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Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea

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Those who don’t jump will never fly…

Hurtling through the sky was supposed to be Edie Browne’s flight of independence. But when she falls head over champagne bucket while celebrating her successful landing, her life is changed in an instant. 
 
But starting over has its benefits, and as Edie relearns the basics under the watchful eye of her Aunty Josie and an entire Cornish village of new friends and neighbours, she finds love and joy she never could have imagined in the unlikeliest of places… 

400 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 24, 2019

385 people are currently reading
438 people want to read

About the author

Jane Linfoot

27 books282 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,305 reviews1,779 followers
June 7, 2019
Favorite Quotes:

Marcus’s mates in creative media – and he had a lot – took male bonding to a whole new level… Mostly they swilled back craft beers with odd names and incinerated choice lumps of cow from the craft burger shops while they tried to channel their younger selves.

One of those moments where you wish the world would stop turning, because for this split second I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else, or any other way.

But if you’re not ready it’s hard to listen, and even more impossible to hear.

And what the hell did you do to Malcolm while he was there? Since he got back he’s as antsy as an elephant with eczema, yet we can’t get him out at all.


My Review:

I enjoyed this cleverly amusing women’s fiction tale. It was written from the first person POV of Edie Browne, who was a hot mess. She didn’t use to be, but a mild stroke had scrambled her brains leaving her with word finding problems, reduced reaction times, memory gaps, the inability to smell or taste, and horror or all horrors – she could no longer read or drink alcohol - gasp! What a nightmare! Edie was also easily addled as she couldn’t process information as well or as quickly she knew she should, which understandably left her in a frequent state of bewilderment and prone to frustration, irritation, and overreaction.

I admired the author’s creativity in plotting Edie’s gradual recovery and the modifications and adaptations she devised. When she couldn’t remember the correct names or words, her substitutions were often humorous, as were her embarrassing accidents when she became flustered, I laughed aloud several times at this clever author’s colorful and witty descriptions. The storylines tugged at the heart while also entertainingly engaging and were cast with likable yet realistically flawed and multi-layered characters. The writing was insightful, perceptive, and comically detailed and concluding with a highly satisfying HEA, as all books should.
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,096 reviews15.7k followers
May 28, 2019
ᴄʜᴀʀᴍɪɴɢ. ᴜᴘʟɪғᴛɪɴɢ. ɪɴsᴘɪʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ.

What an absolute gem of a book! I picked this book up just to read a few pages, to see what it was all about, and I could not put it down! Edie jumps out of a plane to celebrate her life, goes to a party to celebrate jumping out of the plane, and soon there after a tragic event changes her life forever. In order to rehab from the tragedy Edie Heads to a small village on the Cornish coast to live with her auntie Josie. Josie is dealing with her own tragedy having recently lost her husband and no longer finding herself capable of leaving the house. Both ladies find themselves starting over in slightly different ways. With the support of a village full of lovable quirky characters. Will Edie and Josie heal?

Edie was such a great character, there was something about her that drew me in completely. Loved her big heart, her kind soul, and her resilience! Each chapter started off with a new milestone that Edie had reached, and I enjoyed watching her grow stronger both physically and emotionally. Her simple victories gave me a new appreciation for all the little things in life. I loved the bond that forms between Edie and Josie as they began to know each other better. There was an adorable little boy in the story named Cam that completely captured my heart, and his dad Barney wasn’t too bad either. Of course the story was filled with plenty of laughs: the craft classes, the baking the renovating.

This was a well told romcom filled with lots of humor and fabulous characters! The perfect book to escape with. I absolutely recommend this to lovers of the genre, Edie will steal your heart!

*** Big thanks to Harper Impulse for my copy of this book ***
Profile Image for Dash fan .
1,519 reviews714 followers
June 5, 2019
5☆ Uplifting, Inspiring Must Read!

Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is a beautifully Compelling, Endearing and Inspiring read, that I couldn't put down!

The book opens with Edie Brown hurtling from a plane whilst attempting a sky dive for the first time.
You see Edie is 32years old and trying to get her life back after suffering from a life changing Ordeal most likely caused by the sky dive.

But in order to recuperate and work on getting her memory and reading back she decides to head off to Cornwall to Stay with her Aunty Josie in the gorgeous and quaint Periwinkle Cottage.

Aunt Josie has been living like a Hermit since her husband died and she has really let Periwinkle Cottage get a little neglected.
Edie is determined to change all that, getting Aunt Josie back into society and giving Periwinkle Cottage some much needed TLC.

But can Edie and Josie help each other?
Will Periwinkle Cottage help Edie heal and recuperate?

Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is a beautifully Warm, Compelling and Poignant Read.
It has a sprinkle of humour, a glimmer of Charm and Romance, beautiful friendships, it's Uplifting yet so very Poignant.
The Characters were perfectly written, relatable, loveable, strong and inspiring.
It's a heart warming story of Second Chances, a Journey of Self Discovery, Reconnecting with Family, learning to Love and accept.

If you are looking for a Chick Lit/ Women's Fiction that's a Heart Warming, Uplifting, Inspiring, Cosy Romance, with endearing and loveable characters and a gorgeous location to get lost in for a few hours, then you will absolutely adore Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea!

Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.



My Review is also on my Blog Website :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Profile Image for Zoe.
2,375 reviews335 followers
May 26, 2019
Sweet, cosy, and adorably romantic!

Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is a charming, uplifting read that takes us to St. Aiden and into the life of the determined, optimistic Edie Browne as she struggles to recover, relearn, and reclaim the high-flying life she had before the stroke with the help of her Aunty Jo, a whole gaggle of supportive, meddling villagers, and a ruggedly handsome neighbour.

The writing is effortless and vivid. The characters are fun-loving, authentic, and amusing. And the plot is a delightfully witty tale about life, love, family, friendship, self-discovery, community, happiness, and taking chances.

I have to admit that there’s just something about Linfoot’s novels that keeps me coming back for more and Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is no exception. It’s humorous, inspiring, and exceptionally absorbing, and with just the right amount of laughs, heartfelt storyline, and endearing characters, it is the perfect pick for rom-com fans everywhere.

Thank you to Jane Linfoot, HarperImpulse and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Els .
2,277 reviews52 followers
May 28, 2019
When you look at this cover you have the feeling that you are in for a light hearted, funny and romantic story. But it's not the first time I have to use the phrase : Never judge a book by its cover!

Do not get me wrong. The story is filled with love and caring and friendship and there a lot of things that have put a smile on my face, but it was shocking as well. It's a real eye opener. It makes you realize that one silly thing can turn your life upside down.

The big question is : Will you be able to turn it around again and become once again who you were? Yes, slowy but surely you are getting there. Woohooo! :)

Then you have to say goodbye and you start mulling everything over. Is returning really want you want ...

There is one thing that I will always remember : try every day to get the most out of life because you never know what the future has in store for you.

An emotional story with a happy ending. 4 stars.

Thank you, Jane Linfoot  and Rachel's Random Resources.

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,692 reviews634 followers
July 25, 2020
*****5 Cute Stars*****

This book was such a surprise that had me laughing and amazed at what I didn't know about stroke survivers.

Edie was the epitomy of a kick ass heroine in my book and Barney was my fantasy of the perfect man!

Everything about Edie's journey to recovery had me anticipating the next obstacle she would tackle. This is filled with laughs, blunders, love, friendship, and so much more!

I loved everything about this book! ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,363 reviews570 followers
May 6, 2019
I've been a fan of Jane Linfoot's books for years, so always excited to read a new one by her, and seeing this one was set in St Aidan home to some fabulous books by Jane, I was keen to see what this new story brought.

And yet I couldn't have been more surprised by it if I tried, as it really did feel slightly different to the authors normal work, while still having at its heart all the elements of a fabulous Jane Linfoot book.

Every chapter starts with Edie Browne's latest epic achievement, now these achievements may surprise you, as given what Edie has been through, and how she currently is, what are epic things for her, may just be small fry to you.

It's Edie's journey over the course of the year since she did a sky dive to celebrate life being successful, and what happens shortly afterwards that changes her life completely. Now if like me you have read many books in the genre, you will have a pretty strong idea of how the book is likely to end up.

But its getting there that makes the story so special. It really is quite eye opening in a way, and its Edie's friendship with 6 year old Cam that really makes the book, plus the continual denial of her even thinking she feels anything for a certain good looking man, who always seems to be about.

Edie is trying her best to get Auntie Josie back out into the world, and meeting people in St. Aidan, which leads to some wonderful antics at assorted classes. There is masses of depth in this book, the characters are all really well developed, , some of the back stories are very emotional.

In fact there was an occasional lump in my throat while reading this, but mostly its full of laughter, and a great heart warming feeling.

I really don't want to say much more, as I went in blind, i don't think I even read the blurb properly, and thoroughly enjoyed reading the book, so especially if you are already a fan of the author, just read the book, you won't be disappointed.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,884 reviews136 followers
May 26, 2019
Now this was one enthralling and very surprising story which starts and ends with Edie Browne jumping out of a plane! Despite the safe landings, the consequences of that first jump are dramatically life changing for her, leading to her going to help her Aunty Josie in her cottage by the sea in St Aidan whilst her Aunt also keeps a close eye on her to ensure she doesn't do too much but continues to recover. It is about making new friends, relearning lots, inspiring the delightful Cam and proving that what seem like disasters can have silver linings and very positive consequences!

This is an emotive, heartwarming story that I absolutely adored. The characters are well developed and easy to relate to and how Edie endeavours to reconnect with life as she knew it is inspirational. I liked how the chapters started with whatever Edie's "epic achievement" is, often things you'd assume inconsequential but are so significant in her recovery. Cam is only six years old but his relationship with Edie helps inspire both of them to keep trying and their resilience and relationship is key to so much of the story. How Edie's relationship with members of the craft clubs and Barney develop is brilliantly portrayed. I really wish I could live in this lovely community and meet these fantastic folk. Mind you, I was also so impressed by Edie's boss and his attitude - we definitely need more considerate and caring employers like him!

Overall, this is a story that takes readers through the whole gamut of emotions whilst being humorous and inspirational. I loved reading it and think it is one I'll remember - and re-read - for years to come. I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending it, please go read it for yourself to see what I mean!

I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read this amazing story.
1,734 reviews112 followers
Read
June 11, 2019
Lovely lovely book. Very different from other chick lit books but, it was such a charming book to read. Perfect for holiday reading.
I will certainly look out for more of this author’s books in the future.
Profile Image for Nicola Clough.
879 reviews41 followers
October 29, 2019
This was a great book and really made you think it was so uplifting and very compelling and makes you think. Shows how you gave to decide where you want to live and want you want from life after everything changes.
Edie goes through the skies for showing her independence and her life is changed as she falls I'll and to recover she goes to stay with her auntie Josie in Cornwall as know one knows what she's been through and how her brain can't always process things. She finds love again when she didn't want to and makes new friends but when her time is up will she stay or go back home.
Well worth reading.
359 reviews5 followers
May 14, 2019
I have not read any books by this Author before, although I have heard good things about her. When I was offered an ARC from Netgalley, I was drawn to the gorgeous cover, and thought that the title sounded like my type of book. Edie has a life changing illness, which means that she has to recover, and also learn how to do some things again. She goes to stay with her Aunt at her Cornish Cottage to have some peace and quiet, and also help her Aunt redecorate. Edie's arrival makes a big impression on the locals and soon finds that life is far from peaceful. I was able to relate to Edie's health problems, and I thought that the Author was very good at describing how difficult it can be to deal with illness. Edie starts each day with an epic achievement for encouragement, and to show how much she is improving. Despite the theme of illness and recovery, there is plenty of humour and positivity in this book. The relationship between Edie and Cam, the 6 year old neighbour is lovely, as they both help each other. There is an underlying theme about deciding how to move on and discover what you want to do with your life. I really enjoyed this book, and I will definitely look out for more books by this author.
Profile Image for Kaisha (The Writing Garnet).
655 reviews184 followers
May 30, 2019
My heart ❤

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

I….erm….wow. Someone help me? If I’m not too careful, my eyes will start leaking again and my review would end up being a mixture of unfinished sentences, ‘umm’ and ‘wows’. Hell, I have a feeling it might be like that anyway, so I apologise in advance! The reason why I say all of that is because I have no idea how to write a review for this book without bursting into tears. Don’t worry your pretty little head, I’m not crying because it’s bad, I’m crying because I was so moved by Edie’s story, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I read the last chapter of the book through misty eyes because I was sobbing my heart out.
I’m not even being overdramatic, I was literally covering the sleeve of my dressing gown in tears and snot, which then prompted my dog to put his arms around my neck to give me a hug.
You’re probably wondering why, this beautiful looking book, made me sob my heart out, right? Well, do not be fooled by the pretty exterior as ‘Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea’ has a lot more going for it than the cover suggests.

Edie’s life changed dramatically overnight when her health took a nosedive and left her having to start again. Reading simple words was no longer a walk in the park. Counting became impossible, and remembering details felt like Edie was doing a degree every time she spoke. She was afraid of the uncertain path before her and had everything crossed that Cornwall was going to help her.

The fact that this storyline tells the story of a character who is living with an invisible condition, makes me feel emotional all over again. As someone who lives with 8 chronic illnesses which make day to day life such a challenge both mentally and physically, watching Edie on her own journey hit home big time. The way that the character opened up about grieving for the person she once was, completely hit the nail on the head. It’s something that people cant understand unless they have been through it themselves, and unfortunately for me, I completely understood where she was coming from as I continue to grieve for the person I once was.

If i had my own pom poms, i would be cheerleading Edie until my throat was raw. She is such a beautiful character who deserves bucketfuls of happiness. She doesn’t deserve to go through life as though shes walking on eggshells. The friendships she made in Cornwall had me in hysterics, and her new found friendship with six year old, Cam, made me overcome with emotion yet again. For such a young boy, Cam had been through his own fair share of heartache – it wasn’t fair, but I was so glad that he had Barney in his corner.

I know I keep going on about the emotion in this storyline, but I really can’t help it, for me it was a large part of the storyline due to how much I was able to resonate with it on a personal level. ‘Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea’ had me in hysterics thanks to the brilliant humour of the residents in St.Aidan. I loved the addition of the dogs, Robert and Dustin as well – they both added to the overall vibe of the storyline in their own little way.

It’s safe to say that I absolutely fell in love with Jane Linfoot’s new book. The beautiful storytelling alongside the heartwarming premise and humourous characters, was such a delight to read and definitely one of a kind. This storyline isn’t a typical storyline, nor is it a predictable one. In fact, it couldn’t be more different if it tried. I feel sorry for the author now though as she has set the bar extremely high for herself, and her next book.

I may have finished the book sobbing my heart out, but Edie’s journey filled my heart with such joy and made me feel as though I finally belonged somewhere. Thank you, Jane Linfoot, for being the voice for invisible conditions, and the voice for people who are too afraid to be their true selves in fear of judgement.
‘Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea’ is one of my all time favourite reads and is practically perfect in every way. A poignant, emotional read which hit home in a way I never thought it would. I loved it.
Profile Image for Marti (Letstalkaboutbooksbaybee).
1,776 reviews153 followers
May 24, 2019
2.5

Thanks to Netgalley & Harper Impulse for giving me a free e-copy to review!

Edie Browne (with an e) is 32 years old when she breaks up with her long term boyfriend, goes skydiving, and suffers her first stroke. This leaves her unable to do her job or live her life the way she used to. She goes to spend her summer recuperating in the countryside with her aunt, who is grieving the loss of her husband. There, the two ladies help each other heal and get to know the other inhabitants of the cozy country city.

I really did think this book had some charm, but it definitely didn’t live up to my expectations.

I liked Barney & his love for his foster son, Cam. The scenes with the two of them + Edie were sweet and wholesome. I also really enjoyed Aunty Jo and the rare cracks in her perfect charade where we saw her real personality shine through. I adore books set in a small town community with a cast of cooky characters and this book definitely delivered on that front.

However this book really fell flat in terms of feeling connected to the characters. There was a lot of telling vs showing. For example; Edie would go off on a tangent about how she couldn’t possibly be in the same room as Barney, but the reader had to infer the reasons as to why. Edie herself also just went through a huge life event, she had a stroke and had to learn to do basic things again. Yet she never really contemplates it or gets angry or sad about the situation and it is just swept away as a plot device to get her out to visit her aunt.

Overall I thought this book was just okay. There’s nothing inherently bad about it, but it also wasn’t anything too memorable. I’d maybe recommend it for a casual beach read this summer if you’re into those kinds of books.
Profile Image for Kate A.
560 reviews14 followers
January 1, 2020
This is a book that I'll admit I went into with a bit of presumption on the style and the story, especially after reading and loving The Little Cornish Kitchen last year and seeing the wonderfully light and fun cover. However this book was totally different from what I was expecting, I like that it completely surprised me because I felt drawn in even more to what was happening.

I don't want to say too much about the certain plot point that caught me off guard because I think other readers really need to have that same experience but what I will say is that I really liked how this story for me became something other than just the fun romance that I thought it was going to be. It was so much more than that, it was about growth, about finding yourself, and about friendship but it also had the fun and flirty element that I was hoping for too.

Edie was a great character, she's come up against some troubles but she still manages to find the fun in things even though some people would probably flounder. I loved her epic achievements, they made me laugh but also kept me turning the pages desperate to find out how she had got to them. 

I loved her unlikely relationship with Cam, it was super sweet to see him open up to someone, and for them both to have someone who is on their level for support. I also liked that her whilst her moving to St Aidan is about having some rest time, she is also there to support her Aunty Jo just as much as the other way around. Jo was a tonic, she really made me smile with her stubbornness and stripy pyjamas, I liked that both her and Edie were pushing each other and achieving things together.

Of course it wouldn't be the same if there wasn't a bit of back and forth with a handsome gentleman. Luckily Barney fills that role well, however I'm glad that he is more than just a pretty face. He is the kind of character that again I made some assumptions about that were then blown out the water and I liked that he could Edie made some of those assumptions as well and that we were both surprised. The way he is with Cam and the fact that he always tried to put him first gave him that extra thumbs up for sure.

I'm also glad that even though there is the romantic interest that the story isn't really just based around that, it's as much about the other friendships which gives it that unexpected edge. I kind of wish that I was able to go to the classes and barn yard events, they all sounded totally up my street and I love that sense of community that I felt when reading this book. 

This book is full of characters that pull on your heartstrings and a story that is emotional but also fun and inspirational. It will be hard not to fall in love with Edie Browne and St Aidan, I know I have.

Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,049 reviews
June 6, 2019
This is the story of Edie Browne. One day she goes skydiving, falls over a champagne bucket celebrating her successful landing and her life changes forever. She has to learn everything over, so decides to stay with her Aunty Josie in a little Cornish village by the sea. Can she rebuild her life with the help of her new friends and neighbours?

I love this author’s books. They will always guarantee to leave you with a smile on your face and a warm glow in your heart. This one was no exception! I try to avoid finding out too much about a book before I start it so it took me by surprise when after Edie completed her skydive, she suffered a life changing stroke (I’m sure that’s not a spoiler, so I’m allowed to say it!) Many years ago, my late father suffered a stroke which affected his speech, so I could totally empathise with Edie’s frustration at not being able to do or say things that she could before. I’m not ashamed to say I did shed a few tears at Edie’s situation, some for past memories, but also some for the sensitive writing that the author always manages to get just right!

I also loved Aunty Josie and her weird diets and herbal concoctions! Her story also pulls at the heart-strings, but in a different way to Edie’s. Both women obviously need each other to get through their situations, and they both manage to give each other exactly what they need. The other characters from the village compliment Edie and Josie’s stories so well and who couldn’t help but be drawn to each one of them, particularly the lovely Barney and Cam! The location was described perfectly and sounded like somewhere I would love to live, even when the clouds over the sea were grey and gloomy!

This book was captivating! Edie is a lovable character and it was a pleasure to share her journey on the road to recovery! It’s a story of love, friendship and new beginnings. It has moments where you will need to wipe away the tears, and times that are so funny you can’t help but laugh out loud! As with other books by this author, I would wholeheartedly recommend this one! Heart-warming, delightful and simply wonderful!!
Profile Image for Adele.
831 reviews
May 24, 2019
Oh Edie Browne, with an e, you endeared me, you charmed me, you inspired me and I totally and utterly fell in love with you.

Edie Browne's Cottage by the Sea on the outside looks like a beautiful feel-good story but on the inside it is so, so much more. Edie is a young successful designer working for a building company in Bath, her romance has failed but she's feeling positive about that and decides to make a gigantic statement with her new singledom. However, life was to deal Edie another blow, a completely life-changing event and Edie needed time away from home to recuperate and learn from right back to basics again. Staying with her Aunt Josie at her cottage in a village off the Cornish coast was the perfect place to relax and let the body and mind heal.

However, moving to St Aidan wasn't just moving in with her Aunt as the residents of this idyllic village knew when a friend or two needed help and even though Edie was a temporary resident it didn't matter and she was warmly welcomed into the love and support network. The residents of St Aidan are a glorious group of people that are carefree, fun, spontaneous and have huge hearts. One of these residents is Barney who after becoming guardian of a little boy, Cam, his life brought on new challenges but his friends and neighbours help tremendously but when Cam befriends Edie, Barney is surprised at how easy Cam has learned to trust this newcomer. The partnership of little Cam and Edie was a brilliant move by author Jane Linfoot as due to Edie's new circumstances Cam and Edie were very similar and I think Cam found a kinship in Edie.

Jane Linfoot has created a brilliant story with Edie Browne's Cottage by the Sea I laughed uncontrollably so often with Edie's little events and I cheered with all her achievements. My heart ached for what life had thrown her but Edie was embracing new challenges with gusto and I adored her for this.

I will not forget Edie Browne for a long time she was a joyous character, I didn't want her journey to end, there's no "love you, goodbye" with Edie Browne there's 'love you and thank you for being you'.
Profile Image for Gemma.
141 reviews73 followers
June 2, 2019
Let me start by saying that Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is much more than what that pretty exterior leads you to believe. Yes, it’s a lovely, sweet story as you’d expect, but there’s so much more beneath the surface!

One minute Edie Browne is throwing herself out of a plane, the next minute her life is turned upside down when she has a stroke. All of a sudden the person she was feels lost and the things she’s never had to think about when doing become the most difficult things in the world; when she reads all she sees are squiggles, she’s forgotten words and what things are, she has trouble thinking and concentrating, her sensations have either heightened or disappeared completely… So, grieving for the person she once was she heads to the small village on the Cornish coast of St Aidan, to Periwinkle cottage where her Aunt Josie lives…

Aunt Josie is also dealing with her own tragedy and away from the buzz of a city and with it being out of season in St Aidan, Edie’s hoping the quietness and calmness will help her to recuperate, gain back her independence and lead her back onto the road to her well ordered life. But as they soon come to find, there’s nothing laid back about this little village, and with the support of the locals they both find themselves starting over again in whole new ways…

I will admit it took me a few chapters to get fully into this story but once I did I really enjoyed my journey alongside Edie. What can I say about Edie Browne, with an E, her BOOMS!! and “Love you, bye’s” (you will understand it all when you read for yourself!). Easily likeable, determined and incredibly funny is what she is and someone who you just want all the happiness for. Although, behind her lippy, sunnies and capri pants there’s a fear of judgement and she lets her health issues stop her from seeing all the things she’s actually good at despite her condition; it’s ultimately this wonderfully supportive community that opens her eyes to that. She begins letting herself go, not worrying about what she’s lost and when she takes this on board she realises there’s many little bonuses and happiness to be found in doing so. I laughed with Edie Browne, felt the struggles she encountered, and her smallest of achievements had me cheering her on from my sofa!

Jane Linfoot has written a story about invisible conditions and unexpected loss in various forms; grieving for the person you once were, grieving for family members and grieving for a past life – it’s not just our Edie who is on a journey, it’s Aunt Josie, and Barney and little Cam (whose story will do more than tug at your heart-strings). It’s this that provides these deeper, emotional layers; the bonds that these characters have are really special and whilst the end of the story may well be what you come to expect, it’s a case of it not being about that, it’s about the journey in ending up there.

It’s easy to appreciate the setting of St Aidan; stunning sea views, cobbled alleys and colourful cottages, not forgetting it’s cast of eccentric characters! I really enjoyed the crafty side of this story, too, from the fabric made items, to the wooden plaques, to the shepherd huts, and the barns been turned into working areas. I like to think I have a bit of an eye for interior design and I love choosing colour schemes, designs, adding accessories and seeing rooms transformed and coming to life – it was a lovely little sub-plot to the novel and it was a delight to envisage what it all looked like.

It wouldn’t be a Jane Linfoot book without a splash of romance, would it?! From Edie’s first encounter with Barney it’s hard to resist him. He’s a bit of a man of mystery to start off with but as you discover more about him you really take him to your heart. I enjoyed his and Edie’s banter that provided some very comical moments, and when Cam was with them, some incredibly moving moments, yet I liked how he never forced things with Edie, he was there but he was always kind of a step back, letting Edie lead the way.

Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea is a story about friendship, self discovery, happiness and appreciating the small and simple things in life; it’s full of heart and is as touching as it is witty!
Profile Image for Gaele.
4,076 reviews85 followers
May 20, 2019
At thirty-two, Edie Browne has her life moving in new directions. After ending her relationship with her long-term partner, she and her best friend are leaping out of a plane to ‘start a new beginning’. And just days later after a wonderful jump, she had a stroke. Months of intensive therapy, having to learn to walk, talk, read and write again, she’s determined to just move back into her job with a high-end developer of upscale apartments. But, with all of her health challenges, she’s got a long road to travel: especially as she can’t test for her driving license, has short-term memory issues and is still struggling with her words. With an opportunity opening up at her aunt’s cottage on the Cornwall coast, as she wants to refurbish and sell after her husband’s death, Edie is off to help out her aunt.

Former dancer Josephine was always part of the “successful” end of Edie’s family. Her mother’s sister, Edie and her sister used to be enchanted by her ‘posh’ home, the mounds of fancy scent on her dressing table, and felt as if they had entered another world when visiting. Harry’s final big dreams was to have a cottage in Cornwall that overlooked the sea. Periwinkle Cottage was up for sale at that time and they dove in. Beautifully situated, the exterior is gorgeous while the interior resembles a Victorian jungle house – bold paper, clashing colors, and generally feeling tired as Josephine has been mired in her own grief and depression since Harry’s death. Bringing Edie in, although the main fare on the television is old ballet films, the combination of Jo’s wanting to help Edie recover and regain her life will contrast nicely with Edie’s outgoing personality and ability and flair for design.

When you add in Edie’s slow progress, Jo’s patient tutelage, the addition of the little boy Cam and his guardian Guy Barnaby (usually referred to as Barney, or “the window cleaner” by Aunt Jo, the story provides plenty of laughter, gives a more ‘adult’ perspective in the struggles to learn how to read, write and remember. Edie is just a marvelous character, and determined to push Aunt Jo into the social life of the town as slowly but surely, they work on redecorating the house. From calligraphy classes to life drawing, sewing and getting to know their neighbors, it comes clear to her that the people in the little town are accepting, warm and always willing to share a smile, tears, a laugh or a good time. Messing with her OCD tendencies as every activity is more spontaneous than she would like, Edie finds that often letting go and not worrying about what she’s lost but simply getting on with the task comes with all sorts of unexpected bonuses and soon she’s having the time of her life. One wholly unexpected. Linfoot does what I always want in a book, in a totally new and different way. Edie’s not wanting for your sympathy, nor does she need it, as her new life has opened her to experiences and love, as well as a sense of ‘home’ that we all dream about.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,452 reviews32 followers
June 3, 2019
I knew I was going to enjoy this book and love the main character from the very first pages of the book. Edie had just gotten out of a relationship and was beginning a new job and a new flat. To cap this off, she decided to skydive. The skydive was her epic achievement. However, her life is changed in an instant, and she is on a journey that she never anticipated.

Edie returns to her Cornish village determined to get her life back. She thinks this will help her begin her life anew again. Little did she realize it, but it would be the start of a whole new life, one far better than she ever imagined. She might finally find the happiness she has been looking for, and she might possibly find true love in the process!

I loved the characters as well as the writing. I could tell Edie was a fighter from the beginning. Come on...this is a woman who displayed her independence by jumping out of an airplane. I’m certainly not that brave. When she had her stroke, she worked hard and diligently to reclaim her life. If that isn’t some kind of heroine, I don’t know what is. If ever an individual deserved a HEA, it was her. So, seeing her fall in love and find someone worthy of her was just icing on the cake.

In addition, I loved the other characters as well. They have their own stories to tell, and the author accomplishes that through Edie’s voice. By the way, I thought that was brilliant.

It is very well-written book, and I love the author’s style of writing. It really pulled me into the story through her descriptions. I felt like I was everywhere Edie was, from the skydiving to the beautiful Cornish village!!!! I also liked the way she began each chapter with the date, and the number of days since her accident and her epic achievement which meant so much in her recovery. Jane Linfoot tied that up quite nicely in the very beginning of the book with her definitions of epic and achievements. That really is the crux of the book...epic achievements and their place in our lives.

If you like your romance with laughter and friendship mixed in, not to mention an absolutely beautiful setting, you don’t want to miss reading Edie Browne’s Cottage by the Sea!!! It’s a perfect summer read!!!!!
Profile Image for Louise.
363 reviews20 followers
June 4, 2019
I have read a couple of Jane Linfoot’s previous novels but this one completely blew my socks off!

Edie Browne goes to stay with her Aunt Josie in a small Cornish village. Her Aunt is struggling after the loss of her beloved husband and Edie needs a slower pace of life.

From the first page, I adored Edie Browne, she is warm, funny and brave. Edie is recovering from a health condition which makes her feel vulnerable and self-conscious. The illness affects her memory, dexterity, and ability to taste but she never used her limitations as an excuse and chose not to reveal the problems she faced. I liked that Jane Linfoot attaches a slightly chaotic slant to her writing, to reflect Edie’s lack of mental agility and brain fog.

However, to the incredibly warm residents of St Aidan, it doesn’t matter that Edie can’t remember her aunt’s name, drops almost everything she picks up and struggles to write her own name. They accept her for who she is and as her struggles become more obvious they simply go out of their way to aid Edie’s recovery.

Edie isn’t the only one who needs to heal. Aunt Josie is grieving and comes over as very sad (understandably) but also self-centered and snobbish. Edie is determined to get her aunt out of a massive rut and learn to live independently. The subtle changes in Josie are so heartwarming and you really learn to love a character who was initially selfish and distant. I loved the way that Josie instinctively knows when Edie is struggling to think of a word and she interjects to save her niece’s embarrassment.

There has got to be a heartthrob and he comes in the form of Barney who appears constantly and seems to irritate Edie at first. There are an array of interesting villagers and a little boy called Cam, who completely stole my heart. It is a novel about self-acceptance, adapting to change and moving forward. Life isn’t always what you dream of but that doesn’t mean you can’t be happy.

A thoroughly enjoyable read, uplifting, sometimes heartbreaking but always amazing.

Profile Image for Lynn Cheryl.
725 reviews34 followers
May 26, 2019
Attempting something daring, means anything is possible, right? After a work promotion leads to the break-up of her relationship with Marcus, Edie Browne kick-started her life by doing a skydive. Unfortunately, a short time later she has a stroke. After recovering at her parents home it's time to regain her strength and independence. So she goes to stay with her Aunty Josie at Periwinkle Cottage. On arrival, she realises she's not the only one who needs a helping hand to improve their quality of life. It also becomes clear, she's caught someone eye at a time when her priorities lie elsewhere. 

The narrative flows, as we follow Edie's journey to getting her health back on track. Life is different from when she lived with Marcus but she's in St. Aidan's to regain her strength before going back to her career. We encounter delightful characters who play an active part in supporting the heroine and her physical challenges but many of the town folk also have struggles too. She came to the small coastal town to quietly recuperation, however, she soon becomes a reluctant member of the community. Peace and quiet don't exist as there's always someone around to talk to and plenty going on. The distractions are a tonic rather than a curse!

I especially liked how each chapter notes Edie's progress on her road to recovery, whether it's a new skill she's re-learned, recovered memory or even worse, an embarrassing mishap. While it's lovely to see how Barney worms his way into Edie's affection, it is her relationship with Cam which really pulls at the heartstrings. 

This is my first Jane Linfoot novel and won't be my last. The narrative style is heart-warming, uplifting with added humour. The author pulls the absorbing story together with likeable, friendly characters against a lovely Cornish backdrop. It creates a feel-good atmosphere and a relatable place to identify with and most importantly, a happily ever after.

***arc generously received courtesy of HarperImpulse via NetGalley***
Profile Image for Eve L-A Witherington.
Author 80 books49 followers
May 27, 2019
Edie following her break up with Marcus partakes in a skydive which is followed up with a supposed unrelated stroke.



Recovery is hard and slow and so Edie sets off to stay with her aunt Jo in Cornwall as she can't drive or work and needs to relearn things from reading, writing, maths skills to even wanting to get her sense of taste back after that vanishes too!



Her arrival causes a stir with a handsome man next door, Barnaby catching her quite literally when she first arrives.



Between crafting classes with her ballet mad auntie Jo and renovating her house too as they need to sell to make money, she finds her career coming in handy as she helps her auntie alongside Barnaby and her new craft club friends to decorate the buildings out back in their yard to make into work accommodation and make them some much needed money.



Barnaby also creates Sheperd's huts and so she also helps him to decorate them and to sell them. Through her time in Cornwall she befriends Cam, whom Barnaby is the guardian of and the boy grows find of Edie as he does her...



She also gets Dustin a service dog to help her and he comes to her rescue and form a good bond together.



However with a potential sale of their house and her ex Marcus showing up too alongside all the drama the stroke left from fainting to learning everything a new agin, what does Edie's heart truly want?



Stay or leave Cornwall?



Go back to Marcus or maybe take a chance on Barnaby?



Edie was a rare character in women's fiction to come across, from being seriously ill and daring too she will leave a mark on you and make you grateful for your life. This book was a fun sweet read and the cakes you read about will have you wanting to get baking or buying too as well as the craft talk make you want to have a go too, it did for me anyway!



Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
Profile Image for Laura.
3,205 reviews348 followers
May 15, 2019
What begins as a celebration of life, and a nudge to lighten up and enjoy the good opportunities she has been given, takes a semi tragic twist. Edie Browne finds herself unable to read or write and, perhaps worse, taste! A health setback takes her on a life's journey detour.

Sent away to St. Aidan, a quaint and quiet (?) seaside village to assist her Aunt Jo, who has herself suffered a devastating loss, and is also on a new path in life, Edie is supposed to be helpful and work on her own basic life skills. Her goal is to help Aunt Jo get out of the house, and her late husband's character pyjamas, make friends and establish an income. Well, meet the locals she does - from the moment she is dropped off and Aunt Jo doesn't answer the door.

There is a sweet boy named Cam who also has some skills challenges, so this book is truly about accepting others and yourself for what you can and can not (at the moment) do, while not giving up on your dreams. Perhaps even moving in directions unexpected and creating new dreams.
Edie's challenges do not affect her looks, so she tries to hide her limitations. Not so easy in a town full of gossips and busybodies. I loved how she was welcomed and included to every event and community class.

Then there is this guy, who seems to keep an eye on HIS village and also seems to show up everywhere. Plus the guy with whom Edie has a relationship before her life change. So romance, or a facsimile thereof, is an undercurrent theme. I feel this is more about learning to love your self and your circumstances.

Extremely well written with wonderful characters, this book was joy to read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse and Rachel's Random Resources for allowing me to read and enjoy this wonderful book.
Profile Image for B.R. Maycock.
Author 7 books69 followers
May 26, 2019
I have to admit I’m pretty excited to share this with you, Edie Browe’s Cottage by the Sea, by the wonderful and now permanently bookmarked Jane Linfoot! Thanks a million to the lovely Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources and Harper Impulse for allowing me to be part of the blog tour and also for the book in return for an honest review! So we begin meeting Edie Browne who is grabbing life by jumping out of a plane (This is her first ‘epic achievement’) . From here I was with Edie and warmed straight away to the setting that had me right there with her in every sense ( I was so nervous for her!). Unfortunately I was there for the aftermath too, which doesn’t have the same excitement as poor Edie suddenly takes a hit that will affect her everything.



I’d like to be a bit sketchy about this book if I may because it packs more of a punch that way. I WILL say I’m always a fan of any book that requires someone to climb in a window when they really shouldn’t, or has them randomly saying things that just pop out to the surprise and embarrassment of everyone around. You can guess from this that this bright, hit-you-in-the-face humour was right up my street; the settings were just shockingly fantastic (and inspirational for me as a writer) and the book made me smile and nod along. Her epic achievements, so different from the first, hit me in the gut, and I had to catch my breath at one of them and I also put my hand on my heart at what an exceptionally gorgeous character Edie is. I have to say I’ve a number of Jane Linfoot’s books on my Kindle and I cannot cannot wait to get to them ALL. A newly bookmarked author, and a very memorable and beyond recommended book

Rating: A very gushy 5/5 (jumps up and down clapping!!)
Profile Image for Kelly Thomas.
320 reviews2 followers
May 26, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! I fell in love with Edie and St Aidan’s and felt like I was wrapped up in their bubble. As it says on the blurb ‘Come home to St Aidan and Periwinkle Cottage for a romance full of love, laughter and friends for life!’ This could not have summed it up any better.

Edie Browne’s life has been turned upside down and she goes to stay with her Auntie Josie to recover. Here she has to relearn the basics of life, and to fall in love with it all over again.

Why this book is so great is because you get absolutely lost in Edie’s world in St Aidan’s. Not only that but the characters are all loveable and they feel like they are your friends through the pages, especially Edie, Auntie Josie, Barney and Cam.

The story is enhanced by the characters of Barney and Cam, and how they open up Edie’s eyes in her own self-discovery.

Not only is this book a great read it also teaches you through Edie’s recovery that we take too much for granted, and that we should appreciate the simple things in life so much more.

This is the first of Jane Linfoot’s books that I’ve read, but I will be definitely be keeping my eye out for more.

This book is perfect for summer, it’s full of warmth, love, laughter and friendship. I would highly recommend reading it, and it is available now.
Profile Image for Shana.
478 reviews12 followers
May 24, 2019
First, thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read an e-galley of this book.

Edie Browne has had a major life event happen to her. Instead of recovering at her parent's home, everyone decides it's a good idea for her to go stay by the sea at her Aunt Josie's house. Aunt Josie's husband has passed and she's all alone in a new town, so Edie going to stay with her will be good for both of them.

Edie arrives via Uber and isn't able to get in. The front door that was supposed to be unlocked isn't, Edie looks around and sees an open window upstairs, so she pulls a ladder from the side of the house and starts to climb in. She realizes, halfway through, that she's now stuck. She also realizes that someone is yelling at her about breaking and entering.

Just then, Aunt Josie comes around the corner to see what all the hollering is about.

This is how it all begins.

I enjoyed this story so much, and can't wait to read more stories by Jane Linfoot!
#NetGalley #EdieBrowne'sCottagebytheSea
Profile Image for Bobbie Kirkland.
647 reviews14 followers
May 23, 2019
Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of EDIE BROWNE’S COTTAGE BY THE SEA by Jane Linfoot in exchange for an honest review. Edie Browne’s life was in flux. She had just ended a longterm romantic relationship and started a new job when she has a stroke. After the initial treatment, Edie moves in with her Aunt Josie at Periwinkle Cottage in Cornwall. Edie plans to complete her recovery, including relearning to read and write, so she can return to her new job in Bath. When Edie arrives, she quickly discerns that her aunt needs Edie just as much as Edie needs a place to stay. Edie and Aunt Josie soon find themselves embroiled in the village shenanigans. They also develop all sorts of new relationships. Will those relationships change Edie and Aunt Josie’s mutual goal of moving back to the city?

This was a fun book. Edie and Aunt Josie were pretty funny. I recommend this book to fans of Jane Linfoot, to fans of women’s literature, and to fans of romantic comedy. There is some intermittent profanity and limited sexual content.
Profile Image for Pam Robertson.
1,448 reviews8 followers
May 25, 2019
What a breath of fresh air this book felt like. It was as if Summer had arrived and all the sights and sounds of Cornwall came flooding back. It was great to meet up with some of the characters from The Little Cornish Kitchen but Edie herself turned out to be a great central character. Struggling to put her health concerns to one side and to regain her old skills, you really get to see her test herself and push herself way out of her comfort zone.

All the secondary charcters add so much to the story. There is a real feeling of community which seems so inviting. It really is one of those romcoms which gathers you up and gives you a virtual hug. Heartwarming and full of heart- this is one to read with a smile on your face.

In short: Cornwall has never seemed so charming.

Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Grace J Reviewerlady.
2,135 reviews104 followers
May 28, 2019
What a great read! It's been an absolute pleasure to enjoy this one.

Edie Browne takes part in a parachute jump not realising that the events which follow hot on the heels of her landing will change her life for the foreseeable future. Slowly getting life back to normal, Edie heads off to stay with her Aunty Josie where she comes to understand that she's not the only person in need of a little help to get on with her life. As they both begin to move on with their lives, they make a whole bunch of friends and come to appreciate the Cornish coast. Life, however, is never straightforward and there are difficulties to be negotiate and overcome . . .

This is a wonderfully involved story; the characters are fabulously created and the writing is well structured resulting in a darn good book! I loved everything about it, and got really involved with everything happening on the pages. Superbly written and very moreish, this is an appealing story with so much going on that it kept my attention all the way through. With lots of humour, I was back to giggling non-stop and grinning from beginning to end. I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars.

My thanks to publisher HarperImpulse for my copy via Rachel's Random Resources, and especially to Rachel for inviting me to be a part of this Blog Tour. All opinions stated her are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Sheri.
1,722 reviews22 followers
May 22, 2019
I was completely charmed by this book. The cover was what initially drew me in, but the story's what held me. The characters are all quirky and lovable that you want to meet them in person! I was drawn in by Edie's health problems, as I myself have health problems.

Her relationship, with the cast of characters, especially her little six-year-old neighbor, are so adorable. I gobbled this book up, I was unable to put it down. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it will definitely won't be the last. I totally recommend it to other readers.

I would like to thank the author/publisher/Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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