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Country Lovers
They say you should never go back, but glamorous Ronnie Percy did just that, to the home she ran away from with her lover.
But not everyone is finding it easy to forgive and forget.
Daughter Pax, fighting for custody of her small son as her own marriage disintegrates, is furious to have to spend New Year's Eve waiting for some stranger her mother has invited to help run the family stud farm.
Even more annoyed is the staunchly loyal stud head groom, Lester. Does Ronnie think he's lost his touch with the horses? And anyway, who is this so-called Horsemaker, Luca O'Brien? Why does he seem to be running away from something? And what is the true story of his relationship with grey stallion Beck, once destined for the Olympics, now broken and unrideable, screaming his anger from the Compton Magna stables.
Passionate, sexy, gripping, laced with her trademark wisdom and humour, this is bestselling Fiona Walker at her dazzling best.
But not everyone is finding it easy to forgive and forget.
Daughter Pax, fighting for custody of her small son as her own marriage disintegrates, is furious to have to spend New Year's Eve waiting for some stranger her mother has invited to help run the family stud farm.
Even more annoyed is the staunchly loyal stud head groom, Lester. Does Ronnie think he's lost his touch with the horses? And anyway, who is this so-called Horsemaker, Luca O'Brien? Why does he seem to be running away from something? And what is the true story of his relationship with grey stallion Beck, once destined for the Olympics, now broken and unrideable, screaming his anger from the Compton Magna stables.
Passionate, sexy, gripping, laced with her trademark wisdom and humour, this is bestselling Fiona Walker at her dazzling best.
608 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2019
237 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 17, 2019
This is the first I have read by Fiona Walker and I really enjoyed it, I can’t say I completely loved it but I did enjoy it, I don’t know if that is to do with the pacing of the story or the fact that I hadn’t read the first book in the series – maybe I have been missing out on something by not reading the previous? But as much as I liked the overall story, it was a little hit and miss with me. But, that will not deter me from reading more of Fiona Walker’s work, I really loved the humour and the twists that ran throughout the story, which were really cleverly done.
This actually reminded me of the brilliant The Horse Whisperer; both book and film, which is one my all-time favourites, Luca did remind me of the ‘Horse Whisper’ his gift for being able to understand and talk to horses, to be able to help them really made me love him and his secretive side made me fascinated with him.
Years before, Ronnie Percy ran away from home to be with her then-lover, leaving behind distraught and angry children, now she is back she wants to build some bridges and try to make amends for what she did and to try and rebuild her family business. I actually had real difficulty in liking Ronnie. When Ronnie returns home, she finds that to make amends will a lot harder then she thought, as it’s not just her children who are having difficulties with her return but also the head groom too, which is a good thing as Ronnie has hired notoriously brilliant horseman and playboy; Irishman Luca O’Brian who brigs far more then cheekiness to her home, as he has secrets of his own he is hiding something, but that’s OK as he looks good and he is truly gifted with horses.
I am actually in two frames of minds about this, on one hand, I loved the overall story, it’s sweet, engaging and a really enjoyable read, there were aspects of it that I loved; Luca being one of them – I am a sucker for a secretive, twinkly-eyed handsome Irishman, especially one who has a passion for animals, in this case, horses – and I enjoyed uncovering the secrets and discovering the surprises and yet I actually struggled with this book because I did find it a little slow for my liking. Believe me, that is nothing at all to do with the authors clever writing, as I found Ms Walker’s writing to be engaging and fun, I just had issues with the actual pacing of the story. Sorry!
Overall an engaging and fun story, which is full of good humour, sadness and passion.
This actually reminded me of the brilliant The Horse Whisperer; both book and film, which is one my all-time favourites, Luca did remind me of the ‘Horse Whisper’ his gift for being able to understand and talk to horses, to be able to help them really made me love him and his secretive side made me fascinated with him.
Years before, Ronnie Percy ran away from home to be with her then-lover, leaving behind distraught and angry children, now she is back she wants to build some bridges and try to make amends for what she did and to try and rebuild her family business. I actually had real difficulty in liking Ronnie. When Ronnie returns home, she finds that to make amends will a lot harder then she thought, as it’s not just her children who are having difficulties with her return but also the head groom too, which is a good thing as Ronnie has hired notoriously brilliant horseman and playboy; Irishman Luca O’Brian who brigs far more then cheekiness to her home, as he has secrets of his own he is hiding something, but that’s OK as he looks good and he is truly gifted with horses.
I am actually in two frames of minds about this, on one hand, I loved the overall story, it’s sweet, engaging and a really enjoyable read, there were aspects of it that I loved; Luca being one of them – I am a sucker for a secretive, twinkly-eyed handsome Irishman, especially one who has a passion for animals, in this case, horses – and I enjoyed uncovering the secrets and discovering the surprises and yet I actually struggled with this book because I did find it a little slow for my liking. Believe me, that is nothing at all to do with the authors clever writing, as I found Ms Walker’s writing to be engaging and fun, I just had issues with the actual pacing of the story. Sorry!
Overall an engaging and fun story, which is full of good humour, sadness and passion.
November 15, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.
Witty, addictive, and with plenty of drama to sink your teeth into. COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is entertaining from beginning to end.
It has been a year since Ronnie returned to the Cotswolds and the not-so-loving bosom of her family, who are still struggling with her disappearance from their lives all those years ago. But she is back now and ready to make changes to the family business. And first up is the hiring of Luca O'Brien, a genius with horses and a reputation as a lothario. But beneath the facade, is Luca hiding something? This new employee rubs plenty of people up the wrong way, including Ronnie's daughter, who has her own family issues to wade through, and the last thing she needs is Luca hanging around. But as drama, secrets, and mysterious goings-on begin to surface, will the stables and the family find their way through it together?
Clever, amusing, and with truly unique characters, COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is the perfect tonic after a long, hard day. While this is the second book in this series, I easily read it as a standalone but you may as well buy both books and immerse yourself in Fiona Walker's excellent writing. Sharp and detailed, the story flowed effortlessly and I fell under the spell of these characters as I began to get to know them all and all of the baggage that they are dealing with.
COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is a fantastic story with memorable characters and a must-read this winter. So what are you waiting for? Happy reading!
Witty, addictive, and with plenty of drama to sink your teeth into. COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is entertaining from beginning to end.
It has been a year since Ronnie returned to the Cotswolds and the not-so-loving bosom of her family, who are still struggling with her disappearance from their lives all those years ago. But she is back now and ready to make changes to the family business. And first up is the hiring of Luca O'Brien, a genius with horses and a reputation as a lothario. But beneath the facade, is Luca hiding something? This new employee rubs plenty of people up the wrong way, including Ronnie's daughter, who has her own family issues to wade through, and the last thing she needs is Luca hanging around. But as drama, secrets, and mysterious goings-on begin to surface, will the stables and the family find their way through it together?
Clever, amusing, and with truly unique characters, COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is the perfect tonic after a long, hard day. While this is the second book in this series, I easily read it as a standalone but you may as well buy both books and immerse yourself in Fiona Walker's excellent writing. Sharp and detailed, the story flowed effortlessly and I fell under the spell of these characters as I began to get to know them all and all of the baggage that they are dealing with.
COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is a fantastic story with memorable characters and a must-read this winter. So what are you waiting for? Happy reading!
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November 16, 2019Ronnie Percy was back home trying to make amends, the same home she had left hers ago to be with her lover. Only one of her children was ready to forgive and forget. Pax too returned home to help at the stud farm. Complications convoluted in when her mother invited Luca to run the stud farm. Sparks flew.
Though second in the series, this book worked well as a standalone. Author Fiona Walker has written a fun story filled with charming and quirky characters who soon took up my time. The new employee too was hiding his past. Humor interspersed among the drama of the plot and strange happenings.
I found the story a bit slow and long, but that could be because I was used to short racy thrillers. The story had its own mystery when secrets were revealed. The writing was interesting, the author brought out the twists in the story at the right moment.
Overall, the book was interesting and fun.
Though second in the series, this book worked well as a standalone. Author Fiona Walker has written a fun story filled with charming and quirky characters who soon took up my time. The new employee too was hiding his past. Humor interspersed among the drama of the plot and strange happenings.
I found the story a bit slow and long, but that could be because I was used to short racy thrillers. The story had its own mystery when secrets were revealed. The writing was interesting, the author brought out the twists in the story at the right moment.
Overall, the book was interesting and fun.
December 25, 2019
Glorious. Long awaited, didn't disappoint
I loved it and as an original Jilly Cooper diehard, i am not easily pleased by modern attempts at this genre. Fabulous, witty writing full of well observed and subtle cliches and lots of naughtiness. Don't expect an intricate plot, it's just a very good easy read.
I loved it and as an original Jilly Cooper diehard, i am not easily pleased by modern attempts at this genre. Fabulous, witty writing full of well observed and subtle cliches and lots of naughtiness. Don't expect an intricate plot, it's just a very good easy read.
December 25, 2019
Great book
Eat your heart out Jilly Cooper. An even better horse book than Riders! Thoroughly enjoyed this book without knowing anything about horses
Eat your heart out Jilly Cooper. An even better horse book than Riders! Thoroughly enjoyed this book without knowing anything about horses
November 30, 2019
The Blurb :
Glamorous Ronnie Percy has been back home in the Cotswolds for a year. But not everyone has forgiven her for abandoning her family twenty-five years ago.
Ronnie's daughter Pax is fighting for custody of her small son as her own marriage disintegrates. Now she is furious to have to spend New Year's Eve waiting to meet some stranger, invited by her mother to help run the family stud farm. The staunchly loyal head groom, Lester, is even more annoyed. Does Ronnie think he's lost his touch?
Luca O'Brien, Irish charmer and reputed heart-breaker, is known throughout the countryside as the Horsemaker. But what happened to Luca's beautiful stallion, Beck, now broken and unrideable in the Compton Magna stables? And what is Luca running away from?.
My Thoughts :
The Country Lovers is the second book in the Compton Magna series. I have to admit to not reading the first one and I wish I had as the characters may of made a little more sense had I known their backgrounds. But it doesn’t really effect the story as it can be read as a standalone.
When Ronnie Percy ran away from home to be with her lover years ago, she left behind her devastated children. Now she has returned to try and build some bridges. But things may not be as easy as she thinks. She starts with trying to sort out the family business and hires Luca O'Brien, known as the horsemaker and some kind of genius with horses. He also has a reputation as a lothario, but is he all that he seems. Ronnie's daughter Pax, takes a disliking to him and can really do without him hanging around. As we get to know more about the characters and their lives, will this have a happy ever after?!.
Fiona Walker has written once again a great flowing story where we devour family, relationships, mystery, laughs and of course horses. Although this isn’t one of my favourite Fiona Walker books, she seems to always capture her audience in her writing and as a reader I very much enjoy reading her stories. Looking forward to more.
Glamorous Ronnie Percy has been back home in the Cotswolds for a year. But not everyone has forgiven her for abandoning her family twenty-five years ago.
Ronnie's daughter Pax is fighting for custody of her small son as her own marriage disintegrates. Now she is furious to have to spend New Year's Eve waiting to meet some stranger, invited by her mother to help run the family stud farm. The staunchly loyal head groom, Lester, is even more annoyed. Does Ronnie think he's lost his touch?
Luca O'Brien, Irish charmer and reputed heart-breaker, is known throughout the countryside as the Horsemaker. But what happened to Luca's beautiful stallion, Beck, now broken and unrideable in the Compton Magna stables? And what is Luca running away from?.
My Thoughts :
The Country Lovers is the second book in the Compton Magna series. I have to admit to not reading the first one and I wish I had as the characters may of made a little more sense had I known their backgrounds. But it doesn’t really effect the story as it can be read as a standalone.
When Ronnie Percy ran away from home to be with her lover years ago, she left behind her devastated children. Now she has returned to try and build some bridges. But things may not be as easy as she thinks. She starts with trying to sort out the family business and hires Luca O'Brien, known as the horsemaker and some kind of genius with horses. He also has a reputation as a lothario, but is he all that he seems. Ronnie's daughter Pax, takes a disliking to him and can really do without him hanging around. As we get to know more about the characters and their lives, will this have a happy ever after?!.
Fiona Walker has written once again a great flowing story where we devour family, relationships, mystery, laughs and of course horses. Although this isn’t one of my favourite Fiona Walker books, she seems to always capture her audience in her writing and as a reader I very much enjoy reading her stories. Looking forward to more.
December 1, 2019
COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is entertaining from beginning to end. The story begins with a Prologue, where in 2012, Luca O'Brien, one of the most well known horse trainer was training an Arab prince when something happened to the horse. He was kept locked up being seduced by a woman. Right from the start the story already captivated my attention.
Current time, Ronnie returns to the Cotswolds back to her family, after her disappearance from their lives all those years ago. Ready to make changes to the family business by hiring Luca O'Brien, a talented horse whisperer. There are a lot of secrets and family drama to navigate in this amazing story only Fiona Walker is able to weave into a wonderful story line.
This is the second book in this series, and I easily read it as a standalone and was completely immersed in Fiona Walker's excellent writing. The characters and the effortless and imaginative writing was absolutely imaginable.
COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is a wonderful book I highly recommend.
Current time, Ronnie returns to the Cotswolds back to her family, after her disappearance from their lives all those years ago. Ready to make changes to the family business by hiring Luca O'Brien, a talented horse whisperer. There are a lot of secrets and family drama to navigate in this amazing story only Fiona Walker is able to weave into a wonderful story line.
This is the second book in this series, and I easily read it as a standalone and was completely immersed in Fiona Walker's excellent writing. The characters and the effortless and imaginative writing was absolutely imaginable.
COUNTRY LOVERS by Fiona Walker is a wonderful book I highly recommend.
November 26, 2019
This is the second book in the Compton Magna series and I haven't read the first but suspect I would have enjoyed this story much more had I done so. It starts with Horsemaker, Luca O'Brien, being distracted whilst dastardly deeds are being planned.... After this action packed start it slows down to a more leisurely pace as friends enjoy chatting along as they ride. It is a story of families, divorce, relationships, mysteries and so much more - as well as the beloved horses, of course!
There are a plethora of characters involved and I had problems sorting out who means what to whom and the relationships between them all, though this becomes clearer as the story progresses. I definitely think reading the first book in the series would have helped overcome this initial obstacle to loving this story. It actually is worth persevering as the intrigue, mystery, relationships and potential romances develop with plenty of twists, turns and humour.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
There are a plethora of characters involved and I had problems sorting out who means what to whom and the relationships between them all, though this becomes clearer as the story progresses. I definitely think reading the first book in the series would have helped overcome this initial obstacle to loving this story. It actually is worth persevering as the intrigue, mystery, relationships and potential romances develop with plenty of twists, turns and humour.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
January 30, 2020
Contains all the elements I love
December 24, 2019
Charming escapist fun
Horses and romance. What's not to love. I've enjoyed the previous Compton Magna Books and this one did not disappoint.
Horses and romance. What's not to love. I've enjoyed the previous Compton Magna Books and this one did not disappoint.
November 22, 2019
I think it's fair to say that this one wasn't what I expected it to be.
Ronnie Percy is struggling to keep her stud farm on track; so she employs Luca O'Brien, known to all as the Horsemaker, whose reputation precedes him. Ronnie's daughter, Pax, has stayed to help her mother at the stud over the festive season in preference to spending it with her husband and son and the legendary skinflint in-laws. In their case, however, absence doesn't make the heart go stronger . . .
I expected this to be entertaining and funny; it has it's moments but, for the most part, I found it to be sad and somewhat depressing. I was disappointed and in all honesty struggled to get through it. I'm sure others will love reading this novel, it just wasn't meant for me. I've settled on three stars which, under the circumstances, I think is fair.
Ronnie Percy is struggling to keep her stud farm on track; so she employs Luca O'Brien, known to all as the Horsemaker, whose reputation precedes him. Ronnie's daughter, Pax, has stayed to help her mother at the stud over the festive season in preference to spending it with her husband and son and the legendary skinflint in-laws. In their case, however, absence doesn't make the heart go stronger . . .
I expected this to be entertaining and funny; it has it's moments but, for the most part, I found it to be sad and somewhat depressing. I was disappointed and in all honesty struggled to get through it. I'm sure others will love reading this novel, it just wasn't meant for me. I've settled on three stars which, under the circumstances, I think is fair.
December 11, 2019
Never a let down
One of the best Fiona has written and can't wait for the next instalment. A book that has everything in it.
One of the best Fiona has written and can't wait for the next instalment. A book that has everything in it.
January 10, 2021
I knew this would be a light read but I struggled with the writing. I was hoping for an entertaining story but I ended up racing through it just to get it over with. I couldn’t figure out what the main story was supposed to be about...Pax? Luka? Beck? Ronnie? The prince? The stud farm? There was a big build up from the prologue but after that, it just fizzled out. So many characters without much depth (I’m still not sure who Petra is and why she was even included), lots of different storylines that either went nowhere (eg. Carly and her hands, Pax’s father) or wrapped up too neatly in a few sentences (pax & Mack). Plus it finished so abruptly I thought I was missing the last chapter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 30, 2019Before I even start reading I have to plough my way through a list of over 30 characters and then a further list of over 15 animals! Wtf? Why do authors do this? Are they incapable of writing characters clearly enough for the average reader to understand who each person is?
I gave it my best shot, but this was not a book for me. I hated every single character.
I gave it my best shot, but this was not a book for me. I hated every single character.
February 28, 2021
Easy reading with a variety of likeable characters. The story was a bit slow and could have had a faster pace. No main event either but relationships developed between the different characters. Not necessarily the right title for this book.
December 31, 2019
This is the second in a trilogy and very much reads like it. While it is not necessary to have read the first book "The Country Set" as there are references back to it throughout this book I really think it gives you a better understanding and might help to care about the characters.
Ronnie Percy ran away from her family studfarm, her husband and her children. When her parents died she came back and decided to try running the stud again (against her grown-up childrens wishes). She has unearthed a stallion she thinks can save the farms fortunes and enlists the help of the horsemaker, Luca O'Brien, to make this happen. Well, not to give away any spoilers but that does not happen in this book. I suspect (and hope) it is the plot of book 3.
This book deals with Pax Forsyth (younger daughter of Ronnie) and her marriage failure and alcoholism ; Luca and his demons which have been entwined with Beck the stallion for several years; Carly Turner, married to a war hero and settled traveller; Ronnie herself and her married lover Blair Robertson; and the saddlebags (female riders in the village).
Not a lot actually happens in the book. The book encompasses a couple of weeks, a few different storylines from different characters. A few characters from book 1 make no appearance except being name dropped. The mad Saudi prince I feared the whole way through was going to turn up and spell curtains for the stallion makes an appearance towards the end and although it is a happy ending I felt somehow cheated as it had been built up to be so much more and was relegated to a minor strand in the end when I felt sure it would end in a cliff hangar.
I will read the final book when it comes out and hope it is worth the wait. No doubt I will have forgotten this book by then as it was a let down after book 1.
Ronnie Percy ran away from her family studfarm, her husband and her children. When her parents died she came back and decided to try running the stud again (against her grown-up childrens wishes). She has unearthed a stallion she thinks can save the farms fortunes and enlists the help of the horsemaker, Luca O'Brien, to make this happen. Well, not to give away any spoilers but that does not happen in this book. I suspect (and hope) it is the plot of book 3.
This book deals with Pax Forsyth (younger daughter of Ronnie) and her marriage failure and alcoholism ; Luca and his demons which have been entwined with Beck the stallion for several years; Carly Turner, married to a war hero and settled traveller; Ronnie herself and her married lover Blair Robertson; and the saddlebags (female riders in the village).
Not a lot actually happens in the book. The book encompasses a couple of weeks, a few different storylines from different characters. A few characters from book 1 make no appearance except being name dropped. The mad Saudi prince I feared the whole way through was going to turn up and spell curtains for the stallion makes an appearance towards the end and although it is a happy ending I felt somehow cheated as it had been built up to be so much more and was relegated to a minor strand in the end when I felt sure it would end in a cliff hangar.
I will read the final book when it comes out and hope it is worth the wait. No doubt I will have forgotten this book by then as it was a let down after book 1.
September 28, 2019
Ronnie Percy has returned to the home she ran away from leaving behind her children behind to be with her lover.
At the same time, Pax one of Ronnie's 4 children has returned back at the stud, she is the only one of her children to have built bridges and work towards forgiving her.
When Lester the head groom who was at the stud when Ronnies parents ran it has an accident and is forced to be hospitalized and have a long-awaited hip op Pax steps in to keep the stud running, that is until her mother announces the soon arrival of the horsemaker also know as Luca O brian. An Irishman known as a ladies man and so handsome women fall at his feet. He is a charmer and a decently nice man. But it becomes obvious he is hiding from something or someone.
Bridge Mazur is one of the Comprom Bagot's village saddlebags along with Gill, Mo, and Petra. They love a good gossip whilst riding out on their horses. Bridge is married to polish man Ales, whom she loves to his very soul, but then she meets Carly and has carnal daydreams about her husband. Ash.
From horses to dogs to people and life, Compton Manor in the Cotswolds is racy funny and has its sad moments. Full of surprises and secrets uncovered The country lovers is a brilliant read. I couldn't wait to get back to it to find out what was going to happen next. It was a well written enjoyable book. I recommend this book and give it 5 very well earned stars.
At the same time, Pax one of Ronnie's 4 children has returned back at the stud, she is the only one of her children to have built bridges and work towards forgiving her.
When Lester the head groom who was at the stud when Ronnies parents ran it has an accident and is forced to be hospitalized and have a long-awaited hip op Pax steps in to keep the stud running, that is until her mother announces the soon arrival of the horsemaker also know as Luca O brian. An Irishman known as a ladies man and so handsome women fall at his feet. He is a charmer and a decently nice man. But it becomes obvious he is hiding from something or someone.
Bridge Mazur is one of the Comprom Bagot's village saddlebags along with Gill, Mo, and Petra. They love a good gossip whilst riding out on their horses. Bridge is married to polish man Ales, whom she loves to his very soul, but then she meets Carly and has carnal daydreams about her husband. Ash.
From horses to dogs to people and life, Compton Manor in the Cotswolds is racy funny and has its sad moments. Full of surprises and secrets uncovered The country lovers is a brilliant read. I couldn't wait to get back to it to find out what was going to happen next. It was a well written enjoyable book. I recommend this book and give it 5 very well earned stars.
December 5, 2019
Horses, romance, scandal and secrets in the delightful rural setting of The Cotswolds. It begins with a nail-biting prologue and then launches into life in Compton Magna several years later. The connection is Luca, someone who has an extraordinary gift with horses. He has a reputation as a womaniser, but he has hidden depths and a plethora of secrets to be revealed as the story progresses.
The characters are many, and all of them richly described in such a vivid way that they are believable. The plot is complex, exploring relationships, village life, family drama and mysterious events and secrets. The Compton Magna stud is the focus of the story, so the horses and dogs are important characters too, which is part of the charm for me.
This is written in true bonkbuster style. It’s long, packed to the rafters with glamorous and enigmatic characters, many of whom behave less than circumspectly. Scandal, secrets and sex are rife in Compton Magna, which is a sharp contrast to the glorious rural setting. The humour is what makes this story so readable, and the snapshots on life and people so astute, that its worth reading for characterisation alone.
I loved this author’earlier stories, and this one reminds me of them, an enjoyable escapist read, full of emotion and sparkling dialogue, in a quintessentially rural England setting.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The characters are many, and all of them richly described in such a vivid way that they are believable. The plot is complex, exploring relationships, village life, family drama and mysterious events and secrets. The Compton Magna stud is the focus of the story, so the horses and dogs are important characters too, which is part of the charm for me.
This is written in true bonkbuster style. It’s long, packed to the rafters with glamorous and enigmatic characters, many of whom behave less than circumspectly. Scandal, secrets and sex are rife in Compton Magna, which is a sharp contrast to the glorious rural setting. The humour is what makes this story so readable, and the snapshots on life and people so astute, that its worth reading for characterisation alone.
I loved this author’earlier stories, and this one reminds me of them, an enjoyable escapist read, full of emotion and sparkling dialogue, in a quintessentially rural England setting.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 18, 2020
Loved this book - pulled me in from the very first chapter.
What a challenged family the Percy’s, with lots of secrets LOTS.
Pax is Ronnie’s daughter - they have a shaky relationship,very little trust on Pax’s part. Ronnie is trying to get the stud financial and to get back to being in a good relationship with her kids.
Pax’s own marriage might be falling apart, somewhat as Ronnie’s did back in the day.
Lucas, the new horse healer and stable assistant has his own problems but wants to help Pax through her problems - but will she let him?
Pax is going to learn a few truths of her family that were previously unknown to her.
Joining in on the ride are the Polish Ales and Bridge, Carly and her sexy gypsy type husband, an erotic author, and Aussie Olympic rider and an old flame of Pax, oh not to forget a naughty Shetland pony, a devil grey horse who is traumatised and several dogs and a pet fox cub.
Really enjoyed this book, love Fiona’s writing style and I love the Cotswolds setting and the horsey-ness of this book.
Hanging out now for the next book in this Compton Magna series.
What a challenged family the Percy’s, with lots of secrets LOTS.
Pax is Ronnie’s daughter - they have a shaky relationship,very little trust on Pax’s part. Ronnie is trying to get the stud financial and to get back to being in a good relationship with her kids.
Pax’s own marriage might be falling apart, somewhat as Ronnie’s did back in the day.
Lucas, the new horse healer and stable assistant has his own problems but wants to help Pax through her problems - but will she let him?
Pax is going to learn a few truths of her family that were previously unknown to her.
Joining in on the ride are the Polish Ales and Bridge, Carly and her sexy gypsy type husband, an erotic author, and Aussie Olympic rider and an old flame of Pax, oh not to forget a naughty Shetland pony, a devil grey horse who is traumatised and several dogs and a pet fox cub.
Really enjoyed this book, love Fiona’s writing style and I love the Cotswolds setting and the horsey-ness of this book.
Hanging out now for the next book in this Compton Magna series.
June 10, 2020
I love everything that Fiona Walker writes – never ever has she let me down! When ‘Country Lovers’ became available, I immediately settled down to read it with great joy and excitement! Her books are the font of great escapism and in spite of a long list of characters within the book, Walker skillfully and with ease manages to present to us fully rounded characters we learn to care deeply about.
Whereas the first book in the Compton Magna series seemed to focus more on Petra and Carly’s predicament, this one focuses on hilarious Bridge and fragile and conflicted Pax. Luca is the new hero whose brokenness mirrors the new horse, Beck’s, taken on by Ronnie at Compton Magna Stud (with whom he shares a horrific past). Present in this novel are all the delicious characters from the previous book but Walker has expertly managed to pull this novel together so that it can easily be read as a standalone too (although I am willing to bet anyone who reads this without having read ‘The Country Set’ will be reaching out for it straight away.)
Whereas the first book in the Compton Magna series seemed to focus more on Petra and Carly’s predicament, this one focuses on hilarious Bridge and fragile and conflicted Pax. Luca is the new hero whose brokenness mirrors the new horse, Beck’s, taken on by Ronnie at Compton Magna Stud (with whom he shares a horrific past). Present in this novel are all the delicious characters from the previous book but Walker has expertly managed to pull this novel together so that it can easily be read as a standalone too (although I am willing to bet anyone who reads this without having read ‘The Country Set’ will be reaching out for it straight away.)
January 11, 2020
I have mixed feelings after reading this book. I did find it a lot better than the first in the series, The Country Set. Mainly because that one was quite slow and spent a long time introducing the various characters. Thankfully, some of the characters I found annoying were not in Country Lovers, namely Pip. She did my head in.
Considering this book is nearly 600 pages long I actually read it pretty quickly, because I did find the story engaging. The problem I have is after finishing it I don't feel we've advanced anywhere. There is still so much left open-ended that I assume there will be more books to follow. I will read them as I enjoy the story but I do hope the next book won't take 600 pages to cover a little over a two week time period.
This could be read as a stand-alone but I think to understand the characters better, and their relationships with each other the first book in the series needs to be read.
Considering this book is nearly 600 pages long I actually read it pretty quickly, because I did find the story engaging. The problem I have is after finishing it I don't feel we've advanced anywhere. There is still so much left open-ended that I assume there will be more books to follow. I will read them as I enjoy the story but I do hope the next book won't take 600 pages to cover a little over a two week time period.
This could be read as a stand-alone but I think to understand the characters better, and their relationships with each other the first book in the series needs to be read.
June 29, 2022
I have read most of Fiona Walker's books and have enjoyed them all. This is the second book in what I believe is a trilogy.
I enjoyed the storylines and getting to know more about some of the characters from the previous book, namely Bridge and Carly as well as Pax. Some minor parts of the story were unbelievable but did not detract from my enjoyment.
I listened to the audio version and that is the reason for dropping a star. It was read by the author which is often not a good idea. Some of the words were very strangely pronounced, like wassail, and coitus and others that I can't bring to mind. The narrator of the previous book was much better in my opinion.
There were a few loose ends that did not get answered so I am looking forward to book 3 if there is one and hope the original narrator is back.
I enjoyed the storylines and getting to know more about some of the characters from the previous book, namely Bridge and Carly as well as Pax. Some minor parts of the story were unbelievable but did not detract from my enjoyment.
I listened to the audio version and that is the reason for dropping a star. It was read by the author which is often not a good idea. Some of the words were very strangely pronounced, like wassail, and coitus and others that I can't bring to mind. The narrator of the previous book was much better in my opinion.
There were a few loose ends that did not get answered so I am looking forward to book 3 if there is one and hope the original narrator is back.
October 3, 2021
4 stars, just!
What a refreshing read. Not your average chick lit book at all (which is what I expected!)
This book ontained many real problems that real people face and that made it just a little more realistic. The ending seems slightly anticlimactic and the relationship between Luca and Pax seems to take off rather suddenly after much hatred but I guess it wasn't ever a 'fairytale' or ideal circumstances. It deals with a couple of tough issues such as alcoholism and infant death/stillborn.
I would have liked a little more of Pax standing up to Mack at the end and setting him straight. But overall, great read!
What a refreshing read. Not your average chick lit book at all (which is what I expected!)
This book ontained many real problems that real people face and that made it just a little more realistic. The ending seems slightly anticlimactic and the relationship between Luca and Pax seems to take off rather suddenly after much hatred but I guess it wasn't ever a 'fairytale' or ideal circumstances. It deals with a couple of tough issues such as alcoholism and infant death/stillborn.
I would have liked a little more of Pax standing up to Mack at the end and setting him straight. But overall, great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2020
I’ve waited almost a year to read this since I pre-ordered it and I have not been disappointed. I’ve loved almost everything of Fiona Walker’s I have ever read and this baby broke the concentration curse of not being able to focus on anything literary since lockdown. The usual plays on words, good humour, flawed but loveable characters, happy endings and everything equine Fiona Walker is famous for tripped along with page turning enthusiasm. I’m now wondering if there’ll be a 3rd instalment of the Comptons...
June 29, 2021
I wasn't sure when I began reading this story whether it would be 'too busy' with so many characters thrown in at one go. I was wrong. There were times when I belly laughed so loudly I had to put my hand in front of my mouth to stifle it. (This would be during a binge read until 2 a.m.)
The characters were well defined and believable - diverse characters who sparked off each other - keeping me on my toes. Some were more likeable than others and then you got to see behind their masks.
Entertaining, heartrending at times but always, always, interesting.
The characters were well defined and believable - diverse characters who sparked off each other - keeping me on my toes. Some were more likeable than others and then you got to see behind their masks.
Entertaining, heartrending at times but always, always, interesting.
Read
November 18, 2019A dramatic, fun whirlwind of horses, divorce, scandal and village life. A bonkbuster worthy of the mantle. Great second instalment of Fiona Walkers Compton Magna series that definitely doesn’t disappoint - it pulls you in and leaves you wanting more. Previous characters make an appearance and the introduction of new ones increases the breadth of the tale. Fun horsey frolics all round! Definitely worth reading.
Thank you Netgalley.
Thank you Netgalley.
May 27, 2025
Oh that was great!….haven’t read a Fiona Walker book for a long time but it was like picking up an old friend. Straight back to the compulsory tough riding, hard drinking and loose loving characters that Fiona brings to life so well. Mix this with family secrets, private heartbreak and a tenuous, refreshingly different love story that made for a real page turner. What more could you want? Loved it!
November 11, 2019
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series, this is Fiona Walker at her best.
Great characters and interesting storylines, there are twists, tangles and tumbles. Great fun and highly entertaining.
This is the second book and I'm really looking forward to the next one, so many questions that I need answering.
Great characters and interesting storylines, there are twists, tangles and tumbles. Great fun and highly entertaining.
This is the second book and I'm really looking forward to the next one, so many questions that I need answering.
January 23, 2020
This is the second book in this series, and it is so long since I read the first one I couldn't really remember a lot about it. I would have liked a synopsis chapter to refresh my memory!
I enjoyed this book, as I enjoy all of Fiona Walker's books, but I didn't LOVE it. It feels a bit like the prequel to some big action to follow in Book 3.
I enjoyed this book, as I enjoy all of Fiona Walker's books, but I didn't LOVE it. It feels a bit like the prequel to some big action to follow in Book 3.
October 9, 2020
This wasn't exactly a beach read, a cheerful romp through the countryside, but it was an engaging story, thoughtful and poignant. A meditation almost, although there was nothing soothing or peaceful about it, on the nature of marriage, fidelity, choices, the way we cope with trauma and the vast cavern of difference between men and women.
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