The Wish

Tindledale

by Alex Brown

The touching and emotional new novel from the No.1 bestselling author of The Great Christmas Knit-Off and The Secret of Orchard Cottage
Sam Morgan knows he messed up with his wife Chrissie and daughter Holly – he wasn’t there when they needed him most, but now he’ll do anything to put his family back together again. Until then, he's living in the picture-postcard village of Tindledale helping to renovate the Blackwood Farm Estate for its elusive new owner.


Jude Christmas is coming home for good this time. She's taking over the antique shop in Tindledale, the place where she grew up and she's going to make sure she's there for her friend, Chrissie, and Goddaughter, Holly. They certainly need her right now.

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Fiction, Contemporary, Adult, Christmas

416 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 2018

About the author

Alex Brown is an International No.1 bestselling author of fourteen books including A Postcard from Italy, the Carrington’s series, The Secret of Orchard Cottage, The Great Christmas Knit Off, The Wish, A Postcard from Paris and the Bridget’s Bicycle Bakery series. Her books are loved worldwide and have been translated into twenty languages.

Alex lives by the sea on the south coast of England with her family and two glossy black Labradors. When she isn’t writing, she can be found walking on the beach, binge-watching a boxset or enjoying a French martini cocktail. She loves chatting to her readers on social media @alexbrownbooks and you can sign up to her newsletter on her website www.alexbrownauthor.com to receive a free short story, The Beach Walk, and also be the first to hear about new books, free extracts and giveaways.

Reviews

[Nicola Clough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and had you hooked from the first page and so heartwarming and poignant and emotional. So true to life with families and perfect read to curl up and escape from life and get hooked in the village life. Very well written with excellent characters and the story plot is so true to life and gets you hooked from the first page.
Sam has been married for years and for some time has been living away abroad with his job and taken him away from Chrissie his wife and holly his daughter. He comes home after a year to the village and Chrissie had already told him their marriage is over but he doesn't want to believe it. So he turns up at home and Chrissie isn't impressed to see him but holly is over the moon and is so upset they are splitting she decides to make it her wish to get her parents together by the time it's her birthday. Jude also moves back to the village at the same time and is holly's goddaughter and is upset to see her friends separated. Holly decides as time goes on she cannot do this alone so speaks with Jude and asks for her help in getting her parents back together. Can they do this or does it all go wrong.
Very well written and highly recommend this book to read.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - Time for new beginnings... Stars.

The Wish is my first book by Alexandra Brown, overall I cannot say I was wowed, but it was a steady enough read. Mainly focused on Sam and Chrissie Morgan, their daughter Holly, and Chrissie’s best friend Jude Darling.

Sam has returned home to the little village of Tindledale in the hope of resurrecting his marriage, after years of working abroad, have left what was once a strong family unit in tatters.

It was heart breaking to see such a happy family unit so fractured and broken…

You get multiple POVs in this one, with Sam, Jude and Holly making up the bulk of the story-telling. The Wish in question is Holly’s and it is a cunning plan to get her parents back together by her next birthday. Jude having returned from L.A and in the process of setting up her own new business offers extra insight to everything that goes on as well as adding her own extra dimension to everything going on, especially in relation to Chrissie and her motivations.

He had to find a way back to her. Be the husband he’d always intended on being, but had lost sight of along the way…

This is a story that develops slowly as everyone involved integrates back into village life, and their relationships. I can’t say it held many surprises, and if I am honest it didn’t really offer up enough for me to feel any real connection or investment in the main characters… for want of a better word it was all very nice and I am not sure on reflection that this was a good thing really. I know The Wish isn’t a book I’ll remember in a few weeks’ time, and I’m not sure I got enough enjoyment from it to make me want to read anything else by the author going forwards.

However, having read it straight after a book that did put me through the emotional wringer I can say it offered up the levels of depth, drama and development that my brain desired, and it wasn’t a hardship to poodle through. I will say I felt like I was reading a story that had been crafted to appeal to a much older audience though to be honest, which is not something I often say nowadays.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always a moment of pure pleasure as you sit down to open a brand new Alex Brown book, and The Wish was no exception. If anything my anticipation had been heightened waiting two years for a new release from one of my favourite authors.

Thankfully it soon became apparent that this was a book that was worth the wait, with its heart warming story taking in multiple generations of two families, and a brave 13 year old who just wants her parents back together by her next birthday.

Holly was easily one my favourite characters, she is young but is coming to terms with her medical condition, which for a teenager must be tough. Her parents Chrissie and Sam seem to argue whenever they get together, which is more frequent now that Sam has returned from working abroad.

Sam also wants nothing more than to put his family back together again, and is determined to be a better husband and father if he is given a chance.

Jude has also returned to Tindledale, and she is Chrissie's best friend, Holly's godmother, and also wants her friends marriage fixed. However Jude also ends up working for a larger than life ex-rock star who turned out to me another of my favourite characters.

Although this is a new book set in Tindledale it can easily be read as a standalone, as all the others can too, there are some familiar faces but the heart of this book is a focus on all new characters, so there is nothing you need to catch up on.

With moments of hilarity, some of high drama, and others tugging at your heartstrings, The Wish has everything and a is w wonderfully written book that I would have liked to keep reading for even longer.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading a few emotionally draining books in a row I needed something light and fun and this fit the bill perfectly. There was a serious side to the plot but overall it was an easy read. Far fetched in places but a good enough story to keep me turning the pages.

3.5 stars

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings)]

Son won in Goodreads Giveaways, not read passed on.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the start! It lives up to its tag line as a ‘heart-warming feel-good read’. It is focussed on the Morgan family and their friends and neighbours. Sam Morgan has been working abroad for years, rarely returning home and his wife, Chrissie, has had enough, especially after their daughter, Holly, was diagnosed as diabetic and he hasn’t been there to help and support either of them. Sam realises his mistake and returns home to try to put right his mistakes and reconnect with his family - if only Chrissie will give him the chance! It doesn’t look promising when she won’t let him return to their family home, instead he goes to live with his Gran whilst still hoping to woo his wife again.

Sam isn’t the only one returning to the picturesque village of Tindledale, Jude Darling is, too. Jude is godmother to Holly and she’s a close friend of Chrissie. Holly is thirteen years old and her wish is for her parents to be together again. However, with the choir master helping Chrissie and an ex-rock star making changes, life’s certainly not going to be placid in this delightful village. There’s going to be trouble ahead and secrets revealed in this endearing story of a small community working together, supporting each other and providing readers with an eclectic mix of humour, insights, mystery, drama and romance in an easy read story that it is brilliant to escape into. If you’re looking for a cosy read with plenty of drama, romance and surprises, look no further - grab yourself a copy of this delightful story.

I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.

[Justkeepreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Brown brings her whit, wisdom, compassion and fantastic storytelling. To yet another wonderful book.

I have loved Alex browns books for a long time now. Ever since cupcakes at Carringtons, this book is no exception to the rule.

With wonderful characters and a touching storyline. You can’t help but take this book into your heart and wishing you could reach through the pages of the book to give these characters a much needed hug.

Sam has been away working in Singapore for over a year now. His marriage is on the rocks and his daughter Holly has just been diagnosed with diabetes. Desperate to make things right Sam returns to Tindledale but things are worse then he first realised and it will take everything that he has to prove to Chrissie that he is back for good.

Chrissie has been having a hard time of things while Sam has been away. Struggling with juggling the house, paying bills, getting holly to school and sleepovers, hospital appointments and keeping on top of Holly’s diabetes, sorting out village events, choir etc, and being all round super mum. So Chrissie is less then Ectatic when sam come home and excepts her to take him back with open arms.

Holly is struggling with coming to terms with her diabetes, her mum and dad being rocky and life as a teenager. Holly just can’t see why her mum isn’t happy that her dad is home and why she is shutting sam out so much. Holly is overjoyed that her dad is home and so makes a plan to get her mum and dad back together again by her birthday.

Jude was a high flying LA business woman. Finding artefacts and decorating superstars homes. With Chrissie struggling so much. Jude has decided to come home and make her dreams of owning a vintage shop a reality.

Myles is a rock star and has moved to tindledale for a quite life. He had major plans to be welcomed into the village with open arms and pays Jude to become his interior designer and event organiser. But he has some secrets of his own and his own demons to vanquish.

There are plenty of twist and turns in this book. It is fast paced, had brilliant characters and a heartwarming storyline, and an adorablr pig called Tiger. I absolutely adored this book. Perfect for chick lit and romance fans. Absolutely wonderful.

[Best Crime Books & More · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am SO annoyed at myself. I am a HUGE fan of the Tindledale books and had NO idea that this book is also set in the wonderful village of Tindledale. Once I had berated myself I dove straight in, and believe it or not, turned the last page that very same day. To say I loved this book is an understatement.

Sam Morgan has come back from living and working abroad to try and make things right in his marriage. His wife Christie and daughter Holly live in Tindledale but its clear from pretty early on that Sam is going to have his work cut out with Christie. Holly has also meanwhile turned into as teenager and Sam had no clue how much things had changed. We also meet Jude who has come back to live in Tindledale after working in Los Angeles. Being closer to her Dad and back in the place she grew up is clearly what drew her back, but she hadn’t planned on meeting and working with an ex-rockstar who is somewhat unusual!

I absolutely LOVED all of the characters, the storyline and being back in the fictional village of Tindledale. I am thrilled that I picked this book up, but at the same token slightly irritated that I read it so quickly. I would highly recommend this book along with all the others set in Tindledale as the characters are fantastic!

[Agi · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Wish" introduces us to Sam, who's coming back home - he's been living in Singapore because of his job for over a year. His marriage is in jeopardy and his daughter Holly has been diagnosed with diabetes. Sam is desperate to make everything right, but when he returns to Tindledale he realises that it won't be too easy - his wife Chrissie is determined to end their marriage, even though Holly's biggest dream is for her parents to get back together and to have a loving family again. Sam is resolute to prove to Chrissie that he's back for good and that he's serious now.
Jude moves back to the village from Los Angeles and opens an antique shop. She's Chrissie best friend and Holly's godmother and she hates to see them so upset. Holly trusts Jude and asks her to help her with her plan to bring her parents back together. The question is, is it possible or is it too late already?

"The Wish" is another book that is set in this gorgeous village of Tindledale but, even though there are some old characters on the scenes, it introduces us to some very new ones and it can absolutely be read as a stand - alone, as there really is no need on any catch - up. The story is told by narrators, those of Sam, Chrissie, Jude and Holly and it was great to hear their points of view. They all add this extra insight into everything that is going on, not only with their lives but also in relation to other characters and what makes them tick. Also because of this multiple points of view the story progresses relatively slowly, as it also focuses on the villagers, and gives us insight into the characters' lives but nonetheless, the pace is right.

Now, guys. Don't get me wrong. I love an Alex Brown book, I do, but this novel had some weaker points that just bothered me too much. Firstly, I had big problems with Chrissie, one of the main characters. In fact, I've never warmed to her - she came across as a very spoiled and very hesitant and to be honest to this moment I'm not sure what she wanted to achieve alienating Sam. She wanted a great life and she agreed Sam can work abroad but then she changed her mind and went all offended. Yes, I understand, Sam could step it up a notch, yes, he put his job before everything other, but he wanted to make amends and he didn't do this for himself, he was trying to provide for his family. The way Chrissie behaved was childish and I just couldn't help but roll my eyes at the scenes with her. Yes, I do get it - she was alone and was having a hard time juggling the house, Holly's diabetes, loneliness, and I didn't expect her to be ecstatic at Sam's comeback but really, this blowing hot and cold, this indecision, the fact that she was so bitter and unhappy when - in fact - she didn't have a reason just didn't sit with me. Somehow, I just couldn't connect to her! I'm not sure why, I never before had this problem with Alex Brown's characters, I can't put my finger on it, it's just she felt superficial. I'm sorry, but it's the way I feel. All the characters were nice, don't get me wrong, but I wanted them to be more than nice, to be more three dimensional. I wasn't sure if we should fall for Chrissie or for Sam - but it's my problem, guys, so don't worry, and really, other than that it was so typical Alex Brown's book, full of tenderness and love and I had a feeling the author has written this book with her heart on her sleeve, it was so honest and authentic and delivered absolutely brilliant story.
Then there were the repetitions - there came a moment that I thought that if I read the "Get Mum and Dad Together in Time for My Birthday" sentence once more I'm going to cry. Then at every possible opportunity the repetitive mentions that Chrissie was Jude's best friends, that Holly had diabetes... It was as if we were supposed to forget about it and the author felt the need to remind us about it at every potential convenience.
The story had some twists and turns, which is a great thing, but each time I had a feeling that they're being explored from above, from below, right and left, like with the above mentioned diabetes or Sam fixated on the fact that Holly may need a kidney transplant, even though there was not a single indication that this might be possible at all. So we belabour the topic through few chapters and then it's over, nothing more, and it just felt as if the story was so chopped. The few chapters where Sam was obsessed about his blood group, there were so many heavy hints on this what's going to happen, and I only thought that Alex Brown could really do this better. It was also too predictable for my liking.

There was this hard to put into words feeling of genuity in this story. It was not over - done, it sounded realistic and down - to - earth, even if sometimes the characters acted and reacted like drama queens - well, actually, we all sometimes act this way, no? It touched upon different issues, such as betrayal, lies and medical conditions, this all seamlessly blended. Even though it was not my favourite Alex Brown's read, I will still recommend it - it was steady enough, it was a heart - warming, lovely and charming tale. It actually ticks all the box for a perfect summer read - there is enough drama and enough humour, there is a budding and an old romance, it's funny and also touching at the right heartstrings. And of course it has the greatest asset ever - Alex Brown's wonderful, colourful and light - hearted writing style, and she can so beautifully write about emotions and feelings.

Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Wish' reads well as a standalone story even though the village of Tindledale features in other novels by this author. The story revolves around two people who grew up in the village returning home after successful careers abroad. Their emotional lives are less rewarding, and both want to draw on family love to help them rebuild their emotional lives.

Sam's marriage is in crisis; he provides material security but not hands-on support and love for his wife and young daughter Holly. Jude wants to build a life in her childhood home after living in LA and a failed relationship.

Holly's dearest wish is to have her parents back together, and the story details her exploits to achieve this and the effect this has on her parents. Sam and Chrissie unravel as their guilt, pain and fear for their daughter's safety are brought to the surface. Jude and Myles provide the light relief in this angst-ridden tale, their cute meet and quirky professional/personal relationship are amusing and romantic.

Family secrets long suppressed return to haunt them but demonstrate the importance and strength of family and friendship and how village community spirit reinforces this. Authentic characters and setting and gentle storyline make this a lovely light read with a satisfying ending.

I received a copy of this book from Harper Fiction Harper Collins via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wish by Alex Brown is a wonderful contemporary story that both amuses and has the reader guessing from the start.
There is an eclectic mix of characters who make up village life. The reader 'hears' the narrative from several viewpoints. The style is warm and inclusive. The reader really 'feels' a part of village life.
Everyone has their secrets - some are good, others are destructive. Sooner or later the truth must come out.
The heart of the novel focuses on a marriage that is falling apart. Everyone suffers. "The whole family... were coping in isolation." To fix a relationship, people need to come together and talk.
There are many different families portrayed. I loved the inclusion of dogs. They are family members after all. Many different elements make up families from doting grandmothers to stressed mothers, from desperate teens to loving fathers. "A father carries photos where his money used to be."
The wish portrayed can be seen as the desire of the heart. "If you wished hard enough, anything was possible?" Wishing is the stuff of fairytales but can they really come true?
The Wish immerses the reader in village life with all its highs and lows. I loved the action and the atmosphere. With the summer days ahead, The Wish is just a perfect tantalising read.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[Lisa Whittaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve had this book on my book shelf for such a long time. So pleased that I picked it up to read after having it so long.

A lovely read highlighting a very important subject. Although Holly has diabetes, the whole testing to see if any of her family were a match for her if the possibility of a kidney transplant arose is very close to home as my sister has kidney failure and will need a transplant at some point so I have been through the whole process of testing to see if I was a match, which I wasn’t.

I would’ve finished this a lot quicker if work hadn’t have got in the way.

[Hannah Symonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story and the characters as I felt they really came alive. It is a heartwarming story about love and how sometimes families can be difficult. I haven't read many of Alex's books but I really want to start as this one was a cracker. I loved it very much and want to find out more about all these lovely characters.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Alex Brown has certainly kept her long-term fans waiting for a new book, as it was back in 2016 when The Secret of Orchard Cottage was published. Thankfully that long wait is finally over and what makes it even better is that this book is again set in Tindledale. Tindledale has become one of my favourite fictional settings to read about as Alex has created such a warming, caring environment within the small village. Yes everyone may know everyone else’s business but that’s par for the course when you live in a rural setting. But on the other hand it also has its advantages and good points as all the residents are always there for each other in times of trouble or if anyone is experiencing major problems. They are full of warmth, generosity and compassion. They’re not also above having a laugh and celebrating when there is cause to do so. Many of my favourite characters from previous books do make some small reappearances and this was very welcome as most of them had found a firm place in my heart. It was enjoyable to see who would pop up and when. It was also an ideal way of seeing how their stories had developed since we had last met them.

The Wish follows a new set of characters and is very much character driven and based around the idea of family and its importance for our well being. What makes a family? How can a family cope when things get tough? These tough times may then lead to the separation of the parents therefore causing disruption and the breaking up of the family unit with the child, in this case, Holly, very much left in the middle with confused feelings and an unwillingness to let all she has known slip away so easily. The brief prologue gives us a tantalising hint as to a strand of the overall storyline that does pique the reader’s interest but really it does not have any overall forbearing until very much later on in the story. That said it was a vital plot element but until it made came up again, I had forgotten about but it did make sense and needed to be present to help join the dots so to speak.

Normally, a female character would be the lead in this type of story so it was refreshing to see that most of our attention would focus on Sam Morgan. He has worked away from the village for so long, leaving his wife Chrissie and daughter Holly behind, only returning for brief visits. His job takes up much of his time and to use the phrase all consuming would be very apt. He designs buildings and oversees their construction, most recently he has been in Singapore. But now he has been employed on the Blackwood Farm Estate as it is to be redeveloped. This appears to be the perfect opportunity to make up for all the lost time with his family, to reconnect and get to know them even better.

The only problem is Chrissie has reached boiling point. Too many precious events have been missed; the lack of phone calls or their briefness have also not gone down well. Skype calls do not make up for the actual presence of a husband and a father. I could totally understand Chrissie’s viewpoint. When she married Sam it was very much for better or worse but when someone is constantly absent and you begin to feel second best and pushed to the kerb for work, you have to put yourself and your daughter first. On the other hand should she have given up on Sam so easily? Can a leopard change its spots or has the damage gone too far to be reversed? I did feel sympathy for Sam, I suppose he wanted to earn money to create a solid stable financial future for his family but in his innocence and drive for his job he lost sight that family always comes first.

When he arrives back in Tindledale he is very much clueless and heartbroken. Only now as he is on the cusp of losing his family as divorce looms does Sam begin to realise the impact of focusing solely on his job has had. I did think, initially, Sam came across as selfish and that he wasn’t aware of Chrissie or Holly’s needs? How can a woman be expected to keep the show on the road single handily when they were in a partnership, a marriage and promises were constantly broken? Clearly, Sam had a lot of growing up to do and some big decisions to make. But was it too little too late? Had all the damage been done ?

Combined with this wake up call, daughter Holly is dealing with diabetes. It was interesting to see a condition that many people have being written about and how it can affect all members of the family. At times I felt there was perhaps a little too much detail and maybe unnecessary strain around the topic. It did make sense towards the end as this element of the storyline helped to bring something else to light. I do understand that if a child is sick of course parents will worry and want the best for their child and they will bend over backwards to find solutions or just something that will make life that little bit better but here at times it just felt overbearing but that’s just my own personal opinion. The main focus of the story was Sam trying to get back with Chrissie but Holly too also had her own little plot which refers back to the wish in the title. It was sweet and something which I suppose a young child would want to achieve but I was on edge thinking would it all backfire for her or would things resolve themselves in the way she so desperately hoped they would?

In the blurb, there is mention of another character Jude Darling, who is coming home for good to the village. She has spent several years travelling the world and also has been an interior designer in Los Angeles. Now she is returning to set up her own business Darling Antiques and Interiors. She is best friends with Chrissie who really needs her now. Jude also has a soft spot for Holly and would do anything to help her and make her happy. I wanted to read even more about Jude. I felt her storyline with working for Myles King, an eccentric rock star and owner of the Blackwood estate seemed to come to a conclusion before it even began. I would have loved more exploration to this strand of the overall book. I know Sam and Holly were the main focus but Jude was an interesting character. I could see how helpful, supportive, intuitive and creative she was and wanted to learn even more about her. It wasn’t that I didn’t enjoy her storyline I just wanted even more.

The Wish was a very enjoyable read, although The Great Christmas Knit Off and The Great Village Show still remain my favourites in the Tindledale series. There were lots of important topics explored in this book and as I have mentioned above some I felt I enjoyed more so than others. This book does deal with multigenerational family life and how the events of the past can very much influence those of the present. That they can have repercussions for people way down the line. Alex Brown has highlighted that with time and effort triumph can perhaps overcome adversity but it is so important to try and find the courage to try again as love, family and happiness are so crucial in one’s life. The saying goes, everyone deserves a second chance but does Sam find these or has he travelled too far down the path never to be able to claw his way back to those he loves the most? To find out do pick up The Wish and enjoy this visit to Tindledale.

[Claire Mc Partlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable return to Tindledale for me as I had read the other books set here, although this one could be read on it's own without having to read the others, although of course it is always recommended to know about characters mentioned.

There were two storylines running through this; one about Chrissie, her husband Sam and their 13 year old daughter Holly, and the other one was about their friend Jude who starts working for Myles, an ex-rock star who has just bought a big manor house in Tindledale, and Jude is sourcing antiques for him from her new antiques shop in the village.

Sam has been away in Singapore working as an architect for a big company, and hasn't been very good at visiting home since he's been away. He was in contact via phone and Skype, but always seemed to get caught up in 'important' meetings and had to cancel lots of visits. Chrissie has had enough and now Sam is home, working on the estate Myles has just bought, trying to salvage his marriage. Holly is also trying to get her parents back together with various tricks and also enlists the help of Jude, also her godmother.

I must admit I found Sam a bit irritating, one minute his family didn't see much of him as he's 'too busy working' and the next he's back in Tindledale and acting very over-protective to Holly (who has diabetes) when he couldn't be bothered before. I don't blame Chrissie having had enough of him.

On the other hand I did like Jude - and mad Myles really grew on me! He really was a bit odd, very childlike even though he was in his forties, but he got better as the book went on and was always trying to fit in and make people like him. He actually turned out to be my favourite character in the book, which I didn't expect! He turned out to be such a fun-loving guy who was always trying to make people happy, which he did.

Everything was resolved eventually, after a bit of a panic towards the end, and quite a big secret was revealed. Enjoyable read with a lovely ending!

[Graham McGhie · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Uplifting Novel - A Lovely Story:
The title of this standalone novel by Alex Brown, aptly summarises a child's simple desire to live within a loving family. Sam and Chrissie's marriage is in trouble and their daughter, Holly, is stuck in the middle. She has a big birthday coming soon and all she really wants is for her wish to come true: that her mother and father can patch up their differences so that they are back together as one happy family. Life unfortunately is not that simple.
This is a feel good novel which deals with some serious health and lifestyle issues: diabetes, the family unit as the ideal for a child to grow up in, bad parenting and relationships in general. And all wrapped up within a sound plot which will keep you gripped till the very last page. Alex Brown has created some wonderful characters: Jude, Myles and Linda in particular. I defy anyone not to really like the character, Rock Star Myles.
If I was to level one criticism it would be that the novel had me testing my blood sugar level much more frequently than usual. We know diabetes is a serious health issue but sometimes it's better to accept the hand we are dealt and just get on with life.
Surprises are in store for all the major characters in the book as Alex Brown deftly unveils her plot. A great read with humour to relieve the tension: poor Gavin who Holly decides should be sorted out. Little does she know!
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)

[Linda O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another really good story from this author.
Revolves around the morgan family & their friends.
Sam Morgan works away a lot & his wife Chrissie is left at home with their teenage daughter Holly, trying to cope with everything herself. Sam is always so busy with his jobs abroad, which he loves, that it finds it difficult to get home to visit his family regularly. He phones & skypes with his family. Holly is fine with the situation, although she misses her dad. However, Chrissie is getting fed up being on her own & rarely seeing Sam. Then having to deal with all problems that occur, especially worrying about Hollys' newly diagnosed diabetes.
Chrissie finally snaps, after talking to Sam one day & says as his work is more important than his family, not to bother about coming home. This worries Sam & he finally decides to leave his job & return home to his family in Tindledale.
Jude Darling is also on her way home from LA, to her fathers' house in Tindledale, after being away for a few years. She's decided to open up a shop there, but is also looking forward to seeing her father & best friend Chrissie.
I loved all the characters in this book, but Sam did annoy me at times. Though he loves his family, it seemed to me that he worried about himself more.

[Kate Mclaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes the hardest struggles reap the best rewards. That is the moral of this story for me. Whether it be health, wealth or returning home, change brings with it the good and the bad.

For me, discovery and reconciliation are big themes throughout, be it Sam trying to work out why he made the decisions he did and try to find forgiveness from his wife, Chrissie who felt abandoned at the moment she needed him the most. Or Holly, their daughter who is trying, like most teenagers, to discover where she fits in the world whilst feeling smothered by adults who want to protect her from her own body.
Then there are the secondary, but no less important characters of Jude and Myles who offer some comedic relief.

I love the world Alex Brown has created in Tindledale, and I would like to thank #Netgalley and #HarperFiction for the Arc. It’s nice to hear about the lives of old friends (See other books in the series). I found The Wish to be most enjoyable and it’s always good to know that no one is perfect, even in fiction.

As always, I will be highly recommending The Wish to my people.

[Sarah Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a book I was completely hooked from beginning to end. I love reading Alex Browns books and The Wish certainly did not disappoint me. The book takes the reader to Tindledale, with characters Jude,her father Tony, her best friend Chrissie,her husband Sam, they’re daughter Holly and all the other residents of the sleepy village of Tindledale. Sam and Chrissie are having marital problems brought on by Sam, working away and Holly’s diabetes diagnosis, which brings us to the wish, it is Holly’s wish to have her parents back together for her birthday, but with them always at loggerheads, will Hollies wish come true ? Jude has come back to Tindledale from L.A, and the village is far from the bright lights of the city, but she’s back for good and determined to make her antiques business work but when newcomer Miles calls for help in refurbishing his Manor House will there be more to his plea ?
With secrets around parentage and Hollies illness can Chrissie and Sam sort they’re differences. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, loved every word. Well done Alex brown yet another spectacular read

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest in the story from Tindledale; books in this series don't have to be read in order but later books refer to couples from previous books.

Sam, Chrissie and Holly, having grown up and married in Tindledale, Sam works away so Chrissie and Holly have a comfortable life, but with Holly being diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic Sam needs to decide where is best for him to be. Chrissie has grown tired of doing everything on her own, but is so used to it can she relinquish control?

Holly just wants her Mum and Dad back together again!

Then there's Jude, Chrissie's best friend who has also come home after working away for years as a successful interior designer in LA.

Add in an eccentric ex rock star and the story is complete. .. but is Sam who he thinks he is?

I really enjoyed reading the book and catching up with the goings on. I hope there's more to come from Tindledale , especially as the story ends with one person's life not complete.

[~☆starlight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man Tindledale really is the most idyllic fictional village to ever exist!! I can honestly say i love all of Alex Browns books, they always leave me feeling warm and fuzzy and never fail to leave me wanting more!! In this installment of the Tindledale series we are introduced to Chrissie, Sam and Holly,Chrissie and Sam have recently separated much to Holly their daughters despair and her birthday wish is to get them back together. Holly was recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes which took an emotional toll on Chrissie and Sam who still love each other but can't seem to get on equal footing. We are also introduced to Chrissie best friend Jude and Myles her eccentric new client who i absolutely loved and Jude too!! This is just one of them feel good books which focuses on things that are emotionally difficult and very real life problems mixed with love and warmth and family. A perfect read

[Paula Nichols · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to really like this book, I really did. The premise of the wish by a 13 year old girl that her parents would reunite by her birthday was such a sweet idea, but it didn't really connect with me that much. I found Chrissie to be an obsessive, over expecting person, and Sam was too selfish for me to really engage with them, and Jude was a bit up herself after time in LA. Myles had potential, but I wonder how much a faded rock star really has in the bank as it seems he spent millions of pounds on work! Although the last few chapters were more satisfying for me (the whole Linda situation was mildly amusing) it wasn't enough for me to up this to a 3 star review. I felt it was a bit of a chore getting through the book, and whilst I can see why this author is a big hit, I'm afraid it's not for me. But if we all liked the same things life would be boring!!

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam is an architect who has been working on a big contract in Singapore, but when his daughter Holly was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes his wife Chrissie wanted him to come home but much as he loved his wife and daughter his return trips became fewer and fewer until Chrissie told him the marriage was over. Holly was devastated as she was very close to her father and so embarks on a plan to bring them back together, involving her godmother Jules and ageing pop star Myles.

A lovely warm story with great characters, I loved Myles, and it is great to be back in Tindledale again, perfect light read for the summer

[Chris Challinor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never wanted to stop reading this book.

Many Rom Coms centre around one couple who meet unexpectedly, fall in love, have an insurmountable problem in their relationship, split up, make up and marry....happy ever after.
This book, The Wish, goes against the norm and is actually a story. Trying to see who, what, where and why certainly kept my attention.
As a lover of village life, I enjoyed each chapter of the book. The backgrounds and personalities of many different characters, all blend in and the warmth of village life shines throughout the story.
It was a pleasure to read and I'll look out for this author's other books. 5 *****

[Pippa · Rating 1 out of 5]

‘Heart-warming and charming. The perfect summer escape.’ Sarah Morgan
‘A gorgeous read which will warm your heart and make it smile’ Milly Johnson

Favourable reviews from two authors I like, especially MJ, and only £0.99? Yes please!

Unfortunately having trudged through the first 78 pages I’m not seeing the appeal. Alex Brown is new to me but I can’t say I have engaged with her characters or been drawn in by her writing style. This sort of story seldom has much of a plot so if you don’t care about the characters or like the author’s style there is little point.

My first and last by this author.

[Trish Hills · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wish is a gorgeous story of family, hope, wishes, drama and romance!

It is written as only Alex Brown can, with sensitivity, humour, tenderness and a touch of drama.

I adore the setting of Tindledale and was so glad to be back in the village again, with old friends and new, especially Myles King!

The Wish kept me guessing and wondering right until the end and I absolutely LOVED every second of it!

[Karen's World · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really happy feel good book and a perfect summer read. Lovely down to earth characters that all work well together. Families are never easy and when it comes to seeing if you can donate an organ it brings up all sorts of lies and heritage. Sam has been working away but he knows he has to go home but has he left it too late? Can you ever recover what you had in the beg of a relationship? I loved the rock star, wish we all one of them living close by, wouldn’t it be great.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

As my rating, I really liked it. This is my first book of Alex Brown and I will definitely try more of hers. So well written and I really liked how the author showed each of the main characters' thoughts in a fancy way. Really worth reading especially if you want to try a pleasant yet page-turner book!
(SPOILER)
"Well that's where you're wrong. Because blood isn't thicker than water. Not at all. it's just a
different colour!"

[Neil · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.

This was a really nice feel good story with plenty of real to life characters.
A pleasant holiday read beside the pool or sea.

[Pat Langhelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I have read from this author and I look forward to reading more. Easy to read you are swept along with the characters of Holly Jude and Sam along a twisty but very interesting path with an unusual twist. Highly recommend x