The House of Birds and Butterflies

by Cressida McLaughlin

Abby Field loves every inch of Meadowsweet Nature Reserve on the idyllic Suffolk coast where she lives and works. Especially Swallowtail House, the rambling but empty country house that seems to look out at her each time she passes it’s shut-up windows. When a TV wildlife programme choses a rival location for their new series, Meadowsweet is under threat – unless Abby can whip up a plan to keep the visitors flocking. But she finds herself distracted by the arrival of a brooding – and annoyingly handsome new neighbour… bad-boy novelist, Jack Westcoat. With the pressure on, Abby and her cute rescue huskie, Raffle, must pull something special out of the bag. But with Jack in need of a good friend – and Abby feeling the pull of attraction, she can sense her resolve fluttering away…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Fiction, Audiobook

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2018

About the author

I grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.

I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.

When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.

I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.

Reviews

[Nicola Clough · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover really brought me to this book along with the author as love her books. It's such a warm read and full of romance and heartbreak and has you hooked from the beginning and you don't want to put it down. You feel as if you are there in the beautiful countryside with all the birds. Can people move forward and be happy or not.
Abby lives and works at meadowsweet nature reserve in Suffolk and loves it she's always been touched by meadowsweet house and she just loves looking at it every day. Meadowsweet is under treat and Abby needs to pull visitors in to save it but can she do this in time. Jack moves into meadowsweet to get some peace to write his new series and get away from the public but Abby can't help but being pulled to him as he's handsome so is her mind taken off saving meadowsweet. Jack and Abby get close and he brings trouble to her door but can they work through that and they both fall in love with meadowsweet house and when trouble comes to jack and he has to go back to London can she forget him or not but can he forget her or is the pull of the meadowsweet house which they name house of birds and butterflies but can they work through the issues move forward and be happy or not.
Great read and so warm highly recommend it.

[Lisa M · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an adorable read, any inclusion of a dog and wildlife galore in a book has my interest! I think Abby may well have my ideal job/lifestyle. Well written and clearly very well researched, this easily captivated me from start to finish.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book perfect for any nature lover looking for a little romance.

[Simona · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Abby Field works at Meadowsweet Nature Reserve in Suffolk. She is very passion for her work and puts her heart and soul into it. She organisms new events and things for the reserve, but when a handsome stranger turns up in ... cottage, she kind of gets distracted.

The handsome stranger is novelist Jack Westcoat. At first he just feels disturbed by the people and the animals, but Abby and him have a lot of chemistry from the start. The start exchanging little messages, which are so cute and just say it all. Everything is not that obvious at the beginning, but I was actually just waiting for the two of them to get together. I liked the way their relationship developed, Cressida McLaughlin really captured their connection.

Jack needed the time away, especially after a little scandal the year before. Only after a while we find out what actually happened. Abby had her dog Raffle, as well as her friends, who all added something special to the story.

The setting of this book is unique and fabulous. Cressida McLaughlin did a great job describing it and creating a wonderful atmosphere.
The characters in this book are very authentic and just unforgettable. A lot of twists and turns add some drama to the story and make it exciting.

A definite must read! Cressida Mclaughlin is such a talented author.

4.5/5

[Agi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby Field lives and works at a nature reserve in Suffolk called Meadowsweet - she's full of passion for her work, and holds it so dear to her heart. However, it's under treat and Abby's job is to bring even more visitors there to save it from closing.
Jack moves to Meadowsweet looking for peace to write his new book and - shortly - to hide from a scandal that happened in London. his and Abby's first encounter is not too promising, moreover, Jack's letters get her in troubles with her boss, Penelope Hardings.
And apropos Penelope - there is this mystery surrounding her beautiful Georgian house that's now left empty for many years and is becoming lost to nature.

I loved Abby's passion and devotion and sometimes I really couldn't understand why her boss Penelope is so unfair towards her - she really devoted a lot of her time to bring life, customers and money to the reserve and in my eyes it was just not spoken for for Penelope to treat her like that. I think she should be happy that Abby didn't pack and go - but she loved this place too much to do such a thing. Neither she, nor her co - workers wouldn't go down without a fight and I loved this spirit in them all. Nothing was impossible for them and I loved the ideas of events and walks that they organized.
All the characters worked together brilliantly, they just felt great in each other company, and even Jack turned out to be not so bad, no? I won't say more, as I don't want to spoil the reading for you, but let me just tell you, Jack, mmmm *swooning* - it was great how well Cressida tackled the whole Jack business. The characters were all enthusiastic and full of life. They were not flawless, they made mistakes but they also could admit when they were wrong, which is always a great thing and make the characters so much more true to life. The banter between them was so natural and easy and of course, as always when we dealwith such a small close - knit community, they knew everything about each other and yes, it was guaranteed they're going to see you in the morning in your last - night clothes.

The only thing that bothered me a little was the fact that sometimes I had a feeling this story is not going to end. I mean, I love Cressida's writing and the way she so brilliantly brings her characters and stories to life but there were moments that slowed the reading down too much. The characters were going on and on about their feelings, examined all the pros and cons, repeating themselves. I know this book was previously published as a four - parts series and probably it was needed but as a full - length novel it was just way too long and sidetracked me from the main plot.

I loved the setting in this book, it was so unusual! I've never before read a book set at the nature reserve, full of unusual sorts of birds, bugs and butterflies. Cressida McLaughlin brings her setting and vivid descriptions to life so effortlessly and I loved all the descriptions, the views, the ideas that were supposed to help to save the reserve. And I loved Abby's characterisations of birds at the beginning of each chapter! They made me curious and intrigued and I would love to see all those birds after reading Abby's short notes

Altogether, "The House of Birds and Butterflies" was a sweet, cosy and heart - warming novel with enough dramatic to keep me on my tenterhooks. Yes, you could see where it is heading but there were enough twists and bumps on the way to make the outcome not so obvious and predictable. It was a lovely, charming story with unusual, gorgeous setting, also bringing the importance of nature and preserving it, showing how easy it is to appreciate and enjoy it. The end seemed a little too rushed for me, especially the subplot with Penelope but I could live with it, and there were enough twists and turns throughout the whole story. The mix between the wellies and walks through the woods and the glamorous life and lights of London showed and confirmed that I am the wellies - kind.
I've read all but one Cressida McLaughlin's books and her stories and writing get only better and better. She can create the most wonderful, unforgettable and human characters, and not only those on two legs but she also has a heart for and understanding of animals, which she proved a few times already. Her settings are original and unusual and when I read her book I don't have a feeling that "I've been there, I've seen it" - they're like a breath of fresh air, and it was the same with this newest offering. Highly recommended!

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

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Until reading this book I don't think I had given nature reserves a thought ever. I think I knew they must exist but past that I had no clue.

I am astounded by the amount of research that must have gone into the writing of this book.

I felt as thought I was on the Meadowsweet Reserve along side Abby, as we spotted assorted wildlife, and the details were easily able to paint a vivid picture.

I loved the assorted events that Abby put on over the course of the book at the reserve, as well as her slow building friendship with the lodge at Peacock Cottage.

In fact its the lodger, Jack who had the most interesting story-line, just why was he there, and what was he running from.

An entertaining story that will appeal to both fans of the author and nature lovers.

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

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I guess I will give it a 2.5 I finished the book. It took forever & forced myself to finish. Parts were charming & pleasurable but it just felt slow & it dragged on to much. The scandal in the story just didn’t seem like that big of a deal Just really couldn’t get into it.

[Julia Sarene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the story and also liked the setting of a nature reserve and all the tiny animals and plants!
The main characters were interesting enough to keep me engaged. I also liked the side characters, though some changed their ways a bit too often and quickly for my liking. But overall I really enjoyed spending time with them! The outcome of the love story was predictable from the very start, but I don't begrudge that in chick lit, which I read precisely for a happy ending and comfortable read!

One small gripe was the female main protagonist having a husky while working full time - and only when she's out even longer would a neighbour take care of him. Poor dog being home alone in the house most working days.

All in all I was well entertained and will definitely consider reading more by the same author.

For the audio book I'll cut one more star and go with 3*
My biggest problem with the audio was the voice the narrator gave the male main protagonist. A very nasal sort of voice that made me dislike him instantly, and even though his actions might make him likable along the way, I was annoyed at him till the very end...

[Jo Bathurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, loved, loved it. The description of wildlife and the birds wow! Not that I’ll ever be able to identify them. And the emotions and connections between the characters makes me have tears with happiness.

[Annabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

super cozy, door alle seizoenen en feestdagen enzo echt heel leuk en niet cringe

[Il confine dei libri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Salve Confine!
Eccomi pronta per una nuova recensione. Questa volta tocca ad un romance molto carino targato Newton Compton editori, che ringrazio per il file.
"La piccola casa delle farfalle" di Cressida McLaughlin ha allietato due giorni della mia prima settimana di settembre.
Abby Field si è trasferita in un piccolo paesino del Sussex e lavora alla riserva naturale di Meadowsweet come organizzatrice di eventi, coordinatrice, guida alle escursioni e tutto il resto. Un grosso lavoro, ma a lei piace da morire perché ama la natura e soprattutto gli uccelli, tanto che, un po' per gioco un po' per davvero, sta scrivendo una piccola guida ornitologica basata su annotazioni personali e commenti dei clienti della riserva.
La proprietaria della riserva, Penelope, è una donna anziana molto severa, esigente quanto triste.
L'amore della sua vita, suo marito Al, con cui ha portato avanti la tenuta, è morto qualche anno prima, lasciandola sola in una grande casa che adesso lei ha abbandonato, non sopportando di viverci senza di lui.
Quella grande casa affascina tanto Abby, quanto la storia di Penelope.
Vorrebbe entrarci, vedere da vicino se è come la immagina, ma sa che Penelope è molto severa a riguardo.
La cosa che non sa è che ci entrerà, furtivamente, molto presto e in compagnia di qualcuno che non avrebbe mai immaginato.
Infatti, uno scrittore in crisi ha da poco preso dimora presso un'altra delle proprietà della tenuta, il Peacock Cottage.
Stanca delle lamentele di quest'ultimo, secondo il quale i visitatori della riserva e gli animali lo disturbano e lo distraggono dal suo lavoro, Abby va a dirgliene quattro.
Queste "quattro" diventano qualcosa di più, perché lo scrittore, Jack Westcoat, è bellissimo e affascinante, anche se burbero e scontroso, e Abby presto comincia a cercare pretesti per battibeccare con lui.
Cosa che sembra gradire anche Jack.
Non c'è motivo di non dire che presto tra loro scoppiano le scintille, ma Abby ha un compito molto gravoso dal quale non può distrarsi: salvare la riserva di Meadowsweet che si trova a navigare in cattive acque.
Jack, dal canto suo, ha un romanzo da scrivere che deve essere in grado di farlo tornare in sella alla sua carriera, capace di oscurare lo scandalo di cui è stato protagonista l'anno prima.
Sembra proprio che non sia tempo per questi due di lasciarsi andare all'amore.
Ma l'amore lo avrà capito?
Romanzo carino e gradevole da leggere.
Fa passare il pomeriggio davvero in relax, tra una risata e un'emozione.
Scritto bene e in maniera semplice, con dialoghi spesso divertenti, come quelli scaturiti dai battibecchi tra Abby e Jack.
La lettura è scorrevole e godibile anche quando a volte sembra dilungarsi sulla descrizione della natura circostante.
Forse di questo tipo di descrizione ce n'è davvero un po' troppa, ma disturba poco.
I personaggi sono simpatici, tutti, anche la burbera Penelope.
I colleghi di Abby, il timido ammiratore di Rose, la vicina impicciona, Olimpia, e anche il misterioso Leo, creano un piccolo mondo idilliaco, quello tipico fatto di buoni rapporti, dove tutti conoscono tutti e sanno tutto di tutti, dove ci si aiuta l'un l'altro e si sta arrabbiati con qualcuno per poco.
Mi è piaciuto molto Jack, ovviamente, non poteva essere altrimenti visto che stiamo parlando di un giovane scrittore sexy e tormentato!
Anche Abby mi è piaciuta, anche se spesso l'ho trovata un po' immatura.
Non ho condiviso alcune scelte dell'autrice per arrivare dal punto A al punto B, non erano abbastanza aderenti, come non ho compreso alcuni comportamenti di Penelope.
Ad un certo punto del romanzo si leggono solo lungaggini messe lì per allungare la situazione, potevano essere evitate, ma tutto sommato non mi lamento.
È un romanzo di svago ed è riuscito nel suo scopo, facendomi rilassare per un paio di pomeriggi.
Ottimo, quindi, per questi ultimi giorni di caldo e di sole, sotto un’ombrellone in una spiaggia finalmente un po' meno frequentata.
voto libro - 3.5

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really lovely read. Can’t wait to get more of cressida’s work

[I'mogén · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I feel like this was a big journey, so I anticipate a long review. Instantly I loved the prologue and how Swallowtail House felt like its own character, however, I quickly noticed that this would most likely be a difficult story to push through because already I had found the writing to be overly descriptive, with too long a sentence structure.
I found myself leaving big spans between picking it up again, particularly early on, because although I felt happy and found my stride whilst I was reading, I also found it slow going and I'm shocked to say that I wanted the romance to hurry up and happen because I was getting bored. I'm glad the romance hung on a little while longer though because I adored the slow growth of that.
Sometimes I found the writing to be unclear that characters were still in the same area... I found this to be the case across chapters where I thought they were somewhere else but turned out to be in the same place. Midly disorientating by quickly figured out, in most cases.

I really enjoyed the plot of this novel. The ideas Abby came up with for the events are actually really interesting! The story was a big inspiration because my dream job would be to work in a wildlife reserve (which I've previously volunteered for) or a rehabilitation centre, or a library, so it was so lovely to read about the daily goings on of them.
I like that is was spanned over a year or so. It didn't feel like it, although it did drag to begin with, and I enjoyed that we got to experience different seasons on the reserve.

The characters were great and by the end they had me feeling like we had become friends... as odd as that sounds.
Abby was a fantastic protagonist. Just a simple woman, doing what she needs to do and finding love/friendship/etc along the way.
I want more from Rosa!! I was so happy to see a little diversity in this. Rosa has a similar background to me (Jamacian) and I find it rare to get much diversity in contemporaries... Well at least the ones I seem to pick up. There were times where I thought the use of Rosa's features were pushed too much. Like what exactly does "bold, Jamacian hair" even mean? I did feel like having a black character in a typical low middle/working class, white narrative, was played on a bit heavily at times.
I thought Tessa was the big sister everyone needs but some of her responses made me a little shocked!
I hate to say this but Jack is positively swoonworthy!!
I thought Jack would save the reserve... and he did with buying the house, which I was guessing at too. It made me really happy!
I had to listen to the hippopotamus song by Flanders and Swann after it's constant mention and was thoroughly entertaining. Knowing it was Jack that mentioned them made me enjoy his character even more because he showed different layers to what perhaps was expected.
Concerning his author event- I originally thought that it would help me to prepare because I'm going to my first book event in November but nooo this was brutal! Their questions were absolutely horrible, but Jack came out on top!
Oh and another spoiler thing, when Jack's ex best friend (who's name I've forgotten) showed up at Swallowtail House I first thought he had bought it to destroy it out of spite!

I loved that the ending was reminiscent and joyous in everyone's budding/growing relationships and careers. It was a sweet, cosy book and despite it taking a couple months to finish, I'm so happy I've read it.

Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read three-quarters of this lovely story as a serial, so I have reviewed the complete book in four parts:

The Dawn Chorus -I love the title and the cover, both epitomise the book's ethos perfectly. Set against the background of a nature reserve on the Suffolk coast, 'The Dawn Chorus' the first part of the book introduces the mysterious house, abandoned in heartbreak on the edge of the reserve and a cast of delightfully quirky characters whose love of nature brings them together.

Abby loves her job, which brings her into direct contact with the public and the inhabitants of the reserve on a daily basis. She is fascinated by the faded glory of the large house, belonging to the reserve's owner Penelope. No longer lived it possesses a mysterious, tragic quality that Abby longs to explore. Abby guards her heart fiercely. Let down by her father and drawn to toxic relationships she prefers to share life with Raffle her husky.

The Lovebirds- New Year starts off part two. Abby's hoping for new beginnings, and when she unexpectedly spends New Years Day alone with her mother, she finds her parent wanting to build bridges.

The nature reserve is still in need of new ideas to keep it afloat, and Jack seems determined to be involved. Penelope, the owner of the sanctuary, is keeping secrets and Abby realises she needs to find out what they are if she's going to help.

Abby's fascination with Swallowtail house continues, and Jack seems to share her interest, leading to sharing and insights into both their troubled pasts. Their chequered relationship dominates, and this part of the book ends with more secrets than solutions.

Twilight Song - Spring is a time of new beginnings, and while this is true for the inhabitants of the Nature Reserve, problems loom on the horizon that threatens its future.

The couple's gentle romance dominates this third part of the book. Abby and Jack's behaviour and willingness to help the other signify their deepening emotions but their pasts make them cautious.

Penelope still keeps her problems secret, but Abby sees another side to her boss, which surprises her. Abby's plans for the reserve are a success but will they be enough?

When you think this part of the story is ending on a high, someone from the past threatens Abby's happiness. The mystery of the house remains untold and with the cliffhanger ending reading the final part of this charming story is a given for me.

Birds of a Feather- The final part lives up to my expectations. Abby and Jack's relationship deepens in the face of adversity, but events force them to part to achieve their individual career goals and help the people and animals who depend on them.

New challenges for both Abby and Jack and finally we discover the answers to the secrets of Swallowtail house. The romance in this part of the story is sublime.

I will miss the characters of Meadowsweet, especially the adorable Raffle. The bird and butterfly life featured at the beginning of each chapter makes this story unique, adding depth to the authentic romantic tale.

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

[Abbie Rhodes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abby Field is the passionate, vibrant and spunky events co-ordinator for a small, locally run nature reserve on the Meadowsweet Estate, just outside the tranquil village of Meadowgreen. However the news of a nationwide tv show being filmed at another local reserve is a cause for concern, as there are fears visitors will be drawn in by the more popular and commercialised reserve, forgetting the quieter Meadowsweet. Abby and her friends are tasked with increasing interest, footfall and membership, otherwise the fate of the entire estate, including the mysteriously dilapidated Swallowtail House, could be at risk.

With plenty of enthusiasm, Abby just needs to be able to get her ideas up and running. However with a new addition to the very close knit community, gossip and intrigue runs rife and Abby is forced to deal with an antagonistic author trying to escape from the wrong kind of limelight. As the weeks and months go by, she becomes more and more distracted by Meadowgreen’s latest resident, as they both find themselves facing their past demons, not knowing if they will ever be able to move on.

Interestingly enough, as well as the wonderful, cosy romance facet of Cressy’s writing which make her books such a joy to read, The House of Birds and Butterflies actually has a darker tint to it, with references to the serious issue of domestic violence, and the far reaching impact that can have, even once the situation has been left far behind. As well as this, it was really great to see what I know is Cressy’s own love for darker thriller novels shining through, as she manages to squeeze in some sinister plot ideas from Jack Wescoat, Meadowgreen’s newly resident author.

Darker elements aside, this was a truly lovely story, and it was especially wonderful to get so much detail of the nature reserve throughout the whole story. You felt like you really were out with Abby on one of her Murmuration events or Hang-over Walks, without feeling like you were just reading a reference book about British wildlife. Though on a side note, it is a wonderful coincidence that as I was reading this up on holiday in Scotland, my family were treated to the absolute privilege of watching an osprey hunt twice daily right in front of out window 🙂

I do wish a teency little bit that there was more of Abby’s gorgeous husky dog, Raffle, in the story. I love Cressy’s books for the fantastic canine characters she manages to make so integral to the story, so much so that each time I read one of her books, I want my own dog a little bit more! And this coming from someone who really isn’t actually an animal person! Or maybe I just need to get my doggo fix elsewhere!

But, as always, the characters were truly heartwarming, and the plot has just enough twists and turns to leave you wanting to keep reading (an hour and a half past my bedtime!) whilst still leaving you with that comforting knowledge that you’re reading a romance novel, it must turn out ok. Musn’t it? It must! It has to! You’ll have to read it yourself to find out 🙂

[Libri e Altri Disastri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recensione di Barbara:

Carissimi disastri oggi vi parlo de "La piccola casa delle farfalle" nome alquanto suggestivo per chi come me adora le farfalle ed è attirato da tutto ciò che le riguarda.

Abby è una donna che lavora in una riserva naturale, alla cui cura dedica tutta la sua vita. Tra i suoi compiti ci sono accogliere gli ospiti e dedicarsi a nuove idee per cercare di attirare più visitatori possibili per scongiurare la chiusura e quindi la vendita ad eventuali compratori non interessati alla flora e alla fauna del luogo. La proprietaria è infatti in seria difficoltà economica e quasi costretta alla resa. Per cercare di arginare almeno in parte il problema affitta un piccolo cottage al limite della riserva sulla cui strada Abby passa tutti i giorni nel tragitto da casa a lavoro (e come lei tutta la gente del villaggio!), motivo per il quale il nuovo inquilino manda un biglietto di lamentele a cui Abby decide di rispondere di persona. Incontra così Jack, misterioso ed affascinante, ma alquanto scorbutico, e l'attrazione per Abby è istantanea e travolgente al punto da scombussolare tutti i suoi pensieri.

Jack è uno scrittore di thriller molto famoso in cerca di anonimato per un recente scandalo ma con il passare dei giorni quello che era nato come lamentela diventa per lui modo per avere a che fare con Abby e passare del tempo con lei. Il loro tempo è però limitato perchè alla fine della stesura del libro Jack dovrà rientrare a Londra e cercare di risolvere i precedenti problemi affinchè il nuovo libro possa essere accettato dal pubblico e quindi poter vendere.
Anche Abby ha le sue difficoltà lavorative dovendo contrastare il successo della riserva vicina che ospita una trasmissione televisiva e il suo rapporto con Jack le occupa la mente al punto di distrarla dal suo obiettivo e farle rischiare di perdere tutto, perchè per lei la riserva non è solo un lavoro. Lei ama tutte le specie di uccellini e di farfalle che vi abitano e ama in particolar modo una casa all'interno della proprietà abbandonata a se stessa ma con un fascino decaduto per lei incomparabile.

Abby e Jack si ritrovano a far fronte comune nelle due battaglie personali e la loro relazione si svilupperà in modo tenero e delicato ma la strada sarà decisamente in salita.
Per Jack in particolare non mancheranno le difficoltà dovute agli errori passati che metteranno in difficoltà anche Abby rischiando di avere ripercussioni per tutta la riserva. Riusciranno a risolvere tutti i problemi che incontreranno sulla loro strada?
Nel corso della lettura, grazie alla passione di Abby e ai suoi appunti si ha modo anche di osservare da vicino alcuni aspetti del suo lavoro e le varie specie di volatili che abitano il luogo, cosa che ho trovato interessante e suggestivo. Storia quindi a parer mio avvincente ed estremamente dolce, decisamente consigliato.

[Abby | WriteWatchWork · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went in to reading The House of Birds and Butterflies with excitement because firstly, the female protagonist has the same name as me, and secondly, my mum had said that this book was her favourite Cressida McLaughlin book, so I had high hopes.

And wow, did this book meet my expectations.

Cressida's writing once again is something to be aspired to. I absolutely loved The House of Birds and Butterflies. It's a novel that follows the story of Abby Field, an activity coordinator at the Meadowsweet Nature Reserve. When the rival nature reserve gets picked for a production of a TV show, Meadowsweet is in danger of being lost. So it's up to Abby and her team of merry coworkers (Rosa, Stephen, Marek, Gavin and Penelope - the boss) to come up with ways to make it more profitable.

However, on top of the pressures of her job, Abby has to deal with Penelope's new tenant, bad-boy author Jack Westcoat, who is hiding out in the village in the cottage on the edge of the reserve. Whilst it's a rocky start to their relationship, they quickly become attached to one another and feelings begin to sprout.

I just want to commend Cressida on the amount of research she must have completed in order to write this book. The knowledge of the characters in terms of different birds, animals like badgers, plants, everything to do with nature and wildlife is amazing - it is so specific and I love that Cressida actually took the time to research things to make her books more authentic and realistic.

I really enjoyed reading about Abby's character and Jack's because in many ways they're quite similar. They both have a past they'd rather not relive and are trying to get away from. But things ultimately force them to confront their pasts, which in turn helps develop them as people and pushes them along their character arcs.

The plot of this novel was very well-written and thought-out. I liked all the different aspects of it from Jack's visit to Octavia's library and the badger-watching night to Abby and Jack's walk around the reserve and the Summer fair at Meadowsweet.

Cressida writes in a way that hooks you in, makes you empathise with the characters, visualise the settings clearly and keep reading until you've finished the book. The House of Birds and Butterflies was such a lovely read that I will definitely go back to!

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cressida McLaughlin (2018) THE HOUSE OF BIRDS AND BUTTERFLIES

eBook published by HarperCollins


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 out of 5 stars


Amazon.com write, “Abby Field loves every inch of Meadowsweet Nature Reserve on the idyllic Suffolk coast where she lives and works. Especially Swallowtail House, the rambling but empty country house that seems to look out at her each time she passes it’s shut-up windows. When a TV wildlife programme choses a rival location for their new series, Meadowsweet is under threat – unless Abby can whip up a plan to keep the visitors flocking. But she finds herself distracted by the arrival of a brooding – and annoyingly handsome new neighbour… bad-boy novelist, Jack Westcoat. With the pressure on, Abby and her cute rescue huskie, Raffle, must pull something special out of the bag. But with Jack in need of a good friend – and Abby feeling the pull of attraction, she can sense her resolve fluttering away…”


I have the actual Heidi Swain, the actual author, to thank for this nifty little recommendation. It was lovely. Lovely jubbly. It put me in mind of my home town area. Meadowgreen and Meadowsweet Nature Reserve was easily likened to somewhere like Roch, Solva and easily St David's. The added nostalgia and community oomph gives you a belly full of (pun intended) butterflies throughout. Liked this very muchly.


p.s. I fell for Jack Westcoat before Abby flipping Field did. Fact.


#CressidaMcLaughlin #TheHouseOfBirdsAndButterflies #CressidaMcLaughlinTheHouseOfBirdsAndButterflies #eBook #Kindle

[Karina · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn't realise this was written by the same author as the The Cornish Cream Tea Bus, which I recently read and didn't enjoy. Since I'd already downloaded it (and its hard to get an audio book at the library right now that isn't booked out until July!), I thought I'd give it a go... thinking this might be better because I believed it was one book, not another four part omnibus.

I was wrong - it is in four parts, though it was better than the bus book, it was still slow and drawn out and had strange plotting to fit everything into four sections. I also didn't understand the pull of the reserve (why would they let their boss treat them like that? You are being paid minimum wage, you are not responsible for saving the place. Get some boundaries and a job somewhere else. As we are constantly reminded, there is another wilderness place on the other side of town!!). Most of Abby's decisions only made sense as plot devices designed to drag things out forever.

1.5, but I'm rounding it down to 1 because it was so very long (even on triple speed).

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt that it took me a couple chapters before I was into the book. I loved the story and characters it was very well written. Anyone that loves birds will be in love with this book, I felt that I learned from reading it and loved how there was a blurb about a particular bird at the beginning of each chapter, from Abby’s notebook. This took place in England, mostly where Abby, Stephan, Rosa, Octavia and Penelope worked at the reserve. It was a very touching story of the life of Abby and somewhat of her co workers and how they all seemed to be pushing their way into their friends (Abby’s) affairs.. Abby has one sister and children and also her mother who she sees fairly often. You can tell that Abby is very serious about her job and loves what she does. She spends many late days there working and also after hours at home... on her way to and from work there is a mansion that hasn’t been lived in for years that’s behind locked gate, that has everyone very curious as to what’s inside it. As the story goes on it becomes clear closer to the end of the story exactly what it’s about! I am so glad I got the chance to read this book I highly recommend it!

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The House of Birds and Butterflies by Cressida McLaughlin

Abby Field loves every inch of Meadowsweet Nature Reserve on the idyllic Suffolk coast where she lives and works. Especially Swallowtail House, the rambling but empty country house that seems to look out at her each time she passes it’s shut-up windows.

When a TV wildlife programme choses a rival location for their new series, Meadowsweet is under threat – unless Abby can whip up a plan to keep the visitors flocking. But she finds herself distracted by the arrival of a brooding – and annoyingly handsome new neighbour… bad-boy novelist, Jack Westcoat.

I am not sure what appealed to me more about this book - the cover or the author. It is such a heart-warming read full of romance that will have you hooked from the start. I read this book during my lunch break and it was nice to escape to the countryside and read about the nature reserve. A pleasure to read.

Rating 4/5

[AK✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Can’t lie, I was quite bored in the beginning, finding myself feeling forced to read on with the slight anticipation that something might actually happen. The description of Meadowsweet Nature Reserve and it’s inhabitants kept me reading, but I wasn’t that drawn to Abby, despite loving Jack.

I thought the background of these characters could have been developed more, and when the plot finally did spike my interest (around chapter 14), it all moved a bit too quick, in contrast to the beginning of the book which was slow.

I would have given this book 4 stars if the ending was more satisfying, although all loose ends were tied up, I just wanted a bit more.

[Shayr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was an absolute pleasure. Especially now, since travel is restricted, the descriptions of the reserve took me back to some of my best staycation memories in the UK. It was easy to get lost in imagery of wildlife and changing seasons.

I loved Abby and her relationships with the people she works with. The dialogue and banter was comforting. Infact, the whole thing was like a big hug in book form.

I lived for her interactions with the mysterious Jack. Although there wasnt much of it to begin with, i found I didnt mind - it was so well written, i just loved reading more about Abby and her surroundings.

[Linda O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally written as four e-books, but all put together in this omnibus.
It is a good unusual read.
Storyline revolves around the Meadowsweet nature reserve & the staff.
Abby Field, with the help of other staff, spends most of her time thinking up ways to increase footfall & make money, to stop it ever closing.
Also, on the other side of Meadowsweet, is another nature reserve having a year long tv series made about it.
A famous author rents a cottage near the reserve, to finish his latest book in peace & quiet. But all does not go according to plan.
Worth reading.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with the cover and then I fell in love with the book.
It's heartwarming, fun to reading and moving at the same time!
I loved the characters, both human and animals, as well as the story that hooked since the first pages.
This is a real pager turner, one step above the standard chick-lit/romance and the background is very well researched.
I hope there will be more.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to HarperCollins and Netgalley for this ARC

[Petra Quelch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Cressida fabulous, sparkly and romantic book with a healthy dose of cute animals or in this case wildlife.
The characters are aleays so well developed that they feel like a part of your family or best friends.
The plot is engaging and fresh and the setting are so picturesque.
What else to wish for?
I highly recommended you to grab s copy of this autumnal feel good book. A pure delight from start to finish.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me over half the book to decide that I liked this story. Not sure what I didnt like or what kept me going but in the end it turned into a nice read.
I loved the fact that it was set on a Nature Reserve having visited such places many times I could imagine the setting and I loved the descriptions of the wildlife (which could get annoying to a non nature lover) The plot was pretty predictable from the start but it was a nice easy read and I am glad I stuck it out

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best rom-coms I've ever read in a long time -- and an important one for nature lovers! Everything in this book -- the detail about the operations behind the scenes in a nature sanctuary, the pacing, the love interest, the details about species, the main character herself -- it was ALL fantastic. :)

[Dannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The House of Birds and Butterflies - Cressida McLaughlin

This book is one I cannot recommend enough. Beautifully written as always, this story was one I enjoyed every single piece of. Love, friendship, nature with a splash of drama and wonderful characters made this book a dream to read. I also learned a few things about birds too! 🐦 

☆☆☆☆☆

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The House of Birds & Butterflies by Cressida McLaughlin Book 51 of 2018.
I really enjoyed 'The Canal Boat Cafe' last month so when I saw that the author had a new book out it seemed ideal timing for me & it was. Another lovely, warm story.
Abby works on a nature reserve which is in financial trouble & it's her job to pull them out of it and attract new visitors. Meanwhile an author with a bit of a bad boy reputation moves in to the cottage nearby to distract her...
I particularly enjoyed the little facts about birds & wildlife that were interspersed in the story. At around 450 pages it wasn't the shortest of books but I still sped through it & it held my interest. I guess I'd best describe it as a light, sweet, happy read. Ideal as a book to take on holiday perhaps or sit in the garden in the sunshine & listen to the birds for added atmosphere as I did.