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The Mysterious Miss Mayhew
Tom doesn't need any more women in his life. He already has his hands full with his five year old daughter, an estranged wife who keeps blocking his efforts to get divorced and a mother who might be having an affair with the vicar. When Fran Mayhew turns up - years younger than him and with all the tact of a dinosaur with its backside on fire - she's just another tricky person to deal with.
And what's she doing in his remote part of Northumberland crawling around in graveyards anyway?
But soon Tom discovers that there's more to Miss Mayhew than meets the eye - and it's not just his heart he's in danger of losing.
And what's she doing in his remote part of Northumberland crawling around in graveyards anyway?
But soon Tom discovers that there's more to Miss Mayhew than meets the eye - and it's not just his heart he's in danger of losing.
504 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2014
14 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Hazel Osmond
5 books83 followersI live in Northumberland; I'm married with two teenage daughters and for twenty years I've been an advertising copywriter. I have a clean driving licence, (apart from where I dripped nail varnish on it) and am not yet at that age where I've started to grow a moustache without realising it.
How did I get into writing stories and books? Partly because of a woman's magazine and partly because of a man in a cravat who proposed in my sitting room. The magazine was Woman & Home and I won their short story competition (sponsored by Costa) in 2008, and the man in the cravat was the actor Richard Armitage in Sandy Welch's adaptation of Mrs Gaskell's 'North and South' for the BBC.
Winning the competition gave me confidence; admiring Richard Armitage led me to one website in particular (C19) where I discovered plenty of fanfiction inspired by roles Mr A had
played and had a go at writing one myself.
Forty chapters later, having caught the writing bug, I was encouraged to try my hand at comtemporary fiction. I was following in fine footsteps - to date six others people who had that cravat 'moment' have become published authors - Rosy Thornton, Phillipa Ashley, Elizabeth Hanbury, Elizabeth Ashworth,
Juliet Archer and Georgia Hill.
How did I get into writing stories and books? Partly because of a woman's magazine and partly because of a man in a cravat who proposed in my sitting room. The magazine was Woman & Home and I won their short story competition (sponsored by Costa) in 2008, and the man in the cravat was the actor Richard Armitage in Sandy Welch's adaptation of Mrs Gaskell's 'North and South' for the BBC.
Winning the competition gave me confidence; admiring Richard Armitage led me to one website in particular (C19) where I discovered plenty of fanfiction inspired by roles Mr A had
played and had a go at writing one myself.
Forty chapters later, having caught the writing bug, I was encouraged to try my hand at comtemporary fiction. I was following in fine footsteps - to date six others people who had that cravat 'moment' have become published authors - Rosy Thornton, Phillipa Ashley, Elizabeth Hanbury, Elizabeth Ashworth,
Juliet Archer and Georgia Hill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 5, 2014
"The Mysterious Miss Mayhew" is my second Hazel Osmond's book and I personally find it totally different to "Playing Grace". It is, in my opinion, although also about some very important issues, much easier, lighter read, written with twist and a touch, with a very unique storyline and full of sharp and dry humour. Just what I like most! As I have spotted this book on NetGalley ages ago I had a feeling it could be THIS read but nevertheless, have waited patiently for my PB copy to arrive.
And when it finally arrived, I have started to read it immediately. As title has it, I was expecting the book to be about the Mysterious Miss Mayhew, and while of course it was about her, it was also about Tom and his little daughter Hattie and their very complicated life. Tom, no matter if he wants it or not, is surrounded by women: starting with his above mentioned daughter, through his estranged wife, mother, colleagues at work and ending with the Mysterious Fran Mayhew, who out of the blue appears in the little town where he works and lives. Every time Tom does something very embarrassing, she pops out and, with the elegancy of a bull in china shop, lets him know what she thinks.
I love the idea of writing about a single parenthood but from father's point of view. It's usually a single mother fighting to make the ends meet but here we have Tom, taking care of his five - year - old Hattie after his wife has decided her work is much more important and left. I'm sorry, but you're not going to like Steph, not at all. I totally enjoyed and admired Tom in his challenge to bring Hattie up single - handedly and in my personal opinion, he did a great job. I think he was much more laid - back than women would be, and also much more down - to - earth but he also could have been cross with his daughter. He was very realistic but he would do anything for his little girl. And so, right now he's not looking for a second chance at love but, as it often is when you're not looking for this, it just comes, although he would never, in a million years think that he could fell in love with this particular woman. And when everything looks so very smooth and nice, fate in a form of Steph crosses Tom's doorstep again.
I can't remember such unlikeable character as Steph was. I could forgive a lot but not the fact how she played the little Hattie. She was a manipulative, cold bitch from hell (sorry! sorry!!) and she broke not only Hattie's heart, but my also. Oh my, I so wanted to claw out her eyes and pull her long hair when she, again, blamed Tom for everything, put the cart before the horse and thrust everything on his shoulders, trying to justify herself in Hattie's eyes.
Hattie, oh Hattie, with her love to wrestling. She was actually the central character in the book and it couldn't be more enjoyable to read about this tough as a cookie and hard as a nut little girl, who was also so very vulnerable and she missed her mother so much. Hattie is an unusual girl I would say, because it's not only wrestling that she loves (and tries, when her father stops keeping an eye on her for a second) but also loved pirates, and she is, truthfully, my idea of a perfect daughter. I'd so much rather see my Sophie with an eye - patch, on a tree - house than dressed in a tutu. Hattie was an absolute star of this book!
And last but not least, the Mysterious Miss Mayhew. She appears in the town out of the blue, bumps on Tom, or rather Tom bumps on her, and she seems really odd. Firstly, she dresses in clothes that most people would describe as... yes, odd. Secondly, she first speaks and only then thinks. Thirdly, she has a secret. Why did she come to the town? But after my initial reserve and thinking, Fran, who the hell are you, I simply fell in love with Fran, with the ways she was, she behaved and dressed.
Fran literally appears out of the blue in the book and I felt a little confused at the beginning thinking what does she want? Who is she? Why is she always writing in her diary 10 things that she learnt this day? (They were hilarious, her entries. HILARIOUS). And Fran, just like her diary, was sincere, honest, quirky. A little strange too, but I quickly get used to this strangeness and waited for scenes with Fran.
It was really a book with a very unique storyline and strong lead characters. There was not a flat moment to the story, the characters were made to deal with many difficult situations and I enjoyed how Hazel solved all the sub - plots. She has wonderfully written about family relationships, how Tom's family supports themselves in their difficult moments, how much they love (or hate) each other. Tom's mother relationship was one of the highlights in the story and had me in giggles, and oh, how much I loved his mum with her distance to herself and her love - life and her laid - back approach.
Hazel has also wonderfully captured the mentality of a small town and its residents, where everybody knew everything about each other, often they knew more about you than you yourself, where gossip travelled at the speed of light, and where winning a Baking Competition was the highlight of the year.
To tell that I adored this book doesn't come close. I loved it from start to finish and enjoyed the plot, the characters, every situation the author put them into, the sharp and witty dialogues. Hazel Osmond adds a little romance to the plot and there is a moment that we have a love - hate triangle, and I was so, so scared then that one of the person is so going to spoil the new relationship.
It was a fast - paced, original story, with surprises dropped on us very unexpectedly, with quirky, livid characters that most of us is going to fell in love with, and it's just a joy to read. There is an element of mystery in form of Fran and I also liked how this thread unveiled and ended. The writing style is brilliant, it's witty and sharp, with a dose of sarcasm to it, the author is for sure not gushing but writing how it is. It was funny but also grim in moments, charming but also sentimental, not too sweet but also not to bitter - I would say, a perfect read. Go and get your copy!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
And when it finally arrived, I have started to read it immediately. As title has it, I was expecting the book to be about the Mysterious Miss Mayhew, and while of course it was about her, it was also about Tom and his little daughter Hattie and their very complicated life. Tom, no matter if he wants it or not, is surrounded by women: starting with his above mentioned daughter, through his estranged wife, mother, colleagues at work and ending with the Mysterious Fran Mayhew, who out of the blue appears in the little town where he works and lives. Every time Tom does something very embarrassing, she pops out and, with the elegancy of a bull in china shop, lets him know what she thinks.
I love the idea of writing about a single parenthood but from father's point of view. It's usually a single mother fighting to make the ends meet but here we have Tom, taking care of his five - year - old Hattie after his wife has decided her work is much more important and left. I'm sorry, but you're not going to like Steph, not at all. I totally enjoyed and admired Tom in his challenge to bring Hattie up single - handedly and in my personal opinion, he did a great job. I think he was much more laid - back than women would be, and also much more down - to - earth but he also could have been cross with his daughter. He was very realistic but he would do anything for his little girl. And so, right now he's not looking for a second chance at love but, as it often is when you're not looking for this, it just comes, although he would never, in a million years think that he could fell in love with this particular woman. And when everything looks so very smooth and nice, fate in a form of Steph crosses Tom's doorstep again.
I can't remember such unlikeable character as Steph was. I could forgive a lot but not the fact how she played the little Hattie. She was a manipulative, cold bitch from hell (sorry! sorry!!) and she broke not only Hattie's heart, but my also. Oh my, I so wanted to claw out her eyes and pull her long hair when she, again, blamed Tom for everything, put the cart before the horse and thrust everything on his shoulders, trying to justify herself in Hattie's eyes.
Hattie, oh Hattie, with her love to wrestling. She was actually the central character in the book and it couldn't be more enjoyable to read about this tough as a cookie and hard as a nut little girl, who was also so very vulnerable and she missed her mother so much. Hattie is an unusual girl I would say, because it's not only wrestling that she loves (and tries, when her father stops keeping an eye on her for a second) but also loved pirates, and she is, truthfully, my idea of a perfect daughter. I'd so much rather see my Sophie with an eye - patch, on a tree - house than dressed in a tutu. Hattie was an absolute star of this book!
And last but not least, the Mysterious Miss Mayhew. She appears in the town out of the blue, bumps on Tom, or rather Tom bumps on her, and she seems really odd. Firstly, she dresses in clothes that most people would describe as... yes, odd. Secondly, she first speaks and only then thinks. Thirdly, she has a secret. Why did she come to the town? But after my initial reserve and thinking, Fran, who the hell are you, I simply fell in love with Fran, with the ways she was, she behaved and dressed.
Fran literally appears out of the blue in the book and I felt a little confused at the beginning thinking what does she want? Who is she? Why is she always writing in her diary 10 things that she learnt this day? (They were hilarious, her entries. HILARIOUS). And Fran, just like her diary, was sincere, honest, quirky. A little strange too, but I quickly get used to this strangeness and waited for scenes with Fran.
It was really a book with a very unique storyline and strong lead characters. There was not a flat moment to the story, the characters were made to deal with many difficult situations and I enjoyed how Hazel solved all the sub - plots. She has wonderfully written about family relationships, how Tom's family supports themselves in their difficult moments, how much they love (or hate) each other. Tom's mother relationship was one of the highlights in the story and had me in giggles, and oh, how much I loved his mum with her distance to herself and her love - life and her laid - back approach.
Hazel has also wonderfully captured the mentality of a small town and its residents, where everybody knew everything about each other, often they knew more about you than you yourself, where gossip travelled at the speed of light, and where winning a Baking Competition was the highlight of the year.
To tell that I adored this book doesn't come close. I loved it from start to finish and enjoyed the plot, the characters, every situation the author put them into, the sharp and witty dialogues. Hazel Osmond adds a little romance to the plot and there is a moment that we have a love - hate triangle, and I was so, so scared then that one of the person is so going to spoil the new relationship.
It was a fast - paced, original story, with surprises dropped on us very unexpectedly, with quirky, livid characters that most of us is going to fell in love with, and it's just a joy to read. There is an element of mystery in form of Fran and I also liked how this thread unveiled and ended. The writing style is brilliant, it's witty and sharp, with a dose of sarcasm to it, the author is for sure not gushing but writing how it is. It was funny but also grim in moments, charming but also sentimental, not too sweet but also not to bitter - I would say, a perfect read. Go and get your copy!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
October 22, 2014
Writing this review with a very soggy face! I think this is my favourite from this author, I loved it. Perfect characters, especially little Hattie, she had me laughing out loud! Hazel Osmond always amazes me with her ability to create a unique world with very realistic characters and storylines that are so true to life. I love how she writes women, she strays away from stereotypes, thank God. Fran's diary entries were nothing short of GENIUS.
March 10, 2015
When the 'Mysterious Miss Mayhew' moves into the long deserted cottage we start to wonder why she's arrived. Tom comes across her in an embarrassing situation and that litters their initial meetings. Fran loves his little girl- she sees the free spirit in her.
There are some very amusing encounters and a great cast of characters including Tom's family and his work colleagues at the magazine. They are always under tough constraints getting the latest issue to the printer on time and they need a new nature feature writer. When Fran takes on the challenge they think that they have found the perfect member of staff and she produces an award winning article. But the owner then tries to stop it- why??
I love Fran's lists at the start of chapters. She reveals a lot about the way she is thinking and that there is a reason for her to be here.
Throw in a meddling ex wife and the characters are in total turmoil!
A great read. I will definately check out more by Hazel Osmond/
Many thanks to Quercus and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
There are some very amusing encounters and a great cast of characters including Tom's family and his work colleagues at the magazine. They are always under tough constraints getting the latest issue to the printer on time and they need a new nature feature writer. When Fran takes on the challenge they think that they have found the perfect member of staff and she produces an award winning article. But the owner then tries to stop it- why??
I love Fran's lists at the start of chapters. She reveals a lot about the way she is thinking and that there is a reason for her to be here.
Throw in a meddling ex wife and the characters are in total turmoil!
A great read. I will definately check out more by Hazel Osmond/
Many thanks to Quercus and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
April 10, 2015
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I CAN'T EVEN PUT TOGETHER A COHERENT SENTENCE RIGHT NOW TO EXPLAIN HOW I FEEL ABOUT THIS BOOK. IT'S 2:51am I NEED TO SLEEP AND THEN I CAN WRITE A PROPER REVIEW ABOUT THIS STUPID BOOK
http://mylunaelibrae.blogspot.co.uk/2...
Review found here.
http://mylunaelibrae.blogspot.co.uk/2...
Review found here.
July 1, 2015
This is usually not my type of book, what I would call Chick Lit, but I actually found it to be very pleasant and delightful, Miss Mayhew comes across as seeming rather old-fashioned, she is only 24, she is not how I expect people her age to be but the story was enjoyable.
May 17, 2017
This book definitely had some good qualities. The main character (Tom) was a lovely guy, and his relationship with his daughter was absolutely adorable. The English countryside setting was lovely and the language and dialogue were at times, charming.
That being said, the book didn't really pull me in. I do find it hard to read a romance from an entirely male POV. I prefer it balanced between both main characters. I think being female, it feels foreign to be experiencing the romance from just that side. That's most likely just a personal thing. I really didn't feel we got to know the title (female) character at all though.
The book also meanders. A lot. It's far lengthier than it needs to be and a lot of the little side lanes we're lead down don't really add anything and are resolved very quickly or not really at all (Rob and Kath, Vicar and Mother, Jamie, Natalie etc.)
Additionally I really didn't buy the romance between the main characters, they seem to love each other for no apparent reason and whilst I loved the concept of a somewhat complex relationship due to age difference and existing family - it didn't really feel fleshed out.
I also felt the steamy sex scenes were somewhat odd in a very light spirited book. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE a steamy scene but it just felt out of place. Like they were being spliced into a PG movie.
Lastly, as many reviewers have pointed out, the 'mystery' is so plainly, almost instantly, obvious that it really slows the pace down. Perhaps a different title might have helped, so we weren't all waiting for a twist that will never show up.
That being said, the book didn't really pull me in. I do find it hard to read a romance from an entirely male POV. I prefer it balanced between both main characters. I think being female, it feels foreign to be experiencing the romance from just that side. That's most likely just a personal thing. I really didn't feel we got to know the title (female) character at all though.
The book also meanders. A lot. It's far lengthier than it needs to be and a lot of the little side lanes we're lead down don't really add anything and are resolved very quickly or not really at all (Rob and Kath, Vicar and Mother, Jamie, Natalie etc.)
Additionally I really didn't buy the romance between the main characters, they seem to love each other for no apparent reason and whilst I loved the concept of a somewhat complex relationship due to age difference and existing family - it didn't really feel fleshed out.
I also felt the steamy sex scenes were somewhat odd in a very light spirited book. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE a steamy scene but it just felt out of place. Like they were being spliced into a PG movie.
Lastly, as many reviewers have pointed out, the 'mystery' is so plainly, almost instantly, obvious that it really slows the pace down. Perhaps a different title might have helped, so we weren't all waiting for a twist that will never show up.
June 10, 2025
Enjoyment: 4⭐
Plot: 3.75⭐
Characters: 3.75⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is a really sweet book that didn't need to be 500 pages long. I haven't read a romance before where the MMC is the main pov. We get bits from Fran here and there in the form of lists, but it is mostly told from Tom's pov.
It took me a while to warm up to Fran and to pick up on chemistry between them. It was definitely a slow burn, but their relationship is sweet. The second half of the book moves at a faster pace than the first half.
I was expecting a bit more mystery from the what I read in the blurb, but it seemed pretty obvious from the get go what mystery Fran was hiding.
However, it concluded beautifully and it was sweet and a fun and easy read.
Plot: 3.75⭐
Characters: 3.75⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is a really sweet book that didn't need to be 500 pages long. I haven't read a romance before where the MMC is the main pov. We get bits from Fran here and there in the form of lists, but it is mostly told from Tom's pov.
It took me a while to warm up to Fran and to pick up on chemistry between them. It was definitely a slow burn, but their relationship is sweet. The second half of the book moves at a faster pace than the first half.
I was expecting a bit more mystery from the what I read in the blurb, but it seemed pretty obvious from the get go what mystery Fran was hiding.
However, it concluded beautifully and it was sweet and a fun and easy read.
December 6, 2020
I only read this book because I liked Osmond's book, Who's Afraid of Mr. Wolfe? This one was a disappointment. Very long for some reason and I had a hard time believing the coehiveness of the characters. Tom and Fran. Tom and the Danish woman. Fran and Tom. Tom and Hatty. It was easy enough to read but it was a chore to read. I would have stopped reading had it not been for the fact that I ordered it online and paid $20 for it. I should have gotten it from the library. I hate wasting my money.
August 30, 2025
brilliant fantastic fabulous wonderful amazing great read and couldn’t put book down
Brilliant fantastic wonderful amazing great read and couldn’t put the book down
I imagine myself in the book while I was reading the book.
The characters in the story
was great and I enjoyed reading the Mystery miss Mayhem a heartfelt romantic comedy.
And it made me laugh a lot and made me smile .
I enjoy the book.
Brilliant fantastic wonderful amazing great read and couldn’t put the book down
I imagine myself in the book while I was reading the book.
The characters in the story
was great and I enjoyed reading the Mystery miss Mayhem a heartfelt romantic comedy.
And it made me laugh a lot and made me smile .
I enjoy the book.
July 21, 2019
Read this for bookclub - and a very unusual genre for me - a rom-com. It was warm and funny
December 4, 2019
A delightful read.
March 15, 2020
Heartwarming, witty and thoroughly enjoyable
February 12, 2022
Not really for me, I'd call it the Irritating ... Not mysterious.
October 8, 2023
2.5-3 stars
June 30, 2024
A light hearted easy to read book -preferably while sat in the garden or on the beach.
November 6, 2014
Last year I read my first ever Hazel Osmond novel Playing Grace. It was quite a dark read, and I remember that I did quite enjoy it, so I was pleased to be offered a review copy of Hazel's latest novel The Mysterious Miss Mayhew. I loved the bright blue cover, with the chairs and table, and the flowers around the edges. It's cute and quirky, which I like. I couldn't wait to get stuck in to the novel and I'm very pleased to report that I loved it even more than I did Playing Grace.
As I said, Hazel Osmond's first three novels were quite dark novels. In tone, with their characters, and I was delighted that The Mysterious Miss Mayhew was a lighter read. So much lighter in fact, there's still a bit of mystery - with "mysterious" in the title, that's hardly a surprise. But it's not dark or gritty, there's no deep, dark secrets waiting to come out and while Fran Mayhew is indeed quite mysterious, I actually guessed her mystery pretty early on. It's not that big a mystery, not that well hidden, and was relatively easy to put together (not that I'm complaining - I quite like feeling proud when I figure out a plot twist).
The Mysterious Miss Mayhew is set in Northumberland - yay for books set up there - it's closer and closer to where I come from, which is Stanley, near Durham. I liked the setting, the North East is a good setting, rarely used in Chick Lit novels. But the setting is secondary to the fabulous characters. Meeting Tom and his young daughter Hattie was delightful. Hattie is the most inquisitive, gorgeous little child there is, she's full of questions and loves to play pirates, and her dad absolutely dotes on her which was so lovely to read. Then there's Fran Mayhew - she of the mysterious variety. I loved how outspoken she was, how unfiltered, it was super refreshing for someone to say it like it is and not edit out the bad stuff. Sure, it gets her in to trouble a few (or ten) times, but that just endeared her to me more. She's obviously got a secret of two, and there's a reason she's come to Northumberland and I liked ferreting out the mystery.
It's very hard to write in words just how much I loved this delightful novel. Even the villians of the piece didn't make me angsty and wish for their heads on a platter. They were just nuisances to be dealt with. I raced through the novel in a couple of days - no mean feat for a book just over 500 pages but it never felt like it was that long (except when I was trying to keep hold of it - I definitely prefer e-reading when books are so bloody long, I tell ya) and it was all such a delight. Seeing Fran and Tom interact, seeing the world through Hattie's eyes, meeting all the rest of Tom's family and friends and colleagues at the magazine where he works. It was lovely, and humourous, too. I loved that it was a lot more playful that Playing Grace, it's a great new direction for Hazel Osmond and I hope it's one she sticks with because The Mysterious Miss Mayhew was an absolute pleasure to read.This review was originally posted on Girls Love To Read
As I said, Hazel Osmond's first three novels were quite dark novels. In tone, with their characters, and I was delighted that The Mysterious Miss Mayhew was a lighter read. So much lighter in fact, there's still a bit of mystery - with "mysterious" in the title, that's hardly a surprise. But it's not dark or gritty, there's no deep, dark secrets waiting to come out and while Fran Mayhew is indeed quite mysterious, I actually guessed her mystery pretty early on. It's not that big a mystery, not that well hidden, and was relatively easy to put together (not that I'm complaining - I quite like feeling proud when I figure out a plot twist).
The Mysterious Miss Mayhew is set in Northumberland - yay for books set up there - it's closer and closer to where I come from, which is Stanley, near Durham. I liked the setting, the North East is a good setting, rarely used in Chick Lit novels. But the setting is secondary to the fabulous characters. Meeting Tom and his young daughter Hattie was delightful. Hattie is the most inquisitive, gorgeous little child there is, she's full of questions and loves to play pirates, and her dad absolutely dotes on her which was so lovely to read. Then there's Fran Mayhew - she of the mysterious variety. I loved how outspoken she was, how unfiltered, it was super refreshing for someone to say it like it is and not edit out the bad stuff. Sure, it gets her in to trouble a few (or ten) times, but that just endeared her to me more. She's obviously got a secret of two, and there's a reason she's come to Northumberland and I liked ferreting out the mystery.
It's very hard to write in words just how much I loved this delightful novel. Even the villians of the piece didn't make me angsty and wish for their heads on a platter. They were just nuisances to be dealt with. I raced through the novel in a couple of days - no mean feat for a book just over 500 pages but it never felt like it was that long (except when I was trying to keep hold of it - I definitely prefer e-reading when books are so bloody long, I tell ya) and it was all such a delight. Seeing Fran and Tom interact, seeing the world through Hattie's eyes, meeting all the rest of Tom's family and friends and colleagues at the magazine where he works. It was lovely, and humourous, too. I loved that it was a lot more playful that Playing Grace, it's a great new direction for Hazel Osmond and I hope it's one she sticks with because The Mysterious Miss Mayhew was an absolute pleasure to read.This review was originally posted on Girls Love To Read
January 16, 2015
This book is quite a large step away from what I normally read. I think it was the cover design that first drew me to it and then the description made it all the more appealing with the phrase “the tact of a dinosaur with its backside on fire” bringing a smile to my face and thoughts that this could be right up my alley for a change …. and it was.
The characters were excellent; a real mixed bag and totally believable - some of which I am sure I have come into contact with over the years although I won’t say which ones!
Tom - the main character and the one whose point of view the story is mostly told - is a single father who, from my perspective anyway, seems to be doing a pretty good job although he does have his faults (don’t we all) but who is trying to hold everything together under intense pressure from his ex-wife, Steph (a truly horrible person) and the owners of the magazine he runs, the Mawsons (equally as horrible). I think telling the story from Tom’s perspective is genius and a refreshing change from the norm.
Hattie is Tom’s 5 year old daughter and who, in my opinion, is the star of the book. She is not your typical 5 year old girl - she has a love of wrestling and pirates and is so innocent and truthful with her observations it makes her totally believable. Hattie is funny and caused many a “laugh out loud” moment for me (the testicles incident being just one of them!) but she also provided some of the heartbreakingly sad moments … did I mention how truly horrible Steph is?!!
Fran - the Mysterious Miss Mayhew - an unconventional and straight-talking lady who, initially, comes across as being a little uptight but despite only getting to know her through her 10 point “Things I have learned today” diary entries, she very quickly grows on you. It’s amazing how much you can get to know a character just from 10 points and I applaud the author as I imagine this must have been very difficult to write having to condense the information into those 10 small chunks.
The story flows easily with a great mix of mystery, humour, tension and romance. Humour is a very fickle thing - everyone has their own tastes and preferences so I think it’s particularly difficult to appeal to the masses but I feel it was done so naturally by the author that it should appeal to anyone with even a tiny sense of humour.
Overall, I am really pleased that I took a punt and requested a copy via www.netgalley.com and am grateful for the publisher, Quercus Books, for sending me it and I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a great story with fantastic characters.
http://haziegaze.blogspot.co.uk/
The characters were excellent; a real mixed bag and totally believable - some of which I am sure I have come into contact with over the years although I won’t say which ones!
Tom - the main character and the one whose point of view the story is mostly told - is a single father who, from my perspective anyway, seems to be doing a pretty good job although he does have his faults (don’t we all) but who is trying to hold everything together under intense pressure from his ex-wife, Steph (a truly horrible person) and the owners of the magazine he runs, the Mawsons (equally as horrible). I think telling the story from Tom’s perspective is genius and a refreshing change from the norm.
Hattie is Tom’s 5 year old daughter and who, in my opinion, is the star of the book. She is not your typical 5 year old girl - she has a love of wrestling and pirates and is so innocent and truthful with her observations it makes her totally believable. Hattie is funny and caused many a “laugh out loud” moment for me (the testicles incident being just one of them!) but she also provided some of the heartbreakingly sad moments … did I mention how truly horrible Steph is?!!
Fran - the Mysterious Miss Mayhew - an unconventional and straight-talking lady who, initially, comes across as being a little uptight but despite only getting to know her through her 10 point “Things I have learned today” diary entries, she very quickly grows on you. It’s amazing how much you can get to know a character just from 10 points and I applaud the author as I imagine this must have been very difficult to write having to condense the information into those 10 small chunks.
The story flows easily with a great mix of mystery, humour, tension and romance. Humour is a very fickle thing - everyone has their own tastes and preferences so I think it’s particularly difficult to appeal to the masses but I feel it was done so naturally by the author that it should appeal to anyone with even a tiny sense of humour.
Overall, I am really pleased that I took a punt and requested a copy via www.netgalley.com and am grateful for the publisher, Quercus Books, for sending me it and I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a great story with fantastic characters.
http://haziegaze.blogspot.co.uk/
December 11, 2014
Llamas are bad, we all know that, as they are member of the same family as camels, they have bad tempers. And spit. But their wool is very nice.
And then we have a true feminist in Hattie. She is lovely - a real spitfire and yes, women can do anything Hattie, but they do need to be big enough... as my middle grand-daughter knows when she was refused onto the climbing wall, but her sister was allowed. She didn’t weigh enough it seems... and here is a photo of her climbing!
Photo here...
Are British Country Fairs and Baking competitions like they are portrayed in the book? Well, I haven’t been to many but certainly there are plenty of animals being showed by small children and dogs performing tricks and motor cycle kids undertaking amazing tricks and... yes there are cake baking or other baking competitions, especially now that we all watch the Great British Bake Off!
As for list - I love the idea of 10 things I have learned today -
1. Northumberland isn’t much of a melting pot - Agreed;
2. one should never wear strappy sandals to an agricultural show - agreed - willies are best! It is always muddy and/or full of unidentifiable items under foot;
3. getting animals to be judged involves lots of shampooing and brushing: Agreed and pretty ribbons and plaiting and..;
4. people are thirsty in the countryside - Agreed - it is usually ‘co they are bored at one of these shows and few drinks helps things move along faster;
5. can’t comment on the formidable, but there are plenty of them around;
6. a good scone should have a seam - I guess this is so that you can split them easily and input the butter, jam and clotted cream!
7. some women like to wear short shorter shorts - yes, especially in Northumberland - Northern women seem to be unable to feel the cold and discomfort;
8. ferrets are not attractive - some are very pretty though;
9. can’t comment on this, but it does give the main storyline for the book!
10. And yes, that’s why I’m a vegetarian!
Overall I really do like this book - the writing with daily lists was originally and amusing and the story made you feel happy. It was not a hard read and would be great for a convalescence book, or for someone who needs cheering up. And why she was being mysterious I had guessed b half-way through or even before - but I read too many mysteries to be fooled easily...
And then we have a true feminist in Hattie. She is lovely - a real spitfire and yes, women can do anything Hattie, but they do need to be big enough... as my middle grand-daughter knows when she was refused onto the climbing wall, but her sister was allowed. She didn’t weigh enough it seems... and here is a photo of her climbing!
Photo here...
Are British Country Fairs and Baking competitions like they are portrayed in the book? Well, I haven’t been to many but certainly there are plenty of animals being showed by small children and dogs performing tricks and motor cycle kids undertaking amazing tricks and... yes there are cake baking or other baking competitions, especially now that we all watch the Great British Bake Off!
As for list - I love the idea of 10 things I have learned today -
1. Northumberland isn’t much of a melting pot - Agreed;
2. one should never wear strappy sandals to an agricultural show - agreed - willies are best! It is always muddy and/or full of unidentifiable items under foot;
3. getting animals to be judged involves lots of shampooing and brushing: Agreed and pretty ribbons and plaiting and..;
4. people are thirsty in the countryside - Agreed - it is usually ‘co they are bored at one of these shows and few drinks helps things move along faster;
5. can’t comment on the formidable, but there are plenty of them around;
6. a good scone should have a seam - I guess this is so that you can split them easily and input the butter, jam and clotted cream!
7. some women like to wear short shorter shorts - yes, especially in Northumberland - Northern women seem to be unable to feel the cold and discomfort;
8. ferrets are not attractive - some are very pretty though;
9. can’t comment on this, but it does give the main storyline for the book!
10. And yes, that’s why I’m a vegetarian!
Overall I really do like this book - the writing with daily lists was originally and amusing and the story made you feel happy. It was not a hard read and would be great for a convalescence book, or for someone who needs cheering up. And why she was being mysterious I had guessed b half-way through or even before - but I read too many mysteries to be fooled easily...
December 15, 2014
Originally posted on Paris Baker's Book Nook.
Many thanks to Quercus Publishing for a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
I have not read any of Hazel Osmond’s books before, but the illusive title and pretty cover drew me in, and I’m pleased to say the book did not disappoint.
My favourite part of books, generally speaking, are the characters; and it was impossible not to fall in love with the characters in this book. Fran Mayhew is indeed mysterious, which is quite amusing for a woman who is so very blunt and to the point. While that makes her sound like a hard character, she is anything but. She is sweet, kind and lovable, she simply lacks a filter and has a very no-nonsense attitude, which makes for some hilarious moments and a very enjoyable journey learning her mysteries as the story unfolds.
Tom is a sweet man, who is a wonderful father to young Hattie, but sometimes struggles with the responsibilities of being a single parent, a magazine Editor and trying to have his own life, which means he sometimes gets himself in a bit of sticky situation. The relationships he has with his family, primarily Hattie and his brother Rob, are absolutely lovely.
Hattie herself is just an absolute darling, and my favourite character of the book. A tomboy to boot with a childlike innocence and blunt way of seeing the world. Watching her trying to please her selfish cow of a mother – the one character who truly needed a good slap! – was heart breaking, and just made me want to give her a big squeeze.
There’s also Rob’s lovely wife Kath, and the boys’ hilarious mother who both have their own great stories within the book, as well as the other staff at the magazine.
Hazel has created a well-rounded and lovable cast of characters and a thoroughly enjoyable story, which I whole heartedly recommend.
Many thanks to Quercus Publishing for a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
I have not read any of Hazel Osmond’s books before, but the illusive title and pretty cover drew me in, and I’m pleased to say the book did not disappoint.
My favourite part of books, generally speaking, are the characters; and it was impossible not to fall in love with the characters in this book. Fran Mayhew is indeed mysterious, which is quite amusing for a woman who is so very blunt and to the point. While that makes her sound like a hard character, she is anything but. She is sweet, kind and lovable, she simply lacks a filter and has a very no-nonsense attitude, which makes for some hilarious moments and a very enjoyable journey learning her mysteries as the story unfolds.
Tom is a sweet man, who is a wonderful father to young Hattie, but sometimes struggles with the responsibilities of being a single parent, a magazine Editor and trying to have his own life, which means he sometimes gets himself in a bit of sticky situation. The relationships he has with his family, primarily Hattie and his brother Rob, are absolutely lovely.
Hattie herself is just an absolute darling, and my favourite character of the book. A tomboy to boot with a childlike innocence and blunt way of seeing the world. Watching her trying to please her selfish cow of a mother – the one character who truly needed a good slap! – was heart breaking, and just made me want to give her a big squeeze.
There’s also Rob’s lovely wife Kath, and the boys’ hilarious mother who both have their own great stories within the book, as well as the other staff at the magazine.
Hazel has created a well-rounded and lovable cast of characters and a thoroughly enjoyable story, which I whole heartedly recommend.
December 21, 2014
I have read all of Hazel Osmond’s previous books and I have loved each and every one of them because they are beautifully written and full of emotion. The Mysterious Miss Mayhew shows a different side to the authors writing and she shows that she can write comical novels as well as emotional ones too.
Fran is new in town and it isn’t long before she meets Tom who is raising his daughter alone. Tom and Fran seem to be bumping into each other more often but Fran is keeping her private life hidden and the reason as to why she is in town but before long attraction begins to grow between the couple but what mystery is Fran hiding?
Our mains character are Tom and Fran, the book alternates between the two characters with the majority of the book told from Tom’s point of view which is rare to see but worked extremely well in this book. We got to know Fran by her daily diary entries where she lists 10 thoughts on the day and I was surprised how just with these 10 points how well we actually got to know her character. I also have to mention Tom’s daughter because she was a little ray of sunshine she was involved in a lot of the humorous parts to this book and her relationship with her dad was so believable and natural.
The storyline was more light hearted than the authors previous reads and at times I did find myself chuckling away so I did enjoy this side to her writing. It took me quite a long time to start getting an idea as to what Fran’s secret was so it was rather unpredictable for a good part of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I did find that I was engaged with the storyline and the characters all the way through. I enjoyed seeing a different side to the author’s usual writing style it just shows what a talented author she is, but I still favour her deeper more emotional books but I will still be recommending this book.
Fran is new in town and it isn’t long before she meets Tom who is raising his daughter alone. Tom and Fran seem to be bumping into each other more often but Fran is keeping her private life hidden and the reason as to why she is in town but before long attraction begins to grow between the couple but what mystery is Fran hiding?
Our mains character are Tom and Fran, the book alternates between the two characters with the majority of the book told from Tom’s point of view which is rare to see but worked extremely well in this book. We got to know Fran by her daily diary entries where she lists 10 thoughts on the day and I was surprised how just with these 10 points how well we actually got to know her character. I also have to mention Tom’s daughter because she was a little ray of sunshine she was involved in a lot of the humorous parts to this book and her relationship with her dad was so believable and natural.
The storyline was more light hearted than the authors previous reads and at times I did find myself chuckling away so I did enjoy this side to her writing. It took me quite a long time to start getting an idea as to what Fran’s secret was so it was rather unpredictable for a good part of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I did find that I was engaged with the storyline and the characters all the way through. I enjoyed seeing a different side to the author’s usual writing style it just shows what a talented author she is, but I still favour her deeper more emotional books but I will still be recommending this book.
November 4, 2014
A novel written by a female, but told through the eyes of the male lead character. Unusual, and maybe some authors couldn't pull it off, but in this case it really does work. Tom is a loveable character, and Hazel Osmond has created someone who most readers will fall a little in love with. He's not overly sweet and sentimental, or too-good-to-be-true, he's real, with his faults, but sincere and funny, and a little bit saucy too!
The author adds a little mystery with Fran's character, she's quirky, a little bit strange and her and Tom really don't hit it off at first. It is Tom's feisty, funny little daughter that draws them together, she's the real star of the book; a little tom-boy who says how she feels.
The Mysterious Miss Mayhew is a fast-moving story set in a Northumberland village that is incredibly easy to read. Full of great characters, a plot that is unpredictable and a touch of romance thrown in. The perfect Sunday afternoon read, pull up your chair, pour a glass of wine, break open the chocolate and enjoy!
The author adds a little mystery with Fran's character, she's quirky, a little bit strange and her and Tom really don't hit it off at first. It is Tom's feisty, funny little daughter that draws them together, she's the real star of the book; a little tom-boy who says how she feels.
The Mysterious Miss Mayhew is a fast-moving story set in a Northumberland village that is incredibly easy to read. Full of great characters, a plot that is unpredictable and a touch of romance thrown in. The perfect Sunday afternoon read, pull up your chair, pour a glass of wine, break open the chocolate and enjoy!
April 13, 2015
I loved it!!
1/28/2015
Ok, I'm re-reading this book !!
I love the way she writes, I love the way she makes me laugh and..I love the way I don't want the book to end..ever!! I'm in a book depression/searching amazon and GR for something like my favorites to read..and nothing.. so I'm re-reading all my favorites. I don't want to review this book because the first time that I read I was a little anxious..lol..so I read very fast because I am a freaking lunatic, I want to know the end!!!!ok?
Just to let you guys know, her characters are so unconventional and the guys are never "totally" beautiful but kind of normal, I am freaking tired of the same guy/girl with tattoos and dirty mouth and broken past and bla bla bla..If you want something different, this one is for you..Oh. and the writing is just perfect!!
1/28/2015
Ok, I'm re-reading this book !!
I love the way she writes, I love the way she makes me laugh and..I love the way I don't want the book to end..ever!! I'm in a book depression/searching amazon and GR for something like my favorites to read..and nothing.. so I'm re-reading all my favorites. I don't want to review this book because the first time that I read I was a little anxious..lol..so I read very fast because I am a freaking lunatic, I want to know the end!!!!ok?
Just to let you guys know, her characters are so unconventional and the guys are never "totally" beautiful but kind of normal, I am freaking tired of the same guy/girl with tattoos and dirty mouth and broken past and bla bla bla..If you want something different, this one is for you..Oh. and the writing is just perfect!!
May 1, 2015
*DISCLAIMER - I received this book from a First Reads giveaway on Goodreads.*
- This is quite far away from my usual genre as I am not usually a fan of books with middle aged protagonists as I cannot usually relate or enjoy the story in the same way. However, this book was a really refreshing read.
- The characters are very likeable and unique and quirky, without been unrealistic. All of the character relationships were well developed and I liked all the dialogue and humour from all the characters, Miss Mayhew in particular.
- The plot was well thought out, and there was many different layers and I felt as though this book was set apart from a usual romance book due to the added plot points.
- Overall, a really enjoyable read and I would pick up other books by this author in the future.
- This is quite far away from my usual genre as I am not usually a fan of books with middle aged protagonists as I cannot usually relate or enjoy the story in the same way. However, this book was a really refreshing read.
- The characters are very likeable and unique and quirky, without been unrealistic. All of the character relationships were well developed and I liked all the dialogue and humour from all the characters, Miss Mayhew in particular.
- The plot was well thought out, and there was many different layers and I felt as though this book was set apart from a usual romance book due to the added plot points.
- Overall, a really enjoyable read and I would pick up other books by this author in the future.
December 8, 2014
Tom already has his hands full with the women in his life. His young daughter Hattie keeps him on his toes and his soon to be ex wife drives him nuts. When a woman named Fran Mayhew keeps appearing in his life, he falls in love with her weird personality and strange hobbies. He begins to wonder what her significance is...
With the right amount of humour and scandalous scenes, this novel is great in its own way. I really loved Tom's character and his relationship with his daughter. Being a single parent is tough and it was evident that he was doing a great job. I think the author did a great job portraying the view point of a man. Tom's ex Steph was a great character too and at times I was scared of what she might do next! Overall a great read for someone wanting something other than the norm.
3.5 Stars
With the right amount of humour and scandalous scenes, this novel is great in its own way. I really loved Tom's character and his relationship with his daughter. Being a single parent is tough and it was evident that he was doing a great job. I think the author did a great job portraying the view point of a man. Tom's ex Steph was a great character too and at times I was scared of what she might do next! Overall a great read for someone wanting something other than the norm.
3.5 Stars
June 6, 2015
In the spirit of the not-really-all-that-mysterious Miss Mayhew, I'll list 10 things about this book.
1- this book is not really focused on the title character
2- it is entirely possible to be put off by phraseology
3- there are unnecessary one dimensional characters and gratuitous sex scenes
4- Tom is the best father and ex on the planet, period
5- it meanders boringly
6- Hattie is made of pure awesome childness
7- avoidable drama and pointless day to day walk throughs make up all the pages therein
8- a teenage maid with a rough home life is the heroine and this isn't even a sci-fi YA
9- there is no insta-love, but the lovers are implausible together.
10- there is no way to neatly sum up the plot; it is not a love story, it is not a devoted single father story, it is nota drama. There is at once too much and too little happening for such a synopsis.
1- this book is not really focused on the title character
2- it is entirely possible to be put off by phraseology
3- there are unnecessary one dimensional characters and gratuitous sex scenes
4- Tom is the best father and ex on the planet, period
5- it meanders boringly
6- Hattie is made of pure awesome childness
7- avoidable drama and pointless day to day walk throughs make up all the pages therein
8- a teenage maid with a rough home life is the heroine and this isn't even a sci-fi YA
9- there is no insta-love, but the lovers are implausible together.
10- there is no way to neatly sum up the plot; it is not a love story, it is not a devoted single father story, it is nota drama. There is at once too much and too little happening for such a synopsis.
July 14, 2015
A pleasant enough, light summer read which was a Goodreads Giveaway. It was the kind of thing I needed to get me back into reading now I don't have so much going on - but there were irritations that I can't easily dismiss. I found it suddenly ran towards a conclusion whereas it had meandered through the majority of the story. Some of the minor characters were quite quirky but there were a few too many for my liking! I thought the descriptions of Tom's liaisons were somewhat unnecessary and didn't really add anything to the plot! And a final nit-pick..... references in the acknowledgements to help with info about pregnancy and the legal aspects of divorce - neither of which seemed to figure greatly in the text!
April 4, 2015
I got confused especially at the start of the book. I gather that there is a fair in town..country-folk show or "county show" as the first chapter mention. I am not good with reading "place description." I do get it at the end of the chapter though.
I also got confused if it is Tom's talking or is it Fran's talking or is it Tom's inner thoughts talking at most parts of the chapter.
However, I do enjoy Fran's candid frankness in conversation. It was spot-on, witty and frankly, I think we need abit of it. I also learn something new from this book: paper art.
My third book read from kindle :)
I also got confused if it is Tom's talking or is it Fran's talking or is it Tom's inner thoughts talking at most parts of the chapter.
However, I do enjoy Fran's candid frankness in conversation. It was spot-on, witty and frankly, I think we need abit of it. I also learn something new from this book: paper art.
My third book read from kindle :)
March 21, 2016
4.5 stars. I REALLY enjoyed this. Slow burn is my favorite, so the slow development of Fran and Tom's relationship was great, and I really liked Hattie and her relationship with Fran. And Fran's lists were all SO hilarious and wonderful. I did REALLY hate Steph, and like, we're supposed to, but she was kind of despicable beyond the point I would expect for something as generally light and fun as this was. But despite the Steph drama, this was just really sweet and lovely and had such a great ending.
October 22, 2014
I was hoping for a bit of escapist chick-lit with this one, but it turned out to be a little bit too grown up for my tastes! Which is probably actually quite a compliment. I did enjoy the humour, Fran's lists and little Hattie, but as a whole it didn't quite keep me gripped enough throughout. My taste at fault though rather than bad writing, so please do give it a chance.
April 6, 2015
A fun, light hearted read with a quirky heroine who meets a decent (but not too perfect hero) but initially prefers to spend time with his amusing daughter! All wrapped up in a pretty setting with some silly situations and a suitably interfering ex.
Well written with a light and humorous touch – an easy weekend read!
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for my review copy.
Well written with a light and humorous touch – an easy weekend read!
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for my review copy.
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