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Lantern Square #1-4

The Little Cottage in Lantern Square

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Looking for a fresh start? Welcome to Butterbury... A delightfully heartwarming story, perfect for fans of Holly Hepburn and Cathy Bramley

Step into the magic of Lantern Square...

Hannah went from high flyer in the city to business owner and has never looked back. In the cosy Cotswold village of Butterbury she runs Tied up with String, sending handmade gifts and care packages across the miles, as well as delivering them to people she thinks need them the most.

But when her ex best-friend Georgia turns up and wants in on the action, will Hannah be willing to forgive and forget? With her business in jeopardy she needs to maintain the reputation she's established, and discover who she can trust...

Meanwhile, a mysterious care package lands on her own doorstep at Lantern Cottage. Who is trying to win her heart - and will she ever be willing to give it away?


***

Readers have fallen in love with Lantern

'Such a perfect gift of a book!'
'Another fabulous read filled with happiness and friendship'
'Set in the most picturesque little village and an absolute joy to read'
'What a beautiful story filled with happiness, comedy and lovely characters'
'My favourite type of book - a heart-warming tale of friendship, romance and community spirit'
'Lantern Square sounds a wonderful place to live in and heal your heart'

416 pages, Paperback

Published August 10, 2021

36 people are currently reading
163 people want to read

About the author

Helen Rolfe

69 books129 followers
Helen Rolfe also writes as Helen J. Rolfe

Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.

Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.

Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!

To learn more about Helen, find her at:

www.helenjrolfe.com

https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...

https://twitter.com/hjrolfe

https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/

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5 stars
177 (50%)
4 stars
112 (32%)
3 stars
45 (12%)
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11 (3%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,339 reviews572 followers
January 3, 2021
I found the first half of this story was rather slow and took a while for me to get into properly, but I appreciate it needed to be that way so that you had all the relevant background to the characters, for when it starts to get far more exciting in the second half.

At the point it all clicked for me, this was a book that was very hard to put down indeed and I was really hooked on finding out just what would happen next.

I find that Helen Rolfe comes up with some cracking professions for her main characters and was delighted to see this was no exception. I've never heard of a care package business before, but it's such a lovely concept that I wish someone had ordered one for me!

I also loved Hannah's voluntary work up at the local old people's home, and really enjoyed getting to know some of its key residents, and their favourite genres to read! As you may expect with village life, there is a colourful collection of characters, some of whom seem to be rubbed up the wrong way the second Hannah moves into Lantern Cottage.

But yet its seeing how she interacts and attempts to turn opinion around, and how she tries to integrate herself within the community that I really enjoyed seeing. But is Hannah too trusting and too kind, as ex-best friend and most recent ex-boyfriend both reappear on the scenes, she is tempted to forgive them but can you really trust them?

It seems like everyone is hiding something, some more obvious than others, and in part its discovering everyone's secrets that keeps you reading. Oh and the delicious sounding treats that are baked throughout the village, those are rather tempting too!

This is a really enjoyable, kind hearted book that has a lot going for it. A really pleasant way to spend the time reading it, and it almost had me staying up past 3am to finish it, but then decided I should be sensible and sleep, so finished it as soon as I woke up the next day instead.

Thank you to Orion and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Nila (digitalcreativepages).
2,667 reviews222 followers
December 31, 2020
A sweet read where I got to meet Hannah who had moved away from the city which had left her in a heartbreak. The book was set in a small town where there was an eclectic group of characters, some of them really warm and some spicy. I liked how she was introduced to Rhys and Joe. Things became interesting when her ex along with her old friend entered her life back again.

Having read many books by this author, I loved the writing which gave me a sense of camaraderie and friendship. Being 4 novellas in combination, it showed me Hannah's life over the year. An easy-breezy read that left me feeling warm and cozy inside.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews165 followers
August 21, 2020
Helen Rolfe never disappoints and her stories are always heartwarming and uplifting.
This book was no exception and I loved. Great characters and setting, excellent plot.
I can't wait to read another book by this author.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Profile Image for thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books).
2,811 reviews117 followers
August 18, 2020
Thank you so much Helen for yet another book to fall in love with, another book to shed tears over (both happy and sad), to Want to be part of the community and be in the actual book itself. I adore Helens books so much and this was another amazing contribution from Helen, she hasn’t lost her magic yet ! A great book about love, friendships, community and putting your trust and faith in people (the right ones) absolutely heartwarming read. A pleasure to read.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Profile Image for Jo Kneale.
Author 9 books39 followers
April 25, 2021
A seasonal romance, with a lovely touch in that the main character, Hannah, runs a business sending care packages around the world.... the acknowledgements will have you scooting off to see the website of the lady that helped Helen with the details and I guarantee, if you have the cash and a reason to, you will want to send a care package to someone you know who needs it....

My excuse was a birthday next month and a husband who likes surprises while I really do not.

The friendships across the ages are also lovely. As someone who likes having a wide age range of friendships, it's good to see the older characters are just as individual as the young. I want to grow up to be Mrs Addington. Oh, and to be in the WI!
5 reviews
August 18, 2023
A lovely, gentle summer read. Loved the characters and feel of Lantern Square created by the author.
Profile Image for Joanne D'Arcy.
745 reviews59 followers
August 16, 2020
Hannah is running a business from her little cottage in Lantern Square - Tied up with String. Bringing individual and unique care packages to anyone who requests one. Her only company is her two cats Smokey and Bandit. It is far cry from the life she left behind, a high powered accountancy job, a man with even higher aspirations and a best friend. 

Now it is just her and Hannah is adapting to life in Butterbury where Lantern Square is based and she is throwing herself into community life. We get to meet the gardener Rhys, the local Doctor Joe, the rather fearsome next door neighbour Mrs Leadbetter as well as some more interesting characters in the local old peoples home where Hannah volunteers. 

This book has a real community feel about it and as Hannah starts to fit in, her past starts to appear. 

Luke the man she left to come to Butterbury seeks her out and tries to make her see that she was making a mistake by leaving him. Trouble is Hannah's heart is torn when she finds herself interested in others in the village. Luke is going to have to work hard to win her back, but is he trying too hard?

Then Georgia her former best friend appears, begging forgiveness for an event from their past and Hannah looking for the good in everyone thinks that maybe it is time to move on. But there is something about Georgia that just does not sit right with Hannah and she doesn't know what it is?

As the year progresses and events within the community show how much Hannah loves being in Lantern Square and she soon realises where she should be and who she should be with. But will it all happen in time? 

This is a great comforting read that can be devoured in pretty much one sitting as you feel you are part of the place, you know the characters so well; some lovely, some downright destructive. The events described make you want to join in and feel part of something. It all jumps off the page with great warmth. 

Previously published in four part novellas, this is the complete story in one book - a way I much prefer. This book won't leave you disappointed which the previous one I read did, sometimes books just hit the right spot and this one certainty did.
Profile Image for Roberta.
1,216 reviews18 followers
July 20, 2020
I’ve read two books by this author before, one of which was great, and one of which I didn’t enjoy as much. I decided to have one more go before giving up, and I’m glad I did.

This book was really enjoyable. It was relaxing to read, and there were lots of different likeable characters (as well as one I really disliked right from the start). All of them were well written and had their own stories going on. I loved Hannah, the way she was kind to everyone (except Joe!), and drew them out and got them involved in village life.

I really didn’t enjoy the plot with Georgia though, she’s just such an awful person, and I found it odd that Hannah forgave her so easily, and then took so long to twig to what she was now up to. But there have to be some difficulties in a book or there wouldn’t be any plot! I’m just not a fan of reading about toxic people.

The romance element of the book was a lovely slow burn. The epilogue was much appreciated - I particularly liked the progress that had been made in Hannah’s relationships with Joe and her mum. It tied up the story nicely, with a lovely happy ending.

I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Hayley Marsland.
366 reviews
October 18, 2021
This is only my second book by this author and I really enjoyed it.

I loved the concept of the care packages, what a fun business to run !

Hannah, has only just moved to the Cotswold village of Butterbury - such a delightful name - but she soon integrates herself well, and I especially liked the part where she started volunteering at Butterbury Lodge, the local care home, where she interacts with all the residents, even starting up a book club.

As with all small villages there are plenty of colourful characters, who all have varying backgrounds and stories of their own to tell.

But when Hannah's ex boyfriend and ex best friend, both reappear in her life, will Hannah end up being too trusting of them both again ?

This is such an uplifting book, about new beginnings, second chances, and getting what you really want out of life.
359 reviews5 followers
August 19, 2020
I have read and enjoyed several of Helen Rolfe's previous books, so I was delighted to receive an early preview copy of this book from Netgalley and the Publisher.
This book was originally a four part Novella, so the timescale seems more realistic and slow burning. The book flows well between the four parts, I actually didn't notice when the novellas changed into the next part of the series.
There are some nice characters in this book. The main character Hannah was nice, but a little to trusting and easy to forgive.
I thought that this books was a little predictable, but an easy and enjoyable read. It is a lovely cosy read, perfect for lazy days.
Profile Image for Victoria Wilks.
298 reviews6 followers
February 1, 2021
This was such a gorgeous, enjoyable read.
The setting of the book was idyllic and beautiful. The author brought this wonderful setting to life marvellously and I truly struggled to put this book down!.

Hannah's story was wonderful, yet anything but straight forward. I felt a connection with her instantly, and I really did love the way in which her feelings were portrayed.
Hannah has the biggest, warmest heart that makes her so loveable, and following her story as her relationship with the various characters throughout were wonderfully uplifting.

I truly look forward to another visit to Lantern Square to revisit these wonderful characters.
I adored this book!
Profile Image for Jenn Webley.
401 reviews41 followers
Read
July 13, 2020
I'm a fan of Helen Rolfe. I think she always gives us wonderful stories, locations and characters. This book doesn't disappoint at all.

I love the sense of community spirit and all the characters involved. Hannah is a great part of the community now and shes working hard to establish her small business. Shes a great character and we follow her journey through trials and tribulations.

Well written, with drama, laughter and tears. This book flows nicely having originally been a four novellas.

Highly recommended.
95 reviews
Currently reading
August 7, 2020
A great heartwarming and cozy novel set in the lovely village of Butterbury . Hannah moves to the village from the city after her relationship ends. Here she plans to concentrate on her business of creating care packages. However, past friendships don't always stay in the past and Hannah may need to learn that second chances don't always work.
I loved this village and Hannah's involvement in the community. Ironically I know a woman called Mrs Ledbetter, the nosy and bossy neighbour, and she is exactly like the book's Mrs Ledbetter. Overall a great read.
Profile Image for Lorraine Mullan.
33 reviews1 follower
September 17, 2021
This is the first of Helen Rolfe's books that I've read, but this was a wonderful read. I absolutely loved this story, it brought out all the emotions! Without giving too much of the book away, Hannah is such an easy character to love, and her generous spirit keeps you enthralled! Dr Joe, well what can I say, a ladies man indeed!! The wonderful characters at the Butterbury Lodge and in the square itself, keep you reading! A fantastic read, with a couple of baddies to behold! Thanks Helen Rolfe, I am your newest fan!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rammi.
23 reviews1 follower
July 28, 2020
A beautiful and engaging story of loss, heartbreak, betrayal, friendship and love. But this is not just about romance, it expand to finding yourself and meaningful relationships.
The plot is set in a cute and cozy village of Butterbury where people believe in community building and looking after each other. Our protagonist Hannah seems to be fascinated by this small village and moves here. The plot revolves around her efforts of making a place for herself in this new community while she struggles to sort out things in her own life. The characters are well described and most of them are quite lovable (except few, and that I won’t tell. Read to find out yourself. :). I loved Hannah for her brave spirit and kindness. We would have been good friends, if she was real.

If you love books which are more than a love story and romance, this is for you. It would make a perfect read for winters.

Thank you NetGalley and Orion Publishing for an early review copy in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Susanne Scott.
1,489 reviews19 followers
August 14, 2020
Simply amazing. Perfectly idyllic setting. I loved the multi generational friendships. Hannah’s story was anything but straight forward and my heart went out to her, her feelings for Liam were so pure. Her heart is so huge and it’s only Doctor Joe who can match it. I loved the attraction between then, but also how we only saw Hannah’s side until the ending when Joe tells us his story, which is just as heartbreakingly uplifting as Hannahs.
I enjoyed the idea of creating care packages to show how much you love and care for someone and in a place like Butterbury there will never be a shortage of people caring. I really enjoyed reading about Rhys too and I have my fingers crossed for another visit to Lantern square to read his and Millys story.
An unbelievable good feel read.
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,419 reviews12 followers
November 15, 2020
A beautifully written book, culminating at Christmas Time, so whilst not a Christmas book per se, it's still a Christmas Tale.

Hannah moves into Lantern Square and quickly becomes part of the community, endearing herself to the residents living there and to the older people living at the nearby care home.

Hannah has a past which has caused her heartache, and when she sees someone from her past, things come to a head. Will her new found friends help her?

I loved this book, a really good afternoon read snuggled by the fire with hot chocolate!

Well worth a read.
Profile Image for Jeanie.
729 reviews16 followers
July 7, 2020
With thanks to netgalley and Helen Rolfe for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Having read all of this author's work again she brings out an other amazing work of art.
Helen has an amazing way of making you feel your actually part of the book which for me is so important I have nothing but praise for this
FULL- THROTTLE TRUMPET- TOOTING EXTRAVAGANZA OF A BOOK.
Profile Image for Clare Moore.
486 reviews2 followers
July 19, 2020
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Another brilliant book from Helen.
Hannah arrives in Lantern Square putting her past behind or so she thinks. Luke and Georgia try to worm their way back into Hannah’s life but will she let them. A great book about community spirit and friendship.
Profile Image for Holly Rose.
78 reviews16 followers
July 22, 2020
A super sweet, slow burn, easy read romance. Perfect for autumn/winter seasons when you’re settling down in front of the fire and want something to fill your heart. Although I guessed part of the plot, but I’m not sure if it was meant to be something readers worked out themselves, there were still pleasant surprises throughout!
Profile Image for Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey.
1,480 reviews71 followers
July 27, 2020
A beautiful read about friendships of all sorts and ages. Lantern Square sounds a wonderful place to live in and heal your heart, and I'd definitely be up for moving into one of the cosy cottages if one becomes available! Helen Rolfe has done it again in creating such a hug in a book, and I'd recommend this heartwarming story to anyone with a heart.
Profile Image for Rachel.
144 reviews4 followers
August 21, 2020
Be transported to Lantern Square in this lovely book.

Hannah decides to make a fresh start and in this novel we follow the ups and downs.

I liked Hannah as a character - she's kind, generous with her time and loving. I love how she throws herself completely into the local community!

A very enjoyable book, I must go back and read the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Gemma B-C.
94 reviews2 followers
February 24, 2023
Sad to say this just missed the mark. Only a handful of 30 second scenes with the two lead characters so you didn’t feel any chemistry or build up with them. There was a lot more time spent explaining detail of unnecessary things than of character backgrounds.

I really enjoyed the heritage cove series from the same author so I expected to enjoy this.
253 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2025
Lantern Square

This book was so lovely it made me want to go and visit this lovely place. I even think I might like to live there. The osey neighbours who turned out to just be lonely. The doctor always had lots of lady visitors . The care home that Hannah visited. It all sounds so idyllic. I will be recommending this one to my friends for sure.
Profile Image for Kristyn Rose.
567 reviews
September 10, 2020
The story is cute but the description of the village is much cuter. The plot is extremely predictable, with the foreshadowing very heavy-handed. The author introduces way too many details and characters, but fortunately you don’t have to retain most of them to make sense of the it.
41 reviews
February 22, 2021
It was predictable. Could imagine it as a Made for TV afternoon movie. However, I liked the escape factor, the idyllic village setting and abundance of lively, quirky characters. The plot isn't going to set the world on fire but it was uplifting and with everything going on in the world right now I think we could all do with a bit of that.
Profile Image for Catherine Tempany.
180 reviews11 followers
April 25, 2022
Audiobook listen.

I found the first half of this really painful, just couldn’t get into it and nearly gave up - slow to get going, full of cliches and very repetitive.

Pleased I didn’t give up as the second half was much more enjoyable.

Good narration from Karen Casa as always.
135 reviews
March 16, 2024
Another lovely story from Helen Rolfe.
I want to live in Butterbury with the wonderful community spirit.
I love all the old uns at the Lodge & that they’ve still got something to offer.
Can’t wait to read another of her books.
7 reviews
May 28, 2025
A delightful read

Looking forwards to further. Books about lantern square. There are so many characters that live there I cannot wait form next story.
Thank you for making me forget my cares.
165 reviews3 followers
August 4, 2020
A truly beautiful story. I loved every single character and really want to visit this quaint and friendly village. A little bit of Christmas is always a good idea....no matter what month you’re in!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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