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Salt Bay #1
Annie's Holiday by the Sea
When twenty-nine-year-old Annie Trebarwith receives an unexpected letter from a great-aunt she’s never known, she leaves her shoebox-sized flat in London and catches a train to the rugged Cornish coast.
Salt Bay is beautiful and Annie begins to kindle a bond with her great-aunt Alice. Even though there is zero phone signal and the locals – including the gorgeous but brooding Josh Pasco – can be decidedly grumpy at times, Annie starts to feel at home in Salt Bay.
Soon Annie’s love of music leads her to relaunch the Salt Bay Choral Society, and she’s surprised to see how just much the choir means to the community – and she even starts to break through Josh’s surly exterior…
But London is calling Annie back, and she has to make a decision. Give up her old life completely, or leave Salt Bay, her new-found family – and the choir – behind?
Annie’s Holiday by the Sea is a heart-warming story about family, belonging and the healing power of music, perfect for fans of Jo Thomas, Holly Martin and Carole Matthews.
Salt Bay is beautiful and Annie begins to kindle a bond with her great-aunt Alice. Even though there is zero phone signal and the locals – including the gorgeous but brooding Josh Pasco – can be decidedly grumpy at times, Annie starts to feel at home in Salt Bay.
Soon Annie’s love of music leads her to relaunch the Salt Bay Choral Society, and she’s surprised to see how just much the choir means to the community – and she even starts to break through Josh’s surly exterior…
But London is calling Annie back, and she has to make a decision. Give up her old life completely, or leave Salt Bay, her new-found family – and the choir – behind?
Annie’s Holiday by the Sea is a heart-warming story about family, belonging and the healing power of music, perfect for fans of Jo Thomas, Holly Martin and Carole Matthews.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2017
445 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Liz Eeles
17 books169 followersI live on the south coast of England with my family, and write heart-warming, emotional women's fiction and romantic comedies.
When I've notched up my daily word count, I enjoy reading, walking by the sea with friends, singing in a local choir, and watching TV. I love sci-fi programmes and still harbour a childhood crush on Captain Kirk.
When I've notched up my daily word count, I enjoy reading, walking by the sea with friends, singing in a local choir, and watching TV. I love sci-fi programmes and still harbour a childhood crush on Captain Kirk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 15, 2019
A lovely, cosy, comfort-read, recommended not only for the beach, but for any place in any weather.
The plot very much reminded me of romantic comedies (especially the film "New in Town" with Rene Zellweger) where posh city girl goes to the middle of nowhere, clashes almost right away with handsome, but belligerent local-yokel, thinks she can hardly wait to get away, but destiny has something altogether different in store, as you can guess.
And while this book, does not hold any surprises story-wise, it has still struck deeper chords with me than what this genre usually has to offer.
The MC, Annie Trebarwith is not someone to tie herself down with family, relationships or jobs. She is not very keen on the idea to leave London even for a short while and call on an ailing great-aunt, she did not even know existed, living in the back of beyond, in a tiny Cornish village. However, curiosity gets the better of her and she decides to pay a fleeting visit. She finds herself agreeing to stay on and take care of Alice until a permanent solution is found and she can go back to civilisation with proper phone signals and wifi. She is in for some surprises though as skeletons start falling out of the family closet, she meets a rather attractive local man (holding city-dwellers, but especially Londoners in contempt) and finds a new vocation of re-organising a once famous choir that dissolved 15 years ago due to a tragedy that concerned the whole village.
Annie is a truly likeable and relatable heroine & her background story of why she became such a drifter is well-explained and credible. We also get to know the village and its inhabitants whose diversity is refreshing and entertaining. My only complaint -hence the minus 1 star- is that we do not get enough detail about the choir and its doings. Once it is set up and the first / second rehearsal is described in detail, further progress gets totally glossed over and only mentioned as an afterthought sometimes. I wouldn't have minded, if the book had been a bit longer and we had been offered an insight into the development of the choir, how the most unlikely people grew into a community.
ARC received by the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange fro an honest review.
The plot very much reminded me of romantic comedies (especially the film "New in Town" with Rene Zellweger) where posh city girl goes to the middle of nowhere, clashes almost right away with handsome, but belligerent local-yokel, thinks she can hardly wait to get away, but destiny has something altogether different in store, as you can guess.
And while this book, does not hold any surprises story-wise, it has still struck deeper chords with me than what this genre usually has to offer.
The MC, Annie Trebarwith is not someone to tie herself down with family, relationships or jobs. She is not very keen on the idea to leave London even for a short while and call on an ailing great-aunt, she did not even know existed, living in the back of beyond, in a tiny Cornish village. However, curiosity gets the better of her and she decides to pay a fleeting visit. She finds herself agreeing to stay on and take care of Alice until a permanent solution is found and she can go back to civilisation with proper phone signals and wifi. She is in for some surprises though as skeletons start falling out of the family closet, she meets a rather attractive local man (holding city-dwellers, but especially Londoners in contempt) and finds a new vocation of re-organising a once famous choir that dissolved 15 years ago due to a tragedy that concerned the whole village.
Annie is a truly likeable and relatable heroine & her background story of why she became such a drifter is well-explained and credible. We also get to know the village and its inhabitants whose diversity is refreshing and entertaining. My only complaint -hence the minus 1 star- is that we do not get enough detail about the choir and its doings. Once it is set up and the first / second rehearsal is described in detail, further progress gets totally glossed over and only mentioned as an afterthought sometimes. I wouldn't have minded, if the book had been a bit longer and we had been offered an insight into the development of the choir, how the most unlikely people grew into a community.
ARC received by the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange fro an honest review.
April 19, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. It is happy and funny. Heartwarming and romantic. Full to the brim with wonderful characters. Great storyline and stunning scenery. Perfect for all. Must read. Wonderful.
May 31, 2017
5☆ Fabulous feel good book full of mystery
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Annie's Lovely Choir by the sea.
It has the perfect mix of mystery, romance, secrets, friendship, feel good tunes, funny moments and twists you don't see coming!
I devoured this book in 2days I just had to keep reading to find out the truth.
Annie is between jobs and she's just caught her boyfriend sleeping with he's work colleague.
So when a letter turns up she stuffs it into her bag... burning a hole she gives in and decides to read it.
Annie's Great Aunt Alice wishes to meet with Annie urgently and offers to pay the travel.
Annie decides to pack a case and meet her mysterious Aunt whom she knew nothing about.
So she heads to Tregavara House in Salt Bay, Cornwall.
Annie's Mum has passed away and as far as she is aware Alice is her only living relative left. Annie's Mum left Salt Bay when she became pregnant with Alice never making contact again.
On the way into Salt Bay Annie is nearly run off the road. She throws a stone at the car unaware that the she is about to meet this mysterious stranger again (Josh). He is about to turn Annie's world upside down.
Alice is frail and offers Annie a proposition she asks Annie to live with her and help her around the house in exchange for bed and board.
She tells Annie to think about it.
I am going to leave it there with the storyline as it's way too good for me to give anything away!
The only thing I will say is I loved all the characters except for Toby. He manipulative and slimey.
Josh is one of my favourite characters, He is Moody, handsome troubled and clearly has commitment issues. Well that is until he meets Annie.
Together they seem to change one and other.
Annie is the perfect female lead. She is headstrong and determined and Salt Bay is making an everlasting imprint on her heart!
Such a joy to read. Jam packed with mystery and secrets at every corner.
Liz has done a stunning job at making Salt Bay come to life oozing charm and charisma.
I felt like I was part of the village.
I think the 'choir ' story was simply perfect. Poignant and memorable for all the right reasons.
Which when you read the story you will understand my reasons for saying this.
I just want to add how beautifully Stunning the Front Cover is. A perfect representation of the charm Salt Bay has to offer!
The perfect Anytime read!!
This book would appeal to readers who love Chick Lit, family Secrets and Mystery, Music lovers, Romance, Women's Literature, possibly YA.
I can't recommend this book enough!!
Please do not let the idea of a choir put you off picking this gem up and reading it!
It has so much more to give.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Annie's Lovely Choir by the sea.
It has the perfect mix of mystery, romance, secrets, friendship, feel good tunes, funny moments and twists you don't see coming!
I devoured this book in 2days I just had to keep reading to find out the truth.
Annie is between jobs and she's just caught her boyfriend sleeping with he's work colleague.
So when a letter turns up she stuffs it into her bag... burning a hole she gives in and decides to read it.
Annie's Great Aunt Alice wishes to meet with Annie urgently and offers to pay the travel.
Annie decides to pack a case and meet her mysterious Aunt whom she knew nothing about.
So she heads to Tregavara House in Salt Bay, Cornwall.
Annie's Mum has passed away and as far as she is aware Alice is her only living relative left. Annie's Mum left Salt Bay when she became pregnant with Alice never making contact again.
On the way into Salt Bay Annie is nearly run off the road. She throws a stone at the car unaware that the she is about to meet this mysterious stranger again (Josh). He is about to turn Annie's world upside down.
Alice is frail and offers Annie a proposition she asks Annie to live with her and help her around the house in exchange for bed and board.
She tells Annie to think about it.
I am going to leave it there with the storyline as it's way too good for me to give anything away!
The only thing I will say is I loved all the characters except for Toby. He manipulative and slimey.
Josh is one of my favourite characters, He is Moody, handsome troubled and clearly has commitment issues. Well that is until he meets Annie.
Together they seem to change one and other.
Annie is the perfect female lead. She is headstrong and determined and Salt Bay is making an everlasting imprint on her heart!
Such a joy to read. Jam packed with mystery and secrets at every corner.
Liz has done a stunning job at making Salt Bay come to life oozing charm and charisma.
I felt like I was part of the village.
I think the 'choir ' story was simply perfect. Poignant and memorable for all the right reasons.
Which when you read the story you will understand my reasons for saying this.
I just want to add how beautifully Stunning the Front Cover is. A perfect representation of the charm Salt Bay has to offer!
The perfect Anytime read!!
This book would appeal to readers who love Chick Lit, family Secrets and Mystery, Music lovers, Romance, Women's Literature, possibly YA.
I can't recommend this book enough!!
Please do not let the idea of a choir put you off picking this gem up and reading it!
It has so much more to give.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
May 23, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
Have you ever picked up a book at just exactly the right time, it’s like the stars align and everything just fits into place perfectly? That’s what happened when I picked up this splendid book, it was the breathe of fresh I needed at exactly the right moment and I absolutely fell in love.
Annie was the type of character that I formed a bond with right away, she’s so well formed that it was very easy for me to imagine her leaping from the pages and entering my real life. Oh how I wish she would, I just adored her. She’s very closed off and likes to keep to herself as she doesn’t really believe in the idea of family. It was always just her and her mom and now that her mom has passed away, she’s perfectly content on her own and knows that forming deep bonds and meaningful relationships only leads to headaches and trouble. When she decides to go meet her aunt for the first time she really goes out of curiosity and expects that it’ll be a quick trip and then she’ll get back to her life in London. But she didn’t anticipate meeting an irresistible cast of colorful characters in Salt Bay.
The characters were all absolutely engaging and lovable (with the exception of one) and I couldn’t possibly pick my favorite, I equally enjoyed all of them. Kayla is an Aussie barmaid with a wicked sense of humor and loads of charm. Josh is a moody hunk who tends to rub Annie the wrong way and she refers to him as a Cornish pirate which while hilarious, conjures up quite an alluring image. Alice is her aunt and was a dear, sweet woman and the residents of Salt Bay were all highly eccentric and wholly entertaining.
There were some surprises as far as the plot line is concerned as there was a secret family history that comes to light as well as enough warm moments to leave me feeling cozy and content. Despite the title the choir isn’t the sole focus, rather it’s more about Annie and how her ideas about family and life in general shift and of course there is a cute romance. It was a totally outstanding debut that made me giggle and maybe even tear up a few times, I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a super fun, light read.
Have you ever picked up a book at just exactly the right time, it’s like the stars align and everything just fits into place perfectly? That’s what happened when I picked up this splendid book, it was the breathe of fresh I needed at exactly the right moment and I absolutely fell in love.
Annie was the type of character that I formed a bond with right away, she’s so well formed that it was very easy for me to imagine her leaping from the pages and entering my real life. Oh how I wish she would, I just adored her. She’s very closed off and likes to keep to herself as she doesn’t really believe in the idea of family. It was always just her and her mom and now that her mom has passed away, she’s perfectly content on her own and knows that forming deep bonds and meaningful relationships only leads to headaches and trouble. When she decides to go meet her aunt for the first time she really goes out of curiosity and expects that it’ll be a quick trip and then she’ll get back to her life in London. But she didn’t anticipate meeting an irresistible cast of colorful characters in Salt Bay.
The characters were all absolutely engaging and lovable (with the exception of one) and I couldn’t possibly pick my favorite, I equally enjoyed all of them. Kayla is an Aussie barmaid with a wicked sense of humor and loads of charm. Josh is a moody hunk who tends to rub Annie the wrong way and she refers to him as a Cornish pirate which while hilarious, conjures up quite an alluring image. Alice is her aunt and was a dear, sweet woman and the residents of Salt Bay were all highly eccentric and wholly entertaining.
There were some surprises as far as the plot line is concerned as there was a secret family history that comes to light as well as enough warm moments to leave me feeling cozy and content. Despite the title the choir isn’t the sole focus, rather it’s more about Annie and how her ideas about family and life in general shift and of course there is a cute romance. It was a totally outstanding debut that made me giggle and maybe even tear up a few times, I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a super fun, light read.
May 20, 2017
I have to admit from the title and book cover I had envisioned the story to be one that might be aimed for the more romantic and older readers among us. What I got though was a wonderfully modern, fun filled and engaging read.
The setting was just wonderful. I was very envious of Annie. It felt a bit like Escape To The Country. Alice’s house I was constantly visualising it in my head and was wishing that I could go and join both characters by staying there.
There are so many great characters in this book. From the frail and lovely Alice, the fun loving Aussie Kayla, the love interest Josh, even the slime ball Toby. I loved each and every one of them as they all brought so much to the story.
The story mainly focuses on Annie and her families past. I was slightly worried that it might be mainly to do with the choir but the choir is actually very much in the background in the story which for me I personally preferred. I did like the reasoning for the choir and the thread to do with that as it is one that is very heart warming.
Annie’s Lovely Choir By The Sea is very much a breath of fresh air. I think it will certainly hold some surprises in between its pages for its readers. Right from the very start I knew I was going to love this book and I wasn’t wrong. This is without a doubt a fabulous read and one that will no doubt get this author a huge following as I for one can not wait to read more by her.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The setting was just wonderful. I was very envious of Annie. It felt a bit like Escape To The Country. Alice’s house I was constantly visualising it in my head and was wishing that I could go and join both characters by staying there.
There are so many great characters in this book. From the frail and lovely Alice, the fun loving Aussie Kayla, the love interest Josh, even the slime ball Toby. I loved each and every one of them as they all brought so much to the story.
The story mainly focuses on Annie and her families past. I was slightly worried that it might be mainly to do with the choir but the choir is actually very much in the background in the story which for me I personally preferred. I did like the reasoning for the choir and the thread to do with that as it is one that is very heart warming.
Annie’s Lovely Choir By The Sea is very much a breath of fresh air. I think it will certainly hold some surprises in between its pages for its readers. Right from the very start I knew I was going to love this book and I wasn’t wrong. This is without a doubt a fabulous read and one that will no doubt get this author a huge following as I for one can not wait to read more by her.
My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
March 22, 2017
I absolutely ADORED this beautiful book! Loved Annie and all the colourful characters. By the end of the book, I felt I knew them all, having lived in Annie's shoes for the duration of the book. The author transports you and by the end you are transformed in some way, feeling warm and happy, a smile on your face. Salt Bay comes alive in this book and I wanted to move there, be part of the community. I loved this beautiful story and I absolutely cannot wait to read more by this author. Would highly recommend it to everyone.
September 6, 2017
4,5 stars
When Annie received an unexpected letter from her great-aunt Alice she didn't even know about, she's a bit hesitant to even open it, but after reading it, she decides to pay a visit to Salt Bay. Annie doesn't have a family in London and she doesn't really like the idea of having a family or long term relations with anyone. She decided to visit Salt Bay for a short period of time, but as the circumstances require, she stays for a bit longer. At first she's a bit taken aback with the place and people, but the more she spends time in Salt Bay, it starts to feel like home. Annie spend a lot of time with Alice and also Kayla, who is a barmaid from Australia. Annie also meets a local man Josh and they both have their own reasons not to get along so well at first, but after getting to know one another more, they start warming up to each other. At first it seems that they come from different worlds, they have more in common that you'd have thought.
It was a lovely debut novel. It sucked me in from the beginning and I was engrossed until I turned the last page. What I loved about this book was the small but tight community, well developed characters and the plot never got dull, there was always something going on that sparked your interest even more. As I have already said, I very much enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read the next book that takes place during Christmas.
When Annie received an unexpected letter from her great-aunt Alice she didn't even know about, she's a bit hesitant to even open it, but after reading it, she decides to pay a visit to Salt Bay. Annie doesn't have a family in London and she doesn't really like the idea of having a family or long term relations with anyone. She decided to visit Salt Bay for a short period of time, but as the circumstances require, she stays for a bit longer. At first she's a bit taken aback with the place and people, but the more she spends time in Salt Bay, it starts to feel like home. Annie spend a lot of time with Alice and also Kayla, who is a barmaid from Australia. Annie also meets a local man Josh and they both have their own reasons not to get along so well at first, but after getting to know one another more, they start warming up to each other. At first it seems that they come from different worlds, they have more in common that you'd have thought.
It was a lovely debut novel. It sucked me in from the beginning and I was engrossed until I turned the last page. What I loved about this book was the small but tight community, well developed characters and the plot never got dull, there was always something going on that sparked your interest even more. As I have already said, I very much enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read the next book that takes place during Christmas.
March 20, 2017
I thought this book was fabulous. I loved Annies story of how she went from being on her own in busy London to finding lost family in lovely Cornwall.
Annie is a kind and caring person, the way she adjusts to life in Cornwall is so natural. She finds out about the old choir and sets it upon herself to revive it and give the village something to enjoy.
Annie struggles throughout this book on whether to remain in Cornwall or return to London and you are left guessing until the end on what she decides to do.
This was such a beautiful heartwarming story. 5 Stars!
Annie is a kind and caring person, the way she adjusts to life in Cornwall is so natural. She finds out about the old choir and sets it upon herself to revive it and give the village something to enjoy.
Annie struggles throughout this book on whether to remain in Cornwall or return to London and you are left guessing until the end on what she decides to do.
This was such a beautiful heartwarming story. 5 Stars!
April 12, 2017
I absolutely adored this book and I definitely feel it is now one of my favourites of all time. So thank you to the Bookouture, Liz Eeles and to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read it in return of an honest review.
First of all, can we please appreciate how beautiful this cover is? Everything works well together, the colours, the location, everything draws you in and makes you want to read it (well, I know this cover done this to me anyway!) I thought it was brilliant from start to finish. There was just enough humour and seriousness to balance the book perfectly and I think Liz is an amazing author if this book is anything to go by!
It follows Annie, a lone wolf, who breaks up with boyfriend Stuart and finds out she has a great-aunt who she's never met before that lives in Cornwall (described as a beautiful place and I'm now itching to go there!). Annie, who's used to being on her own, is reluctant to go at first, but after finishing with her job, decides that she'll give it a go.
When Annie arrives in Cornwall, she has a run in with moody Josh Pasco and it sets the spirits high with what she expects for the rest of her trip visiting her great-aunt. Whilst meeting new friends along the way and experiencing new things, Annie sets up a choir but little does she know that this short trip is going to change her outlook on life forever and not even Annie is expecting the outcome!
This book is heartwarming and makes you feel warm and fuzzy. I never really thought that I would really enjoy a book about a choir but I really did! I'm so pleased that I got the chance to read this book because it honestly is so good. It's funny and lighthearted and exactly what I look for in a Chick Lit book.
First of all, can we please appreciate how beautiful this cover is? Everything works well together, the colours, the location, everything draws you in and makes you want to read it (well, I know this cover done this to me anyway!) I thought it was brilliant from start to finish. There was just enough humour and seriousness to balance the book perfectly and I think Liz is an amazing author if this book is anything to go by!
It follows Annie, a lone wolf, who breaks up with boyfriend Stuart and finds out she has a great-aunt who she's never met before that lives in Cornwall (described as a beautiful place and I'm now itching to go there!). Annie, who's used to being on her own, is reluctant to go at first, but after finishing with her job, decides that she'll give it a go.
When Annie arrives in Cornwall, she has a run in with moody Josh Pasco and it sets the spirits high with what she expects for the rest of her trip visiting her great-aunt. Whilst meeting new friends along the way and experiencing new things, Annie sets up a choir but little does she know that this short trip is going to change her outlook on life forever and not even Annie is expecting the outcome!
This book is heartwarming and makes you feel warm and fuzzy. I never really thought that I would really enjoy a book about a choir but I really did! I'm so pleased that I got the chance to read this book because it honestly is so good. It's funny and lighthearted and exactly what I look for in a Chick Lit book.
April 6, 2017
The Trebarwith family have been part of Salt Bay in Cornwall for quite a time and a member of the family is about to come home to this place she has never been. Annie Trebarwith receives a letter from her great -aunt offering a business proposition, a great aunt that she didn't know existed because Annie's mother left Salt Bay many years before when she became a pregnant teenager. At a loose end having just finished another contract position as a P.A, Annie travels to what she feels is the end of the earth but soon discovers that there is more then meets the eye in Salt Bay.
Annie soon meets the fabulous Kayla, an Aussie earning her keep in the local pub, as well as Josh, a dark brooding teacher, who is no fan of the Trebarwith family. She also finds out that she has another relation in the form of a third cousin, Toby, who does not appear to be overly pleased that Annie may be staying awhile with Great Aunt Alice, who is not in the best of health. It is not long before Annie is finding her feet even becoming involved in putting back together the Salt Bay Choir which was disbanded many years before after a tragedy stole the lives of the seven of the members.
This is a delightful story with a wonderful group of characters that you become quite attached to as you travel with Annie through her days in Salt Bay. I absolutely wanted to walk the streets and have a drink in the pub served by Kayla. Great Aunt Alice was an interesting soul who really tried to rebuild a relationship with Annie and welcome her home. The romance (yes, with Josh) was quite believable and that first kiss was just right. It was actually some of the other relationships that develop as the choir is rebuilt and the town comes together that really captured my attention. I can't wait to go back and visit again as the author has promised another tale for Annie and her friends.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
Annie soon meets the fabulous Kayla, an Aussie earning her keep in the local pub, as well as Josh, a dark brooding teacher, who is no fan of the Trebarwith family. She also finds out that she has another relation in the form of a third cousin, Toby, who does not appear to be overly pleased that Annie may be staying awhile with Great Aunt Alice, who is not in the best of health. It is not long before Annie is finding her feet even becoming involved in putting back together the Salt Bay Choir which was disbanded many years before after a tragedy stole the lives of the seven of the members.
This is a delightful story with a wonderful group of characters that you become quite attached to as you travel with Annie through her days in Salt Bay. I absolutely wanted to walk the streets and have a drink in the pub served by Kayla. Great Aunt Alice was an interesting soul who really tried to rebuild a relationship with Annie and welcome her home. The romance (yes, with Josh) was quite believable and that first kiss was just right. It was actually some of the other relationships that develop as the choir is rebuilt and the town comes together that really captured my attention. I can't wait to go back and visit again as the author has promised another tale for Annie and her friends.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
April 27, 2018
A fabulously warm-hearted romantic comedy!! Annie Trebarwith is thrown out of her comfort zone when she temporarily leaves her tiny flatshare in London for the windswept remoteness of Salt Bay in Cornwall. I fell in love with the characters in this wonderful novel - feisty, quirky Annie who presents such a tough exterior, moody Josh who barely knows how to crack a smile, and all the other personalities in idyllic Salt Bay. This is the perfect escapist beach read and I've already downloaded the rest of the series. Loved it!
May 18, 2017
Annie Trebarwith has no interest in “sticking with” anything that could potentially cause her grief: she has no time for relationships, no family, no roots and no long-term thoughts. Ever. It suits her, and she is busy convincing us (and perhaps herself) through the early chapters. While I liked Annie, and her belief in no ties makes sense after losnig her mother and not being aware of (or informed about) any other family, it was evident from her determination and repeated ‘I don’t attach” statements that a change is needed. She’s been carrying an envelope from a solicitor in Cornwall, offering her a connection to a great aunt she never knew about – and in a miasma of self-pity and at loose ends, she makes the call.
Tregavara House is in the little village of Salt Bay, overlooking the sea. The Trebarwith family home, austere and rather in need of work, the house is occupied by Alice, Annie’s great aunt. Arriving on her doorstep after a long trudge down the hill into town, a near-miss encounter with a mini a rock and a grumpy driver, no phone service and even less enthusiasm, Annie is most definitely out of her comfort zone. But a good night’s sleep, a friendly Aussie transplant, finding wi-fi and a thoroughly despicable passive-aggressive distant cousin, Annie’s outlook on family, Cornwall and her next step are all up for discussion. But, aside from her own uncertainties about her future and place in the world, Annie discovers a tragedy that came to the little town, and no one seems to be willing to share information.
From what I found to be a slower-paced start, the story picks up tremendously once Annie arrives in Cornwall. From her discoveries from and about Alice to her new friend Kayla and her back and forth with Josh, as well as other residents sharing information about her family and all of the goings-on in town, this is a hard to put down story that combines multiple elements, and does so in ways that are organic and feel possible. From discovering one’s own need for family and roots, to helping the town start to heal through music and rebuilding the choir so tragically lost to the sea, the story has plenty of moments to love, laugh and puzzle out. I’m curious to see more about the choir and Annie’s adjustments into life at Salt Bay, and this was a lovely start.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Tregavara House is in the little village of Salt Bay, overlooking the sea. The Trebarwith family home, austere and rather in need of work, the house is occupied by Alice, Annie’s great aunt. Arriving on her doorstep after a long trudge down the hill into town, a near-miss encounter with a mini a rock and a grumpy driver, no phone service and even less enthusiasm, Annie is most definitely out of her comfort zone. But a good night’s sleep, a friendly Aussie transplant, finding wi-fi and a thoroughly despicable passive-aggressive distant cousin, Annie’s outlook on family, Cornwall and her next step are all up for discussion. But, aside from her own uncertainties about her future and place in the world, Annie discovers a tragedy that came to the little town, and no one seems to be willing to share information.
From what I found to be a slower-paced start, the story picks up tremendously once Annie arrives in Cornwall. From her discoveries from and about Alice to her new friend Kayla and her back and forth with Josh, as well as other residents sharing information about her family and all of the goings-on in town, this is a hard to put down story that combines multiple elements, and does so in ways that are organic and feel possible. From discovering one’s own need for family and roots, to helping the town start to heal through music and rebuilding the choir so tragically lost to the sea, the story has plenty of moments to love, laugh and puzzle out. I’m curious to see more about the choir and Annie’s adjustments into life at Salt Bay, and this was a lovely start.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
December 3, 2017
Annie thinks she's alone in the world. She's twenty-nine years old and before her mother passed away it was just the two of them. When Annie receives a letter from Alice, who's apparently her great-aunt, she's surprised. She didn't know she had any family. Annie is a city girl and Alice lives in Salt Bay, a small Cornish coastal town. Alice asks Annie if she wants to stay for a while. Can Annie adjust to the much slower pace of a small village?
Annie doesn't know if she belongs in Salt Bay, but she wants to give it a try. She even has the idea to revive the local choir, which stopped existing after a heartbreaking tragedy. The choir used to mean a lot to the people in Salt Bay and Annie hopes she's the right person to do it justice. It means she has the chance to spend more time with Josh, a handsome, but grumpy man. Is he actually hiding a nice personality underneath the brooding attitude? Will Alice, Josh and the choir be enough to convince Annie to stay in Cornwall or is the appeal of London too great for her to give the hometown of her ancestors a chance?
Annie's Holiday by the Sea is a wonderful story. I immediately liked Annie. She's a bit lonely because she doesn't have many loved ones, but she always makes the best of every situation. She's a fighter, even if she'd rather run away or hide. I loved her fierceness and the kindness underneath. Annie gives her great-aunt Alice a chance, even though she doesn't know her, and she also sees through Josh's surly facade. I was curious to find out what would happen when Annie starts getting attached to people. It's an interesting idea for a story and I loved Liz Eeles's execution. She gives the story the exact right amount of depth and Annie's reactions give it a genuine feel.
Salt Bay is a lovely little town. It might seem a little boring at first, but a lot is going on, the inhabitants are fascinating and the surroundings are beautiful. I liked the interaction between the people, I enjoyed reading about everyone's adventures and it was fun to see how Annie finds her place in a village where it's hard to keep anything a secret. Annie's Holiday by the Sea is a fun feelgood story filled with charm, beautiful songs and gorgeous main characters.
Annie doesn't know if she belongs in Salt Bay, but she wants to give it a try. She even has the idea to revive the local choir, which stopped existing after a heartbreaking tragedy. The choir used to mean a lot to the people in Salt Bay and Annie hopes she's the right person to do it justice. It means she has the chance to spend more time with Josh, a handsome, but grumpy man. Is he actually hiding a nice personality underneath the brooding attitude? Will Alice, Josh and the choir be enough to convince Annie to stay in Cornwall or is the appeal of London too great for her to give the hometown of her ancestors a chance?
Annie's Holiday by the Sea is a wonderful story. I immediately liked Annie. She's a bit lonely because she doesn't have many loved ones, but she always makes the best of every situation. She's a fighter, even if she'd rather run away or hide. I loved her fierceness and the kindness underneath. Annie gives her great-aunt Alice a chance, even though she doesn't know her, and she also sees through Josh's surly facade. I was curious to find out what would happen when Annie starts getting attached to people. It's an interesting idea for a story and I loved Liz Eeles's execution. She gives the story the exact right amount of depth and Annie's reactions give it a genuine feel.
Salt Bay is a lovely little town. It might seem a little boring at first, but a lot is going on, the inhabitants are fascinating and the surroundings are beautiful. I liked the interaction between the people, I enjoyed reading about everyone's adventures and it was fun to see how Annie finds her place in a village where it's hard to keep anything a secret. Annie's Holiday by the Sea is a fun feelgood story filled with charm, beautiful songs and gorgeous main characters.
June 1, 2017
This review was first published at M's Bookshelf - http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.com
A commitment phobic heroine who detests the countryside... Not particularly traits I can relate to so I have to say I was a bit hesitant at the start of this. But all of a sudden I found myself, hours later and more than half of the story finished, apparently completely fallen in love with the Salt Bay and it's inhabitants - I hadn't been able to put the book down.
I was drawn to Liz Eeles' Salt Bay from the moment Annie arrived. It sets the scene for a wonderful, tight little community where - in the end - everyone looks out for one another. With a loud, bubbly Aussie best friend and an Aidan Turner look-alike neighbour, the countryside is proving a lot more interesting and surprising than Londoner Annie would have thought. As she gets to know the people in Salt Bay better, the sense of family and community is really strong and is bound to rub off on her... right?! How could you not love a place like Salt Bay...
Love, friendship, family, loss, grief and hope all come together in this lovely read.
Not the most original or memorable of stories, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Annie's Lovely Choir By The Sea. A fun, relaxing read that had me blink away a couple of tears at the end.
There might be a bit much title for me, to be honest, but the cute summery cover makes up for the blurb-like-title.
A commitment phobic heroine who detests the countryside... Not particularly traits I can relate to so I have to say I was a bit hesitant at the start of this. But all of a sudden I found myself, hours later and more than half of the story finished, apparently completely fallen in love with the Salt Bay and it's inhabitants - I hadn't been able to put the book down.
I was drawn to Liz Eeles' Salt Bay from the moment Annie arrived. It sets the scene for a wonderful, tight little community where - in the end - everyone looks out for one another. With a loud, bubbly Aussie best friend and an Aidan Turner look-alike neighbour, the countryside is proving a lot more interesting and surprising than Londoner Annie would have thought. As she gets to know the people in Salt Bay better, the sense of family and community is really strong and is bound to rub off on her... right?! How could you not love a place like Salt Bay...
Love, friendship, family, loss, grief and hope all come together in this lovely read.
Not the most original or memorable of stories, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Annie's Lovely Choir By The Sea. A fun, relaxing read that had me blink away a couple of tears at the end.
There might be a bit much title for me, to be honest, but the cute summery cover makes up for the blurb-like-title.
June 1, 2017
*Book provided by the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I absolutely adored the sound of this book from the start. A choir and the sea, sounds like the perfect combination for me.
The story follows Annie Trebarwith, who lives in London, is a PA and unexpectedly gets a letter from her great-aunt in Cornwall. She never knew her great-aunt Alice, but decides to pay her a visit in Salt Bay, by the coast in Cornwall.
I fell in love with Salt Bay immediately. Liz Eeles has such a lovely writing voice and she described the setting in a beautiful way.
Annie needs time to adjust though. There is no wi-fi and the village is really small. She builds a relationship with Alice and learns a lot about Salt Bay, the villagers and previous events. In the village she also meets Kayla, an Australian, who becomes a great friend. Kayla gets part of her story told as well, which was really refreshing.
Then there is John Pasco. To be honest: I didn’t know what to think about him at first, but that changed, because we got to know him better. He is actually really sweet and passionate about several things.
Annie needs time to figure him out as well and her feelings are just a very confused bundle of thoughts.
The thing I liked most about the book: the choir! Annie decides to form the choir and it’s great to read rehearsals, conducting (also John yes), the songs etc. It just gives me a warm feeling, because I sing in a choir too.
Annie still has a life in London though, so she has to figure out what she really wants in life. Her journey is an up and down, but very exciting to read about.
This book gives you happy, warm and much more, it’s a great summer read and I really want to read more books by Liz Eeles now.
March 25, 2018
I loved this book! It’s about a young woman who has no family or ties and discovers family in Cornwall along with a desire to belong. I’m glad I listened to my GR friends xx
May 8, 2017
If you are looking for a story including long lost relatives, deep family secrets, a lovely older woman, one villainous man, one gorgeous guy, an Aussie barmaid, a lovely Cornish coastal location, and a choir, then you have come to the right place, as Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea has all that and more.
Long lost relatives - Annie recieves a letter out of the blue from her Great Aunt Alice who she didnt even know existed, inviting her down to Cornwall, to spend some time with her. Since Alice's mum died she ha had no family and until now has lived a nomadic life in London, temping and moving from flat to flat. She really isn't sure how to deal with unexpected family but curiosity trumps nervousness.
Deep family secrets - ah well if I told you about these in any detail, I would spoil elements of the book. However by virtue of the fact that Alice herself was a surprise to Annie, anything Alice says about the big family rift will be a revelation.
A lovely older woman - great aunt Alice is exactly that, she is in frail health and is determined to have Annie live in Salt Bay with her on a more permanent basis, whereas Annie isn't as sure.
One villainous man - within the first few mentions of this character, my hackles were well and truly raised and it turns out with good reason. There is just something about the way he acts and his attitude in general towards Salt Bay that really annoyed me.
Whereas my one gorgeous guy - well he is a typical Cornish hunk, quite moody and is determined to hate Annie due to the family she is a part of. He and Annie don't get off the smoothest of starts, and I loved seeing their dynamic. He also seems to be an arch rival of the villainous man!
An Aussie barmaid - Kayla who takes Annie under her wing to show her the sights of Salt Bay. She is a breath of fresh air, and I loved any scene she was part of.
A lovely Cornish coastal location - welcome to Salt Bay, where is seems to rain a lot, but on the nice days it has stunning views, and beaches, a cream tea shop, the local pub and a whole group of inhabitants that would be best described as salt of the earth people. I love reading books set in Cornwall, and this definitely matched in with my previous fictional trips to the county.
And last but not least there is the Choral Society, which Kayla and Annie decide to resurrect. Although you don't really see much in the way of the practices, you can't help but get a good feel for just what it is doing for the community in Salt Bay, and how it will continue to affect people's lives.
Ultimately Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is an all around entertaining story with various threads running through it. I loved the reasoning behind the Choral Society's reformation, and found the whole book to be a pleasurable reading experience. Brilliant debut and I'm already looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Thanks you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Long lost relatives - Annie recieves a letter out of the blue from her Great Aunt Alice who she didnt even know existed, inviting her down to Cornwall, to spend some time with her. Since Alice's mum died she ha had no family and until now has lived a nomadic life in London, temping and moving from flat to flat. She really isn't sure how to deal with unexpected family but curiosity trumps nervousness.
Deep family secrets - ah well if I told you about these in any detail, I would spoil elements of the book. However by virtue of the fact that Alice herself was a surprise to Annie, anything Alice says about the big family rift will be a revelation.
A lovely older woman - great aunt Alice is exactly that, she is in frail health and is determined to have Annie live in Salt Bay with her on a more permanent basis, whereas Annie isn't as sure.
One villainous man - within the first few mentions of this character, my hackles were well and truly raised and it turns out with good reason. There is just something about the way he acts and his attitude in general towards Salt Bay that really annoyed me.
Whereas my one gorgeous guy - well he is a typical Cornish hunk, quite moody and is determined to hate Annie due to the family she is a part of. He and Annie don't get off the smoothest of starts, and I loved seeing their dynamic. He also seems to be an arch rival of the villainous man!
An Aussie barmaid - Kayla who takes Annie under her wing to show her the sights of Salt Bay. She is a breath of fresh air, and I loved any scene she was part of.
A lovely Cornish coastal location - welcome to Salt Bay, where is seems to rain a lot, but on the nice days it has stunning views, and beaches, a cream tea shop, the local pub and a whole group of inhabitants that would be best described as salt of the earth people. I love reading books set in Cornwall, and this definitely matched in with my previous fictional trips to the county.
And last but not least there is the Choral Society, which Kayla and Annie decide to resurrect. Although you don't really see much in the way of the practices, you can't help but get a good feel for just what it is doing for the community in Salt Bay, and how it will continue to affect people's lives.
Ultimately Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is an all around entertaining story with various threads running through it. I loved the reasoning behind the Choral Society's reformation, and found the whole book to be a pleasurable reading experience. Brilliant debut and I'm already looking forward to the next installment in the series.
Thanks you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
May 19, 2017
Having read quite a few books set in Cornwall I have really fallen in love with this magical place, so I was delighted that this novel would take me to this idyllic setting again. Hilarious from the start, I immediately connected with Annie and from the very first page, I was hooked.
Annie Trebarwith doesn't like complications or commitment but when she finds herself boyfriendless, jobless, and living with a carefree student, she can't stop thinking about a letter that could change everything. For her entire life, it was just Annie and her mother and ever since her mom died, Annie has happily accepted the fact that she has no family - family means relationships and that always spells trouble for her. So when she receives a letter from her Great-Aunt, Alice Gowan, who lives in Cornwall, Annie is thrown for a loop, but her natural curiosity takes over and she finds herself travelling to beautiful Cornwall.
But when she arrives it is nothing like she expects. For one thing, it seems to rain 90% of the time, she almost gets knocked down by an infuriating, brooding driver, who also happens to be sexy as sin, there is no Wifi, and Alice wants Annie to stay, which is just not possible. Annie starts to learn secrets about her family and the tragic story of the Salt Bay Choral Society, but it is only when she revives the choir that she begins to establish real friendships and feelings for many of the people in this nosy community. She knows it will hurt when she leaves them behind to return to her real life in London. But she cannot stay. It was never in her plans...
ANNIE'S LOVELY CHOIR BY THE SEA by Liz Eeles is such a charming, heartwarming and enjoyable read about love, hope, and opening yourself up to happiness. Annie is such a funny and wonderful character, and I love her honesty as she traverses the ups and downs throughout this story. Annie fears the hurt and vulnerability that comes along with belonging to somewhere and someone and when she revives the Salt Bay choir, we watch as she slowly takes down her guard little by little.
Josh, Alice, Kayla, and the many other captivating characters in this novel are all equally as compelling and I really couldn't get enough of the Salt Bay community. ANNIE'S LOVELY CHOIR BY THE SEA by Liz Eeles is everything you want in a contemporary novel, and it's sharp wit and excellent narrative makes it truly shine. I can't wait to return to Salt Bay. Go and buy this book!!!!!
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
Annie Trebarwith doesn't like complications or commitment but when she finds herself boyfriendless, jobless, and living with a carefree student, she can't stop thinking about a letter that could change everything. For her entire life, it was just Annie and her mother and ever since her mom died, Annie has happily accepted the fact that she has no family - family means relationships and that always spells trouble for her. So when she receives a letter from her Great-Aunt, Alice Gowan, who lives in Cornwall, Annie is thrown for a loop, but her natural curiosity takes over and she finds herself travelling to beautiful Cornwall.
But when she arrives it is nothing like she expects. For one thing, it seems to rain 90% of the time, she almost gets knocked down by an infuriating, brooding driver, who also happens to be sexy as sin, there is no Wifi, and Alice wants Annie to stay, which is just not possible. Annie starts to learn secrets about her family and the tragic story of the Salt Bay Choral Society, but it is only when she revives the choir that she begins to establish real friendships and feelings for many of the people in this nosy community. She knows it will hurt when she leaves them behind to return to her real life in London. But she cannot stay. It was never in her plans...
ANNIE'S LOVELY CHOIR BY THE SEA by Liz Eeles is such a charming, heartwarming and enjoyable read about love, hope, and opening yourself up to happiness. Annie is such a funny and wonderful character, and I love her honesty as she traverses the ups and downs throughout this story. Annie fears the hurt and vulnerability that comes along with belonging to somewhere and someone and when she revives the Salt Bay choir, we watch as she slowly takes down her guard little by little.
Josh, Alice, Kayla, and the many other captivating characters in this novel are all equally as compelling and I really couldn't get enough of the Salt Bay community. ANNIE'S LOVELY CHOIR BY THE SEA by Liz Eeles is everything you want in a contemporary novel, and it's sharp wit and excellent narrative makes it truly shine. I can't wait to return to Salt Bay. Go and buy this book!!!!!
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
March 18, 2018
I went into this half-expecting a sort of knock-off of The Chilbury Ladies' Choir, set in the present. I had a moment's hesitation on seeing use of the present tense. I hesitated – for a minute. And within a couple of pages all doubts and expectations fizzed away, and I was just enjoying the thing wholeheartedly.
Yes, sure, there are echoes of other books. It's about a young woman who goes reluctantly to see an elderly relative out of duty, grumps about it for some time, makes a bad first impression in a few different directions, and slowly has her shell cracked wide open by the place and its people and the music they all make. It's all been done before in one combination or another.
Doesn't matter.
It does not matter how many other people might or might not have used an idea before you if you can use it to the utmost – can milk it for all the humor and genuine feeling that can be squeezed out of it. There are reasons some basic plotlines are used a lot – it's because they can be good foundations for great stories. If you can weave it through with vivid and real dialogue, vivid and real characters, a vivid and real setting – it almost doesn't matter at all what the basic plot is. And Liz Eeles has infused this book with dialogue, characters, and setting that embody all the synonyms Word gives me for "vivid": bright, vibrant, colorful, brilliant …
Oh, here's a good example: "
Kayla beams with delight and gives Roger a huge hug. ‘Aw, you’re not so bad for a grumpy bastard Pom.’ ‘Gerroff,’ growls Roger, going pink but looking pleased. ‘You’re daft as a brush.’
It's funny; it's heart-breaking. The characters will stay with me for a long time (especially since I absolutely expect to reread these books). What can I say? I loved this.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
Yes, sure, there are echoes of other books. It's about a young woman who goes reluctantly to see an elderly relative out of duty, grumps about it for some time, makes a bad first impression in a few different directions, and slowly has her shell cracked wide open by the place and its people and the music they all make. It's all been done before in one combination or another.
Doesn't matter.
It does not matter how many other people might or might not have used an idea before you if you can use it to the utmost – can milk it for all the humor and genuine feeling that can be squeezed out of it. There are reasons some basic plotlines are used a lot – it's because they can be good foundations for great stories. If you can weave it through with vivid and real dialogue, vivid and real characters, a vivid and real setting – it almost doesn't matter at all what the basic plot is. And Liz Eeles has infused this book with dialogue, characters, and setting that embody all the synonyms Word gives me for "vivid": bright, vibrant, colorful, brilliant …
Oh, here's a good example: "
Kayla beams with delight and gives Roger a huge hug. ‘Aw, you’re not so bad for a grumpy bastard Pom.’ ‘Gerroff,’ growls Roger, going pink but looking pleased. ‘You’re daft as a brush.’
It's funny; it's heart-breaking. The characters will stay with me for a long time (especially since I absolutely expect to reread these books). What can I say? I loved this.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
May 28, 2017
Awww, what a great book this was! Annie, a Londoner through and through, independent and not a fan of families with all their complications, gets asked to go to Cornwall to visit her great-aunt Alice. Once there, she starts to learn about her family tree and what she discovers unsettles her no end. She has to decide whether or not to stay in a little village in Cornwall, with all the ups and downs of village life, or to go back to London and re-claim her life.
This book was really wonderful and even though you might think it would be a light and fluffy read, it had a lot of layers and some real depth, which really added to the enjoyment of the read. Annie was likeable and relatable and I felt like the secondary characters were also beautifully written, and essential to making this story what it was. I got completely immersed in the various stories of the residents of Salt Bay and I can't wait until I read the next instalment in this series.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
This book was really wonderful and even though you might think it would be a light and fluffy read, it had a lot of layers and some real depth, which really added to the enjoyment of the read. Annie was likeable and relatable and I felt like the secondary characters were also beautifully written, and essential to making this story what it was. I got completely immersed in the various stories of the residents of Salt Bay and I can't wait until I read the next instalment in this series.
Highly recommended read from me.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
May 15, 2017
When you open a book and find yourself laughing out loud at the very first line you just know you are going to thoroughly enjoy the story that follows. That's exactly what happened to me as I fell in love with both the characters and storyline in the first of the Salt Bay series by Liz Eeles - Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea. Everything about this book was just perfect from the setting and characters to the humour mixed with more serious undertones. It's not all a barrel of laughs throughout the story instead this wit and warmth is mixed well with more pressing problems at hand. I got such a good feeling from this book within the first few chapters and I totally fell in love with Salt Bay and it's residents. Not since I have read Alex Brown's Tindledale series have I felt this excited about a book. Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea gave me the exact feelings that I experienced while reading the Tindledale series and I have a feeling I am going to adore everything that Liz Eeles writes in the future. If she could manage to write two books a year set in Salt Bay I for one would be a very happy reader.
For those growing wearisome of books that seem to have a certain theme running through the story i.e: cupcakes, weddings, cafés etc don't be worried by the title here as the choir is not the dominant storyline in this book rather it is one of many yet a crucial element that brings the residents together after such a long period of being individuals trying to suppress hurt and bad times. Annie has just had her last day as P.A to a chief executive of a charitable trust and is at a bit of crossroads in her life. London has been her home for the past 29 years and she loves every aspect of her life there. Although short term contracts seem to be her thing, there is no deep longing for something permanent that would require a lot of commitment and I suppose the same could be said for her personal life. 'Mortgage, marriage, babies, lunch with the parents. It's fine if that's what you want but keeping on the move when it comes to jobs and relationships makes life far less complicated. Particularly like me if you have no family ties at all'.
Her friend Maura is married with a baby and seems forever chained to her flat caring for her son. Annie does not want this for herself at all, it's not something that appeals to her in the slightest. Clearly this is a woman who doesn't like to stay too long at any one thing. Long term commitments are just not her thing and maybe she is trying to suppress something? Is there something holding her back from making the big sacrifice? ' I sit in silence for ages as the penny drops that I'm heading for thirty and I'm not the most important person in the world to anyone'. Annie likes her independence and doing her own thing on her own terms. She's great at ignoring things that upset her and is more than allergic to commitment. So when a letter from a solicitor arrives after much deliberation and shoving said letter to the bottom of her handbag she is forced to open it and this is what changes her life forever. Although at the time she feels what the letter contains is more on an inconvenience than anything.
Annie soon finds herself on the way to Salt Bay in Cornwall - an idyllic place in the Summer but it can test you to the max in Winter. Upon reading the letter Annie discovers she has a maternal Great Aunt MrsGowan living in Tregavara House. Annie never knew of this women's existence as a family incident in the past meant all connections were cut. Alice, Mrs.McGowan, needs help as she can't manage on her own. Not that Alice was totally feeble or came across as someone who was helpless. But Alice has things going on and they have forced her to reach out the hand of help. Alice was a well written character never giving too much away at any one time. Like Annie she has become accustomed to life on her own and accepting help and reaching out to someone she has never met would not be top of her priorities. I got the sense that Alice had a bit of a story and it would be some time before the reader discovered the extent of it. I loved the way Annie gave in and dropped everything to go. It's not what she wanted to do but somewhere deep in her conscience there was something niggling at her and I am glad she gave in to it.
Her arrival again had me laughing out loud when Poldarkesque teacher Josh was the one to first greet her in perhaps the most unfortunate manner. This set us up nicely for lots of snarly comments, barbs and sparring between the pair whilst the reader could feel the tension and perhaps deeper feelings oozing off the page. Salt Bay proves to be such a contrast to the life Annie lived in London. It's not easy to get a mobile signal, there are little or no shops and it can feel quite isolated if you have no car. Instead one has to embrace the surrounding coastal countryside and beaches and this is what gives Annie plenty of thinking time. Clearly she needed this and when she escapes from looking after the house and Alice we see Annie begin to soften and make friends and discover that Salt Bay has this secret charm yet underneath it is still reeling from a tragedy. Maybe a fresh new face could be the one to bring it back to life.
Lots of characters were introduced as Annie familiarises herself with the village. Most were given brief mentions and I felt this was perhaps setting us up for future stories that will focus on different people. One person who made an impact was Kayla an Australian on a 'long' gap year who works at the pub. She becomes very close to Annie and is trying to work Annie out .I enjoyed seeing the bond develop between the pair, Kayla really brought Annie out of her shell. She was blunt and to the point and provided lots of comedic moments. Her quest for that one true love was hilarious. Kayla is such a great support but also a very proactive person. When an idea comes into her head she is determined to achieve and won't rest until she does so. She means business but in the nicest way possible. So when Annie happens upon the idea of re-establishing the Slat Bay Choral Society Kayla is right there by her side. 'All we have to do is successfully resurrect a shattered choir and bring back some joy into this subdued little corner of Cornwall.' The scenes featuring the auditions were brilliant and like something from The X Factor or Britain’s' Got Talent. In fact all the modern references were spot on from Liz Eeles and I felt she really tapped into what is relevant for her readers today. This quote from Annie sums up what an affinity she has with music and its power to heal 'Music can ease homesickness, heartache, grief, the whole caboodle'.
As I have mentioned getting the choir going again and the reasons behind it were not the sole focus of the book. Yes it had opposition and I could see why but the storyline with Toby, a distant third cousin, was very well played out and it counteracted nice with Josh's storyline. The twists and turns towards the end were excellent and never felt in the slightest bit rushed. There was a fairly dramatic point that I could visualise very clearly in my head and it only ramped up the tension and excitement to discover the outcome. For Annie like the many jobs she has had coming to Salt Bay was only ever short term. As soon as Alice had more permanent help she was gone out of there back to the London life she loved so much. Yet Salt Bay and the people who live there have that ability to cast a spell and maybe Annie is slowly starting to fall for the magic.
Following Annie on her journey made for a simply brilliant read that left me wondering why haven't we heard from this author before or maybe she was saving herself for when she could write the best book possible. Well whatever the reason it was more than worth the wait as I loved loved this book. I readily lost myself in it and didn't look up until I had finished the last word. Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a book to savour and enjoy, I certainly did.
For those growing wearisome of books that seem to have a certain theme running through the story i.e: cupcakes, weddings, cafés etc don't be worried by the title here as the choir is not the dominant storyline in this book rather it is one of many yet a crucial element that brings the residents together after such a long period of being individuals trying to suppress hurt and bad times. Annie has just had her last day as P.A to a chief executive of a charitable trust and is at a bit of crossroads in her life. London has been her home for the past 29 years and she loves every aspect of her life there. Although short term contracts seem to be her thing, there is no deep longing for something permanent that would require a lot of commitment and I suppose the same could be said for her personal life. 'Mortgage, marriage, babies, lunch with the parents. It's fine if that's what you want but keeping on the move when it comes to jobs and relationships makes life far less complicated. Particularly like me if you have no family ties at all'.
Her friend Maura is married with a baby and seems forever chained to her flat caring for her son. Annie does not want this for herself at all, it's not something that appeals to her in the slightest. Clearly this is a woman who doesn't like to stay too long at any one thing. Long term commitments are just not her thing and maybe she is trying to suppress something? Is there something holding her back from making the big sacrifice? ' I sit in silence for ages as the penny drops that I'm heading for thirty and I'm not the most important person in the world to anyone'. Annie likes her independence and doing her own thing on her own terms. She's great at ignoring things that upset her and is more than allergic to commitment. So when a letter from a solicitor arrives after much deliberation and shoving said letter to the bottom of her handbag she is forced to open it and this is what changes her life forever. Although at the time she feels what the letter contains is more on an inconvenience than anything.
Annie soon finds herself on the way to Salt Bay in Cornwall - an idyllic place in the Summer but it can test you to the max in Winter. Upon reading the letter Annie discovers she has a maternal Great Aunt MrsGowan living in Tregavara House. Annie never knew of this women's existence as a family incident in the past meant all connections were cut. Alice, Mrs.McGowan, needs help as she can't manage on her own. Not that Alice was totally feeble or came across as someone who was helpless. But Alice has things going on and they have forced her to reach out the hand of help. Alice was a well written character never giving too much away at any one time. Like Annie she has become accustomed to life on her own and accepting help and reaching out to someone she has never met would not be top of her priorities. I got the sense that Alice had a bit of a story and it would be some time before the reader discovered the extent of it. I loved the way Annie gave in and dropped everything to go. It's not what she wanted to do but somewhere deep in her conscience there was something niggling at her and I am glad she gave in to it.
Her arrival again had me laughing out loud when Poldarkesque teacher Josh was the one to first greet her in perhaps the most unfortunate manner. This set us up nicely for lots of snarly comments, barbs and sparring between the pair whilst the reader could feel the tension and perhaps deeper feelings oozing off the page. Salt Bay proves to be such a contrast to the life Annie lived in London. It's not easy to get a mobile signal, there are little or no shops and it can feel quite isolated if you have no car. Instead one has to embrace the surrounding coastal countryside and beaches and this is what gives Annie plenty of thinking time. Clearly she needed this and when she escapes from looking after the house and Alice we see Annie begin to soften and make friends and discover that Salt Bay has this secret charm yet underneath it is still reeling from a tragedy. Maybe a fresh new face could be the one to bring it back to life.
Lots of characters were introduced as Annie familiarises herself with the village. Most were given brief mentions and I felt this was perhaps setting us up for future stories that will focus on different people. One person who made an impact was Kayla an Australian on a 'long' gap year who works at the pub. She becomes very close to Annie and is trying to work Annie out .I enjoyed seeing the bond develop between the pair, Kayla really brought Annie out of her shell. She was blunt and to the point and provided lots of comedic moments. Her quest for that one true love was hilarious. Kayla is such a great support but also a very proactive person. When an idea comes into her head she is determined to achieve and won't rest until she does so. She means business but in the nicest way possible. So when Annie happens upon the idea of re-establishing the Slat Bay Choral Society Kayla is right there by her side. 'All we have to do is successfully resurrect a shattered choir and bring back some joy into this subdued little corner of Cornwall.' The scenes featuring the auditions were brilliant and like something from The X Factor or Britain’s' Got Talent. In fact all the modern references were spot on from Liz Eeles and I felt she really tapped into what is relevant for her readers today. This quote from Annie sums up what an affinity she has with music and its power to heal 'Music can ease homesickness, heartache, grief, the whole caboodle'.
As I have mentioned getting the choir going again and the reasons behind it were not the sole focus of the book. Yes it had opposition and I could see why but the storyline with Toby, a distant third cousin, was very well played out and it counteracted nice with Josh's storyline. The twists and turns towards the end were excellent and never felt in the slightest bit rushed. There was a fairly dramatic point that I could visualise very clearly in my head and it only ramped up the tension and excitement to discover the outcome. For Annie like the many jobs she has had coming to Salt Bay was only ever short term. As soon as Alice had more permanent help she was gone out of there back to the London life she loved so much. Yet Salt Bay and the people who live there have that ability to cast a spell and maybe Annie is slowly starting to fall for the magic.
Following Annie on her journey made for a simply brilliant read that left me wondering why haven't we heard from this author before or maybe she was saving herself for when she could write the best book possible. Well whatever the reason it was more than worth the wait as I loved loved this book. I readily lost myself in it and didn't look up until I had finished the last word. Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a book to savour and enjoy, I certainly did.
May 23, 2017
Oh, whisk me away to Salt Bay! Where the wind is wild and whistling, and the sea cobalt-blue! That is exactly what happened as I went into Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea written by Liz Eeles, and what a wonderfully uplifting and enriching slice of escapism it turned out to be. As soon as I began reading this novel, I was swept away by Eeles's glorious writing, which not only focused beautifully on the Cornish setting I found myself in, but also on the glowing themes of family, love, and grief, and how music not only has the power to soothe the soul, but also to heal a broken heart. Capturing all of my favourite things in one sumptuous story, Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea by Liz Eeles was a glorious story about letting down those guards built for safe-keeping your heart, and allowing love into your life, no matter how very unwelcome it may be.
As the story begins, Liz Eeles gets to the heart of it right away. For as long as Annie can remember, it has only ever been her and her mother. Throughout growing up, she has no recollection of having any other family, and the tales her mother told of her relatives from years ago didn't exactly entice Annie into wanting to get to know them. From what she'd heard, they'd hardly been the most supportive of parents for Annie's mother, when they turned her away at the news of her pregnancy. And so, when Annie's mother sadly passes away, she is left feeling more lonely than ever. She has one good friend, Maura, who is in the throes of bringing up her baby, but other than that, Annie is mostly alone. Even her ex, who she found cheating on her, decided she wasn't worth sticking around for. Adding to that, Annie is jobless too. Life is looking pretty dire for her. That is until a letter arrives on behalf of Alice's great-aunt, beckoning Alice to the little town of Salt Bay. And this, dear readers, is where Annie's adventures truly begin.
From the moment Annie steps foot in Salt Bay, I just knew that this was a story I was going to adore. There is nothing I love more than a trip to the Cornish coast when reading, and Liz Eeles delivered that perfectly within her first release with Bookouture. The setting was brought to life with the help of Liz's superb descriptions, which helped to build the image of Salt Bay in my mind. From the many characters who filled the homes in Salt Bay, to the quirky and cute names given to the places within the town, such as the pub known as 'The Whistling Wave', it was all completely wonderful. I felt at home immediately, and although it sounds ridiculous, I wanted to stray from Annie's side just for a little while to go and do some exploring of Salt Bay myself. Liz's creativity shone from the pages and I found myself becoming more and more unwilling to put my Kindle down, the further into the book I was drawn. Every single little thing appealed to me and I wanted nothing more than to leap into my Kindle and take a stroll around town, to feel that Cornish wind whipping my hair around my face.
I think what I loved most about this story, though, was the wonderful way in which Liz captured her characters. There were so many fantastic people to be introduced to and, for Annie, who has lived quite a quiet life, it is at first overwhelming for her to suddenly be known by everyone. Because in small towns like Salt Bay, news spreads quickly! Annie's Great-Aunt Alice was such a quirky yet lovable character, and it is Alice who in the end, becomes the reason why Annie's stay in Salt Bay is lengthened. Alice is old and vulnerable, despite trying her best to fight against that, and after one too many falls, it becomes clear to Annie that if she were to head back to London and leave Alice by herself, then there is always the chance that a much worse accident could take place, and the guilt of that happening would eat away at Annie forever. And so, until someone else can be found who can take care of Alice when Annie does eventually leave to head home, Annie agrees to stick around for a while longer. After all, Alice is a relative, something which Annie is rather fascinated by. But there are secrets to be unearthed. Truths to be revealed about the past that Annie thought she had got figured out. Which only made this story more enticing than ever. There are of course plenty more people to meet in Salt Bay, not forgetting the delicious Josh Pasco, a moody yet warm-hearted soul who seems to constantly get beneath Annie's feet during her time in the town. But she finds herself drawn to him for some odd reason, and I loved the subtle chemistry that simmered between the two. It was delicious! The choir, too, plays a huge role of importance in this book, and it warmed my heart as Annie went from door to door, full of hope that perhaps she could reignite something in Salt Bay that had once been so golden. I just loved it!
All in all, Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea by Liz Eeles was an uplifting and enriching tale of loss, love and accepting who you are. It's a novel which focuses on the most beautiful things to be found in life, and a story which makes you sit back and smile because sometimes, you find the best things in the most unusual of places. With thanks to the publisher for the review copy of this book.
As the story begins, Liz Eeles gets to the heart of it right away. For as long as Annie can remember, it has only ever been her and her mother. Throughout growing up, she has no recollection of having any other family, and the tales her mother told of her relatives from years ago didn't exactly entice Annie into wanting to get to know them. From what she'd heard, they'd hardly been the most supportive of parents for Annie's mother, when they turned her away at the news of her pregnancy. And so, when Annie's mother sadly passes away, she is left feeling more lonely than ever. She has one good friend, Maura, who is in the throes of bringing up her baby, but other than that, Annie is mostly alone. Even her ex, who she found cheating on her, decided she wasn't worth sticking around for. Adding to that, Annie is jobless too. Life is looking pretty dire for her. That is until a letter arrives on behalf of Alice's great-aunt, beckoning Alice to the little town of Salt Bay. And this, dear readers, is where Annie's adventures truly begin.
From the moment Annie steps foot in Salt Bay, I just knew that this was a story I was going to adore. There is nothing I love more than a trip to the Cornish coast when reading, and Liz Eeles delivered that perfectly within her first release with Bookouture. The setting was brought to life with the help of Liz's superb descriptions, which helped to build the image of Salt Bay in my mind. From the many characters who filled the homes in Salt Bay, to the quirky and cute names given to the places within the town, such as the pub known as 'The Whistling Wave', it was all completely wonderful. I felt at home immediately, and although it sounds ridiculous, I wanted to stray from Annie's side just for a little while to go and do some exploring of Salt Bay myself. Liz's creativity shone from the pages and I found myself becoming more and more unwilling to put my Kindle down, the further into the book I was drawn. Every single little thing appealed to me and I wanted nothing more than to leap into my Kindle and take a stroll around town, to feel that Cornish wind whipping my hair around my face.
I think what I loved most about this story, though, was the wonderful way in which Liz captured her characters. There were so many fantastic people to be introduced to and, for Annie, who has lived quite a quiet life, it is at first overwhelming for her to suddenly be known by everyone. Because in small towns like Salt Bay, news spreads quickly! Annie's Great-Aunt Alice was such a quirky yet lovable character, and it is Alice who in the end, becomes the reason why Annie's stay in Salt Bay is lengthened. Alice is old and vulnerable, despite trying her best to fight against that, and after one too many falls, it becomes clear to Annie that if she were to head back to London and leave Alice by herself, then there is always the chance that a much worse accident could take place, and the guilt of that happening would eat away at Annie forever. And so, until someone else can be found who can take care of Alice when Annie does eventually leave to head home, Annie agrees to stick around for a while longer. After all, Alice is a relative, something which Annie is rather fascinated by. But there are secrets to be unearthed. Truths to be revealed about the past that Annie thought she had got figured out. Which only made this story more enticing than ever. There are of course plenty more people to meet in Salt Bay, not forgetting the delicious Josh Pasco, a moody yet warm-hearted soul who seems to constantly get beneath Annie's feet during her time in the town. But she finds herself drawn to him for some odd reason, and I loved the subtle chemistry that simmered between the two. It was delicious! The choir, too, plays a huge role of importance in this book, and it warmed my heart as Annie went from door to door, full of hope that perhaps she could reignite something in Salt Bay that had once been so golden. I just loved it!
All in all, Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea by Liz Eeles was an uplifting and enriching tale of loss, love and accepting who you are. It's a novel which focuses on the most beautiful things to be found in life, and a story which makes you sit back and smile because sometimes, you find the best things in the most unusual of places. With thanks to the publisher for the review copy of this book.
September 26, 2017
I am SO much enjoying light, frothy novels at the moment, and this one was no disappointment.
Liz Eeles is new to me, and I will definitely be reading more of her books.
This is just a perfect easy read, perhaps in between something darker and heavier.
Seems to be a bit of an issue with the name, as I've read this as book 1 in the Salt Bay series (according to Fantastic Fiction).
But book 3, Annie's Holiday by the Sea has the exact same synopsis. So I'm guessing it's a UK/US thing, and FF have it wrong :)
Liz Eeles is new to me, and I will definitely be reading more of her books.
This is just a perfect easy read, perhaps in between something darker and heavier.
Seems to be a bit of an issue with the name, as I've read this as book 1 in the Salt Bay series (according to Fantastic Fiction).
But book 3, Annie's Holiday by the Sea has the exact same synopsis. So I'm guessing it's a UK/US thing, and FF have it wrong :)
May 22, 2017
Just like Annie, it was curiosity which spurred me on an adventure with this book. I am not fond of choirs, probably because I have the most terrible voice, but something in the colorful cover and the light-hearted synopsis caught my attention. Whatever it was, I thank it, for I have found so much more than I was looking for in this story of belonging, family ties, and finding yourself.
I'm heading for thirty and I'm not the most important person in the world to anyone.
Annie has no attach, and I found this heart-breaking, although she seemed to like it this way. I agree with her, it is much less complicated when family doesn't mess up your plans. But families do a lot more than this, if you let it. People too, if you let them in.
I was surprised to warm to Annie very very fast despite our different views on life and its priorities. I could feel the scars on her heart from being alone, no matter how much she tried to convince herself she was better off this way. I know what it's like to put up a front and pretend it doesn't matter. The thing is, it does matter.
Don't you hate your inner voice when it's being a right bitch?
Liz Eeles never falls into clichés and Annie felt genuine and like an average young woman with her own history and struggles. This is true for every character. I really enjoyed meeting everyone in this little town. Sometimes, you don't know you need warmth and happiness until a book reminds you of how good it feels, and this is what Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea does with a clever mix of different protagonists, a beautiful place, and an exquisite writing that transports you and reminds you to feel, and how to laugh! Annie's voice is one of the most amazing I've read and this book is just a big bubble of amazing lines!
He's either being very kind or implying my arse is the size of a small country.
There are no one-dimensional characters, no easy paths, no “everything is fine in the world” paragraphs that make me roll my eyes. This book is filled with what life has to offer, and boy does it have a lot to give! I loved every minute of this story. Me, the crime lover, detective, grisly murders details-seeker. I was surprised by the depth of the plot and the psychology behind the events, behind the motivations of each protagonist, behind the appearances. I was intrigued by the choir, who took its time to appear, and found it to be a truly perfect tool to build a story around, to bring a town to life with, to tackle the past and pay it tribute.
The story takes its time, but the pace doesn't feel slow. It reminded me of the landscape you see when you let you eyes wander off the window during a train trip. You are not aware of it, but things happen, things change, you happen, you change. It was wonderful to see Annie find answers, questions, a purpose, more questions!, and her true self. I loved Annie's path to find what she really wants and it resonated so much with me that it gave me shivers! Yes, family come with its fair share of... let's say weight and obligations, but families, whether blood or chosen, without painting it all rainbows and unicorns, are a rock you can crash on, a shoulder you can find whenever you need, a bunch of people to share the best things in life with. Sometimes we take it for granted, and sometimes we ignore its importance. Yes, it's complicated, but life is too. This book reminded me just how much I treasure my family and friends and those old and new photos on my fridge of happy faces and calendars with birthdays on it.
Friends also play a wonderful part here and I am so happy to see a young woman strike up relationships, discover everyone isn't looking down at the pavement, stressed, and only thinking about work, and that cute and gentlemen guys still exist. My cold heart was very happy to see Annie get out of her shell and into the world.
They were things I thought I never wanted because I thought they did not want me, but I was wrong.
Nothing in the story was ever forced, it always felt so true and real I finished the book with a smile on my face. Annie's Little Choir by the Sea is so much more than a light read, it's a life lesson taught in the best of ways, with enough humor to make your cheeks hurt from grinning and laughing!
I would like to thank Bookouture for inviting me to join this blog tour. This unbiased review is my humble participation.
October 7, 2018
Boy meets girl down in Cornwall... Beautiful scenery, beaches, quaint little village.
Girl: What a twat that bloke is!
Boy: (smouldering Poldark grimace) She's such a pain in the ****
Prediction: A bit of trouble, then they live happily ever after.
The End.
A relaxing light read!
Girl: What a twat that bloke is!
Boy: (smouldering Poldark grimace) She's such a pain in the ****
Prediction: A bit of trouble, then they live happily ever after.
The End.
A relaxing light read!
October 16, 2019
This book was very enjoyable. I liked Annie’s slow discovery of the truth about her family, and the romance element.
June 30, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher, Bookouture for the ARC. Apologies to them and the author for being late with my review - unfortunately real life sometimes gets in the way!
Oh what a lovely heartwarming story this is! I really, really enjoyed this book - oh God, here she goes again, loving all the books she's reading - well, I'm sorry, but it's true. It's not my fault I keep picking the most excellent books to review!
I have to confess I wasn't sure this book would be anything special. There are after all, many books set 'by the Sea', and choirs aren't particularly my thing. But I'm so happy I was wrong.
Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a wonderful stories of family, secrets and community. Oh, and romance, of course. Not that Annie is looking for it - she's only come to meet Alice, the great aunt she had never met. Alice reminded me so much of my own great aunt Rene; now sadly in a better place. Reading about Alice was like getting a hug from Rene! Instead Annie finds a real sense of belonging, and makes some great friends.
The plot is expertly drawn and there are many elements to Annie's story. The characters are well written and believable, the narrative fresh and humorous and the descriptions of Salt Bay so good I want to go and live there myself. I'd even sign up for the choir!
It's a great summer (or whenever) read and I genuinely enjoyed it immensely. I cannot wait to visit Salt Bay again!
Oh what a lovely heartwarming story this is! I really, really enjoyed this book - oh God, here she goes again, loving all the books she's reading - well, I'm sorry, but it's true. It's not my fault I keep picking the most excellent books to review!
I have to confess I wasn't sure this book would be anything special. There are after all, many books set 'by the Sea', and choirs aren't particularly my thing. But I'm so happy I was wrong.
Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a wonderful stories of family, secrets and community. Oh, and romance, of course. Not that Annie is looking for it - she's only come to meet Alice, the great aunt she had never met. Alice reminded me so much of my own great aunt Rene; now sadly in a better place. Reading about Alice was like getting a hug from Rene! Instead Annie finds a real sense of belonging, and makes some great friends.
The plot is expertly drawn and there are many elements to Annie's story. The characters are well written and believable, the narrative fresh and humorous and the descriptions of Salt Bay so good I want to go and live there myself. I'd even sign up for the choir!
It's a great summer (or whenever) read and I genuinely enjoyed it immensely. I cannot wait to visit Salt Bay again!
May 21, 2017
Annie Trebarwith loves her independence, but having just reached the end of her latest job contract and found her boyfriend in a compromising position with a work colleague, it's making her think about her life. So when she receives a letter from a solicitor telling her about her maternal great aunt Alice that she knew nothing about she's curious and decides that a trip to Cornwall might be just what she needs.
Being a city girl Annie is like a fish out of water in Salt Bay, there's no phone signal so she feels cut off but then she meets Kayla, the barmaid in the local pub and the pair soon become friends. Knowing Kayla means that Annie meets more of the locals, not all of whom are fans of the Trebarwith family and finds out a little bit more about her family and the village of Salt Bay.
Annie never planned on staying in Salt Bay for long but with Alice's health failing she agrees to stay until a permanent carer can be arranged. It's during this time that Annie finds out about a tragedy that affected the whole village and that's when she comes up with the idea of reforming the local choir. It's a decision that will change her life completely.
Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a truly wonderful and charming book, full of characters that I really cared about. The way that Annie's back-story was slowly revealed enabled me to feel a genuine warmth for her and made her believable. I've never been to Cornwall but just from the authors very visual descriptions I feel as if I have now, I could almost taste the salty sea air and hear the seagulls screaming as they swooped over the cliffs. Liz Eeles has very skillfully balanced the levels of humour and seriousness and the end result is a book that will leave you with a smile on your face as well as a serious case of the warm and fuzzies. If a book could give you a hug then this one would give you one that you'll remember and I'm delighted to hear that there's another book on the way.
With kind thanks to Kim Nash at Bookouture for the review copy.
Being a city girl Annie is like a fish out of water in Salt Bay, there's no phone signal so she feels cut off but then she meets Kayla, the barmaid in the local pub and the pair soon become friends. Knowing Kayla means that Annie meets more of the locals, not all of whom are fans of the Trebarwith family and finds out a little bit more about her family and the village of Salt Bay.
Annie never planned on staying in Salt Bay for long but with Alice's health failing she agrees to stay until a permanent carer can be arranged. It's during this time that Annie finds out about a tragedy that affected the whole village and that's when she comes up with the idea of reforming the local choir. It's a decision that will change her life completely.
Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea is a truly wonderful and charming book, full of characters that I really cared about. The way that Annie's back-story was slowly revealed enabled me to feel a genuine warmth for her and made her believable. I've never been to Cornwall but just from the authors very visual descriptions I feel as if I have now, I could almost taste the salty sea air and hear the seagulls screaming as they swooped over the cliffs. Liz Eeles has very skillfully balanced the levels of humour and seriousness and the end result is a book that will leave you with a smile on your face as well as a serious case of the warm and fuzzies. If a book could give you a hug then this one would give you one that you'll remember and I'm delighted to hear that there's another book on the way.
With kind thanks to Kim Nash at Bookouture for the review copy.
May 22, 2017
This is a novel to fall in love with.
Annie is one of the most adorable characters and the setting of Salt Bay made me wish to head for my beloved Cornwall.
Annie heads for Cornwall somewhat reluctantly, but what evolves is a tale full of twists and turns and both sad and happy moments that will make the reader laugh out loud from the very first page.
The plot is driven by her care for her great-aunt and her new job re-establishing a local choir. Of course there is romance, there are secrets and there are friendships to be made. All are perfectly put together by an author who has made Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea one of my Summer favorites this year.
This is a debut with a difference, and one of a series that I know I am going to enjoy. I just hope that Liz continues with Annie's adjustment to living in Cornwall and not add any of the 'cheesiness' that some of the Summer reads have been doing lately.
Rather enjoyable.
Annie is one of the most adorable characters and the setting of Salt Bay made me wish to head for my beloved Cornwall.
Annie heads for Cornwall somewhat reluctantly, but what evolves is a tale full of twists and turns and both sad and happy moments that will make the reader laugh out loud from the very first page.
The plot is driven by her care for her great-aunt and her new job re-establishing a local choir. Of course there is romance, there are secrets and there are friendships to be made. All are perfectly put together by an author who has made Annie's Lovely Choir by the Sea one of my Summer favorites this year.
This is a debut with a difference, and one of a series that I know I am going to enjoy. I just hope that Liz continues with Annie's adjustment to living in Cornwall and not add any of the 'cheesiness' that some of the Summer reads have been doing lately.
Rather enjoyable.
April 3, 2017
I enjoyed this book, even though it wasn't the fastest moving story ever.
Past and present collide and some demons are laid to rest.
The line 'channelling your inner Gareth Malone' made me laugh out loud.
A joy.
Past and present collide and some demons are laid to rest.
The line 'channelling your inner Gareth Malone' made me laugh out loud.
A joy.
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