What do you think?
Rate this book
Willow Tree Hall #2
Escape to the Country
Everyone is running away from something - but will an escape to the countryside suit everyone? Full of warmth, laughter tears and heartache. Perfect for the fans Jill Mansell and Carole Matthews.
Journalist Eleanor McCartney leads a glamorous life in London exposing the sordid secrets of famous celebrities for Hot Gossip! magazine. But her perfect life is a sham. So when her world collapses, she has to reluctantly head home to her mum and friends in the quiet country village of Cranley.
Willow Tree Hall is still in the midst of extensive renovations under the careful eye of Eleanor's best friend Annie and her fiancé, record producer and future Earl of Cranley, Sam Harris.
With a recording studio now in the grounds of the estate, it should be the perfect place for global singing sensation Tom Kingsley to hang out. But Tom is burnt out after a gruelling worldwide tour and is escaping the paparazzi after yet another scandal. Eleanor cannot believe her luck. A story on the world's biggest superstar would be the ticket that gets her job and glamorous life back in London.
But soon both Eleanor and Tom begin to fall under the spell of Willow Tree Hall. Eleanor begins to wonder whether she can really betray his trust. And does she really want her old life back or is home really where the heart lies?
As a heatwave soars, friendships are made, truths are told and, with the help of a stray dog, perhaps love can be found as hearts are healed. By escaping to the country, maybe Eleanor and Tom have found their new beginning.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2018
674 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
April 30, 2018
Rating: 4.5/5
This book is appropriately tagged as ‘a perfect feel-good read to escape with’ and I thoroughly endorse that. It is a heartwarming story of reconnecting with friends and family, unexpected opportunities and learning to open your heart to love.
Eleanor McCartney is dealt the double blow of being sacked and breaking up with her boyfriend, all within one day. She’d actually already had enough of her job as a journalist endeavouring to uncover the secrets of the rich and famous and, when she thinks about it, she’s not heartbroken to finish with her boyfriend- he was probably only using her to get access to the parties and venues her job enabled her to participate in. Time for her to head back home to her Mum - and all the animals! It is also a brilliant chance to reconnect with her childhood friends and the village of Cranley once more.
Also returning to the village is Sam Harris, the future Earl of Cranley and fiancé of Eleanor’s friend, Annie. He’s bringing Tom Kingsely with him to give the global pop star a chance to rest and recuperate after a gruelling six months on tour - and to give him the chance to escape the paparazzi. Is this too good an opportunity for Eleanor to miss? It would certainly be a scoop and give her the chance to regain her job. Would it be worth it - especially as she gets to know Tom and realises what her betrayal would men?
This is a story of sorting out your personal priorities, finding family and friendships and letting others know the truth about you. It has a whole range of great relatable characters and I throughly enjoyed learning about Willow Tree Hall, the future Duchess and Sam’s eccentric aunt who is a hilarious character! There’s even a stray dog to add to the mix. There are plenty of twists and turns, secrets to be revealed, a visit to the Glastonbury festival and even a village fete to be organised in this delightful read. I honestly hadn’t expected to enjoy it as much as I did and I’ll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future - my first move after reading this story was to purchase the first book in this series - A House to Mend a Broken Heart.
I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
This book is appropriately tagged as ‘a perfect feel-good read to escape with’ and I thoroughly endorse that. It is a heartwarming story of reconnecting with friends and family, unexpected opportunities and learning to open your heart to love.
Eleanor McCartney is dealt the double blow of being sacked and breaking up with her boyfriend, all within one day. She’d actually already had enough of her job as a journalist endeavouring to uncover the secrets of the rich and famous and, when she thinks about it, she’s not heartbroken to finish with her boyfriend- he was probably only using her to get access to the parties and venues her job enabled her to participate in. Time for her to head back home to her Mum - and all the animals! It is also a brilliant chance to reconnect with her childhood friends and the village of Cranley once more.
Also returning to the village is Sam Harris, the future Earl of Cranley and fiancé of Eleanor’s friend, Annie. He’s bringing Tom Kingsely with him to give the global pop star a chance to rest and recuperate after a gruelling six months on tour - and to give him the chance to escape the paparazzi. Is this too good an opportunity for Eleanor to miss? It would certainly be a scoop and give her the chance to regain her job. Would it be worth it - especially as she gets to know Tom and realises what her betrayal would men?
This is a story of sorting out your personal priorities, finding family and friendships and letting others know the truth about you. It has a whole range of great relatable characters and I throughly enjoyed learning about Willow Tree Hall, the future Duchess and Sam’s eccentric aunt who is a hilarious character! There’s even a stray dog to add to the mix. There are plenty of twists and turns, secrets to be revealed, a visit to the Glastonbury festival and even a village fete to be organised in this delightful read. I honestly hadn’t expected to enjoy it as much as I did and I’ll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future - my first move after reading this story was to purchase the first book in this series - A House to Mend a Broken Heart.
I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
May 9, 2018
Running home to lick her wounds after losing a job she hated, and a boyfriend who didn’t make her heart react, Eleanor is back in Cranley after eight years of being elsewhere, and determined to find a way back to her job and a London life. Sure, the gossip tabloid she worked for wasn’t the ‘respectable” or high powered position she had told everyone she had, but after eight years of lies and a return of her eczema with all the stress, she’s not sure she can ‘come clean’ to everyone. But with no offers on the horizon, and her mother in need of help with the stray animals (dogs, cats, tortoise, donkey and goat) that she’s collected. So back to Cranley Eleanor goes – dragging her possessions, designer wardrobe and guilt behind her.
Issues, guilt, lies, reconnection, rediscovery and even a bit of romance all come to light here as Eleanor reconnects with her friends Annie and Megan, and starts to loosen up. Of course, she’s still got a loosely formed plan to provide all the dirt on superstar singer Tommy King, now staying at Willow Tree Manor where Annie, former housekeeper, is engaged to the future Earl, Sam. See, Sam is a music producer / manager, and Tommy, just off a world tour and still grieving for his grandmother, is resting, relaxing and recovering from an ankle injury. He’s the first to spot Eleanor’s mask and façade, buried under a shell of makeup and clad in designer clothes. For Eleanor has issues….she must always be ‘pulled together’ and look her best: her father’s bunking off with a much younger woman when she was 12 have her convinced that his obsession with ‘how things look’ is the reason he left, and her mother’s sacrifice for her means she has to always be perfect and amazingly successful to live up to those expectations.
Honestly, I expected Eleanor to be more difficult to enjoy and appreciate, but she wasn’t. She’s just stuck in her own box, and working her way out of it, with some perfectly lovely (and funny) moments as the animals, country and even her own clumsiness have her struggling with always being “perfect’, and her real personality and the reason she, Annie and Megan are friends, starts to come forward. She’s back to mixing her own lotions and potions for her eczema, making a carrot-concoction for the very-burnt nose of Megan, and an electric connection with Tom (not Tommy King) have her coming clean and thinking about her now realigned future. Finding that connection with Tom, who also feels unwanted and shuffled about after a childhood in care, the loss of his grandmother has hit him hard. But the welcome from Arthur (the Earl) and Rose (his sister), the lack of expectations and comfort in that feeling of family have him thinking of more. Particularly with the very attached Dylan, a stray dog who wants him – and no one else, with the exception of Eleanor. A lovely getaway story that packs growth, heart and plenty of smiles with laugh out loud mishaps, plenty of animal hijinks and friends for life.
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
Issues, guilt, lies, reconnection, rediscovery and even a bit of romance all come to light here as Eleanor reconnects with her friends Annie and Megan, and starts to loosen up. Of course, she’s still got a loosely formed plan to provide all the dirt on superstar singer Tommy King, now staying at Willow Tree Manor where Annie, former housekeeper, is engaged to the future Earl, Sam. See, Sam is a music producer / manager, and Tommy, just off a world tour and still grieving for his grandmother, is resting, relaxing and recovering from an ankle injury. He’s the first to spot Eleanor’s mask and façade, buried under a shell of makeup and clad in designer clothes. For Eleanor has issues….she must always be ‘pulled together’ and look her best: her father’s bunking off with a much younger woman when she was 12 have her convinced that his obsession with ‘how things look’ is the reason he left, and her mother’s sacrifice for her means she has to always be perfect and amazingly successful to live up to those expectations.
Honestly, I expected Eleanor to be more difficult to enjoy and appreciate, but she wasn’t. She’s just stuck in her own box, and working her way out of it, with some perfectly lovely (and funny) moments as the animals, country and even her own clumsiness have her struggling with always being “perfect’, and her real personality and the reason she, Annie and Megan are friends, starts to come forward. She’s back to mixing her own lotions and potions for her eczema, making a carrot-concoction for the very-burnt nose of Megan, and an electric connection with Tom (not Tommy King) have her coming clean and thinking about her now realigned future. Finding that connection with Tom, who also feels unwanted and shuffled about after a childhood in care, the loss of his grandmother has hit him hard. But the welcome from Arthur (the Earl) and Rose (his sister), the lack of expectations and comfort in that feeling of family have him thinking of more. Particularly with the very attached Dylan, a stray dog who wants him – and no one else, with the exception of Eleanor. A lovely getaway story that packs growth, heart and plenty of smiles with laugh out loud mishaps, plenty of animal hijinks and friends for life.
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
April 27, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria for providing this book in exchange for an honest review. I voluntary read and reviewed this book.
This is such a sweet and surprising story. I mean, combine an English country house, a musician love interest and Glastonbury - I’m there! The story strikes the perfect balance of being light, charming, funny and romantic without being rushed or overly saccharine. I went into this expecting just a fun read but did not expect the characters to be so relatable and fleshed out as they were. I especially loved that our protagonist, Eleanor, has eczema and that it was frequently mentioned as something that affects her every day. I suffer from eczema as well and as a reader it’s nice and very rare to see that reflected and accurately portrayed in a character. Details like that contributed to the novel’s lighthearted yet thoughtful tone.
This is a perfect vacation read and I’ll look out for more books from Alison Sherlock.
This is such a sweet and surprising story. I mean, combine an English country house, a musician love interest and Glastonbury - I’m there! The story strikes the perfect balance of being light, charming, funny and romantic without being rushed or overly saccharine. I went into this expecting just a fun read but did not expect the characters to be so relatable and fleshed out as they were. I especially loved that our protagonist, Eleanor, has eczema and that it was frequently mentioned as something that affects her every day. I suffer from eczema as well and as a reader it’s nice and very rare to see that reflected and accurately portrayed in a character. Details like that contributed to the novel’s lighthearted yet thoughtful tone.
This is a perfect vacation read and I’ll look out for more books from Alison Sherlock.
May 19, 2018
In the space of just 24 hours, Eleanor McCartney is sacked from her job and dumped by her boyfriend. The book starts off like so many escapist reads where the protagonist leaves their old life to have a break. Eleanor heads to the tiny village of Cranford and to her mother's house and her childhood home, The Forge. Amongst dogs, cats a goat a tortoise and a donkey, she spends time with her mum after 8 years working at a gossip magazine
Eleanor reconnects with her friends Annie and Megan, which is great for her. However, her real plan is to dish the dirt on superstar singer Tommy King, now staying at Willow Tree Manor where Annie is engaged to the future Earl, Sam. Sam is a music producer and manager. Tommy has finished a world tour and is still grieving for his grandmother. He is at the hall too recovering afer injuring his ankle.
Eleanor's dad left when she was 12. Working in London made her love the City lifestyle, and she loved glitz and glamour of designer labels. Will living as a country girl change her? Will she find love? Will she return to London?
Escape to the Country, despite a slow and slightly predictable start, is great mix of friendship, challenges and being string enough to make changes in life. It is also a story about secrets, issues and rekindling lost ties. Of course, there is romance too and in the end I can say that the book grew on me.
All the characters are different and I enjoyed watching Eleanor grow and change.
Thanks to Alison Sherlock and Aria, an imprint of Head of Zeus, for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review as well an an opportunity to take part in the blog tour.
Eleanor reconnects with her friends Annie and Megan, which is great for her. However, her real plan is to dish the dirt on superstar singer Tommy King, now staying at Willow Tree Manor where Annie is engaged to the future Earl, Sam. Sam is a music producer and manager. Tommy has finished a world tour and is still grieving for his grandmother. He is at the hall too recovering afer injuring his ankle.
Eleanor's dad left when she was 12. Working in London made her love the City lifestyle, and she loved glitz and glamour of designer labels. Will living as a country girl change her? Will she find love? Will she return to London?
Escape to the Country, despite a slow and slightly predictable start, is great mix of friendship, challenges and being string enough to make changes in life. It is also a story about secrets, issues and rekindling lost ties. Of course, there is romance too and in the end I can say that the book grew on me.
All the characters are different and I enjoyed watching Eleanor grow and change.
Thanks to Alison Sherlock and Aria, an imprint of Head of Zeus, for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review as well an an opportunity to take part in the blog tour.
May 18, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
Aww I really enjoyed reading this lovely romantic chicklit. Perfect for escaping from this dreary British springtime and had me longing for sunshine and adventures in the countryside.
Eleanor is living a sham. All her friends and family believe that she is a hotshot photographer for a reputable newspaper. The only trouble is Eleanor is actually working for a no class tacky celebrity gossip magazine and it is her job to catch unsuspecting famous people when they are least expecting it. Or that was her job until she is fired from it, and she is forced to head home.
Eleanor cannot wait to go home and catch up with her family and two best friends. When Eleanor arrives home she find Willow Tree hall in the midst of a big renovation, and her best friend Annie had her fiancé, music mogul and earl Sam Harris are busy getting everything sorted out, and fitting a brand new studio.
Tom Kingsley worldwide superstar is on the run from the paps. After being burnt out from a worldwide tour. All he wants is some peace and quite and to lie low for a while.
But Eleanor sees his arrival as the kickstart that her career desperately needs.
All Eleanor needs is to get close to Tom and get a worldwide exclusive. But things take a dramatic detour when they begin to develop feelings for each other. It is then up to Eleanor to decide if she wants her old life back? Or if she wants to make a new start in the place she ran away from and finding love in the most unlikely of places.
This book had all the feelings of the old school 90’s chick flicks that I love. A throughly enjoyable romantic read.
Aww I really enjoyed reading this lovely romantic chicklit. Perfect for escaping from this dreary British springtime and had me longing for sunshine and adventures in the countryside.
Eleanor is living a sham. All her friends and family believe that she is a hotshot photographer for a reputable newspaper. The only trouble is Eleanor is actually working for a no class tacky celebrity gossip magazine and it is her job to catch unsuspecting famous people when they are least expecting it. Or that was her job until she is fired from it, and she is forced to head home.
Eleanor cannot wait to go home and catch up with her family and two best friends. When Eleanor arrives home she find Willow Tree hall in the midst of a big renovation, and her best friend Annie had her fiancé, music mogul and earl Sam Harris are busy getting everything sorted out, and fitting a brand new studio.
Tom Kingsley worldwide superstar is on the run from the paps. After being burnt out from a worldwide tour. All he wants is some peace and quite and to lie low for a while.
But Eleanor sees his arrival as the kickstart that her career desperately needs.
All Eleanor needs is to get close to Tom and get a worldwide exclusive. But things take a dramatic detour when they begin to develop feelings for each other. It is then up to Eleanor to decide if she wants her old life back? Or if she wants to make a new start in the place she ran away from and finding love in the most unlikely of places.
This book had all the feelings of the old school 90’s chick flicks that I love. A throughly enjoyable romantic read.
May 1, 2018
Eleanor has been living a lie for years - her friends and family all think that she is a serious journalist working on a financial paper but in reality she is digging up dirt for a trashy celeb magazine.......and she cant even keep that job as she is sacked and replaced by a younger girl! Her only option is to go back home to her small village on the pretence that she is looking after her mother who has had a fall.
Back home she soon gets involved with helping her best friend Annie to plan her wedding to Sam, a record producer due to inherit a grand stately home where he lives with his beloved Grandfather and Aunt Rose. Then Sam's top rock star client Tom comes to stay to hide from the limelight.......could Eleanor do an exclusive expose on him and get her job back!!
A great warm fun story, lovely to be back with the characters from the previous story.....I especially loved the antics of Rose, what a brilliant character! Great light beach read.
Back home she soon gets involved with helping her best friend Annie to plan her wedding to Sam, a record producer due to inherit a grand stately home where he lives with his beloved Grandfather and Aunt Rose. Then Sam's top rock star client Tom comes to stay to hide from the limelight.......could Eleanor do an exclusive expose on him and get her job back!!
A great warm fun story, lovely to be back with the characters from the previous story.....I especially loved the antics of Rose, what a brilliant character! Great light beach read.
May 15, 2018
What a delicious read! Perfect for either cuddling up with inside out of the rain, or enjoying outside in the sunshine - I've done both, all in the space of a day!
Eleanor's Mum and her friends think she leads a glamorous life in London as a financial journalist. The truth, however, is a bit different. Working for a celebrity magazine, Eleanor's life has turned out far from where her ambitions lay. She hopes change is on the horizon but it turns out to be a bigger change than she bargained for.
Returning home to the village of Cranley under the pretence of caring for her Mum and her injured foot, Eleanor is still living a lie. She realises, however, that in order to get her relationship with her two childhood friends back on an even keel, she must own up - and soon. Then a famous musician arrives in the village and she delays coming clean as the paparazzi make his life hell and she doesn't want him to discover how she earned her living until very recently.
It's a pleasure to return to Willow Tree Hall, and pick up the story from 'A House to Mend a Broken Heart'. I love that there is little - if any - reference to that book - too often sequels are spoiled with constant repetition of the first one, and Alison Sherlock hasn't fallen into that trap. This is a full length novel with a completely different story to the first, although it is joyous to meet all the characters again and find their lives advancing. The setting is idyllic; the characters well-rounded and beautifully created. This is a very easy read - fast paced, packed with goings on and truly enchanting. It's thoroughly satisfying to get to the last page with no questions remaining! Such a well-written novel deserves the highest recommendation, which I'm happy to give.
My thanks to publishers Aria for pre-approving my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
Eleanor's Mum and her friends think she leads a glamorous life in London as a financial journalist. The truth, however, is a bit different. Working for a celebrity magazine, Eleanor's life has turned out far from where her ambitions lay. She hopes change is on the horizon but it turns out to be a bigger change than she bargained for.
Returning home to the village of Cranley under the pretence of caring for her Mum and her injured foot, Eleanor is still living a lie. She realises, however, that in order to get her relationship with her two childhood friends back on an even keel, she must own up - and soon. Then a famous musician arrives in the village and she delays coming clean as the paparazzi make his life hell and she doesn't want him to discover how she earned her living until very recently.
It's a pleasure to return to Willow Tree Hall, and pick up the story from 'A House to Mend a Broken Heart'. I love that there is little - if any - reference to that book - too often sequels are spoiled with constant repetition of the first one, and Alison Sherlock hasn't fallen into that trap. This is a full length novel with a completely different story to the first, although it is joyous to meet all the characters again and find their lives advancing. The setting is idyllic; the characters well-rounded and beautifully created. This is a very easy read - fast paced, packed with goings on and truly enchanting. It's thoroughly satisfying to get to the last page with no questions remaining! Such a well-written novel deserves the highest recommendation, which I'm happy to give.
My thanks to publishers Aria for pre-approving my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
May 12, 2018
This was such a wonderful read. The characters were so warmly drawn that you feel for each of them.
Eleanor has just lost her high flying city job and has come back home, trying to keep her job loss a secret from her mum and friends. When she discovers that a famous singer is staying at her friends country house she wonders whether she could possibly sell a story to reinstate her career.
Willow Tree Hall sounds lovely and I enjoyed 'seeing' it come to life. I also loved hearing about all the animals at Eleanor's family home. We also join in with local celebrations as Annie's friends rally round her.
Eleanors stress levels come under control as the spell of Willow Tree and a certain male characters weave their magic around her.
I look forward to reading more by Alison Sherlock
Eleanor has just lost her high flying city job and has come back home, trying to keep her job loss a secret from her mum and friends. When she discovers that a famous singer is staying at her friends country house she wonders whether she could possibly sell a story to reinstate her career.
Willow Tree Hall sounds lovely and I enjoyed 'seeing' it come to life. I also loved hearing about all the animals at Eleanor's family home. We also join in with local celebrations as Annie's friends rally round her.
Eleanors stress levels come under control as the spell of Willow Tree and a certain male characters weave their magic around her.
I look forward to reading more by Alison Sherlock
June 16, 2018
Based on the high rating I thought I would like this book more than I did. It was a fine read but nothing special for me. I couldn't really relate to Eleanor and found her quite un-likeable for the majority of the book. It was annoying that she didn't tell Tom about her past job after having a brief fallout with her friends over it. It meant she still hadn't learnt her lesson.
Once Eleanor pulled her head out of her butt the story was more enjoyable. She and Tom were sweet together. The setting of the Hall and village and the supporting characters were charming.
Once Eleanor pulled her head out of her butt the story was more enjoyable. She and Tom were sweet together. The setting of the Hall and village and the supporting characters were charming.
July 5, 2018
I wish I were there....country air and interesting people!!
November 9, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
May 18, 2018
I was given free copy for an honest review.
by Alison Sherlock is a delightful story.
When Elenor after eight long years of doing the job she hates gets fired and breaks up with her boyfriend,she goes back home with only one thought in her mind, to go back to London as soon as her mother gets better and the best way to get back in the game, is to dish out a really juicy story about some big celebrity.
Unexpected opportunity presents itself when she realises that there is a mega rock star currently living in her tiny village. As she gets pulled into old and new friendships, country living and different values she struggles to make a right choice.
Warm and touching, beautiful examples of family values and long forgotten way of life. Tale about new beginnings, second chances, trust and love blend here.
I loved all the characters, each has its own life story to tell, some are funny yet deeply wise and we learn many life lessons by just carefully reading each page. I especially enjoyed reading about Rose's antics, she is hillarious.
I particulary liked how so many lives are all woven into this one book and how each of us touches other people's lives with decisions we make and influence their choices and that if we care enoughwe can help loved ones so much, and above all that love can real heal all wounds.
Fantastic read, light but so profound, funny but so wistful. Remarkable tale that I enjoyed so much.
by Alison Sherlock is a delightful story.
When Elenor after eight long years of doing the job she hates gets fired and breaks up with her boyfriend,she goes back home with only one thought in her mind, to go back to London as soon as her mother gets better and the best way to get back in the game, is to dish out a really juicy story about some big celebrity.
Unexpected opportunity presents itself when she realises that there is a mega rock star currently living in her tiny village. As she gets pulled into old and new friendships, country living and different values she struggles to make a right choice.
Warm and touching, beautiful examples of family values and long forgotten way of life. Tale about new beginnings, second chances, trust and love blend here.
I loved all the characters, each has its own life story to tell, some are funny yet deeply wise and we learn many life lessons by just carefully reading each page. I especially enjoyed reading about Rose's antics, she is hillarious.
I particulary liked how so many lives are all woven into this one book and how each of us touches other people's lives with decisions we make and influence their choices and that if we care enoughwe can help loved ones so much, and above all that love can real heal all wounds.
Fantastic read, light but so profound, funny but so wistful. Remarkable tale that I enjoyed so much.
May 9, 2019
The book was a safe read but not the best. I found myself skimming a few pages. I really enjoyed the Author's "Desperate series. This one did not match up and was at the least a hundred pages too many
March 30, 2023
She allowed herself a bit of downtime. When had she last just sat with a cup of tea and listened to the birdsong? Watched a plane cross the blue sky? Heard the wind rustle the leaves in the trees? When was the last time she had just stopped? She couldn't remember.
April 30, 2018
Escape to the Country by Alison Sherlock
Willow Tree Hall #2
Burned out rock star seeking time to regroup meets journalist looking for a story to put her career back on track – not a great couple to meet and find happiness together in the country but by the end of the story that is just what happens.
The book blurb lays out the basics of the story but doesn’t explain just how much Tom and Eleanor bring out the best in one another or how the two find their way forward to focus on what is really important to them. Both grow significantly in this book becoming better for being with friends, working to improve their lives and those around them.
Tom and Eleanor were wonderful characters but then so was everybody else that was a friend or relative and Dylan the dog was pretty special, too. There were people to dislike but overall this was a wonderful sweet love story that allowed time for the couple to get to know one another and grow into caring then fall in love.
There was a summer event, rock star visits, concerts, friends supporting one another and so much more! I have not read anything by this author before but hope to read more of her work in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria impring-Head of Zeus for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Willow Tree Hall #2
Burned out rock star seeking time to regroup meets journalist looking for a story to put her career back on track – not a great couple to meet and find happiness together in the country but by the end of the story that is just what happens.
The book blurb lays out the basics of the story but doesn’t explain just how much Tom and Eleanor bring out the best in one another or how the two find their way forward to focus on what is really important to them. Both grow significantly in this book becoming better for being with friends, working to improve their lives and those around them.
Tom and Eleanor were wonderful characters but then so was everybody else that was a friend or relative and Dylan the dog was pretty special, too. There were people to dislike but overall this was a wonderful sweet love story that allowed time for the couple to get to know one another and grow into caring then fall in love.
There was a summer event, rock star visits, concerts, friends supporting one another and so much more! I have not read anything by this author before but hope to read more of her work in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria impring-Head of Zeus for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
May 27, 2018
I have a little confession to make. Although I have a few of Alison’s books on my mountainous ‘TBR’ (to be read), I haven’t actually read one. Sorry Alison. Well let me tell you that as of today I have finished one of her books and I absolutely loved it but more about that in a bit.
I have to say that it took me a little while to warm to the character of Eleanor McCartney. At first she seems rather selfish but once you got beneath the surface, she is actually quite vulnerable and sensitive. I warmed to her and I really felt for her when things start to go wrong. In the space of a short time she loses her job, splits up with her boyfriend and then is thrown out of her house. Eleanor goes to stay with her mother. I can understand that she doesn’t want to tell people the real reason that she is back in her home village but the longer she keeps the secret, the harder it is going to be to tell everybody. Her family and friends are not even aware that she works for a gossip magazine, as she has led them to believe that she is a financial journalist. It’s as if Eleanor is embarrassed about the fact that she is a tabloid journalist. Eleanor has been through some tough times. Her father walked out of the family home and left only Eleanor and her Mam. Eleanor deeply cares for her mother but at the same time she feels slightly peeved with her. Eleanor’s mother has a huge heart and she is a sucker for an animal sob story. If any animal needs a home or needs rescuing then Eleanor’s Mam is your woman. I do think that Eleanor is a bit harsh on her mother. Whilst Eleanor is at home, she learns that a hugely famous pop star Tom Kingsley, renowned for iffy behaviour, is staying at the ancestral home of her best friend’s fiancé, who manages him. Eleanor thinks that an article on this huge pop star could be the huge scoop that means she can get her job back. Tom is one sensitive soul. He lost his parents at an early age and he entered the care system. By the sounds of it, Tom was shunted from one foster home to another and as a result he has never felt settled or wanted. Tom created a shell around himself and to a large degree his pop/ rock persona is a caricature or an alter ego. Underneath Tom is one damaged and vulnerable soul, who just needs to feel wanted and loved. Will Eleanor get her scoop? Will Eleanor and Tom hit it off? Is romance on the horizon? Well for the answers to these 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.
When I picked up ‘Escape To The Country’ I didn’t realise that it was actually a second book in the series ‘Welcome To Willow Tree Hall’ series. The first book ‘A House To Mend A Broken Heart’ was released last year. ‘Escape To The Country’ works perfectly well as a standalone but because I am a bit OCD, I fully intend to read the first book and then follow on with this book.
This book had a hold over me from the moment I picked it up and didn’t release me from its grip until the moment I had finished reading. The author’s writing style is such that I found I was hooked on this book from the first word and reading it became a serious addiction. I picked up this book, only intending to read a couple of chapters…. ha that so did not happen, as I read 35 chapters before looking up. I became wrapped up in the story and the characters, who I came to view as friends. To me, the writing was so good and so realistic that the story seemed to come ‘alive’ and I began to ‘live’ the story myself. I empathised with some of the feelings that the characters were having, whilst at the same time I wanted to shake a couple of the characters by their shoulders to give them a reality check. Reading ‘Escape To The Country’ was a nice change to the books I usually read. There was a great deal of humour, drama, silliness, romance and the odd disagreement thrown in for good measure. ‘Escape To The Country’ is a perfect summertime read or perfect to pack in your luggage for your summer holiday. It’s light hearted and pure escapism.
In short, I absolutely adored reading ‘Escape To The Country’ and I can’t wait to read ‘A House To Mend A Broken Heart’. Alison Sherlock is now one of my favourite authors and I look forward to reading her other books. Happiness for this Ginger Book Geek is discovering that a new author (to me anyway) has quite a back catalogue of books for me to catch up on. Bliss. I would definitely recommend this book, this series and this author to other readers. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I have to say that it took me a little while to warm to the character of Eleanor McCartney. At first she seems rather selfish but once you got beneath the surface, she is actually quite vulnerable and sensitive. I warmed to her and I really felt for her when things start to go wrong. In the space of a short time she loses her job, splits up with her boyfriend and then is thrown out of her house. Eleanor goes to stay with her mother. I can understand that she doesn’t want to tell people the real reason that she is back in her home village but the longer she keeps the secret, the harder it is going to be to tell everybody. Her family and friends are not even aware that she works for a gossip magazine, as she has led them to believe that she is a financial journalist. It’s as if Eleanor is embarrassed about the fact that she is a tabloid journalist. Eleanor has been through some tough times. Her father walked out of the family home and left only Eleanor and her Mam. Eleanor deeply cares for her mother but at the same time she feels slightly peeved with her. Eleanor’s mother has a huge heart and she is a sucker for an animal sob story. If any animal needs a home or needs rescuing then Eleanor’s Mam is your woman. I do think that Eleanor is a bit harsh on her mother. Whilst Eleanor is at home, she learns that a hugely famous pop star Tom Kingsley, renowned for iffy behaviour, is staying at the ancestral home of her best friend’s fiancé, who manages him. Eleanor thinks that an article on this huge pop star could be the huge scoop that means she can get her job back. Tom is one sensitive soul. He lost his parents at an early age and he entered the care system. By the sounds of it, Tom was shunted from one foster home to another and as a result he has never felt settled or wanted. Tom created a shell around himself and to a large degree his pop/ rock persona is a caricature or an alter ego. Underneath Tom is one damaged and vulnerable soul, who just needs to feel wanted and loved. Will Eleanor get her scoop? Will Eleanor and Tom hit it off? Is romance on the horizon? Well for the answers to these 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.
When I picked up ‘Escape To The Country’ I didn’t realise that it was actually a second book in the series ‘Welcome To Willow Tree Hall’ series. The first book ‘A House To Mend A Broken Heart’ was released last year. ‘Escape To The Country’ works perfectly well as a standalone but because I am a bit OCD, I fully intend to read the first book and then follow on with this book.
This book had a hold over me from the moment I picked it up and didn’t release me from its grip until the moment I had finished reading. The author’s writing style is such that I found I was hooked on this book from the first word and reading it became a serious addiction. I picked up this book, only intending to read a couple of chapters…. ha that so did not happen, as I read 35 chapters before looking up. I became wrapped up in the story and the characters, who I came to view as friends. To me, the writing was so good and so realistic that the story seemed to come ‘alive’ and I began to ‘live’ the story myself. I empathised with some of the feelings that the characters were having, whilst at the same time I wanted to shake a couple of the characters by their shoulders to give them a reality check. Reading ‘Escape To The Country’ was a nice change to the books I usually read. There was a great deal of humour, drama, silliness, romance and the odd disagreement thrown in for good measure. ‘Escape To The Country’ is a perfect summertime read or perfect to pack in your luggage for your summer holiday. It’s light hearted and pure escapism.
In short, I absolutely adored reading ‘Escape To The Country’ and I can’t wait to read ‘A House To Mend A Broken Heart’. Alison Sherlock is now one of my favourite authors and I look forward to reading her other books. Happiness for this Ginger Book Geek is discovering that a new author (to me anyway) has quite a back catalogue of books for me to catch up on. Bliss. I would definitely recommend this book, this series and this author to other readers. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
May 19, 2018
This is the second book in the "Welcome to Willow Tree Hall" series and it introduces us to new characters but also some of the old ones that we got to know in the previous book are on the scenes as well. The first book, "A House to Mend a Broken Heart", introduces us to Annie, the housekeeper to an Earl of Cranley, Arthur. Even though "Escape to the Country" is a sequel, it focuses on new characters who also fall under the spell of the beautiful Willow Tree Hall, and it can be read as a stand - alone.
After eight years of doing her job as a celebrity journalist Eleanor gets herself fired. Moreover, she also breaks up with her boyfriend, so the only thing that she can do right now is come back home to help her mum who's broken her leg. Only a good story about a big name could get her back in the game but well, it's not London where she's living now, right? It's only a tiny village. However, as it turns out, a big rock star lives currently at Willow Tree Hall, and who runs it? Only Eleanor's best friend Annie! Is Eleanor going to revive her career with the unwitting help of Tom?
The characters were - again - really well developed. As I have already mentioned, there were characters from the previous book, Annie and Sam, Arthur and Rose, and it was really nice to get a glimpse into their lives as well, to see what they're doing after their stories ended, and they didn't disappoint, especially Rose with her antics and a corset - and they still had a story to tell, which was a double bonus. I liked how down to earth Alison Sherlock has created her celebrity. Tom was very understated and I liked his approach, he loved his music, and writing songs and he didn't abuse his position. Eleanor is a celebrity journalist and her career is actually on a bad patch and well, she's fired. Only a good story can save her career and as hers and Tom's paths accidentally cross she hopes it could be his story.
It was a story about rediscovering the important things in life, to finding the real sense and depth of life and what's important is usually hidden deep under the surface. It was warm and light - hearted, for me personally though the book could be much shorter. There were much too many moments for my liking that were dragging on and I just had a feeling that many chapters were added only to make the book longer, as there was nothing in particular happening, they were telling the same thing in other words. Nevertheless, it was a nice enough read about families, relationships and values, about realising what is really important and that sometimes it's better to give up. It also touched upon second chances and new beginnings, so there was really something for all readers to find.It was funny yet wise, and I really liked this mix, it was perfectly blended. Sure, it was predictable, you knew from the very beginning how it's going to end and what twists are going to try to complicate the characters' lives but sometimes it's nice to read such uncomplicated - and I mean in a very positive way - tale of friendship and values. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
September 5, 2018
Escape to the Country is Alison Sherlock’s second book in the Willow Tree Hall series but it can easily be read as a standalone novel which is what I did. I’m now desperate to read the first book though as think I might just love it even more than this one.
Eleanor McCartney’s main concern is projecting the perfect image, even if this is a lie. As far as her friends and family are concerned she’s a successful financial journalist, the reality is she’s just being sacked from being a celebrity gossip journalist and replaced with a younger model. With her London life in bits she heads home to the village of Cranley to help her mother while she recovers from a broken wrist. Once back home Eleanor learns that pop megastar “Tommy King” is staying with her best friend’s fiancé at Willow Tree Hall, can Eleanor get her career back on track by scooping the story of the summer? Or will being back in the country make Eleanor evaluate her lifestyle and make some changes?
Tom Kinglsey is finding the rockstar life hard and after the passing of his beloved grandma very lonely. After a drunken night out drowning his sorrows lands him with a sprained ankle he goes to stay with friend and manager Sam Harris. Once at Willow Tree Hall Tom finds himself surrounded by the family he’s longed for all his life and when he meets Eleanor he can’t help but be drawn to her despite the fact all they seem to do is bicker.
Eleanor wasn’t a character I initially didn’t care for, she was very selfish and spent far too much time on her appearance and trying to further her career by any means, even if that meant not seeing her mother or friends for months on end. I did warm to her as the story progressed but, in a book, where everyone is lovely she was never going to be my favourite. One of my favourites was Tom, who despite being a megastar remained grounded and sincere and all her really wanted was someone to love him. My other favourite character was Rose with her eccentric dress, the bionic bra scene at the beginning of the charity walk had me laughing out loud.
Escape to the County is just that a perfect escape, its full of heart-warming characters and some funny plots twists and a lovely touch of romance. For me the star of the show was rescued dog Dylan. I’m hoping there is another book coming soon as I’m hoping to find out what happens at the big wedding.
Thank you Aria and Netgalley for sending me this copy to review and inviting me to be part of the blog tour.
Eleanor McCartney’s main concern is projecting the perfect image, even if this is a lie. As far as her friends and family are concerned she’s a successful financial journalist, the reality is she’s just being sacked from being a celebrity gossip journalist and replaced with a younger model. With her London life in bits she heads home to the village of Cranley to help her mother while she recovers from a broken wrist. Once back home Eleanor learns that pop megastar “Tommy King” is staying with her best friend’s fiancé at Willow Tree Hall, can Eleanor get her career back on track by scooping the story of the summer? Or will being back in the country make Eleanor evaluate her lifestyle and make some changes?
Tom Kinglsey is finding the rockstar life hard and after the passing of his beloved grandma very lonely. After a drunken night out drowning his sorrows lands him with a sprained ankle he goes to stay with friend and manager Sam Harris. Once at Willow Tree Hall Tom finds himself surrounded by the family he’s longed for all his life and when he meets Eleanor he can’t help but be drawn to her despite the fact all they seem to do is bicker.
Eleanor wasn’t a character I initially didn’t care for, she was very selfish and spent far too much time on her appearance and trying to further her career by any means, even if that meant not seeing her mother or friends for months on end. I did warm to her as the story progressed but, in a book, where everyone is lovely she was never going to be my favourite. One of my favourites was Tom, who despite being a megastar remained grounded and sincere and all her really wanted was someone to love him. My other favourite character was Rose with her eccentric dress, the bionic bra scene at the beginning of the charity walk had me laughing out loud.
Escape to the County is just that a perfect escape, its full of heart-warming characters and some funny plots twists and a lovely touch of romance. For me the star of the show was rescued dog Dylan. I’m hoping there is another book coming soon as I’m hoping to find out what happens at the big wedding.
Thank you Aria and Netgalley for sending me this copy to review and inviting me to be part of the blog tour.
June 12, 2018
The Blurb :
Journalist Eleanor McCartney leads a glamorous life in London exposing the sordid secrets of famous celebrities for Hot Gossip! magazine. But her perfect life is a sham. So when her world collapses, she has to reluctantly head home to her mum and friends in the quiet country village of Cranley.
Willow Tree Hall is still in the midst of extensive renovations under the careful eye of Eleanor's best friend Annie and her fiancé, record producer and future Earl of Cranley, Sam Harris.
With a recording studio now in the grounds of the estate, it should be the perfect place for global singing sensation Tom Kingsley to hang out. But Tom is burnt out after a gruelling worldwide tour and is escaping the paparazzi after yet another scandal. Eleanor cannot believe her luck. A story on the world's biggest superstar would be the ticket that gets her job and glamorous life back in London.
But soon both Eleanor and Tom begin to fall under the spell of Willow Tree Hall. Eleanor begins to wonder whether she can really betray his trust. And does she really want her old life back or is home really where the heart lies?
As a heatwave soars, friendships are made, truths are told and, with the help of a stray dog, perhaps love can be found as hearts are healed. By escaping to the country, maybe Eleanor and Tom have found their new beginning.
My Thoughts :
Eleanor McCartney has just been sacked from her job as a Journalist with a gossip magazine and in the same time broken up with her boyfriend, so what better way to mend a broken heart than to return home to her mum in the village of Cranley. She is also looking forward to seeing her 2 best friends, but things just dont stay the same.
She soon discovers that famous singer, Tommy Kingsley is staying at her friends house and wonders if its an idea to do a story on him in the hope it will reinstate her career. But can Eleanor bring herself to do the story once she gets to know him.
I really enjoyed the charactors of Annie and Sam, also Eleanor’s mum who has a heart of gold and will take any rescue in.
Although I have not read the first book this can be read as a standalone.
This story is a delight, full of love, twists and turns, family and friends. I am looking forward to the next one.
July 10, 2018
Journalist Eleanor McCartney leads a very glamorous life in London. Her job at the top gossip magazine gets her in to all the hottest parties in the latest designer clothes. However, her world comes crashing down when she loses her job, her boyfriend ‘politely’ kicks her out, and she has to move back home to the country village, Cranley. There’s one slight problem, her mom and friends don’t know what magazine she works for, and she doesn’t want them to find out!
Spending time at Willow Tree Hall, now her friend is engaged to record producer and the future Earl of Cranley, she meets award-winning recording artist Tommy Kingsley. Tom is burntout from touring and the pressures of fame, and decides to take cover at Willow Tree Hall while he contemplates his next move. A story on the worlds biggest pop star could be Eleanor’s ticket back to her old life. But as she gets to know Tom, can she really betray his trust? Is it time she comes clean to her family and friends and let them know just why she escaped to the country?
I think this book is just one big romantic cliche…but that’s probably why I enjoyed it so much! It had everything, the super glamorous female protagonist, the hot rock star, a summer fair, a music festival and a cute dog. What more could you ask for?
I loved every single character in this book. They each played an important part in the story. I particularly liked seeing the friendship between Eleanor, Megan and Annie. Even though it was quite obvious that Eleanor hadn’t been the best of friends to them, they still loved her and stuck by her and vice versa. I particularly loved Eleanor’s mom! Her home was literally a safe haven for all animals and it’s literally what dreams are made of.
Eleanor and Tom were the perfect romantic leads. Yes, a little stereotypical, but sometimes, we need to read these kind of romance books to remind us why we love them so much. What I liked most about this book is, although we knew the two characters where going to fall in love, the author allowed time for the characters feelings to develop and you could really see how much they cared for one another.
This was the first book I have read by this author, but I know I definitely want to read more. I rate this book three out of five stars, and I only wished I kept it to read on my summer holiday next month!
Spending time at Willow Tree Hall, now her friend is engaged to record producer and the future Earl of Cranley, she meets award-winning recording artist Tommy Kingsley. Tom is burntout from touring and the pressures of fame, and decides to take cover at Willow Tree Hall while he contemplates his next move. A story on the worlds biggest pop star could be Eleanor’s ticket back to her old life. But as she gets to know Tom, can she really betray his trust? Is it time she comes clean to her family and friends and let them know just why she escaped to the country?
I think this book is just one big romantic cliche…but that’s probably why I enjoyed it so much! It had everything, the super glamorous female protagonist, the hot rock star, a summer fair, a music festival and a cute dog. What more could you ask for?
I loved every single character in this book. They each played an important part in the story. I particularly liked seeing the friendship between Eleanor, Megan and Annie. Even though it was quite obvious that Eleanor hadn’t been the best of friends to them, they still loved her and stuck by her and vice versa. I particularly loved Eleanor’s mom! Her home was literally a safe haven for all animals and it’s literally what dreams are made of.
Eleanor and Tom were the perfect romantic leads. Yes, a little stereotypical, but sometimes, we need to read these kind of romance books to remind us why we love them so much. What I liked most about this book is, although we knew the two characters where going to fall in love, the author allowed time for the characters feelings to develop and you could really see how much they cared for one another.
This was the first book I have read by this author, but I know I definitely want to read more. I rate this book three out of five stars, and I only wished I kept it to read on my summer holiday next month!
May 1, 2018
Escape to the Country, A perfect feel-good read to escape with, Alison Sherlock
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Romance
well, if you're looking for a light and happy holiday read this fits the bill. As always the celebrity aspect caught my eye – I do love the drama that comes in celebrity stories.It was pretty muted here though, Tom is very understated as a singer/songwriter, not a fame chaser but one of those guys who loves the music and songs, and who fame found him, he didn't seek it.
He's just finished a grueling tour and is at his managers home, in a typical quiet English village. I really liked Tom, felt for him as a child, he'd had it tough and as always what happens to us does shape us. He sees manager Sam, happily settled, with his family around him and can't help but feel he'd love that. Its just him though, the only family who ever cared for him, his lovely Nan, has died recently and he feels her loss keenly.
Along comes Eleanor, Celeb journalist who's career has hit a bad patch. Actually its been an eight year patch, this isn't what she envisaged, seeking stories out of dross and other peoples unhappiness. It was supposed to be a stepping stone to more but..,.and now even that's gone so she's home, helping her mum, licking her wounds and realising just what a bad friend she's been to her two long time besties.
You can see that Tom plus Eleanor at some point is going to explode but it did in a way I really didn't expect, and that was fun. I like to be caught out, like plots to take an unusual, unseen line.
Its got some great characters, and I'm off to seek out book one where it all started. It made for a fun read, not deep dark drama but some lighthearted smiles, and some sad parts that made me feel for the characters.
Stars: Four, a great fun read, perfect to take on holiday or to lose yourself for a few hours.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Romance
well, if you're looking for a light and happy holiday read this fits the bill. As always the celebrity aspect caught my eye – I do love the drama that comes in celebrity stories.It was pretty muted here though, Tom is very understated as a singer/songwriter, not a fame chaser but one of those guys who loves the music and songs, and who fame found him, he didn't seek it.
He's just finished a grueling tour and is at his managers home, in a typical quiet English village. I really liked Tom, felt for him as a child, he'd had it tough and as always what happens to us does shape us. He sees manager Sam, happily settled, with his family around him and can't help but feel he'd love that. Its just him though, the only family who ever cared for him, his lovely Nan, has died recently and he feels her loss keenly.
Along comes Eleanor, Celeb journalist who's career has hit a bad patch. Actually its been an eight year patch, this isn't what she envisaged, seeking stories out of dross and other peoples unhappiness. It was supposed to be a stepping stone to more but..,.and now even that's gone so she's home, helping her mum, licking her wounds and realising just what a bad friend she's been to her two long time besties.
You can see that Tom plus Eleanor at some point is going to explode but it did in a way I really didn't expect, and that was fun. I like to be caught out, like plots to take an unusual, unseen line.
Its got some great characters, and I'm off to seek out book one where it all started. It made for a fun read, not deep dark drama but some lighthearted smiles, and some sad parts that made me feel for the characters.
Stars: Four, a great fun read, perfect to take on holiday or to lose yourself for a few hours.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
May 22, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the Publisher, Aria for this review copy which was given in exchange for an honest review. Also thank you to Melanie from Aria for organising the Blog Tour.
Eleanor McCartney is a journalist for a trashy gossip magazine, exposing the secrets of famous celebrities. It’s not really what she wants to do, but she’s hoping that she will get the upcoming promotion which would mean that she won’t have to go looking for celebrity gossip. Unfortunately, the worst happens and she heads back home to her mum and friends who live in the quiet village of Cranley.
Tommy King is a rock sensation who has just finished his worldwide tour. After injuring his ankle, he decides to hide from the paparazzi in his manager, Sam’s (and the future Earl of Cranley) stately home, Willow Tree Hall. Sam is due to be married to Eleanor’s best friend, Annie and when Eleanor finds out that Tommy King is staying in the village she thinks this is her chance to get her job and glamourous lifestyle back with a celebrity scoop. After getting to know Tommy and discovering that she actually likes being back in Cranley, Eleanor begins to have doubts whether she could betray her friends trust.
This is part of the Willow Tree Hall series, but it can be read as a standalone novel. This is my first book by this author, but when I found it was part of a series I marked the first book A House to Mend a Broken Heart to read as I really enjoyed this one!
This was lovely! – a story of love, family, friendship and priorities! All of the characters are lovely and all gel together really well. I have to admit I didn’t really like Eleanor’s character at the beginning. She seemed quite conceited and stuck up, and I did cringe a little at the suggestion that she was embarrassed about her mum’s “untidy” house. As the book moves you, you realise that this isn’t the real Eleanor and I’m so glad that my opinions on her changed as I really wanted to like her!
The plot of the book is quite simple (as in most books of this genre) and to be honest you know how it’s going to end up! I loved the chemistry between Tom and Eleanor and their relationship as ‘friends’ was quite amusing! They definitely bought out the best of each other. It is certainly a story of ‘rediscovery’ with many of the characters working out who they should have become a long time ago and becoming better people for it!
It was a fun and easy read with a moral undertone which I thoroughly enjoyed! It also has the added advantage for animal lovers being jam packed full of pets of all shapes and sizes! Absolutely perfect for a light summer read and I would definitely recommend this one!
Eleanor McCartney is a journalist for a trashy gossip magazine, exposing the secrets of famous celebrities. It’s not really what she wants to do, but she’s hoping that she will get the upcoming promotion which would mean that she won’t have to go looking for celebrity gossip. Unfortunately, the worst happens and she heads back home to her mum and friends who live in the quiet village of Cranley.
Tommy King is a rock sensation who has just finished his worldwide tour. After injuring his ankle, he decides to hide from the paparazzi in his manager, Sam’s (and the future Earl of Cranley) stately home, Willow Tree Hall. Sam is due to be married to Eleanor’s best friend, Annie and when Eleanor finds out that Tommy King is staying in the village she thinks this is her chance to get her job and glamourous lifestyle back with a celebrity scoop. After getting to know Tommy and discovering that she actually likes being back in Cranley, Eleanor begins to have doubts whether she could betray her friends trust.
This is part of the Willow Tree Hall series, but it can be read as a standalone novel. This is my first book by this author, but when I found it was part of a series I marked the first book A House to Mend a Broken Heart to read as I really enjoyed this one!
This was lovely! – a story of love, family, friendship and priorities! All of the characters are lovely and all gel together really well. I have to admit I didn’t really like Eleanor’s character at the beginning. She seemed quite conceited and stuck up, and I did cringe a little at the suggestion that she was embarrassed about her mum’s “untidy” house. As the book moves you, you realise that this isn’t the real Eleanor and I’m so glad that my opinions on her changed as I really wanted to like her!
The plot of the book is quite simple (as in most books of this genre) and to be honest you know how it’s going to end up! I loved the chemistry between Tom and Eleanor and their relationship as ‘friends’ was quite amusing! They definitely bought out the best of each other. It is certainly a story of ‘rediscovery’ with many of the characters working out who they should have become a long time ago and becoming better people for it!
It was a fun and easy read with a moral undertone which I thoroughly enjoyed! It also has the added advantage for animal lovers being jam packed full of pets of all shapes and sizes! Absolutely perfect for a light summer read and I would definitely recommend this one!
May 25, 2018
Escaping to the Country seems to be everybody's dream nowadays but Eleanor had the perfect country life and longed for the bright city lights of London. After a few years, she doesn't recognise who she is. Tom is living the dream but he still he's lonely. Serendipity decides to give them another chance and when Eleanor loses her job and Tom has an accident they both end up in the country and have a chance to start again.
Eleanor is a likeable, flawed character; appearance is everything to her because its the only thing she can control but her health is suffering, and she needs to recapture her former friendships and values to recuperate. Looking for someone to love the real man is all Tom wants; it's all he's ever wanted and losing his Gran makes him evaluate his current choices of companions and lifestyle. Eleanor and Tom's encounters are stormy, but gradually circumstances make them value the other, but both have secrets, and Eleanor's could ruin their romance.
There are many humorous scenes in this story and some questionable choices and values, but the message is clear, be true to yourself and don't live a lie. The country setting is idyllic, and Sam and Annie and Rose and Arthur who provide an oasis for Eleanor and Tom are lovely characters, vividly described and realistic.
Dylan is a star and makes this a must read for any dog lovers.
The second book in the Willow Tree Hall series, this reads well as a standalone story. It's a lovely breath of fresh air with conflict, humour and romance making an ideal summertime read.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Eleanor is a likeable, flawed character; appearance is everything to her because its the only thing she can control but her health is suffering, and she needs to recapture her former friendships and values to recuperate. Looking for someone to love the real man is all Tom wants; it's all he's ever wanted and losing his Gran makes him evaluate his current choices of companions and lifestyle. Eleanor and Tom's encounters are stormy, but gradually circumstances make them value the other, but both have secrets, and Eleanor's could ruin their romance.
There are many humorous scenes in this story and some questionable choices and values, but the message is clear, be true to yourself and don't live a lie. The country setting is idyllic, and Sam and Annie and Rose and Arthur who provide an oasis for Eleanor and Tom are lovely characters, vividly described and realistic.
Dylan is a star and makes this a must read for any dog lovers.
The second book in the Willow Tree Hall series, this reads well as a standalone story. It's a lovely breath of fresh air with conflict, humour and romance making an ideal summertime read.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 9, 2018
Note: I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this novel from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed in the review are my own and are in no way influenced by the author nor the publisher. A major thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this opportunity.
I’ll admit it. I absolutely fell in love with Willow Tree Hall… and of course all the characters that live there. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like the book at first but to my surprise it was actually really enjoyable to read. I love my fluffy romance novels and this certainly ticks those boxes.
I really enjoyed the beginning of Tom and Eleanor’s relationship and that it wasn’t just “instalove”. Later on of course they became really cute and honestly just good for each other. Of course however, there were moments when you just wanted to smack the characters upside the head and go “are you serious?!?”, but that’s only natural. Unfortunately humans make mistakes and the characters in this book are certainly human.
Congratulations to the author on this book! I really enjoyed it and will definitely be reading Annie and Sam’s story (even though this is technically a sequel to that)
Update: I jjust finished reading the first book in the series (A House to Mend a Broken Heart) AND OH MY GOOD LORD I LOVED IT! There is reportedly a new one coming this year and I am so so excited.
I’ll admit it. I absolutely fell in love with Willow Tree Hall… and of course all the characters that live there. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like the book at first but to my surprise it was actually really enjoyable to read. I love my fluffy romance novels and this certainly ticks those boxes.
I really enjoyed the beginning of Tom and Eleanor’s relationship and that it wasn’t just “instalove”. Later on of course they became really cute and honestly just good for each other. Of course however, there were moments when you just wanted to smack the characters upside the head and go “are you serious?!?”, but that’s only natural. Unfortunately humans make mistakes and the characters in this book are certainly human.
Congratulations to the author on this book! I really enjoyed it and will definitely be reading Annie and Sam’s story (even though this is technically a sequel to that)
Update: I jjust finished reading the first book in the series (A House to Mend a Broken Heart) AND OH MY GOOD LORD I LOVED IT! There is reportedly a new one coming this year and I am so so excited.
February 9, 2020
I have liked both books Iv read from this series so far, there was one time where I thought I was reading the first book but it turns out it was the same few paragraphs
Alex stepped away and scrutinised Mick. ‘Whoever said you could pull off matching leather trousers and a jacket was obviously blind.’ ‘It works well with the ladies,’ said Mick, with a twinkle in his eye. That was an understatement, thought Tom, who knew of Mick’s reputation. He might have been tall and gangly, but his youthful blue eyes held a permanent glint, that he used to the best effect with the many ladies that he had wooed over the years, including his three ex-wives. With his long, dark hair, he had all the hallmarks of a classic rock star, albeit one now enjoying middle age. ‘Mind you,’ carried on Alex. ‘I suppose all that squeaking disguises the sound of your arthritic hips. You know, one day I will get you lot out of that leather.’ Mick laughed. ‘Ha! You wish, darling. I’m way out of your league.’ Alex hung back with Tom as they all began to head indoors.
This was pretty much word for word in both books with a couple of changes but not much. Besides that I have enjoyed the books a lot and about to start the next one
X
Alex stepped away and scrutinised Mick. ‘Whoever said you could pull off matching leather trousers and a jacket was obviously blind.’ ‘It works well with the ladies,’ said Mick, with a twinkle in his eye. That was an understatement, thought Tom, who knew of Mick’s reputation. He might have been tall and gangly, but his youthful blue eyes held a permanent glint, that he used to the best effect with the many ladies that he had wooed over the years, including his three ex-wives. With his long, dark hair, he had all the hallmarks of a classic rock star, albeit one now enjoying middle age. ‘Mind you,’ carried on Alex. ‘I suppose all that squeaking disguises the sound of your arthritic hips. You know, one day I will get you lot out of that leather.’ Mick laughed. ‘Ha! You wish, darling. I’m way out of your league.’ Alex hung back with Tom as they all began to head indoors.
This was pretty much word for word in both books with a couple of changes but not much. Besides that I have enjoyed the books a lot and about to start the next one
X
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2018
4 stars. A wonderful book to escape with. Escape to the Country is the second book in the Welcome to Willow Tree Hall series and will not disappoint. In this book we get to know Annie’s best friend Eleanor who returns to the village after being made redundant at her London job. We also meet Sam’s superstar client Tommy King whilst he escapes his hectic life and enjoys a break at Willow Tree Hall. Sparks fly between the two but will Eleanor’s secret past destroy what could be a lovely new relationship?
This is a delightful series and I cannot wait for the next story (possibly Annie’s wedding??). If I can pick at anything it would be that I found Tommy to be slightly whiney for the first half of the story (we get it- you don’t let people in and you miss your gran etc). But I think there was good character development in the end not only for him, but also for Eleanor and Megan. I liked the addition of a character suffering eczema too. I suffer this myself on occasion and can totally relate to her stress itching! It was nice to see a character with a real life flaw.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this lovely book.
This is a delightful series and I cannot wait for the next story (possibly Annie’s wedding??). If I can pick at anything it would be that I found Tommy to be slightly whiney for the first half of the story (we get it- you don’t let people in and you miss your gran etc). But I think there was good character development in the end not only for him, but also for Eleanor and Megan. I liked the addition of a character suffering eczema too. I suffer this myself on occasion and can totally relate to her stress itching! It was nice to see a character with a real life flaw.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this lovely book.
October 27, 2018
3.5 stars
Another sweet entry into the Willow Tree Hall series!
I loved getting the chance to see what Annie, Sam, and all our favorite characters have been up to while getting to know Eleanor and Tom.
Eleanor is at a crossroads in her life, having returned home after losing her job. I admit, I wasn't sure I would like her much at first. However, as the story progressed, I found her to be a realistic character and easier to empathize with than I originally thought.
Tom is one of the music artists Sam manages and has come to Willow Tree Hall to spend time working on his new album. I liked getting glimpses into his song writing and wish I could have seen more of his songs.
Tom is vastly different than what Eleanor expects when she hears he's staying at the house, and it's fun to watch the two of them get to know each other better.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Another sweet entry into the Willow Tree Hall series!
I loved getting the chance to see what Annie, Sam, and all our favorite characters have been up to while getting to know Eleanor and Tom.
Eleanor is at a crossroads in her life, having returned home after losing her job. I admit, I wasn't sure I would like her much at first. However, as the story progressed, I found her to be a realistic character and easier to empathize with than I originally thought.
Tom is one of the music artists Sam manages and has come to Willow Tree Hall to spend time working on his new album. I liked getting glimpses into his song writing and wish I could have seen more of his songs.
Tom is vastly different than what Eleanor expects when she hears he's staying at the house, and it's fun to watch the two of them get to know each other better.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for an honest review.
May 2, 2018
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed two earlier books by this author, I was excited to read her latest. Did it disappoint? No, although personally I would have preferred more of the humour that ran through the previous books. Having said that, Escape to the Country is a delightful slice of escapism with an entertaining cast of characters. Yes, the chances of bumping into a semi-reclusive rock star at a friend's stately home might be remote, but this story is all about romance, rebuilding lives after some hard knocks and the power of friendship. I haven't yet read its predecessor A House to Mend a Broken Heart, (and it's not essential, as this book reads as a standalone), but I fully intend to. A charming and engaging tale, perfect for a relaxing summer's day.
October 25, 2018
Sweet, well rounded and thoroughly enjoyable
This is a sweet tale about Eleanor McCartney and what happens to her when she revisits her home town (or hamlet). She’s got a couple of lovely friends, her mum’s fab and she’s a regular visitor to her friend Annie’s fiancé’s stately home.
Said fiancé is in the music business and gives shelter to world famous pop star Tommy King and his alter-ego Tom Kingsley the joiner.
And Eleanor and Tom meet; Eleanor hangs out with her friends Megan and Annie; stuff happens...
It’s a gentle, undemanding but well written and engaging story full of great characters (more Rose and Alex anyone?) and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I’m pleased to hear book 3 in the series is out at Christmas. And now I’m off to read the first installation too.
This is a sweet tale about Eleanor McCartney and what happens to her when she revisits her home town (or hamlet). She’s got a couple of lovely friends, her mum’s fab and she’s a regular visitor to her friend Annie’s fiancé’s stately home.
Said fiancé is in the music business and gives shelter to world famous pop star Tommy King and his alter-ego Tom Kingsley the joiner.
And Eleanor and Tom meet; Eleanor hangs out with her friends Megan and Annie; stuff happens...
It’s a gentle, undemanding but well written and engaging story full of great characters (more Rose and Alex anyone?) and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I’m pleased to hear book 3 in the series is out at Christmas. And now I’m off to read the first installation too.
April 24, 2018
What will Eleanor do to revive her career? She's back home licking her wounds after being fired and ditched by her rotten boyfriend. SO, when Tom, a mega star, turns up, also recovering from some importune behavior, you know these two are going to meet. Will Eleanor sell him out? Hmmm. Willow Tree Hall is a lovely place, largely because Eleanor's friend Annie is there, as is Sam, her fiancé. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a lovely light read about two people who are putting themselves back together.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews