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The Inn at Netherfield Green
New York advertising executive Lauren Montgomery loses her job, inherits an inn, and moves to England―all in the span of a week. It’s not how her career, or her life, is supposed to unfold. But necessity is the mother of invention and Lauren has a new plan. She’s going to spruce up the inn, turn the attached pub into a hot spot, sell it for a killing, and start her own advertising agency.
Gin distiller Camden Crawley has a soft spot for the Rose & Crown, the pub where her parents and grandparents got engaged. But the opinionated new owner who wants to turn it into some trendy bed and bar? Not so much. The last thing she wants to do is stick her nose in, but that might be her best chance to save a place she holds dear. And boosting her new line of gin wouldn’t hurt either.
Gin distiller Camden Crawley has a soft spot for the Rose & Crown, the pub where her parents and grandparents got engaged. But the opinionated new owner who wants to turn it into some trendy bed and bar? Not so much. The last thing she wants to do is stick her nose in, but that might be her best chance to save a place she holds dear. And boosting her new line of gin wouldn’t hurt either.
280 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2019
51 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
About the author
Aurora Rey
35 books289 followersAurora Rey is a college dean by day and a life coach award-winning author of queer romance author the rest of the time, except when she’s cooking, baking, riding the tractor, or pining for goats. She grew up in a small town in south Louisiana, daydreaming about New England. She keeps a special place in her heart for the South, especially the food and the ways women are raised to be strong, even if they're taught not to show it. After a brief dalliance with biochemistry, she completed both a B.A. and an M.A. in English.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 21, 2020
I loved the whole small town feel and the romance was pretty great. It was a good book but it could've been a great one if it wasn't so unnecessarily long or at least had more happening in it other than the romance. There was so much repetition especially in the internal monologues of the main characters.
October 31, 2019
This is a lovely romance and perfect escapism reading. Two things happen for Lauren in quick succession. She loses her job and is unceremoniously frog-marched out of the building, and she discovers she's inherited an inn in England from a great uncle. With nothing to hold her back, she flies from New York to England to suss out her inheritance. Cam lives in Netherfield and runs the family gin distillery (the gin education was enough reason for me to read this). Lauren's presence and big-city ways continuously unsettle her.
The story is told in alternating points of view and while they are both likeable, I found their voices very similar. I often had to flip backwards to see who was talking. The trope, city girl inheriting a house/business in the country, is one I've read often so in order for it to stand out there has to be something different about it. There are a few aspects that give this story pockets of interest but the bulk of it is pretty samey.
Some of the things that stood out for me were the information about gin, the reason Lauren lost her job and how it all played out in the end. If you haven't read many books with this theme, it will be a much better experience. That said, there are some very sexy intimate scenes and it's still a good romance.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
The story is told in alternating points of view and while they are both likeable, I found their voices very similar. I often had to flip backwards to see who was talking. The trope, city girl inheriting a house/business in the country, is one I've read often so in order for it to stand out there has to be something different about it. There are a few aspects that give this story pockets of interest but the bulk of it is pretty samey.
Some of the things that stood out for me were the information about gin, the reason Lauren lost her job and how it all played out in the end. If you haven't read many books with this theme, it will be a much better experience. That said, there are some very sexy intimate scenes and it's still a good romance.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 20, 2019
So this is a very classic and fluffy romance. This is the typical book that you want to read on a lazy sunday where you need entertainment and something not so complicated! I think the right word for this book is "SMOOTH".
Both MCs are likable, even though one of them is less so than the other (i liked Cam a bit more than Lauren). I liked the fact that they were enemies at first then switched to lovers, and i thought the author nailed this part because i could feel the chemistry between them! The physical connection was also very sweet.
Listen, this book does not have fireworks or angst, but it is still enjoyable and entertaining! There is a little bit of drama that could've been avoided by a bit more communication between the MCs. So i do recommend it but i can't tell you GOD you HAVE GOT TO READ THIS right now!
I am a big fan of dogs.. be it in books or movies or real life. I know this may sound silly, but WHERE THE HELL IS THE DOG? hahahah (i think the dog was called Tilly but i forgot and now had to go check it out again because Tilly was present and all of a sudden disappeared from the storyline)!
My rating is a solid 3 and i do recommend this book for fluffy romance readers. I will be reading more books by this author.
"I received an ARC for an honest review."
Both MCs are likable, even though one of them is less so than the other (i liked Cam a bit more than Lauren). I liked the fact that they were enemies at first then switched to lovers, and i thought the author nailed this part because i could feel the chemistry between them! The physical connection was also very sweet.
Listen, this book does not have fireworks or angst, but it is still enjoyable and entertaining! There is a little bit of drama that could've been avoided by a bit more communication between the MCs. So i do recommend it but i can't tell you GOD you HAVE GOT TO READ THIS right now!
I am a big fan of dogs.. be it in books or movies or real life. I know this may sound silly, but WHERE THE HELL IS THE DOG? hahahah (i think the dog was called Tilly but i forgot and now had to go check it out again because Tilly was present and all of a sudden disappeared from the storyline)!
My rating is a solid 3 and i do recommend this book for fluffy romance readers. I will be reading more books by this author.
"I received an ARC for an honest review."
September 16, 2019
G&T Please
Lauren is in a bit of a bind. The bad news? She’s just been fired from her fancy as exc job in NYC for BS reasons. The good news? She’s just inherited a pub/inn in Merry Ole England. The bad news? It needs a lot of work if it’s going to make any money. The good news? She can trade services with a gorgeous gin distiller, marketing for Cam’s newest gin for work on the inn. The bad news? Cam hates the idea of anything modern and trendy and makes her feelings quite clear. The good news? Lauren can handle that… if only she can get a grip on her feelings and get Cam to stop being so suspicious of her.
Lauren and Cam are both strong willed women with minds of their own. They are feisty and for the most part self-assured. They complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses and make a great team. The attraction feels authentic and the story is something I could actually see happening. The characters that play these women’s best friends are just as wonderful and make the story even better. As usual for Ms Rey, this is one of these lovely, warm, tender and sweet romances that will leave you with warm fuzzies, a sense of contentment and a big smile.
Lauren is in a bit of a bind. The bad news? She’s just been fired from her fancy as exc job in NYC for BS reasons. The good news? She’s just inherited a pub/inn in Merry Ole England. The bad news? It needs a lot of work if it’s going to make any money. The good news? She can trade services with a gorgeous gin distiller, marketing for Cam’s newest gin for work on the inn. The bad news? Cam hates the idea of anything modern and trendy and makes her feelings quite clear. The good news? Lauren can handle that… if only she can get a grip on her feelings and get Cam to stop being so suspicious of her.
Lauren and Cam are both strong willed women with minds of their own. They are feisty and for the most part self-assured. They complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses and make a great team. The attraction feels authentic and the story is something I could actually see happening. The characters that play these women’s best friends are just as wonderful and make the story even better. As usual for Ms Rey, this is one of these lovely, warm, tender and sweet romances that will leave you with warm fuzzies, a sense of contentment and a big smile.
October 8, 2019
Upon discovering lesfic, I’ve come to realize that I really enjoy cozy, small town/village romances, especially if one of the main characters is an outsider coming in from a big city. I hesitated before requesting The Inn at Netherfield Green because I hadn’t read anything by Aurora Rey before and my ARC pile was growing at an alarming rate, but I’m glad I did because I really enjoyed this book!
On the same day that Lauren is wrongly fired from her advertising executive job in New York city, she learns that she inherited her great uncle’s inn. The fact that the inn is in the English countryside is actually a bonus for Lauren who needs a safe place to lick her wounds and come up with a plan. Cam Crawley, a gin distiller, runs the family business and hopes to see her new and personal brand of gin, Carriage House, take off. She has a sentimental attachment to the Rose & Crown pub and she’s not too happy when Lauren flies in from NYC with the intention of revamping the entire place.
I have to say, I didn’t like Lauren’s personality at first, and I found her pretty annoying. Maybe that’s because I’m way more like Cam, wanting things to remain as they are, content with my daily routine. I could relate to her and understand why Lauren irritated her, even scared her a little at first. Just like Cam though, I slowly warmed up to her and grew to like her a lot. I really like how Lauren actually cared about the place and its people and how open she was to Cam’s suggestions. Rey did a wonderful job of creating two very different main characters that really complemented each other.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, and even though Lauren and Cam’s relationship isn’t technically that, it had its moments. There was good chemistry between two MCs that translated into the more ~intimate scenes. And though those scenes were pretty tame, the first one had a little sprinkle of domination and I was all for it.
As it now appears to be a prerequisite in lesfic, this book does indeed suffer from the 80% drama syndrome which could have been totally avoided had Cam and Lauren sat down for two minutes and have an adult conversation. Luckily, the conflict was resolved quickly and the ending was satisfying.
I recommend you give this a try if your in the mood for a predictable, but well-written, cozy romance with a likable cast of characters :)
I gotta ask though, what the hell happened to Tilly the dog? It seems the author forgot about her halfway through the book… That is not okay!
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
On the same day that Lauren is wrongly fired from her advertising executive job in New York city, she learns that she inherited her great uncle’s inn. The fact that the inn is in the English countryside is actually a bonus for Lauren who needs a safe place to lick her wounds and come up with a plan. Cam Crawley, a gin distiller, runs the family business and hopes to see her new and personal brand of gin, Carriage House, take off. She has a sentimental attachment to the Rose & Crown pub and she’s not too happy when Lauren flies in from NYC with the intention of revamping the entire place.
I have to say, I didn’t like Lauren’s personality at first, and I found her pretty annoying. Maybe that’s because I’m way more like Cam, wanting things to remain as they are, content with my daily routine. I could relate to her and understand why Lauren irritated her, even scared her a little at first. Just like Cam though, I slowly warmed up to her and grew to like her a lot. I really like how Lauren actually cared about the place and its people and how open she was to Cam’s suggestions. Rey did a wonderful job of creating two very different main characters that really complemented each other.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, and even though Lauren and Cam’s relationship isn’t technically that, it had its moments. There was good chemistry between two MCs that translated into the more ~intimate scenes. And though those scenes were pretty tame, the first one had a little sprinkle of domination and I was all for it.
As it now appears to be a prerequisite in lesfic, this book does indeed suffer from the 80% drama syndrome which could have been totally avoided had Cam and Lauren sat down for two minutes and have an adult conversation. Luckily, the conflict was resolved quickly and the ending was satisfying.
I recommend you give this a try if your in the mood for a predictable, but well-written, cozy romance with a likable cast of characters :)
I gotta ask though, what the hell happened to Tilly the dog? It seems the author forgot about her halfway through the book… That is not okay!
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
October 4, 2019
3.5*
Not the most exciting novel I’ve read lately but still a pretty cosy read. If you’re looking for something mellow and easy for the weekend, this would be a good choice.
Lauren Montgomery is a New York advertising executive, whose life gets turned upside down in a couple of days when she loses her job (for unfair reasons) and inherits an inn and pub in a small English town. Needing a break from her life, she decides to move to England and see how to make the best of a crappy situation. Hopefully, renovating the inn, marketing it to the best of her abilities and then selling it will allow her to open her own agency. Once there, she meets Cam Crawley, a local gin distiller, who is very much opposed to anything changing. Both women find the other incredibly attractive while at the same time being convinced the other dislikes her.
I loved Lauren, especially the way she’s able to listen to other people’s opinions and point of view. I felt Cam’s family was underutilized. A family business, four sisters, three of which still live in the same village, there was potential for so much more. But I really liked what we saw of Jane and Sophie, and the best friends on each side (Charlotte and Anja) were excellent. They deserve their own spin-off, especially as they’re both poly, which could make for a great story if well-thought. And I might have to give gin another try…
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not the most exciting novel I’ve read lately but still a pretty cosy read. If you’re looking for something mellow and easy for the weekend, this would be a good choice.
Lauren Montgomery is a New York advertising executive, whose life gets turned upside down in a couple of days when she loses her job (for unfair reasons) and inherits an inn and pub in a small English town. Needing a break from her life, she decides to move to England and see how to make the best of a crappy situation. Hopefully, renovating the inn, marketing it to the best of her abilities and then selling it will allow her to open her own agency. Once there, she meets Cam Crawley, a local gin distiller, who is very much opposed to anything changing. Both women find the other incredibly attractive while at the same time being convinced the other dislikes her.
I loved Lauren, especially the way she’s able to listen to other people’s opinions and point of view. I felt Cam’s family was underutilized. A family business, four sisters, three of which still live in the same village, there was potential for so much more. But I really liked what we saw of Jane and Sophie, and the best friends on each side (Charlotte and Anja) were excellent. They deserve their own spin-off, especially as they’re both poly, which could make for a great story if well-thought. And I might have to give gin another try…
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2021
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second book by Rey and it’s a nice sweet love story. This features MC Lauren, recently fired from her marketing job for something she didn’t do and who also happens to have just inherited an inn/bar in England. She jumps on a plane with the intention to flip the inn and use the funds to start her own marketing firm. The other MC is Cam, who runs a nearby family owned gin distillery and is a regular at the inn and doesn’t want it to change. So hometown girl vs city slicker.
Both MCs are interesting, together and apart. They have great chemistry and spend a lot of time together since Cam gets roped into helping Lauren with her plans. There are a lot of side characters (Cam has three sisters who feature, some more heavily than others and each character has a best friend). The BFFs feature the most heavily out of the side characters, and they are both poly, which you don’t see often in lesfic (the fact that they were both poly was a little much but whatever). There is also a LOT of talk about gin, which was interesting to start with, but started to bore me, I did end up skipping some scenes where this was the focus.
This also features the requisite drama at the 75% mark, but it doesn’t drag on and though the resolution was obvious from pretty much the start, I still enjoyed the HEA. I think I’ll be adding Ms Rey’s back catalogue to my TBR pile. 4 stars.
This is my second book by Rey and it’s a nice sweet love story. This features MC Lauren, recently fired from her marketing job for something she didn’t do and who also happens to have just inherited an inn/bar in England. She jumps on a plane with the intention to flip the inn and use the funds to start her own marketing firm. The other MC is Cam, who runs a nearby family owned gin distillery and is a regular at the inn and doesn’t want it to change. So hometown girl vs city slicker.
Both MCs are interesting, together and apart. They have great chemistry and spend a lot of time together since Cam gets roped into helping Lauren with her plans. There are a lot of side characters (Cam has three sisters who feature, some more heavily than others and each character has a best friend). The BFFs feature the most heavily out of the side characters, and they are both poly, which you don’t see often in lesfic (the fact that they were both poly was a little much but whatever). There is also a LOT of talk about gin, which was interesting to start with, but started to bore me, I did end up skipping some scenes where this was the focus.
This also features the requisite drama at the 75% mark, but it doesn’t drag on and though the resolution was obvious from pretty much the start, I still enjoyed the HEA. I think I’ll be adding Ms Rey’s back catalogue to my TBR pile. 4 stars.
October 8, 2019
A few timely things made parts of this story extremely enjoyable for me. One, I was just in northern England a few weeks ago and was instantly drawn to the rolling deep green hills, ancient low stone walls surrounding properties, single track roads and fields of sheep. I had no trouble visualizing the setting of the Rose and Crown/Inn in Netherfield Green, which made this reading experience so vivid. Two, I love GIN and therefore will capitalize this throughout this review.
New York big wig Lauren is fired from her high paying job and inherits an English inn from a distant uncle that needs a whole lot of work, all in the first few pages, so I guess you could say this tale starts with a bang, Fairly certain she will do a quick turn-over to collect the cash from the inn, she goes to England to scope it out, only to be taken with the community and the people of the village. Enter love interest, other MC Cam, the GIN DISTILLER. Cam is mistrustful of the American city girl, as Cam doesn't like change and truly cares about her community, plus has been burned in the past. Haven't we all.
Interesting concept and story by Ms. Rey, which was also well supported by the charming secondary characters. I found myself chuckling at some of Lauren's antics, driving on the "wrong" side of the road and ending up conversing with a pack of sheep was definitely a movie-worthy moment. She was strong and assertive but caring and I quite taken with her character. I had a harder time with Cam, the dark, brooding butch who came across as kind of dense to be honest, but maybe that's because I personally thrive on change, so wanted to shake her a few times and tell her to get with the times. But she is a genius with the GIN and can do all perfect concoctions with the GIN so for this point alone, she's a winner. The attraction between the two is instant, but they drag it out, thankfully, mostly due to Cam's mistrust of Lauren's intentions with the inn. That being said, the first time they fall into bed is pretty intense and not very believable (HOW many orgasms did she have?), which had me rolling my eyes, but for the most part I felt the sparks between them.
We do find out why Lauren was fired, having to wade through yet another fucking creepy male wandering hands dirtbag character, but the wading is in very shallow water....ankle deep really...and really is a side-lined small plot. Really, this story is about change but not gentrification, taking care of small town folk yet welcoming strangers into their fold, both with Lauren and new tourists, and about trusting and loving again, as well as for all of you to come to your senses that GIN is the best and now you want a delicious clean GIN and soda with a slice of lime. There are really no surprises here folks, all was all tied up with a neat little bow in the end, very predictable, so if you are looking for that classic HEA, this is your bag. 3.75/5 stars.
* Huge thanks to NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
New York big wig Lauren is fired from her high paying job and inherits an English inn from a distant uncle that needs a whole lot of work, all in the first few pages, so I guess you could say this tale starts with a bang, Fairly certain she will do a quick turn-over to collect the cash from the inn, she goes to England to scope it out, only to be taken with the community and the people of the village. Enter love interest, other MC Cam, the GIN DISTILLER. Cam is mistrustful of the American city girl, as Cam doesn't like change and truly cares about her community, plus has been burned in the past. Haven't we all.
Interesting concept and story by Ms. Rey, which was also well supported by the charming secondary characters. I found myself chuckling at some of Lauren's antics, driving on the "wrong" side of the road and ending up conversing with a pack of sheep was definitely a movie-worthy moment. She was strong and assertive but caring and I quite taken with her character. I had a harder time with Cam, the dark, brooding butch who came across as kind of dense to be honest, but maybe that's because I personally thrive on change, so wanted to shake her a few times and tell her to get with the times. But she is a genius with the GIN and can do all perfect concoctions with the GIN so for this point alone, she's a winner. The attraction between the two is instant, but they drag it out, thankfully, mostly due to Cam's mistrust of Lauren's intentions with the inn. That being said, the first time they fall into bed is pretty intense and not very believable (HOW many orgasms did she have?), which had me rolling my eyes, but for the most part I felt the sparks between them.
We do find out why Lauren was fired, having to wade through yet another fucking creepy male wandering hands dirtbag character, but the wading is in very shallow water....ankle deep really...and really is a side-lined small plot. Really, this story is about change but not gentrification, taking care of small town folk yet welcoming strangers into their fold, both with Lauren and new tourists, and about trusting and loving again, as well as for all of you to come to your senses that GIN is the best and now you want a delicious clean GIN and soda with a slice of lime. There are really no surprises here folks, all was all tied up with a neat little bow in the end, very predictable, so if you are looking for that classic HEA, this is your bag. 3.75/5 stars.
* Huge thanks to NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
October 8, 2019
Aurora Rey has created another exquisite contemporary romance called The Inn at Netherfield Green. I knew I wanted to read this one as soon as I saw who the author was. The cover also caught my attention. Beautiful, eye catching covers really do mean more people notice and maybe buy the book. This one definitely worked for me.
This story starts with a bang since it begins with the main character, Lauren Montgomery, being unjustly fired from her job as an advertising executive. The very same day she also finds out she has inherited an English pub and inn from her Great Uncle Albert. By the end of the week she is headed to the small village of Netherfield Green in England to see what she must do to make the place ready to put on the market and sell. Lauren hopes to make enough on the sale to start up her own advertising agency. Her plans did not include meeting Camden Crawley though. Cam has lived all her life in the village, and the Rose and Crown, the pub Lauren plans to sell has a special place in Cam’s heart. Cam resents the new owner who she feels is going to turn the pub into one of those trendy bar and inns, but she can’t seem to get Lauren out of her thoughts.
Ms. Rey has created another striking and romantic setting with the village of Netherfield Green. With her vivid descriptions of the inn, the pub, and the surrounding village, I ended up wanting to live there myself. She also did a fantastic job creating two very different characters in Lauren and Cam. The two are almost polar opposites in personality, but she made their chemistry for each other shine through in the tale. With these characters, she showed us that opposites do attract, and sometimes work out well.
This is an easy and fun read with a lot of love and a little angst. If you like a sweet romance in a charming setting with characters you might fall in love with yourself, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This story starts with a bang since it begins with the main character, Lauren Montgomery, being unjustly fired from her job as an advertising executive. The very same day she also finds out she has inherited an English pub and inn from her Great Uncle Albert. By the end of the week she is headed to the small village of Netherfield Green in England to see what she must do to make the place ready to put on the market and sell. Lauren hopes to make enough on the sale to start up her own advertising agency. Her plans did not include meeting Camden Crawley though. Cam has lived all her life in the village, and the Rose and Crown, the pub Lauren plans to sell has a special place in Cam’s heart. Cam resents the new owner who she feels is going to turn the pub into one of those trendy bar and inns, but she can’t seem to get Lauren out of her thoughts.
Ms. Rey has created another striking and romantic setting with the village of Netherfield Green. With her vivid descriptions of the inn, the pub, and the surrounding village, I ended up wanting to live there myself. She also did a fantastic job creating two very different characters in Lauren and Cam. The two are almost polar opposites in personality, but she made their chemistry for each other shine through in the tale. With these characters, she showed us that opposites do attract, and sometimes work out well.
This is an easy and fun read with a lot of love and a little angst. If you like a sweet romance in a charming setting with characters you might fall in love with yourself, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections:
https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
October 7, 2019
Lauren Montgomery is wrongly fired for her marketing job in NYC and the same day finds out her great uncle leaves her an Inn/Pub in Netherfield Green which is in England. Down in the dumps she heads to England to take possession of the Inn. Camden Crawley runs a Gin Distillery in Netherfield. She is set in her ways and really doesn't like change. She is skeptical of the new woman running the Inn because she is afraid she is going to come in and make to many changes. Lauren's plan is to come in and revamp the Inn and Pub and sell it for some quick cash.
You can say that Lauren and Cam don't really hit it off when they first meet. Oh but there is some good chemistry there. Lauren is always nice to Cam, but Cam doesn't really like Lauren. We do find out a little more later in the story about why. The story line in this one is cute. Cam and Lauren are thrown together to make the inn better and also for Lauren to help with a newer Gin line that is Cam's baby. Even though they continue to have small disagreements they end up working well together. There are some good support characters in this one that also helps out the story. One thing that i really enjoyed was the sex scenes in this one. Rey hit them out the ball park. They were fresh and exciting.
I can say that I liked the take on this one more than Rey's last book. I was debating on a rating for this one and just will give it 4 stars.
This ARC was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
You can say that Lauren and Cam don't really hit it off when they first meet. Oh but there is some good chemistry there. Lauren is always nice to Cam, but Cam doesn't really like Lauren. We do find out a little more later in the story about why. The story line in this one is cute. Cam and Lauren are thrown together to make the inn better and also for Lauren to help with a newer Gin line that is Cam's baby. Even though they continue to have small disagreements they end up working well together. There are some good support characters in this one that also helps out the story. One thing that i really enjoyed was the sex scenes in this one. Rey hit them out the ball park. They were fresh and exciting.
I can say that I liked the take on this one more than Rey's last book. I was debating on a rating for this one and just will give it 4 stars.
This ARC was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
April 13, 2022
4 stars
A very solid romance. Both MCs had their faults and there was the standard "drama through miscommunication" bit, that's so often a part of romance novels, but it was handled nicely and I loved the character dynamics. I also liked how the author managed to portray the tight-knit small-town community without making it seem like everyone's in everybody's business without a bit of privacy (I often see it in novels about American small towns and it drives me nuts).
So all in all, I got what I expected when I picked this novel up, so I'm happy, even though I don't really need a repeat.
A very solid romance. Both MCs had their faults and there was the standard "drama through miscommunication" bit, that's so often a part of romance novels, but it was handled nicely and I loved the character dynamics. I also liked how the author managed to portray the tight-knit small-town community without making it seem like everyone's in everybody's business without a bit of privacy (I often see it in novels about American small towns and it drives me nuts).
So all in all, I got what I expected when I picked this novel up, so I'm happy, even though I don't really need a repeat.
October 5, 2019
I'm usually very happy to have the chance to read an Aurora Rey novel - she constantly delivers a well-written romance that has just the right blend of humour, engaging characters, chemistry and romance. I'm glad to say, the streak continues - The Inn at Netherfield Green is a fun romance.
Hit with a double-whammy of being unjustly fired from a high profile advertising agency and finding out that she's inherited an Inn and Pub from a distant relative in England, Lauren is at a crossroads. Determined to own her own firm, she moves to England to inspect her inheritance and see if she can make a quick sale to fund her start-up. Arriving in Netherfield Green, Lauren's intention to put the property up for sale and return to the States is made more difficult by the fact that the Rose and Crown pub and the attached inn are just making enough to keep the staff paid and minimal maintenance.
Despite the fact that Cam Crawley is willing to take risks in developing a new craft line of gins to complement her family's longstanding gin, she doesn't like change. It's an interesting dichotomy in that she's willing to experiment with the distillation and mixing to create a newer product, but she's dead set against anything that might change the Rose and Crown or Netherfield Green. Rey loves her food and drink and she waxes eloquently on Cam's gins and how she developed the flavours, I was craving a G&T or one of Cam's craft cocktails - and I hate gin with a passion.
Obviously there's an instant antagonism, on Cam's part, when Lauren arrives. Slowly but surely, Lauren works her magic on Cam - taking her advice and engaging her assistance as she tries to update and modernize the pub and inn without compromising or alienating the local clientele. This could have easily been a fish out of water type of story, but Lauren is eager to embrace the culture and values of the community while bringing fresh life into the inn and pub, which in turn will benefit the village. Partnering with the local distillery and showcasing their new line of gin as part of the makeover makes perfect business sense - and forces Lauren and Cam to work together.
There's a push and pull between the two - one wanting to make change, one hating change and what appears to be an insta-lust making it all a bit more complex. I will admit that early on I was starting to get a bit annoyed at how both Lauren and Cam seemed to be walking, talking hormones despite the frosty relationship. That didn't last too long - once they actually got their hands on each other, the whole teenage hormone thing seemed to resolve itself and they proceeded to have some very steamy fun. No question on the chemistry thing. However, the question of how long the fun will continue is at the back of both their minds as the friends with benefits morphs into deeper feelings on both sides, with neither one willing or able to express them until the final conflict pushes them to make some decisions and choices.
There's a more serious subplot that is hinted at at the beginning but emerges in more detail in the latter part of the book. I think Rey handles the subject quite well and Lauren's reaction, not just to the assault but the subsequent machinations by her coworker, seemed realistic - the initial shock and inability to process it and the inner rationalizations and then just dropping everything to go to England. With the time, distance and distraction provided by revitalizing the Rose and Crown she gains the perspective and resolve not to allow him to get away with it. Lauren never comes across as a victim or weak - and once she is able to process what has happened, her anger and resolve assert themselves.
Overall, this was a really good read.
Recommended
Hit with a double-whammy of being unjustly fired from a high profile advertising agency and finding out that she's inherited an Inn and Pub from a distant relative in England, Lauren is at a crossroads. Determined to own her own firm, she moves to England to inspect her inheritance and see if she can make a quick sale to fund her start-up. Arriving in Netherfield Green, Lauren's intention to put the property up for sale and return to the States is made more difficult by the fact that the Rose and Crown pub and the attached inn are just making enough to keep the staff paid and minimal maintenance.
Despite the fact that Cam Crawley is willing to take risks in developing a new craft line of gins to complement her family's longstanding gin, she doesn't like change. It's an interesting dichotomy in that she's willing to experiment with the distillation and mixing to create a newer product, but she's dead set against anything that might change the Rose and Crown or Netherfield Green. Rey loves her food and drink and she waxes eloquently on Cam's gins and how she developed the flavours, I was craving a G&T or one of Cam's craft cocktails - and I hate gin with a passion.
Obviously there's an instant antagonism, on Cam's part, when Lauren arrives. Slowly but surely, Lauren works her magic on Cam - taking her advice and engaging her assistance as she tries to update and modernize the pub and inn without compromising or alienating the local clientele. This could have easily been a fish out of water type of story, but Lauren is eager to embrace the culture and values of the community while bringing fresh life into the inn and pub, which in turn will benefit the village. Partnering with the local distillery and showcasing their new line of gin as part of the makeover makes perfect business sense - and forces Lauren and Cam to work together.
There's a push and pull between the two - one wanting to make change, one hating change and what appears to be an insta-lust making it all a bit more complex. I will admit that early on I was starting to get a bit annoyed at how both Lauren and Cam seemed to be walking, talking hormones despite the frosty relationship. That didn't last too long - once they actually got their hands on each other, the whole teenage hormone thing seemed to resolve itself and they proceeded to have some very steamy fun. No question on the chemistry thing. However, the question of how long the fun will continue is at the back of both their minds as the friends with benefits morphs into deeper feelings on both sides, with neither one willing or able to express them until the final conflict pushes them to make some decisions and choices.
There's a more serious subplot that is hinted at at the beginning but emerges in more detail in the latter part of the book. I think Rey handles the subject quite well and Lauren's reaction, not just to the assault but the subsequent machinations by her coworker, seemed realistic - the initial shock and inability to process it and the inner rationalizations and then just dropping everything to go to England. With the time, distance and distraction provided by revitalizing the Rose and Crown she gains the perspective and resolve not to allow him to get away with it. Lauren never comes across as a victim or weak - and once she is able to process what has happened, her anger and resolve assert themselves.
Overall, this was a really good read.
Recommended
September 30, 2019
This may be my favourite book by Aurora Rey. All of my teenage romantic notions of small town life in the English countryside were fulfilled in this book.
Lauren finds out she'd inherited an Inn and a pub (in England) just hours after she's been (wrongly) fired from her job at an advertising firm in New York City. As she plots her revenge, she heads off to England to do what she can to fix up her new property and then sell it, launching her own firm and taking down the person who got her fired. She doesn't expect to fall in love with the town and the people, and one person in particular. Cam is the creator of Carriage House gin, and while she's not keen on Lauren coming in and changing her precious pub, she agrees to work with her in exchange for some marketing help for her gin. The two women grow closer as their chemistry is undeniable, but are their worlds two different for anything more to come of it?
I love that Lauren was such a likeable character. So often someone coming into a situation like she did could be mean and judgmental and it would cause tension and drama and turn me off a book. She was a fantastic character, always listening and learning and broadening her horizons. Definitely someone to aspire to, and so was Cam, with her strength and passion for her community. Both women were brilliant and intelligent in their own rights. They were super inspiring characters. Their chemistry was off the charts and their romantic journey was perfect.
There were so many moments and unique details that made me smile! I also loved all the side characters, Cam's sisters and friends, and Lauren's friend Anja - they created this whole atmosphere of love and support and strength.
I love a good project like Lauren's Inn revamp, and I might be the only one wishing for scenes from the cutting room floor that might be full of endless details on her reno.
The ending is quite possibly the most romantic EVER. I felt like I was in a 90's rom-com- I was smiling and crying like a fool because it was so perfect. Such a good feeling! I know I'll be re-reading this book over and over again. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet and heartwarming book, with lots of unique flavour.
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lauren finds out she'd inherited an Inn and a pub (in England) just hours after she's been (wrongly) fired from her job at an advertising firm in New York City. As she plots her revenge, she heads off to England to do what she can to fix up her new property and then sell it, launching her own firm and taking down the person who got her fired. She doesn't expect to fall in love with the town and the people, and one person in particular. Cam is the creator of Carriage House gin, and while she's not keen on Lauren coming in and changing her precious pub, she agrees to work with her in exchange for some marketing help for her gin. The two women grow closer as their chemistry is undeniable, but are their worlds two different for anything more to come of it?
I love that Lauren was such a likeable character. So often someone coming into a situation like she did could be mean and judgmental and it would cause tension and drama and turn me off a book. She was a fantastic character, always listening and learning and broadening her horizons. Definitely someone to aspire to, and so was Cam, with her strength and passion for her community. Both women were brilliant and intelligent in their own rights. They were super inspiring characters. Their chemistry was off the charts and their romantic journey was perfect.
There were so many moments and unique details that made me smile! I also loved all the side characters, Cam's sisters and friends, and Lauren's friend Anja - they created this whole atmosphere of love and support and strength.
I love a good project like Lauren's Inn revamp, and I might be the only one wishing for scenes from the cutting room floor that might be full of endless details on her reno.
The ending is quite possibly the most romantic EVER. I felt like I was in a 90's rom-com- I was smiling and crying like a fool because it was so perfect. Such a good feeling! I know I'll be re-reading this book over and over again. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet and heartwarming book, with lots of unique flavour.
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2019
This was a nice and easy romance read that didn't have a complicated conflict, and some pretty steamy sex scenes. The chemistry between American Lauren Montgomery and Camden Crowley is palpable the moment they met. I loved their first meeting, it wasn't a cute meet, but Lauren's temporary short circuit was adorable. I also found that Cam's adverse to change is played all the way throughout her interactions with Lauren. She seems to instinctively know that Lauren is different, and that freaks her out.
If anything, I'd say that it is a little too formulaic, right down to the fight and mini break up that always seems to happen near the end of the books. This was the same, but it wasn't sudden - Lauren's effect on the Inn was immediate, and Cam's insecurities came out in full force. It was partially a plot point to help drive Lauren to shore up her problems back in the States, and an important character moment that I think may have been resolved with clearer communication on both women's parts. So it was equally annoying and good. Which surprised me, because I really hate last minute conflicts, I saw it coming from a mile away, and it was actually a really great moment for their relationship.
So, if you're looking for an easy romance about a brooding gin brewer and a charismatic blonde marketer set in an idyllic English town, this is for you. Though predictable, I loved watching the characters bring everything together.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
If anything, I'd say that it is a little too formulaic, right down to the fight and mini break up that always seems to happen near the end of the books. This was the same, but it wasn't sudden - Lauren's effect on the Inn was immediate, and Cam's insecurities came out in full force. It was partially a plot point to help drive Lauren to shore up her problems back in the States, and an important character moment that I think may have been resolved with clearer communication on both women's parts. So it was equally annoying and good. Which surprised me, because I really hate last minute conflicts, I saw it coming from a mile away, and it was actually a really great moment for their relationship.
So, if you're looking for an easy romance about a brooding gin brewer and a charismatic blonde marketer set in an idyllic English town, this is for you. Though predictable, I loved watching the characters bring everything together.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2019
This was a sweet read for me. I love small town stories that introduce a great cast of characters and a peaceful & welcoming settings.
April 17, 2021
A believable tale (once I'd got over the MC being left an Inn by an unknown uncle... why can't that happen to me???) Really liked the MCs & their best friends / sisters etc. Highly recommended.
October 12, 2019
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
This book was an absolute disaster, and I mean that explicitly. I realized about 50% of the way through that I hated the premise of the book, but I was halfway through and thought it would get better. The basic premise of the book is Lauren gets fired from her job, which is actually a pretty interesting way to start the book. As we continue the book we learn that Lauren inherits an inn and needs to go to England to take possession of the inn. When she gets there the inn is rundown and needs serious help. She meets a cast of minor characters (Charlotte and Mrs. Lucas, as well as a dog that is there for about two chapters and then disappears completely from the book when it becomes evident that the dog is too difficult to weave into all of the other parts of the book. That was the probability the most upsetting part of the book, they just stop writing about the dog and Mrs. Lucas when they realized that they were not useful to the overall plot, but I digress. So all of the tropes happen they hate each other, then they make drinks and they fall in love.
I thought the overall story started off well, but it didn't live up to the premise. There was far too much whining from adult women in this book. The section of the book that dealt with sexual harassment was not well developed and it did not feel like it belonged. I guess it was the foil that finally got the two protagonists together. I thought the love story was very much rushed, and it actually did not feel like they liked each other at all. They also did the worst thing, which was put the two best friends together, so I bet my life savings and mt retirement that there will be another book in this series that deals with Anja and Charlotte's relationship. All around not the best book I have read it was so repetitive, The author could have cut out more than 1/3rd of the book and it probably would have made it an excellent read.
This book was an absolute disaster, and I mean that explicitly. I realized about 50% of the way through that I hated the premise of the book, but I was halfway through and thought it would get better. The basic premise of the book is Lauren gets fired from her job, which is actually a pretty interesting way to start the book. As we continue the book we learn that Lauren inherits an inn and needs to go to England to take possession of the inn. When she gets there the inn is rundown and needs serious help. She meets a cast of minor characters (Charlotte and Mrs. Lucas, as well as a dog that is there for about two chapters and then disappears completely from the book when it becomes evident that the dog is too difficult to weave into all of the other parts of the book. That was the probability the most upsetting part of the book, they just stop writing about the dog and Mrs. Lucas when they realized that they were not useful to the overall plot, but I digress. So all of the tropes happen they hate each other, then they make drinks and they fall in love.
I thought the overall story started off well, but it didn't live up to the premise. There was far too much whining from adult women in this book. The section of the book that dealt with sexual harassment was not well developed and it did not feel like it belonged. I guess it was the foil that finally got the two protagonists together. I thought the love story was very much rushed, and it actually did not feel like they liked each other at all. They also did the worst thing, which was put the two best friends together, so I bet my life savings and mt retirement that there will be another book in this series that deals with Anja and Charlotte's relationship. All around not the best book I have read it was so repetitive, The author could have cut out more than 1/3rd of the book and it probably would have made it an excellent read.
January 14, 2020
I am always a fan of books that take place overseas, especially in small towns in the UK. This book was no exception. It’s a nice, slow read to enjoy in bed after a long day working out in the cold. The dynamic between the two main characters, Cam and Lauren, as they strive to reach a compromise and restoring and reviving parts of their small English village they call home, was enjoyable, much like the various drinks they discussed that Cam would make for them. As an American who loves history, especially British history, I found myself on Cam’s side for much of the book as she did not want change to come to her home but slowly, and with consent and understanding, she learned that not all change is bad. Lauren was very respectful and I found myself wishing I had such a friend and co-worker in real life. It was fun seeing how an American and English woman worked to go past their differences and discover that they’re not so different after all. I look forward to more works by this author.
November 19, 2019
Lauren needs a retreat to lick her wounds and figure out her come back. When her great uncle dies and leaves her a pub and inn she finds her answer. She also finds Cam. Cam loves her village and the people with in. She is a genius when it comes to the family business. She is also afraid of change. She tries so hard to dislike Lauren in the beginning, but Lauren wins her over. Lauren helps to show Cam that not all change can be bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2019
Netherfield Green
Another fabulous book from Miss Rey. So far I have enjoyed all her books, looking forward to the next one.
Another fabulous book from Miss Rey. So far I have enjoyed all her books, looking forward to the next one.
Read
May 6, 2022Me, status update at 32%: Pretty bummed to have spent $10 on this, I’m not feelin’ it at all. I don’t really like either MC and would/should/want to DNF but having spent the money, I’m somewhat invested it sticking it out. And that’s kind of making me dislike it even more because I don’t want to keep pushing but I feel like I’ll have thrown $10 in the trash otherwise 🫤😣
Me, at 33%: I just can’t. I don’t like this and simply cannot. *Wanders back to GR to look at 1, 2, 3 star reviews…* Yeah, no, this isn’t going to work for me. Based on the 1 and 2 star reviews, it’s just more of the same and my gut instinct to DNF is spot on.
Not the worst $10 I’ve ever spent, but I do regret it, which is such a shame because I’ve really been craving good sapphic romance and this did not hit the spot at all.
No rating because honestly, I think this is mostly a case of it just being me… I can see a lot of people enjoying this one. The writing is good, but I’m not bonding with the characters and their actions aren’t resonating with me. At all. Hence, I’m supremely bored. *Sigh* So, so bummed ☹️
Me, at 33%: I just can’t. I don’t like this and simply cannot. *Wanders back to GR to look at 1, 2, 3 star reviews…* Yeah, no, this isn’t going to work for me. Based on the 1 and 2 star reviews, it’s just more of the same and my gut instinct to DNF is spot on.
Not the worst $10 I’ve ever spent, but I do regret it, which is such a shame because I’ve really been craving good sapphic romance and this did not hit the spot at all.
No rating because honestly, I think this is mostly a case of it just being me… I can see a lot of people enjoying this one. The writing is good, but I’m not bonding with the characters and their actions aren’t resonating with me. At all. Hence, I’m supremely bored. *Sigh* So, so bummed ☹️
October 18, 2019
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢👑🌹🍺🍸🍹🛏👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
That’s in exchange of an honest review that I received an ARC of « The Inn at Netherfield Green » by Aurora Rey from BSB (via NetGalley).
So, here it is !!!
My rating : 2.5 ⭐️
The story sets in Netherfield - England, and focuses on Lauren Montgomery, a New York advertising executive & Camden « Cam » Crawley, a gin distiller. They met after Lauren has lost her job, and moved to England because, over there, she inherited an inn & the « Rose & Crown », the pub attached to the inn. Camden has a soft spot for the pub where her parents and grandparents got engaged. But the opinionated new owner who wants to turn it into some trendy bed and bar? Not so much …
I’ve already read 2 books by this author and I liked them both a lot. Since I appreciate Aurora Rey’s writing style, I really wanted to read « The Inn at Netherfield Green », but, sadly, with this one, something was off …
Yes, I really loved the cover and the settings, this charming little village in the English countryside … and I also liked a lot the idea of what could have happened based of the opening of the book (Lauren being fired, her inheritance of the inn + pub in England… I found it was a good way to begin the story) but … the expected development never came, neither did the click with the main characters. (I hate not feeling connected to the MCs).
Here are a few other things bothering me in this novel (the list isn’t exhaustive...) :
° the lack of real characters’ development about the lead women + the fact they are supposed to argue on everything : fight « tooth and nail » & then compromise for weeks but, seriously, from my POV, we don’t really feel the antagonism between them … & for some people who are supposed to be « ennemies », they definitely seem to « fall in love » by pure miracle : like all the rest in the story, it’s all « tell and don’t show », so, too idyllic to be credible …
° Lauren’s agression by one of her former colleagues and then the wrongful termination of her contract with the firm which followed the somber episode were treated too lightly regarding the importance / gravity of such acts in real life … I think it should have been more developed and a huge part of Cam and Lauren’s story … It would have added some real drama and given the novel the depth it deserved … Told like it’s actually told, the trauma Lauren is supposed to carry for months is not evident, like, at all !! It was like if I read the scenario of an Hallmark’s movie … you know, the kind of rom-com where plenty of drama is supposed to happen but we never really see it and before we know it, we see the words « The End » play on the screen … that’s highly frustrating.
° the illogism of the first intimate encounter between the MCs. It’s a scientific fact that the consumption of too many alcohol kills the desire so, with so many cocktails tested this very evening, they shouldn’t have been able to be turned on …
° I know both are strong women but I still don’t get why they just couldn’t be equal when it came to most of the intimate scenes … Their power struggle really doesn’t make any sense to me.
° all the novel long, the tiring repetitions about the fact that : 1°) none of the MCs is able to know what her feelings for the other are + 2°) none of the MCs is able to know that there’s a reciprocity to her feelings … Seriously ?? Aren’t they able to observe ??? Different things happen between 2 persons when it’s just for a roll in the hay or when they fall in love … They are supposed to be intelligent and accomplished, professional women, but they act like some weirdos without any clue about their own feelings and the other … that’s beyond ridiculous … When you’re in love, like really head over heels, there’s a glowing radiating from the other, it’s written all over your face so, why those 2 aren’t able to notice that their nights together are real lovemakings, not just quickies ??
° the total disappearance of almost all the secondary characters (including Tilly the dog !!). Why bothering about their creation if it’s to evict them right away …
° the cliché of the 2 MCs’ best friends ending up together… What’s new, however, is the fact they are both « poly » … Don’t get me wrong, I’m totally OK with this, I love diversity, but, what were the odds such a thing happened ??
° because of the regular and crual lack of time markers it’s often very difficult to follow the time line and know how much time really pass & added to this there are some inconsistencies in this same time line, which is quite disturbing
If I had to make a very short and quite different version of my review, it’d be something like this :
- Did I enjoy this book? => Sadly, not really !!!
- Did I find the characters believable? => Nope !!
- Is this book now included in my « must be re-read »-list? => Nope …
- Will I purchase the paperback? => Nope !!
- Would I read another book by this author? => Yes because I’ve read some other novels by this author and liked them so I’d like to give her another try, at least.
- Would I recommend this book => Yes … to all the Hallmark rom-com fans ….
Hey guys and gals, you know that now it’s your turn to visit the English countryside … So … Grab your own copy and make your own opinion …
Enjoy (or not) your reading … 😉
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢👑🌹🍺🍸🍹🛏👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
That’s in exchange of an honest review that I received an ARC of « The Inn at Netherfield Green » by Aurora Rey from BSB (via NetGalley).
So, here it is !!!
My rating : 2.5 ⭐️
The story sets in Netherfield - England, and focuses on Lauren Montgomery, a New York advertising executive & Camden « Cam » Crawley, a gin distiller. They met after Lauren has lost her job, and moved to England because, over there, she inherited an inn & the « Rose & Crown », the pub attached to the inn. Camden has a soft spot for the pub where her parents and grandparents got engaged. But the opinionated new owner who wants to turn it into some trendy bed and bar? Not so much …
I’ve already read 2 books by this author and I liked them both a lot. Since I appreciate Aurora Rey’s writing style, I really wanted to read « The Inn at Netherfield Green », but, sadly, with this one, something was off …
Yes, I really loved the cover and the settings, this charming little village in the English countryside … and I also liked a lot the idea of what could have happened based of the opening of the book (Lauren being fired, her inheritance of the inn + pub in England… I found it was a good way to begin the story) but … the expected development never came, neither did the click with the main characters. (I hate not feeling connected to the MCs).
Here are a few other things bothering me in this novel (the list isn’t exhaustive...) :
° the lack of real characters’ development about the lead women + the fact they are supposed to argue on everything : fight « tooth and nail » & then compromise for weeks but, seriously, from my POV, we don’t really feel the antagonism between them … & for some people who are supposed to be « ennemies », they definitely seem to « fall in love » by pure miracle : like all the rest in the story, it’s all « tell and don’t show », so, too idyllic to be credible …
° Lauren’s agression by one of her former colleagues and then the wrongful termination of her contract with the firm which followed the somber episode were treated too lightly regarding the importance / gravity of such acts in real life … I think it should have been more developed and a huge part of Cam and Lauren’s story … It would have added some real drama and given the novel the depth it deserved … Told like it’s actually told, the trauma Lauren is supposed to carry for months is not evident, like, at all !! It was like if I read the scenario of an Hallmark’s movie … you know, the kind of rom-com where plenty of drama is supposed to happen but we never really see it and before we know it, we see the words « The End » play on the screen … that’s highly frustrating.
° the illogism of the first intimate encounter between the MCs. It’s a scientific fact that the consumption of too many alcohol kills the desire so, with so many cocktails tested this very evening, they shouldn’t have been able to be turned on …
° I know both are strong women but I still don’t get why they just couldn’t be equal when it came to most of the intimate scenes … Their power struggle really doesn’t make any sense to me.
° all the novel long, the tiring repetitions about the fact that : 1°) none of the MCs is able to know what her feelings for the other are + 2°) none of the MCs is able to know that there’s a reciprocity to her feelings … Seriously ?? Aren’t they able to observe ??? Different things happen between 2 persons when it’s just for a roll in the hay or when they fall in love … They are supposed to be intelligent and accomplished, professional women, but they act like some weirdos without any clue about their own feelings and the other … that’s beyond ridiculous … When you’re in love, like really head over heels, there’s a glowing radiating from the other, it’s written all over your face so, why those 2 aren’t able to notice that their nights together are real lovemakings, not just quickies ??
° the total disappearance of almost all the secondary characters (including Tilly the dog !!). Why bothering about their creation if it’s to evict them right away …
° the cliché of the 2 MCs’ best friends ending up together… What’s new, however, is the fact they are both « poly » … Don’t get me wrong, I’m totally OK with this, I love diversity, but, what were the odds such a thing happened ??
° because of the regular and crual lack of time markers it’s often very difficult to follow the time line and know how much time really pass & added to this there are some inconsistencies in this same time line, which is quite disturbing
If I had to make a very short and quite different version of my review, it’d be something like this :
- Did I enjoy this book? => Sadly, not really !!!
- Did I find the characters believable? => Nope !!
- Is this book now included in my « must be re-read »-list? => Nope …
- Will I purchase the paperback? => Nope !!
- Would I read another book by this author? => Yes because I’ve read some other novels by this author and liked them so I’d like to give her another try, at least.
- Would I recommend this book => Yes … to all the Hallmark rom-com fans ….
Hey guys and gals, you know that now it’s your turn to visit the English countryside … So … Grab your own copy and make your own opinion …
Enjoy (or not) your reading … 😉
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢👑🌹🍺🍸🍹🛏👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
April 3, 2020
The reader can always tell when an English scholar puts word to paper. This was a smooth read from front to back. Read the blurb for specifics of this story. I enjoyed it and can recommend it to lesbian romance fans. Tension, sex, and the HEA that most fans of this genre like to read.
December 2, 2019
Aurora Rey audiobooks are the audiobook equivalent of putting on a warm sweater and finally sipping a hot tea on a chilly rainy day. I most often listen to audiobooks while I'm walking Max, and now that there's (already!) snow on the ground, they're one of the ways I make it through winter—so I generally try to make the books last by only listening while I walk him. The Inn at Netherfield Green made me break my usual pattern, and I listened to it throughout the day, indoors and out, over the last three days or so.
It's delightful. There are a few key things that Rey does so incredibly well that I really adore in her books: one, the angst levels simmer on low, without robbing the "black moment" of any power. That's a delicate balance to strike, but for someone like me who really does enjoy a good love story where the impediments to the love aren't an onslaught of pain and misery, it's golden. There's a country-mouse/city-mouse vibe to Inn, but there's also more than that: Lauren is only in the UK temporarily, Cam's life (and business) is solidly (and immovably) there. There's enough stacked against them right there.
Second? Rey's characters are often a mix of backgrounds and connections and she doesn't shy away from giving characters less-than-stellar relationships with their families and then sticks to it, not forcing a reconciliation sub-plot. Lauren's family isn't close, her parents are more or less "meh" (at best) and Lauren knows this and is a fully functional adult. At no point are there lightbulb emotional moments in regards to Lauren's family, and though of course it impacts Lauren character, she is never the lesser because of it. As a queer reader, I cannot tell you how grateful I am for characters like this.
Third? Sizzle! Rey's characters connect, spark, and then sizzle. Her turn of phrase is often cheeky, very grounded in emotionality, and so sensual. You believe their attraction, and want the best for them, even when they're not communicating well and you'd also like just as much to reach into the book and give them both a good shake.
Lauren and Cam were a great pair—their personalities are such that they clash at the start in a believable, understandable way. This isn't a case of miscommunication so much as it's a conflict of point-of-view: Lauren sees the world one way, Cam another, and neither are wrong, exactly. Watching them compromise (especially Cam, who I adored because I'm all about the curmudgeon "change is bad" characters if I'm honest with myself for, y'know, reasons) was a genuine delight, and the cast of characters around them—another thing Rey handles so well, support networks existing via friendships—were charming, to boot. Also the reality of the little-English-village was spot-on, at least from my memories of little-English-village life.
The audio performer did a constant and decent job, and while I'm not always a fan of forcing accents for characters, keeping track wasn't an issue, and the cadence and characterization was on point.
It's delightful. There are a few key things that Rey does so incredibly well that I really adore in her books: one, the angst levels simmer on low, without robbing the "black moment" of any power. That's a delicate balance to strike, but for someone like me who really does enjoy a good love story where the impediments to the love aren't an onslaught of pain and misery, it's golden. There's a country-mouse/city-mouse vibe to Inn, but there's also more than that: Lauren is only in the UK temporarily, Cam's life (and business) is solidly (and immovably) there. There's enough stacked against them right there.
Second? Rey's characters are often a mix of backgrounds and connections and she doesn't shy away from giving characters less-than-stellar relationships with their families and then sticks to it, not forcing a reconciliation sub-plot. Lauren's family isn't close, her parents are more or less "meh" (at best) and Lauren knows this and is a fully functional adult. At no point are there lightbulb emotional moments in regards to Lauren's family, and though of course it impacts Lauren character, she is never the lesser because of it. As a queer reader, I cannot tell you how grateful I am for characters like this.
Third? Sizzle! Rey's characters connect, spark, and then sizzle. Her turn of phrase is often cheeky, very grounded in emotionality, and so sensual. You believe their attraction, and want the best for them, even when they're not communicating well and you'd also like just as much to reach into the book and give them both a good shake.
Lauren and Cam were a great pair—their personalities are such that they clash at the start in a believable, understandable way. This isn't a case of miscommunication so much as it's a conflict of point-of-view: Lauren sees the world one way, Cam another, and neither are wrong, exactly. Watching them compromise (especially Cam, who I adored because I'm all about the curmudgeon "change is bad" characters if I'm honest with myself for, y'know, reasons) was a genuine delight, and the cast of characters around them—another thing Rey handles so well, support networks existing via friendships—were charming, to boot. Also the reality of the little-English-village was spot-on, at least from my memories of little-English-village life.
The audio performer did a constant and decent job, and while I'm not always a fan of forcing accents for characters, keeping track wasn't an issue, and the cadence and characterization was on point.
October 15, 2019
Ms Rey has given us another sweet romance involving two women who seem to be miles apart when it comes to dealing with all of life's trials and tribulations. Or are they really that different?
Lauren Montgomery lived and worked in NewYork as an advertising executive where she was sure her career had only one direction, up, working in a business she loved. Problem was not everyone was a fan including a co-worker who went out of his way derailing Lauren’s career. It was surprising just how fast her life fell apart. Within a few hours of arriving at work she was asked to go again. As in she was fired. Should she stay and fight for her job and against the lies that were totally untrue? Little did she know she was about to inherit a pub/inn in England from a great uncle she barely remembered.
Camden Crawley grew up surrounded by family, so having a little privacy wasn’t something she enjoyed often. She worked in her family’s gin distillery business where she could indulge her flair for mixing just the right amounts of herbs and spices with her own brand of gin making for a very enjoyable drink. Cam loved doing just that while also spending her time with best friend and former lover, Charlotte, who just happened to work in the pub that was just inherited by some woman from New York, of all paces.
Nobody wanted to see the local pub and inn change but Lauren could think of no other way to make the business profitable without a little sprucing up. The hard part was going to get some help from the locals. With the bartender Charlotte’s help she isn’t long getting help from not only the locals but more importantly from Charlotte's gorgeous friend Cam.
I read this book while sitting on the patio with all the fall colors surrounding me. I live in eastern Canada so this time of year is always special, especially while reading a very nice, enjoyable book. ‘The Inn in Netherfield Greens’ hit the spot.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Lauren Montgomery lived and worked in NewYork as an advertising executive where she was sure her career had only one direction, up, working in a business she loved. Problem was not everyone was a fan including a co-worker who went out of his way derailing Lauren’s career. It was surprising just how fast her life fell apart. Within a few hours of arriving at work she was asked to go again. As in she was fired. Should she stay and fight for her job and against the lies that were totally untrue? Little did she know she was about to inherit a pub/inn in England from a great uncle she barely remembered.
Camden Crawley grew up surrounded by family, so having a little privacy wasn’t something she enjoyed often. She worked in her family’s gin distillery business where she could indulge her flair for mixing just the right amounts of herbs and spices with her own brand of gin making for a very enjoyable drink. Cam loved doing just that while also spending her time with best friend and former lover, Charlotte, who just happened to work in the pub that was just inherited by some woman from New York, of all paces.
Nobody wanted to see the local pub and inn change but Lauren could think of no other way to make the business profitable without a little sprucing up. The hard part was going to get some help from the locals. With the bartender Charlotte’s help she isn’t long getting help from not only the locals but more importantly from Charlotte's gorgeous friend Cam.
I read this book while sitting on the patio with all the fall colors surrounding me. I live in eastern Canada so this time of year is always special, especially while reading a very nice, enjoyable book. ‘The Inn in Netherfield Greens’ hit the spot.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
October 17, 2019
Here’s where this book lost me: our heroine decides to order a slice of lamb pie for her first pub dinner in Britain and the book felt the need to overexplain why she was allowed to eat pie. You see, she hadn’t eaten all day. She usually wouldn’t order anything this heavy. She was required to sample the menu as part of her new role as a pub owner. The pie wasn’t that tasty anyway. And she immediately thought afterwards that it wasn’t the sort of thing she’d ever want to eat outside of winter, that magical season when one is allowed to eat pie.
Just eat your damn pie.
Before this, Lauren, the main character, fell in instalust with her love interest, Cam, because she was even more beautiful than the first beautiful woman she glimpsed in the U.K. Nothing about Cam’s personality, carriage, energy etc. Just, she’s pretty so I’m going to stare awkwardly at this person I just met, saying nothing, as she walks past. This is after she dismissed much of what she saw in England as in need of an American-style makeover.
All I wanted was a little love in the English countryside. I don’t have time for this mess.
On a positive note, Cam is a smart, down-to-earth character whose work at a gin distillery is described in an evocative and engaging way. She’s attached to her neighborhood pub but attracted to its brash new owner, which sets up a clash that might be interesting to read if I didn’t hate Lauren so much. DNF
Just eat your damn pie.
Before this, Lauren, the main character, fell in instalust with her love interest, Cam, because she was even more beautiful than the first beautiful woman she glimpsed in the U.K. Nothing about Cam’s personality, carriage, energy etc. Just, she’s pretty so I’m going to stare awkwardly at this person I just met, saying nothing, as she walks past. This is after she dismissed much of what she saw in England as in need of an American-style makeover.
All I wanted was a little love in the English countryside. I don’t have time for this mess.
On a positive note, Cam is a smart, down-to-earth character whose work at a gin distillery is described in an evocative and engaging way. She’s attached to her neighborhood pub but attracted to its brash new owner, which sets up a clash that might be interesting to read if I didn’t hate Lauren so much. DNF
October 25, 2019
I enjoyed this book so much. Cam and Lauren where ridiculously charming and adorable but in an adult way. I really don’t know how to express how much I liked this book.
I found the premise is interesting. She’s running away and engaging in something new in the blink of an eye, BUT she’s not out of options, she’s doing what she thinks is the best, not the only thing she can do, so that was refreshing. I feel like most of the time I read a book about inheriting something it comes tided to an insurmountable obstacle and being a las chance/hope, this wasn’t that.
Cam is afraid, but isn’t blaming a tragic past, she is a tad prone to overreact and rushing to conclusions, but the author made that a part of her charm, like a little grumpy but well intentioned. Lauren is a take charge person, sure of herself and her abilities BUT she doesn’t have to be right the hole freakin time, and isn’t afraid to ask for help. Neither of them had an obtrusive ego. A good change of pace if compared to the majority of the MCs I tend to encounter in the books I read.
I found the premise is interesting. She’s running away and engaging in something new in the blink of an eye, BUT she’s not out of options, she’s doing what she thinks is the best, not the only thing she can do, so that was refreshing. I feel like most of the time I read a book about inheriting something it comes tided to an insurmountable obstacle and being a las chance/hope, this wasn’t that.
Cam is afraid, but isn’t blaming a tragic past, she is a tad prone to overreact and rushing to conclusions, but the author made that a part of her charm, like a little grumpy but well intentioned. Lauren is a take charge person, sure of herself and her abilities BUT she doesn’t have to be right the hole freakin time, and isn’t afraid to ask for help. Neither of them had an obtrusive ego. A good change of pace if compared to the majority of the MCs I tend to encounter in the books I read.
October 29, 2019
Change. Unexpected change. Camden Crawley, works in the family distillery business and has also created a blend of her own which is selling okay. Cam is easy going, enjoys family, and not interested in change. Lauren Montgomery, driven, limited interaction with family, and interested in making a go of the inn he has inherited after being fired from her previous job. Small town Cam meets big city Lauren and sparks fly. Both women are likeable in their own way. As the story unfolds and challenges are encountered it was interesting to observe the give and take as both women work toward their goal. I enjoyed the romance and fluffy story. I especially enjoyed the self talk and processing that both characters exhibited while figuring out what is important to them now and in the future. I also like the secondary characters and their entertaining contribution to the story.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley.
October 2, 2019
Charming romance set in rural England with two strong leads. I enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers and the fish-out-of water tropes, plus the remodeling of the inn and pub. Not to mention that I felt the urge to buy some gin the night I started reading this! As is typical in an Aurora Rey book, the chemistry was off the charts and the love scenes were nicely varied. This is a solid, well-written romance not to be missed.
October 21, 2019
I really enjoyed this book but that’s not surprising because it came from the pen of Aurora Rey. This is the kind of book you read while sitting by a warm fire with a Rosemary Gin and snuggly blanket.
A fantastic read that you will not want to put down (and I didn’t until 5am).
To read full review head to:
https://lesreveur.com/2019/10/17/the-...
A fantastic read that you will not want to put down (and I didn’t until 5am).
To read full review head to:
https://lesreveur.com/2019/10/17/the-...
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