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Beddingfield #2
Lessons in Life
Bestseller Julie Houston’s BRAND NEW warm, uplifting and funny novel about forbidden love, friendship and family is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Fiona Gibson and Cathy Kelly.
Every audiobook in the Beddingfield series can be listened as a standalone.
The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
In her unmatched warm and uplifting voice, Julie Houston’s funny and profoundly moving tale of forbidden love, friendship and family ties will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page… Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Fiona Gibson and Cathy Kelly.
Every audiobook in the Beddingfield series can be listened as a standalone.
The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
In her unmatched warm and uplifting voice, Julie Houston’s funny and profoundly moving tale of forbidden love, friendship and family ties will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page… Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Fiona Gibson and Cathy Kelly.
528 pages, Paperback
Published May 12, 2025
104 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 27, 2025
EXCERPT: 'St Mede's is in danger of being closed down.'
'It's always had a stay of execution over its head, has that place. It was on the point of either falling down, or being closed down, when we were kids at Beddingfield Comp. You know, when the St Mede's lot would ambush us on the school bus?'
I nodded, remembering. We'd always been up for a tussle with the rival school in the next village.
'And, anyway, why's that of concern to you?' Jess asked, giving me one of her looks. 'You hated the place when you started there in September. I thought you'd be out of there as soon as you could? Heading back to London with Fabian?'
I was beginning to realise that she'd now met Fabian and said she approved of him, Jess seemed unable to talk about him without some little derogatory dig, without an air of slight disparagement. I knew it was probably only Jess in full-on protestive mode, but also knew it had been a major coup when Jess had beaten him into third place just before Christmas, when they'd both got into the finals of the Yorkshire Top Chef competition.
'Possibly.' I nodded. 'You're right. If Fabian heads back south, I'll be going with him.'
'So, you're thinking of packing it up and leaving us all again, are you?' Despite Jess's apparent flippant comments re my returning to London, I knew she'd hate me leaving Beddingfield again. Especially as Sorrel would possibly be on the point of leaving too.
'I hate only seeing Fabian for snatched weekends,' I said. I was already missing him, felt depressed at the thought of my lonely single bed next door at Mum's place. On the couple of occasions he'd stayed over with me at Mum's cottage, we'd had to bunk down together in the single bed. We'd both been uneasy, embarrassed even, at finding ourselves having to revert to the status of teenagers, knowing Mum was in her room across the landing and Sorrel able to hear any cries of passion through the thin wall separating her bedroom from the tiny box room we were in. To be fair, Mum had offered up her bed, but I'd no intention of turfing her out. As a result, as soon as Christmas was over (both Fabian and his sister, Jemima, had dutifully returned to the bosom of the Carrington family for the festive season) I'd gone to stay with Fabian in Harrogate but, with a new term about to start, that was no longer possible.
It really was time to move on.
ABOUT 'LESSONS IN LIFE': The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
MY THOUGHTS: Although Lessons in Life by Julie Houston is #2 in the Beddingfield series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I usually adore Julie Houston's writing, but Lessons in Life fell more than a little short for me. I loved her Westenbury and Heatherly Hall series, but the Beddingfield series just doesn't have the same appeal for me, although I did enjoy A Class Act (Beddingfield #1) more than Lessons in Life.
The link between Eloise and Lisa was easy to work out and, so nothing after that came as a surprise. As for the remainder of the book, it just seemed to be repeating itself. Lessons in Life didn't keep my interest, and I felt nothing for the characters. I won't be continuing with this particular series, although I will continue to read other books by Julie Houston.
I am very much an outlier in my opinions of Lessons in Life, so please check out some other more positive reviews. It may be a case of 'it's me, not the book.'
⭐⭐.5
#LessonsinLife #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR - JULIE HOUSTON is Yorkshire born and bred. She lives in Huddersfield where her novels are set and her only claims to fame are that she taught at ‘Bridget Jones’ author Helen Fielding’s old school, her neighbour is ‘Chocolat’ author Joanne Harris, and her friend is about to marry Tracy Emin’s cousin! Oh, and she was rescued by Frank Bough when, many years ago, she was ‘working as a waitress in a cocktail bar’ at the Kensington Hilton in London.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Lessons in Life (Beddingfield #2) for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
I combined reading with listening to Lessons in Life, written by Julie Houston and narrated by Laura Brydon. I didn't have a preference for one format over the other.
'It's always had a stay of execution over its head, has that place. It was on the point of either falling down, or being closed down, when we were kids at Beddingfield Comp. You know, when the St Mede's lot would ambush us on the school bus?'
I nodded, remembering. We'd always been up for a tussle with the rival school in the next village.
'And, anyway, why's that of concern to you?' Jess asked, giving me one of her looks. 'You hated the place when you started there in September. I thought you'd be out of there as soon as you could? Heading back to London with Fabian?'
I was beginning to realise that she'd now met Fabian and said she approved of him, Jess seemed unable to talk about him without some little derogatory dig, without an air of slight disparagement. I knew it was probably only Jess in full-on protestive mode, but also knew it had been a major coup when Jess had beaten him into third place just before Christmas, when they'd both got into the finals of the Yorkshire Top Chef competition.
'Possibly.' I nodded. 'You're right. If Fabian heads back south, I'll be going with him.'
'So, you're thinking of packing it up and leaving us all again, are you?' Despite Jess's apparent flippant comments re my returning to London, I knew she'd hate me leaving Beddingfield again. Especially as Sorrel would possibly be on the point of leaving too.
'I hate only seeing Fabian for snatched weekends,' I said. I was already missing him, felt depressed at the thought of my lonely single bed next door at Mum's place. On the couple of occasions he'd stayed over with me at Mum's cottage, we'd had to bunk down together in the single bed. We'd both been uneasy, embarrassed even, at finding ourselves having to revert to the status of teenagers, knowing Mum was in her room across the landing and Sorrel able to hear any cries of passion through the thin wall separating her bedroom from the tiny box room we were in. To be fair, Mum had offered up her bed, but I'd no intention of turfing her out. As a result, as soon as Christmas was over (both Fabian and his sister, Jemima, had dutifully returned to the bosom of the Carrington family for the festive season) I'd gone to stay with Fabian in Harrogate but, with a new term about to start, that was no longer possible.
It really was time to move on.
ABOUT 'LESSONS IN LIFE': The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
MY THOUGHTS: Although Lessons in Life by Julie Houston is #2 in the Beddingfield series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I usually adore Julie Houston's writing, but Lessons in Life fell more than a little short for me. I loved her Westenbury and Heatherly Hall series, but the Beddingfield series just doesn't have the same appeal for me, although I did enjoy A Class Act (Beddingfield #1) more than Lessons in Life.
The link between Eloise and Lisa was easy to work out and, so nothing after that came as a surprise. As for the remainder of the book, it just seemed to be repeating itself. Lessons in Life didn't keep my interest, and I felt nothing for the characters. I won't be continuing with this particular series, although I will continue to read other books by Julie Houston.
I am very much an outlier in my opinions of Lessons in Life, so please check out some other more positive reviews. It may be a case of 'it's me, not the book.'
⭐⭐.5
#LessonsinLife #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR - JULIE HOUSTON is Yorkshire born and bred. She lives in Huddersfield where her novels are set and her only claims to fame are that she taught at ‘Bridget Jones’ author Helen Fielding’s old school, her neighbour is ‘Chocolat’ author Joanne Harris, and her friend is about to marry Tracy Emin’s cousin! Oh, and she was rescued by Frank Bough when, many years ago, she was ‘working as a waitress in a cocktail bar’ at the Kensington Hilton in London.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Lessons in Life (Beddingfield #2) for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
I combined reading with listening to Lessons in Life, written by Julie Houston and narrated by Laura Brydon. I didn't have a preference for one format over the other.
June 2, 2025
This is the second in a series, I haven't read the first book (I've started it but not finished), but it can be read as a standalone. I also note that there is a third book (at least) in the offing.
Robyn Allen is a former West End dancer who tore her ACL and is now back at home in Beddingfield as a supply teacher. She had been seeing Fabien Carrington, an aristocratic high-flying defence criminal lawyer, but they split up and she had a brief affair with the head teacher at the school where she works.
Robyn's older sister Jess runs a care home at Hudson House, although her ambition has always been to be a chef, a teenage pregnancy put paid to those ambitions, although she has recently won a cooking competition.
Robyn's youngest sister Sorrel is still at school, Robyn's school in fact, and is seeing a young man from a troubled family who may be involved in County Lines.
Lisa, Robyn's mother, is adopted. She is of half-Indian and half-English heritage but doesn't know much more because her adoptive parents were secretive and also ashamed of Lisa's mixed heritage. Lisa has been a single mother since she was a teenager, although the girls' father is still in the picture and has supported Lisa financially. He's a semi-famous musician who prefers life on the road to domesticity. Lisa has suffered from Porphyria for most of her adult life, which has left her weak and subject to bouts of being bedridden, but recently a new treatment has given her a new lease of life.
Interspersed with the narrative about Lisa and her three daughters is an historical narrative involving Eloise Hudson, daughter of a wealthy manufacturer, who used to love at Hudson House as a child and is now a resident suffering from dementia.
If you've read any previous Julie Houston novels, particularly the Westenbury books, then this is very familiar. Multiple stories, multiple protagonists, several strands left unfinished for the next book, on-again, off-again relationships, County Lines, etc. For me, I wasn't really invested in any of the characters enough and every time I did start to be engaged we would abruptly switch to the 1960s and I would lose the thread again.
Overall, this felt very much like a middle book, it sort of ended abruptly with new beginnings in the offing for most of the Allen family, but how long that will last is anyone's guess.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Robyn Allen is a former West End dancer who tore her ACL and is now back at home in Beddingfield as a supply teacher. She had been seeing Fabien Carrington, an aristocratic high-flying defence criminal lawyer, but they split up and she had a brief affair with the head teacher at the school where she works.
Robyn's older sister Jess runs a care home at Hudson House, although her ambition has always been to be a chef, a teenage pregnancy put paid to those ambitions, although she has recently won a cooking competition.
Robyn's youngest sister Sorrel is still at school, Robyn's school in fact, and is seeing a young man from a troubled family who may be involved in County Lines.
Lisa, Robyn's mother, is adopted. She is of half-Indian and half-English heritage but doesn't know much more because her adoptive parents were secretive and also ashamed of Lisa's mixed heritage. Lisa has been a single mother since she was a teenager, although the girls' father is still in the picture and has supported Lisa financially. He's a semi-famous musician who prefers life on the road to domesticity. Lisa has suffered from Porphyria for most of her adult life, which has left her weak and subject to bouts of being bedridden, but recently a new treatment has given her a new lease of life.
Interspersed with the narrative about Lisa and her three daughters is an historical narrative involving Eloise Hudson, daughter of a wealthy manufacturer, who used to love at Hudson House as a child and is now a resident suffering from dementia.
If you've read any previous Julie Houston novels, particularly the Westenbury books, then this is very familiar. Multiple stories, multiple protagonists, several strands left unfinished for the next book, on-again, off-again relationships, County Lines, etc. For me, I wasn't really invested in any of the characters enough and every time I did start to be engaged we would abruptly switch to the 1960s and I would lose the thread again.
Overall, this felt very much like a middle book, it sort of ended abruptly with new beginnings in the offing for most of the Allen family, but how long that will last is anyone's guess.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
May 16, 2025
Really enjoyed this story from Julie Houston, full of love between a family.
The sister’s relationships are written about in a really realistic way - squabbles and laughter intertwined in their everyday dealings with each other, safe in the knowledge they’d be there for one another when needed.
The whole community felt a good place to live and I really enjoyed seeing Robyn in her teaching job.
The dual timeline parts with Eloise’s history uncovered are interesting and I’d have liked more of her story and her life at Hudson Hall. She sounded like a fascinating woman
The sister’s relationships are written about in a really realistic way - squabbles and laughter intertwined in their everyday dealings with each other, safe in the knowledge they’d be there for one another when needed.
The whole community felt a good place to live and I really enjoyed seeing Robyn in her teaching job.
The dual timeline parts with Eloise’s history uncovered are interesting and I’d have liked more of her story and her life at Hudson Hall. She sounded like a fascinating woman
April 17, 2025
Loved it!! I thought the book would start with the events of the Yorkshire Christmas TopChef competition. Not much is mentioned about it, just who wins. The whole competition is glossed over. Did the people even win anything? At the end of the first book, I thought Fabian and Jess would combine their cooking skills and eventually open up a restaurant together. Not much changed with the Allen family. Robyn still overreacts. Did she not think Fabian had previous girlfriends? How can she get mad at Fabian when she had a relationship with Mason. A relationship that was beyond just being friends and she still works with him. Sorrel is still bratty. She comes and goes as she pleases. Her mom and sisters allow her to do whatever she wants, even though Sorrel is only fifteen. I wasn't surprised about Sorrel's condition. Sorrel living in London without her family is scary. I can't imagine what she will get up to without any supervision (although she's hardly supervised while living at home.) Lisa has made a 180 change. The medicine for her illness has made a big difference in her life. She at least came to her senses about Jayden. How did Jess and Robyn turn out so well? Lisa wasn't always present as a parent, especially when she was feeling ill. I wasn't shocked when the truth about Lisa's birth mother was finally revealed. I knew who it was going to be. After Jess and Robyn visit Karen, it's easy to see why Lisa ran away with Jayden. Adrian and Karen Foley were awful parents. They were not fit to be parents. I might have enjoyed that Karen got cats, just to annoy her husband. Although, Karen probably isn't even fit to own cats. She was such a horrible woman.
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, story and writing style. I really enjoyed reading about Eloise's younger years. Loved Roger Rabbit. He's such a well behaved bunny. Beddingfield sounds like a beautiful place to live. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Will Robyn actually get the production of Grease to even happen? Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, story and writing style. I really enjoyed reading about Eloise's younger years. Loved Roger Rabbit. He's such a well behaved bunny. Beddingfield sounds like a beautiful place to live. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Will Robyn actually get the production of Grease to even happen? Look forward to reading more books by the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 12, 2025
Lessons in Life by Julie Houston
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
My Opinion
Lessons in Life is the second book in The Beddingfield Series but it can be read as a standalone. Lessons in Life was an enjoyable read with some great characters. I have read a few books by Julie Houston but with a lovely writing style I will be reading more in the future. A relatable story.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.
In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.
When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.
My Opinion
Lessons in Life is the second book in The Beddingfield Series but it can be read as a standalone. Lessons in Life was an enjoyable read with some great characters. I have read a few books by Julie Houston but with a lovely writing style I will be reading more in the future. A relatable story.
Rating 4/5
May 12, 2025
Another terrific novel from the pen (keys?) of Julie Houston!
This time round, Robyn is still teaching at the local school and invested in the lives of her pupils which include her younger sister Sorrell. Her sister, despite her cooking prowess, is manager of a local care home set in a former mansion in the village and now that her mother's health is improving she is beginning to get out and about more. When talk of the care home being sold surfaces, it seems life is about to change - and not for the better . . .
I'm a great fan of Julie Houston's; she has her finger on the pulse of what makes readers laugh and giggle but her novels are always set in reality. This series has some great characters and the storylines are all very realistic. I'm delighted to see her bring her knowledge from her own life into her books. There is a passion behind all of her characters, and they give each other belief of success. Along with the laughter, another very readable and thoroughly enjoyable novel and one I highly recommend. No doubt about it, five sparkling stars and my very highest recommendation.
This time round, Robyn is still teaching at the local school and invested in the lives of her pupils which include her younger sister Sorrell. Her sister, despite her cooking prowess, is manager of a local care home set in a former mansion in the village and now that her mother's health is improving she is beginning to get out and about more. When talk of the care home being sold surfaces, it seems life is about to change - and not for the better . . .
I'm a great fan of Julie Houston's; she has her finger on the pulse of what makes readers laugh and giggle but her novels are always set in reality. This series has some great characters and the storylines are all very realistic. I'm delighted to see her bring her knowledge from her own life into her books. There is a passion behind all of her characters, and they give each other belief of success. Along with the laughter, another very readable and thoroughly enjoyable novel and one I highly recommend. No doubt about it, five sparkling stars and my very highest recommendation.
September 6, 2025
Good story
This is a very good follow on from the first book in the series A Class Act, which I would recommend you read first.
The main characters are still in play but with more detail being revealed, particularly about Robyn’s family history.
Can’t wait for the third instalment.
This is a very good follow on from the first book in the series A Class Act, which I would recommend you read first.
The main characters are still in play but with more detail being revealed, particularly about Robyn’s family history.
Can’t wait for the third instalment.
November 24, 2025
great read
Very intriguing story lots of interesting characters and twists and turns. I recommend it for a nice diversion from real life.
Very intriguing story lots of interesting characters and twists and turns. I recommend it for a nice diversion from real life.
May 4, 2025
I am adoring this Beddingfield set series by Julie Houston. We may only be two books into it, but it's shaping up to be a total cracker of a series.
Having read the first book, it really didn't take too long to totally feel at home again with the Allen family.
We also get to know Lisa a lot better this time, and discovering more about her past.
There is also a new resident at Hudson House, and we get chapters from her young adult years.
I put two and two together about something and came up with the right solution for a change, even if some of the logic was wrong.
Also enjoyed seeing Robyn's latest attempts at teaching, and all things to do with Jess and Sorrel.
So many wonderful characters, and I am loving these looks at their lives. I can't help but think this series could potentially make a fabulous soap opera.
Just brilliant.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Having read the first book, it really didn't take too long to totally feel at home again with the Allen family.
We also get to know Lisa a lot better this time, and discovering more about her past.
There is also a new resident at Hudson House, and we get chapters from her young adult years.
I put two and two together about something and came up with the right solution for a change, even if some of the logic was wrong.
Also enjoyed seeing Robyn's latest attempts at teaching, and all things to do with Jess and Sorrel.
So many wonderful characters, and I am loving these looks at their lives. I can't help but think this series could potentially make a fabulous soap opera.
Just brilliant.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 19, 2025
Once I read my first Julie Houston book, I knew I must read all subsequent books, of which this was no exception. If you want to get lost in a book that is heartwarming with realistic characters, who are not a lot of fluff and nonsense this is the author for you. The characters are relatable, sharing experiences you're now experiencing or already have. A real pick me upper that'll have you not wanting to put it down at bedtime, sleep, what's that. Warm, witty, and an author that you'll want to keep coming back to.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
May 24, 2025
Meet Lisa and her daughters three,
Complete with a family mystery.
Lisa was adopted but knows nothing of her past
But secretly would love to uncover it at last.
Her daughters each have problems of their own
Especially when rumours of changes are sown.
Can they help uncover their Mum’s birth history
Especially when even her adoptive parents are, to them, a mystery?
A story about family and so much more,
As family dramas and relationships it explores.
A heartwarming read with surprises on the way
Along with romances to make your day!
For my copy of this book I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Complete with a family mystery.
Lisa was adopted but knows nothing of her past
But secretly would love to uncover it at last.
Her daughters each have problems of their own
Especially when rumours of changes are sown.
Can they help uncover their Mum’s birth history
Especially when even her adoptive parents are, to them, a mystery?
A story about family and so much more,
As family dramas and relationships it explores.
A heartwarming read with surprises on the way
Along with romances to make your day!
For my copy of this book I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
May 12, 2025
The women portrayed in the second book in the Beddingfield series are complex, flawed and recognisable. I like the realistic familial relationships created and the focus on contemporary and historical issues, many of which endure over time. The village setting is relatable, and the problems facing a threatened school add authenticity and drama. There are many situational humorous moments to contrast with the poignant ones. I like the character development that makes you invest in the story and its cast of characters.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
May 2, 2025
This was such a great book. I have not read the one prior, but I still was able to fully enjoy this book. The characters are absolutely amazing. I loved them all and their relationships between each other. I loved the mystery of who the parents are for Lisa. I loved that Lisa was able to find out who her parents were and finding out about her history. Following the back and forth of each character and the stories that Eliose tells when she is spending time with Lisa was so interesting.
June 19, 2025
A Great read by Julie Houston, A contemporary womens fiction, with aspects of love. If you could put the sign "Live, laugh, love" Into a book I feel like this would be it wrapped with a beautiful bow. Such a heartfelt read. I started with this book, have not read the first but both are available on Kindle Unlimited and will go back and read them in order. Thanks to netgalley & the publisher Boldwood Books for this eARC!
May 15, 2025
Brilliant
I couldn't put this book down, the story carried on from the first book. This book was about Lisa finding out who she was and where she came from, as she was adopted. It was really lovely catching up with the Allen family, a bit of romance and friendship.
I really hope there will be another book in this series.
I couldn't put this book down, the story carried on from the first book. This book was about Lisa finding out who she was and where she came from, as she was adopted. It was really lovely catching up with the Allen family, a bit of romance and friendship.
I really hope there will be another book in this series.
May 10, 2025
This is a delightful read by Julie, with delightful characters and intertwined relationships that only become apparent towards the end of the book. Julie always writes such heart warming books and never fails to disappoint.
May 15, 2025
The main focus of the first book in this lovely series was Robyn, her return to Beddingfield after having to leave the London stage and taking up a teaching job, and her on-off relationship with Fabien – and life’s still not running smoothly for them both, for reasons you’ll soon discover. But this latest book would be entirely readable, and equally enjoyable, as a standalone – I was delighted to find that the other members of her family took their turns in the spotlight, with compelling stories of their own.
Robyn’s sister Jess works as manager of a nursing home but with dreams of being a full-time chef; teenage sister Sorrel hopes for a stage career, with a talent nurtured by Robyn, but with real complications caused by her errant boyfriend. And then there’s mother Lisa – on the road to being well once more after a difficult time with an inherited condition, yearning to knowing more about her birth parents but knowing only, from the scant information reluctantly passed on by her adoptive parents, that her mother was Asian.
And it’s Lisa’s story that perhaps predominates – delighted to find a neglected garden she can tend as she regains her strength at the nursing home where Jess works, a former family-owned mansion, she strikes up a friendship with elderly and sometimes confused resident Eloise, the daughter of the family who used to own it. And, in tandem, Eloise’s history unfolds – seamlessly done, intriguing at every turn – and we slowly discover that there are unexpected links with Lisa’s own story. It’s all told with a perfect sense of time and place – her claustrophobic existence as the daughter of the local mill owner, her mother remote and intent on introducing her to society, while she finds considerably more joy in new friendships with the mill workers, all less socially acceptable in their different ways.
In the grounds of the nursing home there’s an extraordinary summer house, perhaps the property Fabien – no longer enamoured with the legal profession, sharing Lisa’s passion for cooking – could consider developing as a restaurant. But there are rumblings that a local developer has already bought the whole site, planning to knock everything down and build a factory – and the school where Robyn works, which the teaching team are finally managing to turn around, is also in their sights.
But I really mustn’t tell the story – it follows a number of equally engaging threads, laced with moments of drama and poignancy, as the family and other relationships bring plenty of complications. Much of the joy in the book is through seeing Lisa finally getting some answers and achieving a sense of belonging, showing real determination and bravery, finally living her life to the full. But I enjoyed the other intertwined storylines every bit as much – the book attempts a lot, and succeeds in every possible way.
While it does tackle a number of serious issues – particularly sensitively, and extremely well – those moments of humour that always feature in the author’s books are very much present, with situations that had me in stitches alongside the many others that couldn’t fail to move me to tears. And every single individual, however minor their role, is so superbly drawn – these were all people I really cared about, every setback giving a real stab to the heart, every little victory making me want to cheer. I honestly don’t think the author has ever written better – I’m very much looking forward to the continuation of the story, and discovering what life might have in store for everyone. Very much recommended – I loved every moment.
Robyn’s sister Jess works as manager of a nursing home but with dreams of being a full-time chef; teenage sister Sorrel hopes for a stage career, with a talent nurtured by Robyn, but with real complications caused by her errant boyfriend. And then there’s mother Lisa – on the road to being well once more after a difficult time with an inherited condition, yearning to knowing more about her birth parents but knowing only, from the scant information reluctantly passed on by her adoptive parents, that her mother was Asian.
And it’s Lisa’s story that perhaps predominates – delighted to find a neglected garden she can tend as she regains her strength at the nursing home where Jess works, a former family-owned mansion, she strikes up a friendship with elderly and sometimes confused resident Eloise, the daughter of the family who used to own it. And, in tandem, Eloise’s history unfolds – seamlessly done, intriguing at every turn – and we slowly discover that there are unexpected links with Lisa’s own story. It’s all told with a perfect sense of time and place – her claustrophobic existence as the daughter of the local mill owner, her mother remote and intent on introducing her to society, while she finds considerably more joy in new friendships with the mill workers, all less socially acceptable in their different ways.
In the grounds of the nursing home there’s an extraordinary summer house, perhaps the property Fabien – no longer enamoured with the legal profession, sharing Lisa’s passion for cooking – could consider developing as a restaurant. But there are rumblings that a local developer has already bought the whole site, planning to knock everything down and build a factory – and the school where Robyn works, which the teaching team are finally managing to turn around, is also in their sights.
But I really mustn’t tell the story – it follows a number of equally engaging threads, laced with moments of drama and poignancy, as the family and other relationships bring plenty of complications. Much of the joy in the book is through seeing Lisa finally getting some answers and achieving a sense of belonging, showing real determination and bravery, finally living her life to the full. But I enjoyed the other intertwined storylines every bit as much – the book attempts a lot, and succeeds in every possible way.
While it does tackle a number of serious issues – particularly sensitively, and extremely well – those moments of humour that always feature in the author’s books are very much present, with situations that had me in stitches alongside the many others that couldn’t fail to move me to tears. And every single individual, however minor their role, is so superbly drawn – these were all people I really cared about, every setback giving a real stab to the heart, every little victory making me want to cheer. I honestly don’t think the author has ever written better – I’m very much looking forward to the continuation of the story, and discovering what life might have in store for everyone. Very much recommended – I loved every moment.
October 1, 2025
This is another warm, witty, and emotionally rich installment in the Beddingfield series. The novel continues to shine through its vibrant cast. Jess and Robyn remain relatable and strong, despite the chaos around them. Robyn’s jealousy over Fabian feels a bit overblown given her own history with Mason, and Sorrel’s wild behavior continues unchecked—though her storyline takes a serious turn that adds emotional depth. Lisa’s transformation, thanks to her medication, is one of the more satisfying arcs, especially as she finally sees Jayden for who he is. Her backstory and the truth about her birth mother are compelling, even if not entirely surprising.
Karen and Adrian Foley are convincingly awful, and their treatment of Lisa adds a darker layer to the book. Karen’s late-in-life cat adoption is a small, ironic detail that adds a touch of dry humor. Meanwhile, snippets of Eloise’s past and lovable Roger Rabbit bring charm and heart to the narrative.
Though not all loose ends are tied up and some characters’ development may frustrate readers, the storytelling, humor, and strong sense of place more than make up for it. Beddingfield sounds like a place readers will want to return to again and again. A highly enjoyable read with plenty of heart—I’m already looking forward to the next book!
Karen and Adrian Foley are convincingly awful, and their treatment of Lisa adds a darker layer to the book. Karen’s late-in-life cat adoption is a small, ironic detail that adds a touch of dry humor. Meanwhile, snippets of Eloise’s past and lovable Roger Rabbit bring charm and heart to the narrative.
Though not all loose ends are tied up and some characters’ development may frustrate readers, the storytelling, humor, and strong sense of place more than make up for it. Beddingfield sounds like a place readers will want to return to again and again. A highly enjoyable read with plenty of heart—I’m already looking forward to the next book!
May 12, 2025
Thank you to Rachels Random Resources, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books for this eArc. My opinions are my own.
Lessons in life is about a family who is very close and the matriarch, Lisa discovers she's adopted. It never bothered her before, but because a rare diagnosis comes up, she needs to know who her birth parents are. This is a heartwarming story of family and the challenges that they need to overcome to get some answers. I liked this story, the characters were likeable and a little quirky. I didn't realize this was a second book in a series. Not reading the first book didn't hinder my reading experience at all. The only thing is that I felt like it ended abruptly.
Lessons in life is about a family who is very close and the matriarch, Lisa discovers she's adopted. It never bothered her before, but because a rare diagnosis comes up, she needs to know who her birth parents are. This is a heartwarming story of family and the challenges that they need to overcome to get some answers. I liked this story, the characters were likeable and a little quirky. I didn't realize this was a second book in a series. Not reading the first book didn't hinder my reading experience at all. The only thing is that I felt like it ended abruptly.
May 16, 2025
Enjoyed this read! “Lessons in Life” by Julie Houston is the 2nd in a series following Robyn and her family. I don’t feel like you have to read the first book to understand this book but I want to now read the first book. I adore these characters. The story follows Robyn’s mother’s journey to find her birth parents as well as the daily lives of Robyn’s siblings Jess & Sorrell. Set in the countryside of Beddington UK. The secondary characters are charming and fun too. I highly recommend this heartwarming story. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this advance read. Go get your newly released copy today!
April 28, 2025
Heartwarming story of a family dealing with the challenges of everyday life with humor and the support of friends. Discovery of the identity of the mother's biological parents will impact their lives as they move forward.
I did not realize this was the second book in the series and had no issue following the storyline.
#LessonsinLife #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley
I did not realize this was the second book in the series and had no issue following the storyline.
#LessonsinLife #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley
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