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Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin

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When George Sibley dies, his only son, Eric, has no idea that his inheritance will come with conditions. Now, if Eric is to ever get his hands on his father’s treasured Aston Martin, he must somehow juggle his hectic career and family life in the city, with regular visits to the small riverside town of Burlam. Life for Eric quickly becomes a chaotic kaleidoscope of grumpy pensioners, wellington boots and vintage auto-mobiles, fraught with heavy machinery mishaps, missed deadlines and drug raids, the result of which leave his marriage, job and sanity hanging in the balance.

Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin is a light-hearted and humorous tale of a man who reluctantly goes digging amongst the weeds in order to discover his roots.

249 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 4, 2018

1290 people are currently reading
1012 people want to read

About the author

Hannah M. Lynn

50 books931 followers
Hannah Lynn is a multi award winning novelist. Publishing her first book, Amendments – a dark, dystopian speculative fiction novel, in 2015. Her second book, The Afterlife of Walter Augustus – a contemporary fiction novel with a supernatural twist – went on to win the 2018 Kindle Storyteller Award and the Independent Publishers Gold Medal for Best Adult Ebook.

Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.

With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.

Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
Profile Image for John Martin.
Author 25 books185 followers
December 16, 2019
I once owned a silver Aston Martin. Since my last name is Martin, I counted it as one of the family.
I think you can forgive me for that fantasy when you find out I was only four or five at the time and the Aston Martin was actually a matchbox car.
I hope you can also commiserate with me because I lost that Aston Martin in a sandpit somewhere. The hurt of this wasn't lessened years later when a motoring writer I worked with told me that if I still had that matchbox car — in its original box and in mint condition — I could now sell it for a large sum of money. Oh, the foolishness of youth! Why didn't I just sit on the side of the sandpit and watch the other kids fritter their nest-eggs away?

I digress. I dabble in writing funny novels myself, so I do like to see how others do it.

I am delighted to say Hannah M. Lynn does it rather well indeed. it's a nicely constructed story and she is expert in fleshing out characters and pulling readers into scenes to make them feel they are really in the room or on the allotment.

This is a very English novel, and Americans might struggle with some of the concepts. I'm an Australian, but I grew up with an English parent and I've also lived over there — so I had no difficulty with it.

I've grown a greater tolerance for peas and carrots over the years. There was a time in my life peas seemed only good for sticking up my nose (I've grown out of the habit) and carrots made excellent snouts for snowmen.

But I've never diverged in my search for the Aston Martin I lost.

This book gives me hope there is a happy ending somewhere out there.
Profile Image for Justine from Novels and Panda.
536 reviews236 followers
November 3, 2018
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All views and opinions are my own and don’t necessarily reflect the author, the author’s work, the publisher, nor any other group of people, nor receive any monetary compensation for doing this review.

Peas, Carrots, and an Aston Martin was completely refreshing! It deals with balancing life among as a father, son, husband, work, family, and friends. And at it a humorously funny one.

When Eric Sibley’s father George Sibley passed, he thought that a couple of fortune will be his and his family to spend on grand vacation and such, even her daughter has plans for it. Unfortunately, it took on a whole new direction. During the instead of a grandeur peak of his life, he was left with an allotment to maintain the possession of his father’s Aston Martin.

From Hannah Lynn’s earlier work of a haunting tale of Walter Augustus in the afterlife comes a charming and funny tale of a man, Eric Sibley going through adjustments of unmade plans.

He thought that his father was the worst person ever, with the will he left, he thinks that he will never let his old man win. Erice, contended as he is with the demands, will he competed against it? End up rediscovering a new life for him and his family? Or still, struggle against it and lose his Aston Martin.

With such more heartfelt quirky characters, I find myself enjoying and growing more interested with each chapter. Eric Sibley, an arrogant man he is, I find him very annoying, as time came through reading. His development was highly commendable. His struggles were shown with such nuance whether in his workplace, at home, and at the allotment. His wife, supporting and always scheming. I love the chemistry between them. his daughter, an artistic and frank child. Whom I adore greatly! Supporting characters as well, Uncle Norman and his wife. They are one grumpy and funny lot.

And the funny events unfolding through, it was highly enjoyable. I love how light it can get and how profound each scene would take you. In an event in work, dealing with co-workers, giving advice or simply conversing to pass by. Dining with family, going hardware shopping, planting greens, to the very littlest one was enjoyed, heartbroken by and, was entertaining to me.

I recommend it highly if you’re looking for a quick funny and heartfelt read. Enjoy your afternoon with a copy of Peas, Carrots, and an Aston Martin by Hannah Lynn.
Profile Image for ♏ Gina☽.
901 reviews167 followers
March 8, 2019
Poor Eric Sibley! Just when his perfect life couldn't be more perfect, life throws him a curve ball.

Eric is a workaholic, has a great job, a beautiful large home, and a wife and family he adores (when he's not at work). His extremely wealthy and estranged father dies, and Eric enters a dream world where he revels in the luxury of wondering where he'll spend all those millions.

Eric's workaholic dad, who didn't have much time for his son while he was gathering wealth, lands one more punch to Eric's face when the will is read.

Much to Eric's dismay - well actually, he is rightly pissed off to the max - there are terms he must adhere to before he sees any of that wealth. Eric finds himself knee deep in muddy gardens that are ruining his designer shoes, dealing with grumpy old people who don't understand he's in a hurry, and a myriad of other pains in his butt that he must wade through in order to get the beloved vintage Aston Martin he wants so badly.

Told with a sense of humor, you will root for poor (rich) Eric who needs a reminder that the most precious things in life cannot be bought with money. This is book one of the series.
Profile Image for Nikki (Saturday Nite Reader).
476 reviews111 followers
October 23, 2018
Author Hannah M. Lynn effortlessly creates likeable characters that you will want to check in on from time to time. Her latest, Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin, was a darling story that I read mostly in one day.

Eric’s wealthy, estranged father passes away and the only thing he leaves his only son behind is his prized Aston Martin. Eric is flabbergasted, but is thankful that the car is at least his. Well, its not that easy: Eric soon finds out that his ownership of the car is bound by strict conditions that will set his life in a tailspin. Does Eric risk losing the only thing his father has left him or does he get wrapped up in a world that he desperately avoided? Or both?!

The story was charming, humorous and makes you feel all warm and cozy inside. If you are looking for a feel good read to lighten your mood, I highly recommend you dive into this book.

Being set in the UK, I was able to pick up a few new terms I hadn’t heard before, one being:

al·lot·ment noun (British) a plot of land rented by an individual for growing vegetables or flowers

I am no green thumb, so if the term allotment is used in the US, I would have had no clue. Either way, I had to look it up when I started reading. 😉

I’ve had the pleasure of reading Hannah M. Lynn’s award winning novel The Afterlife of Walter Augustus. If you enjoy Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin as much as I did, I recommend you check out Walter Augustus too.

I received an ebook from the author in exchange for my honest review.

To read my reviews visit: www.saturdaynitereader.com
Profile Image for TheBookTuner.
30 reviews22 followers
March 31, 2019
Eric Sibley is a wealthy father with a great job and a lovely family. When his father George Sibley passes away, Eric dreams of all the things which he would get from his father's inheritance, especially his dad's vintage Aston Martin . But his father had different plans. He didn't want his son to leave behind his family and friends in pursuit of other things.
Since the Aston Martin owned by his father had some strict conditions, Eric has to maintain his father's allotments on weekly basis. Though he doesn't know how he will manage between his job, weekly gardening visit and family, he resents to it because he feels the Aston Martin is rightfully his. His life goes through twists and turns. This is a story of self realisation and awakening.

Written by award winning author Hannah Lynn , 'Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin' is a humourous book yet with a heart warming story.
The character development was done in a great way which keeps you hooked to the book.
Though the book has a slow start, you will end up loving the whole story. It is a light read and i'll read the next book in this series ASAP.
Profile Image for Coffee-crafts&books.
112 reviews25 followers
December 23, 2018
first book in the series i have read by this author and im so glad that i got this opportunity to read it i loved this book from start to finish loved every detail in this book love the cover will definetely read more by this author
Profile Image for Sarah.
2,952 reviews222 followers
March 2, 2019
This sounded like such a fun read when I came across it and having read it, I can honestly say it was.

Eric could be any of us. There was so much that I could relate to with him, with juggling work and family life with quality time spent with family keeping on getting pushed further down the line. This is a story that will really make you re-evaluate your life.

To be honest, with not being green fingered, allotments are something that doesn’t interest me at all. There are a great set of characters though that are down there that make for some fun and heartfelt reading. Especially Norman and Cynthia. A lot of the action takes place there and in parts had me chuckling so much.

Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin really is a story that could change your life. It makes you realise what really is important in life but in a light hearted way. This was such a fun and entertaining read and so glad to see it is part of a series as I definitely want to read more. An endearing read that will put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart.
Profile Image for Em Yarnell.
208 reviews5 followers
September 16, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this. I loved the characters and the eclectic mix of personalities. The story flows really well and the entire concept had me simultaneously laughing, cringing and crying. It's a brilliant mash up of people and places. It only took me a couple of days to read it, I found I was picking it up to read it whenever I had a spare minute.
Profile Image for Kath Middleton.
Author 23 books158 followers
September 8, 2018
4.5 stars.
Eric’s father dies and leaves him a legacy that he considers a liability. He has to maintain an allotment, miles away, and do it weekly. Then he gets to keep his father’s Aston Martin. No money, though. That’s been left elsewhere. The book takes us, via Eric’s job, his wife Suzy and young daughter Abi, to his fumbling start on the allotment. It’s a book that oozes charm, though Eric is not a particularly pleasant person at the beginning. He believes his father did not care for him and is disgruntled and resentful through the earlier parts of the book. I really enjoyed the way he takes on the task – and the outcome of that. It was convincing and heart-warming. A great story.
Profile Image for Laura.
256 reviews
March 25, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and had to stop reading it in the company of others as I kept laughing out far too loud!! The story has a real feel-good factor about it but is also thought provoking as Eric learns about what really matters in his life.

A great start to the Peas and Carrots trilogy, and I am looking forward to books 2 & 3.

Thank you to TBC Reviewer Request Group for the ARC.
Profile Image for Genna.
907 reviews5 followers
September 6, 2018
Full disclosure: I was sent an advance digital copy of this by the author.

This was lovely! Not my usual sort of thing, honestly, but I nevertheless sincerely enjoyed it. The character transformation was believable (which is difficult to achieve) and the whole thing made me want to find time to go putter in my own garden.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews132 followers
Want to read
March 4, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/4/2019)! 🎁

Blurb:
Eric Sibley has it all; great job, big house, beautiful family. Even when his estranged father dies, Eric can’t help but dream about the luxuries he’ll spend his inheritance on. Unfortunately, Eric’s late father, had other ideas.

Life quickly becomes a chaotic kaleidoscope of grumpy pensioners, wellington boots and vintage automobiles as Eric is forced to juggle his hectic career and family life in London, with regular visits to the small riverside town of Burlam.

Plagued by heavy machinery mishaps, missed deadlines and drug raids, it’s not long before his job, his marriage and his sanity are hanging in the balance. Will he get his hands on his father’s treasured Aston Martin before he loses all three?
Profile Image for Barbara.
2 reviews
April 27, 2019
Funny and poignant

Funny and poignant read - well written and the first book of a promising series. I recommend this book and look forward to reading more of the author’s works.
3 reviews
September 13, 2018
H.M Lynn is a master storyteller. She always draws me in from the first page with vividly drawn, wonderful characters and interesting storylines. Peas, Carrots and an Aston Martin is no exception. What felt different about this book from her others that I've read, is how damn relatable elements of the story were. It had me chuckling away at the character's journey while also nodding profusely at parts! I loved it - highly recommend!
Profile Image for David Morris.
4 reviews
October 3, 2018
Unlike Lynn's previous (very worthwhile) works of fantasy, this book is firmly grounded in the realm of realistic fiction. As a result it is instantly relatable for anyone aged over 25, though is written in such an easily accessible manner that anyone could read and enjoy this story.

As a hardcore fan of the fantasy genre, I must admit to having some trepidation about reading a story that could easily be a believable true story told by a family member or friend, as I read to escape and forget about the real world.

I am delighted to report that the character development, humour and style of writing were instantly engaging, and the book was such an easy read that I found myself eating up the pages to find out what would happen to Eric (and family) as he goes through this heartwarming, occasionally sad, but consistently amusing story of self reflection and realisation following the death of his father (and the subsequent conditions his father's will stipulates in order to receive the titular Aston Martin).

Whilst the story is fairly predictable from the outset, and will not leave you shocked or surprised at the outcome, the delivery and setting are so familiar that you cannot help but nod along, shake your head a few times and giggle in certain places as you subconsciously place yourself in Eric's shoes. Events in the story develop and conclude at an appropriate pace that ensures the reader is never bored, and the length of the book is neither too long to run dry, nor too short to leave you unfulfilled. This book would be a perfect for a holiday read, or journeys on a coach, plane or train. I definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Grace J Reviewerlady.
2,135 reviews105 followers
October 18, 2018
Great story, plenty of laughs and a lot to learn about life .. loved it!

When Eric Selby's father dies he fully expects, as his only son, to inherit the family house, his deceased mother's jewellery and his father's prized Aston Martin. What he didn't expect was to find that the car came with conditions ...

I love the description of this novel as 'a coming-of-age story for the mid-life crisis generation'. Perfectly apt! This is a bright, fun-filled story of a man who works hard to provide for his wife and daughter; climbing the career ladder is his main focus. Pastimes and hobbies don't really feature in his life as he is in his office early and doesn't leave til late. Suddenly he has to find time for something else too - and he's none too pleased about that!

There are so many opportunities to laugh in this one, balanced out by the obvious strain Eric is put under by trying to please everyone. It's certainly a book to make the reader ponder on where they are in their own life. One scene in particular had me howling with laughter (you'll know it when you get there!), and having read the author's previous novel I was delighted that this one is equally as captivating. I'm excited to see this is first in series, can hardly wait for the next one! Well-plotted, skilfully written and entertainment at it's finest.
Profile Image for Misfits farm.
2,087 reviews86 followers
October 9, 2018
Peas, carrots and an Aston Martin- Hannah Lynn (for Author) 26th Oct
Eric has recently lost his remaining parent, his father. There was little love lost between them and Eric is already planning what he will do with his expected inheritance. His father lived in a eight hundred thousand pound home and Eric, his wife and even his seven year old daughter have made plans. On visiting the solicitor in order to sign the papers for the inheritance, Eric is horrified to learn that not only has he only inherited his father’s Aston Martin but that it come with the proviso that he has to look after his allotment. The terms are that this means weekly visit otherwise ownership of the DB4 will be rescinded. Hannah has done it again. A wonderful story with larger than life characters that you take to, feel for and then find yourself smiling at several times along the way. Poor Eric- you feel sorry for him but early on realise that he is missing something in his life, spending most of his time running around after work at it’s beck and call trying to climb his way up the ladder in order to make a better life for his family. A life that he is not enjoying himself. A read with a smile, a read with a message. A highly enjoyable read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Profile Image for Krystyna.
5,134 reviews55 followers
January 10, 2019
Getting to know his father

Awesome. The plot was really a journey where Eric learnt that there is more to life then money and promotions. Wonderful characters from Eric who feels let down by his father and has no clue about gardening to the irascible Norman who replaced his father and made him see life differently.
When he finds out that his father left his house and contents to the church and a vintage car (Sally) plus his allotment to him he is fuming. How can he spend one day a week at the allotment when he lives and works miles away. Watch as he views the allotment for the first time. The overgrown wilderness is a shambles and his efforts to use equipment lead him to not only losing his deposit on the hires but also getting injured. Plus his work life is in turmoil. There is another company taking over and things will inevitably change. Plus Norman (his allotment next door neighbour) is going out of his way to make difficulties from his pranks to trying to take the allotment off him. How will all this change his life and his family's life?
433 reviews12 followers
September 16, 2018
A really charming story that had me chuckling but also had a clear message to send. I won't be rushing to an allotment any time soon as my hopelessness in the garden is legendary but this story certainly made me look around a little more and have a little self-assessment of my own priorities!
I loved some of the characters within this book, they were so deliciously lovely, quirky and believable, even when at their most absurd. The warmth of the relationship between Eric and his wife felt completely real and the fact that she loved him is what made him seem redeemable when he still had much to learn. A lovely book!
Profile Image for Peter Thomson.
Author 6 books5 followers
September 18, 2018
My star rating for this book is 3.5
An intriguing concept of the very human condition of a man’s pursuit for luxury and status through possessions to the point of allowing his life – and that of his family – to be controlled from beyond the grave in order to attain them.
This is a light-hearted read consisting of a series of vignettes in the main character’s workplace, home and an acquired allotment where he interplays with a disparate group of characters that promise more humour and situations than the book actually delivers. For me there was something missing and I do believe this would work better as a screenplay than a novel, thus allowing the actors to fill out the characters whom I found underdeveloped – quite a shame as I was sad for the author since she has created a work with a huge potential, that just fell short for me.
There is an abundance of humour in the story that is mostly delivered in narrative metaphors and one-liners that would have greater effect coming from the characters out of their dialogue and situations.
The cover is eye catching and appealing and the star of the show is a DB4 Aston Martin.
10 reviews
December 27, 2018
Hilarious and heartwarming!!

I loved this from beginning to end! I laughed out loud all of the way through it. I won't give anything away except I think the author is now one of my favorites! Love her writing style. Love the characters. Love the story. I couldn't put it down. This is part one of three. As soon as I was finished with this one, I had to find the next one immediately to continue the adventure. Finished that one in two sittings with the same satisfaction I had with the first - except the ending shocked me. I didn't see it coming. That said, part three will be out in January 2019 and I will be waiting impatiently for it to be out. Highly recommend!!!
Profile Image for Stephanie Augustine.
Author 1 book27 followers
Read
December 24, 2018
**I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review

See full review here: https://booksintheskye.wordpress.com/...

Overall, Peas, Carrots, and Aston Martin by Hannah Lynn was a great contemporary novel. This is definitely the type of book I would want to read on that chilly day when I want to curl up with a feel good novel. There is a lot of emotion behind the words and deep meaning with every action. With a predictable outcome, the characters really drive this book to being something amazing. Hannah did it again with producing amazing characters to compliment her storytelling. I highly recommend this book for those who are looking for a contemporary novel with a great personal growth story.
Profile Image for Cassandra MADEUP BookBlog.
458 reviews9 followers
September 19, 2018
I really enjoyed this! A fun, light hearted read that I read quickly.

This is a relatively short story, so perfect for a holiday read or a couple of days off.

The cover is beautiful and instantly pulled me in, add in the blerb. It sounded promising! After the first few pages, i was glued.

The plot is believable and the reactions logical, Initially I half felt sorry for and half wanted to kick the main character, but he fast became a new favourite.

His transformation is brilliantly done and easily believable in the situation he is given, and I laughed my way through the story.

So many funny moments, the prose is witty and bouncy, and I can’t wait to read more from the Author! This has certainly brightened my month!

Don’t be put off by the short length, It’s fast paced, fun, and tone of my favourite books of 2018. If you need cheering up, or just fancy a bit of a relaxing read that will make you laugh, snicker and wince all together, pick this up!
Profile Image for Sue.
213 reviews4 followers
September 27, 2018
I am really not sure what to think about this book, it is definitely about greed and life lessons that need to be learnt but it was not the humorous book I thought it would be given the title, not for me at least! On the other hand I enjoyed the journey and was pleased to find the lessons were learnt along the way. I enjoyed it enough to want to read the next book in the series when it comes out, not too long to wait I hope. I really do want to know what the feather boa is all about!
Profile Image for Louise.
587 reviews
October 8, 2018
This book is lovely, as I would expect from the author of Walter Augustus.
When Eric's father dies, his inheritance is not quite what he was expecting. Forced to prove that he is not married to his job in order to keep his pride and joy, Eric'slice is changed dramatically by the effects of his legacy.

I'm not going to say that this book surprised me but it was lovely, great characters, a strong message and Dutch coriander!
131 reviews
November 4, 2018
Very British

If you enjoy BBC productions you’re going to enjoy this book. It was a good read with lessons on coming to terms with what’s important in life. Family relationships, lost opportunities, discovering what’s important in life. It does have a sequel but can function as a stand alone. If you can get past some of the British jargon and enjoy British drama you’ll enjoy this book.
Profile Image for Judith Mosconi.
472 reviews6 followers
May 9, 2019
Eric's father dies leaving him an overgrown allotment plot and his treasured Aston Martin with the caveat that he must tend the plot for 2 years or lose the car. Eric has always loved that car, but he is a hard-working father of one and barely has time for his family let alone tending an overgrown garden an hour away. The story is told with wit and charm and though you just know how it must end, it is a romp to the finish. Read this book and prepare to chuckle.
Profile Image for Emma.
591 reviews12 followers
October 6, 2018
This was a delight! Such good fun with a warm sincere message at the heart. Look up and around and life’s bounty will be bestowed .

Fabulous characterisation with a authentic romance between Husband and Wife that is not twee but just sweet enough !!

Yes a definite winner. Will enjoy “digging in “ to this again and any more visits that follow!!
Profile Image for Jean Holtof.
426 reviews4 followers
January 4, 2019
An entertaining read, light weight but engaging with witty dialogue and very colourful, distinctive characters. I enjoyed the easy to read style of writing and the plot and sub plots. Very amusing with all the best intentions of Eric to take shortcuts! Thoroughly enjoyable, and I look forward to reading more of Hannah Lynn's writing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews

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