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Fairytale Beginnings
Love is an open door…except when it keeps slamming in your face
Hopeless romantic Milly Rose has had her fair share of heartbreak. Obsessed with all things Disney, she refuses to give up on finding her Prince Charming – he’s out there somewhere, isn’t he?
When Milly is given a job to investigate the origins of a historical building in the village of Clover's Rest, she’s not sure what to expect. What she discovers takes her breath away - a beautiful real life Cinderella castle, complete with turrets, a magnificent drawbridge AND a very handsome owner…Cameron Heartstone.
As Milly and Cameron begin to unearth the secrets of Clover Castle, they can’t ignore the intense chemistry building between them. But they’ve both been hurt badly before. Can they take a big leap of faith and find their own happily-ever-after?
A deliciously enchanting read that will delight fans of Rachael Lucas, Lucy Diamond and Miranda Dickinson or anyone who has ever blubbed at a Disney movie. Who says real life can’t be a fairytale?
‘Holly Martin writes about life and love with such big-hearted warmth and flair.’ Belinda Jones
‘Holly Martin makes me laugh out loud. Her stories are filled with memorable, lovable characters who reel me in and leave me giggling long after I finish the book.’ Jenny Hale
Read what everyone is saying about Holly Martin’s previous
'One Hundred Proposals is beautifully romantic, riveting, completely irresistible and a story that will make you fall in love with love.' Victoria Loves Books
'Funny, poignant and riveting as well as romantic. Don't miss The Guestbook! I couldn't get enough of the guests' entries and it's got humour, heartbreak, loss, love.' I Heart Chick Lit
'If you’re going to buy any book then buy this delightful one! The Guestbook is splendid, it is beautiful, it is magical and it will leave you with such a smile on your face!' Reading in the Sunshine
'This was honestly, 100% one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read – I devoured it in 2 sittings! Holly’s writing style is so easy and fluent it gets hard to stop, and before you know it you’ve read 200 pages and completely forgot about dinner.' Jenny In Neverland
‘I was immediately hooked from the first page!...There’s an amazing bunch of colourful characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. There were so many laugh out loud moments and funny scenes as well as some more emotional ones too. Stunningly good!’ Rebecca Raisin
‘The novel has everything – mystery, romance and much more… it totally swept me away.’ Nat's Reading Cloud
‘I thoroughly enjoyed this uplifting, inspiring, terrific storywhich gives us all hope in our quest to find the ‘one’.’ Em The Bookworm
‘Holly Martin has created a story that was a romance like nothing I’ve ever read before. The emotion, the passion, it pours from the pages of this spectacular novel. Buy it, read it, devour it.’ Love of a Good Book
‘The mix of romance and humour couldn’t be more perfect.
Hopeless romantic Milly Rose has had her fair share of heartbreak. Obsessed with all things Disney, she refuses to give up on finding her Prince Charming – he’s out there somewhere, isn’t he?
When Milly is given a job to investigate the origins of a historical building in the village of Clover's Rest, she’s not sure what to expect. What she discovers takes her breath away - a beautiful real life Cinderella castle, complete with turrets, a magnificent drawbridge AND a very handsome owner…Cameron Heartstone.
As Milly and Cameron begin to unearth the secrets of Clover Castle, they can’t ignore the intense chemistry building between them. But they’ve both been hurt badly before. Can they take a big leap of faith and find their own happily-ever-after?
A deliciously enchanting read that will delight fans of Rachael Lucas, Lucy Diamond and Miranda Dickinson or anyone who has ever blubbed at a Disney movie. Who says real life can’t be a fairytale?
‘Holly Martin writes about life and love with such big-hearted warmth and flair.’ Belinda Jones
‘Holly Martin makes me laugh out loud. Her stories are filled with memorable, lovable characters who reel me in and leave me giggling long after I finish the book.’ Jenny Hale
Read what everyone is saying about Holly Martin’s previous
'One Hundred Proposals is beautifully romantic, riveting, completely irresistible and a story that will make you fall in love with love.' Victoria Loves Books
'Funny, poignant and riveting as well as romantic. Don't miss The Guestbook! I couldn't get enough of the guests' entries and it's got humour, heartbreak, loss, love.' I Heart Chick Lit
'If you’re going to buy any book then buy this delightful one! The Guestbook is splendid, it is beautiful, it is magical and it will leave you with such a smile on your face!' Reading in the Sunshine
'This was honestly, 100% one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read – I devoured it in 2 sittings! Holly’s writing style is so easy and fluent it gets hard to stop, and before you know it you’ve read 200 pages and completely forgot about dinner.' Jenny In Neverland
‘I was immediately hooked from the first page!...There’s an amazing bunch of colourful characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. There were so many laugh out loud moments and funny scenes as well as some more emotional ones too. Stunningly good!’ Rebecca Raisin
‘The novel has everything – mystery, romance and much more… it totally swept me away.’ Nat's Reading Cloud
‘I thoroughly enjoyed this uplifting, inspiring, terrific storywhich gives us all hope in our quest to find the ‘one’.’ Em The Bookworm
‘Holly Martin has created a story that was a romance like nothing I’ve ever read before. The emotion, the passion, it pours from the pages of this spectacular novel. Buy it, read it, devour it.’ Love of a Good Book
‘The mix of romance and humour couldn’t be more perfect.
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2015
290 people are currently reading
1581 people want to read
About the author
Holly Martin
57 books1,536 followersHolly lives in a little white cottage by the sea. She studied media at university which led to a very glitzy career as a hotel receptionist followed by a even more glamorous two years working in a bank. The moment that one of her colleagues received the much coveted carriage clock for fifteen years’ service was the moment when she knew she had to escape. She quit her job and returned to university to train to be a teacher. Three years later, she emerged wide eyed and terrified that she now had responsibility for the development of thirty young minds. She taught for four years and then escaped the classroom to teach history workshops, dressing up as a Viking one day and an Egyptian High Priestess the next. But the long journeys around the UK and many hours sat on the M25 gave her a lot of time to plan out her stories and she now writes full time, doing what she loves.
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
July 10, 2015
4 -
From this slumber, you shall wake, when true love's kiss, the spell shall break.
Stars!
I am a huge fan of Holly Martin and her books, they are quirky, entertaining and always a little bit different from your standard Chick-Lit type genre. So when one of my favorite authors decides to write a modern day fairy-tale, set in a quaint English village, featuring a magical castle, and Disney obsessed heroine, and a dashing, if somewhat grumpy hero, not to mention a cast of diverse and entertaining secondary characters, I am at the head of the queue to read that baby!
Cameron Heartstone has been living in Clover Castle, for a few months now, having inherited it, lock, stock and draw-bridge, the last six months have basically been a battle to pay off the outstanding debts, and as the money has dried up, make all the staff (most of which, live in the village of Clover’s Rest) redundant.
He was grumpy, rude, sweet, funny and sexy as hell.
Unpopular, ostracized and at the end of his tether, he asks Castle Heritage, to send one of their representatives to see if he is applicable for financial aid for the continued upkeep and restoration of the castle.
Milly Rose’s arrival at Clovers Rest is less than auspicious, after her car conks out by the village green, she finds herself stepping out into a village that time and modernization seem to have completely skipped by.
”Those that stay there never leave.”
What follows is a romantic adventure of epic Disney proportions, with ghosts, curses, secret passages, treasure, an evil witch, magic and mayhem. Cameron and Milly together were sweet, sexy and very entertaining, and their love story, although not without its pitfalls was an absolute joy to read.
I love this authors writing, you cannot help but be sucked into the stories that she tells, and Fairytale Beginnings is no exception. Beautifully written, well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns, it kept me amused and giggling frequently right up until its end.
”And they all lived happily ever after.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was as it always is with Holly Martin’s books, my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I am a huge fan of Holly Martin and her books, they are quirky, entertaining and always a little bit different from your standard Chick-Lit type genre. So when one of my favorite authors decides to write a modern day fairy-tale, set in a quaint English village, featuring a magical castle, and Disney obsessed heroine, and a dashing, if somewhat grumpy hero, not to mention a cast of diverse and entertaining secondary characters, I am at the head of the queue to read that baby!
Cameron Heartstone has been living in Clover Castle, for a few months now, having inherited it, lock, stock and draw-bridge, the last six months have basically been a battle to pay off the outstanding debts, and as the money has dried up, make all the staff (most of which, live in the village of Clover’s Rest) redundant.
He was grumpy, rude, sweet, funny and sexy as hell.
Unpopular, ostracized and at the end of his tether, he asks Castle Heritage, to send one of their representatives to see if he is applicable for financial aid for the continued upkeep and restoration of the castle.
Milly Rose’s arrival at Clovers Rest is less than auspicious, after her car conks out by the village green, she finds herself stepping out into a village that time and modernization seem to have completely skipped by.
”Those that stay there never leave.”
What follows is a romantic adventure of epic Disney proportions, with ghosts, curses, secret passages, treasure, an evil witch, magic and mayhem. Cameron and Milly together were sweet, sexy and very entertaining, and their love story, although not without its pitfalls was an absolute joy to read.
I love this authors writing, you cannot help but be sucked into the stories that she tells, and Fairytale Beginnings is no exception. Beautifully written, well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns, it kept me amused and giggling frequently right up until its end.
”And they all lived happily ever after.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was as it always is with Holly Martin’s books, my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
August 19, 2015
Fairytale Beginnings is a wonderfully fun and fanciful read.
This book tells the tale of Cameron Heartstone, a gorgeous (dark eyes, dark curly hair, stubble and muscles… *breathe*) children’s author who has inherited a castle in a village full of quirky people that at times put me in mind of The Wicker Man. Then there is Milly, a Disney obsessed young woman with pink tipped hair and pink sparkly Converse, who works for Castle Heritage and has been employed to discover the origins of Cameron’s rather impressive castle.
It is a romance with a strong fairy tale feel throughout. Disney style castle, ghosts, legends, and family curses, amongst other things. However, there are very real emotions too, with the two main characters having interesting histories, which has led Milly to be an insecure female, and Cameron to be a paranoid male who thinks every woman is after his money, making for a complicated work/pleasure relationship between the two of them.
I had such a mix of emotions while reading this. Some parts making me laugh, especially the summer solstice play (an image I won’t get out of my head in a hurry). I had tears near the end, and found the ending very intense and hard to put down until I knew what had happened. On the other hand, I did find Milly a bit annoying, as she was too needy and full-on at times, although the idea of sparkly Converse and a job that leads me to gorgeous men living in castles does appeal.
Will Fairytale Beginnings have a fairy tale ending? You’re not finding out from me, so you’ll have to read it yourself to find out.
Fairytale Beginnings is a must for lovers of romance novels and fairy tales.
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book tells the tale of Cameron Heartstone, a gorgeous (dark eyes, dark curly hair, stubble and muscles… *breathe*) children’s author who has inherited a castle in a village full of quirky people that at times put me in mind of The Wicker Man. Then there is Milly, a Disney obsessed young woman with pink tipped hair and pink sparkly Converse, who works for Castle Heritage and has been employed to discover the origins of Cameron’s rather impressive castle.
It is a romance with a strong fairy tale feel throughout. Disney style castle, ghosts, legends, and family curses, amongst other things. However, there are very real emotions too, with the two main characters having interesting histories, which has led Milly to be an insecure female, and Cameron to be a paranoid male who thinks every woman is after his money, making for a complicated work/pleasure relationship between the two of them.
I had such a mix of emotions while reading this. Some parts making me laugh, especially the summer solstice play (an image I won’t get out of my head in a hurry). I had tears near the end, and found the ending very intense and hard to put down until I knew what had happened. On the other hand, I did find Milly a bit annoying, as she was too needy and full-on at times, although the idea of sparkly Converse and a job that leads me to gorgeous men living in castles does appeal.
Will Fairytale Beginnings have a fairy tale ending? You’re not finding out from me, so you’ll have to read it yourself to find out.
Fairytale Beginnings is a must for lovers of romance novels and fairy tales.
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2016
3.5 Soul-Mates Stars***
Some cliche's never get old
Milly a girl who blindly believed in fairytales and disney. And is a die-hard fan of castles and histroy behind them. Which lead her to became a dendrocrnologist. And then she started working for a national heritage company who buys castles-OLD castles. When she got a new project of clovers castle she cant refuse it and said yes.. When she got there. She knewes that this castle wont be in a list that national heritage will buy but something about this castle make her drown towards it a d she decided to see it. And then make a decision maybe she can help this castle, somehow!!
Fate surprises you sometimes. I just think you can have a plan in life, a good one, but that plan isn't neccessarily what fate has in store for you. Sometimes what fate thinks you need is so much better than what you planned"
Cameron Heartstone was a leading writer of a childrens book and was very much famous and leading a quite famous and good life but then one day he got news of his fathers death and the debts he left behind with the castle. So he contacted national heritage to sale this castle just to pay for his fathers debt. But when he met milly who came for the castle he thought she cant help him just by her looks he got wrong ideas. And got in a fight but soon cameron made the things right and then there story starts with the crazy fights, sarcastic comments, sparking chemsitry and undeniable attraction.!!
"A broken heart ia beyond painfil and its not something i ever want to go through again"
Instead of there sparking chemistry and attraction. They both dont want to be together because of there past and the heart breaks they have felt. Fighting the attraction was the only option. But living together under a same roof was nit helping the. At all!? Will they risk another chance heart-break and let there attraction to be something deeper and right..
You'll never leave. Those that stay there never leave
Therr lobe story wasnt the only thing that was making this book quite amazing. It was THE castle.. Full of mysteries and ghosts and tunnels.. Secret tunnels. And the secret of this castle that curse on heartstones and the treasure that milly ans cameron have to find was the most amazing part of this book. This book was a air of refreshment .. With the right amout of cliche,love,mystery and ghosts..
‘When you get to my time in life you tend to think about how you should have lived and you don’t want to look back and have regrets.’
But there story didnt end just on finding mysteries and fighting the atttaction.. Between all the fighting and finding. They fall in LOVE. And when eveerythinh was going perfect..
KAAA-FUCKING-BOOOM ...
PLOT-TWIST
Something happened which lead cameron to hate milly that much that he didnt evenet milly explain .. Will they get there happily ever after? Will they will be able to fight the curse of heartsones? And find the treasure? Will they find out that they are the real SOUL MATES which can break the curse of heartstones ??
I know we are soul mates because I can feel it in here, because I was drawn to you from the first moment that I saw you, not because you are beautiful, but because …’ he struggled to find the words and Milly decided to help him out.‘Because it felt like we had known each our whole life.
Some cliche's never get old
Milly a girl who blindly believed in fairytales and disney. And is a die-hard fan of castles and histroy behind them. Which lead her to became a dendrocrnologist. And then she started working for a national heritage company who buys castles-OLD castles. When she got a new project of clovers castle she cant refuse it and said yes.. When she got there. She knewes that this castle wont be in a list that national heritage will buy but something about this castle make her drown towards it a d she decided to see it. And then make a decision maybe she can help this castle, somehow!!
Fate surprises you sometimes. I just think you can have a plan in life, a good one, but that plan isn't neccessarily what fate has in store for you. Sometimes what fate thinks you need is so much better than what you planned"
Cameron Heartstone was a leading writer of a childrens book and was very much famous and leading a quite famous and good life but then one day he got news of his fathers death and the debts he left behind with the castle. So he contacted national heritage to sale this castle just to pay for his fathers debt. But when he met milly who came for the castle he thought she cant help him just by her looks he got wrong ideas. And got in a fight but soon cameron made the things right and then there story starts with the crazy fights, sarcastic comments, sparking chemsitry and undeniable attraction.!!
"A broken heart ia beyond painfil and its not something i ever want to go through again"
Instead of there sparking chemistry and attraction. They both dont want to be together because of there past and the heart breaks they have felt. Fighting the attraction was the only option. But living together under a same roof was nit helping the. At all!? Will they risk another chance heart-break and let there attraction to be something deeper and right..
You'll never leave. Those that stay there never leave
Therr lobe story wasnt the only thing that was making this book quite amazing. It was THE castle.. Full of mysteries and ghosts and tunnels.. Secret tunnels. And the secret of this castle that curse on heartstones and the treasure that milly ans cameron have to find was the most amazing part of this book. This book was a air of refreshment .. With the right amout of cliche,love,mystery and ghosts..
‘When you get to my time in life you tend to think about how you should have lived and you don’t want to look back and have regrets.’
But there story didnt end just on finding mysteries and fighting the atttaction.. Between all the fighting and finding. They fall in LOVE. And when eveerythinh was going perfect..
KAAA-FUCKING-BOOOM ...
PLOT-TWIST
Something happened which lead cameron to hate milly that much that he didnt evenet milly explain .. Will they get there happily ever after? Will they will be able to fight the curse of heartsones? And find the treasure? Will they find out that they are the real SOUL MATES which can break the curse of heartstones ??
I know we are soul mates because I can feel it in here, because I was drawn to you from the first moment that I saw you, not because you are beautiful, but because …’ he struggled to find the words and Milly decided to help him out.‘Because it felt like we had known each our whole life.
September 25, 2015
Overall rating: 4 "Fairytale" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
My review:
This was a fairy easy, sweet and cutesy love story. It was exactly what I was looking for. Yes, there was some silly OW drama, but at least it wasn't anyone that the hero EVER had feelings for in any capacity other than friendship.
Cameron was incredibly romantic and excepting of how Milly was obsessed with fairytales, princesses, etc. It was really cute.
I definitely look forward to reading more by this author :D
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
My review:
This was a fairy easy, sweet and cutesy love story. It was exactly what I was looking for. Yes, there was some silly OW drama, but at least it wasn't anyone that the hero EVER had feelings for in any capacity other than friendship.
Cameron was incredibly romantic and excepting of how Milly was obsessed with fairytales, princesses, etc. It was really cute.
I definitely look forward to reading more by this author :D
October 2, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. I've read a few of Holly's books and I wasn't disappointed with this. The ghostly, magical element only added to the appeal. The crazy villagers and ancient laws made me laugh, and the bitch of a PA made me want to pull her hair out and mine! The Lord of the manor was to die for. And I thought it great that the heroine was not particularly conventional - pink-tipped hair and a Disney princess lover, who wore Converse to a business meeting. I loved the sub-plot with the brother, Jamie and his business interests. Plenty going on in this novel to hold your attention, make you smile, laugh and have your heart aflutter. Looking forward to the next one.
August 7, 2015
That was an excellent book! One of the best i have read in 2015 so far! I wasn't excpecting much about this book but it gras been a very good surprise!!!! And it was excellent right from the first pages! Can't wait to read the next Holly Martin's book!!!!
June 9, 2015
THIS WAS SUCH A CUTE BOOK! Holly Martin is probably one of the most popular authors on social media, and I'm beginning to see why she's so popular because she's a pretty freaking great writer! Fairytale Beginnings is the perfect summer read. Although, be warned because you WILL want to go and live in Clover Castle. I literally want my own castle right now. With drawbridge, turrets, and Cameron Heartstone, please.
I absolutely adored getting to know Milly Rose and Cameron Heartstone, and I loved that they had chemistry right from the beginning. Yes, it was a bit awkward since Milly was assessing Clover Castle's castle-ness to see if it could be part of the National Heritage. And yes, they crossed unprofessional boundaries a few (!) times, but they had such spark and such chemistry that you knew it just didn't matter about keeping things professional.
I was completely taken with the fairytale aspect to the novel. Clover's Castle and the Heartstone family have a legacy to them, and it's said that the Heartstone's have trouble finding love, and there's a whole backstory to that that fizzes in the background and as Cameron was telling Milly the story I was getting so, so excited because it was like the perfect fairytale and it was just too cute for words. Normally I'm not one for fantastical stories like that, but the setting of Clover Castle, and the entire fact the novel was set IN A FREAKING CASTLE meant anything could and would go.
Fairytale Beginnings was so much fun, from start to finish. The characters were awesome, I loved Clover Castle (seriously, can we talk about getting me a castle, PLEASE?????) and it was just the cutest little story I've ever read. It was so good, and I can't wait to read more from Holly, she's a delightful storyteller.
I absolutely adored getting to know Milly Rose and Cameron Heartstone, and I loved that they had chemistry right from the beginning. Yes, it was a bit awkward since Milly was assessing Clover Castle's castle-ness to see if it could be part of the National Heritage. And yes, they crossed unprofessional boundaries a few (!) times, but they had such spark and such chemistry that you knew it just didn't matter about keeping things professional.
I was completely taken with the fairytale aspect to the novel. Clover's Castle and the Heartstone family have a legacy to them, and it's said that the Heartstone's have trouble finding love, and there's a whole backstory to that that fizzes in the background and as Cameron was telling Milly the story I was getting so, so excited because it was like the perfect fairytale and it was just too cute for words. Normally I'm not one for fantastical stories like that, but the setting of Clover Castle, and the entire fact the novel was set IN A FREAKING CASTLE meant anything could and would go.
Fairytale Beginnings was so much fun, from start to finish. The characters were awesome, I loved Clover Castle (seriously, can we talk about getting me a castle, PLEASE?????) and it was just the cutest little story I've ever read. It was so good, and I can't wait to read more from Holly, she's a delightful storyteller.
July 10, 2015
Holly Martin brings us a super adorable and amusing novel in Fairytale Beginnings. Milly Rose is clever, cute, pretty and sexy therefore obviously my favourite character. We have a Disney like castle, ghosts, weird village folk and of course Milly’s prince in the shape of Cameron Heartstone. This provides a perfect mix for a heart-felt summer romance story which the author makes an easy read and great fun.
The lovely Milly works for Castle Heritage and has been invited by Cameron to assess his recently inherited Clover Castle. She immediately falls in love with the place. As soon as she meets Cameron there is an awkwardness and steamy chemistry. Although they initially tip-toe around each other it’s pretty obvious where it’s all leading. Along the way we are entertained with laughs, plenty of flirting and two people falling in love.
Learning about Milly and Cameron while their relationship develops is only part of the joy of this story. Exploring Clover Castle together and unlocking its mysteries provides loads of interest and you won’t be disappointed with what secrets are discovered. The folk in the village are an odd bunch but once we get to know them are rather endearing. The author’s storytelling is quite delightful and you are assured lots of enjoyment from this wonderfully funny romance that is thoroughly recommended.
The lovely Milly works for Castle Heritage and has been invited by Cameron to assess his recently inherited Clover Castle. She immediately falls in love with the place. As soon as she meets Cameron there is an awkwardness and steamy chemistry. Although they initially tip-toe around each other it’s pretty obvious where it’s all leading. Along the way we are entertained with laughs, plenty of flirting and two people falling in love.
Learning about Milly and Cameron while their relationship develops is only part of the joy of this story. Exploring Clover Castle together and unlocking its mysteries provides loads of interest and you won’t be disappointed with what secrets are discovered. The folk in the village are an odd bunch but once we get to know them are rather endearing. The author’s storytelling is quite delightful and you are assured lots of enjoyment from this wonderfully funny romance that is thoroughly recommended.
June 1, 2015
Milly works for a Heritage company that take over certain buildings when the owners are struggling to maintain them. She is called to look over Clover Castle and falls in love with it's fairytale look. It has turrets and a moat and only needs to be painted pink to belong in a Disney film. She is also strongly attracted to the owner- even though they are both very wary with relationships.
Everyone in the village is against Cameron, as he had to let them go from working in the castle due to lack of funds.
Milly looks round the castle and tries to find out how old it is and whether her company is likely to be able to help Cameron.
After meeting some of the old ladies in the village she is roped into appearing in the summer festival and is told she needs to convince Cameron to take part- to heal the rift with the village.
I loved the characters- who wouldn't want a Cameron in their life!!!!!! The villagers were very cleverly drawn and the ghost made her appearances throughout. I was rooting for them to get together- through all the twists and turns and reservations they had at letting their heart rule their head.
The castle sounded absolutely beautiful and I'd love to stay there!
Everyone in the village is against Cameron, as he had to let them go from working in the castle due to lack of funds.
Milly looks round the castle and tries to find out how old it is and whether her company is likely to be able to help Cameron.
After meeting some of the old ladies in the village she is roped into appearing in the summer festival and is told she needs to convince Cameron to take part- to heal the rift with the village.
I loved the characters- who wouldn't want a Cameron in their life!!!!!! The villagers were very cleverly drawn and the ghost made her appearances throughout. I was rooting for them to get together- through all the twists and turns and reservations they had at letting their heart rule their head.
The castle sounded absolutely beautiful and I'd love to stay there!
May 30, 2015
**An electronic ARC was provided by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
**4.5 stars**
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, sweet, and so entertaining! I was REALLY close to giving this 5 stars but had to lower the rating because there were times when the dialogue felt too scripted and it didn't seem like something the characters would naturally say in that particular situation.
**4.5 stars**
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, sweet, and so entertaining! I was REALLY close to giving this 5 stars but had to lower the rating because there were times when the dialogue felt too scripted and it didn't seem like something the characters would naturally say in that particular situation.
October 14, 2015
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
Actual rating 3.5/5.
*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
'Fairytale Beginnings' is Holly Martin's 8th novel and one I've been eager to read ever since I found out she was writing it. Following Holly on twitter is certainly one great joy, she's one of the nicest and coolest people on twitter, always ready to make you laugh. She's also one of the most respected authors which I follow, well known for her big heart and genuine relationship with book bloggers. Having all this said, no wonder I'm looking forward to each of her releases. Beside writing contemporary romance, she's also published two fantasy novels and two more steamy, adult novels under the pen name Amelia Thorn. It's obvious Holly is multi talented and these transitions in genres come very easy to her.
'Fairytale Beginnings' is definitely a cute story. I even tweeted to Holly saying I want to adopt her (age is just a number, right?) because lately I've been feeling kind of down and was in terrible need of some good laughs. And yes, there were some memorable, LOL moments in this novel and I had the feeling I'll end up competely loving it. But as you can see from my rating, some things went wrong. Don't worry, I'll explain it though, trying to write the most balanced and honest review I can, because while this book had it flaws, it certainly had some unique moments too.
The book really read like a fairytale, just like the title suggests. But a very modern fairytale with some adult content, so a fair warning to those who're bit prudish. It's the story of Milly who's off to Clover Castle to estimate it's value and origins and see if her company is willing to help the Lord bring back the castle to all it's glory, like it has seen in the old days. She's very good and efficient worker, never lazy or too proud to get her hands dirty. She's definitely excited to the start of her research, but what she wasn't ready for it to discover the owner is so young and damn hot. Scorching hot as a matter of fact! Haunted by ghosts, family secrets and now, this awesome, hot guy, will Milly stick to being professional or give in to Castle's beauty and charm?
As I said in my review previously, there were some amazing moments which I read with great pleasure, and there were some that left me puzzled, not sure what to make out of them. The first half of the book was for me just amazing. I liked Milly so much, I honestly thought she's the most awesome romance heroine. My opinion didn't change even in the second half, but there were some weird moments I was kind of surprised with her reactions. Still, Milly is adorable, though to be completely honest, at times she did act too childish even though she's 28/29 years old. Nothing wrong in being childish, especially when you feel those butterflies in your stomach, however it seemed to me she gave in too early and easily despite saying she 'was burned' in life before. It did feel a bit surreal to me, but it could be me and my 36 years who look on things from different perspective than younger population. Speaking of age, Cameron Heartstone, the owner of the Castle and fameous writer is 34 and yet he too seems childish at times. They've both been very hurt in the past in their relationships, yet they sure let things happen rather soon.
Believe it or not, I do believe in love at first sight and Milly's and Cameron's chemistry is undeniable. It's like..electricity, so raw and powerful. This is what I enjoyed the most, their chemistry which made me feel of fuzzy inside. However, some things felt a bit rushed and I wish Holly made her characters take things more slowly. But their banters, they were super cute and hilarious. Despite knowing each other for such a short time, Milly and Cameron really enjoy each other's company and are definitely comfortable around each other. This might seem weird to some readers, however I didn't mind the whole 'grabbing boob and talking about willies' all in a span of just few short days. But what I did mind was that weird ceremony they hold each year during Summer Solstice. I won't tell you why, you'll have to read it for yourself. I'm no prude, but I didn't expect to find these parts in a book like this. It just seemed wrong for this story, you know. At least, that's what I think.
But the romance part was amazing! I do believe this is Holly Martin's strongest feat as a writer, she really knows how to deliver a hot, steamy and mind blowing sex scene without going very explicit. Everything felt natural and tasteful. However, my biggest problem and main reason for the rating is the mystery element which was a bit disappointing. Despite simply flying through this book, I wasn't really hooked on the history and origins of the Castle or the legends of the Heartstone family. Some parts felt dragging and others were simply rushed, and I won't lie, I was kind of lost at times thinking where the story might go. Uncle Boris' treasure, the secret coves, the Grey Lady, it all seems blurry to me, even moments after finishing this book. But the romance part is just amazing! Mind blowing! I really enjoyed those parts and think Holly Martin shows her amazing talent in these very scenes.
I'm glad I read it and I certainly enjoyed the romance. I was never a Disney princess, always were more of a tomboy, but I certainly enjoyed being in this fairytale. It is definitely an easy read you'll devour in one or two sittings.
July 2, 2015
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
This is my first Holly Martin book and OMG where was I in the last year and a half? How is it possible I didn't hear of Holly Martin before now? This book wasn't good, it wasn't great, it was so overwhelmingly amazing I had to stop myself before reading it all over again. Oh, and that includes not sleeping or eating for some more hours. Yes, it was that good.
Let's begin this short review with a comment on the cover. I love it so much! I saw the cover and I almost crossed my fingers hoping the abstract would be as awesome as the cover. I think I would have read the book anyway just for the cover.
Now that the superficial stuff is done, what about the story and the characters? The main characters were worthy of a "I want to read this book all over again because I don't want to let you go" kind of love. Milly Rose is an intellectual with pink-colored glasses and a fascination for fairytales. She had a tough start in life but still see the best in things. Cameron Heartstone is the lord of Clover Castle. He's also a children books autor. He's a classic victim of gold-diggers and has trust issues. Milly is going to Clover Castle to date the buildings for Castle Heritage, a charity organisation who give grants for castle restauration. She falls in love with the castle at first sight and tries to help Cameron in his quest to find some money to restore his family legacy.
All in all, you know how the book is going to finish, it's not called Fairytale Beginnings for nothing after all. The Happily Ever After is a given, but the path to that happy ending is a rollercoaster full of fun, laughters, flirting, hot chemistry and love. This book is a must-read for all romance junkie. Seriously, what are you waiting for?
Now that this is done, it's time for me to go spend some money I don't really have to buy all of Holly Martin's books. Yes, it was that good.
Read
July 24, 2017This was a super adorable read and I'm a sucker for a cute HEA and everything fairy tale related, so this was right up my alley!!
I loved the hints and tidbits that played off of the classic fairy tales (like the bday banquet dinner that was SO Beauty & The Beast), and I really enjoyed the whole aspect of this magical castle setting! The secret passageways, the infusion of real life history, the quirky village, the myths and legends of the ancestors, the whole soul mate situation -- very well done and completely had me engrossed!
The main characters were also well put together I thought -- likable, with their own personalities and chemistry, but also drama that felt somewhat true to life! And I thought their romance was cute, and I was definitely rooting for them to win!
The only thing a little off to me was the pacing. Sometimes it felt like the book was dragging, and other times it felt like things were popping up and passing way too rapidly! The drama and tension never quite settled into the right place to keep me truly enthralled and desperate to know what happens. I also thought the story line toward the second half of the book with the introduction of a third character was a bit flat and too obvious, I wanted something more interesting or nothing at all, and it made me like the male lead a little less.
Still a super cute read, perfect for a day at the beach!
I loved the hints and tidbits that played off of the classic fairy tales (like the bday banquet dinner that was SO Beauty & The Beast), and I really enjoyed the whole aspect of this magical castle setting! The secret passageways, the infusion of real life history, the quirky village, the myths and legends of the ancestors, the whole soul mate situation -- very well done and completely had me engrossed!
The main characters were also well put together I thought -- likable, with their own personalities and chemistry, but also drama that felt somewhat true to life! And I thought their romance was cute, and I was definitely rooting for them to win!
The only thing a little off to me was the pacing. Sometimes it felt like the book was dragging, and other times it felt like things were popping up and passing way too rapidly! The drama and tension never quite settled into the right place to keep me truly enthralled and desperate to know what happens. I also thought the story line toward the second half of the book with the introduction of a third character was a bit flat and too obvious, I wanted something more interesting or nothing at all, and it made me like the male lead a little less.
Still a super cute read, perfect for a day at the beach!
June 29, 2015
A very sweet 4 stars is what I give Fairytale Beginnings by Holly Martin. The book held the magic of a castle, old legends, and the promise of soulmates. This story was sweet and cute while holding several moving parts to keep it moving and a bit interesting. Milly and Cameron made me laugh with their blushing and flustered states around each other. They were both what the other needed to not only believe in love again but to also have that unimaginable connection.
The read was easy and I finished the book in one sitting. I really do think this was a nice break from the heavier books I've been reading and think it allowed me to continue to be objective when reviewing for other books because sometimes you can get stuck in a routine when you read the exact same kind of book written by other authors.
The read was easy and I finished the book in one sitting. I really do think this was a nice break from the heavier books I've been reading and think it allowed me to continue to be objective when reviewing for other books because sometimes you can get stuck in a routine when you read the exact same kind of book written by other authors.
August 9, 2015
LOVED this one! At first I wasn't sure if I was going to like Cameron very much but once he started opening up more and warming up I loved him, almost as much as Millie. I love how positive and upbeat she always tried to be. And it also helps that she loves Disney movies like me. I found myself laughing hysterically at some parts, and wanting to shake some sense into the characters in other parts (in a good way!). I wanted to punch Olivia multiple times too.! Great book that left me smiling!
September 30, 2024
Quite honestly, this book is ridiculous. It's not very well written. But I really enjoyed it, so there you go. There were a few things that annoyed me (could do without the ex partners talk) but this book was really cute, silly and I liked it. There are lots of Disney references and it's more 'adult' than I expected it to be. It's not gonna blow your mind or win any awards, but it's cute and I enjoyed it
ARC received from netgalley in exchange for honest review
ARC received from netgalley in exchange for honest review
December 7, 2021
- I loved all the Disney Fairytale references in the book. I'm a huge fan of Disney and it was great to see it.
- It renewed my faith in love at first sight.
- Milly and Cameron learned so much about themselves and how to be happy. It was refreshing to see them go through the struggles but end up together.
- It renewed my faith in love at first sight.
- Milly and Cameron learned so much about themselves and how to be happy. It was refreshing to see them go through the struggles but end up together.
December 14, 2015
c'est meuuugnoooooon xD
faut aimer Disney, les trucs portnawak, les châteaux hantés, les grands frères qui s'appellent Jamie, les malédiction, les morues, et la soupe ^^ ... ya beaucoup de facilités de scénarios parfois mais c'est tellement guimauve que c'pas grave ♥
et Cameron *soupirs* ♥
faut aimer Disney, les trucs portnawak, les châteaux hantés, les grands frères qui s'appellent Jamie, les malédiction, les morues, et la soupe ^^ ... ya beaucoup de facilités de scénarios parfois mais c'est tellement guimauve que c'pas grave ♥
et Cameron *soupirs* ♥
July 25, 2016
Thus book was delightful. It was a bit predictable, but i loved every minute of it. When I finished it I had a big smile on my face & let out a huge sigh of content. This was just a refreshing read. I can't wait to read more by this author
July 17, 2015
The very lovely Holly Martin belongs to those authors, whose books I buy and read automatically. So when I was asked if I want to be a part of a blog tour for her brand new, shiny, sparkly, wonderful novel "Fairytale Beginnings", I didn't even read the synopsis, only happily said yes, of course!!! Yes, with many exclamation marks. Holly is the author of eight books, together with those written under her pen - name Amelia Thorne, and two YA novels, that I personally didn't read as I'm not so much into science - fiction, but all others from Holly's desk were absolutely, freakingly brilliant!
But please, let me stop just at the beginning to gush a little about this most wonderful cover ever. There aren't words to describe this beauty, it's a perfect cover, the best cover an author can dream of, I think. Right?
So, as I'd already said, I haven't read the blurb to this book, so when I started reading I was surprised by ghosts very early appearing in the story, as I truly didn't expect them. But oh my, I thought, why not? I was sure that Holly is going to pull it off perfectly - and she did. Not all authors can write ghosts, but Holly can - they really, truly suit this story and reading about them didn't feel as if it was too forced. Well, there is a castle, there must be a ghost or two, right?
But I must be honest and admit something. While reading the book I was already starting to panic, as I was so incredibly missing this magic sparkle, this fantastic humour that Holly already accustomed us to. The second part of the story saved it for me, as the first one was a little... longish? The characters too quick started to mention the word "sex" for me, and even before I started to see this magic connection between them they'd be in bed already - as if there weren't better things to do for them. Also, I thought that when I'm again going to read those two words "secret passageway", I'm going to start to cry. I mean, how many secret passageways can there be in a castle and why Milly is finding them every second page??? But it is my only objection, and other than that I LOVED THIS STORY!
But even with those endless hidden passages, the descriptions of investigating the castle and discovering what Clover Castle was hiding for so many years, were absolutely brilliant and so vivid! The expectation and excitement, and hope to find something were really palpable through the pages, and I myself couldn't wait for all the secrets to be found and revealed. The castle itself was wonderfully and so truly described, and it had a fascinating history.
Let's start with the characters. Holly is ancredible author, really, she can write the most fantastic, warm, funny characters ever, characters that I am rooting for from the first to the last page, and it was the same with Milly and Cameron here. Oh, Cameron... *sigh*. Sheesh, can a character be too perfect? Actually, you could say that he was too perfect to be true, not only handsome, but he was an author, he had a dog, motorbike, car, AND a castle, he was funny and from what I've seen, a sex - god, AND he wasn't afraid to make a clown of himself only to make his beloved happy. So please, give me Cameron, anytime.
I loved Milly from the beginning, with her pink dress, pink sparkly Converses and ability to make herself dirty in every situation. I also absolutely loved to read about her job and the passion she performed it with, she was the right girl on the right place, and a girl with morals, really. Even if she was so serious about her job, she was still a little girl at heart and a little Disney obsessive, which I find adorable. Also, even if she was having her head in the clouds, she was also very down - to - earth, and I loved her enthusiasm. I think there is a little princes in every girl and even adult woman, and Milly wasn't afraid to show this - way to go, Milly!
Also, the village and the villagers were Hilarious. Yes, with capital H. Starting with their Oogie chanting and ending with their Summer Play. Abso - bloody - adorable and incredibly entertaining, even if they were a little interfering, nosy and meddling.
Kudos to Holly for creating Olivia as well, ah, what a bad, bad girl she was, and it was really great to have a character that you were supposed to really, truly hate! I could so slap Cameron once or twice when Olivia was concerned, as he hasn't seen things that were OBVIOUS!!! But I only wanted to say that our Holly can really create brilliant characters that we either love or love to hate.
Also, the way the relationship between Milly and Cameron developed was not only the world - record quick, but so, so sweet...! Not the easiest one, of course, as it was super awkward for Milly especially, as she didn't want to cross the boundaries, which was not so easy to maintain, of course, but this chemistry between them, this sparkle, when it eventually hit off for me, was brilliantly written and it felt so honest and genuine.
The Disney and fairytale aspect of this story was just adorable, as well as the historical aspect, and the story of Clover Castle, the history of Cameron's ancestors, was one of the best in the book. When Cameron finally told Milly the story, I had a goose - bumps and I just loved it - yes, I do love a good old fairytale.
"Fairytale Beginnings" made me want to live in a castle with a blue roof and some turrets - oh wait, what am I talking about? - it made me want to live in Clover Castle, period. Holly Martin has again written a brilliant, lovely story that has you hooked from start to the finish, a story full of magic, fantastic characters, beautiful settings and wonderful, new and unique storyline.
And Holly, thank you so much for not forgetting about us in your acknowledgements - you've no idea how much it means! TONS! Thank you!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
August 27, 2018
Volledige review op Boek in Wonderland
Fairytale Beginnings heeft zeker potentieel, maar het lijkt niet naar boven te komen. Het is een van Holly's eerste boeken en ik heb het gevoel dat ze nog erg zoekende was tijdens het schrijven.
Een leuk, entertainent boek met een kleine Indiana Jones gehalte, maar jammer genoeg bereikt het nooit het niveau van haar recentere boeken.
Fairytale Beginnings heeft zeker potentieel, maar het lijkt niet naar boven te komen. Het is een van Holly's eerste boeken en ik heb het gevoel dat ze nog erg zoekende was tijdens het schrijven.
Een leuk, entertainent boek met een kleine Indiana Jones gehalte, maar jammer genoeg bereikt het nooit het niveau van haar recentere boeken.
January 30, 2025
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, I loved the drama, I was not expecting that
September 1, 2020
Perfectly sweet and tender happy ever after modern fairytale. ALL THE BIG ROMANTIC SIGHS.
November 10, 2021
rammed with clichés and cheese - did I love it? of course...
August 22, 2017
Good. Nice and easy romance, could see the twist coming tho so as much as I enjoyed it I was reading just to see if I was right, so it felt like it stopped me enjoying the bits inbetween as much as I should have done.
June 26, 2017
First off-how beautiful is the cover?!
Fairytale Beginnings is a wonderful romance featuring Milly, a dendrochronologist who specializes in dating and/or restoring historic castles through her employer, Castle Heritage, and Cameron Heartstone, who has just inherited the huge, piecemeal Clover Castle. Cameron was under the impression that Milly would be a lot older and dress a lot differently-she loves bright colors, Converse, sparkles, and Disney, but is extremely intelligent and excellent at her job. Despite getting off on the wrong foot, the chemistry between the two is undeniable. Both of them have had heartbreak in the past-can they overcome their hurts and misunderstandings along the way to open their hearts to each other?
This story was just magical. The way the author describes the castle and the village, you will feel like you've been transported there. With ghosts, romance, weird traditions, and the longing for a happily ever after, fairytale lovers will thoroughly enjoy this one and will be sad for it to end!
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Fairytale Beginnings is a wonderful romance featuring Milly, a dendrochronologist who specializes in dating and/or restoring historic castles through her employer, Castle Heritage, and Cameron Heartstone, who has just inherited the huge, piecemeal Clover Castle. Cameron was under the impression that Milly would be a lot older and dress a lot differently-she loves bright colors, Converse, sparkles, and Disney, but is extremely intelligent and excellent at her job. Despite getting off on the wrong foot, the chemistry between the two is undeniable. Both of them have had heartbreak in the past-can they overcome their hurts and misunderstandings along the way to open their hearts to each other?
This story was just magical. The way the author describes the castle and the village, you will feel like you've been transported there. With ghosts, romance, weird traditions, and the longing for a happily ever after, fairytale lovers will thoroughly enjoy this one and will be sad for it to end!
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 30, 2021
Holly's best book.
I'm a huge fan of Holly Martin and have read many of her books over the years. This one is my favourite, it ticks so many boxes for me. It gave me a huge smile on my face through the pages and is hopelessly romantic. Beautiful book x
I'm a huge fan of Holly Martin and have read many of her books over the years. This one is my favourite, it ticks so many boxes for me. It gave me a huge smile on my face through the pages and is hopelessly romantic. Beautiful book x
July 9, 2015
Posted in full http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2015...
Reading as many romance novels as I do, there are times when I feel they’re all getting too similar and times when I feel like I can predict every outcome, not just the ending but all the little components that bring the story together. Picking up a Holly Martin book always feels a bit different. She writes fresh, enchanting contemporary romances with heart-warming back stories and Fairytale Beginnings is another gorgeous novel from Holly, a sparkly, magical modern day fairytale with the lovable heroine, the swoonworthy hero and a beautiful and intriguing story in between the pages. It’s the kind of story that you don’t just want to lose yourself in, you want to imagine yourself there experiencing it all for yourself – the delightfulness of Clover Castle, hottie Cameron Heartstone and the weird and wonderful villagers of Clover’s Rest. If I could just be Milly, that would be lovely.
Milly Rose is a truly lovely main character. In her late twenties, she’s still a Disney obsessive, still a lover of happy ever after and still hoping, if not believing, that maybe she has her own fairytale waiting to happen. She sounds like a dreamer and in a way, she probably is but she’s also very honest and down-to-earth, with her glass half full and her energy to work hard to achieve the more realistic form of a happy life. She has for a long time taken an interest in history and soon discovers how exciting it is to be working on Clover Castle, assessing and investigating a castle with so many secrets bursting through the seams. Not only is there a lot to learn from Clover Castle, Milly soon finds that she has more than a little interest in its owner too, dreamy Cameron Heartstone.
I love love loved the mystery element to Fairytale Beginnings and was completely mesmerised as Milly and Cameron explored every last aspect of Clover Castle. Holly’s description of everything they experienced was detailed but not too detailed, built up a layer of intrigue and was at times a little eerie. The castle was built up vividly and there was such life between its crumbly walls – like all good history and all good fairytales, there was a story there to tell, even if nobody still existed to tell the tale. Getting to the bottom of the mystery at the heart of Clover Castle was a joy to read and I liked how certain aspects impacted on both Milly and Cameron too – how they were kind of being led into the roles of a more magical world that no longer exists in actual form but within the depths of the surface of Clover Castle.
As much as I loved the mystery, the developing relationship between Milly and Cameron was of course my favourite aspect of the book. I loved their chemistry, how at times things between them were very flirty and then at others more touching, without there being such a unnatural switch in tone and pace. The honesty between them along with their banter and the humour made them such easy characters to read because even though they both had pasts and things which have happened that make them a bit wary about future relationships, the book isn’t bogged down with drama and woe is me. Holly has covered some tough back-stories in her typical light-hearted fashion where you know that even though she doesn’t make light of a moving story, there’ll be a smile re-appearing on your face within a second or two. You can see the attraction and the feelings between Milly and Cameron getting stronger as the story goes on and I adored both characters, wanting that happy ending for them even more than Milly wants a happy ending in all her Disney stories.
Fairytale Beginnings is gorgeously uplifting and I quickly got swept up in the storytelling of a beautiful fairytale. Milly and Cameron are two characters I didn’t want to let go in a hurry and I fell for the stunning setting of Clover Castle – how grand it was and richly packed with history and its own stories. We already know Holly Martin can write heart-warming romance stories but the mystery to this novel made the complete package even more complete and even more wonderful. With plenty of comical moments and plenty of chemistry, Fairytale Beginnings is a book that will have you smiling like a loon and dreaming of your own little fairytale ending.
*Review copy
July 16, 2015
I received an e-arc of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This did not affect my opinion of the book in any way.
Actual rating: 3.5/5
Fairytale Beginnings delivers exactly what it promises, "a heartwarming romantic comedy" with great characters, a dreamy setting... and a lot of Disney references (which, let's face it, should really be mandatory everywhere. But I digress...).
[image]
The plot combined the exact amount of fluff, drama and mystery to make for a really compelling read. I really liked the mix between history and fantasy that the author created. Even though I'm usually pretty picky about stuff like this in non-openly-fantasy books, she actually led me to accept both the truth of a family curse and the presence of ghosts in the castle without question, and I didn't really realise that I had done so until I sat down to write the review. Well played, Ms Martin, well played...
On to my favourite bit of every story: the characters! I loved Milly and Cameron to bits. It was so easy to relate to them, especially Milly. Her sparkly personality (and shoes) and her positive outlook on life won me over almost immediately. And, of course, our mutual love of all things Disney did help our bond immensely... She was sweet and funny, but also conflicted about her feelings and I really liked getting inside her head and heart, because it all felt so incredibly real. And Cameron, oh Cameron was a true gentleman through and through. Complicated to the right point, he is also battling his own personal demons from the past and develops a lot throughout the story, which was great to see. My main complaint about their relationship that it kind of felt a little bit like instalove at the beginning. But maybe we can call it "love at first sight". This is a fairytale, after all... Well, I'll let it slide, because sometimes I'm nice like that. The cherry on the cake was the gorgeous setting, with its dreamy castle and wonderful surroundings from the little village to the sea, all of them described so very well it felt like I had actually been there myself. A colourful cast of secondary characters completes the set, particularly the villagers with their odd traditions and affinity with magic. Of course, the ending is rather predictable... But hey, it's a romantic comedy, what else can you expect?
Overall, this was a really lovely read. If you're looking for a light read to lift your spirits, a sweet romance mixed with ghosts and a terrible curse, or simply a whole lot of pink sparkly stuff and Disney references, you should check out this book. Its unique characters, gorgeous setting and uplifting romance make for a great remedy to a hard day, kind of like a bookish tub of chocolate ice cream. So, dig in and enjoy!
[image]
For more reviews, check out Book for Thought.
Actual rating: 3.5/5
Fairytale Beginnings delivers exactly what it promises, "a heartwarming romantic comedy" with great characters, a dreamy setting... and a lot of Disney references (which, let's face it, should really be mandatory everywhere. But I digress...).
[image]
The plot combined the exact amount of fluff, drama and mystery to make for a really compelling read. I really liked the mix between history and fantasy that the author created. Even though I'm usually pretty picky about stuff like this in non-openly-fantasy books, she actually led me to accept both the truth of a family curse and the presence of ghosts in the castle without question, and I didn't really realise that I had done so until I sat down to write the review. Well played, Ms Martin, well played...
On to my favourite bit of every story: the characters! I loved Milly and Cameron to bits. It was so easy to relate to them, especially Milly. Her sparkly personality (and shoes) and her positive outlook on life won me over almost immediately. And, of course, our mutual love of all things Disney did help our bond immensely... She was sweet and funny, but also conflicted about her feelings and I really liked getting inside her head and heart, because it all felt so incredibly real. And Cameron, oh Cameron was a true gentleman through and through. Complicated to the right point, he is also battling his own personal demons from the past and develops a lot throughout the story, which was great to see. My main complaint about their relationship that it kind of felt a little bit like instalove at the beginning. But maybe we can call it "love at first sight". This is a fairytale, after all... Well, I'll let it slide, because sometimes I'm nice like that. The cherry on the cake was the gorgeous setting, with its dreamy castle and wonderful surroundings from the little village to the sea, all of them described so very well it felt like I had actually been there myself. A colourful cast of secondary characters completes the set, particularly the villagers with their odd traditions and affinity with magic. Of course, the ending is rather predictable... But hey, it's a romantic comedy, what else can you expect?
Overall, this was a really lovely read. If you're looking for a light read to lift your spirits, a sweet romance mixed with ghosts and a terrible curse, or simply a whole lot of pink sparkly stuff and Disney references, you should check out this book. Its unique characters, gorgeous setting and uplifting romance make for a great remedy to a hard day, kind of like a bookish tub of chocolate ice cream. So, dig in and enjoy!
[image]
For more reviews, check out Book for Thought.
July 23, 2015
I was given an ecopy of this book by Holly's publishers Bookouture in exchange for an honest review which I'm more than happy to give.
I've read everything Holly has written and each book has taken me on a journey - oohing and aching until the happy ever after ending; so hearing she had written a fairytale type book I was hooked before I even started.
We're introduced to Milly as she chugs into the village of Clover's Rest in her temperamental but much loved car, she's here to view Clover Castle on behalf of the Castle Heritage the company she works for. The company who Cameron - owner of Clover Castle has approached for financial support to help towards the running and upkeep of his much loved, but money draining inheritance.
It really was love at first sight - that was, firstly between Milly and the Fairytale Castle - perfect in every way but not exactly what she considers heritage upon her first sighting. Then sparks fly between Milly and the enigmatic Cameron - an attraction they both tried to ignore, but not too hard I have to say.
Holly has created a magical book that is so far fetched it could only be a fairytale. It has a Fairy Castle, potential royal connections, love at first sight, both good and evil characters, magical moments, treasure, curses, enchantments and a promise of a happy ever after.
Holly doesn't think Clover Castle fits the criteria of Castle Heritage but is determined to find a way to help Cameron save his home. She and Cameron team up, helped by the resident ghost to uncover and disclose the mysteries and stories that surround the castle, hoping against hope to find a hidden treasure and preserve the castle.
Milly and Cameron are up against old wives tales, witchcraft and the positively weird, alongside sabotage and jealousy but as in all good fairytales - good will overcome bad and Holly sprinkled the pages with magical fairy dust, lifting the story time and time again.
Fairytale Beginnings was a perfect piece of escapism, a story that will get under your skin transporting you back to your childhood dreams. To a time when dreams of finding your own prince charming to whisk you off on a white charger to a pretty castle on the hill was commonplace.
Thank you Holly for letting me re-live my dreams :) x
I've read everything Holly has written and each book has taken me on a journey - oohing and aching until the happy ever after ending; so hearing she had written a fairytale type book I was hooked before I even started.
We're introduced to Milly as she chugs into the village of Clover's Rest in her temperamental but much loved car, she's here to view Clover Castle on behalf of the Castle Heritage the company she works for. The company who Cameron - owner of Clover Castle has approached for financial support to help towards the running and upkeep of his much loved, but money draining inheritance.
It really was love at first sight - that was, firstly between Milly and the Fairytale Castle - perfect in every way but not exactly what she considers heritage upon her first sighting. Then sparks fly between Milly and the enigmatic Cameron - an attraction they both tried to ignore, but not too hard I have to say.
Holly has created a magical book that is so far fetched it could only be a fairytale. It has a Fairy Castle, potential royal connections, love at first sight, both good and evil characters, magical moments, treasure, curses, enchantments and a promise of a happy ever after.
Holly doesn't think Clover Castle fits the criteria of Castle Heritage but is determined to find a way to help Cameron save his home. She and Cameron team up, helped by the resident ghost to uncover and disclose the mysteries and stories that surround the castle, hoping against hope to find a hidden treasure and preserve the castle.
Milly and Cameron are up against old wives tales, witchcraft and the positively weird, alongside sabotage and jealousy but as in all good fairytales - good will overcome bad and Holly sprinkled the pages with magical fairy dust, lifting the story time and time again.
Fairytale Beginnings was a perfect piece of escapism, a story that will get under your skin transporting you back to your childhood dreams. To a time when dreams of finding your own prince charming to whisk you off on a white charger to a pretty castle on the hill was commonplace.
Thank you Holly for letting me re-live my dreams :) x
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