like I was right there with the characters.
The story follows Georgie, a journalist who’s covering an event at a gorgeous house in Cornwall. There, she runs into Ethan, her first love, and they get stuck inside together. As they navigate their past, the book flips between their present-day tension and their history, giving you a better understanding of why they’re the way they are.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Georgie and Ethan. I wasn’t sure I’d like the locked-room trope, but it worked perfectly here! It’s funny, heartwarming, and I was totally rooting for them to sort things out.
If you’re looking for a quick, feel-good read with a bit of romance and a lot of heart, this book is definitely worth picking up on August 19, 2025!
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story follows Georgie, a journalist who’s covering an event at a gorgeous house in Cornwall. There, she runs into Ethan, her first love, and they get stuck inside together. As they navigate their past, the book flips between their present-day tension and their history, giving you a better understanding of why they’re the way they are.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Georgie and Ethan. I wasn’t sure I’d like the locked-room trope, but it worked perfectly here! It’s funny, heartwarming, and I was totally rooting for them to sort things out.
If you’re looking for a quick, feel-good read with a bit of romance and a lot of heart, this book is definitely worth picking up on August 19, 2025!
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 27, 2025
As a big fan of Cressida McLaughlin’s books, I was so excited when I saw her new title A CORNISH LOVE STORY had become available on NetGalley.
The voice actor, Hollie Hales, was a perfect choice. Her smooth, clear delivery is a great match for McLaughlin’s work. I found the production to be very pleasant to listen to… and about the only thing I liked about this audiobook.
The premise of extreme forced proximity is something different, while offering the charm of her usual Cornish setting. But unfortunately, the execution of this idea was deeply unsatisfying on multiple levels.
The dual timeline could have been fun, but it slowed the pacing to the point of frustration. Nearly three hours in and we’re still circling and circling and getting nowhere, except bogged down with lengthy backstory.
I read a ton of YA novels, I worked in KidLit, and I’m about the same age as the protagonists in CORNISH LOVE STORY. So please believe me when I tell you that the flashbacks to Georgie’s adolescence were garbage. I can’t put it any other way. The dialogues were ridiculously inauthentic, no matter the age of the characters, but particularly this one. No girl sees a new boy at school and tells her best friend “He looks like he has a dry sense of humor.” C’mon.
The allegedly tense scenes—both past and present—fell flat for me. Perhaps because I didn’t care for Georgie. There was nothing to care about; she’s so bland. The renovated mansion has more personality than she does.
All that to say: This book really bummed me out. I wanted to like it so badly. I kept hoping the story would finally get a grip and be interesting or at least atmospheric, but alas.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK Audio for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The voice actor, Hollie Hales, was a perfect choice. Her smooth, clear delivery is a great match for McLaughlin’s work. I found the production to be very pleasant to listen to… and about the only thing I liked about this audiobook.
The premise of extreme forced proximity is something different, while offering the charm of her usual Cornish setting. But unfortunately, the execution of this idea was deeply unsatisfying on multiple levels.
The dual timeline could have been fun, but it slowed the pacing to the point of frustration. Nearly three hours in and we’re still circling and circling and getting nowhere, except bogged down with lengthy backstory.
I read a ton of YA novels, I worked in KidLit, and I’m about the same age as the protagonists in CORNISH LOVE STORY. So please believe me when I tell you that the flashbacks to Georgie’s adolescence were garbage. I can’t put it any other way. The dialogues were ridiculously inauthentic, no matter the age of the characters, but particularly this one. No girl sees a new boy at school and tells her best friend “He looks like he has a dry sense of humor.” C’mon.
The allegedly tense scenes—both past and present—fell flat for me. Perhaps because I didn’t care for Georgie. There was nothing to care about; she’s so bland. The renovated mansion has more personality than she does.
All that to say: This book really bummed me out. I wanted to like it so badly. I kept hoping the story would finally get a grip and be interesting or at least atmospheric, but alas.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK Audio for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 19, 2025
I inhaled this book. I adored the characters, the setting, the emotional depth and the backstory. I rushed to finish it because I wanted to know, and then I regretted getting there so quickly. It’s a beautiful love story that’s sad, joyful, full of memories and nostalgia, but also full of passion and hope for the future.
It’s set on the Cornish cliffs and follows two timelines in the lives of Georgie and Ethan, as they fall in love as teenagers, and then meet again as adults.
Georgie loves reading and dreams of writing her own love stories. She adores the Cornish Sands romance series by S.E.Artemis, a local author who lived in Alperwick House, set high on the nearby cliff, and set her books in a fictional version of it. But the books didn’t get the ending Georgie thought they deserved and she dreams of giving the characters she loves their happy ever after.
Her first love, Ethan, wants to be an architect and they dream together of how he might restore Alperwick House, but life doesn’t go the way they hope and Georgie ends up broken hearted.
Years later, Georgie goes to an open house event at Alperwick House, to report on its transformation for the local paper. Ethan is the architect and when the smart system at the house goes wrong, they are forced to spend the night together.
I was totally swept up in Georgie and Ethan’s story and the beautiful setting just adds to the romance and magic. I totally fell in love with Ethan and was about ready to move into the restored and luxurious Alperwick House. A Cornish Love Story is a gorgeous, feel-good page turner and I loved every minute of it.
It’s set on the Cornish cliffs and follows two timelines in the lives of Georgie and Ethan, as they fall in love as teenagers, and then meet again as adults.
Georgie loves reading and dreams of writing her own love stories. She adores the Cornish Sands romance series by S.E.Artemis, a local author who lived in Alperwick House, set high on the nearby cliff, and set her books in a fictional version of it. But the books didn’t get the ending Georgie thought they deserved and she dreams of giving the characters she loves their happy ever after.
Her first love, Ethan, wants to be an architect and they dream together of how he might restore Alperwick House, but life doesn’t go the way they hope and Georgie ends up broken hearted.
Years later, Georgie goes to an open house event at Alperwick House, to report on its transformation for the local paper. Ethan is the architect and when the smart system at the house goes wrong, they are forced to spend the night together.
I was totally swept up in Georgie and Ethan’s story and the beautiful setting just adds to the romance and magic. I totally fell in love with Ethan and was about ready to move into the restored and luxurious Alperwick House. A Cornish Love Story is a gorgeous, feel-good page turner and I loved every minute of it.
June 26, 2025
| A Cornish Love Story - Cressida McLaughlin |
Every time I pick up a book written by Cressy, I know it is going to be such a wonderful story. I count down the days, make a note in my calendar for when her new books are released and I knew this one was going to be a little different from her other books but I was just as excited as I always am to pick it off the shelf.
Every time I turn the very first page of one of her books, I feel like I've come back to my comfort. A warm hug, knowing I will never be disappointed, be consumed by the story, fall in love with characters, laugh, cry, and smile.
This book was perfect. Romantic, sad, mysterious, and times where I got chills! Different from other books written by Cressy where the location is Cornwall, it still gave me everything I look for in a romance book.
I really loved Georgie. Her character is sweet and genuine, I felt so connected with her and was rooting for her throughout the entire story.
Ethan has to be one of the sweetest MMC's I've ever read about. Creative, caring, and thoughtful, a perfect match for lovely Georgie ❤️
I had mixed feelings about Spence the whole way through, which I knew was exactly how I was meant to feel! Her charisma, cheekiness, and sometimes a little selfish (but we love her for it!) gave the story more edge and twists, which was really great to read.
Although the story is located in Cornwall, the main place was the house, Tyller Klos/Sterenlenn, renovated and changed into a SMART house (😱) creepy, but I have to say, I didn't know I wanted a disco bathroom until I read this book!
As always, a 5⭐️ Cressida McLaughlin book.
P.S. How STUNNING is the book cover!
Every time I pick up a book written by Cressy, I know it is going to be such a wonderful story. I count down the days, make a note in my calendar for when her new books are released and I knew this one was going to be a little different from her other books but I was just as excited as I always am to pick it off the shelf.
Every time I turn the very first page of one of her books, I feel like I've come back to my comfort. A warm hug, knowing I will never be disappointed, be consumed by the story, fall in love with characters, laugh, cry, and smile.
This book was perfect. Romantic, sad, mysterious, and times where I got chills! Different from other books written by Cressy where the location is Cornwall, it still gave me everything I look for in a romance book.
I really loved Georgie. Her character is sweet and genuine, I felt so connected with her and was rooting for her throughout the entire story.
Ethan has to be one of the sweetest MMC's I've ever read about. Creative, caring, and thoughtful, a perfect match for lovely Georgie ❤️
I had mixed feelings about Spence the whole way through, which I knew was exactly how I was meant to feel! Her charisma, cheekiness, and sometimes a little selfish (but we love her for it!) gave the story more edge and twists, which was really great to read.
Although the story is located in Cornwall, the main place was the house, Tyller Klos/Sterenlenn, renovated and changed into a SMART house (😱) creepy, but I have to say, I didn't know I wanted a disco bathroom until I read this book!
As always, a 5⭐️ Cressida McLaughlin book.
P.S. How STUNNING is the book cover!
July 14, 2025
This charming Cornish love story by Cressida McLaughlin is a heartfelt exploration of second chances. At its core, it’s about Georgie, a determined reporter, and Ethan, an architect restoring what might be the most gorgeous house in Cornwall. When the two unexpectedly cross paths at the property and end up trapped together, old sparks reignite, though not without complications.
The “trapped together” trope is handled with warmth and believable tension and McLaughlin does a lovely job weaving in the messy emotions of rekindling a relationship that once went off the rails. Told through alternating past and present POVs, almost like extended flashbacks, the narrative offers insight into what drove them apart and what still holds them together. At times, those flashbacks dig a bit too deep, slightly slowing the momentum, but the consistent pacing otherwise keeps the story moving.
The prose is engaging and easy to connect with, drawing you right into Georgie and Ethan’s emotional tangle. There’s plenty of heart here, and the novel radiates a feel-good, romantic vibe that makes it perfect for curling up with on a quiet evening or taking to the beach. The audiobook enhances this experience as the narrator’s smooth, clear delivery makes the story effortless to follow, capturing both the tension and tenderness between the characters.
Overall, this is a sweet, satisfying tale of finding your way back to love, complete with the charm of Cornwall and a house that feels like a character in its own right.
The “trapped together” trope is handled with warmth and believable tension and McLaughlin does a lovely job weaving in the messy emotions of rekindling a relationship that once went off the rails. Told through alternating past and present POVs, almost like extended flashbacks, the narrative offers insight into what drove them apart and what still holds them together. At times, those flashbacks dig a bit too deep, slightly slowing the momentum, but the consistent pacing otherwise keeps the story moving.
The prose is engaging and easy to connect with, drawing you right into Georgie and Ethan’s emotional tangle. There’s plenty of heart here, and the novel radiates a feel-good, romantic vibe that makes it perfect for curling up with on a quiet evening or taking to the beach. The audiobook enhances this experience as the narrator’s smooth, clear delivery makes the story effortless to follow, capturing both the tension and tenderness between the characters.
Overall, this is a sweet, satisfying tale of finding your way back to love, complete with the charm of Cornwall and a house that feels like a character in its own right.
October 22, 2025
ꪖ ᥴꪮ𝕣ꪀⅈડꫝ ꪶꪮꪜꫀ ડ𝕥ꪮ𝕣ꪗ ᥇ꪗ ᥴ𝕣ꫀડડⅈᦔꪖ ꪑᥴꪶꪖꪊᧁꫝꪶⅈꪀ
꧁༒•⭐⭐⭐⭐ STARS•༒꧂
ℚ𝕌𝕆𝕋𝔼: 𝐻𝑒 𝓈𝓂𝒾𝓁𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝑒. ‘𝒮𝓊𝓅𝓅𝑜𝓇𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓂𝓎 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁𝒻𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒹 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓁𝑒 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒𝓈 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝒾𝓇𝓈𝓉 𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀 - 𝒶 𝒻𝓊𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉𝓈𝑒𝓁𝓁𝑒𝓇 - 𝓇𝑒𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝓉𝓁𝓎 𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝓉𝒶𝓁𝑒𝓃𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝒾𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝑜𝒸𝒸𝒶𝓈𝒾𝑜𝓃𝒶𝓁𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝒻𝒶𝓈𝓉 𝒾𝓃 𝒷𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝒻𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝐼’𝓋𝑒 𝓈𝒽𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝒽𝑒𝓇, 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓇𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓁𝓎, 𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝓅𝓁𝑒𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓎 𝒾𝓃 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝐼 𝒶𝓂, 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝐼 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒.’
𝔻𝔼𝕊ℂℝ𝕀ℙ𝕋𝕀𝕆ℕ: ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉⁿ ᵇʸ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵃʳᵏˢ. ᴴᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵛᵉ, ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵃˢˢⁱᵒⁿᵃᵗᵉ, ˡᵒᵛᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʰⁱᵍʰ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ. ᴮᵘᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˢⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃʳᵃʰ ᵇᵉᵍⁱⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵇᵉˡ, ʰᵉ ᵃˡʷᵃʸˢ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳˢ ʰᵉʳ ᶜᵃˡˡˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʳᵉˢᶜᵘᵉ, ⁿᵒ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ, ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ. ᴬˢ ᵃⁿ ᵃʳᵍᵘᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ'ˢ ʲᵘᵈᵍᵐᵉⁿᵗ, ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢᵃʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʳᵉᵍʳᵉᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃ ᶜʰᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʳᵉˡᵒᶜᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ. ᴬˢ ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ⁱˢ ˡᵒˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ, ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ, ˢʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵃˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷʳⁱᵗᵉ ᵃ ᶜᵒˡᵘᵐⁿ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵒⁿˢᵗʳᵘᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵃ ᵀʸˡᵉʳ ᴷˡᵒˢ, ᵃ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵉˢ ˢʰᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ. ᴬˢ ˢʰᵉ ᵉˣᵖˡᵒʳᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵗˢ ˢᵐᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵉᶜʰⁿᵒˡᵒᵍʸ, ˢʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵘⁿᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈˡʸ ˡᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁿᵒⁿᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃʳᶜʰⁱᵗᵉᶜᵗ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ, ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵃʳᵏˢ. ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᵃⁿᵍᵉʳ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉᵐˢᵉˡᵛᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᵘʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ᵛᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ᵒⁿ? ᴼʳ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵃⁿ ᵉᵖⁱᶜ ʳᵒᵐᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᶜᵒⁿᵈ ᵗʳʸ?
𝔘𝔫𝔭𝔬𝔭𝔲𝔩𝔞𝔯 𝔬𝔭𝔦𝔫𝔦𝔬𝔫 ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔡 𝔈𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔫 𝔟𝔢𝔠𝔞𝔲𝔰𝔢 𝔥𝔢 𝔤𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔠𝔩𝔬𝔰𝔢𝔡 𝔬𝔣𝔣 𝔐𝔬𝔯𝔞𝔩𝔩𝔶 𝔊𝔯𝔢𝔶 𝔳𝔦𝔟𝔢𝔰 𝔢𝔵𝔠𝔢𝔭𝔱 𝔴𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔦𝔱 𝔠𝔞𝔪𝔢 𝔱𝔬 𝔥𝔦𝔰 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔊𝔢𝔬𝔯𝔤𝔦𝔢.
꧁༒•⭐⭐⭐⭐ STARS•༒꧂
ℚ𝕌𝕆𝕋𝔼: 𝐻𝑒 𝓈𝓂𝒾𝓁𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝓉 𝓂𝑒. ‘𝒮𝓊𝓅𝓅𝑜𝓇𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓂𝓎 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁𝒻𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒹 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓁𝑒 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒𝓈 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒻𝒾𝓇𝓈𝓉 𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀 - 𝒶 𝒻𝓊𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉𝓈𝑒𝓁𝓁𝑒𝓇 - 𝓇𝑒𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝓉𝓁𝓎 𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝓉𝒶𝓁𝑒𝓃𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝒾𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝑜𝒸𝒸𝒶𝓈𝒾𝑜𝓃𝒶𝓁𝓁𝓎 𝒷𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝒻𝒶𝓈𝓉 𝒾𝓃 𝒷𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝒻𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝐼’𝓋𝑒 𝓈𝒽𝑜𝓌𝓃 𝒽𝑒𝓇, 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓇𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓁𝓎, 𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝓅𝓁𝑒𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓎 𝒾𝓃 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝐼 𝒶𝓂, 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝐼 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒.’
𝔻𝔼𝕊ℂℝ𝕀ℙ𝕋𝕀𝕆ℕ: ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵃⁿʸᵗʰⁱⁿᵍ ᵇᵘᵗ ˢᵐⁱᵗᵗᵉⁿ ᵇʸ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵃʳᵏˢ. ᴴᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵒˢᵗ ᵃᵗᵗᵉⁿᵗⁱᵛᵉ, ᶜᵒᵐᵖᵃˢˢⁱᵒⁿᵃᵗᵉ, ˡᵒᵛᵃᵇˡᵉ ᵇᵒʸ ˢʰᵉ ʰᵃᵈ ᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵐᵉᵗ ⁱⁿ ʰᵉʳ ʰⁱᵍʰ ˢᶜʰᵒᵒˡ ʸᵉᵃʳˢ. ᴮᵘᵗ ʷʰᵉⁿ ʰⁱˢ ˢⁱˢᵗᵉʳ ˢᵃʳᵃʰ ᵇᵉᵍⁱⁿˢ ᵗᵒ ʳᵉᵇᵉˡ, ʰᵉ ᵃˡʷᵃʸˢ ᵃⁿˢʷᵉʳˢ ʰᵉʳ ᶜᵃˡˡˢ ᶠᵒʳ ʳᵉˢᶜᵘᵉ, ⁿᵒ ᵐᵃᵗᵗᵉʳ ʷʰᵃᵗ, ʷʰⁱᶜʰ ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ᵘⁿᵈᵉʳˢᵗᵃⁿᵈˢ ᵘⁿᵗⁱˡ ᵒⁿᵉ ᵈᵃʸ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢⁿ'ᵗ. ᴬˢ ᵃⁿ ᵃʳᵍᵘᵐᵉⁿᵗ ᵇʳᵉᵃᵏˢ ᵒᵘᵗ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ'ˢ ʲᵘᵈᵍᵐᵉⁿᵗ, ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵇᵒᵗʰ ˢᵃʸ ᵗʰⁱⁿᵍˢ ᵗʰᵉʸ ʳᵉᵍʳᵉᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵉᵛᵉʳ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵃ ᶜʰᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵗᵒ ᶠᵒʳᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵇᵉᶠᵒʳᵉ ʳᵉˡᵒᶜᵃᵗⁱⁿᵍ. ᴬˢ ᴳᵉᵒʳᵍⁱᵉ ⁱˢ ˡᵒˢᵗ ⁱⁿ ᵃ ˡⁱᶠᵉ ˢʰᵉ ᵈᵒᵉˢ ⁿᵒᵗ ᵏⁿᵒʷ, ʷⁱᵗʰᵒᵘᵗ ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ, ˢʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵃˡˡᵒʷᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ʷʳⁱᵗᵉ ᵃ ᶜᵒˡᵘᵐⁿ ᵃᵇᵒᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉ ʳᵉᶜᵒⁿˢᵗʳᵘᶜᵗⁱᵒⁿ ᵒᶠ ᵃ ᵀʸˡᵉʳ ᴷˡᵒˢ, ᵃ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵗʰᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʰᵉˡᵈ ᵃˡˡ ᵗʰᵉ ᵐᵉᵐᵒʳⁱᵉˢ ˢʰᵉ ˡᵒᵛᵉᵈ. ᴬˢ ˢʰᵉ ᵉˣᵖˡᵒʳᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ʰᵒᵐᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁱᵗˢ ˢᵐᵃʳᵗ ᵗᵉᶜʰⁿᵒˡᵒᵍʸ, ˢʰᵉ ⁱˢ ᵘⁿᵉˣᵖᵉᶜᵗᵉᵈˡʸ ˡᵒᶜᵏᵉᵈ ⁱⁿ ʷⁱᵗʰ ⁿᵒⁿᵉ ᵒᵗʰᵉʳ ᵗʰᵃⁿ ᵗʰᵉ ᵃʳᶜʰⁱᵗᵉᶜᵗ ʰⁱᵐˢᵉˡᶠ, ᴱᵗʰᵃⁿ ˢᵖᵃʳᵏˢ. ᶜᵒᵘˡᵈ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵖᵘᵗ ᵗʰᵉⁱʳ ᵃⁿᵍᵉʳ ᵃˢⁱᵈᵉ ᵃⁿᵈ ᶠⁱⁿᵃˡˡʸ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ᵗʰᵉᵐˢᵉˡᵛᵉˢ ᵗʰᵉ ᶜˡᵒˢᵘʳᵉ ᵗʰᵉʸ'ᵛᵉ ⁿᵉᵉᵈᵉᵈ ᵗᵒ ᵐᵒᵛᵉ ᵒⁿ? ᴼʳ ʷⁱˡˡ ᵗʰᵉʸ ᵍⁱᵛᵉ ʷʰᵃᵗ ᵒⁿᶜᵉ ʷᵃˢ ᵃⁿ ᵉᵖⁱᶜ ʳᵒᵐᵃⁿᶜᵉ ᵃ ˢᵉᶜᵒⁿᵈ ᵗʳʸ?
𝔘𝔫𝔭𝔬𝔭𝔲𝔩𝔞𝔯 𝔬𝔭𝔦𝔫𝔦𝔬𝔫 ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢𝔡 𝔈𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔫 𝔟𝔢𝔠𝔞𝔲𝔰𝔢 𝔥𝔢 𝔤𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔠𝔩𝔬𝔰𝔢𝔡 𝔬𝔣𝔣 𝔐𝔬𝔯𝔞𝔩𝔩𝔶 𝔊𝔯𝔢𝔶 𝔳𝔦𝔟𝔢𝔰 𝔢𝔵𝔠𝔢𝔭𝔱 𝔴𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔦𝔱 𝔠𝔞𝔪𝔢 𝔱𝔬 𝔥𝔦𝔰 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔊𝔢𝔬𝔯𝔤𝔦𝔢.
July 6, 2025
This is Cressida McLaughlin at her very best.
And it also raises very good talking points about AI and how dangerous a smart house could potentially be.
After all Georgie goes to the open house to see the newly designed house that was originally the inspiration for her favourite books of all time, and that played a big part in her life as a teenager too - she definitely wasn't expecting to end up trapped in it overnight, with Ethan.
Ah Ethan, who she had an intense romance with when she was 18, her first love, and then things went sour. She hasn't seen him in many years, but he is the architect of this revamped house.
Told in two timelines of present day, and that summer that they were together, we get to know Ethan, Georgie, their friends and family and see just what happened back then.
I loved the high tech nature of the house, just how key this building is in both timelines. It's a gorgeous romance that also includes a love story (Georgie will explain the difference between them when you read it).
I love this author and I was totally absorbed in the pages of this book. I had a great time devouring this story and am always eager to see what she will write next.
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And it also raises very good talking points about AI and how dangerous a smart house could potentially be.
After all Georgie goes to the open house to see the newly designed house that was originally the inspiration for her favourite books of all time, and that played a big part in her life as a teenager too - she definitely wasn't expecting to end up trapped in it overnight, with Ethan.
Ah Ethan, who she had an intense romance with when she was 18, her first love, and then things went sour. She hasn't seen him in many years, but he is the architect of this revamped house.
Told in two timelines of present day, and that summer that they were together, we get to know Ethan, Georgie, their friends and family and see just what happened back then.
I loved the high tech nature of the house, just how key this building is in both timelines. It's a gorgeous romance that also includes a love story (Georgie will explain the difference between them when you read it).
I love this author and I was totally absorbed in the pages of this book. I had a great time devouring this story and am always eager to see what she will write next.
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 18, 2025
This was a nicely written love story of two very young adults, Ethan and Georgie, who fall in love at 18, but are torn apart by circumstances and lack of communication.
Many years later they meet, the attraction is very strong, but so is the hurt and pain. Unknowingly they are manipulated into a close proximity situation that forces them to realize that their young love was in fact true everlasting love.
Both MMCs are manipulated in this book, but they both shone as individuals despite all the challenges.
The narration for this book was done very well. The dual timelines effective in building the narration and pacing and setting was excellent.
#ACornishLoveStory #NetGalley
This was a nicely written love story of two very young adults, Ethan and Georgie, who fall in love at 18, but are torn apart by circumstances and lack of communication.
Many years later they meet, the attraction is very strong, but so is the hurt and pain. Unknowingly they are manipulated into a close proximity situation that forces them to realize that their young love was in fact true everlasting love.
Both MMCs are manipulated in this book, but they both shone as individuals despite all the challenges.
The narration for this book was done very well. The dual timelines effective in building the narration and pacing and setting was excellent.
#ACornishLoveStory #NetGalley
Many years later they meet, the attraction is very strong, but so is the hurt and pain. Unknowingly they are manipulated into a close proximity situation that forces them to realize that their young love was in fact true everlasting love.
Both MMCs are manipulated in this book, but they both shone as individuals despite all the challenges.
The narration for this book was done very well. The dual timelines effective in building the narration and pacing and setting was excellent.
#ACornishLoveStory #NetGalley
This was a nicely written love story of two very young adults, Ethan and Georgie, who fall in love at 18, but are torn apart by circumstances and lack of communication.
Many years later they meet, the attraction is very strong, but so is the hurt and pain. Unknowingly they are manipulated into a close proximity situation that forces them to realize that their young love was in fact true everlasting love.
Both MMCs are manipulated in this book, but they both shone as individuals despite all the challenges.
The narration for this book was done very well. The dual timelines effective in building the narration and pacing and setting was excellent.
#ACornishLoveStory #NetGalley
June 20, 2025
A Cornish Love Story is not my first Cressida McLaughlin’s novel, but, without a doubt, it’s my favourite. I read it in one day, completely engrossed in the two protagonists and their love story and drawn by the beautiful setting of Cornwall.
The story follows Georgie Monroe and Ethan Spark as their story alternates between the past and the present. Thirteen years ago, Georgie and Ethan, then eighteen-years-old, met and fell in love in their last year of school. Ethan is the new boy in town, while Georgie has lived in the Cornish village with her mother her whole life. Georgie is obsessed with a romance series by a local author and she dreams, one day, of becoming an author herself, while Ethan wants to be an architect. However, their love, young and authentic, is complicated by their families: Georgie is at her sick and overprotective mother’s beck and call, while Ethan often must rush away to help his rebellious younger sister. At the present time, Georgie still lives in town working as a part-time journalist for the local paper and a personal assistant for her idol, the author of the romance series she loved so much. She needs to cover the open house of a super high-tech mansion and Ethan is the architect behind all the work. They haven’t seen each other in 13 years, since they broke up, and there are many things that they have to face and resolve. Luckily, they have time as the super intelligent house, a house that had history with both her and Ethan, locks them in.
I loved this novel so much. The writing is captivating and I loved how the past intertwines with the present, how the characters develop and face their past and their story, and how it all ends beautifully, even though I never wanted it to end! Highly recommended!
The story follows Georgie Monroe and Ethan Spark as their story alternates between the past and the present. Thirteen years ago, Georgie and Ethan, then eighteen-years-old, met and fell in love in their last year of school. Ethan is the new boy in town, while Georgie has lived in the Cornish village with her mother her whole life. Georgie is obsessed with a romance series by a local author and she dreams, one day, of becoming an author herself, while Ethan wants to be an architect. However, their love, young and authentic, is complicated by their families: Georgie is at her sick and overprotective mother’s beck and call, while Ethan often must rush away to help his rebellious younger sister. At the present time, Georgie still lives in town working as a part-time journalist for the local paper and a personal assistant for her idol, the author of the romance series she loved so much. She needs to cover the open house of a super high-tech mansion and Ethan is the architect behind all the work. They haven’t seen each other in 13 years, since they broke up, and there are many things that they have to face and resolve. Luckily, they have time as the super intelligent house, a house that had history with both her and Ethan, locks them in.
I loved this novel so much. The writing is captivating and I loved how the past intertwines with the present, how the characters develop and face their past and their story, and how it all ends beautifully, even though I never wanted it to end! Highly recommended!
July 28, 2025
As soon as I saw the front cover of this book I knew I would love the story, and had to get my hands on a copy. The audiobook version is beautifully narrated by Hollie Hales. Her voice perfectly matches the writing.
The story itself takes us to the beautiful Cornish Coast. Journalist Georgie Monroe has been invited to report on a new smart house build, she is excited at the prospect as she has been intreagued every since the building work started. When she arrives for the interview she comes face to face with her first love, Ethan Sparks. Who is happens is the architect of the project. The pair havent seen each other since sixth form The book reverts to dual time lines so we the listener can see where the pair when wrong as they are so obviously made for each other. I did like this for the background aspect but felt the backstory was dragged out. I was so much more interested in what was going to happen in their present.
All in all a nice easy listening audiobook and well worth a read.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins audio for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story itself takes us to the beautiful Cornish Coast. Journalist Georgie Monroe has been invited to report on a new smart house build, she is excited at the prospect as she has been intreagued every since the building work started. When she arrives for the interview she comes face to face with her first love, Ethan Sparks. Who is happens is the architect of the project. The pair havent seen each other since sixth form The book reverts to dual time lines so we the listener can see where the pair when wrong as they are so obviously made for each other. I did like this for the background aspect but felt the backstory was dragged out. I was so much more interested in what was going to happen in their present.
All in all a nice easy listening audiobook and well worth a read.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins audio for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2025
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC!
I wasn't sure where this book was meant to slot in, after having tightly followed the Cornish Cream Tea Bus series and enjoying every book of it. It was very funny to see a reference to it as a tourist spot, in the book, sort of like an easter egg, and it made me want to visit it as well (unfortunately it's just fiction...)
But back to this book, a very new premise, even a little bordering on becoming a thriller when a high-tech house traps the 2 ex-lovers in there for a night, and wondering if a murderer will be popping out suddenly. It became apparent that they would use the time to reacquaint and reminisce about their past and what exactly happen. It happens to even the best of us, you lose contact with a crush from your youth and one day you bump into him as an adult and he still takes your breath away and some of the feelings come back to haunt you (until you realise you both have changed even if you look the same.)
No spoilers for the ending, but the book did make me think about something similar that happened to myself (sans the high-tech house trapping me). Enjoyed the book!
I wasn't sure where this book was meant to slot in, after having tightly followed the Cornish Cream Tea Bus series and enjoying every book of it. It was very funny to see a reference to it as a tourist spot, in the book, sort of like an easter egg, and it made me want to visit it as well (unfortunately it's just fiction...)
But back to this book, a very new premise, even a little bordering on becoming a thriller when a high-tech house traps the 2 ex-lovers in there for a night, and wondering if a murderer will be popping out suddenly. It became apparent that they would use the time to reacquaint and reminisce about their past and what exactly happen. It happens to even the best of us, you lose contact with a crush from your youth and one day you bump into him as an adult and he still takes your breath away and some of the feelings come back to haunt you (until you realise you both have changed even if you look the same.)
No spoilers for the ending, but the book did make me think about something similar that happened to myself (sans the high-tech house trapping me). Enjoyed the book!
June 25, 2025
A love story set in beautiful Cornwall, what more could you want?
This is a forced proximity, second chance, dual timeline kind of romance.
Cressida is an auto-buy author for me, and I love her and her books so much. However there was something about 'A Cornish Love Story' that sadly just didn't hit the right spots for me. Being from Cornwall myself, any love story getting lost in my home land is a winner, but I think personally with this book, although Georgie and Ethan were a beautiful couple..it was the side characters of Sarah (Ethans Sister) and Spence that I just really despised. I feel like the situation in the renovated house just went on for far too long (or it felt like it!) and wouldn't of been my way to reconnect the two lovers. We are promised a hea though, in true Cressida style.
This is in no way a 'bad' book, it just wasn't for me at this time. I will continue to love, share and support Cressida and her work.
Thank you to @harperfiction for my gifted copy of the book. I also purchased the book on kindle.
This is a forced proximity, second chance, dual timeline kind of romance.
Cressida is an auto-buy author for me, and I love her and her books so much. However there was something about 'A Cornish Love Story' that sadly just didn't hit the right spots for me. Being from Cornwall myself, any love story getting lost in my home land is a winner, but I think personally with this book, although Georgie and Ethan were a beautiful couple..it was the side characters of Sarah (Ethans Sister) and Spence that I just really despised. I feel like the situation in the renovated house just went on for far too long (or it felt like it!) and wouldn't of been my way to reconnect the two lovers. We are promised a hea though, in true Cressida style.
This is in no way a 'bad' book, it just wasn't for me at this time. I will continue to love, share and support Cressida and her work.
Thank you to @harperfiction for my gifted copy of the book. I also purchased the book on kindle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2025
Cressida delivers a delightful tale brimming with warmth, emotional depth, & a touch of serendipity. She excels at crafting characters who feel real & relatable, & Georgie & Ethan are no exception. I was drawn into their journey as they navigate the rekindling of old feelings amidst new revelations.
The writing style is a pure joy – evocative & immersive, it paints a vivid picture of the Cornish setting, making it feel like a character in itself. She masterfully blends moments of genuine romance with touches of humour & touching introspection. The narrative explores themes of second chances, forgiveness, & the power of facing one's past to build a new future.
Ultimately, A Cornish Love Story is a charming, uplifting, & unashamedly romantic read that provides a much-needed escape. It's a testament to Cressida's talent for crafting feel-good fiction that leaves you with a warm glow & a smile on your face.
This book is a must-add to your summer TBR list!
The writing style is a pure joy – evocative & immersive, it paints a vivid picture of the Cornish setting, making it feel like a character in itself. She masterfully blends moments of genuine romance with touches of humour & touching introspection. The narrative explores themes of second chances, forgiveness, & the power of facing one's past to build a new future.
Ultimately, A Cornish Love Story is a charming, uplifting, & unashamedly romantic read that provides a much-needed escape. It's a testament to Cressida's talent for crafting feel-good fiction that leaves you with a warm glow & a smile on your face.
This book is a must-add to your summer TBR list!
April 24, 2025
As an avid reader of Cressida Mclaughlin's books, I really enjoyed this one. It made a refreshing change to meet a new character who didn't work in a bookshop, as so many of her recent character's have. I warmed to Georgie and Ethan straight away, and particularly enjoyed the chapters set in 2012. As the story unfolds, we learn more about their lives and what lead to their breakup. The alternating chapters, between past and present, was an excellent way to tell the background of their relationship and the present events. Would Georgie and Ethan get back together, or would history repeat itself? Cressida has surpassed herself by teasing out this ending until the very last page!
Thank you #NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you #NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
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