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Secrets at the Ambrose Café: An emotional and heartfelt historical romance
Two women. Two different worlds. One secret that could ruin them both.
Exeter, 1925. Della Wilde has set aside her dream of moving to Paris to study at the renowned Le Cordon Bleu, choosing instead to support her family torn apart by war. By night, she works at the prestigious Ambrose Café, serving the city’s elite — she feels utterly invisible.
Until a chance encounter with rebellious Alice Winters, the daughter of a powerful MP, upends Della’s world.
Alice is a woman caught between duty and desire. She secretly yearns to be an artist but is expected to marry a respectable suitor and raise a family. Della, with her sharp wit and quiet strength, is unlike anyone she has ever known. She makes Alice feel alive.
So she draws Della into her orbit — first as a muse for her secret art, then as something infinitely more intimate. But in a world where reputations are easily shattered, their growing bond is a danger that threatens not only their futures, but those around them.
As Alice risks scandal and Della faces the consequences of following her heart, they must will they allow others to choose their path, or dare to forge their own?
This historical tale of courage, forbidden love and self-discovery is perfect for fans of Sarah Waters, Cynthia Ellingsen, Fiona Valpy or Rhys Bowen.
Praise for Carryl
‘An astonishing debut novel, this skilfully plotted dual timeline story had me gripped.’ Tania Crosse, bestselling author of The Harbour Master’ s Daughter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A beautifully written story that has everything I look for in a novel.’ Jan Baynham, author of The Secret Sister
‘A heartwarming and gripping story about the lasting power of love.’ Sally Tarpey, author of The Country Girl
'The most beautiful and captivating book I've read this year.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow what an amazing story this is. I guarantee that you will love it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Both heartwarming and nostalgic . . . fills you with warmth and a little courage.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Exeter, 1925. Della Wilde has set aside her dream of moving to Paris to study at the renowned Le Cordon Bleu, choosing instead to support her family torn apart by war. By night, she works at the prestigious Ambrose Café, serving the city’s elite — she feels utterly invisible.
Until a chance encounter with rebellious Alice Winters, the daughter of a powerful MP, upends Della’s world.
Alice is a woman caught between duty and desire. She secretly yearns to be an artist but is expected to marry a respectable suitor and raise a family. Della, with her sharp wit and quiet strength, is unlike anyone she has ever known. She makes Alice feel alive.
So she draws Della into her orbit — first as a muse for her secret art, then as something infinitely more intimate. But in a world where reputations are easily shattered, their growing bond is a danger that threatens not only their futures, but those around them.
As Alice risks scandal and Della faces the consequences of following her heart, they must will they allow others to choose their path, or dare to forge their own?
This historical tale of courage, forbidden love and self-discovery is perfect for fans of Sarah Waters, Cynthia Ellingsen, Fiona Valpy or Rhys Bowen.
Praise for Carryl
‘An astonishing debut novel, this skilfully plotted dual timeline story had me gripped.’ Tania Crosse, bestselling author of The Harbour Master’ s Daughter
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A beautifully written story that has everything I look for in a novel.’ Jan Baynham, author of The Secret Sister
‘A heartwarming and gripping story about the lasting power of love.’ Sally Tarpey, author of The Country Girl
'The most beautiful and captivating book I've read this year.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Wow what an amazing story this is. I guarantee that you will love it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Both heartwarming and nostalgic . . . fills you with warmth and a little courage.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
308 pages, Paperback
Published June 12, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 22, 2025
Exeter, 1925.
Della Wilde works as a baker at the prestigious Ambrose Cafe. She’s from a working class family, living at home with her three brothers, and a mother, who is often unwell. Della is the only provider in the family and times are tough.
Alice Winters is a daughter of an MP. In her life, she never wanted for anything. During her 21st birthday party at the Ambrose, she meets Della, and her life will never be the same again.
An unlikely friendship forms, followed by a romance.
However, someone at the Ambrose is watching their every move…
I love historical fiction. This book is set after the WWI when unemployment was rife and the whole country was struggling.
The contrast between the two women was palpable. Alice was quite naive because of her privilege, but at the same time, she was could show she was humble. Della was more street wise, but still vulnerable on account of being a woman.
This is the second book that I’ve read by this author and I wasn’t disappointed.
I definitely recommend it.
Della Wilde works as a baker at the prestigious Ambrose Cafe. She’s from a working class family, living at home with her three brothers, and a mother, who is often unwell. Della is the only provider in the family and times are tough.
Alice Winters is a daughter of an MP. In her life, she never wanted for anything. During her 21st birthday party at the Ambrose, she meets Della, and her life will never be the same again.
An unlikely friendship forms, followed by a romance.
However, someone at the Ambrose is watching their every move…
I love historical fiction. This book is set after the WWI when unemployment was rife and the whole country was struggling.
The contrast between the two women was palpable. Alice was quite naive because of her privilege, but at the same time, she was could show she was humble. Della was more street wise, but still vulnerable on account of being a woman.
This is the second book that I’ve read by this author and I wasn’t disappointed.
I definitely recommend it.
June 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. The story was beautiful and so heartwarming. I cried!!!
The cover is simple but beautiful. The lone woman with her back to us doesn't reveal a thing. Great design job.
The writing is stunning and it flows perfectly. I loved the descriptions and the language used. I don't remember there being any swearing at all.
I adored the 1925 setting! I actually really enjoy books set in the 20s and this one did not disappoint me at all. I was very impressed.
The characters were wonderful. They worked well. I loved the story between Della and Alice. Their interactions were perfect and seeing the rich/poor divide and class system being tackled was excellent.
I really cannot recommend this enough it was wonderful.
The cover is simple but beautiful. The lone woman with her back to us doesn't reveal a thing. Great design job.
The writing is stunning and it flows perfectly. I loved the descriptions and the language used. I don't remember there being any swearing at all.
I adored the 1925 setting! I actually really enjoy books set in the 20s and this one did not disappoint me at all. I was very impressed.
The characters were wonderful. They worked well. I loved the story between Della and Alice. Their interactions were perfect and seeing the rich/poor divide and class system being tackled was excellent.
I really cannot recommend this enough it was wonderful.
June 12, 2025
Immersive, Action Packed , Thought-Provoking.
Secrets at the Ambrose Café by Carryl Church is a thoughtful, interesting, fast moving and beautiful story centered on two girls on the edge of womanhood who’s families and the world around them expect them to get married, have babies, and be satisfied with a life spent in imitation of their mothers. The setting is 1920’s Exeter, an era remembered for the Charleston, Flapper Girls, American Cocktails, the excesses of a society celebrating the end of WW1. This is Alice’s world, she comes from Privilege in a society where class distinction is still prevalent. Her father is an Important Person in the government, her mother a Social Butterfly, they live in their multistory Townhouse with several domestic staff and a faithful Butler, Gillespie. They have Old Money. But Alice is a talented artist, heartily dislikes Toby her “intended” who is a nasty piece of work with a cruel streak, and she has a driving ambition to live and paint in Paris. This is also Della’s world, except she is the sole provider for a mother who takes in mending when she is not prostrate with grief at having lost her husband and eldest son in the war, plus a brother who cannot hold down a job and two younger brothers who are vulnerable when left alone while Della is at work. Their tiny slum dwelling is a totally different situation to Alice’s family’s location. Della has managed to land herself a job with the fabulous Ambrose Café and is showing her talent by learning to bake delectable cakes. Her driving ambition is to receive Cordon Bleu training in Paris and become a famous chef.
The main interesting and fast-moving story is about these two disparate but focused and intelligent girls trying to prevail over the depressing and stressful events that life is sending them, in order to fulfill their dreams. Underlying this we also have a very thoughtful comparison of two totally different lifestyles illustrating what Life really was like at that time. But also woven into the fabric of this story, and written in such a way to make it a beautiful and thought-provoking thread without detracting from the main story, is a portrayal of two sets of lovers. Two males with a long-established and tender relationship which if ever they are discovered will send both of them to prison and destroy the family they love. Two women with an embryo relationship they want to take somewhere they can openly be together and allow their friendship to flower.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book for the very skillful way the characters are drawn, I had sympathy for both mothers, hated the bad guys, wanted the good people to succeed as much as they did, all exactly as Caryl wanted me to feel. The way I was smoothly pulled into the atmosphere of the time period made the book come to life for me. In addition to enjoying the main story I have found myself thinking back on the underlying themes and discussing it with friends – which would suggest this is not just a great story, but also contains very thought-provoking subjects. I consider this way above the league of any book I have read for a long time. If you want a great story set in the 1920’s this is a definite read, if you would enjoy reading about two women fighting to develop their talents and achieve their life goals, absolutely yes, if you enjoy having your thoughts provoked – yes read this book!
Secrets at the Ambrose Café by Carryl Church is a thoughtful, interesting, fast moving and beautiful story centered on two girls on the edge of womanhood who’s families and the world around them expect them to get married, have babies, and be satisfied with a life spent in imitation of their mothers. The setting is 1920’s Exeter, an era remembered for the Charleston, Flapper Girls, American Cocktails, the excesses of a society celebrating the end of WW1. This is Alice’s world, she comes from Privilege in a society where class distinction is still prevalent. Her father is an Important Person in the government, her mother a Social Butterfly, they live in their multistory Townhouse with several domestic staff and a faithful Butler, Gillespie. They have Old Money. But Alice is a talented artist, heartily dislikes Toby her “intended” who is a nasty piece of work with a cruel streak, and she has a driving ambition to live and paint in Paris. This is also Della’s world, except she is the sole provider for a mother who takes in mending when she is not prostrate with grief at having lost her husband and eldest son in the war, plus a brother who cannot hold down a job and two younger brothers who are vulnerable when left alone while Della is at work. Their tiny slum dwelling is a totally different situation to Alice’s family’s location. Della has managed to land herself a job with the fabulous Ambrose Café and is showing her talent by learning to bake delectable cakes. Her driving ambition is to receive Cordon Bleu training in Paris and become a famous chef.
The main interesting and fast-moving story is about these two disparate but focused and intelligent girls trying to prevail over the depressing and stressful events that life is sending them, in order to fulfill their dreams. Underlying this we also have a very thoughtful comparison of two totally different lifestyles illustrating what Life really was like at that time. But also woven into the fabric of this story, and written in such a way to make it a beautiful and thought-provoking thread without detracting from the main story, is a portrayal of two sets of lovers. Two males with a long-established and tender relationship which if ever they are discovered will send both of them to prison and destroy the family they love. Two women with an embryo relationship they want to take somewhere they can openly be together and allow their friendship to flower.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book for the very skillful way the characters are drawn, I had sympathy for both mothers, hated the bad guys, wanted the good people to succeed as much as they did, all exactly as Caryl wanted me to feel. The way I was smoothly pulled into the atmosphere of the time period made the book come to life for me. In addition to enjoying the main story I have found myself thinking back on the underlying themes and discussing it with friends – which would suggest this is not just a great story, but also contains very thought-provoking subjects. I consider this way above the league of any book I have read for a long time. If you want a great story set in the 1920’s this is a definite read, if you would enjoy reading about two women fighting to develop their talents and achieve their life goals, absolutely yes, if you enjoy having your thoughts provoked – yes read this book!
June 20, 2025
Here is my review for Secrets At The Ambrose Cafe by Carryl Church
I found this to be an intriguing story of forbidden love that could cause a scandal if found out. Della bakes cakes at the Ambrose Cafe and has worked there roughly three years. It’s there she comes into contact with Alice Winters, the daughter of a local powerful MP and they both feel a spark of a connection between them. Alice uses an attic room as a studio to do her painting and she wants to paint Della. She can imagine what it will look like. She asks Della and she agrees to sit for her but things are not that easy for them. Problems arise but their feelings are stronger. But are they strong enough? This story was brilliantly written, extremely well thought out and expressed in the writing. Della and Alice’s characters are outstanding and I really routed for them throughout their discovery of their feelings for eachother. The story had very descriptive descriptions and explained everything well so it was easy to understand. Also, it described Exeter and some of its buildings. I think some research had been done for this book and it showed in the detailed writing and knowledge in the book. The storyline was intriguing and well thought out. The synopsis was what drew me to read this book and I have enjoyed reading it. I have enjoyed reading this story and I will look to read more books by this author in the future.
Blurb :
Two women. Two different worlds. One secret that could ruin them both.
Exeter, 1925. Della Wilde has set aside her dream of moving to Paris to study at the renowned Le Cordon Bleu, choosing instead to support her family torn apart by war. By night, she works at the prestigious Ambrose Café, serving the city’s elite — she feels utterly invisible.
Until a chance encounter with rebellious Alice Winters, the daughter of a powerful MP, upends Della’s world.
Alice is a woman caught between duty and desire. She secretly yearns to be an artist but is expected to marry a respectable suitor and raise a family. Della, with her sharp wit and quiet strength, is unlike anyone she has ever known. She makes Alice feel alive.
So she draws Della into her orbit — first as a muse for her secret art, then as something infinitely more intimate. But in a world where reputations are easily shattered, their growing bond is a danger that threatens not only their futures, but those around them.
As Alice risks scandal and Della faces the consequences of following her heart, they must decide: will they allow others to choose their path, or dare to forge their own?
I found this to be an intriguing story of forbidden love that could cause a scandal if found out. Della bakes cakes at the Ambrose Cafe and has worked there roughly three years. It’s there she comes into contact with Alice Winters, the daughter of a local powerful MP and they both feel a spark of a connection between them. Alice uses an attic room as a studio to do her painting and she wants to paint Della. She can imagine what it will look like. She asks Della and she agrees to sit for her but things are not that easy for them. Problems arise but their feelings are stronger. But are they strong enough? This story was brilliantly written, extremely well thought out and expressed in the writing. Della and Alice’s characters are outstanding and I really routed for them throughout their discovery of their feelings for eachother. The story had very descriptive descriptions and explained everything well so it was easy to understand. Also, it described Exeter and some of its buildings. I think some research had been done for this book and it showed in the detailed writing and knowledge in the book. The storyline was intriguing and well thought out. The synopsis was what drew me to read this book and I have enjoyed reading it. I have enjoyed reading this story and I will look to read more books by this author in the future.
Blurb :
Two women. Two different worlds. One secret that could ruin them both.
Exeter, 1925. Della Wilde has set aside her dream of moving to Paris to study at the renowned Le Cordon Bleu, choosing instead to support her family torn apart by war. By night, she works at the prestigious Ambrose Café, serving the city’s elite — she feels utterly invisible.
Until a chance encounter with rebellious Alice Winters, the daughter of a powerful MP, upends Della’s world.
Alice is a woman caught between duty and desire. She secretly yearns to be an artist but is expected to marry a respectable suitor and raise a family. Della, with her sharp wit and quiet strength, is unlike anyone she has ever known. She makes Alice feel alive.
So she draws Della into her orbit — first as a muse for her secret art, then as something infinitely more intimate. But in a world where reputations are easily shattered, their growing bond is a danger that threatens not only their futures, but those around them.
As Alice risks scandal and Della faces the consequences of following her heart, they must decide: will they allow others to choose their path, or dare to forge their own?
June 21, 2025
1920s post war Britain. Lives changed forever and relationships destroyed and built like no others.
The difference between the haves and have-nots is growing, as is the anger and resentment towards the wealthy is at boiling point. So when Della, a patisserie chef at the Ambrose Cafe meets Alice, the daughter of a local politician, hiding out on a servers trolley the night after a large party, there is no way a friendship seemed likely. Della was the sole provider for her mum, older brother and two youngest brothers. Their father and two oldest brothers had been lost during the war and her mum was no longer able to cope. Despite earning the money for the family, the distance between her and her older brother has become fractured.
Alice, on the other hand has very little to worry about. Her prosperous family means she is always stylishly dressed and always able to go out with her friends, carefree, and oblivious. So when their paths cross, not only do two worlds collide, but they also see the similarities. They both have dreams and ambitions not necessarily deemed appropriate for their status and gender and they're both far from living the lives they want to be.
Around then, those closest to them have their own secrets, and even more people desperate to manipulate this for their own gain. When the men returned from the war with those they served with, bonds like no other returned with them. Bonds no one could possibly understand, whether healthy or not. It is these bonds which have the ability to make or break the lives of those around them. When Alice and Della are caught up in this storm, the odds are against them. These two ladies, however, are willing to give everything to obliterate these odds simply to be allowed to be themselves.
Beautifully written and utterly heartbreaking in places, this really does explore relationships of all levels. The dialogue and the plot flowed smoothly and the continuous twists and turns kept me gripped. Whilst this was not my usual genre, I absolutely loved it, drawn in from the very start and it is safe to say my emotional investment in these characters was high stakes. Beautiful
The difference between the haves and have-nots is growing, as is the anger and resentment towards the wealthy is at boiling point. So when Della, a patisserie chef at the Ambrose Cafe meets Alice, the daughter of a local politician, hiding out on a servers trolley the night after a large party, there is no way a friendship seemed likely. Della was the sole provider for her mum, older brother and two youngest brothers. Their father and two oldest brothers had been lost during the war and her mum was no longer able to cope. Despite earning the money for the family, the distance between her and her older brother has become fractured.
Alice, on the other hand has very little to worry about. Her prosperous family means she is always stylishly dressed and always able to go out with her friends, carefree, and oblivious. So when their paths cross, not only do two worlds collide, but they also see the similarities. They both have dreams and ambitions not necessarily deemed appropriate for their status and gender and they're both far from living the lives they want to be.
Around then, those closest to them have their own secrets, and even more people desperate to manipulate this for their own gain. When the men returned from the war with those they served with, bonds like no other returned with them. Bonds no one could possibly understand, whether healthy or not. It is these bonds which have the ability to make or break the lives of those around them. When Alice and Della are caught up in this storm, the odds are against them. These two ladies, however, are willing to give everything to obliterate these odds simply to be allowed to be themselves.
Beautifully written and utterly heartbreaking in places, this really does explore relationships of all levels. The dialogue and the plot flowed smoothly and the continuous twists and turns kept me gripped. Whilst this was not my usual genre, I absolutely loved it, drawn in from the very start and it is safe to say my emotional investment in these characters was high stakes. Beautiful
June 16, 2025
It took me a few chapters to settle into the rhythm of Secrets at the Ambrose Café, but once I did, I was completely swept away. The writing has a gentle, almost lyrical quality that perfectly suits the story’s 1920s setting, and as the world around Della and Alice unfolded, I found myself utterly immersed.
At the heart of this novel is a tender, slow-burn romance between two women caught between expectation and desire. Della Wilde is a quietly determined woman who’s sacrificed her dreams of studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris to support her family after the devastation of war. She works at the prestigious Ambrose Café in Exeter, where she feels largely invisible—until the confident and complicated Alice Winters walks into her life.
Alice is the daughter of a powerful MP, raised in privilege but burdened by duty. She’s expected to marry well, keep up appearances, and suppress the parts of herself that long to create—and to love freely. Her connection with Della is immediate but fraught with risk, and Carryl Church explores their relationship with care and depth.
I was completely caught up in the emotional push and pull between them—their shared longing, the moments of stolen freedom, the fear of being seen. Church writes their bond with such sensitivity, and the stakes feel real and immediate in a world where even a whisper of scandal could destroy everything.
The historical detail is rich but never overwhelming. From the café’s quiet elegance to the hushed studio where Alice paints, the setting comes alive without ever overshadowing the emotional core of the story. I also appreciated the supporting characters—particularly those who quietly support Della and Alice in a society that doesn’t make space for their kind of love.
This is a story of quiet rebellion, of choosing yourself even when the world tells you not to, and of finding courage in the most unexpected places. It’s romantic, heart-wrenching, and ultimately hopeful.
Five stars from me. I didn’t want it to end.
At the heart of this novel is a tender, slow-burn romance between two women caught between expectation and desire. Della Wilde is a quietly determined woman who’s sacrificed her dreams of studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris to support her family after the devastation of war. She works at the prestigious Ambrose Café in Exeter, where she feels largely invisible—until the confident and complicated Alice Winters walks into her life.
Alice is the daughter of a powerful MP, raised in privilege but burdened by duty. She’s expected to marry well, keep up appearances, and suppress the parts of herself that long to create—and to love freely. Her connection with Della is immediate but fraught with risk, and Carryl Church explores their relationship with care and depth.
I was completely caught up in the emotional push and pull between them—their shared longing, the moments of stolen freedom, the fear of being seen. Church writes their bond with such sensitivity, and the stakes feel real and immediate in a world where even a whisper of scandal could destroy everything.
The historical detail is rich but never overwhelming. From the café’s quiet elegance to the hushed studio where Alice paints, the setting comes alive without ever overshadowing the emotional core of the story. I also appreciated the supporting characters—particularly those who quietly support Della and Alice in a society that doesn’t make space for their kind of love.
This is a story of quiet rebellion, of choosing yourself even when the world tells you not to, and of finding courage in the most unexpected places. It’s romantic, heart-wrenching, and ultimately hopeful.
Five stars from me. I didn’t want it to end.
June 14, 2025
Based on the blurb and the cover, I crazily had the idea that this was a war novel. War does come into play in this truly magnificent and emotional story about Della Wilde and Alice Winters, but more so in the backstory, - the consequences of the men returning home from the trenches, and trying to find their way back into society after all those years of misery and horror.
Exeter, 1925, and we meet Della Wilde and Alice Winters, who are protagonists from two different worlds.
Della is the eldest daughter of a family and the patissier at the Ambrose Café. The lives of Della's father and two brothers were lost in the trenches. Her mother is unable to cope with the grief and is often unwell. Della is the breadwinner for the family.
As the only daughter of an MP, Alice Winters comes from a privileged background.
This story explores the contrast between the haves and the have-nots, but rather than focusing on material wealth or social standing, it delves into the true essence of life: love. In this case, the love depicted is one that was seen as both punishable by law and socially unacceptable during that era. This is the extraordinary story of two courageous women who defied the accepted moral norms of that time.
I really enjoyed the role of Gillespie, the butler, as the go-between between Alice and Della, and I had strong Downton Abbey vibes while reading the story. I was reminded of Lady Mary every time I thought of Alice. And every time Gillespie was mentioned, I could see Carson (from Downton Abbey) in the picture.
Della and Alice are living in the Roaring Twenties, when the LGBTQ+ community was beginning to emerge, and became more visible, yet faced challenges and arrests as well.
Both families were quite understanding and open-minded on the subject of sapphic love, a rare thing for that time, when the then prevailing motto about any such love was even punishable by law and could ruin reputations and whole families.
I liked the raven at the window, which is not really fleshed out, and fortunately for Alice and Della, the harbinger of doom does not become true for either of them.
I wish them all well and lots and lots of love!!
Read in one sitting and found myself completely immersed in the story.
5+ stars. Thank you Joffe for the review copy.
Exeter, 1925, and we meet Della Wilde and Alice Winters, who are protagonists from two different worlds.
Della is the eldest daughter of a family and the patissier at the Ambrose Café. The lives of Della's father and two brothers were lost in the trenches. Her mother is unable to cope with the grief and is often unwell. Della is the breadwinner for the family.
As the only daughter of an MP, Alice Winters comes from a privileged background.
This story explores the contrast between the haves and the have-nots, but rather than focusing on material wealth or social standing, it delves into the true essence of life: love. In this case, the love depicted is one that was seen as both punishable by law and socially unacceptable during that era. This is the extraordinary story of two courageous women who defied the accepted moral norms of that time.
I really enjoyed the role of Gillespie, the butler, as the go-between between Alice and Della, and I had strong Downton Abbey vibes while reading the story. I was reminded of Lady Mary every time I thought of Alice. And every time Gillespie was mentioned, I could see Carson (from Downton Abbey) in the picture.
Della and Alice are living in the Roaring Twenties, when the LGBTQ+ community was beginning to emerge, and became more visible, yet faced challenges and arrests as well.
Both families were quite understanding and open-minded on the subject of sapphic love, a rare thing for that time, when the then prevailing motto about any such love was even punishable by law and could ruin reputations and whole families.
I liked the raven at the window, which is not really fleshed out, and fortunately for Alice and Della, the harbinger of doom does not become true for either of them.
I wish them all well and lots and lots of love!!
Read in one sitting and found myself completely immersed in the story.
5+ stars. Thank you Joffe for the review copy.
May 18, 2025
Secrets at the Ambrose Cafe is an unforgettable tale that takes place in England in 1925. The country is trying to move forward in fixing the damage caused by the Great War. Two girls from different social backgrounds meet and soon become very close. However, will this newfound closeness that is often frowned upon in society ruin their chances at persuing their dream careers. This is a story filled with artistic talent, baking, and a great deal of blackmail.
We are first introduced to Della who works at a cafe as a baker who was dreams of attending a culinary school in France. However she is sole breadwinner for her family since her father passed in the war. One day while working an event at the cafe she meets a a stranger who becomes so much more.
Alice is the sort of girl who seems to have it all a wealthy family, a big house, and ect. However, she feels the need to hide away her artistic talent because she knows that they would never approve. Her life changes when she meets Della and asks her to pose for a portrait that Alice is working on.
While working on the portrait Alice and Della find themselves growing closer and that growing closeness is soon becoming more than friends. However, society shuns those who go against the laws of nature. Things start to get worse when they find themselves to be the target of blackmail to keep their secrets. Will they be able to defeat those that threaten to destroy them or will it all come down crashing and burning.
Overall I was quite impressed with this novel. It was exciting from beginning to end and it kept me on my toes the whole time.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
We are first introduced to Della who works at a cafe as a baker who was dreams of attending a culinary school in France. However she is sole breadwinner for her family since her father passed in the war. One day while working an event at the cafe she meets a a stranger who becomes so much more.
Alice is the sort of girl who seems to have it all a wealthy family, a big house, and ect. However, she feels the need to hide away her artistic talent because she knows that they would never approve. Her life changes when she meets Della and asks her to pose for a portrait that Alice is working on.
While working on the portrait Alice and Della find themselves growing closer and that growing closeness is soon becoming more than friends. However, society shuns those who go against the laws of nature. Things start to get worse when they find themselves to be the target of blackmail to keep their secrets. Will they be able to defeat those that threaten to destroy them or will it all come down crashing and burning.
Overall I was quite impressed with this novel. It was exciting from beginning to end and it kept me on my toes the whole time.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
May 30, 2025
Daring, intimate, and unforgettable.
Secrets at the Ambrose Café swept me away from the very first page. Set in the richly detailed world of 1925 Exeter, this book is as atmospheric as it is emotionally moving. Della and Alice come from such different lives, but their connection is undeniable — tender, complicated, and beautifully human.
Della’s strength lies in her quiet perseverance, her sacrifices, and her hunger for something more. Alice is a woman torn between societal expectations and the fierce, secret hope that she might live a life of art and authenticity. When their lives collide at the Ambrose Café, something extraordinary begins.
This isn’t just a romance — it’s a story of two women waking up to the truth of who they are, even as the world threatens to silence them. The stakes are high, the love is achingly real, and the writing sings with historical detail and emotional depth.
If you love stories like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or Fingersmith, this one deserves a place on your shelf. The ending left me misty-eyed and full of hope.
Secrets at the Ambrose Café swept me away from the very first page. Set in the richly detailed world of 1925 Exeter, this book is as atmospheric as it is emotionally moving. Della and Alice come from such different lives, but their connection is undeniable — tender, complicated, and beautifully human.
Della’s strength lies in her quiet perseverance, her sacrifices, and her hunger for something more. Alice is a woman torn between societal expectations and the fierce, secret hope that she might live a life of art and authenticity. When their lives collide at the Ambrose Café, something extraordinary begins.
This isn’t just a romance — it’s a story of two women waking up to the truth of who they are, even as the world threatens to silence them. The stakes are high, the love is achingly real, and the writing sings with historical detail and emotional depth.
If you love stories like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or Fingersmith, this one deserves a place on your shelf. The ending left me misty-eyed and full of hope.
May 27, 2025
The 1920s is a great time period because it is marked by so much change. That being said, this book was frustrating because, once again, it's filled with men who feel entitled to a woman regardless of how she feels about it. And even Della's brother doesn't think twice about letting William manipulate him in the name of 'getting' Della.
Over and over again, William is shown to be hateful and despicable but still everyone keeps pushing Della towards him, because 'he's a good man, with a good job'. So what?!? She also has a good job, and he's not a good man. Ugh, I can't even write about this book without getting annoyed.
This is a book about secrets. A wealthy young woman who doesn't want to marry, and has dreams of being an artist; two men who found love in wartime and are willing to sacrifice even to just be near each other; a young working woman who is ready to give up what she is 'supposed' to do, in order to follow her dreams and have a chance at real love.
Over and over again, William is shown to be hateful and despicable but still everyone keeps pushing Della towards him, because 'he's a good man, with a good job'. So what?!? She also has a good job, and he's not a good man. Ugh, I can't even write about this book without getting annoyed.
This is a book about secrets. A wealthy young woman who doesn't want to marry, and has dreams of being an artist; two men who found love in wartime and are willing to sacrifice even to just be near each other; a young working woman who is ready to give up what she is 'supposed' to do, in order to follow her dreams and have a chance at real love.
June 20, 2025
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This story takes us to Exeter in the 1920’s. Della bakes cakes at the Ambrose Cafe, and finds herself drawn to Alice, the daughter of an MP. When Alice asks for Della's help following an incident at her birthday party, the two women form a special and powerful bond. In a world where society has different expectations, will Della and Alice have the courage to follow their hearts?
I loved the last book that I read by this author, and I loved this one as well. I think the author has a way of making the reader feel connected to the characters, to a point where you feel you have made friends with them while reading. This was a captivating love story that tugged at my heartstrings. Although I found myself tearful while reading, it left me with a warm and happy feeling. It was also easy to read in one sitting.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This story takes us to Exeter in the 1920’s. Della bakes cakes at the Ambrose Cafe, and finds herself drawn to Alice, the daughter of an MP. When Alice asks for Della's help following an incident at her birthday party, the two women form a special and powerful bond. In a world where society has different expectations, will Della and Alice have the courage to follow their hearts?
I loved the last book that I read by this author, and I loved this one as well. I think the author has a way of making the reader feel connected to the characters, to a point where you feel you have made friends with them while reading. This was a captivating love story that tugged at my heartstrings. Although I found myself tearful while reading, it left me with a warm and happy feeling. It was also easy to read in one sitting.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
June 30, 2025
This is a story that grew on me. I must admit to not reading much of this genre, but I found this book fascinating. The characters are well crafted and develop as the story goes on. Della and Alice, the two main characters, each from different sides of social class were especially good and felt authentic as was the setting. I loved Gillespie and the way his personality and life are gradually revealed. There were many themes being explored here; family structures, gay relationships, women's rights to name but a few. I was absorbed by the relationship of Della with her brother Jack and the many twists and turns as Jack deals with his jealousy when Della works to provide for the family and he struggles to find work.Through it all, Della and Alice work to follow their dreams. The ending was a satisfying. I enjoyed my read and will look for other stories by this author.
August 30, 2025
Carryl Church is a consummate storyteller and Secrets at the Ambrose Café demonstrates that beyond any shadow of a doubt. Storylines and characters are interweaved in ways which drew me in to how they interact with each other, encountering both joys and difficulties in complex relationships. Such is her description of and insight about human traits and behaviour, I was left wanting to meet some of the characters and grateful not to encounter others! Detailed descriptions of places, people and events are enough to explain but not so meticulous as to prevent the reader from working things out for themselves. This is a story which led on to the next stage in a way which was enticing, inviting the reader to find out what happened next. It begs for a sequel but at the same time leaves the reader with scope to continue the story for themselves.
May 28, 2025
This book is the 60th one I read this year and I think it's very likely to appear in my top 10 out of the 100+ I'll have read by the end of 2025 (if I actually make a top 10 this time instead of giving up like every year before).
I really liked both Della and Alice, whose points of view alternate to let us see their very different lives (Della baking cakes at the Ambrose café to support her mother and brothers, Alice painting secretly in the attic of her rich father's house). I also liked the historical (1925) setting that made the stakes higher when secrets were discovered. And it's a sweet romance, which I always prefer to the overly spicy ones.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked both Della and Alice, whose points of view alternate to let us see their very different lives (Della baking cakes at the Ambrose café to support her mother and brothers, Alice painting secretly in the attic of her rich father's house). I also liked the historical (1925) setting that made the stakes higher when secrets were discovered. And it's a sweet romance, which I always prefer to the overly spicy ones.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2025
The year is 1925 and in Exeter two ladies are going to meet, a meeting that will change their lives forever.
Della Wilde works in the Ambrose café and dreams of studying baking in Paris.
Alice Winters an MP's daughter is living the high life and meets Della on her birthday when she catered a cake for her.
Sparks fly and the two fall in love, at a time when same sex relationships are frowned upon.
They try to keep their secret but an ardent admirer of Della is determined she will be his and threatens their relationship when he vows to tell the world of their affair and other family secrets that would break the Winters.
A powerful story of women at this time following their own course in the face of societal conventions.
Read this author before and she is always a great read.
Della Wilde works in the Ambrose café and dreams of studying baking in Paris.
Alice Winters an MP's daughter is living the high life and meets Della on her birthday when she catered a cake for her.
Sparks fly and the two fall in love, at a time when same sex relationships are frowned upon.
They try to keep their secret but an ardent admirer of Della is determined she will be his and threatens their relationship when he vows to tell the world of their affair and other family secrets that would break the Winters.
A powerful story of women at this time following their own course in the face of societal conventions.
Read this author before and she is always a great read.
June 17, 2025
In 1925 Exeter England, Della, a working class girl, works as a baker's assistant at a high class cafe. One morning, she rescues Alice, a wealthy young woman from the ballroom after her raucous birthday party. The novel moves forward describing the developing relationship as Alice, a secret artist, asks to pain Della's portrait and their attraction deepens. Meanwhile, Della is being pursued by a persistent waiter at the cafe who befriends her brother, and Alice suspects her father of having an affair.
This is an engaging and well written historic novel. I'm rating it a 4 because it's level of engagement for me didn't rise to the level of a 5.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley.
This is an engaging and well written historic novel. I'm rating it a 4 because it's level of engagement for me didn't rise to the level of a 5.
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley.
June 21, 2025
This was such a beautiful book, full of emotion, Della and Alice’s story is one that will stay with me for some time.
Set in the 1920s at a time when women were expected to follow a certain path, a story of 2 women who want to just simply live their own lives their way.
Beautifully written it would make a great book club read can see lots of discussions going on about this book.
Heartbreaking and heartwarming, a great book to let into yours heart this summer ❤️
Thank you @zooloosbooktours for having me on this book tour ❤️
#zooloosbooktours #secretsattheambrosecafe #carrylchurch #choclit @joffebooks #bookstagram
Set in the 1920s at a time when women were expected to follow a certain path, a story of 2 women who want to just simply live their own lives their way.
Beautifully written it would make a great book club read can see lots of discussions going on about this book.
Heartbreaking and heartwarming, a great book to let into yours heart this summer ❤️
Thank you @zooloosbooktours for having me on this book tour ❤️
#zooloosbooktours #secretsattheambrosecafe #carrylchurch #choclit @joffebooks #bookstagram
June 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a wonderful job with sharing full details about the characters and making them come alive so you felt like you knew them. They touched on topics that are still important and cause disparities between people in society based on their opinions. It was nice to see that those who were of different classes could be pleasant and compassionate come together and it made for a very pleasant read.
June 23, 2025
Another new new-to-me author, Church had me captivated with her writing style from the off. I was drawn into the plot and became so immersed into the story of Della and Alice, I didn't want to leave until I'd turned the final page. It's spellbindingly good!
The characters were so easy to become emotionally invested in and soon became more than just names on a page to me.
Beautifully written it's a story of friendship, love, and cakes of course!
The characters were so easy to become emotionally invested in and soon became more than just names on a page to me.
Beautifully written it's a story of friendship, love, and cakes of course!
June 27, 2025
Secrets at the Ambrose is a beautifully crafted historical romance set in post–World War I England. The story handles class divisions with nuance and realism, deepening the emotional impact of Della and Alice’s bond. Their relationship is tender yet resilient, growing in significance as hidden truths surface and outside pressures mount. Both Della and Alice are sharp, determined, and compelling in their own right, making them a couple you can't help but cheer for.
May 20, 2025
A heart-warming tale of forbidden love set in 1920s Exeter. Wonderful characters, sharp dialogue, lots of tension, and splashes of humour – the scenes with the trolley are perfectly crafted, both very funny and very moving. Couldn't put it down.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an early copy of this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an early copy of this novel.
June 8, 2025
Church thoughtfully explores enduring political and social issues—such as gender roles, LGBTQ+ identity, veterans’ reintegration, and class divides—through a story reminiscent of Dirty Dancing. The themes felt natural and well-integrated, making the novel both enjoyable and impactful without seeming forced.
June 11, 2025
A delightful and sensitive love story and set in 1920's Exeter.
It's 1925, and Della Wilde is working hard in the posh restaurant Ambrose Café. Since her father and two brothers were killed in the war, her mother is suffering from depression is often unable to look after her family.
Della's older brother is trapped in the depression can't find work, and is resentful that Della is the breadwinner.
Della has a talent for patisserie that does not go unnoticed by the head chef and hints at a possible bursary to the great Cordon Bleu college in Paris. Enter Alice Winter, the rich wild cat with seemingly little respect for the lower classes. However, Della and Alice have one thing in common that instantly binds them together, their sexuallity. This book directly deals with the problems encountered by the gay community in the 1920s and the societal differences in the classes. It is a very well written novel with great characters.
It's 1925, and Della Wilde is working hard in the posh restaurant Ambrose Café. Since her father and two brothers were killed in the war, her mother is suffering from depression is often unable to look after her family.
Della's older brother is trapped in the depression can't find work, and is resentful that Della is the breadwinner.
Della has a talent for patisserie that does not go unnoticed by the head chef and hints at a possible bursary to the great Cordon Bleu college in Paris. Enter Alice Winter, the rich wild cat with seemingly little respect for the lower classes. However, Della and Alice have one thing in common that instantly binds them together, their sexuallity. This book directly deals with the problems encountered by the gay community in the 1920s and the societal differences in the classes. It is a very well written novel with great characters.
June 12, 2025
A fantastic read. I loved this book. Della Wilde and Alice Winters are girls from completely different backgrounds. Alice whose parents are rich and powerful and Della a girl who is responsible for her family. Both girls tied down by duty. Together they see much more in each other both talent and ambition. A friendship forms which grows into more. A forbidden relationship with people who will stop at nothing to separate them. The relationship between the two is both beautiful and doomed. There are plenty of issues within the families which really give this book that little extra. Lots of twists and plenty of shocks. The characters were well written you cannot help but route for the girls. A few dastardly characters too. I loved the time in which the book was set in, this again added to the story. It's very moving and it really was a pleasure to read.
October 21, 2025
I can’t recommend this novel highly enough. I was gripped throughout by the absorbing inner life of the complex and believable characters. Their lives take some surprising turns, giving them opportunities to reflect on many things they had counted as givens in within their society.
June 9, 2025
Taking place in 1925 Exeter, The Secrets at the Ambrose Café offers a poignant exploration of forbidden love, societal expectations, and personal resilience. Carryl Church masterfully weaves the lives of Della Wilde, an aspiring patisserie chef who sacrifices her dreams to support her family, and Alice Winters, the daughter of a powerful MP yearning to pursue her passion for art. Their chance meeting at the Ambrose Café ignites a connection that challenges the rigid (and for some, illegal) norms of their time.
The books portrayal of post-war England immerses readers in a world where class divisions and gender roles are deeply recognized. The book not only delves into the complexities of same-sex relationships during an era of limited acceptance, but how the war affected all varieties of people.
I didn’t think this book was going to be for me in the beginning, but the historical significance of same sex relationships in this time kept me intrigued. For those who appreciate historical romances that tackle themes of identity and societal constraints, this book resonates with the emotional intensity found in works like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Fingersmith. I would recommended this if you like historical fiction or LGBTQ+ romances but it is very LGBTQ+ heavy if that is not your thing it may not be for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Opinions are entirely my own.
The books portrayal of post-war England immerses readers in a world where class divisions and gender roles are deeply recognized. The book not only delves into the complexities of same-sex relationships during an era of limited acceptance, but how the war affected all varieties of people.
I didn’t think this book was going to be for me in the beginning, but the historical significance of same sex relationships in this time kept me intrigued. For those who appreciate historical romances that tackle themes of identity and societal constraints, this book resonates with the emotional intensity found in works like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Fingersmith. I would recommended this if you like historical fiction or LGBTQ+ romances but it is very LGBTQ+ heavy if that is not your thing it may not be for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Opinions are entirely my own.
June 12, 2025
Excellent standalone book set in the 1920s when classes are changing and those men who returned from the war are changed and not always for the better.
A chance encounter brings together two ladies from different ends of the spectrum. A young lady from the kitchens, the only one with a job to help her family helps out a gentile MP’s daughter from an unfortunate (but slightly funny) situation the day after her birthday and an instant bond is created when she realises that the creator of her birthday cake is the perfect muse for her easel. From there a romance blossoms in a time when such things were frowned upon. Will their love and perseverance see them through rocky moments, misunderstandings and secrets that possibly should have remained secret.
A chance encounter brings together two ladies from different ends of the spectrum. A young lady from the kitchens, the only one with a job to help her family helps out a gentile MP’s daughter from an unfortunate (but slightly funny) situation the day after her birthday and an instant bond is created when she realises that the creator of her birthday cake is the perfect muse for her easel. From there a romance blossoms in a time when such things were frowned upon. Will their love and perseverance see them through rocky moments, misunderstandings and secrets that possibly should have remained secret.
June 12, 2025
A multi faceted romance which I thoroughly enjoyed. The author described the era exceptionally well through the characters. The background to the romances was very realistic and believable which really brought the story to life. I loved the characters who were very well portrayed and especially the heroines felt like people I knew. The ‘baddies’ had their back story and even the worst you felt some sympathy for, even if you didn't like his actions. A great tale which I heartily recommend.
June 12, 2025
Set in 1925 , this historical romance centres around Delia Wilde who works hard at the Ambrose Cafe to support her widowed mother and brothers whose lives have been torn apart by the war . Catering for a party at the cafe , she encounters the daughter of a prominent MP , called Alice Winters and they are drawn together . From two different worlds we follow their story as they have to deal with duty , respect and a scandal if their secret love was revealed. Which path will they take . A well written and very enjoyable read by Carryl Church
June 12, 2025
Very enthralling book
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