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Mavis and Dot
A warm slice of life, funny, feel-good, yet poignant. Introducing two eccentric ladies who form an unlikely friendship.Meet Mavis and Dot - two colourful, retired ladies who live in Worthington-on-Sea, where there are charity shops galore. Apart from bargain hunting, they manage to tangle themselves in escapades involving illegal immigrants, night clubs, nude modelling, errant toupees and more. And then there’s Mal, the lovable dog who nobody else wants. A gently humorous, often side-splitting, heart-warming snapshot of two memorable characters with past secrets and passions. Escape for a couple of hours into this snapshot of a faded, British seaside town. You'll laugh and cry but probably laugh more."This book is quirky and individual, and has great pathos...[it] will resonate with a lot of readers." Gill Kaye - Editor of Ingenu(e). Written with a light touch in memory of a dear friend who passed away from ovarian cancer, Angela Petch’s seaside tale is a departure from her successful Tuscan novels. All profits from the sale of the books will go towards research into the cure for cancer.
- GenresFiction
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2018
26 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Angela Petch
18 books218 followersBorn in Germany on account of my father being stationed there in the British army, post-war, I have not stopped travelling and collecting stories since. The remainder of my childhood was spent in Rome, I married in Italy, worked for a Dutch company, lived in Tanzania, East Africa and now divide my year between Tuscany and West Sussex, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 23, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
They had a good scavenge in the charity shop. Dot found a pair of crotchless tights and held them up to the window to see if there were any ladders. Mavis hurried over and snatched them away. ‘You don’t want those, surely? They’re… you know…’ Dot snatched them back. ‘Yes, I do. Very sensible, comfortable and with draughts in the right places.’ ‘They’re from Ann Summers,’ Mavis said, lowering her voice. ‘Who’s she?’ ‘It’s a brand for – for –’ Mavis searched for an explanation, conscious of the grinning youth rifling through a pile of LPs on a nearby shelf. ‘They’re for entertaining, Dot…’ ‘What are you talking about? I never throw dinner parties these days.’
She pouted and twirled, then swept her untidy curls up with a fuchsia hairband from the Pound Shop. It was a little on the tight side but, as well as keeping her hair off her face, it had the same effect as a facelift, pulling her eyebrows up and back into a permanent look of surprise. Why people went to the bother of having painful operations at exorbitant prices to remove wrinkles, when they could buy a cheap hair-band to achieve the same effect was beyond her comprehension.
‘I’ve got a gateau here to share – reduced for quick sale.’ He held out a chocolate cake decorated with one half of a bridal couple arranged on top. ‘The Baker’s Dozen let me have this cheap because the bride changed her mind the day before the big event and apparently picked up the marzipan groom and stamped on him in the shop.’
She offered him a biscuit and he declined. ‘I have to watch my figure, Mave.’ ‘So do I,’ she said, popping a whole fig roll into her mouth. ‘I watch it grow.’
‘Goodie! I could do with a new fornicator,’ Mavis said. Lance snorted. ‘Do what?’ ‘A fornicator,’ repeated Mavis. ‘You know – a sort of frou-frou thingummybob to wear on the head.’ His eyes widened. ‘Well, I’ve not heard about that in all my experience of kinky doings.’ ‘What on earth are you on about, Lance? I’m going to my niece’s wedding after Christmas and I need a fornicator to finish off my outfit. Something in scarlet to go with my new dress.’ ‘Oh!’ laughed Lance. ‘I think you mean a fascinator.
Dot tutted and peeled off her cotton gloves. ‘Let’s pretend to be ladylike for one hour at least. Please, Mavis.’ Mavis took a swig of the fizzy wine, making sure to stick out her little finger as she held the glass.
My Review:
Mavis and Dot was found treasure and I fell right into this delightful and cleverly written tale, laced with witty and wry humor, and featuring two newly acquainted elderly spinsters both recently relocated to their small village. Mavis was short and rotund while Dot was tall and thin. Both were penny-pinching skinflints and the only thing they enjoyed more than a good tipple was finding bargains and planned junking jaunt outings to the second-hand rummage stores, church jumbles, and charity shops. The outfits Mavis put together from her finds were quite colorful although prone to be ill-fitting, haphazardly patched, and rather outlandish, which led to her being mistaken as a drag queen on one of her evening escapades.
Each and every one of Ms. Petch’s quirky characters was deliciously peculiar and colorfully drawn. I adored them to no end. Yet I loved Mavis the most and without reservation, as she was so fun to envision and had such sass and bravado. Mavis also had a tendency to muddle her words, which provided me with more than a few giggle-snorts - such as when she confused agoraphobics for aerobics, fornicator for fascinator, tepee for toupee, and anti-backups for antibiotics.
Angela Petch is a new discovery for me and I found her writing to be refreshingly crisp and packed with clever levity and amusing wit. The storylines were bright and shiny and cunningly crafted. Her writing was skillfully amusing yet also poignant and keenly insightful. Her artful narratives were vividly detailed with humorous and revealing observations that had me laughing aloud and kept a near-constant smirk on my face while I soaked up Mavis’ daring antics, rich fantasy life, fuzzy interpretations, and lusty daydreams. I adored these eccentric yet highly appealing characters as they fascinated me and left me desirous of knowing every little thing about them.
I hit the mother-load for new additions to my Brit vocabulary list with manky (dirty, worthless, or rotten), faff (waste of time or energy), punnet (a small shallow basket often used for fruit and vegetables), and Knickerbocker Glory, which is an ice cream sundae in a tall glass.
Does it need saying that Angela Petch has a new and scarily rabid fangirl? I sincerely hope she doesn't startle easily...
They had a good scavenge in the charity shop. Dot found a pair of crotchless tights and held them up to the window to see if there were any ladders. Mavis hurried over and snatched them away. ‘You don’t want those, surely? They’re… you know…’ Dot snatched them back. ‘Yes, I do. Very sensible, comfortable and with draughts in the right places.’ ‘They’re from Ann Summers,’ Mavis said, lowering her voice. ‘Who’s she?’ ‘It’s a brand for – for –’ Mavis searched for an explanation, conscious of the grinning youth rifling through a pile of LPs on a nearby shelf. ‘They’re for entertaining, Dot…’ ‘What are you talking about? I never throw dinner parties these days.’
She pouted and twirled, then swept her untidy curls up with a fuchsia hairband from the Pound Shop. It was a little on the tight side but, as well as keeping her hair off her face, it had the same effect as a facelift, pulling her eyebrows up and back into a permanent look of surprise. Why people went to the bother of having painful operations at exorbitant prices to remove wrinkles, when they could buy a cheap hair-band to achieve the same effect was beyond her comprehension.
‘I’ve got a gateau here to share – reduced for quick sale.’ He held out a chocolate cake decorated with one half of a bridal couple arranged on top. ‘The Baker’s Dozen let me have this cheap because the bride changed her mind the day before the big event and apparently picked up the marzipan groom and stamped on him in the shop.’
She offered him a biscuit and he declined. ‘I have to watch my figure, Mave.’ ‘So do I,’ she said, popping a whole fig roll into her mouth. ‘I watch it grow.’
‘Goodie! I could do with a new fornicator,’ Mavis said. Lance snorted. ‘Do what?’ ‘A fornicator,’ repeated Mavis. ‘You know – a sort of frou-frou thingummybob to wear on the head.’ His eyes widened. ‘Well, I’ve not heard about that in all my experience of kinky doings.’ ‘What on earth are you on about, Lance? I’m going to my niece’s wedding after Christmas and I need a fornicator to finish off my outfit. Something in scarlet to go with my new dress.’ ‘Oh!’ laughed Lance. ‘I think you mean a fascinator.
Dot tutted and peeled off her cotton gloves. ‘Let’s pretend to be ladylike for one hour at least. Please, Mavis.’ Mavis took a swig of the fizzy wine, making sure to stick out her little finger as she held the glass.
My Review:
Mavis and Dot was found treasure and I fell right into this delightful and cleverly written tale, laced with witty and wry humor, and featuring two newly acquainted elderly spinsters both recently relocated to their small village. Mavis was short and rotund while Dot was tall and thin. Both were penny-pinching skinflints and the only thing they enjoyed more than a good tipple was finding bargains and planned junking jaunt outings to the second-hand rummage stores, church jumbles, and charity shops. The outfits Mavis put together from her finds were quite colorful although prone to be ill-fitting, haphazardly patched, and rather outlandish, which led to her being mistaken as a drag queen on one of her evening escapades.
Each and every one of Ms. Petch’s quirky characters was deliciously peculiar and colorfully drawn. I adored them to no end. Yet I loved Mavis the most and without reservation, as she was so fun to envision and had such sass and bravado. Mavis also had a tendency to muddle her words, which provided me with more than a few giggle-snorts - such as when she confused agoraphobics for aerobics, fornicator for fascinator, tepee for toupee, and anti-backups for antibiotics.
Angela Petch is a new discovery for me and I found her writing to be refreshingly crisp and packed with clever levity and amusing wit. The storylines were bright and shiny and cunningly crafted. Her writing was skillfully amusing yet also poignant and keenly insightful. Her artful narratives were vividly detailed with humorous and revealing observations that had me laughing aloud and kept a near-constant smirk on my face while I soaked up Mavis’ daring antics, rich fantasy life, fuzzy interpretations, and lusty daydreams. I adored these eccentric yet highly appealing characters as they fascinated me and left me desirous of knowing every little thing about them.
I hit the mother-load for new additions to my Brit vocabulary list with manky (dirty, worthless, or rotten), faff (waste of time or energy), punnet (a small shallow basket often used for fruit and vegetables), and Knickerbocker Glory, which is an ice cream sundae in a tall glass.
Does it need saying that Angela Petch has a new and scarily rabid fangirl? I sincerely hope she doesn't startle easily...
November 27, 2018
10☆ Mavis and Dot Stole My Heart!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Ok so it's not often I go above a 5☆ rating, but Mavis and Dot absolutely stole my heart in more ways than one!
Mavis and Dot literally reminded me of my Aunties and Nan, my Aunt got baptised at 90 and my other Aunt was still flirting and ballroom dancing in her 90s too. Sadly both passed away aged 99.
Mavis and Dot are loveable, cheeky, adventurous, fun, a breath of fresh air. If I'm anything like them at their age well I will be very happy.
Mavis and Dot met at a Bridge game. Needless to say they caused a fair amount of drama! Lol
They are so far from each others cup of tea that it's a surprise they work. But they do! They quickly become good friends.
Mavis is fun loving, care free, loves to flirt, and is adventurous.
Dot is more reserved, a lil posh some might say stuck up, but has a soft spot for her loveable pup and for Mavis.
They bond over Tea, Cake and rummaging around Charity Shops.
Mavis is determined to work her way through all the activities Worthington-on-Sea has to offer.... from Bridge, legs bums and Tums, Ballroom Dancing, naked Art Class Modelling, Drag Queens, to name a few, all of which have some hilarious outcomes.
Their adventures had me laughing out loud. There are sooo many of them it's hard to list my favourite. But Mavis and her ripped trousers during an exercise class had me laughing out loud. Not to mention the hair dye incident. If your slightly intrigued then you will 100% want to read this adorable book.
Mavis and Dot is an Utterly Charming, laugh out loud, feel good, Heartwarming, Uplifting tale which has absolutely stolen my heart!
The Characters literally spring to life on the page. They are warm, vibrant, full of life and I adored them.
I loved all the crazy antics, Drama, mayhem, romantic liaisons, the emotional and touching moments, in fact there is nothing i disliked. It's a unique story that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime
Petch's writing is warm, engaging, witty, and flowed seamlessly, it drew me in instantly making for a compulsive read that I devoured in one day.
It's such a refreshing change to read a story where the characters are of the older generation. It gave a different perspective on life, and grabbing opportunities when you can, your never too old, also i loved the power of friendship between Mavis and Dot.
So Prepare to be charmed by this Gorgeous, warm, funny and enchanting tale. As once you start reading you won't want to put it down!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Ok so it's not often I go above a 5☆ rating, but Mavis and Dot absolutely stole my heart in more ways than one!
Mavis and Dot literally reminded me of my Aunties and Nan, my Aunt got baptised at 90 and my other Aunt was still flirting and ballroom dancing in her 90s too. Sadly both passed away aged 99.
Mavis and Dot are loveable, cheeky, adventurous, fun, a breath of fresh air. If I'm anything like them at their age well I will be very happy.
Mavis and Dot met at a Bridge game. Needless to say they caused a fair amount of drama! Lol
They are so far from each others cup of tea that it's a surprise they work. But they do! They quickly become good friends.
Mavis is fun loving, care free, loves to flirt, and is adventurous.
Dot is more reserved, a lil posh some might say stuck up, but has a soft spot for her loveable pup and for Mavis.
They bond over Tea, Cake and rummaging around Charity Shops.
Mavis is determined to work her way through all the activities Worthington-on-Sea has to offer.... from Bridge, legs bums and Tums, Ballroom Dancing, naked Art Class Modelling, Drag Queens, to name a few, all of which have some hilarious outcomes.
Their adventures had me laughing out loud. There are sooo many of them it's hard to list my favourite. But Mavis and her ripped trousers during an exercise class had me laughing out loud. Not to mention the hair dye incident. If your slightly intrigued then you will 100% want to read this adorable book.
Mavis and Dot is an Utterly Charming, laugh out loud, feel good, Heartwarming, Uplifting tale which has absolutely stolen my heart!
The Characters literally spring to life on the page. They are warm, vibrant, full of life and I adored them.
I loved all the crazy antics, Drama, mayhem, romantic liaisons, the emotional and touching moments, in fact there is nothing i disliked. It's a unique story that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime
Petch's writing is warm, engaging, witty, and flowed seamlessly, it drew me in instantly making for a compulsive read that I devoured in one day.
It's such a refreshing change to read a story where the characters are of the older generation. It gave a different perspective on life, and grabbing opportunities when you can, your never too old, also i loved the power of friendship between Mavis and Dot.
So Prepare to be charmed by this Gorgeous, warm, funny and enchanting tale. As once you start reading you won't want to put it down!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
November 24, 2018
This was such a heartwarming delight of a story...
Mavis and dot were two eccentric and engaging characters in the twilight of their lives.... I completely adore both of these ladies and would love to spend the afternoon thrift store shopping with them... when I picked this book up I was expecting a fun fluffy read, but what I got was so much more , there was a lot of unexpected depth to this story... something else definitely worth mentioning is the prophets from the sale of this book go towards cancer research...
Mavis and Dot met each other while playing bridge... this chance encounter led them to discovering their mutual love for thrift shopping... so a beautiful friendship developed... mavis and Dot are so different from one another, but that added to the charm of the story and their friendship...
There really was so much packed in this story: thrift shopping, a trip, A drag queen, illegal immigrants, a baby, a dog and so much more... all the secondary characters were so colorful and so much fun! I truly found every single character in this book endearing.... I definitely hope we will get more adventures with Mavis and Dot...
Absolutely recommend to anyone in the mood for a feel-good story and the end of this book will definitely put you in the holiday mood...
*** A huge thank you to the author and Rachelle for my copy of this book ***
Mavis and dot were two eccentric and engaging characters in the twilight of their lives.... I completely adore both of these ladies and would love to spend the afternoon thrift store shopping with them... when I picked this book up I was expecting a fun fluffy read, but what I got was so much more , there was a lot of unexpected depth to this story... something else definitely worth mentioning is the prophets from the sale of this book go towards cancer research...
Mavis and Dot met each other while playing bridge... this chance encounter led them to discovering their mutual love for thrift shopping... so a beautiful friendship developed... mavis and Dot are so different from one another, but that added to the charm of the story and their friendship...
There really was so much packed in this story: thrift shopping, a trip, A drag queen, illegal immigrants, a baby, a dog and so much more... all the secondary characters were so colorful and so much fun! I truly found every single character in this book endearing.... I definitely hope we will get more adventures with Mavis and Dot...
Absolutely recommend to anyone in the mood for a feel-good story and the end of this book will definitely put you in the holiday mood...
*** A huge thank you to the author and Rachelle for my copy of this book ***
October 26, 2018
What a wonderful feel good read this was.
Mavis and Dot are quite different in personalities which I think makes their friendship even more lovely to read. It was quite sad I have to say that both of the ladies have found themselves quite alone in the world with not much in the way of family and friends. I was actually glad that a chance meeting gets them both together.
There is a whole array of wonderful characters, even the dog makes such an impression on the reader. In a way it has made me look forward to getting older. The shopping trips and cake and tea in cafe's. Not to mention the fish and chips! It made me realise that instead of worrying about getting older, there is so much more to look forward to.
I loved that we get transported to Tuscany as well as the sea side. Both places that would be great to go to. That's another thing that's great about being retired, being able to do anything at the drop of a hat. I think both ladies bring so much to the story and I loved finding out a bit more about them and their past.
Mavis And Dot, I hope is just the first in many adventures for this fabulous duo. It is a heart warming read that will really make you value your family and friends. I think Mavis and Dot between them can really teach us a lot about how we treat people in this world. An endearing and entertaining read. Really enjoyed it.
My thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for an advanced readers coy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Mavis and Dot are quite different in personalities which I think makes their friendship even more lovely to read. It was quite sad I have to say that both of the ladies have found themselves quite alone in the world with not much in the way of family and friends. I was actually glad that a chance meeting gets them both together.
There is a whole array of wonderful characters, even the dog makes such an impression on the reader. In a way it has made me look forward to getting older. The shopping trips and cake and tea in cafe's. Not to mention the fish and chips! It made me realise that instead of worrying about getting older, there is so much more to look forward to.
I loved that we get transported to Tuscany as well as the sea side. Both places that would be great to go to. That's another thing that's great about being retired, being able to do anything at the drop of a hat. I think both ladies bring so much to the story and I loved finding out a bit more about them and their past.
Mavis And Dot, I hope is just the first in many adventures for this fabulous duo. It is a heart warming read that will really make you value your family and friends. I think Mavis and Dot between them can really teach us a lot about how we treat people in this world. An endearing and entertaining read. Really enjoyed it.
My thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for an advanced readers coy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 5, 2018
Firstly this book is dedicated to a friend who sadly lost her life to cancer. All proceeds for sales will go to a cancer charity. Like many people I have lost friends and family to cancer and so this resonates with me and I do hope the book raises a good amount of funds for Cancer Research.
The stories in the book around Mavis & Dot’s adventures were started when the author and her friend met when charity shop junking and add a bittersweet feel when you know that upfront.
Mavis and Dot meet one day and become good friends slowly revealing past heartaches and finding ways to support each other in life and all the trials it can throw at you. There’s a lovely feel to the adventures the ladies go on whether it’s a trip to Italy or one of them rescuing some refugees and housing them whilst the wife gives birth! They do meet some lovely new people and the final chapters around Christmas Day leave you feeling really uplifted.
One thing I loved was the desire for them not to simply grow old but to enjoy life and all it’s pleasures. The dance classes, karaoke, drag queens and so on inspired me to create my own little 2019 bucket list of things to try. Life really is too short not to have some fun and meet new friends along the way.
It’s just a nice, warm-hearted book and we need a bit more of that in these troubled times. I’d recommend it as an enjoyable romantic (yes just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can’t have some romance) comedy but also I’d recommend it to do a good deed and raise some funds for charity.
The stories in the book around Mavis & Dot’s adventures were started when the author and her friend met when charity shop junking and add a bittersweet feel when you know that upfront.
Mavis and Dot meet one day and become good friends slowly revealing past heartaches and finding ways to support each other in life and all the trials it can throw at you. There’s a lovely feel to the adventures the ladies go on whether it’s a trip to Italy or one of them rescuing some refugees and housing them whilst the wife gives birth! They do meet some lovely new people and the final chapters around Christmas Day leave you feeling really uplifted.
One thing I loved was the desire for them not to simply grow old but to enjoy life and all it’s pleasures. The dance classes, karaoke, drag queens and so on inspired me to create my own little 2019 bucket list of things to try. Life really is too short not to have some fun and meet new friends along the way.
It’s just a nice, warm-hearted book and we need a bit more of that in these troubled times. I’d recommend it as an enjoyable romantic (yes just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can’t have some romance) comedy but also I’d recommend it to do a good deed and raise some funds for charity.
December 31, 2018
What an amusing and charming pair of ladies are at the centre of this book.
They may be older ladies but they certainly haven't lost their zest for life.
Initially meeting at bridge they seem to be compete opposites but as you get up know them you understand why Dot can appear to be prickly.
There are a lot of antics in this story that are sure to raise a smile order a giggle.
The setting of Worthington on Sea is a traditional British seaside town and feels like a location I can recall as a child.
Everything just felt rather quaint and the book covers all sorts of topics. In addition profits from the book are going towards research into cancer.
With a humorous story, a hint there could be more to come from Mavis and Dot, and all for a good cause it's definitely a book worth having a read of.
Thank you to Angela Petch for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
They may be older ladies but they certainly haven't lost their zest for life.
Initially meeting at bridge they seem to be compete opposites but as you get up know them you understand why Dot can appear to be prickly.
There are a lot of antics in this story that are sure to raise a smile order a giggle.
The setting of Worthington on Sea is a traditional British seaside town and feels like a location I can recall as a child.
Everything just felt rather quaint and the book covers all sorts of topics. In addition profits from the book are going towards research into cancer.
With a humorous story, a hint there could be more to come from Mavis and Dot, and all for a good cause it's definitely a book worth having a read of.
Thank you to Angela Petch for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 27, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
This was a treat to read!
I love the cover for this story and I think the author has done a fabulous job with the story! It is heart-warming, made me giggle, laugh, reminisce and there was a touch of sadness too. The story is well written and has a great flow- you can't not love the main characters!!
4.5 stars from me rounded up to 5 stars for Amazon and Goodreads - a really enjoyable story that is supporting a very worthy cause- you can grab your copy today as the book is out now - and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
This was a treat to read!
I love the cover for this story and I think the author has done a fabulous job with the story! It is heart-warming, made me giggle, laugh, reminisce and there was a touch of sadness too. The story is well written and has a great flow- you can't not love the main characters!!
4.5 stars from me rounded up to 5 stars for Amazon and Goodreads - a really enjoyable story that is supporting a very worthy cause- you can grab your copy today as the book is out now - and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
December 5, 2018
Mavis and Dot is a delightfully funny and charming read with two of the most eccentric characters I’ve come across. Both retired, they meet at a Bridge Club in the seaside town of Worthington–on-Sea whilst Mavis is working her way through her alphabetical bucket list. The bridge club doesn’t end well but despite being like chalk and cheese they strike up a friendship – their love of hunting for charity shop bargains bringing them together.
Mavis has a penchant for Italian men and has rather a racy side to her nature. Dot, by contrast, is far more reserved (perhaps a little bit more forthright and grumpy), and from a colonial family who hankers after the old days in her beloved Africa – indeed she prefers to sleep on cushions on the floor by the glass doors in order to emulate her African childhood.
There are a number of additional characters coming into their lives who add colour and humour to the story – old timer Humphrey, Lance the drag queen with his outrageous personality, Winston and Asha and a host of others, including Mal the dog; an unwanted mongrel who steals Dot’s heart.
Angela Petch has woven warmth and charm to this story however it does have its serious side too – the difficulties facing illegal immigrants, adoption and illness give the story an unexpected depth. One of the highlights for me was the coach trip to Tuscany – an idyllic location but with a myriad of characters – I have done a coach trip to Italy myself many years ago – thankfully my fellow passengers were far better behaved than those that poor coach driver Seamus had to cope with.
At just over 200 pages, Mavis and Dot is an uplifting and humorous read focusing on friendship, living life to the full and lending a helping hand. I really enjoyed it and would be very happy to see the ladies and their friends return.
Mavis has a penchant for Italian men and has rather a racy side to her nature. Dot, by contrast, is far more reserved (perhaps a little bit more forthright and grumpy), and from a colonial family who hankers after the old days in her beloved Africa – indeed she prefers to sleep on cushions on the floor by the glass doors in order to emulate her African childhood.
There are a number of additional characters coming into their lives who add colour and humour to the story – old timer Humphrey, Lance the drag queen with his outrageous personality, Winston and Asha and a host of others, including Mal the dog; an unwanted mongrel who steals Dot’s heart.
Angela Petch has woven warmth and charm to this story however it does have its serious side too – the difficulties facing illegal immigrants, adoption and illness give the story an unexpected depth. One of the highlights for me was the coach trip to Tuscany – an idyllic location but with a myriad of characters – I have done a coach trip to Italy myself many years ago – thankfully my fellow passengers were far better behaved than those that poor coach driver Seamus had to cope with.
At just over 200 pages, Mavis and Dot is an uplifting and humorous read focusing on friendship, living life to the full and lending a helping hand. I really enjoyed it and would be very happy to see the ladies and their friends return.
December 8, 2018
Angela Petch has penned a well-written, witty, and heart-warming story. Cleaver banter, an appealing supporting cast, and timely social issues weave a unique and memorable story. I rarely clamor for a sequel, but in the case of Mavis and Dot, I make the exception: I want more.
My compliments to artist Gill Kaye for the brilliant cover art. It suits the characters perfectly.
My compliments to artist Gill Kaye for the brilliant cover art. It suits the characters perfectly.
November 17, 2018
What a charming little eyeopener this is. Mavis and Dot are couple of ‘older’ ladies as different as polar opposites but joining a Bridge Club draws them together, then an accusation of cheating riles them enough to ‘up & leave’. And where else could you possibly go after an event like that … a tea shop of course. One lady craving a ‘builder’s brew’ [strong ] and the other going for the more refined lapsang souchong, this sums up the start of their dubious friendship, opposite in everything until a few other hobbies begin to open up and they realise they can share some interests. I have a wonderful image of them trawling the charity shops for a bargain or next outfit!
The area name of Worthington -on-Sea was remarkably similar to where I grew up it would be lovely to think these two were strolling the same streets as I did. Basically it is based around a bucket list, life is too short and we should live it to the full, this is the message that runs through this story.
As their unlikely friendship grows they gather other characters along the way proving you can choose who you would like as ‘family’ and friends around your table at Christmas. Life is a blessing and old age doesn’t mean you have to slow down if you are physically and mentally able to continue and have fun.
While there is plenty of humour & a touch of romance there is also a deeper thread that runs through. An all round story of adventure if you follow these two on their antics, very endearing and a couple who I would find a leading example of brightness in an otherwise dark life.
There is a personal side to the book for the author so all proceeds will go towards Cancer Research UK so please find it in your hearts to pay a few pennies for a brilliant read and give yourself that warm feeling inside of knowing you have made a difference.
Thanks to the author and Rachel from Random Resources. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
The area name of Worthington -on-Sea was remarkably similar to where I grew up it would be lovely to think these two were strolling the same streets as I did. Basically it is based around a bucket list, life is too short and we should live it to the full, this is the message that runs through this story.
As their unlikely friendship grows they gather other characters along the way proving you can choose who you would like as ‘family’ and friends around your table at Christmas. Life is a blessing and old age doesn’t mean you have to slow down if you are physically and mentally able to continue and have fun.
While there is plenty of humour & a touch of romance there is also a deeper thread that runs through. An all round story of adventure if you follow these two on their antics, very endearing and a couple who I would find a leading example of brightness in an otherwise dark life.
There is a personal side to the book for the author so all proceeds will go towards Cancer Research UK so please find it in your hearts to pay a few pennies for a brilliant read and give yourself that warm feeling inside of knowing you have made a difference.
Thanks to the author and Rachel from Random Resources. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
December 29, 2018
Every once in a while a book comes your way that makes your heart sing, Mavis and Dot was that book for me.
I think I can safely say it's in my top three reads of 2018.
It's an absolute gem of a story about two ladies, Mavis and Dot. Both are polar opposites in personalities but their friendship grows and they fit together like two jigsaw pieces.
Mavis is just a bundle of fun with a real naughty side, I adored her and I found myself laughing out loud to not only her antics but also her mispronunciations of words. Mavis defines growing old ungracefully. I think everyone needs a pinch of Mavis in their character, the world would be a happier place.
Dot is the yin to Mavis' yang! Quite well spoken, prim and proper but with a definite hidden side. Under the cooler exterior there is an absolute heart of gold, I thoroughly enjoyed 'watching' her blossom and discover the hidden side to her.
Angela has described all of the characters so richly that it was easy to conjure up the images and create their personalities within your mind, so much so it was hard to not believe they were real.
The illustrations that are scattered throughout the book are gorgeous and reaffirmed for me I'd imagined the characters spot on.
I truly hope this isn't the last we see of Mavis and Dot!
A 5* review from me and the icing on the cake is that all profits from Mavis and Dot will go towards cancer research, so please add this to your wish list.
November 19, 2018
This was a heartwarming story. You could easily imagine the two ladies meeting and see how their friendship started to grow. They teach us that you are never too old to have fun, never too old to meet new people, never too old to live your life.
The book has funny bits and heartbreaking ones. It was fluently written and the few drawings put an even bigger smile on my face.
Why shouldn't you be able to be flamboyant or do something crazy when you are older? Life is how you make it and when you have friends and 'family' around you, it's makes it all the more worthwhile.
Thank you, Angela Petch and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
The book has funny bits and heartbreaking ones. It was fluently written and the few drawings put an even bigger smile on my face.
Why shouldn't you be able to be flamboyant or do something crazy when you are older? Life is how you make it and when you have friends and 'family' around you, it's makes it all the more worthwhile.
Thank you, Angela Petch and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
March 17, 2019
Large Slice of Life with Mavis and Dot
Embark on a series of adventures with Mavis and Dot but prepare yourself for a roller coaster of emotions. Humour and adorable, eccentric characters present a commentary on modern Britain. Reading Angela Petch’s ‘Mavis and Dot’ is like delving into a large slice of Tiramisu: the pick me up dessert with a bitter sweet balance of perfection.
Like a quintessential seaside town, Mavis and Dot have Britishness stamped through their charming identities. Though they are as different as builders’ tea and Lapsang Souchong, they are both women of a certain age from the same generation. The contrast between this couple of friends makes them so endearing you don’t want to leave them. Beneath the façade of flamboyant Mavis and straight-laced Dot, there are secrets and loneliness. Loneliness is a cruel companion who can be banished with the warmth of a cuppa and chat. Peel away the faded glory of Mavis and Dot to reveal their secrets and warm hearts. I guarantee this story will warm your heart.
Wonderful humour is presented through the characters and the author’s powers of observation. I was drawn into the story with Mrs Gallsworthy whose ‘cameo necklace dangled like a climber hanging on for dear life over a precipice.’ We have all met these characters, yet only Petch could capture this personality so beautifully. Humour is contrasted with pathos to form a vivid impression of the characters' lives. Mavis’s only photo of her lover is a framed photo of an image cut out of the funeral order of service, but she manages to search for some joy in the sadness. Her penchant for Italian men, fuelled by her liaison with her lover, takes Mavis on a challenging journey of discovery.
Dot describes Mavis as ‘the salt of the earth’. Mavis’s kindness opens a new world for Dot. Though Dot has her own eccentricities such as sleeping on cushions with the windows open: an eccentricity that is both funny and sad. Dot’s reflections on love made me giggle when she compares falling in love to catching mumps. She explains, ‘… it’s fine catching mumps when you’re young but it’s tricky when you’re older. It hits you harder.’ Hilarious observations hit you throughout the narrative but digging deeper often creates a lump in your throat. For instance, the scene where Mavis models for a group of artists captures the combination of humour and poignancy perfectly.
The unlikely friends enjoy shopping in charity shops while seeking sanctuary in the various tea shops. It was comforting to settle in ‘the cosy fug’ of the cafés while they search for a ‘a large helping of happiness’ as they shelter from the storm of loneliness.
Both ladies are from an era that ‘learned to keep their feelings buttoned up’. One hopes they will help each other to find out more about themselves. The house doesn’t have to be ‘too quiet’ if you open your door to others.
This clever, touching and powerful writing leaves you thinking. Life can’t be all fairground rides and candyfloss: visiting the seaside is different in the mature years, yet it is possible to make the most of it. Happiness can be sought in the company of others, but when alone we must comfortable with ourselves. Reading this book will provide the comfort of nostalgia, cake and a good old fashioned giggle with these characters. I loved this celebration of life painted with vivid brushstrokes of humour.
Embark on a series of adventures with Mavis and Dot but prepare yourself for a roller coaster of emotions. Humour and adorable, eccentric characters present a commentary on modern Britain. Reading Angela Petch’s ‘Mavis and Dot’ is like delving into a large slice of Tiramisu: the pick me up dessert with a bitter sweet balance of perfection.
Like a quintessential seaside town, Mavis and Dot have Britishness stamped through their charming identities. Though they are as different as builders’ tea and Lapsang Souchong, they are both women of a certain age from the same generation. The contrast between this couple of friends makes them so endearing you don’t want to leave them. Beneath the façade of flamboyant Mavis and straight-laced Dot, there are secrets and loneliness. Loneliness is a cruel companion who can be banished with the warmth of a cuppa and chat. Peel away the faded glory of Mavis and Dot to reveal their secrets and warm hearts. I guarantee this story will warm your heart.
Wonderful humour is presented through the characters and the author’s powers of observation. I was drawn into the story with Mrs Gallsworthy whose ‘cameo necklace dangled like a climber hanging on for dear life over a precipice.’ We have all met these characters, yet only Petch could capture this personality so beautifully. Humour is contrasted with pathos to form a vivid impression of the characters' lives. Mavis’s only photo of her lover is a framed photo of an image cut out of the funeral order of service, but she manages to search for some joy in the sadness. Her penchant for Italian men, fuelled by her liaison with her lover, takes Mavis on a challenging journey of discovery.
Dot describes Mavis as ‘the salt of the earth’. Mavis’s kindness opens a new world for Dot. Though Dot has her own eccentricities such as sleeping on cushions with the windows open: an eccentricity that is both funny and sad. Dot’s reflections on love made me giggle when she compares falling in love to catching mumps. She explains, ‘… it’s fine catching mumps when you’re young but it’s tricky when you’re older. It hits you harder.’ Hilarious observations hit you throughout the narrative but digging deeper often creates a lump in your throat. For instance, the scene where Mavis models for a group of artists captures the combination of humour and poignancy perfectly.
The unlikely friends enjoy shopping in charity shops while seeking sanctuary in the various tea shops. It was comforting to settle in ‘the cosy fug’ of the cafés while they search for a ‘a large helping of happiness’ as they shelter from the storm of loneliness.
Both ladies are from an era that ‘learned to keep their feelings buttoned up’. One hopes they will help each other to find out more about themselves. The house doesn’t have to be ‘too quiet’ if you open your door to others.
This clever, touching and powerful writing leaves you thinking. Life can’t be all fairground rides and candyfloss: visiting the seaside is different in the mature years, yet it is possible to make the most of it. Happiness can be sought in the company of others, but when alone we must comfortable with ourselves. Reading this book will provide the comfort of nostalgia, cake and a good old fashioned giggle with these characters. I loved this celebration of life painted with vivid brushstrokes of humour.
November 17, 2018
Goodness, I so enjoyed this one – and I really, really hope that this won’t be the only outing for the wonderful characters and their wonderful storylines, just crying out for more. Mavis and Dot might be caricatures of colourful eccentrics, but they’re quite exquisitely drawn – and, as you read and find out more about their backgrounds and become increasingly moved by the loneliness of their current lives, you’ll grow to love them every bit as much as I did. And their adventures – as their unlikely friendship develops – introduce a cast of wonderful characters that I found quite fascinating and totally enchanting. Every single character – even the most peripheral – is drawn in the most amazing detail, individuals who “live” on the page, their stories explored, their secrets and foibles (quite often unexpected) revealed.
I like to think of myself as a moderately colourful retired lady, but I have many miles to travel before hoping to catch up with Mavis. I warmed to her immediately, as she worked through her alphabetical bucket list of activities (with a slight detour for “agoraphobics”…), and I just loved her unique personal style. There’s a naivety and vulnerability about her that really touches your heart – with flashes of (often alcohol-inspired) bravery that have you cheering her on, always laughing with her rather than at her. Her malapropisms – not in the least overdone – might just add to your future vocabulary as they have mine. Dot is initially less easy to like – but once we see the sadness of her past it’s so very touching to watch her brittleness crumble as her heart melts, and she allows herself to feel love for others.
The settings are wonderful – Worthington-on-Sea and the neighbouring towns vividly drawn, with the most wonderful detail around the run-down shopping centres and the all-pervading aroma of fish and chips, and I just loved Humphrey’s beach hut and the role it played in the story. The Italian excursion too – think Coach Trip on tv, then multiply the eccentricity and bad behaviour of the holiday makers by several times. Again, the vivid detail is quite astounding – the “Italian” waiter, the attempts at the language, the little incidents real, shocking, touching and very, very funny.
This is a perfect Christmas read too – and not just because of the timing of its ending and the touch of “snow” (which brought a tear to my eye), or the Christmas dinner gathering that I’d have so loved to be part of. This book is a perfect reminder of the power of friendship – and a wonderful celebration that however advanced in years you may be, there can be so many opportunities for sheer and unbounded joy.
I like to think of myself as a moderately colourful retired lady, but I have many miles to travel before hoping to catch up with Mavis. I warmed to her immediately, as she worked through her alphabetical bucket list of activities (with a slight detour for “agoraphobics”…), and I just loved her unique personal style. There’s a naivety and vulnerability about her that really touches your heart – with flashes of (often alcohol-inspired) bravery that have you cheering her on, always laughing with her rather than at her. Her malapropisms – not in the least overdone – might just add to your future vocabulary as they have mine. Dot is initially less easy to like – but once we see the sadness of her past it’s so very touching to watch her brittleness crumble as her heart melts, and she allows herself to feel love for others.
The settings are wonderful – Worthington-on-Sea and the neighbouring towns vividly drawn, with the most wonderful detail around the run-down shopping centres and the all-pervading aroma of fish and chips, and I just loved Humphrey’s beach hut and the role it played in the story. The Italian excursion too – think Coach Trip on tv, then multiply the eccentricity and bad behaviour of the holiday makers by several times. Again, the vivid detail is quite astounding – the “Italian” waiter, the attempts at the language, the little incidents real, shocking, touching and very, very funny.
This is a perfect Christmas read too – and not just because of the timing of its ending and the touch of “snow” (which brought a tear to my eye), or the Christmas dinner gathering that I’d have so loved to be part of. This book is a perfect reminder of the power of friendship – and a wonderful celebration that however advanced in years you may be, there can be so many opportunities for sheer and unbounded joy.
November 14, 2018
“This is not the sort of behavior we expect at Worthington-on-Sea Bridge Club.”
With that, we are introduced to Mavis and Dot. These two are now at the top of my “favorite characters” list.
Mavis is a retired school nurse. She daydreams about her bucket list and is keen on afternoon dalliances. She confuses words- wait until you read about her mix-up with the word fornicator. She also has her own sense of style. Her ensemble of a “Lime green frock with a sequined bolero, gold evening gloves, nifty pink hat and veil to cover her curlers, and silver boots” leads to quite an evening as Mavis meets a new friend. We will learn that her daffiness is good-hearted.
Dot herself seems a bit like the flotsam that she likes to prowl through at the local thrift shops. She was raised in Africa and still refers to her parents as pater and mater. She commits social gaffes and seems to be the more rigid and cold of the two, but again, we will discover that she has a heart, too. “There are lots of things in life I shouldn’t have done, but there are far more I should have done.”
Mavis and Dot are new to their seaside community and they meet at a local bridge club. A hilarious card game makes them unlikely allies. Joined by their need for strong cups of tea, they manage to bridge their differences, cope with the ups and downs of life, and win our hearts.
Author Angela Petch has created two rich and delightful characters and then she lets them go. You will howl at times at their antics and you will want to hug them and help them dry their tears, too. The author’s writing is well-paced and spot-on. The backstory is interesting and well presented.
The humor is delightful and never forced, and there are some interesting twists and turns, too, for contrast. Mavis and Dot meet other characters who are as lovable and eccentric as they are; all of them are well-rounded- not a stereotype in the bunch.
At end of the book- which comes much too soon- Dot sums it up for us. “She thought about the unpredictability of life; how bad could be softened by good; how old clichés, like “never give up” were so true.”
I agree Dot, and I would add- thank you for showing us how to important it is to find ways to love and connect with those who may need some love and encouragement.
At the finish, the author tells us that this is “The end- or maybe the beginning…” Yes, Author Petch- please give us more Mavis and Dot.
Thanks to Rachels Random Resources for a review copy. This is my honest opinion.
With that, we are introduced to Mavis and Dot. These two are now at the top of my “favorite characters” list.
Mavis is a retired school nurse. She daydreams about her bucket list and is keen on afternoon dalliances. She confuses words- wait until you read about her mix-up with the word fornicator. She also has her own sense of style. Her ensemble of a “Lime green frock with a sequined bolero, gold evening gloves, nifty pink hat and veil to cover her curlers, and silver boots” leads to quite an evening as Mavis meets a new friend. We will learn that her daffiness is good-hearted.
Dot herself seems a bit like the flotsam that she likes to prowl through at the local thrift shops. She was raised in Africa and still refers to her parents as pater and mater. She commits social gaffes and seems to be the more rigid and cold of the two, but again, we will discover that she has a heart, too. “There are lots of things in life I shouldn’t have done, but there are far more I should have done.”
Mavis and Dot are new to their seaside community and they meet at a local bridge club. A hilarious card game makes them unlikely allies. Joined by their need for strong cups of tea, they manage to bridge their differences, cope with the ups and downs of life, and win our hearts.
Author Angela Petch has created two rich and delightful characters and then she lets them go. You will howl at times at their antics and you will want to hug them and help them dry their tears, too. The author’s writing is well-paced and spot-on. The backstory is interesting and well presented.
The humor is delightful and never forced, and there are some interesting twists and turns, too, for contrast. Mavis and Dot meet other characters who are as lovable and eccentric as they are; all of them are well-rounded- not a stereotype in the bunch.
At end of the book- which comes much too soon- Dot sums it up for us. “She thought about the unpredictability of life; how bad could be softened by good; how old clichés, like “never give up” were so true.”
I agree Dot, and I would add- thank you for showing us how to important it is to find ways to love and connect with those who may need some love and encouragement.
At the finish, the author tells us that this is “The end- or maybe the beginning…” Yes, Author Petch- please give us more Mavis and Dot.
Thanks to Rachels Random Resources for a review copy. This is my honest opinion.
November 18, 2018
A chance meeting at a bridge club will lead to friendship for Mavis and Dot.
Mavis and Dot is a delightful book and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I’m always cynically sceptical of claims about books in their advertising and when I saw ‘A warm slice of life, funny, feel-good, yet poignant’ I wasn’t quite prepared for how accurate a description this is. It sums up Mavis and Dot perfectly.
There’s fast paced action and so much packed into Mavis and Dot that I’d defy any reader not to be able to find an aspect that resonates with them. I particularly liked the concept that a larger sized, older woman like Mavis could still enjoy a sexual relationship. I was also very touched by the details of Dot’s past as they are gradually uncovered. There’s the potential for many more adventures for Mavis and Dot and I’d love to read them.
Both the main characters are very well developed so that they feel like real and vibrant women, warts and all. Neither is perfect and their flaws add to the realism and pleasure in the book. It’s so refreshing to read about a developing friendship between older protagonists as I feel they are underrepresented in fiction. Mavis’s outrageous outfits and Dot’s haphazard approach to housework and cooking give a brilliant message that we don’t have to be confined by convention.
I loved the balance of humour and pathos in the storytelling because the realities of life are so well balanced by quirkier and entertaining aspects. Mavis’s malapropisms had me chuckling and her early encounters with Lance were a real hoot. I don’t often laugh aloud when reading so-called humorous books but I certainly did here. That said, Angela Petch is not afraid to tackle big social issues head on so that there’s actually quite a bit to think about at the same time as being royally entertained.
Mavis and Dot is a warm-hearted exploration of life and friendship that I found beguiling and engaging. It’s a super read.
Mavis and Dot is a delightful book and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I’m always cynically sceptical of claims about books in their advertising and when I saw ‘A warm slice of life, funny, feel-good, yet poignant’ I wasn’t quite prepared for how accurate a description this is. It sums up Mavis and Dot perfectly.
There’s fast paced action and so much packed into Mavis and Dot that I’d defy any reader not to be able to find an aspect that resonates with them. I particularly liked the concept that a larger sized, older woman like Mavis could still enjoy a sexual relationship. I was also very touched by the details of Dot’s past as they are gradually uncovered. There’s the potential for many more adventures for Mavis and Dot and I’d love to read them.
Both the main characters are very well developed so that they feel like real and vibrant women, warts and all. Neither is perfect and their flaws add to the realism and pleasure in the book. It’s so refreshing to read about a developing friendship between older protagonists as I feel they are underrepresented in fiction. Mavis’s outrageous outfits and Dot’s haphazard approach to housework and cooking give a brilliant message that we don’t have to be confined by convention.
I loved the balance of humour and pathos in the storytelling because the realities of life are so well balanced by quirkier and entertaining aspects. Mavis’s malapropisms had me chuckling and her early encounters with Lance were a real hoot. I don’t often laugh aloud when reading so-called humorous books but I certainly did here. That said, Angela Petch is not afraid to tackle big social issues head on so that there’s actually quite a bit to think about at the same time as being royally entertained.
Mavis and Dot is a warm-hearted exploration of life and friendship that I found beguiling and engaging. It’s a super read.
November 23, 2018
Meet the newest odd couple on the block - or at least in Worthington-on-Sea! Mavis and Dot have both recently moved to the area, and when a Bridge game goes awry they head off to find a new place to "hang out" over tea and cake. The two are polar opposite in appearance, yet find they share a good rummage in a charity shop. While they have wildly different tastes - Dot is quite dowdy and practical, while Mavis is bolder and more flamboyant. Their "discoveries" prove the old adage that one man's junk is another man's treasure.
As they get to know each other better, they both clearly have a lot of heartache weighing them down. Of the two women, I much prefer Dot as a character - yes, she is stuffy, and yes, she harps on about her days in Africa and drinks Lapsang Souchong, yet for me, she is the one with the biggest heart. She is so welcoming to the couple she finds in the beach-house, and takes on their problems as if they are her own. Her own history is heart-breakingly sad. Mavis, in my eyes, is more shallow and selfish, but then again she is looking to make up for a life lived in the shadows - she has a Cinderella-type backstory, and is now looking for love in every encounter with every man she meets. (Personally, I couldn't forgive her for neglecting Dot's dog when suffering from a hangover from hell - but that says more about me than her ;) )
Their antics are unconventional and original, and definitely unexpected. There's a lot of humour here, that works well with the tragedies both have endured. That their unlikely friendship survives is testament to the layers of their personality that the author shares with us. They captivate, bewilder, overwhelm and amaze. A fun read.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
As they get to know each other better, they both clearly have a lot of heartache weighing them down. Of the two women, I much prefer Dot as a character - yes, she is stuffy, and yes, she harps on about her days in Africa and drinks Lapsang Souchong, yet for me, she is the one with the biggest heart. She is so welcoming to the couple she finds in the beach-house, and takes on their problems as if they are her own. Her own history is heart-breakingly sad. Mavis, in my eyes, is more shallow and selfish, but then again she is looking to make up for a life lived in the shadows - she has a Cinderella-type backstory, and is now looking for love in every encounter with every man she meets. (Personally, I couldn't forgive her for neglecting Dot's dog when suffering from a hangover from hell - but that says more about me than her ;) )
Their antics are unconventional and original, and definitely unexpected. There's a lot of humour here, that works well with the tragedies both have endured. That their unlikely friendship survives is testament to the layers of their personality that the author shares with us. They captivate, bewilder, overwhelm and amaze. A fun read.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
November 25, 2018
Mavis and Dot live in the quintessential British Seaside town of Worthington on Sea. They form an unlikely friendship when they meet during Bridge Club. Realising that just because they are from the ‘older generation’, it doesn’t mean that they can’t have fun. This is their tale of the fun they get up to, but whilst it is humorous and heart-warming, it also has a hint of sadness and regret.
I found the characters in this easy to read book all wonderful and found I had a particular fondness for Mal the Dog! Mavis and Dot’s antics are so funny that they made me laugh with delight, but then in equal doses some of them made me cry with sadness. Working their way through their own little ‘bucket list’ makes you realise that life is too short not to have fun at any age and just because you are in that certain “age bracket” it doesn’t mean that the fun times have to end. Mavis, Dot and all the other wonderful characters are certainly testament to that, and if I have half as much fun when I’m their age then I’ll be a happy person.
It’s an enjoyable and heart-warming read which is perfect to put a smile on your face and joy in your heart whilst reading it! Absolutely perfect for an afternoon’s reading, just before your belly dancing class, fish and chips supper or the nude modelling! Completely uplifting and a definite feel good read!
As a little post-script, this book was written by the author in memory of her dear friend who sadly died from Ovarian Cancer. All proceeds from this book will go towards cancer research, which is another great reason why you should go and buy this book!
I found the characters in this easy to read book all wonderful and found I had a particular fondness for Mal the Dog! Mavis and Dot’s antics are so funny that they made me laugh with delight, but then in equal doses some of them made me cry with sadness. Working their way through their own little ‘bucket list’ makes you realise that life is too short not to have fun at any age and just because you are in that certain “age bracket” it doesn’t mean that the fun times have to end. Mavis, Dot and all the other wonderful characters are certainly testament to that, and if I have half as much fun when I’m their age then I’ll be a happy person.
It’s an enjoyable and heart-warming read which is perfect to put a smile on your face and joy in your heart whilst reading it! Absolutely perfect for an afternoon’s reading, just before your belly dancing class, fish and chips supper or the nude modelling! Completely uplifting and a definite feel good read!
As a little post-script, this book was written by the author in memory of her dear friend who sadly died from Ovarian Cancer. All proceeds from this book will go towards cancer research, which is another great reason why you should go and buy this book!
March 25, 2019
A chance pairing at a bridge drive sees the beginning of an odd friendship. Different as chalk and cheese, Mavis and Dot leave the bridge drive together, in search of a strong cup of tea, when Mavis is accused of cheating. She isn't; she is unsure of the rules, and didn't have any hearts to follow on. Regardless, they are affronted and leave.
Over tea - Mavis has a strong tea referred to as "builder's brew", and Dot a lapsang souchong - they find they have a common interest in rummaging in charity shops and arrange to meet again.
As their friendship develops they encounter a number of colourful individuals who become part of their "extended family". On Christmas Day, the whole ragtag bunch of them arrive at Dot's bungalow to eat, drink and make merry together. After her guests have gone, Dot ponders how different her life is this year, compared to last year, with her new friends, and she obviously feels blessed.
This is a touchingly-told, happy-ending story which had me smiling both with, and at, Mavis and Dot for different reasons. Mavis has a tendency to malapropisms to great comic effect. My favourite is her mistaken word for "Fascinator"! The images that conjured up... And then there is Dot. Dot appears rather aloof and rigid in her views, but as we get to know her, we see a much softer side of this indomitable woman.
I thoroughly enjoyed walking beside Mavis and Dot as they made new friends and had new experiences, and I think you will too.
My thanks to author Angela Petch for a free digital copy of this book to review.
Over tea - Mavis has a strong tea referred to as "builder's brew", and Dot a lapsang souchong - they find they have a common interest in rummaging in charity shops and arrange to meet again.
As their friendship develops they encounter a number of colourful individuals who become part of their "extended family". On Christmas Day, the whole ragtag bunch of them arrive at Dot's bungalow to eat, drink and make merry together. After her guests have gone, Dot ponders how different her life is this year, compared to last year, with her new friends, and she obviously feels blessed.
This is a touchingly-told, happy-ending story which had me smiling both with, and at, Mavis and Dot for different reasons. Mavis has a tendency to malapropisms to great comic effect. My favourite is her mistaken word for "Fascinator"! The images that conjured up... And then there is Dot. Dot appears rather aloof and rigid in her views, but as we get to know her, we see a much softer side of this indomitable woman.
I thoroughly enjoyed walking beside Mavis and Dot as they made new friends and had new experiences, and I think you will too.
My thanks to author Angela Petch for a free digital copy of this book to review.
November 24, 2018
Mavis and Dot are initially strangers and very different in character. They meet by chance at a local Bridge evening and it marks the start of a friendship. Along the way they meet a real variety of wonderful other characters, again each of these are very different, but they all have one common thread…loneliness.
I followed Mavis and Dot as the rummaged their way through charity shops and bargain baskets and it started to give me a glimpse into what makes them tick.
Their quirkiness or rather their individuality is something that really stood out for me along with their moral compass, that not everyone has had the same chances as both Mavis and Dot. A couple of women who take a breather from their shopping in the various and numerous cafes, tea rooms, chippies and coffee shops, giving a chance to get to know them a little better. Both of these women definitely make the most of what they have and deal with events and opportunities along the way.
They meet up and make their own friends and gradually of family-like bonds are developed. Something that came to me as I read is that neither women are the stereotypes that can often be associated with this age group. They are not judgmental and are open-minded and approachable in a friendly and genuine way. Something that many could definitely learn from.
This has story has humour and heart, life and relationships and above all friendship. It is a book I would recommend to readers of general fiction and I would love to think that this could be the start of a series.
I followed Mavis and Dot as the rummaged their way through charity shops and bargain baskets and it started to give me a glimpse into what makes them tick.
Their quirkiness or rather their individuality is something that really stood out for me along with their moral compass, that not everyone has had the same chances as both Mavis and Dot. A couple of women who take a breather from their shopping in the various and numerous cafes, tea rooms, chippies and coffee shops, giving a chance to get to know them a little better. Both of these women definitely make the most of what they have and deal with events and opportunities along the way.
They meet up and make their own friends and gradually of family-like bonds are developed. Something that came to me as I read is that neither women are the stereotypes that can often be associated with this age group. They are not judgmental and are open-minded and approachable in a friendly and genuine way. Something that many could definitely learn from.
This has story has humour and heart, life and relationships and above all friendship. It is a book I would recommend to readers of general fiction and I would love to think that this could be the start of a series.
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November 11, 2018Mavis and Dot meet when they are both new at the Bridge club. It isn’t long before they decide the rest of the members are “boring old farts” and set off in search of a tea room. Mavis tells Dot that she is working her way through activities in alphabetical order. Bridge was next as “agoraphobics” really wouldn’t be her thing and so belly dancing is next on the list (Mavis is subject to using malapropisms) . This is a wonderful, uplifting humorous read. The antics that Mavis and Dot get up to. From dancing to disco, looking after others and rummaging in charity shops. From fish and chips to afternoon teas and a love of lapsang souchong (bleugh!!) to being an artists model and mistaking a woman for a man. There are more serious threads along the way. They have had their knocks in life and now it’s time for them to let their hair down and help others where they can and also maybe have a little fun in the process. There are some pencil sketches also included in the book so we get an idea of how Mavis and Dot look. If you need a tonic and a reason to smile then this could be the very book- it certainly did both for me.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
November 18, 2018
Take two ladies of a certain age in a picturesque seaside town, and you know what to expect. Cosy knitting by the fireside, a game of bingo and a nice cuppa in a chintzy tea room, right? Wrong. In this hilarious romp you must factor in illegal immigrants and drag artistes, wayward toupees and tango lessons as well as the obligatory cuppa.
There’s Mavis, a saucy minx with a love of bling and gaudy clothes; she isn’t going to let advancing years and an increasing waistline stand in her way. She’s determined to make her way alphabetically through all the delights life has to offer, and if L stands for Latin Lover and N for nude modelling, bring it on.
Then there’s the dispossessed Dot, with her love of animals and Africa, nursing a tragic secret. She extends both understanding and practical help to another uprooted family, all the while tutting with appalled delight at the antics of her flamboyant friend.
Heart-warming, at times laugh-out-loud funny, at times almost unbearably poignant, ‘Mavis and Dot’ is a book to be cherished, and read again and again.
There’s Mavis, a saucy minx with a love of bling and gaudy clothes; she isn’t going to let advancing years and an increasing waistline stand in her way. She’s determined to make her way alphabetically through all the delights life has to offer, and if L stands for Latin Lover and N for nude modelling, bring it on.
Then there’s the dispossessed Dot, with her love of animals and Africa, nursing a tragic secret. She extends both understanding and practical help to another uprooted family, all the while tutting with appalled delight at the antics of her flamboyant friend.
Heart-warming, at times laugh-out-loud funny, at times almost unbearably poignant, ‘Mavis and Dot’ is a book to be cherished, and read again and again.
November 18, 2018
I loved this book so much! Mavis and Dot are complete opposites, but so alike in their quirky ways and outspoken points of view. Mavis is wonderful, open to trying out new things (and men!) but always ending up in hilarious situations. Dot is more reserved, but as we find out more about her past, she worms her way into your heart. The author has also created some fantastic secondary characters, who are a colourful accompaniment to Mavis and Dot.
The story makes you laugh out loud at the characters' antics and feel their pain as they reveal past events, carrying you along to the end and leaving you wanting more.
I highly recommend this book, and I can't wait for more adventures with Mavis and Dot!
The story makes you laugh out loud at the characters' antics and feel their pain as they reveal past events, carrying you along to the end and leaving you wanting more.
I highly recommend this book, and I can't wait for more adventures with Mavis and Dot!
December 7, 2018
Fantastic read!
I totally lost myself in this great novel. I do hope this is just the beginning of an on-going friendship, not just with Mavis and Dot, but all the other colourful characters too. I loved the way they grew together and many lives intertwined. With some of the 'family' more oddball than others. Without giving spoilers, I would love to read a second book as there are situations I'd love to see unfold for all of the cast in this book. The scene has been set for plenty more fun, frolics and possibly deeper relationships? Hats off to Angela Petch for telling more than a story.
I totally lost myself in this great novel. I do hope this is just the beginning of an on-going friendship, not just with Mavis and Dot, but all the other colourful characters too. I loved the way they grew together and many lives intertwined. With some of the 'family' more oddball than others. Without giving spoilers, I would love to read a second book as there are situations I'd love to see unfold for all of the cast in this book. The scene has been set for plenty more fun, frolics and possibly deeper relationships? Hats off to Angela Petch for telling more than a story.
January 4, 2019
A really charming and lovely story, this was easy to read and I finished it in no time. There are more serious themes going on but the book is uplifting and funny. I loved the two characters and hope to be half as adventurous as them at their age.
It was a little bit of a sentimental read for me too. I can imagine my Grandma (also called Mavis) would have been very similar to these, had she not go so poorly after retiring. After losing her in April, I found myself often thinking of her while reading.
Recommended by me for all fiction fans, and the fact the proceeds are going to such a worthy cause is fantastic. Enjoy if you need a reason to smile!
It was a little bit of a sentimental read for me too. I can imagine my Grandma (also called Mavis) would have been very similar to these, had she not go so poorly after retiring. After losing her in April, I found myself often thinking of her while reading.
Recommended by me for all fiction fans, and the fact the proceeds are going to such a worthy cause is fantastic. Enjoy if you need a reason to smile!
October 24, 2018
I received this book in return for an honest review as part of a blog tour for the author. Full review on my blog 24th November 2018.
This book made me laugh and cry, it's entertaining and well-written. I read it in one day because I enjoyed the story so much.
This book made me laugh and cry, it's entertaining and well-written. I read it in one day because I enjoyed the story so much.
December 12, 2018
I think this book would make an excellent TV series. Ms Petch paints colourful, quirky characters which develop, from what could so easily have been caricatures in less-experienced hands, into empathetic fully-rounded ladies of a certain age. There is joy in this book in spades.
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November 12, 2018Review to follow as part of blog tour...
December 6, 2018
This is a genuinely heart-warming book about all sorts of friendships which I can happily recommend. Now that I've finished it I find I'm rather missing the characters... ;-)
November 27, 2018
Mavis and Dot are unlikely friends. Mavis is jolly, larger than life and a glass half full sort of person. Dot is a bit more buttoned up, but feisty all the same. Right at the beginning of this book, they meet for the first time and, encouraged by the fact they are both relatively new to Worthington-on-Sea, they form an alliance. There when needed but still with their own separate lives, they are great together.
I thought this was a really lovely, feel-good story. I suspect Mavis is many readers' favourite, but I have a soft spot for Dot. I loved her ex-colonial background and how she had retained her love of Africa every since. I really enjoyed the little snippets dropped into the story about what her life there had been like. That's not to say I didn't love Mavis too, because I did. She's great fun and has no inhibitions, which made for a lot of fun as I read.
There are many other likeable characters too, friends and neighbours, people they meet along the way. And there's Malaika, Dot's dog, who is a sweetheart.
There's lots of fun in this story. The two ladies go on an eventful Italian holiday and Mavis finds herself in some, well let's say, interesting situations back at home. But there's also some serious storylines and some sadness too. Both aspects are perfectly balanced so that just when I was feeling a bit sad, along would come something much more happy. That's what life is like, though, isn't it?
Whilst not a Christmas book, there is a lovely bit that takes place during the festive season and so, if you fancy a story of friendship for this time of the year then you could do no better than to choose Mavis and Dot.
It's a book full of warmth, which made me giggle but also made me stop and think. You can't ask for much more in a book, can you?
I thought this was a really lovely, feel-good story. I suspect Mavis is many readers' favourite, but I have a soft spot for Dot. I loved her ex-colonial background and how she had retained her love of Africa every since. I really enjoyed the little snippets dropped into the story about what her life there had been like. That's not to say I didn't love Mavis too, because I did. She's great fun and has no inhibitions, which made for a lot of fun as I read.
There are many other likeable characters too, friends and neighbours, people they meet along the way. And there's Malaika, Dot's dog, who is a sweetheart.
There's lots of fun in this story. The two ladies go on an eventful Italian holiday and Mavis finds herself in some, well let's say, interesting situations back at home. But there's also some serious storylines and some sadness too. Both aspects are perfectly balanced so that just when I was feeling a bit sad, along would come something much more happy. That's what life is like, though, isn't it?
Whilst not a Christmas book, there is a lovely bit that takes place during the festive season and so, if you fancy a story of friendship for this time of the year then you could do no better than to choose Mavis and Dot.
It's a book full of warmth, which made me giggle but also made me stop and think. You can't ask for much more in a book, can you?
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