Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill

Little Cottage #3

by Emma Davies

The climb up the hill takes her past sweet-smelling pink roses in full bloom and leads her to an utterly breathtaking view. Megan is happy to be home at last, but will her relationship have survived the journey?

It has been a difficult few years for thirty-year-old Megan Forrester, completing her apprenticeship and trying to maintain a long-distance relationship with her gorgeous boyfriend, Liam.

She’s returned home to compete in a local craft competition. The prize is the chance to design beautiful new gates for the estate at the bottom of the hill, a job which could secure her future in the village forever.

As the contest gets underway, Megan is devastated when a rival design turns out to be almost identical to hers. Someone in the close-knit community must have leaked her sketches, but who? Is it the same person spreading heartbreaking rumours about Liam?

Down to the last few left in the competition, Megan throws her heart and soul into a show-stopping final piece… but will winning even matter when the truth about Liam is finally revealed?

Do you adore feel-good stories that leave you with a smile on your face? This heart-warming romance is a perfect escape for readers who flew through novels by Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson.

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

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2018

About the author

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

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

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

Wave to her on twitter @Emdavies68

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

Reviews

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Feel Good Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Loved returning to the little cottage on the hill! This is such a fun lighthearted series filled with amazing characters... not to mention a beautiful setting, that I would absolutely love to visit one day!

I was really hoping for Trixie to get her HEA in this book... but what I got instead was a lot of fun... Trixie and Clara are starring in a documentary about Joy’s Acre focusing on their contributions of gardening and cooking.... I really love these ladies and the friendship that they have... i’d really love to see these gardens and taste this food....

Megan is the latest visitor to Joy’s Acre... she has come home to see Liam as well as participate in a blacksmith competition... The competition is to create entry gates, I have never given any thought to gate design or blacksmithing before... truly had no idea so much went into it, you learn something new every day! There also was an element of mystery and suspense to this part of the story that was a lovely addition to the book...

This might be my favorite book in the series so far, but I’m still waiting for Trixie to fall in love! A fun heartwarming escape of a read.... this book left me with a smile on my face and a desire to visit... cannot wait for the next book in the series!

Absolutely recommend if you like friendship, romance, a splash of mystery, fabulous food, beautiful gardens, blacksmithing competitions, or just a good book!

*** thank you so much to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series. It's a whole community of friends running a wonderful complex where they are opening beautiful holiday lets and want a community for crafts people. I love the whole friendship and romance themes running through and the feeling that we could sit down and chat to everyone or walk through the grounds and see all the gardens.

There is a blacksmith competition going on and I'd love to watch that going on. I can't wait to see if we return to Joy's acre again!

[Nila (digitalcreativepages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Davies is one author whose books make me fall and gooey inside. Her books are a comfort when things get tough. Her writing makes me feel warm as if I am meeting a long lost friend.

This book too had main character Megan feeling betrayed when a rival design in a blacksmith competition turns out to be similar to hers. Things are not what it seems to be in the so called close and loving community. Someone is leaking her designs and spreading rumors about her boyfriend Liam.

I love the way author Emma Davies develops her characters, they are all living and sweet but they do come with a bite. Megan too is not the one to take it lying down. I love her spirit and her friendship with Clara.

The book made me happy and left me smiling, it accepted me into its folds on the day I was feeling rejected. Since it made me smile, I didn't care about the niggles. Joy's Acre Farm was a real joy to read and it left me with a desire of wanting more.

[Finitha Jose · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the 'Little Cottage' series and the first one I have read. It is standalone and like me, you can start with the last story since the numerous references to the character's back stories will help you get along fabulously. I do have a problem with the cover blurb though. From the abstract, you will get the impression that this is Megan's story, but half of the book revolves around Clara, the cottage's gardener. Megan does have a voice in the beginning, but soon enough Clara takes over that part of the narration too.

One of the major reasons I chose this book is because it features a female blacksmith. I have never seen women in this profession and was surely rooting for Megan throughout the competition. Having no background knowledge of the cottage and its amazing hosts, I was a bit peeved at Clara at the beginning for taking the major chunk of the story . . . but not for long.

Clara is a beautiful character, both inside and out. She is patient and caring which obviously creates a minor disadvantage as with all good-natured people. But the lucky girl has a steadfast protector in Maddie and a great friendship with Trixie. The problems between Clara and Trixie makes it all the more realistic. That shouting scene in the kitchen which shows that Clara can't be bullied is by far my favourite scene. As I have often witnessed and experienced, any problem with our close friends can be solved with a heart to heart talk even if it involves some shrieking and yelling and calling names (No need to panic, Clara didn't rely on the last one). And I haven't forgotten Declan who was an added bonus. But I will wait for you to find out more about him from the book itself.

All in all, this is a delightful read with delicately balanced plot lines that will take you to the beauty and sunshine of the countryside and also to a heart throbbing competition where talents are revealed and unmade.

[Nicola Clough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to this book and to follow on with the story and certainly didn't let me down at all so heartwarming, uplifting and romantic. You can certainly escape away in this perfect summer read and made you feel good well worth five stars.
Megan decides to return home to compete in a local craft competition but it's been a difficult few years for her as she's been away completing her apprenticeship while trying to maintain a long term relationship with Liam. When she at the competition she learns she can win the chance to design new gates for the estate at the bottom of the hill. This could secure her future so she really wants to win. She designs wonderful gates incase she wins but she learns someone ease who is her rival designs some identical gates she she knows someone has leaked her design but can they find out who. Will she be disqualified from the competition or will she save herself and find out who is leaking her designs. She puts everything into this and will winning matter when she learns the truth about Liam is finally revealed.
A great read and such an easy read worth more than five stars.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure what I can say about this that I haven't already said about the first two books in this series. It was a such a joy to back at Joy Acres with Maddie, Seth, Tom, Clara and Trixie it felt as though i was returned home.

For despite what the blurb says to me Clara is the main character of this book, of the main people that are at Joy Acre, it is her turn to find romance, and to go on a journey of self discovery. I am not sure how much thought I had given to her before this book, other than in a supporting role, but I now feel as though I know her a whole lot better.

The story takes in her friendship with Trixie and how it all changes when a TV producer comes to town and wants to make the pair of them stars of a cooking and gardening show.

So who is the Megan that the blurb focuses on you may ask? Well she is staying at Joy Acre farm and taking part in the blacksmithing contest held up the the big manor house owned by Agatha who featured in the first book of the series.

Some chapter did focus on Megan and I found the blacksmithing contest interesting as its a skill I have never really thought about until this book and the finale to her storyline was incredibly gripping. I just didn't feel as connected to her.

It was fabulous to catch up with old friends and this book could easily be read as a standalone. It was lovely to see a bit more of Agatha and my feelings towards her have softened with how she is in this book. I really enjoyed reading this book, given how familiar the setting and characters are now it made the pages zoom past until I ran out!

This is another great addition to the series and I am eagerly awaiting the next book which I hope will give Trixie a love interest!

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

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don't have to look for it. Love will find you when the time is right.

After reading the previous part a few months ago, I could hardly wait for the rest of the story. I was so happy when I finally could put it on my Kindle.

What I like about reading a series is that you get to know more about some characters you have met before. It feels like they have become friends, but it also means that new people are introduced who have an impact on them. If one of those newcomers is responsible for the future happiness of one of those friends, it makes it even better. Of course, friends would not be friends if they did not stand by each other even if they do not always see eye to eye.

Although I did enjoy part 2, I liked this one even more. I love the little suspense that was added.
Now there is only one person left to be matched with 'the one'. I hope that this is what the author will treat us to in part 4.

Once again a feel good story that is fluently written and kept me under its spell the whole way through.

Thank you, Emma Davies, Bookouture and Netgalley

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy's Acre is coming together with another cottage nearly complete when Megan comes to stay to take part in the blacksmiths championship at the Manor. Not all goes well with the competition though as her odious rival Julian is keen to put her down at ever opportunity........ but what lengths will he go to to actually win? Meanwhile a film crew arrive at Joy's Acre to make a documentary with Clara and Trixie but will it be plain sailing or will Clara be more interested in Declan than the filming!

Great to be back with the crew for another story and with some new characters to add to the mix. I love this series and hope there will be more to follow

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this series about the changes at Joy’s Acre, and the changes made since we first met the people here and the changes to property and people since the beginning. And that is the joy in this series while there are new characters to meet, the continuing storylines mesh current changes to the staff / family at Joy’s Acre with the new arrival and the overriding determination to make everyone feel the magic that is contained there.

What’s joyous about Davies’ writing is the fact that each story takes readers on a journey: new characters are introduced to the main six (Aunt Agatha, Seth, Maddie, Tom, Clara and Trixie), and their impact on the original characters (excepting Aunt Agatha) as they repeatedly find reaffirmation in the magic that is Joy’s Acre, and their connections in the family they have come to create.

Here we have the opportunity to welcome Aunt Agatha into the fold, rather than a naysayer and a person to be ‘managed” as her time with the very gentle presence of Clara allows her to see how closed off and removed she’s been from both Seth, the property of Joy’s Acre, the village and life – isolating herself with memories and prickles. We have Clara with her unusual (for her) attraction to the television producer Declan, and her own conflicted feelings with the television show that is the latest change to fall on their little space. Trixie’s excitement and eagerness to participate, combined with some serious admiration (and solid takes) from Declan lead her into a place she’s not sure she wants. Fearful of the changes that could come to Joy’s Acre, she’s also aware of the monetary windfall that could arise, allowing the money to finish the last cottages and the barn – money that is always tight.

Lastly there is Megan, staying in the Gardener’s cottage during the weeks long Blacksmithing competition. A local girl who has recently finished her training, and hopes to make her mark (and possibly win a National Trust commission for gates to one of their properties) she’s also got questions and worries. Not only worries about the competition, but of her long-term boyfriend. It’s expected (by many) that she and Liam will marry, and he’d inherited his grandmother’s house –but he didn’t invite her to stay – and she’s sure he’s gone off her. When you add in some undermining at the competition, the chaos created by the film crew at Joy’s Acre, the constant babysitting needed by Seth at Agatha’s manor where the competition is taking place, and short tempers from overwork, the upheaval of routines and a fear for Clara after she was caught out in the rainstorm helping to tarp the roof that Tom was rethatching – everyone’s emotions are on edge, and the changes Clara feared are seemingly around the corner.

It’s difficult to review a book that draws you in – asking that you become a part of Joy’s Acre and watch the story unfold. These are characters that you want to know, to spend time with and Joy’s Acre is a delightful setting: opening everyone to possibilities and hope for something more: perhaps not in monetary gains – but in happiness. Take a trip to this little village and curl up with all three books – it will be the best investment of your time in ages.

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

[Jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this lovely Autumnal read! I haven't read this author before, but this will not be my last trip to the Little Cottage on the Hill. The storyline and characters gave a wonderful example of comradery, community, and reminders of what is really important in life. I look forward to my next trip to visit Seth, Maddie, Clara, and Trixie.

[Sheerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5

[Shirley Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personal Conflicts

Too much personal conflicts & strife. Not as much about the estate beauty & history, but enough to keep me going.

[RoloPoloBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill by Emma Davies
Book #3: Little Cottage Series
Source: NetGalley
My Rating: 5/5 stars

Joy’s Acre is practically booming with two cottages open and ready for guests and the employees are more than excited to share their little slice of Heaven with anyone willing to make a reservation. While the group certainly hope their guests will come from far and wide, it isn’t everyday they get a local girl booked in for a visit.

Megan Forrester is thrilled to be almost completely back home. Though she grew up in the area and has a long-term boyfriend, she doesn’t really have a place to live while she participates in the upcoming blacksmith competition. Joy’s Acre is really the perfect choice for Megan as it is within spitting distance of the competition site, has full service at every level, and gives her easy access to her boyfriend during her downtime. Megan is hoping the generally cheerful atmosphere of Joy’s Acre will calm her nerves as she embarks on the most important event of her life. If Megan can win the blacksmith competition, the prize money would allow her to move home permanently and open her own workshop. What’s more, the win would firmly establish her as legitimate blacksmith.

In other news . . . .

As the blacksmith competition heats up, things at Joy’s Acre aren’t exactly as smooth and happy as they normally are. As their reputation grows, Joy’s Acre is presented with opportunities they never thought possible. One of those opportunities involves a film crew, a ton of planning, one very excited Trixie, and one very reluctant Clara. The opportunity is an amazing one for Joy’s Acre, but as plans progress the new project begins to tear apart the once solid team of employees. What’s more, the team from Joy’s Acre has been pulled into the organizing, serving, and generally lending a helping hand at the blacksmith competition. With the new opportunity, the extra work brought on by the competition, general stress, and a significant issue with Megan, Joy’s Acre is anything but joyful!

The Bottom Line: As much as I liked the first two books in this series, that like pales in comparison to how much I absolutely loved this book! I dove into this one and didn’t come up for air until the end. As with the second book, I found myself most interested in the women in this read, Megan and Clara. I like how unusual Megan is in her profession and how genuinely kind and caring Clara is. Though the storylines certainly overlap, Megan and Clara are very different people and I really felt like I was getting two stories for the price of one. Mind you, those very different women interact wonderfully, and their stories combine seamlessly to create a rather fine read. I found I was quite happy with the overall tone of this book; there is a great deal of tension, loads of bickering, and moments when you just aren’t sure it will all work out in the end. I LOVED THIS!! Life isn’t all cupcakes and unicorns, and though Joy’s Acre is very much meant to be a retreat, a haven for many, it is populated with real people living in the real world and that is certainly on display here. I found myself quite satisfied with every aspect of this book and can’t wait to dive into book four, Christmas at the Little Cottage on the Hill.

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

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

'Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill' is book number three in the 'Little Cottage' series, and to be perfectly honest with you all, I don't think I will ever get bored with this series. Selfishly, I wish it would continue as there is just something uber special about all of the characters in this series. This time round however, newcomer, Megan, is the star of the show as she attempts to fulfil her lifelong dream whilst also being faced with a very green competitor. To others, winning the competition would be a lovely thing, but to Megan, winning the competition will set her up for the rest of her life - especially as it will enable her to halt her long distance relationship by turning it into a regular distance one.

Megan may be the star of the show, but as ever, Clara and the rest of the gang make their presence known in a way that made my toes curl with warmth. Don't get me wrong, this book is filled with drama, shattered relationships, newfound irregular heartbeats, and copious amounts of calorific treats, yet all of that makes 'Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill', my most favourite book of the series so far.

It became clear to me early on in the book that the author had written this book from her heart. I mean, you can't just google emotions like the ones conveyed in this book and expect them to come across relatable if you don't truly believe in them. Emma Davies clearly did and that meant that I was also able to believe in the heartache, the raw emotion, the loving relationships as well. Having read the series from the very first book, my opinion of Agatha wasn't very positive. In fact I'd go as far to say that it was highly negative. However, without giving too much away, I will hold my hands up and say that my opinion has completely changed. Funny how things change, isn't it?

This might sound daft, but it made a nice change to see relationships at Joy's Acre turn upside down a little bit. Obviously I don't wish sadness upon anyone, but I couldn't quite help feeling as though the relationships between Maddie, Trixie and co, were too good to be true. Perhaps that's even jealously on my part having never had such a close-knit bond like that before. Either way, the fact that several of the characters ended up being at loggerheads made their bond a lot more realistic and very relatable.

Like I said above, 'Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill' is my most favourite book of the series. I felt the warmth from the authors words. I felt the hugs being transferred between the words. But, most importantly, I felt the peace fall down over Joy's Acre. None of that would have been possible if Emma Davies hadn't believed in her characters, her storyline, or her words.

Full of warmth, love and a constant bought of hunger, 'Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill' is beautifully written, compassionate, and a book that can hug you from the inside out. Perfection.

[Helen Shirley · Rating 3 out of 5]

N.B. I want to give this 2.5 stars, not 3, but obviously, that's not an option. In my opinion, it doesn't deserve three, so I'm quite disappointed with this episode.

There was very little about Seth and Maddie again, who I felt really only appeared as background characters, particularly Maddie. And yet they were the mainstay from the beginning and who we'd really fallen in love with. There was nothing about their continued relationship either, and we were never told what Maddie was doing at all. She didn't seem to do anything apart from having a little dialogue here and there!

When Trixie and Clara fell out, it was implied that this was shocking as they were supposedly best friends?? Maddie had only been at Joy's Acre for six months, and therefore, Trixie was even less, and Trixie was only there because of Maddie, not Clara, so that seemed incorrect plot.

Tom had quite a leading role in book two with his storyline with Isobel, but she was mentioned I think twice in this one, and Tom was just a fill-in character in this. It seemed to be that Isobel was living with Tom in this book, but that's not how the last one really finished, so that wasn't right either.

This book was really two separate stories in one; the blacksmith competition at Summersmeade Hall and the filming for tv at Joy's Acre. The cross-over was supposed to be Megan, I'm guessing, as she was in the competition whilst supposedly staying at Joy's Acre. The blurb talks about Megan returning home after so much time and there's one sentence about why she's staying at Joy's Acre not at home but apart from her boyfriend and a disgruntled competitor she grew up with where is there any storyline about her returning home?? And other than mentioning Megan around a handful of mealtimes, there was no real story of her at the farm either. Her interactions with the Joy's Acre characters were all at the blacksmith competition, not at the farm, so that didn't connect. And why were the Joy's Acre characters suddenly so involved at the Hall, and in this long-running competition, it just didn't feel believable.

The other main storyline therefore was the TV series filming, and this was just unbelievable as it went from nothing to full-on, back to nothing, in the blink of an eye! Other than pages of Clara complaining, Trixie being excited, Seth talking behind closed doors about what we'll never know and Maddie occasionally appearing to be stressed!! I could also see no real purpose to the Fiona character other than so it could be the impetus to Trixie falling out with the rest of them.

Why I'd liked the first book in the series so very much was that its story was 'nice' and heart-warming, with love and depth between the characters, but that just wasn't there in this one. Also, I praised the proof and the lack of bad language in the first one, but the editing was not great, and there was a lot of bad language in this third book.

Overall, the whole book felt disjointed and so not in keeping with the previous two. I won't be buying the fourth in the series.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picking up a book in this series is a little like coming home. Well, for me Shropshire is home, so there is that, but the characters are so familiar and the feeling you get from reading is one so warm and cosy that it is like being with close friends. The fact that you're allowed into their inner circle, even as a voyeur of sorts, makes it all the more special. Each book has detailed the story of one or more of the characters, let you know that little bit more about each of them, and this time around it is Clara we get to spend more time with, and what a wonderful time it is too.

It is time for the local Blacksmith's competition, and one of the guests at Joy's Acre is a former local woman, determined to make her mark in a male dominated field. Now, having come from a Logistics background, there is something faintly familiar for me in that tale, but that's an entirely different story. It did mean that I was able to identify with Megan quite quickly, although thankfully have never faced the level of prejudice that she finds from certain factors around the competition. Add in the personal confusion she is feeling over her long distance relationship with Liam, an unhealthy dose of cheating and sabotage and hers seems and almost impossible dream. But then she didn't count of the magic of Joy's Acre where nothing is impossible.

It's not all plain sailing over at the cottage though. A film crew wants to make a documentary series around the garden and kitchens of Joy's Acre with Clara and Trixie as the stars. Trixie is delighted, Clara less so. But this could be the making of Joy's Acre, allowing them to finish the renovations which are so needed and Clara has a knack for putting others before herself. There may be one small plus for her though as Producer Declan seems to have his eye on more than just the perfect TV show.

I love the characters that Emma Davies has created throughout this series. Each of them is unique and in some cases, like Trixie, quite quirky, but together they make a formidable whole. It is the kind of friendship circle you would love to be apart of. People who just understand each other and would do anything to help. Clara is an especially wonderful character and I loved getting to know her more, her strength and her vulnerabilities. There were times when I wished she would speak up more but she is just so giving and the story was so true to her character that it made the time just fly by.

Megan is another great character. Strong and resilient, she is still full of self doubt too, but supported by the folk of Joy's Acre she has all that she needs to succeed. There are some lovely and romantic moments in the story, both for Megan and Clara, as well as those times of misunderstanding where all could so easily be lost. We even see another side to Seth's Grandmother-In-Law Agatha too, a surprising one that shows every one has a story.

Emma Davies achieves the perfect balance between things being too easy or being so hard that the obstacles cannot be overcome. But most of all she creates and absorbing story full of engaging and wonderful characters that takes you away from the everyday. I'm lucky enough to have the Shropshire Hills practically on my doorstep and I can say that she has captured the tranquility of the setting perfectly. I only wish Joy's Acre was real - I'd be highly tempted to book myself in for a secluded break away. Might have to step away from Trixie's cakes though. It would take more than a simple walk/jog/run up a hill to counteract all that much sugary goodness.

By the way - where's that cook book?

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please see all of my reviews on my blog at www.robinlovesreading.blogspot.com.

In the first two books of the series, we read of how Joy's Acre Farm is growing and how wonderful couples have found love. Here we have Megan Forrester's story. She is a young blacksmith and is visiting the farm in order to compete in a local craft competition. She is taking a risk, because, in so doing, she has to live in a long-distance relationship with her boyfriend Liam. But she can't think of Liam right now, or even the competition. What her initial focus is the sheer fact that she is pretty much starting over.

She couldn't have picked a better place, however. As Megan will soon learn, Joy's Acre is a place of strong friends and a powerful connection. Meanwhile, there is a film crew at the farm producing a documentary. The purpose of the documentary is to show how rural businesses are impacting the small community. This could be a real boon to Joy's Acre. Or it could cause great headaches.

Some of the people we happily remember from previous stories are Clara, Tom, Maddie, Seth and Trixie. They are a fine team that are working together to make Joy's Acre a resounding success, a place where individuals and families alike can take respite. One of the new people on scene is Declan, the head of the production company, and he and Clara take an interest in each other. The problem is timing. How will the two make a go of it? What of Megan and Liam? Will their long-distance relationship survive, especially when the competition that Megan is involved in becomes wrought with problems?

This is the third book that I have read of Emma Davies and each one keeps getting better and better. There is so much warmth and connectivity that it makes me want to spend some time at Joy's Acre. I love the characters, the ongoing storylines and the angst that occurs in the story. There was even a shake-up with a couple of friendships in this book, bringing an extra sense of realism. Yet another reason to enjoy this story.

For an engaging read that brings real warmth, then definitely pick up this book. There is one final book in the series that I am looking forward to, but I know that I will be sad to see it draw to a close. These are books that I'd love to have as paperbacks so I can easily grab them off of the shelf and re-read them.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a pleasure to return to Joy’s Acre and find out what they’re all getting up to – one thing’s for sure, life there is never dull . . .

As we catch up with Sean, Maddie, Clara, Tom and Trixie we meet the latest guests to arrive in the two completed cottages. With work continuing and autumn closing in, there is so much going on! One of the cottage occupants, Megan, is a local who is there to compete in a craft competition and soon finds herself with plenty of support. But is there something underhand going on?

Emma Davies’ writing is glorious; smooth flowing, intertwining several storylines and growing her characters with each book. Everyone has their own thing going on, and work is as busy as ever but it’s only a matter of time until something upsets the rhythm of life. How will they deal with that? Will their harmony be lost forever? This group work well as a team and always look out for each other, but how can they overcome the latest problems thrown in their path, and will their easy friendships ever resume?

This author writes so well, it’s such a pleasure to have her novels on my reading list. The characters really do come alive on the page and this series always leaves me with fabulous images of the area it is set in as it moves through the season with plenty of food for thought whilst answering all the questions arising, leaving Joy’s Acre ripe for another instalment. Can’t wait! A special mention has to go to the wonderful covers for this series .. I can feel them drawing me in. A well-earned five stars from me.

My thanks to publisher Bookouture for my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

 This is the first book I have read by Emma Davies and I can confirm that she will be an author I look out for in the future, I realise that I am rather late to the party because this is the third in The Little Cottage Series, but if the other books are anything like this little gem I will be catching up soon.

It was the stunning cover which attracted my attention, the beautiful chocolate box cottage with it's glorious thatched roof and the garden overflowing with pretty flowers. When I saw that it was a 'feel good' novel I just couldn't wait to see what there was in store.

The main characters are Maddie, Seth, Trixie, Tom, and Clara the crew who make the magic happen at Joy's Acre. They are all incredibly warm and good-hearted souls. I just wish the holiday cottages were real because I would love to stay there, walk around the garden and sample Trixie's delicious home cooking.

We are introduced to Megan who returns home to Shropshire to take part in a craft competition. She has worked tirelessly for her blacksmith apprenticeship, possibly to the detriment of her relationship with boyfriend, Liam. Meanwhile, a television series is being filmed at Joy's Acre and the arrival of the handsome Declan turns one of the girl's heads!

This was an easy read but the characters, location and storyline make it a book which is hard to put down. Emma Davies writing flows beautifully and she knows just how to put the right amount of secrets and suspense into the story. I can't wait to visit the cottages and residents of Joy Acres again.

[Kathryn Laceby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes

I read this novel a little while ago so am writing my review without the benefit of it being freshly on my mind- not recommended as the details are a bit fuzzy. However, sometimes it actually just helps you to remember how you felt about the story overall rather than being picky about little things.

For starters I remember being fascinated by the blacksmith trade and the running of the big house more than the characters and their inter-minglings. This is likely due to the fact that this is book three of the same series and I may have missed some of the details of the people running the house.
I remember thinking that I needed to seek out the first two books to really get into the series. It can certainly stand alone but I did feel that I was missing a certain level of feeling for them.

The personalities are all warm and lovely though and I was rooting for them all to succeed in their various pursuits. I felt a bit lacklustre about the romances, but truly that's ok with me as the friendships and the depth of the ventures kept me entertained.

The were a number of storylines to keep me entertained and I felt very much engrossed with the plot and hopeful for all those involved. I also found myself very visually aware of the setting which I always appreciated! Definitely interested in the other novels in the series.


Thank you to Bookouture for our review copy. All opinions are our own.

[Jennifer Ritter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Return to the Little Cottage on the Hill is the third book in Emma Davies’ Little Cottage on the Hill series. It is late summer/early fall. Two of the cottages are completed and new visitors are arriving. In one Cottage is a young family that is there to rest and regroup. The story sees little of them.

In the other cottage is local girl Megan Forrester who has returned to her hometown to participate in a local blacksmithing competition, the only woman in the field of competitors. As such, she is accepted, even encouraged, by most except for Julian Bamford, who also apprenticed with her father. Julian does all he can to unnerve Megan and to subvert her efforts.

While the Joy’s Acre crew is instrumental in running the competition at neighboring Summersmeade Hall, they are also in a precarious position as documentary producer Declan Connolly approaches them to participate in a direct garden to table show which would showcase Clara’s garden and Trixie’s cuisine.

Between the two simultaneous occurrences there are hardships amongst the folks of Joy’s Acre, but there is also burgeoning romance and surprising turns of events.

As with the first two novels, this is a well plotted tale with rich characters and lush landscapes. The personal stories are complex and heartwarming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as I have all in this series.

[Jeanne Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Bookouture for my unbiased opinion of the book. This is the third book for the Little Cottage on the Hill series. Its a story about local girl Maddie coming home to compete in a large blacksmithing competition, where she is the only women among men. She is also deciding if she and her current boyfriend Liam can make it work now is the same place at the same time. She's clearly the most talented blacksmith there but there is a male rival who tries to undermine her and belittle her. She is the bigger person throughout the competition and learns to stand up for what is right. What I love in the story is the one between the original characters this time focusing on Clara and Trixie. How Joy's Acre is getting popular and now there is a possible cooking garden show in the works featuring them both! When the workload shifts unevenly around to pick up the slack to feature each of them in this new tv show the sparks start to fly between Trixie and Clara. Even stranger is that Agatha over at Summersmeade Hall is being nice to all of them as well as giving Clara a grand tour! Clara may have an admirer to boot! I couldn't put it down and can't wait for the next book in the series!!! Emma keep up the great work!!!

[Shelleen Toland · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been a difficult few years for thirty-year-old Megan Forrester, completing her apprenticeship and trying to maintain a long-distance relationship with her gorgeous boyfriend, Liam.

She’s returned home to compete in a local craft competition. The prize is the chance to design beautiful new gates for the estate at the bottom of the hill, a job which could secure her future in the village forever.

As the contest gets underway, Megan is devastated when a rival design turns out to be almost identical to hers. Someone in the close-knit community must have leaked her sketches, but who? Is it the same person spreading heartbreaking rumors about Liam?

There is quite a few different characters all taking care of a Joy's Acre Farm and all the changes to make it successful and now a TV production company wants to come in and friendships are put on the line. I really like everyone and how they stick up for each other and have each other back.

I received this from NetGalley for an honest review.

[Shelley Williams]

Read on kindle.

I did like the other books before this one in the series and read them quite quickly but I am sorry to say that this one took me ages to read. I've picked it up three times over the years and it just hasn't grabbed my attention like the others and had put it back down again but I was determined to finish it this time.

I do like this series and do love the characters and will be sad to read the last book in the series.

I felt it was long winded in places and felt there was too much detail but other readers may be ok with that.

I felt the chapters were too long, I prefer shorter but more chapters, that's what keeps me turning the pages and wanting more.

To me this wasn't a page turner but that won't be stopping me reading more books by Emma Davies. In fact I do have a few of Emma's books on my kindle waiting to be read and if I remember rightly Emma Davies was the first author that caught my eye when I first got my kindle back in 2016

I need to read the fourth in the series, the Christmas one but I will leave that for next year now.

[Janette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and really enjoyed Emma Davies' previous books so was looking forward to reading this one and I wasn't disappointed. A lovely heartwarming and uplifting story of relationships, friendships, with some drama but all wrapped up in a big hug. I think this is my favourite book in the series so far. A story with gardening, tasty treats and I found out about the craft of blacksmithing too.

I have read the previous books in this series and it was great to catch up with some well loved characters and meet some brand new ones too. Whilst this could be read as a standalone, I would recommend this to be read as part of the series- all are fantastic reads.

A lovely easy read with well written characters which made this hard to put down, fantastic. Perfect for a cosy Sunday afternoon on the sofa. I can't wait for the next installment.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher foir the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Misfits farm · Rating 4 out of 5]

We return to the little cottage on the hill with Megan, Seth, Trixie, Liam, Maddie and Clara . A tv crew, a blacksmithing competition, paying guests and a house and garden as well as food to prepare daily. What could possibly go wrong? A story of life with its ups and downs, of friendships which also have their moments and of bonds that hold the world together. A book that takes you into the heart of things from the word go. This is the second in the series and to know the characters and background it is best having read the first one. Why miss out on another wonderful read? As with the first book this is an uplifting read to make you smile along the way. A wonderful easy, holiday read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I do love this author’s books and I was delighted to see that she had a new book being released and I jumped at the chance to get my hands on a copy!

I loved this story, it is heart-warming, uplifting and left me with a smile on my face. It was a book I was able to dip in and out of over a couple of days and it was a fantastic way for me to pass a few hours. The writing style was elegant and it flowed so well.

I loved the characters and going back and catching up with people from the previous books was lovely, this is a great addition to the series!

5 stars from me – I adored this book and it has the most gorgeous cover too! Very highly recommended – treat yourself to a copy today!!

[MetLineReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet tale weaving all the familiar characters with that of blacksmith Megan - a local girl who’s come back to take part in a prestigious competition

Cue the usual mishaps and misunderstandings combined with a flavour of friendship and building something special. It all combines into a lovely summery read that warms the heart

Whilst this could be read as a standalone, it’s probably best to read as part of the series so that you get the full insight into the back stories of Seth, Mandie, Cara, Trixie and Tom.

A really lovely tale 4.5* which also provided a good insight into the skills of blacksmiths

[AnitaFrancis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Return to the little cottage on the hill

I found this to be a little long winded and nearly put it down because of it but I kept going because I had read the other cottage on the hill beforehand..one thing I was quiet disappointed in was the lack of romance between Seth and Maddie..I know they weren't the focus but not even a kiss between them and Tom and Isobel's romance was mentioned briefly put the dampener for me but it all ended well with Clara and Declan getting together.

[Pippa · Rating 3 out of 5]

In my review of the second book in this series I commented that I felt their publication had been rushed and sadly my criticism of book #3 is for precisely the same reason as book #2. I would have given this 4 stars but the overuse of “grin” (87 times in this episode of life at Joy’s Acre) significantly lessened my enjoyment. I will definitely read book #4 at some point but I need a break from all that grinning.