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Hetty’s Farmhouse Bakery #1-4
Hetty’s Farmhouse Bakery
Thirty-two-year-old Hetty Greengrass is the star around which the rest of her family orbits. Marriage, motherhood and helping Dan run Sunnybank Farm have certainly kept her hands full for the last twelve years. But when her daughter Poppy has to choose her inspiration for a school project and picks her aunt, not her mum, Hetty is left full of self-doubt.
Hetty’s always been generous with her time and until now, her biggest talent – baking deliciously moreish shortcrust pastry pies – has been limited to charity work and the village fete. But taking part in a competition run by Cumbria’s Finest to find the very best produce from the region might be just the thing to make her daughter proud . . . and reclaim something for herself.
Except that life isn’t as simple as producing the perfect pie. Changing the status quo isn’t easy – and with cracks appearing in her marriage and shocking secrets coming to light, Hetty must decide where her priorities really lie . . .
Your favourite authors have loved reading bestseller Cathy Bramley:
'Delightful!' Katie Fforde
'Full of joy and fun' Milly Johnson
'Delightfully warm with plenty of twists and turns' Trisha Ashley
Hetty’s always been generous with her time and until now, her biggest talent – baking deliciously moreish shortcrust pastry pies – has been limited to charity work and the village fete. But taking part in a competition run by Cumbria’s Finest to find the very best produce from the region might be just the thing to make her daughter proud . . . and reclaim something for herself.
Except that life isn’t as simple as producing the perfect pie. Changing the status quo isn’t easy – and with cracks appearing in her marriage and shocking secrets coming to light, Hetty must decide where her priorities really lie . . .
Your favourite authors have loved reading bestseller Cathy Bramley:
'Delightful!' Katie Fforde
'Full of joy and fun' Milly Johnson
'Delightfully warm with plenty of twists and turns' Trisha Ashley
Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2018
137 people are currently reading
790 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Bramley
66 books1,130 followersCathy Bramley is the author of the best-selling romantic comedies Ivy Lane, Appleby Farm, Wickham Hall, Conditional Love and The Plumberry School of Comfort Food. She lives in a Nottinghamshire village with her family and a dog.
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
August 12, 2018
Lovely story about Hetty and her friends and family. It was a nice change to some of the other books I usually read but still have the same feel good factor at the end. Might be nice to see how Hetty and her farmhouse bakery and her family get on in a sequel.
August 16, 2019
Really enjoyable, at times I felt that Hetty was a pushover and I wasn't overly keen on Dan however I loved reading about some of the intricacies of farm life and felt this was a very well researched book. It was a gentle change from Cathy's usual storylines with a twist I did see coming but I was still intrigued to find out how the characters all coped with it. I am such a fan of Cathy's work, she writes fantastic stories that do keep me engrossed.
March 11, 2018
I felt instantly at home reading this delightful new book by Cathy Bramley, it is a warm comforting sort of a book while at the same time inspirational that you can do more with your life, even in a small way that may make your loved ones immensely proud of you.
Which is exactly what Hetty is trying to do, as her daughter Poppy looks up to her aunty Naomi but not her mum, so Hetty is determined to change that. And it all comes down to pies, as that is what Hetty is good at, and the intention to try to start up a new farm to fork business.
However not all of the family are in agreement and it does cause tensions with husband Dan, who relies on Hetty far too much for farmwork.
There are some unexpected directions that this book goes in, which add to the readability and grippiness of the story. I loved the setting of Sunnybank Farm, and I was even happier to see spot one of Cathy Bramley's previous characters and her family making short cameos throughout the book which is a lovely gift for her fans, and if you haven't read the other book in question then it doesn't matter, as you may not even notice.
If you like pies then you will definitely love this book, if you love strong women trying to change their life then this is the book for you, if you want a well written, thoroughly enjoyable story that features plenty of food, family and friendship then look no further - Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery has all of that and more.
Thank you to Netgalley and Transworld for this coy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Which is exactly what Hetty is trying to do, as her daughter Poppy looks up to her aunty Naomi but not her mum, so Hetty is determined to change that. And it all comes down to pies, as that is what Hetty is good at, and the intention to try to start up a new farm to fork business.
However not all of the family are in agreement and it does cause tensions with husband Dan, who relies on Hetty far too much for farmwork.
There are some unexpected directions that this book goes in, which add to the readability and grippiness of the story. I loved the setting of Sunnybank Farm, and I was even happier to see spot one of Cathy Bramley's previous characters and her family making short cameos throughout the book which is a lovely gift for her fans, and if you haven't read the other book in question then it doesn't matter, as you may not even notice.
If you like pies then you will definitely love this book, if you love strong women trying to change their life then this is the book for you, if you want a well written, thoroughly enjoyable story that features plenty of food, family and friendship then look no further - Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery has all of that and more.
Thank you to Netgalley and Transworld for this coy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 31, 2018
I have always loved Cathy's books and couldn't wait to read this at all and she defiantly didn't let me down at all it is an excellent book worth far more than the five stars I had to give it. It's full of surprises, romance families and of course lovely pies. It has such amazing characters with excellent story lines and has you hooked from the first page to the last. It's such a delight to read and full of fun and joy.
Hetty has always put her husband and daughter first before her own. She helps Dan run the farm and has done for years. Her talent is baking cakes and they are simply Devine everyone says. She's made them for a long time but only for charity work but someone suggests she makes them for a competition to find Cumbrias finest food and she enters and wins. She thinks she can start doing something for her and get something done for herself. Problem is her husband isn't keen and someone rings to say she's through to a bigger competition with her pies and she can go to London to see if she wins. She has to decide what is best for the family and hard when Dan doesn't want her to go so does she and can she won and set her own business up or not. Also after a tragic accidents secrets come out and can she forgive and forget and move forward or is that just to much can she be happy or not.
So many amazing twists and turns and perfect to curl up and read this book. Loved it so so much.
Hetty has always put her husband and daughter first before her own. She helps Dan run the farm and has done for years. Her talent is baking cakes and they are simply Devine everyone says. She's made them for a long time but only for charity work but someone suggests she makes them for a competition to find Cumbrias finest food and she enters and wins. She thinks she can start doing something for her and get something done for herself. Problem is her husband isn't keen and someone rings to say she's through to a bigger competition with her pies and she can go to London to see if she wins. She has to decide what is best for the family and hard when Dan doesn't want her to go so does she and can she won and set her own business up or not. Also after a tragic accidents secrets come out and can she forgive and forget and move forward or is that just to much can she be happy or not.
So many amazing twists and turns and perfect to curl up and read this book. Loved it so so much.
April 11, 2018
I really enjoy reading any books by Cathy Bramley, so I was looking forward to reading Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery. I must admit I struggled at first to 'get into' the story but once I did I enjoyed it. It just seemed a little slow to get started. I think this was due to at first I thought the character of Hetty a little wet. After reading further on in the novel this feeling went away but I must admit I never warmed to her husband Dan. I found him a little unlikable. However, I thought that the story line was good and enjoyed the twist at the end of the book. Not my favourite Cathy Bramley book but readable and enjoyable nonetheless.
April 29, 2018
Magical
Once again Cathy has given us an other winner. We all know someone like Hetty warm funny caring trying to make the best of her situation and against the trials and tribulations of life and very good friends and being totally let down confused but Hetty's passion for baking saves her sanity and her marraige. A book one picked up has to be read to the end a Truely magical read highly recommend ❤
Once again Cathy has given us an other winner. We all know someone like Hetty warm funny caring trying to make the best of her situation and against the trials and tribulations of life and very good friends and being totally let down confused but Hetty's passion for baking saves her sanity and her marraige. A book one picked up has to be read to the end a Truely magical read highly recommend ❤
July 27, 2021
A perfect read with the right amount of drama to still be light and easy. Set in the heart of Cumbria I wanted to love it and I did.
Hetty and Dan are the childhood sweethearts with daughter Poppy now nearly thirteen. Friend Anna has son Bart. His name is associated with farming and you find out why more than just where he lives in the story.
They are all likeable with flaws but my heart draws to Hetty. She is likeable and will do anything for anyone. Even better she is not perfect but helps everyone find it in themselves. Forgiving at the right times but knows how to stand her ground. I loved her relationship with Dan how much love there was and how it should not be thrown away for one mistake in the past.
The best read for a while easily 5 stars.
Hetty and Dan are the childhood sweethearts with daughter Poppy now nearly thirteen. Friend Anna has son Bart. His name is associated with farming and you find out why more than just where he lives in the story.
They are all likeable with flaws but my heart draws to Hetty. She is likeable and will do anything for anyone. Even better she is not perfect but helps everyone find it in themselves. Forgiving at the right times but knows how to stand her ground. I loved her relationship with Dan how much love there was and how it should not be thrown away for one mistake in the past.
The best read for a while easily 5 stars.
May 23, 2018
This is the first book I have read by Cathy Bramley and all I can say is that I throughly enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down.
I loved all the characters especially the main character Hetty. I really got an image of her in my head.
There are a few twists and turns through out the book which kept me gripped right up until the last page.
All in all I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read her next book.
I loved all the characters especially the main character Hetty. I really got an image of her in my head.
There are a few twists and turns through out the book which kept me gripped right up until the last page.
All in all I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read her next book.
July 20, 2018
Oh, Cathy Bramley sure knows how to write a book. I absolutely adore this cover and I think it's my favourite one of hers yet. I just love the polkadot jug, the pie at the bottom and of course the pretty farmhouse with the lovely green fields behind. The animals in front of the farmhouse look so cute and the whole cover just comes together nicely and looks so pretty.
I did like the character of Hetty, although she seemed a bit of a pushover, I really felt for her and how she really wanted to get her pie business off the ground but husband Dan wasn't too keen. Nearer the end of the book, when everything was settling down again I thought that Hetty was far too nice to Dan! I really don't think he deserved what he got in the end. Whether it was when they were both young or not, it's still not nice!
I loved the character of Poppy, she was probably my favourite of the book. And I absolutely loved the location of where this novel was set. It sounded so idyllic and even though farm life doesn't sound like the most fun - it sounds lovely and homely and making me wish I was a bit of a farmers wife! Reading about Hetty bake her pies made my mouth water and the flavours just sounded absolutely delicious! Where can I buy a similar pie to what Hetty has made please?!
The story itself started a little slow, and there were certain characters which I just didn't gel with unfortunately. I'd say around 60/70% in was when it started to get really good and from then on I couldn't put it down. Even though it's not very long (just over 300 pages) it took me a little while to get through it. This isn't my favourite of Cathy Bramley's but it's slightly different to her other novels so perhaps that's why? There was so much drama in the second half of this novel though, which is why I gave it 4 stars!
Overall, it wasn't my absolute fave of Cathy Bramley's but I'm glad I read it. The second half was definitely better than the first, so I'd recommend sticking to it and reading it the whole way through. It was an enjoyable novel with some lovely characters and lovely surroundings - and let's not forget about the delicious sounding pies!
I did like the character of Hetty, although she seemed a bit of a pushover, I really felt for her and how she really wanted to get her pie business off the ground but husband Dan wasn't too keen. Nearer the end of the book, when everything was settling down again I thought that Hetty was far too nice to Dan! I really don't think he deserved what he got in the end. Whether it was when they were both young or not, it's still not nice!
I loved the character of Poppy, she was probably my favourite of the book. And I absolutely loved the location of where this novel was set. It sounded so idyllic and even though farm life doesn't sound like the most fun - it sounds lovely and homely and making me wish I was a bit of a farmers wife! Reading about Hetty bake her pies made my mouth water and the flavours just sounded absolutely delicious! Where can I buy a similar pie to what Hetty has made please?!
The story itself started a little slow, and there were certain characters which I just didn't gel with unfortunately. I'd say around 60/70% in was when it started to get really good and from then on I couldn't put it down. Even though it's not very long (just over 300 pages) it took me a little while to get through it. This isn't my favourite of Cathy Bramley's but it's slightly different to her other novels so perhaps that's why? There was so much drama in the second half of this novel though, which is why I gave it 4 stars!
Overall, it wasn't my absolute fave of Cathy Bramley's but I'm glad I read it. The second half was definitely better than the first, so I'd recommend sticking to it and reading it the whole way through. It was an enjoyable novel with some lovely characters and lovely surroundings - and let's not forget about the delicious sounding pies!
January 22, 2018
I received this book free from Good Reads.
This is a very pleasant, easy-to-read book.
It is the story of Hetty & her husband Dan & daughter Poppy, who own & live on a sheep farm in Cumbria. Hetty & her husband both gave up on a university education, as Dans father died when he was only 18 & he inherited the farm & Hetty went to live with him there.
Lots of excellent descriptions of people & places, make you feel you can experience what their life is like. Hard work in an idyllic part of the countryside.
There seems to be more written about sheep farming than the baking side, which is the actual title of the book “The Farmhouse Bakery”.
In my opinion, there are lots of “incidents” added, just to make the story seem more interesting.
For example after the parent teacher meeting, Hetty goes to the supermarket, fills her trolley & then realises that she has forgotten her purse. Soggy bottoms are mentioned quite a few times & I wondered who mentioned it first - Paul Hollywood on Bake Off or Hetty. The local pub, ringing up asking her how to heat the pies.
Meeting up with an old schoolfriend, that they had not seen for 15yrs & on her weekend in London, meeting up with a boyfriend from 15yrs ago.
Finally the secret that her best friend has kept from her for 15yrs.
I find it a bit too sentimental for my liking. Hetty loves her husband, her daughter, her mother-in-law, her sister -in -law etc but it is mentioned so many times that I got sick of hearing how much she loved them all.
Also I find her daughter Poppy a bit precocious from the way she talks to her teacher at the parent teacher meeting & on several other times throughout the book.
This is a very pleasant, easy-to-read book.
It is the story of Hetty & her husband Dan & daughter Poppy, who own & live on a sheep farm in Cumbria. Hetty & her husband both gave up on a university education, as Dans father died when he was only 18 & he inherited the farm & Hetty went to live with him there.
Lots of excellent descriptions of people & places, make you feel you can experience what their life is like. Hard work in an idyllic part of the countryside.
There seems to be more written about sheep farming than the baking side, which is the actual title of the book “The Farmhouse Bakery”.
In my opinion, there are lots of “incidents” added, just to make the story seem more interesting.
For example after the parent teacher meeting, Hetty goes to the supermarket, fills her trolley & then realises that she has forgotten her purse. Soggy bottoms are mentioned quite a few times & I wondered who mentioned it first - Paul Hollywood on Bake Off or Hetty. The local pub, ringing up asking her how to heat the pies.
Meeting up with an old schoolfriend, that they had not seen for 15yrs & on her weekend in London, meeting up with a boyfriend from 15yrs ago.
Finally the secret that her best friend has kept from her for 15yrs.
I find it a bit too sentimental for my liking. Hetty loves her husband, her daughter, her mother-in-law, her sister -in -law etc but it is mentioned so many times that I got sick of hearing how much she loved them all.
Also I find her daughter Poppy a bit precocious from the way she talks to her teacher at the parent teacher meeting & on several other times throughout the book.
January 2, 2024
Hetty's farmhouse bakery was my first venture into a Cathy Bramley novel and now has me wanting to read more of Cathy's books.
I think Hetty has to be one of my favourite fictional characters ever, she's so inspirational. Hetty has had a lot thrown at her, stuff that is meant to tear up her marriage to Dan but as the tradegy/drama unfolds, Hetty has to decide where her priorities lie.
I became so absorbed in Hetty's world, that by the time I finally put the book down, I'd finished it. Which, I'm sad about, because I know I will never meet another character like Hetty.
I can really recommend this book to all fans of Carole Matthews and Milly Johnson.
I think Hetty has to be one of my favourite fictional characters ever, she's so inspirational. Hetty has had a lot thrown at her, stuff that is meant to tear up her marriage to Dan but as the tradegy/drama unfolds, Hetty has to decide where her priorities lie.
I became so absorbed in Hetty's world, that by the time I finally put the book down, I'd finished it. Which, I'm sad about, because I know I will never meet another character like Hetty.
I can really recommend this book to all fans of Carole Matthews and Milly Johnson.
December 31, 2017
As warm as apple pie! Simply gorgeous.
June 28, 2018
This is the first Cathy Bramley book that I’ve read. I thought it very enjoyable, fairly slow paced but with a few twists and turns to keep the reader interested. Perfect escapism for holidays or sunny afternoons in the garden.
3-4 stars
3-4 stars
May 29, 2020
Easy reading and I didn't actually want this to end!
September 16, 2018
I have to start by saying that I love Cathy Bramley's work. It is always a pleasure to read, with a feel good element without being too sickly sweet.
Hetty and Dan Greengrass are sheep farmers at Sunnybank Farm, having met at school and been a dedicated couple ever since. Hetty once had ambitions of university and a glowing career but Fate decided that this isn't the path for her when Dan's father died and he inherited the farm. Hetty stepped up and has fitted in to whatever role she is needed in, whether that is farmer's wife, stay at home mum or general support in the local community. Hetty is quite content with her lot until daughter Poppy announces at her school parents evening that the most inspirational woman in her life is her Aunt Naomi, Dan's sister who owns and runs the farmshop next door to them. This gets Hetty thinking that she wants to achieve something for herself and be more of a positive role model for Poppy, she just doesn't know how to make it happen.
Meanwhile Naomi's open day event for the farm shop looms large and Hetty is roped in to make pies as Naomi's "regular supplier" has let her down. This heralds the start of a whole new venture for Hetty as the pies are a huge success and Naomi asks if she would like to make a regular order for the farm shop. A whole world of new possibilities opens up for Hetty when her pies win a prize in Cumbria's finest competition but husband Dan isn't very supportive - she's always been on hand to help him whenever he needs help and he wonders whether the everyday running of the farm will suffer if Hetty isn't around as much.
We follow Hetty's adventure setting up her own small business with all the little triumphs and stumbling blocks along the way. We see her confidence grow and begin to see the start of the person she could have been had she followed a different path in life.
Anna was one of Hetty and Dan's group of school friends and has been in their lives as long as they can remember. Single mum to Bart, she's the school nurse at the local comprehensive having settled down in the village after returning from a gap year with Bart as a surprise souvenir of her travels. She's Hetty's best friend and when Bart shows an interest in working on the farm she admits she is struggling with the concept of him growing up and being independent. Suddenly though, events take a serious turn while Hetty is away from the farm and the situation makes her question everything she is doing. What is she prepared to sacrifice in order for her business to strive? Then, just as she thinks she has made her decision another bombshell is dropped with much more far reaching, personal consequences.
This is a great novel, an easy read but one which makes you assess what you would do in Hetty's shoes. Would you give up your dreams in order to be with your soul mate? What if then they wouldn't support you when you needed them? And just how much can you forgive someone you love?
I love most of the characters in this tale of country living and the setting sounds absolutely idyllic. Cumbria is a beautiful part of England and Cathy Bramley's description of Hetty sitting with her morning cuppa surveying the countryside around Sunnydale Farm sounds perfect to me.
A great tale with an interesting little twist which I really hadn't expected. 5 stars from me.
Hetty and Dan Greengrass are sheep farmers at Sunnybank Farm, having met at school and been a dedicated couple ever since. Hetty once had ambitions of university and a glowing career but Fate decided that this isn't the path for her when Dan's father died and he inherited the farm. Hetty stepped up and has fitted in to whatever role she is needed in, whether that is farmer's wife, stay at home mum or general support in the local community. Hetty is quite content with her lot until daughter Poppy announces at her school parents evening that the most inspirational woman in her life is her Aunt Naomi, Dan's sister who owns and runs the farmshop next door to them. This gets Hetty thinking that she wants to achieve something for herself and be more of a positive role model for Poppy, she just doesn't know how to make it happen.
Meanwhile Naomi's open day event for the farm shop looms large and Hetty is roped in to make pies as Naomi's "regular supplier" has let her down. This heralds the start of a whole new venture for Hetty as the pies are a huge success and Naomi asks if she would like to make a regular order for the farm shop. A whole world of new possibilities opens up for Hetty when her pies win a prize in Cumbria's finest competition but husband Dan isn't very supportive - she's always been on hand to help him whenever he needs help and he wonders whether the everyday running of the farm will suffer if Hetty isn't around as much.
We follow Hetty's adventure setting up her own small business with all the little triumphs and stumbling blocks along the way. We see her confidence grow and begin to see the start of the person she could have been had she followed a different path in life.
Anna was one of Hetty and Dan's group of school friends and has been in their lives as long as they can remember. Single mum to Bart, she's the school nurse at the local comprehensive having settled down in the village after returning from a gap year with Bart as a surprise souvenir of her travels. She's Hetty's best friend and when Bart shows an interest in working on the farm she admits she is struggling with the concept of him growing up and being independent. Suddenly though, events take a serious turn while Hetty is away from the farm and the situation makes her question everything she is doing. What is she prepared to sacrifice in order for her business to strive? Then, just as she thinks she has made her decision another bombshell is dropped with much more far reaching, personal consequences.
This is a great novel, an easy read but one which makes you assess what you would do in Hetty's shoes. Would you give up your dreams in order to be with your soul mate? What if then they wouldn't support you when you needed them? And just how much can you forgive someone you love?
I love most of the characters in this tale of country living and the setting sounds absolutely idyllic. Cumbria is a beautiful part of England and Cathy Bramley's description of Hetty sitting with her morning cuppa surveying the countryside around Sunnydale Farm sounds perfect to me.
A great tale with an interesting little twist which I really hadn't expected. 5 stars from me.
March 9, 2019
Such a lovely feeling: reading a light-hearted, warming novel after completing some pretty dark plots. If you are after a literary uplift, then this is the story for you.
I instantly warmed to Hetty and I think that’s because I recognised so many of her qualities. Juggling family life with helping run the farm with her husband and making time for herself, Hetty realises that she hasn’t given herself this attention. Her love of baking pies is suddenly thrust into the limelight and Hetty has to make some difficult choices about whether she continues tying to establish herself as a self-employed businesswoman. The hurdles she has to overcome: support from her husband, finances and meeting health and safety requirements in her kitchen were all relevant to me and I enjoyed watching how the story progressed.
Hetty is a strong woman and surrounded by other, equally strong women who seemingly have managed to fulfil their dreams and juggle all the things that Hetty wants to balance in her life. Hetty is a great example of the importance of realising one’s dream; to take the time for yourself and not lose your own identity amidst other responsibilities. Her inner fears and excitement at building her brand were lovely to watch develop and this made the story even more immersive for myself. I found her entrepreneurial skills endearing and I was constantly willing for her to succeed on her journey.
Hetty is surrounded by lovely friends and family who generally support her and have recognised that Hetty needs to take this fundamental step towards bringing her amazing pies to the public. This added to the warm feeling I had from reading the story. It is so idyllic and, being set in Cumbria, just made it even more peaceful as you imagined the beautiful rolling hills as the backdrop to her farm.
The mystery surrounding her childhood friend, Joe, and his suddenly disappearance so many years ago, adds depth to the story. It is not just about a woman becoming her own boss, but trying to understand something that happened many years ago. I did guess the answers to this plot strand but I can honestly say that it didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the novel. If anything, I enjoyed it more to see how it would unfold.
When tragedy strikes at the farm, it feels as if all aspects of Hetty’s life are unfolding. How she perseveres reflects the strength in her character and I enjoyed the way that Bramley gave considerable time to the climax, so that it all was neatly tied off at the end. By this point, readers have established a close relationship with Hetty and I couldn’t help but be rooting for her to find her true happiness.
This was such a lovely story. The pie-making made me hungry and the idyllic scene left me wanting to go on holiday! Hetty is an example of true entrepreneurship and, whilst it may only be fiction, she is an inspiration to us all.
I instantly warmed to Hetty and I think that’s because I recognised so many of her qualities. Juggling family life with helping run the farm with her husband and making time for herself, Hetty realises that she hasn’t given herself this attention. Her love of baking pies is suddenly thrust into the limelight and Hetty has to make some difficult choices about whether she continues tying to establish herself as a self-employed businesswoman. The hurdles she has to overcome: support from her husband, finances and meeting health and safety requirements in her kitchen were all relevant to me and I enjoyed watching how the story progressed.
Hetty is a strong woman and surrounded by other, equally strong women who seemingly have managed to fulfil their dreams and juggle all the things that Hetty wants to balance in her life. Hetty is a great example of the importance of realising one’s dream; to take the time for yourself and not lose your own identity amidst other responsibilities. Her inner fears and excitement at building her brand were lovely to watch develop and this made the story even more immersive for myself. I found her entrepreneurial skills endearing and I was constantly willing for her to succeed on her journey.
Hetty is surrounded by lovely friends and family who generally support her and have recognised that Hetty needs to take this fundamental step towards bringing her amazing pies to the public. This added to the warm feeling I had from reading the story. It is so idyllic and, being set in Cumbria, just made it even more peaceful as you imagined the beautiful rolling hills as the backdrop to her farm.
The mystery surrounding her childhood friend, Joe, and his suddenly disappearance so many years ago, adds depth to the story. It is not just about a woman becoming her own boss, but trying to understand something that happened many years ago. I did guess the answers to this plot strand but I can honestly say that it didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the novel. If anything, I enjoyed it more to see how it would unfold.
When tragedy strikes at the farm, it feels as if all aspects of Hetty’s life are unfolding. How she perseveres reflects the strength in her character and I enjoyed the way that Bramley gave considerable time to the climax, so that it all was neatly tied off at the end. By this point, readers have established a close relationship with Hetty and I couldn’t help but be rooting for her to find her true happiness.
This was such a lovely story. The pie-making made me hungry and the idyllic scene left me wanting to go on holiday! Hetty is an example of true entrepreneurship and, whilst it may only be fiction, she is an inspiration to us all.
February 10, 2021
Maybe push it to 2.25?
OK,ive got a serious issue with Hetty. She's a complete push over and has been constantly bending to others wishes. She's also the shining Goddess of forgiveness 🤮. Its supposed to be a feel good book but the following individual incidents point it in the opposite direction.
1. Her daughter Poppy 's inconsiderate remarks regarding her.
2. Her husband's lack of faith in her winning the pie contest and has the gall to wonder if it was fixed their friend.
3. His bullying tactics so that she couldn't go to London for the next level.
4. Her instant forgiveness of her friend and husband for a one night stand resulting in a son.
Feel good doesn't mean unrealistic. She's not even an iota upset by the turn of events!! She actually pays for him.to have a great holiday in Borneo. Oh!Come on!
Besides the above, the plot is stereotypical and lacklaustre. Poppy and Bart as the teen kids add the sparkle to this book.
The highlights of the book lies in the details of her farm.life ,Poppy 's entrepreneurial instincts as well as her feminist views on asking boys out. That was really sweet.
All in all OK, read only if you have nothing else to do, or better still find something better than read this. 🤔
Recommended: 👎
OK,ive got a serious issue with Hetty. She's a complete push over and has been constantly bending to others wishes. She's also the shining Goddess of forgiveness 🤮. Its supposed to be a feel good book but the following individual incidents point it in the opposite direction.
1. Her daughter Poppy 's inconsiderate remarks regarding her.
2. Her husband's lack of faith in her winning the pie contest and has the gall to wonder if it was fixed their friend.
3. His bullying tactics so that she couldn't go to London for the next level.
4. Her instant forgiveness of her friend and husband for a one night stand resulting in a son.
Feel good doesn't mean unrealistic. She's not even an iota upset by the turn of events!! She actually pays for him.to have a great holiday in Borneo. Oh!Come on!
Besides the above, the plot is stereotypical and lacklaustre. Poppy and Bart as the teen kids add the sparkle to this book.
The highlights of the book lies in the details of her farm.life ,Poppy 's entrepreneurial instincts as well as her feminist views on asking boys out. That was really sweet.
All in all OK, read only if you have nothing else to do, or better still find something better than read this. 🤔
Recommended: 👎
April 2, 2018
Hetty lives on a farm with her husband and daughter and is happy being a farmer’s wife. A chance remark by her daughter at Parent’s Night about her aunt being her inspiration/role model upsets Hetty more than she cares to admit.
Unbeknown to Hettie, her sister in law is adamant she should enter one of her pie creations into a competition. She does so and Hetty’s Farmhouse Bakery is born. However, her husband is not supportive of her new venture and worries that being a farmer’s wife is no longer enough. Hettie seeks to reassure him that he and their daughter are all she needs in life.
This is a lovely heart warming story with a few unexpected revelations along the way. This is the first book I have read by Cathy Bramley and I look forward to experiencing more of her books. There were times when I could almost taste Hetty’s pies (oh how I wish I could!).
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
Unbeknown to Hettie, her sister in law is adamant she should enter one of her pie creations into a competition. She does so and Hetty’s Farmhouse Bakery is born. However, her husband is not supportive of her new venture and worries that being a farmer’s wife is no longer enough. Hettie seeks to reassure him that he and their daughter are all she needs in life.
This is a lovely heart warming story with a few unexpected revelations along the way. This is the first book I have read by Cathy Bramley and I look forward to experiencing more of her books. There were times when I could almost taste Hetty’s pies (oh how I wish I could!).
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
September 10, 2019
I tried so hard to like this but just didn't.
The secret is that Dan fathered a child (Bart) with Anna when they were 18. Dan didn't know, and Hettie was unaware he'd cheated. It all comes out when Bart is in an accident.
I think my biggest problem was that I felt I was reading a novel set in the 1950s. Dan doesn't want Hettie to start a business, so she dithers over what to do, and at a few points she's not going to do it as he would be unhappy. Like he is the boss of her? Then he realises he's being ridiculous and runs her a bath, and all is forgiven.
When Hettie finds out her best friend and husband have a child together, she just forgives it, and they all act like one big family.
Eurgh
The pies sounded nice.
The secret is that Dan fathered a child (Bart) with Anna when they were 18. Dan didn't know, and Hettie was unaware he'd cheated. It all comes out when Bart is in an accident.
I think my biggest problem was that I felt I was reading a novel set in the 1950s. Dan doesn't want Hettie to start a business, so she dithers over what to do, and at a few points she's not going to do it as he would be unhappy. Like he is the boss of her? Then he realises he's being ridiculous and runs her a bath, and all is forgiven.
When Hettie finds out her best friend and husband have a child together, she just forgives it, and they all act like one big family.
Eurgh
The pies sounded nice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2018
What a lovely feel good book. Showing everyone that you are never too old to follow your dreams. It is about the power of love, friendship, and family., secrets, farm life, baking, strength and hope. The perfect read for all chicklit and romance fans. Cathy always manages to write such wonderful books and this one is no exception.
February 24, 2019
What a lovely book this was. I’ve read some of Cathy Bramley’s books before but not for some time so this was just the right time to read another one. It was gentle and you could picture the farm and all the ups and downs that went with this family. I will certainly read more of hers.
May 3, 2018
Light and enjoyable but not my favourite by Cathy Bramley. Has anyone else had pages fall out of this book? Pages 257-260 came out as I was reading it.
July 24, 2018
From the moment I picked this up, I fell in love with the characters and Hetty's love of baking. I struggled to put this down. A great story, lovely characters, tears and laughter all the way.
March 22, 2018
Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery by Cathy Bramley is a really delightful contemporary novel.
Set on a farm in Cumbria, the reader is treated to rolling hills and lots of sheep. There is a warm community atmosphere where everyone pulls together.
Old fashioned sheep farming combines with a new venture - baking. The novel shows that traditions and innovations can exist side by side. Diversification is the name of the game.
Kindness makes the world go round. "Kindness is a reflection of a person's true beauty." There are some very beautiful people in the novel. Kindness looks at mistakes and forgives. Kindness looks to others rather than self. Kindness binds people together.
Friends can be even closer than family. Good friendships are hard to find and well worth keeping.
The reader witnesses a strong marriage. We see the ingredients for a long lasting happy marriage are partnership and putting the other person first. As well as encouraging dreams.
Written in the first person, the reader 'experiences' the novel first hand. Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery has a wonderful light fun filled atmosphere that sweeps the reader along. Parents evening at the start of the book, had me in absolute stitches.
I adore Cathy Bramley's books. They make me smile and feel good as well as being cracking stories.
A delightful read.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Set on a farm in Cumbria, the reader is treated to rolling hills and lots of sheep. There is a warm community atmosphere where everyone pulls together.
Old fashioned sheep farming combines with a new venture - baking. The novel shows that traditions and innovations can exist side by side. Diversification is the name of the game.
Kindness makes the world go round. "Kindness is a reflection of a person's true beauty." There are some very beautiful people in the novel. Kindness looks at mistakes and forgives. Kindness looks to others rather than self. Kindness binds people together.
Friends can be even closer than family. Good friendships are hard to find and well worth keeping.
The reader witnesses a strong marriage. We see the ingredients for a long lasting happy marriage are partnership and putting the other person first. As well as encouraging dreams.
Written in the first person, the reader 'experiences' the novel first hand. Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery has a wonderful light fun filled atmosphere that sweeps the reader along. Parents evening at the start of the book, had me in absolute stitches.
I adore Cathy Bramley's books. They make me smile and feel good as well as being cracking stories.
A delightful read.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
February 9, 2018
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Hetty and Dan were childhood sweethearts, now happily married with a daughter Poppy and owners of a sheep farm life is busy but good. Until one of Hettys pies gets entered into a competition. Realising that this could be the beginning of a new adventure Hetty has to do some soul searching about what she wants from life. Will she stay dedicated farmers wife or will she compromise and start living her dream.
This story was beautifully told and the main character Hetty was charming and easy to like. With some twists along the way it keeps you intrigues from start to finish.
Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery was the first novel I have read by Cathy Bramley and I'm sure it won't be the last. I would recommend this to anybody who likes a light entertaining read.
Hetty and Dan were childhood sweethearts, now happily married with a daughter Poppy and owners of a sheep farm life is busy but good. Until one of Hettys pies gets entered into a competition. Realising that this could be the beginning of a new adventure Hetty has to do some soul searching about what she wants from life. Will she stay dedicated farmers wife or will she compromise and start living her dream.
This story was beautifully told and the main character Hetty was charming and easy to like. With some twists along the way it keeps you intrigues from start to finish.
Hetty's Farmhouse Bakery was the first novel I have read by Cathy Bramley and I'm sure it won't be the last. I would recommend this to anybody who likes a light entertaining read.
September 23, 2018
This is the story of Hetty Greengrass and her family who live on a sheep farm in Cumbria. It's a pleasant tale, very easy reading and good writing. Unfortunately, it just wasn't my cup of tea, I'm trying different types of books, getting out of my historical fiction comfort zone and this just didn't grab me. Sorry!
October 5, 2018
I really, really enjoyed this, to the point that I read the Acknowledgements at the end, and every word of the Golden Chicken Pie recipe! And I never do that.
Very much looking forward the next book.
Very much looking forward the next book.
May 5, 2025
Started and finished date - 29.04.25 to 02.05.25.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay read but I found is book was bit boring and the cover of book was stunning. The writing was okay and it was easy read also the atmosphere was fine but bit bland. The paced of plot was well structured and the book was steady paced also the ending was okay. The characters was fine but they were bit bland and I would like them flash out bit more.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay read but I found is book was bit boring and the cover of book was stunning. The writing was okay and it was easy read also the atmosphere was fine but bit bland. The paced of plot was well structured and the book was steady paced also the ending was okay. The characters was fine but they were bit bland and I would like them flash out bit more.
May 19, 2024
Another fabulous book by Cathy Bramley. thoroughly enjoyed it.
December 26, 2021
A bit of froth to get me through stress city that is Christmas! It happened in front of my eyes rather than me read it to be fair. But as long it is had a happy ending I don't care. Which is more than I can say for our Christmas dinner.
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