Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill

Little Cottage #2

by Emma Davies

Take an endless stroll through wild meadows and breathe in the sweet aroma of flowers in full bloom. The first ever guest at the little cottage on the hill is looking for an escape, but her past is not far behind her…

Thirty-two-year-old ‘ice queen’ Isobel slams the cottage door and pulls the curtains shut. She has just six weeks to practise for a secret project that could save her career and no one must know she is here.

When Tom, the local thatcher with eyes as blue and deep as the ocean, hears the sound of her violin on the breeze he feels a tug at his heart-strings that reminds him of happier times. Who is this mysterious new lodger, and why does she look so familiar?

Desperate to find out more, Tom is devastated when Isobel refuses to enjoy everything the farm has to offer. He won’t give in, but just when it looks like Isobel is coming out of her shell, someone recognises her and the troubles from her past threaten to take away everything she has been working towards.

Will the lessons Isobel learned at the little cottage help her to stand up and face the music? Will Tom ever find a way to unlock the emotion she needs to move on?

If you loved the heart-warming romance in novels by Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson, you’ll adore this gorgeous, feel-good story about letting love in.

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

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 30, 2018

About the author

Emma Davies once applied for her dream job in the following manner;

'I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty something mother of three.' Well she's now a forty something mother of three, and is working on the rest.

By day she's a finance manager and looks at numbers a lot of the time, but by night she gets to use actual words and practices putting them together into sentences. Her twitter bio says she loves her family, her job, reading, writing, singing loudly in the car, and Pringles, so that must be true then.

Wave to her on twitter @Emdavies68

Letting in Light is her debut novel, and she is currently working on her second.

Reviews

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Lovely Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.25

It was so lovely to return to the little cottage on the hill, in this second book in this delightful series.... I enjoyed this book even more than the first... loved revisiting all these characters and had many awwwww moments...

Isabel is the first guest at Joy’s Acre... she is there to get away and work on a top-secret project, she has no desire to socialize and be sucked in by the beauty of the place... Isabel was not terribly likeable at the beginning of this book... but you just knew this cast of quirky characters, these lovely gardens and the wonderful food would thaw her frozen heart... Tom was even more charming in this book than the previous... even though he may drink a little too much and is a bit of a player, deep down he is such a good guy... and that really came out in this book.... I really wanted this relationship to work out with Isabel and him... his feelings for her came through so well on these pages... on a personal note I absolutely love the part in this book about Peter and the Wolf... not a big classical music person, but I had that record (yes a record... a vinyl record, I am so dating myself here) and when they brought this up it brought back all the sounds of all the characters on that amazing record....

Along with the slow burning romance between Isabel and Tom, we are treated to all the wonderful characters from the first book.... Claire‘s gardens sounded so beautiful and Trixie’s food sounded so delicious.... now I want to go visit even more than I did after reading the first book... Love all these characters and how there they are for one another, it was quite endearing... quite simply this is the perfect summer time read...

Absolutely recommend to fans of a book filled with love, wonderful characters, and a beautiful setting🌸

*** thank you so much too Bookouture and Net Galley for a copy of this lovely book ***

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ Perfect for Lifting Your Spirits.

Summer At The Little Cottage On The Hill is the second book in the series, and I was so glad to be back. I adore this series. It's such a feel good, warming read. The perfect book to snuggle up with.

It was so wonderful to see all the characters back.
This time we meet Isobel.
Wow is she a character. She's mysterious, not too friendly, but she has a passion for music and it shines through.

She arrives at the little cottage on the hill, she is there only guest, which suits her perfectly. See she is working on something private and demands absolute peace and no interruptions.

But unfortunately for her Tom the Thatcher has taken a shine to her and is convinced they are kindred spirits. He too is passionate about music.
But can he win over this ice queens heart with his harmonies and make sweet music with her or Will he crash and burn!!

I adored the colourful characters, they were believable and I was instantly drawn to them.

Summer At The Little Cottage On The Hill, is an absolute joy to read, it's Warm, funny and feel-good, the romance fizzes along just perfectly.
The story line is endearing, engrossing, irresistible and perfect for lifting your spirits.

You can easily read this one as a standalone, but I do think if you read the first one you get a chance to really connect with the characters as they really are memorable.

If you enjoy charming feel good reads, with quirky loveable characters then pick up the Summer At The Little Cottage On The Hill you won't be disappointed!

Thank you to Bookouture for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily

My Review is also on my Blog Website:-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...

[Nicola Clough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really couldn't wait to read more in the second book from emma and she didn't disappoint at all it was simply brilliant and got me hooked from the first page and wanted to give it far more than the five stars I could give as so heartwarming and romantic and uplifting and such a delight to read I so highly recommend this book. It's an easy read with excellent characters and has you in tears at time such a feel good book and wants you reading more. You feel as if while you are reading it you escape to the summer and the cottage and you are there with them.
Lovely to go back and see how the cottage has come on and Isobel is the first person to hire the cottage on the hill and only finds it by chance but as soon as she arrives she shuts the door and the curtains and wants to hide away from everyone. She has her violin to practice and is on a top secret project so clearly doesn't want to see anyone. Tom who is working on the roof next door as he's a thatcher and whenever he hears Isobel playing it reminds him of happier times the new when he does see her she reminds him of someone but he can't remember who. He's determined to get her involved but she won't but he will not give in. Slowly he gets round her and they get talking and he opens up to her about his past but she will not open up to him but when he thinks he's getting somewhere with her her past I still back to threaten her as her mum turns up. Isobel makes it clear she will not leave and when she's says he's father is dying she does leave has she made a mistake or not. Tom is devestated can he find her and be happy or has he lost her for good.
Tom needs to find a way of unlocking his emotions can he do it and move on or not and can what Isobel has learnt while at the cottage make her face her music and move forward.
An amazing read and so uplifting I highly recommend I couldn't put it down at all.

[Holly in Bookland · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even though this is the second book in this series, I never felt lost or feel that you need to read the first in order to enjoy this one. Each book will follow a different set of people at Joy's Acre. In this book we follow Tom who is a thatcher at Joy's Acre and Isobel, who is visiting for six weeks to hone in on her music. Tom is sweet. He's got is own set of issues: he drinks a lot and is a womanizer but his intentions are good. I liked him as a character. He sets out to help and befriend Isobel but she makes it hard at first. Isobel is very guarded to the point where she's almost an ice queen. She makes it clear from the start that she doesn't want to be bothered by the good people of Joy's Acre. She wants to spend all her time working on her music because she's out to prove something. She does thaw out after awhile but I still had trouble liking her. We do get to understand why she is like the way she is but I still just didn't bring myself to care about her. The other workers from Joy's Acre bring kindness to the book and I would like to read more about them. So I will definitely check out the next book. I did like that the romance wasn't over the top but just something that slowly happened. It was little more believable that way--loved that it wasn't insta-love!!!! If you're looking for just a nice summer romance than I would recommend giving this a try.

*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in this series is a very fitting sequel to the warmth of the first, which I recently read and reviewed. If you need something to put a smile in your heart this summer, this is it!

We continue the story from exactly where we left off in the last book by welcoming the first guest to Joy's Acre and those who have prepared for and dreamed of this day finally arriving are very excited to welcome Isobel to their midst. However, Isobel struggles with the friendliness of their welcome; she has come there to work, not to socialise.

Summer at the farm sounds delicious! Not only is the produce plentiful but accordingly the food will make your mouth water. Add in the sunshine, the country setting and the chance to get to know Tom much better than we did first time round plus the enigma who is Isobel, and this is another stunning read from Emma Davies. A full-length novel stuffed with people, places and events this will keep you happily enthralled until you reach the final page, when you can sit back with a sigh of satisfaction. A sumptuous read and a first class series, this is one for your reading list. Without any doubt, it is completely worthy of a full five stars!

My grateful thanks to publishers Bookouture for approving my request via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and reviewed a few of Emma Davies’ books now and I have enjoyed every single one of them. ‘Summer At The Little Cottage On The Hill’ was no exception as I really enjoyed reading it but more about that in a bit.
I must admit that it took me a fair while to warm to Isobel. To start with she is downright rude, insensitive, arrogant and ignorant. However as the book continued and we learnt a little more about her history, I found myself warming to her. It’s obvious that something has happened in her past which has greatly affected her and still affects her to this day. I am not going to go into specifics because that would be giving too much away. I think that it’s fair to say that she has created a massive wall around herself to protect herself and to avoid letting anybody get past that wall and potentially hurt her again. She has moved to the area to concentrate on her music both practicing and composing. When she moves to the area, she doesn’t intend to meet anybody nor socialise let alone possibly fall in love. Tom is another damaged soul. He is the local thatcher. It’s obvious that something has happened in his past that still affects him to this day and has led to him shutting certain people out. He feels as though Isobel is a kindred spirit in a sense because they are both damaged by past events and they share a love of classical music. It’s obvious that there is a spark there between the pair of them but will it develop into something more? Will Isobel and Tom find a way to deal with their past? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I have to admit that it took me a little while to get into this book because I was irritated by Isobel’s attitude and just kept wanting to shake her by her shoulders. However as the book continued she began to open up and we learnt more about her history, I found myself thawing towards her. After I warmed to Isobel, reading this book became like an addiction. As I am a nebby Nora, I just needed to know what had happened in Tom’s and Isobel’s past to make them like they are and whether or not they were going to find happiness. It’s a wonder that my Kindle didn’t blow up due to the fact that I was turning the pages so quickly as I raced to the end of the book. Blimey oh riley I didn’t realise just how quickly I was reading until I literally got to ‘The End’. I had mixed feelings about finishing this book. I don’t mean that negatively far from it – I was pleased to finish because at least I knew how the story ended but I wasn’t pleased to finish because I was enjoying the story and the writing style so much that I just wanted the book to continue. This book is really well written and the author’s writing style is such that you can’t fail to be drawn into the story. Reading this book was much like being on an emotional rollercoaster. There were moments where I found myself want to shout, want to cry, want to cheer and well you get the picture.
In conclusion I have to say that Emma Davies has another winner on her hands and I really did enjoy reading it. I would definitely recommend this author and her books to other readers. The score on the Ginger Book Geek is a well deserved 4* out of 5*.

[Kaisha (The Writing Garnet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

After a fabulous first book in the series, I was so eager to get stuck into the next instalment from Emma Davies, and what an instalment it was!

The very first paying  visitor to the cottage at Joy Acres farm was musician, Isobel. With her icy cold exterior and patience of a toddler, Isobel found it quite difficult to gel with the people on the farm. She didn't want anyone to get close to her, yet the local thatcher completely disregarded that and made it his own personal mission to get her out and about. Of course that wasn't as plain sailing as he had hoped it would be, but Tom wasn't going to be giving up anytime soon, especially when he realises that he understands Isobel a lot more than she gives him credit for.

At first, Isobel has the type of personality that would make anyone run a mile, or, in our case, raise our eyebrows and think 'what the....'. I did cut her a bit of slack though when it became clear that Isobel was struggling with several things. Could Tom get her to open up to him? Would he even be able to help her? And, if he could help her, would she even let him?

Seeing as Tom's past includes coming face to face with the bottom of a pint glass, when he thinks he knows Isobel from somewhere, he isn't sure whether it is mind playing tricks on him thanks to the drink, or whether he does actually know her. Maybe there's a good reason for that?

Tom and Isobel both have a lot of skeletons in their closets, but it seemed that Joy Acres farm was doing what it was supposed to do by bringing everyone 'joy'. My opinion of Isobel changed drastically the more I got to know her, with me feel quite empathetic towards her by the end of the book. She has had a tough time and thanks to seeing the light with her mother, I think Isobel realised just how far she has come.

When I finished reading 'Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill', I sighed a contented sigh as, for characters who appear to be quite flawed, their journey to patching their flaws was such a beautiful thing to watch and be a part of. It was as though something just clicked, making me think to myself 'you know what, maybe they will be okay'. I hadn't quite realised how invested in the storyline I was until my mind conjured up those thoughts.

I adore Emma Davies' story telling and her least novel is proof that this author is incredible at her craft. I loved watching people come together in the most unlikeliest of circumstances, and I loved being 'involved' in a fictional family who, instead of tearing each other down, they helped each other up every single day. It's books like this which make me think that the world is actually an alright place to be, especially if it contains people like the ones in this book.

Yet another magnetic, enchanting, relatable, and beautiful read - never mind 5 stars, this book needs a bucket full of pixie dust!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the return to Joy's Acre farm and the new cottages. Isobel has rented the first cottage. She is a very talented violinist who has booked a cottage to complete a new piece of music. We gradually hear more about her and what makes her so guarded. Tom, the thatcher, shows a softer side as he gets lost in the music whilst he is working.
I just love the characters- we meet up with our long lost friends and can imagine sitting in the beautiful garden sharing meals with everyone. It sounds so blissful. They are busy getting Thatcher's cottage ready and I really can't wait to read more in the next book.
The book is full of a gentle romance, a thawing of the ice queen and the most wonderful group of friends working together to create a community that feels so real, you are reaching to visit the website and book a weeks break.
I have always enjoyed Emma Davies books- this series has to be my favourite so far. I remember feeling so excited when she said that there would be follow on books!

[Els · Rating 4 out of 5]

They often say that you don't have to judge a book by it's cover and they are right. But I do feel that a cover reflects the emotions of the story and you can deduct more or less the general feel of the story that the author has in store for you.
Here I felt I was in for romance but with a deeper meaning to it as well.
I had not read part 1 and of course I missed some of the background of the characters, but I had no trouble picking up this one.
It was beautiful and one particular moment, I felt like Tom : tears in my eyes and goose pimples galore.
It does not matter how many problems you have, when the right people are by your side, you can accomplish anything.
While I am waiting for part 3, I will keep myself busy reading part 1.
Thank you, Emma Davies, Bookouture and Netgalley.

[poppie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed returning to Joy's Acre and meeting everyone again. Nice easy reading.

[Paulski · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5/5 ⭐️

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't put Emma Davies' books down. I've read three so far, and I will start another one shortly.

I want/need book 3 in this series...off to Amazon!

[Mmmmmm232 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ugh needed something happy and cute and I just love these books. I was struggling this past week and this story helped me calm down and take a break from my busy life.

[Nina Sollorz-Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

In " Sommer im kleinen Cottage auf dem Hügel: Ein bezaubernder Feel-Good-Roman " kam Isobel in das kleine Cottage am Hügel, um von ihrem Leben Zuhause Abstand zu bekommen. Und doch kann sie ihrer Vergangenheit nicht entkommen.
Tom ist auf den Dächer des Nachbar Cottage am arbeiten, als er das erste Mal die Töne einer Geige hört. Die traurige Melodie nimmt ihn sofort für sich ein und er möchte unbedingt die Mieterin des Cottage kennen lernen.
Dabei bemerkt Tom, der selbst mit seiner Vergangenheit hadert, dass Isobel etwas bedrückt und bietet ihr eine Schulter zum anlehnen an. Gerade als es für beide besser wird, holt Isobels Vergangenheit sie wieder ein und Tom muss bangen, ob er sie jeweils wieder sieht.
Die Story hat zu Anfang sich etwas langatmig gelesen, wurde dann jedoch leichter und flüssiger geworden. Dabei bleibt sie spannungs- und abwechslungsreich. Man darf mit Isobel und Tom mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, so manche mitfühlende Momente und die ein oder andere Träne zu vergießen.
Da ich erfahren wollte, ob es Isobel gelungen war ihre Vergangenheit hinter sich zu lassen und ob es für beiden ein Happy End gab, konnte ich das Buch kaum aus der Hand legen.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a joyous occasion it was to be able to revisit Joy Acres farm and the wonderful cast of characters there. I had been missing Tom the thatcher since the previous book, so delighted to see he was one of the main characters this time around

The new character and first guest to stay in The Gardener's cottage is Isobel, now without a doubt she is a talented violinist, but it is also very clear that she is hiding things in her past, which she really doesn't want revealed.

I was gripped just wanting to know more about Isobel as she a rather intriguing character, added to her fledgling friendship with Tom and some great character development and you have a book with many high points.

I also loved that due to the nature of the series that I was able to catch up with all the key people from the first book. However if you haven't read The Little Cottage On The Hill then, well you have missed out, but not to worry as this one can easily be read as a standalone too.

With every book that I read from Emma Davies I am becoming more and more impressed with her ability to tell a story and well written descriptions that transport you to the heart of the action.

A thoroughly enjoyable book and I for one can only say, bring on the next book already, I want more from Joy Acres, as its a rather special setting.

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

[Lauren-Tess Anderson-Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been roughly a long 18 months since I’ve read a book written by Emma Davies and today, I find myself questioning why!?

I bloody loved this book!

I’ve not read the first book to this series titled The little cottage on the hill and so I got to know the characters, the beautiful cottage and scenery in this instalment.

I loved Isabel and Tom’s characters in particular, they both just seemed so different but well suited to this story.

All the characters, in fact are crafted into this story brilliantly.

Isabel comes across at first as someone who likes to keep herself to herself but as the book progresses, she seems like she is eventually opening up but all her efforts are threatened when someone recognises her from her past.

Will Isabel face the music or not?

[Pippa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me begin by saying that Emma Davies is an author I like very much but I can’t help feeling that this series has been rushed to publication, book #1 on 19th February, #2 on 30th May, #3 on 31st August & #4 on 26th October. A while ago I read an article by an author who was discussing some of the issues that can occur all too unwittingly, one of the main culprits being the over use of particular words or phrases. Sadly I tend to pick up on these and I have found the word “grin” (or grins, grinned, grinning etc.) so frequently that it began to grate. E-books enable you to check this out and it is used 80 times in book #2 and is cropping up an awful lot in book #3 which I am about ¼ the way through. I know there are few alternatives and to avoid it would mean restructuring the entire sentence but I think it would have been worth spending a bit more time in the editing phase. Another author used the word “enjoy” and its variants 120 times in a single book, that for me was inexcusable and far too often in several others!

Disregarding my perhaps pedantic criticisms it is still a lovely story and I will continue to read her books. The characters feel real and their stories believable, the endings are positive without being saccharine.

[Maria Chiara Maestri · Rating 2 out of 5]

Carino, ma niente di più. L'insta-love tra i due protagonisti si poteva evitare, come il fatto che entrambi dovessero per forza avere un passato ricco di sofferenze da condividere, che però è stato liquidato velocemente, specie nel caso di lei.

[victoria_tonks · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars RTC

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written. Emma Davies really has a way with words. I love this series and want to visit the little cottage on the hill!

[CDL Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Una lettura estiva che si sorbisce in un pomeriggio sotto l’ombrellone come una bibita ghiacciata.

Secondo volume che riprende ed ampia la storia iniziata nella Piccola villa sulla collina: siamo nelle campagna inglesi, nella bella proprietà di Joy’s Acre che è stata finalmente ristrutturata ed è sulla via del successo come residenza di campagna. Gestita dal proprietario Seth e sua moglie Maddie, con l’aiuto di Clare la giardiniera e Trixie la cuoca, attrae la solitaria e misteriosa Isobel bisognosa di isolarsi e poter, così, creare l’anelata opera che le permetterà di riscattarsi.

È impossibile che passi inosservata, però, in un posto in cui tutti sanno tutto; in particolare catturerà l’interesse di Tom, l’artigiano specializzata nel restauro dei tetti di paglia dei cottage vittoriani.

Nonostante Tom abbia altro per la testa la musica che si sprigionerà dal violino di Isobel lo attrarrà inesorabilmente: sarà un incrocio tra due realtà sofferenti alle prese con i conti del passato, che incontrandosi a metà strada impareranno a tenersi per mano e a cercare sostegno l’uno nell’altra.

Un bel romanzo incentrato sul potere dell’amore e sulla poesia della natura, quella che riequilibra lo spirito e ti mette in pace col mondo; una novella che chiude il cerchio su una storia incantevole e accattivante.

Godibilissimo.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill by Emma Davies is the second book in the Little Cottage series but one which can easily be read as a standalone story. Our attention this time around turns to Tom the thatcher but also to a new arrival, Isobel who is a talented musician. She is the first guest to stay in the only cottage that has been renovated so far at Joy's Acre Farm. Maddie, Seth, Trixie and Clara all expected that each guest that visited would fall in love with the charm of the farm and its associated history, basically with everything they were trying to create there but Isobel is not your normal guest. Right from the off she was clearly hiding many things and was battling both internally and externally to cope with life in general. She came to stay at the cottage with one clear goal in mind, six weeks to compose a new piece of music on her violin. Six weeks to hopefully turn her life around for the better if possible. But will things be smooth sailing for Isobel and the people she meets or will there be many mountains to climb before peace and happiness can even be contemplated?

I'm enjoying how recent women's fiction books published by Bookouture that form a trilogy seem to be working on a common thread. That over the course of the three books two different characters are the main focus each time. We get glimpses of each character in the first book and then by the time their story rolls around I am more than eager to discover what lies in store for them. We had read briefly of Tom in book one but I was glad to see that Isobel was an entirely new character. She was my favourite by far in this book, simply because there was so much mystery surrounding her. She had a firm outer shell which she had built up around herself presumably for protection. She was such a multi-layered character that just when you thought you began to know her that little bit better, that you were beginning to scratch beneath the surface something else arose that threw you off track.

Isobel presents herself as very regimented and efficient. She is committed to her music and it borders on complete obsession. She has a clear purpose for her time at Joy's Acre and cannot deviate from what she has laid out for herself, routine and practice are the order of the day. As Maddie and Tom try to get to know her and be polite and help her settle in and join them she refuses all attempts at a welcome. To many Isobel would come across as a cold fish, but there had to have been a reason for this and I was glad that Tom and Maddie could see there was more to this girl than meets the eye and she is not someone to give up on that easily. Isobel, although she may not have realised it, was crying out for help and maybe coming to Joy's Acre could be the very tonic that she needed.

As for Tom, I thought initially he came across as a rogue. He loved his work as a thatcher whilst playing in a folk band on the side. He had a good life but similarly to Isobel I felt he was haunted by something. The reputation he had created for himself as someone who enjoys a good time, a ladies man who was known for his one night stands didn't seem to be the real Tom. More so this smoke screen had been created to mask something that he didn't want to realistically deal with. With the arrival of Isobel, Tom starts to see things in a new light. In her he sees a kindred spirit and maybe they can help each other. I loved how even though Isobel at first rebutted Tom at every corner that he never backed down. He saw something in her that he wanted to help and wouldn't give up until he had achieved this. I had my suspicions as to what had happened to both Tm and Isobel to make them be the way they were. With some elements I was correct but with regard to others I was way off track. But it wasn't about guessing the exact cause of what was tormenting the pair, this story was more an exploration of how with cope with things when times get tough. How we seek out those we need, who can inspire, comfort, advise, offer solace, friendship and hope.

The development of the story was paced just perfectly and I felt there was even more of a concrete storyline here than in book one The Little Cottage on the Hill. I think I just enjoyed the setting and story much more overall this time around, maybe because both Tom and Isobel's story really affected me. The connection developing between the pair felt real and genuine as did the struggle to reach some acceptance, to admit their fears and what was disturbing them and causing them to suffer. Maybe perhaps Isobel ever so slightly more than Tom. Perfection was what Isobel strived for, what she was driven to achieve, endless rehearsing and practising the same piece over and over again. But what was it all for? Was it really necessary? Hopefully Tom and Joy's Acre could work their magic and in doing so Isobel may come to a realisation and may be healed. The journey to attempt to teach this point would not be without its challenges but that's what made this book so interesting and enjoyable.

Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill is a story of transformation, of shedding one's old skin, to find the direction lacking in one's life. Tom and Isobel may have been polar opposites with different problems but perhaps this would work in their favour. Barriers needed to be broken down but this give and take couldn't have all been one sided and it was a joy to read how the pair with help from Maddie, Clara and Trixie as an extra support system were enabled to do this. The beautiful setting of Joy's Acre and its associated history and spirit added such flavour to the story as did the power of music.

Overall this book was a captivating read with two main characters who will tug at your heartstrings and be reluctant to let go. It has plenty of life lessons and messages for not just those involved in the story but for the reader too. Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill is a lovely, gentle, easy read perfect for enjoying during the summer months. Roll on book three, I'm keen to discover who will feature next at Joy's Acre Farm.

[RoloPoloBookBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer at the Little Cottage on the Hill by Emma Davies
Book #2: Little Cottage Series
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars

In just thirty-two years, Isobel has known both the heights and highs of greatness and the deep depths of despair of depression. As a child and teenager, Isobel achieved the pinnacle of success, she was known far and wide as a prodigy. Unfortunately, what goes up must come down, and Isobel’s fall from grace was both devastating and never-ending. In a last-ditch effort to turn it all around, Isobel slipped the chains of her keepers and reserved a cottage for the summer at Joy’s Acre.

Isobel’s first weeks at Joy’s Acre are not at all what she had hoped they would be. With nothing familiar and nothing to distract her, Isobel planned to pound out a new composition for violin that will astound all and resurrect her reputation. As it happens, there is much to distract at Joy’s Acre; among the distractions are the kindness of the employees, the breathtaking scenery, the hot thatcher, and the demons of her past. Isobel is nothing if not a professional and as she attempts to work despite the distractions, she finds herself falling further and further and beyond and becoming evermore frustrated with her attempts.

Tom long ago came to terms with his reputation as the love ‘em and leave ‘em type. However, of late, Tom has begun to rethink his life, its direction, and how he can finally put down the demons of his own past. When Isobel arrives at Joy’s Acre, she is certainly a sight, but it is her brilliant talent that truly peaks Tom’s interest. Though she has no idea he can hear her playing, he often indulges in her music rather than working. Though Tom isn’t certain he’s ready for a proper relationship, he is intrigued by Isobel and would relish the opportunity to know her just a bit better.

While Tom is a generally affable character, Isobel is a bit prickly which makes their early encounters awkward and uncomfortable. It isn’t until Isobel begins to acknowledge her own issues, see them for what they are, and settle on dealing with those issues that she is able to come out her shell and properly interact with Tom. Each interaction not only allows Tom to talk about some of his own issues, but to help Isobel get a handle on her own. What’s more, Tom, also a musician introduces Isobel to a far more relaxed world of music, a place where people play for the pure pleasure of the music, to entertain, and to connect with others through their gift. For the first time in her life, Isobel begins to understand the healing power of music, how her talents can impact others, and how she can a life with music that isn’t also filled with hurt, anger, and the fear of ruin.

The Bottom Line: I am loving the progression of this series and there is absolutely no sophomore slump to found in this addition to the series! For myself, this book really revolved around Isobel and the experiences she has had over the course of her life. She is well and truly broken when she arrives at Joy’s Acre, but after her summer she is well on the road to recovery and true happiness. While Tom is certainly responsible for some of Isobel’s breakthroughs and happiness, he isn’t solely responsible, and I particularly loved this aspect of the book. Once Isobel comes to terms with her past, she able to take control of her present and her future. Of the two, Isobel shows the most growth and it was a pleasure to watch her heal and become who she was surely meant to be from a very early age. As you know, dear reader, I also very much adore the reappearance of characters from books past, and I got so much of that in this read. In fact, I don’t feel there will be a book in this series that won’t have the full cast as the cast is an absolutely inseparable part of the location. As it stands, I should continue to quite like this series for the foreseeable future.

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

Recensione di Mrs. Willer

Isobel, violinista di grandissimo talento, decide di prendersi del tempo per concludere una sua nuova composizione e lo fa trasferendosi al Joy's Acre, una pittoresca fattoria fra la campagna composta da cottages. Lì però i suoi piani non andranno come aveva sperato e conoscerà Tom, un impagliatore di tetti dolce e premuroso che le farà capire cosa significa davvero vivere.

Questo è di sicuro un romanzo molto dolce, delicato e poetico che riesce ad affrontare tematiche importanti come l’alcolismo, il suicidio e la sofferenza senza però cadere nel trash.

Isobel è la protagonista, una ragazza fredda, distaccata e dedita al suo lavoro di violista. Il cottage però, con la sua bellezza e la sua pace riuscirà a rompere il guscio protettivo che la ragazza si è creata.

Tom invece è tutto il contrario di Isobel: è un ex don giovanni, è estroverso, ama stare all’aria aperta ed ha problemi di alcolismo.
Tra tutti i personaggi è quello che mi è piaciuto di più per via della sua dolcezza e fragilità. Ho apprezzato molto che la Davis ci abbia proposto un personaggio maschile così sensibile.

La narrazione è scorrevole, i dialoghi sono ben scritti e lo stile dell’autrice è molto semplice. I personaggi sono caratterizzati veramente bene e mi è piaciuto il fatto che durante la narrazione evolvano caratterialmente.
L’ambientazione è pittoresca e viene descritta con amore dall’autrice. La vicenda si svolge nella campagna inglese fra campi di fiori,orti, cottage e fienili durante l’estate. La Davis ha saputo evocare molto bene le atmosfere del luogo che in certi momenti del giorno diventano molto romantiche e poetiche.

Altro punto a favore del libro sono i temi affrontati che vanno dal suicidio all’alcolismo e che non vengono mai a mio parere affrontati con leggerezza, anzi, la Davis ci fa capire quanto tutte queste cose provochino sofferenza e che le persone hanno bisogno di aiuto, quello che Tom e Isobel si daranno a vicenda per superare i propri problemi.

Arriviamo ora al punto dolente del libro: la lentezza.
Sono a conoscenza del fatto che per sviluppare una storia d’amore o un’amicizia ci voglia del tempo, è vero, ma nelle duecento pagine in cui questi sentimenti nascono, si sviluppano e cambiano non possono però non esserci colpi di scena o svolte significative. Purtroppo queste cose nel libro arrivano molto tardi e magari può risultare pesante leggere delle azioni ripetitive che i vari personaggi fanno durante le giornate.
All’inizio inoltre trovavo odioso il personaggio di Isobel per via della sua freddezza ma poi andando avanti nel romanzo ho capito il perché del suo essere così e sono arrivata a provare molta pena per lei.

Per concludere mi sento di consigliare questo romanzo ai più romantici che hanno voglia di una storia ambientata nella bellissima campagna inglese fra la pace e la tranquillità e che hanno voglia di imbattersi in personaggi complessi, mai banali e dalle vite difficili e con problemi che solo con l’amore potranno essere risolti.

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the introductory book to this series, where we met the gang at Joy’s Acre and see just how the intentions and atmosphere of the place, perhaps with a nudge from the people there, bring healing and lovely intentions to the forefront. Now a few months on with the core group in place, the first guest has arrived, having booked the Gardener’s Cottage for a month. Isobel is a violinist, there to compose in peace with few distractions and little contact with the outside world. Too slim, pale and appearing to be haunted and more than a bit prickly, she’s not making the kind of progress she hoped with her work, and things are made no better by the constant interruptions and attempts by everyone on the farm to make sure she’s got all she needs.

Tom is the thatcher for the farm, as well as a part-time musician in a folk band, with a reputation for hard partying, womanizing and often late to work. He’s been in a downward spiral for the past years after his brother’s death, leaving his friends concerned but cautious, accounting for his erratic behavior as “Just Tom”. But he’s found an emptiness in the constant merry-go-round of drinking, women and hangovers: the problem is facing the issues that brought him to this point.

Far different from the first in the series: Davies brought these two disparate yet similar personalities into a push-pull of emotion, support, challenges and even healing as the two find a tentative friendship that is full of missteps and spoken truths, progress and leaps backward, slowly joining into the creative energies and healing potential of the farm and the intentions of a creative collaborative place where all can be ‘a part’ of the new history being created. From deeply traumatic events for both Isobel and Tom, their communication that bounces from awkward to revelatory, their importance to one another, as the healing the relationship brings is lovely to experience: allowing a real sense of the hurt and despair that changes to hopeful optimism as both find their way: separate and together, all under the gentle. and not so, interference and sharing of the family that has come to be the hallmark of Joy’s Acre. You don’t need to read the first to love the second – but with the intentions of old working their magic on the present, the atmosphere of Joy’s Acre will enchant, entrance and transport you to places you want to be – if only for the hours it takes to experience the story.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at I am, Indeed

[Letture Sale e Pepe · Rating 5 out of 5]

RECENSIONE DOPPIA:

Ah, l’amore! Che cos’è l’amore? Quel venticello leggero che rinfresca una giornata assolata, quella pioggia tanto attesa in quei giorni di afa, quel raggio di sole timido e malconcio in quei giorni tristi e bui di inverno.

Imprevedibile, improbabile, inaspettato l’amore arriva in quei giorni semplici di una vacanza in solitaria in estate.

Isobel e Tom, musicista di professione lei, senza più ispirazione, musicista per hobby lui, con una professione inconsueta tra le mani.

Cosa li accomunerà? La voglia di protezione e di proteggere, la voglia di spingere l’altro ad andare avanti a trovare se stessi, la voglia di superare quei drammi, protagonisti del passato.

“Aiutarsi reciprocamente sembrava la risposta perfetta all’impasse nella quale entrambi si trovavano.”

Una storia semplice e lineare, dal profumo di estate, dai colori dell’amore, e sullo sfondo “Joy’s Acre” e la sua storia, i suoi quadri e quell’amore nascosto per anni.

Scritto in terza persona non deprezza la lettura, anzi ne enfatizza alcuni passaggi che potevano rimanere nascosti.

Vedere la vita con chiarezza, senza che niente offuschi la visuale.

Una lettura dai toni delicati e tenui, da protagonisti romantici, una piccola dose di sensualità e la musica che fa da colonna sonora.

- Cara Z.
---------------------------------------------------

Gran bel libro da leggere assolutamente.

Isobel è una ragazza molto riservata, incapace di rapportarsi con il mondo esterno. È una persona profonda, con una grandissima sofferenza alle spalle.

Tom fa difficoltà a riprendersi da una grande perdita. Lavora sodo ma si lascia trasportare con facilità dall’alcol e dalle sue conseguenze.

Non ho letto il romanzo precedente quindi non so come termina, ma questo sembra iniziare dove finisce qualcos’altro.

I due protagonisti, accompagnati da altri personaggi meravigliosi, ci regaleranno alti e bassi, ci faranno entrare in punta di piedi in una storia che viene raccontata con calma, senza fretta, senza pretese. Proprio per questo mi è piaciuta. Al di là della scrittura scorrevole e della bellissima caratterizzazione dei personaggi, ho trovato la storia originale e molto interessante.

Confesso, però, di essere confusa su un punto: non sono sicura di essermi sentita dentro la storia. Capita spesso di leggere un gran bel libro, come questo, ma non sentirsi parte di esso. Era come se anche io fossi stata tenuta a distanza dai due protagonisti, come hanno fatto l’un l’altro, per la maggior parte del romanzo, per poi essere presa per mano negli ultimissimi capitoli.

Di certo sono curiosa di leggere il continuo e sicuramente non mi farò sfuggire le prossime uscite dell’autrice, che promette molto molto bene.

- Lady Owl

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isobel has is the first to have rented a cottage at Joy Acre for six weeks. She is working on a music composition with plans of possibly jumpstarting her career as a violinist. She has a lot angst resulting from a troubled past. Tom is a thatcher who is working on the cottages at the farm. Isobel is quite uncomfortable around the affable Tom, who is quite drawn to her. Meanwhile, the rest of the folks there, Seth, Maddie, Clara and Trixie, as well as Tom, are quite like a family, one where Isobel doesn't fit in. These relationships are all important, however, and in time, Isobel begins to relax.

Tom has his own demons. He is finally overcoming them as he gets deeper involved in his work on the far. Meeting Isobel is truly a balm to his soul. Not only does his music affect him in a powerful way, her beauty, as well as her reticence makes her quite desirable to him. Their relationship begins to build as they develop trust in one another's feelings. At one point Tom is asked by Clara if he believes he has found a kindred spirit in Isobel. Indeed, they are perfect for one another, as they can read each other quite well, despite Isobel's initial reluctance to draw close to Tom.

Summer at the Cottage on the Hill is the second in a four-part series. I read and reviewed the first book immediately before reading this one. This helped me to feel strongly connected to all of the characters. Continuity in stories is highly favorable to me. Just as Tom, I was a strong fan of Isobel's violin playing. I sensed that I could hear the plaintive notes playing! I was also drawn to the intensity of emotion shared between Isobel and Tom. Kudos to Emma Davies for delivering such a powerful connection to her readers. Quite well done! This is truly a feel-good story. I so look forward, not only to the other books in this series, but to the rest of this author's work.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review.

[Floriana Amoruso · Rating 3 out of 5]

https://labibliotecadellibraio.blogsp...
3 1/2 Letto e recensito da Iaia
Isobel è una violinista che si è rifugiata in una fattoria, chiamata Joy’s Acre, per trascorrere un periodo di relativa tranquillità mentale, lontana dai suoi genitori che con il loro comportamento l’hanno sempre ossessionata a lavorare alla sua musica pur di ottenere il successo a cui ambivano da quando la protagonista era una bambina prodigio. Tom è un impagliatore di tetti che sta lavorando presso la fattoria in cui è ospite la protagonista e che sta soffrendo da due anni per la perdita del fratello. Frequentandosi i due personaggi si accorgono che tra loro ci sono affinità che vogliono approfondire e che aiutandosi, confortandosi e aprirsi li porteranno a raggiungere la serenità di cui hanno bisogno e di guardare al futuro con più obiettività.
Una storia introspettiva, psicologica, ma che, secondo me, è stata trattata con superficialità. Le varie spiegazioni si sono ridotte a poche righe e ciò ha comportato una certa insoddisfazione. Il cambiamento di Isobel che da persona incapace di mostrare le proprie emozioni è arrivata a conquistare la propria libertà mentale e quindi a esternare i sentimenti che albergano nella sua anima è dovuto alla vicinanza di Tom e a farle prendere coscienza di capire dove vuole andare. Tutto ciò va contro il volere di sua madre che l’ha soggiogata per tutta la vita e quando lei decide di scrollarsi dalle spalle questa cappa pesante lo fa con risolutezza, ma l’autrice, in pratica, non approfondisce bene come sia riuscita a risolvere i problemi. Il rapporto tra Isobel e i suoi genitori, che è il motivo principale del comportamento di lei, non ha avuto l’attenzione dell’autrice che, a parer mio, avrebbe dovuto sottolineare.

[Tina Slotty · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sommer im kleinen Cottage auf dem Hügel : Ein bezaubernder Feel-Good-Roman" von Emma Davies

Zum Inhalt:
Niedliche kleine Häuschen, wilde Wiesen und überall der süße Duft von Blumen in voller Blüte. Es ist Sommer im kleinen Cottage auf dem Hügel, und der erste Gast zieht ein. Isobel ist auf der Suche nach einem Zufluchtsort, aber ihre Vergangenheit scheint sie einzuholen ...

Als Tom auf den Dächern der Cottages arbeitet und den traurigen Klang von Isobels Geige im Wind hört, ist er tief berührt. Wer ist diese mysteriöse neue Untermieterin, und warum kommt sie ihm so bekannt vor?

Isobel scheint etwas zu bedrücken, und Tom möchte ihr helfen. Aber sie kann sich weder auf ihn, noch auf die Ruhe und die Natur einlassen, die das Anwesen zu bieten hat.

Doch Tom gibt nicht auf, und gerade als es so aussieht, als könnte Isobel sich öffnen, holt ihre Vergangenheit sie ein und droht alles wieder zu zerstören.

Wird Isobel es schaffen, endlich die Schatten ihrer Vergangenheit zu besiegen und für sich einzustehen? Und wird Tom einen Weg finden, sie aus ihrem emotionalen Käfig zu befreien?

Meine Meinung:

Emma Davies hat einen leichten und flüssigen Schreibstil, sie beschreibt ihre Handlungsorte und Protagonisten bildhaft und atmosphärisch.

Wenn ich ganz ehrlich bin, am liebsten würde ich meinen Koffer packen und so schnell wie möglich nach "Joy's Acre" reisen.
Die Protagonisten sind lebensnah und facettenreich angelegt und ich hatte nach wenigen Seiten das Gefühl das Team, also Maddie, Seth, Clara, Tom und Trixie sowie Isobel schon länger zu kennen.
Die Geschichte liest sich flüssig und leicht, macht immer wieder neugierig auf die kleinen und großen Geheimnisse der Protagonisten und man kann sich ganz in ihr verlieren.

Ich kenne den ersten Band der Reihe noch nicht, möchte aber jetzt auch unbedingt noch die Geschichte von Seth und Maddie lesen, wieder abtauchen in die Welt um Joy's Acre.

Für mich ein wunderschöner, leichter Roman der zurecht als "Feel-Good-Roman" betitelt ist, denn genau das ist er auch!
Er hat mich aus meinem Alltag entführt und mir wunderschöne Lesemomente geschenkt!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the Publisher, Bookouture for this review copy given in exchange for an honest review.  Also thank you to Kim from Bookouture for organising the Blog Tour and finding me a space on it!

This is Book #2 in the Little Cottage series.  It can be read as a standalone novel, but does have some references to the previous book, The Little Cottage on the Hill.

Shy and timid Isobel is the first paying guest at the Joy’s Acre holiday cottage lets.  She has booked the cottage for 6 weeks, for complete and utter privacy to work on a music project which could save her career.  The people who work and own Joy’s Acre know that she doesn’t really want to be disturbed, but that doesn’t stop them keep knocking on her door!  Tom, the local Thatcher and folk band member hears Isobel playing the violin and is instantly transported back to happier times.  He thinks Isobel is absolutely beautiful and a brilliant violinist, but also seems to recognise her from somewhere.  Somehow, they (particularly Tom) manage to bring Isobel out of her shell a little bit, but when Tom remembers where he recognises her from this threatens everything she has been working on.

My second book by this author.  My first was, obviously, the first book in this series.  This one picks up on the story but with one of the main characters being Tom, the Thatcher.  I really enjoyed the first book, but absolutely loved this one.  The setting was beautiful, and the cottages sound perfect for letting out (I’d rent one!).  I love the way that Trixie was always cooking up something and the picnic they had certainly made my mouth water!  Tom, being one of the main characters came across as particularly pleasant and pleasing on the eye…..who am I kidding? Tom was absolutely wonderful and as hot as a hot summer’s day!  He was obviously holding back a big personal secret which gets to be revealed as the book moves on.

I didn’t warm as much to Isobel to begin with though.  I took her to be the rude and self-centred ‘artistic type’ but as I moved through the story you began to see that she was nothing like that at all.  By the end, I loved her and loved what she had become.  Her story was quite a sad one though and this helped to drop the arrogant impression that she gave off initially, with the first wedding being a huge turning point (you’ll know the bit when you get to it!)

Overall, this book had everything you could need.  There was, of course, some sad parts but also plenty of fun parts as well.   I loved the visions of folk bands and violins, putting pictures in my mind of the dance scene below decks in the film, Titanic (the fast, toe tapping tempo of the violin, banjos and drums!)  I also loved the sadder parts of the story, which were all done so sensitively.  But the thing I was really impressed with was that the author could write this book which conjured up so many feelings without having to resort to sex scenes or bad language, certainly becoming a rarity these days!

Such an easy to read book and perfect for losing yourself for a few hours on a sunny day!  A lovely heart-warming story of friendship, love and music.  Wonderful!