What do you think?
Rate this book
Cliffehaven #18
Homecoming
Peace has finally been declared in the Far East, but for those living at Beach View Boarding House, the news brings mixed emotions.
Peggy Reilly is devastated that her husband Jim will not be coming home for Christmas. And Sarah and Jane, who have lived at Beach View throughout much of the conflict, dread what they will find when they go back to Singapore.
Life in Cliffehaven is in a whirlwind of change as the men return from the war and Peggy’s evacuee chicks begin to spread their wings and start new lives in different corners of the world.
Peggy and Jim have longed to be together after so many years apart, but war has left them profoundly changed. Can they rekindle the loving, close relationship they’d shared before?
Peggy Reilly is devastated that her husband Jim will not be coming home for Christmas. And Sarah and Jane, who have lived at Beach View throughout much of the conflict, dread what they will find when they go back to Singapore.
Life in Cliffehaven is in a whirlwind of change as the men return from the war and Peggy’s evacuee chicks begin to spread their wings and start new lives in different corners of the world.
Peggy and Jim have longed to be together after so many years apart, but war has left them profoundly changed. Can they rekindle the loving, close relationship they’d shared before?
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2020
144 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Dean
32 books137 followersEllie Dean lives in Eastbourne, which has been her home for many years and where she raised her three children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 28, 2020
I have loved this series since I discovered it a couple of years ago. Peggy Riley is a character I really took to and I was rooting for her all the time with all she had to do to keep the Boarding House and the family going during the war years.
As much as I enjoyed it the time was right to finish it up. The stories of all the people were nicely tied up. It wasn't as exciting as the other books but a well written story just the same.
As much as I enjoyed it the time was right to finish it up. The stories of all the people were nicely tied up. It wasn't as exciting as the other books but a well written story just the same.
January 24, 2020
It was bittersweet to be starting Homecoming, the final book in the Cliffehaven series by Ellie Dean, which follows Peggy Reilly and her family as they battle to keep the home fires burning during World War Two. I only came to know about this series over the course of the last five or six books but still I do feel a deep connection to it as the characters and storylines have become very familiar. Even though, it's the last book it probably could be read as a standalone. But being completely honest, in order to get a real sense of all the different characters and the trials and tribulations they have gone through and of course to familiarise yourself with the various settings it would be best to go back to the beginning or even go back several books like I have done.
Ellie Dean has certainly written a very fitting conclusion to what has been a wonderful series. There was a real sense of tying up loose ends and of answering so many questions that had been bothering me for some time. Nothing ever felt rushed in trying to conclude various storylines and it shouldn't have given the length and breadth of the series. It would have been a shame to rush through things given how deeply invested readers have become in the characters that come from all walks of life.
Peggy has been the foundation of these books so to see her waver at times during this story was a turn up for the books. I think she was going through so many emotions that after six long years of war she found it challenging to keep a lid on everything. She has been the backbone for all her chicks, so many who have come and gone over the years, that when they stopped needing her she was at a loss as to what to do. It didn't help matters when news reached her that Jim, her husband, would not be home for Christmas. She feels like everyone around her is getting their happy ending and doesn't she deserve the same. But still like all the challenges and demands that have gone before Peggy gathers herself together and continues to keep going forward with Jim at the centre of her heart and mind. She does keep her sadness under wraps and is delighted for others when everything appears to be coming together for them.
Peggy really is a worrier who can't rest easy until the very last minute unless she knows that her chicks and close family members have finally got the happiness that they deserve. There were several weddings to enjoy scattered throughout the story. Including some I would never have expected but perhaps for me one of the best things that had happened was concerning Frank, Jim's brother. At last the wool had been pulled from his eyes and my god I was glad it had. He deserved better than what he had experienced during the war. Although a really big showdown between Peggy and someone connected to Frank would have been very welcome as plenty of truths would have been told.
Love and kindness is always to be found at Beach View Boarding House and given the war has shown how life is too short and precarious to waste, I was so glad that all the different characters which are really too numerous to mention, just really went for it in this book. It was like a huge weight had been lifted from their shoulders now that the threat of death and destruction was gone. In a way they reverted back to their old selves and tried to forget the moments of great fear and sorrow that had gone before and instead they focused on embracing all the good things that life was surely going to through their way. Or at least they hoped so as things didn't instantly go back to normal. There were still a little few surprises thrown in every now and again just to keep the story tipping along instead of a continuous sense of concluding things. Doris's storyline was one for example and as for Ruby, I thought ah why do that to her? Then I understood that the world had bigger things in store for her. Peggy works her magic until the very last minute and it was a joy to see as she has definitely established herself as a character readers will never forget.
What I really loved about Homecoming was that it was split into different sections and different settings. Up until now I felt we had only gotten very brief snippets as to what was happening with Jim away fighting in Asia. In this book, entire chapters were given over to what happened following the surrendering of the Japanese and how Singapore attempted to get back on its feet again. I found these sections fascinating but also horrific in equal measure as news emerges of just what happened to so many people captured and taken as prisoners of war by the Japanese. I thought it was brilliant that the author showed how life didn't go back to normal for anyone once was was declared over. Instead endless struggles and hardships prevailed for so many.
As Sarah and Jane make their way from Cliffehaven to Singapore to be met by Jim whose work has been extended to take statements from those being brought back in from the jungle, I was on the edge of my seat. I desperately wanted to know what had happened to their father and specifically Sarah's fiancée. The tension and expectation was built up bit by bit and whilst they were waiting we really got to see how Singapore got back on its feet and how the people had to cope with and accept so many changes that had occurred since the Japanese took over. I think the sections set away from Cliffehaven were my favourite because I love reading about different countries and their experiences but also for so long I had wanted to know even more and Ellie Dean was finally letting everything spill forth.
Jim definitely underwent a transformation and the fact that his duty was extended even though he so desperately wanted to reunite with Peggy and his family gave him the time to take stock of what he had been through. Hearing the horrific acts imposed upon so many prisoners also gave him plenty of food for thought and allowed him to consider what his next step should be. I thought it was interesting to show the anguish and nerves he had about going home. You would take for granted that once the war was finally over that soldiers would be rushing back to their families but it was both realistic and interesting to see that despite a longed for reunion there was also apprehension because everyone and everything had changed so significantly. How can you return to a place you call home and know there is security there but you yourself are so deeply affected by all that you have done and witnessed?
Ellie mentioned in the end notes that readers had hoped the series would continue on bringing it right into the 50's and 60's but she herself thought it was best to remember them as they are instead of becoming old and frail. I agree with her. I have a picture built up in my head of everyone and I am deeply satisfied with the conclusion and I feel that's how I want them to stay. Everything was so expertly done throughout Homecoming and it really did feel as if all the strands of the story were slowly coming together to give us that ending that we have all craved for so long, Peggy included. I have to admit to being a tad emotional because of what happened and because I knew I would never read of the majority of these characters again or at least in the same setting and timeframe.
So I was delighted to see, that Ellie Dean will turn her attention to a new series which will focus on Ron and Dolly in their youthful years set before, during and after World War One. This was such a thrill to read and I think it is a brave thing to do given how deeply connected people have become to Peggy and everyone else but I am definitely looking forward to it. Homecoming was the perfect ending to a lovely series packed full of emotion, heartache, devastation but above all else love, support, friendship, community bonds, kindness and the power of family. Sadly there will be no more but Ellie Dean has certainly whet my appetite for Ron and Dolly's story or perhaps one day in the future we could see Cliffehaven becoming a staple of our Sunday night TV viewing. I for one would love that.
Ellie Dean has certainly written a very fitting conclusion to what has been a wonderful series. There was a real sense of tying up loose ends and of answering so many questions that had been bothering me for some time. Nothing ever felt rushed in trying to conclude various storylines and it shouldn't have given the length and breadth of the series. It would have been a shame to rush through things given how deeply invested readers have become in the characters that come from all walks of life.
Peggy has been the foundation of these books so to see her waver at times during this story was a turn up for the books. I think she was going through so many emotions that after six long years of war she found it challenging to keep a lid on everything. She has been the backbone for all her chicks, so many who have come and gone over the years, that when they stopped needing her she was at a loss as to what to do. It didn't help matters when news reached her that Jim, her husband, would not be home for Christmas. She feels like everyone around her is getting their happy ending and doesn't she deserve the same. But still like all the challenges and demands that have gone before Peggy gathers herself together and continues to keep going forward with Jim at the centre of her heart and mind. She does keep her sadness under wraps and is delighted for others when everything appears to be coming together for them.
Peggy really is a worrier who can't rest easy until the very last minute unless she knows that her chicks and close family members have finally got the happiness that they deserve. There were several weddings to enjoy scattered throughout the story. Including some I would never have expected but perhaps for me one of the best things that had happened was concerning Frank, Jim's brother. At last the wool had been pulled from his eyes and my god I was glad it had. He deserved better than what he had experienced during the war. Although a really big showdown between Peggy and someone connected to Frank would have been very welcome as plenty of truths would have been told.
Love and kindness is always to be found at Beach View Boarding House and given the war has shown how life is too short and precarious to waste, I was so glad that all the different characters which are really too numerous to mention, just really went for it in this book. It was like a huge weight had been lifted from their shoulders now that the threat of death and destruction was gone. In a way they reverted back to their old selves and tried to forget the moments of great fear and sorrow that had gone before and instead they focused on embracing all the good things that life was surely going to through their way. Or at least they hoped so as things didn't instantly go back to normal. There were still a little few surprises thrown in every now and again just to keep the story tipping along instead of a continuous sense of concluding things. Doris's storyline was one for example and as for Ruby, I thought ah why do that to her? Then I understood that the world had bigger things in store for her. Peggy works her magic until the very last minute and it was a joy to see as she has definitely established herself as a character readers will never forget.
What I really loved about Homecoming was that it was split into different sections and different settings. Up until now I felt we had only gotten very brief snippets as to what was happening with Jim away fighting in Asia. In this book, entire chapters were given over to what happened following the surrendering of the Japanese and how Singapore attempted to get back on its feet again. I found these sections fascinating but also horrific in equal measure as news emerges of just what happened to so many people captured and taken as prisoners of war by the Japanese. I thought it was brilliant that the author showed how life didn't go back to normal for anyone once was was declared over. Instead endless struggles and hardships prevailed for so many.
As Sarah and Jane make their way from Cliffehaven to Singapore to be met by Jim whose work has been extended to take statements from those being brought back in from the jungle, I was on the edge of my seat. I desperately wanted to know what had happened to their father and specifically Sarah's fiancée. The tension and expectation was built up bit by bit and whilst they were waiting we really got to see how Singapore got back on its feet and how the people had to cope with and accept so many changes that had occurred since the Japanese took over. I think the sections set away from Cliffehaven were my favourite because I love reading about different countries and their experiences but also for so long I had wanted to know even more and Ellie Dean was finally letting everything spill forth.
Jim definitely underwent a transformation and the fact that his duty was extended even though he so desperately wanted to reunite with Peggy and his family gave him the time to take stock of what he had been through. Hearing the horrific acts imposed upon so many prisoners also gave him plenty of food for thought and allowed him to consider what his next step should be. I thought it was interesting to show the anguish and nerves he had about going home. You would take for granted that once the war was finally over that soldiers would be rushing back to their families but it was both realistic and interesting to see that despite a longed for reunion there was also apprehension because everyone and everything had changed so significantly. How can you return to a place you call home and know there is security there but you yourself are so deeply affected by all that you have done and witnessed?
Ellie mentioned in the end notes that readers had hoped the series would continue on bringing it right into the 50's and 60's but she herself thought it was best to remember them as they are instead of becoming old and frail. I agree with her. I have a picture built up in my head of everyone and I am deeply satisfied with the conclusion and I feel that's how I want them to stay. Everything was so expertly done throughout Homecoming and it really did feel as if all the strands of the story were slowly coming together to give us that ending that we have all craved for so long, Peggy included. I have to admit to being a tad emotional because of what happened and because I knew I would never read of the majority of these characters again or at least in the same setting and timeframe.
So I was delighted to see, that Ellie Dean will turn her attention to a new series which will focus on Ron and Dolly in their youthful years set before, during and after World War One. This was such a thrill to read and I think it is a brave thing to do given how deeply connected people have become to Peggy and everyone else but I am definitely looking forward to it. Homecoming was the perfect ending to a lovely series packed full of emotion, heartache, devastation but above all else love, support, friendship, community bonds, kindness and the power of family. Sadly there will be no more but Ellie Dean has certainly whet my appetite for Ron and Dolly's story or perhaps one day in the future we could see Cliffehaven becoming a staple of our Sunday night TV viewing. I for one would love that.
April 30, 2020
This final book is called Homecoming” and is Book number 18... What an Awesome talent she has, ensuring that each of her Books are as beautifully written from first to last.
So much praise must go to this Author who’s somehow been able to weave the myriad of superlative characters appearing in all these Books together! She must have a magic wand.
What a warm and wonderful series Ellie Dean’s “Cliffehaven” has been. Soothing books for sad times! CONGRATULATIONS!
So much praise must go to this Author who’s somehow been able to weave the myriad of superlative characters appearing in all these Books together! She must have a magic wand.
What a warm and wonderful series Ellie Dean’s “Cliffehaven” has been. Soothing books for sad times! CONGRATULATIONS!
February 1, 2020
Sad to be reading the last book in this series but glad I did as so well written with wonderful characters and the plot is brilliant you just want to keep reading. Full of love and hope and being together again.
Peace has finally been declared in the far eat but this brings mixed emotions T beach view boarding house. Poor Peggy isn't happy when she gets a letter from her husband saying he isn't going to be home for Christmas and Sarah and Jane dread what they will find when they go back to Singapore. Life totally changes in cliffs haven and the men return from way and Peggy's evacuee chicks make new lives in different countries. Problem is Peggy and Jim have been apart for so long can there love be rekindled or not.
Peace has finally been declared in the far eat but this brings mixed emotions T beach view boarding house. Poor Peggy isn't happy when she gets a letter from her husband saying he isn't going to be home for Christmas and Sarah and Jane dread what they will find when they go back to Singapore. Life totally changes in cliffs haven and the men return from way and Peggy's evacuee chicks make new lives in different countries. Problem is Peggy and Jim have been apart for so long can there love be rekindled or not.
December 28, 2019
Having loved all the Cliffehaven Books and have them i was so looking forward to reviewing Homecoming and i can honestly say Ellie Dean has written a beautiful story full of joy,love and sadness.This book has had me in tears of happiness and sadness that the Reilly family,friends and of course peggy's chicks have all come together in this book whether in person or spirit.I won't spoil the book as that would be so wrong but i feel this is the best book and i cannot wait to put it on my shelf along with the others and to wait and see what Ellie Dean delights us with next.Just have plenty of tissues handy.
October 16, 2019
Have read the whole series this is the last book to go couldn't wait
September 5, 2020
After 18 books the series is over. What will I read when I'm looking for something light but entertaining, and slightly educational? I won't be able to visit with protagonist Peggy Reilly any more. I have really related to Peggy throughout this series, as she is at the same stage of life as I am, but dealing with the stresses of a world war. I have learned a lot about WWII, and been prompted to wonder how I would have handled the hardships on the home front. This final book is set after the war has ended, and everyone is getting on with their lives. Everyone, that is, except Peggy and her husband Jim, who has remained in Singapore to assist with repatriation of Allied POW's. Peggy's last remaining boarders are leaving to embrace their futures, and her Beach View Boarding House is becoming emptier and emptier. This final book ties up the loose ends, and we are left knowing that all of the characters will be ok. They don't all have happy endings, but they have happy-ish endings. There are weddings...lots of weddings...which leaves me wondering just how many weddings there have been in this series. There have been a lot. Most of the characters we have met along the way are at least mentioned, and I feel pretty satisfied that the series has been wrapped up. I am going to miss this comfortable series, but I understand there is going to be a prequel series about the older characters during WWI. I can't wait!!!
February 3, 2020
I discovered this wonderful series last summer and read the first 14 books back to back. Will always remind me of Lanzarote lol.
Anyway have been waiting impatiently for this final book in the series, and it didnt disappoint. The Cliffehaven series follows Peggy and her husband Jim, their children and all Peggys Chicks (girls who stay in her boarding house set in the south coast from 1939 through to 1946. Ellie Dean did say at begining that many had asked for her to keep the story going to the 50s/60s.. i can see why many would want it going , me being one of them, but have to say i do love how Ellie Dean ended the series.
The majority get their HEA (all bar Ruby but at least she got an ending as such) Sad to see series end but look forward to reading Ron and Dollys stories, which Ellie says coming next.
If not read this series and like me love stories set during world war 2 then i cant recommend this series high enough.
Anyway have been waiting impatiently for this final book in the series, and it didnt disappoint. The Cliffehaven series follows Peggy and her husband Jim, their children and all Peggys Chicks (girls who stay in her boarding house set in the south coast from 1939 through to 1946. Ellie Dean did say at begining that many had asked for her to keep the story going to the 50s/60s.. i can see why many would want it going , me being one of them, but have to say i do love how Ellie Dean ended the series.
The majority get their HEA (all bar Ruby but at least she got an ending as such) Sad to see series end but look forward to reading Ron and Dollys stories, which Ellie says coming next.
If not read this series and like me love stories set during world war 2 then i cant recommend this series high enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2020
Absolutely wonderful ending to this fantastic series Peggy and the rest of the Riley family will be sorely missed
March 2, 2020
So sad I’ve finished the last book in this excellent ww2 series but never mind I’ve got all 18 books I will read them all again lol x
February 4, 2020
Wonderful.
A fitting end to this fantastic series of books. There are farewells and reunions, tears and laughter, weddings, births and deaths. We are brought up to date on all the characters we have met and loved throughout the series.
I will miss Peggy, her family and her 'chicks'. This is defiantly my favourite series of books, I've enjoyed every one and grown to love the fantastic characters. Well done Ellie Dean!! Please write more books soon.
A fitting end to this fantastic series of books. There are farewells and reunions, tears and laughter, weddings, births and deaths. We are brought up to date on all the characters we have met and loved throughout the series.
I will miss Peggy, her family and her 'chicks'. This is defiantly my favourite series of books, I've enjoyed every one and grown to love the fantastic characters. Well done Ellie Dean!! Please write more books soon.
January 21, 2020
I have to say that Ellie Dean is one of my all time favourite authors. Mrs. Ginger Book Geek (my lovely Mam) recommended Ellie's books to me and when I read 'The Waiting Hours', I was blown away by how flipping fantastic the story was. Since then I have kept pace with Ellie's new releases whilst at the same time trying to catch up on earlier books in the series. 'Homecoming' is the latest and sadly the last book in 'The Cliffehaven Series' and it is another amazing read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Homecoming' but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about the cast of characters? It was impossible to take an instant dislike to any of the characters with the exception of John's son but we won't talk about him. Two of my favourite characters are Peggy Reilly and Ronan (Ron) Reilly. Peggy is Ron's daughter-in-law and is married to Jim, who at the beginning of the story is still out in the Far East. Peggy is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, stand in mother and friend. I don't know how she does it. She runs a home, works and takes care of her family and anybody who needs her without collapsing in a heap. Peggy needs a Superwoman costume. 'Homecoming' sees a different Peggy in the sense that she is still excitedly waiting for Jim to come home, but at the same time she is having to say goodbye to her surrogate family as they spread their wings to start their own new lives. Peggy puts a brave face on things and tries not to let her emotions show too much. Peggy is kind, compassionate, feisty, determined, tenacious and wise beyond her years. Ron is definitely a loveable rogue, who has the best of intentions when he sets out to do things but things don't always happen the way that he wants them to. In other words something usually goes wrong. I was chuckling out loud at one part of the book when his beloved ferrets go on a wander. Ron has some secrets about his war service record but he keeps them under his hat. Ron knows practically everybody there is to know in Cliffehaven and his influence extends to a far larger area than the town itself. Peggy often feels that she has one more child in the shape of Ron. Ron recently married Rosie, who owns a local pub and he often feels that he has women nagging him from all directions. I loved the friendly banter that he has going with Cordelia, who is an elderly resident of Peggy's boarding house. Ron is generous, hard working, kind, sensitive (although he won't admit to it), compassionate, feisty, determined, stubborn, mischievous and he is fiercely protective towards his extended family. If somebody is in a pickle and Ron is in a position to help then he will do. I wish that Ron was my Grandad as he sounds like a hoot. I was sad to reach the end of this book as I thought that I would have to say goodbye to Peggy and Ron forever, little did I know...…………...
As soon as I read the synopsis for 'Homecoming' I started feeling very excited and desperate to get my hands on a copy. I was even counting down the days until the book was released. When I was invited to take part in the blog tour, I thought my Christmases had come at once and so of course I accepted and did a happy little jig, which was thankfully only witnessed by my two Labradors. Anyway back to the review. However I had to fight my Mam for the chance to read the book first. It wasn't a pretty fight and the OAP won. I kept hearing Mam muttering comments about what she had read but she wouldn't tell me what she was muttering as she didn't want to spoil the story!
From the moment I started to read until the moment I closed the back cover, I was under this book's spell and then some. 'Homecoming' is the definition of an unputdownable pageturner of a book. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read this book shortly before I switched my light off to go to sleep. Let's just say I ended up reading into the wee small hours and I had to force myself to put the book to one side as I was so tired. Whilst I was drifting off to sleep all I could think about were Peggy, Ron and Jim and I even ended up dreaming about them. As soon as I woke up later that morning, I picked the book up and it never left my hands. I didn't want to miss a single second of the story and so the book accompanied me everywhere. I read the book in just under 24 hours which is extremely good for me. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am usually easily distracted but not when I pick up one of Ellie's books.
'Homecoming' is superbly written but then I find that to be true of any of Ellie's books. She draws you into the story from the synopsis alone and when you start to read the book itself that is it. It didn't take me long at all to get back into the Cliffehaven life and I felt as though I was reuniting with old friends, that is except for John's son, who needs a good slap with a wet fish. Ellie writes such realistic stories and uses such vivid descriptions that if I closed my eyes, I could easily imagine that I was part of the story myself and that I was in Cliffehaven itself. In fact I want to move to Cliffehaven and live at Peggy's house. Of course I know this is fiction and therefore not real but if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoy reading 'The Cliffehaven Series' then I tend to 'live' the story as if it were real.
'The Cliffehaven Series' has to be one of my favourite family saga series' ever and I am sad that 'Homecoming' is the last episode as it were. However, a little birdy has told me that we haven't seen the last of Peggy, Ron and the others just yet as Ellie Dean is writing another series featuring Ron and Peggy in their earlier years.
It's just my opinion but I think that 'The Cliffehaven Series' is crying out to be adapted for television. The television companies would be mad if they let this series slip through their fingers. I am even thinking about who should play which part if the series is cast.
In short, 'Homecoming' is another amazing story from the fantastic Ellie Dean. I would definitely recommend Ellie Dean and all her books to other readers. I look forward to reading the new series once it has been written. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
What can I say about the cast of characters? It was impossible to take an instant dislike to any of the characters with the exception of John's son but we won't talk about him. Two of my favourite characters are Peggy Reilly and Ronan (Ron) Reilly. Peggy is Ron's daughter-in-law and is married to Jim, who at the beginning of the story is still out in the Far East. Peggy is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, stand in mother and friend. I don't know how she does it. She runs a home, works and takes care of her family and anybody who needs her without collapsing in a heap. Peggy needs a Superwoman costume. 'Homecoming' sees a different Peggy in the sense that she is still excitedly waiting for Jim to come home, but at the same time she is having to say goodbye to her surrogate family as they spread their wings to start their own new lives. Peggy puts a brave face on things and tries not to let her emotions show too much. Peggy is kind, compassionate, feisty, determined, tenacious and wise beyond her years. Ron is definitely a loveable rogue, who has the best of intentions when he sets out to do things but things don't always happen the way that he wants them to. In other words something usually goes wrong. I was chuckling out loud at one part of the book when his beloved ferrets go on a wander. Ron has some secrets about his war service record but he keeps them under his hat. Ron knows practically everybody there is to know in Cliffehaven and his influence extends to a far larger area than the town itself. Peggy often feels that she has one more child in the shape of Ron. Ron recently married Rosie, who owns a local pub and he often feels that he has women nagging him from all directions. I loved the friendly banter that he has going with Cordelia, who is an elderly resident of Peggy's boarding house. Ron is generous, hard working, kind, sensitive (although he won't admit to it), compassionate, feisty, determined, stubborn, mischievous and he is fiercely protective towards his extended family. If somebody is in a pickle and Ron is in a position to help then he will do. I wish that Ron was my Grandad as he sounds like a hoot. I was sad to reach the end of this book as I thought that I would have to say goodbye to Peggy and Ron forever, little did I know...…………...
As soon as I read the synopsis for 'Homecoming' I started feeling very excited and desperate to get my hands on a copy. I was even counting down the days until the book was released. When I was invited to take part in the blog tour, I thought my Christmases had come at once and so of course I accepted and did a happy little jig, which was thankfully only witnessed by my two Labradors. Anyway back to the review. However I had to fight my Mam for the chance to read the book first. It wasn't a pretty fight and the OAP won. I kept hearing Mam muttering comments about what she had read but she wouldn't tell me what she was muttering as she didn't want to spoil the story!
From the moment I started to read until the moment I closed the back cover, I was under this book's spell and then some. 'Homecoming' is the definition of an unputdownable pageturner of a book. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read this book shortly before I switched my light off to go to sleep. Let's just say I ended up reading into the wee small hours and I had to force myself to put the book to one side as I was so tired. Whilst I was drifting off to sleep all I could think about were Peggy, Ron and Jim and I even ended up dreaming about them. As soon as I woke up later that morning, I picked the book up and it never left my hands. I didn't want to miss a single second of the story and so the book accompanied me everywhere. I read the book in just under 24 hours which is extremely good for me. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am usually easily distracted but not when I pick up one of Ellie's books.
'Homecoming' is superbly written but then I find that to be true of any of Ellie's books. She draws you into the story from the synopsis alone and when you start to read the book itself that is it. It didn't take me long at all to get back into the Cliffehaven life and I felt as though I was reuniting with old friends, that is except for John's son, who needs a good slap with a wet fish. Ellie writes such realistic stories and uses such vivid descriptions that if I closed my eyes, I could easily imagine that I was part of the story myself and that I was in Cliffehaven itself. In fact I want to move to Cliffehaven and live at Peggy's house. Of course I know this is fiction and therefore not real but if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoy reading 'The Cliffehaven Series' then I tend to 'live' the story as if it were real.
'The Cliffehaven Series' has to be one of my favourite family saga series' ever and I am sad that 'Homecoming' is the last episode as it were. However, a little birdy has told me that we haven't seen the last of Peggy, Ron and the others just yet as Ellie Dean is writing another series featuring Ron and Peggy in their earlier years.
It's just my opinion but I think that 'The Cliffehaven Series' is crying out to be adapted for television. The television companies would be mad if they let this series slip through their fingers. I am even thinking about who should play which part if the series is cast.
In short, 'Homecoming' is another amazing story from the fantastic Ellie Dean. I would definitely recommend Ellie Dean and all her books to other readers. I look forward to reading the new series once it has been written. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
January 24, 2020
I always look forward to the next book in the Cliffehaven saga but opening Homecoming was a bittersweet moment as it's the final novel in the series. However, with the war in the Far East finally over, it does feel that this is the right time to say goodbye.
Peggy and Jim have spent years apart, longing for the time they will finally be reunited so it's a cruel blow for them both when Jim receives orders to say he is to join Operation Tiderace and instead of going home will take part in the retaking of Singapore and witness Japan's complete and unconditional surrender. It's an important reminder that the demobilisation process took time and many troops had to wait several months before they could return home.
Life isn't back to normal in Cliffehaven either and although the war is over, as Homecoming shows, the country continued to bear the effects for years afterwards. Peggy often worries about putting meals on the table, now that rationing regulations are even more tightened with the country diverting food to a starved Europe and with home-grown vegetables in short supply due to inclement weather. Several of the characters are shown to bear the emotional and physical effects of the war; from the bodily wounds inflicted in active service, to the mental anguish of what they witnessed, to the sheer exhaustion that comes from years of trying to maintain a semblance of the normal life in the face of so many challenges, all while living in fear of a telegraph bringing the worst possible news.
Change is an important theme in Homecoming and perhaps the most poignant example is that of the children who have become adults during the war years. Peggy and Jim's sons, Bob and Charlie were sent to Somerset as boys but have returned as young men. Despite their happiness at being reunited, there is an underlying sadness for the time they missed and it's particularly touching to see how Peggy worries about whether her sons will understand why they decided to send them away. Change also means renewal and Homecoming sees plenty of that, whether it's in the rebuilding of the war-damaged town, exciting home renovations or the more personal as relationships are reassessed and restored.
As always, Ellie Dean also includes chapters which follow Jim in the Far East and although he is now out of danger, these parts of the book are still the most harrowing as he takes on a role which sees him talking to the released POWs who suffered so terribly at the cruel hands of the Japanese. There is one scene which is particularly distressing as an officer tells Jim about the tortuous conditions he endured as part of the forced slave labour building the infamous Burma railway. The physical conditions were obviously horrendous but as he watched his men die of starvation, dysentery, malaria, beriberi, jungle ulcers and cholera, his rank meant he had to remain stoical, never able to show his emotions in spite of the horror that surrounded him. It's a powerful, heartbreaking moment in the book and its importance is underlined later when Jim's ship finally arrives home to little fanfare - it's no wonder that those who fought and were POW in Asia often felt forgotten about.
Two of Peggy's chicks, Sarah and Jane also travel to Singapore where they are reunited with their mother, Sybil. They hope for news about their father, Jock and Sarah's fiance, Philip but the island they return to is very different from the place they once knew. Although the ex-pat community were undoubtedly privileged and lived a rather spoiled existence, it's hard not to feel some sympathy for Sybil who has lost so much and still clings desperately to hope despite knowing it is probably futile. At first, I wasn't sure if I liked her but although she is a product of her experiences, she reveals her compassionate side too and I found her storyline to be really quite moving.
There is still plenty of domestic drama in Homecoming, of course with new relationships formed and some which have come to an end. Despite the sadness for those lost, there is still a sense of optimism for the future and Peggy is able to indulge her love of weddings more than once here. As always, Ellie Dean also includes little glimpses into the future and to what we readers know will occur; here there is hope for the soon to be established NHS but also worry for Danuta as the news from Poland signals the rise of the Soviet Union across Eastern Europe.
Homecoming is filled with all the warmth I've come to expect from the Cliffehaven saga, there are many moving scenes and just as Peggy and Cordelia always have their handkerchiefs ready at a wedding, the tears are almost inevitable here as this wonderful series finally comes to an end. Looking back on the whole series, I can only thank Ellie Dean for writing these touching, engrossing stories which have recognised the immense sacrifices made by the men, women and children during those dark days and honoured the importance of family and the sense of community which was so vital to them all. It's sad to say goodbye but it feels right to leave the residents of Cliffehaven looking towards the future and I was absolutely delighted to learn that the author is writing about Ron and Dolly's youthful days - I can't wait to discover what that pair got up to!
Peggy and Jim have spent years apart, longing for the time they will finally be reunited so it's a cruel blow for them both when Jim receives orders to say he is to join Operation Tiderace and instead of going home will take part in the retaking of Singapore and witness Japan's complete and unconditional surrender. It's an important reminder that the demobilisation process took time and many troops had to wait several months before they could return home.
Life isn't back to normal in Cliffehaven either and although the war is over, as Homecoming shows, the country continued to bear the effects for years afterwards. Peggy often worries about putting meals on the table, now that rationing regulations are even more tightened with the country diverting food to a starved Europe and with home-grown vegetables in short supply due to inclement weather. Several of the characters are shown to bear the emotional and physical effects of the war; from the bodily wounds inflicted in active service, to the mental anguish of what they witnessed, to the sheer exhaustion that comes from years of trying to maintain a semblance of the normal life in the face of so many challenges, all while living in fear of a telegraph bringing the worst possible news.
Change is an important theme in Homecoming and perhaps the most poignant example is that of the children who have become adults during the war years. Peggy and Jim's sons, Bob and Charlie were sent to Somerset as boys but have returned as young men. Despite their happiness at being reunited, there is an underlying sadness for the time they missed and it's particularly touching to see how Peggy worries about whether her sons will understand why they decided to send them away. Change also means renewal and Homecoming sees plenty of that, whether it's in the rebuilding of the war-damaged town, exciting home renovations or the more personal as relationships are reassessed and restored.
As always, Ellie Dean also includes chapters which follow Jim in the Far East and although he is now out of danger, these parts of the book are still the most harrowing as he takes on a role which sees him talking to the released POWs who suffered so terribly at the cruel hands of the Japanese. There is one scene which is particularly distressing as an officer tells Jim about the tortuous conditions he endured as part of the forced slave labour building the infamous Burma railway. The physical conditions were obviously horrendous but as he watched his men die of starvation, dysentery, malaria, beriberi, jungle ulcers and cholera, his rank meant he had to remain stoical, never able to show his emotions in spite of the horror that surrounded him. It's a powerful, heartbreaking moment in the book and its importance is underlined later when Jim's ship finally arrives home to little fanfare - it's no wonder that those who fought and were POW in Asia often felt forgotten about.
Two of Peggy's chicks, Sarah and Jane also travel to Singapore where they are reunited with their mother, Sybil. They hope for news about their father, Jock and Sarah's fiance, Philip but the island they return to is very different from the place they once knew. Although the ex-pat community were undoubtedly privileged and lived a rather spoiled existence, it's hard not to feel some sympathy for Sybil who has lost so much and still clings desperately to hope despite knowing it is probably futile. At first, I wasn't sure if I liked her but although she is a product of her experiences, she reveals her compassionate side too and I found her storyline to be really quite moving.
There is still plenty of domestic drama in Homecoming, of course with new relationships formed and some which have come to an end. Despite the sadness for those lost, there is still a sense of optimism for the future and Peggy is able to indulge her love of weddings more than once here. As always, Ellie Dean also includes little glimpses into the future and to what we readers know will occur; here there is hope for the soon to be established NHS but also worry for Danuta as the news from Poland signals the rise of the Soviet Union across Eastern Europe.
Homecoming is filled with all the warmth I've come to expect from the Cliffehaven saga, there are many moving scenes and just as Peggy and Cordelia always have their handkerchiefs ready at a wedding, the tears are almost inevitable here as this wonderful series finally comes to an end. Looking back on the whole series, I can only thank Ellie Dean for writing these touching, engrossing stories which have recognised the immense sacrifices made by the men, women and children during those dark days and honoured the importance of family and the sense of community which was so vital to them all. It's sad to say goodbye but it feels right to leave the residents of Cliffehaven looking towards the future and I was absolutely delighted to learn that the author is writing about Ron and Dolly's youthful days - I can't wait to discover what that pair got up to!
January 26, 2020
I loved it!
Another great chapter in the Cliffehaven saga , it will make you laugh and cry , a wonderful heartwarming read.
Another great chapter in the Cliffehaven saga , it will make you laugh and cry , a wonderful heartwarming read.
August 3, 2022
Gelukkig komt er nog een deel, want ik ben nog niet helemaal klaar om afscheid te nemen van Cliffhaven.
Heb t niet droog gehouden in dit deel. ❤️
Heb t niet droog gehouden in dit deel. ❤️
December 5, 2023
An interesting but over-detailed story, competently written. They drink a lot of tea. Very irritating that the Irish character nearly always starts his sentences with “to be sure”.
December 18, 2025
This was the most boring book I've ever read. Seriously who wrote this? Even when she pisses me off at least the rest of the series managed to hold my attention but this was just awful and felt like an old TV clip show, remembering old times with a few weddings thrown in to wrap things up. I suppose if the author realized she would continue adding to this series she might've spread it out more to make it more interesting.
The Sarah story ended as I thought and I'm extremely pissed off about it. Poor Phillip didn't deserve that, he's too good for her. Also the timelines didn't work as I doubt civilians were flying all around the world like they were. My dream ending for Sarah would've been she either nurses Phillip back to health and realizes how foolish she was and they fall in love all over again or she falls in love with an Australian and moves there to live alongside Rita and I thought it was going there with the Australian pilot but no, the book wants me to believe a relationship built on lies and cheating is real and true and not just some arrogant American who took advantage of a lonely young woman. Also Peggy really sucks in this book. I have never wanted to smack someone as much as I have her.
Literally everyone gets married and that also annoyed me. Not everyone wants to get married especially after the small taste of freedom the war gave them. I did appreciate both Danuta and Pauline as they both call out Peggy on her bullshit. She is a meddler and really needs to learn boundaries and keeping her nose out of people's business. I actually liked Pauline a lot here cause she sees Peggy for who she is, an interfering busy body despite again the author wanting me to think she's a terrible person. She lost two sons of course that's going to mess her up. You lost no one Peggy and you look down your nose at her? I wish more people would call her out. She used to be a favourite character now she's the worst.
Despite the war being over for all of five minutes there still seems to be plenty of supplies around for fancy wedding dresses considering rationing went on until the early 50s. Even the future queen had to save coupons for her wedding dress and that was 1947 and she was rich. I also looked back at the earlier books and saw Sally was 16 when she arrived in Cliffehaven and married her husband and had a kid (which is creepy), so that whole line about how Sarah was young and naiive when she got engaged to Phillip is also bullshit. Call me old fashioned but I actually find it more romantic for someone to wait for her love to come home and it's even kind of romantic when they refuse to remarry because that was their one true love. And having heard stories from POWs who say they only thing that kept them going was wives and sweethearts I think Sarah is selfish, heartless and cruel as are Peggy and everyone else who encouraged her. I think Sarah's story would've been better had she waited for Phillip and told that American with the girl's name to piss off. He was already a creepy stalker especially in this book so there could've been great drama with that. But alas the only way to have a happy ending is for everyone to be married off and unlike the POWs in Europe Phillip was basically waved off as being dead or too damaged right from the beginning and not worth being faithful too. Sarah is an awful selfish and cruel person and the fact that the book we meet her in is called Always in my Heart is laughable given how quickly she dropped those she claimed to love including her own mother as she wants to get away from her too. Any other character would've been label a bitch, a cheater or worse but we're supposed to believe she's not cause Peggy likes her. The hypocrisy of this series is off the charts at times. I hope Phillip's ghost haunts and torments Sarah for the rest of her life.
My last rant, poor Ruby. Why did you give everyone else a happy ending but then do that to her, especially given at the time it was written this was the finale of the series?
I'm hopeful the series will improve now the war is over because this one was so boring and disappointing especially Sarah and Peggy being terrible people and poor Ruby who deserved some happiness after the rough life she led. Fingers crossed post war Cliffehaven is more interesting and selfish Sarah is never mentioned again unless its about her divorce.
The Sarah story ended as I thought and I'm extremely pissed off about it. Poor Phillip didn't deserve that, he's too good for her. Also the timelines didn't work as I doubt civilians were flying all around the world like they were. My dream ending for Sarah would've been she either nurses Phillip back to health and realizes how foolish she was and they fall in love all over again or she falls in love with an Australian and moves there to live alongside Rita and I thought it was going there with the Australian pilot but no, the book wants me to believe a relationship built on lies and cheating is real and true and not just some arrogant American who took advantage of a lonely young woman. Also Peggy really sucks in this book. I have never wanted to smack someone as much as I have her.
Literally everyone gets married and that also annoyed me. Not everyone wants to get married especially after the small taste of freedom the war gave them. I did appreciate both Danuta and Pauline as they both call out Peggy on her bullshit. She is a meddler and really needs to learn boundaries and keeping her nose out of people's business. I actually liked Pauline a lot here cause she sees Peggy for who she is, an interfering busy body despite again the author wanting me to think she's a terrible person. She lost two sons of course that's going to mess her up. You lost no one Peggy and you look down your nose at her? I wish more people would call her out. She used to be a favourite character now she's the worst.
Despite the war being over for all of five minutes there still seems to be plenty of supplies around for fancy wedding dresses considering rationing went on until the early 50s. Even the future queen had to save coupons for her wedding dress and that was 1947 and she was rich. I also looked back at the earlier books and saw Sally was 16 when she arrived in Cliffehaven and married her husband and had a kid (which is creepy), so that whole line about how Sarah was young and naiive when she got engaged to Phillip is also bullshit. Call me old fashioned but I actually find it more romantic for someone to wait for her love to come home and it's even kind of romantic when they refuse to remarry because that was their one true love. And having heard stories from POWs who say they only thing that kept them going was wives and sweethearts I think Sarah is selfish, heartless and cruel as are Peggy and everyone else who encouraged her. I think Sarah's story would've been better had she waited for Phillip and told that American with the girl's name to piss off. He was already a creepy stalker especially in this book so there could've been great drama with that. But alas the only way to have a happy ending is for everyone to be married off and unlike the POWs in Europe Phillip was basically waved off as being dead or too damaged right from the beginning and not worth being faithful too. Sarah is an awful selfish and cruel person and the fact that the book we meet her in is called Always in my Heart is laughable given how quickly she dropped those she claimed to love including her own mother as she wants to get away from her too. Any other character would've been label a bitch, a cheater or worse but we're supposed to believe she's not cause Peggy likes her. The hypocrisy of this series is off the charts at times. I hope Phillip's ghost haunts and torments Sarah for the rest of her life.
My last rant, poor Ruby. Why did you give everyone else a happy ending but then do that to her, especially given at the time it was written this was the finale of the series?
I'm hopeful the series will improve now the war is over because this one was so boring and disappointing especially Sarah and Peggy being terrible people and poor Ruby who deserved some happiness after the rough life she led. Fingers crossed post war Cliffehaven is more interesting and selfish Sarah is never mentioned again unless its about her divorce.
January 29, 2020
For those who have followed this popular series from the beginning, reading Homecoming is something of a bittersweet experience as it heralds the conclusion of the story for the inhabitants of Cliffehaven, and for those familiar characters who are picking up the pieces in the aftermath of WW2. However, for Peggy Reilly, and her husband, Jim, life is still very unsettled, as Jim, following the brutal events of the war with Japan, is still stationed in the Far East, with no indication of when he will be allowed home. Never downhearted for long, Peggy sheds her tears in private as she allows her life goes on in Cliffehaven, her unique ability to chivy people along is never far away.
This is a really lovely series and I must admit that I have only read a couple of the books but what I have loved is the author’s care and consideration towards, not just her characters, who are wonderfully authentic, but also to her readership who have invested emotionally with all those diverse characters who call Beach View Guest House Home. Sure there have been trials and tribulations aplenty but throughout the whole of the series, and particularly in this last book, there’s a real sense of history, and whilst inevitably there’s the knowledge that the author is tying up loose ends, she also allows her lovely characters to have their own special moments in the spotlight.
The Cliffehaven series spans the momentous years of WW2, from 1939, through to the end of 1945, and does so with humour, sadness and love. Teeming with memorable moments Homecoming concludes the series with a fine eye for historical detail and the deep knowledge by the author of giving her readers exactly what they wanted in this touching finale.
If you are new to this author’s exceptional ability to bring history alive, it going to be advisable to start at the very beginning and enjoy the experience of the Cliffehaven series for yourself.
January 20, 2020
I’ve been a huge fan of this wonderful series since the beginning and it has been so lovely to follow the residents through the years. I started this book with mixed feelings as on one hand I was very excited to read another Clifthaven book but on the other I was sad that this series was coming to an end.
One of the things I like about this author is her ability to always find new storylines to keep the series interesting and fresh. This book was no exception and I found the inclusion of life after the war to be very interesting, especially as it is something that isn’t touched upon much in other books. It must have been very difficult for couples coming back from the war to learn to live with each other again. The author does a great job in describing the situation so it feels real as she doesn’t make it overly dramatic.
This was a beautiful story that was excellently told and one that quickly absorbed me into the story. It’s a story of joy, sadness and above all love in all forms. It’s one that definitely needs to be read with some tissues handy as their are some poignant moments and some truly heartwarming ones that brought tears to my eyes in equal measures. It’s a fantastic way to end the series and I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Huge thanks to Rachel Kennedy from Arrow publishing for inviting me onto the tour and for my copy of the book.
One of the things I like about this author is her ability to always find new storylines to keep the series interesting and fresh. This book was no exception and I found the inclusion of life after the war to be very interesting, especially as it is something that isn’t touched upon much in other books. It must have been very difficult for couples coming back from the war to learn to live with each other again. The author does a great job in describing the situation so it feels real as she doesn’t make it overly dramatic.
This was a beautiful story that was excellently told and one that quickly absorbed me into the story. It’s a story of joy, sadness and above all love in all forms. It’s one that definitely needs to be read with some tissues handy as their are some poignant moments and some truly heartwarming ones that brought tears to my eyes in equal measures. It’s a fantastic way to end the series and I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Huge thanks to Rachel Kennedy from Arrow publishing for inviting me onto the tour and for my copy of the book.
June 20, 2020
Mixed emotions really. It is both sad and comforting to read this finale. Slightly predictable but not entirely. As always a great mix of brutal reality and huge doses of overwhelming love of friends and family. I have learnt so much more about WW2 and the harsh realities of 6 devastating years from a slightly different perspective. Ellie is a master craftsmen of her field. I shall miss the many wonderful characters she introduced us all too, 18 books ago. As a relatively slow reader I polished these off in just over a year with several other books thrown in, a testimony to just how good they are. I think this series would be appreciated by both men and women equally; though I suspect in these days of ultra equality I’m not allowed to say that ! To be honest I don’t really care, as this author and this series have given me many, many hours of relaxation and piqued interest into the travesty of war.
I thank you Ellie and hope that you dust off your keyboard very soon as I for one will look forward to your next project.
I thank you Ellie and hope that you dust off your keyboard very soon as I for one will look forward to your next project.
January 30, 2020
Worth 10 stars
I cannot praise this book enough. I would give it 10 stars if I could. The final chapters of Cliffhaven and all its people Is a brilliant piece of writing. I was awake far too long on a few nights devouring this story. I Laughed, cried and sometimes felt very humble and grateful to those who battled through the war years to give us the peace we now take so much for granted. What a brilliant series, giving such a vivid insight into how people coped through that very dark time in our history, yes there is tragedy, hardship and sacrifices but also a lot of love laughter and happy times too, which are all portrayed so well by this author. I will really miss Peggy and her family. Looking forward to seeing what Ellie Dean comes up with next. This series will be a very hard act to follow.
I cannot praise this book enough. I would give it 10 stars if I could. The final chapters of Cliffhaven and all its people Is a brilliant piece of writing. I was awake far too long on a few nights devouring this story. I Laughed, cried and sometimes felt very humble and grateful to those who battled through the war years to give us the peace we now take so much for granted. What a brilliant series, giving such a vivid insight into how people coped through that very dark time in our history, yes there is tragedy, hardship and sacrifices but also a lot of love laughter and happy times too, which are all portrayed so well by this author. I will really miss Peggy and her family. Looking forward to seeing what Ellie Dean comes up with next. This series will be a very hard act to follow.
February 5, 2020
The end of an era.
Can't believe that there won't be any more of Peggy and Cliffehaven. Right from the first book I was completely hooked and now it's all come to a natural end with the war over and Jim back home. Ellie is a brilliant writer and really brought everything to life. Laughter, tears and sadness the books had them all. Loved Ron and Rosie and how it all worked out for them . Ron and Harvey made a great team and then Monty came along to add to the chaos. The story of how the war progressed and the effect it had on peoples lives was so well written with excellent research, even Bletchley Park was mentioned and agents overseas. Will really miss the pleasure of reading the latest story but it had to come to a natural end. Looking forward to when the books are released of a very young Ron and the others.
Can't believe that there won't be any more of Peggy and Cliffehaven. Right from the first book I was completely hooked and now it's all come to a natural end with the war over and Jim back home. Ellie is a brilliant writer and really brought everything to life. Laughter, tears and sadness the books had them all. Loved Ron and Rosie and how it all worked out for them . Ron and Harvey made a great team and then Monty came along to add to the chaos. The story of how the war progressed and the effect it had on peoples lives was so well written with excellent research, even Bletchley Park was mentioned and agents overseas. Will really miss the pleasure of reading the latest story but it had to come to a natural end. Looking forward to when the books are released of a very young Ron and the others.
April 4, 2024
Wow another great continuation of the lives of the residents of Cliffhaven and how Peggy and her family by birth or marriage or her refugees continue
To cope with the rationing and waiting for the war to be declared over
And how Peggy continues to cope when most soldiers airmen and navy return home but her beloved Jim is still needed in Singapore
With family all close by and continuing their lives she can’t wait for the day he comes home to the love of his family and friends in Cliffheaven
Now a new chapter can begin and lives continue back to as near normal as possible
Can’t wait to start the next book and unfortunately getting close to the end of books that Ellie Dean has written so far in the Cliffhaven series
To cope with the rationing and waiting for the war to be declared over
And how Peggy continues to cope when most soldiers airmen and navy return home but her beloved Jim is still needed in Singapore
With family all close by and continuing their lives she can’t wait for the day he comes home to the love of his family and friends in Cliffheaven
Now a new chapter can begin and lives continue back to as near normal as possible
Can’t wait to start the next book and unfortunately getting close to the end of books that Ellie Dean has written so far in the Cliffhaven series
April 30, 2022
Beautiful series & I'm so sad to have finished it. I'll miss them all, but Peggy the most. She's such a sweet, dear character. At times I was so invested, I had to keep reminding myself these are fictional characters!
August 7, 2022
Sad to end these books
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these books, they have made me laugh and cry but must of all have given me an insight into what people endured during the war. The in-depth information about the battles and places has been amazing , it must have taken an enormous amount of research into the battles and places. Thank you so much Ellie for writing these books. I’m sad to have come to the end , it is like missing some good friends.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these books, they have made me laugh and cry but must of all have given me an insight into what people endured during the war. The in-depth information about the battles and places has been amazing , it must have taken an enormous amount of research into the battles and places. Thank you so much Ellie for writing these books. I’m sad to have come to the end , it is like missing some good friends.
February 14, 2020
Read other books in this series and was happy I requested and read this one.
It's an entertaining, poignant and engrossing read that made me root for the characters.
The story flows, the cast of characters is as good as always.
A good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's an entertaining, poignant and engrossing read that made me root for the characters.
The story flows, the cast of characters is as good as always.
A good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
March 26, 2020
This series was the most riveting one I've ever read. I feel as if I personally know each and every one of the characters
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the Cliffehaven series. I couldn't put the books down. I had to know what was in store for the next book. Well written Rosie.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the Cliffehaven series. I couldn't put the books down. I had to know what was in store for the next book. Well written Rosie.
March 11, 2022
What can I say? It's the end of an era, & already I feel bereft.
I shall really miss my visits to Beach View and catching up with Peggy, Ron, Cordelia and all the other inhabitants of Cliffehaven .... 'thank you' seems inadequate, but I do sincerely thank you, Ellie Dean, for creating such a credible world, somewhere I've so enjoyed escaping to.
I shall really miss my visits to Beach View and catching up with Peggy, Ron, Cordelia and all the other inhabitants of Cliffehaven .... 'thank you' seems inadequate, but I do sincerely thank you, Ellie Dean, for creating such a credible world, somewhere I've so enjoyed escaping to.
December 4, 2023
So to the end
I have thoroughly enjoyed every single book of this series about the war and the Reileys and the people of Cliffehaven it has been so well written and I think it took me 3 weeks to read all 18 books, but I will say I'm sorry they've finished but I will go on to read more of Ellie Dean's books
I have thoroughly enjoyed every single book of this series about the war and the Reileys and the people of Cliffehaven it has been so well written and I think it took me 3 weeks to read all 18 books, but I will say I'm sorry they've finished but I will go on to read more of Ellie Dean's books
December 24, 2024
a beautiful story of love, courage and family against all odds
I love this series so much and feel
I should slow down before reaching for the next in the series, but I can’t wait.
I feel I know the family - and chicks - so well that i would know them if I met them. Wonderfully written and so heartbreaking at times too. An emotional series I highly recommend
I love this series so much and feel
I should slow down before reaching for the next in the series, but I can’t wait.
I feel I know the family - and chicks - so well that i would know them if I met them. Wonderfully written and so heartbreaking at times too. An emotional series I highly recommend
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews