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The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen
This is a novel about community, love, laughter and healing. Think Cold Feet meets David Nicholls, with a dash of the joy of Jill Mansell added for good measure.
It doesn't look like much from the outside, but Cherry Blossom Mews is a miraculous place. It's somewhere that finds you, rather than the other way around.
Sadie McQueen has leased a double fronted space in this small cul de sac in a culturally diverse corner of central London. The cobbles muffle the noise of double-deckers roaring past the arched gates. Turn right and you are in a futuristic maze of corporate glass monoliths. Turn left and you see a wide street with many different houses. Towering above the mews are the degenerating tower blocks of an infamous estate. The old folks home and the nearby school are both in need of TLC; the private members' club that set up shop in a listed Georgian building has been discreetly refurbished at huge expense.
Into this confusion comes Sadie. She fell in love with the street the moment she first twisted her ankle on its cobbles. Her double-fronted unit is now a spa. She has sunk all her money into the lease and refurbishment. She's sunk all her hope into the carefully designed treatment rooms, the calm white reception space, the bijou flat carved out of the floor above.
Sadie has a mission to connect. To heal herself from tragedy. Sadie has wrapped the mews around her like a warm blanket, after unimaginable loss and unimaginable guilt. Her hard-won peace is threatened, not only by the prospect of the mews going under but by a man aptly named Hero who wakes up her comatose heart. Sadie has a lot to give, and a lot to learn, not least that some ghosts aren't ghosts at all. Praise for Juliet Ashton's
‘A warming testament to the elasticity and enduring love of true family bonds. I adored this book' Penny Parkes
'Fresh, funny and utterly fabulous’ Heat
‘A joy from start to finish. The relationships within the family ring so true. And the twists kept me guessing. A beautiful book’ Laura Kemp
It doesn't look like much from the outside, but Cherry Blossom Mews is a miraculous place. It's somewhere that finds you, rather than the other way around.
Sadie McQueen has leased a double fronted space in this small cul de sac in a culturally diverse corner of central London. The cobbles muffle the noise of double-deckers roaring past the arched gates. Turn right and you are in a futuristic maze of corporate glass monoliths. Turn left and you see a wide street with many different houses. Towering above the mews are the degenerating tower blocks of an infamous estate. The old folks home and the nearby school are both in need of TLC; the private members' club that set up shop in a listed Georgian building has been discreetly refurbished at huge expense.
Into this confusion comes Sadie. She fell in love with the street the moment she first twisted her ankle on its cobbles. Her double-fronted unit is now a spa. She has sunk all her money into the lease and refurbishment. She's sunk all her hope into the carefully designed treatment rooms, the calm white reception space, the bijou flat carved out of the floor above.
Sadie has a mission to connect. To heal herself from tragedy. Sadie has wrapped the mews around her like a warm blanket, after unimaginable loss and unimaginable guilt. Her hard-won peace is threatened, not only by the prospect of the mews going under but by a man aptly named Hero who wakes up her comatose heart. Sadie has a lot to give, and a lot to learn, not least that some ghosts aren't ghosts at all. Praise for Juliet Ashton's
‘A warming testament to the elasticity and enduring love of true family bonds. I adored this book' Penny Parkes
'Fresh, funny and utterly fabulous’ Heat
‘A joy from start to finish. The relationships within the family ring so true. And the twists kept me guessing. A beautiful book’ Laura Kemp
480 pages, Paperback
Published December 29, 2019
57 people are currently reading
509 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
December 6, 2019
Juliet Ashton writes about a small community of culturally diverse individuals living in a corner of London who regularly meet at their residents association meetings, a time to exchange news and gossip whilst they support each other at the same time. Sadie McQueen lives on Cherry Blossom Mews, which may not look like much from the outside but which means everything to her. You can understand why that it is the case when you start to get to grips with the horrors of her tragic past, her losses, grief and terrible guilt. She has sunk everything into her spa, named Sakura, employing Fi and although she really didn't mean to, the outspoken, without a filter, in your face Cher, as the receptionist. U-Turn, a therapy centre for alcohol addiction is facing some opposition in locating itself in this area, although once Hero turns up in support, this mostly dies away.
Right from the start there is a immediate connection between Hero and Sadie, a connection that Sadie initially avoids. She visits her husband, Jack, a yacht designer, at his grave to commune with him, often feeling his presence, and to confess her feelings for Hero. Hero is a divorced father, he married young, to the famous social media personality, Zizzi, but it turned out to be a mistake, although he has a 12 year old son from the marriage. Hero and Zizzi wanted different things in life, she wanted fame and riches whilst he wanted to make a difference, until the parting of ways and the traumatic divorce. Somehow, Sadie finds herself telling Hero about a past she never talks about, and Hero confides about his personal history to her. Sadie begins to find a measure of light after the endless darkness that had consumed her for so long.
This is a novel about this small community, Amber with her Yummy Mummy, Bob and Mrs Bobs with their cafe, the elderly Mary, Fi, Cher and the others, about secrets and lies, finding warmth and support amongst each other, bonds not of blood, but just as strong and of friendship. Many serious issues are covered, social media, abuse, alcoholism, addictions and abuse. As in real life, there are problems, but there is so much more, interspersed with a strong sense of humanity. A lovely immersive read with characters and London community that captured my interest. Many thanks to Simon and Schuster for an ARC.
Right from the start there is a immediate connection between Hero and Sadie, a connection that Sadie initially avoids. She visits her husband, Jack, a yacht designer, at his grave to commune with him, often feeling his presence, and to confess her feelings for Hero. Hero is a divorced father, he married young, to the famous social media personality, Zizzi, but it turned out to be a mistake, although he has a 12 year old son from the marriage. Hero and Zizzi wanted different things in life, she wanted fame and riches whilst he wanted to make a difference, until the parting of ways and the traumatic divorce. Somehow, Sadie finds herself telling Hero about a past she never talks about, and Hero confides about his personal history to her. Sadie begins to find a measure of light after the endless darkness that had consumed her for so long.
This is a novel about this small community, Amber with her Yummy Mummy, Bob and Mrs Bobs with their cafe, the elderly Mary, Fi, Cher and the others, about secrets and lies, finding warmth and support amongst each other, bonds not of blood, but just as strong and of friendship. Many serious issues are covered, social media, abuse, alcoholism, addictions and abuse. As in real life, there are problems, but there is so much more, interspersed with a strong sense of humanity. A lovely immersive read with characters and London community that captured my interest. Many thanks to Simon and Schuster for an ARC.
June 28, 2020
How I read this: Free ebook copy received through NetGalley
I am tempted to start this review with a letter to the author. And if I did, it would go something like this:
Dear Juliet Ashton,
please write another book.
And another, and then another.
And just keep going!
Also, I know I may be pushing it here, but…
Can we have like…One every month?
Cause I need another one NOW!!!
Yours, Swooning Fan
If you want to read more about why I feel like that, visit the full blog post and witness me gushing about the quirky but realistic cast, heart-breaking problems, but heart-warming solutions, found families and adorable romance! Here's the full blog post:
Triggers:
This book is as beautiful as it is sad, so there are quite a few triggers. They include: However, you have to keep in mind that while the list of triggers is long, none of them are shocking or unexpected, even overly stress inducing. They won't be sprung on you. Most of them are part of the characters' histories, except for the big ones which are part the main character's current life.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
I am tempted to start this review with a letter to the author. And if I did, it would go something like this:
Dear Juliet Ashton,
please write another book.
And another, and then another.
And just keep going!
Also, I know I may be pushing it here, but…
Can we have like…One every month?
Cause I need another one NOW!!!
Yours, Swooning Fan
If you want to read more about why I feel like that, visit the full blog post and witness me gushing about the quirky but realistic cast, heart-breaking problems, but heart-warming solutions, found families and adorable romance! Here's the full blog post:
Triggers:
This book is as beautiful as it is sad, so there are quite a few triggers. They include: However, you have to keep in mind that while the list of triggers is long, none of them are shocking or unexpected, even overly stress inducing. They won't be sprung on you. Most of them are part of the characters' histories, except for the big ones which are part the main character's current life.
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
Book Blog | Bookstagram | Bookish Twitter
February 5, 2021
I've read Juliet Ashton books before and really enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to reading this.
But it turned out to be a disappointment.
The story itself is just that bit too far fetched and the characters were just a bit too text book twee.
But it turned out to be a disappointment.
The story itself is just that bit too far fetched and the characters were just a bit too text book twee.
January 1, 2020
What a book this is as it takes you on a journey of ups and downs in the life of Sadie McQueen.
And also the rest of the residents of The Cherry Blossom Mews, The book is written so that each chapter features their next weekly residents meeting which they take turns to hold, and allows us to really get to know all the residents of the Mews in a great way.
Sadie is the main character and she has a tragic backstory and its trying to overcome certain things in her life. There are elements of what happens involving her in the book that had me gasping out loud.
There are so many threads of story-line and I really enjoyed all of them. All the characters have distinct personalities, and I loved getting to know them all.
This is a sensitively written, at times emotional, and generally heartwarming story. Although I'd expect nothing less from this always enjoyable author.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And also the rest of the residents of The Cherry Blossom Mews, The book is written so that each chapter features their next weekly residents meeting which they take turns to hold, and allows us to really get to know all the residents of the Mews in a great way.
Sadie is the main character and she has a tragic backstory and its trying to overcome certain things in her life. There are elements of what happens involving her in the book that had me gasping out loud.
There are so many threads of story-line and I really enjoyed all of them. All the characters have distinct personalities, and I loved getting to know them all.
This is a sensitively written, at times emotional, and generally heartwarming story. Although I'd expect nothing less from this always enjoyable author.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 23, 2019
Sadie McQueen has rented a unit in the small idyll that is Cherry Tree Mews. I gated community in the centre of London, surrounded by glass monoliths, degenerating tower blocks and a rather dodgy housing estate. But the mews and its occupants have become Sadie’s family, her security blanket to heal from the tragedy she keeps close to her heart and the guilt that eats away at her.
That is until a newcomer to their inner circle, aptly named Hero, begins to awaken her heart to love, and above all possibilities.
Although it’s early days for reviews on this book, I do seem to be in the minority already. I didn’t find it that enjoyable. I couldn’t put my finger on whether it was the authors style, having not read any of her other titles, or whether it was due to a lack of connection with the characters. At times I did find some parts funny, but I never held any empathy for them and their situations.
I find this quite sad, as it held a lot of promise with the tough and very current subjects Ashton was covering. Mental health, addiction, domestic abuse and many more difficult matters are faced within these pages, but I continued to skim read unconcerned for the protagonist’s feelings or wellbeing.
This won’t put me off reading another book from this author in the future, I try to take each book as it comes and this one just wasn’t for me.
** Thanks to Simon & Schuster UK, via NetGalley, for this ARC **
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
That is until a newcomer to their inner circle, aptly named Hero, begins to awaken her heart to love, and above all possibilities.
Although it’s early days for reviews on this book, I do seem to be in the minority already. I didn’t find it that enjoyable. I couldn’t put my finger on whether it was the authors style, having not read any of her other titles, or whether it was due to a lack of connection with the characters. At times I did find some parts funny, but I never held any empathy for them and their situations.
I find this quite sad, as it held a lot of promise with the tough and very current subjects Ashton was covering. Mental health, addiction, domestic abuse and many more difficult matters are faced within these pages, but I continued to skim read unconcerned for the protagonist’s feelings or wellbeing.
This won’t put me off reading another book from this author in the future, I try to take each book as it comes and this one just wasn’t for me.
** Thanks to Simon & Schuster UK, via NetGalley, for this ARC **
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
January 11, 2020
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/roman...
Sadie intrigued me from the beginning. I wanted to know more about her guilt from three years ago and what motivated her. The clues are really well timed and by the time we know the whole story, I had so much love for her (I must admit I made some assumptions in the beginning which were way out). Although she’s vulnerable I thought she had so much strength.
The characters’ idiosyncrasies come into play at the weekly Residents’ Association meetings and through Sadie, we get to know more about them throughout the week. The timing of new characters is perfect and add even more colour to their lives.
I really enjoyed Juliet Ashton’s writing style. For instance:
“ the family ties so slack they trailed on the floor.”
“You must be super fit by now, all the jumping to conclusions you do.”
I enjoyed the dry wit and humour which balances out the heartbreak of the theme.
When I found myself getting comfortable with the story and thinking I had it sussed, WHAM, another shock is thrown into their lives. I didn’t see any of these things coming and loved the new path the story followed. It certainly kept me alert and engaged. 🙂
The Cherry Blossom Mews community drew me into their everyday lives, so much so, I continued to think about the characters long after the story ended.
The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is a must read. I urge you to add to your wishlist.
Sadie intrigued me from the beginning. I wanted to know more about her guilt from three years ago and what motivated her. The clues are really well timed and by the time we know the whole story, I had so much love for her (I must admit I made some assumptions in the beginning which were way out). Although she’s vulnerable I thought she had so much strength.
The characters’ idiosyncrasies come into play at the weekly Residents’ Association meetings and through Sadie, we get to know more about them throughout the week. The timing of new characters is perfect and add even more colour to their lives.
I really enjoyed Juliet Ashton’s writing style. For instance:
“ the family ties so slack they trailed on the floor.”
“You must be super fit by now, all the jumping to conclusions you do.”
I enjoyed the dry wit and humour which balances out the heartbreak of the theme.
When I found myself getting comfortable with the story and thinking I had it sussed, WHAM, another shock is thrown into their lives. I didn’t see any of these things coming and loved the new path the story followed. It certainly kept me alert and engaged. 🙂
The Cherry Blossom Mews community drew me into their everyday lives, so much so, I continued to think about the characters long after the story ended.
The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is a must read. I urge you to add to your wishlist.
November 30, 2022
second book i’ve read by juilet ashton and i’ve loved them both so much, they’re just heartwarming and she’s an amazing story teller. the elaine woman at the end was kinda weird considering she had no lines so idk why they added her…
December 26, 2022
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Juliet Ashton
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Contemporary Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 26th December 2019
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3/5
It literally is a case of it's not you, it's me, here.
Although I can already see I am in the minority of this opinion, but I feel 3/5 was quite generous to award considering my true feelings on the book. However, I realise that me not enjoying it was more of a self issue rather than a writing issue, so I felt like the safe bet would be to rate it as average, as I do feel this book would cater to a lot of readers and I wouldn't want this review putting them off because there were some parts I definitely did enjoy. Overall, though, I simply couldn't lose myself in this book.
I commend the author for writing about many tough subjects; mental health, alcohol addiction, unconventional raising of kids, stereotyping, domestic violence, survivors guilt, terminal illness, the list could go on. But I personally feel that there were too many bleak subjects throughout the book for me to really connect and relate to one, there was so much going on constantly that in fact the book left me a little stressed out.
Although I really liked the community spirit which was portrayed really well, I struggled to emotionally connect to any of the character's, again, I feel like this was because there was so much going on in each of their lives that it left me too drained to really root for anybody.
I guess the entire read wasn't as uplifting as I thought and wanted it to be and if I am being completely honest, put me into quite a hefty two month reading slump.
Saying that, I have read other reviews that really enjoyed the multiple complex life stories of the characters in Cherry Mews, I am disappointed I was so drained by it.
Thank you to Net Galley and Simon and Schuster UK for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Juliet Ashton
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Contemporary Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 26th December 2019
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3/5
It literally is a case of it's not you, it's me, here.
Although I can already see I am in the minority of this opinion, but I feel 3/5 was quite generous to award considering my true feelings on the book. However, I realise that me not enjoying it was more of a self issue rather than a writing issue, so I felt like the safe bet would be to rate it as average, as I do feel this book would cater to a lot of readers and I wouldn't want this review putting them off because there were some parts I definitely did enjoy. Overall, though, I simply couldn't lose myself in this book.
I commend the author for writing about many tough subjects; mental health, alcohol addiction, unconventional raising of kids, stereotyping, domestic violence, survivors guilt, terminal illness, the list could go on. But I personally feel that there were too many bleak subjects throughout the book for me to really connect and relate to one, there was so much going on constantly that in fact the book left me a little stressed out.
Although I really liked the community spirit which was portrayed really well, I struggled to emotionally connect to any of the character's, again, I feel like this was because there was so much going on in each of their lives that it left me too drained to really root for anybody.
I guess the entire read wasn't as uplifting as I thought and wanted it to be and if I am being completely honest, put me into quite a hefty two month reading slump.
Saying that, I have read other reviews that really enjoyed the multiple complex life stories of the characters in Cherry Mews, I am disappointed I was so drained by it.
Thank you to Net Galley and Simon and Schuster UK for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
May 25, 2020
I want to say this was an emotional rollercoaster that touches on some major subjects but I found myself skim reading it as I just didn’t care enough?
January 7, 2020
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
I feel so sorry for any books I read after this one as Sadie McQueen is going to be a tough act to follow! This was incredible!!!!! Emotional, humourous, romantic, dynamic, relatable....honestly, it had everything I could have wanted from a book and more. I was gutted when it finished.
Everyone who lives in Cherry Blossom Mews has a unique story to tell. If you sat down with any one of the residents, you'll end up finding out much more than you bargained for. However, despite all of the individual heartache, despair, uncertainty and what not, every single resident has one thing in common; they want to belong.
Sadie McQueen is the main character of the book, and her story had my jaw hitting the floor in shock. How one person can pull themselves through what she did is just incredible. She doesnt see how strong she is, but, given the truth of her past, can you really blame her?
Family (both blood and self picked) is at the heart of this storyline. Juliet Ashton doesnt say that every family is perfect and without problems, nor does she suggest that every family can rival the ones on Eastenders, instead the author has made her characters relatable. She has made them endure things that one of us could relate, empathise with, acknowledge, or even learn from. You never know the full truth of what someone else is dealing with unless they come out and tell you themselves, and this book highlights that fact, and the way that people are so quick to come to their own conclusions, absolutely beautifully.
At times, #SadieMcQueen was quite a difficult book to read in terms of the deep rooted discussions, serious topics, and the way in which many of the characters had been deceived. On the other side of the coin, Sadie McQueen was also empowering, hopeful, full of strength. In other words, the storyline had the right mix of paths, and it all came together to create such a powerful story that warmed my heart.
I could sit here and say what all of the characters had gone through, but I won't because, even if I did drop hints, it would take the shine away from the authors hard work. I'm basically saying to you that spoilers suck!
I absolutely adored finding out about all the different walks of life in the Mews, and I just loved the strength of the community spirit and the way spirit everyone came together to help one of their own. It didn't seem to matter whether Fi was going through hard times herself, she would still be there for her best friend, Sadie, should she need her and visa versa.
The best part of the book for me, was the way in which Juliet Ashton came alive in her storytelling. I could feel the emotion behind the words when it was needed, yet I could also feel the elation and hope fulness too.
I truly couldn't have asked for anything more from 'The Rise and Fall of Sadie McQueen' - it's a story that has truly captured my heart and soul and, if I may say so, is probably the best book that Juliet Ashton has written so far.
What an empowering, insightful, emotional and spellbinding way to start the New Year. Juliet Ashton, you have done Sadie and co, proud. This was magnificent!
Ps. Is it too early to read it again?!
I feel so sorry for any books I read after this one as Sadie McQueen is going to be a tough act to follow! This was incredible!!!!! Emotional, humourous, romantic, dynamic, relatable....honestly, it had everything I could have wanted from a book and more. I was gutted when it finished.
Everyone who lives in Cherry Blossom Mews has a unique story to tell. If you sat down with any one of the residents, you'll end up finding out much more than you bargained for. However, despite all of the individual heartache, despair, uncertainty and what not, every single resident has one thing in common; they want to belong.
Sadie McQueen is the main character of the book, and her story had my jaw hitting the floor in shock. How one person can pull themselves through what she did is just incredible. She doesnt see how strong she is, but, given the truth of her past, can you really blame her?
Family (both blood and self picked) is at the heart of this storyline. Juliet Ashton doesnt say that every family is perfect and without problems, nor does she suggest that every family can rival the ones on Eastenders, instead the author has made her characters relatable. She has made them endure things that one of us could relate, empathise with, acknowledge, or even learn from. You never know the full truth of what someone else is dealing with unless they come out and tell you themselves, and this book highlights that fact, and the way that people are so quick to come to their own conclusions, absolutely beautifully.
At times, #SadieMcQueen was quite a difficult book to read in terms of the deep rooted discussions, serious topics, and the way in which many of the characters had been deceived. On the other side of the coin, Sadie McQueen was also empowering, hopeful, full of strength. In other words, the storyline had the right mix of paths, and it all came together to create such a powerful story that warmed my heart.
I could sit here and say what all of the characters had gone through, but I won't because, even if I did drop hints, it would take the shine away from the authors hard work. I'm basically saying to you that spoilers suck!
I absolutely adored finding out about all the different walks of life in the Mews, and I just loved the strength of the community spirit and the way spirit everyone came together to help one of their own. It didn't seem to matter whether Fi was going through hard times herself, she would still be there for her best friend, Sadie, should she need her and visa versa.
The best part of the book for me, was the way in which Juliet Ashton came alive in her storytelling. I could feel the emotion behind the words when it was needed, yet I could also feel the elation and hope fulness too.
I truly couldn't have asked for anything more from 'The Rise and Fall of Sadie McQueen' - it's a story that has truly captured my heart and soul and, if I may say so, is probably the best book that Juliet Ashton has written so far.
What an empowering, insightful, emotional and spellbinding way to start the New Year. Juliet Ashton, you have done Sadie and co, proud. This was magnificent!
Ps. Is it too early to read it again?!
January 1, 2020
Oh what a sparkling gem of a book! I immediately fell in love with all the varied characters in this book, all gorgeous, endearing, charming but broken residents of Cherry Blossom Mews where this wonderful community live and work, and ultimately heal each other through love, friendship, compassion and humour.
From Sadie who is clearly escaping an unhappy past in Suffolk where she lost both her husband and daughter in a car accident, to Hero, the handsome man in charge of U-Turn, a charity that helps people fight their addictions, to Cher Mogg, sister of the notorious criminal twins, who bucks the trend to become the much loved, reliable receptionist at Sakura Spa, owned and run by Sadie. There is also Michael, who owns Qwerty bookshop. Is he in love with Sadie or do his affections lie elsewhere? Meet Mary, the eighty year old lady who runs MOBuk charity shop, owns a dog, (currently looking after Noel VI) and who is responsible for another charity that no-one else know about, and Fi, a feisty larger lady who has a hopeless love life, a love of calorific treats and gives massages at the spa. The group also includes Mr and Mrs Bob who run the 'caff' and Amber, Insta influencer who does a very bad job of being a business woman with her Yummy Mummy Café and Party Emporium. Enter Grace, who rents studio space to create her art and give exhibitions at her gallery. There are other characters too which I won't mention so that you can discover them for yourself, but rest assured all of them become deliciously entwined in each other's lives for better or for worse.
Common to all the residents of Cherry Blossom Mews is heartbreak, they are all carrying emotional burdens and all require the help of one another to carry on with hope in their souls. This happens slowly but surely by way of a weekly residents' meeting, where each of the motley crew take it in turns to host and send out (funny) emails about upcoming meetings. Of course, there are lots of adventures in between the meetings that will make you smile, laugh, cry and sigh.
There are a lot of coincidences that most likely are too absurd to happen in real life, but in this book, everything that happens happens for a reason and the end result is that although life can be cruel, pain can be embraced, and new joys can be found as long as we have people who care around to join us in life's rich journey.
From Sadie who is clearly escaping an unhappy past in Suffolk where she lost both her husband and daughter in a car accident, to Hero, the handsome man in charge of U-Turn, a charity that helps people fight their addictions, to Cher Mogg, sister of the notorious criminal twins, who bucks the trend to become the much loved, reliable receptionist at Sakura Spa, owned and run by Sadie. There is also Michael, who owns Qwerty bookshop. Is he in love with Sadie or do his affections lie elsewhere? Meet Mary, the eighty year old lady who runs MOBuk charity shop, owns a dog, (currently looking after Noel VI) and who is responsible for another charity that no-one else know about, and Fi, a feisty larger lady who has a hopeless love life, a love of calorific treats and gives massages at the spa. The group also includes Mr and Mrs Bob who run the 'caff' and Amber, Insta influencer who does a very bad job of being a business woman with her Yummy Mummy Café and Party Emporium. Enter Grace, who rents studio space to create her art and give exhibitions at her gallery. There are other characters too which I won't mention so that you can discover them for yourself, but rest assured all of them become deliciously entwined in each other's lives for better or for worse.
Common to all the residents of Cherry Blossom Mews is heartbreak, they are all carrying emotional burdens and all require the help of one another to carry on with hope in their souls. This happens slowly but surely by way of a weekly residents' meeting, where each of the motley crew take it in turns to host and send out (funny) emails about upcoming meetings. Of course, there are lots of adventures in between the meetings that will make you smile, laugh, cry and sigh.
There are a lot of coincidences that most likely are too absurd to happen in real life, but in this book, everything that happens happens for a reason and the end result is that although life can be cruel, pain can be embraced, and new joys can be found as long as we have people who care around to join us in life's rich journey.
February 8, 2020
If your favoured reading material is a compelling tale with a good sprinkling of relationships, imperfection, hope, secrets and humour then The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen by
Juliet Ashton
is a must-read for you!
Sadie McQueen lives on Cherry Blossom Mews, an unassuming street in a corner of London. She attends weekly Residents’ Association meetings for support, to share news and a natter, and through Sadie, the reader gets to know more about Sadie herself and the other characters in the story.
From the outset there was so much happening in this wonderful tale of friendship, guilt, grief, happiness and life! At times, this was a very empowering and hopeful read that was full of strength and a keen sense of humanity. On the flip side, it was quite a difficult book regarding the deep rooted discussions and serious topics it contained, as well as the way in which many of the characters had been deceived. The story-line was a perfect cocktail of different courses and characters that blended naturally to create a heartwarming, powerful story.
I was totally smitten with this book. Juliet Ashton instantly drew me in with her thoughtful and exceptional writing. The story-line and plot were both highly intriguing and extremely emotional. There was a whole raft of characters that Sadie encountered who helped to support her as she as she gradually came to accept herself, her experiences and traumas. The story was witty and amusing in parts and the serious issues were tackled with empathy and compassion.
Although one or two of the scenarios necessitated the suspension of disbelief, the characters were all wonderfully solid and and I felt like I had met them all personally. The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is my first by Juliet Ashton and there was no room for repetitiveness or boredom here!
I recommend this novel without a flicker of hesitation, so don’t miss out!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Simon and Schuster UK via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Sadie McQueen lives on Cherry Blossom Mews, an unassuming street in a corner of London. She attends weekly Residents’ Association meetings for support, to share news and a natter, and through Sadie, the reader gets to know more about Sadie herself and the other characters in the story.
From the outset there was so much happening in this wonderful tale of friendship, guilt, grief, happiness and life! At times, this was a very empowering and hopeful read that was full of strength and a keen sense of humanity. On the flip side, it was quite a difficult book regarding the deep rooted discussions and serious topics it contained, as well as the way in which many of the characters had been deceived. The story-line was a perfect cocktail of different courses and characters that blended naturally to create a heartwarming, powerful story.
I was totally smitten with this book. Juliet Ashton instantly drew me in with her thoughtful and exceptional writing. The story-line and plot were both highly intriguing and extremely emotional. There was a whole raft of characters that Sadie encountered who helped to support her as she as she gradually came to accept herself, her experiences and traumas. The story was witty and amusing in parts and the serious issues were tackled with empathy and compassion.
Although one or two of the scenarios necessitated the suspension of disbelief, the characters were all wonderfully solid and and I felt like I had met them all personally. The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is my first by Juliet Ashton and there was no room for repetitiveness or boredom here!
I recommend this novel without a flicker of hesitation, so don’t miss out!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Simon and Schuster UK via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
December 28, 2019
Oh my goodness I absolutely LOVED this book.
The fall and rise of Sadie McQueen is a wonderfully quirky novel full of eccentric, endearing characters that make this such an uplifting read.
I don’t know quite what I was expecting, having read a previous novel by this author, The Sunday Lunch club. For me her latest offering is far superior and more along the lines of a Ruth Hogan novel (which is high praise!!).
The novel centres around the residents of Cherry Blossom mews, home to these wonderful characters and their businesses. It’s hard to pick out a favourite, each one likeable for their idiosyncrasies, from Mary and doggy companion Noel to Bob and Mrs Bob who run the cafe to Hero, recovering alcoholic fronting U-Turn, a place to support and advise others in the same position.
Of course Sadie McQueen takes centre stage, owner of Sakura, a spa, alongside her employees Fi and Cher.
This is a novel about community, taking care of one another and how family doesn’t necessarily mean blood relations. Full of humour, I found this to be such a heartwarming read. It’s also about love and letting go with more than a few surprises along the way. These ‘surprises’ most definitely set this book apart from the comforting, happy ever after ending type that I thought this might turn out to be.
Sadie, for all her flaws, is immensely lovable and a strong character and has faced such tragedy but is still fighting. Together with all the other residents, many of whom are fighting their own demons, the author takes us on a magical journey through the ups and downs of Sadie’s life so we learn of the reasons behind her darkest days until her days become more and more filled with sunshine.
The residents meetings they have are hilarious and whilst pointless are essential to this little community . Maybe a little bit sentimental in places but I can overlook that since I loved the writing style and the humour that the author portrays even in the strangest of circumstances.
These are characters that stay in your mind long after the last page and I can’t recommend it enough!! This is actually one of my favourite novels of the whole year and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Thanks as always to the author and publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read in exchange for an honest review.
The fall and rise of Sadie McQueen is a wonderfully quirky novel full of eccentric, endearing characters that make this such an uplifting read.
I don’t know quite what I was expecting, having read a previous novel by this author, The Sunday Lunch club. For me her latest offering is far superior and more along the lines of a Ruth Hogan novel (which is high praise!!).
The novel centres around the residents of Cherry Blossom mews, home to these wonderful characters and their businesses. It’s hard to pick out a favourite, each one likeable for their idiosyncrasies, from Mary and doggy companion Noel to Bob and Mrs Bob who run the cafe to Hero, recovering alcoholic fronting U-Turn, a place to support and advise others in the same position.
Of course Sadie McQueen takes centre stage, owner of Sakura, a spa, alongside her employees Fi and Cher.
This is a novel about community, taking care of one another and how family doesn’t necessarily mean blood relations. Full of humour, I found this to be such a heartwarming read. It’s also about love and letting go with more than a few surprises along the way. These ‘surprises’ most definitely set this book apart from the comforting, happy ever after ending type that I thought this might turn out to be.
Sadie, for all her flaws, is immensely lovable and a strong character and has faced such tragedy but is still fighting. Together with all the other residents, many of whom are fighting their own demons, the author takes us on a magical journey through the ups and downs of Sadie’s life so we learn of the reasons behind her darkest days until her days become more and more filled with sunshine.
The residents meetings they have are hilarious and whilst pointless are essential to this little community . Maybe a little bit sentimental in places but I can overlook that since I loved the writing style and the humour that the author portrays even in the strangest of circumstances.
These are characters that stay in your mind long after the last page and I can’t recommend it enough!! This is actually one of my favourite novels of the whole year and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Thanks as always to the author and publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2020
Sadie McQueen lives on Cherry Blossom Mews, in a community that - you quickly start to learn - is made up of people that are in troubles, have problems, tragic pasts, feel no hope, and even if they don't realise this, the landlord of the mews has realised it and amassed all those lost souls together. The residents meet regularly at their association meetings where they are supposed to have an "agenda" but the meetings always end with gossip and exchanging news. They support each other incredibly, even if they do this without knowing this.
The little community means everything to Sadie. It is a place where she can heal her heart and start her life again after a tragic event in the past. She sets up Sakura, a spa, where she employs the incredibly honest and mouthy Fi and, even if she isn't sure if it's a good move, Cher, a sister to the local mafia - twins. And then U - Turn, a therapy centre for addicted moves to the mews, even with some opposition from the neighbours, and there is Hero, and Sadie has a chance to move with him, to come out of her shell, maybe even find love, but can she forgive herself for what has happened in the past?
It is really, really hard to write review for this book, I actually put it off for the last moment, a day or two before my stop on the blog tour, and the reason for this is very obvious - this book is so wonderful, this book is everything, this book is a gem of a read - what more can I say? I loved it from the beginning to the end, lived and breathed with the characters and yes, it left me in pieces but also feeling so positive.
Juliet Ashton can for sure write her characters, giving them incredibly huge personalities. The banter and interactions between them feel so real, raw and genuine. There is a whole eclectic bunch of them, all so different and with different personalities but all with strong, distinctive voices and you can't help but immediately fell in love with all of them. Amber and her Yummy Mummy Cafe and Party Emporium, serving all things vegan and showing her perfect live on Instagram. Bob and Mrs. Bob with their cafe, Mary with the dogs, slowly learning about her family betrayal and regaining hope, running officially MOBuk charity shop and, unofficially, another charity that you're going to learn about when you read the book, Hero with his broken marriage and privileged background, Cher and her notorious criminal twins, Michael with Qwerty bookshop, Fi, feisty, quirky and strong on the outside but so vulnerable inside. And there are some other characters, that I won't mention but that are so important and significant to the plot - all of them were endearing, all of them broken, all of them needing each other and , deliberately or not, healing each other through their acceptance, friendship and compassion.
And Sadie, who is at the heart of this book, so brave and strong. The more I read, the more I loved this woman, my heart went to her. There were things in the past she'd rather forget, and honestly, if I were Sadie, I'm not sure I'd have enough strength and determination to get back up and try again. She, on the other hand, lost herself to find herself afresh, went where nobody knew her to build a new life for herself. I wished all the best for her, and seeing her coming across every new obstacle that life has been throwing her way, I wanted to give her a standing ovation. Learning about the horrors of her past and her losses helped to understand her wanting to be anonymous, not being able to open to new love, her terrible guilt but also it made me wish desperately that she's going to find the highly deserved peace.
Each chapter starts with the invitation to the weekly Cherry Blossom Mews Residents Association meeting, and the more you read, the more you start to appreciate them, as they brilliantly capture the nature of the hosts. The meetings themselves are incredibly entertaining, fabulous parts of the book, where more gossip was shared than actual work done but there was so much heart in those meetings! And they actually tell the real stories of the characters, sharing their illnesses, betrayal, deaths, addictions and hopes, while dealt with empathy and understanding from the other residents, showing that also a community of generally strangers can be closer to you than your family. But of course, there are also things happening between the meetings, things that will make you smile, laugh, cry and start to believe that there is hope.
The book is full of poignant moments that are brilliantly written with humour added to them. It's not too saccharine, not all sugar, and there isn't always a happy end, and the balance between sad and funny, happy and heartbreak is absolutely perfectly measured. Sure, there were things that were too coincidental, and some that didn't ring so true to me - though I don't want to tell you what exactly it was, as I'm immediately going to spoil one of the biggest turns in the story - but really, everything happens for a reason, right, and it did work in this story perfectly well, as the plot was solid, thoughtful, well concocted and believable, even with the little hiccups.
"The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen" was a heart - breaking and heart - mending beautiful story about small community, about friendship, hope, love, loss and grief, filled with secrets, lies and misunderstandings, about finding support and friendship that is stronger than any other bonds. The author, as usual, touches upon many serious issues, she writes about alcoholism, abuse, addictions, social media but she writes with tons of understanding, without judging, giving us a wider spectrum. It's a gorgeously written book and the characters were full of life, feelings and sentiments, being able to speak about emotions in a way I wasn't even sure is possible. It shows life how it is, raw and brutal, full of surprises and twists that don't always lead to happy ends. The book, the characters are going to stay with me for a long time, I will be recommending this book left and right - it's a MUST read that deserves to be shouted about from the rooftops.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
The little community means everything to Sadie. It is a place where she can heal her heart and start her life again after a tragic event in the past. She sets up Sakura, a spa, where she employs the incredibly honest and mouthy Fi and, even if she isn't sure if it's a good move, Cher, a sister to the local mafia - twins. And then U - Turn, a therapy centre for addicted moves to the mews, even with some opposition from the neighbours, and there is Hero, and Sadie has a chance to move with him, to come out of her shell, maybe even find love, but can she forgive herself for what has happened in the past?
It is really, really hard to write review for this book, I actually put it off for the last moment, a day or two before my stop on the blog tour, and the reason for this is very obvious - this book is so wonderful, this book is everything, this book is a gem of a read - what more can I say? I loved it from the beginning to the end, lived and breathed with the characters and yes, it left me in pieces but also feeling so positive.
Juliet Ashton can for sure write her characters, giving them incredibly huge personalities. The banter and interactions between them feel so real, raw and genuine. There is a whole eclectic bunch of them, all so different and with different personalities but all with strong, distinctive voices and you can't help but immediately fell in love with all of them. Amber and her Yummy Mummy Cafe and Party Emporium, serving all things vegan and showing her perfect live on Instagram. Bob and Mrs. Bob with their cafe, Mary with the dogs, slowly learning about her family betrayal and regaining hope, running officially MOBuk charity shop and, unofficially, another charity that you're going to learn about when you read the book, Hero with his broken marriage and privileged background, Cher and her notorious criminal twins, Michael with Qwerty bookshop, Fi, feisty, quirky and strong on the outside but so vulnerable inside. And there are some other characters, that I won't mention but that are so important and significant to the plot - all of them were endearing, all of them broken, all of them needing each other and , deliberately or not, healing each other through their acceptance, friendship and compassion.
And Sadie, who is at the heart of this book, so brave and strong. The more I read, the more I loved this woman, my heart went to her. There were things in the past she'd rather forget, and honestly, if I were Sadie, I'm not sure I'd have enough strength and determination to get back up and try again. She, on the other hand, lost herself to find herself afresh, went where nobody knew her to build a new life for herself. I wished all the best for her, and seeing her coming across every new obstacle that life has been throwing her way, I wanted to give her a standing ovation. Learning about the horrors of her past and her losses helped to understand her wanting to be anonymous, not being able to open to new love, her terrible guilt but also it made me wish desperately that she's going to find the highly deserved peace.
Each chapter starts with the invitation to the weekly Cherry Blossom Mews Residents Association meeting, and the more you read, the more you start to appreciate them, as they brilliantly capture the nature of the hosts. The meetings themselves are incredibly entertaining, fabulous parts of the book, where more gossip was shared than actual work done but there was so much heart in those meetings! And they actually tell the real stories of the characters, sharing their illnesses, betrayal, deaths, addictions and hopes, while dealt with empathy and understanding from the other residents, showing that also a community of generally strangers can be closer to you than your family. But of course, there are also things happening between the meetings, things that will make you smile, laugh, cry and start to believe that there is hope.
The book is full of poignant moments that are brilliantly written with humour added to them. It's not too saccharine, not all sugar, and there isn't always a happy end, and the balance between sad and funny, happy and heartbreak is absolutely perfectly measured. Sure, there were things that were too coincidental, and some that didn't ring so true to me - though I don't want to tell you what exactly it was, as I'm immediately going to spoil one of the biggest turns in the story - but really, everything happens for a reason, right, and it did work in this story perfectly well, as the plot was solid, thoughtful, well concocted and believable, even with the little hiccups.
"The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen" was a heart - breaking and heart - mending beautiful story about small community, about friendship, hope, love, loss and grief, filled with secrets, lies and misunderstandings, about finding support and friendship that is stronger than any other bonds. The author, as usual, touches upon many serious issues, she writes about alcoholism, abuse, addictions, social media but she writes with tons of understanding, without judging, giving us a wider spectrum. It's a gorgeously written book and the characters were full of life, feelings and sentiments, being able to speak about emotions in a way I wasn't even sure is possible. It shows life how it is, raw and brutal, full of surprises and twists that don't always lead to happy ends. The book, the characters are going to stay with me for a long time, I will be recommending this book left and right - it's a MUST read that deserves to be shouted about from the rooftops.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 8, 2020
3.5 stars. Wow! This was one emotional rollercoaster ride of a story. In some ways I felt a bit emotionally manipulated but that’s not always a bad thing when reading a story. The author handles all kinds of issues really well such as addiction, crime, domestic abuse, aging not to mention several love stories, family drama, and a bit of snarky humor.
It’s not a mystery but there are a lot of twisty turny parts. There’s a HEA but man! Ashton really puts the characters through the wringer before that happens.
Some profanity, a few mild sex scenes, and a large cast of interesting and well developed characters.
This is not a light fluffy read but is still entertaining.
It’s not a mystery but there are a lot of twisty turny parts. There’s a HEA but man! Ashton really puts the characters through the wringer before that happens.
Some profanity, a few mild sex scenes, and a large cast of interesting and well developed characters.
This is not a light fluffy read but is still entertaining.
January 14, 2020
Well Juliet Ashton really likes to put her characters through it in her novels, she throws everything she has at them and this book is no exception.
Sadie is such a complex main character. She has a troubled past and a positive present and she is such a solid part of her community. I loved what she tried to make happen in her little corner of the world and I also really respected where she had come from. There really is so much that has gone on in Sadie's past in so many ways that it is a surprise to us all she is living the life she is living. I love the storyline that this author wrote for Sadie and I really feel like I knew her as a real person by the end of this book.
This book has a whole host of side characters too, this is a really big cast and they really do each get their own slice of the pie when it comes to plot points. Each of them is well-developed and has their own drama going on either in their present or in their past. The trouble was, I was so invested in finding out about Sadie's past and her life that I didn't love the side plot as much as I should have done. I saw it a bit more as a distraction than as an enhancement to her world. I liked the little bit of romance that we had going on and the friendship but I didn't feel as invested in these other characters the same way as I felt invested in the main storyline.
This book tackles some big issues and there are definitely some care warnings for domestic abuse, substance abuse and death that come with this book. This is not an issues based book though and I really feel like the substance abuse is dealt with really well over the course of the novel. If you love reading very character driven novels then this book is for you.
Sadie is such a complex main character. She has a troubled past and a positive present and she is such a solid part of her community. I loved what she tried to make happen in her little corner of the world and I also really respected where she had come from. There really is so much that has gone on in Sadie's past in so many ways that it is a surprise to us all she is living the life she is living. I love the storyline that this author wrote for Sadie and I really feel like I knew her as a real person by the end of this book.
This book has a whole host of side characters too, this is a really big cast and they really do each get their own slice of the pie when it comes to plot points. Each of them is well-developed and has their own drama going on either in their present or in their past. The trouble was, I was so invested in finding out about Sadie's past and her life that I didn't love the side plot as much as I should have done. I saw it a bit more as a distraction than as an enhancement to her world. I liked the little bit of romance that we had going on and the friendship but I didn't feel as invested in these other characters the same way as I felt invested in the main storyline.
This book tackles some big issues and there are definitely some care warnings for domestic abuse, substance abuse and death that come with this book. This is not an issues based book though and I really feel like the substance abuse is dealt with really well over the course of the novel. If you love reading very character driven novels then this book is for you.
January 30, 2020
This was a charming book and I felt like I grew to love the characters and cared about what happened to them. My first book by this author and I will check out any others that are available.
July 24, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this. It is a lovely novel about a group of neighbours who live and work in an exclusive but slightly run down private mews estate in London . We have Michael the bookshop owner, Mr and Mrs Bob and their caff, Amber the childless Yummy Mummy, Fi and Sadie at the spa, Mary, who runs what appears to be a charity bric a brac shop, Hero and Jez from the drug addiction centre and various other characters. The book tells us of a few months in their lives, the comings and goings of this neighbourhood, through their weekly residents’ meetings - which are more of a chance to gossip. Everyone has their own thing going on, and addiction of various types seems to be the thread running through their lives. There are plenty of secrets and twists but what comes across most strongly is that this is a “family” who have chosen each other and who have bonds way stronger than blood.
Although a couple of the scenarios required the suspension of disbelief, the characters were all magnificently solid and flawed and I felt like I knew them all. I thoroughly enjoyed this, which took the chick lit genre to a deeper level. I will definitely look out for more by this author.
Although a couple of the scenarios required the suspension of disbelief, the characters were all magnificently solid and flawed and I felt like I knew them all. I thoroughly enjoyed this, which took the chick lit genre to a deeper level. I will definitely look out for more by this author.
December 12, 2019
Though the premise is wide and sprawling- a small community of misfits learning to love each other, a woman coming to terms with her past, a love story- Juliet Ashton has written a book that hangs together beautifully and that I really enjoyed reading.
In it, Sadie McQueen is a woman running from her past. She’s running a spa and living in Cherry Blossom Mews along with a group of misfits that include social media influencer Amber- and new arrival Hero, with whom she connects almost immediately. But Sadie needs to heal herself from tragedy, but she can’t do that without confronting the things that she’s done, and that means exhuming some skeletons.
Juliet Ashton doesn’t just focus on Sadie: we get to meet everybody at Cherry Blossom Mews and learn a bit more about their past and their personal demons, which makes for a book that really gives you the warm and fuzzies afterwards. It’s a book about the strength of community and of the family you make for yourself; Sadie’s relationship with Fi, her friend, is particularly lovely, because it’s so uncomplicated and supportive.
The book is also chock-full of plot. So. Much. Plot. We get backstories, side stories, the main story of Sadie and Hero’s romance, plus also another plot twist that comes halfway through, as well as the story of how Sadie came to Cherry Blossom Mews. It all hangs together well- barring one or two coincidences that are just a little bit too convenient- and you get to watch Sadie grow and heal in a way that makes you root for her all the way. If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas read, this is it!
In it, Sadie McQueen is a woman running from her past. She’s running a spa and living in Cherry Blossom Mews along with a group of misfits that include social media influencer Amber- and new arrival Hero, with whom she connects almost immediately. But Sadie needs to heal herself from tragedy, but she can’t do that without confronting the things that she’s done, and that means exhuming some skeletons.
Juliet Ashton doesn’t just focus on Sadie: we get to meet everybody at Cherry Blossom Mews and learn a bit more about their past and their personal demons, which makes for a book that really gives you the warm and fuzzies afterwards. It’s a book about the strength of community and of the family you make for yourself; Sadie’s relationship with Fi, her friend, is particularly lovely, because it’s so uncomplicated and supportive.
The book is also chock-full of plot. So. Much. Plot. We get backstories, side stories, the main story of Sadie and Hero’s romance, plus also another plot twist that comes halfway through, as well as the story of how Sadie came to Cherry Blossom Mews. It all hangs together well- barring one or two coincidences that are just a little bit too convenient- and you get to watch Sadie grow and heal in a way that makes you root for her all the way. If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas read, this is it!
December 30, 2019
I loved Juliet Ashton’s previous novel, The Sunday Lunch Club, it was one of my favourite books last years, so I was really looking forward to read her next novel, but I was a little disappointed. Set in a small community in London, the protagonist is Sadie, a woman who has a tragic past, suffered loss and guilt, and she’s now trying to move on with her life. In just a few weeks, she is swept off her feet by the new man in Cherry Blossom Mews, she finds out the truth about her family, and she helps the friends who are now her family. I didn’t really warm up to the characters and some of the stories felt a bit surreal. I liked the closed community feeling and the author writes about thought-provoking themes like addiction, grief, mental health, and domestic violence, but, no matter how hard I tried, I had trouble to lose myself in the story. However, this won’t stop from reading more by this author.
May 8, 2020
I read my first Juliet Ashton book “These Days of Ours” very recently and bought her 3 other titles on the strength of that book. Sadly I found “The Sunday Lunch Club” and “The Woman at Number 24” rather disappointing, so much so that I didn’t finish either of them. Wondering if Covid-19 was dampening my enthusiasm I battled on to the end but never engaged with any of the characters, I plodded on through to about 85% and skimmed the rest. All it did was demonstrate that if I don’t like a book much to begin with I am never going to love it, which is why I have no issues with a DNF and it is what I should have done with this one. Many people have enjoyed it but I am not one of them, I suspect the problem is the same with SLC, W@#24 and this one is that the author tries to include too many themes and consequently suffers from not dealing with any of them well. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars, I may return to this author when she has written a few more books.
July 26, 2019
I’m not a touchy-feely sort, but this book makes me want to give it a big hug! I found it charming, laugh out loud funny, but also capable of producing tears of joy. A ragged assortment of tenants occupy Cherry Blossom Mews, a converted stable block somewhere in London. All of the residents are on a journey from some type of addiction, alcohol, social media, abusive boyfriends, etc. together they form a family of sorts and get on with life as it is.
In this time of bad news and negativity everywhere, this is a true escape. Once I started this book I found myself reading through meals and through television shows I had wanted to watch. Sadly I finished and now I miss Sadie and all the residents of Cherry Blossom Mews.
In this time of bad news and negativity everywhere, this is a true escape. Once I started this book I found myself reading through meals and through television shows I had wanted to watch. Sadly I finished and now I miss Sadie and all the residents of Cherry Blossom Mews.
May 4, 2020
Not the best of books I’ve read and very long chapters a ok read but unsure if I’d read another one by this author
June 23, 2020
It was an ok story that passed the time. Not sure why it's received such high reviews - didn't hit the mark for me.
December 30, 2019
Cherry Blossom Mews, a quiet haven in the midst of London, a place where Sadie McQueen can heal and start her life again. Her fellow residents all have secrets that bring them together, to a place of safety and community. Sadie sets up her spa Sakura, hires the honest and mouthy Fi, and Cher, sister of the local version of the Kray’s, but there are still ghosts that follow her around. Sadie has the chance to move on, find love, be happy but only if she can forgive her self. The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is a real feel good book about family, community, love and hope.
The eponymous Sadie McQueen is at the heart of this book. Rather than move to London to find fame and fortune, Sadie goes to lose herself, be anonymous, go where no one knows her story so she can build a new life for herself. Sadie’s husband was killed in a car accident, that she blames herself for, three years previously. She has a real battle about moving on and finding love with Hero her neighbour. There is no doubt there is chemistry between them but Sadie feels as if she is cheating on her husband. Sadie comes across many obstacles that everyone faces at sometime in their life and this is what makes her such an endearing character. Her fellow residents in Cherry Blossom Mews are a diverse and interesting group that add colour, humour and drama to the book; Michael runs the bookshop and is facing unrequited love, Hero opens a clinic for those dealing with addiction and is Sadie’s love interest, Mr and Mrs Bob run the cafe with Mrs Bob’s caustic tongue, Amber is Instagram obsessed and runs Yummy Mummy, a cafe and shop and finally Mary and her dog Noel who run the charity shop.
Rather than have chapters that are numbered the plot is divided by the weekly Cherry Blossom Mews Residents Association, that is more about gossip than getting things done. Whilst Sadie may be the main character, the supporting characters all have their own story, their own secrets and surprises along the way. In these personal stories the subjects of addiction, betrayal, death, illness and domestic abuse are all dealt with empathy and understanding. Like Sadie, many of the characters have problems with their family; Hero from his privileged background and broken marriage, Cher and her gangster brothers, and Mary learning about her family betrayal. The real message of this book is that a community can be your family, to support and love you when your own family may have abandoned or betrayed you. After all, you can’t choose your family but you can choose your friends.
The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is heart warming, emotional and uplifting. Sadie’s story isn’t an easy one, and there are a few shocks along the way, but she is a character that you can’t help but love. The mixture of drama, sadness, humour and romance make this a fabulous read and being released on Boxing Day perfect for that after Christmas slump. So, take yourself off to to Cherry Blossom Mews, make new friends and have a fabulous time
January 10, 2020
Sadie’s been through a lot, but life isn’t necessarily about to get any easier.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen. Initially I didn’t feel the same emotional attachment I have with Juliet Ashton’s writing in the past, as it took me a while to adjust to the number of characters, but before long she had bewitched me and when I realised I had found tears in my eyes on several occasions I knew I’d become as captivated as ever.
It’s quite hard to define what makes Juliet Ashton’s writing so appealing. Anyone who has read her before will know that the people in her stories are always vivid and real, flawed and human, so that they could be part of a circle of friends for any reader, but there’s an indefinable magic here woven amongst the 80 year age span. The small consistent setting of Cherry Blossom Mews contains a microcosm of society that I adored. Even Noel the dog has a personality and all life is here with relationships as messy and convincing as any in the real world. Chloe appealed to me most, but every single person represented someone I could relate to or I feel I have met in the past. From feeling slightly apart at the very beginning, Juliet Ashton made me care about each and every one of them.
The setting of Cherry Blossom Mews is inspired so that there is a fantastic consistency of place. It feels like a beating heart at the centre of London. Indeed, I’d really rather like to move in. I loved the depiction of the tree after which Cherry Blossom Mews is named, and the significance of the tree as the narrative progresses makes it yet another vibrant ‘character’. I can’t add more without spoiling the plot but its position in the centre of the courtyard emphasises its significance to the story and the people living there.
And what a plot there is in The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen. So many of the events completely took my by surprise and I found myself exclaiming aloud. This is a real roller-coaster of a narrative. I simply did not predict so many elements and yet they are completely fitting and rewarding.
However, I think what appealed to me most about The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is that the themes presented are ultimately positive and heartwarming. The exploration of what truly makes a family is intriguing and Juliet Ashton manages to depict love and friendship without cloying sentimentality whilst ensuring an entertaining and uplifting read. Regret, love, addiction, parenting, relationships, jealousy and trust added in to the mix provide actions and experiences that enable any reader to find a theme that resonates with their own experiences or beliefs.
The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is enormously satisfying. I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed between its pages. It’s a book I wish I hadn’t actually read yet as I think it would be perfect to take on holiday or to read on a cold winter’s afternoon because it feels both real and entertaining. Smashing stuff!
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen. Initially I didn’t feel the same emotional attachment I have with Juliet Ashton’s writing in the past, as it took me a while to adjust to the number of characters, but before long she had bewitched me and when I realised I had found tears in my eyes on several occasions I knew I’d become as captivated as ever.
It’s quite hard to define what makes Juliet Ashton’s writing so appealing. Anyone who has read her before will know that the people in her stories are always vivid and real, flawed and human, so that they could be part of a circle of friends for any reader, but there’s an indefinable magic here woven amongst the 80 year age span. The small consistent setting of Cherry Blossom Mews contains a microcosm of society that I adored. Even Noel the dog has a personality and all life is here with relationships as messy and convincing as any in the real world. Chloe appealed to me most, but every single person represented someone I could relate to or I feel I have met in the past. From feeling slightly apart at the very beginning, Juliet Ashton made me care about each and every one of them.
The setting of Cherry Blossom Mews is inspired so that there is a fantastic consistency of place. It feels like a beating heart at the centre of London. Indeed, I’d really rather like to move in. I loved the depiction of the tree after which Cherry Blossom Mews is named, and the significance of the tree as the narrative progresses makes it yet another vibrant ‘character’. I can’t add more without spoiling the plot but its position in the centre of the courtyard emphasises its significance to the story and the people living there.
And what a plot there is in The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen. So many of the events completely took my by surprise and I found myself exclaiming aloud. This is a real roller-coaster of a narrative. I simply did not predict so many elements and yet they are completely fitting and rewarding.
However, I think what appealed to me most about The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is that the themes presented are ultimately positive and heartwarming. The exploration of what truly makes a family is intriguing and Juliet Ashton manages to depict love and friendship without cloying sentimentality whilst ensuring an entertaining and uplifting read. Regret, love, addiction, parenting, relationships, jealousy and trust added in to the mix provide actions and experiences that enable any reader to find a theme that resonates with their own experiences or beliefs.
The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen is enormously satisfying. I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed between its pages. It’s a book I wish I hadn’t actually read yet as I think it would be perfect to take on holiday or to read on a cold winter’s afternoon because it feels both real and entertaining. Smashing stuff!
January 12, 2020
I picked this book up while doing my food shop, and admittedly isn’t the usual type of book I would go for. But I’m so glad I did!
In this sweet novel by Juliet Ashton, we meet Sadie McQueen after personal tragedy turned her world upside down. Living in Cherry Blossom Mews, in a little forgotten corner of London, we follow her and her neighbours as she attempts to keep what’s left of her life together.
Ashton’s style is clean and to the point, which I always prefer. At first, the plot seems to progress far too quickly, which seems odd and unnatural. Sadie is damaged; by her past and her inability to be anything other than critical of herself. She’s human, realistic, and I absolutely loved her. Her character develops wonderfully as the book continues and as you begin to get more of an insight in to how she’s allowing her past to impede on the present and preventing potential happiness in her future. I grew to adore this character.
The new neighbour, Hero (possibly the oddest name for a character I’ve come across in a while, and appropriately joked at by the author) is a fundamental part of the story and another lovely and likeable character. Everyone wants and needs a Hero in their life!!
Importantly though, all the characters felt valuable. None seemed like spare parts, even if they were only minor characters. They all were entwined together with their faults laid out for all to see and they still were (almost all) endearing. You cared about all the characters living in the Mews.
If you’d asked me during the first couple of chapters if I was enjoying the book I would have said ‘it’s okay’; it is a bit of a slow starter, but by the end it is more than worth it. From tears of heartbreak in one sentence to tears of joy the next, it’s a wonderfully lovely book. Strangely, the epilogue was brilliant and summed up the style of the book and characters perfectly. What a brilliant idea!
Overall a solid 4.5/5 for this one... but I couldn’t possibly round it down, so a 5 from me in the end! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In this sweet novel by Juliet Ashton, we meet Sadie McQueen after personal tragedy turned her world upside down. Living in Cherry Blossom Mews, in a little forgotten corner of London, we follow her and her neighbours as she attempts to keep what’s left of her life together.
Ashton’s style is clean and to the point, which I always prefer. At first, the plot seems to progress far too quickly, which seems odd and unnatural. Sadie is damaged; by her past and her inability to be anything other than critical of herself. She’s human, realistic, and I absolutely loved her. Her character develops wonderfully as the book continues and as you begin to get more of an insight in to how she’s allowing her past to impede on the present and preventing potential happiness in her future. I grew to adore this character.
The new neighbour, Hero (possibly the oddest name for a character I’ve come across in a while, and appropriately joked at by the author) is a fundamental part of the story and another lovely and likeable character. Everyone wants and needs a Hero in their life!!
Importantly though, all the characters felt valuable. None seemed like spare parts, even if they were only minor characters. They all were entwined together with their faults laid out for all to see and they still were (almost all) endearing. You cared about all the characters living in the Mews.
If you’d asked me during the first couple of chapters if I was enjoying the book I would have said ‘it’s okay’; it is a bit of a slow starter, but by the end it is more than worth it. From tears of heartbreak in one sentence to tears of joy the next, it’s a wonderfully lovely book. Strangely, the epilogue was brilliant and summed up the style of the book and characters perfectly. What a brilliant idea!
Overall a solid 4.5/5 for this one... but I couldn’t possibly round it down, so a 5 from me in the end! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 8, 2021
A pleasant read. Sadie is an interesting main character, she sort of starts off as an antihero, the book suggests she might have been drunk behind the wheel when her husband and young daughter died. The more you get to know her and the other residents the more you like them, it’s like a soap opera. I really hope that communities like theirs exist somewhere but it’s extremely unlikely.
Addiction is a heavy theme throughout the book in it’s various forms. I’m not sure about the interpretation; the characters struggle but ultimately defeat their demons which isn’t particularly realistic. However I don’t recommend starting this book if realism is what you’re looking for. It’s full of those wonderful convenient coincidences that make you smile and roll your eyes. Arthur just happens to be Cher’s uncle and she just happens to give Grace his photo as she just happens to make artwork from old photos in the same street as Mary.
The Teddy storyline took me by surprise and I was convinced that Sadie was drunk and hallucinating. As whacky as it was, the book definitely improved with Teddy’s arrival. I can’t quite believe that there weren’t more confrontations with Merle. I liked Cher and Fi for their straight talking and the humour it provided. I really hope naming her hero Hero is a sarcastic nod from Juliet.
Karen Cass reads the audiobook and I thought she was very good. I would definitely recommend it.
Addiction is a heavy theme throughout the book in it’s various forms. I’m not sure about the interpretation; the characters struggle but ultimately defeat their demons which isn’t particularly realistic. However I don’t recommend starting this book if realism is what you’re looking for. It’s full of those wonderful convenient coincidences that make you smile and roll your eyes. Arthur just happens to be Cher’s uncle and she just happens to give Grace his photo as she just happens to make artwork from old photos in the same street as Mary.
The Teddy storyline took me by surprise and I was convinced that Sadie was drunk and hallucinating. As whacky as it was, the book definitely improved with Teddy’s arrival. I can’t quite believe that there weren’t more confrontations with Merle. I liked Cher and Fi for their straight talking and the humour it provided. I really hope naming her hero Hero is a sarcastic nod from Juliet.
Karen Cass reads the audiobook and I thought she was very good. I would definitely recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2020
This is the story of Sadie McQueen primarily, although to be honest it is actually about all the people who live & work in the Mews. The story starts with Saide, who lost her husband and daughter in a car accident. As the story continues we learn that Sadie is an alcoholic and she believes it is her fault that her family have been killed.
There is also Hero who runs a rehab type centre, Amber who is insta–famous , Michael who runs the book store, Bob & Mrs Bob who have the local café and Mary. Mary is a whole character who should have a book about her and is full of surprises. Every single person is as different as can be from the others and each add their own thing to the story. Fi is the only character that doesn’t live in the Mews, but she brings just as much drama with her outspoken attitude and her work ethics at the salon that Sadie owns.
The whole book is a funny, heart-warming story of friendship, love devotion and forgiveness. Written in a way that the reader not only never gets bored but is not able to predict the next thing as with a few books. There is always something new to learn about the characters or their lives. The Mews is a place of caring for everyone and making people have faith.
Can whole-heartily say I loved every page of this book.... but then Juliet Ashton never lets us down 😊
There is also Hero who runs a rehab type centre, Amber who is insta–famous , Michael who runs the book store, Bob & Mrs Bob who have the local café and Mary. Mary is a whole character who should have a book about her and is full of surprises. Every single person is as different as can be from the others and each add their own thing to the story. Fi is the only character that doesn’t live in the Mews, but she brings just as much drama with her outspoken attitude and her work ethics at the salon that Sadie owns.
The whole book is a funny, heart-warming story of friendship, love devotion and forgiveness. Written in a way that the reader not only never gets bored but is not able to predict the next thing as with a few books. There is always something new to learn about the characters or their lives. The Mews is a place of caring for everyone and making people have faith.
Can whole-heartily say I loved every page of this book.... but then Juliet Ashton never lets us down 😊
June 7, 2019
'The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen' was a surprising and thoroughly enjoyable read. The style reminded me a little bit of 'The Flatshare' by how easy it was to read and how the writing just flowed. I often forgot that I was reading and felt completely part of the story. Juliet Ashton's style is very natural.
I hovered between liking and disliking the plot for a while. At first I thought that it was moving too quickly and that the rest of the book would be trying to spin out the beginning at the risk of being boring and melodramatic. I was wrong. This book is so full of surprising twists it kept me hooked all the way through! I liked how there were also quite a few subplots but how none of them were confusing.
The way the book explores family relationships and friendships is really touching and not at all cliché in how it tackles them. It deals with grief, alcoholism, abuse but most of all love. Set in a lesser known London neighbourhood, the inhabitants come from all different kinds of backgrounds and families and Juliet Ashton weaves all their stories into the novel, enriching it.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
The publishers kindly provided me with an ARC of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I hovered between liking and disliking the plot for a while. At first I thought that it was moving too quickly and that the rest of the book would be trying to spin out the beginning at the risk of being boring and melodramatic. I was wrong. This book is so full of surprising twists it kept me hooked all the way through! I liked how there were also quite a few subplots but how none of them were confusing.
The way the book explores family relationships and friendships is really touching and not at all cliché in how it tackles them. It deals with grief, alcoholism, abuse but most of all love. Set in a lesser known London neighbourhood, the inhabitants come from all different kinds of backgrounds and families and Juliet Ashton weaves all their stories into the novel, enriching it.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
The publishers kindly provided me with an ARC of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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