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Honeybourne #2
Christmas at the Little Village Bakery
It’s time to get toasty by the fire with a glass of mulled wine and a slice of chocolate yule log sprinkled with a little romance. Welcome to Christmas at the Little Village Bakery.
Snow is falling in Honeybourne and Spencer is bringing home his American fiancée Tori for a traditional English Christmas with all the trimmings. But when his hippie mum and dad meet her high-maintenance parents, sparks of the wrong sort start to fly. Then Spencer bumps into his first love Jasmine and unexpected feelings come flooding back.
Millie is run off her feet with Christmas orders at the Little Village Bakery and new baby Oscar. Thank goodness her cousin Darcie is here to help her. Although she does seem to be rather flirty with Millie’s boyfriend Dylan.
Will Darcie ever find true love of her own? And is marrying Tori a terrible mistake for Spencer if his heart is with someone else?
A heartwarming Christmassy romantic comedy, perfect for fans of Carole Matthews and Milly Johnson.
Snow is falling in Honeybourne and Spencer is bringing home his American fiancée Tori for a traditional English Christmas with all the trimmings. But when his hippie mum and dad meet her high-maintenance parents, sparks of the wrong sort start to fly. Then Spencer bumps into his first love Jasmine and unexpected feelings come flooding back.
Millie is run off her feet with Christmas orders at the Little Village Bakery and new baby Oscar. Thank goodness her cousin Darcie is here to help her. Although she does seem to be rather flirty with Millie’s boyfriend Dylan.
Will Darcie ever find true love of her own? And is marrying Tori a terrible mistake for Spencer if his heart is with someone else?
A heartwarming Christmassy romantic comedy, perfect for fans of Carole Matthews and Milly Johnson.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2016
603 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Tilly Tennant
48 books470 followersTilly Tennant was born in Dorset, the oldest of four children, but now lives in Staffordshire with a family of her own. After years of dismal and disastrous jobs, including paper plate stacking, shop girl, newspaper promotions and waitressing (she never could carry a bowl of soup without spilling a bit), she decided to indulge her passion for the written word by embarking on a degree in English and creative writing, graduating in 2009 with first class honours. She wrote her first novel in 2007 during her first summer break at university and has not stopped writing since. She also works as a freelance fiction editor, and considers herself very lucky that this enables her to read many wonderful books before the rest of the world gets them.
Tilly is represented by the wonderful, gorgeous Peta Nightingale at LAW.
Tilly is represented by the wonderful, gorgeous Peta Nightingale at LAW.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
November 6, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Perfect for this time of year! All the makings of a holiday movie special are in this book. It is beautifully rendered with vivid characters to fall in love with and enjoy while sitting in your favorite chair. This is a sweet romance that proves that while plans may not go accordingly, love will still endure. Those looking for a great Christmas romance may want to check this out.
Perfect for this time of year! All the makings of a holiday movie special are in this book. It is beautifully rendered with vivid characters to fall in love with and enjoy while sitting in your favorite chair. This is a sweet romance that proves that while plans may not go accordingly, love will still endure. Those looking for a great Christmas romance may want to check this out.
September 10, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
I'm British. We do tax returns, bad customer service, good tea and late trains. We do not do snow angels.
I can manage filth in ten minutes and sitting next to you is too tempting. It wouldn't be any good, of course, but you might want to get used to the idea for when I'm old and can't manage more than ten minutes.
Well, we haven't caught her cleaning in the nude for at least three months, but we suspect that's down to the temperature drop more than the telling off we give her when we catch her. I have no objection at all to naturists, but the only full moon I want to see after a hard day at work is the one in the sky.
It was a simple sentence, three little words that didn't feel anywhere near huge enough to express what was in her heart. I love you. It was said so easily and so often by so many people. How could it be enough? And yet, it was; pure and uncomplicated, it was the most perfect sentence in the history of language. She loved him, and there was nothing more to say.
My Review:
It is the Christmas season and family drama appeared to be the main theme in many households in the tiny village of Honeybourne. A betrothed couple met limited success in navigating future in-law friction as they attempted to acquaint the parental units - both sets being polar opposites and living at different ends of the world. Family and baby dramas were issues elsewhere, and unrequited love weighed heavy on several hearts. Ms. Tennant's writing was observant, insightful, humorous, and heart squeezing. I adored her humor; the witty bantering between characters and the elderly gossip Ruth was always a delight.
I'm British. We do tax returns, bad customer service, good tea and late trains. We do not do snow angels.
I can manage filth in ten minutes and sitting next to you is too tempting. It wouldn't be any good, of course, but you might want to get used to the idea for when I'm old and can't manage more than ten minutes.
Well, we haven't caught her cleaning in the nude for at least three months, but we suspect that's down to the temperature drop more than the telling off we give her when we catch her. I have no objection at all to naturists, but the only full moon I want to see after a hard day at work is the one in the sky.
It was a simple sentence, three little words that didn't feel anywhere near huge enough to express what was in her heart. I love you. It was said so easily and so often by so many people. How could it be enough? And yet, it was; pure and uncomplicated, it was the most perfect sentence in the history of language. She loved him, and there was nothing more to say.
My Review:
It is the Christmas season and family drama appeared to be the main theme in many households in the tiny village of Honeybourne. A betrothed couple met limited success in navigating future in-law friction as they attempted to acquaint the parental units - both sets being polar opposites and living at different ends of the world. Family and baby dramas were issues elsewhere, and unrequited love weighed heavy on several hearts. Ms. Tennant's writing was observant, insightful, humorous, and heart squeezing. I adored her humor; the witty bantering between characters and the elderly gossip Ruth was always a delight.
December 23, 2016
The first line of the blurb sums up this story delightfully - ‘It’s time to get toasty by the fire with a glass of mulled wine and a slice of chocolate yule log sprinkled with a little romance. Welcome to Christmas at the Little Village Bakery.’
This is a highly emotive festive story with Spencer returning to his home village of Honeybourne bringing his American fiancée, Tori, with him.This will be their first English Christmas and both sets of parents are joining them. Unfortunately that’s a signal for war not love as their parents clash, uncertainty rules, meeting his first love makes him question himself and life no longer seems as well planned.
With someone falling off a roof, a crying baby, unrequited love and a village gossip who seems to get in everywhere, this will take readers on a roller coaster ride with more than its fair share of highs and lows, twists and turns, angst and turmoil as well as many laugh out loud moments, too. The characters are superbly portrayed and easy to relate to. The plot is appropriately paced and totally engaging. The village and villagers come to life in the reader’s imagination with a real sense of community and all the pros and cons that brings with it. I’ll certainly be looking out for more by this very talented author in future! This is a delightful festive read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Many thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC of this novel with no obligation. This is my honest review.
This is a highly emotive festive story with Spencer returning to his home village of Honeybourne bringing his American fiancée, Tori, with him.This will be their first English Christmas and both sets of parents are joining them. Unfortunately that’s a signal for war not love as their parents clash, uncertainty rules, meeting his first love makes him question himself and life no longer seems as well planned.
With someone falling off a roof, a crying baby, unrequited love and a village gossip who seems to get in everywhere, this will take readers on a roller coaster ride with more than its fair share of highs and lows, twists and turns, angst and turmoil as well as many laugh out loud moments, too. The characters are superbly portrayed and easy to relate to. The plot is appropriately paced and totally engaging. The village and villagers come to life in the reader’s imagination with a real sense of community and all the pros and cons that brings with it. I’ll certainly be looking out for more by this very talented author in future! This is a delightful festive read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Many thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC of this novel with no obligation. This is my honest review.
September 17, 2016
It's the second book in the series and even though we get to meet the characters from the first book, it mostly concentrates on Spencer and Tori's story. Spencer and Tori met in America, where he was teaching for a year, but now they have come back to Honeybourne to spend Christmas and it's also time for the families to meet each other. Two families meeting at Christmas, what could go wrong...in this case a lot!
Millie and Dylan are running the bakery while taking care of their baby Oscar, to make things more easier, Millie's cousin Darcie is helping them out. Darcie is doing a great job at the bakery, but the secret she can't share is eating her inside. Dylan's sister Jasmine and her husband Rich are also facing their own issues, but their love and connection is stronger than any problem. The only person, who doesn't seem to have any worries is the tedious neighbor, who always knows everything and seems to stick her nose where it doesn't belong. She can be tedious, but she has good intentions.
It was a sweet Christmassy book with a great set of characters and I can't wait to read the next book, where we'll hopefully get to read more about Darcie, because her life suddenly got really intriguing.
Millie and Dylan are running the bakery while taking care of their baby Oscar, to make things more easier, Millie's cousin Darcie is helping them out. Darcie is doing a great job at the bakery, but the secret she can't share is eating her inside. Dylan's sister Jasmine and her husband Rich are also facing their own issues, but their love and connection is stronger than any problem. The only person, who doesn't seem to have any worries is the tedious neighbor, who always knows everything and seems to stick her nose where it doesn't belong. She can be tedious, but she has good intentions.
It was a sweet Christmassy book with a great set of characters and I can't wait to read the next book, where we'll hopefully get to read more about Darcie, because her life suddenly got really intriguing.
October 11, 2016
This is a bit of a departure for me as I don't normally 'do' Christmas books. However I really enjoyed my first trip to The Little Village Bakery earlier in the year (review here), so I was keen to catch up. Although it did seem a bit odd settling down to Christmas on a sunny, warm day (especially as it's October - a more autumnal setting might have done the trick).
While this is a sequel, it's fair to say, that as ever it can be read as a standalone, but it will give the game away about major "will they won't theys" from the first book, so be warned.
If you did read the first, you'll be pleased to know that all the 'old' favourites return so you can catch up on happenings in Honeybourne. For newcomers, you'll find a village with a heart, where community spirit comes to the fore and it's characters are a colourful mix from the rude and nosy (hello Ruth) to the sexy and romantic (Dylan).
I think this book, is more focused on certain characters than the first, which of course had to spread the love, to introduce us to everyone. But don't worry, that doesn't mean bit parts for the others and Millie is still the beating heart that keeps everything (and everyone) on track.
It's really Darcie and Spencer that take centre stage in this one, as they cope with their chaotic love lives (not spoiling anything here to say, not with each other). No surprises/spoilers either in saying that they don't run smoothly, this is surely part of the attraction with this genre. As this is Christmas, it wouldn't be complete without fallouts, and misunderstandings, especially where families are concerned. Add in snow and sheep (you'll see) and you have the perfect storm.
In short, this is a great, comforting read that is what it says on the cover, a feel good, festive romance. So as nights are inevitably drawing in and thoughts turn to Christmas (well mine might by the end of November) stock up on the biscuits and hot chocolate and enjoy.
I received a copy via NetGalley for review purposes.
While this is a sequel, it's fair to say, that as ever it can be read as a standalone, but it will give the game away about major "will they won't theys" from the first book, so be warned.
If you did read the first, you'll be pleased to know that all the 'old' favourites return so you can catch up on happenings in Honeybourne. For newcomers, you'll find a village with a heart, where community spirit comes to the fore and it's characters are a colourful mix from the rude and nosy (hello Ruth) to the sexy and romantic (Dylan).
I think this book, is more focused on certain characters than the first, which of course had to spread the love, to introduce us to everyone. But don't worry, that doesn't mean bit parts for the others and Millie is still the beating heart that keeps everything (and everyone) on track.
It's really Darcie and Spencer that take centre stage in this one, as they cope with their chaotic love lives (not spoiling anything here to say, not with each other). No surprises/spoilers either in saying that they don't run smoothly, this is surely part of the attraction with this genre. As this is Christmas, it wouldn't be complete without fallouts, and misunderstandings, especially where families are concerned. Add in snow and sheep (you'll see) and you have the perfect storm.
In short, this is a great, comforting read that is what it says on the cover, a feel good, festive romance. So as nights are inevitably drawing in and thoughts turn to Christmas (well mine might by the end of November) stock up on the biscuits and hot chocolate and enjoy.
I received a copy via NetGalley for review purposes.
September 30, 2017
Christmas at the Little Village Bakery is the second book in the Honeybourne series.
I enjoyed the wintery setting in the little town but the story itself couldn't really touch me. It was fine to read but I missed some sparkles which drew me into the story.
The characters were likable but none who I really liked or touched me. Some storyparts and character developments rather annoyed me.
I am also a bit disappointed that the bakery played such a little role in the books. I really wish there would have been a bit more about the business, its development and the life with it.
The writing style is fast-paced and enjoyable. I am looking forward to more books by the author and hope they will be able to touch me more.
I enjoyed the wintery setting in the little town but the story itself couldn't really touch me. It was fine to read but I missed some sparkles which drew me into the story.
The characters were likable but none who I really liked or touched me. Some storyparts and character developments rather annoyed me.
I am also a bit disappointed that the bakery played such a little role in the books. I really wish there would have been a bit more about the business, its development and the life with it.
The writing style is fast-paced and enjoyable. I am looking forward to more books by the author and hope they will be able to touch me more.
September 21, 2016
I enjoyed the first book in this series and was looking forward to reading more about the characters.
Although this is Dylan and Tori's story, due to them being in a small town we also catch up with all the other friends and family from book 1. I loved Millie and Jasmine previously, and this book enhances their characters so much. It was lovely catching up with them.
I didn't, however, gel with Tori quite so much. As a character she unfortunately ended up annoying me a lot of the time.
I had a certain sense of deja vu when reading some of this story, and I can't explain why. Perhaps I'm reading too many similar books. Suffice to say I wasn't as drawn into the story as a whole as I was with the first book. Catching up with the previous characters was nice, but I just didn't feel the story spoke to me as much this time around.
This is purely my opinion, please don't let it put you off giving this story a chance. If you loved the first book then I'm sure my opinion won't count for much.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Although this is Dylan and Tori's story, due to them being in a small town we also catch up with all the other friends and family from book 1. I loved Millie and Jasmine previously, and this book enhances their characters so much. It was lovely catching up with them.
I didn't, however, gel with Tori quite so much. As a character she unfortunately ended up annoying me a lot of the time.
I had a certain sense of deja vu when reading some of this story, and I can't explain why. Perhaps I'm reading too many similar books. Suffice to say I wasn't as drawn into the story as a whole as I was with the first book. Catching up with the previous characters was nice, but I just didn't feel the story spoke to me as much this time around.
This is purely my opinion, please don't let it put you off giving this story a chance. If you loved the first book then I'm sure my opinion won't count for much.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2016
I had really enjoyed the first Village Bakery book so was excited by the chance to read this one. All the old characters were back, with Millie's bakery at the heart of it but somehow the story fell a bit flat. The will they won't they but between Spencer and Tori went on a bit too long (we knew they would, it's a Christmas story). And Darcie was a bit old for teenage angst. Still well written and a nice warm happy ending for Christmas. And my favourite character, Ruth, the village gossip had another outing ! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.
March 9, 2017
This is the second book in the Honeybourne series and even though I did not read the first one, I enjoyed this book with no problem. We get to meet the characters from the first book and some of the backstory is included here, but this book concentrates on Spencer and Tori's story. Spencer and Tori met in America, where he was participating in a teacher exchange program. They fell in love and got engaged. The have come to Honeybourne, a small village in England where Spencer grew up, to spend Christmas. Both Tori's and Spencer's parents will also be there and everyone will meet each other. It seems that Tori's parents do not think highly of Spencer so he is not looking forward to their visit. What could go wrong, future inlaws meeting for the first time?
I love the characters in the village. I was not too happy with Tori's parents as they seemed very snobbish and unfriendly. Millie and Dylan are running "The Little Village Bakery" with the help of Millie's cousin Darcie. They have a baby, Oscar, who seems to require a lot of love to keep him from crying. Dylan and Millie got together in the first book. Darcie is doing a great job at the bakery, but the secret she is carrying about her feelings for someone is causing her major distress. Dylan's sister Jasmine and her husband Rich are also facing their own issues. Parents of 10 year old triplets who seem to have it all, but there is a certain amount of angst in their relationship. And then there is Ruth Evans, the local busybody. She seems to be everywhere with her advice and questions, but she is the comic relief in the story.
Even though I did not read this book at Christmas, I still enjoyed the setting, the characters and all their intermingled stories. Honeybourne is a great little village where everyone steps up to help one another and enjoy their neighbours. The local pub is the meeting place for them all and the comraderie there is an important part of the village life. This is a romance so you know that for the most part, there will be happy endings, but getting there is not necessarily an easy road. I will now have to go back and read the first book as well as watch for the next one. I am sure we will be reading Darcie's story next time as well as finding out how things turn out for Spencer and Tori. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
I love the characters in the village. I was not too happy with Tori's parents as they seemed very snobbish and unfriendly. Millie and Dylan are running "The Little Village Bakery" with the help of Millie's cousin Darcie. They have a baby, Oscar, who seems to require a lot of love to keep him from crying. Dylan and Millie got together in the first book. Darcie is doing a great job at the bakery, but the secret she is carrying about her feelings for someone is causing her major distress. Dylan's sister Jasmine and her husband Rich are also facing their own issues. Parents of 10 year old triplets who seem to have it all, but there is a certain amount of angst in their relationship. And then there is Ruth Evans, the local busybody. She seems to be everywhere with her advice and questions, but she is the comic relief in the story.
Even though I did not read this book at Christmas, I still enjoyed the setting, the characters and all their intermingled stories. Honeybourne is a great little village where everyone steps up to help one another and enjoy their neighbours. The local pub is the meeting place for them all and the comraderie there is an important part of the village life. This is a romance so you know that for the most part, there will be happy endings, but getting there is not necessarily an easy road. I will now have to go back and read the first book as well as watch for the next one. I am sure we will be reading Darcie's story next time as well as finding out how things turn out for Spencer and Tori. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
December 1, 2018
Loved the British setting, but didn’t like any of the characters. You should not be proposing to someone if you think you still have feelings for someone else! I am also not a fan of books that advocate keeping secrets from a spouse or partner.
Millie was my favorite character. She was really sweet and kind of everyone around her, and she made her bakery such a warm, welcoming place.
Millie was my favorite character. She was really sweet and kind of everyone around her, and she made her bakery such a warm, welcoming place.
January 6, 2023
Enjoyable festive short story.
September 18, 2016
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
**Thank you to the publisher for offering me a complimentary copy in return for my honest and unbiased thoughts.**
Squeal!!! We are back in Honeybourne courtesy of the delectable Tilly Tennant! The first instalment of the series saw us being introduced to The Little Village Bakery, as well as getting to know the residents of Honeybourne.
In this next instalment of the series; ‘Christmas at the Little Village Bakery’, we get to visit Millie at the bakery and meet the newest bun to the baker’s dozen, Oscar! As it quite well known, I do get a little bit weary before reading second or third books in a series. Sounds daft I know, but, Tilly Tennant raised the bar exceptionally high with the previous book, and I wanted this one to follow suit. Perhaps I was a little nervous?
I had no need to be, at all. Honeybourne itself is a very dramatic village in terms of its residents. Add Christmas to the mix and I’m surprised Millie hasn’t conjured up mince pudding or Christmas pies instead of mince pies and Christmas pudding! Millie is in luck though, not only does she have Dylan working in the bakery with her, her cousin, Darcie, has offered an extra pair of hands. There is one slight issue though! Darcie has taken a shine to more than a tiger loaf or a cinnamon swirl, it seems as though she would like to make Dylan her dough boy!
More often than not, it seems as though Christmas is the time for family rifts, arguments and a family member getting drunk. Or is that just Honeybourne? Let me simplify it for you, Spencer + fiancé = young love. Young love + both sets of parents = you’ll have to read the book won’t you! Although, I side completely with Spencer’s parents. I probably shouldn’t, but their down to Earth nature and ability to find a laugh in anything, had me in giggles. Rebel, I know.
I was super excited to find out what Millie and co had been up to since the last book, so I was super pleased to be able to slot back into the story. Felt like I was catching up with old friends. I’m not surprised with the amount of drama that went on throughout as all of the characters have very strong personalities and are bound to find something to disagree on. It also meant that there was always something happening. Always. Especially given the fact that the storyline switches between characters, and it is brilliant.
I adore the way that Tilly Tennant writes, and this book is certainly no different. Tilly’s trademark humour completely oozes from the book, even in a ‘time of need’ situation, Tilly manages to incorporate hilarity to the storyline. I personally think that that is a true talent as it adds even more depth to the novel, but for a completely different reason than the drama does.
‘Christmas at the Little Village Bakery’ had me in hysterics, but it also had me quite solemn when the dynamics of the storyline changed. My heart went out to a few of the characters because of the circumstances that they found themselves in, but, I did get rather miffed with one or two of them. I won’t say who as I wouldn’t want to give too much away. But yes, a few of them definitely rubbed me up the wrong way! I actually like it when I read a book with personally unlikable characters as it makes the read even more interesting! Plus, I enjoy seeing whether the character can persuade me to warm to them ha!
Tilly Tennant has outdone herself once again with this festive treat, and, after reading it, I was very gutted that it wasn’t Christmas in reality! Tilly has written such an enticing book, not only for the delicious treats, but also because of the strong storyline that left me wanting more. I wanted to find out what happened to each of the characters, even after the book finished.
‘Christmas at the Village Bakery’ for me, is such a hug in a book, a festive treat and yet another fantastic read from a very talented author. If this doesn’t make you want to stick your ‘kiss the cook’ apron on to bake mince pies, I have no idea what will!
**Thank you to the publisher for offering me a complimentary copy in return for my honest and unbiased thoughts.**
Squeal!!! We are back in Honeybourne courtesy of the delectable Tilly Tennant! The first instalment of the series saw us being introduced to The Little Village Bakery, as well as getting to know the residents of Honeybourne.
In this next instalment of the series; ‘Christmas at the Little Village Bakery’, we get to visit Millie at the bakery and meet the newest bun to the baker’s dozen, Oscar! As it quite well known, I do get a little bit weary before reading second or third books in a series. Sounds daft I know, but, Tilly Tennant raised the bar exceptionally high with the previous book, and I wanted this one to follow suit. Perhaps I was a little nervous?
I had no need to be, at all. Honeybourne itself is a very dramatic village in terms of its residents. Add Christmas to the mix and I’m surprised Millie hasn’t conjured up mince pudding or Christmas pies instead of mince pies and Christmas pudding! Millie is in luck though, not only does she have Dylan working in the bakery with her, her cousin, Darcie, has offered an extra pair of hands. There is one slight issue though! Darcie has taken a shine to more than a tiger loaf or a cinnamon swirl, it seems as though she would like to make Dylan her dough boy!
More often than not, it seems as though Christmas is the time for family rifts, arguments and a family member getting drunk. Or is that just Honeybourne? Let me simplify it for you, Spencer + fiancé = young love. Young love + both sets of parents = you’ll have to read the book won’t you! Although, I side completely with Spencer’s parents. I probably shouldn’t, but their down to Earth nature and ability to find a laugh in anything, had me in giggles. Rebel, I know.
I was super excited to find out what Millie and co had been up to since the last book, so I was super pleased to be able to slot back into the story. Felt like I was catching up with old friends. I’m not surprised with the amount of drama that went on throughout as all of the characters have very strong personalities and are bound to find something to disagree on. It also meant that there was always something happening. Always. Especially given the fact that the storyline switches between characters, and it is brilliant.
I adore the way that Tilly Tennant writes, and this book is certainly no different. Tilly’s trademark humour completely oozes from the book, even in a ‘time of need’ situation, Tilly manages to incorporate hilarity to the storyline. I personally think that that is a true talent as it adds even more depth to the novel, but for a completely different reason than the drama does.
‘Christmas at the Little Village Bakery’ had me in hysterics, but it also had me quite solemn when the dynamics of the storyline changed. My heart went out to a few of the characters because of the circumstances that they found themselves in, but, I did get rather miffed with one or two of them. I won’t say who as I wouldn’t want to give too much away. But yes, a few of them definitely rubbed me up the wrong way! I actually like it when I read a book with personally unlikable characters as it makes the read even more interesting! Plus, I enjoy seeing whether the character can persuade me to warm to them ha!
Tilly Tennant has outdone herself once again with this festive treat, and, after reading it, I was very gutted that it wasn’t Christmas in reality! Tilly has written such an enticing book, not only for the delicious treats, but also because of the strong storyline that left me wanting more. I wanted to find out what happened to each of the characters, even after the book finished.
‘Christmas at the Village Bakery’ for me, is such a hug in a book, a festive treat and yet another fantastic read from a very talented author. If this doesn’t make you want to stick your ‘kiss the cook’ apron on to bake mince pies, I have no idea what will!
August 7, 2016
I am back in Honeybourne and I am glad as I was desperate to know what was happening to the characters I fell in love with in the first book The Little Village Bakery.
Christmas is just round the corner, and Millie seems to have settled into life in this little village along with Dylan and a couple of new additions to the bakery since the last book as well.
Jasmine and Rich are still very much together, and whilst this book does not focus on them very much, they are there in the background and it seems that perhaps everything is not as rosy as it seems Spencer and his girlfriend, Tori are the main characters this time round. Spencer having been in America comes back to his home village to spend Christmas not just with Tori but with his parents and hers. The meeting of families which is bound to be doomed from the start when we realise that Tori's parents are not exactly enamoured of Spencer.
They will be less when they arrive in this snowy country village.
Like her previous novel, this is a very character driven story and it draws you in and holds your attention, without it all being light and fluffy. In fact there were some darker moments and conflicts that were perhaps once buried in the past, coming screaming into the present.
Added to that the bonus, of it being winter, it has snowed and the world outside the goings on in this village is gloriously painted in white. The village come together, in fact everyone comes together as is expected in these types of books, especially when you add being snowed in, Christmas and difficult in-laws to the mix!
A lovely Christmas read (though it worked just as well - reading it in August!) and it was great to catch up with the folk of Honeybourne, I just hope there is more to follow, that village has plenty more stories to tell I am sure.
Christmas is just round the corner, and Millie seems to have settled into life in this little village along with Dylan and a couple of new additions to the bakery since the last book as well.
Jasmine and Rich are still very much together, and whilst this book does not focus on them very much, they are there in the background and it seems that perhaps everything is not as rosy as it seems Spencer and his girlfriend, Tori are the main characters this time round. Spencer having been in America comes back to his home village to spend Christmas not just with Tori but with his parents and hers. The meeting of families which is bound to be doomed from the start when we realise that Tori's parents are not exactly enamoured of Spencer.
They will be less when they arrive in this snowy country village.
Like her previous novel, this is a very character driven story and it draws you in and holds your attention, without it all being light and fluffy. In fact there were some darker moments and conflicts that were perhaps once buried in the past, coming screaming into the present.
Added to that the bonus, of it being winter, it has snowed and the world outside the goings on in this village is gloriously painted in white. The village come together, in fact everyone comes together as is expected in these types of books, especially when you add being snowed in, Christmas and difficult in-laws to the mix!
A lovely Christmas read (though it worked just as well - reading it in August!) and it was great to catch up with the folk of Honeybourne, I just hope there is more to follow, that village has plenty more stories to tell I am sure.
September 6, 2016
I absolutely loved the first book by Tilly that was set in the small village of Honeybourne. When I realised this was the second book featuring some of the same characters I was extremely excited. The first book features Millie and Dylan, and although they play a big part in this latest book, the main characters are Spencer and Tori. Spencer has been in America and he has brought his English fiance home for Christmas. Sadly for Spencer he hadn't bargained on a lot of the things that end up happening over the seasonal period in Honeybourne.
Although Millie and Dylan are now settled with baby Oscar, they have help in the form of Millie's cousin Darcie. Darcie helps out at the bakery and she certainly makes a lasting impression on the reader too. It seems Darcie is somewhat smitten with Dylan which can only cause confusion. IT seems on Spencer's return he is the only one that has noticed it. However he has his own problems in the form of his hippy like parents and also meeting Tori's parents for the first time.
As usual the characters Tilly Tennant creates are lovable and what is even more endearing is that you get to see additional characters from around the village that featured in book 1. Jasmine and Rich feature especially seeing as Jasmine was Spencer's first love and one that he never quite got over. There are so many funny moments which made me giggle, especially when Spencer and Tori's parent meet...it makes for some very amusing scenes.
Overall, the first book edged it for me as Millie and Dylan are still firm favourites. Having said that this was a thoroughly enjoyable book and with the added benefit of being set in a snowy Honeybourne around Christmas time it certainly has the seasonal feel to it. I love Christmas books, and think this would make a wonderful addition to anybody's stocking this year!
Although Millie and Dylan are now settled with baby Oscar, they have help in the form of Millie's cousin Darcie. Darcie helps out at the bakery and she certainly makes a lasting impression on the reader too. It seems Darcie is somewhat smitten with Dylan which can only cause confusion. IT seems on Spencer's return he is the only one that has noticed it. However he has his own problems in the form of his hippy like parents and also meeting Tori's parents for the first time.
As usual the characters Tilly Tennant creates are lovable and what is even more endearing is that you get to see additional characters from around the village that featured in book 1. Jasmine and Rich feature especially seeing as Jasmine was Spencer's first love and one that he never quite got over. There are so many funny moments which made me giggle, especially when Spencer and Tori's parent meet...it makes for some very amusing scenes.
Overall, the first book edged it for me as Millie and Dylan are still firm favourites. Having said that this was a thoroughly enjoyable book and with the added benefit of being set in a snowy Honeybourne around Christmas time it certainly has the seasonal feel to it. I love Christmas books, and think this would make a wonderful addition to anybody's stocking this year!
September 5, 2016
I received a copy of this via Netgalley in return for a fair and honest review
After being such a big fan of the first visit to Honeybourne and the Little Village Bakery, I was very excited to see a Christmas visit was on the cards and it has been delightful to revisit old friends there and to enjoy the new characters and their experiences of Honeybourne and its' unique community!!
WE do get to see lots of Millie and Dylan, and baby Oscar, at the Bakery, but this story really tells the story of Spencer returning with Tori who he met in America while he was over there teaching. She wants to experience an English Christmas so what better place to visit than Honeybourne!
While Tori is over she also gets to meet all his old friends, and his family too and this doesn't always go as well as it should, and it is nice to see a touch of realism in the story that not everything runs smoothly when families are involved! And this is clearly put to the test when Tori's parents come over to visit as well! They've never really liked Spencer and it is very interesting to see their reaction to English village life!
I really liked the character of Darcie, who is helping at the bakery and has proven to be a godsend to Millie and Dylan as they try and combine family life with a busy bakery. Really hope we get to see more from Darcie in future books as she was a sweetheart!
I did find it a little flatter at times than the first in the series but think that might have been because of the amount of storylines that ended up being told but still found it to be really enjoyable - there is never a dull moment in Honeybourne!!
After being such a big fan of the first visit to Honeybourne and the Little Village Bakery, I was very excited to see a Christmas visit was on the cards and it has been delightful to revisit old friends there and to enjoy the new characters and their experiences of Honeybourne and its' unique community!!
WE do get to see lots of Millie and Dylan, and baby Oscar, at the Bakery, but this story really tells the story of Spencer returning with Tori who he met in America while he was over there teaching. She wants to experience an English Christmas so what better place to visit than Honeybourne!
While Tori is over she also gets to meet all his old friends, and his family too and this doesn't always go as well as it should, and it is nice to see a touch of realism in the story that not everything runs smoothly when families are involved! And this is clearly put to the test when Tori's parents come over to visit as well! They've never really liked Spencer and it is very interesting to see their reaction to English village life!
I really liked the character of Darcie, who is helping at the bakery and has proven to be a godsend to Millie and Dylan as they try and combine family life with a busy bakery. Really hope we get to see more from Darcie in future books as she was a sweetheart!
I did find it a little flatter at times than the first in the series but think that might have been because of the amount of storylines that ended up being told but still found it to be really enjoyable - there is never a dull moment in Honeybourne!!
August 29, 2016
This was a delightful return to Honeybourne. In this sequel Spencer returns with his fiance Tori. They are planning a wedding- but warring inlaws to be, are making for a very difficult time for the couple. Added to that past feelings resurfacing and we are taken along on a very fraught trip with the young couple.
Millie is running her bakery with the help of her cousin Darcie- but are things all they seem there? L0ts of underlying stories run through this book adding extra intrigue.
Throw in lots of snow and village gossips and we are in the middle of a gloriously, warming story ideal for the winter months- but just as lovely to read at the end of a warm summers day dreaming of the festive season ahead later this year.
I do love Tilly's characters and the setting makes you want to be a part of village life. I am keen to hear if we will be returning to Honeybourne and seeing how my favourite characters are getting on and what the future holds for them all. The enticing cover promises a feel good festive romance to curl up by the fire with and it really would make the ideal stocking filler for the bookworm in your life.
With many thanks to Bookoutre who never fail to deliver a fantastic read and Net Galley for allowing me to read this one in exchange for an honest review. I can only apologise again for my reviews being delayed this summer due to a very tough time we're going through.
Millie is running her bakery with the help of her cousin Darcie- but are things all they seem there? L0ts of underlying stories run through this book adding extra intrigue.
Throw in lots of snow and village gossips and we are in the middle of a gloriously, warming story ideal for the winter months- but just as lovely to read at the end of a warm summers day dreaming of the festive season ahead later this year.
I do love Tilly's characters and the setting makes you want to be a part of village life. I am keen to hear if we will be returning to Honeybourne and seeing how my favourite characters are getting on and what the future holds for them all. The enticing cover promises a feel good festive romance to curl up by the fire with and it really would make the ideal stocking filler for the bookworm in your life.
With many thanks to Bookoutre who never fail to deliver a fantastic read and Net Galley for allowing me to read this one in exchange for an honest review. I can only apologise again for my reviews being delayed this summer due to a very tough time we're going through.
September 16, 2016
This is my first Christmas read for the new season 2016. It was so lovely to return to the village of Honeybourne and it sounded even more idyllic with the run-up to Christmas.
We join again the much loved villagers we got to know in book 1 with Millie and Dylan, Jasmine, Rich and the triplets. Spencer is back from his secondment teaching in the US with his fiancée Tori and we have a newcomer in the village, Darcie, Millie’s cousin.
The villagers are gearing up for Christmas but with the village and surrounding areas swamped in snow life isn’t without incident. Spencer’s parents and his prospective in-laws are due to arrive for the festive season. Spencer is very much on edge with their imminent arrival and his relationship with Tori is strained.
Millie’s cousin, Darcie, was experiencing some questions of the heart herself and with the arrival of two strangers in her life she becomes even more confused with her feelings.
This was another feel-good story from Tilly Tennant. It felt like diving in a book with long lost friends and with the warmth and cosiness emanating from the bakery you can’t help but feel like you are ‘at home’ with this delightful story. A story with some bumps in the road of love for our villagers and wonderful community spirit which kept you captivated to the end and beyond. I’m looking forward to the next instalment in The Honeybourne book series. 5/5*
We join again the much loved villagers we got to know in book 1 with Millie and Dylan, Jasmine, Rich and the triplets. Spencer is back from his secondment teaching in the US with his fiancée Tori and we have a newcomer in the village, Darcie, Millie’s cousin.
The villagers are gearing up for Christmas but with the village and surrounding areas swamped in snow life isn’t without incident. Spencer’s parents and his prospective in-laws are due to arrive for the festive season. Spencer is very much on edge with their imminent arrival and his relationship with Tori is strained.
Millie’s cousin, Darcie, was experiencing some questions of the heart herself and with the arrival of two strangers in her life she becomes even more confused with her feelings.
This was another feel-good story from Tilly Tennant. It felt like diving in a book with long lost friends and with the warmth and cosiness emanating from the bakery you can’t help but feel like you are ‘at home’ with this delightful story. A story with some bumps in the road of love for our villagers and wonderful community spirit which kept you captivated to the end and beyond. I’m looking forward to the next instalment in The Honeybourne book series. 5/5*
August 7, 2016
Its Christmas in Honeybourne. Spencer is back home with his fiancee Tori. Time for the families to meet before the wedding. A lovely traditional English Christmas, what could possibly go wrong?
Millie is running the Old Bakery and looking after her new baby Oscar. Shes lucky to have her cousin Darcie come to help them out in the bakery and with baby Oscar. But Darcie has developed feelings for Dylan. Will he fall into his old ways and get involved with a younger version of Millie, whos young, free, and not tired running the bakery and looking after Oscar?
Back in Honeybourne for Christmas it just sounds delightful. Great to be back with all my faourite old characters, hearing what they are all up to now. The writer done a great job describing how beautiful it looked at Christmas in the snow. There own lovely wee Christmas Wonderland in Honeybourne.
Enjoyed the 2nd book in the series. Not quite as much as the 1st, but enjoyed all the same. Missed Till's great whit and fantastic one liners from the first book. Unfortunately there was none of that in this book.
Ty again to Tilly Tennant, Bookouture and Netgalley once again for a free copy in return for a review.
Millie is running the Old Bakery and looking after her new baby Oscar. Shes lucky to have her cousin Darcie come to help them out in the bakery and with baby Oscar. But Darcie has developed feelings for Dylan. Will he fall into his old ways and get involved with a younger version of Millie, whos young, free, and not tired running the bakery and looking after Oscar?
Back in Honeybourne for Christmas it just sounds delightful. Great to be back with all my faourite old characters, hearing what they are all up to now. The writer done a great job describing how beautiful it looked at Christmas in the snow. There own lovely wee Christmas Wonderland in Honeybourne.
Enjoyed the 2nd book in the series. Not quite as much as the 1st, but enjoyed all the same. Missed Till's great whit and fantastic one liners from the first book. Unfortunately there was none of that in this book.
Ty again to Tilly Tennant, Bookouture and Netgalley once again for a free copy in return for a review.
August 25, 2016
I received a free ebook of this title, Christmas at the Little Village Bakery from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
This is book 2 in the Honeybourne series by Tilly Tennant. This book centers on Spencer and Tori who return to Spencer’s home in a small village in England for the Christmas holidays and to introduce the two sets of parents. Spencer and Tori are engaged but with no date yet set for the wedding. Although the book centers on their story, we meet plenty of other people who have their own issues, Millie and Dylan, Jasmine and Rich, Darcie and…well you’ll have to read it to see. There are also the two diametrically opposed sets of parents (one set British and liberal and the other American conservatives) who set sparks (not the good kind) flying. Throw in unplanned for snow storms, an AWOL soldier, a broody mother of triplets and there is plenty found here to entertain the reader.
Lot of fun Christmas and village life atmosphere to be found here. I do think I would have enjoyed this more if I would have read the first book in the series. It seems that there were many references to past events. Cute Christmas read for romance fans.
This is book 2 in the Honeybourne series by Tilly Tennant. This book centers on Spencer and Tori who return to Spencer’s home in a small village in England for the Christmas holidays and to introduce the two sets of parents. Spencer and Tori are engaged but with no date yet set for the wedding. Although the book centers on their story, we meet plenty of other people who have their own issues, Millie and Dylan, Jasmine and Rich, Darcie and…well you’ll have to read it to see. There are also the two diametrically opposed sets of parents (one set British and liberal and the other American conservatives) who set sparks (not the good kind) flying. Throw in unplanned for snow storms, an AWOL soldier, a broody mother of triplets and there is plenty found here to entertain the reader.
Lot of fun Christmas and village life atmosphere to be found here. I do think I would have enjoyed this more if I would have read the first book in the series. It seems that there were many references to past events. Cute Christmas read for romance fans.
August 28, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed Christmas at the Little Village Bakery. It's the second installment in the series and they are just wonderful books to read.
Once again we are transported back to the village of Honeybourne where all the usual characters await us plus some new ones. The story follows Spencer who has returned home for Christmas with his American fiancée in tow. All is going well until he bumps into Jasmine, his first love, and some of those feelings come flooding back. Meanwhile his slightly hippy parents arrive back for Spain along with his fiancées parents but how well will they all get along?
Throw into the mix Millie and Dylan who are making a success of the bakery along with their young son Oscar and Millie's causing Darcie who is helping them out and you are set with a fantastic Christmas read. Although I read this book in August I felt instantly transported to the snowy village of Honeybourne and thoroughly enjoyed this festive read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to review.
Once again we are transported back to the village of Honeybourne where all the usual characters await us plus some new ones. The story follows Spencer who has returned home for Christmas with his American fiancée in tow. All is going well until he bumps into Jasmine, his first love, and some of those feelings come flooding back. Meanwhile his slightly hippy parents arrive back for Spain along with his fiancées parents but how well will they all get along?
Throw into the mix Millie and Dylan who are making a success of the bakery along with their young son Oscar and Millie's causing Darcie who is helping them out and you are set with a fantastic Christmas read. Although I read this book in August I felt instantly transported to the snowy village of Honeybourne and thoroughly enjoyed this festive read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to review.
September 21, 2016
The second instalment of the Honeybourne series is even better than the first!
With Christmas fast approaching, Spencer is back in Honeybourne with his American fiance, Tori. It's all love and cuddles at first but Spencer knows his and Tori's parents are soon to meet and they couldn't be more different. Spencer's parents are bohemian hippie-types and Tori's are stuck up lawyers. The clash is a total nightmare in the most delicious of ways! I loved reading any scene where the parents locked horns, although you have to feel for Spencer and Tori as their relationship suffers the backlash.
On top of all this, Millie's cousin, Darcie, has moved into the bakery to help out. Sadly, she's battling feelings for Dylan - her cousin's boyfriend. Throw into the mix all of the other characters and their dramas and you have a really juicy story - I just loved it!
With Christmas fast approaching, Spencer is back in Honeybourne with his American fiance, Tori. It's all love and cuddles at first but Spencer knows his and Tori's parents are soon to meet and they couldn't be more different. Spencer's parents are bohemian hippie-types and Tori's are stuck up lawyers. The clash is a total nightmare in the most delicious of ways! I loved reading any scene where the parents locked horns, although you have to feel for Spencer and Tori as their relationship suffers the backlash.
On top of all this, Millie's cousin, Darcie, has moved into the bakery to help out. Sadly, she's battling feelings for Dylan - her cousin's boyfriend. Throw into the mix all of the other characters and their dramas and you have a really juicy story - I just loved it!
November 15, 2016
I was really happy to be back in Honeybourne with the lovely Millie, her husband and all her friends! And this time for Christmas time! This time, the story focuses on Spencer, a good friend from Millie and her husband and his american fiancé Tori who come to Honeybourne for the Holidays with both their parents so they can all meet before a future wedding. I really enjoyed reading this book but I thought this second part of the "Little Village Bakery" was a bit less exciting than the first one. I found the book a bit slow on some parts, but all in all it was a good read and if a 3rd part is released I will definitely read it!!!! My favorite character of this story remains Millie for me. This girl is everything a girl want to be! :-)
October 25, 2019
Thanks again bookouture and netgalley xx
Yes its only August but when the sun is beating down and you are sat in the garden with fruit juice, on a freshly mown lawn and your little old dog at your feet, what more could a girl want than to be reading about a quaint little village, covered in snow, with wonderful characters which make you want to befriend them and a storyline which left me wanting more. The cover just drew me in too and it really didn’t disappoint
http://thereadingshed.wordpress.com
Yes its only August but when the sun is beating down and you are sat in the garden with fruit juice, on a freshly mown lawn and your little old dog at your feet, what more could a girl want than to be reading about a quaint little village, covered in snow, with wonderful characters which make you want to befriend them and a storyline which left me wanting more. The cover just drew me in too and it really didn’t disappoint
http://thereadingshed.wordpress.com
November 18, 2016
This is a sweet little Christmas story and my first read by Tilly Tennant. Spencer brings his American fiancee Tori home to Honeybourne for Christmas. Both sets of parents are also meeting there and make life challenging for Spencer and Tori. I didn't know that this was the second in the Honeybourne series. I will definitely go back and read the first since I would love to know about the backstory of Millie and Dylan, Spencer's friends.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to review.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy to review.
December 27, 2016
Lovely to go back to the little village with the bakery and hear more from them all its Christmas time and spencer has come back to the village with his American girlfriend can they all get on in the little village or does his girlfriend Tori think he is still after his old girlfriend and not her. Both their parents come to the village to meet each other and can they all get on or does everything go wrong. A really excellent easy read well worth a read.
August 3, 2016
Another fabulous book written by Tilly, she never disappoints with her stories of romance and bittersweet emotions. This story featuring Christmas, snow and of course cake is a happy easy read. Would be brilliant in anyone's Christmas stocking. A very easy 5 stars from me.
September 2, 2016
Loved this beautiful, evocative book that evokes the spirit of Christmas! Absolutely enjoyed this and will definitely be recommending it to everyone. A delightful Christmas read.
October 30, 2022
Enjoyed this one
September 16, 2016
The cover alone would want to make you pick up the second instalment of Tilly Tennant's Honeybourne series - Christmas at the Little Village Bakery. I adored the cover for book one and this new cover is no exception summing up all the festive fare on offer in terms food at this time of year. It just inspires that Christmas feeling that comes but once a year yet we look forward to this period of giving and indulgence for many months. I felt the first book in the series The Little Village Bakery released in June of this year was a very good read with a few surprising twists yet it lacked some focus on the bakery as mentioned in the title. I realise our main character Millie was only settling into the village and trying to establish a new life for herself and to reopen the bakery but that little bit of magic was missing for me. So yes I started this new book with some slight trepidation as I really wanted that Christmas spark and feeling to be present here and would have been bitterly disappointed if it had not been. Clichéd though it may sound right from the very first chapter I got a good feeling about this book that lasted straight through to the end. I think this book was far better than the first and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
This new story focuses mainly on Spencer who had featured briefly enough in book one. He did have an important storyline yet now he is allowed to come to the forefront and let his troubles with American born fiancée come to the fore all based around the wonderful setting of Honeybourne and Christmas. For fans of Millie don't worry she is still here and we can see how she is getting on now but I enjoyed how a different character was given the opportunity to shine whilst at the same time we were still updated about old familiar favourites. Writing a series like this I do think it is important not to always focus on the one character throughout instead letting various characters into the light so we can get to know them.
Right from the opening scene as Spencer and Tori walk through the snow covered lanes to the village bakery run by Millie and her partner Dylan I was hooked into this story. The scenes, settings, characters and not to mention food and baking were all so on point that I had rich, vivid images in my head and wished Honeybourne was real so I could pay a visit. As it is winter and the festive season is approaching the book fitted in very well with the time of year as people are bundled in their warm coats out walking and enjoying hot food and delectable treats from the bakery. There is a sense of anticipation as to what is to come but of course it's never plain sailing in the run up to Christmas Day. Spencer has returned from America for the holidays with his new fiancée Tori whom he met at the school he was working in as part of an exchange program for a year. Spencer is very happy but the only stumbling block is an issue many people may be familiar with and that is both sets of parents haven’t met each other. Coupled with this is the fact that neither himself or Tori can decide where they want to live once they get married - America or Honeybourne? As you can imagine Spencer experiences a myriad of emotions throughout this book and is faced with indecision and opposition throughout. Now that he is back home on safe beloved territory old feelings for a certain someone begin to raise their heads and he is left wondering what does he really want? Spencer had featured before as the best friend of Dylan and I was delighted to see a continuation and development of his storyline and for once in a book of this genre a male character was given prominence and the male point of view was very well written. It had to have been otherwise I would have been longing for lots more of Millie but this didn't happen to me at all which is testament to the great writing of Tilly Tennant. Tori and Spencer battle with their emotions and respective in-laws and there was a lot of soul searching that needed to take place. I was never really sure of the outcome for this too but fervently hoped that Spencer would do the right thing and not upset another character in the process.
Of course Millie had to feature again in this book she couldn't be forgotten after so much time was invested in her in book one. Here she is slightly more mature and settled working in the bakery alongside Dylan. Although sleep deprivation is an issue with son Oscar, Millie wasn't the sole focal point of this story but still her caring, compassionate side shone through and she was always there to offer a listening ear or a few kind words to any of the characters that needed it. She never turned away nosy Ruth who is an excellent addition to the series in the fact she drives every resident of the village up the walls but she is used to perfection when needed. Millie is struggling trying to make the bakery a success and raise Oscar but definitely Dylan has grown up and we saw a much stronger side to him willing to step up and help his family and others when needed. I think I much preferred him in this book as gone were the playboy antics and he only had Millie as the centre of his world.
One new character introduced was Darcie, a cousin of Millie's, who comes to help out in the bakery and with Oscar. It mentions she was from Millrise and I know this was a different series written by Tilly. I've never read it but do wonder had Darcie featured in this series? She comes to Honeybourne a bit lost, lacking in confidence and her heart is soon all over the place. I hoped she would keep her feelings to herself and find happiness in another place. She was a character who never really came to the forefront not through lack of writing but because that was her nature. She was always there in the background ready to step in and care for Oscar or help in the bakery or on one of the shifts in the pub as organised by the villagers to help the owners. But she never unnecessarily pushed herself to the centre of what was going on but I enjoyed how we read of her viewpoint and learned why she was the way she was. I do have to say though the only minor fault I had with this book was the brief plot with Tariq. I understand it was there for two reasons and joined in with two other characters but it just seemed a bit random and sprang up out of nowhere and didn't add anything for me to the story. Apart from this I felt Christmas at the Little Village Bakery was a delight to read and would be perfect in someone's Christmas stocking this year.
If you haven't read book one the number of characters initially may be confusing but I felt I slipped a lot more easily into this story than I did the first as there was less setting up to do and I was familiar with who was who and what had gone before. Background information is supplied for new readers but to get a sense of the characters and their stories and just to soak up the atmosphere of Honeybourne it would be an idea to read The Little Village Bakery beforehand if only to further enhance your enjoyment of this new story.
All the characters seemed much more established in this book and at ease with one another yet as every good book needs there was tension and some problems to work through before any hopes of celebrating and a peaceful and happy Christmas. I liked how we had a few new characters to get to know but we weren't overloaded and people who had been in the background in the previous book stepped out of the shadows and we got to know them an awful lot more. There had been so much setting up to do in The Little Village Bakery that the storyline lost some of the magic I knew it could have had and it became a bit too broad. Here it was reined in and there was a tighter spotlight on the main storyline while little sub plots bubbled contently in the background.
Christmas at the Little Village Bakery is proof that series or even authors deserve a second chance. I may not have enjoyed book one as much as I had hoped but this warm, engaging story more than made up for that. I had sensed from book one that there was much more to come and with the further development that took place both in terms of characters and settings merged with far tighter plot lines which all merged very well together I found this to be a perfect Christmas read with just that little extra bit of bite that was lacking from the first book. I wonder who the next story will focus on and what time of the year? The ending certainly set us up nicely for more. Will it be a brand new character or someone we have read of before? After enjoying this book as much as I did I will definitely be back for number three as Honeybourne and its residents have now captured a place firmly in my heart.
This new story focuses mainly on Spencer who had featured briefly enough in book one. He did have an important storyline yet now he is allowed to come to the forefront and let his troubles with American born fiancée come to the fore all based around the wonderful setting of Honeybourne and Christmas. For fans of Millie don't worry she is still here and we can see how she is getting on now but I enjoyed how a different character was given the opportunity to shine whilst at the same time we were still updated about old familiar favourites. Writing a series like this I do think it is important not to always focus on the one character throughout instead letting various characters into the light so we can get to know them.
Right from the opening scene as Spencer and Tori walk through the snow covered lanes to the village bakery run by Millie and her partner Dylan I was hooked into this story. The scenes, settings, characters and not to mention food and baking were all so on point that I had rich, vivid images in my head and wished Honeybourne was real so I could pay a visit. As it is winter and the festive season is approaching the book fitted in very well with the time of year as people are bundled in their warm coats out walking and enjoying hot food and delectable treats from the bakery. There is a sense of anticipation as to what is to come but of course it's never plain sailing in the run up to Christmas Day. Spencer has returned from America for the holidays with his new fiancée Tori whom he met at the school he was working in as part of an exchange program for a year. Spencer is very happy but the only stumbling block is an issue many people may be familiar with and that is both sets of parents haven’t met each other. Coupled with this is the fact that neither himself or Tori can decide where they want to live once they get married - America or Honeybourne? As you can imagine Spencer experiences a myriad of emotions throughout this book and is faced with indecision and opposition throughout. Now that he is back home on safe beloved territory old feelings for a certain someone begin to raise their heads and he is left wondering what does he really want? Spencer had featured before as the best friend of Dylan and I was delighted to see a continuation and development of his storyline and for once in a book of this genre a male character was given prominence and the male point of view was very well written. It had to have been otherwise I would have been longing for lots more of Millie but this didn't happen to me at all which is testament to the great writing of Tilly Tennant. Tori and Spencer battle with their emotions and respective in-laws and there was a lot of soul searching that needed to take place. I was never really sure of the outcome for this too but fervently hoped that Spencer would do the right thing and not upset another character in the process.
Of course Millie had to feature again in this book she couldn't be forgotten after so much time was invested in her in book one. Here she is slightly more mature and settled working in the bakery alongside Dylan. Although sleep deprivation is an issue with son Oscar, Millie wasn't the sole focal point of this story but still her caring, compassionate side shone through and she was always there to offer a listening ear or a few kind words to any of the characters that needed it. She never turned away nosy Ruth who is an excellent addition to the series in the fact she drives every resident of the village up the walls but she is used to perfection when needed. Millie is struggling trying to make the bakery a success and raise Oscar but definitely Dylan has grown up and we saw a much stronger side to him willing to step up and help his family and others when needed. I think I much preferred him in this book as gone were the playboy antics and he only had Millie as the centre of his world.
One new character introduced was Darcie, a cousin of Millie's, who comes to help out in the bakery and with Oscar. It mentions she was from Millrise and I know this was a different series written by Tilly. I've never read it but do wonder had Darcie featured in this series? She comes to Honeybourne a bit lost, lacking in confidence and her heart is soon all over the place. I hoped she would keep her feelings to herself and find happiness in another place. She was a character who never really came to the forefront not through lack of writing but because that was her nature. She was always there in the background ready to step in and care for Oscar or help in the bakery or on one of the shifts in the pub as organised by the villagers to help the owners. But she never unnecessarily pushed herself to the centre of what was going on but I enjoyed how we read of her viewpoint and learned why she was the way she was. I do have to say though the only minor fault I had with this book was the brief plot with Tariq. I understand it was there for two reasons and joined in with two other characters but it just seemed a bit random and sprang up out of nowhere and didn't add anything for me to the story. Apart from this I felt Christmas at the Little Village Bakery was a delight to read and would be perfect in someone's Christmas stocking this year.
If you haven't read book one the number of characters initially may be confusing but I felt I slipped a lot more easily into this story than I did the first as there was less setting up to do and I was familiar with who was who and what had gone before. Background information is supplied for new readers but to get a sense of the characters and their stories and just to soak up the atmosphere of Honeybourne it would be an idea to read The Little Village Bakery beforehand if only to further enhance your enjoyment of this new story.
All the characters seemed much more established in this book and at ease with one another yet as every good book needs there was tension and some problems to work through before any hopes of celebrating and a peaceful and happy Christmas. I liked how we had a few new characters to get to know but we weren't overloaded and people who had been in the background in the previous book stepped out of the shadows and we got to know them an awful lot more. There had been so much setting up to do in The Little Village Bakery that the storyline lost some of the magic I knew it could have had and it became a bit too broad. Here it was reined in and there was a tighter spotlight on the main storyline while little sub plots bubbled contently in the background.
Christmas at the Little Village Bakery is proof that series or even authors deserve a second chance. I may not have enjoyed book one as much as I had hoped but this warm, engaging story more than made up for that. I had sensed from book one that there was much more to come and with the further development that took place both in terms of characters and settings merged with far tighter plot lines which all merged very well together I found this to be a perfect Christmas read with just that little extra bit of bite that was lacking from the first book. I wonder who the next story will focus on and what time of the year? The ending certainly set us up nicely for more. Will it be a brand new character or someone we have read of before? After enjoying this book as much as I did I will definitely be back for number three as Honeybourne and its residents have now captured a place firmly in my heart.
September 7, 2023
Meinung:
Romantischer Wohlfühlroman mit Weihnachtsflair
Hier gibt es vorweihnachtliches Liebeschaos!
Die Autorin hat auch in diesem Band wieder alles richtig gemacht. All die Personen, die man in Band 1 lieben gelernt hat, haben hier Anteil an Millies Geschichte. Der Charme ist wieder da, flüssiger Stil und eine leichte Hand führen die vertrauten Charaktere durch die Höhen und Tiefen des vorweihnachtlichen Lebens rund um Honeybourne.
Cousine Darcie ist zu Besuch und hat Millies Meinung nach etwas zu viel Interesse an ihrem Freund Dylan.
Spencer, der seine Verlobte Tori innig liebt, trifft seine Jugendliebe Jasmine wieder und das Gefühlschaos ist perfekt.
Wenn man heiraten will, sollte man sich seiner Gefühle doch sicher sein, oder?
Darcie weiß plötzlich auch nicht mehr, was sie eigentlich will vom Leben und so ist da Gefühlschaos perfekt.
Wird es mit Glühwein und Millies Kuchen doch noch ein tolles und besinnliches Fest?
Auch dieses Buch der Reihe ist wieder klasse geschrieben. Thematisch ist es jedes Mal anders und doch trifft man wieder auf bekannte Protagonisten.
Der humorvolle Schreibstil der Autorin lässt einen schnell in die Geschichte eintauchen, wobei schon gleich zu Beginn manche Charaktere ihre Wesenszüge zeigen und Entwicklungen erahnen lassen, wobei gefühlvolle Momente und einfühlsame Gespräche mit Überraschungen und spannenden Aktionen abwechseln.
Hier erlebt man faszinierende Begegnungen und reizvolle Landschaften, die mit Leichtigkeit und guter Recherche nahe gebracht werden.
Das Buch wurde mit sehr viel Gefühl sowie realitätsnah geschrieben, sodass das Kopfkino gleich ansprang. Ich wurde auf der ersten Seite abgeholt und auf der letzten zurückgebracht. Es fühlte sich so an, als wäre man mitten in der Geschichte.
Fazit:
„Weihnachten in der kleinen Dorfbäckerei“ ist ein leichter Wohlfühlroman über Vergangenheitsbewältigung, Neuanfänge und die Liebe.
Der lockere Schreibstil, facettenreiche Figuren und eine charmante Geschichte machen ihn zur unterhaltsamen Lektüre, in der auch der Humor nicht fehlt!
Mir gefiel dieses schöne, stimmungsvolle Buch, das Weihnachtsstimmung heraufbeschwört und ich empfehle es deshalb sehr gerne weiter.
Romantischer Wohlfühlroman mit Weihnachtsflair
Hier gibt es vorweihnachtliches Liebeschaos!
Die Autorin hat auch in diesem Band wieder alles richtig gemacht. All die Personen, die man in Band 1 lieben gelernt hat, haben hier Anteil an Millies Geschichte. Der Charme ist wieder da, flüssiger Stil und eine leichte Hand führen die vertrauten Charaktere durch die Höhen und Tiefen des vorweihnachtlichen Lebens rund um Honeybourne.
Cousine Darcie ist zu Besuch und hat Millies Meinung nach etwas zu viel Interesse an ihrem Freund Dylan.
Spencer, der seine Verlobte Tori innig liebt, trifft seine Jugendliebe Jasmine wieder und das Gefühlschaos ist perfekt.
Wenn man heiraten will, sollte man sich seiner Gefühle doch sicher sein, oder?
Darcie weiß plötzlich auch nicht mehr, was sie eigentlich will vom Leben und so ist da Gefühlschaos perfekt.
Wird es mit Glühwein und Millies Kuchen doch noch ein tolles und besinnliches Fest?
Auch dieses Buch der Reihe ist wieder klasse geschrieben. Thematisch ist es jedes Mal anders und doch trifft man wieder auf bekannte Protagonisten.
Der humorvolle Schreibstil der Autorin lässt einen schnell in die Geschichte eintauchen, wobei schon gleich zu Beginn manche Charaktere ihre Wesenszüge zeigen und Entwicklungen erahnen lassen, wobei gefühlvolle Momente und einfühlsame Gespräche mit Überraschungen und spannenden Aktionen abwechseln.
Hier erlebt man faszinierende Begegnungen und reizvolle Landschaften, die mit Leichtigkeit und guter Recherche nahe gebracht werden.
Das Buch wurde mit sehr viel Gefühl sowie realitätsnah geschrieben, sodass das Kopfkino gleich ansprang. Ich wurde auf der ersten Seite abgeholt und auf der letzten zurückgebracht. Es fühlte sich so an, als wäre man mitten in der Geschichte.
Fazit:
„Weihnachten in der kleinen Dorfbäckerei“ ist ein leichter Wohlfühlroman über Vergangenheitsbewältigung, Neuanfänge und die Liebe.
Der lockere Schreibstil, facettenreiche Figuren und eine charmante Geschichte machen ihn zur unterhaltsamen Lektüre, in der auch der Humor nicht fehlt!
Mir gefiel dieses schöne, stimmungsvolle Buch, das Weihnachtsstimmung heraufbeschwört und ich empfehle es deshalb sehr gerne weiter.
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