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The Cottage in the Clouds
When Elin Pugh’s life in London crumbles, she returns to the Welsh mountains of her childhood to care for Anwen Jones, the enigmatic artist who once filled her young heart with dreams of creativity and freedom.
Anwen lives alone in a ramshackle cottage high in the hills, surrounded by cats and decades of dust-covered paintings. Fiercely independent and famously difficult, she’s spent years driving away visitors with her sharp tongue and signs warning trespassers to ‘Go Away’. But as Elin settles into life in the shadow of the mountains, she discovers that beneath Anwen’s prickly exterior lies a woman with an extraordinary story to tell.
Helping the ailing artist catalogue a lifetime of work, Elin begins to uncover long-buried secrets about her own past that her mother has kept hidden for over thirty years. Soon she discovers that her journey home was about more than escaping – it was about finding out who she really is, rediscovering the life-changing joy of creativity and learning where she truly belongs.
A sweeping story of love, loss and the wonder of the natural world, The Cottage in the Clouds explores how creativity and unexpected bonds can help us to heal and find our way back to ourselves.
Anwen lives alone in a ramshackle cottage high in the hills, surrounded by cats and decades of dust-covered paintings. Fiercely independent and famously difficult, she’s spent years driving away visitors with her sharp tongue and signs warning trespassers to ‘Go Away’. But as Elin settles into life in the shadow of the mountains, she discovers that beneath Anwen’s prickly exterior lies a woman with an extraordinary story to tell.
Helping the ailing artist catalogue a lifetime of work, Elin begins to uncover long-buried secrets about her own past that her mother has kept hidden for over thirty years. Soon she discovers that her journey home was about more than escaping – it was about finding out who she really is, rediscovering the life-changing joy of creativity and learning where she truly belongs.
A sweeping story of love, loss and the wonder of the natural world, The Cottage in the Clouds explores how creativity and unexpected bonds can help us to heal and find our way back to ourselves.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
About the author
Caroline Young
130 books29 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads data base.
Caroline Young read English at Cambridge University and taught English in Greece and the UK before joining Usborne as a writer and editor. She has written books about a huge variety of subjects, for all ages, and believes it's one of the best jobs in the world. Caroline lives and works on Anglesey in North Wales.
Caroline Young read English at Cambridge University and taught English in Greece and the UK before joining Usborne as a writer and editor. She has written books about a huge variety of subjects, for all ages, and believes it's one of the best jobs in the world. Caroline lives and works on Anglesey in North Wales.
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Elin Pugh's life in London has become anything but fulfilling. She grew up on a sheep farm in the mountains of North Wales, where her happiest memories were visiting an artist's cottage with her father.
Anwen Jones came to her father's funeral and, before leaving, privately said,
There are other memories, too, and more sleepless nights. Maybe now that she's remembered Anwen's message, this is the time to return to Wales. Maybe a visit could offer some clarity about the past—and what the future might hold.
I've never been to Eryri (formerly Snowdonia), but through the author's sensory writing, I was immersed in the stark contrasts: Tooting, a district in London, versus the small village of Llanberis; travel by train, car, and bus through shifting landscapes; the character's experiences in youth and adulthood. The wide range of emotions resonated deeply—decisions that seemed so right at the time but in hindsight felt so different.
Throughout the narrative, there are quotes by George Eliot. I would share my favorites, but I believe each reader should enjoy them as they are placed most thoughtfully and purposefully in the storyline. I think the quotes that become favorites of each reader will be uniquely meaningful, just as each book impacts a reader in its own way. When a reader sees that another is reading the story, the joy is shared, but the meaning behind the pleasure can be entirely different, yet magical all the same.
I appreciated the format with Welsh words in italics, followed immediately by English translations after a slash.
This is a story that stays with you long after the final page is turned.
Thank you to Caroline Young, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
Anwen Jones came to her father's funeral and, before leaving, privately said,
"I'll be waiting for you, Elin, when the time is right."What did the artist mean by that? Elin hadn't seen or spoken to Anwen since before she left Wales for art school.
There are other memories, too, and more sleepless nights. Maybe now that she's remembered Anwen's message, this is the time to return to Wales. Maybe a visit could offer some clarity about the past—and what the future might hold.
I've never been to Eryri (formerly Snowdonia), but through the author's sensory writing, I was immersed in the stark contrasts: Tooting, a district in London, versus the small village of Llanberis; travel by train, car, and bus through shifting landscapes; the character's experiences in youth and adulthood. The wide range of emotions resonated deeply—decisions that seemed so right at the time but in hindsight felt so different.
Throughout the narrative, there are quotes by George Eliot. I would share my favorites, but I believe each reader should enjoy them as they are placed most thoughtfully and purposefully in the storyline. I think the quotes that become favorites of each reader will be uniquely meaningful, just as each book impacts a reader in its own way. When a reader sees that another is reading the story, the joy is shared, but the meaning behind the pleasure can be entirely different, yet magical all the same.
I appreciated the format with Welsh words in italics, followed immediately by English translations after a slash.
This is a story that stays with you long after the final page is turned.
Thank you to Caroline Young, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
February 2, 2026
What I liked:
*The relationships between Elin, Anwen and eventually Cara
*Barbara’s growth and Elin’s eventual understanding
*The cats and dog
What I didn’t like:
*Endless descriptions of the beauty of Northern Wales (maybe it’s just me)
*Elin’s emotions over Dylan-very contradicting
*The endless wait for the big secret reveal— which I figured out early in the book
The women and their relationships as Anwen’s health declined was sweet. Great epilogue, too!!!
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
*The relationships between Elin, Anwen and eventually Cara
*Barbara’s growth and Elin’s eventual understanding
*The cats and dog
What I didn’t like:
*Endless descriptions of the beauty of Northern Wales (maybe it’s just me)
*Elin’s emotions over Dylan-very contradicting
*The endless wait for the big secret reveal— which I figured out early in the book
The women and their relationships as Anwen’s health declined was sweet. Great epilogue, too!!!
Advanced reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
January 30, 2026
I have really enjoyed Caroline Young’s novels. There is something very special about them. And this one really captured my heart—and I read it on my birthday! I could relate to the pull of roots you can feel toward one’s homeland. Especially one reflecting the wonders of the natural world. The beauty of mountains and sea have more than once led me down some creative paths. As Anwen, Elin and Dylan discovered, they each have their own song you can hear when you stand in their presence. And there is nothing more grounding and inspiring, because nature connects us to the bigger picture.
The title, The Cottage in the Clouds, sounds poetic and certainly reflects the eloquent language, stunning descriptions, atmospheric setting and artistic characters (writer, artist, singer/songwriter) that round out this gorgeous tale. I loved how the author interjected often appropriate lines by George Eliot to support Elin’s thoughts during various movements within the storyline. The Victorian England novelist George Eliot (penname of Mary Ann Evans) is known for her complex character studies and psychological insight which suits The Cottage in the Clouds to a tee! As we are given characters of profound depth that think and act in ways not necessarily expected or easily explained. Elin is lost and trying to find her way, exploring many threads of her life. She heads back to the Welsh mountains to see Anwen who is an enigma and not easily understood, hoping for answers. George Eliot’s words are so right for this story, starting with the opening passage “there is a great deal of unmapped country within us.’ How mysterious and true! This story takes us on a journey of self- discovery. Mostly Elin (but others) need to find out what is most important to live a whole, satisfied life.
Elin is called back to her wild roots in the Welsh mountains. There is something within her that seeks understanding, direction and to find that missing piece of the puzzle that will help her feel complete. There is a void to fill before she can move forward. She has many obstacles to overcome, including feelings of distrust. She’s had a few disappointments in relationships: romantically and also in family members. So she goes back to the beginning to her childhood friend where she spent many hours learning about art and her surroundings. Her late father was part of those pictures in her mind of some happy times spent with Anwen, their friend. What does it all mean? For the most part, he was not a happy man either. He lost his teenage brother in a tragic accident and was forced to take on a farm he did not want. Elin’s mother also was unhappy and lived a forced life there. Not a great environment for fostering confidence in a child. Making her time with Anwen, the artist, even more important for this woman was an inspiration. It was there Elin ‘sought solace in drawing and painting…trying to make sense of her world on paper or on canvas.’ Reading literature also fuelled her heart. Particularly George Eliot’s strong heroines who ‘yearned for more than marriage’.
Upon Elin’s return to Wales, she bumps into a musician-singer named Dylan who also comes home after he feels the call to re-explore his roots, too, and to spend time with his sister. They have an immediate connection and appear to be kindred spirits. They share some moving moments on the mountain. But progress is slow for them as they each must learn to trust again. Their journey, though, apart and together is beautifully rendered. I loved Dylan’s gentle nature and his unfailing support for his sister and for Elin. Their quiet romance unfolds cautiously but naturally between them.
I am so glad I read The Cottage in the Clouds. Though there are sad moments, this was such an uplifting story for in the end Elin finds what she was looking for and receives even more than she dreamed. This heartfelt, honest, tender and triumphant novel will stay with me forever. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the review copy.
The title, The Cottage in the Clouds, sounds poetic and certainly reflects the eloquent language, stunning descriptions, atmospheric setting and artistic characters (writer, artist, singer/songwriter) that round out this gorgeous tale. I loved how the author interjected often appropriate lines by George Eliot to support Elin’s thoughts during various movements within the storyline. The Victorian England novelist George Eliot (penname of Mary Ann Evans) is known for her complex character studies and psychological insight which suits The Cottage in the Clouds to a tee! As we are given characters of profound depth that think and act in ways not necessarily expected or easily explained. Elin is lost and trying to find her way, exploring many threads of her life. She heads back to the Welsh mountains to see Anwen who is an enigma and not easily understood, hoping for answers. George Eliot’s words are so right for this story, starting with the opening passage “there is a great deal of unmapped country within us.’ How mysterious and true! This story takes us on a journey of self- discovery. Mostly Elin (but others) need to find out what is most important to live a whole, satisfied life.
Elin is called back to her wild roots in the Welsh mountains. There is something within her that seeks understanding, direction and to find that missing piece of the puzzle that will help her feel complete. There is a void to fill before she can move forward. She has many obstacles to overcome, including feelings of distrust. She’s had a few disappointments in relationships: romantically and also in family members. So she goes back to the beginning to her childhood friend where she spent many hours learning about art and her surroundings. Her late father was part of those pictures in her mind of some happy times spent with Anwen, their friend. What does it all mean? For the most part, he was not a happy man either. He lost his teenage brother in a tragic accident and was forced to take on a farm he did not want. Elin’s mother also was unhappy and lived a forced life there. Not a great environment for fostering confidence in a child. Making her time with Anwen, the artist, even more important for this woman was an inspiration. It was there Elin ‘sought solace in drawing and painting…trying to make sense of her world on paper or on canvas.’ Reading literature also fuelled her heart. Particularly George Eliot’s strong heroines who ‘yearned for more than marriage’.
Upon Elin’s return to Wales, she bumps into a musician-singer named Dylan who also comes home after he feels the call to re-explore his roots, too, and to spend time with his sister. They have an immediate connection and appear to be kindred spirits. They share some moving moments on the mountain. But progress is slow for them as they each must learn to trust again. Their journey, though, apart and together is beautifully rendered. I loved Dylan’s gentle nature and his unfailing support for his sister and for Elin. Their quiet romance unfolds cautiously but naturally between them.
I am so glad I read The Cottage in the Clouds. Though there are sad moments, this was such an uplifting story for in the end Elin finds what she was looking for and receives even more than she dreamed. This heartfelt, honest, tender and triumphant novel will stay with me forever. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
Caroline Young’s many novels have in common the author’s passion for landscapes and seascapes, the more storied the better. In this book, the female lead character leaves a rundown London suburb that you can practically smell with no more ambitious plan than to spend some time in the Northern Welsh countryside of her childhood. Elin Pugh has a job she dislikes, a bullying female boss who constantly finds fault with her work, and a philandering boyfriend about whom her dreams of forever have been shot. An only child, she has never been close to her widowed mother Barbara, and remembers little warmth between her parents in her earliest memories of the old sheep farm that her father had inherited—quite against his will—after the unexpected death of his older brother.
In order to get unstuck from the mid-life mess she finds herself in and move forward, Elin feels the urge to ‘go back.’ She is ready, then, when her mother suddenly announces that she is marrying a wealthy man whom Elin has never met, to take temporary refuge in the small town cottage where most of her growing up had taken place.
Once in Welsh territory, the ‘unsticking’ happens very quickly, almost magically. There is a third space, however, that is most evocative of where Elin comes from: the cottage in the sky, so-called because it is perched precariously on a narrow path winding up a mountain. Here is the ancient and mostly crumbling cottage of the eccentric artist (is there any other kind?) Anwen Jones. Anwen occasionally pierces Elin’s vague early childhood memories, mostly in reference to her father and his brother, who had perished in a mountain accident for which her father has always blamed himself. A rough and not-always-friendly old woman, living alone and isolated and fiercely independent, Anwen entices Elon with stories of her barely-remembered father. Soon she is pretty much ensconced in the cottage as she helps a declining Anwen catalogue her acclaimed artworks. She also helps her to write her memoirs. Meanwhile, she becomes increasingly a part of the community into which she was born, especially the troubadour Dylan and his reclusive sister Cara. Slowly, under Anwen’s brusque tutelage, Elin learns about the historic local crafts, their connection to the land, and her own connection to both. She uncovers a few secrets that the author fairly hints at. By the end, Elin knows who she is and what she wants as never before.
Young effectively sketches how her characters change as their environment changes, even the stubborn and stalwart Anwen. Her depiction of the land, the sea and the mountains is masterful and makes me long to see Wales. As mentioned, things move quickly: it seems a bit too easy for Elin to discard her city life and create a new one. The right piece, the one that links the necessary steps, always just appears at the right time. This is particularly the case with her near-instant relationship with Dylan. She talks about taking her time, not wanting to be tied down after having been burned, wanting time to focus on herself. But she doesn’t act that way. The same is true about her friendship with his initially reluctant sister: one moment they are rude to each other, the next they are soulmates. The first half is a slow build-up to a major event, while the second puts things together almost too neatly. Elin’s story, however, will resonate with readers who feel they are missing something in their lives and ultimately find that it was always in their power to find it.
Caroline Young’s many novels have in common the author’s passion for landscapes and seascapes, the more storied the better. In this book, the female lead character leaves a rundown London suburb that you can practically smell with no more ambitious plan than to spend some time in the Northern Welsh countryside of her childhood. Elin Pugh has a job she dislikes, a bullying female boss who constantly finds fault with her work, and a philandering boyfriend about whom her dreams of forever have been shot. An only child, she has never been close to her widowed mother Barbara, and remembers little warmth between her parents in her earliest memories of the old sheep farm that her father had inherited—quite against his will—after the unexpected death of his older brother.
In order to get unstuck from the mid-life mess she finds herself in and move forward, Elin feels the urge to ‘go back.’ She is ready, then, when her mother suddenly announces that she is marrying a wealthy man whom Elin has never met, to take temporary refuge in the small town cottage where most of her growing up had taken place.
Once in Welsh territory, the ‘unsticking’ happens very quickly, almost magically. There is a third space, however, that is most evocative of where Elin comes from: the cottage in the sky, so-called because it is perched precariously on a narrow path winding up a mountain. Here is the ancient and mostly crumbling cottage of the eccentric artist (is there any other kind?) Anwen Jones. Anwen occasionally pierces Elin’s vague early childhood memories, mostly in reference to her father and his brother, who had perished in a mountain accident for which her father has always blamed himself. A rough and not-always-friendly old woman, living alone and isolated and fiercely independent, Anwen entices Elon with stories of her barely-remembered father. Soon she is pretty much ensconced in the cottage as she helps a declining Anwen catalogue her acclaimed artworks. She also helps her to write her memoirs. Meanwhile, she becomes increasingly a part of the community into which she was born, especially the troubadour Dylan and his reclusive sister Cara. Slowly, under Anwen’s brusque tutelage, Elin learns about the historic local crafts, their connection to the land, and her own connection to both. She uncovers a few secrets that the author fairly hints at. By the end, Elin knows who she is and what she wants as never before.
Young effectively sketches how her characters change as their environment changes, even the stubborn and stalwart Anwen. Her depiction of the land, the sea and the mountains is masterful and makes me long to see Wales. As mentioned, things move quickly: it seems a bit too easy for Elin to discard her city life and create a new one. The right piece, the one that links the necessary steps, always just appears at the right time. This is particularly the case with her near-instant relationship with Dylan. She talks about taking her time, not wanting to be tied down after having been burned, wanting time to focus on herself. But she doesn’t act that way. The same is true about her friendship with his initially reluctant sister: one moment they are rude to each other, the next they are soulmates. The first half is a slow build-up to a major event, while the second puts things together almost too neatly. Elin’s story, however, will resonate with readers who feel they are missing something in their lives and ultimately find that it was always in their power to find it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Elin Pugh had been working in a boring job in London for seven years, after her years of travel and heartbreak. When she took a few days off from her job (much to her boss' disgust) Elin travelled back to her old home in Wales, where she'd grown up with her prickly mother and devoted father. Now her father was gone and her mother was preparing for a new life, while the old family friend she remembered from her childhood, enigmatic artist Anwen Jones, was someone Elin needed to reconnect with. The old ramshackle cottage that Anwen lived in, nestled at the base of the mountains, was still the same as Elin remembered from years prior. And Anwen was still the fiercely independent, cranky old woman the locals knew her to be.
Elin returned to Anwen at Christmas, permanently, and soon discovered Anwen wasn't well. She also discovered Anwen wanted Elin to write a book of her life, and so the next weeks and months were devoted to Anwen's stories. A well-known artist, with works all over the world, the book would be well received if Elin could do it justice. There were secrets to uncover, and secrets Anwen didn't want to speak of. Elin also knew there were secrets in her own past, but wondered if she could break those open? Both her mother, Barbara, and Anwen, refused to speak of some parts of the past. Meanwhile, Elin and her new friend Cara would walk in the mountains, listening to nature speaking to them, something Anwen had taught Elin...
The Cottage in the Clouds is a heartwarming tale of familial love and loss, freedom, the joy of creativity and of healing by Caroline Young. The mountains surrounding the story are a character of their own, and play a big part, while Anwen and Elin are exceptional. I've loved the Welcome to Anglesey series, and this one is no different, although it's a standalone. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
Elin returned to Anwen at Christmas, permanently, and soon discovered Anwen wasn't well. She also discovered Anwen wanted Elin to write a book of her life, and so the next weeks and months were devoted to Anwen's stories. A well-known artist, with works all over the world, the book would be well received if Elin could do it justice. There were secrets to uncover, and secrets Anwen didn't want to speak of. Elin also knew there were secrets in her own past, but wondered if she could break those open? Both her mother, Barbara, and Anwen, refused to speak of some parts of the past. Meanwhile, Elin and her new friend Cara would walk in the mountains, listening to nature speaking to them, something Anwen had taught Elin...
The Cottage in the Clouds is a heartwarming tale of familial love and loss, freedom, the joy of creativity and of healing by Caroline Young. The mountains surrounding the story are a character of their own, and play a big part, while Anwen and Elin are exceptional. I've loved the Welcome to Anglesey series, and this one is no different, although it's a standalone. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.
March 16, 2026
Eryri (Snowdonia) is more than a mountain range; it is the rugged heartbeat of Wales. Rising from the mist of the Neoproterozoic Era, these peaks—forged by volcanic fire and carved by ice—stand as a testament to deep time and cultural resilience.
The Spirit of the Peaks
For locals, Eryri is a linguistic fortress for Cymraeg (the Welsh language) and a landscape steeped in the Mabinogion myths. For artists like Turner or Kyffin Williams, the shifting slate-grey light provides endless inspiration. While tourists flock to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) for the view, the region’s soul lies in its industry: the slate quarries that "roofed the world" defined the grit and artistry of the Welsh working class.
Traditions and Geography
The Noson Lawen (meaning "merry night") is a cornerstone of Welsh social life. Originating in farmhouse kitchens, these informal gatherings of music, poetry, and "talwrn" (wit) fostered community bonds during harsh winters.
The surrounding landscape is equally storied:
Nant Ffrancon Pass: A glacial valley of haunting beauty.
Bethesda: The "Slate Capital," defined by the Penrhyn Quarry.
Llanberis & Llyn Padarn: The gateway to the peaks, home to the National Slate Museum.
Aberffraw: Once the capital of the Kingdom of Gwynedd on Anglesey.
Royal Connections
Photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones was the son of a prominent Welsh barrister from Caernarfon. Upon his marriage to Princess Margaret in 1960, he was created 1st Earl of Snowdon, choosing the title to honour his ancestral roots. The couple spent time in the region, and the Earl remained a passionate advocate for Welsh design and craftsmanship throughout his life.
The Path to Healing
Creativity is the bridge between our internal chaos and the external world. When we engage in "unexpected bonds" or reconnect with someone—whether with distant family members, friends, or strangers or a new medium of art—we bypass our defensive ego. Eryri teaches us that even the most weathered landscapes hold beauty. By leaning into the "Noson Lawen" spirit of shared vulnerability, we find that we aren't lost; we are simply being reshaped, much like the mountains themselves.
The Spirit of the Peaks
For locals, Eryri is a linguistic fortress for Cymraeg (the Welsh language) and a landscape steeped in the Mabinogion myths. For artists like Turner or Kyffin Williams, the shifting slate-grey light provides endless inspiration. While tourists flock to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) for the view, the region’s soul lies in its industry: the slate quarries that "roofed the world" defined the grit and artistry of the Welsh working class.
Traditions and Geography
The Noson Lawen (meaning "merry night") is a cornerstone of Welsh social life. Originating in farmhouse kitchens, these informal gatherings of music, poetry, and "talwrn" (wit) fostered community bonds during harsh winters.
The surrounding landscape is equally storied:
Nant Ffrancon Pass: A glacial valley of haunting beauty.
Bethesda: The "Slate Capital," defined by the Penrhyn Quarry.
Llanberis & Llyn Padarn: The gateway to the peaks, home to the National Slate Museum.
Aberffraw: Once the capital of the Kingdom of Gwynedd on Anglesey.
Royal Connections
Photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones was the son of a prominent Welsh barrister from Caernarfon. Upon his marriage to Princess Margaret in 1960, he was created 1st Earl of Snowdon, choosing the title to honour his ancestral roots. The couple spent time in the region, and the Earl remained a passionate advocate for Welsh design and craftsmanship throughout his life.
The Path to Healing
Creativity is the bridge between our internal chaos and the external world. When we engage in "unexpected bonds" or reconnect with someone—whether with distant family members, friends, or strangers or a new medium of art—we bypass our defensive ego. Eryri teaches us that even the most weathered landscapes hold beauty. By leaning into the "Noson Lawen" spirit of shared vulnerability, we find that we aren't lost; we are simply being reshaped, much like the mountains themselves.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was absolutely not what I expected going in—and if I’m being completely honest, it’s not usually my go-to type of read. I went in anticipating more of a mystery based on the blurb, but instead found a quiet, emotionally rich story focused on relationships, long-held secrets, and the difficult work of learning to trust again.
At its heart, this is a novel about silences: the things left unsaid, the choices made out of fear or ambition, and the way love can fade or fracture when honesty is withheld. Elin’s journey back to Wales feels heavy but purposeful, as she confronts past trauma, unresolved relationships, and a deep sense of being unmoored in her life. Her connection with Anwen, in particular, was the strongest part of the book for me—complex, prickly, tender, and deeply human. Watching that relationship evolve added real emotional weight to the story.
The Welsh setting is beautifully done. Caroline Young’s writing brings the landscape to life in a way that feels almost magical, grounding the emotional journey in mountains, mist, and quiet isolation. The atmosphere is one of the book’s greatest strengths, and I loved how place and memory were so tightly intertwined.
That said, there were elements that didn’t fully work for me. Some parts felt a bit far-fetched, and I struggled to completely buy into the romantic connection between Elin and Dylan—it developed quickly, and I wanted more depth and buildup to really believe in it. Still, while the romance wasn’t my favorite aspect, it didn’t take away from the overall emotional impact of the story.
Overall, The Cottage in the Clouds is a beautifully written, thoughtful, and emotionally honest novel. While it wasn’t entirely my “cup of tea,” I appreciated its depth, themes of healing and loyalty, and its stunning sense of place. A reflective, gentle read that will resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven stories rooted in emotion and landscape.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC—this review reflects my honest thoughts.
At its heart, this is a novel about silences: the things left unsaid, the choices made out of fear or ambition, and the way love can fade or fracture when honesty is withheld. Elin’s journey back to Wales feels heavy but purposeful, as she confronts past trauma, unresolved relationships, and a deep sense of being unmoored in her life. Her connection with Anwen, in particular, was the strongest part of the book for me—complex, prickly, tender, and deeply human. Watching that relationship evolve added real emotional weight to the story.
The Welsh setting is beautifully done. Caroline Young’s writing brings the landscape to life in a way that feels almost magical, grounding the emotional journey in mountains, mist, and quiet isolation. The atmosphere is one of the book’s greatest strengths, and I loved how place and memory were so tightly intertwined.
That said, there were elements that didn’t fully work for me. Some parts felt a bit far-fetched, and I struggled to completely buy into the romantic connection between Elin and Dylan—it developed quickly, and I wanted more depth and buildup to really believe in it. Still, while the romance wasn’t my favorite aspect, it didn’t take away from the overall emotional impact of the story.
Overall, The Cottage in the Clouds is a beautifully written, thoughtful, and emotionally honest novel. While it wasn’t entirely my “cup of tea,” I appreciated its depth, themes of healing and loyalty, and its stunning sense of place. A reflective, gentle read that will resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven stories rooted in emotion and landscape.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC—this review reflects my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Elin Pugh was born and brought up on a farm in North Wales. Realising that she's now living an unfulfilling life in London, spurred on by her mother's sudden re-marriage and the surfacing of long forgotten childhood memories, Elin returns home in the hope of re-discovering herself. On the remote Welsh mountainsides of her youth, what she actually discovers is far greater than she could have imagined.
This is a lovely, sweet, gentle story written first and foremost by someone who clearly adores the rugged wilds of North Wales. The authors own personal connection with the area really comes across and adds to the experience of the story. There are a lot of broad topics covered in the book - friendship, family, grief, and finding your own path in life - and they're all handled sensitively. The relationships between Elin, her mother Barbara, and old friend Anwen develop so nicely throughout; they feel very genuine and believable.
One of the things I found tricky about this book is how slow the pace is. The story does make this necessary, it takes place over the course of a year and the characters need the space to develop, but I definitely found that the slowness of the book made it feel repetitive at points; and it also had the unintended effect of making the ending feel quite rushed in comparison. I also got quite tired of the endless George Eliot quotes - don't get me wrong, she was a fantastic author; but the over-reliance on her words had me eye rolling after the first half of the book.
This is an incredibly sweet and gentle book. There are some plot points which are clearly telegraphed and easy to see coming but other points when the plot goes in a slightly different direction to what you might expect. It's a touching, poignant read and I think most readers are likely to find something to relate to in its pages.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
This is a lovely, sweet, gentle story written first and foremost by someone who clearly adores the rugged wilds of North Wales. The authors own personal connection with the area really comes across and adds to the experience of the story. There are a lot of broad topics covered in the book - friendship, family, grief, and finding your own path in life - and they're all handled sensitively. The relationships between Elin, her mother Barbara, and old friend Anwen develop so nicely throughout; they feel very genuine and believable.
One of the things I found tricky about this book is how slow the pace is. The story does make this necessary, it takes place over the course of a year and the characters need the space to develop, but I definitely found that the slowness of the book made it feel repetitive at points; and it also had the unintended effect of making the ending feel quite rushed in comparison. I also got quite tired of the endless George Eliot quotes - don't get me wrong, she was a fantastic author; but the over-reliance on her words had me eye rolling after the first half of the book.
This is an incredibly sweet and gentle book. There are some plot points which are clearly telegraphed and easy to see coming but other points when the plot goes in a slightly different direction to what you might expect. It's a touching, poignant read and I think most readers are likely to find something to relate to in its pages.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4* Absolutely not what I expected and not my cup of tea, but a tale with warmth, sadness, friendships and learning to trust and love - the latter, slightly not-quite-believably...
I think I expected a cosy mystery based on the blurb, but instead I got a tale of secrets and silences; of love that got lost because of secrets; of love that endured despite one party's selfishness/ambition; of learning to open up to others and leave past hurts in the past where they belonged; and of loyalty and doing the right thing. And all of this was interspersed with a little Welsh goodness, decency and magic, and the magic of the mountains, as it turned out.
It wasn't at all a book I'd have picked up had I known the storyline but there was something honest and healing about it, and it felt non-surreal, and believable. The only bit I didn't believe in was the supposed love between Elin and Dylan, because after meeting him and having a supposed magical connection, she went off and basically became a fund manager's mistress. Not a lover or girlfriend, but a mistress by what was described. Not my idea of a 'full-on relationship', as Elin described it later on, and not my idea of romance. That guy didn't need to be part of the story and tbh, didn't really deserve to be ghosted, despite his me, me, me-ness, because Elin had silently agreed to his terms and conditions by not disagreeing to the presents, and not voicing any objections. She wasn't likeable, I didn't feel, but she did have a sense of duty at the right time and did do the right thing by someone who it turned out, hadn't done the right thing by her. A bit farfetched, perhaps, but still, a good read.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my reading pleasure.
I think I expected a cosy mystery based on the blurb, but instead I got a tale of secrets and silences; of love that got lost because of secrets; of love that endured despite one party's selfishness/ambition; of learning to open up to others and leave past hurts in the past where they belonged; and of loyalty and doing the right thing. And all of this was interspersed with a little Welsh goodness, decency and magic, and the magic of the mountains, as it turned out.
It wasn't at all a book I'd have picked up had I known the storyline but there was something honest and healing about it, and it felt non-surreal, and believable. The only bit I didn't believe in was the supposed love between Elin and Dylan, because after meeting him and having a supposed magical connection, she went off and basically became a fund manager's mistress. Not a lover or girlfriend, but a mistress by what was described. Not my idea of a 'full-on relationship', as Elin described it later on, and not my idea of romance. That guy didn't need to be part of the story and tbh, didn't really deserve to be ghosted, despite his me, me, me-ness, because Elin had silently agreed to his terms and conditions by not disagreeing to the presents, and not voicing any objections. She wasn't likeable, I didn't feel, but she did have a sense of duty at the right time and did do the right thing by someone who it turned out, hadn't done the right thing by her. A bit farfetched, perhaps, but still, a good read.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my reading pleasure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cottage in the Clouds is such a beautiful, atmospheric story, and I quickly felt completely immersed in its North Wales setting. The title itself perfectly reflects the book’s imagery, soft, vivid, and full of quiet magic.
I instantly connected with Elin, whose life feels a little adrift when we meet her. Her journey to finding clarity and direction felt incredibly relatable, and the book captures that delicate feeling of being stuck and treading water whilst watching those around you appear to have it all together. It was such a quick, engaging read for me, the kind you sink into without even realising how fast you’re turning the pages.
The characters were written wonderfully too. Anwen, in particular, was so abrasive and crabby at times that I found myself reacting out loud, but that only made her feel even more realistic. She leaps off the page as someone who has lived a life full of sharp edges and quiet pride.
One of my favourite aspects was the idea of listening to the mountains. As a city dweller, that concept felt so peaceful, so far removed from everyday noise and rush. It added a layer of serenity to the story that I really loved. In fact, the descriptions of the Welsh landscape were so vivid that I’m genuinely tempted to book a trip to North Wales just to experience that beauty first-hand and maybe try listening to the mountains myself.
Overall, Cottage in the Clouds is a gentle, heartfelt read with a stunning sense of place, relatable characters, and a storyline that quietly lifts you. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who loves stories about rediscovery, grounding, and the healing power of nature.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I instantly connected with Elin, whose life feels a little adrift when we meet her. Her journey to finding clarity and direction felt incredibly relatable, and the book captures that delicate feeling of being stuck and treading water whilst watching those around you appear to have it all together. It was such a quick, engaging read for me, the kind you sink into without even realising how fast you’re turning the pages.
The characters were written wonderfully too. Anwen, in particular, was so abrasive and crabby at times that I found myself reacting out loud, but that only made her feel even more realistic. She leaps off the page as someone who has lived a life full of sharp edges and quiet pride.
One of my favourite aspects was the idea of listening to the mountains. As a city dweller, that concept felt so peaceful, so far removed from everyday noise and rush. It added a layer of serenity to the story that I really loved. In fact, the descriptions of the Welsh landscape were so vivid that I’m genuinely tempted to book a trip to North Wales just to experience that beauty first-hand and maybe try listening to the mountains myself.
Overall, Cottage in the Clouds is a gentle, heartfelt read with a stunning sense of place, relatable characters, and a storyline that quietly lifts you. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who loves stories about rediscovery, grounding, and the healing power of nature.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Big thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
The story follows Elin, a Welsh woman in her early thirties, who decides to visit Anwen, her late father's best friend with whom she spent a lot of time during her childhood and met years later at her father's funeral. Feeling she has a lot to learn from her about future path and about the past of her family, she visits the grumpy elderly artist in her cottage in the mountains, ending up staying to take care of her. During their time, Anwen and Elin rekindle their relationship while Elin takes a leap of faith to find her path and face the family secret she never would have imagined.
First of all, I loved this book in many ways. It was heartwarming and heartwrenching at the same time and was beautifully atmospheric. It also had a sweet romance subplot which tied up loose ends of Elin's development beautifully. I found both Anwen and Elin relatable in many ways and was totally rooting for the development of their bond. There were certainly some predictable aspects to the story and I guess any seasoned reader would have seen them coming, but this predictability wasn't necessarily a minus in this book's case. The only thing that really really distracted me was the way the author inserted "Welsh word/English word" in the dialogues, which made some dialogues sound very unnatural. Footnotes stating the English equivalent of the Welsh words or expressions would have been much better to avoid putting the reader off the interactions between characters.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm happy to have been given the chance to read the ARC. It's perfect for fans of atmospheric reads with the tropes of found family, healing from loss, and radical decisions to find one's path.
The story follows Elin, a Welsh woman in her early thirties, who decides to visit Anwen, her late father's best friend with whom she spent a lot of time during her childhood and met years later at her father's funeral. Feeling she has a lot to learn from her about future path and about the past of her family, she visits the grumpy elderly artist in her cottage in the mountains, ending up staying to take care of her. During their time, Anwen and Elin rekindle their relationship while Elin takes a leap of faith to find her path and face the family secret she never would have imagined.
First of all, I loved this book in many ways. It was heartwarming and heartwrenching at the same time and was beautifully atmospheric. It also had a sweet romance subplot which tied up loose ends of Elin's development beautifully. I found both Anwen and Elin relatable in many ways and was totally rooting for the development of their bond. There were certainly some predictable aspects to the story and I guess any seasoned reader would have seen them coming, but this predictability wasn't necessarily a minus in this book's case. The only thing that really really distracted me was the way the author inserted "Welsh word/English word" in the dialogues, which made some dialogues sound very unnatural. Footnotes stating the English equivalent of the Welsh words or expressions would have been much better to avoid putting the reader off the interactions between characters.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm happy to have been given the chance to read the ARC. It's perfect for fans of atmospheric reads with the tropes of found family, healing from loss, and radical decisions to find one's path.
March 3, 2026
Caroline Young writes heart-warming stories about ordinary people and their everyday lives in Wales. This is the third of her novels that I have read, previously they have been set on the beautiful island of Anglesey, where she lives. This is the first novel she has set anywhere other than the island, this time the setting is in the mountains of Eryi or Snowdon. Living on the edge of the National Park myself it is lovely to be able to visualise the locations that the author describes so well.
The main protagonist in 'The Cottage in the Clouds' is Elin Pugh who is currently feeling very unsettled in her London life. A call to help an elderly friend back in Wales where she grew up sounds like the ideal escape and opportunity to decide what she wants to do next with her life. Anwen, the elderly lady who played a large part in Elin's childhood is a talented artist but known locally as very grumpy and somewhat of a recluse. The homecoming makes Elin realise that something is missing from her life. As she and Anwen become closer and secrets from the past come to the surface, Elin begins to feel that maybe this is where she is meant to be. The big secret I guessed early on in the novel as it is rather predictable, however that did not detract from the story as the truth is slowly revealed to Elin.
Recommend this gentle story to lovers of Wales looking to be transported to the wild and beautiful countryside whilst enjoying a tender tale of finding oneself.
Thanks to Storm Publishing, the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review ' The Cottage in the Clouds'
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
The main protagonist in 'The Cottage in the Clouds' is Elin Pugh who is currently feeling very unsettled in her London life. A call to help an elderly friend back in Wales where she grew up sounds like the ideal escape and opportunity to decide what she wants to do next with her life. Anwen, the elderly lady who played a large part in Elin's childhood is a talented artist but known locally as very grumpy and somewhat of a recluse. The homecoming makes Elin realise that something is missing from her life. As she and Anwen become closer and secrets from the past come to the surface, Elin begins to feel that maybe this is where she is meant to be. The big secret I guessed early on in the novel as it is rather predictable, however that did not detract from the story as the truth is slowly revealed to Elin.
Recommend this gentle story to lovers of Wales looking to be transported to the wild and beautiful countryside whilst enjoying a tender tale of finding oneself.
Thanks to Storm Publishing, the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review ' The Cottage in the Clouds'
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Cottage in the Clouds is one of those novels that wraps around you like a warm shawl — gentle, atmospheric, and full of emotional truth. From the moment Elin returns to the Welsh mountains, the story settles into a beautifully reflective rhythm, blending landscape, memory, and creativity in a way that feels both soothing and deeply moving.
Elin is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: bruised by life, unsure of her next step, and quietly yearning for something she can’t quite name. Her return home feels like a reckoning, but also a homecoming she didn’t know she needed. And then there’s Anwen — prickly, sharp‑tongued, and utterly captivating. Watching the walls between them slowly soften is one of the book’s greatest pleasures.
The cottage itself is a character too: dusty canvases, roaming cats, and the wild beauty of the mountains pressing in from every side. There’s a sense of magic in the everyday — in the act of cataloguing art, in shared silences, in the way creativity begins to stir again inside Elin.
As secrets from the past come to light, the story deepens into something tender and resonant. It’s about mothers and daughters, the weight of unspoken truths, and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild a life. The themes of healing and rediscovery are handled with such warmth that you can’t help feeling uplifted by the end.
A beautifully written, soul‑nourishing novel that celebrates art, nature, and the unexpected connections that help us find our way back to ourselves.
With thanks to Caroline Young, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Elin is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: bruised by life, unsure of her next step, and quietly yearning for something she can’t quite name. Her return home feels like a reckoning, but also a homecoming she didn’t know she needed. And then there’s Anwen — prickly, sharp‑tongued, and utterly captivating. Watching the walls between them slowly soften is one of the book’s greatest pleasures.
The cottage itself is a character too: dusty canvases, roaming cats, and the wild beauty of the mountains pressing in from every side. There’s a sense of magic in the everyday — in the act of cataloguing art, in shared silences, in the way creativity begins to stir again inside Elin.
As secrets from the past come to light, the story deepens into something tender and resonant. It’s about mothers and daughters, the weight of unspoken truths, and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild a life. The themes of healing and rediscovery are handled with such warmth that you can’t help feeling uplifted by the end.
A beautifully written, soul‑nourishing novel that celebrates art, nature, and the unexpected connections that help us find our way back to ourselves.
With thanks to Caroline Young, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for an e-arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
There was a lot I liked about this book. One of my favorite parts was the inclusion of Welsh words with the English translation, instead of just giving us the English version. I liked getting to see more inside of a culture I don't know much about yet. I also loved the message that it's never too late to find what you're passionate about but that you also have to be brave enough to take the leap and go for it which can be difficult to do.
I do feel that the book was a little bit too long. I feel like we got too much of certain parts and not enough of other parts.
Elin being Anwen's biological daughter became obvious to me pretty early on and I do wish they had gotten to have a conversation about it. I feel like for such a big reveal, it was kind of rushed over and we moved on from it quickly.
My least favorite part was the romance. It was very hard to believe that after one day and two run ins, Elin and Dylan were in love. I do think the quick falling in love is possible but I don't feel like we got the set up to believe it in this case, especially with how resistant Elin was. It was hard to believe that she would go from being hesitant to being in a relationship with him at all to then being married in a short amount of time. It also seemed like it got wrapped up quickly to give her a happily ever after but I don't think the book even really needed a romance component in it.
I would rate this a 3.5 stars.
There was a lot I liked about this book. One of my favorite parts was the inclusion of Welsh words with the English translation, instead of just giving us the English version. I liked getting to see more inside of a culture I don't know much about yet. I also loved the message that it's never too late to find what you're passionate about but that you also have to be brave enough to take the leap and go for it which can be difficult to do.
I do feel that the book was a little bit too long. I feel like we got too much of certain parts and not enough of other parts.
Elin being Anwen's biological daughter became obvious to me pretty early on and I do wish they had gotten to have a conversation about it. I feel like for such a big reveal, it was kind of rushed over and we moved on from it quickly.
My least favorite part was the romance. It was very hard to believe that after one day and two run ins, Elin and Dylan were in love. I do think the quick falling in love is possible but I don't feel like we got the set up to believe it in this case, especially with how resistant Elin was. It was hard to believe that she would go from being hesitant to being in a relationship with him at all to then being married in a short amount of time. It also seemed like it got wrapped up quickly to give her a happily ever after but I don't think the book even really needed a romance component in it.
I would rate this a 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
Set mostly in North Wales, this is about the life of Elin, a young woman who has had a difficult life so far, with illnesses of loved ones and little luck in her lovelife, she is stuck in a job she dislikes in London. Her mother announces suddenly that she is remarrying in Bath and Elin decides to go back to North Wales, to visit a good friend of her father. Anwen lives in an isolated cottage and she doesn't initially welcome Elin with open arms , but as their friendship grows deeper, they become closer and good company for each other. Secrets are revealed as Elin starts to write the autobiography of Anwen, an artist but some topics are not open to discussion.
Although I enjoyed the book on the whole and it was an easy read, I did have some issues with some of it. The setting is an area I know fairly well so I can picture the setting. I also guessed the main secret fairly early on, but that didn't really matter. Elin comes across as too naive, I didn't understand her obsession with a previous relationship or the "fling"she had in London with a domineering man. Although I appreciate that there are secrets in families, this book seemed too old fashioned in this day and age. The relationships with both Cara and Dylan developed very quickly which didn't ring true either. The plot was interesting enough for me to keep reading and for me to want to know what happened. Although I do not often read this sort of book, I liked this one, though I`m not sure that it has made me want to read more.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Although I enjoyed the book on the whole and it was an easy read, I did have some issues with some of it. The setting is an area I know fairly well so I can picture the setting. I also guessed the main secret fairly early on, but that didn't really matter. Elin comes across as too naive, I didn't understand her obsession with a previous relationship or the "fling"she had in London with a domineering man. Although I appreciate that there are secrets in families, this book seemed too old fashioned in this day and age. The relationships with both Cara and Dylan developed very quickly which didn't ring true either. The plot was interesting enough for me to keep reading and for me to want to know what happened. Although I do not often read this sort of book, I liked this one, though I`m not sure that it has made me want to read more.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
February 28, 2026
The Cottage in the Clouds swept me straight into the Welsh mountains with its gorgeous sense of place. The story follows a woman seeking a fresh start in a remote mountaintop cottage, and the setting absolutely shines—rugged, windswept, and so vividly described that it feels like stepping into another world. The Welsh/English translations sprinkled throughout the book were a delight, adding warmth, authenticity, and a real connection to the culture and community.
The descriptive writing is easily the novel’s standout strength. Every scene feels textured and alive, from the shifting weather to the quiet rhythms of village life. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to pack a bag and go find your own cottage in the clouds.
Where it didn’t quite land for me was the romance. It felt a bit forced and didn’t match the natural beauty and emotional depth of the rest of the story. Combined with a slower pace, especially through the middle, it sometimes made the reading experience feel drawn out.
Even so, the atmosphere, cultural detail, and stunning landscape make this a memorable read—perfect for anyone who loves immersive settings, gentle storytelling, and books that transport you somewhere peaceful and wild.
Thank you to Caroline Young, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The descriptive writing is easily the novel’s standout strength. Every scene feels textured and alive, from the shifting weather to the quiet rhythms of village life. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to pack a bag and go find your own cottage in the clouds.
Where it didn’t quite land for me was the romance. It felt a bit forced and didn’t match the natural beauty and emotional depth of the rest of the story. Combined with a slower pace, especially through the middle, it sometimes made the reading experience feel drawn out.
Even so, the atmosphere, cultural detail, and stunning landscape make this a memorable read—perfect for anyone who loves immersive settings, gentle storytelling, and books that transport you somewhere peaceful and wild.
Thank you to Caroline Young, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first novel by Caroline Young, and it absolutely won’t be my last. The Cottage in the Clouds is a quietly beautiful, emotionally layered story that unfolds with patience and care, anchored by prose that is both gentle and deeply affecting. Elin begins the novel weighed down by dissatisfaction, grief, and a fractured relationship with her mother, living a constricted life in London that never quite fits. When she returns to Wales, the writing leans heavily into reflection—memory, landscape, and long-buried truths slowly rising to the surface. Young excels at atmosphere and character work, particularly in the evolving relationship between Elin and the reclusive, sharp-edged artist Anwen Jones, whose reluctant connection becomes one of the book’s emotional anchors. The story takes its time, gradually unraveling decades of secrets and emotional wounds, but that deliberate pacing suits the novel’s themes of healing and self-reckoning. Tender and tough in equal measure, this is a thoughtful, immersive read that lingers long after the final page. Thank you to NetGalley, Caroline Young, and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this advance copy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Received as an ARC through Netgalley to review, this is an honest review.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for the pre- approval access to read this book.
Author Caroline Young has written a beautiful, emotional reflective journey within The Cottage in the Clouds that's vividly painted like one of a Anwen Jones's paintings. Elin Pugh's personal and professional lives are falling around her; struggling to give a damn as a copy writer on London and complicated relationship with her mother as the family moves behind the death of a husband and father. The only real bright spot in Elin's childhood was artist Anwen Jones, would believed in the girl's talent during Elin's visists to the woman's isolated cottage. Throwing all caution to the wind, Elin comes back to rediscover the bond she had with Anwen; finding a different and difficult person but still seeing the talented woman behind a lonely existence. Together both women will discover their stories, legacies and profound secrets that define the path that lays ahead for both of them; all breathtaking set against the wild, untamed beauty of the Welsh country.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for the pre- approval access to read this book.
Author Caroline Young has written a beautiful, emotional reflective journey within The Cottage in the Clouds that's vividly painted like one of a Anwen Jones's paintings. Elin Pugh's personal and professional lives are falling around her; struggling to give a damn as a copy writer on London and complicated relationship with her mother as the family moves behind the death of a husband and father. The only real bright spot in Elin's childhood was artist Anwen Jones, would believed in the girl's talent during Elin's visists to the woman's isolated cottage. Throwing all caution to the wind, Elin comes back to rediscover the bond she had with Anwen; finding a different and difficult person but still seeing the talented woman behind a lonely existence. Together both women will discover their stories, legacies and profound secrets that define the path that lays ahead for both of them; all breathtaking set against the wild, untamed beauty of the Welsh country.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I had high hopes for this book - probably unfair to set my expectations above the clouds. The story set in Wales with a salty, elderly, famous artist at its core, promised to be a discovery of belonging. Instead, what I found was Elin, the protagonist, unable to break her previous disappointments and move forward. In an instant with a great leap of faith she makes a move, taken out of frustration, which quickly devolves to the obvious and repetitive. An argument could be made that the role of protagonist was shared with the much stronger character of Anwen Jones, the aforementioned artist.
Crumbs are dropped along the way, none of which are as mysterious as portrayed and once again it is all fairly obvious. Constantly flashing back on an unrequited love affair was annoying, added little and slowed the progression of the story. One or two quotes from a favorite author can enhance meaning but constant references are a reach to fit square pegs in round holes.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for a copy.
Crumbs are dropped along the way, none of which are as mysterious as portrayed and once again it is all fairly obvious. Constantly flashing back on an unrequited love affair was annoying, added little and slowed the progression of the story. One or two quotes from a favorite author can enhance meaning but constant references are a reach to fit square pegs in round holes.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for a copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Elin feels stuck in a life that doesn’t seem like her own. As she reminisces about the past she feels called to visit her deceased father’s old friend, Anwen, an artist living in the mountains in Wales near where Elin grew up.
From there the story unfolds somewhat slowly but the imagery generated through the author’s descriptions of the surroundings has me wanting to visit this area for a hike and to listen for the “song of the mountains.” I appreciated the inclusion of the Welsh language (and its translations) and feel like I got a glimpse of what it would be like to live in a remote village. I could relate to Elin in her journey to find herself and how that led to a deeper understanding of her family members. Even crotchety old Anwen grew on me by the end and I was touched to see her tender side as she dealt with her failing health. Overall, I enjoyed taking my time with the story and look forward to reading more from the author.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.
From there the story unfolds somewhat slowly but the imagery generated through the author’s descriptions of the surroundings has me wanting to visit this area for a hike and to listen for the “song of the mountains.” I appreciated the inclusion of the Welsh language (and its translations) and feel like I got a glimpse of what it would be like to live in a remote village. I could relate to Elin in her journey to find herself and how that led to a deeper understanding of her family members. Even crotchety old Anwen grew on me by the end and I was touched to see her tender side as she dealt with her failing health. Overall, I enjoyed taking my time with the story and look forward to reading more from the author.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a beautiful story.
As Elin's work life is crumbling in London she takes a trip back to her home town in the Welsh mountains. She goes to the Cottage in the clouds where she has so many great memories with her dad and the woman that lived there Anwen(a well known artist). She is hoping that despite the fall out Anwen had with her now deceased dad that she will welcome her in. While the first meeting doesn't go great, Elin continues to make headway until she and Anwen are friends and then family again. While Elin is at a crossroads in her life she is feeling that she should be back her to live and not London. Elin steps in when Anwen's health begins to fail, and takes care of everything. Anwen wants her to write a book about her life and as they dig into the past together there are many lovely and shocking revelations.
I don't want to say much more as the story was so good that I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
Enjoy the story and feeling.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
As Elin's work life is crumbling in London she takes a trip back to her home town in the Welsh mountains. She goes to the Cottage in the clouds where she has so many great memories with her dad and the woman that lived there Anwen(a well known artist). She is hoping that despite the fall out Anwen had with her now deceased dad that she will welcome her in. While the first meeting doesn't go great, Elin continues to make headway until she and Anwen are friends and then family again. While Elin is at a crossroads in her life she is feeling that she should be back her to live and not London. Elin steps in when Anwen's health begins to fail, and takes care of everything. Anwen wants her to write a book about her life and as they dig into the past together there are many lovely and shocking revelations.
I don't want to say much more as the story was so good that I don't want to ruin it for anyone.
Enjoy the story and feeling.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
February 22, 2026
Elin Pugh returns to her Welsh homeland after leaving London. She recalls a figure from her childhood, Anwen Jones, an artist, who encouraged Elin's own endeavors in that field. She finds that Anwen, who lives alone on a remote hillside, is sharp-tongued to the point of driving away anyone who tries to see her. Undaunted, Erin continues to visit and somewhat reluctantly agrees to help Anwen catalog her decades of work. As more of Anwen's story unfolds, Erin begins to discover secrets in her own family and why Anwen seemed to be a central figure in her life so many years ago.
Though I figured out where the story was headed long before the end, it was still an enjoyable journey. The author describes the people and the setting, including Anwen's cottage, in such a beautiful, detailed way that it is easy to form a picture. The two main characters are likeable, Anwen, despite her prickliness, and readers will root for Erin to find the answers and the peace that she seeks.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Though I figured out where the story was headed long before the end, it was still an enjoyable journey. The author describes the people and the setting, including Anwen's cottage, in such a beautiful, detailed way that it is easy to form a picture. The two main characters are likeable, Anwen, despite her prickliness, and readers will root for Erin to find the answers and the peace that she seeks.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m giving this a 4 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was absolutely not what I anticipated, and if I’m being honest, it wasn’t exactly my typical "cup of tea." However, it was a beautifully written story filled with emotional depth, long-lost friendships, and the difficult journey of learning to trust again.
I went in expecting some sort of mystery based on the blurb of the book... Instead, I found a heavy, honest tale of secrets and silences—of love that withered because of hidden truths and ambitious choices. It’s a story about healing from past trauma and choosing loyalty over convenience, all set against a stunningly described Welsh backdrop that felt genuinely magical.
I’ll admit, there were parts that felt a bit far-fetched for me. I struggled to fully "buy into" the romantic connection between Elin and Dylan for example... but all in all a good read.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
This was absolutely not what I anticipated, and if I’m being honest, it wasn’t exactly my typical "cup of tea." However, it was a beautifully written story filled with emotional depth, long-lost friendships, and the difficult journey of learning to trust again.
I went in expecting some sort of mystery based on the blurb of the book... Instead, I found a heavy, honest tale of secrets and silences—of love that withered because of hidden truths and ambitious choices. It’s a story about healing from past trauma and choosing loyalty over convenience, all set against a stunningly described Welsh backdrop that felt genuinely magical.
I’ll admit, there were parts that felt a bit far-fetched for me. I struggled to fully "buy into" the romantic connection between Elin and Dylan for example... but all in all a good read.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was an engaging story, mainly concerning Elin and her relationship with her family and friends. The setting is in North Wales and I enjoyed the descriptions of places I had visited a number of times. Anwen is an old friend that Elin had visited when she was younger but for some unknown reason had stopped seeing her. Elin is trying to decide what to do with her life and goes to revisit places from her past. Anwen is one of the people she visits. They have a connection through art, Anwen being a famous artist and Elin enjoys being creative. There are a number of secrets that are slowly revealed as well as the complicated relationship with Barbara, Elin’s mother. I did enjoy this story, there is a romantic element but also some sadness. It does have a very satisfying ending. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story is about a woman, Elin, trying to find herself. After failed relationships and losing her job, she returns to the place she grew up and goes to meet an old woman that she remembers going to visit with her now passed father. She knows that it is important for her to go to Anwen for some reason.
Through her caring for the ailing Anwen in her isolated cottage, Elin is given bits of wisdom about doing what she is meant to do with her life--professionally and in finding love. There are also secrets that ever so slowly come out (the pace of the book is pretty slow, but I never thought of walking away from it).
The story focuses on Elin finding herself, finding friends and finding family. It was a lovely book that was written very well.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for the copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
Through her caring for the ailing Anwen in her isolated cottage, Elin is given bits of wisdom about doing what she is meant to do with her life--professionally and in finding love. There are also secrets that ever so slowly come out (the pace of the book is pretty slow, but I never thought of walking away from it).
The story focuses on Elin finding herself, finding friends and finding family. It was a lovely book that was written very well.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for the copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
February 22, 2026
A well-paced, thought-provoking tale that will stay with you long after the last page is read. I would have read this in one sitting if I hadn't had other responsibilities and I couldn't wait to pick up where I left off. I was pulled into the story from the very first chapter and loved the beautifully descriptive narrative. It's emotional and heartwarming with great character development and beautiful friendships. Parts of this story really resonated with me as I'm sure it will resonate with many other readers. There are some quotes by George Eliot throughout, as well as Welsh words followed by the English translation, all of which added to the story. I've never been to Wales but after reading this book, it's a place I'd love to add to my bucket list.
I received a complimentary digital copy from NetGalley. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary digital copy from NetGalley. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
January 15, 2026
What a lovely read, this is the story of Elin and how unhappy she is with most things in her life. Elin works in London and lives in a small flat, she has friends but she loves the land of her birth Wales. Elin hasn't been home since her father passed away and has a chilly relationship with her mother. Elin starts to remember things about her home and of a lady called Anwen Jones and suddenly feels such a draw to her that she goes home to visit her. Anwen is a semi recluse and a very well know artist and has a lovely sign on her gate saying Artist at work - Go away !
Little does Elin know the visit will change her life forever.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Publishers Storm Publishing for the opportunity of the early read 📚
Little does Elin know the visit will change her life forever.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Publishers Storm Publishing for the opportunity of the early read 📚
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a lovely book about Anwen and Elin--two women so very different but also alike. Elin is a writer when her mother calls to tell her she's marrying a man named George and she remembers her own father who took her to meet Anwen--an artist who lived high on the hill. She also remembers her dad's brother who died in those mountains and she tells her boss she needs to leave for awhile so she goes to the "cottage in th clouds" and meets the enigmatic Anwen. That's all you need! It's a beautiful--often heartwarming--tale about women, love, kinship, and hope!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A heartwarming story set in Wales . Beginning with Elin, who is dissatisfied with her life in London, returns to her childhood home in Northern Wales. She reconnects with an older woman, Anwen, whom she fondly remembers from her childhood. Family secrets will be revealed and her rekindled friendship with Anwen had me crying throughout the book. The scenery is beautiful; having been to Wales, I now want to return! Some readers will have trouble with the book, keep reading and you will be rewarded with a wonderful story. The only reason for my 4 star rating is that I had trouble with the Welsh/English translation sometimes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I LOVED this book and devoured it in one day.
Having read the author's previous books set on the Island of Anglesey, I was expecting the same location, but this time the book is set around Llanberis, an area I know well, so it was an added bonus for me, and I can confirm it is faithfully described.
This is an emotional read about secrets, lies and discovering that the place you might run away from may in fact be the place you should be running to. A coming home of locations and emotions. While I'd spotted what the big secret was early on this didn't take from the emotion of it being discovered by the characters,
Another beautiful read by this author.
Having read the author's previous books set on the Island of Anglesey, I was expecting the same location, but this time the book is set around Llanberis, an area I know well, so it was an added bonus for me, and I can confirm it is faithfully described.
This is an emotional read about secrets, lies and discovering that the place you might run away from may in fact be the place you should be running to. A coming home of locations and emotions. While I'd spotted what the big secret was early on this didn't take from the emotion of it being discovered by the characters,
Another beautiful read by this author.
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