What do you think?
Rate this book
Chilton Crosse ##4
Savoring the Seasons
Julia Bentley spent her fortieth birthday doing what she always does, baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn’t realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, moves to the village and shows interest in her. As Julia becomes closer to Tristan, he begins to season her mundane days and to challenge how she views the world.
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
287 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
About the author
Traci Borum
11 books105 followersTraci Borum is a writing teacher and native Texan. She’s also an avid reader of women’s fiction, most especially Elin Hilderbrand and Rosamunde Pilcher novels. Since the age of 12, she’s written poetry, short stories, magazine articles, and novels.
Traci also adores all things British. She even owns a British dog (Corgi) and is completely addicted to Masterpiece Theater–must be all those dreamy accents! Aside from having big dreams of getting a book published, it’s the little things that make her the happiest: deep talks with friends, a strong cup of hot chocolate, a hearty game of fetch with her Corgi, and puffy white Texas clouds always reminding her to “look up, slow down, enjoy your life.”
You can follow Traci on Facebook and Twitter:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Traci-...
https://twitter.com/TraciAuthor
Traci also adores all things British. She even owns a British dog (Corgi) and is completely addicted to Masterpiece Theater–must be all those dreamy accents! Aside from having big dreams of getting a book published, it’s the little things that make her the happiest: deep talks with friends, a strong cup of hot chocolate, a hearty game of fetch with her Corgi, and puffy white Texas clouds always reminding her to “look up, slow down, enjoy your life.”
You can follow Traci on Facebook and Twitter:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Traci-...
https://twitter.com/TraciAuthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 16, 2017
Readers of contemporary inspirational genre fiction already know that many authors deal with the tougher aspects of life. Savoring the Seasons, a rather chaste romance set in a cozy English village, may have a low heat index (kisses and comforting hugs between 40-year-old heroine Julia and 29-year-old hero, Tristan) but the story builds upon two tough subjects: family elder care and negative perceptions of ‘older’ (for some people, that’s any woman over 39) unmarried women. Julia doesn’t stereotype herself, but she’s fully aware that others gossip and judge. Julia and her elderly father have a loving, reassuring relationship, but author Borum doesn’t sugarcoat the situation. Julia is fatigued, has to think about how much social and financial capital she has, and must emotionally prepare herself for the possibility of a future lived alone.
The heat index is low in this novel; Julia and Tristan exchange only kisses and comforting, supportive hugs. However, there’s nothing naive about this book. Borum is unsparing about the emotional and physical challenges that her heroine experiences as a 40-year-old woman finding love, and allows the heroine to speak honestly about such realities to her much younger suitor. I didn’t realize until I finished the ARC that this book is a later installment of a series set in the same, seemingly quaint English village. The frankness, steady pacing, and realism of Borum’s writing made me feel as though Savoring the Seasons was perhaps the first in a series. The hero, Tristan, could have had a bit more personal depth; it’s one of a few things that prevent this from reading like a standalone novel. That said, it didn’t lessen my appreciation for this book.
As a librarian, I’d recommend this book to readers that enjoy romance but don’t always need a 5-star heat level. I would also recommend it to readers in similar life situations: juggling family care, tacit age discrimination, and a lack of self-care and social life.
The heat index is low in this novel; Julia and Tristan exchange only kisses and comforting, supportive hugs. However, there’s nothing naive about this book. Borum is unsparing about the emotional and physical challenges that her heroine experiences as a 40-year-old woman finding love, and allows the heroine to speak honestly about such realities to her much younger suitor. I didn’t realize until I finished the ARC that this book is a later installment of a series set in the same, seemingly quaint English village. The frankness, steady pacing, and realism of Borum’s writing made me feel as though Savoring the Seasons was perhaps the first in a series. The hero, Tristan, could have had a bit more personal depth; it’s one of a few things that prevent this from reading like a standalone novel. That said, it didn’t lessen my appreciation for this book.
As a librarian, I’d recommend this book to readers that enjoy romance but don’t always need a 5-star heat level. I would also recommend it to readers in similar life situations: juggling family care, tacit age discrimination, and a lack of self-care and social life.
July 17, 2018
Savoring the Seasons is the fourth book in Traci Borum’s Chilton Crosse series. I’ve loved each of the previous installments, and this latest was no exception. The novel follows Julia Bentley, who spends nearly every waking moment running Rose’s Bakery — a popular spot in the village of Chilton Crosse — and caring for her 90-year-old father. She doesn’t have time for herself, and she tries not think about whatever dreams she had before she got divorced years ago and returned home to take over the family bakery. But all the things she’s put to the back of her mind come rushing forward when Tristan, the nephew of Chilton Crosse’s biggest gossip, Mrs. Pickering, shows up at the back door of her bakery with the egg delivery.
Julia is immediately attracted to Tristan, and it’s not long before she realizes he feels the same way — which wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that Julia is 40 and Tristan is 29, and she can’t help but be plagued by concerns about the age difference. After all, her strenuous job has her feeling every one of her 40 years. These worries continue to nag at her as their friendship develops and Tristan shares with her the traumatic experience that forced him to reassess his life. Amid preparations for the bakery’s 40th anniversary celebration, Julia begins to come alive, to truly feel happiness, but the fear of finally revealing her own secret to Tristan prevents her from fully embracing that happiness.
I loved Savoring the Seasons, not just because I got to revisit the delightful village of Chilton Crosse and its inhabitants (especially the characters from the previous novels) but also because Julia felt so real to me. Borum does a great job letting readers into the heads of her main characters, and I really felt like I understood Julia, her love for her father and her desire to keep the bakery thriving, and her misgivings about falling in love with a younger man. Even though the book isn’t told from Tristan’s point of view, I felt like I got to know him as well, and it made their story even more endearing.
Savoring the Seasons is a heartfelt novel, and I couldn’t put it down as I watched Julia and Tristan’s relationship grow and Julia find herself in the midst of so much stress and confusion. How do you decide what you truly want to do with your life if you let your fears and obligations take over? How do you take a chance on happiness when there’s always the possibility of being hurt? How do you bring something so fragile out into the open when your neighbors are watching your every move?
Borum makes Chilton Crosse come alive in each of her novels. These people and places seem so real that it’s almost like I’ve met them and been there. There are still villagers whose stories haven’t been told, and I truly hope that Borum plans to write more about them.
Review also posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Julia is immediately attracted to Tristan, and it’s not long before she realizes he feels the same way — which wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that Julia is 40 and Tristan is 29, and she can’t help but be plagued by concerns about the age difference. After all, her strenuous job has her feeling every one of her 40 years. These worries continue to nag at her as their friendship develops and Tristan shares with her the traumatic experience that forced him to reassess his life. Amid preparations for the bakery’s 40th anniversary celebration, Julia begins to come alive, to truly feel happiness, but the fear of finally revealing her own secret to Tristan prevents her from fully embracing that happiness.
I loved Savoring the Seasons, not just because I got to revisit the delightful village of Chilton Crosse and its inhabitants (especially the characters from the previous novels) but also because Julia felt so real to me. Borum does a great job letting readers into the heads of her main characters, and I really felt like I understood Julia, her love for her father and her desire to keep the bakery thriving, and her misgivings about falling in love with a younger man. Even though the book isn’t told from Tristan’s point of view, I felt like I got to know him as well, and it made their story even more endearing.
Savoring the Seasons is a heartfelt novel, and I couldn’t put it down as I watched Julia and Tristan’s relationship grow and Julia find herself in the midst of so much stress and confusion. How do you decide what you truly want to do with your life if you let your fears and obligations take over? How do you take a chance on happiness when there’s always the possibility of being hurt? How do you bring something so fragile out into the open when your neighbors are watching your every move?
Borum makes Chilton Crosse come alive in each of her novels. These people and places seem so real that it’s almost like I’ve met them and been there. There are still villagers whose stories haven’t been told, and I truly hope that Borum plans to write more about them.
Review also posted on Diary of an Eccentric
November 2, 2017
I received a free copy via netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This is the first book in this series that I have read.
If anything some of the characters feel to sweet to be real.
But overall this was a really nice romance with a real feel good factor.
This is the first book in this series that I have read.
If anything some of the characters feel to sweet to be real.
But overall this was a really nice romance with a real feel good factor.
August 26, 2018
Loved it.
Full of wonderful, imperfect characters. I hope that Traci Borum will continue writing stories about the people of Chilton Crosse
Full of wonderful, imperfect characters. I hope that Traci Borum will continue writing stories about the people of Chilton Crosse
August 16, 2017
One of my favorite settings for a novel is an small, quaint country English village. I guess I found my love for them after watching the movie The Holiday. But I became truly enchanted when I picked up the Chilton Crosse novels and found that love I had been missing. In each novel in the series, the reader gets to know each of the village's residents a bit more that live in Chilton Crosse and with Savoring the Seasons, by Traci Borum, the fourth novel, the reader gets to really know Julia Bentley who runs Rose's Bakery in town. Her ninety year old father does his part by sitting outside the bakery handing out samples to those that pass by, whether tourists or simply someone in town. In fact, the entire town knows how much of his life and love he has poured into the bakery.
The bakery has been open now close to 40 years and with that, the town decides to celebrate all the hard work that the Bentley's have put into their baking. Mrs. Pickering decides the best way to do that is to form small committees to complete the tasks need to pull this off as a surprise of a lifetime and the only thing they will allow Julia to do, is bake a cake. So as the town sets off to complete their assignments, Julia discovers Tristan Hannigan, the new delivery man for supplying the bakeries needs and feels immediately drawn to him. Until he shaves off his beard and she realizes he is more than a decade younger than she is. While she is 40, and he is only 29 going on 30, she wonders if there might be a possibility for them. For now, they agree to be friends, something everyone can do with more of, especially Julia who's life consists of waking up early to begin baking, and taking care of her elderly father.
Just reading about all the tasty treats Julia whips up since discovering an old cookbook left behind with all her mother's notes, makes the reader want to indulge in some as well. Just as it seems things might be looking up in the romance department for Julia, Tristan's mates from the University show up since he refused to attend their reunion and with it, Tristan's old ex who is drop dead beautiful who still seems to have a thing for Tristan. With the retelling of all their old school stories, Julia can't really contribute much except for smiling at this and that, and begins to wonder if the feelings she has for Tristan aren't just hopeful anticipation and perhaps the age difference between them is more than meets the eye.
I received Savoring the Seasons by Traci Borum compliments of Red Adept Publishing. The delightful thing about this novel is the quips of wisdom that opens up each chapter. While it might allude to baking advice it also parallels life advice as well. For example, "Don't take fresh ingredients for granted. Smell them, touch them, turn them over in your hand and really look at them. Appreciate their qualities and what they're about to do for your recipe. Don't get to busy that you forget to savor the small things." And that is just the theme of this novel. Savoring the Seasons in our lives. Too often we are consumed by our daily to do lists that we forget to engage in the people around us and before we know it, life has passed us by. I know if you love novels that take place with a small group of people that love and care for one another, pick up the Chilton Crosse series. For me, this one was well worth all 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
The bakery has been open now close to 40 years and with that, the town decides to celebrate all the hard work that the Bentley's have put into their baking. Mrs. Pickering decides the best way to do that is to form small committees to complete the tasks need to pull this off as a surprise of a lifetime and the only thing they will allow Julia to do, is bake a cake. So as the town sets off to complete their assignments, Julia discovers Tristan Hannigan, the new delivery man for supplying the bakeries needs and feels immediately drawn to him. Until he shaves off his beard and she realizes he is more than a decade younger than she is. While she is 40, and he is only 29 going on 30, she wonders if there might be a possibility for them. For now, they agree to be friends, something everyone can do with more of, especially Julia who's life consists of waking up early to begin baking, and taking care of her elderly father.
Just reading about all the tasty treats Julia whips up since discovering an old cookbook left behind with all her mother's notes, makes the reader want to indulge in some as well. Just as it seems things might be looking up in the romance department for Julia, Tristan's mates from the University show up since he refused to attend their reunion and with it, Tristan's old ex who is drop dead beautiful who still seems to have a thing for Tristan. With the retelling of all their old school stories, Julia can't really contribute much except for smiling at this and that, and begins to wonder if the feelings she has for Tristan aren't just hopeful anticipation and perhaps the age difference between them is more than meets the eye.
I received Savoring the Seasons by Traci Borum compliments of Red Adept Publishing. The delightful thing about this novel is the quips of wisdom that opens up each chapter. While it might allude to baking advice it also parallels life advice as well. For example, "Don't take fresh ingredients for granted. Smell them, touch them, turn them over in your hand and really look at them. Appreciate their qualities and what they're about to do for your recipe. Don't get to busy that you forget to savor the small things." And that is just the theme of this novel. Savoring the Seasons in our lives. Too often we are consumed by our daily to do lists that we forget to engage in the people around us and before we know it, life has passed us by. I know if you love novels that take place with a small group of people that love and care for one another, pick up the Chilton Crosse series. For me, this one was well worth all 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
June 24, 2017
Welcome back Chilton Crosse!
I'm so thrilled to do another review for author Traci Borum (a native and fellow Texan!). Her Chilton Crosse series is wonderful and just the escape I need to the cozy British countryside.
Savoring the Seasons is the fourth novel in the Chilton Crosse series.
Books in the series:
Painting the Moon
Finding the Rainbow
Seeking the Star
As I've noted in previous reviews (links included above) I'd like to move to this charming Costwold village #posthaste. This cozy series has everything you need to feel like the world has smiled and given you a hug. I think I've said that before in another book in the series, but I stand by it - it's absolutely true.
Now that doesn't mean that it's without conflict or tension - life has conflict and tension, and decisions are often bigger than ourselves...and that's just what Julia Bentley must decide as she navigates the choices she has made in her life.
Julia Bentley has just spent her fortieth birthday does what she always does - baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn't realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, arrives at the village and shows interest in her. As Julia grows closer to Tristan, he begin to season her mundane days and to challenge her insecurities about herself and how she views the world.
But the relationship is threatened when Julia's doubts become too great, and the secret she's afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
Ms. Borum has created an idyllic romance in the internal struggle of Julia Bentley. I appreciate the subtle nuances of her character and her battle with decisions that I think many women feel are apart of the feminine experience. Her relationship with Tristan grows organically and there is mystery there - mystery that keeps the reader turning the page.
Now I feel I must also give the reader warning: I consumed more scones, baked goods, pie, bread, and sandwiches while reading this novel than my waistband appreciated. Seriously - if you weren't craving bakery fresh creations, you will be. Put your local bakery on speed dial.
And that's the mark of a good book, I believe. For the subtleties of the characters, their lives, their day to day, to infiltrate the reader's life - my day to day. I regularly believed that the Publix scones were certainly not at good as Julia Bentley's, and maybe, just maybe, there's more to caring about others around you than effort previously given (particularly the elderly). I think Savoring the Seasons is part romance, part family, and part life lesson.
Happy Reading my friends - this is one to savor.
Publication for this book is June 28th! Be sure to get your copy at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071G3XHBM/ for a pre-order. Additionally, the previous books in the series are on a flash sale if you'd like to catch up - I assumer you, one afternoon is all you need to read and fall in love with this cozy women's series. For more details about the previous books and where to go for a steal, visit http://www.traciborum.com/
I'm so thrilled to do another review for author Traci Borum (a native and fellow Texan!). Her Chilton Crosse series is wonderful and just the escape I need to the cozy British countryside.
Savoring the Seasons is the fourth novel in the Chilton Crosse series.
Books in the series:
Painting the Moon
Finding the Rainbow
Seeking the Star
As I've noted in previous reviews (links included above) I'd like to move to this charming Costwold village #posthaste. This cozy series has everything you need to feel like the world has smiled and given you a hug. I think I've said that before in another book in the series, but I stand by it - it's absolutely true.
Now that doesn't mean that it's without conflict or tension - life has conflict and tension, and decisions are often bigger than ourselves...and that's just what Julia Bentley must decide as she navigates the choices she has made in her life.
Julia Bentley has just spent her fortieth birthday does what she always does - baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn't realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, arrives at the village and shows interest in her. As Julia grows closer to Tristan, he begin to season her mundane days and to challenge her insecurities about herself and how she views the world.
But the relationship is threatened when Julia's doubts become too great, and the secret she's afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
Ms. Borum has created an idyllic romance in the internal struggle of Julia Bentley. I appreciate the subtle nuances of her character and her battle with decisions that I think many women feel are apart of the feminine experience. Her relationship with Tristan grows organically and there is mystery there - mystery that keeps the reader turning the page.
Now I feel I must also give the reader warning: I consumed more scones, baked goods, pie, bread, and sandwiches while reading this novel than my waistband appreciated. Seriously - if you weren't craving bakery fresh creations, you will be. Put your local bakery on speed dial.
And that's the mark of a good book, I believe. For the subtleties of the characters, their lives, their day to day, to infiltrate the reader's life - my day to day. I regularly believed that the Publix scones were certainly not at good as Julia Bentley's, and maybe, just maybe, there's more to caring about others around you than effort previously given (particularly the elderly). I think Savoring the Seasons is part romance, part family, and part life lesson.
Happy Reading my friends - this is one to savor.
Publication for this book is June 28th! Be sure to get your copy at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071G3XHBM/ for a pre-order. Additionally, the previous books in the series are on a flash sale if you'd like to catch up - I assumer you, one afternoon is all you need to read and fall in love with this cozy women's series. For more details about the previous books and where to go for a steal, visit http://www.traciborum.com/
July 27, 2018
Another winner!
I chose to read this book because I liked Traci's other two books so much. She and her family were church friends of our family when Traci was a little girl. She is a gifted author. Dela Terrill
I chose to read this book because I liked Traci's other two books so much. She and her family were church friends of our family when Traci was a little girl. She is a gifted author. Dela Terrill
June 18, 2017
I would like to thank the author for e-mailing her book to me in exchange for an honest review.
Julia has a wonderful father. Mr. Bentley plays the clarinet, meets with his friends for a friendly game of poker once a week and hands out free samples at the bakery when he is able. He loves his daughter dearly and misses his deceased wife. The village characters love him. And! He's ninety years old. He has my vote for one of the top ten fictional father's in literature.
While delivering eggs to the bakery, Tristan meets Julia for the first time. He's attracted to Julia and gently leads her into a relationship with him. Tristan is a gentleman, he's attractive, kind and always wants to lend a helping hand. He becomes pals with Mr. Bentley and the two men spend a considerable amount of time together while Julia hoovers in the background, keeping busy.
While a sweet relationship between Julia and Tristan is developing and Tristan and Mr. Bentley are getting to know one another, the town busybody decides to organize a celebration in honor of the bakery's fortieth anniversary.
I thought this was a satisfying read. I loved the characters, the romance and the relationship between Julia and her father. This is a curl up in a comfy place, with a steaming drink, let your heart flutter and savor each moment in this story. I loved it! :)
Julia has a wonderful father. Mr. Bentley plays the clarinet, meets with his friends for a friendly game of poker once a week and hands out free samples at the bakery when he is able. He loves his daughter dearly and misses his deceased wife. The village characters love him. And! He's ninety years old. He has my vote for one of the top ten fictional father's in literature.
While delivering eggs to the bakery, Tristan meets Julia for the first time. He's attracted to Julia and gently leads her into a relationship with him. Tristan is a gentleman, he's attractive, kind and always wants to lend a helping hand. He becomes pals with Mr. Bentley and the two men spend a considerable amount of time together while Julia hoovers in the background, keeping busy.
While a sweet relationship between Julia and Tristan is developing and Tristan and Mr. Bentley are getting to know one another, the town busybody decides to organize a celebration in honor of the bakery's fortieth anniversary.
I thought this was a satisfying read. I loved the characters, the romance and the relationship between Julia and her father. This is a curl up in a comfy place, with a steaming drink, let your heart flutter and savor each moment in this story. I loved it! :)
August 12, 2017
Savoring the Seasons is the 4th book in the Chilton Crosse series by Traci Borum. I’ve read all of the books and always enjoy coming back to “visit” Chilton Crosse. The characters from the previous books make appearances in this book, as it focuses on Julia and her father who have appeared in prior books. Like the author, I’m quite obsessed with all things England, and this fictional town in the Cotswolds is exactly where I’d want to live. The villagers all know each other and celebrate together. When the 40th anniversary of the bakery approaches, the villagers plan a surprise for Julia’s dad who opened the bakery all those years ago.
I’ve loved all the books in this series, and this one was no exception. Julia has put herself last for a long time. When she finally has the chance to put her needs ahead of everyone’s, she’s not quite sure she can do it. She sabotages her chance at love because she’s afraid. Yes, she does come to her senses and like with all sweet, clean romances, Julia gets her happy ending.
If you haven’t read this series, and you love clean romance books, I definitely recommend starting with book one and getting to know the village and the characters. You’ll fall in love just as I have!
I’ve loved all the books in this series, and this one was no exception. Julia has put herself last for a long time. When she finally has the chance to put her needs ahead of everyone’s, she’s not quite sure she can do it. She sabotages her chance at love because she’s afraid. Yes, she does come to her senses and like with all sweet, clean romances, Julia gets her happy ending.
If you haven’t read this series, and you love clean romance books, I definitely recommend starting with book one and getting to know the village and the characters. You’ll fall in love just as I have!
July 13, 2018
Another Wonderful Read
While this story was quite different than the first book, this one still had the charm and the ability to capture the reader almost from the first page. Some of the same characters from the first book helped to make the reader feel like they "came home" to something familiar. A really good romance laced with life events, who could ask for more. Highly recommended series and I am looking forward to another book. I think there are two more after this one.
While this story was quite different than the first book, this one still had the charm and the ability to capture the reader almost from the first page. Some of the same characters from the first book helped to make the reader feel like they "came home" to something familiar. A really good romance laced with life events, who could ask for more. Highly recommended series and I am looking forward to another book. I think there are two more after this one.
July 18, 2018
WHAT IS IMPORANT
Not what people think . It is what you feel and care about. Taking one day at A time. Showing and telling your feelings.
Not what people think . It is what you feel and care about. Taking one day at A time. Showing and telling your feelings.
July 31, 2017
Book 4 did not disappoint!
I loved this book. Like the others in this series, I could not put it down, once started. Like the others in the series, it resonated with me and my own experiences. The intricate details provide vivid imagery. It's a love story with the fairytale ending but it isn't that sickly, sweet Harlequin romance. (No offense, Harlequin, my grandmother loved you.)
Spoiler Alert:
This series addresses real issues that we face in our daily lives. It brought tears to my eyes for the last third of the book as I recalled my own inability to have children. By the way, there's a 13 year age gap in mine and my husband's ages.
Some of the stories I've loved over the years: The Love Comes Softly Series, Anne of Green Gables, anything by Jane Austen.
If you are like me, then you will love this series. I would read them in order but it's not a necessity. Enjoy!
I loved this book. Like the others in this series, I could not put it down, once started. Like the others in the series, it resonated with me and my own experiences. The intricate details provide vivid imagery. It's a love story with the fairytale ending but it isn't that sickly, sweet Harlequin romance. (No offense, Harlequin, my grandmother loved you.)
Spoiler Alert:
This series addresses real issues that we face in our daily lives. It brought tears to my eyes for the last third of the book as I recalled my own inability to have children. By the way, there's a 13 year age gap in mine and my husband's ages.
Some of the stories I've loved over the years: The Love Comes Softly Series, Anne of Green Gables, anything by Jane Austen.
If you are like me, then you will love this series. I would read them in order but it's not a necessity. Enjoy!
August 3, 2017
Julia Bentley spent her fortieth birthday doing what she always does, baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn’t realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, moves to the village and shows interest in her. As Julia becomes closer to Tristan, he begins to season her mundane days and to challenge how she views the world.
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
I read this book in one sitting. It was an easy read that I enjoyed. It had joy and angst as is expected in these sorts of books and it left me feeling good. 4.5*
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
I read this book in one sitting. It was an easy read that I enjoyed. It had joy and angst as is expected in these sorts of books and it left me feeling good. 4.5*
July 11, 2018
Loose yourself
Wonderful holiday season reading g. Great to get to know the characters in an English village.
Loved getting to be part of their lives and left to wonder now how they all lived in years to come!
Wonderful holiday season reading g. Great to get to know the characters in an English village.
Loved getting to be part of their lives and left to wonder now how they all lived in years to come!
July 11, 2018
More, please!
Oh, how I have enjoyed these four books and all the characters contained within! Please tell me the stories of Chilton Crosse aren’t over! More, please!
Oh, how I have enjoyed these four books and all the characters contained within! Please tell me the stories of Chilton Crosse aren’t over! More, please!
August 26, 2018
I've enjoyed the previous installments in this series, recounting life in an English village and gentle romantic connections. This is another charming story, but I can't say I enjoyed it *quite* as much. Julia was a sweet character but her role as caretaker for her father was much more believable than as Tristan's girlfriend (Their friendship was nice and all -- and that companionship can be a great foundation for more, but I never felt the sparks. It seemed more like Julia was simply blooming because someone was paying attention to her.)
July 6, 2017
A Book to Savor
A delightful story! I loved this return visit to Chilton Crosse! Julia and Tristan, surrounded by friends and family, develop a friendship that grows into love, despite a few bumps along the way. I've enjoyed all 4 books in this series - full of colorful descriptions and wonderful characters. A real feel good story.
A delightful story! I loved this return visit to Chilton Crosse! Julia and Tristan, surrounded by friends and family, develop a friendship that grows into love, despite a few bumps along the way. I've enjoyed all 4 books in this series - full of colorful descriptions and wonderful characters. A real feel good story.
July 24, 2017
Traci Borum's Chilton Crosse is a lovely little village filled with interesting people. Somehow, you want everything to turn out well for all of them, even the neighborhood busybody. And Julia of "Savoring the Seasons" is no different. That's a testament to Borum's writing. It's sweet without being saccharine. "Savoring the Seasons" is a perfect story to read with a good cup of tea.
June 22, 2020
Savoring the Seasons is the fourth book in this series and the character of focus in this novel is Julia Bentley, who spends nearly every waking moment running Rose’s Bakery — a popular spot in the fictitious village of Chilton Crosse — and caring for her 90-year-old father. She doesn’t have time for herself, much less the dreams she had before she got divorced and returned home to take over the family bakery. But all the things she’s put to the back of her mind come rushing back when Tristan shows up at the back door of her bakery with the egg delivery.
Julia is immediately attracted to Tristan, and it’s not long before she realizes he feels the same way — which wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that Julia is 40 and Tristan is 29, and she can’t help but be plagued by concerns about the age difference. After all, her strenuous job has her feeling every one of her 40 years. These worries continue to nag at her as their friendship develops and Tristan shares with her the traumatic experience that forced him to reassess his life. Just as it seems things might be looking up in the romance department for Julia, Tristan's mates from the University show up since he refused to attend their reunion and with it, Tristan's old ex who is typically drop dead gorgeous who still seems to have a thing for Tristan. With the retelling of all their old school stories, Julia begins to wonder if the feelings she has for Tristan aren't just hopeful anticipation and perhaps the age difference between them is more than meets the eye. Amid preparations for the bakery’s 40th-anniversary celebration, Julia begins to come alive, to truly feel happiness, but the fear of finally revealing her own secret to Tristan prevents her from fully embracing that happiness.
Savoring the Seasons is a rather sweet chaste romance set in a cozy English village, but the story builds upon two tough subjects: family elder care and negative perceptions of ‘older’ (for some people, that’s any woman over 39) unmarried women. Julia doesn’t stereotype herself, but she’s fully aware that other people do gossip and judge. Borum is unsparing about the emotional and physical challenges that her heroine experiences as a 40-year-old woman finding love, and allows the heroine to speak honestly about such realities to her much younger suitor.
This novel turns on its head the typical romance storyline, which makes it a breath of fresh air.
Julia is immediately attracted to Tristan, and it’s not long before she realizes he feels the same way — which wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that Julia is 40 and Tristan is 29, and she can’t help but be plagued by concerns about the age difference. After all, her strenuous job has her feeling every one of her 40 years. These worries continue to nag at her as their friendship develops and Tristan shares with her the traumatic experience that forced him to reassess his life. Just as it seems things might be looking up in the romance department for Julia, Tristan's mates from the University show up since he refused to attend their reunion and with it, Tristan's old ex who is typically drop dead gorgeous who still seems to have a thing for Tristan. With the retelling of all their old school stories, Julia begins to wonder if the feelings she has for Tristan aren't just hopeful anticipation and perhaps the age difference between them is more than meets the eye. Amid preparations for the bakery’s 40th-anniversary celebration, Julia begins to come alive, to truly feel happiness, but the fear of finally revealing her own secret to Tristan prevents her from fully embracing that happiness.
Savoring the Seasons is a rather sweet chaste romance set in a cozy English village, but the story builds upon two tough subjects: family elder care and negative perceptions of ‘older’ (for some people, that’s any woman over 39) unmarried women. Julia doesn’t stereotype herself, but she’s fully aware that other people do gossip and judge. Borum is unsparing about the emotional and physical challenges that her heroine experiences as a 40-year-old woman finding love, and allows the heroine to speak honestly about such realities to her much younger suitor.
This novel turns on its head the typical romance storyline, which makes it a breath of fresh air.
June 22, 2025
This was a good book. However, it had way too much introspection and mental waffling by the main female character.
Amazon synopsis:
Julia Bentley spent her fortieth birthday doing what she always does, baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn’t realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, moves to the village and shows interest in her. As Julia becomes closer to Tristan, he begins to season her mundane days and to challenge how she views the world.
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
Amazon synopsis:
Julia Bentley spent her fortieth birthday doing what she always does, baking treats for the customers in her Cotswold bakery and taking care of her elderly father. She doesn’t realize how stagnant her life has become until a younger man, Tristan Hannigan, moves to the village and shows interest in her. As Julia becomes closer to Tristan, he begins to season her mundane days and to challenge how she views the world.
The relationship is threatened when Julia’s doubts and insecurities overwhelm her, and the secret she’s afraid to reveal creates a wedge between them. Will Julia choose the easy route, slipping back into her daily routine and living without love? Or will she find the courage to follow her heart and accept the love she deserves?
November 3, 2019
I enjoyed Savoring The Seasons and gave it a four star rating. I found the story engaging and the romance between Julie and Tristan sweet and tender. Although some readers did find that the author may have overly heightened Julie’s perception of herself as an old woman (Julie was only 40 year old!) the fears and insecurities of women growing older are relevant and very relatable. I liked the pacing of the story and being immersed in Julie’s day to day, slice of life world. Sweet book with a happy ending. Perfect for readers who enjoy clean, contemporary romances.
May 6, 2025
Julia ❤️ Tristan
Julia is the baker at Rose’s Bakery in Chilton Crosse. When a new man shows up to deliver eggs, Tristan, it is a breath-taking moment for both of them. Julia has kept herself sequestered in the bakery with no dating social life for many years. But there is only one problem with their shared mutual feelings for each other. She is much older than he. See how this works out!
Julia is the baker at Rose’s Bakery in Chilton Crosse. When a new man shows up to deliver eggs, Tristan, it is a breath-taking moment for both of them. Julia has kept herself sequestered in the bakery with no dating social life for many years. But there is only one problem with their shared mutual feelings for each other. She is much older than he. See how this works out!
October 7, 2025
Lovely story!
Traci Borum brings her wonderful characters and their delightful village to life. You will be craving delicious baked goods when you are reading this book, so be forewarned. Anyone who likes a good romance will enjoy "Savoring The Seasons". The highs and lows of life fill these pages as Tristan and Julia become good friends then fall deeply in love. Many familar characters from other Chilton Crosse books bring a warm and caring community together once again.
Traci Borum brings her wonderful characters and their delightful village to life. You will be craving delicious baked goods when you are reading this book, so be forewarned. Anyone who likes a good romance will enjoy "Savoring The Seasons". The highs and lows of life fill these pages as Tristan and Julia become good friends then fall deeply in love. Many familar characters from other Chilton Crosse books bring a warm and caring community together once again.
September 22, 2019
Engaging but not engrossing
This is my fourth book in this series. It was not quite the page turner that the other three books were. The plot and characters were interesting enough but not enough to keep me from taking breaks from reading the book. I like the strong female characters and the depth of character in the men.
This is my fourth book in this series. It was not quite the page turner that the other three books were. The plot and characters were interesting enough but not enough to keep me from taking breaks from reading the book. I like the strong female characters and the depth of character in the men.
February 14, 2020
A great look at village life, an older woman and younger man romance
I have enjoyed these Chilton Crosse books! In this one we read Julia's story. A forty year old woman, running a bakery while taking care of her elderly father. Enter Tristan, a Londoner who moves to Chilton Crosse to escape a tragedy in his life. This is a very good book!
I have enjoyed these Chilton Crosse books! In this one we read Julia's story. A forty year old woman, running a bakery while taking care of her elderly father. Enter Tristan, a Londoner who moves to Chilton Crosse to escape a tragedy in his life. This is a very good book!
June 7, 2025
I usually don't read the romance genre, but this series has gotten to me and I am hooked. I love how the author features a different village member in each story while updating the lives of the other people featured in the previous books. These books hard to put down and easily read in one sitting.
August 13, 2019
Scrumptious!
One of the sweetest books I have read in a long time. Could not wait to pick it up in the evening. It was romantic, without all the sexual gymnastics. Certainly made one long for living life in one of the most beautiful parts of England, The Cotswolds,
One of the sweetest books I have read in a long time. Could not wait to pick it up in the evening. It was romantic, without all the sexual gymnastics. Certainly made one long for living life in one of the most beautiful parts of England, The Cotswolds,
October 12, 2019
Very sweet story
The biggest drawback was all the references to so many mouthwatering treats that sidetracked me from the plotline. I added calories just reading about them. Very entertaining story and characters rounded out the package.
The biggest drawback was all the references to so many mouthwatering treats that sidetracked me from the plotline. I added calories just reading about them. Very entertaining story and characters rounded out the package.
January 2, 2020
Lovely book and story.
Love the people and the setting, can almost smell the flowers. It is a gentle love story it is mostly about a village one that Ireally want it to be real. Very much recommend it.
Love the people and the setting, can almost smell the flowers. It is a gentle love story it is mostly about a village one that Ireally want it to be real. Very much recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews