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Kaksikute toimekas ema Liv ootab väga puhkust Devonis, hoolimata sellest et tema ja Matti suhtesse on siginenud ärevaks tegevaid noote. Liv on kindel, et mees on lihtsalt nendega koos puhkama sõitmiseks liialt hõivatud.
Bazile meeldib väga terve perega mere ääres käia. Ent kui saabub ootamatu külaline, avastab ta, et minevik ja tulevik kisuvad teda eri suundades.
Lahkuminekust toibuv Sofia soovib veeta vaikse suve mere ääres … kuni ta kohtub Baziga ja tema plaanid pööratakse pea peale. Sofia teab, et võtab kõike liiga tormakalt, kuid kas võib olla, et sellest suvest saab alguse midagi uut?
Linna jäänud Matt võib Livist ja lastest puudustki tunda, aga kui ilmub välja üks ammune sõber, viib see tema mõtted mujale. Mida teab sõber tema perekonna minevikust?
Sedamööda kuidas suvi pingeid üles kruvib, hakkab puhkus mere ääres võtma aina kummalisemaid pöördeid.
Bazile meeldib väga terve perega mere ääres käia. Ent kui saabub ootamatu külaline, avastab ta, et minevik ja tulevik kisuvad teda eri suundades.
Lahkuminekust toibuv Sofia soovib veeta vaikse suve mere ääres … kuni ta kohtub Baziga ja tema plaanid pööratakse pea peale. Sofia teab, et võtab kõike liiga tormakalt, kuid kas võib olla, et sellest suvest saab alguse midagi uut?
Linna jäänud Matt võib Livist ja lastest puudustki tunda, aga kui ilmub välja üks ammune sõber, viib see tema mõtted mujale. Mida teab sõber tema perekonna minevikust?
Sedamööda kuidas suvi pingeid üles kruvib, hakkab puhkus mere ääres võtma aina kummalisemaid pöördeid.
190 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2017
140 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Willett
66 books365 followersMarcia Willett began her career as a novelist when she was fifty years old. Since that first novel Marcia has written twenty more under her own name as well as a number of short stories. She has also written four books under the pseudonym "Willa Marsh", and is published in more than sixteen countries.
Marcia Willett's early life was devoted to the ballet, but her dreams of becoming a ballerina ended when she grew out of the classical proportions required. She had always loved books, and a family crisis made her take up a new career as a novelist - a decision she had never regretted.
Marcia Willett's early life was devoted to the ballet, but her dreams of becoming a ballerina ended when she grew out of the classical proportions required. She had always loved books, and a family crisis made her take up a new career as a novelist - a decision she had never regretted.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
September 29, 2020
EXCERPT: Baz looks serious and her heart thumps anxiously.
'But everything's okay, isn't it?' she asks him.
He has that odd look he was wearing yesterday at the Beach Hut and he reaches for her hand. He holds her hand tightly, but he still looks thoughtful.
Nothing has changed,' he says. 'Not the way I feel about you, anyway. It's just those ghosts I mentioned yesterday. I've been thinking about them and I think I should try to exorcise them. I thought it would be better to wait until I'm back in Bristol, but now I think it's only fair that I should tell you before you go.'
She feels quite frightened now.
'What, here? Now?'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Busy mum of twins Liv is looking forward to summer at the Beach Hut in Devon, even if she feels that she and Matt left things on a strange note. She’s sure it’s just that he’s too busy at work to join them on holiday, not that he wants time alone…
Baz loves having his family to stay by the sea, but when an unexpected guest arrives, he finds himself torn between the past and the future…
Still reeling from a break-up, all Sofia wants is a quiet seaside summer – until she meets Baz and her plans are turned upside down. She knows she’s rushing into things, but could this summer at the Beach Hut be the start of something new?
And back home, Matt might be missing Liv and his young family, but when an old friend appears he finds himself distracted... What does she know about his family’s past that she’s not letting on?
As summer tensions rise, the holiday at The Beach Hut begins to take an unexpected turn…
MY THOUGHTS: Seven Days in Summer is an utterly delightful read, which is what I expect of Marcia Willett. If, like me, you are a long time reader of this author, you will recognize some old friends from previous books. If you are a new reader of this author, you will enjoy a pleasant interlude, complete with a few bumpy patches, with a wonderful family and their friends. You needn't worry about not knowing the back stories because, although her books have followed a group of families over several decades, each book is written as a complete stand alone.
Willett's characters are remarkably ordinary, just like you, me, and our friends. They are not rich, nor famous. They live ordinary lives, fall in, and out, of love, experience times of wild certainty, and bouts of insecurity. They are vivid and appealing, well most of them are.
Baz is visited by ghosts from his past, ones that he needs to make peace with if his life is to change. And Liv is becoming restless with living in Truro, missing the moors, beaches and surfing of her childhood. She believes that it is time for her and Matt to move on, but Matt is not convinced. Liv has the feeling, while they are apart, that there is more than just miles separating them.
Seven Days in Summer contains a little mystery, a romance and an unrequited attraction, some dodgy artwork, an epiphany or two, and a vacuum cleaner named Henry.
Written with great warmth and honesty, this is a lovely read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#SevenDaysinSummer #NetGalley
'Men love their women, women love their children, children love their animals.'
'It's odd that all parents want their children to be happy although we only have to look around to see how unlikely a proposition that might be.'
Old sins cast long shadows.
THE AUTHOR: Born in Somerset, in the west country of England, on the day the atom bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, Marcia Willett was the youngest of five girls. Her family was unconventional and musical, but Marcia chose to train as a ballet dancer. Unfortunately her body did not develop with the classical proportions demanded by the Royal Ballet, so she studied to be a ballet teacher. Her first husband was a naval officer in the submarine service, with whom she had a son, Charles, now married and training to be a clergyman. Her second husband, Rodney, himself a writer and broadcaster, encouraged Marcia to write novels. She has published many novels in England; A Week in Winter was the first to be published in the United States.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Dunne Books, St Martin's Press via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Seven Days in Summer by Marcia Willett for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'But everything's okay, isn't it?' she asks him.
He has that odd look he was wearing yesterday at the Beach Hut and he reaches for her hand. He holds her hand tightly, but he still looks thoughtful.
Nothing has changed,' he says. 'Not the way I feel about you, anyway. It's just those ghosts I mentioned yesterday. I've been thinking about them and I think I should try to exorcise them. I thought it would be better to wait until I'm back in Bristol, but now I think it's only fair that I should tell you before you go.'
She feels quite frightened now.
'What, here? Now?'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Busy mum of twins Liv is looking forward to summer at the Beach Hut in Devon, even if she feels that she and Matt left things on a strange note. She’s sure it’s just that he’s too busy at work to join them on holiday, not that he wants time alone…
Baz loves having his family to stay by the sea, but when an unexpected guest arrives, he finds himself torn between the past and the future…
Still reeling from a break-up, all Sofia wants is a quiet seaside summer – until she meets Baz and her plans are turned upside down. She knows she’s rushing into things, but could this summer at the Beach Hut be the start of something new?
And back home, Matt might be missing Liv and his young family, but when an old friend appears he finds himself distracted... What does she know about his family’s past that she’s not letting on?
As summer tensions rise, the holiday at The Beach Hut begins to take an unexpected turn…
MY THOUGHTS: Seven Days in Summer is an utterly delightful read, which is what I expect of Marcia Willett. If, like me, you are a long time reader of this author, you will recognize some old friends from previous books. If you are a new reader of this author, you will enjoy a pleasant interlude, complete with a few bumpy patches, with a wonderful family and their friends. You needn't worry about not knowing the back stories because, although her books have followed a group of families over several decades, each book is written as a complete stand alone.
Willett's characters are remarkably ordinary, just like you, me, and our friends. They are not rich, nor famous. They live ordinary lives, fall in, and out, of love, experience times of wild certainty, and bouts of insecurity. They are vivid and appealing, well most of them are.
Baz is visited by ghosts from his past, ones that he needs to make peace with if his life is to change. And Liv is becoming restless with living in Truro, missing the moors, beaches and surfing of her childhood. She believes that it is time for her and Matt to move on, but Matt is not convinced. Liv has the feeling, while they are apart, that there is more than just miles separating them.
Seven Days in Summer contains a little mystery, a romance and an unrequited attraction, some dodgy artwork, an epiphany or two, and a vacuum cleaner named Henry.
Written with great warmth and honesty, this is a lovely read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#SevenDaysinSummer #NetGalley
'Men love their women, women love their children, children love their animals.'
'It's odd that all parents want their children to be happy although we only have to look around to see how unlikely a proposition that might be.'
Old sins cast long shadows.
THE AUTHOR: Born in Somerset, in the west country of England, on the day the atom bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, Marcia Willett was the youngest of five girls. Her family was unconventional and musical, but Marcia chose to train as a ballet dancer. Unfortunately her body did not develop with the classical proportions demanded by the Royal Ballet, so she studied to be a ballet teacher. Her first husband was a naval officer in the submarine service, with whom she had a son, Charles, now married and training to be a clergyman. Her second husband, Rodney, himself a writer and broadcaster, encouraged Marcia to write novels. She has published many novels in England; A Week in Winter was the first to be published in the United States.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Dunne Books, St Martin's Press via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Seven Days in Summer by Marcia Willett for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
October 28, 2023
Catching up…
This is a story about family and friends who come to the same beach house year after year.
But…
There are secrets.
Will these secrets drive them apart during this latest visit?
This is a typical poignant family tale of love and loss with unforgettable characters. 3.5 stars
This is a story about family and friends who come to the same beach house year after year.
But…
There are secrets.
Will these secrets drive them apart during this latest visit?
This is a typical poignant family tale of love and loss with unforgettable characters. 3.5 stars
August 8, 2022
The second Marcia Willett I have read, and the second I have burst into tears as I turned the last page in relief and happinesses. Just so heartwarming and gentle. This is why I adore reading with my whole heart.
February 13, 2021
4.5★s
Seven Days In Summer is a novel by British author, Marcia Willett. Liv is pleased to be travelling to South Devon with her father-in-law, Baz and the twins for a summer break at his Beach Hut. She and Matt have had a busy year at their bar/restaurant in Truro and she feels a little guilty that a staff accident has prevented Matt from joining them. Hopefully he can sort out staff and join them later.
The annual gathering of old friends that Baz hosts on the Saturday night is a long-held tradition, much anticipated. Generous food and drink, and lots of catching up is the order of the day. Among those present, there are undeclared loves, some of which are patently obvious to anyone who watches, while others are more closely guarded and only seen by the most observant; this year, a new guest sparks a case of love at first sight, and it’s reciprocal! But not everyone will be happy about it.
Meanwhile, back in Truro, a resentful someone from Liv’s past arrives with revenge in mind: the destruction of a family would be the desired result, and Matt is the target, but will he twig to the sneaky tactics employed? From the tone of texts and calls, Liv senses something amiss, but can only hope things will be OK. They have been under a lot of pressure, and she’s feeling restless about their business, feeling it’s time to move to something new.
Willett’s story features a beautiful setting and a cast of characters that most readers will warm to, save the really nasty one and the sadly tiresome one. There’s a little intrigue around the past that’s plaguing Baz, and the ending is a realistic one: not everyone gets a happily-ever-after, but there’s promise for many. A heart-warming read that will delight fans of Maeve Binchy and Rosamund Pilcher.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and St Martin’s Press.
Seven Days In Summer is a novel by British author, Marcia Willett. Liv is pleased to be travelling to South Devon with her father-in-law, Baz and the twins for a summer break at his Beach Hut. She and Matt have had a busy year at their bar/restaurant in Truro and she feels a little guilty that a staff accident has prevented Matt from joining them. Hopefully he can sort out staff and join them later.
The annual gathering of old friends that Baz hosts on the Saturday night is a long-held tradition, much anticipated. Generous food and drink, and lots of catching up is the order of the day. Among those present, there are undeclared loves, some of which are patently obvious to anyone who watches, while others are more closely guarded and only seen by the most observant; this year, a new guest sparks a case of love at first sight, and it’s reciprocal! But not everyone will be happy about it.
Meanwhile, back in Truro, a resentful someone from Liv’s past arrives with revenge in mind: the destruction of a family would be the desired result, and Matt is the target, but will he twig to the sneaky tactics employed? From the tone of texts and calls, Liv senses something amiss, but can only hope things will be OK. They have been under a lot of pressure, and she’s feeling restless about their business, feeling it’s time to move to something new.
Willett’s story features a beautiful setting and a cast of characters that most readers will warm to, save the really nasty one and the sadly tiresome one. There’s a little intrigue around the past that’s plaguing Baz, and the ending is a realistic one: not everyone gets a happily-ever-after, but there’s promise for many. A heart-warming read that will delight fans of Maeve Binchy and Rosamund Pilcher.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and St Martin’s Press.
July 31, 2022
A fun light summer read, perfect pick. I hadn't read any of Marcia Willett in some time so it was nice to immerse in the Devon/Cornwall setting once again. I am planning on visiting that area next spring for the first time, so it was doubly delightful!
June 8, 2022
Fell in love with this book as soon as i seen the cover and read the description. Was so glad it didnt disappoint me when I read the book.
Liv and Matt are a couple like all others working hard, looking after their children, and not spending enough time together as a couple. Lucky for them there father in law owns an amazing Beach house. Follow them on there week at the beach hut. Matt can't go at the last minute due to staffing problems at work and Liv and the children head off with Matt's father.
It was a great read. I really enjoyed it from the beginning to end. It was an easy read and perfect for this time of year. Sounded like a beautiful setting, wish ed i had been there. Lots of other characters added in to the mix. Did get a bit mixed up in the beginning with all the names but soon caught up. Highly recommend this book. Its a defo need to read this summer
Liv and Matt are a couple like all others working hard, looking after their children, and not spending enough time together as a couple. Lucky for them there father in law owns an amazing Beach house. Follow them on there week at the beach hut. Matt can't go at the last minute due to staffing problems at work and Liv and the children head off with Matt's father.
It was a great read. I really enjoyed it from the beginning to end. It was an easy read and perfect for this time of year. Sounded like a beautiful setting, wish ed i had been there. Lots of other characters added in to the mix. Did get a bit mixed up in the beginning with all the names but soon caught up. Highly recommend this book. Its a defo need to read this summer
December 8, 2020
This book did not grab me until the third chapter. It’s about a summer house that is owned by a man who goes there each year for two weeks. He has a group of friends who live there and they get together each year. This year he goes with his daughter-in-law and her two twins. His son cannot take off because he is working and almost has an affair. All of his friends are wonderful especially Sophie who is new at the beach this year. By the end of this book 7 days later the reader has been acquainted with all the people and they are all special in their own way.
October 9, 2018
Another lovely book. I liked the characters, the setting, the storyline which touches on quite serious topics but doesn't overdo the angst! I hope there will be a sequel as I would like to know what happens next.
August 13, 2019
Nice easy summery read.
July 31, 2021
One of the biggest difficulties in writing a novel with a lot of characters stems from finding exactly how much focus each of them needs. With an ensemble, it’s hard not to let one character pull focus and dominate the action. Yet author Marcia Willett never seems to have this problem. Instead, in Seven Days in Summer, much like in many of her other books, she’s managed multiple points of view that gently push this novel of family, friends, and secrets along.
And secrets they have. As this ragtag group makes their annual trek to the beach, each individual either suspects something about the other or they’re genuinely hiding something. Patriarch and widower of the Beach Hut, Baz, struggles with his past and the possibility of new love. His daughter-in-law, Liv, leaves her husband, Matt, at home and packs their twins off for some fun in the sand. But just why is Matt staying behind? Then there’s Sofia, who stumbles into love while searching for a new start.
Yet, it seems everyone has something going on, but that showcases Willett’s remarkable ability as a writer: she both layers up stories with complications while also stripping them back to their basics. All of these characters are fully realized as they mingle with each other, and they almost feel like a group I’d run into on holiday. Here comes Baz; there goes Liv. As the action jumps between characters, they briefly flit through the story, dispensing their problems while helping the others. Yet it never becomes overwhelming. Rather, there’s a calmness that runs through the pages. It’s holiday—surely everything will work itself out! It’s a remarkable balancing act, but Willett manages.
A hint of drama, a dash of humor, and a collection of fascinating people. Not a bad way to spend seven days in summer at all.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
And secrets they have. As this ragtag group makes their annual trek to the beach, each individual either suspects something about the other or they’re genuinely hiding something. Patriarch and widower of the Beach Hut, Baz, struggles with his past and the possibility of new love. His daughter-in-law, Liv, leaves her husband, Matt, at home and packs their twins off for some fun in the sand. But just why is Matt staying behind? Then there’s Sofia, who stumbles into love while searching for a new start.
Yet, it seems everyone has something going on, but that showcases Willett’s remarkable ability as a writer: she both layers up stories with complications while also stripping them back to their basics. All of these characters are fully realized as they mingle with each other, and they almost feel like a group I’d run into on holiday. Here comes Baz; there goes Liv. As the action jumps between characters, they briefly flit through the story, dispensing their problems while helping the others. Yet it never becomes overwhelming. Rather, there’s a calmness that runs through the pages. It’s holiday—surely everything will work itself out! It’s a remarkable balancing act, but Willett manages.
A hint of drama, a dash of humor, and a collection of fascinating people. Not a bad way to spend seven days in summer at all.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
August 3, 2020
This was a quick read with a lot going on. I enjoyed the book but it did feel a little rushed because of so much going on. There really is no main character that it centers on which isn't bad because it flows well.
Liz and Baz, her father-in-law drive to coast to spend holiday. While away Liz feels something is off with her husband who had to stay back home. Baz after having something in his past to keep from moving on, has found someone on this holiday that he becomes enamored with.. Sophia, having just got out of a relationship where she was a live in nanny, has lost her job and is searching for peace.
The story as a whole is about moving on and finding happiness while not letting little things stop you from finding your way through life.
Liz and Baz, her father-in-law drive to coast to spend holiday. While away Liz feels something is off with her husband who had to stay back home. Baz after having something in his past to keep from moving on, has found someone on this holiday that he becomes enamored with.. Sophia, having just got out of a relationship where she was a live in nanny, has lost her job and is searching for peace.
The story as a whole is about moving on and finding happiness while not letting little things stop you from finding your way through life.
August 6, 2017
Great story. Love all of her books.
January 25, 2018
Finished this book, loved it, off to find some more books by the same author
August 28, 2023
Members of a family travel to their family 'beach hut' in Devon for their annual escape from the rat race. Their respite is complicated with various tricky relationships, secrecy, angst, and marital tests.
Liv runs a thriving business with her husband Matt. They are the parents of five year old twins. When a co-worker injures himself, Matt must stay back in Truro to man the fort while Liv and the children travel to her father-in-law's summer cottage in south Devon. Baz, her father-in-law, welcomes them warmly, but it turns out that he is hiding something from his family AND he is about to embark on a May-December romance...
With a delicious seaside setting and mostly likeable characters (with the exception of the deviously manipulative Catriona and the odious Annabelle), this fun women's fiction will keep the reader entertained, though not thoroughly invested.
The entire story takes place during a seven day period, so we don't really get an 'in-depth' portrayal of any one character. It is truly an ensemble piece about people making the decisions that can alter the course of their lives.
"Seven Days In Summer" is an easy read suited for those wanting a relaxing summer novel. It didn't 'wow' me, but remains a worthwhile choice for readers looking for a summer read with an engaging setting and characters. A good choice for fans of Erica James and Rosamunde Pilcher.
Liv runs a thriving business with her husband Matt. They are the parents of five year old twins. When a co-worker injures himself, Matt must stay back in Truro to man the fort while Liv and the children travel to her father-in-law's summer cottage in south Devon. Baz, her father-in-law, welcomes them warmly, but it turns out that he is hiding something from his family AND he is about to embark on a May-December romance...
With a delicious seaside setting and mostly likeable characters (with the exception of the deviously manipulative Catriona and the odious Annabelle), this fun women's fiction will keep the reader entertained, though not thoroughly invested.
The entire story takes place during a seven day period, so we don't really get an 'in-depth' portrayal of any one character. It is truly an ensemble piece about people making the decisions that can alter the course of their lives.
"Seven Days In Summer" is an easy read suited for those wanting a relaxing summer novel. It didn't 'wow' me, but remains a worthwhile choice for readers looking for a summer read with an engaging setting and characters. A good choice for fans of Erica James and Rosamunde Pilcher.
August 1, 2020
Ondanks de wat geforceerde en simplistische schrijfstijl, begint het verhaal veelbelovend. Helaas wordt het al snel herleid tot een boek over relaties en romances en soms bedenkelijke normen en waarden. Bovendien valt het einde me tegen; er zijn zoveel losse ekndjes dat ik me afvraag of ze schrijfster zelf weet waar ze wil uitkomen. Pluspunt is de setting van het verhaal - en voor wie op zoek is naar een luchtige zomerromannetje is dit wellicht het juiste boek.
July 22, 2023
3-1/2 Stars
A quick, light summer read. Not very complex, some of the characters were very one-dimensional, and all the plots were easily sussed out but a fun read nonetheless.
A quick, light summer read. Not very complex, some of the characters were very one-dimensional, and all the plots were easily sussed out but a fun read nonetheless.
August 31, 2020
I love to dip into this author's catalogue of books every once in a while and this one, Seven Days in Summer proved to be as enthralling as the others I've read in the past.
The story begins with Liv and her elegant widowed father-in-law, Baz, who take her twins to the Beach Hut, located near Kingsbridge on the South Devon coast. It's Baz's holiday home, and a group of their friends meet there every year. Liv has left her husband behind to cope with running their bistro, 'The Place', in Truro. This particular summer, marriages will be re-evaluated, romances will begin and for some, the course of their lives may be altered forever.
Marcia Willett has created believable characters, some of whom where affable and I enjoyed reading about them, whilst others grated somewhat. I felt invested in most of them as I became immersed in their temptations, new loves, and friendships. The author's descriptions of the setting were magical and I appreciated the realistic interaction between friends and family. If you're partial to gentle family sagas with misunderstandings and drama, then this story could be one for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from St. Martin's Press/ Thomas Dunne Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The story begins with Liv and her elegant widowed father-in-law, Baz, who take her twins to the Beach Hut, located near Kingsbridge on the South Devon coast. It's Baz's holiday home, and a group of their friends meet there every year. Liv has left her husband behind to cope with running their bistro, 'The Place', in Truro. This particular summer, marriages will be re-evaluated, romances will begin and for some, the course of their lives may be altered forever.
Marcia Willett has created believable characters, some of whom where affable and I enjoyed reading about them, whilst others grated somewhat. I felt invested in most of them as I became immersed in their temptations, new loves, and friendships. The author's descriptions of the setting were magical and I appreciated the realistic interaction between friends and family. If you're partial to gentle family sagas with misunderstandings and drama, then this story could be one for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from St. Martin's Press/ Thomas Dunne Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 31, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC of Seven Days In Summer by Marcia Willett.
I had never read a book by this author but very early on it gave me deja vu. Charming English countryside setting. Check. A varied cast of colorful characters. Check. Tangled love stories. Check. It was like a Rosamund Pilcher book, an author I loved reading thirty years ago, and I was so sad when I realized I'd read her last published book. If this little snippet makes you happy, with its very British cozy language then you will probably enjoy this read. If it makes you cringe, then you probably won't.
"Look at my twins," she says. "Seventh heaven. I can't wait to meet all your chums again. I'm trying to remember them from last year. How awful if I muddle them up."
This colorful rather old fashioned language makes me hug myself with happiness. I actually have two British friends who speak like this, so it is not totally fanciful!
Anyway, the story begins with Liv and her handsome widowed father-in-law, Baz, taking her twins to the Beach Hut, set on the Cornish coast. It's Baz's and her husband Matt's family vacation home, and he has a regular cast of friends who meet there every year. On this particular summer marriages will be re-evaluated, romances will begin, and lives may be changed.
There is really no point in going into the plot but I enjoyed the gentle dramas that played out with a likable cast of characters, and also a couple of villains that were fun. This was the perfect example of escapist reading. I took a journey to a lovely setting in another country and enjoyed being immersed in this world for the couple of days it took me to read this story. My most read genre is thriller and mystery but every once in a while I like to dive into a gentle book like this, where the endings will be mostly happy and the people mostly engaging.
The ending is a bit ambiguous for a couple of the characters so I hope there is a sequel. Now that I've discovered this writer I will definitely be seeking out more of her books.
I had never read a book by this author but very early on it gave me deja vu. Charming English countryside setting. Check. A varied cast of colorful characters. Check. Tangled love stories. Check. It was like a Rosamund Pilcher book, an author I loved reading thirty years ago, and I was so sad when I realized I'd read her last published book. If this little snippet makes you happy, with its very British cozy language then you will probably enjoy this read. If it makes you cringe, then you probably won't.
"Look at my twins," she says. "Seventh heaven. I can't wait to meet all your chums again. I'm trying to remember them from last year. How awful if I muddle them up."
This colorful rather old fashioned language makes me hug myself with happiness. I actually have two British friends who speak like this, so it is not totally fanciful!
Anyway, the story begins with Liv and her handsome widowed father-in-law, Baz, taking her twins to the Beach Hut, set on the Cornish coast. It's Baz's and her husband Matt's family vacation home, and he has a regular cast of friends who meet there every year. On this particular summer marriages will be re-evaluated, romances will begin, and lives may be changed.
There is really no point in going into the plot but I enjoyed the gentle dramas that played out with a likable cast of characters, and also a couple of villains that were fun. This was the perfect example of escapist reading. I took a journey to a lovely setting in another country and enjoyed being immersed in this world for the couple of days it took me to read this story. My most read genre is thriller and mystery but every once in a while I like to dive into a gentle book like this, where the endings will be mostly happy and the people mostly engaging.
The ending is a bit ambiguous for a couple of the characters so I hope there is a sequel. Now that I've discovered this writer I will definitely be seeking out more of her books.
May 20, 2020
A warm, character-based novel that takes place during a week, primarily in Devon with a few forays into Cornwall.
Marcia Willett has created believable three-dimensional characters, some of whom got right under my skin. There are temptations, new loves, old friendships, and a lot of realistic and enjoyable interaction between friends and family. This author avoids detailed scenes of intimacy and bad language, and I appreciate her writing all the more for this reason.
I liked this novel very much, and was sorry to reach the end. I'm already looking forward to reading it again in a few years.
Highly recommended if you like gentle, well-written character-based women's fiction.
Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
Marcia Willett has created believable three-dimensional characters, some of whom got right under my skin. There are temptations, new loves, old friendships, and a lot of realistic and enjoyable interaction between friends and family. This author avoids detailed scenes of intimacy and bad language, and I appreciate her writing all the more for this reason.
I liked this novel very much, and was sorry to reach the end. I'm already looking forward to reading it again in a few years.
Highly recommended if you like gentle, well-written character-based women's fiction.
Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
June 24, 2017
Having not read anything else by this author its hard to make a judgment. I found the book ok enough to finish it but that's all. I found it all a bit dull and not terribly uplifting. Maybe I was expecting too much. I thought it might be a nice happy read but the characters were largely unhappy for a lot of the book and it made me wander at times if I could finish it.
Not a great lover of this book so doubt I will rush to read another by the same author.
Not a great lover of this book so doubt I will rush to read another by the same author.
July 21, 2019
I did skim read this book...found alot of it just padding really...did not really find the characters very engaging... felt the setting was the best part of the book.
December 10, 2023
Geen bijzonder verhaal.
Enorm veel personages komen voorbij, maar niemand krijgt echt enige karakter ontwikkeling in het verhaal. Erg vlak allemaal.
Enorm veel personages komen voorbij, maar niemand krijgt echt enige karakter ontwikkeling in het verhaal. Erg vlak allemaal.
May 17, 2025
I will give this book a 3.5 out of 5, as it was a nice, cozy read but it was nothing truly special or unforgettable. I did really like that I was able to see all POVs from all characters, that is something that you don't see that often.
If only everyone in real life could sense other's emotions as accurately in this book!
If only everyone in real life could sense other's emotions as accurately in this book!
September 1, 2020
As always, Willett delivers her trademark characters in difficult circumstances, twists and turns that made me blink, as well as a setting, language, and pace that made me feel like I was there at the seaside, cocooned in warmth and sunshine. This story delivered particular pleasure coming as it did during a global shutdown when I felt transported to a different place, a different group of individuals each trying their best with dilemmas, secrets, and surprises. A fast, dependable, easy beach read -- an ultimate escape! My appreciation to the writer, the publisher, and NetGalley for an advance reviewer copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased review.
September 10, 2020
( received complimentary e-book in exchange for review )
Enjoyable casual read providing and escape for today's reality. Was easy to become involved in the storyline. The writing style remained solid all the way thru. All characters were relatable. Would like to read more by this author.
Enjoyable casual read providing and escape for today's reality. Was easy to become involved in the storyline. The writing style remained solid all the way thru. All characters were relatable. Would like to read more by this author.
May 22, 2020
This was an interesting book that left me feeling conflicted. On the one hand, it could have been a sweet story of several generations of family / friends spent at the beach during a summer break - nostalgic, cheerful, exciting, purposeful and inspiring. On the other hand, it seemed every single person had a secret - illegal activities in the past; lust for another friend while harboring disdain for their own spouse; a potential infidelity in marriage with one spouse that couldn't attend the beach week due to "work constraints"; the writing off / disowning of one adult child due to her sexual preferences, etc. I really found most of the people in the book simply deplorable. It was hard for me to really feel the connection with the book because the characters were so unlikable.
This book follows the events of 7 days at the beach in England - it is an annual tradition for these people to come to the beach at the same time each year. There are the routine parties (everyone has a party at the same time during this vacation - Baz always holds the opening party the first night; Janet & her husband always hold the BBQ another day, etc). These people have been friends for a long time and apparently they have many secrets among each other. The relationships seemed very superficial and fake - it didn't make me like the people very much at all. Maybe outside of this beach setting, each person can be quite pleasant - but we weren't able to see that (except for the one spouse who almost cheated on his wife - so maybe they aren't so nice after-all).
It's a short read that can be done in a day. I was provided this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated above are mine without biases.
This book follows the events of 7 days at the beach in England - it is an annual tradition for these people to come to the beach at the same time each year. There are the routine parties (everyone has a party at the same time during this vacation - Baz always holds the opening party the first night; Janet & her husband always hold the BBQ another day, etc). These people have been friends for a long time and apparently they have many secrets among each other. The relationships seemed very superficial and fake - it didn't make me like the people very much at all. Maybe outside of this beach setting, each person can be quite pleasant - but we weren't able to see that (except for the one spouse who almost cheated on his wife - so maybe they aren't so nice after-all).
It's a short read that can be done in a day. I was provided this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated above are mine without biases.
August 13, 2020
Know up front that this is a reissue of a novel first published a few years ago- but it's got a classic theme. Liv and Matt have twins and a business and well, it's all a bi much some times. Matt's dad Baz has a house in Devon where he gives a big party every year. He's a widower and he's more than a bit lonely. Sofia, a young woman (or is she too young?) catches his eye (and he hers). Much of this novel is about the various people in Baz's life and their relationships, some of which are unhappy. It's not focused on any one of them in particular, although Liv stood out the most for me. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This made for a good read on a hot pandemic afternoon when I most definitely could not be in Devon but wished I was.
May 20, 2020
Thank you to #NetGalley for this ARC of #SevenDaysinSummer in exchange for an honest review.
If you are looking for an easy to read, gossipy, who's into who, guilty pleasure this might be the book for you. Written from the perspective of both sides of different relationships about how they feel toward their significant other. The characters consist of several couples who seem to not be able to love the one their with.
This was not the book for me because I have a hard time enjoying a book that has romantic relationships at the core of the story. I prefer a romance to be tied into something else that is more urgent, dangerous, or thrilling to resolve. I would have liked to have seen more details behind why the characters feel the way they do. Throughout the book, one feeling or perspective was repeated on several pages. It was very one not for me.
Publish date: August 18, 2020
If you are looking for an easy to read, gossipy, who's into who, guilty pleasure this might be the book for you. Written from the perspective of both sides of different relationships about how they feel toward their significant other. The characters consist of several couples who seem to not be able to love the one their with.
This was not the book for me because I have a hard time enjoying a book that has romantic relationships at the core of the story. I prefer a romance to be tied into something else that is more urgent, dangerous, or thrilling to resolve. I would have liked to have seen more details behind why the characters feel the way they do. Throughout the book, one feeling or perspective was repeated on several pages. It was very one not for me.
Publish date: August 18, 2020
June 6, 2020
#TheFarmStand#NetGalley
Another great book by AmyClipston. A young Amish girl Salina is selling her vegetables at a stand in the market. A young Mennonite man Will who runs the restaurant across the street has decided to buy local produce and comes in and buys most of her produce. They become closer S time goes by but they are both seeing other people. Salina who is the bishops daughter has been seeing Josiah but she is struggling if he is the one she should marry. Or is it just that they have been friends since childhood and this is whom the families think should marry. Will has been dating Caroline and she expects them to marry. Will is struggling with his decision and hurting Caroline. Will they follow their hearts ? Will one change their faith? What is Gott 's will ? Thank you NetGally for allowing me to read and review this book..
Another great book by AmyClipston. A young Amish girl Salina is selling her vegetables at a stand in the market. A young Mennonite man Will who runs the restaurant across the street has decided to buy local produce and comes in and buys most of her produce. They become closer S time goes by but they are both seeing other people. Salina who is the bishops daughter has been seeing Josiah but she is struggling if he is the one she should marry. Or is it just that they have been friends since childhood and this is whom the families think should marry. Will has been dating Caroline and she expects them to marry. Will is struggling with his decision and hurting Caroline. Will they follow their hearts ? Will one change their faith? What is Gott 's will ? Thank you NetGally for allowing me to read and review this book..
July 14, 2020
I have been a fan of Marcia Willet for years. Her style of writing reminds me of Rosamunde Plicher, her novels are comforting fun reads that do not require a lot of effort, and I mean that in a good way. We all need a comforting read once in a while and Marcia Willet’s books never disappoint.
The novel covers Liv and her father-in- law Baz enjoying a week in Cornwall. The book made me want to immediately book a holiday in Cornwall, sadly that is not an option so this was the next best thing. If you like gentle family saga with not a lot of angst but a bit of misunderstanding and drama, this story if for you. So brew a cuppa grab a bsicuit and curl up to be taken away on a mini-vacation via Marcia Willet and her lovely characters. You will not be disappointed
Thank you to Netgalley, St Martin’s Press and Marcia Willett for the chance to read and review this book.
The novel covers Liv and her father-in- law Baz enjoying a week in Cornwall. The book made me want to immediately book a holiday in Cornwall, sadly that is not an option so this was the next best thing. If you like gentle family saga with not a lot of angst but a bit of misunderstanding and drama, this story if for you. So brew a cuppa grab a bsicuit and curl up to be taken away on a mini-vacation via Marcia Willet and her lovely characters. You will not be disappointed
Thank you to Netgalley, St Martin’s Press and Marcia Willett for the chance to read and review this book.
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