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Willoughby Close #5
Marry Me at Willoughby Close
Welcome to Willoughby Close...a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver....
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he’s desperate for no one to discover.
A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love. When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly be the next lady of Willoughby Manor?
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he’s desperate for no one to discover.
A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love. When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly be the next lady of Willoughby Manor?
366 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2017
194 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
877 books1,705 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 15, 2017
Alice James hadn’t had the easiest start in life, moving from foster home to foster home, then ending up homeless, with nowhere and no one to turn to.
She is shocked when she is given a lifeline by Ava Mitchell, a resident of Willoughby Close, who helps her get back on her feet, including sorting her out with a job.
Alice’s new job is to help Lady Stokeley, the 86-year-old who owns Willoughby Manor. Unfortunately, Lady Stokeley had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and had decided not to have treatment.
Looking after Lady Stokeley is no problem, as she doesn’t want to be fussed over, however her antagonising nephew Henry Trent, wants Alice to do more than just bring his Aunt cups of tea. But Henry has met his match in Alice, and she isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
This is the first book of the Willoughby Close series that I have read, so although Alice was new to the series, and the book mainly regarded her, I had missed the build up to the other characters. Never the less, I understood the book perfectly, and enjoyed every minute of it.
Ms. Hewitt has written a delicate story surrounding the terminal diagnosis and the deterioration of a lovely, sweet, old lady, who might be dying but she doesn’t want any fuss, and doesn’t want to be treated like an invalid.
The intricate characters have been beautifully created, and fit together perfectly. Alice and Henry both clearly like one another, but neither wanted to admit that they did. I mean an heir to the Manor house, and a working class girl from a broken background, what could they possibly have in common?
The plot has you caring about the characters, and is richly imaginative. I found myself eager to discover what would happen to Alice, Henry, and of course, Lady Stokeley. Would Alice and Henry get together? Would Lady Stokeley’s ill-health see her leaving the fictional world? I needed to know.
This is a story that invites you into the pages and keeps you interested, and fully committed, from beginning to end.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
She is shocked when she is given a lifeline by Ava Mitchell, a resident of Willoughby Close, who helps her get back on her feet, including sorting her out with a job.
Alice’s new job is to help Lady Stokeley, the 86-year-old who owns Willoughby Manor. Unfortunately, Lady Stokeley had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and had decided not to have treatment.
Looking after Lady Stokeley is no problem, as she doesn’t want to be fussed over, however her antagonising nephew Henry Trent, wants Alice to do more than just bring his Aunt cups of tea. But Henry has met his match in Alice, and she isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
This is the first book of the Willoughby Close series that I have read, so although Alice was new to the series, and the book mainly regarded her, I had missed the build up to the other characters. Never the less, I understood the book perfectly, and enjoyed every minute of it.
Ms. Hewitt has written a delicate story surrounding the terminal diagnosis and the deterioration of a lovely, sweet, old lady, who might be dying but she doesn’t want any fuss, and doesn’t want to be treated like an invalid.
The intricate characters have been beautifully created, and fit together perfectly. Alice and Henry both clearly like one another, but neither wanted to admit that they did. I mean an heir to the Manor house, and a working class girl from a broken background, what could they possibly have in common?
The plot has you caring about the characters, and is richly imaginative. I found myself eager to discover what would happen to Alice, Henry, and of course, Lady Stokeley. Would Alice and Henry get together? Would Lady Stokeley’s ill-health see her leaving the fictional world? I needed to know.
This is a story that invites you into the pages and keeps you interested, and fully committed, from beginning to end.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
October 16, 2017
The choice of what one reads at any certain time, I think, is that one NEEDS at the moment. Reading is so wonderful because (if you are lucky-- or as time goes by able to pick an author who writes the words that satisfy...) as a reader you can be transported to a place (a vacation), meet new people that you would love to know and interact with, live through the characters eyes situations either easy, nice or maybe even scary ones that make your pulse race. We can transport through time and live a bit of history that we do not know enough of and want to or even live in worlds that are made up and has absolutely nothing to do with what we know is real. It all has to do with the talent of the author we have choosen and the way they pave the books we read.
Kate Hewitt is one of the authors (for me) that makes reading a book seem like watching life turn out the way we wish ours would. Well, maybe not quite like that, but maybe more aware of the choices we make all the time, with a satifactory explaination of why.
I loved the Willoughby Close series. I especially found that Marry me at Willoughby Close to be a fantastic last book in this series. Of course it was a bit kitchy but it was also a book that had very well developed complicated characters with difficult situations that were very carefully handled. I loved being able to picture the homes of the characters, the town, and especially the run down Manor house. It was all alive. The pefect comfort read, which sound trite and clichéd but honesty isn't...
Kate Hewitt is one of the authors (for me) that makes reading a book seem like watching life turn out the way we wish ours would. Well, maybe not quite like that, but maybe more aware of the choices we make all the time, with a satifactory explaination of why.
I loved the Willoughby Close series. I especially found that Marry me at Willoughby Close to be a fantastic last book in this series. Of course it was a bit kitchy but it was also a book that had very well developed complicated characters with difficult situations that were very carefully handled. I loved being able to picture the homes of the characters, the town, and especially the run down Manor house. It was all alive. The pefect comfort read, which sound trite and clichéd but honesty isn't...
August 11, 2017
I'm brand new to Kate Hewitt's work, but I was given an ARC of this novel for an honest review.
The writing is well done. Alice James is working as a caregiver for a sweet dying woman who lives alone in her manor. Henry Trent is a nephew who comes across as a bit hard-nosed when the reality is that he's never been valued or loved in the manner that he deserved. Alice can relate to this (to some degree) as she grew up in foster care and had bounced from home to home due to her mother's drug addiction. Two people from opposite worlds, but their own pasts provide some common ground--they both want to love and be loved.
I understand that this is the fifth book of a series. I wish I had the opportunity to start with the first book, so I would know how it all began and be more familiar with all the characters of Willoughby Close. But I like what I've read and I'm sure I'd be pleased with the other books as well.
The writing is well done. Alice James is working as a caregiver for a sweet dying woman who lives alone in her manor. Henry Trent is a nephew who comes across as a bit hard-nosed when the reality is that he's never been valued or loved in the manner that he deserved. Alice can relate to this (to some degree) as she grew up in foster care and had bounced from home to home due to her mother's drug addiction. Two people from opposite worlds, but their own pasts provide some common ground--they both want to love and be loved.
I understand that this is the fifth book of a series. I wish I had the opportunity to start with the first book, so I would know how it all began and be more familiar with all the characters of Willoughby Close. But I like what I've read and I'm sure I'd be pleased with the other books as well.
August 5, 2017
It took me a while to finally accept Lady Stokeley's fate and Henry Trent's turn over a new leaf, but nothing prepared me with the tears that run down my eyes after reading this book. Yes, I think this is the final book in the Willoughby Close series. And it was really good.
I met Alice on the Ava's story in Kiss Me at Willoughby Close and had grown to like her and her simplicity. I was quite angered at Henry Trent though for coming off annoying and brusque and obnoxious. But in this last book, I finally understood his aloofness, his stiff personality and his awkwardness with other people. My heart was also heavy because of the cancer that was eating up Lady Stokeleys. Brings me back to my memories of my father who also suffered cancer and I enveloped in sadness and pain when he died.
Among the five books in this series, I think I loved this last story best. Alice was such an affectionate and warm-hearted individual who was also forgiving even after everything that she'd been through. Fostered from one family to another during her childhood, Alice grew up without a real family to hold on to, except for a grandmother who died in her care. She's been devoted, caring and tough even at the most trying times. Henry was her exact opposite. He couldn't show his affections, he tend to over-analyze things and talk in complicated tones, making look boring, conventional and snobbish person. Born in wealth but lacked in familial comfort, he became rigid, angsty, always in control. Then he could also be so strong yet so fragile.
Their story was quite slow and a tad stagnant because these two opposing characters couldn't get along just fine. But along the way, the other characters like Lady Stokeley and Ava and the other residents of Willoughby Close also made everything transition smoothly. The book was everything I hoped for and provided so much more. It has been quite an emotional and heartwarming read. I fell in love with this series and wish I could read more of Kate Hewitt's writing.
I met Alice on the Ava's story in Kiss Me at Willoughby Close and had grown to like her and her simplicity. I was quite angered at Henry Trent though for coming off annoying and brusque and obnoxious. But in this last book, I finally understood his aloofness, his stiff personality and his awkwardness with other people. My heart was also heavy because of the cancer that was eating up Lady Stokeleys. Brings me back to my memories of my father who also suffered cancer and I enveloped in sadness and pain when he died.
Among the five books in this series, I think I loved this last story best. Alice was such an affectionate and warm-hearted individual who was also forgiving even after everything that she'd been through. Fostered from one family to another during her childhood, Alice grew up without a real family to hold on to, except for a grandmother who died in her care. She's been devoted, caring and tough even at the most trying times. Henry was her exact opposite. He couldn't show his affections, he tend to over-analyze things and talk in complicated tones, making look boring, conventional and snobbish person. Born in wealth but lacked in familial comfort, he became rigid, angsty, always in control. Then he could also be so strong yet so fragile.
Their story was quite slow and a tad stagnant because these two opposing characters couldn't get along just fine. But along the way, the other characters like Lady Stokeley and Ava and the other residents of Willoughby Close also made everything transition smoothly. The book was everything I hoped for and provided so much more. It has been quite an emotional and heartwarming read. I fell in love with this series and wish I could read more of Kate Hewitt's writing.
November 6, 2019
In the fourth book of the series we were introduced to Alice James, a young woman who had been through various foster homes and nursed her grandmother until her death, before living rough until she was helped by Ava. Now, she has been employed as Lady Stokeley's live-in carer. Unfortunately, Lady Stokeley's nephew Henry Trent finds Alice thoroughly unsuitable and tries to sack her. Eventually they settle on a one month trial period, but as the time progresses Henry and Alice find they like each other more and more.
This is (currently) the final book in the charming Willoughby Close series and it's a classic romance between on the one hand the heir to a baronetcy and on the other a homeless woman, daughter of a drug addict and product of the foster care system. all aided and abetted by the feisty Lady Stokeley.
As is to be expected we see all of our favourite characters from the previous books as this series draws to a close.
These books can be read in any order, I think I read the fourth book first, but in order to enjoy glimpses into the developments in each character I recommend reading them in order.
If you ever find Katie Fforde heroes and heroines a bit two-dimensional then I recommend Kate Hewitt, her novels are what I always hope Katie Fforde's will be but so rarely are.
This is (currently) the final book in the charming Willoughby Close series and it's a classic romance between on the one hand the heir to a baronetcy and on the other a homeless woman, daughter of a drug addict and product of the foster care system. all aided and abetted by the feisty Lady Stokeley.
As is to be expected we see all of our favourite characters from the previous books as this series draws to a close.
These books can be read in any order, I think I read the fourth book first, but in order to enjoy glimpses into the developments in each character I recommend reading them in order.
If you ever find Katie Fforde heroes and heroines a bit two-dimensional then I recommend Kate Hewitt, her novels are what I always hope Katie Fforde's will be but so rarely are.
December 29, 2022
One more sweet, cute and adorable story. I’m enjoying the series so much! It’s just pure happiness wrapped in a cozy book.
Main characters of this book are Alice and Henry, the classical opposites attract trope. Alice makes Henry realize that there is actually more to life than just money and work. Life is romantic, colorful, eventful, sensitive and much, much more.
Reading the book makes you feel really good, cozy and warm. The relations between Alice and Lady Stokeley are so nice, that particular best kind of relations between a young woman and a little bit cranky old lady.
Overall the story is easy to follow and very fluent. The narration is gorgeous too, very natural and airy.
Main characters of this book are Alice and Henry, the classical opposites attract trope. Alice makes Henry realize that there is actually more to life than just money and work. Life is romantic, colorful, eventful, sensitive and much, much more.
Reading the book makes you feel really good, cozy and warm. The relations between Alice and Lady Stokeley are so nice, that particular best kind of relations between a young woman and a little bit cranky old lady.
Overall the story is easy to follow and very fluent. The narration is gorgeous too, very natural and airy.
July 18, 2017
Alice has never experienced what it's like to have stable home. When she was a child she lived with several foster families. She didn't get the chance to stay anywhere long enough to become part of something. When Alice suddenly becomes homeless, a woman she's met by chance, Ava, offers her a place to stay at her cottage in Willoughby Close. There Alice meets Lady Stokely, a proud and friendly old lady, who lives in the nearby manor. Lady Stokely is terminally ill and needs someone to stay with her. Alice has a few nursing diplomas and has enough experience to take care of her. The job comes with a living accommodation and Alice finally has the idea she might have found a place where she belongs.
Lady Stokely's nephew Henry loves her very much. However, he also thinks that means he can make decisions for his aunt and Alice threatens to lose everything she holds dear once more. Henry seems stiff, moody and bossy, but Alice soon discovers that there is a lot about him she doesn't know. What are Henry's secrets? Will he be ready one day to tell Alice more about himself or is he too closed off to give her a chance and will Alice find happiness at Willoughby Close just like the other inhabitants?
Marry Me at Willoughby Close is a wonderful story. I loved Alice from the start. She's kindhearted, but doesn't let people walk over her. She's young, but has so much life experience that she's wise beyond her years. I really enjoyed reading about her friendship with Lady Stokely, they have a deep an instant connection and Lady Stokely sees something in Alice, she'd be a good match for Henry. When he's arrogant she confronts him, even if it makes her scared, which is exactly what he needs. She also lets him be vulnerable at the rare moments he's willing to show some emotion. Henry is a good person, but he's hiding his true nature behind a facade that is difficult to see through. I loved the influence Henry and Alice have on each other. They slowly learn to confide in someone and with the help of Lady Stokely they even dare to open up a little, which was beautiful to read about.
Kate Hewitt has a lovely romantic writing style. She makes her stories come to life through equally vivid descriptions of people, places and emotions. That gives her stories a strong base that works every time. Every detail is exactly right and it's clear how much she cares about her characters, which makes it easy to feel close to them. They're never flawless, they have good and bad personality traits and that makes them realistic and accessible. I love Willoughby Close, it's a fantastic setting with amazing inhabitants and every time I read about it, it manages to warm my heart. I highly recommend Marry Me at Willoughby Close, it's a fantastic moving and enchanting story.
Lady Stokely's nephew Henry loves her very much. However, he also thinks that means he can make decisions for his aunt and Alice threatens to lose everything she holds dear once more. Henry seems stiff, moody and bossy, but Alice soon discovers that there is a lot about him she doesn't know. What are Henry's secrets? Will he be ready one day to tell Alice more about himself or is he too closed off to give her a chance and will Alice find happiness at Willoughby Close just like the other inhabitants?
Marry Me at Willoughby Close is a wonderful story. I loved Alice from the start. She's kindhearted, but doesn't let people walk over her. She's young, but has so much life experience that she's wise beyond her years. I really enjoyed reading about her friendship with Lady Stokely, they have a deep an instant connection and Lady Stokely sees something in Alice, she'd be a good match for Henry. When he's arrogant she confronts him, even if it makes her scared, which is exactly what he needs. She also lets him be vulnerable at the rare moments he's willing to show some emotion. Henry is a good person, but he's hiding his true nature behind a facade that is difficult to see through. I loved the influence Henry and Alice have on each other. They slowly learn to confide in someone and with the help of Lady Stokely they even dare to open up a little, which was beautiful to read about.
Kate Hewitt has a lovely romantic writing style. She makes her stories come to life through equally vivid descriptions of people, places and emotions. That gives her stories a strong base that works every time. Every detail is exactly right and it's clear how much she cares about her characters, which makes it easy to feel close to them. They're never flawless, they have good and bad personality traits and that makes them realistic and accessible. I love Willoughby Close, it's a fantastic setting with amazing inhabitants and every time I read about it, it manages to warm my heart. I highly recommend Marry Me at Willoughby Close, it's a fantastic moving and enchanting story.
July 15, 2017
The Blurb :
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he's desperate for no one to discover. A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love.
When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are, and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly the next Lady of Willoughby Manor?
My Thoughts :
I have absolutely loved this series and im so sad to see it end but we certainly go out with a bang.
Focusing on the newest resident of Willoughby Close, Alice James who takes the job to look after Lady Stokeley. Add into the mix Lady Stokeley's nephew Henry Trent, most people dont like him but we soon find out Alice has taken a bit of a shine to him. Will there be a happily ever after?.
It was lovely to revisit all the other charactors in the story. Although this can be read as a stand alone, you really need to read all 4 books to get the full effect and advantage of this great series. Kate Hewitt has genuinely delivered a wonderful series, she has captured our hearts with these residents of Willoughby Close and I feel like im leaving some friends behind but I will be taking with me some very fond memories. Kate should be proud of all she has achieved with these books. Highly recommened.
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he's desperate for no one to discover. A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love.
When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are, and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly the next Lady of Willoughby Manor?
My Thoughts :
I have absolutely loved this series and im so sad to see it end but we certainly go out with a bang.
Focusing on the newest resident of Willoughby Close, Alice James who takes the job to look after Lady Stokeley. Add into the mix Lady Stokeley's nephew Henry Trent, most people dont like him but we soon find out Alice has taken a bit of a shine to him. Will there be a happily ever after?.
It was lovely to revisit all the other charactors in the story. Although this can be read as a stand alone, you really need to read all 4 books to get the full effect and advantage of this great series. Kate Hewitt has genuinely delivered a wonderful series, she has captured our hearts with these residents of Willoughby Close and I feel like im leaving some friends behind but I will be taking with me some very fond memories. Kate should be proud of all she has achieved with these books. Highly recommened.
August 9, 2017
I love spending time at Willoughby Close! (Insert sigh here!) This visit brought Alice into the spotlight, caring for Dorothy (Lady Stokely) as she faced her final days, having decided to cease treatment for her cancer. We also get better acquainted with Dorothy's nephew, the Honorable Henry Trent, who heretofore has been presented as quite the young, rude, curmudgeon. Alice and Henry come from wildly different backgrounds and it is lovely to get to know them and to watch Dorothy's skill at seeing beneath a person's surface to what lies at the heart of the matter. And her matchmaking skills are well polished, as well!
This book includes the residents of Willoughby Close whom we met in the previous books. As always, I enjoyed watching them come together to make life better for each other. If you haven't read these books yet, I recommend you give yourself a holiday and take a trip to Willoughby Close.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my opinion in response.
This book includes the residents of Willoughby Close whom we met in the previous books. As always, I enjoyed watching them come together to make life better for each other. If you haven't read these books yet, I recommend you give yourself a holiday and take a trip to Willoughby Close.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my opinion in response.
July 20, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed the conclusion of The Willoughby Close series. I don't think it could have ended any better than it did.
Henry Trent came across as mean and uncaring throughout the series. I was happy to find out more about him and hear why he seemed so mean, guarded and didn't want anyone to get close to him.
Alice James was the perfect companion and caretaker for Lady Stokeley. Having been brought up in the foster system, Alice didn't have much and never experience real love or friendship. The friends she made at Willoughby Close, with Lady Stokeley and Henry were priceless and helped her realize she was worthy of love.
If you haven't read this series yet, you will want to start book one to learn about Lady Stokeley as her story runs throughout the series. The rest of the stories are concluded at the end of each book. The author did a wonderful job with this series.
Henry Trent came across as mean and uncaring throughout the series. I was happy to find out more about him and hear why he seemed so mean, guarded and didn't want anyone to get close to him.
Alice James was the perfect companion and caretaker for Lady Stokeley. Having been brought up in the foster system, Alice didn't have much and never experience real love or friendship. The friends she made at Willoughby Close, with Lady Stokeley and Henry were priceless and helped her realize she was worthy of love.
If you haven't read this series yet, you will want to start book one to learn about Lady Stokeley as her story runs throughout the series. The rest of the stories are concluded at the end of each book. The author did a wonderful job with this series.
July 21, 2017
Kate Hewitt puts her heart on full display with every character she creates and each tale she writes. The pain is real, the emotions are humanizing and the journey is cathartic. Alice is finding her way after years of uncertainty. She's searching for a place to belong. Will she find it at Willoughby Manor?
August 6, 2017
Although this book is fairly predictable it's a good read. Book 5 in the Willoughby Close series it is easily a stand alone story. Set in England with carry over stuffy peerage, Alice becomes companion to Lady Stokeley during her last months fighting cancer. Lady Stokeley's nephew Henry is very proper and takes his linage very properly and lets Alice know that their attraction just isn't acceptable. Even thought this book is set in today's time frame, it could very easily be set in the early 1900's. The village life is always amazing.
August 18, 2017
See full review at: http://romancenovelsforfeminists.blog...
December 7, 2024
I've listened to a bunch of the light freebie books on Audible in the past month.
August 16, 2017
July 16, 2017
Marry Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt ** Weekend Blitz and Giveaway **
Welcome to today's celebration of Kate Hewitt's latest book, Marry Me at Willoughby Close. There is also the chance to win an Amazon Giftcard today, with details at the end of this post.
Welcome to Willoughby Close...a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver...
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea..., feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokely's nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she's started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he's desperate for no one to discover. A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love.
When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are, and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly be the next Lady of Willoughby Manor?
My Thoughts
I have enjoyed meeting the inhabitants of Willoughby Close but found the final episode a bit bitter-sweet. I have particularly enjoyed meeting each new member of the Close. My over-riding pleasure this time out was to meet Lady Stokeley and to sense her pleasure as she sized up the opposition. She is a great character- full of realism, cynicism and good old fashioned common sense.
I particularly found the character of Henry to be intriguing. As you find out more about his past, you discover that he has much in common with Alice and has hidden depths. All though he may appear to be the stereo-typical hero, he is in fact more nuanced than that, with much more to say.
The real star of the show is the Manor itself, which gives the backdrop to the final Ball Scene. It roots the characters to the story , the centre-pin of the whole series of books. I will miss the characters and have admired how the baton has been passed from each person as each book has started.
In short: escapist romance with a touch of vinegar.
Thanks to the publishers for a copy of the book
August 3, 2017
Alice James has become a caregiver for Lady Dorothy Stokley. Lady Stokley has terminal cancer and her nephew, Henry Trent, believes that she must no longer live alone.
Alice is a former foster child whose young life has been colored by a lack of family and friends. She has survived and thrived in her life by sheer will. When she first goes into the Manor house, she is intimidated by Lady Stokley. But, eventually they come to an understanding. Lady Stokley's bark is worse than her bite and she is basically a lovely woman facing a terrible time in her life.
Henry on the other hand is not such a nice guy. He is a snob who automatically looks at everything through a filter of “I am always right”. He has had a life with no family and few friends. His privileged parents have never had an interest in Henry. So, Henry has grown into a man who does not show emotions nor does he have much of a connection to his fellow man.
This is the final chapter in a series that I have just loved.
Willoughby Close is a place where people have come and found out who they are. It has been nearly a magical group of homes. Individuals and families have found a warm and welcoming place and the time to find solutions to problems. If I were the kind of person who believed in such things, I would say that Lady Stokley's good heart has provided the atmosphere for such a place.
Alice looks around the Manor and sees a place that has been neglected for a long time. She cannot allow that to continue so she starts cleaning and caring for the house. At the same time, she shows Lady Stokley that she is cared for too. Letting light into a grey place can do wonders for that place.
The longer Henry sees Alice, the more he is drawn to her goodness and her caring nature. But, it is very difficult for him to figure out how to relate to those qualities. He does not even recognize the feelings he is having for her.
Ms Hewitt has created a wonderful series. She writes of people who are actual human beings with flaws as well as perfections. She has created a location filled with a generosity of spirit and a sense of love. There is romantic love, love of family and love of others who need it.
I have enjoyed this series very much. Each story has provided me with a wonderful reading experience. Thank you Ms Hewitt.
I received the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
Alice is a former foster child whose young life has been colored by a lack of family and friends. She has survived and thrived in her life by sheer will. When she first goes into the Manor house, she is intimidated by Lady Stokley. But, eventually they come to an understanding. Lady Stokley's bark is worse than her bite and she is basically a lovely woman facing a terrible time in her life.
Henry on the other hand is not such a nice guy. He is a snob who automatically looks at everything through a filter of “I am always right”. He has had a life with no family and few friends. His privileged parents have never had an interest in Henry. So, Henry has grown into a man who does not show emotions nor does he have much of a connection to his fellow man.
This is the final chapter in a series that I have just loved.
Willoughby Close is a place where people have come and found out who they are. It has been nearly a magical group of homes. Individuals and families have found a warm and welcoming place and the time to find solutions to problems. If I were the kind of person who believed in such things, I would say that Lady Stokley's good heart has provided the atmosphere for such a place.
Alice looks around the Manor and sees a place that has been neglected for a long time. She cannot allow that to continue so she starts cleaning and caring for the house. At the same time, she shows Lady Stokley that she is cared for too. Letting light into a grey place can do wonders for that place.
The longer Henry sees Alice, the more he is drawn to her goodness and her caring nature. But, it is very difficult for him to figure out how to relate to those qualities. He does not even recognize the feelings he is having for her.
Ms Hewitt has created a wonderful series. She writes of people who are actual human beings with flaws as well as perfections. She has created a location filled with a generosity of spirit and a sense of love. There is romantic love, love of family and love of others who need it.
I have enjoyed this series very much. Each story has provided me with a wonderful reading experience. Thank you Ms Hewitt.
I received the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
July 19, 2017
Marry Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he’s desperate for no one to discover. A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love.
When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are, and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly the next Lady of Willoughby Manor?
this is Alice James and Henry Trent's story.
Alice stepped into the dim, draughty foyer of Willoughby Manor, blinking in the dusty, musty gloom. Today was the first day of her new job, and she was feeling both anxious and excited in equal measure.
“Henry wishes to meet you,” Lady Stokeley continued, and thoughts of Ava and accommodation fell away in light of this surprising and unwelcome news.
“He does?” Alice supposed it was to be expected, considering Henry Trent was responsible for his aunt’s welfare, and the heir to the title, Earl of Stokeley.
Could Alice possibly be the next Lady of Willoughby Manor? read this book to find out.
Marry Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt is a 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kate's Books with Tule:
A Yorkshire Christmas
Christmas Around the World
Falling for Christmas
Falling for the Freemans
Falling Hard
Falling for the Freemans
A Cotswold Christmas
Willoughby Close
Meet Me At Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Find Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Kiss Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Marry Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Welcome to Willoughby Close… a charming cluster of cozy cottages, each with a story to tell and a happy ending to deliver…
Alice James has been a drifter her whole life, working her way through several foster homes before ending up in Wychwood-on-Lea, feeling anchorless and invisible. When a chance encounter leads to Alice accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to Lady Stokeley, she starts to feel as if she might finally be able to put down some roots and live the way other people do.
Then, Lady Stokeley’s nephew, city banker Henry Trent, storms into Willoughby Manor, seeming to find fault with everything, including Alice. As the next in line to the manor and title, he threatens to upturn everything she’s started to build. But Henry is hiding his own secret fears and weaknesses, ones he’s desperate for no one to discover. A surprising and inconvenient attraction that simmers between them leaves Alice feeling more confused than ever, and Henry torn between duty and desire, fear and love.
When circumstances become even more difficult, both Alice and Henry must decide who they really are, and what they are willing to fight for. Could Alice possibly the next Lady of Willoughby Manor?
this is Alice James and Henry Trent's story.
Alice stepped into the dim, draughty foyer of Willoughby Manor, blinking in the dusty, musty gloom. Today was the first day of her new job, and she was feeling both anxious and excited in equal measure.
“Henry wishes to meet you,” Lady Stokeley continued, and thoughts of Ava and accommodation fell away in light of this surprising and unwelcome news.
“He does?” Alice supposed it was to be expected, considering Henry Trent was responsible for his aunt’s welfare, and the heir to the title, Earl of Stokeley.
Could Alice possibly be the next Lady of Willoughby Manor? read this book to find out.
Marry Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt is a 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kate's Books with Tule:
A Yorkshire Christmas
Christmas Around the World
Falling for Christmas
Falling for the Freemans
Falling Hard
Falling for the Freemans
A Cotswold Christmas
Willoughby Close
Meet Me At Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Find Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Kiss Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
Marry Me at Willoughby Close
Willoughby Close
August 3, 2017
After years of struggling things are finally looking up for Alice. She knows what it's like to be unwanted, but things are about to change now that she's met Ava. Ava has recently moved into cottage number 3 at Willoughby Close and understands the difficulties of having to start over with nothing but the clothes on your back. Alice isn't used to kindness, but has a connection with Ava from the beginning. Alice wants to be a nurse and has already got some qualifications. Lady Stokely, who lives in the manor close to Willoughby Close, needs someone to take care of her, which would be an ideal job for Alice. Lady Stokely hires the young woman and gives her a place to stay. Does Lady Stokely's nephew Henry, who's looking after his aunt whenever he has the time, agree with this decision? Will her stay at Willoughby Close bring Alice the happy ending she so desperately seeks?
Alice has been put down by people more than once, but she always clawed her way back to the top. She keeps on smiling and she still has a kind heart. Alice is very sweet to Lady Stokely and is going out of her way to make sure the old lady is comfortable. Alice is a survivor and I loved to read about all the positive things that are happening in her life. She argues a lot with Henry, who can be quite grumpy. Henry puts up an icy front to hide his wounded and frail heart. He doesn't have a likeable first appearance and I admired Alice for looking behind the mask that Henry always puts on, which made the story extra fascinating and incredibly romantic.
Marry Me at Willoughby Close is the last book in the Willoughby Close series. I fell in love with the cozy little countryside cottages ever since I read Meet Me at Willoughby Close. Kate Hewitt is a skilled writer and I wasn't having any trouble at all to picture Alice and the other characters living at the beautiful and warm Willoughby Close. The place is magical and I looked forward to reading about the amazing inhabitants that were introduced in the previous books once more. All of the cottages' residents feel like family and it warmed my heart to read about how close they've become to each other. I'm sad that this is the last story in this series, but it does bring closure in a gorgeous way. Marry Me at Willoughby Close is another gem by Kate Hewitt, it's a perfect ending of her wonderful series.
Alice has been put down by people more than once, but she always clawed her way back to the top. She keeps on smiling and she still has a kind heart. Alice is very sweet to Lady Stokely and is going out of her way to make sure the old lady is comfortable. Alice is a survivor and I loved to read about all the positive things that are happening in her life. She argues a lot with Henry, who can be quite grumpy. Henry puts up an icy front to hide his wounded and frail heart. He doesn't have a likeable first appearance and I admired Alice for looking behind the mask that Henry always puts on, which made the story extra fascinating and incredibly romantic.
Marry Me at Willoughby Close is the last book in the Willoughby Close series. I fell in love with the cozy little countryside cottages ever since I read Meet Me at Willoughby Close. Kate Hewitt is a skilled writer and I wasn't having any trouble at all to picture Alice and the other characters living at the beautiful and warm Willoughby Close. The place is magical and I looked forward to reading about the amazing inhabitants that were introduced in the previous books once more. All of the cottages' residents feel like family and it warmed my heart to read about how close they've become to each other. I'm sad that this is the last story in this series, but it does bring closure in a gorgeous way. Marry Me at Willoughby Close is another gem by Kate Hewitt, it's a perfect ending of her wonderful series.
August 9, 2017
The fifth and final Willoughby Close book closes the whole series out in style. Like the other books, it features a heroine who has been through a lot and who finds strength, friendship and even love within the small but increasingly tight-knit community of the close. We also finally get to know Lady Stokely’s mysterious nephew and learn a little bit more about Lady Stokely’s own feelings.
I really enjoyed this. Alice is a great character. She might only be twenty-two, but she’s been through a lot in her short life and had to fight for everything she has. I loved how she grew in strength throughout the story, starting off pretty meek and mild, but gaining confidence as everything progressed. She’s kind and caring and incredibly forgiving, but that doesn’t mean she’s a doormat. I think I loved the relationship she builds with Lady Stokely/Dorothy even more than the one with Henry.
Not that I didn’t like Henry, but he’s quite stiff and very proper and hard to read. For Alice, anyway. It’s fairly obvious at times that he feels something for her – even if she doesn’t realise it – but he’s also constrained by the large age gap between them and other social restrictions. He changes too as the book progresses, and I did wish at times we had some of his POV to see what was really going on inside his head.
The romance itself is very slow going and sweet. There’s a lot going on in this book – emotionally – so there isn’t always time for Alice and Henry to explore their feelings. But the romance is there, subtly, and given the huge differences between the two of them, I liked that it took time to grow and progress.
But beyond the romance, and almost more important than it, is Lady Stokely. Dorothy’s presence has been steadily increasing through the previous books and she plays an important and prominent part in this one. I loved how she and Alice came to an understanding, not to mention the return of her fairy godmother role. It is all rather tinged with melancholy, thanks to Dorothy’s illness, but it was great to see she still had her spirit and independence. She’s a wonderful character and it was lovely to finally know her better.
In all, this was a fine and fitting end to this series of love, friendship and life-changing moments. I’ll be interested to see what the author comes up with next.
(Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
I really enjoyed this. Alice is a great character. She might only be twenty-two, but she’s been through a lot in her short life and had to fight for everything she has. I loved how she grew in strength throughout the story, starting off pretty meek and mild, but gaining confidence as everything progressed. She’s kind and caring and incredibly forgiving, but that doesn’t mean she’s a doormat. I think I loved the relationship she builds with Lady Stokely/Dorothy even more than the one with Henry.
Not that I didn’t like Henry, but he’s quite stiff and very proper and hard to read. For Alice, anyway. It’s fairly obvious at times that he feels something for her – even if she doesn’t realise it – but he’s also constrained by the large age gap between them and other social restrictions. He changes too as the book progresses, and I did wish at times we had some of his POV to see what was really going on inside his head.
The romance itself is very slow going and sweet. There’s a lot going on in this book – emotionally – so there isn’t always time for Alice and Henry to explore their feelings. But the romance is there, subtly, and given the huge differences between the two of them, I liked that it took time to grow and progress.
But beyond the romance, and almost more important than it, is Lady Stokely. Dorothy’s presence has been steadily increasing through the previous books and she plays an important and prominent part in this one. I loved how she and Alice came to an understanding, not to mention the return of her fairy godmother role. It is all rather tinged with melancholy, thanks to Dorothy’s illness, but it was great to see she still had her spirit and independence. She’s a wonderful character and it was lovely to finally know her better.
In all, this was a fine and fitting end to this series of love, friendship and life-changing moments. I’ll be interested to see what the author comes up with next.
(Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
August 13, 2017
Alice James has drifted all her life, from one foster home to another, with no real roots anywhere. After having to leave the last place because she aged out of the system, Alice befriends Ava and ends up in Wychwood-on-Lea—but she still has no roots and continues to be listless and drifting. Finally, with Ava’s help, she lands a job as a companion to Lady Stokeley, and older woman dying of terminal cancer, who see no reason to continue any treatments for her illness and who just wants to end things peacefully at home. Alice is intimidated by the job and household, but figures this is one place she may be able to get her life on track and establish some roots, so determines to give it her best effort. Lady Stokeley is a wonderful older woman, nice as can be, who demands very little of Alice. However, she has a nephew, Henry, who thinks he can make all his aunt’s decisions and who is very demanding an employer, not to mention being gruff and brisk. However, Alice is not intimidated by him. Together, they work out a plan for her to continue on at the manor, despite an uncomfortable attraction between them that leaves Alice as confused as ever and Henry torn between what he feels is his duty and right and where he sees himself going.
This is a romance with a little bit different a twist. The two main characters, Alice and Henry, are about as unlike as any two can be and they come from very different backgrounds and lives. Still, the author has managed to bring them together in an absolutely magnificent way. Each as a past they need to accept, complete with experiences, lessons and secrets, some of which get in the way. Still, they manage to work through things. The book is a fairly good testament to how love can exist and flourish between two persons, even if all signs point to it being something impossible. I particularly enjoyed the character Lady Stokeley, since I found her to be a genuinely wonderful person, graceful even in death. The characters blend in quite well in the story. I have not read the other books in the series, but they will be on my shelf after reading this one. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
This is a romance with a little bit different a twist. The two main characters, Alice and Henry, are about as unlike as any two can be and they come from very different backgrounds and lives. Still, the author has managed to bring them together in an absolutely magnificent way. Each as a past they need to accept, complete with experiences, lessons and secrets, some of which get in the way. Still, they manage to work through things. The book is a fairly good testament to how love can exist and flourish between two persons, even if all signs point to it being something impossible. I particularly enjoyed the character Lady Stokeley, since I found her to be a genuinely wonderful person, graceful even in death. The characters blend in quite well in the story. I have not read the other books in the series, but they will be on my shelf after reading this one. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
July 12, 2017
Having read and loved other books in this charming series, this one is the most bitter-sweet.
You may want to keep tissues nearby.
The residents of Willoughby Close look out for each other. Their landlady is an actual Lady, royalty.
She is an elderly recluse who lives in the Manor and stays seemingly much to herself. If you have read previous books in the series you know that she has become special to each of the residents.
Alice James is the most recent lost soul to find her way to Willoughby Close. She has been independent most of her life, more often being the one to care for others than being cared for. As tough as life has been, she is still sweet and a bit naive. She thinks her new job is to care for the aged and ailing Lady Stokeley, but quickly comes to accept that the Lady is not ready to be waited upon.
The other main character and lost soul at the heart of this novel is Lady Stokeley's semi absent nephew, Henry Trent. Most of the residents consider Henry cold, brusk and indifferent when not outright rude. Alice instinctively sees beneath this facade.
The relationship between Alice and each member of the Trent family has its ups and downs. There are times when she doubts herself, her future, and her choices. Most of all, she struggles to come to terms with her feelings about Henry.
I feel you might enjoy this book best if you have read at least one prior in the series but it can stand alone. The characters are endearing, the environment charming. It is a mixture of old world and modern circumstances.
I accepted an advanced copy of this book for review purposes.
You may want to keep tissues nearby.
The residents of Willoughby Close look out for each other. Their landlady is an actual Lady, royalty.
She is an elderly recluse who lives in the Manor and stays seemingly much to herself. If you have read previous books in the series you know that she has become special to each of the residents.
Alice James is the most recent lost soul to find her way to Willoughby Close. She has been independent most of her life, more often being the one to care for others than being cared for. As tough as life has been, she is still sweet and a bit naive. She thinks her new job is to care for the aged and ailing Lady Stokeley, but quickly comes to accept that the Lady is not ready to be waited upon.
The other main character and lost soul at the heart of this novel is Lady Stokeley's semi absent nephew, Henry Trent. Most of the residents consider Henry cold, brusk and indifferent when not outright rude. Alice instinctively sees beneath this facade.
The relationship between Alice and each member of the Trent family has its ups and downs. There are times when she doubts herself, her future, and her choices. Most of all, she struggles to come to terms with her feelings about Henry.
I feel you might enjoy this book best if you have read at least one prior in the series but it can stand alone. The characters are endearing, the environment charming. It is a mixture of old world and modern circumstances.
I accepted an advanced copy of this book for review purposes.
July 16, 2017
First of all I have to mention that this book is part of a series however I would still class it as being able to be read as a standalone. Characters from the previous books are mentioned but it all feels natural as their backgrounds are introduced. I loved the strong connections that everyone shares at Willoughby Close. It's lovely to see all of the friendships that have been formed and how everyone rallies around Alice. You can feel Alice's emotions as this is the first time I guess that she has felt as if she belonged. There were definitely a couple of moments where I felt the emotion of the story and I may have had a few tears in my eyes. Alice is a wonderful character and I couldn't help but feel a pull towards her character. Henry is a mystery to start with as he doesn't reveal much so it was great that as the story moves along more layers of his personality are revealed.
The story moves fairly quickly and it was just so easy to sit back and enjoy the lovely story as it unfolded. With a set of delightful characters who made the story even more engaging for me. All the way through it gave off an almost fairy tale vibe mainly because Alice has had such a tough life and then all of a sudden life seems to be more rosy and the outlook more positive. Then with the added extra of romance it really makes a heart warming story come to life. It was very easy to be charmed by this story and I was left feeling that Willoughby Close would be an ideal place to live.
Heart warming with a wonderful romance!
With thanks to Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The story moves fairly quickly and it was just so easy to sit back and enjoy the lovely story as it unfolded. With a set of delightful characters who made the story even more engaging for me. All the way through it gave off an almost fairy tale vibe mainly because Alice has had such a tough life and then all of a sudden life seems to be more rosy and the outlook more positive. Then with the added extra of romance it really makes a heart warming story come to life. It was very easy to be charmed by this story and I was left feeling that Willoughby Close would be an ideal place to live.
Heart warming with a wonderful romance!
With thanks to Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 1, 2018
Except for the few innuendos and few swear words (which were very subtle and easily forgettable), the rest was perfect! The ending did not feel cliched and left me feeling that perfect “awww” feeling and the bubbly giddiness of a perfect story.
I did realize this was the end of a 5-book series. I read it as a stand-alone and had no problem understanding the characters or plot. The British flavor was a little hard for this American to get into at first; especially the abbreviations that I had absolutely no clue about for several chapters but eventually had to assume from context. I did enjoy getting to know a little more about contemporary British culture, mixed in with allusions to the Regency era I'm more familiar with, being a huge Jane Austen fan.
I loved the depth of characters, which is the most important thing to me in a story! The growth was realistic, two steps forward, one step back, just like in real life. But it was beautiful to be a part of. I loved it!
Favorite quotes:
“Perhaps that was what love was—loving the whole person, flaws and faults included. Loving with one's eyes open, rather than the emotion being blind” (p.108).
“'Alice? Ava broke into her thoughts. 'Why are you suddenly looking like the cat who ate all the cream?' Alice blinked the world back into focus. 'Am I?' she said, and, of course, blushed. 'No reason. She rose from the table and reached for her mop and pail. 'No reason at all.'“ (p. 135).
I can't include my two favorite quotes, because they would be big spoilers. :)
(I received this book free, but the decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own.)
I did realize this was the end of a 5-book series. I read it as a stand-alone and had no problem understanding the characters or plot. The British flavor was a little hard for this American to get into at first; especially the abbreviations that I had absolutely no clue about for several chapters but eventually had to assume from context. I did enjoy getting to know a little more about contemporary British culture, mixed in with allusions to the Regency era I'm more familiar with, being a huge Jane Austen fan.
I loved the depth of characters, which is the most important thing to me in a story! The growth was realistic, two steps forward, one step back, just like in real life. But it was beautiful to be a part of. I loved it!
Favorite quotes:
“Perhaps that was what love was—loving the whole person, flaws and faults included. Loving with one's eyes open, rather than the emotion being blind” (p.108).
“'Alice? Ava broke into her thoughts. 'Why are you suddenly looking like the cat who ate all the cream?' Alice blinked the world back into focus. 'Am I?' she said, and, of course, blushed. 'No reason. She rose from the table and reached for her mop and pail. 'No reason at all.'“ (p. 135).
I can't include my two favorite quotes, because they would be big spoilers. :)
(I received this book free, but the decision to write a review, as well as the opinions expressed in it, are all my own.)
July 19, 2017
Kindhearted Alice has come from a troubled background, being pushed from one foster home to another, eventually being in the care of social services till she was too old to stay. Her education has been patchy and because she now doesn't have a home she is unable to continue with her NVQ course.
Ava Mitchell rescued Alice from the streets, sharing her home and getting a CV in order and finally helping her to get the position of companion/health care assistant to Dorothy, Lady Stokely, a cancer patient who has refused to have more treatment, preferring to spend her final days at the manor house. Alice and Dorothy have unusual understanding/working relationship which in time becomes friendship.
Henry Trent is Lady Stokely's nephew, the only other visitor that Dorothy sees other than the neighbours in Willoughby Close. Henry is hard, abrupt and stand offish to everyone, but has a hidden love of his aunt. Henry has also had a troubled upbringing which shares many differences and some comparisons with Alice.
Henry and Alice attempt to make Dorothy's last few months as easy as possible, holding a ball at the manor house where Lady Stokely collapses. Through out their time together, Henry and Alice start to have feelings for each other, but both are in denial about them.
I have read all the Willoughby Close books and loved every one of them. I like the way the relationships build from one book to the next, uncovering layer after layer about the characters. this final book of the series did not disappoint. It gets a huge thumbs up from me.
Ava Mitchell rescued Alice from the streets, sharing her home and getting a CV in order and finally helping her to get the position of companion/health care assistant to Dorothy, Lady Stokely, a cancer patient who has refused to have more treatment, preferring to spend her final days at the manor house. Alice and Dorothy have unusual understanding/working relationship which in time becomes friendship.
Henry Trent is Lady Stokely's nephew, the only other visitor that Dorothy sees other than the neighbours in Willoughby Close. Henry is hard, abrupt and stand offish to everyone, but has a hidden love of his aunt. Henry has also had a troubled upbringing which shares many differences and some comparisons with Alice.
Henry and Alice attempt to make Dorothy's last few months as easy as possible, holding a ball at the manor house where Lady Stokely collapses. Through out their time together, Henry and Alice start to have feelings for each other, but both are in denial about them.
I have read all the Willoughby Close books and loved every one of them. I like the way the relationships build from one book to the next, uncovering layer after layer about the characters. this final book of the series did not disappoint. It gets a huge thumbs up from me.
July 24, 2017
The covers in the Willoughby Close series make them seem as if they will be light reads, but they are very misleading. This book includes a romance, but there are plenty of sad moments, too, given that the story revolves around a woman dying from cancer.
Alice is a very sympathetic main character. She’s kind and good-hearted, even though she’s had a rough life in and out of foster homes as a child, as well as having nursed her grandmother through her final illness. She desperately wants to feel like she has a home and connections to other people. As she cares for the dying Lady Stokely, Alice slowly finds everything she’s been looking for—a place that feels like home, friends, and even a man she loves.
Her love interest, Henry, Lady Stokely’s nephew, is less likeable at first. He seems snobbish, rude, and demanding. The reader eventually learns, though, that Henry’s emotional growth has been stunted by his parents’ neglect. Reading about him slowly realizing his true feelings for Alice was just as satisfying as the emotional arc of Alice’s journey.
One especially good aspect of the book was the way Lady Stokely’s illness and death were treated. Lady Stokely is a well-rounded character, and the reader learns enough about her to make her death moving. Her illness isn’t just a plot point to bring the two main characters together.
Readers looking for a romance who don’t mind a story that touches on some darker themes should give this book a try.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Alice is a very sympathetic main character. She’s kind and good-hearted, even though she’s had a rough life in and out of foster homes as a child, as well as having nursed her grandmother through her final illness. She desperately wants to feel like she has a home and connections to other people. As she cares for the dying Lady Stokely, Alice slowly finds everything she’s been looking for—a place that feels like home, friends, and even a man she loves.
Her love interest, Henry, Lady Stokely’s nephew, is less likeable at first. He seems snobbish, rude, and demanding. The reader eventually learns, though, that Henry’s emotional growth has been stunted by his parents’ neglect. Reading about him slowly realizing his true feelings for Alice was just as satisfying as the emotional arc of Alice’s journey.
One especially good aspect of the book was the way Lady Stokely’s illness and death were treated. Lady Stokely is a well-rounded character, and the reader learns enough about her to make her death moving. Her illness isn’t just a plot point to bring the two main characters together.
Readers looking for a romance who don’t mind a story that touches on some darker themes should give this book a try.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2017
This is the final book in the Willoughby Close set which began with A Cotswold Christmas. It is such a lovely book filled with lovely emotion and sentiment. It might be my favorite of all of them.
This is the story of Alice and Henry and of Lady Willoughby. Henry has been mentioned in the other books and without much to like about him. He comes off as gruff, stuck up and downright mean to the other renters in Willoughby Close. He is the unfeeling nephew to Lady Willoughby or so everyone thinks.
Alice was introduced in book 4, Kiss Me at Willoughby Close, as a down-on-her luck young woman in need of work and a home. She is lucky to come into the job of caring for the ailing Lady, who doesn’t want to lose her last shred of independence. Alice meets the stodgy, gruff Henry when he comes to his aunt’s home to visit. He was under the impression that Alice was a matronly woman not a young girl.
Alice and Henry develop an uneasy relationship but their love for Lady Willoughby draws them together. Alice dreams about Henry but he is closed off, then close, then closed off again. Not until the very end do you learn if Henry can or will admit he feels for Alice. Even she does not know.
This is the story of Alice and Henry and of Lady Willoughby. Henry has been mentioned in the other books and without much to like about him. He comes off as gruff, stuck up and downright mean to the other renters in Willoughby Close. He is the unfeeling nephew to Lady Willoughby or so everyone thinks.
Alice was introduced in book 4, Kiss Me at Willoughby Close, as a down-on-her luck young woman in need of work and a home. She is lucky to come into the job of caring for the ailing Lady, who doesn’t want to lose her last shred of independence. Alice meets the stodgy, gruff Henry when he comes to his aunt’s home to visit. He was under the impression that Alice was a matronly woman not a young girl.
Alice and Henry develop an uneasy relationship but their love for Lady Willoughby draws them together. Alice dreams about Henry but he is closed off, then close, then closed off again. Not until the very end do you learn if Henry can or will admit he feels for Alice. Even she does not know.
July 29, 2017
Alice James has had a tough life. A chance meeting with Ava Miller has given her the chance to finally get her life started, especially when it leads to a job with Lady Stokely. The only hurdle is Henry Trent, Lady Stokely's uptight nephew, who has not made a good impression on any of the tenants. When Alice stands up for herself and earns the opportunity to prove herself, she and Henry spend more and more time together. As the two grow closer, can Alice find a way to convince Henry that she is the one he needs?
For me, this was a bittersweet ending to the series. It was well-written story with fully-realized characters and a satisfying and emotional ending. I just hate to see the series end.
As with the other stories, there is more than just romance: It's about a place people find second chances and friends that become their family of choice. Alice finds not only a home, but friends she didn't know she needed.
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
For me, this was a bittersweet ending to the series. It was well-written story with fully-realized characters and a satisfying and emotional ending. I just hate to see the series end.
As with the other stories, there is more than just romance: It's about a place people find second chances and friends that become their family of choice. Alice finds not only a home, but friends she didn't know she needed.
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own and freely given.
July 13, 2017
Cinderella, eat your heart out because Alice James has taken centre stage at Willoughby Close and what a rags to riches story she has lived! It is hard to imagine a more unlikely couple than timid Alice James and Lady Stokeley's nephew the aloof and stand-offish Henry Trent. Despite a clear attraction between these two, a happy ever after appears impossible at times.
Kate Hewitt's characters are always beautifully rounded and tat is certainly the case with Marry Me At Willoughby Close. It's not just Alice and Henry but the whole cast, characters whom I have come to know and love throughout this series. I couldn't help but care about how this story panned out. I was totally invested, and when I came to the end I was both utterly satisfied and utterly devastated that I wouldn't be popping into Willoughby Close for any more stories. I have loved them all and will look back very fondly on this series.
Kate Hewitt's characters are always beautifully rounded and tat is certainly the case with Marry Me At Willoughby Close. It's not just Alice and Henry but the whole cast, characters whom I have come to know and love throughout this series. I couldn't help but care about how this story panned out. I was totally invested, and when I came to the end I was both utterly satisfied and utterly devastated that I wouldn't be popping into Willoughby Close for any more stories. I have loved them all and will look back very fondly on this series.
July 29, 2017
I totally enjoyed Marry Me at Willoughby Close by Kate Hewitt, book five in her Willoughby Close series. Alice James has flitted through life after moving through several foster homes. Somehow she ends up in Wynchwood-on-Lea where she is befriended by the residents of Willoughby Close. Accepting a position as a caretaker and companion to the dying Lady Stokely, Alice finally believes she could put down roots like other people. Henry Trent, Lady Stokely’s nephew has not known much happiness in his life. Alice and Lady Stokely work together to change that. As Henry gets to know Alice better maybe he can find some happiness and love.
I loved reading this book and had trouble putting this book down, reading it in one day. Ms. Hewitt drew me in and did not let go until I read the last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I loved reading this book and had trouble putting this book down, reading it in one day. Ms. Hewitt drew me in and did not let go until I read the last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 2, 2023
This last book in the series is quite a fairy tale. Of course it’s filled with all kinds of insecurities on the part of Alice, the ingenue who is welcomed into Willoughby Close by Ava in the previous book. However, a little more than halfway through the book, she is told by her love interest, Henry Trent, the future Earl of Stokeley, exactly how unsuitable she is as a potential partner. Luckily, this steels her backbone and makes her more confident and unapologetic for who she is. She works like a fiend to provide a birthday ball for the indomitable Lady Stokeley, who matches her to her nephew regardless of Alice’s humble origins. The end is all tied up neatly and Alice really is Cinderella, but you can’t help but be pleased, if not a little worried that this foster kid marries her first boyfriend—a buttoned up Earl—in very short order. I hope the magic lasts! I have enjoyed this series read by Justine Eyre and think they are a great listen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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