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Wickham Hall #1-4
Wickham Hall
Wickham Hall was originally published as a four-part serial. This is the complete story in one package.
Holly Swift has just landed the job of her dreams: events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall, the beautiful manor home that sits proudly at the heart of the village where she grew up. Not only does she get to organise for a living and work in stunning surroundings, but it will also put a bit of distance between Holly and her problems at home.
As Holly falls in love with the busy world of Wickham Hall - from family weddings to summer festivals, firework displays and Christmas grottos - she also finds a place in her heart for her friendly (if unusual) colleagues.
But life isn’t as easily organised as an event at Wickham Hall (and even those have their complications…). Can Holly learn to let go and live in the moment? After all, that’s when the magic happens…
Holly Swift has just landed the job of her dreams: events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall, the beautiful manor home that sits proudly at the heart of the village where she grew up. Not only does she get to organise for a living and work in stunning surroundings, but it will also put a bit of distance between Holly and her problems at home.
As Holly falls in love with the busy world of Wickham Hall - from family weddings to summer festivals, firework displays and Christmas grottos - she also finds a place in her heart for her friendly (if unusual) colleagues.
But life isn’t as easily organised as an event at Wickham Hall (and even those have their complications…). Can Holly learn to let go and live in the moment? After all, that’s when the magic happens…
512 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2016
105 people are currently reading
1307 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Bramley
66 books1,130 followersCathy Bramley is the author of the best-selling romantic comedies Ivy Lane, Appleby Farm, Wickham Hall, Conditional Love and The Plumberry School of Comfort Food. She lives in a Nottinghamshire village with her family and a dog.
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
December 7, 2018
This is a review for all four books instead of one review for each book.
After a month reading only thrillers (Black November), I decided to get a light, non brain stimulating read, plus, I liked the blurb of the first book. Being well aware of it being a romance, a genre I rarely read, I was totally OK with it.
Good God, that was the dullest, flatest and most boring romance I've ever come across!
* Holly: a seriously huge pain in the a**, I get it, with her mom's hoarding problem and growing up without a father, she hadn't an easy life, but God, she was impossible to connect with.
*Ben or BENEDICT (as her ladyship likes to call him) the rich, handsome, artist at heart heir, who doesn't want the life his parents are planning for him, (eyes rolling begins) so Cliché!
So,
My first problem was that everything went so smoothly for Holly, she got the job on the spot, she made friends within few hours, and yes, she excells at her work, no one comes up with greater ideas than hers. Come on, some competition would have been lovely!
My second problem was with the couple of lovers: Holly and Ben, good Lord! there was zero chemistry between the two of them, it felt like there had to be somthing emotional going on and they were just like, OK, let's do it!
PS:I made it to book four hoping for some development, but nope, it was nowhere to be found.
My third problem was with Holly's mom hoarding issue and how it was lightly taken care of: some shed tears, a love interest, few sessions of therapy and voilà! Seriously guys, a problem of this proportion (almost 30 years of hoarding) won't be that easily delt with!
My forth problem was with her ladyship and how she gave up so many years of prejudice in simply one minute? I guess it was one minute, just because Holly, again, had a genious idea! someone please shoot me!
It was, a dull (yeah, I'm repeating it), unrealistic, problem and challenge free romance that could have been a great read if it only had a little touch of reality.
After a month reading only thrillers (Black November), I decided to get a light, non brain stimulating read, plus, I liked the blurb of the first book. Being well aware of it being a romance, a genre I rarely read, I was totally OK with it.
Good God, that was the dullest, flatest and most boring romance I've ever come across!
* Holly: a seriously huge pain in the a**, I get it, with her mom's hoarding problem and growing up without a father, she hadn't an easy life, but God, she was impossible to connect with.
*Ben or BENEDICT (as her ladyship likes to call him) the rich, handsome, artist at heart heir, who doesn't want the life his parents are planning for him, (eyes rolling begins) so Cliché!
So,
My first problem was that everything went so smoothly for Holly, she got the job on the spot, she made friends within few hours, and yes, she excells at her work, no one comes up with greater ideas than hers. Come on, some competition would have been lovely!
My second problem was with the couple of lovers: Holly and Ben, good Lord! there was zero chemistry between the two of them, it felt like there had to be somthing emotional going on and they were just like, OK, let's do it!
PS:I made it to book four hoping for some development, but nope, it was nowhere to be found.
My third problem was with Holly's mom hoarding issue and how it was lightly taken care of: some shed tears, a love interest, few sessions of therapy and voilà! Seriously guys, a problem of this proportion (almost 30 years of hoarding) won't be that easily delt with!
My forth problem was with her ladyship and how she gave up so many years of prejudice in simply one minute? I guess it was one minute, just because Holly, again, had a genious idea! someone please shoot me!
It was, a dull (yeah, I'm repeating it), unrealistic, problem and challenge free romance that could have been a great read if it only had a little touch of reality.
April 27, 2021
Three and a half stars
Holly Swift has landed her dream job as events coordinator at Wickham Hall, the old manor house that is at the heat of the village where she grew up. Holly lives with her mother at Weaver Cottage. That comes with is own issues as her mother is a compulsive hoarder. The situation is so bad and Holly so embarrassed by this state of the lace, she will never invite anyone back to Weaver Cottage. Her mother needs help but Holly seems to be unable to find the key to unlocking this hoarding issue that sees the cottage cluttered with old newspapers and other old items. So, this job is a blessing for Holly as it gives her something else to focus on. A compulsive organiser and full of creative ideas, Holly is in her element, despite a few unexpected circumstances that see her have to change plans.
If I could use a few words to describe this book they are light, warm and lovely. It is peopled with likeable characters, an interesting setting, a romance and family relationships that are testing. True, it is somewhat predictable but I was so easily drawn into this story, that I didn’t care. It was just a nice bit of escapism. And sometimes that’s all I want as a reader.
Holly Swift has landed her dream job as events coordinator at Wickham Hall, the old manor house that is at the heat of the village where she grew up. Holly lives with her mother at Weaver Cottage. That comes with is own issues as her mother is a compulsive hoarder. The situation is so bad and Holly so embarrassed by this state of the lace, she will never invite anyone back to Weaver Cottage. Her mother needs help but Holly seems to be unable to find the key to unlocking this hoarding issue that sees the cottage cluttered with old newspapers and other old items. So, this job is a blessing for Holly as it gives her something else to focus on. A compulsive organiser and full of creative ideas, Holly is in her element, despite a few unexpected circumstances that see her have to change plans.
If I could use a few words to describe this book they are light, warm and lovely. It is peopled with likeable characters, an interesting setting, a romance and family relationships that are testing. True, it is somewhat predictable but I was so easily drawn into this story, that I didn’t care. It was just a nice bit of escapism. And sometimes that’s all I want as a reader.
May 18, 2019
I listened to this on audio book.
I absolutely love Cathy Bramley books so I had an inkling that I'd be in for a fun delightful read with this book. I wasn't wrong.
This has been a great enjoyable story, albeit a little slow in places as parts were drawn out. I loved getting to know all of the characters and discovering each of their backgrounds & see how things would develope for them.
The setting of Wickham Hall sounded truly picturesque and idyllic, made me just want to be there enjoying it all for myself.
So another job well done to Cathy, you really do know how to tell a story.
I absolutely love Cathy Bramley books so I had an inkling that I'd be in for a fun delightful read with this book. I wasn't wrong.
This has been a great enjoyable story, albeit a little slow in places as parts were drawn out. I loved getting to know all of the characters and discovering each of their backgrounds & see how things would develope for them.
The setting of Wickham Hall sounded truly picturesque and idyllic, made me just want to be there enjoying it all for myself.
So another job well done to Cathy, you really do know how to tell a story.
April 27, 2021
Really enjoyed the light hearted simplicity of this book. Full of twists and turns that you think you've worked out but you haven't.
January 15, 2016
Every time I read a book by Cathy Bramley I am amazed, and with Wickham Hall I honestly think this is her best yet. Due to it having started life as a four part serial, each part is a well put together novella, and the plot moves seamlessly from one part to another. With the mini cliff hangers at the ends of the first 3 parts, I was literally pausing for breathe, and moving straight onto the next section of the story. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next.
I read Wickham Hall in one sitting, and in some respects I am gutted that I did, as it meant I couldn't prolong the pleasure of reading this fantastic story.
Cathy Bramley has once again put together a delightful cast of characters, and put them in a setting where I felt right at home instantly. And Ben, the heir to Wickham Hall is such a sweetheart, I would happily marry him if I could (and perhaps he was real!).
Holly starts working in the events planning department of Wickham Hall, a manor house, that earns its keep by having all sorts of events open to the public throughout the year, from Summer Fairs, to fireworks nights, to Christmas, and all manner of other things in between.
Holly has always felt she has had a connection with Wickham Hall, and she and her mum spent many a day visiting when Holly was younger. And now she discovers just why she the Hall has always had such a special place in their hearts.
I loved reading about the various staff members at Wickham Hall, including the chef Jenny (who I have a sneaking suspicion may be the star of the next set of stories by Cathy), to the gardener, Jim the security guard and Lord and Lady Fortescue who own the hall.
We also meet Holly's mother, and something that has been source of misery for both of them, is slowly sorted out during the story, with a storyline I wouldn't have necessarily guessed but definitely held me interest.
Wickham Hall was a very easy to read, and high enjoyable story. There were moments that had me laughing out loud (one particular euphemism for sex comes to mind), and others that just had me smiling regardless. A brilliant book to start your reading with in 2016, I just can't wait for more, from the "queen of the serialised novel".
I read Wickham Hall in one sitting, and in some respects I am gutted that I did, as it meant I couldn't prolong the pleasure of reading this fantastic story.
Cathy Bramley has once again put together a delightful cast of characters, and put them in a setting where I felt right at home instantly. And Ben, the heir to Wickham Hall is such a sweetheart, I would happily marry him if I could (and perhaps he was real!).
Holly starts working in the events planning department of Wickham Hall, a manor house, that earns its keep by having all sorts of events open to the public throughout the year, from Summer Fairs, to fireworks nights, to Christmas, and all manner of other things in between.
Holly has always felt she has had a connection with Wickham Hall, and she and her mum spent many a day visiting when Holly was younger. And now she discovers just why she the Hall has always had such a special place in their hearts.
I loved reading about the various staff members at Wickham Hall, including the chef Jenny (who I have a sneaking suspicion may be the star of the next set of stories by Cathy), to the gardener, Jim the security guard and Lord and Lady Fortescue who own the hall.
We also meet Holly's mother, and something that has been source of misery for both of them, is slowly sorted out during the story, with a storyline I wouldn't have necessarily guessed but definitely held me interest.
Wickham Hall was a very easy to read, and high enjoyable story. There were moments that had me laughing out loud (one particular euphemism for sex comes to mind), and others that just had me smiling regardless. A brilliant book to start your reading with in 2016, I just can't wait for more, from the "queen of the serialised novel".
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May 31, 2022The more I read about Indian History and the devastating role that British colonialism played in destroying the country, the harder I am finding it to appreciate anything about British aristocracy and their lives. That includes lighthearted romantic fiction cantered around them.
I don’t remember when I bought this book or from where, though it’s definitely from a secondhand store or a book fair. I usually note down the date and the location/place from where I buy books, however I missed doing that with this book.
I have a couple of go-to authors in this genre, and Cathy Bramley is one of them. So, I must have picked up this book looking at her name.
This is not to take away anything from Cathy Bramley’s work. She is great at what she does and I would still pick up her books if I am in a mood for something light and easy. Just that, I would now give attention to the subject of the book too, and not just the cover and her name.
I don’t remember when I bought this book or from where, though it’s definitely from a secondhand store or a book fair. I usually note down the date and the location/place from where I buy books, however I missed doing that with this book.
I have a couple of go-to authors in this genre, and Cathy Bramley is one of them. So, I must have picked up this book looking at her name.
This is not to take away anything from Cathy Bramley’s work. She is great at what she does and I would still pick up her books if I am in a mood for something light and easy. Just that, I would now give attention to the subject of the book too, and not just the cover and her name.
June 29, 2017
Cathy Bramley is a writing goddess!
This book is like her others in that it draws you in and makes you want to actually live in the story.
Yet the story thrives on its own in every aspect.
One which will warm the cockles of your heart and leave you feeling good about life again.
I literally couldn't put it down at times and had to ask my friend to physically take this book away until I had done more work!
Fabulous! Thank you Cathy Bramley for yet another wonderful book :)
This book is like her others in that it draws you in and makes you want to actually live in the story.
Yet the story thrives on its own in every aspect.
One which will warm the cockles of your heart and leave you feeling good about life again.
I literally couldn't put it down at times and had to ask my friend to physically take this book away until I had done more work!
Fabulous! Thank you Cathy Bramley for yet another wonderful book :)
July 29, 2017
What a wonderful book. Exactly what I needed right now.
The characters were lovely, the plot was great and there were just very few not really noteworthy bits I almost didn't like. I really enjoyed reading it!
The characters were lovely, the plot was great and there were just very few not really noteworthy bits I almost didn't like. I really enjoyed reading it!
April 5, 2016
Wickham Hall is Cathy Bramley's fourth novel, and her most recent, and I've been dying to read it for ages. I really enjoyed her previous books Ivy Lane and Conditional Love, and I still have the delightful Appleby Farm to visit, and her new book The Plumberry School of Comfort Food to dig into once it's released throughout the year. Wickham Hall is by far my favourite of Cathy's books so far, it just had everything I love in a book, without the usual annoyances that come with a Chick Lit novel (namely the heroine and hero having some massive falling out before declaring their love on the last page). Where Benedict and Holly were concerned, it just flowed naturally, and it's almost as if their relationship happened by accident, it was that amazing. The kind that just makes you sigh and wish for your own Benedict.
Stately homes are also my FAVOURITE settings for books. I dream of living in a stately home, and Wickham Hall sounded utterly amazing. I could literally imagine it in my head, helped along by the gorgeous house on the front cover of the book. I could see why Holly wanted to work there, it sounded like the most amazing place to work, and I SO want to become an event planner, it seems like so much fun (and quite a bit of hassle). You could also really feel the warmth radiating from all the staff members, they genuinely wanted to work at Wickham Hall and that's quite amazing, really.
The characters were fantastic, Holly was the narrator and I loved her. Her enthusiasm for Wickham Hall, the way she wanted to help her poor mum out, how she threw herself into her job at Wickham Hall, despite the fact the lass she was supposed to work with ending up having to leave like immediately, and I loved that she was so organised. I like things organised myself, but Holly took it to another level and I loved it. She was so much fun, and Benedict added another level of fun, too. I loved how silly he was, how he wasn't up himself as you might expect someone named Benedict to be (sorry to anyone named Benedict out there), and I loved that he was a painter. I genuinely wanted to buy one of his paintings of sunsets because they sounded magical. Lord and Lady Fortescue were also pretty awesome, Hugh in particular, whereas Lady Fortescue had her moments, and was a bit of a snob.
Wickham Hall really was a delightful read. I loved every bit of it and devoured it in just a couple of days. It's 500 pages, but never once does it feel like it's dragging, and the storyline just moves at quite a decent pace. I'm glad I read the book all in one go, though, because reading it in its four parts would have driven me absolutely insane, what with those cliff-hangers and truths being told! I can't wait to read Appleby Farm, now, Cathy really is one of the most fantastic storytellers around.
Stately homes are also my FAVOURITE settings for books. I dream of living in a stately home, and Wickham Hall sounded utterly amazing. I could literally imagine it in my head, helped along by the gorgeous house on the front cover of the book. I could see why Holly wanted to work there, it sounded like the most amazing place to work, and I SO want to become an event planner, it seems like so much fun (and quite a bit of hassle). You could also really feel the warmth radiating from all the staff members, they genuinely wanted to work at Wickham Hall and that's quite amazing, really.
The characters were fantastic, Holly was the narrator and I loved her. Her enthusiasm for Wickham Hall, the way she wanted to help her poor mum out, how she threw herself into her job at Wickham Hall, despite the fact the lass she was supposed to work with ending up having to leave like immediately, and I loved that she was so organised. I like things organised myself, but Holly took it to another level and I loved it. She was so much fun, and Benedict added another level of fun, too. I loved how silly he was, how he wasn't up himself as you might expect someone named Benedict to be (sorry to anyone named Benedict out there), and I loved that he was a painter. I genuinely wanted to buy one of his paintings of sunsets because they sounded magical. Lord and Lady Fortescue were also pretty awesome, Hugh in particular, whereas Lady Fortescue had her moments, and was a bit of a snob.
Wickham Hall really was a delightful read. I loved every bit of it and devoured it in just a couple of days. It's 500 pages, but never once does it feel like it's dragging, and the storyline just moves at quite a decent pace. I'm glad I read the book all in one go, though, because reading it in its four parts would have driven me absolutely insane, what with those cliff-hangers and truths being told! I can't wait to read Appleby Farm, now, Cathy really is one of the most fantastic storytellers around.
September 21, 2016
Cathy Bramley did a great job with this one, again. I loved it.
It's about Holly Swift, who just landed her dream job. She now works as an events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall in Wickham, where she lives and grew up. Wickham Hall is an old, pretty estate with a beautiful garden, a cafe and a gift shop and is owned by the Fortescue family. Their son Benedict soon enters the picture and Holly's working (and personal) life gets totally mussed up. Between organising wonderful events such as a summer festival or a christmas party, Holly develops a huge crush on Lord-to-be Ben...
Oh, I loved it, just as the other two books by Cathy Bramley I've read so far. It was another cosy feel-good read and I didn't want to put it down. This one is also a little fairytale-like and that was really lovely as well. I cannot say anything negative about it at all (surprise), so I'll just leave it at that. It's great, you should read it. ♥
It's about Holly Swift, who just landed her dream job. She now works as an events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall in Wickham, where she lives and grew up. Wickham Hall is an old, pretty estate with a beautiful garden, a cafe and a gift shop and is owned by the Fortescue family. Their son Benedict soon enters the picture and Holly's working (and personal) life gets totally mussed up. Between organising wonderful events such as a summer festival or a christmas party, Holly develops a huge crush on Lord-to-be Ben...
Oh, I loved it, just as the other two books by Cathy Bramley I've read so far. It was another cosy feel-good read and I didn't want to put it down. This one is also a little fairytale-like and that was really lovely as well. I cannot say anything negative about it at all (surprise), so I'll just leave it at that. It's great, you should read it. ♥
April 19, 2017
This book is so dull and boring - nothing exciting happens to keep you gripped and it is so predictable. You could work out the ending by chapter 3!!!!
I'm not keen on chick lit books anyway but this was poor in comparison to other chick lit books I have read.
I read this for author never read and to be honest will never read her books again!
I'm not keen on chick lit books anyway but this was poor in comparison to other chick lit books I have read.
I read this for author never read and to be honest will never read her books again!
January 14, 2016
I can't express how much I was waiting to finally read Wickham Hall by Cathy Bramley! I usually don't wait for her series to come out as a full - length novel but read them part by part, immediately after they are released, so I really have no explanation why I waited this time. But no matter, no matter...! When the book arrived, I couldn't stop looking at it - really. The cover is so gorgeous, only looking at it made me feel better :) But this what is between the cover is even better than the cover, Cathy delivers a wonderful, warm, lovely story - again! There may be thousand of uncertain things in your life, but one is for sure - when you pick Cathy Bramley's book, you are for a real treat.
Just like Cathy's previous books, Wickham Hall, that was firstly published as a series, is divided into four parts, and each part is in charge of a season - and it worked out brilliantly in this book, as there is always at least one big event to be organized in the Hall, and the plot focuses around it. It suits the book totally, and we have not only Christmas party, but fireworks night or Summer Fairs.
Cathy is a champion of creating delightful plots, worlds and characters, and it was not exception with Wickham Hall. I immediately felt at home when I started reading this novel, felt comfortable and in the right place. Holly Swift, Cathy's new protagonist and main character, is just charming. She is on the normal level, a girl from the neighbourhood, a lovely, friendly person, but she can also stand for herself, when situation requires. I loved Holly's internal dialogues, I couldn't have enough of her dilemmas, she was so funny and this all only made me like her even more. She was so down to earth, genuine and honest in everything she did. Also, she had the biggest heart in the world and tons of patience in her, which we could see and appreciate when Holly's mother Lucy was introduced to us - Lucy and her hoarding issues. It was also a point in the book that was brilliantly tackled by Cathy, with a lot of understanding and gentleness, and it quickly became clear why Holly is as she is: meticulous, clipboard kind of girl, with everything planned in advance. I also loved Holly's enthusiasm about almost everything, loved her fresh ideas, and she was really the kind of girl that I'd love to have as my own, personal best friend.
And let's talk about Ben. We can't NOT talk about him. Move over all of my previous bookish crushes, now it's Ben. For me, he was perfect. No, he himself was not perfect, he had his flaws, but from the very first scene we meet him (mmmmm...) I was sold. I was smitten. I was under his spell. And it didn't change. A guy with his own dreams and plans that he wasn't afraid to chase, a guy with talent, sexy as hell, with a brilliant sense of humour, leather jacket and able to organize the best dates in the world. Hello? And the sweeping romance was so, so sweet!
There is a great bunch of characters in this story, because we are talking not only about Holly, her mum and her best friend, but also about the owners of the Wickham Hall and all the staff members there, and they were all so true to life, so genuine in this what they were doing and saying, and I adored them all - even though I had a little clash with Lady F. some time during the story. They all add tons to the book - in the sense of their own stories and personalities. They were all so welcoming and so warm, and just made me feel like a part of their one, big family.
The plot moves seamlessly and the story is just flowing, and the author's storytelling is incredibly engaging. Cathy always finds lovely settings for her novels, but this time she has exceeded herself. Wickham Hall and its surroundings, together with the village, were beautiful. The descriptions of those places were so very vivid, I didn't have any problems to picture all of them in my mind, and Cathy created a truly special place.
I may sound like a very ungrateful reader, but I am really already waiting for Cathy's next novel - I just can't have enough of her writing and I hope she will be writing books for many, many years to come - she just pulls you into the story with her wonderful, vivid descriptions and you feel so, so welcome. Wickham Hall was the best example of her talent, easy, enjoyable read that had a depth to it. It made me laugh, it had moments that had me feeling a little nostalgic, it was fast paced, and when one secret was revealed the next was already waiting for you So and I loved the whole story, from the beginning to the end - a truly brilliant book, highly recommended!
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for a review.
March 1, 2016
: I absolutely love the way Cathy Bramley book covers have been designed and think they look so appealing. Luckily the inside of the book matches up to the beautiful covers. Holly Swift is an instantly likeable character. I could picture quite clearly her living with her slightly eccentric Mum Lucy. When Holly bags a job at Wickham Hall she is beside herself, and as a reader I could almost feel her excitement coming off the pages in waves!
The characters involved within Wickham Hall truly do make a colourful cast and there are too many to mention although they all seemed to play an integral part of the story. Of course a select few become more prominent such as Ben, Lord and Lady F and Jim and the WH chef Jenny. It felt like with each person that reads this book, they may have a different favourite character for a different reason and it’s what makes the book so easy to read.
We see Holly’s confidence grow and she tackles all sorts of events at Wickham Hall such as events, Summer Fairs and Christmas Fairs with a whole bunch more in between. All the staff at WH makes Holly’s days that little bit more interesting and entertaining (as well as the readers) and found myself flying through chapters very quickly. Before I knew it I was nearly at the end and cursing myself for reading so quickly.
Wickham Hall was a really easy to read and enjoyable book. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a lazy afternoon, or maybe lazy evening with a large glass of wine. The perfect book to lose yourself in and I for one would definitely recommend it. I will look forward to seeing what Cathy Bramley comes up with next.
The characters involved within Wickham Hall truly do make a colourful cast and there are too many to mention although they all seemed to play an integral part of the story. Of course a select few become more prominent such as Ben, Lord and Lady F and Jim and the WH chef Jenny. It felt like with each person that reads this book, they may have a different favourite character for a different reason and it’s what makes the book so easy to read.
We see Holly’s confidence grow and she tackles all sorts of events at Wickham Hall such as events, Summer Fairs and Christmas Fairs with a whole bunch more in between. All the staff at WH makes Holly’s days that little bit more interesting and entertaining (as well as the readers) and found myself flying through chapters very quickly. Before I knew it I was nearly at the end and cursing myself for reading so quickly.
Wickham Hall was a really easy to read and enjoyable book. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a lazy afternoon, or maybe lazy evening with a large glass of wine. The perfect book to lose yourself in and I for one would definitely recommend it. I will look forward to seeing what Cathy Bramley comes up with next.
January 14, 2016
I have to say I loved everything about this novel. From the wonderful cover, to the really lovely storyline to the even lovelier characters.
Wickham Hall is a stately home, which from the wonderful descriptions, it is easy to see why Holly has fallen in love with the place. It’s a place she has grown up loving and she is lucky enough to land her dream job there.
Unfortunately Holly’s boss has a personal tragedy on her first day at work and Holly is thrown very much into the deep end. It’s obvious though that Holly is a natural in her job as she takes to it like a duck to water and it isn’t long before she is on top of everything and has everything running ship shape and coming up with even more ways for the stately home to make more money.
One thing Holly doesn’t plan on though is falling head over heels for Ben (Benedict). Ben is a wonderful character and it is easy to see why Holly has fallen for him, luckily for her, he feels the same way. As always though the path of love is not always an easy one and Holly and Ben certainly have a few hurdles to over come first.
There are lots of lovely characters and I liked so many of them. Some took a bit longer to warm to than others but by the end Wickham Hall and the characters were all an absolute joy to read about and having now finished it, ones I will miss very much.
A fabulously, heart warming and fun read that will make you just want to snuggle up on the sofa and turn off from the outside world.
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wickham Hall is a stately home, which from the wonderful descriptions, it is easy to see why Holly has fallen in love with the place. It’s a place she has grown up loving and she is lucky enough to land her dream job there.
Unfortunately Holly’s boss has a personal tragedy on her first day at work and Holly is thrown very much into the deep end. It’s obvious though that Holly is a natural in her job as she takes to it like a duck to water and it isn’t long before she is on top of everything and has everything running ship shape and coming up with even more ways for the stately home to make more money.
One thing Holly doesn’t plan on though is falling head over heels for Ben (Benedict). Ben is a wonderful character and it is easy to see why Holly has fallen for him, luckily for her, he feels the same way. As always though the path of love is not always an easy one and Holly and Ben certainly have a few hurdles to over come first.
There are lots of lovely characters and I liked so many of them. Some took a bit longer to warm to than others but by the end Wickham Hall and the characters were all an absolute joy to read about and having now finished it, ones I will miss very much.
A fabulously, heart warming and fun read that will make you just want to snuggle up on the sofa and turn off from the outside world.
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2021
I think this is my best Cathy Bramley book I have read so far..
Holly Swift lands her dream job at Wickham hall as an assistant events organiser. However, when her boss Pippa has family troubles and then quits Holly is left running the team single handed.
Benedict Fortescue is due to take over Wickham Hall from his parents but he's a bit of a free soul and loves his art. When Ben comes back for his sisters wedding and agrees to stay he becomes Holly's boss.
How will Miss organised cope with Ben's chaotic ways, will ben learn to love Wickham Hall? and what happens when feelings become involved
A easy to read, beautifully written love story that any romance lover will enjoy demolishing
Holly Swift lands her dream job at Wickham hall as an assistant events organiser. However, when her boss Pippa has family troubles and then quits Holly is left running the team single handed.
Benedict Fortescue is due to take over Wickham Hall from his parents but he's a bit of a free soul and loves his art. When Ben comes back for his sisters wedding and agrees to stay he becomes Holly's boss.
How will Miss organised cope with Ben's chaotic ways, will ben learn to love Wickham Hall? and what happens when feelings become involved
A easy to read, beautifully written love story that any romance lover will enjoy demolishing
March 8, 2019
Cathy Bramley has done it again. This book was an excellent read and I absolutely loved it.
Holly Swift has landed her dream job working at Wickham Hall. A place she used to visit as a child with her mum.Holly soon falls in love with Wickham hall and all the different events that take place there.
All in all I loved the book. I loved all the characters. They were very well written. Cathy Bramley is one of my favourite authors and I really enjoy reading her books.
I'm very much looking forward to reading her next book.
Holly Swift has landed her dream job working at Wickham Hall. A place she used to visit as a child with her mum.Holly soon falls in love with Wickham hall and all the different events that take place there.
All in all I loved the book. I loved all the characters. They were very well written. Cathy Bramley is one of my favourite authors and I really enjoy reading her books.
I'm very much looking forward to reading her next book.
May 4, 2018
I really like the feel good style Cathy Bramley writes in. Her formula appeals to me. Slice of life, low scale entanglements, fun situations that are easily resolved and no unnecessary drama. More about the people and setting than personal trauma. And I thank her for not taking the 'tragic past' route.
July 21, 2019
Loved it - the perfect kind of read for me. Historic home? Check. Hands-on event planner role at said home? Check. Romance between the events planner and heir to the home? Check. And lots of light-hearted moments made this ideal for me.
May 20, 2017
Quite a nice story but there wasn't enough going on given the size of the book and I felt a bit bored at times.
September 24, 2019
I loved this book! What a beautiful setting and I absolutely adored the relationship that blossomed between Holly and Ben and lady Fortescue finally accepted her. Highly recommend this is the second book of Cathy Bramley's I have read and I definitely wasn't disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2016
Originally posted on : http://www.albainbookland.com/2016/02...
I have reached the conclusion that Cathy Bramley cannot write a book I don't fall in love with. I have loved every single word this woman has written so far. And with Wickham Hall, Cathy has surpassed herself again. I really like the structure of her books, given that they are first released as serialised novels, they always follow the same pattern: 4 parts with a little cliffhanger at the end of each that makes you want to keep reading non-stop to know what is going on. I actually always wait until the whole book comes out so I don't have to wait to know it!
In Wickham Hall we meet Holly, a lovely hardworking girl who has just landed the job of her dreams: assistant events organiser at the local Mannor House, Wickham Hall. She and her mother have always been regular visitors of the house and she has always felt connected to this place. But then, on her first day her new boss is a no show and she is left handling the events department on her own. We soon discover though that Holly's highly organisational skills and her love for the place are more than enough to handle it all. That's until gorgeous Ben enters the picture... The reluctant heir of the manor is being pushed by his parents to step up his game and become more involved in the state. So he ends up being Holly's new boss. And the sparks in their little office start flying!
I kind of fell a bit in love with Ben myself and I absolutely adored reading his interactions with Holly. They made each other better persons and their teasing and banter really brought a fun spark to the story. But Wickham Hall offers so much more than their story, starting with the lovely and lively cast of characters that work at Wickham Hall and finishing with the mystery of why Holly feels such a strong connection with the place and the mystery of who her father is, there's certainly no time for boredom reading it. With each page, there's something new to discover.
Talking about the characters of Wickham Hall, I can't not mention the lovely security guard who has a soft spot for every small creature and small child he encounters or the fierce and extremely talented chef who rides a Harley and makes the most delicious concoctions. They were my favourite ones but everyone had their own story to tell and added their little piece of heart to this lovely community. Ah! And let's not forget the Lord and Lady of the manor. Great leaders and highly involved in everything. They made such a cute couple. Even if they not always made things easy for Holly.
So if you need a bit of sunshine to brighten up your day and put you in the mood for spring, then Wickham Hall is your book. I can guarantee that you will fall in love with the setting and its characters and that by the end of it, you'll want to have your own Mannor! Or at least visit one! Another hit from Cathy Bramley, Wickham Hall is unmissable, it goes straight away to my list of favourite reads of the year.
I have reached the conclusion that Cathy Bramley cannot write a book I don't fall in love with. I have loved every single word this woman has written so far. And with Wickham Hall, Cathy has surpassed herself again. I really like the structure of her books, given that they are first released as serialised novels, they always follow the same pattern: 4 parts with a little cliffhanger at the end of each that makes you want to keep reading non-stop to know what is going on. I actually always wait until the whole book comes out so I don't have to wait to know it!
In Wickham Hall we meet Holly, a lovely hardworking girl who has just landed the job of her dreams: assistant events organiser at the local Mannor House, Wickham Hall. She and her mother have always been regular visitors of the house and she has always felt connected to this place. But then, on her first day her new boss is a no show and she is left handling the events department on her own. We soon discover though that Holly's highly organisational skills and her love for the place are more than enough to handle it all. That's until gorgeous Ben enters the picture... The reluctant heir of the manor is being pushed by his parents to step up his game and become more involved in the state. So he ends up being Holly's new boss. And the sparks in their little office start flying!
I kind of fell a bit in love with Ben myself and I absolutely adored reading his interactions with Holly. They made each other better persons and their teasing and banter really brought a fun spark to the story. But Wickham Hall offers so much more than their story, starting with the lovely and lively cast of characters that work at Wickham Hall and finishing with the mystery of why Holly feels such a strong connection with the place and the mystery of who her father is, there's certainly no time for boredom reading it. With each page, there's something new to discover.
Talking about the characters of Wickham Hall, I can't not mention the lovely security guard who has a soft spot for every small creature and small child he encounters or the fierce and extremely talented chef who rides a Harley and makes the most delicious concoctions. They were my favourite ones but everyone had their own story to tell and added their little piece of heart to this lovely community. Ah! And let's not forget the Lord and Lady of the manor. Great leaders and highly involved in everything. They made such a cute couple. Even if they not always made things easy for Holly.
So if you need a bit of sunshine to brighten up your day and put you in the mood for spring, then Wickham Hall is your book. I can guarantee that you will fall in love with the setting and its characters and that by the end of it, you'll want to have your own Mannor! Or at least visit one! Another hit from Cathy Bramley, Wickham Hall is unmissable, it goes straight away to my list of favourite reads of the year.
February 25, 2016
A perfect, romantic, romcom.
Wickham Hall is the first novel I have read by Cathy Bramley and it certainly wont be my last!
Originally published as a four - part serial ebook, Wickham Hall is a novel about hopes and dreams and finding love.. of course with a few bumps along the way, and is set over four seasons.
The first part is titled Hidden Treasures and introduces us to Holly Swift. Holly has just got a job at Wickham Hall in the events department and is over the moon. Immediately she is thrown in to the deep end when her boss is off sick on Holly's first day, but she gets stuck straight into her role and we learn what type of character she is - organised, prompt, hard working and dedicated.
Over the course of this first section, Holly over comes various obstacles whilst planning the Wickham Hall calendar, finalising details for the summer festival and ensuring a smooth running of the wedding belonging to Zara, Daughter of Lord and Lady Fortescue who own Wickham Hall.
Holly quickly becomes an asset to the company and when her boss leaves for good she is faced with a temporary one in the form of Benedict Fortescue. Ben is a bit of a free spirit much to his parents dismay as he loves his art and the last thing he wants to do is settle down and learn the ropes of Wickham Hall ready to take over the reign.
Over the next two parts of the book, Summer Secrets and Sparks Fly, Holly and Ben grow close and as their feelings grow for each other, Holly worries that they are culturally worlds apart. When Ben disappears twice, Holly throws herself into the upcoming events, and it isn't until the last section of the novel, White Christmas, that the pair finally admit their feelings for each other.
Although Wickham Hall is a classic RomCom book with a beautiful love story as the main theme, there are a lot of sub story lines too - Holly's mum being a hoarder and secretive about the Father Holly knows nothing about, Esme (Holly's best friend) and her money troubles with her own Mothers clothes shop, and Ben and his parents pushing him for take over to name a few. Often you find that books can get confusing with many sub storylines, however, Cathy Bramely's writing style meant that the book flowed wonderfully and it was effortless to read - I was brought straight into Holly's world within the first few pages and I didn't leave until the very end.
Every event, location and time of year in Wickham Hall was described in great detail with some humorous scenes all linked up with a happy ending - my kind of book!
Wickham Hall is the first novel I have read by Cathy Bramley and it certainly wont be my last!
Originally published as a four - part serial ebook, Wickham Hall is a novel about hopes and dreams and finding love.. of course with a few bumps along the way, and is set over four seasons.
The first part is titled Hidden Treasures and introduces us to Holly Swift. Holly has just got a job at Wickham Hall in the events department and is over the moon. Immediately she is thrown in to the deep end when her boss is off sick on Holly's first day, but she gets stuck straight into her role and we learn what type of character she is - organised, prompt, hard working and dedicated.
Over the course of this first section, Holly over comes various obstacles whilst planning the Wickham Hall calendar, finalising details for the summer festival and ensuring a smooth running of the wedding belonging to Zara, Daughter of Lord and Lady Fortescue who own Wickham Hall.
Holly quickly becomes an asset to the company and when her boss leaves for good she is faced with a temporary one in the form of Benedict Fortescue. Ben is a bit of a free spirit much to his parents dismay as he loves his art and the last thing he wants to do is settle down and learn the ropes of Wickham Hall ready to take over the reign.
Over the next two parts of the book, Summer Secrets and Sparks Fly, Holly and Ben grow close and as their feelings grow for each other, Holly worries that they are culturally worlds apart. When Ben disappears twice, Holly throws herself into the upcoming events, and it isn't until the last section of the novel, White Christmas, that the pair finally admit their feelings for each other.
Although Wickham Hall is a classic RomCom book with a beautiful love story as the main theme, there are a lot of sub story lines too - Holly's mum being a hoarder and secretive about the Father Holly knows nothing about, Esme (Holly's best friend) and her money troubles with her own Mothers clothes shop, and Ben and his parents pushing him for take over to name a few. Often you find that books can get confusing with many sub storylines, however, Cathy Bramely's writing style meant that the book flowed wonderfully and it was effortless to read - I was brought straight into Holly's world within the first few pages and I didn't leave until the very end.
Every event, location and time of year in Wickham Hall was described in great detail with some humorous scenes all linked up with a happy ending - my kind of book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2016
I was thrilled to bits to receive an ARC of Wickham Hall by Cathy Bramley. And what a lovely, heartwarming book this is I absolutely loved it and devoured it in one day. For me this is most definitely a snuggle on the sofa with a cuppa on a cold winters day book. First of all i have to say what a beautiful cover it's got buy me written all over it I just want to jump in the cover!
Wickham hall is broken up into four parts. The first one being Hidden treasures, Summer secrets, Fireworks, and White Christmas the story starts off with Holly heading to an interview as events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall which sits in the heart of the village where Holly grew up. I was hooked from the start Holly is a genuine down to earth witty person head strong career driven woman. Who is in her element when she lands her dream job I could totally relate to her has I read more of the story the more I loved Holly and her passion for Wickham Hall. I mean seriously who wouldn’t?! There is nothing not to like about her. I would love a Ben in my life hes just a dream boat. In fact all of the characters in this book are lovely in the own individual way. I loved the different relationships Holly had with each character and she is always positive. Holly did make me giggle. The characters and story simply flow. This what I would call an easy read with some nicely added surprises. Which I am not going to say to much has I don’t want to give the story away.
Cathy's writing is so picturesque and beautifully written. I felt like I was there at Wickham hall with Holly inside and outside of the building. The tiny detail of the brick work and flower buds are amazing.
This book is full lots of laugh out loud scenes and well has touching scenes that pull on your heart strings. This wonderful unique story shows that dreams do come true.
This is a fun, light-hearted read and most definitely a page tuner about love, friendships and families. Which I highly recommend I can not tell you enough how amazing this story is. This is an easy 5 stars from me and I am looking forward to reading more of Cathy’s books.
I would also like to say Cathy Bramley for a copy of Wickham hall it was lovely to meet you.
Wickham hall is broken up into four parts. The first one being Hidden treasures, Summer secrets, Fireworks, and White Christmas the story starts off with Holly heading to an interview as events co-ordinator at Wickham Hall which sits in the heart of the village where Holly grew up. I was hooked from the start Holly is a genuine down to earth witty person head strong career driven woman. Who is in her element when she lands her dream job I could totally relate to her has I read more of the story the more I loved Holly and her passion for Wickham Hall. I mean seriously who wouldn’t?! There is nothing not to like about her. I would love a Ben in my life hes just a dream boat. In fact all of the characters in this book are lovely in the own individual way. I loved the different relationships Holly had with each character and she is always positive. Holly did make me giggle. The characters and story simply flow. This what I would call an easy read with some nicely added surprises. Which I am not going to say to much has I don’t want to give the story away.
Cathy's writing is so picturesque and beautifully written. I felt like I was there at Wickham hall with Holly inside and outside of the building. The tiny detail of the brick work and flower buds are amazing.
This book is full lots of laugh out loud scenes and well has touching scenes that pull on your heart strings. This wonderful unique story shows that dreams do come true.
This is a fun, light-hearted read and most definitely a page tuner about love, friendships and families. Which I highly recommend I can not tell you enough how amazing this story is. This is an easy 5 stars from me and I am looking forward to reading more of Cathy’s books.
I would also like to say Cathy Bramley for a copy of Wickham hall it was lovely to meet you.
January 18, 2016
Another fantastic read from Cathy Bramley. I loved Wickham Hall, great story, and characters. I wasn't too good over the weekend so spent most of it ready this. I loved the character of Holly and I would love the job she had. An events planner at a manor house, would be one of my dream jobs!
July 6, 2016
I loved this book, the story had lots of twists and kept me hooked. the only reason im disappointed is because I finished it so quickly.
October 10, 2017
I am a huge fan of Cathy Bramley. She has a unique voice in the literary world. Her way with words always manage to pull me right inside her stories and make me feel like the most welcomed visitor.
I immediately bonded with the leading lady of this book. Holly Swift is a compulsive organizer, she is bright, bubbly and has a lifelong obsession with clipboards. Holly gets a thrill when she can tick everything off the to-do list ( that is what we both have in common). Holly's dream came true when she landed a job as an assistant events coordinator at Wickham Hall, the gorgeous manor house that sits proudly at the heart of the village. On her second day, Holly learns that her boss resigned and she is responsible for running the events department singlehandedly for the foreseeable future or until the errant heir of Wickham Hall takes over).
Holly is in her element, and she could be happier to be spending her days working at the manor. She handles every situation with ease and aplomb and very quickly becomes a part of the Wickham Hall Team. Then Ben Fortescue turns up and manages to make Holly's heart beat faster but also spin her world in a direction she thought was never possible.
I adored Ben and his passion for his heritage and his art. Ben is charming, funny and has a heart of gold. He comes from an entirely different world to Holly's but when their paths collided even his upbringing and his mother, Lady Fortescue, can not deny him to be happy and at peace with his future at Wickham Hall. The scenes between Holly and Ben are full of sparkly energy and bouncy and witty dialogs.
Cathy Bramley always brings out her characters in a full glory, and they all have a bit of history we get to read about in more depth as the story progresses, and Wickham Hall is no exception. I finally understood where Holly's obsession with neatness came from when I read about her relationships with her mother and as Holly and her mother work on repairing their family they both learn to let go of the past and embrace the future and the new possibilities that come within.
As for the setting in this book, I utterly delight in watching the Wickham Hall transformed throughout the seasons from spring to winter. The whole environment and the festivities that were held in the Hall were described in such a vivid and colourful way that it made it nearly impossible for me to distinguish between reality and fiction. I loved the scenes with Zara's summer wedding the busyness of the summer festival and the Bonfire night and the sumptuous of the Christmas homecoming dinner. Truly delectable selection.
I immediately bonded with the leading lady of this book. Holly Swift is a compulsive organizer, she is bright, bubbly and has a lifelong obsession with clipboards. Holly gets a thrill when she can tick everything off the to-do list ( that is what we both have in common). Holly's dream came true when she landed a job as an assistant events coordinator at Wickham Hall, the gorgeous manor house that sits proudly at the heart of the village. On her second day, Holly learns that her boss resigned and she is responsible for running the events department singlehandedly for the foreseeable future or until the errant heir of Wickham Hall takes over).
Holly is in her element, and she could be happier to be spending her days working at the manor. She handles every situation with ease and aplomb and very quickly becomes a part of the Wickham Hall Team. Then Ben Fortescue turns up and manages to make Holly's heart beat faster but also spin her world in a direction she thought was never possible.
I adored Ben and his passion for his heritage and his art. Ben is charming, funny and has a heart of gold. He comes from an entirely different world to Holly's but when their paths collided even his upbringing and his mother, Lady Fortescue, can not deny him to be happy and at peace with his future at Wickham Hall. The scenes between Holly and Ben are full of sparkly energy and bouncy and witty dialogs.
Cathy Bramley always brings out her characters in a full glory, and they all have a bit of history we get to read about in more depth as the story progresses, and Wickham Hall is no exception. I finally understood where Holly's obsession with neatness came from when I read about her relationships with her mother and as Holly and her mother work on repairing their family they both learn to let go of the past and embrace the future and the new possibilities that come within.
As for the setting in this book, I utterly delight in watching the Wickham Hall transformed throughout the seasons from spring to winter. The whole environment and the festivities that were held in the Hall were described in such a vivid and colourful way that it made it nearly impossible for me to distinguish between reality and fiction. I loved the scenes with Zara's summer wedding the busyness of the summer festival and the Bonfire night and the sumptuous of the Christmas homecoming dinner. Truly delectable selection.
November 5, 2017
This was alright but a tad boring. If I were to describe this book, it carried an aura of being perfect in a mediocre way. Holly was just too perfect. I felt like she was a well-adjusted person and she just wasn't interesting. Her story revolves around solving other people's problems. Her character was the capable one and it was just a bit sugary for me. I say mediocre because it is really grounded in real life with normal problems except everybody makes the right decisions. It was just a bit smooth and uninteresting.
I can't really think of a favourite scene because I didn't find this book interesting. Conversely, I can't think of a scene I hated because I didn't really feel much reading this. It was just meh.
Oh, I did dislike Holly and Ben's romance. I didn't perceive any chemistry. Oh, I found the word to describe this book, formulaic. Ben fit the formulaic love interest. There had to be a love interest and I felt like he was just written in. The only thing that kept the tension was Ben's mother's dislike of Holly. Other than that, the development felt a bit step by step. I also dislike Holly's hot and cold manner. She had her reasons in the beginning but then it devolved into her just distancing herself for distance's sake. It didn't help that I couldn't really see why they were pursuing the relationship, it felt that bland to me. The story felt like someone's idea of an ideal ___. Holly's friendship felt like someone's idea of a friendship. Everybody has a quip. Even Holly's interaction with Ben feels like an ideal meet-cute. Ben always has a swift quip to volley back. It felt too artificial.
The story revolves around Holly. She is the new events manager after the hiring manager quit to sort out her personal life. She went around solving people's problems and arranging the event. She has a hoarder mother,a friend with a struggling business, a love interest that is reluctant to inherit, a boss who doesn't want to retire, a coworker who is jealous of her job, a disapproving potential mother in law, and a mystery father.
I can't really think of a favourite scene because I didn't find this book interesting. Conversely, I can't think of a scene I hated because I didn't really feel much reading this. It was just meh.
Oh, I did dislike Holly and Ben's romance. I didn't perceive any chemistry. Oh, I found the word to describe this book, formulaic. Ben fit the formulaic love interest. There had to be a love interest and I felt like he was just written in. The only thing that kept the tension was Ben's mother's dislike of Holly. Other than that, the development felt a bit step by step. I also dislike Holly's hot and cold manner. She had her reasons in the beginning but then it devolved into her just distancing herself for distance's sake. It didn't help that I couldn't really see why they were pursuing the relationship, it felt that bland to me. The story felt like someone's idea of an ideal ___. Holly's friendship felt like someone's idea of a friendship. Everybody has a quip. Even Holly's interaction with Ben feels like an ideal meet-cute. Ben always has a swift quip to volley back. It felt too artificial.
The story revolves around Holly. She is the new events manager after the hiring manager quit to sort out her personal life. She went around solving people's problems and arranging the event. She has a hoarder mother,a friend with a struggling business, a love interest that is reluctant to inherit, a boss who doesn't want to retire, a coworker who is jealous of her job, a disapproving potential mother in law, and a mystery father.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed Holly's story in Wickham Hall and the author writes in such a way that you feel like you are getting the warmest of hugs from her as you read. Like life nothing is ever straightforward and it isn't all happy, happy, joy, joy but it did suck me right in and I did not want to leave.
Our main protagonist is Holly - single, out of work and worried about her mother's hoarding habit - and she really could be the next person you pass in the street. When she lands her dream job in event planning at the local Stately Home, the eponymous Wickham Hall, we get to see a tiny glimpse behind the scenes of the workings of the grand place that is both the home and livelihood for the family that inherited it. From planning a grand wedding, through a summer fete and on to a Christmas function it is a heady rush of preparations and pinning a smile on. Despitew all that she still finds time to have a private life that feels full and fairly realistic - lots of chilling with her best friend and a bottle or two of wine.
Of course there has to be a Grand Romance in a book of this type and we get two and a half for the price of one in this book. Not only Holly's love for the heir to Wickham Hall but her mother's youthful indiscretion with a charming Italian who turns out to be Holly's father but her new one with a local professor. That is where I kind of knocked a star off - the reveal of Holly's father is well paced but he, and his new family, are a little too good to be true and their reaction to finding out Holly exists is rather too saccharine for me.
It is a very jolly book, in the best of ways, that left me feeling happy and wanting to read more when it was finished. All the characters are distinct and felt all too real. There is certainly scope to investigate the lives of two or three of these in further books - especially our purple haired chef.
Our main protagonist is Holly - single, out of work and worried about her mother's hoarding habit - and she really could be the next person you pass in the street. When she lands her dream job in event planning at the local Stately Home, the eponymous Wickham Hall, we get to see a tiny glimpse behind the scenes of the workings of the grand place that is both the home and livelihood for the family that inherited it. From planning a grand wedding, through a summer fete and on to a Christmas function it is a heady rush of preparations and pinning a smile on. Despitew all that she still finds time to have a private life that feels full and fairly realistic - lots of chilling with her best friend and a bottle or two of wine.
Of course there has to be a Grand Romance in a book of this type and we get two and a half for the price of one in this book. Not only Holly's love for the heir to Wickham Hall but her mother's youthful indiscretion with a charming Italian who turns out to be Holly's father but her new one with a local professor. That is where I kind of knocked a star off - the reveal of Holly's father is well paced but he, and his new family, are a little too good to be true and their reaction to finding out Holly exists is rather too saccharine for me.
It is a very jolly book, in the best of ways, that left me feeling happy and wanting to read more when it was finished. All the characters are distinct and felt all too real. There is certainly scope to investigate the lives of two or three of these in further books - especially our purple haired chef.
June 30, 2017
I would love Holly’s job, having been into history and vintage for most of my life – this would be my dream and I could well imagine why it was hers too. The book focuses on the relationship between Holly and her hoarder mum, Lucy, and their relationship over the years with Wickham Hall, the local stately home in the Midlands, which has featured in many key events in their lives. The most important of these was the conception of Holly herself back in the early 80s, and this is one of the significant story threads.
It was a pleasant, if predictable read and nothing really earth-shattering happens. But does it have to? I don’t think so, not necessarily. Everyone gets their happy ending and questions answered.
I do feel, though, that was treated very simplistically.
I do wonder though ………………. would anyone ever have written a book about all these issues – hoarding, finding your dream job, snobbery, finding your long lost father – without a sniff of romance? I really would like to read that book!
It was a pleasant, if predictable read and nothing really earth-shattering happens. But does it have to? I don’t think so, not necessarily. Everyone gets their happy ending and questions answered.
I do feel, though, that was treated very simplistically.
I do wonder though ………………. would anyone ever have written a book about all these issues – hoarding, finding your dream job, snobbery, finding your long lost father – without a sniff of romance? I really would like to read that book!
March 16, 2018
Cathy bramley is fast becoming one of my favourite authors this is the second book of hers I have read and I loved it as much as I did the first! The story centers around Holly a driven fun and kind hearted woman living with her mum who lands her dream job at Wickham hall, with problems going on at home Wickham hall certainly keeps her busy as an events planner.....expecially the gorgeous Ben who will inherit the house of his parents in the near future and is now working along side her. I loved all the side characters in this they all brought something special to the book there is; esme best friend and owner of joop ( dress shop) Jenny the cook, Nikki the gardner , Andy gift shop and dear old Jim well I just loved them all!! The romance aspect was nicely done not to rushed and kept you hoping! Overall just a really nice story perfect for readers who like Jenny colgan , Jill mansell and jo Thomas
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