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The Beach Cabin
The perfect summer short story from bestselling novelist and broadcaster, Fern Britton.Ed and Charlotte have been married for fifteen years, but they have been drifting apart and now Ed suspects that Charlotte may be involved with another man.
He decides a family holiday is just what they need and rents a cottage on the cliffs near the picturesque Cornish village of Pendruggan. He is desperate not to lose Charlotte and hopes that the holiday will bring them closer together again, but Charlotte is wondering what happened to the man she fell in love with.
So into their car they all pile, including their teenage daughter Alex, her younger brother, Sam and their enormous Bearded Collie – will their Cornish escape be the holiday to make them… or break them?
He decides a family holiday is just what they need and rents a cottage on the cliffs near the picturesque Cornish village of Pendruggan. He is desperate not to lose Charlotte and hopes that the holiday will bring them closer together again, but Charlotte is wondering what happened to the man she fell in love with.
So into their car they all pile, including their teenage daughter Alex, her younger brother, Sam and their enormous Bearded Collie – will their Cornish escape be the holiday to make them… or break them?
- GenresShort Stories
94 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2015
184 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
Fern Britton
33 books415 followersFern Britton, an English television presenter, was born on 17 July 1957 in Ealing, London. She was educated at Dr Challoner's High School in Little Chalfont and underwent training in stage management at the Central School of Speech and Drama. She is the daughter of the English actor, Tony Britton and Ruth Britton. Fern Britton spent the early days of her life at Buckinghamshire. Her older sister, Cherry Britton, is a script writer and her younger half brother, Jasper Britton, is an actor. She is married to the celebrity chef, Phil Vickery and lives with her family at Holmer Green in Buckinghamshire.
Fern Britton worked with a touring theatre company and in 1979, she started her career with Westward Television in Plymouth. She worked as a newsreader and continuity announcer on Westward Diary, the nightly local bulletin. Later, she switched to present BBC’s Southwest news programme, Spotlight. She became a known as the youngest national news presenter to present News After Noon on BBC1. Fern Britton then moved to work for TVS in Southampton, where she hosted the South edition of the news programme, Coast to Coast, together with Fred Dinenage. She has also presented other programmes, like Coast to Coast People, The Television Show and Magic Moments.
Since then, Fern Britton has hosted several programmes, which include Carlton Television's After Five, BBC's Breakfast Time, London News Network's London Tonight and BBC 1’s Holiday. She also featured in the first two series of The Brian Conley Show and in 1994, Fern Britton went onto present the famous television cookery game show, Ready Steady Cook. She hosted the show for a long span of six years until she was succeeded by chef, Ainsley Harriott. She joined hands with the British television presenter, Phillip Schofield to host the famous television magazine show This Morning. Since 1999, Fern Britton has been hosting the show and the couple was known for their hilarious presentation. The show was a big hit and won the 2003 & 2004 TV Quick Award for the ‘Best Daytime Viewing’. It also clinched the 2004 National Television Award for the ‘Most Popular Daytime Show’.
Fern Britton anchored the Pride of Britain Awards in 2002 and was one among the panellists on the satirical panel show, Have I Got News for You.
In 2006, the song, “The Fern Britton Experience”, which featured in the album, Hang The DJ was named after her by the UK DJ Shitmat. She hosted the reality television show, Soapstar Superstar, and the British Soap Awards 2006. At the Royal Albert Hall, on 31 May 2007, Fern Britton presented the Classical BRIT Awards and also co-presented the British Soap Awards that year.
Fern Britton anchored her own ITV1 Saturday night series, That's What I Call Television in 2007. In December 2007, she went on a secret trip to Basra to broadcast behind-the-scenes footage of the troops. She appeared as a guest presenter for the show, Have I Got News for You on 27 April 2007 and again on 17 October 2008. On 12 January 2008, she was the winner in the first episode of Thank God You're Here, a television comedy series hosted by Paul Merton. In April 2008, Fern Britton together with her colleague, Phillip Schofield was the presenter of the revived 'all star' version of the super hit ITV show, Mr and Mrs. The show was broadcast on Saturday nights as a six-part series.
Apart from television presentations, Fern Britton has also featured in advertisements for Ryvita Minis. She performed the title role in a Cinderella pantomime in 1988. In March 1998, her first book, Fern’s Family Favourites, was released and in October the following year, she launched her second book Winter Treats and Summer Delights. Fern, My Story was published in November 2008 by Michael Joseph and it ranked among the Top Ten Bestseller list by The Sunday Times.
Fern Britton worked with a touring theatre company and in 1979, she started her career with Westward Television in Plymouth. She worked as a newsreader and continuity announcer on Westward Diary, the nightly local bulletin. Later, she switched to present BBC’s Southwest news programme, Spotlight. She became a known as the youngest national news presenter to present News After Noon on BBC1. Fern Britton then moved to work for TVS in Southampton, where she hosted the South edition of the news programme, Coast to Coast, together with Fred Dinenage. She has also presented other programmes, like Coast to Coast People, The Television Show and Magic Moments.
Since then, Fern Britton has hosted several programmes, which include Carlton Television's After Five, BBC's Breakfast Time, London News Network's London Tonight and BBC 1’s Holiday. She also featured in the first two series of The Brian Conley Show and in 1994, Fern Britton went onto present the famous television cookery game show, Ready Steady Cook. She hosted the show for a long span of six years until she was succeeded by chef, Ainsley Harriott. She joined hands with the British television presenter, Phillip Schofield to host the famous television magazine show This Morning. Since 1999, Fern Britton has been hosting the show and the couple was known for their hilarious presentation. The show was a big hit and won the 2003 & 2004 TV Quick Award for the ‘Best Daytime Viewing’. It also clinched the 2004 National Television Award for the ‘Most Popular Daytime Show’.
Fern Britton anchored the Pride of Britain Awards in 2002 and was one among the panellists on the satirical panel show, Have I Got News for You.
In 2006, the song, “The Fern Britton Experience”, which featured in the album, Hang The DJ was named after her by the UK DJ Shitmat. She hosted the reality television show, Soapstar Superstar, and the British Soap Awards 2006. At the Royal Albert Hall, on 31 May 2007, Fern Britton presented the Classical BRIT Awards and also co-presented the British Soap Awards that year.
Fern Britton anchored her own ITV1 Saturday night series, That's What I Call Television in 2007. In December 2007, she went on a secret trip to Basra to broadcast behind-the-scenes footage of the troops. She appeared as a guest presenter for the show, Have I Got News for You on 27 April 2007 and again on 17 October 2008. On 12 January 2008, she was the winner in the first episode of Thank God You're Here, a television comedy series hosted by Paul Merton. In April 2008, Fern Britton together with her colleague, Phillip Schofield was the presenter of the revived 'all star' version of the super hit ITV show, Mr and Mrs. The show was broadcast on Saturday nights as a six-part series.
Apart from television presentations, Fern Britton has also featured in advertisements for Ryvita Minis. She performed the title role in a Cinderella pantomime in 1988. In March 1998, her first book, Fern’s Family Favourites, was released and in October the following year, she launched her second book Winter Treats and Summer Delights. Fern, My Story was published in November 2008 by Michael Joseph and it ranked among the Top Ten Bestseller list by The Sunday Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 22, 2021
After reading a previous short story by fern and hating it this was ok not ready for full novel yet
June 22, 2025
I've never read Fern's work before. I have to say I absolutely loved this story and it makes me want to read more! The premise of the concept it strong. It worked well for a short story.
The cover is really pretty, the colours are so vibrant. The little beach cabins are adorable. The design is excellent.
The books is written well and flows perfectly. The language and descriptions are good. Pendruggan sounds like a sweet little village!
I would say this is a good edition for readers with dyslexia. The print is a decent size and has extra line spacing. I think this would also be good for readers who are a little harder of sight and need the larger print. Fantastic job with this!!
I adored the characters!!!! They all fit in well. There aren't too many characters which is ideal giving that it is a novella technically. We are not oversaturated with faces. Ed and his family are wonderful and I do enjoy their interactions! Molly the Bearded Collie was adorable.
I really recommend this! I'm now a fully fledged Fern fan! I like Fern from TV but her writing is exquisite.
The cover is really pretty, the colours are so vibrant. The little beach cabins are adorable. The design is excellent.
The books is written well and flows perfectly. The language and descriptions are good. Pendruggan sounds like a sweet little village!
I would say this is a good edition for readers with dyslexia. The print is a decent size and has extra line spacing. I think this would also be good for readers who are a little harder of sight and need the larger print. Fantastic job with this!!
I adored the characters!!!! They all fit in well. There aren't too many characters which is ideal giving that it is a novella technically. We are not oversaturated with faces. Ed and his family are wonderful and I do enjoy their interactions! Molly the Bearded Collie was adorable.
I really recommend this! I'm now a fully fledged Fern fan! I like Fern from TV but her writing is exquisite.
October 31, 2022
A lovely short read by Fern Britton. This was my first book by the Author.
It was about a couple with two children and about their relationships and feelings. How a relationship goes stale after you've been together for ages and how to try to put fun and love back into it . Teenagers growing up with mixed confused feelings and angst. Secrets in the family. The story was good and I liked the characters. I enjoyed this short read and would read another book by Fern Britton.
It was about a couple with two children and about their relationships and feelings. How a relationship goes stale after you've been together for ages and how to try to put fun and love back into it . Teenagers growing up with mixed confused feelings and angst. Secrets in the family. The story was good and I liked the characters. I enjoyed this short read and would read another book by Fern Britton.
June 18, 2025
I've already read a few books by Fern Britton. They never fail to please, especially when you are looking for a joyful, easy summer read.
The Beach Cabin is only a short story, but it showcases Fern's writing and how well she develops characters.
This edition has been formatted to be dyslexia friendly with consideration over the font sizing, spacing, and paper used, making it accessible to more people.
This novella centers around a family, in need of reconnecting, taking a summer holiday. So Ed, Charlotte, their (reluctant) kids, and a border collie make their way to Cornwall.
The setting was stunning, and despite the short length, I got a feel for the characters. There was a touch of humour, plenty of emotion, and the characters were just lovely. They felt like a realistic, everyday family. It was an enjoyable, easy going book to read in the sunshine.
The Beach Cabin is only a short story, but it showcases Fern's writing and how well she develops characters.
This edition has been formatted to be dyslexia friendly with consideration over the font sizing, spacing, and paper used, making it accessible to more people.
This novella centers around a family, in need of reconnecting, taking a summer holiday. So Ed, Charlotte, their (reluctant) kids, and a border collie make their way to Cornwall.
The setting was stunning, and despite the short length, I got a feel for the characters. There was a touch of humour, plenty of emotion, and the characters were just lovely. They felt like a realistic, everyday family. It was an enjoyable, easy going book to read in the sunshine.
May 28, 2016
I rate this 3.5 stars
A quick read, set in my home county of Cornwall. It is clear that Britton is a lover of the county, and captures the landscapes and local life brilliantly. This short story is an easy read despite broaching the topics of crisis in marriage, and a daughter struggling with her sexuality.
The revelation that Alex thinks she might be gay comes at the end of the book and was not a revelation at all. It was extremely easy to guess from early on in the story. So easy that the parents, Charlotte and Ed, wouldn’t have had such a shocked response, but otherwise I enjoyed the tale that had a happy ending all around.
The kids were a bit cliche- Sam the enthusiastic, always hungry, skate-board enthusiast son, and Alex the moody, sarcastic, likes her sleep, teenage daughter. If you can get passed this, and enjoy the fast moving tale that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to read, then you’ll enjoy Britton’s Cornwall based tale.
A quick read, set in my home county of Cornwall. It is clear that Britton is a lover of the county, and captures the landscapes and local life brilliantly. This short story is an easy read despite broaching the topics of crisis in marriage, and a daughter struggling with her sexuality.
The revelation that Alex thinks she might be gay comes at the end of the book and was not a revelation at all. It was extremely easy to guess from early on in the story. So easy that the parents, Charlotte and Ed, wouldn’t have had such a shocked response, but otherwise I enjoyed the tale that had a happy ending all around.
The kids were a bit cliche- Sam the enthusiastic, always hungry, skate-board enthusiast son, and Alex the moody, sarcastic, likes her sleep, teenage daughter. If you can get passed this, and enjoy the fast moving tale that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort to read, then you’ll enjoy Britton’s Cornwall based tale.
February 15, 2016
An excellent short story based in Cornwall. Ed and Charlotte have been married for years and slowly drifting apart but Ed decides to book a weekend break away to get closer together as she thinks Charlotte is falling for someone else but he soon learns that is far from the truth. They have a hard start to the break but slowly build bridges. An excellent read.
September 24, 2015
A quick easy read that drew on some characters and place references from fern's other novels. Enjoyable and comfortable for a non taxing read with a coffee after work!
August 20, 2016
Lovely short story set in Cornwall. Aren't they all these days?
September 22, 2020
Realised I had already read this
May 1, 2022
I really enjoyed this book too , I am definitely going to read more of the Fern Britton books 📚
December 8, 2022
Enjoyed the book, nice family tale. But it really should have been a quick read, not a full price paperback (if you get what I mean?)
August 9, 2015
Worrying that their relationship needs a bit of attention, Ed and Charlotte book a holiday in Cornwall. The cottage comes with it's own beach hut, which sounds like a wonderful place to spend hours! They have the usual family issues with teenage daughters and a son who wants to be entertained. But Cornwall works it's magic and provides a lovely read ideal for the summer.
I do love Fern's books- and the only thing here is that it was only a short story when I could have read on and on!!!!!!!!
I do love Fern's books- and the only thing here is that it was only a short story when I could have read on and on!!!!!!!!
April 24, 2016
I want to be there!!!
Another great read about the rugged Cornish coastline. I am loving the books and the way they are written and can't wait for the next book The postcard to be released.
Another great read about the rugged Cornish coastline. I am loving the books and the way they are written and can't wait for the next book The postcard to be released.
April 4, 2016
Lovely short story bringing in characters from Ferns earlier books - whets the appetite for her next offering.
June 29, 2025
This was such a lovely super quick read story that was perfect for popping into the garden with over this sunny weekend.
We follow Charlotte and Ed, a couple who, after being married for 15 years, are feeling a little jaded and lost as a couple and as a family.
Ed has been working away a lot and leaving Charlotte to effectively single parent the children - who themselves, are growing up fast.
The thing I loved about this read was just how relatable the whole thing was.
Not that I feel like my marriage is getting stale - but who hasn't hit a rocky patch in their long term relationship, felt under appreciated, wanted things to change a little or taken a break to try and re-kindle the closeness that you've always had, or had before the children came along?
It was so easy to connect with both Charlotte and Ed and feel for the situation that they've found themselves in.
A little of which is purely because they spent so long apart and needed to reconnect as a family unit.
The trip to Pendruggan brought up a fair few niggles for the family - but it was great to see how they all came together over time, communicating better and working through those issues.
The setting was amazing!
I could just feel myself transported to that little secluded beach with the family - it sounded idyllic!
This was a well written and enjoyable read and my first from this author too.
**
This edition is presented by BOTH Press as a dyslexic friendly book. What an amazing initiative to recreate classic and bestselling books and give access to those who would usually struggle or be put off reading. As an avid reader and someone who champions inclusivity - I'm thrilled that everyone will be able to access these beautiful books.
We follow Charlotte and Ed, a couple who, after being married for 15 years, are feeling a little jaded and lost as a couple and as a family.
Ed has been working away a lot and leaving Charlotte to effectively single parent the children - who themselves, are growing up fast.
The thing I loved about this read was just how relatable the whole thing was.
Not that I feel like my marriage is getting stale - but who hasn't hit a rocky patch in their long term relationship, felt under appreciated, wanted things to change a little or taken a break to try and re-kindle the closeness that you've always had, or had before the children came along?
It was so easy to connect with both Charlotte and Ed and feel for the situation that they've found themselves in.
A little of which is purely because they spent so long apart and needed to reconnect as a family unit.
The trip to Pendruggan brought up a fair few niggles for the family - but it was great to see how they all came together over time, communicating better and working through those issues.
The setting was amazing!
I could just feel myself transported to that little secluded beach with the family - it sounded idyllic!
This was a well written and enjoyable read and my first from this author too.
**
This edition is presented by BOTH Press as a dyslexic friendly book. What an amazing initiative to recreate classic and bestselling books and give access to those who would usually struggle or be put off reading. As an avid reader and someone who champions inclusivity - I'm thrilled that everyone will be able to access these beautiful books.
June 20, 2025
Thank you to Love Books Tours, Books on the Hill Publishing and Fern Britton for the opportunity of joining the Virtual Book Tour of The Beach Cabin. I was very happy to receive a dyslexia-friendly, proof edition of this 94 page quick read book in exchange for an honest review. The paper quality is lovely and although I’m not dyslexic, I really liked the large font. The cover is enticing with sea, sand and three brightly coloured beach cabins.
The story starts in the year 2000 with the prologue. Charlotte is working as a design director alongside Ed who is working as a studio runner.
Fast forward to 2015 and Charlotte and Ed are still together and now have a family; two children, Alex and Sam, and a dog called Mollie. Charlotte has given up her career to be a stay-at-home parent, whilst Ed's career flourishes although he works away from home for long stretches.
I enjoyed this quick read which would suit someone looking for a light, easy book. It asks the question 'can partners who grow and change at different times, ever come back together and work things out - can love endure?'
The blurb:
“Charlotte and Ed have been drifting apart, and Ed suspects Charlotte is having an affair. Hoping to reconnect, Ed suggests a family holiday in the Cornish village of Pendruggan. Joined by their teenage daughter Alex, young son Sam, and their bearded Collie, the family sets off for what they hope will be a healing escape. But will this idyllic setting bring them closer, or spark more chaos?”
The story starts in the year 2000 with the prologue. Charlotte is working as a design director alongside Ed who is working as a studio runner.
Fast forward to 2015 and Charlotte and Ed are still together and now have a family; two children, Alex and Sam, and a dog called Mollie. Charlotte has given up her career to be a stay-at-home parent, whilst Ed's career flourishes although he works away from home for long stretches.
I enjoyed this quick read which would suit someone looking for a light, easy book. It asks the question 'can partners who grow and change at different times, ever come back together and work things out - can love endure?'
The blurb:
“Charlotte and Ed have been drifting apart, and Ed suspects Charlotte is having an affair. Hoping to reconnect, Ed suggests a family holiday in the Cornish village of Pendruggan. Joined by their teenage daughter Alex, young son Sam, and their bearded Collie, the family sets off for what they hope will be a healing escape. But will this idyllic setting bring them closer, or spark more chaos?”
July 1, 2025
The Beach Cabin by Fern Britton
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Dyslexia-Friendly Edition
Rating:⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️/5
Charlotte and Ed have been married for 15 years and first met when they both worked in the TV industry. When they had children Charlotte decided to give up her career and stay at home and look after Alex and Sam whilst Ed continued to work in the TV world.
Work has taken Ed away from his home and family a lot! He feels like he is losing Charlotte and they are drifting apart. So when Ed has a break in his busy filming schedule he suggests the whole family come join him in the idyllic Cornish picturesque town of Pendruggan for a holiday.
But can they rekindle and fix what they once had before it’s too late?
This is my first book by Fern Britton and it was such a good introduction to her work. She writes and captures the Cornish landscape beautifully and in such a way that you feel like you could be right there enjoying the sea air!
This book is a wholesome, charming read and even though it’s a short story at 94 pages, it was well paced, sweet, full of emotion, revelations, relatable characters and family tension and drama.
This was an easy quick read, mainly due to its dyslexia-friendly larger print, choice of font and spacing, which made it also a lot more easier on the eyes.
An ideal enjoyable book to take to the beach! 🏖️
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Dyslexia-Friendly Edition
Rating:⛱️⛱️⛱️⛱️/5
Charlotte and Ed have been married for 15 years and first met when they both worked in the TV industry. When they had children Charlotte decided to give up her career and stay at home and look after Alex and Sam whilst Ed continued to work in the TV world.
Work has taken Ed away from his home and family a lot! He feels like he is losing Charlotte and they are drifting apart. So when Ed has a break in his busy filming schedule he suggests the whole family come join him in the idyllic Cornish picturesque town of Pendruggan for a holiday.
But can they rekindle and fix what they once had before it’s too late?
This is my first book by Fern Britton and it was such a good introduction to her work. She writes and captures the Cornish landscape beautifully and in such a way that you feel like you could be right there enjoying the sea air!
This book is a wholesome, charming read and even though it’s a short story at 94 pages, it was well paced, sweet, full of emotion, revelations, relatable characters and family tension and drama.
This was an easy quick read, mainly due to its dyslexia-friendly larger print, choice of font and spacing, which made it also a lot more easier on the eyes.
An ideal enjoyable book to take to the beach! 🏖️
June 19, 2025
Charlotte and Ed have been married for many years but they have started to drift apart. Can they close the gap before it is too late?
This was a quick and easy read. It would be perfect if you wanted to read something but we're in a bit of a reading slump. I really enjoyed the story and would have happily read more. Although this was a short story I didn’t feel like anything was missing. I really loved the setting of the book and wished I was in Pendruggan because it sounded like a place I’d love to visit.
Charlotte and Ed met when they worked in the TV industry. Then they started a relationship and Charlotte became pregnant. Ed continued to work in the world of TV but Charlotte became a stay at home mom. They drifted apart both concentrating on their roles at work and home but not spending time together. The more I read about their relationship it felt like they were ships in the night just passing each other by so when Ed suggests that Charlotte and the children come and stay with him during the shooting of a new TV show in Cornwall this appeared to be the perfect fix. But there’s more to mend than Charlotte and Ed realise. Not only have Ed and Charlotte drifted apart but the whole family has. What they quickly realise is that although they are family and living in the same household they are no longer connected to each other and don't know what's happening in each other's lives. This includes in the lives of their teenage children Alex and Sam. There's a lot of miscommunication between Charlotte and Ed and the reason for that is their lack of communication. Ed's idea of the going on holiday is to bring them closer together but in order to do this they have to go backwards to go forwards and have those conversations they have been avoiding.
A story about family, relationships and communication.
This was a quick and easy read. It would be perfect if you wanted to read something but we're in a bit of a reading slump. I really enjoyed the story and would have happily read more. Although this was a short story I didn’t feel like anything was missing. I really loved the setting of the book and wished I was in Pendruggan because it sounded like a place I’d love to visit.
Charlotte and Ed met when they worked in the TV industry. Then they started a relationship and Charlotte became pregnant. Ed continued to work in the world of TV but Charlotte became a stay at home mom. They drifted apart both concentrating on their roles at work and home but not spending time together. The more I read about their relationship it felt like they were ships in the night just passing each other by so when Ed suggests that Charlotte and the children come and stay with him during the shooting of a new TV show in Cornwall this appeared to be the perfect fix. But there’s more to mend than Charlotte and Ed realise. Not only have Ed and Charlotte drifted apart but the whole family has. What they quickly realise is that although they are family and living in the same household they are no longer connected to each other and don't know what's happening in each other's lives. This includes in the lives of their teenage children Alex and Sam. There's a lot of miscommunication between Charlotte and Ed and the reason for that is their lack of communication. Ed's idea of the going on holiday is to bring them closer together but in order to do this they have to go backwards to go forwards and have those conversations they have been avoiding.
A story about family, relationships and communication.
June 26, 2025
Dyslexia Friendly Edition - I’ve heard so much about children’s dyslexic friendly books but not adult’s so I jumped at the chance to review this new version of Fern Britton’s cosy short story.
The first thing to note is how accessible this book has been made by the paper colour, the text spacing, size and font. Anyone with reading difficulties will benefit from the format of this publication.
The story itself is a light, postcard setting family drama. Main characters Charlotte and Ed have been drifting apart, with work and family life driving a wedge. Hoping to reconnect, Ed suggests a last minute holiday in the Cornish village of Pendruggan. Joined by their teenage daughter Alex, young son Sam, and their bearded Collie, the family sets off for what they hope will be a healing escape.
I loved the LGBT representation (you’ll have to read to find out 😉) and felt that the writing invoked all the feelings of being on a Cornish beach. This is a feel-good short story that I enjoyed and I hope that many more people can enjoy bestselling author’s works in this accessible format.
The first thing to note is how accessible this book has been made by the paper colour, the text spacing, size and font. Anyone with reading difficulties will benefit from the format of this publication.
The story itself is a light, postcard setting family drama. Main characters Charlotte and Ed have been drifting apart, with work and family life driving a wedge. Hoping to reconnect, Ed suggests a last minute holiday in the Cornish village of Pendruggan. Joined by their teenage daughter Alex, young son Sam, and their bearded Collie, the family sets off for what they hope will be a healing escape.
I loved the LGBT representation (you’ll have to read to find out 😉) and felt that the writing invoked all the feelings of being on a Cornish beach. This is a feel-good short story that I enjoyed and I hope that many more people can enjoy bestselling author’s works in this accessible format.
July 1, 2025
This is a quick read and is dyslexic friendly, so has a large font, with bigger than normal spaces between the lines of text, it also is left justified and uses indents for the start of most paragraphs.
Onto the story, it focuses around Charlotte, Ed and their two kids, Alex and Sam, I’m not forgetting their crazy dog Molly. Things have not been going well for them recently, Ed and Charlotte have been drifting apart and Ed is convinced that Charlotte is having an affair. He hopes that a family holiday in Cornwall may be just what they need to find their way back to each other, but Charlotte is not convinced.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a nice quick read but didn’t feel rushed at all. I found the book really easy to read and I think that was in part due to the dyslexic friendly aspects, but also the writing style and ferns skill as a writer. Her descriptions of the Cornish village the Holiday Inn was so vivid that I really want to go there and relax at this beach hut. This was a great. Four Star read and I would definitely recommend.
Onto the story, it focuses around Charlotte, Ed and their two kids, Alex and Sam, I’m not forgetting their crazy dog Molly. Things have not been going well for them recently, Ed and Charlotte have been drifting apart and Ed is convinced that Charlotte is having an affair. He hopes that a family holiday in Cornwall may be just what they need to find their way back to each other, but Charlotte is not convinced.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a nice quick read but didn’t feel rushed at all. I found the book really easy to read and I think that was in part due to the dyslexic friendly aspects, but also the writing style and ferns skill as a writer. Her descriptions of the Cornish village the Holiday Inn was so vivid that I really want to go there and relax at this beach hut. This was a great. Four Star read and I would definitely recommend.
April 7, 2021
Ed and Charlotte have been married for a long time but their marriage is at crisis point. Once Charlotte was Ed’s boss at the TV company where they both worked but now she’s a stay at home mum. Meanwhile, Ed’s career has soared and it now keeps him away from home for long periods. Charlotte resents the fact he’s barely ever spends time with her and their kids. He suspects she might be having an affair. During a break in his filming schedule an opportunity arises to rent a cottage in Cornwall so he he grabs it, hoping time together might give them the chance to set things back on track.
A short but enjoyable summery read. The characters seemed real, with believable issues, although maybe the kids were a little clichéd (angry teenage daughter who thinks her parents don’t understand her, and surf mad pre-teen son) but I loved the Cornish setting, a part of England I only know through watching Poldark or Doc Martin!
A short but enjoyable summery read. The characters seemed real, with believable issues, although maybe the kids were a little clichéd (angry teenage daughter who thinks her parents don’t understand her, and surf mad pre-teen son) but I loved the Cornish setting, a part of England I only know through watching Poldark or Doc Martin!
June 4, 2025
The Beach Cabin by Fern Britton is a short, dyslexia-friendly read and the first book I’ve read by the author. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I was drawn into the story. The writing flows effortlessly, with a gentle start and a steadily building pace that really delivers a punch as the story unfolds.
Although it’s a compact novel, it covers a lot—family dynamics, teenage angst, personal growth, and the emotional journey of coming back together after time apart. Britton’s prose is warm and engaging, striking a lovely balance between thoughtful moments and faster-paced scenes.
The characters are likeable and easy to connect with. As someone who has experienced the teenage years with my own children, I found the characters and their struggles relatable and believable.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt, easy-to-read story that doesn’t shy away from deeper themes, this is a great one to pick up.
Although it’s a compact novel, it covers a lot—family dynamics, teenage angst, personal growth, and the emotional journey of coming back together after time apart. Britton’s prose is warm and engaging, striking a lovely balance between thoughtful moments and faster-paced scenes.
The characters are likeable and easy to connect with. As someone who has experienced the teenage years with my own children, I found the characters and their struggles relatable and believable.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt, easy-to-read story that doesn’t shy away from deeper themes, this is a great one to pick up.
June 12, 2025
The Beach Cabin was a great little read, I really enjoyed the dynamics of the characters and how realistic they all were. The story itself was wholesome, the family life was reminiscent of real life, the family reconnecting with a little drama sprinkled in definitely pulled on the heart strings, tbh I think I was more worried about Molly than Ed and Charlotte's marriage.
I really liked this dyslexia friendly version of the paperback, the font sizing was fantastic, no eye strain here! The colour of the paper complimented the colour of the font and it was an enjoyable experience reading this novel.
I also really enjoyed Fern Britton's writing style, the pacing was set well and the storyline moved along at a great sped, I felt there was no lingering on facts that weren't needed. Fern captures the reader from start to finish.
Definitely recommend all read this and check out her back catalogue of novels.
I really liked this dyslexia friendly version of the paperback, the font sizing was fantastic, no eye strain here! The colour of the paper complimented the colour of the font and it was an enjoyable experience reading this novel.
I also really enjoyed Fern Britton's writing style, the pacing was set well and the storyline moved along at a great sped, I felt there was no lingering on facts that weren't needed. Fern captures the reader from start to finish.
Definitely recommend all read this and check out her back catalogue of novels.
June 12, 2025
I loved the idea of this book - something easy to read that would get me out of my slump.
It held up in every way.
The characters evolved well with the plot and despite being a shorter story there was plenty of time frame without things feeling rushed.
Cornwall has a treasured place in my heart and I will always love a book that is set on the beautiful coast. Throw in some romance and family tension and there is a recipe for success that even Charlotte could mess up.
The format is advertised as dyslexia friendly - I have to say that I personally found the text size and spacing really easy to read and follow. There are some more difficult words dotted through but easy enough to get a gist of by reading around them or even just to skip over.
I definitely think that this helped me overcome my slump. I wasn’t struggling with font so could just enjoy the story.
This is definitely one for those summer beach holidays or relaxing in the garden.
It held up in every way.
The characters evolved well with the plot and despite being a shorter story there was plenty of time frame without things feeling rushed.
Cornwall has a treasured place in my heart and I will always love a book that is set on the beautiful coast. Throw in some romance and family tension and there is a recipe for success that even Charlotte could mess up.
The format is advertised as dyslexia friendly - I have to say that I personally found the text size and spacing really easy to read and follow. There are some more difficult words dotted through but easy enough to get a gist of by reading around them or even just to skip over.
I definitely think that this helped me overcome my slump. I wasn’t struggling with font so could just enjoy the story.
This is definitely one for those summer beach holidays or relaxing in the garden.
June 19, 2025
I haven't read any of Fern's other tales, but despite this being a short story, you absolutely hear her voice in every page.
It has such a cute, summery cover that initially attracted me to it.
The tale is one of family, and how life continually evolves. The characters seem real, and warm, and in need of a reset, the time in Cornwall is perfect for that.
Books set in Cornwall always seem to have a real magic about them, and this is no exception.
The chapters are a quite long, my preference is always for short snappy chapters, however the book is still very quick to read.
This publication has been produced in a dyslexia friendly format with accessible font, sizing, and spacing. I am not a dyslexic but I certainly found these adjustments made it easier for me to read. Its brilliant to see more books being published with accessibility in mind.
A lovely story that fans of family dramas will enjoy.
It has such a cute, summery cover that initially attracted me to it.
The tale is one of family, and how life continually evolves. The characters seem real, and warm, and in need of a reset, the time in Cornwall is perfect for that.
Books set in Cornwall always seem to have a real magic about them, and this is no exception.
The chapters are a quite long, my preference is always for short snappy chapters, however the book is still very quick to read.
This publication has been produced in a dyslexia friendly format with accessible font, sizing, and spacing. I am not a dyslexic but I certainly found these adjustments made it easier for me to read. Its brilliant to see more books being published with accessibility in mind.
A lovely story that fans of family dramas will enjoy.
June 17, 2025
‘The Beach Cabin’ is such an uplifting short read! To be honest, I'm not the target audience for this genre but I do get sucked in at times and this was one of them. It was very authentic and just a light entertaining read. Plus, there was a bearded collie in it!
Ed and Charlotte are a bit stuck in a rut. Ed is always away working and Charlotte is left to handle all the family life. Aware that they are drifting apart Ed surprises Charlotte and their kids with a weekend on the Cornish coast!
This was a wholesome read that will relate to a lot of readers. I love highlighting Books On The Hill and their short stories that are produced as dyslexia friendly reads. There is great care taken, down to the font size and even the colour of the paper it is printed on.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
June 29, 2025
I’ve received this as an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I've read by Fern Britton. The Beach Cabin is a short story, that is formatted to be dyslexia friendly with consideration over the font sizing, spacing, and paper used, making it accessible to more people.
This novella centers around Ed and Charlotte. They’ve been together many years and Ed has been working a lot so isn’t spending a lot of time with their growing family. Ed starts to think that Charlotte is falling for someone else so, in need of reconnecting, they take the kids and their dog on a summer holiday to Cornwall.
The setting was stunning, and despite the short length, I got a feel for the characters. There was a touch of humour, plenty of emotion, and the characters were relatable. This isn’t my usual genre but it was an enjoyable, quick read.
This novella centers around Ed and Charlotte. They’ve been together many years and Ed has been working a lot so isn’t spending a lot of time with their growing family. Ed starts to think that Charlotte is falling for someone else so, in need of reconnecting, they take the kids and their dog on a summer holiday to Cornwall.
The setting was stunning, and despite the short length, I got a feel for the characters. There was a touch of humour, plenty of emotion, and the characters were relatable. This isn’t my usual genre but it was an enjoyable, quick read.
June 27, 2025
The Beach Cabin” by Fern Britton is a short story about a couple, Ed and Charlotte, who have been drifting apart and are on a family holiday to a cottage near the Cornish village of Pendruggan.
This short story was a two hour read for me. It was very heartwarming and lovely, perfect for a little reading cleanser between books. It focuses on a strained marriage, affected by day to day stresses and how difficult life can be sometimes for couples where one person works away from home.
It also touches on daughter Alex’s teenage worries and opening up to her mum at the end was lovely.
For me the story was maybe a little too short and I felt it ended just as I was getting into it so Inwishednit was a bit longer.
A great little read!
This short story was a two hour read for me. It was very heartwarming and lovely, perfect for a little reading cleanser between books. It focuses on a strained marriage, affected by day to day stresses and how difficult life can be sometimes for couples where one person works away from home.
It also touches on daughter Alex’s teenage worries and opening up to her mum at the end was lovely.
For me the story was maybe a little too short and I felt it ended just as I was getting into it so Inwishednit was a bit longer.
A great little read!
June 30, 2025
Written in 2015, this cute quick read is perfect for a day at the beach or just in the sun in the garden. Families, grow and change, people change, and circumstances change, but will a well needed trip away to Cornwall help bring them back together?
As a dyslexia reader, I often put books back just because I've looked at the print. Tiny print creates rivers for me, and the words jump around. I put them back because they overwhelmed me before I try.I'm so glad more dyslexia friendly books are becoming available. I loved the font, size, and spacing, and the non glaring white paper was also a big help. Well done for being more inclusive. Maybe more publishers will be offering more dyslexia friendly books in adults soon. Even if they were a special order, I would definitely do that.
As a dyslexia reader, I often put books back just because I've looked at the print. Tiny print creates rivers for me, and the words jump around. I put them back because they overwhelmed me before I try.I'm so glad more dyslexia friendly books are becoming available. I loved the font, size, and spacing, and the non glaring white paper was also a big help. Well done for being more inclusive. Maybe more publishers will be offering more dyslexia friendly books in adults soon. Even if they were a special order, I would definitely do that.
June 25, 2017
Ed and Charlotte are having problems in their marriage, with two children, one a moody teenager, demanding jobs that takes Ed away from the family for prolonged lengths of time is it any wonder they are struggling?
When Ed's boss Penny asks does he fancy a short break in Cornwall Ed decides it's just what the family needs to get them back on track, but is it already too late?.....
A lovely summery novella perfect for a light read on lazy days where the reader is reintroduced to old characters from Fern's other novels but works perfectly well as a stand alone short story with no background knowledge needed from the author's other works.
When Ed's boss Penny asks does he fancy a short break in Cornwall Ed decides it's just what the family needs to get them back on track, but is it already too late?.....
A lovely summery novella perfect for a light read on lazy days where the reader is reintroduced to old characters from Fern's other novels but works perfectly well as a stand alone short story with no background knowledge needed from the author's other works.
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