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The Winter That Made Us
When Tess finds herself unexpectedly alone and back in Ribblemill, the childhood village she thought she’d escaped, she’s sure she can survive a temporary stay. She’s spent a lifetime making the best of things, hasn’t she?
Determined to throw herself into village life, Tess starts a choir and gathers a team of volunteers to restore the walled garden at Ramblings, the local stately home. Everything could be perfect, if she weren’t sharing a cottage and a cat with a man whose manner is more prickly than the nettles she’s removing…
As winter approaches, Tess finds herself putting down her own roots as fast as she’s pulling them up in the garden. But the ghosts of the past hover close by, and Tess must face them if she’s to discover whether home is where her heart has been all along.
Determined to throw herself into village life, Tess starts a choir and gathers a team of volunteers to restore the walled garden at Ramblings, the local stately home. Everything could be perfect, if she weren’t sharing a cottage and a cat with a man whose manner is more prickly than the nettles she’s removing…
As winter approaches, Tess finds herself putting down her own roots as fast as she’s pulling them up in the garden. But the ghosts of the past hover close by, and Tess must face them if she’s to discover whether home is where her heart has been all along.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 24, 2018
Cobwebs! Gardens! Choirs!
This was a beautiful and emotional story about coming home! Nothing beats A book set in a charming small village.... absolutely love the vibe of these small villages, with these adorable named cottages, and in this book the cottage is named Cobweb Cottage.... Love that! Makes me want to name my house....
Tess has returned home to her childhood village... Tess was a very the glass is always half full kind of person.... after returning home she throws herself into multiple charitable projects... starting a village choir and helping restore a garden.... but is all of this to distract her from dealing with some deep dark secrets? Tess’s housemate Noah appears to be her polar opposite... he is a standoffish, brooding, prickly man.... but the more tests and Noah get to know each other the more they realize they have in common.... Will they be able to reveal their secrets to one another and heal their pasts?
Beautifully told this book really pulled at my heartstrings.... this book got quite a bit darker towards the end, but that added such an incredible layer of emotion to the Book... and as secrets were revealed and Noah and Tess got to know each other better, I found them more and more endearing.... this is a book that warms your heart and leaves you feeling giddy! An absolute must read for fans of small town romances filled with lovable characters and lots of secrets💕
*** many thanks to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
This was a beautiful and emotional story about coming home! Nothing beats A book set in a charming small village.... absolutely love the vibe of these small villages, with these adorable named cottages, and in this book the cottage is named Cobweb Cottage.... Love that! Makes me want to name my house....
Tess has returned home to her childhood village... Tess was a very the glass is always half full kind of person.... after returning home she throws herself into multiple charitable projects... starting a village choir and helping restore a garden.... but is all of this to distract her from dealing with some deep dark secrets? Tess’s housemate Noah appears to be her polar opposite... he is a standoffish, brooding, prickly man.... but the more tests and Noah get to know each other the more they realize they have in common.... Will they be able to reveal their secrets to one another and heal their pasts?
Beautifully told this book really pulled at my heartstrings.... this book got quite a bit darker towards the end, but that added such an incredible layer of emotion to the Book... and as secrets were revealed and Noah and Tess got to know each other better, I found them more and more endearing.... this is a book that warms your heart and leaves you feeling giddy! An absolute must read for fans of small town romances filled with lovable characters and lots of secrets💕
*** many thanks to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
January 18, 2019
This was a refreshing experience.
It started out as a homecoming of the carefully constructed Tess Bailey, the 'successful' London Lawyer, and ended up with Esther Green of Ribblemill village. In between the two persona loomed a mysterious grave, a delusional Disney princess - the ultimate fantasist, and Noah Thornton, the tattooed gardener with his own secrets and his huffing and puffing motorbike. The motorbike behaved better than Tess's canary-yellow VW Beetle with the flowers painted on the roof.
Cobweb Cottage. Flowers galore. Madrigal singing. A cat called Morag and two lost souls who almost did not make it any further than the year Tess planned as a Sabbatical. Problem was, that year turned out crabby with knobs on, as Mel, one of her new dear friends in Ribblemill would have exclaimed.
That's the only clues you will get out of me.
For once I enjoyed reading a chick lit romance. It turned out to be multilayered and realistic. It does fit into the red martini, high heels, red lips genre, but was so tastefully written, that it did not bother me too much. Simple elegance of thought and execution.
So, yes. Good. A heartwarming novel with goodness of place, people, love, splattered all over the English Country Garden charm of bucolic England. Chicken-soup-for-the-soul it is!
It started out as a homecoming of the carefully constructed Tess Bailey, the 'successful' London Lawyer, and ended up with Esther Green of Ribblemill village. In between the two persona loomed a mysterious grave, a delusional Disney princess - the ultimate fantasist, and Noah Thornton, the tattooed gardener with his own secrets and his huffing and puffing motorbike. The motorbike behaved better than Tess's canary-yellow VW Beetle with the flowers painted on the roof.
Cobweb Cottage. Flowers galore. Madrigal singing. A cat called Morag and two lost souls who almost did not make it any further than the year Tess planned as a Sabbatical. Problem was, that year turned out crabby with knobs on, as Mel, one of her new dear friends in Ribblemill would have exclaimed.
That's the only clues you will get out of me.
For once I enjoyed reading a chick lit romance. It turned out to be multilayered and realistic. It does fit into the red martini, high heels, red lips genre, but was so tastefully written, that it did not bother me too much. Simple elegance of thought and execution.
So, yes. Good. A heartwarming novel with goodness of place, people, love, splattered all over the English Country Garden charm of bucolic England. Chicken-soup-for-the-soul it is!
October 2, 2018
5☆ Highly recommend this Captivating Book
The Winter That Made Us is a poignant and Heartwarming read I couldn't put down.
The Cover for this book is simply beautiful.
Tess's hubby is off to live in Dubai, and she decides to move back home for a while.
When she comes across the quaint Cobweb Cottage she knows this is the place she wants to live. But what she doesn't bargain on is house sharing with the moody yet sexy Noah.
Noah also wants the Cottage, so they decide to share together, setting ground rules along the way!
I loved Tess & Noah's relationship, she tries so hard to crack his barriers down, but Noah isn't about to divulge his deepest secrets to just anyone!
Can Tess and Noah ever let their guard down together?
The Winter That Made Us is a poignant, Emotional and Heartwarming read, with memorable characters, a fantastic plot, and some secrets, drama, and lil dash of humour.
Definitely highly recommend this Charming book
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
The Winter That Made Us is a poignant and Heartwarming read I couldn't put down.
The Cover for this book is simply beautiful.
Tess's hubby is off to live in Dubai, and she decides to move back home for a while.
When she comes across the quaint Cobweb Cottage she knows this is the place she wants to live. But what she doesn't bargain on is house sharing with the moody yet sexy Noah.
Noah also wants the Cottage, so they decide to share together, setting ground rules along the way!
I loved Tess & Noah's relationship, she tries so hard to crack his barriers down, but Noah isn't about to divulge his deepest secrets to just anyone!
Can Tess and Noah ever let their guard down together?
The Winter That Made Us is a poignant, Emotional and Heartwarming read, with memorable characters, a fantastic plot, and some secrets, drama, and lil dash of humour.
Definitely highly recommend this Charming book
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
September 20, 2018
An emotional story of two lost souls who are struggling with issues from their pasts, THE WINTER THAT MADE US by Kate Field, is sure to make you well up while keeping your eyes firmly hooked on the page.
When Tess finds herself taking a sabbatical from work, she returns to her childhood village of Ribblemill which holds so many memories. Wanting to have some independence she rents a cottage which she will share with housemate Noah, a quiet man who prefers solitude and silence. While Tess throws herself into many community projects, Noah prefers his own company but as they begin to get to know each other, it isn't long before they recognise a sort of lost kindred spirit connection between them. But both Tess and Noah are hiding secrets and powerful feelings from their pasts which are holding them back in so many ways. Can they find a way to trust each other and themselves to find some warmth in the Winter that surrounds them?
This story was so much more than what I expected. There is a beautiful village, and a tight-knit community which is always enjoyable in stories like these. The characters are engaging and intriguing and make you want to read more, but there is more to them than just likability. These characters have been through some serious things and as a reader, I really felt for them, I really cared for them and wanted them to find their happiness. This is the hallmark of a wonderful author when you find yourself completely swept up in the emotion of the story.
THE WINTER THAT MADE US by Kate Field is an incredible story about life, friendship, and the importance of leaning on those around you, and I highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser
When Tess finds herself taking a sabbatical from work, she returns to her childhood village of Ribblemill which holds so many memories. Wanting to have some independence she rents a cottage which she will share with housemate Noah, a quiet man who prefers solitude and silence. While Tess throws herself into many community projects, Noah prefers his own company but as they begin to get to know each other, it isn't long before they recognise a sort of lost kindred spirit connection between them. But both Tess and Noah are hiding secrets and powerful feelings from their pasts which are holding them back in so many ways. Can they find a way to trust each other and themselves to find some warmth in the Winter that surrounds them?
This story was so much more than what I expected. There is a beautiful village, and a tight-knit community which is always enjoyable in stories like these. The characters are engaging and intriguing and make you want to read more, but there is more to them than just likability. These characters have been through some serious things and as a reader, I really felt for them, I really cared for them and wanted them to find their happiness. This is the hallmark of a wonderful author when you find yourself completely swept up in the emotion of the story.
THE WINTER THAT MADE US by Kate Field is an incredible story about life, friendship, and the importance of leaning on those around you, and I highly recommend it.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser
November 21, 2018
There’s something special about Kate Field’s novels. The sense of place and the camaraderie of village life is so well expressed, the characters and the transitions they go through are 100% believable and the way people change and heal thanks to human contact never fails to have me in tears (of the best possible sort). This book was a cracker and I can’t wait for another.
December 19, 2021
This wasn't what I had expected at all, but it was a nice diversion for my achy freshly boostered self as I lay low on a snowy Saturday.
September 21, 2018
Dan Brown is one of those authors that divides opinion; like Marmite you either love or hate his books. I fall into the love category and have been looking forward to reading Origin for a while. Robert Langdon is back and finds his life in danger again after attending an event in which a friend, Edmond Kirsch, is going to reveal a scientific breakthrough. The evening does not go as planned and Robert finds himself trying to find the truth behind the discovery. Yes, it is the same formula as his previous books, but it is a formula that works and still kept me on the edge of my seat. Every time Dan Brown releases a book there seems to be a lot of articles in the media and on social media where his writing is attacked, a lot of these from other writers and highbrow reviewers. I really don't understand this as it doesn't happen to many other authors, and lets face it we all like different books which keeps discussions interesting; I do wonder if there is some jealousy in this due to his success.
Origin is set in Spain, and the plot is set over one night. The focus of this book is religion versus science and the age old question of 'where do we come from' and 'where are we going' as human beings. Science goes straight over my head, I am more of a history, literature and arts girl, but I found this really interesting and fairly easy to follow. There was obviously a lot of research involved in this book, and it really pays off with its detail and understanding of the topics covered. The attention to detail is also apparent in the setting of this book. Spain, and its wonderful cities and architecture are brought to life, especially the works of Antoni Gaudí; the unfinished Sagrada Família and the Cast Míla and all their artistic motifs.
We see a slightly different side to Robert Langdon in this book as he is out of his comfort zone in the world of modern art and science; something I felt I could identify with. But he is his usual dashing self, solving the clues to save the day. His companion in Origin is the beautiful Ambra Vidal, director of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and fiancé to the Prince of Spain. I loved her independence, intelligence and feistiness; she knows her own mind and what she wants from life. Obviously they find themselves on the run from the authorities, not knowing who to trust and in danger, from 'The Regent' who wants them dead before they uncover Edmond Kirsch's discovery. This combination makes for a fast paced, intelligent, compelling read.
If you like Dan Brown's formula then this book will not disappoint. It is action packed, tense, suspenseful, and intelligent in its plot; its always good to learn something new as you read a novel. It is comforting to see Robert Langdon back doing what he does best, and the new characters are complex, flawed and you are never sure who to trust and there are plenty of red herrings. I really hope there will be more in this series; if you haven read any of the books then I suggest you start at the beginning with Angels and Demons. In my opinion Origin is another brilliant book from Dan Brown, pure escapism.
Origin is set in Spain, and the plot is set over one night. The focus of this book is religion versus science and the age old question of 'where do we come from' and 'where are we going' as human beings. Science goes straight over my head, I am more of a history, literature and arts girl, but I found this really interesting and fairly easy to follow. There was obviously a lot of research involved in this book, and it really pays off with its detail and understanding of the topics covered. The attention to detail is also apparent in the setting of this book. Spain, and its wonderful cities and architecture are brought to life, especially the works of Antoni Gaudí; the unfinished Sagrada Família and the Cast Míla and all their artistic motifs.
We see a slightly different side to Robert Langdon in this book as he is out of his comfort zone in the world of modern art and science; something I felt I could identify with. But he is his usual dashing self, solving the clues to save the day. His companion in Origin is the beautiful Ambra Vidal, director of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and fiancé to the Prince of Spain. I loved her independence, intelligence and feistiness; she knows her own mind and what she wants from life. Obviously they find themselves on the run from the authorities, not knowing who to trust and in danger, from 'The Regent' who wants them dead before they uncover Edmond Kirsch's discovery. This combination makes for a fast paced, intelligent, compelling read.
If you like Dan Brown's formula then this book will not disappoint. It is action packed, tense, suspenseful, and intelligent in its plot; its always good to learn something new as you read a novel. It is comforting to see Robert Langdon back doing what he does best, and the new characters are complex, flawed and you are never sure who to trust and there are plenty of red herrings. I really hope there will be more in this series; if you haven read any of the books then I suggest you start at the beginning with Angels and Demons. In my opinion Origin is another brilliant book from Dan Brown, pure escapism.
September 27, 2018
Oh my heart! Kate Field has only gone and done it again with another beautiful heartfelt and poignant story set deep within the Lancashire countryside. I LOVED everything about this book. It was a joyous and comforting read from beginning to end, and will be sure to warm up the coldest of nights. It's just so beautiful.
The Winter That Made Us is a touching story about two lost and damaged souls who are thrown together in a tiny village where everyone knows your business. Tess is back home from the big city after waving her husband off to work overseas. She tells her parents that he'll be gone for a year, hence why she has come back home. From the very moment I met Tess on the page I knew that there was so much more to this story, and surrounding the relationship with her mother; what we see on the surface isn't always what's inside.
Tess rents a room in Cobweb Cottage, and while she accepts this offer from Cassie, it's owner, so too does Noah, after receiving the same offer from Barney, Cassie's husband. So, these two characters set up a shared home under the roof of Cobweb Cottage and what follows is a truly magical, poignant and consuming story.
The real star of this book for me, was Noah. He won my heart from the very first moment I met him. Here is a man with a damaged soul who thinks he will never be whole again. I was deeply invested in his story. I wanted everything to work out for him. For him to be happy and to have a real place in the community. There is such beautiful writing surrounding this character, in the fact that he is a man of nature, of the outdoors, that he smells of the earth and fresh air.
This book does tackle serious issues, and a huge theme is that of mental health. It was obvious to me that the author had done much research surrounding walled gardens (I now must visit one) and the fact that gardening and having your hands in the soil is not only beneficial for physical health, but is also good for the mind and soul.
This book really is a heart-warming read. It's a book about community, that there is a place for everyone and that at the end of the day we are all the same, in that we need to feel loved and be able to give love. This book broke, and then mended my heart. A gorgeous, uplifting and poignant read. All the stars.
The Winter That Made Us is a touching story about two lost and damaged souls who are thrown together in a tiny village where everyone knows your business. Tess is back home from the big city after waving her husband off to work overseas. She tells her parents that he'll be gone for a year, hence why she has come back home. From the very moment I met Tess on the page I knew that there was so much more to this story, and surrounding the relationship with her mother; what we see on the surface isn't always what's inside.
Tess rents a room in Cobweb Cottage, and while she accepts this offer from Cassie, it's owner, so too does Noah, after receiving the same offer from Barney, Cassie's husband. So, these two characters set up a shared home under the roof of Cobweb Cottage and what follows is a truly magical, poignant and consuming story.
The real star of this book for me, was Noah. He won my heart from the very first moment I met him. Here is a man with a damaged soul who thinks he will never be whole again. I was deeply invested in his story. I wanted everything to work out for him. For him to be happy and to have a real place in the community. There is such beautiful writing surrounding this character, in the fact that he is a man of nature, of the outdoors, that he smells of the earth and fresh air.
This book does tackle serious issues, and a huge theme is that of mental health. It was obvious to me that the author had done much research surrounding walled gardens (I now must visit one) and the fact that gardening and having your hands in the soil is not only beneficial for physical health, but is also good for the mind and soul.
This book really is a heart-warming read. It's a book about community, that there is a place for everyone and that at the end of the day we are all the same, in that we need to feel loved and be able to give love. This book broke, and then mended my heart. A gorgeous, uplifting and poignant read. All the stars.
September 10, 2018
Another fabulous book from an author who is quickly becoming one of my favourites! Kate Field has created another great cast of characters and put them in a believable situation that draws you in and tugs at the heartstrings. A story with all the feels!!
Tess Bailey is a woman who finds herself returning to her childhood village, Ribblemill, after many years away. Her life hasn't quite turned out as expected and she's looking for a way to find some meaning and purpose to her time. Her love of helping others and music shines through from the start though and she soon volunteers for a number of community projects, along with starting her own groups - the perfect way to become a firm favourite with the locals, many of who have known her and her family for a number of years.
She finds herself sharing a house - the wonderfully named Cobweb Cottage - with Noah, a man who is a completely different character from herself. He just wants to be left alone and enjoys the peace and quiet. The more time they spend together though, the more you realise that they're both quite similar in that they're hiding things from each other and you wonder if they'll be able to open up.
Her singing group becomes a big hit, and then she also starts a community gardening group to help restore the Walled Gardens, and these help distract her from her own problems and those that beset her family. It even means she gets to spend more time with Noah who is working on the gardens, so she starts to learn even more about him from his brothers and they way they are seemingly protective of him when certain events seem problematic for him
I loved the characters of Tess and Noah! So likeable and endearing - you sense they are both dealing with some quite serious issues and do so in quite different ways which is always fascinating to explore. The book starts to take a darker turn towards the end which just adds to the drama and ramps up the emotions! Loved it!!
Tess Bailey is a woman who finds herself returning to her childhood village, Ribblemill, after many years away. Her life hasn't quite turned out as expected and she's looking for a way to find some meaning and purpose to her time. Her love of helping others and music shines through from the start though and she soon volunteers for a number of community projects, along with starting her own groups - the perfect way to become a firm favourite with the locals, many of who have known her and her family for a number of years.
She finds herself sharing a house - the wonderfully named Cobweb Cottage - with Noah, a man who is a completely different character from herself. He just wants to be left alone and enjoys the peace and quiet. The more time they spend together though, the more you realise that they're both quite similar in that they're hiding things from each other and you wonder if they'll be able to open up.
Her singing group becomes a big hit, and then she also starts a community gardening group to help restore the Walled Gardens, and these help distract her from her own problems and those that beset her family. It even means she gets to spend more time with Noah who is working on the gardens, so she starts to learn even more about him from his brothers and they way they are seemingly protective of him when certain events seem problematic for him
I loved the characters of Tess and Noah! So likeable and endearing - you sense they are both dealing with some quite serious issues and do so in quite different ways which is always fascinating to explore. The book starts to take a darker turn towards the end which just adds to the drama and ramps up the emotions! Loved it!!
September 20, 2018
Every now and then, it’s so very lovely to pick up a book, read its opening chapters, and know immediately that it’s one you’re going to really enjoy. But whose grave is that prettiest one in the churchyard in the opening scene? Well, you’ll be quite a way into the book before you find out.
First, you’ll follow Tess – a character hiding some big secrets, but who I took to from her very first appearance – as she moves into Cobweb Cottage and throws herself (quite exhaustingly) into the life of the village. The choir started from scratch, the importance of music in her life, the teaching at the school, the saving of a wedding, the pulling together of volunteers to rescue Ramblings’ walled garden – I just love novels set in a vividly imagined and described community, when other well-drawn characters sometimes move into the foreground for their “moment”, and the author manages it all so very well.
I really liked Tess’s brittleness and vulnerability – her Disney princess smiles and relentless cheerfulness, her every conversation peppered with the exclamation marks that Noah so detests – but with an outward persona so very different from the damaged person that lurks behind it. The development of her story brings many surprises, all of which are so well handled: and I loved the fact that while Tess’s efforts are outwardly for the benefit of the community, they are also a way of healing herself.
And then there’s Noah – with secrets and a damaged past of his own, witnessed by Tess in some desperately touching scenes. And who could fail to love a man who develops his own soft spot for their shared cat with well-developed character traits all of his own? And who sheds a tear when… ah no, I mustn’t tell you the story, that wouldn’t do at all! All I will say is that there are a few scenes later in this book that are quite wonderfully handled, and can’t fail but bring a tear to your eye too. Any kind of relationship and common ground between these two main characters seems so very unlikely… but then again…
And I’ve already mentioned the cat, but also central to the story is one small child found hiding in bushes – and who becomes a major catalyst for many of the story’s twists and turns, and in the development of its characters, while carrying an excellent storyline all of his own.
The whole book is beautifully written, with real warmth, a strong sense of place and of the people who live there. I found it quite captivating, heart-warming and so uplifting – one of those rare and lovely reads that you put down at the end with a smile, and just want to say out loud “I really enjoyed that”. I’m so looking forward to seeing what Kate Field does next…
First, you’ll follow Tess – a character hiding some big secrets, but who I took to from her very first appearance – as she moves into Cobweb Cottage and throws herself (quite exhaustingly) into the life of the village. The choir started from scratch, the importance of music in her life, the teaching at the school, the saving of a wedding, the pulling together of volunteers to rescue Ramblings’ walled garden – I just love novels set in a vividly imagined and described community, when other well-drawn characters sometimes move into the foreground for their “moment”, and the author manages it all so very well.
I really liked Tess’s brittleness and vulnerability – her Disney princess smiles and relentless cheerfulness, her every conversation peppered with the exclamation marks that Noah so detests – but with an outward persona so very different from the damaged person that lurks behind it. The development of her story brings many surprises, all of which are so well handled: and I loved the fact that while Tess’s efforts are outwardly for the benefit of the community, they are also a way of healing herself.
And then there’s Noah – with secrets and a damaged past of his own, witnessed by Tess in some desperately touching scenes. And who could fail to love a man who develops his own soft spot for their shared cat with well-developed character traits all of his own? And who sheds a tear when… ah no, I mustn’t tell you the story, that wouldn’t do at all! All I will say is that there are a few scenes later in this book that are quite wonderfully handled, and can’t fail but bring a tear to your eye too. Any kind of relationship and common ground between these two main characters seems so very unlikely… but then again…
And I’ve already mentioned the cat, but also central to the story is one small child found hiding in bushes – and who becomes a major catalyst for many of the story’s twists and turns, and in the development of its characters, while carrying an excellent storyline all of his own.
The whole book is beautifully written, with real warmth, a strong sense of place and of the people who live there. I found it quite captivating, heart-warming and so uplifting – one of those rare and lovely reads that you put down at the end with a smile, and just want to say out loud “I really enjoyed that”. I’m so looking forward to seeing what Kate Field does next…
December 13, 2018
It is so exciting finding a new author - someone whose books you will look forward to, who will not disappoint, and that is how I feel about Kate Field.
The Winter That Made Us is an apt title, describing what happened to two broken souls thrown together against their will in the village of Ribblemill. Tess has returned to her home saying that her husband is working in Dubai, but she does not feel able to live with her parents due to her mother’s overanxious attitude. Cobweb Cottage on the Ramblings Estate seems the perfect bolthole, but it has also been promised to the dour, uncommunicative, Noah Thornton. As the house is easily divisible, they decide to share the tenancy, but they usually have meals together. Their relationship becomes less frosty when they are adopted by Morag the kitten.
Eventually Tess discovers the horrific incident which caused Noah to avoid crowds and keep his own counsel, but she also has demons which she is reluctant to confront. They are lucky to be surrounded by a caring community and as Noah gains confidence reclaiming the walled garden, Tess uses her musical talent to organise a local choir, teach piano lessons and try music therapy. As things begin to look up, disaster strikes twice. There will be no chance of a relationship between Noah and Tess so will she ever be able to face up to her failed former life and tell her parents the truth?
This emotional rollercoaster has magical moments and is a feelgood read, perfect for the Christmas season.
The Winter That Made Us is an apt title, describing what happened to two broken souls thrown together against their will in the village of Ribblemill. Tess has returned to her home saying that her husband is working in Dubai, but she does not feel able to live with her parents due to her mother’s overanxious attitude. Cobweb Cottage on the Ramblings Estate seems the perfect bolthole, but it has also been promised to the dour, uncommunicative, Noah Thornton. As the house is easily divisible, they decide to share the tenancy, but they usually have meals together. Their relationship becomes less frosty when they are adopted by Morag the kitten.
Eventually Tess discovers the horrific incident which caused Noah to avoid crowds and keep his own counsel, but she also has demons which she is reluctant to confront. They are lucky to be surrounded by a caring community and as Noah gains confidence reclaiming the walled garden, Tess uses her musical talent to organise a local choir, teach piano lessons and try music therapy. As things begin to look up, disaster strikes twice. There will be no chance of a relationship between Noah and Tess so will she ever be able to face up to her failed former life and tell her parents the truth?
This emotional rollercoaster has magical moments and is a feelgood read, perfect for the Christmas season.
January 17, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this gentle read which, although it makes great use of the winter setting, can be read at any time of the year.
The two main characters both have personal issues to overcome and find themselves thrown together, without being able to voice their troubles to each other. As they begin work on the restoration of a neglected area at the Ramblings estate, Tess and Noah start to see behind the other’s façade and their boundaries are gradually broken down in the same way that they dispose of the harsh nettles and prickly shrubs in the walled garden.
As they both learn to let go of the fears which have held them back, they find support and encouragement from the strong community spirit around them and this is a particularly enjoyable feature of the book. The warmth of the characters comes through in such a way that the reader really feels as though they have been in the company of some very special friends.
The two main characters both have personal issues to overcome and find themselves thrown together, without being able to voice their troubles to each other. As they begin work on the restoration of a neglected area at the Ramblings estate, Tess and Noah start to see behind the other’s façade and their boundaries are gradually broken down in the same way that they dispose of the harsh nettles and prickly shrubs in the walled garden.
As they both learn to let go of the fears which have held them back, they find support and encouragement from the strong community spirit around them and this is a particularly enjoyable feature of the book. The warmth of the characters comes through in such a way that the reader really feels as though they have been in the company of some very special friends.
March 24, 2020
I really loved this sweet book, very easy to read .
December 28, 2022
Mõnus lugemine jõulupuhkuseks! Tõsiselt armas ja ka ettearvatav raamat. Nii et mõnusalt turvaline. Ei mingeid ülisuuri ootamatusi.
Pikemalt kirjutan blogis: https://midaheliluges.blogspot.com/20...
Pikemalt kirjutan blogis: https://midaheliluges.blogspot.com/20...
September 23, 2018
The Winter That Made Us by Katie Field
#TEARS
The Good
Lovely family drama. Romance, tears, fighting for love. Loved it.
The Bad
To Noah or not to Noah. I fought hard, but then I fell too!
The Ugly
OH my. I hate and love crying in books -but I know I liked it when I least expect it. The whole mum garden thing had me going ....
5 Stars - Loved it.
I read this as part of a blog tour
#TEARS
The Good
Lovely family drama. Romance, tears, fighting for love. Loved it.
The Bad
To Noah or not to Noah. I fought hard, but then I fell too!
The Ugly
OH my. I hate and love crying in books -but I know I liked it when I least expect it. The whole mum garden thing had me going ....
5 Stars - Loved it.
I read this as part of a blog tour
December 4, 2019
This was my first Kate Field book and I honestly wasn't sure what to expect since it caught my eye in the library and sounded interesting enough to give it a try. I refused to read anything about it before cracking it open and I'm so glad I did.
This is a heartwarming tale of two people with different life experiences who have suffered trauma and are trying to find their way through it and figure out who they actually are. It's well written with the characters and village coming alive as you turn page after page. The details of Tess and Noah's stories are slowly revealed as you get to know them. It's flows wonderfully and was a poignant and easy read.
This is a heartwarming tale of two people with different life experiences who have suffered trauma and are trying to find their way through it and figure out who they actually are. It's well written with the characters and village coming alive as you turn page after page. The details of Tess and Noah's stories are slowly revealed as you get to know them. It's flows wonderfully and was a poignant and easy read.
September 10, 2018
The Winter That Made Us is about Tess who has returned to Ribblemill, the village where she grew up. Much to her parents' surprise she announces that her husband Tim is working in Dubai for a year while she takes a sabbatical from her high-flying law job in London. She is reluctant to stay with her parents though and ends up sharing Cobweb Cottage with housemate Noah. It seems clear that there's something going on that she's trying to escape from or hide. But is soon becomes equally clear that there is something in her past at Ribblemill which she has spent much of her life trying to hide, something which has profoundly affected her relationship with her over-protective mother in particular. With Noah also seeming to have something he is trying to put behind him, The Winter That Made Us is a book full of secrets and people not talking about things which are having a huge effect on their lives.
Kate Field has written beautifully about the vulnerabilities of her characters. Slowly the readers begins to guess at what has happened to Tess and her family and can see why The event which has affected Noah so badly is revealed to Tess quite early on though she feels she cannot talk about it with Noah unless he wants to talk about it. Despite his physical size there is a fragility about him. When Tess discovers a little boy hiding in bushes outside their cottage, he becomes a significant person in both their lives and through helping him, they help themselves.
I absolutely loved the setting of the village of Ribblemill. Although I haven't read it, the author has written another story set in the village and featuring the big house The Magic of Ramblings. Ramblings plays such an important part in Tess's experience in Ribblemill as it becomes the centre of village life with many clubs and groups meeting there. Kate inspires the villagers to help undertake the huge task of restoring the walled garden and develop it as a community asset. The sense of a real community was vividly portrayed throughout from Ramblings, to the No Name pub, the local post office and the local Church. As Tess does so much to try to forget her past, she throws herself into many village projects and in doing so, helps not just the village but also herself. She finds a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth to help her move forward into he future. I must just mention the New Year Purge. Without going into details, I thought this was such a wonderful tradition where the whole community came together moving forward into a new year.
This is a beautiful story of two damaged souls finding themselves and helping to heal each other. More than once I had a lump in my throat reading about the desperate sadness in both Tess and Noah's pasts. But this is far from a sad book. It's a tender love story and an uplifting read about finding purpose in your life.
Kate Field has written beautifully about the vulnerabilities of her characters. Slowly the readers begins to guess at what has happened to Tess and her family and can see why The event which has affected Noah so badly is revealed to Tess quite early on though she feels she cannot talk about it with Noah unless he wants to talk about it. Despite his physical size there is a fragility about him. When Tess discovers a little boy hiding in bushes outside their cottage, he becomes a significant person in both their lives and through helping him, they help themselves.
I absolutely loved the setting of the village of Ribblemill. Although I haven't read it, the author has written another story set in the village and featuring the big house The Magic of Ramblings. Ramblings plays such an important part in Tess's experience in Ribblemill as it becomes the centre of village life with many clubs and groups meeting there. Kate inspires the villagers to help undertake the huge task of restoring the walled garden and develop it as a community asset. The sense of a real community was vividly portrayed throughout from Ramblings, to the No Name pub, the local post office and the local Church. As Tess does so much to try to forget her past, she throws herself into many village projects and in doing so, helps not just the village but also herself. She finds a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth to help her move forward into he future. I must just mention the New Year Purge. Without going into details, I thought this was such a wonderful tradition where the whole community came together moving forward into a new year.
This is a beautiful story of two damaged souls finding themselves and helping to heal each other. More than once I had a lump in my throat reading about the desperate sadness in both Tess and Noah's pasts. But this is far from a sad book. It's a tender love story and an uplifting read about finding purpose in your life.
September 24, 2018
If any of you have read my gushing about The Magic of Ramblings, no doubt you will be wondering if this book reached the expectations I had of it as a follow up and I admit I was worried. I was so in love with the first book that I didn’t want to read anything set in Ribblemill that might sully that experience for me.
I need not have been concerned. This book is everything I could have hoped for and more. It is every bit as sweet and gentle and moving and poignant and affecting as the first book was and it made me feel exactly the same way. It transported me to a place where I was totally at one with the characters, feeling what they were feeling and, once there, I didn’t want to leave.
Kate has such a tender writing style and she gets completely under the skin and right to the heart of her characters and what they are experiencing, and takes her readers with her very step of the way. And what they are experiencing is not out there, but the kind of personal struggles that we can all relate to – grief, loss, relationships, self-awareness. It is all completely real, which is what enables us to really relate to the characters, because they could easily be you or I.
In Ribblemill, Kate had created a beautiful setting peopled with such a delightful community that I am sure you will want to move there immediately, and it has retained the magic and charm from the first book but with a new couple at the centre of the story with a new set of issues to face, and these are very difficult issues that Kate has given them to tussle with. They are things that are not easy to talk about, and may ring slightly painfully for some readers, but they are dealt with so truthfully and sympathetically that, even if they cause you some tears (and they will, I cried), you will come out feeling that it has been a cathartic and ultimately uplifting experience. One of the subjects is one with which I have personal experience and I really felt the author addressed the subject with real thought and understanding.
I said in my review of The Magic of Ramblings that I could not explain why I loved the book so much. Over the past twelve months, as I have done more reviewing and more writing myself I have become more aware and now I know why Kate’s writing resonates so much with me. She makes me feel the way I want to make people feel when I write but I don’t believe I have the skill to achieve it. Her characters and settings and issues are completely authentic and alive to me, she deals with issues that are important to ordinary people, her writing is down to earth and gentle and sensitive but compelling and her books feel to me, real and warm and slightly magical. She has firmly established herself as one of my favourite writers and someone I aspire to emulate. If only.
I need not have been concerned. This book is everything I could have hoped for and more. It is every bit as sweet and gentle and moving and poignant and affecting as the first book was and it made me feel exactly the same way. It transported me to a place where I was totally at one with the characters, feeling what they were feeling and, once there, I didn’t want to leave.
Kate has such a tender writing style and she gets completely under the skin and right to the heart of her characters and what they are experiencing, and takes her readers with her very step of the way. And what they are experiencing is not out there, but the kind of personal struggles that we can all relate to – grief, loss, relationships, self-awareness. It is all completely real, which is what enables us to really relate to the characters, because they could easily be you or I.
In Ribblemill, Kate had created a beautiful setting peopled with such a delightful community that I am sure you will want to move there immediately, and it has retained the magic and charm from the first book but with a new couple at the centre of the story with a new set of issues to face, and these are very difficult issues that Kate has given them to tussle with. They are things that are not easy to talk about, and may ring slightly painfully for some readers, but they are dealt with so truthfully and sympathetically that, even if they cause you some tears (and they will, I cried), you will come out feeling that it has been a cathartic and ultimately uplifting experience. One of the subjects is one with which I have personal experience and I really felt the author addressed the subject with real thought and understanding.
I said in my review of The Magic of Ramblings that I could not explain why I loved the book so much. Over the past twelve months, as I have done more reviewing and more writing myself I have become more aware and now I know why Kate’s writing resonates so much with me. She makes me feel the way I want to make people feel when I write but I don’t believe I have the skill to achieve it. Her characters and settings and issues are completely authentic and alive to me, she deals with issues that are important to ordinary people, her writing is down to earth and gentle and sensitive but compelling and her books feel to me, real and warm and slightly magical. She has firmly established herself as one of my favourite writers and someone I aspire to emulate. If only.
September 24, 2018
The Winter That Made Us is the tale of Tess who has recently returned to her childhood village of Ribblemill without husband Tim as he has taken a year’s sabbatical in Dubai. Deciding to take a year away from her job as a high-flying Lawyer and head home Tess is reluctant to live with her overbearing Mother who is determined to stifle her with over protection. Instead she moves into secluded Cobweb Cottage, full of character and perfect for her needs, the only catch is she must share it with Noah Thornton.
Tess has a vague memory of Noah from her school days, but she isn’t expecting the aloof somewhat detached character she finds herself living with. All Noah wants is peace and quiet which he hopes to find at the cottage, it’s certainly an upgrade from his Mum’s sofa! The pair soon find a way to make their living arrangements work with unsaid agreements from both parties, however this new ‘relationship’ is fragile, and it soon becomes clear they each have problems they are trying to deal with. But can they help each other and are they willing to share their secrets to help them to heal?
This is a beautifully written story filled with characters who are all trying, in their own way, to escape the past and deal with unspoken secrets that threaten to spill over into their present. I fell in love with Tess immediately as it was clear from the outset that despite the smile and ‘uniform’ she wears and the image she tries to portray to the world, she is in fact extremely vulnerable. As the story progresses we learn more about Tess’s childhood as well as her more recent past and what eventually drove her back to Ribbleton. Parts of her story are truly heart-breaking and filled with emotion which just oozes from the page.
Noah in complete contrast to Tess doesn’t even attempt to cover his heartache and misery, yet the similarities between the two characters are clear to see. They both choose to hide from their problems and try to deal with them alone without involving their loved ones. This book touches on mental health with several character’s clearly experiencing issues with depression and anxiety and author Kate Field has done a great job of portraying the behaviours and issues faced.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and sped through it in a matter of days! I sometimes find books I have loved reading have a somewhat lacklustre ending, but I can safely say the conclusion of this book was just perfect. Highly recommended and ideal for reading snuggled under a blanket with a brew as the temperature outside drops.
Tess has a vague memory of Noah from her school days, but she isn’t expecting the aloof somewhat detached character she finds herself living with. All Noah wants is peace and quiet which he hopes to find at the cottage, it’s certainly an upgrade from his Mum’s sofa! The pair soon find a way to make their living arrangements work with unsaid agreements from both parties, however this new ‘relationship’ is fragile, and it soon becomes clear they each have problems they are trying to deal with. But can they help each other and are they willing to share their secrets to help them to heal?
This is a beautifully written story filled with characters who are all trying, in their own way, to escape the past and deal with unspoken secrets that threaten to spill over into their present. I fell in love with Tess immediately as it was clear from the outset that despite the smile and ‘uniform’ she wears and the image she tries to portray to the world, she is in fact extremely vulnerable. As the story progresses we learn more about Tess’s childhood as well as her more recent past and what eventually drove her back to Ribbleton. Parts of her story are truly heart-breaking and filled with emotion which just oozes from the page.
Noah in complete contrast to Tess doesn’t even attempt to cover his heartache and misery, yet the similarities between the two characters are clear to see. They both choose to hide from their problems and try to deal with them alone without involving their loved ones. This book touches on mental health with several character’s clearly experiencing issues with depression and anxiety and author Kate Field has done a great job of portraying the behaviours and issues faced.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and sped through it in a matter of days! I sometimes find books I have loved reading have a somewhat lacklustre ending, but I can safely say the conclusion of this book was just perfect. Highly recommended and ideal for reading snuggled under a blanket with a brew as the temperature outside drops.
September 27, 2018
4.5 stars
A thoughtful empathetic story about two people struggling to overcome difficult problems in their lives and yet find a common connection; "There's no place like home".
Ribblemill, where Tess grew up, is a far cry from the life and home she's left in Sussex. Her parents still have a home in the village, but finding her own temporary place to live is preferred. When she views a cottage for rent, she instantly loves the place however, someone else has already agreed to rent the place too. The solution? Both will share the two-bedroomed cottage. It's an awkward agreement to agree too, but she's only back temporarily, isn't she?
A quiet life, that's all Noah is asking for, but when someone else shows an interest in the cottage he's agreed to rent, he reluctantly agrees to share. It's only a temporary arrangement but life as Noah wants is about to change.
I felt sorry for Tess and the burden she's carried around all her life. The weight of expectation dragging her down until she hit rock bottom. Far from perfect, I respect how she finally faces her problems and simultaneously re-builds a new life by dropping the pretence. Noah is a gentle soul who manages to show his feelings rather than say them out loud. I'm not a fan of silent heroes but particularly liked how the author uses a secondary character to help to draw him out of his dark place.
The author has written relatable protagonists with heart-breaking and tragic back-stories. Somehow circumstances throw them together in a positive way leading to a new beginning neither could have envisaged. Before their introduction, each view their own situation as rather hopeless, so it's wonderful to see how each can see the positives in the other's situation.
A wonderfully written novel by a new to me author. As someone originally from Northern England, it always comforting to read a story set close to home, even if on the occasion, it is on the opposite side of the Pennines ;-) The warm community spirit of the folk from Ribblemill shines through and provides a heart-warming backdrop to Tess and Noah's relationship.
***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher Accent Press***
A thoughtful empathetic story about two people struggling to overcome difficult problems in their lives and yet find a common connection; "There's no place like home".
Ribblemill, where Tess grew up, is a far cry from the life and home she's left in Sussex. Her parents still have a home in the village, but finding her own temporary place to live is preferred. When she views a cottage for rent, she instantly loves the place however, someone else has already agreed to rent the place too. The solution? Both will share the two-bedroomed cottage. It's an awkward agreement to agree too, but she's only back temporarily, isn't she?
A quiet life, that's all Noah is asking for, but when someone else shows an interest in the cottage he's agreed to rent, he reluctantly agrees to share. It's only a temporary arrangement but life as Noah wants is about to change.
I felt sorry for Tess and the burden she's carried around all her life. The weight of expectation dragging her down until she hit rock bottom. Far from perfect, I respect how she finally faces her problems and simultaneously re-builds a new life by dropping the pretence. Noah is a gentle soul who manages to show his feelings rather than say them out loud. I'm not a fan of silent heroes but particularly liked how the author uses a secondary character to help to draw him out of his dark place.
The author has written relatable protagonists with heart-breaking and tragic back-stories. Somehow circumstances throw them together in a positive way leading to a new beginning neither could have envisaged. Before their introduction, each view their own situation as rather hopeless, so it's wonderful to see how each can see the positives in the other's situation.
A wonderfully written novel by a new to me author. As someone originally from Northern England, it always comforting to read a story set close to home, even if on the occasion, it is on the opposite side of the Pennines ;-) The warm community spirit of the folk from Ribblemill shines through and provides a heart-warming backdrop to Tess and Noah's relationship.
***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher Accent Press***
September 26, 2018
This is my first book by Kate Field. I've been wanting to read one of her books for a while and I'm so pleased I read The Winter That Made Us. It's a delightful and poignant read.
We meet Tess Bailey. After having moved away from Ribblemill when she married, she finds herself back there on her own. Unable to bear the thought of moving back into her parents' house, she ends up sharing a cottage in the grounds of Ramblings with Noah who, on the surface of it, couldn't be less like Tess if he tried. Where she is endlessly upbeat and positive, he is tetchy and difficult to get along with. What we slowly come to understand as the novel progresses is that they're not so dissimilar and it's only the front they put on to hide their sadnesses that differs.
You might be forgiven for thinking this is going to be a quite fluffy sort of read. I thought that and I was actually surprised at the turns the story took at times. It's certainly not all hearts and flowers, although you will be pleased to learn that there is a bit of that. But this is a book that covers a whole range of emotions, both for the characters and for the reader.
I loved the setting of Ribblemill, a village where everyone seems to know everyone else and with its own set of traditions. I particularly loved their New Year Purge. And I really liked how it all centred around the stately home, Ramblings and how it was a real hub at the heart of the community.
At times I must admit I wanted to shake Tess and tell her to sort herself out. But I liked her and think she would make a wonderful friend. I liked Noah very much too. In fact, there wasn't a single unlikeable character in the whole story.
It made me smile at times and it also brought tears to my eyes once or twice towards the end. It's a really sweet and lovely read and I'm glad I read it.
We meet Tess Bailey. After having moved away from Ribblemill when she married, she finds herself back there on her own. Unable to bear the thought of moving back into her parents' house, she ends up sharing a cottage in the grounds of Ramblings with Noah who, on the surface of it, couldn't be less like Tess if he tried. Where she is endlessly upbeat and positive, he is tetchy and difficult to get along with. What we slowly come to understand as the novel progresses is that they're not so dissimilar and it's only the front they put on to hide their sadnesses that differs.
You might be forgiven for thinking this is going to be a quite fluffy sort of read. I thought that and I was actually surprised at the turns the story took at times. It's certainly not all hearts and flowers, although you will be pleased to learn that there is a bit of that. But this is a book that covers a whole range of emotions, both for the characters and for the reader.
I loved the setting of Ribblemill, a village where everyone seems to know everyone else and with its own set of traditions. I particularly loved their New Year Purge. And I really liked how it all centred around the stately home, Ramblings and how it was a real hub at the heart of the community.
At times I must admit I wanted to shake Tess and tell her to sort herself out. But I liked her and think she would make a wonderful friend. I liked Noah very much too. In fact, there wasn't a single unlikeable character in the whole story.
It made me smile at times and it also brought tears to my eyes once or twice towards the end. It's a really sweet and lovely read and I'm glad I read it.
July 28, 2020
The author has broken my heart and put it back together again. This is such a touching, emotional and heartfelt story.
I don’t know what I was expecting to read when I started this book but I definitely wasn’t expecting the premise this book had, I’ve not read a book with this premise before.
Very few books I have read have made me cry but this one did just that.
The story starts with Tess in a graveyard talking to a headstone. The author had the reader guessing who this could be. I never imagined it was who we eventually find out it is.
The things Tess and Noah have been through just broke my heart, and the run of bad luck that follows just seemed so unfair to two people who have already experienced enough hardships to last a lifetime.
It really is sad to know what grief can do to families. How people grieve in different ways and all the miscommunication it can bring. Poor Tess feeling like she had to live two lives for herself and Phoebe. And her poor mum Grace.
The scenes with Noah and Kyle were adorable. How a little boy brought light back to Noah’s eyes and vice versa.
The cat Morag played a big part too.
The endless twists and turns, and ups and downs had me gripped from the first page and I sped through it. I’m so sad that I have finished this.
I loved the ending. I thought it was written just right and I was glad that Grace and Tess were on the path of moving forward and on the same page. Tess and Noah deserve to have that happy ending.
I would definitely recommend this book 5⭐️
I don’t know what I was expecting to read when I started this book but I definitely wasn’t expecting the premise this book had, I’ve not read a book with this premise before.
Very few books I have read have made me cry but this one did just that.
The story starts with Tess in a graveyard talking to a headstone. The author had the reader guessing who this could be. I never imagined it was who we eventually find out it is.
The things Tess and Noah have been through just broke my heart, and the run of bad luck that follows just seemed so unfair to two people who have already experienced enough hardships to last a lifetime.
It really is sad to know what grief can do to families. How people grieve in different ways and all the miscommunication it can bring. Poor Tess feeling like she had to live two lives for herself and Phoebe. And her poor mum Grace.
The scenes with Noah and Kyle were adorable. How a little boy brought light back to Noah’s eyes and vice versa.
The cat Morag played a big part too.
The endless twists and turns, and ups and downs had me gripped from the first page and I sped through it. I’m so sad that I have finished this.
I loved the ending. I thought it was written just right and I was glad that Grace and Tess were on the path of moving forward and on the same page. Tess and Noah deserve to have that happy ending.
I would definitely recommend this book 5⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2018
Now before we start lets just mention the cover love … isn’t it just delightful, I simply fell in love with those two little birds above their heart-shaped nest. That alone would be enough for me to pick up the book with serious intention of buying without reading the blurb.
The Winter That Made Us is a beautiful story of gentle revelations. I really grew to like Tess and Noah, both vulnerable people with a past they are covering up but as readers we want revealed.
Tess has returned to her home village after a long absence, keeping her distance from family she thinks it will be easier to house-share with Noah. In order to forget or move on Tess throws herself into community activities like gardening ventures and a singing group, among others.. The effort she puts in makes her a big hit with the villagers and helps her come to terms with things and reevaluate herself.
As we read on it becomes clearer what is affecting Noah, can these two open up to each other? It’s a joy to see the entire book unfold whereby can these two injured souls be the balm to ease the other’s pain?
A tender story that will give you all the feels and pangs of the heart. Kate has created such a fabulous setting, the type of place anyone would be happy to settle, a crew of really believable characters and overall a story that will make you all warm and fuzzy.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources. i read and reviewed voluntarily.
The Winter That Made Us is a beautiful story of gentle revelations. I really grew to like Tess and Noah, both vulnerable people with a past they are covering up but as readers we want revealed.
Tess has returned to her home village after a long absence, keeping her distance from family she thinks it will be easier to house-share with Noah. In order to forget or move on Tess throws herself into community activities like gardening ventures and a singing group, among others.. The effort she puts in makes her a big hit with the villagers and helps her come to terms with things and reevaluate herself.
As we read on it becomes clearer what is affecting Noah, can these two open up to each other? It’s a joy to see the entire book unfold whereby can these two injured souls be the balm to ease the other’s pain?
A tender story that will give you all the feels and pangs of the heart. Kate has created such a fabulous setting, the type of place anyone would be happy to settle, a crew of really believable characters and overall a story that will make you all warm and fuzzy.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources. i read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 2, 2019
If you want to get your new year reading off to a cracking start, I highly recommend Kate Field’s latest, The Winter That Made Us.
I could easily sum it up in one word for you: perfect. Of course, you probably want a few more, as this is a review, and I’m happy to provide them.
Kate’s debut, The Magic of Ramblings, won the prestigious Joan Hessayon award and her latest takes us back to the whimsical old house - or rather its grounds – where we get to catch up with some of the people from the first book as well as some wonderful new characters. I always love it when that happens.
Noah is a perfectly imperfect hero. He is a big, brooding, troubled man with a beautiful heart. It’s so easy to fall for him, to want to help him mend. Tess is equally complicated, equally likeable. They are the perfect match. Both a little broken but they each have what the other needs to heal - although it takes time for them to realise it.
The emotional, touching, hopeful story is also full of the mystery I've come to expect from Kate's books and it kept me engrossed until the end. Once again I stayed up well beyond bedtime and was then up early the next day to finish it.
Quite often after I’ve finished a book, I will think about it for a few days and find a couple of minor things that didn’t sit quite right. There wasn’t anything I would change about this book. Kate has outdone herself. I think this is her best yet.
What a fantastic start to 2019.
I could easily sum it up in one word for you: perfect. Of course, you probably want a few more, as this is a review, and I’m happy to provide them.
Kate’s debut, The Magic of Ramblings, won the prestigious Joan Hessayon award and her latest takes us back to the whimsical old house - or rather its grounds – where we get to catch up with some of the people from the first book as well as some wonderful new characters. I always love it when that happens.
Noah is a perfectly imperfect hero. He is a big, brooding, troubled man with a beautiful heart. It’s so easy to fall for him, to want to help him mend. Tess is equally complicated, equally likeable. They are the perfect match. Both a little broken but they each have what the other needs to heal - although it takes time for them to realise it.
The emotional, touching, hopeful story is also full of the mystery I've come to expect from Kate's books and it kept me engrossed until the end. Once again I stayed up well beyond bedtime and was then up early the next day to finish it.
Quite often after I’ve finished a book, I will think about it for a few days and find a couple of minor things that didn’t sit quite right. There wasn’t anything I would change about this book. Kate has outdone herself. I think this is her best yet.
What a fantastic start to 2019.
September 20, 2018
The Winter That Made Us was so much more than I was expecting with a beautifully written story and characters that gave me that all important emotional connection. In this story we meet Tess and Noah who for various reasons end up sharing a cottage and what follows is a truly heartfelt story as both characters learn to face their pasts to begin to move forward.
The story moves at a lovely pace and I didn't want to put it down, it was just so easy to become caught up in Tess and Noah's lives. As they begin a tentative friendship secrets begin to surface especially involving Tess. There are some beautiful moments as the characters slowly but surely begin to come out of their shells along with seeing them begin to let their guards down. Even the minor characters all bring something special to the story and add that little extra depth as their lives all become entwined. The setting had a lovely charm providing community spirit and friendships that was perfectly placed within the story.
There is emotion and to be honest there were tears but there was also such a lovely warmth and hopeful feeling to this book that made it so enjoyable for me. The characters of Noah and Tess really make this story and I loved every moment.
A story of hope, new beginnings and love!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for my copy.
The story moves at a lovely pace and I didn't want to put it down, it was just so easy to become caught up in Tess and Noah's lives. As they begin a tentative friendship secrets begin to surface especially involving Tess. There are some beautiful moments as the characters slowly but surely begin to come out of their shells along with seeing them begin to let their guards down. Even the minor characters all bring something special to the story and add that little extra depth as their lives all become entwined. The setting had a lovely charm providing community spirit and friendships that was perfectly placed within the story.
There is emotion and to be honest there were tears but there was also such a lovely warmth and hopeful feeling to this book that made it so enjoyable for me. The characters of Noah and Tess really make this story and I loved every moment.
A story of hope, new beginnings and love!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for my copy.
January 1, 2019
Tess Bailey returns to her hometown of Ribblemill in Lancashire to hide away from the realities of her life and is offered the loan of an idyllic cottage part of the estate of Ramblings (last heard of in The Magic of Ramblings). The only obstacle to the arrangement is that she must share the cottage with Noah who takes taciturnity to a whole new level. With separate facilities for both of them and only a shared kitchen between them, the arrangement doesn’t initially throw up any problems. As their lives inevitably intrude on each other, a reluctant friendship grows over the space of the winter months. The author doesn’t shy away from the problems the main characters face. This is done with a deft and sure touch and is a good example of why the often-maligned romance genre isn’t afraid of facing modern day issues. I loved this book and it will stay with me for a long time.
December 17, 2021
I needed an easy read, a mindless distraction from all the busy December planning. I wasn’t expecting to love this story so much, I looked forward to reading it each day.
I’m originally from Lancashire and have had a family rift so the story both in terms of place and plot was very profound and emotional for me, but in an unexpectedly good way.
I felt fully invested in the characters, although the Tess Bailey character was alien to me, I’m definitely more Esther Green. And I was frustrated with Grace, and the to-ings and fro-ings of Tess and Noah; desperate for them to get together. But I’m sure that’s what the author intended!
I’d guessed the graveyard and Tim mysteries early on so it felt a bit drawn out by two-thirds through, but having read the whole thing now it no longer feel important.
I’d like to read the first Ramblings book now.
I’m originally from Lancashire and have had a family rift so the story both in terms of place and plot was very profound and emotional for me, but in an unexpectedly good way.
I felt fully invested in the characters, although the Tess Bailey character was alien to me, I’m definitely more Esther Green. And I was frustrated with Grace, and the to-ings and fro-ings of Tess and Noah; desperate for them to get together. But I’m sure that’s what the author intended!
I’d guessed the graveyard and Tim mysteries early on so it felt a bit drawn out by two-thirds through, but having read the whole thing now it no longer feel important.
I’d like to read the first Ramblings book now.
October 10, 2018
My first book by this author. The cover of this book is beautiful, which I think is what drew my attention to it initially! After reading the blurb I envisaged this book to be a light hearted romantic comedy, with a mismatched choir singing badly at a village event! This is so NOT what this book is about!
Tess returns home to her childhood village of Ribblemill in Lancashire. She moved away several years before with her husband Tim to follow the bright lights and work in a well paid legal job. She tells everyone, including her parents, that she’s come home for a year while her husband is working abroad, but it’s obvious that there is more to it. Unable to bear the thought of living with her parents, she agrees to house share with Noah, a huge mountain of a man. Tess throws herself into starting a choir and helping out with musical sessions with the children of the village. Everything would be perfect if she just didn’t have to share with Noah and his temperamental moods….
What can I say about this book? Well, I absolutely loved it! It was nothing like I was expecting, which was the big bonus number 1! Bonus number 2 was that there was nothing I didn’t like in this book. I loved the location. I loved the cottage. I loved the characters (maybe with the exception of Tim!). I loved Morag. I loved Tess, and I certainly was head over heels in love with Noah! I expected it to be light-hearted, laugh a minute funny but, whilst it had its amusing moments, this wasn’t what this book was about. It was a beautiful book that was made so believable by such wonderful writing. Once I started it, I was hooked…
Tess is a lovely character, but she obviously has a lot of issues. We first meet her in a cemetery in the village, talking to a headstone, but you don’t get to find out whose this headstone is until much further in the story. We also get introduced to Tess’s parents and you find out that Tess’s mum is a virtual recluse and has been for many years. Noah is another lovely character, although initially you do wonder why he’s so grumpy and tetchy. Again, he obviously has something going on from his past, and as the story moves on you are introduced to his background where everything becomes clear. I’m sorry but I do have to spend a moment marvelling at the images that Noah put into my mind throughout the book! From the author’s descriptions of him I have pictured a very tall, rugged figure of a man, tattooed with a motorbike close to hand. Yet he also comes across as exceptionally gentle and caring! Where can I find me a man like this!
I cannot describe how much I enjoyed this book. The relationship between Tess and Noah was particularly endearing and heart-warming. They both have their issues and they both have different ways of dealing with them. The sense of community and belonging throughout the book bought tears to my eyes, although I have to admit I had tears in my eyes throughout most of the book. This is a beautiful love story which tugged at my heartstrings on every turn of the page. A wonderful uplifting read which I would highly recommended.
Tess returns home to her childhood village of Ribblemill in Lancashire. She moved away several years before with her husband Tim to follow the bright lights and work in a well paid legal job. She tells everyone, including her parents, that she’s come home for a year while her husband is working abroad, but it’s obvious that there is more to it. Unable to bear the thought of living with her parents, she agrees to house share with Noah, a huge mountain of a man. Tess throws herself into starting a choir and helping out with musical sessions with the children of the village. Everything would be perfect if she just didn’t have to share with Noah and his temperamental moods….
What can I say about this book? Well, I absolutely loved it! It was nothing like I was expecting, which was the big bonus number 1! Bonus number 2 was that there was nothing I didn’t like in this book. I loved the location. I loved the cottage. I loved the characters (maybe with the exception of Tim!). I loved Morag. I loved Tess, and I certainly was head over heels in love with Noah! I expected it to be light-hearted, laugh a minute funny but, whilst it had its amusing moments, this wasn’t what this book was about. It was a beautiful book that was made so believable by such wonderful writing. Once I started it, I was hooked…
Tess is a lovely character, but she obviously has a lot of issues. We first meet her in a cemetery in the village, talking to a headstone, but you don’t get to find out whose this headstone is until much further in the story. We also get introduced to Tess’s parents and you find out that Tess’s mum is a virtual recluse and has been for many years. Noah is another lovely character, although initially you do wonder why he’s so grumpy and tetchy. Again, he obviously has something going on from his past, and as the story moves on you are introduced to his background where everything becomes clear. I’m sorry but I do have to spend a moment marvelling at the images that Noah put into my mind throughout the book! From the author’s descriptions of him I have pictured a very tall, rugged figure of a man, tattooed with a motorbike close to hand. Yet he also comes across as exceptionally gentle and caring! Where can I find me a man like this!
I cannot describe how much I enjoyed this book. The relationship between Tess and Noah was particularly endearing and heart-warming. They both have their issues and they both have different ways of dealing with them. The sense of community and belonging throughout the book bought tears to my eyes, although I have to admit I had tears in my eyes throughout most of the book. This is a beautiful love story which tugged at my heartstrings on every turn of the page. A wonderful uplifting read which I would highly recommended.
September 20, 2018
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I absolutely loved this story- the author has created a cast of characters that really brought the story to life for me!
The story flows very well and the writing style is excellent. The book is an addictive read and I finished it the same evening that I started it.
It is a heart-warming story but it will certainly pull on your heartstrings at times too and take you through a wide variety of emotions.
It is very well crafted, the plot is excellent, it has fantastic characters and the perfect setting for the story wraps it all up very nicely - I loved it- 5 stars!! Very highly recommended!!
I absolutely loved this story- the author has created a cast of characters that really brought the story to life for me!
The story flows very well and the writing style is excellent. The book is an addictive read and I finished it the same evening that I started it.
It is a heart-warming story but it will certainly pull on your heartstrings at times too and take you through a wide variety of emotions.
It is very well crafted, the plot is excellent, it has fantastic characters and the perfect setting for the story wraps it all up very nicely - I loved it- 5 stars!! Very highly recommended!!
February 5, 2019
Hope there are more to come.
This is the second book I’ve read set in this village and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them!
All i need now is to have them made into a film or tv series.
More please!
This is the second book I’ve read set in this village and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them!
All i need now is to have them made into a film or tv series.
More please!
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