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The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew
A gorgeous read full of love, life and laughter from the Sunday Times bestselling author 'A warm hug of a book' S MagazineBehind every successful man is a woman. Behind the fall of a successful man is usually another woman.Sophie Mayhew looks like she has the perfect life. Wife of rising political star John F Mayhew, a man who is one step away from the top job in the government, her glamour matches his looks, power, breeding and money. But John has made some stupid mistakes along the way, some of which are threatening to emerge. Still, all this can still be swept under the carpet as long as Sophie 'the trophy' plays her part in front of the cameras. But the words that come out of Sophie’s mouth one morning on the doorstep of their country house are not the words the spin doctors put in there. Bursting out of the restrictive mould she has been in since birth, Sophie flees to a place that was special to her as a child, a small village on the coast where she intends to be alone. But once there, she finds she becomes part of a community that warms her soul and makes her feel as if she is breathing properly for the first time. Sophie knows she won't be left in peace for long. Now she must where does her real future lie? Praise for Milly ‘The feeling you get when you read a Milly Johnson book should be bottled and made available on the NHS’ Debbie Johnson 'Every time you discover a new Milly book, it’s like finding a pot of gold' heat 'Must read' Express 'A glorious, heartfelt novel' Rowan Coleman ‘Absolutely loved it. Milly's writing is like getting a big hug with just the right amount of bite underneath. I was rooting for Bonnie from the start' Jane Fallon ‘Bursting with warmth and joie de vivre’ Jill Mansell ‘Warm, optimistic and romantic’ Katie Fforde
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2019
649 people are currently reading
1727 people want to read
About the author
Milly Johnson
52 books2,135 followersMilly Johnson was born in Barnsley, raised in Barnsley and still lives in Barnsley. She writes about strong women, often having a renaissance, all ages and has just released her 22nd novel Same Time Next Week. Do check out her website for up to date news and appearance dates.
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
As well as a novelist she is a professional joke writer, performance poet, newspaper and magazine columnist and also after dinner/motivational speaker.
She is on insta as @themillyjohnson, facebook as @millyjohnsonauthor, Twitter as @millyjohnson and a ridiculous presence on TikTok @millyjohnsonauthor. Do give her a follow - even if it's just out of sympathy!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
August 7, 2019
When was the last time you couldn't get enough of a book and wanted to devour it in one sitting, yet when you were finished, you were sad? That happened for me with Milly Johnson's newest book,
The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew
. I wasn't familiar with Johnson's writing, but apparently she's known as "the Queen of Feel-Good Fiction" in the UK, and boy, they're not kidding!
Sophie Mayhew was raised to believe that a woman's purpose is to serve her husband, that the best thing she can do as a wife is to be a supportive and valuable spouse. And that's exactly what she has done for the last 14 years for her husband. John F. Mayhew is immensely handsome, politically shrewd, and ruthlessly ambitious, and with his glamorous, intelligent wife "Sophie the Trophy" by his side, he's one step away from becoming prime minister.
Sophie remembers when her relationship with John was full of passion rather than photo opportunities, spontaneity rather than scheduled appearances and carefully scripted remarks. But this is the role she agreed to, so even if she has had to sacrifice the things that bring her joy, even if her husband and her own family don't appreciate her for anything more than being the dutiful wife, she knows she is key to her husband's success. Even if the public and the media scrutinize her every move, her every outfit, her every expression, John is destined for greatness. That should be enough for her.
Then one day, scandal breaks. Sophie hears the allegations and is sad and angry, but not totally surprised. John's PR specialist assures them the scandal will go away quickly once Sophie lets the world know she stands faithfully by her man. Yet for some reason, Sophie can't bring herself to recite her prepared remarks and toe the line she always has. Instead, the words that spill out are spontaneous—and certainly not what John or his team wants anyone to hear. When everyone begins closing ranks around her to mitigate the damage, Sophie decides to flee to a small town on the coast where she spent the best summer of her life as a teenager.
"Sophie the Trophy was hardly known for being her own woman. If anything, she was the enemy of strong women. She existed in the shadow of her husband, she was good enough to work for him but not good enough to be given a wage for it. She bowed to his will, and for her pains he humiliated her in the worst way possible while lecturing the British public on keeping their own houses in order."
Sophie changes her appearance and assumes a new name, and hopes to keep a low profile. But she is shocked at how friendly the townspeople are, and how quickly they are to provide her food, supplies, smiles, simply because they recognize a person in need of help. For the first time in years, she starts to feel appreciated for her personality and her gifts, not scrutinized and criticized at every turn. And she realizes how horribly she's been mistreated, not only by her husband, but by her own family.
As she befriends Tracey, the owner of the local pub, and her brother, Elliott, the vicar, she comes to terms with the sacrifices she has made in her life. She doesn't know if she's ready to give up everything, or if she still loves her husband, but she knows that she feels freer and happier. As her feelings become more complicated, she knows she can't stay forever, but she doesn't know if she can step back into her old role, or if she's willing to give up everything she's known in order to really be herself.
"Kindness was not a weakness, it was an essential part of being a human being, a gift to be bestowed upon others, a strength."
Nothing that happens in The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew is surprising; you've certainly seen this story before. But Johnson has created characters that you'll want to root for and characters you'll loathe, and I for one couldn't get enough of this book. Watching Sophie blossom on her own and realize she could have a life where she could make her own decisions and do what makes her happy for once was heartwarming, and I loved her interactions with Tracey, Elliott, Luke, and others.
If you like "feel-good fiction" then be sure to pick up a copy of The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew . I read the entire book in a matter of hours, and now I'm missing the characters!
I was fortunate to be part of the blog tour for this book. Thanks to Gallery Books, Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for giving me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review! See a Spotlight/Excerpt from the book at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/07/spotlightexcerpt-magnificent-mrs-mayhew.html.
Sophie Mayhew was raised to believe that a woman's purpose is to serve her husband, that the best thing she can do as a wife is to be a supportive and valuable spouse. And that's exactly what she has done for the last 14 years for her husband. John F. Mayhew is immensely handsome, politically shrewd, and ruthlessly ambitious, and with his glamorous, intelligent wife "Sophie the Trophy" by his side, he's one step away from becoming prime minister.
Sophie remembers when her relationship with John was full of passion rather than photo opportunities, spontaneity rather than scheduled appearances and carefully scripted remarks. But this is the role she agreed to, so even if she has had to sacrifice the things that bring her joy, even if her husband and her own family don't appreciate her for anything more than being the dutiful wife, she knows she is key to her husband's success. Even if the public and the media scrutinize her every move, her every outfit, her every expression, John is destined for greatness. That should be enough for her.
Then one day, scandal breaks. Sophie hears the allegations and is sad and angry, but not totally surprised. John's PR specialist assures them the scandal will go away quickly once Sophie lets the world know she stands faithfully by her man. Yet for some reason, Sophie can't bring herself to recite her prepared remarks and toe the line she always has. Instead, the words that spill out are spontaneous—and certainly not what John or his team wants anyone to hear. When everyone begins closing ranks around her to mitigate the damage, Sophie decides to flee to a small town on the coast where she spent the best summer of her life as a teenager.
"Sophie the Trophy was hardly known for being her own woman. If anything, she was the enemy of strong women. She existed in the shadow of her husband, she was good enough to work for him but not good enough to be given a wage for it. She bowed to his will, and for her pains he humiliated her in the worst way possible while lecturing the British public on keeping their own houses in order."
Sophie changes her appearance and assumes a new name, and hopes to keep a low profile. But she is shocked at how friendly the townspeople are, and how quickly they are to provide her food, supplies, smiles, simply because they recognize a person in need of help. For the first time in years, she starts to feel appreciated for her personality and her gifts, not scrutinized and criticized at every turn. And she realizes how horribly she's been mistreated, not only by her husband, but by her own family.
As she befriends Tracey, the owner of the local pub, and her brother, Elliott, the vicar, she comes to terms with the sacrifices she has made in her life. She doesn't know if she's ready to give up everything, or if she still loves her husband, but she knows that she feels freer and happier. As her feelings become more complicated, she knows she can't stay forever, but she doesn't know if she can step back into her old role, or if she's willing to give up everything she's known in order to really be herself.
"Kindness was not a weakness, it was an essential part of being a human being, a gift to be bestowed upon others, a strength."
Nothing that happens in The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew is surprising; you've certainly seen this story before. But Johnson has created characters that you'll want to root for and characters you'll loathe, and I for one couldn't get enough of this book. Watching Sophie blossom on her own and realize she could have a life where she could make her own decisions and do what makes her happy for once was heartwarming, and I loved her interactions with Tracey, Elliott, Luke, and others.
If you like "feel-good fiction" then be sure to pick up a copy of The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew . I read the entire book in a matter of hours, and now I'm missing the characters!
I was fortunate to be part of the blog tour for this book. Thanks to Gallery Books, Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for giving me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review! See a Spotlight/Excerpt from the book at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/07/spotlightexcerpt-magnificent-mrs-mayhew.html.
January 24, 2020
Sophie Mayhew has always been an enigma, at least according to the tabloids. However, after her husband John, a major political player in the House of Commons, has an affair come to light, Sophie responds with an outburst during a press conference that leaves little doubt as to how she feels. From there, it’s as though a dam has burst, and she can’t help but escape to a world away from the spotlight, where she knows no one. And yet, somehow, it just might be the community where she feels at home for the first time.
Often the most interesting things in politics occur offstage, and author Milly Johnson more than knows that. At its core, her newest book is a political novel, examining power— how it’s gained, how it’s shared, and, perhaps most importantly, who can use it over another person. Johnson’s Commons is filled with backdoor dealings, nefarious luncheons, and affairs left and right.
Even with such a dark backdrop, Johnson finds a refreshing antidote: Sophie Mayhew herself. Often the doormat of her family, used as a crutch to prop up her husband and his political prospects, the beginning of the book finds her plummeting toward an imminent crash due to her husband’s actions. Some of these chapters are almost painful as she navigates a world that’s more concerned with image than substance. But that’s not to suggest the opening is unenjoyable by any stretch. Sophie has to appear at her lowest in order to go on a complete journey.
When she disappears from her London home and reappears in a Yorkshire seaside town, though, that’s when Johnson’s work really shines. The drab political banter is cast aside in favor of Sophie searching for exactly what she wants for once.
The result is a complex, funny, and heartfelt saga of discovery. Sophie is pulled into a comforting world so far outside of her usual zone. It’s a tight-knit community, mostly centered around a few grounded denizens who form a quasi-family for Sophie. They’re charming and comforting, but there’s an added bit of tension that Sophie will have to return to her former life at any time.
Above all, Johnson deserves praise for her characters— their realistic portrayals hold such broad and difficult concepts together. Johnson understands people in all their funny, sad, complicated, human ways. The result is an absolutely satisfying journey for the magnificent Sophie Mayhew.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Often the most interesting things in politics occur offstage, and author Milly Johnson more than knows that. At its core, her newest book is a political novel, examining power— how it’s gained, how it’s shared, and, perhaps most importantly, who can use it over another person. Johnson’s Commons is filled with backdoor dealings, nefarious luncheons, and affairs left and right.
Even with such a dark backdrop, Johnson finds a refreshing antidote: Sophie Mayhew herself. Often the doormat of her family, used as a crutch to prop up her husband and his political prospects, the beginning of the book finds her plummeting toward an imminent crash due to her husband’s actions. Some of these chapters are almost painful as she navigates a world that’s more concerned with image than substance. But that’s not to suggest the opening is unenjoyable by any stretch. Sophie has to appear at her lowest in order to go on a complete journey.
When she disappears from her London home and reappears in a Yorkshire seaside town, though, that’s when Johnson’s work really shines. The drab political banter is cast aside in favor of Sophie searching for exactly what she wants for once.
The result is a complex, funny, and heartfelt saga of discovery. Sophie is pulled into a comforting world so far outside of her usual zone. It’s a tight-knit community, mostly centered around a few grounded denizens who form a quasi-family for Sophie. They’re charming and comforting, but there’s an added bit of tension that Sophie will have to return to her former life at any time.
Above all, Johnson deserves praise for her characters— their realistic portrayals hold such broad and difficult concepts together. Johnson understands people in all their funny, sad, complicated, human ways. The result is an absolutely satisfying journey for the magnificent Sophie Mayhew.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
April 11, 2019
This book was wonderful! I didn't think that Milly Johnson could top her last book but, by gum, she did! I loved, LOVED this story! I loved the characters, I loved the classic Milly funny-snarky-witty dialogue, I loved the romance, and loved the little bit of magic and touch of spirituality and faith. I was so happy that the f-bombs were kept to a minimum and used mostly by the baddies, and I LOVED the satisfying ending!
Milly Johnson, you are AWESOME!!!
And now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to re-read the book again! :-)
Second reading: It was even better the second time around! Some people have commented on how this book is different in some ways from Johnson’s previous books. I think because it’s more romantic than sexy. I mean, one of the main characters is a Vicar! Also, the story includes some spirituality and mentions faith in God without being preachy. So, bottom line is that it includes all those great elements that we’ve learned to love about Molly Johnson’s books with a little less profanity and sex.
Milly Johnson, you are AWESOME!!!
And now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to re-read the book again! :-)
Second reading: It was even better the second time around! Some people have commented on how this book is different in some ways from Johnson’s previous books. I think because it’s more romantic than sexy. I mean, one of the main characters is a Vicar! Also, the story includes some spirituality and mentions faith in God without being preachy. So, bottom line is that it includes all those great elements that we’ve learned to love about Molly Johnson’s books with a little less profanity and sex.
October 17, 2025
The girls here do not become nurses and social workers and shop assistants: they leave as soldiers, tough, adroit, capable, and fully aware that self must be preserved at all costs. Kindness is a weakness and it will be used against you.” Miss Palmer-Price saw Sophie’s eyes blink as if there was a massive surge of brain activity behind them. And she was right, because less than an hour ago Sophie had been sitting in Religious Education hearing evidence to the contrary. “But Jesus . . .”Well, I won't add to the praises I have poured upon all of the previous books I have read by Milly Johnson for fear of being repetitive. I am very happy that this book and the previous book I have read by this stupendous writer, The Perfectly Imperfect Woman, have branched out from Milly's usual tried and true formula (3 middle-class ordinary women friends in bad relationships, one a hopeless doormat, find their mojos and happy endings). In this one, we have a lovely young girl, Sophie Mayhew nee Caladine, from a cruel and cold family who has been turned into a Stepford wife. She is posh, rich, and famous. She breaks out of her virtual prison as the appendage of a rising politician and hides away in the one place she was happy in for one summer in her girlhood. She is embraced by the small village community, makes some wonderful friends, and finds love with the vicar. There is always some tension and suspense in the background because you know her uncaring family, her psychopath husband and his political machine are looking for her. Will they find her? Will she return to her former role as "Sophy the Trophy"? Or will she find her true self and be strong enough to resist the forces who want to use her and abuse her and find her happy ending?
Your inner strength and resilience will attract rich, powerful men, and I’m sure you’d want one of those, my dear; which girl wouldn’t? Trust me, love is no substitute for a private jet. Choose the most successful man you can find, put him first in your life, and scythe to the quick anyone who stands in your way. But power does corrupt itself, so occasionally that will involve self-sacrifice on your part. Emotion will be of little use to you at these times. Get used to controlling it, not it controlling you; and that discipline starts with leaving kindnesses to the devotees of the Dalai Lama. Thank you for listening.”
Well, we know how it will all end. But the value is in the journey, not the destination. As usual, there is plenty of wit and comedy to spare as well as the touching, sad, and scary moments. Milly is a master at making the reader love and care about her protagonists and their fates. And her ebullient voice makes every page a treat.
**Spoilers**
**Finished listen on Audible 10/16/25** Nothing to add really. Didn't quite remember the details regarding the resolution. The confrontation at the end was very satisfying, though it took too long after she reclaimed her power in Yorkshire to see the light. I wish she had left because she wanted a new life, not because she got final proof that John lied to her about his cheating. She didn't really need that confirmation. Also I would have liked to see some small rebellions first like her wearing one of her homemade dress creations to official occasions, or being open about her new friendship with her old friend Magda. It would have been fun to see how John and the family handled a "new" Sophie. But that is just some "what ifs...?" The romance was very back burner. Not even a kiss on the lips at the end! I missed it, because I really liked Eliot and would have liked to see him break out of that clerical pigeon hole.
https://rebekahsreadingsandwatchings....
December 15, 2023
My first Millie Johnson story! And i love her!
This story was a great, funny cosy read. Exactly what i was looking for and it has made me want to read another of hers straight away lol.
The characters were fab. Mrs Mayhew herself goes through some serious ups and downs but has the most beautiful dream of what she wants her life to be. It was very sweet. The comedy elements gave me a good chuckle and each character in their own way brought so much to the story.
This story was a great, funny cosy read. Exactly what i was looking for and it has made me want to read another of hers straight away lol.
The characters were fab. Mrs Mayhew herself goes through some serious ups and downs but has the most beautiful dream of what she wants her life to be. It was very sweet. The comedy elements gave me a good chuckle and each character in their own way brought so much to the story.
July 29, 2019
The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew
Milly Johnson
Why have I never read Milly Johnson before? THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW was such a funny book, but also dealt with some tough issues. My heart broke for Sophie and what those closest to her put her through. Her nickname in the press is Sophie the Trophy. Her husband, John is high up in politics and plans to keep on climbing the ladder until he hits the top rung. He is very good at his job, but not so good at being a husband. He has been unfaithful more than once and it's about to be made public.
John and his team try to put out the fire before it hits. All THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW has to do is get before the press and tell them what a wonderful husband John is and tell them she is standing by her man as she has always done in the past. But Sophie has had enough. She is tired of being kicked and put down. When she gets in front of the microphones, she tells them how vile John is. Hang on tight readers, Sophie is about to make some big changes in her life and keep you entertained until the very last page. There are also quite a few surprises along the way that will have you cheering for all of these wonderful characters. Well, except for her husband John! THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW is filled with girl power and kept me giggling throughout! Nothing like revenge at its finest.
THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW will be very hard for you to put down. If you are like me, you won't be able to stop until you know what happens to Sophie and John. What would you do if God finally brought you your soulmate, while you are unavailable and then took him away? Make yourself a cup of coffee or tea get your favorite blanket and get on the couch. THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW is an awesome way to spend the afternoon or evening. Once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down and will find yourself cheering for Sophie and hoping she can find her true self and be happy once and for all. Milly Johnson will pull you in from the very first page and never let you go! I loved every page of this book and she is now one of my auto buy authors! I'm so excited to go back and read ALL of Milly Johnson's previous books!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
Milly Johnson
Why have I never read Milly Johnson before? THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW was such a funny book, but also dealt with some tough issues. My heart broke for Sophie and what those closest to her put her through. Her nickname in the press is Sophie the Trophy. Her husband, John is high up in politics and plans to keep on climbing the ladder until he hits the top rung. He is very good at his job, but not so good at being a husband. He has been unfaithful more than once and it's about to be made public.
John and his team try to put out the fire before it hits. All THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW has to do is get before the press and tell them what a wonderful husband John is and tell them she is standing by her man as she has always done in the past. But Sophie has had enough. She is tired of being kicked and put down. When she gets in front of the microphones, she tells them how vile John is. Hang on tight readers, Sophie is about to make some big changes in her life and keep you entertained until the very last page. There are also quite a few surprises along the way that will have you cheering for all of these wonderful characters. Well, except for her husband John! THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW is filled with girl power and kept me giggling throughout! Nothing like revenge at its finest.
THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW will be very hard for you to put down. If you are like me, you won't be able to stop until you know what happens to Sophie and John. What would you do if God finally brought you your soulmate, while you are unavailable and then took him away? Make yourself a cup of coffee or tea get your favorite blanket and get on the couch. THE MAGNIFICENT MRS. MAYHEW is an awesome way to spend the afternoon or evening. Once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down and will find yourself cheering for Sophie and hoping she can find her true self and be happy once and for all. Milly Johnson will pull you in from the very first page and never let you go! I loved every page of this book and she is now one of my auto buy authors! I'm so excited to go back and read ALL of Milly Johnson's previous books!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gallery Books through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
July 4, 2019
3.5 Stars
Well this was a book that took a while to grow on me, for the entirety of the first part I really struggled as all the characters just seemed unlikable, bordering on vile and there were just loads of them. Well there were all the members of both John and Sophie's families, as well as the whole of John's political team, and spin doctor etc...
You could tell that between the flash backs to Sophie's schooling (which I did quite enjoy, despite again being at school full of horrific people), and the most recent events building up to doorstepgate that something big was brewing, and I made sure to stick with the book as was sure that once we got the vital background, that the book would become far more interesting.
And I was correct, the second we are away from the inner workings of someone wanting to be the conservative leader and everything that he and his family must do to keep up public appearances even in the face of blatant scandal, Sophie really grew on me and the book took on a much more enjoyable tone.
Unfortunately I'm not hugely keen on politics, and the fact that Sophie ended up in a small village, in the Almshouse but having deep conversations with the local vicar (who is utterly gorgeous), meant I was seeing a bit more religion, or at least faith in god type discussions than I particularly want to see in a book and did have to double check the front cover to make sure it really was a Milly Johnson story I was reading as it seemed rather unlike her.
From the moment that we move into part two though I was invested in the story, I enjoyed seeing how Sophie;s character developed and some of her through processes. She goes from being a doormat of a trophy wife, to a woman who is able to show her real personality traits and that was rather wonderful to see.
All the people she meets by contrast up in her hideaway are down to earth, characters that are relatable to, and some of which I really loved hearing about.
This is the sort of book that makes you wonder, would you be able to stand by your man, if proved to be cheating, in public. just to toe the party line and not ruffle any feathers.
Of the two families there is besides Sophie, only one character who really grew on m which which was Johnathan's brother Edward who seemed like the only one with any human feelings at all, and there was a fabulous showdown scene involving him that had me really cheering.
There is plenty to enjoy in this book, but at the end of the day I've enjoyed all of Milly Johnson's other wonderful books a great deal more than this one, and I'm looking forward to see what she writes next.
Thank you to EDPR for my copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Well this was a book that took a while to grow on me, for the entirety of the first part I really struggled as all the characters just seemed unlikable, bordering on vile and there were just loads of them. Well there were all the members of both John and Sophie's families, as well as the whole of John's political team, and spin doctor etc...
You could tell that between the flash backs to Sophie's schooling (which I did quite enjoy, despite again being at school full of horrific people), and the most recent events building up to doorstepgate that something big was brewing, and I made sure to stick with the book as was sure that once we got the vital background, that the book would become far more interesting.
And I was correct, the second we are away from the inner workings of someone wanting to be the conservative leader and everything that he and his family must do to keep up public appearances even in the face of blatant scandal, Sophie really grew on me and the book took on a much more enjoyable tone.
Unfortunately I'm not hugely keen on politics, and the fact that Sophie ended up in a small village, in the Almshouse but having deep conversations with the local vicar (who is utterly gorgeous), meant I was seeing a bit more religion, or at least faith in god type discussions than I particularly want to see in a book and did have to double check the front cover to make sure it really was a Milly Johnson story I was reading as it seemed rather unlike her.
From the moment that we move into part two though I was invested in the story, I enjoyed seeing how Sophie;s character developed and some of her through processes. She goes from being a doormat of a trophy wife, to a woman who is able to show her real personality traits and that was rather wonderful to see.
All the people she meets by contrast up in her hideaway are down to earth, characters that are relatable to, and some of which I really loved hearing about.
This is the sort of book that makes you wonder, would you be able to stand by your man, if proved to be cheating, in public. just to toe the party line and not ruffle any feathers.
Of the two families there is besides Sophie, only one character who really grew on m which which was Johnathan's brother Edward who seemed like the only one with any human feelings at all, and there was a fabulous showdown scene involving him that had me really cheering.
There is plenty to enjoy in this book, but at the end of the day I've enjoyed all of Milly Johnson's other wonderful books a great deal more than this one, and I'm looking forward to see what she writes next.
Thank you to EDPR for my copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 14, 2025
I want to give this book 6 stars!!! Such a wonderful story. Milly Johnson rules!!!!!
What a joy this book was to read again. This is my third reading as I couldn't wait for the end of July to read it so I bought the hardcopy from the UK. Yes, I confess... I'm a huge Milly Johnson fan!
In my opinion, this is her best so far. It has her wonderful heartwarming story, likeable characters, wonderful love story, and laugh out loud snarky humor with just a little hint of magic.
To readers who are not familiar with Johnson's books, her style is similar to Jenny Colgan's books especially the "Little Beach Bakery", "The Bookstore on the Corner", and "The Cafe by the Sea". If you love any of those books, I think you'll love Milly as much as I do.
What a joy this book was to read again. This is my third reading as I couldn't wait for the end of July to read it so I bought the hardcopy from the UK. Yes, I confess... I'm a huge Milly Johnson fan!
In my opinion, this is her best so far. It has her wonderful heartwarming story, likeable characters, wonderful love story, and laugh out loud snarky humor with just a little hint of magic.
To readers who are not familiar with Johnson's books, her style is similar to Jenny Colgan's books especially the "Little Beach Bakery", "The Bookstore on the Corner", and "The Cafe by the Sea". If you love any of those books, I think you'll love Milly as much as I do.
July 25, 2019
The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew is a lovely story about a woman who seemingly has it all. Her husband is successful and charming--his political ambitions have lead them close to 10 Downing Street--and her glamorous lifestyle is the envy of women all over the country. When an indiscretion comes to light, it is naturally assumed that Sophie will stand behind her husband and help him to weather the controversy, but when push comes to shove, Sophie makes a momentary decision that could destroy her husband's career. In the wake of the scandal, she flees to a small village to clear her head. As she settles into her temporary haven, she meets people who genuinely care about her, and for the first time in a long time, she must decide who she is and what she wants from life.
I fell in love with this story! As the book opened, I was instantly drawn into the story and into Sophie's life. I liked how Sophie is a multi-faceted character. To her husband and family, she appears to be obedient and steadfast, always there when she's needed. To the British public, she appears cold and lifeless, just a face at her husband's side. But to the readers of her story, we see her softer side as we understand how she came to be who she is, and we see her internal dialogue struggle with who she appears to be, and who she wants to be. The other characters are interesting and enjoyable as well, but it's really a story about Sophie.
As the book progresses, Sophie is stuck between two worlds--a ritzy city lifestyle and a low-key small town experience. I enjoyed the descriptions of both places, but I really enjoyed the way the small coastal village was described. It made me want to visit there! I also appreciated the plot pacing. It moved steadily, and I was never bored or struggling to keep up with what was going on. I had a hunch about how the book would end, but I was never entirely sure that it was actually going to end that way until I finished the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this character-driven story! It's a lighter read that still has a great amount of depth, and I will probably read it again in the future.
A big thanks to Milly Johnson, Galley Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and honestly review this book!
I fell in love with this story! As the book opened, I was instantly drawn into the story and into Sophie's life. I liked how Sophie is a multi-faceted character. To her husband and family, she appears to be obedient and steadfast, always there when she's needed. To the British public, she appears cold and lifeless, just a face at her husband's side. But to the readers of her story, we see her softer side as we understand how she came to be who she is, and we see her internal dialogue struggle with who she appears to be, and who she wants to be. The other characters are interesting and enjoyable as well, but it's really a story about Sophie.
As the book progresses, Sophie is stuck between two worlds--a ritzy city lifestyle and a low-key small town experience. I enjoyed the descriptions of both places, but I really enjoyed the way the small coastal village was described. It made me want to visit there! I also appreciated the plot pacing. It moved steadily, and I was never bored or struggling to keep up with what was going on. I had a hunch about how the book would end, but I was never entirely sure that it was actually going to end that way until I finished the book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this character-driven story! It's a lighter read that still has a great amount of depth, and I will probably read it again in the future.
A big thanks to Milly Johnson, Galley Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and honestly review this book!
December 28, 2018
Netgalley.com offered me to read the first chapter of the new book of Milly Johnson, "The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew". I was really excited to see that Milly Johnson is releasing a new novel, she is one of my favorite author! This sample promises a wonderful book, I am so so so so impatient to be able to read the full book now! This first chapter introduces us to Sophie who is married to a very powerful and attractive man but we can already sense that Sophie is not happy in this relationship, I can't wait to see what is going to happen! I give a 5 star out of 5 to this chapter!
March 22, 2019
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew is a delightfully feel-good, witty read which is what we've all come to expect from author Milly Johnson.
I really liked that this novel had a bit of a different side to it - the world of politics, and although it wasn't delved into in any great detail, it added a bit of a different spin which I loved coupled with some truly horrible characters I loved to hate. Of course, interspered with those were the usual lovely people who support truly sweet main character Sophie, and a very dishy love interest. I could see what was going to happen a mile off, but that's what I love about books like this - you know what will occur but getting there is just *so* flippin;' enjoyable! It's a fun read which is (on the whole) light-hearted and absolutely designed to hook the reader in; it certainly did to me.
There were still some surprises along the way, rounded off with a satisfying ending to put a smile on your face... this novel is like sinking into a warm bubble bath with a glass of bubbly (or a cup of tea!) - ideal for completely losing yourself in.
* Thanks to Simon & Schuster for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest review *
The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew is a delightfully feel-good, witty read which is what we've all come to expect from author Milly Johnson.
I really liked that this novel had a bit of a different side to it - the world of politics, and although it wasn't delved into in any great detail, it added a bit of a different spin which I loved coupled with some truly horrible characters I loved to hate. Of course, interspered with those were the usual lovely people who support truly sweet main character Sophie, and a very dishy love interest. I could see what was going to happen a mile off, but that's what I love about books like this - you know what will occur but getting there is just *so* flippin;' enjoyable! It's a fun read which is (on the whole) light-hearted and absolutely designed to hook the reader in; it certainly did to me.
There were still some surprises along the way, rounded off with a satisfying ending to put a smile on your face... this novel is like sinking into a warm bubble bath with a glass of bubbly (or a cup of tea!) - ideal for completely losing yourself in.
* Thanks to Simon & Schuster for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest review *
March 14, 2019
Loved it
A really lovely read. I wish I could continue to read about Elliott and Pom in their new life together.
A really lovely read. I wish I could continue to read about Elliott and Pom in their new life together.
March 4, 2024
Sophie Mayhew looks like she has the perfect life. Wife of rising political star John F Mayhew, a man who is one step away from the top job in the government, her glamour matches his looks, power, breeding and money. But John has made some stupid mistakes along the way, some of which are threatening to emerge. Still, all this can still be swept under the carpet as long as Sophie 'the trophy' plays her part in front of the cameras. But the words that come out of Sophie’s mouth one morning on the doorstep of their country house are not the words the spin doctors put in there. Bursting out of the restrictive mold she has been in since birth, Sophie flees to a place that was special to her as a child, a small village on the coast where she intends to be alone. But once there, she finds she becomes part of a community that warms her soul and makes her feel as if she is breathing properly for the first time. Sophie knows she won't be left in peace for long. Now she must where does her real future lie?
Milly Johnson is seriously one of the most talented writers out there. Her books are always fun and funny with some deep moments. I know when I pick up one of her books I will be having a good time. Her books are not too serious or deep where it could be "political" to recommend one of her books. Everyone would enjoy them.
Sophie Mayhew lives the life most dream about, wealthy and beautiful with a handsome powerful husband. But, when one of her husband's mistakes threatens their "perfect" life, she needs to escape to think. She hides in a small town where she went to boarding school and starts to rethink her life, dreams and future.
I actually really liked Sophie as a character. She is a kind person who doesn't deserve to get dicked around so I felt for her. I liked seeing the two different worlds she lives and couldn't wait to see what happened after every chapter. Highly recommend.
Milly Johnson is seriously one of the most talented writers out there. Her books are always fun and funny with some deep moments. I know when I pick up one of her books I will be having a good time. Her books are not too serious or deep where it could be "political" to recommend one of her books. Everyone would enjoy them.
Sophie Mayhew lives the life most dream about, wealthy and beautiful with a handsome powerful husband. But, when one of her husband's mistakes threatens their "perfect" life, she needs to escape to think. She hides in a small town where she went to boarding school and starts to rethink her life, dreams and future.
I actually really liked Sophie as a character. She is a kind person who doesn't deserve to get dicked around so I felt for her. I liked seeing the two different worlds she lives and couldn't wait to see what happened after every chapter. Highly recommend.
April 3, 2019
Talk about girl power, this novel is total girl power combined with the power of Yorkshire, just the best kind of powers! I found it really easy to get into this story and indeed into the book. I listened to it on audiobook and would definitely recommend the narration, it really brought it to life! I enjoyed getting to know Sophie and her old life but I enjoyed getting to know Sophie in her alternate life as well once she takes part in THAT press conference.
One of my favourite things about this book was the setting. I enjoyed the fact that we got to see a different side to Yorkshire, a bit of coast and a bit of quiet. It worked so well for the purposes of telling this story and I just loved being transported there from whatever setting I was in.
I also loved the sense of community and women helping each other as well. Sophie makes some great friends once she gets north of the M25 (of course) and she also has some truly magnificent women supporting her in both locations throughout the book. It is always refreshing reading about women supporting each other rather than them being pitted against each other.
Another aspect I really enjoyed was the enterprising nature of the characters. These characters are ambitious and whether that meant putting themselves forward in government positions, speaking up for themselves when a man has wronged them or taking it upon themselves to start a truly wonderful business, they gave it their all and really weren't afraid to show their ambition!
If you're looking for some strong women, a great Yorkshire setting and getting the ending people truly deserve then this book is definitely for you!
One of my favourite things about this book was the setting. I enjoyed the fact that we got to see a different side to Yorkshire, a bit of coast and a bit of quiet. It worked so well for the purposes of telling this story and I just loved being transported there from whatever setting I was in.
I also loved the sense of community and women helping each other as well. Sophie makes some great friends once she gets north of the M25 (of course) and she also has some truly magnificent women supporting her in both locations throughout the book. It is always refreshing reading about women supporting each other rather than them being pitted against each other.
Another aspect I really enjoyed was the enterprising nature of the characters. These characters are ambitious and whether that meant putting themselves forward in government positions, speaking up for themselves when a man has wronged them or taking it upon themselves to start a truly wonderful business, they gave it their all and really weren't afraid to show their ambition!
If you're looking for some strong women, a great Yorkshire setting and getting the ending people truly deserve then this book is definitely for you!
July 31, 2019
This book by Milly was fantastic as always she has a real skill with her writing and she gets you hooked from the first page and so many twists and turns and you really don't no what will happen till you get to the end. Full of girl power and so uplifting and shows how strong women can be. Full of romance and makes you laugh and scream to simply fantastic and you must read it.
Sophie Mayhew looks like she has it all she's married to a rising political star John and she has glamour and money but is this what she wants or not. Sophie decides she's had enough and packs her bags and leaves to go to a Yorkshire village and when she arrives she soon finds herself in a wonderful community and she steps away from being her his ands shadow and gives herself a different name she has know where to stay but someone in the villages says she can stay in the one of the almshouses for free and the one condition is she attends church. She soon gets stuck into village life and running and gets very friendly with the vicar and his son. He has to make a decision to if she is going to go back to her famous life with her husband or stay in the village but when the vicars ex turns up she thinks they will get back together so she flees the village back to her husband but once back will she be happy and when she sees a friend and she's says about the village she stayed in and that the vicar is good looking how can he be single it gets her thinking and will she go back and be happy and admit to the vicar she loves him or stay with her husband so many twists abs turns.
Fantastic read from the first page to the last.
Sophie Mayhew looks like she has it all she's married to a rising political star John and she has glamour and money but is this what she wants or not. Sophie decides she's had enough and packs her bags and leaves to go to a Yorkshire village and when she arrives she soon finds herself in a wonderful community and she steps away from being her his ands shadow and gives herself a different name she has know where to stay but someone in the villages says she can stay in the one of the almshouses for free and the one condition is she attends church. She soon gets stuck into village life and running and gets very friendly with the vicar and his son. He has to make a decision to if she is going to go back to her famous life with her husband or stay in the village but when the vicars ex turns up she thinks they will get back together so she flees the village back to her husband but once back will she be happy and when she sees a friend and she's says about the village she stayed in and that the vicar is good looking how can he be single it gets her thinking and will she go back and be happy and admit to the vicar she loves him or stay with her husband so many twists abs turns.
Fantastic read from the first page to the last.
July 9, 2019
Listened to in audio format.
Sophie Mayhew was the wife of popular MP John F Mayhew. Sophie and John were like the British version of the Kennedy`s and the press called her the magnificent Mrs Mayhew.
The first part of the book was the countdown to `doorstep gate`, John was trying to oust the current leader of the party hoping to force a leadership battle. During the week the reader is shown how badly Sophie is treated. At one point Sophie is tricked into visiting a maternity ward after losing her own baby two years earlier. The day before John confessed he had been having a shortlived affair and the woman was going to tell her stories in the tabloids. After doorstep gate Sophie escaped from London and went to lost in Yorkshire where she went to boarding school.
I discovered Milly Johnson last year when I read The Mother of all Christmas. I enjoyed that book and I was looking forward to listening to The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew. I loved it and Milly Johnson has joined my list of favourite authors.
I felt so sorry for Sophie being part of the Caladine/Mayhew family. Her brother in law Charlie hit the nail on the head when he called her Cinderella. Sophie was beautiful and intelligent but her mother and two sisters put her down constantly. I was so annoyed when her Mother suggested putting Sophie in a psychiatric clinic when she first escaped after discovering John`s affair.
The reader saw the real Sophie/Pomme when she escaped to Yorkshire. I was so pleased she met Tracey who became her best friend and I adored her nephew Luke. I liked Elliot the vicar who was a single dad to Luke and thought it was sweet he doodled Sophie`s name in his notebook.
This was a funny, heartening book. I thoroughly recommend this book.
Sophie Mayhew was the wife of popular MP John F Mayhew. Sophie and John were like the British version of the Kennedy`s and the press called her the magnificent Mrs Mayhew.
The first part of the book was the countdown to `doorstep gate`, John was trying to oust the current leader of the party hoping to force a leadership battle. During the week the reader is shown how badly Sophie is treated. At one point Sophie is tricked into visiting a maternity ward after losing her own baby two years earlier. The day before John confessed he had been having a shortlived affair and the woman was going to tell her stories in the tabloids. After doorstep gate Sophie escaped from London and went to lost in Yorkshire where she went to boarding school.
I discovered Milly Johnson last year when I read The Mother of all Christmas. I enjoyed that book and I was looking forward to listening to The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew. I loved it and Milly Johnson has joined my list of favourite authors.
I felt so sorry for Sophie being part of the Caladine/Mayhew family. Her brother in law Charlie hit the nail on the head when he called her Cinderella. Sophie was beautiful and intelligent but her mother and two sisters put her down constantly. I was so annoyed when her Mother suggested putting Sophie in a psychiatric clinic when she first escaped after discovering John`s affair.
The reader saw the real Sophie/Pomme when she escaped to Yorkshire. I was so pleased she met Tracey who became her best friend and I adored her nephew Luke. I liked Elliot the vicar who was a single dad to Luke and thought it was sweet he doodled Sophie`s name in his notebook.
This was a funny, heartening book. I thoroughly recommend this book.
May 11, 2025
Like all Milly Johnson, it is quite long. However, I really enjoyed it.
It starts out as a superficial scenario: The neglected politician’s wife who is supposed to smile through his humiliating betrayal. However, the older you get, the more you can see that this character is in serious danger and that changes how you view the book
It was satisfying watching Sophie deprogram herself, ending up with a life that was everything she wanted and needed.
It starts out as a superficial scenario: The neglected politician’s wife who is supposed to smile through his humiliating betrayal. However, the older you get, the more you can see that this character is in serious danger and that changes how you view the book
It was satisfying watching Sophie deprogram herself, ending up with a life that was everything she wanted and needed.
December 16, 2021
A perfect woman fiction. A wise story with warmth, charm, and a bit of wit. Written with an ideal pace. It was like drinking a favourite warm tea. A novel to devour and to savour (yes, both functions are valid in this case).
PS A really tiny but - although I was very attached to the Sophie/Pom's story, I can't tell it moved me deeply, made my breath away, etc.
PS A really tiny but - although I was very attached to the Sophie/Pom's story, I can't tell it moved me deeply, made my breath away, etc.
June 3, 2020
2.5 stars. I did not like the first 100 pages, but saw potential so I persevered. After those 100 pages it got a lot better.
March 27, 2019
I love Milly Johnson's books and can't wait for this one, so the sample chapter kindly supplied by NetGalley just made me want it to be published quicker! It set the scene perfectly and it looks like Sophie is ready to escape all the restrictive people surrounding her putting on a front, including family, and be honest and happy in herself for a change. I can't wait to see how her life turns out.
UPDATE - I've read the whole book now!
What a fabulous book, I really didn't want it to end. I'm a big Milly Johnson fan anyway, but I think this is my favourite so far.
Sophie Mayhew is married to politician John, who has his eye on the 'top job'. Sophie is definitely the one who smooths the way for him and bothers with all the little details that he really doesn't care about. He's a selfish, arrogant politician who thinks the world revolves around him and he can do anything he wants and get away with it.
I really felt for Sophie, she was stuck in a family who were only bothered about appearances. They didn't care about each other, it was all about money and prestige and what people could do for them. Sophie was definitely a fish out of water, as was John's eldest brother who was the only other likeable character in both families.
Then John is caught out in an affair (again) and the spin-doctors come in to sort it out, and of course lay the blame at unfeeling 'Trophy Sophie's' feet, because if she was a warmer personality her husband wouldn't have looked elsewhere(!) - but this time Sophie decides she's had enough and has a mini-meltdown on the doorstep in front of the press and then, while the rest of her diabolical extended family are discussing what to do, i.e. how to save cheating John's reputation (by having her sectioned!) she absconds out of the back of the house with a suitcase and goes 'missing' for a few months.
She ends up in Yorkshire, where she went to school, and is helped by the very caring community, who didn't know who she was and just thought she was someone running away and in need of help. She made a lovely friend in Tracey, the vicar's sister, and then met the (very handsome and caring) vicar and his adorable son, and realised that there was another life possible, if she could only be brave enough to take the leap.
I loved how Sophie got more confident while away and realised what she wanted. The ending was perfect! This was a real feel-good book and I was definitely cheering Sophie on to change her life. The only regret I have is that I finished it too quickly and now have to wait for Milly's next book.
UPDATE - I've read the whole book now!
What a fabulous book, I really didn't want it to end. I'm a big Milly Johnson fan anyway, but I think this is my favourite so far.
Sophie Mayhew is married to politician John, who has his eye on the 'top job'. Sophie is definitely the one who smooths the way for him and bothers with all the little details that he really doesn't care about. He's a selfish, arrogant politician who thinks the world revolves around him and he can do anything he wants and get away with it.
I really felt for Sophie, she was stuck in a family who were only bothered about appearances. They didn't care about each other, it was all about money and prestige and what people could do for them. Sophie was definitely a fish out of water, as was John's eldest brother who was the only other likeable character in both families.
Then John is caught out in an affair (again) and the spin-doctors come in to sort it out, and of course lay the blame at unfeeling 'Trophy Sophie's' feet, because if she was a warmer personality her husband wouldn't have looked elsewhere(!) - but this time Sophie decides she's had enough and has a mini-meltdown on the doorstep in front of the press and then, while the rest of her diabolical extended family are discussing what to do, i.e. how to save cheating John's reputation (by having her sectioned!) she absconds out of the back of the house with a suitcase and goes 'missing' for a few months.
She ends up in Yorkshire, where she went to school, and is helped by the very caring community, who didn't know who she was and just thought she was someone running away and in need of help. She made a lovely friend in Tracey, the vicar's sister, and then met the (very handsome and caring) vicar and his adorable son, and realised that there was another life possible, if she could only be brave enough to take the leap.
I loved how Sophie got more confident while away and realised what she wanted. The ending was perfect! This was a real feel-good book and I was definitely cheering Sophie on to change her life. The only regret I have is that I finished it too quickly and now have to wait for Milly's next book.
March 10, 2019
An enticing first chapter wonderfully described and leading me into a world with promising characters, “The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew” is sure to be a delight of a book. Already, there is a lot happening and I was intrigued from very the first page. Keen to read on, I need to know everything about Sophie and the already infamous John F Mayhew!
{Thank you to #NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK for the free sample copy of #TheMagnificentMrsMayhew and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
{Thank you to #NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK for the free sample copy of #TheMagnificentMrsMayhew and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
August 14, 2019
Reading the opening chapters I didn’t think I was going to like this latest book by Milly Johnson but as the story progressed, and I got to know Sophie better, I really started to enjoy it. I thought the storyline was well thought out and a little bit different to have some of the characters moving in the political world. Although the ending was predictable there were some lovely heart-warming moments.
March 19, 2019
A very good plot and loved the characters
March 30, 2020
Finished 'The Magnificent Mrs Mayhew' this morning and am missing the characters already! Thank you for a lovely comforting hug of a book, perfect for escaping from you-know-what.
April 14, 2019
I must admit when I first started this I really didn’t think I was going to enjoy it as have no interest in politics, BUT glad I carried on as I loved it. Fab read :)
July 22, 2019
I can’t praise this book enough! I read it in just over a day as I was so invested in it. It’s great that Milly has gone down a different route for this tale but I was wondering as I read the first few chapters why aren’t we in Yorkshire? I should have had more patience.
Sophie Mayhew is married to the obnoxiously pretentious John who is a complete pillock as we would say in Yorkshire (and that is being very, very kind to him). For 14 years, ever since their first meeting at university, Sophie has been in his thrall and he has mercilessly used her to his own advantage for all those years to rise through the business and political ranks. Worse still, he has been aided and abetted by his own family as well as Sophie’s for all of this time. Sophie’s family were so appalling that I found myself wishing, if I had been her, that I’d been left on a doorstep! It takes a long time for Sophie to realise she is merely an appendage to John’s ambitions to become Prime Minister. When an inevitable crisis occurs, Sophie decamps to Yorkshire, where she was a pupil at a girls’s school which was a terrible experience. I found myself wondering why, but when this becomes clear, the best bit of the story starts. Milly has led us up to this point in such a skilled way that you know something dramatic is going to happen but not what and how.
Sophie doesn’t even know who she is any more, or if indeed she ever truly existed in her own right in the first place. She has been groomed and shaped by the teachers at St Bathsheba’s, her parents, her husband and to some extent, her female acquaintances. She doesn’t even have any real friends and her existence for all her trappings of luxury was tragic. In North Yorkshire, she begins to understand who she really is and what she really wants. Here she finds people to love and a place where she can heal, become the best version of herself and flourish.
The characters are brilliant, and that goes for the ghastly ones too as without those we wouldn’t appreciate the best of the bunch who are, of course, living in God’s own county. Milly has a way of writing that keeps you engaged, draws you in and her gift of characterisation and humour is incomparable for me. I absolutely loved little Luke and his cat, having just got a kitten of the same age I could really relate.
What is different too about this is the philosophical and faith debates Sophie has with Elliott. These are not proselytising or preachy, but a great debate and I thoroughly enjoyed following their discussions.
This is Milly’s best book of the last couple of years and I liked every minute of reading it. Milly makes you take her characters to your heart.
August 4, 2019
The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew is a first read of Milly Johnson for me - but it won't be my last!
Sophie has been brought up to stifle her emotions and 'do her duty'. That duty doesn't include herself. Instead she is to support her husband, a politician who has a good shot of being Prime Minister. She has always done what is necessary to help his career. After all, he loves her - doesn't he?
Until....Doorstepgate.....the day that Trophy Sophie has had enough. Enough of her husband, their families and not enough of herself. She runs away to the only place she truly remembers being herself - and being happy. To a small village by the sea. (Who doesn't want to live in a village by the sea?!
The first few chapters have a lot of political machinations and descriptions - not my favorite. But it does give us an idea of what Sophie is living with and shy she rebels. (In fine fashion!)
The real treat is when she lands in the village. The village is home to many quaint shops, kind and generous villagers - and a handsome vicar and his son.... Uh huh, there is most definitely some attraction there.
I loved Milly as a lead character - the reader can't help but feel outraged at how her family and husband treat her. (And they are quite despicably well depicted) And hope that that little spark inside her can grow. The supporting cast in the village is simply wonderful - you can't help but wish you lived there! Johnson develops the Sophie romantic sub plot at the just the right speed - as friends with no agenda. There are also some other relationships in the village that need repair and these too are well depicted. There's a wee touch of magic in an old house as well that makes you wonder.....
And although the book builds towards it and the reader has an inkling of what it might be, the ending is simply perfect! I wonder if there could be more stories from this Yorkshire village?
Jenny Colgan is one of my go-to's for feel good reading. I've added Milly Johnson to that list as well!
Sophie has been brought up to stifle her emotions and 'do her duty'. That duty doesn't include herself. Instead she is to support her husband, a politician who has a good shot of being Prime Minister. She has always done what is necessary to help his career. After all, he loves her - doesn't he?
Until....Doorstepgate.....the day that Trophy Sophie has had enough. Enough of her husband, their families and not enough of herself. She runs away to the only place she truly remembers being herself - and being happy. To a small village by the sea. (Who doesn't want to live in a village by the sea?!
The first few chapters have a lot of political machinations and descriptions - not my favorite. But it does give us an idea of what Sophie is living with and shy she rebels. (In fine fashion!)
The real treat is when she lands in the village. The village is home to many quaint shops, kind and generous villagers - and a handsome vicar and his son.... Uh huh, there is most definitely some attraction there.
I loved Milly as a lead character - the reader can't help but feel outraged at how her family and husband treat her. (And they are quite despicably well depicted) And hope that that little spark inside her can grow. The supporting cast in the village is simply wonderful - you can't help but wish you lived there! Johnson develops the Sophie romantic sub plot at the just the right speed - as friends with no agenda. There are also some other relationships in the village that need repair and these too are well depicted. There's a wee touch of magic in an old house as well that makes you wonder.....
And although the book builds towards it and the reader has an inkling of what it might be, the ending is simply perfect! I wonder if there could be more stories from this Yorkshire village?
Jenny Colgan is one of my go-to's for feel good reading. I've added Milly Johnson to that list as well!
August 17, 2019
I found this a fantastic read, I loved the characters, the setting of coastal Yorkshire, the comparisons between one person's reality and their alternate inner self that is often at odds with what we become with the demands of life, duty and tragedy.
There were so many parts that resonated with me, tugged at my heartstrings and made me so angry at the nerve of certain characters, ultimately you know things will work out but this was a cathartic journey with Pom, and her friends, to take control of their lives and lead their own trails.
There were so many parts that resonated with me, tugged at my heartstrings and made me so angry at the nerve of certain characters, ultimately you know things will work out but this was a cathartic journey with Pom, and her friends, to take control of their lives and lead their own trails.
July 17, 2019
I loved this book. Some women take on the world face to face, with a hardscrabble attitude, testing their limits in an “in your face” kind of way. I just finished a great book by Katherine Center and I admit to be in awe of her heroine.
In Milly Johnson’s latest book, The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew, the heroine’s personality is totally antithetical. She is called a cold fish and lacking in emotion. She was tutored to be the finishing touch to a successful man, a very pretty ornament. She is a champion of the quiet order despite being marginalized by all around her. Seeing her truth makes her immensely human, completely likable and the most respectable, by a long mile, of all the reprobates surrounding her.
Sophie Calladine Mayhew throws out a quote from Macbeth that alerted me to the nastiness that was approaching. Caught up in the spider’s web of British politics with a sh*t of a husband who cares only about becoming the next lodger at 10 Downing Street, this heroine is thrown to the wolves, the undeserving, the malicious gossips, and the deviant political forces. She can trust no one, least of all any member of her family. This is a great story about the corruption of raw political power, about men who feel they are entitled to anyone and anything and one very bright, very damaged, very frightened and very brave woman who can tumble the pile.
Thank you NetGalley and Gallery, Pocket Books for a copy.
In Milly Johnson’s latest book, The Magnificent Mrs. Mayhew, the heroine’s personality is totally antithetical. She is called a cold fish and lacking in emotion. She was tutored to be the finishing touch to a successful man, a very pretty ornament. She is a champion of the quiet order despite being marginalized by all around her. Seeing her truth makes her immensely human, completely likable and the most respectable, by a long mile, of all the reprobates surrounding her.
Sophie Calladine Mayhew throws out a quote from Macbeth that alerted me to the nastiness that was approaching. Caught up in the spider’s web of British politics with a sh*t of a husband who cares only about becoming the next lodger at 10 Downing Street, this heroine is thrown to the wolves, the undeserving, the malicious gossips, and the deviant political forces. She can trust no one, least of all any member of her family. This is a great story about the corruption of raw political power, about men who feel they are entitled to anyone and anything and one very bright, very damaged, very frightened and very brave woman who can tumble the pile.
Thank you NetGalley and Gallery, Pocket Books for a copy.
March 11, 2019
enjoyed this and read it over the weekend
slightly different to her other books which I enjoyed
slightly different to her other books which I enjoyed
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