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The Newcomer
Cornwall is only a page away in this gorgeous, heartwarming novel – a wonderful read for the summer holidays!‘A warm, easy read that depicts the joys of rural Cornwall’ Daily Mail
‘The warmth and empathy that have made Fern Britton such a popular TV presenter are evident in her latest novel’ Woman’s Weekly
‘A charming story that is full of hope…will help put a spring in your step’ The Courier
‘This is ideal holiday reading’ Woman
She arrived in the village on the spring tide and hoped to be at the heart of it, knowing its secrets and weathering its storms.
It was to be a new beginning…
It’s springtime in the Cornish village of Pendruggan and as the community comes together to say a fond farewell to parish vicar, Simon, and his wife, Penny, a newcomer causes quite a stir…
Reverand Angela Whitehorn came to Cornwall to make a difference. With her husband, Robert, by her side, she sets about making changes – but it seems not everyone is happy for her to shake things up in the small parish, and soon Angela starts to receive anonymous poison pen letters.
Angela has always been one to fight back, and she has already brought a fresh wind into the village, supporting her female parishioners through good times and bad. But as the letters get increasingly more personal, Angela learns that the secrets are closer to home.
With faith and friends by your side, even the most unlikely of new beginnings is possible.
Praise for Fern
‘Incredibly atmospheric’ Sun
‘A heartfelt novel about family secrets and atonement’ Woman & Home
‘A book to truly lose yourself in’ Sunday Times bestseller Milly Johnson
Fern Britton's book 'A Cornish Legacy' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2025-06-09.
‘The warmth and empathy that have made Fern Britton such a popular TV presenter are evident in her latest novel’ Woman’s Weekly
‘A charming story that is full of hope…will help put a spring in your step’ The Courier
‘This is ideal holiday reading’ Woman
She arrived in the village on the spring tide and hoped to be at the heart of it, knowing its secrets and weathering its storms.
It was to be a new beginning…
It’s springtime in the Cornish village of Pendruggan and as the community comes together to say a fond farewell to parish vicar, Simon, and his wife, Penny, a newcomer causes quite a stir…
Reverand Angela Whitehorn came to Cornwall to make a difference. With her husband, Robert, by her side, she sets about making changes – but it seems not everyone is happy for her to shake things up in the small parish, and soon Angela starts to receive anonymous poison pen letters.
Angela has always been one to fight back, and she has already brought a fresh wind into the village, supporting her female parishioners through good times and bad. But as the letters get increasingly more personal, Angela learns that the secrets are closer to home.
With faith and friends by your side, even the most unlikely of new beginnings is possible.
Praise for Fern
‘Incredibly atmospheric’ Sun
‘A heartfelt novel about family secrets and atonement’ Woman & Home
‘A book to truly lose yourself in’ Sunday Times bestseller Milly Johnson
Fern Britton's book 'A Cornish Legacy' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2025-06-09.
401 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2019
About the author
Fern Britton
36 books426 followersFern Britton, an English television presenter, was born on 17 July 1957 in Ealing, London. She was educated at Dr Challoner's High School in Little Chalfont and underwent training in stage management at the Central School of Speech and Drama. She is the daughter of the English actor, Tony Britton and Ruth Britton. Fern Britton spent the early days of her life at Buckinghamshire. Her older sister, Cherry Britton, is a script writer and her younger half brother, Jasper Britton, is an actor. She is married to the celebrity chef, Phil Vickery and lives with her family at Holmer Green in Buckinghamshire.
Fern Britton worked with a touring theatre company and in 1979, she started her career with Westward Television in Plymouth. She worked as a newsreader and continuity announcer on Westward Diary, the nightly local bulletin. Later, she switched to present BBC’s Southwest news programme, Spotlight. She became a known as the youngest national news presenter to present News After Noon on BBC1. Fern Britton then moved to work for TVS in Southampton, where she hosted the South edition of the news programme, Coast to Coast, together with Fred Dinenage. She has also presented other programmes, like Coast to Coast People, The Television Show and Magic Moments.
Since then, Fern Britton has hosted several programmes, which include Carlton Television's After Five, BBC's Breakfast Time, London News Network's London Tonight and BBC 1’s Holiday. She also featured in the first two series of The Brian Conley Show and in 1994, Fern Britton went onto present the famous television cookery game show, Ready Steady Cook. She hosted the show for a long span of six years until she was succeeded by chef, Ainsley Harriott. She joined hands with the British television presenter, Phillip Schofield to host the famous television magazine show This Morning. Since 1999, Fern Britton has been hosting the show and the couple was known for their hilarious presentation. The show was a big hit and won the 2003 & 2004 TV Quick Award for the ‘Best Daytime Viewing’. It also clinched the 2004 National Television Award for the ‘Most Popular Daytime Show’.
Fern Britton anchored the Pride of Britain Awards in 2002 and was one among the panellists on the satirical panel show, Have I Got News for You.
In 2006, the song, “The Fern Britton Experience”, which featured in the album, Hang The DJ was named after her by the UK DJ Shitmat. She hosted the reality television show, Soapstar Superstar, and the British Soap Awards 2006. At the Royal Albert Hall, on 31 May 2007, Fern Britton presented the Classical BRIT Awards and also co-presented the British Soap Awards that year.
Fern Britton anchored her own ITV1 Saturday night series, That's What I Call Television in 2007. In December 2007, she went on a secret trip to Basra to broadcast behind-the-scenes footage of the troops. She appeared as a guest presenter for the show, Have I Got News for You on 27 April 2007 and again on 17 October 2008. On 12 January 2008, she was the winner in the first episode of Thank God You're Here, a television comedy series hosted by Paul Merton. In April 2008, Fern Britton together with her colleague, Phillip Schofield was the presenter of the revived 'all star' version of the super hit ITV show, Mr and Mrs. The show was broadcast on Saturday nights as a six-part series.
Apart from television presentations, Fern Britton has also featured in advertisements for Ryvita Minis. She performed the title role in a Cinderella pantomime in 1988. In March 1998, her first book, Fern’s Family Favourites, was released and in October the following year, she launched her second book Winter Treats and Summer Delights. Fern, My Story was published in November 2008 by Michael Joseph and it ranked among the Top Ten Bestseller list by The Sunday Times.
Fern Britton worked with a touring theatre company and in 1979, she started her career with Westward Television in Plymouth. She worked as a newsreader and continuity announcer on Westward Diary, the nightly local bulletin. Later, she switched to present BBC’s Southwest news programme, Spotlight. She became a known as the youngest national news presenter to present News After Noon on BBC1. Fern Britton then moved to work for TVS in Southampton, where she hosted the South edition of the news programme, Coast to Coast, together with Fred Dinenage. She has also presented other programmes, like Coast to Coast People, The Television Show and Magic Moments.
Since then, Fern Britton has hosted several programmes, which include Carlton Television's After Five, BBC's Breakfast Time, London News Network's London Tonight and BBC 1’s Holiday. She also featured in the first two series of The Brian Conley Show and in 1994, Fern Britton went onto present the famous television cookery game show, Ready Steady Cook. She hosted the show for a long span of six years until she was succeeded by chef, Ainsley Harriott. She joined hands with the British television presenter, Phillip Schofield to host the famous television magazine show This Morning. Since 1999, Fern Britton has been hosting the show and the couple was known for their hilarious presentation. The show was a big hit and won the 2003 & 2004 TV Quick Award for the ‘Best Daytime Viewing’. It also clinched the 2004 National Television Award for the ‘Most Popular Daytime Show’.
Fern Britton anchored the Pride of Britain Awards in 2002 and was one among the panellists on the satirical panel show, Have I Got News for You.
In 2006, the song, “The Fern Britton Experience”, which featured in the album, Hang The DJ was named after her by the UK DJ Shitmat. She hosted the reality television show, Soapstar Superstar, and the British Soap Awards 2006. At the Royal Albert Hall, on 31 May 2007, Fern Britton presented the Classical BRIT Awards and also co-presented the British Soap Awards that year.
Fern Britton anchored her own ITV1 Saturday night series, That's What I Call Television in 2007. In December 2007, she went on a secret trip to Basra to broadcast behind-the-scenes footage of the troops. She appeared as a guest presenter for the show, Have I Got News for You on 27 April 2007 and again on 17 October 2008. On 12 January 2008, she was the winner in the first episode of Thank God You're Here, a television comedy series hosted by Paul Merton. In April 2008, Fern Britton together with her colleague, Phillip Schofield was the presenter of the revived 'all star' version of the super hit ITV show, Mr and Mrs. The show was broadcast on Saturday nights as a six-part series.
Apart from television presentations, Fern Britton has also featured in advertisements for Ryvita Minis. She performed the title role in a Cinderella pantomime in 1988. In March 1998, her first book, Fern’s Family Favourites, was released and in October the following year, she launched her second book Winter Treats and Summer Delights. Fern, My Story was published in November 2008 by Michael Joseph and it ranked among the Top Ten Bestseller list by The Sunday Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
May 18, 2019
Fern Britton immerses the reader in the lovely coastal location of the Cornish village of Pendruggan, in what is my first read of the author. Spring has arrived and the local vicar, Simon Canter, his wife, Penny, and their young daughter, Jenna, are leaving to spend a year in Brazil. The new temporary vicar covering his absence is the newly ordained Reverend Angela Whitehorn, on her first posting, keen to do well and make an impression. She is married to Robert, a high flying political TV news correspondent, who has decided it is time to support Angela after all she has done for him within their marriage. Their teenage daughter, Faith, has left behind her circle of friends and is to attend the local school. Joining them is Angela's offbeat, bold and brash Aunt Mamie, a tower of strength, in the support she provides for Angela after the death of her mother. Angela is still griefstricken as she embarks on her tenure, vowing to do her very best to serve her small community, whether they are churchgoers or not.
Angela initiates a whirlwind of activities, she is a breath of fresh air as she sets up a women's group and bookclub, a keep fit running club, a blessing for pets, and the large project of locating and digging the village pond, long since lost and rumoured to be cursed. Mamie makes a beeline for the elderly stalwart that is Queenie, famed for her knowledge of insider gossip, who runs the post office and store. Queenie provides Mamie with a path into the heart of village life, who is who, and precisely what is happening below the radar, as the two women become fast friends. Robert's good looks and fame has many of the local women swooning over him, as he settles into his unfamiliar role as house husband, but before long he is supporting Angela by setting up a village website and social media presence with the help of Helen, the partner of archaeologist, Piran, who becomes involved in the pond project.
Angela finds herself pulled into the lives of the local women, their trials and tribulations, and whilst she experiences great success, there are problems. There is Audrey Tipton who has run everything before, and is not happy about having her power base challenged. Angela is plagued by her inner insecurities, worries about Faith's friendship with Ben, and someone is sending her poison pen letters, telling her she is not wanted. Fern Britton writes a compelling book, about marriage, being a parent, family, trust, friendship, loss, and community. This is a entertaining read, driven by the eclectic characters that inhabit the story, my favourite being Mamie, a wonderful example of a woman who refuses to accept that getting older is any obstacle to living life to the full. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
Angela initiates a whirlwind of activities, she is a breath of fresh air as she sets up a women's group and bookclub, a keep fit running club, a blessing for pets, and the large project of locating and digging the village pond, long since lost and rumoured to be cursed. Mamie makes a beeline for the elderly stalwart that is Queenie, famed for her knowledge of insider gossip, who runs the post office and store. Queenie provides Mamie with a path into the heart of village life, who is who, and precisely what is happening below the radar, as the two women become fast friends. Robert's good looks and fame has many of the local women swooning over him, as he settles into his unfamiliar role as house husband, but before long he is supporting Angela by setting up a village website and social media presence with the help of Helen, the partner of archaeologist, Piran, who becomes involved in the pond project.
Angela finds herself pulled into the lives of the local women, their trials and tribulations, and whilst she experiences great success, there are problems. There is Audrey Tipton who has run everything before, and is not happy about having her power base challenged. Angela is plagued by her inner insecurities, worries about Faith's friendship with Ben, and someone is sending her poison pen letters, telling her she is not wanted. Fern Britton writes a compelling book, about marriage, being a parent, family, trust, friendship, loss, and community. This is a entertaining read, driven by the eclectic characters that inhabit the story, my favourite being Mamie, a wonderful example of a woman who refuses to accept that getting older is any obstacle to living life to the full. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
November 18, 2020
The Cornish coastal village of Pendruggen is farewelling their parish vicar, Simon, as he and his family take up a position if Brazil for twelve months. During that interim time Reverend Angela Whitehorn will come in take care of the parish. But it seems not everyone is happy about the move as Angela receives anonymous poison pen letters. Putting them aside she seeks to build community, especially supporting the female members of the village. Angela’s husband Robert has taken time off from his own work as a political correspondent to support Angela in her frost appointment. So they move to Pendruggen along with their teenage daughter Faith. > But what does life hold for this family and for the people of Pendruggen?
This is a light read which is exactly what I was looking for and needed after the previous book I tried to read and gave up on. The setting of Cornwall is what initially drew my attention and it is beautiful and well described. The various characters come to life, some pleasant some not so, some downright annoying. Angela comes across as a warm person concerned about people and wanting people to like her. Apart from the mention of an occasional hymn, the reader sees very little evidence of Angela’s faith in God or her spiritual role in the village. It is more like she is building a social club. When she speaks in her church it is more about her life than anything biblically based. Seems Angela was more a social worker than anything else. And I did have issues with the whole working together on projects with Polly, known as a white witch.
Those grumbles aside it was a pleasant enough read for a piece of fiction. It never delves into anything particularly deep and meaningful. The book starts with a death and then trails backwards to the events six months earlier. The story really relies on the setting and the community of characters. By the time it has gone into all the day to day dealings of the village life, you could be forgiven for almost forgetting about the death at the beginning until it is tied together in the end. A fairly gentle, untaxing read, it served its purpose in taking me away from more unpleasant read.
This is a light read which is exactly what I was looking for and needed after the previous book I tried to read and gave up on. The setting of Cornwall is what initially drew my attention and it is beautiful and well described. The various characters come to life, some pleasant some not so, some downright annoying. Angela comes across as a warm person concerned about people and wanting people to like her. Apart from the mention of an occasional hymn, the reader sees very little evidence of Angela’s faith in God or her spiritual role in the village. It is more like she is building a social club. When she speaks in her church it is more about her life than anything biblically based. Seems Angela was more a social worker than anything else. And I did have issues with the whole working together on projects with Polly, known as a white witch.
Those grumbles aside it was a pleasant enough read for a piece of fiction. It never delves into anything particularly deep and meaningful. The book starts with a death and then trails backwards to the events six months earlier. The story really relies on the setting and the community of characters. By the time it has gone into all the day to day dealings of the village life, you could be forgiven for almost forgetting about the death at the beginning until it is tied together in the end. A fairly gentle, untaxing read, it served its purpose in taking me away from more unpleasant read.
February 20, 2019
Was so disappointed in this book. I loved the others in the series so was really looking forward to reading this one. It started off great but very quickly went south for me. I just found it dragged on and I was bored. Bitterly disappointing
February 18, 2019
Fern has produced another hit in her Pendruggan series. Whilst Simon the vicar and his family go to Brazil for a year, newly ordained Angela Whitehorn and her family take up residence in the vicarage. Aunt Mamie, with her wonderful travel tales and meetings with famous people was a well drawn character and it was easy to forget her fate as described in the prologue. Angela was a mixture of a strong woman doing a job she loved, a wife with insecurities and a mother with a teenage daughter growing up too fast.
As usual the book was filled with humourous episodes, but throughout the story there was a thread of sadness and it was not until I read the acknowledgements at the end that the reason became apparent.
However, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Pendruggan and cannot wait for the next instalment.
As usual the book was filled with humourous episodes, but throughout the story there was a thread of sadness and it was not until I read the acknowledgements at the end that the reason became apparent.
However, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Pendruggan and cannot wait for the next instalment.
June 21, 2019
Review coming soon. Thanks to Fern Britton for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
March 1, 2019
The Newcomer is the new book from the best selling author and one of Britons must loved tv presenters. Fern Britton.
The touching way that this story came about and all the things that happened to Fern as this book was coming about. Was all very touching and my heart went out to her. Such a hard time to write a book. But perhaps exactly the medicine needed to help in some small way heal, even just by taking her mind off things as she gets lost in the characters world.
This book is very well thought out and the characters are all really well rounded and have great characterisation.
Cue Angela who has just been ordained and given her first ministerial setting.
Angela and her family, daughter Faith, husband Robert and aunt/mother Mamie, have all moved to Cornwall to support Angela. Although things don’t go quite to plan. Angela is set to make her mark on the village. She has lots of amazing ideas to bring everyone together. They are going to dig out the old village pond, set up a running club, a new club for women so that they have some where to talk and find new confidents, pet services and so much more.
Robert has given up his job as high flying journalist and has decided to be the person to stay at home, be there for Faith and be the house goddess renewed.
Everything is going well. There is plenty enough to keep Angela preoccupied. Not only all the things that she wants to set in place herself. But perishioners who need her help, Audrey a busybody who has her nose is absolutely everything, but above all this Angela also starts to get nasty pen letters in the post telling her that she doesn’t belong there and to go home as no one wants her.
But Angela is a strong, independent woman, and she is not one to back away meekly. Whoever is sending the letters really needs to realise that they have chosen the wrong woman to mess with.
But with new beginnings there are always new challenges, new secrets, new troubles and new obstacles. It will take faith, trust, understanding and much important learning, for Angela to get through the year.
A wonderful book about love, friendship, family, trust, Faith, understanding, kindness, happiness and heartbreak. This book is a brilliant addition to Ferns books.
The only things that I would like to have been done a little differently are:
I would have loved to have heard about what Simon, Penny and their daughter got up to in their new setting. Perhaps some letters or correspondence of some sort. Maybe there will be another story depicting their year. Which would be great as I would love to hear all about it.
Also I feel like the ending was a little bit rushed. I completely understand why it was. It must have been a really hard thing for Fern to right about. But that character was wonderful and prominent throughout the book. I would just have liked that to not have been quick so rushed and sudden.
But all in all a great book. That I throughly enjoyed.
The touching way that this story came about and all the things that happened to Fern as this book was coming about. Was all very touching and my heart went out to her. Such a hard time to write a book. But perhaps exactly the medicine needed to help in some small way heal, even just by taking her mind off things as she gets lost in the characters world.
This book is very well thought out and the characters are all really well rounded and have great characterisation.
Cue Angela who has just been ordained and given her first ministerial setting.
Angela and her family, daughter Faith, husband Robert and aunt/mother Mamie, have all moved to Cornwall to support Angela. Although things don’t go quite to plan. Angela is set to make her mark on the village. She has lots of amazing ideas to bring everyone together. They are going to dig out the old village pond, set up a running club, a new club for women so that they have some where to talk and find new confidents, pet services and so much more.
Robert has given up his job as high flying journalist and has decided to be the person to stay at home, be there for Faith and be the house goddess renewed.
Everything is going well. There is plenty enough to keep Angela preoccupied. Not only all the things that she wants to set in place herself. But perishioners who need her help, Audrey a busybody who has her nose is absolutely everything, but above all this Angela also starts to get nasty pen letters in the post telling her that she doesn’t belong there and to go home as no one wants her.
But Angela is a strong, independent woman, and she is not one to back away meekly. Whoever is sending the letters really needs to realise that they have chosen the wrong woman to mess with.
But with new beginnings there are always new challenges, new secrets, new troubles and new obstacles. It will take faith, trust, understanding and much important learning, for Angela to get through the year.
A wonderful book about love, friendship, family, trust, Faith, understanding, kindness, happiness and heartbreak. This book is a brilliant addition to Ferns books.
The only things that I would like to have been done a little differently are:
I would have loved to have heard about what Simon, Penny and their daughter got up to in their new setting. Perhaps some letters or correspondence of some sort. Maybe there will be another story depicting their year. Which would be great as I would love to hear all about it.
Also I feel like the ending was a little bit rushed. I completely understand why it was. It must have been a really hard thing for Fern to right about. But that character was wonderful and prominent throughout the book. I would just have liked that to not have been quick so rushed and sudden.
But all in all a great book. That I throughly enjoyed.
April 27, 2019
It was lovely to be back in Fern Britton's Cornwall, and more specifically Pendruggan, in amongst some very familiar faces.
However there is one main difference, Simon and Penny have gone off to Brazil for a year, and so there is a new vicar in the village - Angela and her family.
Angela brings some fabulous new ideas to the village but not everyone seems as keen to have her there. Plus she has a gorgeous husband and is worried that his eye may be straining. Add in their teenage daughter who has also agreed to support her mum, in her first parish and we have a lovely family. Plus Auntie Mamie, whose stories about her past are always entertaining.. possibly embellished too but amusing!
There is plenty of variety with the plot points, and assorted sub plots to get your teeth into, and all manner of fun and antics to be discovered. I loved reconnecting with familiar faces especially Helen, Piran and Queenie - I just wish that there had been chapters showcasing Simon and Penny's new life if Brazil.
Although the book predominately features a vicar in the vicarage there really wasn't much religion in this at all which I'm greatly relieved by. What I did notice though was the occasional mention of a hymn, some of which I then had in my head, having recalled either the tune or some of the words from my school days. These are tunes I've not heard in 17 years or more but yet, seeing the name of some of them, especially "To Be A Pilgrim" brought back memories of assemblies from any years ago.
I keep mentioning the familiar but I should say this can definitely be read as a standalone, it really is a whole new story, which new characters and focal points.
I really enjoyed reading The Newcomer, and it was interesting to see how a new family would be received into this normally very welcoming little village.
I just hope this isn't the last we have seen of Pendruggan as I really am fond of the location.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
However there is one main difference, Simon and Penny have gone off to Brazil for a year, and so there is a new vicar in the village - Angela and her family.
Angela brings some fabulous new ideas to the village but not everyone seems as keen to have her there. Plus she has a gorgeous husband and is worried that his eye may be straining. Add in their teenage daughter who has also agreed to support her mum, in her first parish and we have a lovely family. Plus Auntie Mamie, whose stories about her past are always entertaining.. possibly embellished too but amusing!
There is plenty of variety with the plot points, and assorted sub plots to get your teeth into, and all manner of fun and antics to be discovered. I loved reconnecting with familiar faces especially Helen, Piran and Queenie - I just wish that there had been chapters showcasing Simon and Penny's new life if Brazil.
Although the book predominately features a vicar in the vicarage there really wasn't much religion in this at all which I'm greatly relieved by. What I did notice though was the occasional mention of a hymn, some of which I then had in my head, having recalled either the tune or some of the words from my school days. These are tunes I've not heard in 17 years or more but yet, seeing the name of some of them, especially "To Be A Pilgrim" brought back memories of assemblies from any years ago.
I keep mentioning the familiar but I should say this can definitely be read as a standalone, it really is a whole new story, which new characters and focal points.
I really enjoyed reading The Newcomer, and it was interesting to see how a new family would be received into this normally very welcoming little village.
I just hope this isn't the last we have seen of Pendruggan as I really am fond of the location.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 17, 2019
I couldn’t wait to read this next book and fern didn’t let me down at all it was very well written with great characters and with so much mystery and friendship and settling in to a new area also full of romance. You feel you are transported to the village of pendruggan again.
Simon is the vicar of the village Parrish and his wife penny supports him they have been obeyed a years post over in Brazil and they take it up. While they are sat Reverand Angela and her husband Robert and their teenage daughter Faith come to join the village. It’s her first post and she really wants to feel part of the village and get to know everyone so starts new groups and has one project she really wants to see take off. Her relative comes to the village to and stays with them and she soon makes friends especially with mike. Angela starts getting letters through the door and the first one says your not welcome here then she gets some more and others in the village start getting them so they want to see who it is that is sending them. While the village are working on the village pond and bring it back to life mike gets hurt and Angela feels very guilty and she’s also worried about her husband as he’s spending a lot of time with Helen and she gets another letter says he’s hiding something so she worries. Angela starts supporting people in the village and is thinking she is settling a bit more when more letters come but when mike is in hospital and they go to his house they find something they shouldn’t so will he open up and they find out who has the letters. Will they be really surprised and shocked by who it is and can they forgive. Also will she be offered another job that will be full time will it be right to move or not.
A great read and worth more than five stars.
Simon is the vicar of the village Parrish and his wife penny supports him they have been obeyed a years post over in Brazil and they take it up. While they are sat Reverand Angela and her husband Robert and their teenage daughter Faith come to join the village. It’s her first post and she really wants to feel part of the village and get to know everyone so starts new groups and has one project she really wants to see take off. Her relative comes to the village to and stays with them and she soon makes friends especially with mike. Angela starts getting letters through the door and the first one says your not welcome here then she gets some more and others in the village start getting them so they want to see who it is that is sending them. While the village are working on the village pond and bring it back to life mike gets hurt and Angela feels very guilty and she’s also worried about her husband as he’s spending a lot of time with Helen and she gets another letter says he’s hiding something so she worries. Angela starts supporting people in the village and is thinking she is settling a bit more when more letters come but when mike is in hospital and they go to his house they find something they shouldn’t so will he open up and they find out who has the letters. Will they be really surprised and shocked by who it is and can they forgive. Also will she be offered another job that will be full time will it be right to move or not.
A great read and worth more than five stars.
February 19, 2019
I love being transported to Cornwall by Fern Britton’s books, her descriptions of the locations and village life are bliss for me.
This book was full of every emotion, and the characters were so real to life I could relate to them all , we all know some of them in our lives.
Angela Whitetorn is the newly ordained vicar who will look after the parish of Pendruggan for a year. Robert her dashing husband and Faith her teenage daughter accompany her. Angela’s Aunt Marnie joins the family and adds fun and eccentricity to the family. Angela is determined to leave her mark on the village but finds this a struggle with lots of obstacles being put in her way.
When she receives unpleasant letters her life and happiness is put in the balance? But who could be behind them? Can someone really dislike her so much? These questions had me guessing but I still was shocked to find out the culprit.
It was only when I read the finishing pages of the book the beginning of the story became clear to me, a very clever and original concept which tied up the loose ends perfectly.
This book will transport you to Cornish village life and you will feel part of the community without ever leaving home. A lovely gentle read.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this fantastic book
This book was full of every emotion, and the characters were so real to life I could relate to them all , we all know some of them in our lives.
Angela Whitetorn is the newly ordained vicar who will look after the parish of Pendruggan for a year. Robert her dashing husband and Faith her teenage daughter accompany her. Angela’s Aunt Marnie joins the family and adds fun and eccentricity to the family. Angela is determined to leave her mark on the village but finds this a struggle with lots of obstacles being put in her way.
When she receives unpleasant letters her life and happiness is put in the balance? But who could be behind them? Can someone really dislike her so much? These questions had me guessing but I still was shocked to find out the culprit.
It was only when I read the finishing pages of the book the beginning of the story became clear to me, a very clever and original concept which tied up the loose ends perfectly.
This book will transport you to Cornish village life and you will feel part of the community without ever leaving home. A lovely gentle read.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this fantastic book
February 14, 2019
This was a delightful story of life in a typical Cornish village. A good storyline and great characters with a big feel good factor. I still miss my years living in Cornwall and this story takes me back again. Loved it!
August 2, 2019
No plot or character development. You just think something is actually going to happen, and then it doesn't. I had to force myself to finish it.
April 25, 2021
Review also posted here: http://www.book-drunk.co.uk/2019/03/t...
The Newcomer is an enticing, evocatively written book which had me fascinated from beginning to end with interesting characters and an effortless flow to the writing that made it an ideal escapist read.
Early in the book we meet Simon and Penny and Angela and Robert. Simon is the parish vicar but he is leaving for a year and Angela is his replacement. Whilst the book then focuses on Angela and the job she is doing, it is also the people she meets that charm the reader as instead of simply following along with Angela's story, we get to know many other characters along the way in The Newcomer and they are a bundle of energy each with their own battles. The characterisation in this book is great.
Fern Britton transports the reader with ease to the beautiful Cornish village of Pendruggan with atmospheric descriptions of the setting and the full-of-life characters. It's an ideal read to take you away from real life and make you feel part of a different community for a while, invited in on the gossip shared between Mamie and Queenie, eyes opened for clues on the perpetrator of the cruel letters Angela receives, interest brewing at the attitude of Audrey and if she will soften towards the reverend or indeed anyone at all. The close-knit village feel in this book was full of warmth and positive energy and I really enjoyed getting to know all the characters.
Angela is a very driven and persevering character and as she faces many challenges during her time in Pendruggan, as the reader I was there rooting for her all the way. There are moments of sadness, humour, heart-warming friendships and a touch of the green eyed monster throughout the obstacles put in front of Angela and this made for an entertaining book as every chapter was fresh and engaging and every character (well, maybe except Audrey) was easy to care for and will a happy ending for.
Whilst I found myself really engaged in the characters created by the author, because of this I did wish we could have heard a bit more about how things were going for Simon and Penny as even in the short time we hear from them at the beginning of the book, I very quickly became invested in their story so I would have liked to have learnt a bit more and seen how things progressed for them. However, this didn't take away from what was a truly captivating book.
Though this was the first book by Fern Britton I have read, I do have a few more from the series already waiting for me on my bookshelves and my Kindle so I am looking forward to reading more from the author as The Newcomer was a lovely, absorbing read that beautifully encapsulated both the Cornwall setting and a close-knit village community. I will miss the characters.
The Newcomer is an enticing, evocatively written book which had me fascinated from beginning to end with interesting characters and an effortless flow to the writing that made it an ideal escapist read.
Early in the book we meet Simon and Penny and Angela and Robert. Simon is the parish vicar but he is leaving for a year and Angela is his replacement. Whilst the book then focuses on Angela and the job she is doing, it is also the people she meets that charm the reader as instead of simply following along with Angela's story, we get to know many other characters along the way in The Newcomer and they are a bundle of energy each with their own battles. The characterisation in this book is great.
Fern Britton transports the reader with ease to the beautiful Cornish village of Pendruggan with atmospheric descriptions of the setting and the full-of-life characters. It's an ideal read to take you away from real life and make you feel part of a different community for a while, invited in on the gossip shared between Mamie and Queenie, eyes opened for clues on the perpetrator of the cruel letters Angela receives, interest brewing at the attitude of Audrey and if she will soften towards the reverend or indeed anyone at all. The close-knit village feel in this book was full of warmth and positive energy and I really enjoyed getting to know all the characters.
Angela is a very driven and persevering character and as she faces many challenges during her time in Pendruggan, as the reader I was there rooting for her all the way. There are moments of sadness, humour, heart-warming friendships and a touch of the green eyed monster throughout the obstacles put in front of Angela and this made for an entertaining book as every chapter was fresh and engaging and every character (well, maybe except Audrey) was easy to care for and will a happy ending for.
Whilst I found myself really engaged in the characters created by the author, because of this I did wish we could have heard a bit more about how things were going for Simon and Penny as even in the short time we hear from them at the beginning of the book, I very quickly became invested in their story so I would have liked to have learnt a bit more and seen how things progressed for them. However, this didn't take away from what was a truly captivating book.
Though this was the first book by Fern Britton I have read, I do have a few more from the series already waiting for me on my bookshelves and my Kindle so I am looking forward to reading more from the author as The Newcomer was a lovely, absorbing read that beautifully encapsulated both the Cornwall setting and a close-knit village community. I will miss the characters.
March 4, 2019
Cosy, warm reading. A delightful village saga.
I was just glancing in here, and straightaway there was a hook! I wasn't expecting that. A body had been found. How did she die? Was she killed?
Robert, and Angela, the new vicar, are from London. Reverend Angela Whitehorn, her husband, daughter Faith and aunt Mamie will be staying in the vicarage. This will be Angela's first gig as a vicar.
This was cosy, warm reading. A delightful village saga, coupled with a possible murder mystery. A lovely reading feast. I have read one of Fern Britton's fiction books before (The Postcard). That wasn't the first in the series and it didn't matter that I hadn't read any of the others. This also works as a standalone too. Very enjoyable and hooks you in right from the start. Intriguing.
Then the book goes back to six months ago-when Penny and Simon were at the vicarage. Simon and Penny and their 7 year old daughter Jenna will be going to Brazil for a year for Simon to do missionary work.
There's nothing better than sitting for a spare hour or two, a mug of steaming coffee in your hand, and reading this lovely book. With lovely atmospheric descriptions, it intrigues, and makes you smile too.
Fern has been a household name for years. Obviously she has a way with words-she's had to think on her feet on live TV. She tells her stories so expertly, you soon sink cosily into the pages.
Interesting that I've just read a non fiction book where the author went to do missionary work abroad-Borneo-and then the vicar in this novel is also going to do missionary work far from home. Penny is thinking of some of the hardships they will encounter, animals, snakes etc.
Well-observed, with lovely, natural dialogue which moves the story along nicely. A sweet saga set in Cornwall. You do get a bit of background-there is a recap about some of the villagers-so it doesn't matter if you're reading it as a standalone. Or if you've read another in the series a long while ago-good to jog your memory.
Certain elements about it are just a little bit like the wonderful Vicar of Dibley-and in a good way-a new woman vicar comes to the village. She suggests a possible pets service-actually says she knows it sounds a bit Vicar of Dibley. Some of Mamie's tall tales reminded me of Nessa's in Gavin and Stacey-and that made me chuckle. A cosy village saga combined with mystery. Set against a beautiful backdrop.
A delightful, cosy read, bursting with warmth. Perfect for lazy weekends. With unexpected, and everyday happenings. Life in a seaside village; gossip, friendly chat, helping each other, confiding, lending a friendly ear. Beautifully told with warmth and emotion. This was really good, it kept me guessing, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I was just glancing in here, and straightaway there was a hook! I wasn't expecting that. A body had been found. How did she die? Was she killed?
Robert, and Angela, the new vicar, are from London. Reverend Angela Whitehorn, her husband, daughter Faith and aunt Mamie will be staying in the vicarage. This will be Angela's first gig as a vicar.
This was cosy, warm reading. A delightful village saga, coupled with a possible murder mystery. A lovely reading feast. I have read one of Fern Britton's fiction books before (The Postcard). That wasn't the first in the series and it didn't matter that I hadn't read any of the others. This also works as a standalone too. Very enjoyable and hooks you in right from the start. Intriguing.
Then the book goes back to six months ago-when Penny and Simon were at the vicarage. Simon and Penny and their 7 year old daughter Jenna will be going to Brazil for a year for Simon to do missionary work.
There's nothing better than sitting for a spare hour or two, a mug of steaming coffee in your hand, and reading this lovely book. With lovely atmospheric descriptions, it intrigues, and makes you smile too.
Fern has been a household name for years. Obviously she has a way with words-she's had to think on her feet on live TV. She tells her stories so expertly, you soon sink cosily into the pages.
Interesting that I've just read a non fiction book where the author went to do missionary work abroad-Borneo-and then the vicar in this novel is also going to do missionary work far from home. Penny is thinking of some of the hardships they will encounter, animals, snakes etc.
Well-observed, with lovely, natural dialogue which moves the story along nicely. A sweet saga set in Cornwall. You do get a bit of background-there is a recap about some of the villagers-so it doesn't matter if you're reading it as a standalone. Or if you've read another in the series a long while ago-good to jog your memory.
Certain elements about it are just a little bit like the wonderful Vicar of Dibley-and in a good way-a new woman vicar comes to the village. She suggests a possible pets service-actually says she knows it sounds a bit Vicar of Dibley. Some of Mamie's tall tales reminded me of Nessa's in Gavin and Stacey-and that made me chuckle. A cosy village saga combined with mystery. Set against a beautiful backdrop.
A delightful, cosy read, bursting with warmth. Perfect for lazy weekends. With unexpected, and everyday happenings. Life in a seaside village; gossip, friendly chat, helping each other, confiding, lending a friendly ear. Beautifully told with warmth and emotion. This was really good, it kept me guessing, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 28, 2019
My third book by Fern Britton and my thanks to HarperCollins publishers and NetGalley for this ARC of The Newcomer. When I have overindulged in thrillers and police procedurals this is my comfort zone. Fern loves Cornwall where she lives part of her time. I too love Cornwall. This time the locale is Pendruggan, a village full of wonderful characters who will soon make the acquaintance of Reverend Angela Whitehorn, her handsome husband Robert, daughter Faith and Angela's aunt Mamie Buchanan. The resident vicar, Simon Canter and his family, are off to Brazil for a year. Pendruggan will be Angela's first parish following her ordination. Vicar of Pendruggan. Vicar for a year. What can go wrong....?
The scene is set for another delicious family saga as Angela works to fit in with the locals, including the local battle-axe Audrey Tipton and her henpecked husband Geoffrey. And then there's Helen and Piran and the delightful Queenie, an elderly, no-nonsense woman who runs the village shop. She and Mamie become close friends and Mamie knows how to sort out Queenie's arthritis with a spliff or two!
So much goes on here. There is love, drama, suspicion and great sadness, but above all this charming tale is uplifting. A lot of fun to read, curled up under a duvet with a cup of hot chocolate.
Thank you Fern. You've done it again!
The scene is set for another delicious family saga as Angela works to fit in with the locals, including the local battle-axe Audrey Tipton and her henpecked husband Geoffrey. And then there's Helen and Piran and the delightful Queenie, an elderly, no-nonsense woman who runs the village shop. She and Mamie become close friends and Mamie knows how to sort out Queenie's arthritis with a spliff or two!
So much goes on here. There is love, drama, suspicion and great sadness, but above all this charming tale is uplifting. A lot of fun to read, curled up under a duvet with a cup of hot chocolate.
Thank you Fern. You've done it again!
March 7, 2019
It’s springtime in the Cornish village of Pendruggan and as the community comes together to say a fond farewell to parish vicar, Simon, and his wife, Penny for a year & a newcomer causes quite a stir. Newly ordained Reverand Angela Whitehorn comes to Cornwall to make a difference. With her husband, Robert, by her side, she sets about making changes – but it seems not everyone is happy for her to shake things up in the small parish, and soon Angela starts to receive anonymous poison pen letters.
With faith and friends by your side, even the most unlikely of new beginnings is possible.
Yet another well written book with great characters & a well paced story. The author’s books whilst taking you through a range of emotions also have a feel good factor. I love the inhabitants of Pendruggan & hope there are lots more books to come
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
With faith and friends by your side, even the most unlikely of new beginnings is possible.
Yet another well written book with great characters & a well paced story. The author’s books whilst taking you through a range of emotions also have a feel good factor. I love the inhabitants of Pendruggan & hope there are lots more books to come
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 10, 2019
When vicar Simon and his wife Penny leave Pendruggan for a year's sabbatical in Brazil the locals are in for a shock when newly ordained Angela comes to take his place. She arrives with her reluctant daughter, husband and Aunt Mamie, but will this first posting be all plain sailing or will she face opposition to the changes she wants to make!
Great to be back in Pendruggan with some old familiar faces but the new one that really stole the show for me was Mamie who I thought was a great character. Perfect book to transport you to Cornish life and I am always a sucker for books about my favourite part of the country
Great to be back in Pendruggan with some old familiar faces but the new one that really stole the show for me was Mamie who I thought was a great character. Perfect book to transport you to Cornish life and I am always a sucker for books about my favourite part of the country
June 13, 2021
An easy and quick read which I mostly enjoyed. The prologue sets you up for the ending. When reading the prologue it is sad but because you haven’t really “met” the characters yet so you don’t have the same empathy for them as you do by the end. It’s a story of a vicar who is caretaker of a parish for a year, and how her, her family and the village work together to bring changes to the village. Some parts of the story do feel a little like the vicar of dibley at times. I was a little cross with the ending but then when you read what Fern had been going through when writing this novel it is understandable and I felt it was perhaps helping her grieve. I will read more of her books.
March 2, 2019
It's been some time since i have been to Cornwall and Fern Britton's books always bring back happy memories. It was a real pleasure to read 'The Newcomer', in which i thank Netgalley and the Publishers for my ARC. It is the sort of book whereby i enjoyed curling up in bed at night and let my mind drift along with the story. Loved the characters and the setting and made a welcome change to read a nice light read. I am not going to write what the story is about as i prefer one to read the book for themselves, but i do highly recommend.
July 26, 2019
A thoroughly enjoyable read
I am always attracted to stories set in Cornwall, and this one did not disappoint.
Angela (a vicar), her husband and daughter go to a Cornish village to relieve the regular vicar while he and his family spend a year in Brazil. They are joined by Angela's aunt. There are lots of hurdles to cross becoming acquainted with the locals , and their traditions.
A well written and entertaining from beginning to end.
I am always attracted to stories set in Cornwall, and this one did not disappoint.
Angela (a vicar), her husband and daughter go to a Cornish village to relieve the regular vicar while he and his family spend a year in Brazil. They are joined by Angela's aunt. There are lots of hurdles to cross becoming acquainted with the locals , and their traditions.
A well written and entertaining from beginning to end.
May 1, 2020
I always adore a Cornish setting.
A new start in the Cornish village of Pendruggan for the new vicar Angela and her family. Trying to put her own stamp on the village has her making new friends aswell as some frosty acquaintances who don't like change.
Until she finds out some truths a little closer to home.
A light, easy read. Just not I really enjoyed, I didnt feel the characters and story flowed or was realistic.
A new start in the Cornish village of Pendruggan for the new vicar Angela and her family. Trying to put her own stamp on the village has her making new friends aswell as some frosty acquaintances who don't like change.
Until she finds out some truths a little closer to home.
A light, easy read. Just not I really enjoyed, I didnt feel the characters and story flowed or was realistic.
January 13, 2020
Took me a while to get into this one and just as it started to grip me the plot took a turn. Not what I had expected at all. I imagined it would be more exciting. From that point on it just seemed to drag it’s heels. Sorry but not one I will return to.
July 3, 2026
I enjoyed this book and found it quite easy and comforting to read. The plot surrounding a vicarage was new to me but I liked it! .I found the ending a little sad though, and would of preferred the book to end on a lighter happier note
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2019
I did enjoy this very engrossing story. This was full of interesting characters and it was so true of village life. The feeling expressed about losing a loved one was certainly something I was able to relate to. The problems and insecurities of the new vicar, Angela were realistically described. There is a mystery concerning anonymous letters and I was surprised by the sender. As for the dog, Mr Worthington, I know a dog just like him, especially nosing in people’s bags! This was such a lovely story that I had to keep reading until the end. I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this book. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 22, 2021
Enjoyed this one .
Read
February 1, 2023A holiday read as I expected
September 8, 2024
Nice storyline, easy read
July 26, 2025
Lovely, gentle story line which I enjoyed. Well written character descriptions and familiarity with the location from other Fern Britton books made it an easy read.
October 8, 2025
Set in a village in Cornwall, a new Vicar becomes the target for poison pen letters. It has plenty of Interesting characters, it’s not mega exciting but it’s entertaining enough and an easy read.
April 23, 2019
Gezellig, knus, vlot geschreven, en toch maar 2 sterren want in feite een volslagen overbodig boek. Maar wie ben ik, hele volksstammen zijn er dol op.
August 5, 2020
The Newcomer by Fern Britton is my first book I have read by Fern and I loved it. It's a great Holiday quick read........not saying we will be going on holiday for a while with what's going on around all of us.
This book is also a great stand alone but I do advise to read the other books in the Pendruggan series. Which I did.
I highly enjoyed it and recommend Fern's book.
Big Thank you to HarperCollins/HarperFiction via NetGalley for a ARC. This review is my own unbiased opinion
This book is also a great stand alone but I do advise to read the other books in the Pendruggan series. Which I did.
I highly enjoyed it and recommend Fern's book.
Big Thank you to HarperCollins/HarperFiction via NetGalley for a ARC. This review is my own unbiased opinion
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