What do you think?
Rate this book
Harbour House #5
Trouble Comes to Harbour House
Another instalment in the brilliant wartime saga series from Fenella J Miller. Perfect for fans of Rosie Clarke and Lizzie Lane ❤️🎖️ Will love or duty be her downfall?
Wivenhoe, 1940.
As war tightens its grip, the residents of Harbour House are doing their bit for King and country—keeping calm through air raids, blackouts and family issues.
When Elizabeth Roby’s glamorous young cousin Lucinda Somiton arrives from London, scandal at her heels and a broken heart in her past, she brings a spark of chaos to the quiet Essex town. Accustomed to champagne parties and bright lights, Lucinda struggles to adjust to ration books and village gossip.
But when she volunteers to aid the war effort, Lucinda begins to find a sense of purpose—and perhaps a chance to redeem her name. Yet just as she starts to build a new life, the past threatens to catch up with her once again. And in wartime, every choice comes at a cost…
Praise for Fenella J.
'Yet again, Fenella Miller has thrilled me with another of her historical stories. She brings alive a variety of emotions and weaves in facts relating to the era, all of which keep me reading into the small hours.' Glynis Peters
'Curl up in a chair with Fenella J Miller's characters and lose yourself in another time and another place.' Lizzie Lane
'Engaging characters and setting which whisks you back to the home front of wartime Britain. A fabulous series!' Jean Fullerton
Wivenhoe, 1940.
As war tightens its grip, the residents of Harbour House are doing their bit for King and country—keeping calm through air raids, blackouts and family issues.
When Elizabeth Roby’s glamorous young cousin Lucinda Somiton arrives from London, scandal at her heels and a broken heart in her past, she brings a spark of chaos to the quiet Essex town. Accustomed to champagne parties and bright lights, Lucinda struggles to adjust to ration books and village gossip.
But when she volunteers to aid the war effort, Lucinda begins to find a sense of purpose—and perhaps a chance to redeem her name. Yet just as she starts to build a new life, the past threatens to catch up with her once again. And in wartime, every choice comes at a cost…
Praise for Fenella J.
'Yet again, Fenella Miller has thrilled me with another of her historical stories. She brings alive a variety of emotions and weaves in facts relating to the era, all of which keep me reading into the small hours.' Glynis Peters
'Curl up in a chair with Fenella J Miller's characters and lose yourself in another time and another place.' Lizzie Lane
'Engaging characters and setting which whisks you back to the home front of wartime Britain. A fabulous series!' Jean Fullerton
- GenresHistorical Fiction
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
About the author
Fenella J. Miller
154 books156 followersFenella Jane Miller was born in the Isle of Man. Her father was a Yorkshire man and her mother the daughter of a Rajah. She has worked as a nanny, cleaner, field worker, hotelier, chef, secondary and primary teacher and is now a full time writer.
She has over twenty five Regency romantic adventures published plus one Jane Austen re-telling and one YA romantic fantasy.
see also Fenella-Jane Miller
She has over twenty five Regency romantic adventures published plus one Jane Austen re-telling and one YA romantic fantasy.
see also Fenella-Jane Miller
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 3, 2026
Trouble Comes to Harbour House by Fenella J Miller is another episode in the ongoing saga of the Robys and Harbour House. The time is World War II. Elizabeth’s cousin, Lucinda, has gotten into some trouble in London and has come to stay at Harbour House. It was not been a good time: she is unhappy and is unpleasant to everyone. Elizabeth is ready to ask her to leave when she asks to stay and vows she’ll be different. It turns out she kept her word and things were different. There are problems with George and Emily fell ill with a virus, but the bulk of the story was Lucinda and the fact that the married man she had been involved with had turned out to be a psychopath. She dealt with it all maturely and unknown to anyone, she had logged over 400 flying hours so she applied to be a pilot with the ATA and all was calm for a while.
This story is kind of a soap opera and that is fine with me. Miller has created a family in this series populated with people readers come to care about. As all of us know, there is always something going on and it is no different for these folks, although it is exasperated by the war, which hit England hard. Lucy is a good character but so is Emily, a young teen struggling with injustice and inequality in the world. It is a fun read and although it is not always good news, it is always uplifting. Good stories, not out of the mainstream, but entertaining, none-the-less.
I was invited to read Trouble Comes to Harbour House by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #FenellaJMiller #TroubleComesToHarbourHouse
This story is kind of a soap opera and that is fine with me. Miller has created a family in this series populated with people readers come to care about. As all of us know, there is always something going on and it is no different for these folks, although it is exasperated by the war, which hit England hard. Lucy is a good character but so is Emily, a young teen struggling with injustice and inequality in the world. It is a fun read and although it is not always good news, it is always uplifting. Good stories, not out of the mainstream, but entertaining, none-the-less.
I was invited to read Trouble Comes to Harbour House by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #FenellaJMiller #TroubleComesToHarbourHouse
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have read all the books in the series and though this could be read as a stand-alone one gets better context from the whole series.
How great to get together with Elizabeth and Jonathon Roby and Emily, George and Sammy not forgetting little Grace.
We met Lucinda right at the end of the previous book (4) and knew she had some form of history. Turns out it was an affair with a married man and the subsequent humiliation and shame of her entire family. She had been sent to Wivenhoe to ‘get her out of the way’
She Is of the same social class as the Robys and should fit in well - but she feels slighted by all who know her and behaves abominably. She does realise the error of her ways eventually and fits in with the family.
Ralph - her erstwhile lover - is nothing than a bounder and a cad.
It takes a long while before his wife Leone sees the light and is pleased to see the back of him. He thinks the world owes him everything and throws all away by stupid behaviour.
I hope we find out more about Lucinda’s life - now called Lucy - since she has joined the ATA and will be ferrying aircraft all over.
We also meet Emily’s friends Penny and Doris again and the evacuee children in ‘the big house’ on a nearby Island.
As always the book is well written and well researched my only bone of contention is that we are in book 5 and have only just toppled into 1941. I suppose that allows for more episodes though.
There were a couple of inconsistencies - but these were bearable.
All in a great read and I look forward to book 6
How great to get together with Elizabeth and Jonathon Roby and Emily, George and Sammy not forgetting little Grace.
We met Lucinda right at the end of the previous book (4) and knew she had some form of history. Turns out it was an affair with a married man and the subsequent humiliation and shame of her entire family. She had been sent to Wivenhoe to ‘get her out of the way’
She Is of the same social class as the Robys and should fit in well - but she feels slighted by all who know her and behaves abominably. She does realise the error of her ways eventually and fits in with the family.
Ralph - her erstwhile lover - is nothing than a bounder and a cad.
It takes a long while before his wife Leone sees the light and is pleased to see the back of him. He thinks the world owes him everything and throws all away by stupid behaviour.
I hope we find out more about Lucinda’s life - now called Lucy - since she has joined the ATA and will be ferrying aircraft all over.
We also meet Emily’s friends Penny and Doris again and the evacuee children in ‘the big house’ on a nearby Island.
As always the book is well written and well researched my only bone of contention is that we are in book 5 and have only just toppled into 1941. I suppose that allows for more episodes though.
There were a couple of inconsistencies - but these were bearable.
All in a great read and I look forward to book 6
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another great installment in the Harbour House series by Fenella J Miller.
It's now December 1940 in Wivenhoe, Essex and Emily Roby was trying her hardest to think of a way to make Christmas special for her little sister Grace, who is just nine months old. Her cousin Lucinda is really annoying Emily, she is always bossing her around and her arrival at Harbour House has brought nothing but trouble, nobody likes her as she's spoilt and selfish. But soon Lucinda changes, helping out the ARP warden on his night rounds and also being more amenable with all the family. Lucinda is a complex character, at first she wasn't a very nice person but as the book progresses she becomes both more likeable and an interesting character, fitting in with the whole family and community around Harbour House. She has one ambition, that is to be a pilot in the ATA ( Air Transport Auxiliary), she has the flying qualifications but will she be accepted?
I really enjoyed reading this book, its jam packed full of a lovely family, Wartime secrets, love secrets and all set in the riverside setting of Wivenhoe (near Colchester) in Essex during WW2. They certainly have their ups and downs like any family but they are always there for each other. A smashing five-star read from me.
#Netgalley
#Boldwoodbooks
#TroubleComesToHarbourHouse
#FennellaJMiller
It's now December 1940 in Wivenhoe, Essex and Emily Roby was trying her hardest to think of a way to make Christmas special for her little sister Grace, who is just nine months old. Her cousin Lucinda is really annoying Emily, she is always bossing her around and her arrival at Harbour House has brought nothing but trouble, nobody likes her as she's spoilt and selfish. But soon Lucinda changes, helping out the ARP warden on his night rounds and also being more amenable with all the family. Lucinda is a complex character, at first she wasn't a very nice person but as the book progresses she becomes both more likeable and an interesting character, fitting in with the whole family and community around Harbour House. She has one ambition, that is to be a pilot in the ATA ( Air Transport Auxiliary), she has the flying qualifications but will she be accepted?
I really enjoyed reading this book, its jam packed full of a lovely family, Wartime secrets, love secrets and all set in the riverside setting of Wivenhoe (near Colchester) in Essex during WW2. They certainly have their ups and downs like any family but they are always there for each other. A smashing five-star read from me.
#Netgalley
#Boldwoodbooks
#TroubleComesToHarbourHouse
#FennellaJMiller
May 15, 2026
In the latest book in this World War II historical fiction series from Fenella Miller, readers follow Lucinda Somiton, Elizabeth Rody’s younger cousin, as she leaves London, a scandal, and her broken heart behind for a new start at Harbour House. Struggling to adjust to village life, Lucinda soon finds a sense of purpose in volunteering for the war effort until her past threatens to come back and ruin everything she has built for herself. The characters are well-written and detailed, and the expansion of other characters’ storylines helps develop the world Miller created. The depth of detail really brings the historical setting to life, and the various challenges of the war and 1940s society in this instalment add greater depth to the novel. Lucinda’s growth over the course of the book is particularly interesting, and her code-switching between Harbour House and London life adds drama and complexity to her narrative. The characters’ relationships create the emotional throughline of the book, while the new challenges introduced in this instalment set up the rest of the series. Packed with detail and brilliantly written, historical fiction fans will love this new release from Fenella Miller and the circumstances ahead of the Harbour House residents.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Trouble doesn't begin to describe the problems that come to Harbor House. I thought it might be Lucinda. She had let it be known that she was not happy being dumped in Wivenhoe by her parents after a scandal not of her making. With the way she was acting I was expecting her to be the problem. Her adventures and decisions proved me wrong. She ends up being a very interesting character, someone that others could look up to.
I didn't expect to read such a suspenseful story. The thrills just kept coming. A man is set on revenge. He thinks he is untouchable. He thinks he can lie, threaten and manipulate his way out of anything he does. I couldn't wait for his life to come crumbling down. It was very entertaining.
The challenges of living in war torn England continue to increase. It was fascinating learning how creative people could be. My mum used to talk about her school days, but I didn't quite understand them until I read some of Emily and George's experiences.
The most amazing thing about Trouble Comes to Harbour House was the importance of family. The Roby family are forever opening their hearts to others. The story was a very touching, emotional read. I can't wait to see what happens next.
I didn't expect to read such a suspenseful story. The thrills just kept coming. A man is set on revenge. He thinks he is untouchable. He thinks he can lie, threaten and manipulate his way out of anything he does. I couldn't wait for his life to come crumbling down. It was very entertaining.
The challenges of living in war torn England continue to increase. It was fascinating learning how creative people could be. My mum used to talk about her school days, but I didn't quite understand them until I read some of Emily and George's experiences.
The most amazing thing about Trouble Comes to Harbour House was the importance of family. The Roby family are forever opening their hearts to others. The story was a very touching, emotional read. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Harbour Girls Series #5
Wivenhoe, 1940. As war tightens its grip, the residents of Harbour House are doing their bit for King and Country - keeping calm throughout air raids, blackouts, and family issues. When Elizabeth Roby's glamorous young cousin Lucinda Somiton arrives from London, scandal at her heels and a broken heart in her past, she brings a spark of chaos to the quiet Essex town. Accustomed to champagne parties and bright lights, Lucinda struggles to adjust to ration books and village gossip. But when she volunteers to aid the war effort, Lucinda begins to find a sense of purpose - and perhaps a chance to redeem her name.
I quite like how this story developed in this well-written book. The characters were well-developed and the story line was interesting, especially the parts that explained how life was during WWII. Lucinda was publicly humiliated after being seduced by a married man, and sent to live with a cousin. But volunteering to aid the war effort just might make a better woman of her.
Published 3rd February 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #
fenellaJMiller for my ARC of #TroubleComesToHarbourHouse in exchange for an honest review.
Wivenhoe, 1940. As war tightens its grip, the residents of Harbour House are doing their bit for King and Country - keeping calm throughout air raids, blackouts, and family issues. When Elizabeth Roby's glamorous young cousin Lucinda Somiton arrives from London, scandal at her heels and a broken heart in her past, she brings a spark of chaos to the quiet Essex town. Accustomed to champagne parties and bright lights, Lucinda struggles to adjust to ration books and village gossip. But when she volunteers to aid the war effort, Lucinda begins to find a sense of purpose - and perhaps a chance to redeem her name.
I quite like how this story developed in this well-written book. The characters were well-developed and the story line was interesting, especially the parts that explained how life was during WWII. Lucinda was publicly humiliated after being seduced by a married man, and sent to live with a cousin. But volunteering to aid the war effort just might make a better woman of her.
Published 3rd February 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #
fenellaJMiller for my ARC of #TroubleComesToHarbourHouse in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An amazing story continuing the Harbour House series. We read as Emily matures into a thoughtful young girl. Her brothers George and Sammy have some growing-up hiccups but are still loveable lads. Baby Grace is growing up beautifully, too, and I love how everybody chips in to help look after her.
We learn more about the newcomer to the house, socialite Lucinda—Elizabeth's cousin. She has unhappily moved in there because of a scandal involving a married man. Initially, she rubs everybody up the wrong way, but after a bit of an epiphany, she decides to make the best of her new life. She starts helping out and being a proper part of the family. She even decides to sign up to help the war effort.
I enjoyed reading how Lucinda got her life back on track and about the latest dealings of the Robys at Harbour House. It's not all smooth sailing for Lucinda, especially when she has communication from her ex, which opens up a whole can of worms.
It is a captivating story made all the more interesting by being set during the war, which often teaches facts about the times amongst the fictional family's story. It leaves us with an introduction to the next book in the series, and I very much look forward to reading it.
We learn more about the newcomer to the house, socialite Lucinda—Elizabeth's cousin. She has unhappily moved in there because of a scandal involving a married man. Initially, she rubs everybody up the wrong way, but after a bit of an epiphany, she decides to make the best of her new life. She starts helping out and being a proper part of the family. She even decides to sign up to help the war effort.
I enjoyed reading how Lucinda got her life back on track and about the latest dealings of the Robys at Harbour House. It's not all smooth sailing for Lucinda, especially when she has communication from her ex, which opens up a whole can of worms.
It is a captivating story made all the more interesting by being set during the war, which often teaches facts about the times amongst the fictional family's story. It leaves us with an introduction to the next book in the series, and I very much look forward to reading it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was another engaging story in this series. It does tell what life was like for people living in 1940, especially how it was for family life. Emily, the daughter of the Roby family is 13 years old, and has two younger brothers. The reader learns about the family problems, what school is like and the lives of her friends. There is also a newcomer, a cousin, Lucinda. She is staying with them due to some scandal in London. Lucinda certainly brings an added interest, not only her behaviour but also her ambition and how she intends to help with the war effort. There is also a vile villain who thinks he is entitled to get what he wants, he does add an element of danger and interest to the story. This book captures what it was like for a family living during this period. I’ve read all the stories in this series and it’s been great seeing how the characters develop as they get older and how their circumstances affect them. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Although this is part of a series, it does work as a standalone book. Lucinda is only 18 when she is seduced by a married man and then publicly shamed. She is sent to live with her cousin, who has four children. Initially she is sulky and difficult to get along with, however, she soon sees the error of her ways. This is a book about family life during World War 2. Through a series of events, justice is served and Lucinda finds her way. While touching on big issues like poverty, adultery, punishment and class, it never gets too heavy. With a surprising twist at the end, this was a satisfying read. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for introducing me to this author, and I hope to read more of her work.
February 5, 2026
Having really enjoyed this series about the Roby family I was looking forward to reading this new addition to the Harbour House series. A new member of family arrives in the form of Lucinda Somiton but unfortunately she doesn’t blend in to the family very well. Having left London under a cloud after being outed in the gossip magazines for having an affair with an older married man Lucinda wasn’t happy being stuck in Wivenhoe with distance cousins. Luckily the lovely Roby family soon win Lincinda around as she realises for the first time what being part of a loving family is really like. It was great to catch up with these great characters again as they all adjust to life with the new family member. Lots going on in this book making it an unputdownable read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Read in 24hours which I always think says how much someone enjoyed the book in itself! Lucinda was a great addition to the family and she had a strong storyline. I thought when she went back to London to sell her coat she was going to do something stupid but thankfully she saw through her former lover and did the right thing! I hope the next book in the series continues with her storyline and the work she is now undertaking. I did miss Nancy and the Colchester storyline and hope when the baby arrives we hear more from them.
All in all highly recommended and a great read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and author for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.
All in all highly recommended and a great read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and author for allowing me to read and review an Arc copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the 5th in the Harbour House series, but it could be read as a standalone story. Lucinda, Elizabeth's cousin, comes to the Harbour House to stay with the Roby family during WWII. She's recovering from a scandal and hiding out.
This story has:
- a romantic scandal
- helping the war effort on the home front
- growing up from being a spoiled princess
- found family
- friendships
- sisterhood
- finding a supportive family
- dealing with sick family members
- revenge
I really enjoyed Lucinda, and I loved seeing her evolution from being a spoiled princess to a grown-up contributing to the war effort. I hope we see more of her in the next series.
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
This story has:
- a romantic scandal
- helping the war effort on the home front
- growing up from being a spoiled princess
- found family
- friendships
- sisterhood
- finding a supportive family
- dealing with sick family members
- revenge
I really enjoyed Lucinda, and I loved seeing her evolution from being a spoiled princess to a grown-up contributing to the war effort. I hope we see more of her in the next series.
Thanks to @boldwoodbooks, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love this series, it’s a real feel good read. Really enjoyed this new instalment in the series. It’s 1940, 18 year old Lucinda is seduced by a married man and then is publicly shamed. She is sent to live with her cousin and her family. Initially Lucinda behaves like a spoilt brat but she eventually changes her attitude and wants to join the war effort. Lucinda is a great addition into Harbour House, made an interesting read that was hard to put down. Can be read as a stand alone but I recommend starting at book 1. Highly recommend.
Publication date 3 Feb 2026. Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC.
Publication date 3 Feb 2026. Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC.
January 12, 2026
I’ve really enjoyed this series and this latest instalment is no exception. Lucinda Somiton is the disgraced cousin of Elizabeth Roby and initially she ruffles everyone’s feathers!! However when certain matters to come light Lucinda decides to change her ways, much to the delight of the Roby Household. As well as following Lucinda’s story we are kept up to date with Emily, George and Sam and what they’re doing. I must admit to finding Emily a little too sure of herself and often forget that she’s actually only supposed to be 12! I really liked how the story developed, including many facts about life during WW2. This is such a good series that pulls you in from the first page and keeps you fully engaged.
February 3, 2026
Lucinda who is Elizabeth younger cousin has come to stay at Harbour House after being disgraced by a affair with a married man. Lucinda is a hurricane and not in a good way as she upsets everyone in the house until she is pulled up by Elizabeth and then we get to see a more kind and caring side. George is also being a little terror and Emily doesn't like it so she hands the reins to her parents to get to the bottom of why he is being so unkind. It was thrilling, exciting and heartwarming in this addition and I once again felt in awe of how mature and sensible Emily is.
February 4, 2026
Another story in the Harbour House saga by Fenella.
The addition of Lucinda to the Roby family was an interesting development at the end of Book 4. This book mainly tells her story of why she joined them and a very nasty man with whom she was involved. She’s an intriguing young woman and there’s some surprises!
An entertaining read. Recommend.
NB must be read in order to follow the story through.
The addition of Lucinda to the Roby family was an interesting development at the end of Book 4. This book mainly tells her story of why she joined them and a very nasty man with whom she was involved. She’s an intriguing young woman and there’s some surprises!
An entertaining read. Recommend.
NB must be read in order to follow the story through.
January 29, 2026
The fifth book in this series and its best to read in order. The residents of Harbour House are growing up as war continues. This storyline picks up on the life of Lucinda, Elizabeths cousin, who comes to live with the Roby family. Amazing characters with great writing as usual. Thanks to Fenell and her publisher.
February 16, 2026
Harbour House
A fourth book in the Harbour House series is just as good as the other three. I couldn’t put it down and in no time i has finished reading it. I hope there will be a fifth book now.
A fourth book in the Harbour House series is just as good as the other three. I couldn’t put it down and in no time i has finished reading it. I hope there will be a fifth book now.
December 21, 2025
Wartime romance can make a person really question their choices in life. Lucinda has many choices to make. Will she make the right one?
February 15, 2026
good read
Can’t wait for the next one. Read in two days very good read from cover to cover couldn’t put it down
Can’t wait for the next one. Read in two days very good read from cover to cover couldn’t put it down
February 18, 2026
I didn’t enjoy this book as much as much as the others. I thought there would be more story line with the flying of planes. But this was put at the end of the story.
March 15, 2026
I have read all 5 of this book loved them x
March 16, 2026
A great story lookforward to no 6 hope we see more from Lucy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Trouble Comes to Harbour House by Fenella J. Miller is the latest installment in the Harbour House saga. Lucinda is an interesting addition to Harbour House. Despite a mistake in judgement, Lucinda is a smart, accomplished young lady. I like where her life was headed at the end of the book. I hope we continue to get updates on her life in future books in the series. The story was well written, thoroughly researched, and effectively reflected the time period. The characters present a compelling blend of personalities. The Roby family, in particular, stand out as especially engaging due to the dynamic events surrounding them. I enjoyed how the author vividly depicted Wivenhoe in Essex. The book showed the creative ways families dealt with rationing, and I found it interesting that keeping chickens meant losing egg ration coupons. Trouble Comes to Harbour House (fifth book in series) can be read as a standalone, but I believe it is best to read the series in order. I like how the Roby family are there for each other in good times and bad. Trouble Comes to Harbour House is a stirring story that shows the importance of family, especially during World War II.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews