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The Lemon Tree Cafe #1-4
Zitronensommer
The Lemon Tree Cafe was originally published as a four-part serial. This is the complete story in one package.
When Rosie Featherstone finds herself unexpectedly jobless, the offer to help her beloved Italian grandmother out at the Lemon Tree Cafe – a little slice of Italy nestled in the rolling hills of Derbyshire – feels like the perfect way to keep busy.
Surrounded by the rich scent of espresso, delicious biscotti and juicy village gossip, Rosie soon finds herself falling for her new way of life. But she is haunted by a terrible secret, one that even the appearance of a handsome new face can't quite help her move on from.
Then disaster looms and the cafe’s fortunes are threatened . . . and Rosie discovers that her nonna has been hiding a dark past of her own. With surprises, betrayal and more than one secret brewing, can she find a way to save the Lemon Tree Cafe and help both herself and Nonna achieve the happy endings they deserve?
When Rosie Featherstone finds herself unexpectedly jobless, the offer to help her beloved Italian grandmother out at the Lemon Tree Cafe – a little slice of Italy nestled in the rolling hills of Derbyshire – feels like the perfect way to keep busy.
Surrounded by the rich scent of espresso, delicious biscotti and juicy village gossip, Rosie soon finds herself falling for her new way of life. But she is haunted by a terrible secret, one that even the appearance of a handsome new face can't quite help her move on from.
Then disaster looms and the cafe’s fortunes are threatened . . . and Rosie discovers that her nonna has been hiding a dark past of her own. With surprises, betrayal and more than one secret brewing, can she find a way to save the Lemon Tree Cafe and help both herself and Nonna achieve the happy endings they deserve?
577 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2017
310 people are currently reading
1412 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Bramley
65 books1,126 followersCathy Bramley is the author of the best-selling romantic comedies Ivy Lane, Appleby Farm, Wickham Hall, Conditional Love and The Plumberry School of Comfort Food. She lives in a Nottinghamshire village with her family and a dog.
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
Her recent career as a full-time writer of light-hearted, romantic fiction has come as somewhat of a lovely surprise after spending eighteen years running her own marketing agency. However, she has been always an avid reader, never without a book on the go and now thinks she may have found her dream job!
Cathy loves to hear from her readers. You can get in touch via her website www.CathyBramley.co.uk Facebook page Facebook.com/CathyBramleyAuthor or on Twitter twitter.com/CathyBramley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
October 14, 2017
Oops, I was willing to give this my average three star rating but I just...could not, mostly because of the last part of the book.
First of all, there was way too much going on. Of course I'm taking into account that this was originally a four part serial but, gosh. This book is almost 500 pages long and there was more than one huge drama in every part. It felt like there were four different books. In a serial you have time to digest one part before having the next one, but reading all of this in one was a bit much. It wouldn't have been as bad if i cared about the characters, but there wasn't a lot of substance there or writing talent to support them. Also, and this is a personal thing, I mostly went in for the romance but because of the book being split into parts, the love interest isn't introduced until like, a hundred pages in. Our heroine has already had two life ephiany's in that time and so has her entire family.
But that was ok, despite the fact everyone was a little too nice. I could deal. Then we get to the part that lowered my rating. Spoilers ahead!
So Rosie, our main character, reveals a genuinely sad and well written back story of her rape by a boyfriend. This started off well since it showed how this crime isn't always straight forward or committed by some predator on the street.
But there was this weird preachy tone of the book where Rosie would learn what a bad person she was or something (even though i didn't see this) and it even seeped into this storyline. She tracks down the man who raped her and it turns out she's a transgender woman. She raped her when she was still in her man's body because, idk, she was trying to force herself into masculinity. Or something.
And...she forgives her. Rosie even says how sorry she is about how she didn't know about Candy's secret pain. It gave off the tone of if only Rosie wasn't so selfish and oblivious she wouldn't have been raped...like...WHAT??? NO THANK YOU?? it just got so weird. And even if she did make the decision to forgive Candy - which, like, that's her choice and everything even though you don't actually have to forgive people who horrifically hurt you and damaged your life, and you certainly don't have to forgive them in order for you to be happy - then she goes as far as to be friends with Candy. Her rapist. And lets her into her life. ?????? They distanced themselves from it by saying Callum raped her, but just by using a trans person's dead name doesn't mean it's all fine. I think it did a disservice not just to victims but also to trans people. To paint them as struggling so much they felt the need to rape someone? Trans people are not predators or rapists and....this was just a huge mess. Honestly. Like this honestly just ruined the book for me and I found it so weird.
So, yeah. Might have been an ok romance only it got way too long to get the the point, had a weird preachy message and also contained the aforementioned mess.
First of all, there was way too much going on. Of course I'm taking into account that this was originally a four part serial but, gosh. This book is almost 500 pages long and there was more than one huge drama in every part. It felt like there were four different books. In a serial you have time to digest one part before having the next one, but reading all of this in one was a bit much. It wouldn't have been as bad if i cared about the characters, but there wasn't a lot of substance there or writing talent to support them. Also, and this is a personal thing, I mostly went in for the romance but because of the book being split into parts, the love interest isn't introduced until like, a hundred pages in. Our heroine has already had two life ephiany's in that time and so has her entire family.
But that was ok, despite the fact everyone was a little too nice. I could deal. Then we get to the part that lowered my rating. Spoilers ahead!
So Rosie, our main character, reveals a genuinely sad and well written back story of her rape by a boyfriend. This started off well since it showed how this crime isn't always straight forward or committed by some predator on the street.
But there was this weird preachy tone of the book where Rosie would learn what a bad person she was or something (even though i didn't see this) and it even seeped into this storyline. She tracks down the man who raped her and it turns out she's a transgender woman. She raped her when she was still in her man's body because, idk, she was trying to force herself into masculinity. Or something.
And...she forgives her. Rosie even says how sorry she is about how she didn't know about Candy's secret pain. It gave off the tone of if only Rosie wasn't so selfish and oblivious she wouldn't have been raped...like...WHAT??? NO THANK YOU?? it just got so weird. And even if she did make the decision to forgive Candy - which, like, that's her choice and everything even though you don't actually have to forgive people who horrifically hurt you and damaged your life, and you certainly don't have to forgive them in order for you to be happy - then she goes as far as to be friends with Candy. Her rapist. And lets her into her life. ?????? They distanced themselves from it by saying Callum raped her, but just by using a trans person's dead name doesn't mean it's all fine. I think it did a disservice not just to victims but also to trans people. To paint them as struggling so much they felt the need to rape someone? Trans people are not predators or rapists and....this was just a huge mess. Honestly. Like this honestly just ruined the book for me and I found it so weird.
So, yeah. Might have been an ok romance only it got way too long to get the the point, had a weird preachy message and also contained the aforementioned mess.
January 20, 2019
This book seemed great until it decided to make a rapist character sympathetic. I cannot understand this choice by the author in any way. The main character confronts her rapist and ends up being apologetic because he is somehow the real victim? And then we see the rapist’s happy joking successful career opportunities in the epilogue. Until this thread was introduced it was an enjoyable book. But if I’d known what it turned into I would never have bought it. I will never buy another book by Cathy Bramley in my life.
March 14, 2018
The Lemon Tree Café is like a refreshing glass of lemonade and cosy hot chocolate all at once. It invites you in and doesn’t let you leave. Amazing characters, pacy, twisty plot and the central love story is deliciously, teeth-grindingly brilliant. Huge love for this book!
October 19, 2020
Making excuses for a rape is not OK. The way it was done was especially tasteless. Sadly, this book has made me wary of ever wanting to pick up another book by this author, which is a shame as I loved two of her other books.
December 25, 2018
Whilst the majority of this book was a great read, in particular the part set in Italy I struggled with the predictable themes of; Financial difficulty, failed and new romances, secrets and leaving on job for another more suitable. Despite this it should have been solid three stars but quite frankly I couldn't bring myself to rate a book highly when it contains the justification of rape because someone is unhappy with themselves {in this case their gender}, rape is rape and can never be justified and as for someone becoming friends with their rapist...it's just not something I can believe in.
May 5, 2018
Wow, this was a weird read. I was initially skeptical of it as a straight-people-romance thing, but got sucked in enough to buy further installments (I read as the four-part ebook series, not as the final novel).
But. But. The subplot with the protag's experience as a rape survivor was SO BADLY handled in the fourth book, with bonus seriously weird implications re: trans women. No thankee.
But. But. The subplot with the protag's experience as a rape survivor was SO BADLY handled in the fourth book, with bonus seriously weird implications re: trans women. No thankee.
October 7, 2017
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2017/10...
A new book by Cathy Bramley is always a highlight in my year. I love her uplifting and inspiring stories and I can already tell you that I absolutely loved The Lemon Tree Café. Especially it is not the first time that we read about Rosie Featherstone, she was a friend of the lovely Veritiy in The Plumberry School of Comfort Food. So I was very. excited to find out more about her and her story.
Rosie is a hardworking and business driven strong woman who has focused on her career and forgot about relationships for many years. So when she starts helping her nonna in the café, she discovers a completely new rhythm of life. The small and cosy café couldn't be more different that her latest workplace. Soon though, she becomes attuned to it and doesn't miss her old life any more. I especially enjoyed seeing how Rosie adapted to this new challenge and used her strength in the café.
The star of the story though is her nonna. At seventy five she stills runs the café single-handly and is as stubborn as sweet. I was really intrigued with her past. We know she came to England when she had her daughter but nothing else. I kept trying to guess how her story would unfold but I was surprised at every turn!
Rosie though is not the only familiar character in this story. A lovely family moves to the village too and makes Rosie's life definitely more interesting. I have to say that in The Lemon Tree Café we get to meet such a lovely and fun bunch of characters! I loved how everyone was so supportive of each other and the whole small village atmosphere.
The Lemon Tree Café is a charming and heart-warming story that will make you laugh but that will surprise you too. Definitely the perfect read for a crispy weekend, to be enjoyed with a good Italian coffee and a big piece of lemon cake.
A new book by Cathy Bramley is always a highlight in my year. I love her uplifting and inspiring stories and I can already tell you that I absolutely loved The Lemon Tree Café. Especially it is not the first time that we read about Rosie Featherstone, she was a friend of the lovely Veritiy in The Plumberry School of Comfort Food. So I was very. excited to find out more about her and her story.
Rosie is a hardworking and business driven strong woman who has focused on her career and forgot about relationships for many years. So when she starts helping her nonna in the café, she discovers a completely new rhythm of life. The small and cosy café couldn't be more different that her latest workplace. Soon though, she becomes attuned to it and doesn't miss her old life any more. I especially enjoyed seeing how Rosie adapted to this new challenge and used her strength in the café.
The star of the story though is her nonna. At seventy five she stills runs the café single-handly and is as stubborn as sweet. I was really intrigued with her past. We know she came to England when she had her daughter but nothing else. I kept trying to guess how her story would unfold but I was surprised at every turn!
Rosie though is not the only familiar character in this story. A lovely family moves to the village too and makes Rosie's life definitely more interesting. I have to say that in The Lemon Tree Café we get to meet such a lovely and fun bunch of characters! I loved how everyone was so supportive of each other and the whole small village atmosphere.
The Lemon Tree Café is a charming and heart-warming story that will make you laugh but that will surprise you too. Definitely the perfect read for a crispy weekend, to be enjoyed with a good Italian coffee and a big piece of lemon cake.
December 16, 2021
tw // rape, sa
i usually don’t write reviews, but here we go. the writing is mediocre and for a romance, there’s barely any romance nor chemistry between the main character and the love interest. they interacted a couple of times and suddenly they were in love. but that’s not by far my biggest problem with this book. there are TWO plots involving rape and the way one of them is in my opinion disrespectful and distasteful to both rape victims and trans people. unhappy and disappointed.
i usually don’t write reviews, but here we go. the writing is mediocre and for a romance, there’s barely any romance nor chemistry between the main character and the love interest. they interacted a couple of times and suddenly they were in love. but that’s not by far my biggest problem with this book. there are TWO plots involving rape and the way one of them is in my opinion disrespectful and distasteful to both rape victims and trans people. unhappy and disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2017
Guys, "The Lemon Tree Cafe" is Cathy Bramley at her best! Which delights me terribly as I had some issues with her last novel and to be absolutely honest I was afraid how I'm going to like this book. But no worries guys, no worries, reading "The Lemon Tree Cafe" was really a great joy. Of course initially this book was published as a four - part - series but I am incredibly happy to have waited for the whole story being published as one gorgeous novel. I just can't have enough of Cathy Bramley's writing, her storytelling, quirky characters and beautiful settings, and with this book she has fulfilled all of my expectations. You know, it is really hard to explain why I love Cathy Bramley's books so much without repeating over and over again that they are full of warmth, honesty, genuine characters and this so hard to capture feel - good factor - and "The Lemon Tree Cafe" had it all!
I absolutely adored the fact that some of the characters were already introduced to us earlier in "The Plumberry School of Comfort Food". It felt like coming back home, to some friends of yours. I warmed to the book and the characters right at the beginning - even to the all - knowing nonna (you know I have huge problems with wiser than wise older aunts, grandmas, cousins in the stories. However, Cathy Bramley has managed to write Maria in the best possible way, without her being patronizing but also showing her weakest points, showing that she is a real woman, with dark past). Rosie was my hero from the start - the way she stood for her beliefs was absolutely inspiring. She was not afraid to gave up her job only to prove her point - that was SO right, btw! To not go too crazy without a job she offers to work for a month in her nonna's cafe, and perhaps bring it back to its glory days, even though Maria doesn't think it's necessary, make it a little bit better - but does the nonna need Rosie's help? Or perhaps does she keep some secrets that she doesn't want to see the daylight?
Now Gabe. I know I've said once that Gabe is not my favourite character - because Gabe was already introduced to us in "The Plumberry School of Comfort Food" and well... OK, yes, I started to warm to him but it took me some time. You know, in the previous book he had a moment that he tried to persuade Verity they should be together, even though he didn't love her, and in "The Lemon Tree Cafe" he entered the scenes, took a look at Rosie and tried to convince her they should be together - again. And I just couldn't stop thinking, Gabe, really, get a grip. Are you so desperate? But yes, I admit - he turned out to be a really nice guy and showed where his priorities are, and yes, there were moments that I pitied him so much when he wanted to explain to Rosie some things and she didn't let him, jumping to conclusions - just like real life, no? However, the romance element in this book was rather absent, and it felt forced on us. I mean, I want my hero to appear on the pages more than Gabe appeared, so the end felt so pushed and rushed and I wondered, when did they really have time to fell in love? This relationship was more off than on, and it's a shame because Cathy Bramley can write brilliant romance! (This was my one and only problem with this book. No more whining, promise. And really, even with this I adored this story.)
The book was full of twists, turns and surprises. There were some secrets kept and while I guessed the one kept by Maria, this of Rosie's broke me. It explained a lot, why she was so cautious about relationships and why she wanted to focus on her career, and it really was breaking my heart because she deserved so much more after what she has experienced.
And of course, as this book is about an Italian cafe, there are plenty of deliciously sounding descriptions of food, as well as some great recipes at the end of the story.
It was so warmly written that I didn't want to put it away, even for a moment, and cursed life getting in the way. The story only got better and better, guys, there are no flat moments in it, the pacing is just right and I loved how well balanced were the humorous and poignant moments. There is also this lovely, brilliantly captured community spirit when the people support each other, and the cafe was in the heart of all things happening. This story is full of fun and of little dramas that can be life - changing for some of the characters, and I think this is one of the factors that make this novel so lovely to read, so relatable and just so down to earth. The characters hit rock bottom, just like it happens with us, they sometimes lose all their hopes but they never lose their spirits, and this is why I admire and adore them so much. They always come up with a plan, they support each other and this is always so lovely to see.
Cathy Bramley smuggles so many important issues and messages into her books. It is the same with "The Lemon Tree Cafe" - it is a story of finding yourself, finding what brings you happiness, it's about daily struggles of new mothers, about learning to appreciate yourself again, about family, secrets and letting the old demons go, about being proud of who you are and your roots - this all in this lovely, heart - warming, light - hearted and gorgeously delicious story. I can only salute the author for writing another unforgettable story. This book was for me like a huge mug of hot chocolate with marshmallow topping, so welcoming, comforting and tasty. Highly recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 17, 2017
The Lemon Tree is Cathy Bramley at her magnificent best. From the first page where I was gasping and giggling at what turned out to be a double entendre (and not the only one in the early chapters), to the drama of the entirety of part 3 - Tea and Sympathy, to the huge community minded village events, plus a popular returning character from the Plumberry School of Comfort Food book, and all manner of other goodies inside!
When Rosie took a stand in her social media marketing job, she goes back home to her Nonna's cafe and offers to work for a month as a favour to her grandmother, and secretly to perhaps organise the place a bit better, while trying to get a new job.
I loved The Lemon Tree Cafe with its two great waitresses and of course Rosie's Nonna, Maria. Maria is a remarkably private person and I never guessed exactly what she was hiding until it was revealed. Neither did I fully guess just why Rosie doesn't trust men, and it was surprises like these that made this book so gripping.
From about the 50% mark onwards the book was impossible to put down, as I was already engrossed with the characters, and the story just seemed to ramp up as it progressed. I was loving the warmth and vitality that the author brings to her characters, and just stepping into this novel felt like a comforting hug.
And of course you can't have a book review, about a book focusing on an Italian cafe, without mentioning food, it sounded delicious. As a word of warning if you are a huge fan of pizza you will love certain aspects of this book without a doubt, and may have your fingers itching to reach and call for your local delivery service!
The pacing of this book was just right, and conveniently for the purpose of it having been released in four parts, there were little intrigue or mini cliffhangers as you came to the end of each part, which added to the grippiness of this book, as I could just continue turning the pages to see what would happen next.
I absolutely adored every second of The Lemon Tree Cafe, from its moments to make you laugh, to the deep secrets that shocked me, and the overwhelming sense of family and community I felt from the book. This is an addictive book, that is quick to read and will leave you craving your next Cathy Bramley fix.
Thank you to Netgalley and Transworld Digital for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
When Rosie took a stand in her social media marketing job, she goes back home to her Nonna's cafe and offers to work for a month as a favour to her grandmother, and secretly to perhaps organise the place a bit better, while trying to get a new job.
I loved The Lemon Tree Cafe with its two great waitresses and of course Rosie's Nonna, Maria. Maria is a remarkably private person and I never guessed exactly what she was hiding until it was revealed. Neither did I fully guess just why Rosie doesn't trust men, and it was surprises like these that made this book so gripping.
From about the 50% mark onwards the book was impossible to put down, as I was already engrossed with the characters, and the story just seemed to ramp up as it progressed. I was loving the warmth and vitality that the author brings to her characters, and just stepping into this novel felt like a comforting hug.
And of course you can't have a book review, about a book focusing on an Italian cafe, without mentioning food, it sounded delicious. As a word of warning if you are a huge fan of pizza you will love certain aspects of this book without a doubt, and may have your fingers itching to reach and call for your local delivery service!
The pacing of this book was just right, and conveniently for the purpose of it having been released in four parts, there were little intrigue or mini cliffhangers as you came to the end of each part, which added to the grippiness of this book, as I could just continue turning the pages to see what would happen next.
I absolutely adored every second of The Lemon Tree Cafe, from its moments to make you laugh, to the deep secrets that shocked me, and the overwhelming sense of family and community I felt from the book. This is an addictive book, that is quick to read and will leave you craving your next Cathy Bramley fix.
Thank you to Netgalley and Transworld Digital for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 23, 2021
Cathy Bramley's books are always light and easy to read and this was no exception. A few difficult themes, but I liked this story of Rosie who leaves her high powered job to work in her grandmother's Italian themed cafe in a small village. Its predictable as always but a cosy read.
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September 25, 2019This book was going to be a 4⭐ but last portion of the book let me down so much, that I wanted to throw the book in the bin! I was actually livid.
Everything was going great until CB tried to downplay rape. She didn't stop there. She made the victim apologise to her rapist for apparently not seeing the signs that he was fighting issues with his gender. It was so messed up that I angry read the last few chapters just to see how low she would go. By the end they had the rapist, who was now a woman, not only being friends with but also hanging out with the protagonist (victim) and exchanging compliments. 🙄
I'm just so annoyed I don't even know how to rate it right now.
Everything was going great until CB tried to downplay rape. She didn't stop there. She made the victim apologise to her rapist for apparently not seeing the signs that he was fighting issues with his gender. It was so messed up that I angry read the last few chapters just to see how low she would go. By the end they had the rapist, who was now a woman, not only being friends with but also hanging out with the protagonist (victim) and exchanging compliments. 🙄
I'm just so annoyed I don't even know how to rate it right now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2018
The Lemon Tree Café was great and filled with so much warmth. This book makes you want to both go out and enjoy the sunshine and to cosy up with a blanket.
The inspiration for the café and the family links to Italy brings the sunshine and warmth to the book combined with the lovable characters especially that of the main character Rosie Featherstone and Nonna.
There are many twists and turns throughout the book, with an underlying love story as well as a strong sense of family.
This is the second Cathy Bramley book that I have read and I will definitely be reading more.
The inspiration for the café and the family links to Italy brings the sunshine and warmth to the book combined with the lovable characters especially that of the main character Rosie Featherstone and Nonna.
There are many twists and turns throughout the book, with an underlying love story as well as a strong sense of family.
This is the second Cathy Bramley book that I have read and I will definitely be reading more.
May 7, 2019
I hadn't realised this was a loose follow-on from The Plumberry School of Comfort Food which I absolutely adored; I didn't love this one as much but it was still a fabulous story.
Relatable characters that had me chuckling away as usual with Cathy's stories, I enjoyed reading more about Gabe, Noah and new character Rosie. This was mostly light-hearted but there were some serious topics covered and I appreciated that aspect to it. Could really do with a slice of cake or pizza now though!
Relatable characters that had me chuckling away as usual with Cathy's stories, I enjoyed reading more about Gabe, Noah and new character Rosie. This was mostly light-hearted but there were some serious topics covered and I appreciated that aspect to it. Could really do with a slice of cake or pizza now though!
December 29, 2017
This book is about Rosie, who quits her job out of stupid reasons and starts helping out in her grandmother's lovely café. But soon, she is more than just helping out and the café is becoming her life.
My description this time is short, because I am annoyed. The idea of the story is lovely of course, just like Cathy Bramley's other stories. Girl looses job, starts working in a café and is being absorbed in her lovely new life quite soon. I love that.
What I don't love is annoying topics or topics that stay too long. Or both at the same time. I'm not sure if I want to spoil here, though. Let's just say Rosie has had a bad incident with a boyfriend in the past and she doesn't really open her heart to other men since then.
That was annoying, because she could've avoided so much trouble and arguments with her love interest if she just hadn't been stupid all the time. I know that the topic of her past is a sensible thing and all that and I cannot understand her feelings because nothing like the sort has ever happened to me blah, blah blah. I do not care in the slightest. It was annoying. And best of all: her 'Nonna' had excatly the same experience. Aha. What a lovely coincidence.
Then there's the Italian heritage thing. That was okay, but still too much for me. I didn't want to read about Italy, or travelling to Italy, or their trip to Italy at all. I don't really like other countries in my chick-lit. And those two annoying topics were also connected with each other, yay.
All in all, there was too much stupid shit in it, and not nearly enough café.
As I said before, Rosie was quite annoying. Also, towards the end of the book everyone always tells her how brave she is and how great she is and how I don't what she also is. Guess what? Annoying.
Therefore I cannot give the book a five star rating, even though it hurts my soul, because I love all the other books by Miss Bramley (Ivy Lane ♥).
Why do you have to destroy a nice little story about a nice little girl and a nice little café with annoying, way too depressing things? Oh right, because the nice little girl doesn't want to be a nice little girl because she is too much of a women's libber for that. I hate girls like that.
I just hope that Miss Bramley is not turning into the second Paige Toon and all of her future books will be like this. Thank you.
Four stars this time, maybe even just 3.5 stars. And seeing as it's me, that's harsh.
My description this time is short, because I am annoyed. The idea of the story is lovely of course, just like Cathy Bramley's other stories. Girl looses job, starts working in a café and is being absorbed in her lovely new life quite soon. I love that.
What I don't love is annoying topics or topics that stay too long. Or both at the same time. I'm not sure if I want to spoil here, though. Let's just say Rosie has had a bad incident with a boyfriend in the past and she doesn't really open her heart to other men since then.
That was annoying, because she could've avoided so much trouble and arguments with her love interest if she just hadn't been stupid all the time. I know that the topic of her past is a sensible thing and all that and I cannot understand her feelings because nothing like the sort has ever happened to me blah, blah blah. I do not care in the slightest. It was annoying. And best of all: her 'Nonna' had excatly the same experience. Aha. What a lovely coincidence.
Then there's the Italian heritage thing. That was okay, but still too much for me. I didn't want to read about Italy, or travelling to Italy, or their trip to Italy at all. I don't really like other countries in my chick-lit. And those two annoying topics were also connected with each other, yay.
All in all, there was too much stupid shit in it, and not nearly enough café.
As I said before, Rosie was quite annoying. Also, towards the end of the book everyone always tells her how brave she is and how great she is and how I don't what she also is. Guess what? Annoying.
Therefore I cannot give the book a five star rating, even though it hurts my soul, because I love all the other books by Miss Bramley (Ivy Lane ♥).
Why do you have to destroy a nice little story about a nice little girl and a nice little café with annoying, way too depressing things? Oh right, because the nice little girl doesn't want to be a nice little girl because she is too much of a women's libber for that. I hate girls like that.
I just hope that Miss Bramley is not turning into the second Paige Toon and all of her future books will be like this. Thank you.
Four stars this time, maybe even just 3.5 stars. And seeing as it's me, that's harsh.
August 2, 2017
I was both surprised and delighted when I started reading this novel and realised it is set in my home county of Derbyshire; instantly it felt like I knew the village and its residents.
Rosie's Italian Nonna runs the Lemon Tree Café, heart of the village, but as Rosie returns to fill her days whilst job hunting she realises all is not what it seems, and in order to save her family's legacy, and happiness, huge changes are going to have to happen, changes which will unearth secrets, break hearts, and challenge everything the family (and village) hold most dear.
Written with such warmth and emotion,it is like a huge cosy hug with a mug of Italian roast & a piece of biscotti! Fabulous food, beautiful scenic description, characters you just adore; this book has everything you'd want in a foodie/romance and more!
Copy provided via Netgalley.
Rosie's Italian Nonna runs the Lemon Tree Café, heart of the village, but as Rosie returns to fill her days whilst job hunting she realises all is not what it seems, and in order to save her family's legacy, and happiness, huge changes are going to have to happen, changes which will unearth secrets, break hearts, and challenge everything the family (and village) hold most dear.
Written with such warmth and emotion,it is like a huge cosy hug with a mug of Italian roast & a piece of biscotti! Fabulous food, beautiful scenic description, characters you just adore; this book has everything you'd want in a foodie/romance and more!
Copy provided via Netgalley.
June 16, 2021
This book was mostly ok, I liked some of the characters, others I didn’t warm too. I liked the storyline of Rosie coming home and swapping her previous career for running her grandmothers cafe. Of course things are never that straightforward and out come the family secrets.
The reason I only gave it 2 stars is due to the way the author handled a sensitive storyline, I felt that the way it was dealt with let the book, author and most importantly any victims of that issue down and it ruined the book for me.
The reason I only gave it 2 stars is due to the way the author handled a sensitive storyline, I felt that the way it was dealt with let the book, author and most importantly any victims of that issue down and it ruined the book for me.
July 21, 2022
It was an ok book until the protagonist literally forgave, made excuses for, then became friends with her rapist!? A really strange ending to such a sensitive storyline, the turn of events was veryyy uncomfortable to read, not to mention it feeling out of character for the main character Rosie as she presents herself as a feminist throughout the book.
July 19, 2021
TW: rape and miscarriage
This book frustrated me so much. I started reading it sometime around last year but I put it down because it just wasn't gripping me that much. I then started to read it again this month and to my surprise, it really hooked me in this time, made me part of the story, made me feel the feelings the characters are feeling, I spent a whole day reading this book and then...the last part of the book came. When the author decided to introduce a rape apologist...who turned out to be a transgender woman...and made her be a part of her victim's life ????? and made her feel as if she was the bad person because she didn't know she was struggling with her gender identity at the time...as if it was her responsability to know....like, this last part of the book alone made me feel sorry for existing.
Also, there should've been a trigger warning in the description or somewhere in the book, because you're expecting to read a fluffy, cute romance maybe and then suddenly the author hits you with traumatic stories of rape and losing a child. It's just terrible, I'm sorry.
This book frustrated me so much. I started reading it sometime around last year but I put it down because it just wasn't gripping me that much. I then started to read it again this month and to my surprise, it really hooked me in this time, made me part of the story, made me feel the feelings the characters are feeling, I spent a whole day reading this book and then...the last part of the book came. When the author decided to introduce a rape apologist...who turned out to be a transgender woman...and made her be a part of her victim's life ????? and made her feel as if she was the bad person because she didn't know she was struggling with her gender identity at the time...as if it was her responsability to know....like, this last part of the book alone made me feel sorry for existing.
Also, there should've been a trigger warning in the description or somewhere in the book, because you're expecting to read a fluffy, cute romance maybe and then suddenly the author hits you with traumatic stories of rape and losing a child. It's just terrible, I'm sorry.
August 30, 2017
Cathy Bramley certainly never lets you down she is really knows how to grip you and wanting you to read more. This book was excellent while also being uplifting it hard hard parts to but shows how you can work through issues and be happy. Was a really warm read and didn't want it to end. Rosie has a high flying jobs but doesn't agree with something so leaves and while she is trying to get another job she works at her nonna's cafe called the lemon tree cafe and she realises she enjoys it and isn't sure she wants to go back to work but will her Nonna except her help. Her nonna is Italian and has her own past to deal with along with Rosie having hers to but a good looking guy comes into her life and can she work through her issues to be happy with him or is it just to much. This really is a great read.
September 5, 2017
Another fantastic read from Cathy Bramley. I have read all her books and just love them all.
Rosie finds herself unexpectedly out of a job and offers to help out her lovely Italian grandmother by working at her cafe, the Lemon Tree Cafe – a little slice of Italy nestled in the rolling hills of Derbyshire – it seems like the perfect way to keep busy. Rosie takes to her new way of life in the village and begins to fall her handsome newcomer Gabe. However, both she and her grandmother are haunted by a terrible secrets.
A great read, good characters, good story line and I enjoyed the part of the book set in Sorrento, as I love it there.
Rosie finds herself unexpectedly out of a job and offers to help out her lovely Italian grandmother by working at her cafe, the Lemon Tree Cafe – a little slice of Italy nestled in the rolling hills of Derbyshire – it seems like the perfect way to keep busy. Rosie takes to her new way of life in the village and begins to fall her handsome newcomer Gabe. However, both she and her grandmother are haunted by a terrible secrets.
A great read, good characters, good story line and I enjoyed the part of the book set in Sorrento, as I love it there.
March 1, 2018
The author has some really annoying lazy language ticks that she uses instead of characterisations for several characters - a "rough Scottish woman, with a heart of gold" who is ciphered as having tattoos and calling everyone, including men, "hen", an Italian "nonna" who calls everyone a "dicky head", which are distracting, and there's a lot of exposition rather than story telling. Readable but annoying
September 7, 2017
The cover of this book is so colourful and inviting, it makes you want to jump right in. You can’t go wrong with a Cathy Bramley book, you just know your going to get a real corker and this story did not disappoint. There is love, secrets, surprises and a whole lot of tasty sounding food. Loved it.
September 26, 2023
I don’t know what I as expecting from a £4 book from Tesco, but it was a disappointment regardless. It was just awful.
February 24, 2018
Fantastic book. Loved the characters. Couldn't put this book down. Never read any books by this author before but this is the first of many.
February 18, 2018
I'm a bit torn about the 'Lemon Tree Café'.
Nonna's defensive behaviour and secrecy in the beginning didn't build up suspense and the urge to read on and uncover the secret etc. (Neither did Rosie's secret past.) No, it just made her a really unsympathetic old lady that I didn't care about. I guess that's a pity, as it took a certain amount of cuteness from the story. I really prefer lovely old grannies.
The revelation was something I didn't expect and different from 'standard' mysterious pasts, which made it a little better. (Even though I still didn't entirely get the previous behaviour.)
However, then the trip to Sorrento via Naples came along - and that was nice really as I've been there a couple of years ago and it was wonderful.
It also got better once 'the guy' was introduced as it brought a little distraction from annoying granny.
At least for a while. Rosie's emotional chaos regarding him was just ugh and weird to read at times. I don't like when problems are just based on interrupted attempts of clarification. By main character not listening or stupid dogs doing stupid distracting things. So that reduced the potentially cute love story a lot.
The resolution of Rosie's dark dark past turned into something very unexpected and unique. And overall, the ending was quite alright. So I'd say this book gets 3.5 stars from me.
Nonna's defensive behaviour and secrecy in the beginning didn't build up suspense and the urge to read on and uncover the secret etc. (Neither did Rosie's secret past.) No, it just made her a really unsympathetic old lady that I didn't care about. I guess that's a pity, as it took a certain amount of cuteness from the story. I really prefer lovely old grannies.
The revelation was something I didn't expect and different from 'standard' mysterious pasts, which made it a little better. (Even though I still didn't entirely get the previous behaviour.)
However, then the trip to Sorrento via Naples came along - and that was nice really as I've been there a couple of years ago and it was wonderful.
It also got better once 'the guy' was introduced as it brought a little distraction from annoying granny.
At least for a while. Rosie's emotional chaos regarding him was just ugh and weird to read at times. I don't like when problems are just based on interrupted attempts of clarification. By main character not listening or stupid dogs doing stupid distracting things. So that reduced the potentially cute love story a lot.
The resolution of Rosie's dark dark past turned into something very unexpected and unique. And overall, the ending was quite alright. So I'd say this book gets 3.5 stars from me.
May 19, 2018
Мислех си, че "Wedding night" е твърде дълга книга. Е, не бях прочела тази... Почти 500 страници се върти едно и също само дето го завъртаме от друга страна, че уж да го представим за нещо ново. Книгата започва скучно, развива се скучно и завършва скучно. Никога през живота си не съм искала толкова много да зарежа книга, дори първата част от Дворовете имаше повече смисъл от това. В Дворовете поне имаше някаква интрига и любовната история макар и нескопосано написана, беше по-добра от това чудо, дето не разбрах романс ли беше или какво...
Не знам как да опиша колко безумно абсурдна, скучна и дразнеща на моменти е тази книга. Много ми се иска да й дам една звезда, защото я заслужава, тъй като имаше толкова некоректно и абсурдно написани неща. На моменти ми идваше да си блъскам главата в стената, тъй като описанието на някои неща, ох, Бога ми, толкова много ме ядосаха, че нямам думи... Книгата се опитва да е нещо, с което (според мен) всеки автор трябва да борави много, ама много внимателно.
Отделно, не ми хареса стилът на писане на авторката, не ми харесаха главните герои - липсваше каквото й да е изграждане и създаване на плътност на характерите; историята независимо, че имаше неочаквани обрати, беше толкова глупава, ох, че речникът ми е твърде беден, за да мога да я опиша.
Признавам, че краят беше черешката на тортата със сцена, която беше толкова смешно и невиждано абсурдна, че не издържах и започнах да се удрям с книгата по главата, чудейки се защо си причиних това... Много дълго ще я хейтя тази книга, много дълго...
Не знам как да опиша колко безумно абсурдна, скучна и дразнеща на моменти е тази книга. Много ми се иска да й дам една звезда, защото я заслужава, тъй като имаше толкова некоректно и абсурдно написани неща. На моменти ми идваше да си блъскам главата в стената, тъй като описанието на някои неща, ох, Бога ми, толкова много ме ядосаха, че нямам думи... Книгата се опитва да е нещо, с което (според мен) всеки автор трябва да борави много, ама много внимателно.
Отделно, не ми хареса стилът на писане на авторката, не ми харесаха главните герои - липсваше каквото й да е изграждане и създаване на плътност на характерите; историята независимо, че имаше неочаквани обрати, беше толкова глупава, ох, че речникът ми е твърде беден, за да мога да я опиша.
Признавам, че краят беше черешката на тортата със сцена, която беше толкова смешно и невиждано абсурдна, че не издържах и започнах да се удрям с книгата по главата, чудейки се защо си причиних това... Много дълго ще я хейтя тази книга, много дълго...
November 28, 2023
The book was easy to read, someone bits was abit unrealistic, some funny bits
January 11, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog: thecosiestcorner.blogspot.com
Another fantastic novel by Cathy Bramley, and one that I simply could not put down. I found that whenever I had a spare moment that I was running to grab this book and read more about what is going on in Rosie and her nonna's lives.
First of all, I just want to point out that you are never disappointed with a Cathy Bramley cover. This one is beautiful, the colours, the cakes, everything about it is just so beautiful and draws you in. I love the use of the yellow striped awning and of course the lemon trees either side of the cafe. Even the other little shops on either side look so cute! I love it.
I'm a huge Cathy Bramley fan, and this novel did not disappoint. At first I did wonder where the story was going, because the blurb didn't give much away but I think that just made it so much more interesting. I was dying to read about what was happening. I was drawn to this story! I'm so glad I waited until the full story was released though. I'm no good at waiting around for four separate releases! This way, I had the next part of the story straight away and I didn't have to wait! Of course, I can understand why it's released in four parts - this story definitely keeps the reader wanting to find out more!
So the story follows main character Rosie, after she walks out of her sexist job and returns home to the Lemon Tree Cafe. This is run by her Italian grandmother and after feeling a bit worried about how her grandmother is coping now that she's 75, Rosie decides to stay and work at the cafe for a little while, as a way of secretly helping out when her nonna isn't looking. However, Rosie soon finds that she loves working in the cafe and isn't very excited at the prospect of a new office based job. Rosie gets offered a job in Manchester, but after she meets single dad Gabe, she soon starts debating whether to take the offer as the pair get closer...
Along the way we learn so, so much about Rosie and her family. Rosie is hiding a terribly upsetting secret from everyone, and soon decides that it's time to come clean and let those closest to her know what happened to her all those years ago... However, Rosie isn't the only one hiding a secret from the family. We learn that her nonna is also keeping one, and if possible - an even bigger one! Queue the drama, the intensity! It's unbelievably good writing and I loved every moment of it.
Now this review is going on quite a bit and I don't want to spoil this story for you - so go and read it! You won't regret it. If I could give this more than 5 stars then I definitely would!
Another fantastic novel by Cathy Bramley, and one that I simply could not put down. I found that whenever I had a spare moment that I was running to grab this book and read more about what is going on in Rosie and her nonna's lives.
First of all, I just want to point out that you are never disappointed with a Cathy Bramley cover. This one is beautiful, the colours, the cakes, everything about it is just so beautiful and draws you in. I love the use of the yellow striped awning and of course the lemon trees either side of the cafe. Even the other little shops on either side look so cute! I love it.
I'm a huge Cathy Bramley fan, and this novel did not disappoint. At first I did wonder where the story was going, because the blurb didn't give much away but I think that just made it so much more interesting. I was dying to read about what was happening. I was drawn to this story! I'm so glad I waited until the full story was released though. I'm no good at waiting around for four separate releases! This way, I had the next part of the story straight away and I didn't have to wait! Of course, I can understand why it's released in four parts - this story definitely keeps the reader wanting to find out more!
So the story follows main character Rosie, after she walks out of her sexist job and returns home to the Lemon Tree Cafe. This is run by her Italian grandmother and after feeling a bit worried about how her grandmother is coping now that she's 75, Rosie decides to stay and work at the cafe for a little while, as a way of secretly helping out when her nonna isn't looking. However, Rosie soon finds that she loves working in the cafe and isn't very excited at the prospect of a new office based job. Rosie gets offered a job in Manchester, but after she meets single dad Gabe, she soon starts debating whether to take the offer as the pair get closer...
Along the way we learn so, so much about Rosie and her family. Rosie is hiding a terribly upsetting secret from everyone, and soon decides that it's time to come clean and let those closest to her know what happened to her all those years ago... However, Rosie isn't the only one hiding a secret from the family. We learn that her nonna is also keeping one, and if possible - an even bigger one! Queue the drama, the intensity! It's unbelievably good writing and I loved every moment of it.
Now this review is going on quite a bit and I don't want to spoil this story for you - so go and read it! You won't regret it. If I could give this more than 5 stars then I definitely would!
March 9, 2021
2.75
The writing was good, but it just stretched on for no reason, it could have been easily written within 300 pages.
The plot was about Rosie who is a feminist character and refutes to airbrush an actress' pic. She resigns from her job and joins her Nonna to work in her bakery for a while until she finds a new job but easily gets wrapped up in the business and life happens.
The family members were sketched out well.
Low rating cuz there was an instance where the character is affected by rape throughout her life but well the conclusion to that whole deal was just brushed upon. I mean how can the rapist say oh listen I wanted to go for gender change but I wasn't sure. I wanted to prove am a guy so I raped you. But now am a girl so hope u are okay? And the girl is like Oh? Am sorry, it's cool then. WTF?!
Also how annoying does Rosie get when she is like nobody can tell me what to do but breaks up or unfriends Gabe when he finds a job with her competing cafe brand. She is like you can't work there and support ur kid as a single parent cuz well they are the enemy. Wow, mature.
Also, I don't get why did Maria lie about her husband to the guy she said she loves. And fake a whole identity but decided to reveal only when proposed. You didn't trust the guy or your family earlier? You were lying the whole time, and you assumed ur husband dead till that very moment so why reveal? Just to add element of unnecessary tension to the story.
Yeah.
The writing was good, but it just stretched on for no reason, it could have been easily written within 300 pages.
The plot was about Rosie who is a feminist character and refutes to airbrush an actress' pic. She resigns from her job and joins her Nonna to work in her bakery for a while until she finds a new job but easily gets wrapped up in the business and life happens.
The family members were sketched out well.
Low rating cuz there was an instance where the character is affected by rape throughout her life but well the conclusion to that whole deal was just brushed upon. I mean how can the rapist say oh listen I wanted to go for gender change but I wasn't sure. I wanted to prove am a guy so I raped you. But now am a girl so hope u are okay? And the girl is like Oh? Am sorry, it's cool then. WTF?!
Also how annoying does Rosie get when she is like nobody can tell me what to do but breaks up or unfriends Gabe when he finds a job with her competing cafe brand. She is like you can't work there and support ur kid as a single parent cuz well they are the enemy. Wow, mature.
Also, I don't get why did Maria lie about her husband to the guy she said she loves. And fake a whole identity but decided to reveal only when proposed. You didn't trust the guy or your family earlier? You were lying the whole time, and you assumed ur husband dead till that very moment so why reveal? Just to add element of unnecessary tension to the story.
Yeah.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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