Healing Hearts at The Forever Cottage

by Jill Steeples

💖💖 The continuation of Jill Steeples gorgeous escapist, heartwarming series, set in the beautiful Cotswold Countryside 🌼 Perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Heidi Swain and Sarah Bennett 🏡 The winds of change are sweeping through the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping.

After a tumultuous few months, Tess Alexander is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat, a beautiful lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage.

With her daughter Hannah home from her travels in Australia and her mother, Marjorie, acting out of character, Tess has to juggle many demands on her attention. Even her flourishing relationship with dashing Rob Templeton is put to the test when he faces an emotional dilemma from his past and Barney, her beloved beagle, has her at her wits end.

Tess can weather most storms with the unbridling support of her close friends Dilly, Gina and Suzy but when a passing remark in the local pub causes her to question one of those friendships, she wonders who can she really trust?

Can Tess overcome the obstacles in her path to find the happy ending she truly deserves?

A heartfelt story of hope, renewal and that everyone can have a new beginning and second chance from bestselling author Jill Steeples.

Praise for Jill

‘A gorgeous setting and wonderful characters, just the loveliest place to cosy up and escape to' - Beth Moran

'I love a fresh start story and this was a fabulous one with a stunning setting and a lovely supporting cast of friends and family. Left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling' - Jessica Redland

'A warm hearted novel about starting over, friendship and family set in the beautiful Cotswolds. A great start to a new series.' - Della Galton

'Loved the relatable characters, picture postcard setting and the feel-good vibe - what's not to love' - Jo Bartlett

'I loved everything about The Forever Cottage; the setting, the characters, and especially the dog! It was a truly uplifting and heartwarming read, of friendship and second chances, that showed that whatever the situation, there is always hope for the future.' - Kim Nash

'I knew I was in safe hands from the very first page. Jill has such a fluid, easy way with words that I was drawn straight into the story.' - Sarah Bennett

‘I have read every one in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them all. This was my favourite I think, totally recommend these feel good books.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Loved being back at Primrose Woods/Hall and to another story in the series although this could be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the full series for full enjoyment… This was another lovely read from this author within the beautiful setting of Primrose Hall and with an element of festive magic.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This is a delightful, warm and cosy read. Jill always writes such heart-warming books and never fails to disappoint.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Jill has been one of my favourite rom-com authors since I discovered her Dog and Duck series. She continues her excellent output her with a wonderfully warm and charming story.

Genres: Romance

Unknown Binding

About the author

Author also writes as J.E. Steeples

Jill Steeples lives in a small market town in Bedfordshire with her husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, crocheting, musical theatre, baking cakes, eating them and the occasional tipple.

From an early age she fell in love with the fabulously funny romances of Jilly Cooper, and vowed, one day, she would have a go at writing one of her own.

Jill started her career writing short stories, particularly those with a twist in the tail, and her work has appeared in popular women’s magazines around the world and in a number of charity anthologies.

Now she writes feel-good, uplifting fiction for Boldwood Books and her works include The Dog & Duck series and The Primrose Woods series.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Healing Hearts at The Forever Cottage, by Jill Steeples, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 2 in the Lower Leaping series. Tess has a lot going on, her daughter is back, she is opening a new retreat center, and her love life can use a pick me up. This was a feel good read, i enjoyed the characters.

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage is the second installment in the heartfelt Lower Leaping series set in the Cotswold countryside.

Tess is faced with reinventing her life after her marriage falls apart, caring for her elderly mother, helping her young adult daughter navigate a difficult situation, and readying the cottage on her property for rentals. There is a new man in her life and some conflict with a close friend. She’s juggling a lot.

Fans of reflective women ‘s fiction, characters you can cheer for, and new beginnings will find a great deal to appreciate in this warmhearted story.

Although it can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading the series in order for the most satisfying reading experience.

Thanks #Netgalley @BoldwoodBooks for a complimentary eARC of #HealingHeartsAtTheForeverCottage upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the Lower Leaping series. While it does stand alone I would suggest reading book one first.
We meet up again with Tess at Hollyhocks cottage. Her daughter Hannah is home and both are adjusting to their new life.
This was an easy quick book. It’s full of romance, family drama and good friends.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage by Jill Steeples

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

After a tumultuous few months, Tess Alexander is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat, a beautiful lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage.

With her daughter Hannah home from her travels in Australia and her mother, Marjorie, acting out of character, Tess has to juggle many demands on her attention. Even her flourishing relationship with dashing Rob Templeton is put to the test when he faces an emotional dilemma from his past and Barney, her beloved beagle, has her at her wits end.

Tess can weather most storms with the unbridling support of her close friends Dilly, Gina and Suzy but when a passing remark in the local pub causes her to question one of those friendships, she wonders who can she really trust?

Can Tess overcome the obstacles in her path to find the happy ending she truly deserves?

My Opinion

Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage is the second book in the Lower Leaping series but it can easily be read a standalone. Jill Steeples has written a lovely book with some great characters. A heart-warming read that was difficult to put down.

Rating 4/5

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jill Steeples has written a terrific follow-up with Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage, and I soon skipped through the pages, hungrily seeking updates on the characters I loved in the first book.

When we left Tess, she was well on her way to rebuilding her life. She had found a second chance at a relationship with Rob, welcomed her daughter, Hannah, back home and discovered a strong friendship with previously shunned neighbour, Dilly.

The dynamics are still in place on this second visit, and I was thrilled to learn that Tess’s new business venture is moving from dream to reality. Of course, the star of the show is, once again, the mischievous Beagle, Barney. His nose for adventure hasn’t dulled, and he continues to find trouble wherever it may be hiding.

Seeing the burgeoning relationship between Tess and Rob continue to thrive was lovely, but not without the odd cause for pause. Both of them have been hurt, so it’s reassuring to see their restraint and lack of confidence, which kept the story relatable. Jill got the pacing just right, and I am already looking forward to seeing where their futures may lie.

Hannah has bounced back from her personal traumas, and her strength is undeniable. Once again, her reactions felt right. Her relationship with her father was a cause for concern, and I felt her pain as she processed the effects of his decisions.

The descriptions of the fictional village of Lower Leaping left me in no doubt that the setting was in the Cotswolds, a place I have come to love. This virtual visit was a treat and served to ease my cravings for a trip down south.

I always enjoy Jill’s books; she writes from the heart and imagines truly believable characters. There’s a lightness of touch as she finds humour no matter how serious the situations prove to be. I may not be laughing uproariously, but I do often find myself smiling. More please!

[Bookstagramshaz Sharon Logue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Blog Tour …. My turn 👋🏽 …
Sypnosis - After a tumultuous few months, Tess Alexander is ready to welcome her first guests to The Garden Retreat, a beautiful Lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage.
With her daughter Hannah home from her travels in Australia and her mother, Marjorie, acting out of character, Tess has to juggle many demands on her attention. Even her flourishing relationship with dashing Rob Templeton is put to the test when he faces an emotional dilemma from his past and Barney, her beloved beagle, has her at her wits end. ❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️🏠❤️ Absolutely delighted to get an advanced copy of this book, thank you! It’s so lovely to read how Tessa’s life is going, following on from the last book. I do have a soft spot for 2nd chance at love books 🥰 . It’s great the way she has new and old friends being there for her and has become a lot more confident in herself. We get to hear more about her daughter Hannah and of course, Tessa’s love interest. But life never runs smooth does it?! Another great read from Jill Steeples , I do love her books. ❤️. #love #jillsteeplesauthor #instagram #instadaily #read

[Ann-Maree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healing Hearts at The Forever Cottage
by Jill Steeples

We dive back into Lower Leaping, a stunning Cotswold village, where Tess reconnects with her family and friends following the events of the first book. Some time has passed, and we see her daughter, Hannah, settling in after her adventures in Australia. Tess's mother, Marjorie, is behaving in unexpected ways, adding an intriguing layer to the story. Meanwhile, Tess's relationship with Rob continues to flourish, especially now that he has his own home.

Jess’s close friends—Dilly, Gina, and Suzy—return, bringing their unwavering support and depth to the narrative. This story also introduces two engaging new characters, Danny and Michael, who add excitement and promise for future developments. I have no doubt that they will be significant in upcoming stories.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like the first one, though I believe it could have been even stronger. I highly recommend reading the first book in the series to fully appreciate the journey. I highly recommend reading book one in the series first to get the full experience

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tess Alexander's life after the break-up of her marriage continues apace. She is ready to rent out her beautiful Garden Retreat but finds herself with a family member, her daughter, Hannah, back from her travels. Tess loves her new life and has a strong group of friends who support her. In addition, Tess is getting to know Rob who she befriended when he was down on his luck.They are both cautious and taking things slowly.

The community in the beautiful Cotswolds provides a background to Tess's life. You see her out in the village and get a real sense of the type of person she is. There is a fresh, uplifting air to the story and I am enjoying the series very much. Tess's daughter, Hannah's relationship is examined in more detail and we find out more about her ex-husband's life after he has left the family home. It is a diverting series with plenty to follow and some complicated feelings to unravel.

In short: next stages
Thanks to the publisher

[Karen Mace · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was lovely to catch up with Tess and the latest goings on at the Forever Cottage as she moves forward with her life, after her husband left her.

Her latest project is to have people stay at the Garden Retreat so that's her main focus, along with that of being there for her daughter as she recovers from heartbreak, deal with her mum acting out of character and all while she navigates a new relationship with Rob which began in book 1 of the Lower Leaping series!

I loved the cosy feel of this book, which I loved in The Forever Cottage, and it was so nice reconnecting so easily with the characters as you're made to feel part of the community with the goings on of the neighbourhood. There's life and love struggles and it feels really relatable and just nice to be back watching over it all seeing how life will pan out for them considering the new obstacles that appear! highly recommend!

[Kindle Book Worm By The Sea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the Lower Leaping series, and you could definitely read this as a stand alone book. Although I would highly recommend reading the first book - The Forever Cottage, as this gives you much more background on the characters.
I loved this second book, although just not quite as much as the first. I feel rob was lacking in this one a bit. I hope that there are some more books with Danny and Michael as would very much like to get to know those characters more especially Danny and Dilly with the Christmas party. Also totally unexpected with Marjorie’s new hobby which had both Tess and Hannah thinking there was something seriously wrong with her. Overall a lovely easy read where I could escape yet again.

Thankyou to Netgalley, the publisher and author for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review. All opinions are my own.

[The Lit · Rating 4 out of 5]

​A big thank you to NetGalley, author Jill Steeples, and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts!
​I’m giving this one a solid 4 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ While I think you could probably dive into this as a standalone, I highly recommend reading book one in the series first to get the full experience!
​This was such a cozy, good read filled with lovable and relatable characters that you can't help but root for. I’ll be honest—I think I liked the first book just a tiny bit more, but this was still a delight. If you are a Hallmark movie lover, this book is basically a warm hug in paper form.
​Head over to my profile @TheLitWhisperer for more cozy romance recs!
​#TheLitWhisperer #HealingHeartsAtTheForeverCottage #JillSteeples #NetGalley #Cottagecore #HallmarkVibes #CozyRomance #SummerReads #BookSeries #RelatableCharacters #RomanceReader #FeelGoodBooks

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

A feel good, cosy romance set in the Cotswolds. The second book in the Lower Leaping series but it can be easily read as a stand alone. I loved getting to know Tessa, her family, friends and dog Barney the Beagle. I enjoyed Tessa’s story of finding new love and building up a new business after a divorce whilst navigating issues with both her daughter and mother. The characters were all endearing, ai even found myself eventually feeling sympathy for ex-husband Charles who was quite annoying at the beginning. Her new romance with Rob was lovely, it was nice to see the two of them loving on together after their previous marriages failed. The Cotswolds Village and all its cottages sounded delightful- I was quite keen to come and stay in Tessa’s new B&B! A beautiful story of finding yourself and moving on.

[Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cozy feel good read about second chances, healing and overcoming personal struggles.

Tess is doing well. She is rebuilding her life, she has opened her heart to love with Rob, her daughter Hannah is back and her friendships are thriving. Her life isn't perfect and it seems like things are going to get stirred up with some drama that will keep Tess on her toes.
I was very excited for Tess that she was getting ready to rent out her The Garden Retreat. The whole village sounds fantastic and I want to live there. Her friends and the whole community was warm and embracing. I really loved Tess' character. She is loving, strong, resilient and very kind. I also liked Danny and Michael. And let's not forget the star of the whole book her beagle. Loved this book so much, made me feel so good about life.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.

[Nicola Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely step back in to the world of Lower Leaping, the cozy Cotswold village which is home to the main character Tess. In the first book, Tess has been married to Charles for 30 years when he shatters her world by saying he is leaving. In this new installment, Tess has moved on and is enjoying her relationship with Rob, looking after her adult daughter Hannah and building her new business. A warm and friendly woman, Tess has to navigate a few misunderstandings along the way, as the seasons head to the end of the year.

This is a delicious return to Hollyhocks cottage, with family meals, cozy chats and new love interests for some of the characters. I'm looking forward to the next in the series. With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book in exchange for a review.

[Leona · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the gorgeous Lower Leaping series and whilst it may be read as a standalone I would recommend reading book one first which is called The Forever Cottage. Like book one I was immediately drawn to the second book by the beautiful colourful cover. It was fabulous to be back in the village of Lower Leaping and get reacquainted with the characters. I love all the characters but especially Tess who I took to my heart from the very start. Whilst this is an easy read it’s also one that had me totally invested in every chapter . I absolutely loved the descriptions of this fictional village in the Cotswolds and found myself imagining living there. This is a book filled with friendship and romance and I loved every chapter

[Colin Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is, the follow up book to The Forever Cottage and Tess is expecting her first guests in The Garden Retreat, the lodge in the grounds of Hollyhocks Cottage. It can be read as a standalone book, however it is well worth reading the previous book first. I like Tess and the other characters, plus the Cotswolds setting definitely sounds idyllic. The strong friendship amongst the group is something that I'd definitely like to be part of, something that is missing for many of us. Naturally things don't always go to plan, but equally there are plenty of positives. An ideal cosy read.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Carolanne Barry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Boldwood Books for this ARC.
Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage is book 2 of the Lower Leaping series by Jill Steeples.
I had not read the previous book, but as much of the backstory is explained, you can read this book as a standalone. This is a gentle, cosy love story. Possibly, this book might be aimed at older women, but it has a strong heart. Tess is very relatable (her daughter, Hannah, not so much), and the storyline draws you in with its cosiness, albeit if it all feels ever so slightly predictable. The book never feels dull, and yomps along at a good pace. The author does an excellent job of bringing the beautiful Cotswolds to life. Overall, this is a lovely, cosy, quick, lighthearted read that will give you all the feels.

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book but didn't love it. I haven't read the first book in the series so may have been move invested if I had, although it does do a good job at giving detail on what transpired so you don't feel like you are missing half the tale. In fact if I had read book one I could have potentially spent much of the first half skim reading the summary.

I couldn't warm to Hannah - for a woman who has travelled across the world and gone through some tragic events she came across as remarkably immature in her behaviour: I would have thought her around 17 if we weren't told otherwise.

Obviously Barney is the star of the show.

Worth picking up for a light summer read.

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful follow up book from The Forever Cottage but it could be read as a standalone but I think you get better experience and enthusiasm if you read the first book first. Tess has started her garden retreat B&B and it isn't without it's challenges. Her daughter Hannah is back home and keeping Tess on alert with worries. Tess relationship with Rob is progressing or maybe not? And her ex husband Charles is still a pain. Barney her gorgeous dog is probably the only one that hasn't changed and is up to his usual doggy antics. Tess also hears something at the pub that has her questioning her friendships. I got all the warm hearted feels reading this delightful book.

[mel_neverendingtbr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage follows Tess who has her hands full with her daughter being back from her trip and her mischievous beagle Barney and her new man Rob.

She also has decided to open the annex up for rental so is getting it ready for visitors.

She has moved on but what will happen when a comment is made about her husband and one of her friends ? And will her relationship with Rob stay the same with his ex being on the scene

This book is actually the second in the series, I’ve not read the first one. I really enjoyed this story. I loved all the characters.

Thank you to Netgally for letting me read this story.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful follow on to the first book. Tess is opening her annexe as a BnB, her relationship with Rob is blooming and her daughter is home and doing well. Through all the curveballs life throws at her throughout this story, she stands strong, finding a resilience within herself she didn't know she had. Of course, the support of her wonderful friends, both old and new, makes things easier to deal with. A fantastic, sweet, cozy story.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Jill Steeples for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage is taking me to the next chapters in Tess’s life. It brings the characters along from the first book in the series. The bumps in the road for Tess and her friends and family make the adjustment to her own life full of things that make the story real and give readers the look at her life and how she handles it all. This is one that you will really enjoy reading.
Thank You NetGalley, Jill Steeples and BoldWood Books for the Arc of Healing Hearts at the Forever Cottage. This is my personal review.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I was able to find the audio version through my local library.

I have read a lot of Jill Steeples books and I love them so much. This one I just could not put down. I loved the cover! And I loved all the characters. If you are looking for an easy to read romance, family lighthearted drama you will love this. I love her books because there is hardly or noy cussing, not sex scenes and they are just very cozy reads! I highly recommend!

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great addition to the Lower Leaping series and it was great to catch up with the characters from the previous book as well as meeting some new ones. Tess Alexander lives in Hollyhocks Cottage and has turned her beautiful lodge in the garden into The Garden Retreat. As she gets ready to welcome her first guests she also has deal with plenty of drama! Her daughter Hannah is home, her ex keeps turning up on the doorstep, her new relationship with Rob has a few issues and her mother Marjorie is acting very strangely, to name a few! . I loved how this flowed with the dramas being weaved in. The characters are well described and believable and with a gorgeous setting this leaves you with a heartwarming feeling. Looking forward to the next one

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

To describe Healing Hearts in one word it would be "sweet". This was a lovely feel good read following Tess along with her daughter Hannah and mother Marjorie. Part of the Lower Leaping series of books set in the Cotswolds, it reads perfectly as a standalone. The Healing Hearts title was appropriate with Tess and her family and friends all healing their hearts in one way or another throughout the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the arc for review.

[Roo · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in Lower Leaping, a beautiful Cotswold village where Tess is opening up a new retreat. She’s exciting, but apprehensive. Her life is full, her daughter is home from Australia and her love life has been fun. It’s a cozy easy read that will fill an afternoon. I am really enjoying this series, the author is great at pulling you in. A 5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.

[Barb Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy to be back at the forever cottage. Tess is finding her way after the divorce. Her daughter Hannah is back from a difficult time and Charles has a medical emergency. I love the friend group that Tess has. Rob is a good new person in Tess's life, and this is a "wow, life blew up but I survived story"
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another wonderful book by Jill Steeples. I enjoyed this follow-up on the lives of Tess and her daughter Hannah plus her beagle Barney. Tess is still getting ready for visitors to stay in her little guest house in the back garden while slowly building her relationship with Rob and Hannah settles in back at home after the abrupt end to her gap year adventures. This story is full of family and close friendships. Looking for to the third book.

[Catherine Hutchinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the follow up to The Forever Cottage and we return to Lower Leaping and meet up with the much loved character Tess from the first book. This book continues Tess's journey following her split with her husband of 30 years and it is good to find out what happens to Tess, Hannah and their circle of friends.
Although this is the second book, it could also be read as a standalone and would make an ideal holiday read.

[Julie Brookes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I also listened to the Audio book, which is very well narrated.
This was the follow up to The Forever Cottage and we return to Lower Leaping and meet up with the much loved character Tess from the first book. This book continues Tess's journey following her split with her husband of 30 years and it is good to find out what happens to Tess, Hannah and their circle of friends.

Although this is the second book, it could also be read as a standalone and would make an ideal holiday read.