What do you think?
Rate this book
Willoughby Close #3
Find Me at Willoughby Close
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…
Harriet Lang had the perfect life, so she's left reeling when everything is taken from her in one fell swoop. Suddenly, Harriet learns her beautiful farmhouse in the Cotswolds is double-mortgaged, her husband Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Harriet moves into Willoughby Close with her three children, trying to hold her head up high. With the help of her neighbor and newfound friend Ellie Matthews, Harriet starts to rebuild her life--but dipping a toe in the dating pool feels strange and meanwhile her children are struggling in different ways. She wonders if starting over is really possible...
Then Willoughby Close begins to weave its healing magic on both her and her children, and Harriet begins to see a way forward. But when Richard reappears in her life, wanting to make amends, Harriet must make the painful decision about how much of the past can be forgiven—and what kind of future she is fighting for.
Harriet Lang had the perfect life, so she's left reeling when everything is taken from her in one fell swoop. Suddenly, Harriet learns her beautiful farmhouse in the Cotswolds is double-mortgaged, her husband Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Harriet moves into Willoughby Close with her three children, trying to hold her head up high. With the help of her neighbor and newfound friend Ellie Matthews, Harriet starts to rebuild her life--but dipping a toe in the dating pool feels strange and meanwhile her children are struggling in different ways. She wonders if starting over is really possible...
Then Willoughby Close begins to weave its healing magic on both her and her children, and Harriet begins to see a way forward. But when Richard reappears in her life, wanting to make amends, Harriet must make the painful decision about how much of the past can be forgiven—and what kind of future she is fighting for.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2017
461 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
875 books1,694 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 27, 2017
What a heartwarming tale this is! It continues the saga of the residents of Willoughby Close, revisiting Ellie and Abbie from the first story in the series, recapping some of the events, but from the perspective of the latest residents, Harriet Lang and her three children. Harriet was the Queen Bee in the local community, running a variety of community activities, including those centred around the local primary school which all three of her children attend. However, her world is turned upside down when she discovers her husband's itemised mobile bill includes lengthy calls to his secretary at night. Suspicious, Harriet confronts him, only to discover he's been out of work for six months and her comfortable existence is about to implode.
The story follows her moved on Willoughby Close from the luxury home which the bank have repossessed. In debt, unsure of their future, lacking trust in her husband, all take their toll on this previously confident seeming lynchpin of the local community. Unsure what has already happened in their marriage, whether or not she can trust her husband, the two separate. As things rapidly deteriorate, it is easy to discover who your true friends are. This is a very emotional journey for all concerned, including the three children. Reevaluating life, considering consequences, moving on and coping with heartbreak are all part of this moving story in which new friendships, changes in attitudes and expectations and a delightful puppy all play a role. It is an emotive story, beautifully written and very engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys very moving family dramas.
I requested and received a copy of this book via NetGalley without any obligation. This is my honest opinion after reading it.
The story follows her moved on Willoughby Close from the luxury home which the bank have repossessed. In debt, unsure of their future, lacking trust in her husband, all take their toll on this previously confident seeming lynchpin of the local community. Unsure what has already happened in their marriage, whether or not she can trust her husband, the two separate. As things rapidly deteriorate, it is easy to discover who your true friends are. This is a very emotional journey for all concerned, including the three children. Reevaluating life, considering consequences, moving on and coping with heartbreak are all part of this moving story in which new friendships, changes in attitudes and expectations and a delightful puppy all play a role. It is an emotive story, beautifully written and very engaging. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys very moving family dramas.
I requested and received a copy of this book via NetGalley without any obligation. This is my honest opinion after reading it.
March 18, 2017
This book is part of a series of books, but definitely can be read as a stand alone book.I haven't had the pleasure of reading the other books but after reading this one I am most definitely going to read them!
Not reading the previous books did not hinder my enjoyment of reading this book at all!
Find me at the Willoughby close is about new beginnings, family and friendship.
I really enjoyed reading this book.
It tackled real life situations of the daily struggles of losing your job, home and getting into large amounts of debt and as a result, nearly losing your family because of it, and tackling the strains of infidelity.
Harriet had it all, beautiful family, amazing home,a Great Husband, good friends and no money worries she could do and spend what ever she liked.
However all that was about to change forever!
Harriet comes across Richards (her husband) mobile phone bill.
It seems he has been making very long phone calls to he's Sexy Secretary Meghan.
But the thing that stood out was the times, early hours of the morning!
He was hardly ever home, always working late in London. Well so she thought!
Harriet confronts Richard who doesn't deny the affair however he's been hiding an even bigger secret!......
He lost he's job several months ago and they are broke! They have used practically all their savings and are about to lose the family home they love so much.
Harriet is absolutely devastated.
She soon moves into Willoughby Close with her 3 children, leaving Richard to find he's own accommodation. With the potential outcome to find a job.
What will happen to them and can she ever forgive Richard for the lies and secrets!
I could see both sides of the story where it comes to Richard not telling Harriet he was broke, as he was scared. she was changing and enjoyed the high life, the social aspect of money with no regard to expense he felt a failure.
But I can also see Harriets side as he should of told her. Why confide in he's secretary!
Word soon gets around that they have moved out and have stared renting Willoughby cottage.
People start to look at Harriet differently, her so called friends no longer wish to socialise with someone who has no money or status.
Her oldest Daughter Mallory is also struggling to adapt as her friends are talking and she picks up on the fact her Mum is unhappy and her Dad no longer lives with them.
Harriet finds herself in a very lonely position. Her marriage is on the brink of divorce, she has no money, no friends, no job, and now she has to start giving up things the children love. Such as the pony, downgrading her car etc..
I had a love/ hate relationship with Harriet.
On one hand I truly felt sorry for her, she had absolutely no idea that her husband lost he's job. But on the other hand I was annoyed with her attitude towards money and lifestyle.
However her journey was warming to watch as she went through a huge character change learning so much about herself and about life.
Harriet's children were a breath of fresh air they kept her grounded and never complained. Well apart from Mallory but she was older and see things, but even she learnt the value of friendship
All of the characters were really well thought about and each one went on a personal journey throughout the story.
Kate was clearly portraying a strong message that you don't need money and materialistic things to buy happiness and love.
I loved that strong feel to the book Kate made her point in so many ways throughout the book.
It was so nice to see each character learn that message in their own personal way!
I highly recommend this book, it was so charming to read and Kate made the story come to life whilst tackling real life issues.
I am really really hoping that there will be another book as I am so intrigued by Lady Stokeley that a book could be written just on her story alone!
This isn't the end for Harriet and her family, plus there is still one empty cottage and a new intriguing neighbour to learn about. I can't wait!!!
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
Not reading the previous books did not hinder my enjoyment of reading this book at all!
Find me at the Willoughby close is about new beginnings, family and friendship.
I really enjoyed reading this book.
It tackled real life situations of the daily struggles of losing your job, home and getting into large amounts of debt and as a result, nearly losing your family because of it, and tackling the strains of infidelity.
Harriet had it all, beautiful family, amazing home,a Great Husband, good friends and no money worries she could do and spend what ever she liked.
However all that was about to change forever!
Harriet comes across Richards (her husband) mobile phone bill.
It seems he has been making very long phone calls to he's Sexy Secretary Meghan.
But the thing that stood out was the times, early hours of the morning!
He was hardly ever home, always working late in London. Well so she thought!
Harriet confronts Richard who doesn't deny the affair however he's been hiding an even bigger secret!......
He lost he's job several months ago and they are broke! They have used practically all their savings and are about to lose the family home they love so much.
Harriet is absolutely devastated.
She soon moves into Willoughby Close with her 3 children, leaving Richard to find he's own accommodation. With the potential outcome to find a job.
What will happen to them and can she ever forgive Richard for the lies and secrets!
I could see both sides of the story where it comes to Richard not telling Harriet he was broke, as he was scared. she was changing and enjoyed the high life, the social aspect of money with no regard to expense he felt a failure.
But I can also see Harriets side as he should of told her. Why confide in he's secretary!
Word soon gets around that they have moved out and have stared renting Willoughby cottage.
People start to look at Harriet differently, her so called friends no longer wish to socialise with someone who has no money or status.
Her oldest Daughter Mallory is also struggling to adapt as her friends are talking and she picks up on the fact her Mum is unhappy and her Dad no longer lives with them.
Harriet finds herself in a very lonely position. Her marriage is on the brink of divorce, she has no money, no friends, no job, and now she has to start giving up things the children love. Such as the pony, downgrading her car etc..
I had a love/ hate relationship with Harriet.
On one hand I truly felt sorry for her, she had absolutely no idea that her husband lost he's job. But on the other hand I was annoyed with her attitude towards money and lifestyle.
However her journey was warming to watch as she went through a huge character change learning so much about herself and about life.
Harriet's children were a breath of fresh air they kept her grounded and never complained. Well apart from Mallory but she was older and see things, but even she learnt the value of friendship
All of the characters were really well thought about and each one went on a personal journey throughout the story.
Kate was clearly portraying a strong message that you don't need money and materialistic things to buy happiness and love.
I loved that strong feel to the book Kate made her point in so many ways throughout the book.
It was so nice to see each character learn that message in their own personal way!
I highly recommend this book, it was so charming to read and Kate made the story come to life whilst tackling real life issues.
I am really really hoping that there will be another book as I am so intrigued by Lady Stokeley that a book could be written just on her story alone!
This isn't the end for Harriet and her family, plus there is still one empty cottage and a new intriguing neighbour to learn about. I can't wait!!!
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
February 10, 2024
This one is tough to read because there is an emotional affair, however it quickly becomes about the FMC finding herself and figuring out her priorities. Also, the idea of being stuck at midlife trying to support your children alone really resonates with me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
December 8, 2020FREE today (May 31, 2020) on Amazon.
October 19, 2017
This started out okay but then I read this:
Normally she would have put something in the slow cooker before school pick-up...
and I was totally flummoxed. You put something in the slow cooker in the morning - surely??
And then this:
"The kids can fend for themselves for a bit, can't they?"
and the parents merrily head off to the pub leaving an eleven year old in charge of her two younger siblings. No. I mean. NO. (and yes, I know there is no legal age limit, but Mallory is only 11 and her younger brother is madcap and unreliable and the youngest child, Chloe is still only 5 and none of them are in bed or asleep - Chloe certainly should be!)
And:
It looked depressingly empty, the windows blank and curtainless, the 'Foreclosure-To Auction' sign bigger and brighter than she had anticipated....
We don't 'foreclose' in the UK. Banks and building societies 'repossess' and it would not be stated on a Sale sign outside a house. The only indication might be something in the adverts online or on the Auction particulars, but even that is not always the case.
"Do you take checks?"
No, we don't. We do however, take cheques.
I do wish American authors would get their English books 'checked' by a Brit reader first. I read to the end, but I kept being distracted by wondering what else the author had not bothered to research. A shame really, because the characters were nice and the story was a lot better than some others I have read.
My only other gripe was the way Dorothy was more-or-less sidelined at times as if she was little more than an incidental character.
Normally she would have put something in the slow cooker before school pick-up...
and I was totally flummoxed. You put something in the slow cooker in the morning - surely??
And then this:
"The kids can fend for themselves for a bit, can't they?"
and the parents merrily head off to the pub leaving an eleven year old in charge of her two younger siblings. No. I mean. NO. (and yes, I know there is no legal age limit, but Mallory is only 11 and her younger brother is madcap and unreliable and the youngest child, Chloe is still only 5 and none of them are in bed or asleep - Chloe certainly should be!)
And:
It looked depressingly empty, the windows blank and curtainless, the 'Foreclosure-To Auction' sign bigger and brighter than she had anticipated....
We don't 'foreclose' in the UK. Banks and building societies 'repossess' and it would not be stated on a Sale sign outside a house. The only indication might be something in the adverts online or on the Auction particulars, but even that is not always the case.
"Do you take checks?"
No, we don't. We do however, take cheques.
I do wish American authors would get their English books 'checked' by a Brit reader first. I read to the end, but I kept being distracted by wondering what else the author had not bothered to research. A shame really, because the characters were nice and the story was a lot better than some others I have read.
My only other gripe was the way Dorothy was more-or-less sidelined at times as if she was little more than an incidental character.
February 15, 2023
I was ready to throw in the towel by chapter 4,as the characters were so unlikable. Instead I decided to jump ahead.I moved forward to chapter 17 and found a 360 degree reawakening, highlighting the authors skill.
The H lost his job 6 months ago,kept it from his wife while having an emotional affair with his ex assistant.... also several kisses instigated by the H.With the loss of her lifestyle, and an affront by her husband trying to lay blame.at her feet,the wife realizes she did not like who she had become or what she prioritized.She hadn't realized how affected she had become by the lifestyle and social group,but for her husband to infer he no longer liked her,blew her away.Upon further thought she becomes quite angry that he refuses to accept accountability and or admit what he had was not friendship,but rather an emotional affair.She initiates separation.
So although it seems a little blase in the beginning, I would urge readers to hang in.After jumping ahead,I went back and read in its entirety. There are two or three confrontations,in the last one he finally identifies his betrayal and attempt to grovel.3.5 stars
I read\listened via audio plus catalogue.
The H lost his job 6 months ago,kept it from his wife while having an emotional affair with his ex assistant.... also several kisses instigated by the H.With the loss of her lifestyle, and an affront by her husband trying to lay blame.at her feet,the wife realizes she did not like who she had become or what she prioritized.She hadn't realized how affected she had become by the lifestyle and social group,but for her husband to infer he no longer liked her,blew her away.Upon further thought she becomes quite angry that he refuses to accept accountability and or admit what he had was not friendship,but rather an emotional affair.She initiates separation.
So although it seems a little blase in the beginning, I would urge readers to hang in.After jumping ahead,I went back and read in its entirety. There are two or three confrontations,in the last one he finally identifies his betrayal and attempt to grovel.3.5 stars
I read\listened via audio plus catalogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2017
Harriet lives in a big house together with her husband and three children. She's part of the popular group of mothers at school and like all of her friends she has plenty of money to spend. Unfortunately her comfortable life abruptly comes to an end when she finds out that Richard, her husband, has lost his job and has re-mortgaged their house. They've been living on credit for months and Harriet had no idea, because Richard didn't tell Harriet about his dire situation. Instead he let himself be comforted by his much younger and very sexy assistant.
Harriet is forced to move and Richard won't join her and the kids at their new home. She rents a cottage at Willoughby Close, which is much smaller than they're used to and it takes a lot of time for Harriet and her son and two daughters to adjust. Harriet sees her time at Willoughby Close as something temporary, a place they'll be leaving soon on the way to something better, but is it really so bad? Being at Willoughby Close gives Harriet a chance to recover and to think about what she wants to do with the rest of her life. Is there still a place for Richard in her world and who is she without the glamour, the popular friends and the money? Will she ever be happy again?
Find Me at Willoughby Close is another wonderful Willoughby Close story. I love the magic of the place and really enjoyed reading about it again. Harriet thought she had the perfect life, but when she finally has the chance to objectively look at her situation she realizes that it wasn't as ideal as she thought. The money and popularity changed her personality and she has a hard time finding herself again now that she doesn't live in a big house with expensive furniture anymore. It was interesting to see what she would do. She and Richard have grown apart and Harriet isn't sure if they'll ever be a family again. Part of her situation is heartbreaking, but I liked her character a lot more without the arrogance and prejudice that, in her case, came with being the wife of a successful man. Willoughby Close shows Harriet what's important in life and I enjoyed witnessing its healing magic.
Kate Hewitt has a lovely descriptive writing style. I love the skilled way she sets the mood of her stories. It's always exactly right and it keeps making me smile. I can easily picture Willoughby Close and think it's an amazing fictional setting, with fascinating characters, people who all have a story to tell, and a fabulous romantic atmosphere. Find Me at Willoughby Close is a great addition to the Willoughby Close series and another book by Kate Hewitt I absolutely loved.
Harriet is forced to move and Richard won't join her and the kids at their new home. She rents a cottage at Willoughby Close, which is much smaller than they're used to and it takes a lot of time for Harriet and her son and two daughters to adjust. Harriet sees her time at Willoughby Close as something temporary, a place they'll be leaving soon on the way to something better, but is it really so bad? Being at Willoughby Close gives Harriet a chance to recover and to think about what she wants to do with the rest of her life. Is there still a place for Richard in her world and who is she without the glamour, the popular friends and the money? Will she ever be happy again?
Find Me at Willoughby Close is another wonderful Willoughby Close story. I love the magic of the place and really enjoyed reading about it again. Harriet thought she had the perfect life, but when she finally has the chance to objectively look at her situation she realizes that it wasn't as ideal as she thought. The money and popularity changed her personality and she has a hard time finding herself again now that she doesn't live in a big house with expensive furniture anymore. It was interesting to see what she would do. She and Richard have grown apart and Harriet isn't sure if they'll ever be a family again. Part of her situation is heartbreaking, but I liked her character a lot more without the arrogance and prejudice that, in her case, came with being the wife of a successful man. Willoughby Close shows Harriet what's important in life and I enjoyed witnessing its healing magic.
Kate Hewitt has a lovely descriptive writing style. I love the skilled way she sets the mood of her stories. It's always exactly right and it keeps making me smile. I can easily picture Willoughby Close and think it's an amazing fictional setting, with fascinating characters, people who all have a story to tell, and a fabulous romantic atmosphere. Find Me at Willoughby Close is a great addition to the Willoughby Close series and another book by Kate Hewitt I absolutely loved.
February 22, 2023
An entitled, adult mean girl gets a reality check.
That’s a little harsh—the characters are rather innocuous. When the entitlements fall away, we have rather nice wife and children. Hubby is a bit of an ass, emotionally cheats, lies by omission for months, she eventually forgives and they get a HEA without the entitled behavior.
That’s a little harsh—the characters are rather innocuous. When the entitlements fall away, we have rather nice wife and children. Hubby is a bit of an ass, emotionally cheats, lies by omission for months, she eventually forgives and they get a HEA without the entitled behavior.
April 27, 2017
"Find Me at Willoughby Close" is the third and - in my opinion - the best yet part in the Willoughby Close series. Each part introduces us to new characters, so of course you can read the books as stand - alones, however all of the characters were usually already mentioned, and it was also the case with our Harriet Lang. The picture of Harriet that the author has painted was not so optimistic though, she was this kind of yummy - mummy driving a four by four, belonging to those who usually blank you out at the school gates, spoiling her three children with electric devices and ponies. You could think she has the perfect life, right? Well, as it turns out, sort of.
The author, in a very accessible and interesting way, showed in her story how it is to fall, put yourself together and start again. How to learn that money - even if important in our lives - are not everything. I found it really interesting to watch how Harriet's family was starting to learn actually from the beginning, was given a chance to see that they're going to survive, that down - sizing doesn't mean the end of the world, even though it was not the most easier thing for them. I could imagine - you're used to living in luxury and comfort and then suddenly you had to take a pass on literally all of the things that you took for granted, and it was especially difficult for the children.
Kate Hewitt's writing style is lovely - it's engaging, and this time the story was flowing effortlessly. She has written the characters in a brilliant way and I quickly warmed to them all and even though in the previous parts Harriet could appear inaccessible and arrogant, in this novel it was explained why she was like this and I think it was because she so quickly rearranged her train of thoughts and behaviour that made me keep everything crossed for her. It was not easy for her, there were some ups and downs, putting emphasis on downs here, and even when she had her weaker moments, she wasn't afraid to roll up her sleeves. Yes, there were moments that I wanted to shake her very hard, as well, the way to finding what she really wants was rather bumpy, and she was mostly so negative, but nevertheless, she was a likeable character. The other characters fade a little in Harriet's shadow, as the book was really centred around her, and I had a feeling we weren't given a huge chance to get to know them properly. There are Harriet's children and I think it's Mallory that gets the most mentions, and the picture painted of her was not the most optimistic one and I can only hope that she's smart enough. I was not sure what to think about Richard, to be honest. I could for sure see why he didn't tell Harriet that they're in troubles. He seemed backboneless to me, and I was happy that in the end Harriet showed him that they can be happy in a different way.
This story is about learning a lesson or two. It took Harriet some time but she eventually realized that money changed everything in her life, and also that it changed her. She stopped seeing what's important in her life - she thought it's popularity, pony club, yummy mummies meetings but then she realized that it's something very different. A lovely novel about finding yourself again, about adjusting, about finding answers. There are lies, deceits, money and troubles in this novel, a read that I really enjoyed. The sexy vet may be misleading, as there is not a lot of romance in this story, as it is more of a personal development, but it worked for me. Already looking forward to the next part in the series!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Read
May 7, 2025This is a DNF for me. I didn't like the lead character at all (spending money left and right, privileged "yummy mummy"). Sure, I felt sorry for her with her three kids when she discovered in the opening pages her husband was having an affair with his sexy young secretary. But no, I didn't feel sorry enough to want to read her story.
November 6, 2019
Harriet Lang was the uber-yummy mummy in the second book, mother to the mean girl who has made Abby's new life in the Cotswolds that little bit more difficult. In the second book Harriet and her three children had arrived to occupy the second cottage in Willoughby Close under fairly mysterious circumstances, in this book we find out why.
Harriet has enjoyed the finer things in life as a result of her husband Richard's job as an investment manager in London: a big house; fancy holidays; ponies for the children; interior decorator to furnish the house; and spending money like water on catered birthday parties for her youngest. Then her world comes crashing down when she discovers her husband has been having secret conversations with his assistant in the early hours of the morning (like 2am) for hours at a time. When she confronts him he lets slip the devastating news that he was sacked six months earlier and that they are so far in debt that they could lose the house!
This is like a grown-up version of the book A Little Princess which has been made into umpteen films over the years (umpteen being a word to describe that I'm too lazy to stop typing and do a rudimentary google search). Harriet loses all of her possessions, all her status as one of the yummy mummies and discovers how fake and shallow she had become, buying things to keep up with the other mums instead of because she liked them or needed them. But in the back of her mind Harriet believes living at Willoughby Close is only temporary, until Richard gets another highly paid job, of course she thinks she will be a better, kinder, more thoughtful person, but living in a big country house once more, until one day she realises that maybe that's not what she wants at all.
Harriet has enjoyed the finer things in life as a result of her husband Richard's job as an investment manager in London: a big house; fancy holidays; ponies for the children; interior decorator to furnish the house; and spending money like water on catered birthday parties for her youngest. Then her world comes crashing down when she discovers her husband has been having secret conversations with his assistant in the early hours of the morning (like 2am) for hours at a time. When she confronts him he lets slip the devastating news that he was sacked six months earlier and that they are so far in debt that they could lose the house!
This is like a grown-up version of the book A Little Princess which has been made into umpteen films over the years (umpteen being a word to describe that I'm too lazy to stop typing and do a rudimentary google search). Harriet loses all of her possessions, all her status as one of the yummy mummies and discovers how fake and shallow she had become, buying things to keep up with the other mums instead of because she liked them or needed them. But in the back of her mind Harriet believes living at Willoughby Close is only temporary, until Richard gets another highly paid job, of course she thinks she will be a better, kinder, more thoughtful person, but living in a big country house once more, until one day she realises that maybe that's not what she wants at all.
April 8, 2017
Harriet's has the perfect life, married to Richard who works in finance, they have the perfect home and what is perceived to be he perfect life. They are the family that everybody wants to be linked with.
Their lifestyle comes to an abrupt halt when Harriot finds out that Richard has been living a lie for the past six months and that the house is about to be repossessed. The story follows the life of the whole family, how they adjust to not having money and how friends disappear but new ones are made.
I really liked this book and look forward to number four being released later in the year.
Their lifestyle comes to an abrupt halt when Harriot finds out that Richard has been living a lie for the past six months and that the house is about to be repossessed. The story follows the life of the whole family, how they adjust to not having money and how friends disappear but new ones are made.
I really liked this book and look forward to number four being released later in the year.
December 23, 2022
This book so far is my favorite in the series except one thing - cheating! There are things that allow you to go on with the relationships, but cheating is not one of them.
To be honest, I don’t believe that once a person cheats on you, they never do it again. I had so many cases when it repeated again and again, and no cases when it actually worked. Unfortunately, that’s true.
But if you put the cheating aspect aside, the story is captivating and beautiful. The idea is very appealing and trendy, you don’t need a lot of money to be happy. Sometimes choosing happiness and freedom over money is exactly what we need.
To be honest, I don’t believe that once a person cheats on you, they never do it again. I had so many cases when it repeated again and again, and no cases when it actually worked. Unfortunately, that’s true.
But if you put the cheating aspect aside, the story is captivating and beautiful. The idea is very appealing and trendy, you don’t need a lot of money to be happy. Sometimes choosing happiness and freedom over money is exactly what we need.
June 19, 2017
The author is wonderful at characterization. I totally disliked Harriet at the beginning of the book . Little by little Kate Hewitt changed small things about the way that Harriet thought about what is important until she became a "person" that I would like to know.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Willoughby Close series and can really recommend this series to everyone who likes to see happy ends happening... I can not wait until book 4 comes out in paperback!
I am thoroughly enjoying the Willoughby Close series and can really recommend this series to everyone who likes to see happy ends happening... I can not wait until book 4 comes out in paperback!
August 28, 2022
And yet …. Another story done ✔️
This one was kind of cute ☺️
Enjoyed it 👍👍👍
This one was kind of cute ☺️
Enjoyed it 👍👍👍
January 20, 2024
The character development in this one was fantastic. Sometimes you need to go from the top of the world to the bottom to remember who you are.
May 21, 2017
In the first book we met Ellie and Oliver and was briefly introduced to Harriett. Now in this book we are meeting Harriett and Richard and reading their story.
At first I am not sure if I should be mad at Harriett or at Richard but as you read on it is hard to decide who is to blame for the events in their lives but I find myself blaming Richard more and more. It's true Harriett spent money with little regard to where it was coming from she just thought they had it to spend so she did. Richard should have been honest and told her that they didn't have it.
In both books we met Lady Stokely and this book tells a little more about her. I really have enjoyed getting to know everyone at Willoughby Close and can't wait for another chance to meet up with everyone again.
At first I am not sure if I should be mad at Harriett or at Richard but as you read on it is hard to decide who is to blame for the events in their lives but I find myself blaming Richard more and more. It's true Harriett spent money with little regard to where it was coming from she just thought they had it to spend so she did. Richard should have been honest and told her that they didn't have it.
In both books we met Lady Stokely and this book tells a little more about her. I really have enjoyed getting to know everyone at Willoughby Close and can't wait for another chance to meet up with everyone again.
April 24, 2017
This is the third in the Willoughby Close series and in my opinion is my favourite so far. This story veers away from the classic romantic boy meets girl approach with the obligatory hunk and swooning female. Instead it concentrates on Harriet and Richard’s marriage and the effect his actions have on the entire family.
It explores what the lure of money and ‘oneupmanship’ has and the qualities missing in human nature when that occurs. At first Harriet is a yummy mummy, three children who she rushes from one after school activity to another after she has been to the gym, hairdresser, shopping etc .. the kids are spoilt brats quite frankly, each has an electronic device never mind how young they are and the eldest Mallory has a pony who she is rather bored with!
Richard works away in London, Harriet floats around in the huge country house .. life is ‘good’ until one day for some unknown reason she checks the phone bill and her world collapses around her.
The lies, deceit, extravagances all mount up and it results in Harriet and the children arriving at Willoughby Close.
I really like the way this story unfolds and demonstrates how important family values are. There are certain things money can’t buy and it takes them all a long journey to re-discover life and what they want.
It pays to read the books in order because characters from the previous ones do appear and it’s lovely to catch up with them.
This story really struck a few chords and I think it was superbly written. I went through a whole range of emotions while they all try to settle down and realise what it is they actually want/need from life or each other. Daisy was a particular favourite of mine.
I’m looking forward to meeting the mysterious Ava in the next book of the series. Brilliant entertainment, thanks to Kate, Netgalley, publishers and Neverland Blog Tours for the opportunity to read and review voluntarily.
It explores what the lure of money and ‘oneupmanship’ has and the qualities missing in human nature when that occurs. At first Harriet is a yummy mummy, three children who she rushes from one after school activity to another after she has been to the gym, hairdresser, shopping etc .. the kids are spoilt brats quite frankly, each has an electronic device never mind how young they are and the eldest Mallory has a pony who she is rather bored with!
Richard works away in London, Harriet floats around in the huge country house .. life is ‘good’ until one day for some unknown reason she checks the phone bill and her world collapses around her.
The lies, deceit, extravagances all mount up and it results in Harriet and the children arriving at Willoughby Close.
I really like the way this story unfolds and demonstrates how important family values are. There are certain things money can’t buy and it takes them all a long journey to re-discover life and what they want.
It pays to read the books in order because characters from the previous ones do appear and it’s lovely to catch up with them.
This story really struck a few chords and I think it was superbly written. I went through a whole range of emotions while they all try to settle down and realise what it is they actually want/need from life or each other. Daisy was a particular favourite of mine.
I’m looking forward to meeting the mysterious Ava in the next book of the series. Brilliant entertainment, thanks to Kate, Netgalley, publishers and Neverland Blog Tours for the opportunity to read and review voluntarily.
December 7, 2024
I've listened to a bunch of the light freebie books on Audible in the past month.
March 11, 2017
3.5 stars.
This book is all about Harriet. Even though the events are happening to her whole family, Harriet remains the main focus. Which is understandable, because she is hit hard – especially at the start – and she has a lot of adjustments to make. This whole book is a growth exercise for her, really, starting with a lot of pruning before she can finally try to grow again in a different – and hopefully better – direction.
Which is fine, because I do have a lot of sympathy for her, but my goodness, sometimes it is hard to like her. She might appear upbeat to people, but inside she’s so negative a lot of the time. Her thoughts of the children, even her memories, are usually something awful or annoying or just petty and not very nice. She remembers good things about Richard, but with the children it’s always a grind. Children are difficult and exhausting and doing it alone is a mammoth task, but there were times when I wanted to shake Harriet and demand she find something, anything, good about her life and her children, because surely there must good parts sometimes.
I felt rather bad for her children, mostly because this book is so focused on Harriet that they don’t have much personality. Particularly William. I wanted to get to know William. He’s just a bundle of energy running around in the background. I don’t think Harriet has a conversation with him once. Little Chloe has a few moments, as does surly Mallory, but William gets nothing. He doesn’t seem to mind, but that’s because we don’t ever get to know him.
As for Richard… I definitely wanted to shake him several times, but at the same time I could sort of see how the dissolution of their marriage happened. It’s not easy and it’s not nice, but it is more than one event that led to it all. The betrayal of trust is a big thing, and I’m glad that Harriet didn’t simply get over it, but at the same time, she does bury her head in the sand at times and I was occasionally frustrated at her lack of practicality.
But then again, she has a lot to learn in this book, and it is a definite struggle for her. Personally, I found the blurb a little misleading, because the sexy vet is barely a footnote, and it’s clear from the start that this book is a personal journey rather than a romantic one. Even Harriet’s friendship with next door neighbour Ellie isn’t that important. Instead it’s more of an age-old quest for happiness and an exploration of whether or not money is truly the key.
So it wasn’t quite what I was expecting, but it’s still a good read. Harriet isn’t always likeable, but she is believable and real. Her life is far from perfect and she has a lot of adjustments to make, but her story was an interesting one. If you like your books about real life, with women figuring out how best to muddle through and hopefully find a way to happiness, then you will probably enjoy this. If you’re looking more for a fluffy, romantic escape, this isn’t it. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty of charm to be found in Willoughby Close and I look forward to finding out more about the mysterious new resident in the next book.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
This book is all about Harriet. Even though the events are happening to her whole family, Harriet remains the main focus. Which is understandable, because she is hit hard – especially at the start – and she has a lot of adjustments to make. This whole book is a growth exercise for her, really, starting with a lot of pruning before she can finally try to grow again in a different – and hopefully better – direction.
Which is fine, because I do have a lot of sympathy for her, but my goodness, sometimes it is hard to like her. She might appear upbeat to people, but inside she’s so negative a lot of the time. Her thoughts of the children, even her memories, are usually something awful or annoying or just petty and not very nice. She remembers good things about Richard, but with the children it’s always a grind. Children are difficult and exhausting and doing it alone is a mammoth task, but there were times when I wanted to shake Harriet and demand she find something, anything, good about her life and her children, because surely there must good parts sometimes.
I felt rather bad for her children, mostly because this book is so focused on Harriet that they don’t have much personality. Particularly William. I wanted to get to know William. He’s just a bundle of energy running around in the background. I don’t think Harriet has a conversation with him once. Little Chloe has a few moments, as does surly Mallory, but William gets nothing. He doesn’t seem to mind, but that’s because we don’t ever get to know him.
As for Richard… I definitely wanted to shake him several times, but at the same time I could sort of see how the dissolution of their marriage happened. It’s not easy and it’s not nice, but it is more than one event that led to it all. The betrayal of trust is a big thing, and I’m glad that Harriet didn’t simply get over it, but at the same time, she does bury her head in the sand at times and I was occasionally frustrated at her lack of practicality.
But then again, she has a lot to learn in this book, and it is a definite struggle for her. Personally, I found the blurb a little misleading, because the sexy vet is barely a footnote, and it’s clear from the start that this book is a personal journey rather than a romantic one. Even Harriet’s friendship with next door neighbour Ellie isn’t that important. Instead it’s more of an age-old quest for happiness and an exploration of whether or not money is truly the key.
So it wasn’t quite what I was expecting, but it’s still a good read. Harriet isn’t always likeable, but she is believable and real. Her life is far from perfect and she has a lot of adjustments to make, but her story was an interesting one. If you like your books about real life, with women figuring out how best to muddle through and hopefully find a way to happiness, then you will probably enjoy this. If you’re looking more for a fluffy, romantic escape, this isn’t it. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty of charm to be found in Willoughby Close and I look forward to finding out more about the mysterious new resident in the next book.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
May 17, 2017
Harriet has led the “perfect” life. She is a mother with 3 children, married to, Richard, a financial success, living in a home so perfect it could be in a magazine and she is close friends with all the best people in the village.
Then, she is surprised to find, her financially successful husband was fired 6 months ago and he has become very good friends with his young and sexy assistant.
Things become horrifying to Harriet. She is moving into a rental, Richard is staying in London and the perfect home she loved is gone to foreclosure.
Harriet has been one of the beautiful people and she liked that a great deal. She was one of the women who belittled others because they did not wear the right clothes, decorate the right way or live the right kind of life. Spending a great deal of money was second nature to Harriet. Her new situation is quite a shock to her system.
Her three children must face difficulties. There will not be an expensive boarding school for Mallory. William is finding it difficult to keep from showing anger. Chloe begins to suck her thumb again.
After she begins to realize that the woman she had become is not a likable person, Harriet tries to begin a new life.
This is a story of being reborn into a person who is comfortable with the real world.
Harriet slowly learns about her new life and the people who surround her. She learns that not having everything she wants may not be the end of her life. She learns to look at people in a new and more gentle light. The children begin to adjust to their new circumstances but there is still the giant issue of missing their father .
Richard wants to stay in the lives of his children. He also wants to try to rework the marriage.
As the story moves forward, Harriet's anxiety nearly becomes a separate character. She finds it difficult to find a real place in the world.
The secondary characters are important to the story. Each of them add texture and depth to the story. The village is populated by people who are leading normal lives and Harriet learns that normal is not such a bad place to be.
Harriet's journey is a painful one. But, the rewards are great for her and her family.
This is part of a series, but it works well as a stand alone read. Ms Hewitt has written of lives which are altered by circumstances. But the ability to overcome difficult circumstances eventually shines through.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
Then, she is surprised to find, her financially successful husband was fired 6 months ago and he has become very good friends with his young and sexy assistant.
Things become horrifying to Harriet. She is moving into a rental, Richard is staying in London and the perfect home she loved is gone to foreclosure.
Harriet has been one of the beautiful people and she liked that a great deal. She was one of the women who belittled others because they did not wear the right clothes, decorate the right way or live the right kind of life. Spending a great deal of money was second nature to Harriet. Her new situation is quite a shock to her system.
Her three children must face difficulties. There will not be an expensive boarding school for Mallory. William is finding it difficult to keep from showing anger. Chloe begins to suck her thumb again.
After she begins to realize that the woman she had become is not a likable person, Harriet tries to begin a new life.
This is a story of being reborn into a person who is comfortable with the real world.
Harriet slowly learns about her new life and the people who surround her. She learns that not having everything she wants may not be the end of her life. She learns to look at people in a new and more gentle light. The children begin to adjust to their new circumstances but there is still the giant issue of missing their father .
Richard wants to stay in the lives of his children. He also wants to try to rework the marriage.
As the story moves forward, Harriet's anxiety nearly becomes a separate character. She finds it difficult to find a real place in the world.
The secondary characters are important to the story. Each of them add texture and depth to the story. The village is populated by people who are leading normal lives and Harriet learns that normal is not such a bad place to be.
Harriet's journey is a painful one. But, the rewards are great for her and her family.
This is part of a series, but it works well as a stand alone read. Ms Hewitt has written of lives which are altered by circumstances. But the ability to overcome difficult circumstances eventually shines through.
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
May 8, 2017
Harriet is living a nice and easy life with her husband, Richard, and their three children.They have a big house, she belongs to the group of popular moms at school and her children have more than they actually need. Harriet thinks she's on top of the world. This is until she finds out that her husband has been talking on the phone to his young and sexy assistant for hours. When she confronts him, Richard comes clean and tells her that he lost his job months ago and has turned to his assistant for a shoulder to cry on. Instead of cutting back, Harriet has been spending money they didn't actually have anymore and she will have to make some drastic changes to get them back on track again. Will she be able to adjust to her new situation?
Harriet moves into one of the Willoughby Close cottages with her children. Richard stays in London, so he can find a new job. Harriet and the children need some time to get used to their surroundings and life without plenty of spending money. Now that Harriet is the subject of the town's gossip she needs to find the courage to overcome everything that is happening to her. Richard and Harriet were together for a very long time. Looking back on her marriage, Harriet must admit that they got lost along the way. Will Harriet be able to accept her new situation and maybe even find happiness again at Willoughby Close?
Harriet has come a long way. Once she was a nerdy kid with frizzy hair. Those days are gone and because of her childhood Harriet was extra proud of the status she used to have in town. I must confess that it took me a little while to warm to Harriet. In the beginning it seems like all she cares about is losing her big house and spending large amounts of money without thinking about it. After a while Harriet is forced to be honest with herself and I loved to read about the subtle changes in her character. She takes great care of her children and it must not have been easy for her to deal with most of the mess her family is in on her own. She's a loving person and I hoped she would be able to find herself again.
I fell in love with cozy little countryside cottages ever since I started the Willoughby Close series. Kate Hewitt is a skilled writer and I could easily picture Harriet and her children living at the warm and welcoming Willoughby Close. The place is magical and I look forward to finding out who will be filling up the last remaining cottage. Find Me At Willoughby Close is the third book in the Willoughby Close series and I absolutely loved it.
Harriet moves into one of the Willoughby Close cottages with her children. Richard stays in London, so he can find a new job. Harriet and the children need some time to get used to their surroundings and life without plenty of spending money. Now that Harriet is the subject of the town's gossip she needs to find the courage to overcome everything that is happening to her. Richard and Harriet were together for a very long time. Looking back on her marriage, Harriet must admit that they got lost along the way. Will Harriet be able to accept her new situation and maybe even find happiness again at Willoughby Close?
Harriet has come a long way. Once she was a nerdy kid with frizzy hair. Those days are gone and because of her childhood Harriet was extra proud of the status she used to have in town. I must confess that it took me a little while to warm to Harriet. In the beginning it seems like all she cares about is losing her big house and spending large amounts of money without thinking about it. After a while Harriet is forced to be honest with herself and I loved to read about the subtle changes in her character. She takes great care of her children and it must not have been easy for her to deal with most of the mess her family is in on her own. She's a loving person and I hoped she would be able to find herself again.
I fell in love with cozy little countryside cottages ever since I started the Willoughby Close series. Kate Hewitt is a skilled writer and I could easily picture Harriet and her children living at the warm and welcoming Willoughby Close. The place is magical and I look forward to finding out who will be filling up the last remaining cottage. Find Me At Willoughby Close is the third book in the Willoughby Close series and I absolutely loved it.
March 14, 2017
Find Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…
Harriet Lang had the perfect life, so she’s left reeling when everything is taken from her in one fell swoop. Suddenly, Harriet learns her beautiful farmhouse in the Cotswolds is double-mortgaged, her husband Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Harriet moves into Willoughby Close with her three children, trying to hold her head up high. With the help of her neighbor and newfound friend Ellie Matthews, Harriet starts to rebuild her life–but dipping a toe in the dating pool feels strange and meanwhile her children are struggling in different ways. She wonders if starting over is really possible…
Then Willoughby Close begins to weave its healing magic on both her and her children, and Harriet begins to see a way forward. She even starts to date sexy local vet Tom Roberts–but when Richard reappears in her life, wanting to make amends, Harriet must make the painful decision about how much of the past can be forgiven—and what kind of future she is fighting for.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT WILLOUGHBY CLOSE:
‘Utterly charming…’
‘When you find a book that gives you a feel good snuggly I-want-to-know-what happens-next story feeling…One you don’t want to put down, and one you think you’d love to be a fly on the wall in, you know it’s a winner. This is one of those books.’
This is Harriet Lang and Richard Lang's story.
Carefully, Harriet Lang replaced her mug of tea on the coaster. It
was a pottery mug from the local organic farm shop, thick and chunky, a
deep, iridescent indigo with a shiny glaze. She’d bought four of them but,
typically, William had broken one almost as soon as they were out of the
box.
Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Find Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt is a 3 star Books.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kate's Books with Tule:
A Yorkshire Christmas
Christmas Around the World
Falling for Christmas
Falling for the Freemans
Falling Hard
Falling for the Freemans
A Cotswold Christmas
Willoughby Close
Meet Me At Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Find Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Kiss Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…
Harriet Lang had the perfect life, so she’s left reeling when everything is taken from her in one fell swoop. Suddenly, Harriet learns her beautiful farmhouse in the Cotswolds is double-mortgaged, her husband Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Harriet moves into Willoughby Close with her three children, trying to hold her head up high. With the help of her neighbor and newfound friend Ellie Matthews, Harriet starts to rebuild her life–but dipping a toe in the dating pool feels strange and meanwhile her children are struggling in different ways. She wonders if starting over is really possible…
Then Willoughby Close begins to weave its healing magic on both her and her children, and Harriet begins to see a way forward. She even starts to date sexy local vet Tom Roberts–but when Richard reappears in her life, wanting to make amends, Harriet must make the painful decision about how much of the past can be forgiven—and what kind of future she is fighting for.
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT WILLOUGHBY CLOSE:
‘Utterly charming…’
‘When you find a book that gives you a feel good snuggly I-want-to-know-what happens-next story feeling…One you don’t want to put down, and one you think you’d love to be a fly on the wall in, you know it’s a winner. This is one of those books.’
This is Harriet Lang and Richard Lang's story.
Carefully, Harriet Lang replaced her mug of tea on the coaster. It
was a pottery mug from the local organic farm shop, thick and chunky, a
deep, iridescent indigo with a shiny glaze. She’d bought four of them but,
typically, William had broken one almost as soon as they were out of the
box.
Richard’s been unceremoniously fired—and he’s become a little too close to his young, sexy assistant.
Find Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt is a 3 star Books.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kate's Books with Tule:
A Yorkshire Christmas
Christmas Around the World
Falling for Christmas
Falling for the Freemans
Falling Hard
Falling for the Freemans
A Cotswold Christmas
Willoughby Close
Meet Me At Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Find Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Kiss Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
February 18, 2023
3.5 stars. BRITISH CHICK LIT, BABY!
Spoilers ahead because I am me.
I think my tags make this look like a much more angst-filled story than it really is. Don't get me wrong: the angst is present, but not in a heart-wrenching, gut-punching way. Instead, it is present in a very stiff upper lip British women's lit way. If you read that genre of book, then you probably know exactly what I mean by that.
We know from the beginning of the book that there are questions about the H's behaviors - very long late-night calls to his assistant, "Sexy Megan." With that discovery, life changes drastically and unpleasantly for our previously blissfully unaware h. The rest of the book follows the couple and their three kids dealing with many blows to their excessively comfortable status quo. Watching the family deal with those blows is mainly what the story is about. And by family, I really mean the h because the H is off searching for work and doing who knows what else?
One part of that really resonated with me was this: The h realized that she had very few current, marketable skills since she had been a stay-at-home mom since their first of three children was born. Details of a job interview she had were painful and very poignant to me. I've known a handful of folks who have had the rug ripped out from under them for a variety of painful reasons only to find themselves on very thin ice, lifeskills-wise. Those are very sobering circumstances for the middle-aged set. This isn't a diss against stay-at-home moms, by the way! That work is some of the hardest on the planet!! The working mom debate is old and stale and still such a conundrum for women in that season of life- we make ourselves very vulnerable to others as mothers, I think, without the economic safeguards of paid work. Our h felt that in her bones as her circumstances changed rapidly.
The oldest daughter bummed me out, but I also liked the way the author understood and explained her motivations. What a pill.
I liked the growth I saw in the characters. That's sort of part and parcel of women's lit, I suppose. Parts of the book felt too pat - too neat and tidy for my taste. But I am an old angst whore, so who knows, maybe it was just right?!
Spoilers ahead because I am me.
I think my tags make this look like a much more angst-filled story than it really is. Don't get me wrong: the angst is present, but not in a heart-wrenching, gut-punching way. Instead, it is present in a very stiff upper lip British women's lit way. If you read that genre of book, then you probably know exactly what I mean by that.
We know from the beginning of the book that there are questions about the H's behaviors - very long late-night calls to his assistant, "Sexy Megan." With that discovery, life changes drastically and unpleasantly for our previously blissfully unaware h. The rest of the book follows the couple and their three kids dealing with many blows to their excessively comfortable status quo. Watching the family deal with those blows is mainly what the story is about. And by family, I really mean the h because the H is off searching for work and doing who knows what else?
One part of that really resonated with me was this: The h realized that she had very few current, marketable skills since she had been a stay-at-home mom since their first of three children was born. Details of a job interview she had were painful and very poignant to me. I've known a handful of folks who have had the rug ripped out from under them for a variety of painful reasons only to find themselves on very thin ice, lifeskills-wise. Those are very sobering circumstances for the middle-aged set. This isn't a diss against stay-at-home moms, by the way! That work is some of the hardest on the planet!! The working mom debate is old and stale and still such a conundrum for women in that season of life- we make ourselves very vulnerable to others as mothers, I think, without the economic safeguards of paid work. Our h felt that in her bones as her circumstances changed rapidly.
The oldest daughter bummed me out, but I also liked the way the author understood and explained her motivations. What a pill.
I liked the growth I saw in the characters. That's sort of part and parcel of women's lit, I suppose. Parts of the book felt too pat - too neat and tidy for my taste. But I am an old angst whore, so who knows, maybe it was just right?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2017
The first tick is that this book can absolutely be read as a standalone. In fact, I was surprised that it is actually book three in a series as there were no dangling threads, or questions hovering over the secondary characters, as there usually is when you pick up a series part way through. Although, I'm definitely wanting to read all of them now.
Harriet has reached a point in her life where she thinks she has everything she needs. It certainly seems as though she does. Husband, three children, lovely house and able to provide the children with all that they want. Even if it is to keep up with the other school mums! But she discovers that her life isn't quite so perfect after all, when she has a suspicion that Richard, her husband, could be having an affair. In fact it's worse than she thought. They have lost everything.
Arriving at Willoughby Close, Harriet is thrown into a new life. Richard is living alone in a flat and Harriet has to adjust to living life in a rental home and with very little money. Their house is gone, her superficial friends have ditched her and she is left picking up the pieces of her confused children.
Find Me at Willoughby Close isn't a light and fluffy read. It certainly isn't centred around romance. For me it's about family and rediscovery. Harriet thought she had it all but she was actually missing happiness. It's a very real story. Stroppy pre-teen, son that's an energetic handful and a needy youngest child. But when the after school activities and treats stop, Harriet has the opportunity to reconnect with her family - and herself. Was Richard right? Had she changed? Was she partly to blame for their separation?
I wasn't keen on Harriet at first. But I guess that's the authors intention. As the story unfolded I began to respect Harriet and could understand the reason for her choices. It takes a brave person to recognise their faults and act on them and Harriet certainly does. I loved following her journey.
I've read many of Kate Hewitt's books and this one is really different. Wonderfully written as usual. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
An engaging read which I thoroughly enjoyed!
Harriet has reached a point in her life where she thinks she has everything she needs. It certainly seems as though she does. Husband, three children, lovely house and able to provide the children with all that they want. Even if it is to keep up with the other school mums! But she discovers that her life isn't quite so perfect after all, when she has a suspicion that Richard, her husband, could be having an affair. In fact it's worse than she thought. They have lost everything.
Arriving at Willoughby Close, Harriet is thrown into a new life. Richard is living alone in a flat and Harriet has to adjust to living life in a rental home and with very little money. Their house is gone, her superficial friends have ditched her and she is left picking up the pieces of her confused children.
Find Me at Willoughby Close isn't a light and fluffy read. It certainly isn't centred around romance. For me it's about family and rediscovery. Harriet thought she had it all but she was actually missing happiness. It's a very real story. Stroppy pre-teen, son that's an energetic handful and a needy youngest child. But when the after school activities and treats stop, Harriet has the opportunity to reconnect with her family - and herself. Was Richard right? Had she changed? Was she partly to blame for their separation?
I wasn't keen on Harriet at first. But I guess that's the authors intention. As the story unfolded I began to respect Harriet and could understand the reason for her choices. It takes a brave person to recognise their faults and act on them and Harriet certainly does. I loved following her journey.
I've read many of Kate Hewitt's books and this one is really different. Wonderfully written as usual. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
An engaging read which I thoroughly enjoyed!
June 13, 2017
When I picked up Find Me at Willoughby Close, I thought it looked like a quick summer read, perfect for those times when you want to escape into a book. However, I found that there was more to it than the happy ever after read which the blurb promised. The characters, and in particular Harriet, had a real story to tell as she struggled to come to terms with the changes in her life. You could see her character develop and change as the story progressed.
This is part of a series of books all set in Willoughby Close but that didn't stop it being able to be read as a standalone book. Anyone who has ever stood at the school gates could identify with the feelings of those mothers who were on the outside, not part of the smug set. There is actually a lot of observation of how social groups operate, both with the adults and the school children and how some people can become materialistic and superficial. The children offer wry, uncomplicated humour.
You can also see how Harriet's wider family are affected by the upheaval in her life. I thought that the episode where she went back to her childhood home added to her character as you could see where she came from and why the finer things of life seemed to be so important to her. Harriet is not always easy to like but once you begin to understand her insecurities, she becomes much more sympathetic. This is not a book with a complicated plot line but is character driven.
In short: a cast of characters offer a gentle look at Cotswolds life.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt, Tule Publishing and Jenny at Neverland Tours for a copy of the book and a place on the Tour.
This is part of a series of books all set in Willoughby Close but that didn't stop it being able to be read as a standalone book. Anyone who has ever stood at the school gates could identify with the feelings of those mothers who were on the outside, not part of the smug set. There is actually a lot of observation of how social groups operate, both with the adults and the school children and how some people can become materialistic and superficial. The children offer wry, uncomplicated humour.
You can also see how Harriet's wider family are affected by the upheaval in her life. I thought that the episode where she went back to her childhood home added to her character as you could see where she came from and why the finer things of life seemed to be so important to her. Harriet is not always easy to like but once you begin to understand her insecurities, she becomes much more sympathetic. This is not a book with a complicated plot line but is character driven.
In short: a cast of characters offer a gentle look at Cotswolds life.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt, Tule Publishing and Jenny at Neverland Tours for a copy of the book and a place on the Tour.
April 5, 2019
The last few lines of Kate Hewitt's Find Me at Willoughby Close perfectly sum up just why I love this series: "It was normal life in all its glory, and Harriet wouldn't change a minute of it. None one nanosecond." Kate manages to capture all the angst, heartache, and frustration that comes with living a normal, everyday life and still remind of us all that is beautiful and worthy in it. Here, she lets us watch as Harriet Lang struggles to figure out who she is and what she wants from life when all that she thought she valued - a beautiful home, designer clothes, expensive habits, and society friends - disappears overnight. Can she rediscover the happiness she somehow lost in her pursuit of all those things and, more importantly, will her marriage and family survive the change? We may not all be able to identify with Harriet's loss of a million dollar home and regular trips to Provence, but I bet that, if we're honest, we can admit to finding too much of our life's meaning in the things we own, no matter how valuable they are, and the status we hold amongst our group of friends, even if they aren't on the cover of magazines or owners of the fanciest cars. We can all imagine - or possibly even testify to - what it would be like to lose those things and face ourselves, stripped of everything except for our own flawed selves. Learning to see the worth and potential in that self, divested of all its artificial adornments, is hard but, as Harriet learns, vital to finding true happiness. I so appreciated that reminder, especially as it was wrapped in a cozy, comforting story that left me basking in a contented glow at the end.
June 30, 2020
This book was so really heart warming and touching. I believe this was because it happens to real people not just something that happens in books.
I saw the cover and read the blurb and knew this was one book I would definitely read. It was a feel good read. When reading it I could of been anywhere as I totally escaped into this book.
I couldn't put book the book down from the first page and I immediately felt for the main character, Harriet, which doesn't normally happen. I really felt for her especially as she took one knock after another but she took it in her stride. As she explained who she used to be I totally knew the type of person she was describing because we all know someone like this.
The character definitely changed throughout the book and became a better, nicer person and someone she wanted to be. She even explained in the book how she had changed and how she was changing back to her old self. And Kate Hewitt's writing really brought this to life. The main character didn't even need to tell the reader as we could see it.
It reminded me of similar stories I have read. All those books are what I call feel good books because they make the reader feel good and they are truly books you can lose yourself in. You can even imagine yourself sitting in the sun reading this book on holiday.
The story was so believable and could happen to read people.
I already have the other books in the series ready in my e-reader library to read and I can't wait.
I would 100% recommend this book and other by this author.
I saw the cover and read the blurb and knew this was one book I would definitely read. It was a feel good read. When reading it I could of been anywhere as I totally escaped into this book.
I couldn't put book the book down from the first page and I immediately felt for the main character, Harriet, which doesn't normally happen. I really felt for her especially as she took one knock after another but she took it in her stride. As she explained who she used to be I totally knew the type of person she was describing because we all know someone like this.
The character definitely changed throughout the book and became a better, nicer person and someone she wanted to be. She even explained in the book how she had changed and how she was changing back to her old self. And Kate Hewitt's writing really brought this to life. The main character didn't even need to tell the reader as we could see it.
It reminded me of similar stories I have read. All those books are what I call feel good books because they make the reader feel good and they are truly books you can lose yourself in. You can even imagine yourself sitting in the sun reading this book on holiday.
The story was so believable and could happen to read people.
I already have the other books in the series ready in my e-reader library to read and I can't wait.
I would 100% recommend this book and other by this author.
March 17, 2017
Another great installment in the Willoughby Close series. Where the first two books seemed a bit more lighthearted and romantic, this one touches on deeper subjects. It didn’t have the romantic feel like the previous books did. It is more of a women’s fiction story about starting over after you lose everything.
It all started with a discovery on the phone bill. Harriet Lang found out her husband Richard had been making many middle of the night phone calls to his secretary. When she confronts Richard about the discovery and finds out he lost his job six months ago and has been confiding in his former secretary, Harriet’s world falls apart. Piece by piece, everything Harriet loved, from her prized home, to her car, the children’s after school activities, and even their horse, is stripped away. Harriet is forced to move into a three bedroom apartment at Willoughby Close which even means not every child gets their own bedroom as they were accustomed to. Richard doesn’t move with them, he gets a place in London where he can continue his job search.
While Harriet and her three children adjust to their new life, Harriet realizes her friends really weren’t the best of friends as she thought they were. They turned on her when they found out she didn’t have any money and she split up with her husband. She becomes friends with a couple of unlikely characters, one is her neighbor (from the previous book) who she didn’t think much of when she first met her and another is the eccentric elderly lady who owns Willoughby Manor. Harriet also comes to terms on what is going on in her marriage and does a lot of soul searching trying to figure out her next move. She doesn’t want to lose what she and Richard had and doesn’t want to break up the family, but she has trouble moving past what Richard has done. It was interesting to watch the story unfold. The book ended up in a way I didn’t predict.
If you read the previous book in this series, Harriet is mentioned many times and the author didn’t paint a pretty picture of her. I honestly didn’t like Harriet. But in this book she redeems herself and I learned why she acted the way she did. I was glad to read Harriet’s story. It all made sense then. The book is well written and kept me interested throughout.
It all started with a discovery on the phone bill. Harriet Lang found out her husband Richard had been making many middle of the night phone calls to his secretary. When she confronts Richard about the discovery and finds out he lost his job six months ago and has been confiding in his former secretary, Harriet’s world falls apart. Piece by piece, everything Harriet loved, from her prized home, to her car, the children’s after school activities, and even their horse, is stripped away. Harriet is forced to move into a three bedroom apartment at Willoughby Close which even means not every child gets their own bedroom as they were accustomed to. Richard doesn’t move with them, he gets a place in London where he can continue his job search.
While Harriet and her three children adjust to their new life, Harriet realizes her friends really weren’t the best of friends as she thought they were. They turned on her when they found out she didn’t have any money and she split up with her husband. She becomes friends with a couple of unlikely characters, one is her neighbor (from the previous book) who she didn’t think much of when she first met her and another is the eccentric elderly lady who owns Willoughby Manor. Harriet also comes to terms on what is going on in her marriage and does a lot of soul searching trying to figure out her next move. She doesn’t want to lose what she and Richard had and doesn’t want to break up the family, but she has trouble moving past what Richard has done. It was interesting to watch the story unfold. The book ended up in a way I didn’t predict.
If you read the previous book in this series, Harriet is mentioned many times and the author didn’t paint a pretty picture of her. I honestly didn’t like Harriet. But in this book she redeems herself and I learned why she acted the way she did. I was glad to read Harriet’s story. It all made sense then. The book is well written and kept me interested throughout.
March 17, 2017
Another great installment in the Willoughby Close series. Where the first two books seemed a bit more lighthearted and romantic, this one touches on deeper subjects. It didn’t have the romantic feel like the previous books did. It is more of a women’s fiction story about starting over after you lose everything.
It all started with a discovery on the phone bill. Harriet Lang found out her husband Richard had been making many middle of the night phone calls to his secretary. When she confronts Richard about the discovery and finds out he lost his job six months ago and has been confiding in his former secretary, Harriet’s world falls apart. Piece by piece, everything Harriet loved, from her prized home, to her car, the children’s after school activities, and even their horse, is stripped away. Harriet is forced to move into a three bedroom apartment at Willoughby Close which even means not every child gets their own bedroom as they were accustomed to. Richard doesn’t move with them, he gets a place in London where he can continue his job search.
While Harriet and her three children adjust to their new life, Harriet realizes her friends really weren’t the best of friends as she thought they were. They turned on her when they found out she didn’t have any money and she split up with her husband. She becomes friends with a couple of unlikely characters, one is her neighbor (from the previous book) who she didn’t think much of when she first met her and another is the eccentric elderly lady who owns Willoughby Manor. Harriet also comes to terms on what is going on in her marriage and does a lot of soul searching trying to figure out her next move. She doesn’t want to lose what she and Richard had and doesn’t want to break up the family, but she has trouble moving past what Richard has done. It was interesting to watch the story unfold. The book ended up in a way I didn’t predict.
If you read the previous book in this series, Harriet is mentioned many times and the author didn’t paint a pretty picture of her. I honestly didn’t like Harriet. But in this book she redeems herself and I learned why she acted the way she did. I was glad to read Harriet’s story. It all made sense then. The book is well written and kept me interested throughout.
It all started with a discovery on the phone bill. Harriet Lang found out her husband Richard had been making many middle of the night phone calls to his secretary. When she confronts Richard about the discovery and finds out he lost his job six months ago and has been confiding in his former secretary, Harriet’s world falls apart. Piece by piece, everything Harriet loved, from her prized home, to her car, the children’s after school activities, and even their horse, is stripped away. Harriet is forced to move into a three bedroom apartment at Willoughby Close which even means not every child gets their own bedroom as they were accustomed to. Richard doesn’t move with them, he gets a place in London where he can continue his job search.
While Harriet and her three children adjust to their new life, Harriet realizes her friends really weren’t the best of friends as she thought they were. They turned on her when they found out she didn’t have any money and she split up with her husband. She becomes friends with a couple of unlikely characters, one is her neighbor (from the previous book) who she didn’t think much of when she first met her and another is the eccentric elderly lady who owns Willoughby Manor. Harriet also comes to terms on what is going on in her marriage and does a lot of soul searching trying to figure out her next move. She doesn’t want to lose what she and Richard had and doesn’t want to break up the family, but she has trouble moving past what Richard has done. It was interesting to watch the story unfold. The book ended up in a way I didn’t predict.
If you read the previous book in this series, Harriet is mentioned many times and the author didn’t paint a pretty picture of her. I honestly didn’t like Harriet. But in this book she redeems herself and I learned why she acted the way she did. I was glad to read Harriet’s story. It all made sense then. The book is well written and kept me interested throughout.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews