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Kitty's Countryside Dream
When Kitty inherits Bluebell Lodge from her grandmother, a farm in the beautiful Staffordshire countryside, it’s time for fresh air and a fresh start. Up to her elbows in chickens and ponies, Kitty soon realises there’s an awful lot to learn about farming. Still, at least the locals seem friendly, not least her handsome neighbour Tom…
But just as Kitty is beginning to find her feet, and the possibility of love, the discovery of a long-hidden diary, by a mysterious character called Violet changes everything. Who is Violet and what is her message for Kitty? As Kitty fills in the lost pieces of her family jigsaw and discovers some shocking revelations, will her countryside dream and blossoming relationship fall to pieces? When it comes to life in the country, nothing is ever quite as it seems …
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2016
180 people are currently reading
791 people want to read
About the author
Christie Barlow
41 books440 followersAuthor Girl - published by One More Chapter @HarperCollinsUK
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
August 20, 2020
Wow, this book was a ride! Not even the fluffy cover or the synopsis could prepare me for this heart shaking story I found inside it’s pages…
The novel starts like a typical chick lit and if I’m being honest, that is all I expected it to be. A feel-good chick lit with funny protagonist and lovely setting. And to be fair, that is what I got, but only in the first half of the story. The second half added a serious note to it and turned this novel into an emotional piece.
I loved how it almost felt like I was reading two different books that brilliantly collided into one perfection, and I really admire Christie Barlow for the way she made it work.
The story is written in first person, following Kitty’s POV.
I think she was a great narrator and even though she was blind to some obvious things that were happening in the book, I still pretty much enjoyed it because her naivety was endearing.
The writing style is simple and the novel was easy to read.
It is an uplifting book with serious tone.
I always pay much attention to characters, because to me, they are the most important part of every story, and I am happy to say that I was in love with characters Barlow created.
Of course, the positive ones were so likeable and easy to relate to, but the negative ones were also very believable with more layers then one. In other words, they were not one dimensional.
To keep it short, I’ll just say I fell in love with Kitty’s Countryside Dream and I will definitely check other books by Christie Barlow.
I highly recommend this one!
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
The novel starts like a typical chick lit and if I’m being honest, that is all I expected it to be. A feel-good chick lit with funny protagonist and lovely setting. And to be fair, that is what I got, but only in the first half of the story. The second half added a serious note to it and turned this novel into an emotional piece.
I loved how it almost felt like I was reading two different books that brilliantly collided into one perfection, and I really admire Christie Barlow for the way she made it work.
The story is written in first person, following Kitty’s POV.
I think she was a great narrator and even though she was blind to some obvious things that were happening in the book, I still pretty much enjoyed it because her naivety was endearing.
The writing style is simple and the novel was easy to read.
It is an uplifting book with serious tone.
I always pay much attention to characters, because to me, they are the most important part of every story, and I am happy to say that I was in love with characters Barlow created.
Of course, the positive ones were so likeable and easy to relate to, but the negative ones were also very believable with more layers then one. In other words, they were not one dimensional.
To keep it short, I’ll just say I fell in love with Kitty’s Countryside Dream and I will definitely check other books by Christie Barlow.
I highly recommend this one!
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
February 25, 2016
This is a super story set in the 1980s. Kitty is starting life afresh upon inheriting Bluebell Lodge. It is not easy as she struggles to learn about farming in the Staffordshire countryside. The setting is perfect for this vibrant feel good tale. The author excels in the characters she creates and develops because you really come to care about them. There is romantic interests, mystery and intrigue. Secrets from the past emerge which test Kitty. The book is infused with humour, and the author has written and plotted a story readers will adore! Many thanks to Kim and Bookouture for a copy of ths delightful book via netgalley.
June 28, 2016
3★
A leisurely visit to a charming English village full of friendly people, heaps of chooks, and unexpected secrets for Kitty.
Kitty is surprised to find she’s inherited a flat and a farm from a grandmother she never knew existed. The first day she cycles out to the country, she meets Tom, the handsome young man who’s been managing her grandmother’s chicken farm, and shortly after meets his beautiful young assistant.
“Jeannie was grinning at his joke. Even though she was covered from head to toe in chicken muck already, she still looked gorgeous – life was so unfair.
‘Good morning. Ignore him, he’s in one of his wind-up moods today, you will be fed up of him by lunchtime. I think the smell of chicken poo has gone to his brain.’ She grinned.”
Kitty is mortified when Tom comments on her dressy office clothes and points to a pair of overalls with her name already on them.
“ ‘You will not be sitting in any office; this place is an all hands-on-deck-type of place, manual labour at best. The main task is the welfare of all the birds, and by that I don’t mean you two,’ Tom teased diplomatically.”
. . .
“Feeling an absolute idiot I could feel the fire burning brightly in my cheeks. I’d assumed I would be sat in my nice new office, hugging my warm mug of tea, I didn’t actually think I would need to get my hands dirty in any way shape or form.”
Kitty tells the story, sounding like the silly new girl in high school who has a crush on the football team captain who’s already going steady with the prettiest girl in the class.
The book picks up a bit when Kitty discovers an old journal and pieces together the dark family secrets that have brought her here, but I think most readers would be quicker to figure them out than Kitty.
All in all, a story which will find a home with some lovers of simple light romance (and chickens!).
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance review copy.
A leisurely visit to a charming English village full of friendly people, heaps of chooks, and unexpected secrets for Kitty.
Kitty is surprised to find she’s inherited a flat and a farm from a grandmother she never knew existed. The first day she cycles out to the country, she meets Tom, the handsome young man who’s been managing her grandmother’s chicken farm, and shortly after meets his beautiful young assistant.
“Jeannie was grinning at his joke. Even though she was covered from head to toe in chicken muck already, she still looked gorgeous – life was so unfair.
‘Good morning. Ignore him, he’s in one of his wind-up moods today, you will be fed up of him by lunchtime. I think the smell of chicken poo has gone to his brain.’ She grinned.”
Kitty is mortified when Tom comments on her dressy office clothes and points to a pair of overalls with her name already on them.
“ ‘You will not be sitting in any office; this place is an all hands-on-deck-type of place, manual labour at best. The main task is the welfare of all the birds, and by that I don’t mean you two,’ Tom teased diplomatically.”
. . .
“Feeling an absolute idiot I could feel the fire burning brightly in my cheeks. I’d assumed I would be sat in my nice new office, hugging my warm mug of tea, I didn’t actually think I would need to get my hands dirty in any way shape or form.”
Kitty tells the story, sounding like the silly new girl in high school who has a crush on the football team captain who’s already going steady with the prettiest girl in the class.
The book picks up a bit when Kitty discovers an old journal and pieces together the dark family secrets that have brought her here, but I think most readers would be quicker to figure them out than Kitty.
All in all, a story which will find a home with some lovers of simple light romance (and chickens!).
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance review copy.
January 3, 2016
I was offered an advance copy of Kitty's Countryside Dream by Kim at Bookouture in exchange for an honest review which I'm more than happy to give.
I cannot imagine for one minute that anybody will be able to resist picking up this book, the cover is amazing, I love it - especially as it's so dark, dingy and miserable outside at the moment. It just shouts, hope, spring, happiness and makes me smile every time I look at it.
Kitty's Countryside Dream is Christie's third novel and as much as I loved the previous two, this one is just leaps and bounds better, it's got a tighter plot and the storyline digs deeper than in the 'Playground Mother' books. It has a definite story to it, that will have you laughing and smiling one minute and then you'll feel it pulling at your heart strings the next.
The book starts as Kitty receives an unexpected inheritance. An inheritance from a grandmother she had never known, a person whom she thought had been dead for many years. She finds herself the owner of a ground floor flat and Bluebell Lodge, a farm that turns out to be a working chicken farm. Her inheritance coming at a time in her life just when she needed a different direction, a new focus and a fresh beginning.
Christie has given us characters that I immediately took to heart just as Kitty did too. Finding immediate friendships in Jeannie who is working on the farm, Lucinda who owns the local bakery, Tom who is currently managing the farm and Robin, Jeannie's brother. Sometimes in life we meet people and instant bonds are made. From the very beginning of Kitty's Countryside Dream the friendship and support of what turns out to be a tight circle of friends is evident.
At first this book delivered exactly what I expected. A light hearted, humorous read that would have me smiling and laughing out loud, something I could pick up and put down as time dictated. Then it all changed with the discovery of a diary written in 1960 by somebody called Violet. There was already a few strange occurrences that had Kitty questioning what she had previously taken at face value and reading the diary has shocking consequences.
This really turned out to be a beautiful book, that focused on relationships between family and friends. It answered questions that Kitty didn't realise needed answering. Life as she knew it was turned on its head and the love, friendship and support of her new friends is what gives her the strength to face what went before and what lay ahead. The love of our parents is something we take for granted but we don't always know the price they've paid in fulfilling that role. Turning the pages and unravelling the story was very thought provoking and at times quite heart rending.
Kitty's Countryside Dream is such a compelling read. I was just as absorbed by the diary entries from 1960 as I was with the present day happenings at Bluebell Lodge. 1960 doesn't seem that long ago in time but the expectations and values of a different generation really are quite different to those of today. One thing doesn't change though, loyalty, trust, friends and support are the most important things in all our lives. You can pick your friends, but not your family and a good friendship is two way. It's equally important to be a good friend as it is to accept the hand of friendship.
I highly recommend this book and urge you all to head to Amazon and pre-order it now - you won't be disappointed, except that is, when the book ends! I can't wait for the next offering by the truly gorgeous Christie Barlow.
I cannot imagine for one minute that anybody will be able to resist picking up this book, the cover is amazing, I love it - especially as it's so dark, dingy and miserable outside at the moment. It just shouts, hope, spring, happiness and makes me smile every time I look at it.
Kitty's Countryside Dream is Christie's third novel and as much as I loved the previous two, this one is just leaps and bounds better, it's got a tighter plot and the storyline digs deeper than in the 'Playground Mother' books. It has a definite story to it, that will have you laughing and smiling one minute and then you'll feel it pulling at your heart strings the next.
The book starts as Kitty receives an unexpected inheritance. An inheritance from a grandmother she had never known, a person whom she thought had been dead for many years. She finds herself the owner of a ground floor flat and Bluebell Lodge, a farm that turns out to be a working chicken farm. Her inheritance coming at a time in her life just when she needed a different direction, a new focus and a fresh beginning.
Christie has given us characters that I immediately took to heart just as Kitty did too. Finding immediate friendships in Jeannie who is working on the farm, Lucinda who owns the local bakery, Tom who is currently managing the farm and Robin, Jeannie's brother. Sometimes in life we meet people and instant bonds are made. From the very beginning of Kitty's Countryside Dream the friendship and support of what turns out to be a tight circle of friends is evident.
At first this book delivered exactly what I expected. A light hearted, humorous read that would have me smiling and laughing out loud, something I could pick up and put down as time dictated. Then it all changed with the discovery of a diary written in 1960 by somebody called Violet. There was already a few strange occurrences that had Kitty questioning what she had previously taken at face value and reading the diary has shocking consequences.
This really turned out to be a beautiful book, that focused on relationships between family and friends. It answered questions that Kitty didn't realise needed answering. Life as she knew it was turned on its head and the love, friendship and support of her new friends is what gives her the strength to face what went before and what lay ahead. The love of our parents is something we take for granted but we don't always know the price they've paid in fulfilling that role. Turning the pages and unravelling the story was very thought provoking and at times quite heart rending.
Kitty's Countryside Dream is such a compelling read. I was just as absorbed by the diary entries from 1960 as I was with the present day happenings at Bluebell Lodge. 1960 doesn't seem that long ago in time but the expectations and values of a different generation really are quite different to those of today. One thing doesn't change though, loyalty, trust, friends and support are the most important things in all our lives. You can pick your friends, but not your family and a good friendship is two way. It's equally important to be a good friend as it is to accept the hand of friendship.
I highly recommend this book and urge you all to head to Amazon and pre-order it now - you won't be disappointed, except that is, when the book ends! I can't wait for the next offering by the truly gorgeous Christie Barlow.
May 1, 2016
This is the first book I have read by this author but after finishing this, the first thing I did was to seek out her other books. Christie Barlow has written a warm, funny and heart wrenching book full of adorable characters, cute animals all living in the sort of village we would love to escape to.
When Kitty is left a flat and Bluebell Lodge by a relative she didn't even know she had, she looks on it as a fresh start. She knows nothing about chickens or ponies so she is glad to she has her right hand man Tom to help her. But the discovery of an old diary brings heartbreak in the form of an old family secret and an attraction to Tom seems wrapped up in complications. Could Kittys countryside dream turn out to be her worst nightmare?
This was the perfect book for a lazy Sunday afternoon (and Valentine's day!) and I read it within a couple of sittings. I was desperate to find out why Kitty had been left the farm and how she was going to cope with it all. The descriptions were so detailed that you felt you were there living alongside Kitty and she felt like an old friend. I have never read so much information about chickens before either!!!
This was a bittersweet love story combined with a soul searching for Kitty and I was really sad to say goodbye to her when the book ended. And that cover!!!!! Fabulously eye-catching and perfect for Spring, you can't help but smile when you see it. In fact it's my top cover for 2016 so far!
Many thanks to Bookouture and netgalley for providing a review copy in return for an unbiased review.
When Kitty is left a flat and Bluebell Lodge by a relative she didn't even know she had, she looks on it as a fresh start. She knows nothing about chickens or ponies so she is glad to she has her right hand man Tom to help her. But the discovery of an old diary brings heartbreak in the form of an old family secret and an attraction to Tom seems wrapped up in complications. Could Kittys countryside dream turn out to be her worst nightmare?
This was the perfect book for a lazy Sunday afternoon (and Valentine's day!) and I read it within a couple of sittings. I was desperate to find out why Kitty had been left the farm and how she was going to cope with it all. The descriptions were so detailed that you felt you were there living alongside Kitty and she felt like an old friend. I have never read so much information about chickens before either!!!
This was a bittersweet love story combined with a soul searching for Kitty and I was really sad to say goodbye to her when the book ended. And that cover!!!!! Fabulously eye-catching and perfect for Spring, you can't help but smile when you see it. In fact it's my top cover for 2016 so far!
Many thanks to Bookouture and netgalley for providing a review copy in return for an unbiased review.
March 5, 2016
I was initially attracted to this book by the cute front cover. I have a bike just like that and live in the countryside, so when I read my friend, Sarah’s review of this on Goodreads, I decided I had to read it too.
Kitty’s Countryside Dream is a lovely story of friendship, love, hidden pasts and new beginnings.
I have read a couple of quite heavy books recently, so went into this thinking it was going to be a light and funny read. Although this novel has an overall funny and positive feel to it, there was a lot more depth to the story than I had expected.
I saw some things coming, as I’m not quite as naïve as Kitty, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this book. Kitty does get herself into some embarrassing, but very entertaining situations, bless her.
I loved the focus on the diary, and found myself glued to my Kindle screen, eager to find out what was going to be revealed next. It was this part of the story that I found most emotional.
I will definitely keep my eyes open for future books by this author. The only reason I haven’t read anything by her before now, is because I don’t have children, and find one child belonging to someone else, more than enough, so the idea of a whole playground of them, would send me into a state of panic, not unlike Kitty and the chickens in this book!
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kitty’s Countryside Dream is a lovely story of friendship, love, hidden pasts and new beginnings.
I have read a couple of quite heavy books recently, so went into this thinking it was going to be a light and funny read. Although this novel has an overall funny and positive feel to it, there was a lot more depth to the story than I had expected.
I saw some things coming, as I’m not quite as naïve as Kitty, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this book. Kitty does get herself into some embarrassing, but very entertaining situations, bless her.
I loved the focus on the diary, and found myself glued to my Kindle screen, eager to find out what was going to be revealed next. It was this part of the story that I found most emotional.
I will definitely keep my eyes open for future books by this author. The only reason I haven’t read anything by her before now, is because I don’t have children, and find one child belonging to someone else, more than enough, so the idea of a whole playground of them, would send me into a state of panic, not unlike Kitty and the chickens in this book!
I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2016
Kitty is still grieving her mother, but as she inherited a chicken farm, she will have a fresh start in a new place. Kitty inherited the farm from a grandmother she never knew about. She has a cozy apartment and slowly starts to learn about the farm life and chickens. It seems a bit difficult at first, but she is determined to learn and work hard. What makes the work place even better is Tom, who is not just handsome, but hard working and kind-hearted. There are misunderstandings between Kitty and Tom, but they don't have grudges against each other and true feelings won't die overnight. When it seems that things won't get more complicated, Kitty finds an old diary and when she starts to read it, her whole life turn upside down. It was very hard and emotional time for Kitty, but with the help of new friends,everything gets better and time heals all the wounds.
I really really liked the books, it's one of my favorites of this year so far. The first half of the book was light and funny. The country side aspect and the chickens-very entertaining. The second half of the book was very raw and emotional. Nothing stays secret forever and when family secrets finally resurface again, they can hurt.
I really really liked the books, it's one of my favorites of this year so far. The first half of the book was light and funny. The country side aspect and the chickens-very entertaining. The second half of the book was very raw and emotional. Nothing stays secret forever and when family secrets finally resurface again, they can hurt.
February 26, 2016
This book has such an enticing cover- promising a great story. It was a lovely book full of totally engaging characters, a lovely rural setting and romance.
Kitty receives an unexpected inheritance shortly after she loses her mother after a long illness. She finds that she had a grandmother she'd never met and was now the owner of a chicken farm and a flat in the wonderful countryside. She feels an instant attraction to the manager and also makes firm friendships with the locals.
It leaves you with a wonderfully warm feeling and I can't wait to read Christie's next book. I loved her previous books and think this is my favourite so far.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this lovely book in exchange for an honest review.
Kitty receives an unexpected inheritance shortly after she loses her mother after a long illness. She finds that she had a grandmother she'd never met and was now the owner of a chicken farm and a flat in the wonderful countryside. She feels an instant attraction to the manager and also makes firm friendships with the locals.
It leaves you with a wonderfully warm feeling and I can't wait to read Christie's next book. I loved her previous books and think this is my favourite so far.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this lovely book in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2016
Kitty's Countryside Dream is a wonderful story of romance, secrets, hopes and dreams.
I openly admit to expecting your normal chick lit story of girl meets boy, falls in love and lives happily ever after but there is so much more to this book. I should really have known having read this authors others books there would be more depth to this novel.
Kitty is such a lovely character, in fact all of the characters in this novel are lovely. Kitty sees inheriting Bluebell Lodge as a new start. She is very intrigued to find she has inherited a farm from a grandmother she never knew existed. As the story goes along there are so many secrets that come to light which actually makes for a heart breaking read in parts.
Kitty's relationship with Tom and her new friends is such a joy to read. I really did love every character in this novel as they are all wonderful in their own way. Even the chickens on the farm grew on me and that's saying something!
Kitty's Countryside Dream is a novel that you can't help falling in love with. It is one that will make you smile, laugh as well as cry. It truly is a lovely story and one that I was very sad to finish. I hope the author may do another novel in the future so we can catch up with Kitty and the gang in the future.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy.
I openly admit to expecting your normal chick lit story of girl meets boy, falls in love and lives happily ever after but there is so much more to this book. I should really have known having read this authors others books there would be more depth to this novel.
Kitty is such a lovely character, in fact all of the characters in this novel are lovely. Kitty sees inheriting Bluebell Lodge as a new start. She is very intrigued to find she has inherited a farm from a grandmother she never knew existed. As the story goes along there are so many secrets that come to light which actually makes for a heart breaking read in parts.
Kitty's relationship with Tom and her new friends is such a joy to read. I really did love every character in this novel as they are all wonderful in their own way. Even the chickens on the farm grew on me and that's saying something!
Kitty's Countryside Dream is a novel that you can't help falling in love with. It is one that will make you smile, laugh as well as cry. It truly is a lovely story and one that I was very sad to finish. I hope the author may do another novel in the future so we can catch up with Kitty and the gang in the future.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an Advanced Readers Copy.
August 1, 2016
have read far too many crime/psychological thrillers over the last few months that I’m sure I could spot a serial killer a mile off! I love this genre but every now and then I like to read something that’s completely different to my usual read. Kitty’s Countryside Dream by Christie Barlow is the first book I have read by Christie, so I picked up the book with trepidation, would I like her writing style? Would I find it to sweet and sickly? Would I wish I had stuck to blood and gore and serial killers? It’s a resounding NO I absolutely LOVED this book from the first page until the last.
Firstly I must say I expected Kitty’s Countryside Dream to be your typical “chick lit”, enjoyable, but lacking in substance. Boy was I wrong! when kitty inherits Bluebell Lodge from a grandmother she never even knew existed, she embraces her new life with open arms, and bucketfuls of enthusiasm. As Kitty gets to grips with becoming a chicken farmer the future looks bright, especially with her handsome neighbour and farm manager Tom working alongside her. But things are never that straight forward, and when kitty finds a mysterious diary which contains shocking revelations, she wonders if her countryside dream and blossoming relationships will survive.
Christie Barlow has created characters who are adorable, and oh so loveable by the end of the book they felt like old friends. Kitty and Tom especially found a special place in my heart, they really made the perfect couple, and the dialogue between them was full of humour and warmth. As I reached the end of the book I felt sad at the thought of saying “goodbye” to characters who felt like they had become friends. It’s a tale of friendship, love, secrets and new beginnings, it’s full of humour, sadness and so much more.
Kitty’s Countryside Dream is anything but “run of the mill” chick lit, I was surprised just how much depth there was to Kitty’s Countryside Dream, especially as we learn more about the secrets hidden in Violets diary. Christie has written a beautiful and at times heartbreaking novel, with genuine loveable characters. I can honestly say I loved every page of the delightful, heart touching novel (and not a serial killer in sight!)
Originally posted to my blog at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
Firstly I must say I expected Kitty’s Countryside Dream to be your typical “chick lit”, enjoyable, but lacking in substance. Boy was I wrong! when kitty inherits Bluebell Lodge from a grandmother she never even knew existed, she embraces her new life with open arms, and bucketfuls of enthusiasm. As Kitty gets to grips with becoming a chicken farmer the future looks bright, especially with her handsome neighbour and farm manager Tom working alongside her. But things are never that straight forward, and when kitty finds a mysterious diary which contains shocking revelations, she wonders if her countryside dream and blossoming relationships will survive.
Christie Barlow has created characters who are adorable, and oh so loveable by the end of the book they felt like old friends. Kitty and Tom especially found a special place in my heart, they really made the perfect couple, and the dialogue between them was full of humour and warmth. As I reached the end of the book I felt sad at the thought of saying “goodbye” to characters who felt like they had become friends. It’s a tale of friendship, love, secrets and new beginnings, it’s full of humour, sadness and so much more.
Kitty’s Countryside Dream is anything but “run of the mill” chick lit, I was surprised just how much depth there was to Kitty’s Countryside Dream, especially as we learn more about the secrets hidden in Violets diary. Christie has written a beautiful and at times heartbreaking novel, with genuine loveable characters. I can honestly say I loved every page of the delightful, heart touching novel (and not a serial killer in sight!)
Originally posted to my blog at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
February 25, 2016
This was an amazing read. I feel like I’ve made friends with so many of the characters and have actually visited the farm! It is brilliantly and emotively written, taking the reader in to experience the highs and lows, the fears and hopes, dread and joy, the full gamut of emotions in this superbly crafted novel by an adept wordsmith.
Kitty lost her father when she was ten years old and gave up her chance to go to university to look after her ailing mother until she, too, died. Just a few months later she learns she has inherited a farm from her grandmother, a grandmother she didn’t know had still been alive. As she moves to live in the village where it turns out her grandmother and mother had lived she has much to learn about how a chicken farm is run as well as about her own family history, secrets that have been kept throughout her life time and new relations and relationships to be formed. It is a roller coaster journey the author takes the reader on alongside the characters, sharing their humorous moments that have you laughing out loud and crying tears of happiness. It is a superb novel where historic events impact dramatically on contemporary living with them interwoven skilfully in a believable, heartwarming tale that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kitty lost her father when she was ten years old and gave up her chance to go to university to look after her ailing mother until she, too, died. Just a few months later she learns she has inherited a farm from her grandmother, a grandmother she didn’t know had still been alive. As she moves to live in the village where it turns out her grandmother and mother had lived she has much to learn about how a chicken farm is run as well as about her own family history, secrets that have been kept throughout her life time and new relations and relationships to be formed. It is a roller coaster journey the author takes the reader on alongside the characters, sharing their humorous moments that have you laughing out loud and crying tears of happiness. It is a superb novel where historic events impact dramatically on contemporary living with them interwoven skilfully in a believable, heartwarming tale that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2016
I received a copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers Bookouture in return for a fair and honest review.
What i love about reading is diving into a book expecting one thing and then discovering so much more! And this story is one that delivers on so many levels that I was extremely pleasantly surprised to get more from this than I had bargained for!
From the gorgeous cover, this story starts out with you feeling enormous empathy with the main character, Kitty, as she tries to find a purpose in her life after so much tragedy had affected her throughout her life. And when she is left the intriguingly named Bluebell Lodge and flat in a will from a grandmother she was led to believe who died before she was born, her whole world is rocked and the questions start to circle in her mind as to why her beloved parents would fail to tell her about her family.
From the moment she walks through the door of her grandmothers flat she immediately feels at home, and Alfie the cat appears to welcome his new owner too! And when she discovers BlueBell Lodge is actually a thriving chicken farm run by the rather handsome Tom, she is pretty much thrown into farm life at the deep end with some often hilarious consequences!
The book starts to take on a different feel, however, when a diary is found in a safe at Bluebell Lodge and this is where this book really ramped up in quality for me as the secrets that the diary revealed were beautifully told and Kittys' reaction to the new revelations about her family were often raw and so believable - had to wipe away the tears a few times while i was reading!
An absolute gem of a book that is more than just Chick-Lit and with a lovely set of characters who appear in Kitty's new life it was such a fabulous read that I couldn't put it down once i'd started!! More please!!!
What i love about reading is diving into a book expecting one thing and then discovering so much more! And this story is one that delivers on so many levels that I was extremely pleasantly surprised to get more from this than I had bargained for!
From the gorgeous cover, this story starts out with you feeling enormous empathy with the main character, Kitty, as she tries to find a purpose in her life after so much tragedy had affected her throughout her life. And when she is left the intriguingly named Bluebell Lodge and flat in a will from a grandmother she was led to believe who died before she was born, her whole world is rocked and the questions start to circle in her mind as to why her beloved parents would fail to tell her about her family.
From the moment she walks through the door of her grandmothers flat she immediately feels at home, and Alfie the cat appears to welcome his new owner too! And when she discovers BlueBell Lodge is actually a thriving chicken farm run by the rather handsome Tom, she is pretty much thrown into farm life at the deep end with some often hilarious consequences!
The book starts to take on a different feel, however, when a diary is found in a safe at Bluebell Lodge and this is where this book really ramped up in quality for me as the secrets that the diary revealed were beautifully told and Kittys' reaction to the new revelations about her family were often raw and so believable - had to wipe away the tears a few times while i was reading!
An absolute gem of a book that is more than just Chick-Lit and with a lovely set of characters who appear in Kitty's new life it was such a fabulous read that I couldn't put it down once i'd started!! More please!!!
February 24, 2016
*Book provided by the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Can I just say how gorgeous and pretty this cover is?! A DREAM!!! It’s full of happiness, joy, energy and passion and so was the book.
I can’t believe that this is my first book by Christie Barlow, because I fell in love with her writing immediately.
The story obviously follows Kitty ;). She inherits Bluebell Lodge by her grandmother, a woman she never met and thought that she was dead. Well, life at Bluebell Lodge is unexpected and very different. It’s a chicken farm and Kitty has to learn new things and get used to a different lifestyle.
I was glad she had her friends through that. Jeannie, who also works at the farm, her brother Robin, Lucinda, the bakery owner and Tom, the handsome neighbour. The sparks between her and Tom are flying immediately, but it wasn’t so easy. Misunderstandings and other things make Kitty believe Tom is not interested.
The friendship between the characters was incredible, they were all there for each other and looking out for each other. Every single character had something special. They were all very relatable and well lined out. They were a fab bunch to follow around.
When Kitty finds a secret diary everything gets more mysterious and it all brings the story to a whole new level, one I wasn’t expecting at all. I love surprises like that in books, they make make being more hooked and interested. I just wanted to find out more about mysterious Violet and her connection to Kitty. The outcome is huge and has a pretty big impact on all their lives. Through all this Kitty had Tom’s support and love and that was wonderful to see. I think I found myself a new book boyfriend, because Tom is just amazing, so caring, sweet, sexy and much more.
Christie has created a beautiful story here, it’s light-hearted, sweet and full of passion. After a while a different aspect as added, which makes this book the perfect mixture. The mystery of the diary and snippets of the past reveal some shocking things. This book talks about family, friendship, love and much more, the setting is beautiful and the storyline is very exciting. I loved every single page of this book, Christie has a unique, fresh and very passionate voice.
Can I just say how gorgeous and pretty this cover is?! A DREAM!!! It’s full of happiness, joy, energy and passion and so was the book.
I can’t believe that this is my first book by Christie Barlow, because I fell in love with her writing immediately.
The story obviously follows Kitty ;). She inherits Bluebell Lodge by her grandmother, a woman she never met and thought that she was dead. Well, life at Bluebell Lodge is unexpected and very different. It’s a chicken farm and Kitty has to learn new things and get used to a different lifestyle.
I was glad she had her friends through that. Jeannie, who also works at the farm, her brother Robin, Lucinda, the bakery owner and Tom, the handsome neighbour. The sparks between her and Tom are flying immediately, but it wasn’t so easy. Misunderstandings and other things make Kitty believe Tom is not interested.
The friendship between the characters was incredible, they were all there for each other and looking out for each other. Every single character had something special. They were all very relatable and well lined out. They were a fab bunch to follow around.
When Kitty finds a secret diary everything gets more mysterious and it all brings the story to a whole new level, one I wasn’t expecting at all. I love surprises like that in books, they make make being more hooked and interested. I just wanted to find out more about mysterious Violet and her connection to Kitty. The outcome is huge and has a pretty big impact on all their lives. Through all this Kitty had Tom’s support and love and that was wonderful to see. I think I found myself a new book boyfriend, because Tom is just amazing, so caring, sweet, sexy and much more.
Christie has created a beautiful story here, it’s light-hearted, sweet and full of passion. After a while a different aspect as added, which makes this book the perfect mixture. The mystery of the diary and snippets of the past reveal some shocking things. This book talks about family, friendship, love and much more, the setting is beautiful and the storyline is very exciting. I loved every single page of this book, Christie has a unique, fresh and very passionate voice.
January 3, 2016
Omg this is my first book that I have read by Christie Barlow and definitely won't be my last. I absolutely loved it.
This is a fresh and original romantic comedy about a New home, New life and New beginning. Where Kitty Lewis inherits Bluebell Lodge from her grandmother and begins her new life on her chicken farm, which made me laugh has I used to have chickens and didn't have a clue what to do with them. And then Kitty meets hottie next door neighbour Tom who gives a helping hand. Just has kitty starts finds finding her feet and begins to settle with her new life she discovers a diary written by Violet. But who is Violet and what secrets does she hold? Then Kitty's rollercoaster journey begins. This book is full of lots of hilarious laugh out loud scenes and emotional ones to. Which actually brought tears to my eyes so you might need some tissues at hand for this incredible story.
This story of wrote from Kitty's point of view so we get a feel for her character straight away and to be totally honest there is nothing not to like about Kitty's countryside dream.Christie has done a fantastic job of making the characters in this story are very likeable and believable I actually felt like I was there with them all the way has there friends. This is such a fun read with some nicely added twists in there which I wasn't expecting at all and kept my attention. Has i do like that in a book.
I have to say I love the cover it's eye catching,bright and vibrant and fits kitty's countryside dream beautifully. This is well worth Five stars if not more I just couldn't put it down. If your looking for a fun, light hearted, enjoyable easy read about life, love and families then this is the book for you. I am looking forward to reading more of Christie Barlow's books
I would also like to say a massive thank you to bookouture and to netgalley for an ARC copy of this book.
This is a fresh and original romantic comedy about a New home, New life and New beginning. Where Kitty Lewis inherits Bluebell Lodge from her grandmother and begins her new life on her chicken farm, which made me laugh has I used to have chickens and didn't have a clue what to do with them. And then Kitty meets hottie next door neighbour Tom who gives a helping hand. Just has kitty starts finds finding her feet and begins to settle with her new life she discovers a diary written by Violet. But who is Violet and what secrets does she hold? Then Kitty's rollercoaster journey begins. This book is full of lots of hilarious laugh out loud scenes and emotional ones to. Which actually brought tears to my eyes so you might need some tissues at hand for this incredible story.
This story of wrote from Kitty's point of view so we get a feel for her character straight away and to be totally honest there is nothing not to like about Kitty's countryside dream.Christie has done a fantastic job of making the characters in this story are very likeable and believable I actually felt like I was there with them all the way has there friends. This is such a fun read with some nicely added twists in there which I wasn't expecting at all and kept my attention. Has i do like that in a book.
I have to say I love the cover it's eye catching,bright and vibrant and fits kitty's countryside dream beautifully. This is well worth Five stars if not more I just couldn't put it down. If your looking for a fun, light hearted, enjoyable easy read about life, love and families then this is the book for you. I am looking forward to reading more of Christie Barlow's books
I would also like to say a massive thank you to bookouture and to netgalley for an ARC copy of this book.
July 13, 2018
Nice light hearted read with a dash of humour and an intriguing story. Although you can predict how things develop, it is still a "feel good" novel and most enjoyable.
December 27, 2015
Originally reviewed on Becca's Books.
I'm trying really, really hard not to judge books by their covers, but when a cover is as gorgeous as this, how can I not get excited and begin thinking up all sorts of delightful scenarios that could take place within the scene displayed to me? When Bookouture and Christie Barlow revealed the cover of her upcoming release on Twitter, my eyes almost fell out of their sockets. I was stunned! I adore the countryside, the fields and the homes, the tight-knit communities usually huddled within, and Kitty's Countryside Dream looked to have all of that going on, and more. It's fair to say that I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book.
This is the first novel by Christie Barlow that I've read. I do have a previous book of Christie's waiting patiently on my Kindle, and can't wait to finally get round to that one, as it's had some smashing reviews. So, I had nothing to compare to when I began reading. There's something excited about diving into a new author's book for the very first time. Experiencing their style and how they build their characters etc. is always fun, and eye-opening in the sense that each other is unique. Sure, they perhaps share the same genre, but there is always something (I think) that sets them apart within that genre.
In Kitty's Countryside Dream, Christie's style shines through. Homely, warm and ultimately inviting, it was impossible for me not to feel at home from the start. The author opens Kitty's story with a lovely scene, where she has just arrived in Rosefield, "a quaint village on the edge of North Staffordshire." Now I don't know about you, but village settings are one of my guilty pleasures. I love them, and at just the mere mention of Rosefield being "quaint", my mind was already busy painting a picture of the place Kitty had just arrived in. Christie begins, as Kitty settles into her surroundings, to bring the past forward, and the reader is filled in on how Kitty has come to be there. After a phone-call summoning her to the solicitor's office, she found, to her surprise, that she'd not only inherited the delightful Bluebell Lodge, but also a separate ground floor flat from her grandmother. I thought to myself, "Well, this is all well and good. How fabulous for Kitty!", until of course Christie decided to add into the mix that, according to Kitty, her parents had informed her that her grandparents had been deceased when she was very young. Intriguing, right? Yes, very.
I adored watching Kitty beginning to familiarise herself with Rosefield and its inhabitants. The pacing of this story was lovely and, day by day, I was able to watch unexpected friendships be bought to life and bonds be made. Kitty was a wonderful character and, although without her mother and father, seemed strong and determined in my eyes. Taking on the lodge and the flat didn't seem like an easy thing to do, and despite a few mishaps, it wasn't long before Kitty was throwing herself into work at the chicken farm alongside her two new friends, Jeannie and Tom. It felt like she was a natural!
I have to say, although I found the first half of Kitty's Countryside Dream utterly lovely, my real enjoyment of this book came from the second half, when Christie began to bring in elements of mystery and secrets that had me very, very interested indeed. Curious about the grandparents who Kitty had believed to be dead for so long, the book began to take a different direction and I was gripped. Of course, the gorgeous peppering of farmland descriptions, chickens and a pony remained, but I was hooked as Kitty found a long-hidden diary, and began to reveal the secrets within, chapter by chapter.
This novel was beautifully focused on friendships, relationships and the past. Although hidden, it began to creep to the surface as the book progressed and took me completely by surprise. Christie achieved a wonderfully intriguing tale, while at the same time weaving through an aspect of forgiveness and moving on that worked perfectly. The location, the characters, secrets, and Kitty herself all came together to make this an absolutely delightful story, that left me feeling full of happiness and hope.
Becca's Books is awarding Kitty's Countryside Dream by Christie Barlow with FOUR YUMMY CUPCAKES! An utterly gorgeous story, with an utterly gorgeous plot that kept me turning the pages.
Warmest of thanks to the publishers, Bookouture, for provided me with a review copy of Kitty's Countryside Dream by Christie Barlow.
I'm trying really, really hard not to judge books by their covers, but when a cover is as gorgeous as this, how can I not get excited and begin thinking up all sorts of delightful scenarios that could take place within the scene displayed to me? When Bookouture and Christie Barlow revealed the cover of her upcoming release on Twitter, my eyes almost fell out of their sockets. I was stunned! I adore the countryside, the fields and the homes, the tight-knit communities usually huddled within, and Kitty's Countryside Dream looked to have all of that going on, and more. It's fair to say that I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book.
This is the first novel by Christie Barlow that I've read. I do have a previous book of Christie's waiting patiently on my Kindle, and can't wait to finally get round to that one, as it's had some smashing reviews. So, I had nothing to compare to when I began reading. There's something excited about diving into a new author's book for the very first time. Experiencing their style and how they build their characters etc. is always fun, and eye-opening in the sense that each other is unique. Sure, they perhaps share the same genre, but there is always something (I think) that sets them apart within that genre.
In Kitty's Countryside Dream, Christie's style shines through. Homely, warm and ultimately inviting, it was impossible for me not to feel at home from the start. The author opens Kitty's story with a lovely scene, where she has just arrived in Rosefield, "a quaint village on the edge of North Staffordshire." Now I don't know about you, but village settings are one of my guilty pleasures. I love them, and at just the mere mention of Rosefield being "quaint", my mind was already busy painting a picture of the place Kitty had just arrived in. Christie begins, as Kitty settles into her surroundings, to bring the past forward, and the reader is filled in on how Kitty has come to be there. After a phone-call summoning her to the solicitor's office, she found, to her surprise, that she'd not only inherited the delightful Bluebell Lodge, but also a separate ground floor flat from her grandmother. I thought to myself, "Well, this is all well and good. How fabulous for Kitty!", until of course Christie decided to add into the mix that, according to Kitty, her parents had informed her that her grandparents had been deceased when she was very young. Intriguing, right? Yes, very.
I adored watching Kitty beginning to familiarise herself with Rosefield and its inhabitants. The pacing of this story was lovely and, day by day, I was able to watch unexpected friendships be bought to life and bonds be made. Kitty was a wonderful character and, although without her mother and father, seemed strong and determined in my eyes. Taking on the lodge and the flat didn't seem like an easy thing to do, and despite a few mishaps, it wasn't long before Kitty was throwing herself into work at the chicken farm alongside her two new friends, Jeannie and Tom. It felt like she was a natural!
I have to say, although I found the first half of Kitty's Countryside Dream utterly lovely, my real enjoyment of this book came from the second half, when Christie began to bring in elements of mystery and secrets that had me very, very interested indeed. Curious about the grandparents who Kitty had believed to be dead for so long, the book began to take a different direction and I was gripped. Of course, the gorgeous peppering of farmland descriptions, chickens and a pony remained, but I was hooked as Kitty found a long-hidden diary, and began to reveal the secrets within, chapter by chapter.
This novel was beautifully focused on friendships, relationships and the past. Although hidden, it began to creep to the surface as the book progressed and took me completely by surprise. Christie achieved a wonderfully intriguing tale, while at the same time weaving through an aspect of forgiveness and moving on that worked perfectly. The location, the characters, secrets, and Kitty herself all came together to make this an absolutely delightful story, that left me feeling full of happiness and hope.
Becca's Books is awarding Kitty's Countryside Dream by Christie Barlow with FOUR YUMMY CUPCAKES! An utterly gorgeous story, with an utterly gorgeous plot that kept me turning the pages.
Warmest of thanks to the publishers, Bookouture, for provided me with a review copy of Kitty's Countryside Dream by Christie Barlow.
February 23, 2016
So there. Judging the book by its cover, I've been expecting a funny, sunny, uplifting read, a read that will make me smile. Sadly, it was not the case, as the story didn't even rise the smallest smile from me. Its tagline says: " feel good romantic comedy about life, love and family" - I am very sorry, but as much as it was about life, love and family, for me it was not a romantic comedy. It also didn't make me cry, and I really appreciate when my books either make me smile or cry, and if not than at least awake some emotions in me. I'm sorry if it sounds harsh, but this is what I feel about "Kitty's Countryside Dream" - I was all the time thinking where is the story? Because first half of the book is about chickens, different breeds of chickens and how to breed them, keep them and make them happy, and as much as I love animals, the chickens somehow didn't keep my interest. Then suddenly the story makes an almost full - circle turn and the last quarter is about Kitty digging deep and discover hidden secrets. I'm not sure how does it sit together?
But if it weren't for the second part, I think my review would end with rating the book with 2 stars. Really, the cover and the blurb have deceived me a little. I am truly, really sad to tell you that the book itself wasn't my cup of tea. I am not sure why - but I just couldn't warm to the plot, couldn't connect with the characters. There was a lot happening in the story, that's true, but I really have a feeling that the book was divided into two parts that had nothing to do with each other. I had a problem with Kitty, the main character and also the narrator in this story, who for me was very self - concentrated, whingey and she pitied herself. Sure, she's been through a lot, and she's going to discover some secrets that are to shake her up even more, but still, she felt too immature for my liking. OK, she was young, but nevertheless, even from a young person one can expect some maturity and not only seeing her crying over everything, being upset because a guy she's just met and liked didn't jump at her immediately, and jumping to wrong conclusions all the time. I think I liked the secondary characters much more, Robin and Jeannie and Lucinda, they were great and I felt I had more in common with them than with Kitty. I would really love to hear more about Lucinda, with her bakery - she seemed really interesting and warm, and I have a feeling there was much more to her than we got. Nevertheless, all of them, plus Tom, who was managing the farm, made a group of great friends, they truly bonded and you could see that they felt well in each other's company.
But that's just me, and I can already see that the book is catching on many fans, which is a brilliant thing, The part on the chicken farm was unfortunately totally not for me, the part with the secret diary I liked more, but in comparison to the beginning that focused so much on the chickens etc, it felt too short, too neglected and too rushed. Nevertheless, at least the things seemed to pick up and gathered pace. But in the end I must really appreciate that "Kitty's Countryside Dream" turned out to be a moving story about family and friends. Kitty's life turned upside down and she learnt a lot, she faced her demons. And the lesson that I learnt from this book is that there is unconditional love. We often take love that surrounds us for granted but it may turn out that the people who give us this love might have fought for it we have no idea what price have been paid for it. You know, I really can see what the author wanted to achieve, and I am sure that for most of the readers the book is going to be a cosy, heart - warming, touching read.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
February 4, 2016
Having loved Christie Barlow's previous books, and also after falling in love with the cover of Kitty's Countryside Dream the first time I saw it, I knew I had to read this book. I was aware in advance that it was a slight change in tone, from her Playground Mother books, but thankfully I am delighted to say that this was even better.
The writing and the story as a whole felt more rounded, and far more mature. What amazed me that I didn't mind too much about the book, was it was set in the 1980s, and I generally prefer my books a bit more 21st Century. However I knew I had to give this a fair go regardless, and thankfully, I was barely bothered by the year at all.
During the first half of the book you will learn more about chickens, and chicken farming than you perhaps ever wanted to know, and seeing Kitty come to grips with her new life, as owner of a chicken farm. She soon forms some new friendships, and also gets her wires crossed on more than one occasion.
I found the first half of the book to be very light hearted, fun and you get a real feel for the various character dynamics. However its the second half of the book, for which Christie Barlow, needs to be applauded. The discovery of what was in Kitty's grandmother's safe, makes for completely compelling reading, and from that point on it was a struggle to tear myself away (and only managed it as I had to get off the train.)
Christie manages to weave a story, between two very distinctive generations, and although at one point I did think I had worked everything out, I wanted to know the reasons for what I was guessing was about to happen. There are sections where Kitty is tearing herself apart because of what she believes to be true, and yet as the reader, you are willing her to think straight and put two and two together, especially with regards her feelings toward one specific male.
Kitty's Countryside Dream is a fantastic story, one that will keep you reading long into the night, just to find out what happens. I loved every moment of it, and some of the scenes with chickens, will have you chuckling.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
December 15, 2015
Having seen the cover reveal of this book I was thrilled to be able to get an advanced copy from NetGalley. Thanks to Bookouture and Christie Barlow for that. As I was between books, having just finished an excellent but intense detective story I decided that the timing of this book arrival was perfect and I was not disappointed. As this is a new book I've included the blurb above so won't repeat it here but will say that there is so much more to this than the blurb covers. Aside from Tom and the lovely, but occasionally irritating Kitty, there is also Jeannie who works on the farm, her brother Robin, Lucinda the local bakery owner and a few other characters, all of whom are well-written and completely realistic. The setting of the story is also lovely and well-written but what is the focus in this book is Kitty's life.
Until she inherited Bluebell Lodge she knew nothing about her grandmother and so the inheritance comes as a complete surprise. Moving into the flat she has also inherited she begins working on the chicken farm that comes with the Lodge and then finds Violet's diary which slowly reveals a few family secrets along with the identity of Violet herself. While dealing with these revelations Kitty is also trying to understand her feelings towards Tom as well as making new friends and learning how to be a chicken farmer. There were a few instances in this book when Kitty irritated me (hence my earlier comment) as I could see what was coming and she was missing it completely. However, even when everything I had figured out was revealed there were still more shocks and surprises in store that had me reaching for some tissues.
This is an excellent book which swept me along so well that I read it in less than a day. I loved the characters and the story and will definitely be reading more by this author. This is definitely a book to read curled up with a mug of tea or hot chocolate.
Until she inherited Bluebell Lodge she knew nothing about her grandmother and so the inheritance comes as a complete surprise. Moving into the flat she has also inherited she begins working on the chicken farm that comes with the Lodge and then finds Violet's diary which slowly reveals a few family secrets along with the identity of Violet herself. While dealing with these revelations Kitty is also trying to understand her feelings towards Tom as well as making new friends and learning how to be a chicken farmer. There were a few instances in this book when Kitty irritated me (hence my earlier comment) as I could see what was coming and she was missing it completely. However, even when everything I had figured out was revealed there were still more shocks and surprises in store that had me reaching for some tissues.
This is an excellent book which swept me along so well that I read it in less than a day. I loved the characters and the story and will definitely be reading more by this author. This is definitely a book to read curled up with a mug of tea or hot chocolate.
March 1, 2016
It is 1985 and Kitty has just found out that she has inherited a flat and 'Bluebell Lodge' from a Grandmother she had no knowledge about. It comes at an opportune time as her beloved mother who she has nursed, has recently passed away as well.
Travelling to Rosefield a quaint village around North Staffordshire she arrives to see her inheritance, little did she realise that 'Bluebell Lodge' is actually a working chicken/egg laying farm. And little did she know that this would be the start of new beginnings and all that she knew of her previous life would be turned up side down.
The first thing that struck me about this novel is that it is set in 1985 but that doesn't matter in the least to this story, it's necessary for the time frame. I thought it was a sweet easy to read novel that kept me turning the pages but underneath there was a thought provoking subject.
I did find myself getting a bit annoyed at times with all the 'misunderstandings' between the main characters in the romance department and I felt relief when that was all sorted and I could get on with the other aspect of the book...what does the information in the diary that Kitty found mean for her?
If your looking for a cozy way to spend an afternoon, then try this book.
Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for a copy to read and review.
Travelling to Rosefield a quaint village around North Staffordshire she arrives to see her inheritance, little did she realise that 'Bluebell Lodge' is actually a working chicken/egg laying farm. And little did she know that this would be the start of new beginnings and all that she knew of her previous life would be turned up side down.
The first thing that struck me about this novel is that it is set in 1985 but that doesn't matter in the least to this story, it's necessary for the time frame. I thought it was a sweet easy to read novel that kept me turning the pages but underneath there was a thought provoking subject.
I did find myself getting a bit annoyed at times with all the 'misunderstandings' between the main characters in the romance department and I felt relief when that was all sorted and I could get on with the other aspect of the book...what does the information in the diary that Kitty found mean for her?
If your looking for a cozy way to spend an afternoon, then try this book.
Thank you to the Publisher and Netgalley for a copy to read and review.
February 28, 2016
Judging by its cover, I thought I was gonna love this book. Sadly, I didn't mainly because I couldn't stand Kitty. For someone who has gone through all she has she certainly is immature, childish and whiney. It's not after she discovers the journal that she starts to become more bearable. I found the first half of the book and all the chicken farm info quite boring. The second half and the mystery around the secret journal is more entertaining, though predictable.
I also dislike that the conflict for 2/3 of the book could've been resolved if the characters would've talked to each other instead of acting like children.
(Copy provided by Netgalley and publisher in exchange for honest review)
2.5/5
I also dislike that the conflict for 2/3 of the book could've been resolved if the characters would've talked to each other instead of acting like children.
(Copy provided by Netgalley and publisher in exchange for honest review)
2.5/5
March 4, 2016
After reading and loving "A Year in the life of a Playground Mother", I couldn't wait to read this.
This book is a delight. I was immediately drawn into Kitty's world and did not want to leave.
I fell in love with Kitty and Tom. In fact all the characters are such that you wish they were your friends.
The descriptions of the countryside were so real that I felt I could smell the farm, especially the chickens!
This is a book that will make you laugh and make you cry. If you want a book that you can curl up with and become thoroughly engrossed in then this is for you.
This book is a delight. I was immediately drawn into Kitty's world and did not want to leave.
I fell in love with Kitty and Tom. In fact all the characters are such that you wish they were your friends.
The descriptions of the countryside were so real that I felt I could smell the farm, especially the chickens!
This is a book that will make you laugh and make you cry. If you want a book that you can curl up with and become thoroughly engrossed in then this is for you.
December 19, 2015
I absolutely love this author but I have to admit this book is nothing like her other two books. This was a page turner than I just couldn't put down. The first half of the book sets the scene beautifully and the second half is gripping with a few unexpected twists. The characters are warm and believable and I think Christie Barlow is going from strength to strength.
February 29, 2016
i absolutely loved this book, it was such a delight to read. An excellent story line and not too soppy. Something that often puts me off a book. This book kept me enthralled from the beginning and I highly recommend it. My thanks to the publisher Bookouture and netgalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.
December 15, 2015
Review to follow
December 23, 2015
Review to follow closer to publishing date
March 1, 2016
This booked had me laughing and then on the verge of tears many time, was totally swept away by this book
March 11, 2016
Loved this book had me in laughter and tears great book from start to finish could not put it down x
May 30, 2016
The cover of this book is gorgeous and the contents are equally gorgeous! A great story with fantastic characters, Kitty’s Countryside Dream is an absolute delight from start to finish. Part romantic comedy part mystery, this book had me both laughing out loud and sobbing!
Kitty is left a flat and a chicken farm by her late grandmother - a grandmother she had no idea existed! The perfect new start for her following the death of her mother, however, Kitty is unprepared for the secrets she discovers her family have been keeping from her.
The characters in this book are easy to relate to and I could not help but love all of them. Christie has written them with such warmth and in a way that fully immerses the reader into their lives. For the two days it took me to read this book, Kitty, Tom, Lucinda, Robin and Jeannie were like old friends. You cannot help but empathise with Kitty from the start. I found myself rooting for her and hoping her new life in the countryside would be everything she wanted it to be.
The wonderful descriptions had me feeling as though I was living Rosefield and I missed the setting and the characters when I had finished the book!
Kitty’s escapades with the chickens when she first arrives at the farm are really funny and Christie has written the book with real wit and insight into how a ‘townie’ would cope in that situation.
The second half of the novel has a more serious storyline with Kitty discovering devastating family secrets. Written with sensitivity, I couldn’t help but be moved and touched by Kitty‘s plight, yet Christie still manages to keep the balance of humour which drew me more to Kitty’s character.
Heartbreaking at times yet ultimately heart-warming and uplifting, this is a really lovely tale of friendship, love and family. This book turned out to be so much more that I was expecting, I thoroughly enjoyed every page of it and highly recommend it.
Kitty is left a flat and a chicken farm by her late grandmother - a grandmother she had no idea existed! The perfect new start for her following the death of her mother, however, Kitty is unprepared for the secrets she discovers her family have been keeping from her.
The characters in this book are easy to relate to and I could not help but love all of them. Christie has written them with such warmth and in a way that fully immerses the reader into their lives. For the two days it took me to read this book, Kitty, Tom, Lucinda, Robin and Jeannie were like old friends. You cannot help but empathise with Kitty from the start. I found myself rooting for her and hoping her new life in the countryside would be everything she wanted it to be.
The wonderful descriptions had me feeling as though I was living Rosefield and I missed the setting and the characters when I had finished the book!
Kitty’s escapades with the chickens when she first arrives at the farm are really funny and Christie has written the book with real wit and insight into how a ‘townie’ would cope in that situation.
The second half of the novel has a more serious storyline with Kitty discovering devastating family secrets. Written with sensitivity, I couldn’t help but be moved and touched by Kitty‘s plight, yet Christie still manages to keep the balance of humour which drew me more to Kitty’s character.
Heartbreaking at times yet ultimately heart-warming and uplifting, this is a really lovely tale of friendship, love and family. This book turned out to be so much more that I was expecting, I thoroughly enjoyed every page of it and highly recommend it.
March 4, 2017
Not much to say about the book. Only this : I absolutely loved it! There was some laughter and the usual misunderstandings but wow, the emotional part is heartbreakingly beautiful. Big thumbs up!
Thank you, Netgalley
Thank you, Netgalley
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