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Tippermere #3
Country Rivals
A hilarious, sexy rom com for fans of Jilly Cooper and Fiona Walker!
Dashing eventer Rory is ready to button up his breeches and settle down. His gorgeous wife, Lottie, wants a bank balance in the black so she can protect the beautiful family estate for future generations.
But with the wedding business at Tipping House going up in flames, and rumours that it was arson not accident, Lottie begins to wonder who she can trust with her future.
Tranquil Tippermere is under siege as movies moguls and insurance investigators invade the countryside, and as events gather pace rescue plans start to look too good to be true, and intentions may not be as honourable as they seem.
As a moody, but definitely marvellous, polo player enters the fray and squares up to the eventing hero of Tippermere, does Lottie stand to lose her husband as well as her home?
'A great treat for readers…jam-packed with sexy men and horses.' Bestselling author Fiona Walker
Dashing eventer Rory is ready to button up his breeches and settle down. His gorgeous wife, Lottie, wants a bank balance in the black so she can protect the beautiful family estate for future generations.
But with the wedding business at Tipping House going up in flames, and rumours that it was arson not accident, Lottie begins to wonder who she can trust with her future.
Tranquil Tippermere is under siege as movies moguls and insurance investigators invade the countryside, and as events gather pace rescue plans start to look too good to be true, and intentions may not be as honourable as they seem.
As a moody, but definitely marvellous, polo player enters the fray and squares up to the eventing hero of Tippermere, does Lottie stand to lose her husband as well as her home?
'A great treat for readers…jam-packed with sexy men and horses.' Bestselling author Fiona Walker
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2016
46 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Zara Stoneley
34 books345 followersZara Stoneley is the USA Today bestselling author of The Wedding Date.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 25, 2016
Well, how have I never heard of Zara Stoneley before?! When I did some research I was amazed that I hadn’t read any books by her previously as the blurbs all sounded right up my street. What’s not to love about gorgeous men, affluent lifestyles, dogs and horses and all set in my own gorgeous home county of Cheshire! Having been (and still am, of course) a huge fan of Jilly Cooper when I was younger I knew that I was onto a winner here!
I will start by saying that this book can totally be read as a standalone novel but as with any series, although I think you can probably get more for this instalment if you read the previous Tippermere books. If I had read the ones before then this would probably have been a 5* review but, as I felt at times I wasn’t getting the most from Lottie as I hadn’t been there for her character development, I have ended up giving 4.5*. This is probably just a personal thing as I like more in-depth characterisation but this has probably been prevalent in previous books. Saying that, I absolutely adored Lottie, everything about her was just so realistic. Her fight to keep her business, her home and her husband was a gripping storyline and I was cheering her on every step of the way. My other favourite character was Lady Elizabeth, she was so well written that I have even picked out an actress to play her in “Tippermere The Movie” if they ever make one! She’s one scary old lady who’s bark is worse than her bite but there is a heart of gold hidden there full of love for her family. There were a couple of occasions that I even got quite emotional at events that took place but then I am a wuss when it comes to books containing animals! And there were plenty of those in Country Rivals-eventing horses, polo ponies, Shetland ponies and various breeds (or not!) of dogs. The cast of characters also included family and the awful members of a film crew who descend on Tipping House Estate after Lottie agrees to let them film there. The family are rather desperate for money as they are awaiting an insurance payment after the fire that put the wedding business on hold. The author is brilliant at making sure you are aware of back stories that happened in previous books so please don’t be put off if you haven’t read them although, like me, you will probably end up wanting to read them anyway!
The county of Cheshire and its rural villages and expensive towns is certainly well represented here! But Zara Stoneley has taken these attributes and created a fabulous fictional village around them that I would move to in a heartbeat! Her enthusiasm shows throughout this book and it is totally adddictive! I was able to imagine Tippermere and its surroundings with its church, houses and shops and restaurants filled with some of the very rich and gorgeous residents of the area. They say you should write about what you know so I love the fact that the equine scenes are very authentic showing that the author has plenty of experience of horses, I just need to look out for all those gorgeous local men now! So if you want a fun and flirty read full of glamour with some hot and heavy romance on the side all set in the most enviable location then this is the book for you!
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
I will start by saying that this book can totally be read as a standalone novel but as with any series, although I think you can probably get more for this instalment if you read the previous Tippermere books. If I had read the ones before then this would probably have been a 5* review but, as I felt at times I wasn’t getting the most from Lottie as I hadn’t been there for her character development, I have ended up giving 4.5*. This is probably just a personal thing as I like more in-depth characterisation but this has probably been prevalent in previous books. Saying that, I absolutely adored Lottie, everything about her was just so realistic. Her fight to keep her business, her home and her husband was a gripping storyline and I was cheering her on every step of the way. My other favourite character was Lady Elizabeth, she was so well written that I have even picked out an actress to play her in “Tippermere The Movie” if they ever make one! She’s one scary old lady who’s bark is worse than her bite but there is a heart of gold hidden there full of love for her family. There were a couple of occasions that I even got quite emotional at events that took place but then I am a wuss when it comes to books containing animals! And there were plenty of those in Country Rivals-eventing horses, polo ponies, Shetland ponies and various breeds (or not!) of dogs. The cast of characters also included family and the awful members of a film crew who descend on Tipping House Estate after Lottie agrees to let them film there. The family are rather desperate for money as they are awaiting an insurance payment after the fire that put the wedding business on hold. The author is brilliant at making sure you are aware of back stories that happened in previous books so please don’t be put off if you haven’t read them although, like me, you will probably end up wanting to read them anyway!
The county of Cheshire and its rural villages and expensive towns is certainly well represented here! But Zara Stoneley has taken these attributes and created a fabulous fictional village around them that I would move to in a heartbeat! Her enthusiasm shows throughout this book and it is totally adddictive! I was able to imagine Tippermere and its surroundings with its church, houses and shops and restaurants filled with some of the very rich and gorgeous residents of the area. They say you should write about what you know so I love the fact that the equine scenes are very authentic showing that the author has plenty of experience of horses, I just need to look out for all those gorgeous local men now! So if you want a fun and flirty read full of glamour with some hot and heavy romance on the side all set in the most enviable location then this is the book for you!
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
June 10, 2016
Animals like horses and pups took the spotlight in this latest Tippermare series and boy, what a ruckus these four-footed creatures had caused.
Lottie wanted to secure their future but tragedy struck when Tipping House was burned. Her gorgeous husband Rory was too pleased to help. It was a delight to see this tandem even with the appearance of a polo player and a film crew and investigators tangled in the mix. It was only a matter of time before Lottie loses her cool and bring the house down with her.
Country Rivals was a fun and hilarious read. I wasn't able to read the previous books in the series, but author Zara Stonely provided a list of characters at the beginning, so it was easy for me to get acquainted with the other characters. Lady Elizabeth, I think was my most favorite, because she was really the one that got me hooked up with Tippermere. The whole concept and plot was beautifully set and Lottie had proven herself formidable when it came to protecting her assets.
This had been a long read, but when you're having fun reading and getting to know the characters, you wouldn't realize that almost five hours had passed.
Lottie wanted to secure their future but tragedy struck when Tipping House was burned. Her gorgeous husband Rory was too pleased to help. It was a delight to see this tandem even with the appearance of a polo player and a film crew and investigators tangled in the mix. It was only a matter of time before Lottie loses her cool and bring the house down with her.
Country Rivals was a fun and hilarious read. I wasn't able to read the previous books in the series, but author Zara Stonely provided a list of characters at the beginning, so it was easy for me to get acquainted with the other characters. Lady Elizabeth, I think was my most favorite, because she was really the one that got me hooked up with Tippermere. The whole concept and plot was beautifully set and Lottie had proven herself formidable when it came to protecting her assets.
This had been a long read, but when you're having fun reading and getting to know the characters, you wouldn't realize that almost five hours had passed.
June 1, 2016
4.5 Stars
What a welcome return to Tippermere this was. From the second I saw the list of characters at the start, I was reminded instantly of my love affair with this series, and how eager I was to get into this one. The first chapter could not have started any better, having me laughing at Lady Elizabeth, while being introduced to a new character very early on.
Having read the rest of this series in order, I would recommend reading them all, but this can definitely be read as a standalone book without too much trouble. There is enough back story included, as well as a whole new set of characters to add a new dynamic to the story.
At first I really wasn't sure what to think about the film crew that were being allowed to film on the grounds of house, however it does introduce us to Xander who is a sexy polo player, that may just attract Lottie's interest, and Jamie a youngster who Lady Elizabeth has taken a shine too.
The story feels a lot less sex mad this time around, and a lot more mature and emotional as events unfold. I was at one point feeling high adrenalin in a scene with the horses which turned into shock, and then upset, followed more high emotions during a scene just chapters later. Then there are the two three year old children that Rory seems to end up looking after more often than not, and Roxy, with her inability to pronounce her "Rs" is adorable and such a handful, and is clearly the star of every scene she is in.
There are a good deal of deeper themes running through the story, from the finances of the estate, to whether Lottie is ready for or wants children and how events in childhood can really affect your adulthood. There is a real villain of the book, who although it won't come as too much of a surprise as to who it is, the levels of the deception will shock and the overall reveals for it, were unputdownable.
I am a massive fan of Zara Stoneley's writing, and her ability to give all the animals such great personalities as well as the children being pretty spot on age wise, and how she has grown all the characters over the series so far. There is a whole menagerie of dogs and horses this time around, some old and some new, and although we don't really get much Polo or eventing, there is plenty of horse riding, and pony riding, to give you a good feel about what life in a horse yard may be like.
I'm desperately hoping that this won't be the last we see of Tippermere, as there is so much more that could be done with this wonderful group of characters, even if the focus changed slightly. From the books I've read in the series so far, it is amazing how good the character development has been for the key cast over a three book arc, and I would love to see where they will go from here. Another fantastic addition to this series that I adored reading.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
What a welcome return to Tippermere this was. From the second I saw the list of characters at the start, I was reminded instantly of my love affair with this series, and how eager I was to get into this one. The first chapter could not have started any better, having me laughing at Lady Elizabeth, while being introduced to a new character very early on.
Having read the rest of this series in order, I would recommend reading them all, but this can definitely be read as a standalone book without too much trouble. There is enough back story included, as well as a whole new set of characters to add a new dynamic to the story.
At first I really wasn't sure what to think about the film crew that were being allowed to film on the grounds of house, however it does introduce us to Xander who is a sexy polo player, that may just attract Lottie's interest, and Jamie a youngster who Lady Elizabeth has taken a shine too.
The story feels a lot less sex mad this time around, and a lot more mature and emotional as events unfold. I was at one point feeling high adrenalin in a scene with the horses which turned into shock, and then upset, followed more high emotions during a scene just chapters later. Then there are the two three year old children that Rory seems to end up looking after more often than not, and Roxy, with her inability to pronounce her "Rs" is adorable and such a handful, and is clearly the star of every scene she is in.
There are a good deal of deeper themes running through the story, from the finances of the estate, to whether Lottie is ready for or wants children and how events in childhood can really affect your adulthood. There is a real villain of the book, who although it won't come as too much of a surprise as to who it is, the levels of the deception will shock and the overall reveals for it, were unputdownable.
I am a massive fan of Zara Stoneley's writing, and her ability to give all the animals such great personalities as well as the children being pretty spot on age wise, and how she has grown all the characters over the series so far. There is a whole menagerie of dogs and horses this time around, some old and some new, and although we don't really get much Polo or eventing, there is plenty of horse riding, and pony riding, to give you a good feel about what life in a horse yard may be like.
I'm desperately hoping that this won't be the last we see of Tippermere, as there is so much more that could be done with this wonderful group of characters, even if the focus changed slightly. From the books I've read in the series so far, it is amazing how good the character development has been for the key cast over a three book arc, and I would love to see where they will go from here. Another fantastic addition to this series that I adored reading.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
May 27, 2016
I was delighted to discover Zara Stonely through Net Galley and loved the previous books in the Tippermare series. They take you on a fast paced Country adventure- meeting old friends along the way . It’s a sexy, fun and warm story- keeping you turning the pages desperate to keep up and just read that little bit more before bedtime!
Although I have read the previous books in the series – this could be read as a stand alone and enjoyed immensely.
Perfect for anyone who devoured Jilly Cooper books- Zara stands up there with the upper country tales. As always you will fall in love with the animal characters as well as the humans.
One of those books that you are sad to come to the end- and desperate to find out when we will be making a return to Tippermare.
With many thanks to Net Galley and the author for the chance to read this one.
Although I have read the previous books in the series – this could be read as a stand alone and enjoyed immensely.
Perfect for anyone who devoured Jilly Cooper books- Zara stands up there with the upper country tales. As always you will fall in love with the animal characters as well as the humans.
One of those books that you are sad to come to the end- and desperate to find out when we will be making a return to Tippermare.
With many thanks to Net Galley and the author for the chance to read this one.
July 3, 2016
A fun filled book that is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone book. The cast of characters is displayed at the start. Loved all the cast including all the animals. Will have to read the other books in the series now. Thanks to TBC for the review copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 17, 2016
Rich Men and a bit of polo sounds like Jilly Cooper novel and If you like those then you will love this . I didn't realise it was part of a series and will be going back to read the other book . Really nice characters and lovely story
July 10, 2016
Loved this book, it's racy, sexy, fast paced and fun!
How I've not read anything by this author before I don't know and I'll definitely be reading more by thing fab author.
Thank you so much for this brilliant read, and to TBC for the chance to read and review.
How I've not read anything by this author before I don't know and I'll definitely be reading more by thing fab author.
Thank you so much for this brilliant read, and to TBC for the chance to read and review.
May 30, 2016
"Country Rivals" is the third book in the series but you can read it as a stand - alone - there are enough flashbacks into the past that help to explain some situations and events, and are a great reminder for those who read the books, and also, like in all previous books, there is a list of characters at the beginning, so you can easily follow who is who or, if you are already a regular in Tippermere, just like me, you can only refresh your memory, but nevertheless I'd advise you to read all the books, as you'll be missing too much on Zara Stoneley's brilliant humour, fantastic romps set in a picturesque, brilliantly brought to life Tippermere. And let me tell you just at the beginning that I have so loved this book that I really didn't want to put it down for a single second! I adored all the previous books in the Tippermere series, but I think that "Country Rivals" is my favourite so far. It mixes everything best from all the books - the lovely, larger than life and down - to - earth characters that kept me entertained for so many hours, brilliant setting, the most crazy moments and of course horses, dogs and men in jodhpurs without T - shirts. I would love this series to be turned into TV series, I'd be the first to turn my TV on!
This time it is a film crew arriving at Tipping House Estate that is going to cause some problems. They are there because the family is rather short of money, and so Lady Elizabeth got them a deal, allowing to let them film there. There happens so much in this story! As well events as characters. It was so incredibly fast - paced and character - driven story, and there was not a single moment flat. Next to the characters that I grow to love and adore, Zara Stoneley introduces us to new characters, and all of them vivid, full of life personalities, that felt so realistic. Rory was the one that surprised me most, I think - without losing his boyish charm and humour he seemed a little more grown up and he adored Lottie and the land she was treading and he was not only her husband but still best friend, and those two are for me a couple made in heaven.
Lottie seemed so sad almost all the time, but no matter, she didn't lose her inner light, happiness and to be honest, this sadness was truly justified, as she had some problems ("some" is an understatement, really. There were serious money troubles after the fire, Rory losing his sponsor didn't help, then the filming crew with the lovely (NOT!) Panda, then Black Gold, then Rory and his desire... I was wondering how much this girl is able to undergo). I adore Lottie right from the very first book in the series and I would love to have her as my best friend - she has a great sense of humour, she is loyal and she would do anything for you, and she has horses! My heart fell for her during her battle to keep the house, and at so many dilemmas that she had, and I can only tell you that I truly, fully understood her, as I had the same problem as she has (this family problem. Not money problem. Though, after some consideration, I also have this problem every once in a while. Like, always).
But I think that the star of this novel was Sam! If you have Sam on your side than you don't need to be scared of anything, and she proves that she is the best friend Lottie could wish for.
And this time, you know, I really warmed to Elizabeth. I think I've finally appreciated her wisdom and silent help.
What I also so adored was the fact that even though Zara Stoneley introduced new characters to us, she hasn't forgotten about the old ones, and even if there were only a few scenes, we were re - acquainted with Amanda and Dominic for example, and there was even Pipps, maybe not in flesh but in soul, and she's made a significant piece of work as well.
This time Zara also proved that she can write incredibly touching scenes, and she had me in tears thrice. I haven't expected it, at all - both the scenes and that I'm going to cry not because of laughter when reading the Tipperemer books. But even though those scenes really broke my heart, I loved them, as they were so beautifully written, so poignant and well, I didn't like to have them in the book at all but I appreciate that the author has decided to twist the plot with them. Zara Stoneley really had me quite emotional for a moment or two, really, but to be honest, if there are animals involved, I am to cry in any case. Because as usual, Zara Stoneley excels in creating the animal characters. She has so much feeling and understanding towards animals, and her descriptions of them, their behaviour, expressions are just spot - on! And you know what they say - don't work with someone else's children and animals (though I'd worked with both and it's not so bad :) ) - and after reading the book you will know why they say so :)
The writing style is, again, so full of enthusiasm and feelings, it's just flowing, it's fluent and light and I really have a feeling that Zara Stoneley has put her whole soul into writing this story. It is addictive, unputdownable and it makes you feel so, so good - even with all the problems, troubles and bitchy characters. Tippermere is, as usually, brought to life with the meddling vicar, with village fest and shops selling calendars with sexy firefighters. Also, Zara Stoneley really knows what she writes about, and the descriptions of the horses and horse - riding, and horse - gear, and polo playing were so authentic.
The plot is full to the brims and the story flows at almost a break neck tempo and it is full of turns and twists. This novel has taken me by surprise more than once, guys, and it is really not so easy to surprise me these times. I couldn't wait to turn the page to see what's going to happen next. And the twists and turns are very clever ones! Think also picturesque, idyllic setting, great country houses and many different breeds (and not!) of dogs, horses, horses, and horses again and it was great to admire again how well the author captures the animals and their behaviours, and even when she writes about them blinking, it sounds so realistic. But think also characters that you root for, that you love or love to hate, and this all in this fabulous, engaging Zara Stoneley's writing style. A gorgeous, delicious read, "Country Rivals" is a perfect mix of comedy and drama, love and heartbreak, fun and sadness and fantastic characters - and I really, truly hope that there is going to be a next instalment in the series, as there is so much potential and so many possibilities (Zara, hope you are taking the hint, wink, wink). It is another win from Zara Stoneley and really, if you were wondering about perhaps selling up and moving to the countryside, then you will do this after reading "Country Rivals", ha.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
May 27, 2016
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‘Country Rivals’ is characterised by its believable English country setting and complex characters. The lovable and often naughty animals regularly upstage their human counterparts and make this series a delight. The residents of Tippermere are larger than life but they are all grounded, with recognisable human flaws and frailty that make them easy to empathise with and hard to forget.
I have read the other books in the series and so most of the characters in ‘Country Rivals’ are old friends. If you are new to Tippermere, this story is complete and supported by sufficient back story to make it a standalone read but why miss out on the other books?
Lovable Lottie and sexy Rory take centre stage but it is Lady Elizabeth’s redoubtable influence that makes the plot unpredictable and interesting. Sam, the quintessential footballer’s wife provides the glamour and glitz and new characters add to the mayhem, misunderstanding and mystery that make this fast paced story an engaging read.
‘Country rivals’ is full of humour, passion and poignancy, with a lovely hopeful ending.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Zara Stoneley
May 26, 2016
A fab STAND ALONE NOVEL...
Anyone read the best selling Lucy Dillon books? I really like them because although they aren’t promoted as a series, they are all set in the same place, and the same characters pop up in all the books. This is what Zara Stoneley’s Tippermere books are like. Although they’re billed as a series, they are perfect to enjoy on their own. But if you read more than one, it’s like meeting up with old friends, in a cosy pub, in front of a log fire. And in case you didn’t know, Zara Stoneley is also a Best Selling author on Amazon too.
I love Zara Stoneley’s writing style – her prose is fluent and easy to read, with parts that make my lips twitch into smiles at unextected moments. As a writer I’m always coming across bits I wish I’d written, in the best possible way. Zara writes the most fabulous books about country life, set in the wonderful fictional village of Tippermere. And Country Rivals is another winner for me. Ever dreamed of selling up and moving to the countryside? Read Country Rivals, and it will take you there for a delicious taster.
Country Rivals has everything I could wish for in a country romp. It’s pacey, and the fabulous twists and turns had me turning the pages late into the night. Think rambling country houses and picturesque cottages. Country shows, complete with baking and bunting. Idyllic rural settings straight off the pages of Country Living. Characters that you fall in love with, who feel like old friends. Horses, cute dogs, hot guys. Highs and lows. More hot guys. Lol moments. All rolled into one delicious book.
This is the third book set in Tippermere that I’ve completely fallen in love with. It’s official. I definitely want to move there. This is a FAB STAND-ALONE NOVEL – the perfect escape to the country.
Anyone read the best selling Lucy Dillon books? I really like them because although they aren’t promoted as a series, they are all set in the same place, and the same characters pop up in all the books. This is what Zara Stoneley’s Tippermere books are like. Although they’re billed as a series, they are perfect to enjoy on their own. But if you read more than one, it’s like meeting up with old friends, in a cosy pub, in front of a log fire. And in case you didn’t know, Zara Stoneley is also a Best Selling author on Amazon too.
I love Zara Stoneley’s writing style – her prose is fluent and easy to read, with parts that make my lips twitch into smiles at unextected moments. As a writer I’m always coming across bits I wish I’d written, in the best possible way. Zara writes the most fabulous books about country life, set in the wonderful fictional village of Tippermere. And Country Rivals is another winner for me. Ever dreamed of selling up and moving to the countryside? Read Country Rivals, and it will take you there for a delicious taster.
Country Rivals has everything I could wish for in a country romp. It’s pacey, and the fabulous twists and turns had me turning the pages late into the night. Think rambling country houses and picturesque cottages. Country shows, complete with baking and bunting. Idyllic rural settings straight off the pages of Country Living. Characters that you fall in love with, who feel like old friends. Horses, cute dogs, hot guys. Highs and lows. More hot guys. Lol moments. All rolled into one delicious book.
This is the third book set in Tippermere that I’ve completely fallen in love with. It’s official. I definitely want to move there. This is a FAB STAND-ALONE NOVEL – the perfect escape to the country.
July 18, 2016
Star Rating four point five stars.
Country Rivals is the third book in this Rom Com series and moves slightly away from the style of Jilly Cooper writing and into a more serious issue of family and relations than the first two books. This could be read as a stand alone book but readers will get much more enjoyment if they start with book 1.
Set in Cheshire at the Tipping House Estate and Equestrian centre and next to Kitterly Heath home to rich and famous celebrities such as an England goalie, this book continues with the the life of Lottie, horse-mad heiress to the Stanthorpe estate, daughter of Billy Brinkley former show-jumper and wife of Rory Steel a top 3 day eventer.
After a fire during a wedding Lottie was running, the estate is running out of money while they wait for the insurance money to come through. With money tight they decide to allow a film producer to use the front lawns for his new film.
With Seb and Pandora Drakelow come a film crew and chaos upsetting the villagers of Tippermere with the traffic and the media attention. Champion Polo player Xander Rossi arrives to supervise the Polo ponies and their safety during filming and turns more than one head in the stable yard.
Lottie is feeling the pressure as she tries to please everyone and finds old enemies come back with vendettas to settle.
There are some fantastic characters in this series and Lady Elizabeth is one of my favourites as is Sam Simcock. I've enjoyed all three of the books and recommend them to those who like to see how the other half live with their RomCom.
Country Rivals is the third book in this Rom Com series and moves slightly away from the style of Jilly Cooper writing and into a more serious issue of family and relations than the first two books. This could be read as a stand alone book but readers will get much more enjoyment if they start with book 1.
Set in Cheshire at the Tipping House Estate and Equestrian centre and next to Kitterly Heath home to rich and famous celebrities such as an England goalie, this book continues with the the life of Lottie, horse-mad heiress to the Stanthorpe estate, daughter of Billy Brinkley former show-jumper and wife of Rory Steel a top 3 day eventer.
After a fire during a wedding Lottie was running, the estate is running out of money while they wait for the insurance money to come through. With money tight they decide to allow a film producer to use the front lawns for his new film.
With Seb and Pandora Drakelow come a film crew and chaos upsetting the villagers of Tippermere with the traffic and the media attention. Champion Polo player Xander Rossi arrives to supervise the Polo ponies and their safety during filming and turns more than one head in the stable yard.
Lottie is feeling the pressure as she tries to please everyone and finds old enemies come back with vendettas to settle.
There are some fantastic characters in this series and Lady Elizabeth is one of my favourites as is Sam Simcock. I've enjoyed all three of the books and recommend them to those who like to see how the other half live with their RomCom.
May 25, 2016
As with all previous instalments in Stoneley's Tippermere series, there is a handy who's who of Tippermere at the beginning. Which means whether this is your first Tippermere book or if it's been a while since you've read an instalment you don't feel lost as to who is related to who and how.
With Country Rivals being the 4th instalment in the Tippermere series (if we count the Christmas novella, and I do), the characters are already well developed. I've loved Lottie from the very beginning, but in this book we get a better look at how everyone else see's her. And I have to say it just makes me love her more. Speaking of loving people more... I suddenly realised whilst reading just how much I love Sam, she's very in your face but she has a big heart and is a fab friend. Every single one of Stoneleys characters has a real depth to them, even the horses and dogs that feature so heavily in this series.
This is the perfect mix of comedy, love, heartbreak, mystery, horses and dogs. It will have you laughing in one moment and reaching for the tissues at another. And if you are anything like me.... chomping at the bit for the next instalment.
With Country Rivals being the 4th instalment in the Tippermere series (if we count the Christmas novella, and I do), the characters are already well developed. I've loved Lottie from the very beginning, but in this book we get a better look at how everyone else see's her. And I have to say it just makes me love her more. Speaking of loving people more... I suddenly realised whilst reading just how much I love Sam, she's very in your face but she has a big heart and is a fab friend. Every single one of Stoneleys characters has a real depth to them, even the horses and dogs that feature so heavily in this series.
This is the perfect mix of comedy, love, heartbreak, mystery, horses and dogs. It will have you laughing in one moment and reaching for the tissues at another. And if you are anything like me.... chomping at the bit for the next instalment.
June 26, 2016
I really enjoyed this tale of Lottie, Pandora, racy Xander and lovely Rory. Set in a backdrop of a country estate in Cheshire, this took me back to my childhood with echoes of both Downton Abbey and Jilly Cooper's Riders!
Zara writes a fast-moving and fun tale, with lots of different quirky characters such as Elizabeth (Lottie's grandma), Billy (Lottie's dad), Jamie (the location scout) and Tab (the stable girl). There's a list at the start which was helpful but a little off-putting/daunting, however such is Zara's style that I never needed to refer back to it!
A story of making things work - through trying times, difficult situations and thinking that the grass is always greener - it had more depth than I anticipated... and I even shed a tear on one occasion.
A great tale, I will be looking out for more from Zara Stoneley.
MetLineReader Rating 4.5
Zara writes a fast-moving and fun tale, with lots of different quirky characters such as Elizabeth (Lottie's grandma), Billy (Lottie's dad), Jamie (the location scout) and Tab (the stable girl). There's a list at the start which was helpful but a little off-putting/daunting, however such is Zara's style that I never needed to refer back to it!
A story of making things work - through trying times, difficult situations and thinking that the grass is always greener - it had more depth than I anticipated... and I even shed a tear on one occasion.
A great tale, I will be looking out for more from Zara Stoneley.
MetLineReader Rating 4.5
June 23, 2016
Lovely book!
Like the blurb says it is perfect book for sex, horses, beautiful people and some scandal in the mix. I loved the main character Lottie and Lady Elizabeth was perfect in her scheming interfering ways. Tippermere is a town I want to visit and to be able to visit Tipping house, for cuddle with the dogs and ride the horses, perfect. I got to do that through the book. I found the story entertaining, funny at times and kept me near the book until it was finished. I now want to read the other Tippermere books though it is alright to read this as a standalone. This is perfect holiday book.
Thank you Zara Stoneley and THE Bookclub for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Like the blurb says it is perfect book for sex, horses, beautiful people and some scandal in the mix. I loved the main character Lottie and Lady Elizabeth was perfect in her scheming interfering ways. Tippermere is a town I want to visit and to be able to visit Tipping house, for cuddle with the dogs and ride the horses, perfect. I got to do that through the book. I found the story entertaining, funny at times and kept me near the book until it was finished. I now want to read the other Tippermere books though it is alright to read this as a standalone. This is perfect holiday book.
Thank you Zara Stoneley and THE Bookclub for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2016
Country Rivals is number three in the Tippermere series but it worked just fine as a standalone and at no stage did I feel like I was missing out on the storyline or characters because I had not read the previous two.
Lots of humour and fun as well as some darker and sad moments.
There were some great characters such as Lottie, Rory, Sam and the gorgeous Xander and of course all the beautiful animals I love reading about.
A film set is guaranteed to have some spoiled divas amongst them and the spoilt and just downright nasty and scheming Pandora was easy to hate.
A great and fun book that I can recommend.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for this ARC.
Lots of humour and fun as well as some darker and sad moments.
There were some great characters such as Lottie, Rory, Sam and the gorgeous Xander and of course all the beautiful animals I love reading about.
A film set is guaranteed to have some spoiled divas amongst them and the spoilt and just downright nasty and scheming Pandora was easy to hate.
A great and fun book that I can recommend.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse for this ARC.
October 27, 2016
A genre I would never normally go for, but I was pleasantly surprised. This book draws you into the country lifestyle and into the world of money, stately homes, and some secrets!
A definite page turner from the beginning and there are many twists and turns along the route that, some of which you are not expecting at all.
Some of the characters I have to admit I found more difficult to understand than others, but that may just be because this isn't my usual genre and I'm normally only keeping up with a few characters!
The writing in this book is so fluid, and moves so smoothly that I feel lucky to have been given chance to read and review for #TBC
A definite page turner from the beginning and there are many twists and turns along the route that, some of which you are not expecting at all.
Some of the characters I have to admit I found more difficult to understand than others, but that may just be because this isn't my usual genre and I'm normally only keeping up with a few characters!
The writing in this book is so fluid, and moves so smoothly that I feel lucky to have been given chance to read and review for #TBC
July 5, 2016
Thanks to TBC on FB and Zara Stoneley for this ARC. Took me a little while to get into (I'm not sure why), but glad I persevered, as it was a fun, romantic, heart warming story of the trials and tribulations of life in the country. Idyllic or not? You can decide. Really liked getting to know the main characters and loved Elizabeth the matriarch, whom I would have liked to meet in real life. It had a good mixture of characters, but I would have liked to learn more about Davy the absent footballer. Would recommend this light hearted read and the book cover doesn't do it justice.
August 4, 2016
I received a copy of this from THE Book Club in exchange for a fair review.
When I started reading it I didn't realise that it was one of a series but it reads very well as a standalone book.
Never having been a great Jilly Cooper fan I was a bit unsure about this book at first and it did take me a little while to get into it, however, I found my self hooked and will be reading the other books in the series.
A very enjoyable, undemanding read. Perfect for reading by the pool or on the beach
When I started reading it I didn't realise that it was one of a series but it reads very well as a standalone book.
Never having been a great Jilly Cooper fan I was a bit unsure about this book at first and it did take me a little while to get into it, however, I found my self hooked and will be reading the other books in the series.
A very enjoyable, undemanding read. Perfect for reading by the pool or on the beach
May 26, 2016
Zara Stoneley is definitely one of my favourite new authors, I would recommend that you all give her books a try she is just fantastic. You will not be disappointed. I am glad to have been given a review copy of this book as I am recovering from an operation and it was lovely to have a book that was extremely funny with some very hot men thrown in. I love the fact that Zara also includes animals in her books especially horses. Brilliant story, I could re-read time and time again.
July 16, 2016
Again a funny, kind, horsy story!
I love it when goodies are goodies and baddies get their comeuppance!
I feel real affection for the inhabitants of Tippermere, thank you
I love it when goodies are goodies and baddies get their comeuppance!
I feel real affection for the inhabitants of Tippermere, thank you
May 27, 2016
Love the Tippermere series. Great content and storyline.
October 6, 2018
Sad to finish the last in the Tippermere series (hope Zara writes more about Lottie, Rory, Sam and the crew).
Starts with a fire at the mansion, the wedding business is sidelined until the repairs. Lottie and Rory are having money issues, horse problems.
In come Seb and Pandora a Director and his actress wife. Pandora is a real nasty piece of work. Jealous of Lottie, wants what Lottie has.
Lottie loses a lot in this story, but she’s made of strong stuff and rises to the top.
The ending leaves it open if Zara does want to keep writing this series ( I really hope she does).
Starts with a fire at the mansion, the wedding business is sidelined until the repairs. Lottie and Rory are having money issues, horse problems.
In come Seb and Pandora a Director and his actress wife. Pandora is a real nasty piece of work. Jealous of Lottie, wants what Lottie has.
Lottie loses a lot in this story, but she’s made of strong stuff and rises to the top.
The ending leaves it open if Zara does want to keep writing this series ( I really hope she does).
September 13, 2018
Great story telling
I can't put the Tippermere books down once I start. It's causing my poor house and my job a great deal of suffering. The books would be fantastic as a t.v. series.
I can't put the Tippermere books down once I start. It's causing my poor house and my job a great deal of suffering. The books would be fantastic as a t.v. series.
October 10, 2017
Wow wow and OMG. This book had it all, highs, lows, happiness, sad moments, friendship, romance, revenge, jealousy, cute dogs & horses. It was certainly a page turner. I loved reading all about Lotte and Rory again plus reading all of the other characters that I met in the previous books. There was a couple of scenes that brought tears to my eyes, wasn't expecting that. I did not want this book to end.
September 27, 2016
a really fun read,just loved this.an easy fun read recommended to all
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