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The Little Village of New Starts
Sometimes turning everything upside down feels just right…
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
A totally charming and moving story about being true to yourself, the power of new beginnings, and one magical summer that changes everything.
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
A totally charming and moving story about being true to yourself, the power of new beginnings, and one magical summer that changes everything.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2020
782 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 26, 2020
The Little Village of New Starts by Donna Ashcroft is a contemporary romance that takes readers to the Scottish Highlands. The story is one of opposites attracting as the two main characters, Evie Stuart and Callum Ryder, could not be any more different from one another.
After jumping into things in her past and things going horribly wrong for her Evie Stuart is now playing it safe and hiding out on her family’s remote farm in the small village of Lockton. Callum Ryder on the other hand is thrill seeker to his core and used to jumping into things with reckless abandon. After a unfortunate incident on his job as a firefighter Callum decides to head to Scotland to trace his roots landing him right on Evie’s doorstep.
The Little Village of New Starts was another heartwarming read from Donna Ashcraft with solid writing that I’ve come to expect from her having read a few of her novels in the past. The story has a lot going on in it besides the romance between our main characters giving readers plenty to keep the pages turning to fly through this sweet tale. With a great story, setting, and characters this would certainly make a wonderful beach read this summer.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
After jumping into things in her past and things going horribly wrong for her Evie Stuart is now playing it safe and hiding out on her family’s remote farm in the small village of Lockton. Callum Ryder on the other hand is thrill seeker to his core and used to jumping into things with reckless abandon. After a unfortunate incident on his job as a firefighter Callum decides to head to Scotland to trace his roots landing him right on Evie’s doorstep.
The Little Village of New Starts was another heartwarming read from Donna Ashcraft with solid writing that I’ve come to expect from her having read a few of her novels in the past. The story has a lot going on in it besides the romance between our main characters giving readers plenty to keep the pages turning to fly through this sweet tale. With a great story, setting, and characters this would certainly make a wonderful beach read this summer.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 9, 2025
The Little Village of New Starts
4.5✨
deep connections, interesting storyline. lovable characters, humor and witt.
4.5✨
deep connections, interesting storyline. lovable characters, humor and witt.
May 14, 2020
Evie Stuart and Callum Ryder could not be more different. She leads a quiet ad practical life, while Callum is as impuslive as they come. Callum is visiting in Scotland to try and learn of his family's Scottish heritage. Callum's search is what brings him in contact with Evie, and he really shakes up her life.
Callum only plans on being in Scotland for the summer, because he is a firefighter in New York and that certainly keeps him very busy. However, despite their differences, as Evie helps Callum trace his roots, they find time to really enjoy some of the sites - and each other. With the thousands of miles that would be between them when Callum finally goes home definitely does not bode well for a future together, despite the flair of attraction that quickly sparks into a flame.
I love the lessons in this story. For Evie, it was learning to let go and have fun. For both of them, trust played a huge role. After all, their hearts were soon on the line. This busy but endearing story had a few different characters that played a lot into what was going on. One such character was Evie's Nana Agnes, a no-nonsense but playful person. The Little Village of New Starts was an enjoyable read from start to finish and makes the fourth book I have read by Donna Ashcroft. So, when her titles come up for review, I don't even need to read the description...it is a definite Yes!
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This is my honest opinion.
Callum only plans on being in Scotland for the summer, because he is a firefighter in New York and that certainly keeps him very busy. However, despite their differences, as Evie helps Callum trace his roots, they find time to really enjoy some of the sites - and each other. With the thousands of miles that would be between them when Callum finally goes home definitely does not bode well for a future together, despite the flair of attraction that quickly sparks into a flame.
I love the lessons in this story. For Evie, it was learning to let go and have fun. For both of them, trust played a huge role. After all, their hearts were soon on the line. This busy but endearing story had a few different characters that played a lot into what was going on. One such character was Evie's Nana Agnes, a no-nonsense but playful person. The Little Village of New Starts was an enjoyable read from start to finish and makes the fourth book I have read by Donna Ashcroft. So, when her titles come up for review, I don't even need to read the description...it is a definite Yes!
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This is my honest opinion.
September 19, 2020
This was a lot more than I expected. I really enjoyed the story line and found it amusing and delightful.
The characters were brilliant, likable and deep. It was a fast and really lovely read.
I will certainly be looking for more by this author.
The characters were brilliant, likable and deep. It was a fast and really lovely read.
I will certainly be looking for more by this author.
May 16, 2020
If you’re looking for a lovely, heartwarming contemporary romance, grab yourself a copy of this delightful story – it really is a fabulous, sweet romance! Yes, there are problems to be overcome and quandaries to be faced but it is such a fantastic story with not just one romance involved in it!
Lockton is a small village in the Scottish Highlands and the community there is brilliant! There’s a recalcitrant whisky distiller, a witchy grandmother, a cheeky parrot and a pygmy goat with a crush as well as a hot American firefighter and a lovely Scottish lass who has been burnt by love and is now hiding herself away on her family farm. Together their stories are skilfully interwoven to create a picture of rural life in this dramatic location. The American is Callum Ryder and he’s come to stay for a month whilst he endeavours to find his biological grandfather but he never anticipated just how it would change his life . . . .
This is such a superb read, a great story to escape into with all the trials and tribulations, competitions, secrets, mystery and romance intertwined to make a really relaxing, absorbing page turner. I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending escaping into it and I’d love to visit this idyllic location and community (obviously only virtually during the current lockdown).
Thank you to the publishers for for gifting me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it and thoroughly enjoying doing so.
Lockton is a small village in the Scottish Highlands and the community there is brilliant! There’s a recalcitrant whisky distiller, a witchy grandmother, a cheeky parrot and a pygmy goat with a crush as well as a hot American firefighter and a lovely Scottish lass who has been burnt by love and is now hiding herself away on her family farm. Together their stories are skilfully interwoven to create a picture of rural life in this dramatic location. The American is Callum Ryder and he’s come to stay for a month whilst he endeavours to find his biological grandfather but he never anticipated just how it would change his life . . . .
This is such a superb read, a great story to escape into with all the trials and tribulations, competitions, secrets, mystery and romance intertwined to make a really relaxing, absorbing page turner. I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending escaping into it and I’d love to visit this idyllic location and community (obviously only virtually during the current lockdown).
Thank you to the publishers for for gifting me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it and thoroughly enjoying doing so.
June 8, 2020
I've always enjoyed Donna's books and couldn't wait for this one and didn't disappoint at all full of romance and new beginnings and so heartwarming and you get hooked very quickly. You feel you are there with wonderful countryside.
Evie lives on her families farm in Scotland in the Highlands and she doesn't move beyond the locals so plays it safe. She's been hurt before by an ex and decides to stay away from them. Callum is American and cones to stay on her farm he's the opposite of what Evie needs he's full of energy but he's in search of the truth about his family. She is soon to start helping him find the truth for him and she rely is bring challenged. They both need to let go of there fears and what will happen when they do they soon get close but try to fight it can they beat it and be together or is she just to frightened.
Evie lives on her families farm in Scotland in the Highlands and she doesn't move beyond the locals so plays it safe. She's been hurt before by an ex and decides to stay away from them. Callum is American and cones to stay on her farm he's the opposite of what Evie needs he's full of energy but he's in search of the truth about his family. She is soon to start helping him find the truth for him and she rely is bring challenged. They both need to let go of there fears and what will happen when they do they soon get close but try to fight it can they beat it and be together or is she just to frightened.
June 23, 2020
What a wonderful book set in Scotland- with an adorable pygmy goat as one of the leading characters! A really warm read where you quickly get to know the characters and feel a part of the story. Evie starts to allow small chinks in the armour she's built around herself and Callum also needs a bit of heart warming comfort to overcome personal difficulties. You easily lose yourself amongst the pages.
May 17, 2020
I love this author’s books and haven’t missed one yet! This book takes us to the Scottish Highlands and introduces us to Evie. Evie is a lovely character, but has obviously had past relationship problems which has left her with low confidence and self-esteem. She lives and works with her parents and grandmother on Buttermead Farm in the little village of Lockton, where they hire out Yurts to holidaymakers. When American Callum Ryder arrives in search of his grandfather, there’s an obvious spark between them, which Evie tries her best to ignore!
The setting of this book was perfect and conjured up great images of the Scottish Highlands! Evie’s story is quite sad in parts and as the story moves on you discover it’s because of a recent heartbreak which not only devastated her, but humiliated her as well. I loved the first meeting with Callum, although despite the talk of blue skies and warmer weather, it did make me feel rather cold and certainly set my teeth chattering!! Callum is also trying to escape some demons, taking some extended leave to search for who he thinks may be his grandfather but with only the barest facts and an initial to go by! It was obvious that Evie would end up helping him and I loved the storylines when they were off doing this!
Filled with interesting and likeable characters, this book grabbed me from the very beginning. Not only does the story take us on a family history adventure, showing us what life is like in the Highlands and proving that there are Christmas shops all year round, it also fills us with laughs and delights from the Jampionships, the annual Jam making competition (although the thought of egg flavoured jam turned my stomach slightly!) The star of the book had to be, of course, Nana Agnes! If you were going to be staying in a Yurt at Buttermead Farm, who else would you want looking after you! The ending was just perfect with the mystery of Callum’s grandfather solved, the results of the Jampionships and finding out if Evie gets her happy ending!! An absolutely wonderful story of love and laughs which will warm your heart completely!! Highly recommended!!
The setting of this book was perfect and conjured up great images of the Scottish Highlands! Evie’s story is quite sad in parts and as the story moves on you discover it’s because of a recent heartbreak which not only devastated her, but humiliated her as well. I loved the first meeting with Callum, although despite the talk of blue skies and warmer weather, it did make me feel rather cold and certainly set my teeth chattering!! Callum is also trying to escape some demons, taking some extended leave to search for who he thinks may be his grandfather but with only the barest facts and an initial to go by! It was obvious that Evie would end up helping him and I loved the storylines when they were off doing this!
Filled with interesting and likeable characters, this book grabbed me from the very beginning. Not only does the story take us on a family history adventure, showing us what life is like in the Highlands and proving that there are Christmas shops all year round, it also fills us with laughs and delights from the Jampionships, the annual Jam making competition (although the thought of egg flavoured jam turned my stomach slightly!) The star of the book had to be, of course, Nana Agnes! If you were going to be staying in a Yurt at Buttermead Farm, who else would you want looking after you! The ending was just perfect with the mystery of Callum’s grandfather solved, the results of the Jampionships and finding out if Evie gets her happy ending!! An absolutely wonderful story of love and laughs which will warm your heart completely!! Highly recommended!!
October 26, 2024
What a cute read! I was looking for books to read for my recent trip to coincide with each of our stops. One of the stops was Invergordon, and The Little Village of New Starts completely worked. Ashcroft really captures the Scottish highlands in this fun romance that touches on a lot of really deep ideas- running from pain, hiding from a past, trying to be safe from pain. It really gave an added layer to the story and I really enjoyed it.
July 22, 2025
Lieve mensen, een jamwedstrijd, een dorpje in de natuur, een dwerggeit, mn favo land, schattige en grappige ouderen: dit boek is helemaal mijn ding. Bij vlagen mierzoet, maar ik heb genoten.
May 17, 2020
I really do love Donna Ashcroft's books as her stories are ones that make you happy. Every book always give you that cosy, uplifting feeling with such picturesque idyllic settings. Add in a dash of romance and you are good to go and you know once you begin reading you'll become completely lost in the world she has created. To be honest I was hoping for another book based in and around Sunflower Island as I thought the last two books that author has set there were simply brilliant. But that wasn't to be the case and this new book The Little Village of New Starts takes us to the Scotland and to the home of Evie Stuart on Buttermead Farm. Within the first chapter my disappointment at not returning to Sunflower Island quickly vanished as I just had this feeling that this setting, these new characters and the plot that would unfold would be just as magical and special and I was delighted to be proven right. It still strikes me, even though I read lots and lots of books each year, how you know more or less pretty early on that such a book will hit the spot for you as a reader whereas others just don't give off that feeling of I desperately need to continue reading this. I loved every minute of this wonderful book and I didn't want it to end so much that I hope there will be a return visit to Buttermead Farm in the not too distant future.
Evie is living on the family farm with her parents, Grant and Fiona and her granny Agnes. They have yurts which they offer to holiday makers as a sideline to the running of the farm. Evie is in charge of these and she loves the work and the farm. I have to say the descriptions of the farm and the surrounding area were just superb throughout the entire book, the magnificent scenery and the inclusion of wonderful descriptions of nature and wildlife really added to the book. The nearby loch which Evie likes to visit for some quiet time to contemplate different things plays an important role throughout especially as Agnes informs Evie of a legend regarding the loch that she swears by. I can't forget to mention Daisy, the little pygmy goat, who follows Evie around like a little puppy. It's always great to have a furry friend featured in a book to add that aww factor and to also laugh and smile at the comedic value they offer.
Evie was a carefully constructed character, very well rounded in that we saw all sides to her but still she held some things back and was afraid to truly let go and give into feelings that emerge throughout the book. She was someone willing to push herself out of her comfort zone and help others when they needed but I wondered was she always able to do that when it came to herself? She did bury herself away on the farm to avoid people but I loved that when best friend Meg needed help to save her shop that Evie wasn't obstinate and she did help her out. I loved this strand of the story with Meg and it popped up throughout at just the right points to take the reader away from the journey of Evie and Callum and let us focus on some other challenges. The Jampionships provided some funny moments but were also a great idea to bring some of the strands of the overall story together.
Clearly Evie is hurting from something in the past and when this situation becomes known to the reader you do feel desperately sorry for her and can understand how much of a head wreck it must have been given she had placed her faith and trust in something that turned out to be built upon lies and deceit. The feelings of guilt and hurt creep up on her often and all her family members are worried about her but maybe she just needs time to come to terms with things. She does have a boyfriend, librarian Jason, but you can tell that she is just going through the motions and from the little we see of him he really isn't the man for Evie. With the arrival of an American guest, Callum Ryder, who has come to find someone in the area that could be related to him things are up scuttled for Evie and she's not sure if she is happy or confident the direction her life begins to take. But I thought maybe this is exactly what needs to happen to show Evie there is life outside of the little cocoon of unhappiness she has created for herself and OK she may have sworn she would never allow the same thing to happen to her again but at the same time she has to take risks and chances in life. A broken heart is no excuse for Evie to hide herself away from life. She is fearful of making mistakes again but if we all adopted that attitude we would get no where in life.
Callum's arrival is a catalyst of change for Evie but that's not to say she welcomes him with open arms after all he is a guest. Callum is escaping his problems in New York but really our problems don't remain where they originated, they stay with us until we find the courage to resolve them no matter how long that may take. Callum from his descriptions was gorgeous and fit seen as he was a fire-fighter and yes you really wanted him to connect with Evie. His main aim is to find his long lost grandfather. A series of letters with just an initial as a signature is all he has to go on but using the descriptions of the countryside mentioned in the letters Evie sets about helping him to hopefully uncover the truth. I did have my suspicions fairly early on as to who Callum's grandfather could have been and I was proven correct. I felt quite smug about the fact that I had guessed but I was eager to see what were the exact circumstances surrounding everything.
Callum in a similar way to Evie was hiding things and hurting and his back story and the reasons for his reticence in speaking about his past were truly understandable when things do become known. I wouldn't have thought such a topic would have been dealt with in a women's fiction story that some people may think to be light and fluffy and very easy reads but I was so glad that the author chose to bring this issue to the readers attention. I thought it was handled in the most perfect way and it showed Callum's sensitive side and that despite him being all masculine and strong and a lover of the great outdoors that he did have his vulnerable and emotional side in a similar way to Evie. If they could both admit and confront their fears then maybe the journey they embark upon together to find Callum's grandfather will prove more fruitful in more ways than one.
Callum brings plenty of surprises to Evie's life when all she wanted was for her life to be safe and predictable and I can see this book is neither of these things. It's a pure joy to read from start to finish which teaches us so many life lessons and the characters are really taken out of their comfort zones. It shows us how family, friends and of course community play such a vital role in our lives and they should never be underestimated. Evie and Callum's story had me from page one and didn't relinquish it's grip until the final word. If you want to take your mind off everything going on right now I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Little Village of New Starts it's such a fabulous enjoyable read.
Evie is living on the family farm with her parents, Grant and Fiona and her granny Agnes. They have yurts which they offer to holiday makers as a sideline to the running of the farm. Evie is in charge of these and she loves the work and the farm. I have to say the descriptions of the farm and the surrounding area were just superb throughout the entire book, the magnificent scenery and the inclusion of wonderful descriptions of nature and wildlife really added to the book. The nearby loch which Evie likes to visit for some quiet time to contemplate different things plays an important role throughout especially as Agnes informs Evie of a legend regarding the loch that she swears by. I can't forget to mention Daisy, the little pygmy goat, who follows Evie around like a little puppy. It's always great to have a furry friend featured in a book to add that aww factor and to also laugh and smile at the comedic value they offer.
Evie was a carefully constructed character, very well rounded in that we saw all sides to her but still she held some things back and was afraid to truly let go and give into feelings that emerge throughout the book. She was someone willing to push herself out of her comfort zone and help others when they needed but I wondered was she always able to do that when it came to herself? She did bury herself away on the farm to avoid people but I loved that when best friend Meg needed help to save her shop that Evie wasn't obstinate and she did help her out. I loved this strand of the story with Meg and it popped up throughout at just the right points to take the reader away from the journey of Evie and Callum and let us focus on some other challenges. The Jampionships provided some funny moments but were also a great idea to bring some of the strands of the overall story together.
Clearly Evie is hurting from something in the past and when this situation becomes known to the reader you do feel desperately sorry for her and can understand how much of a head wreck it must have been given she had placed her faith and trust in something that turned out to be built upon lies and deceit. The feelings of guilt and hurt creep up on her often and all her family members are worried about her but maybe she just needs time to come to terms with things. She does have a boyfriend, librarian Jason, but you can tell that she is just going through the motions and from the little we see of him he really isn't the man for Evie. With the arrival of an American guest, Callum Ryder, who has come to find someone in the area that could be related to him things are up scuttled for Evie and she's not sure if she is happy or confident the direction her life begins to take. But I thought maybe this is exactly what needs to happen to show Evie there is life outside of the little cocoon of unhappiness she has created for herself and OK she may have sworn she would never allow the same thing to happen to her again but at the same time she has to take risks and chances in life. A broken heart is no excuse for Evie to hide herself away from life. She is fearful of making mistakes again but if we all adopted that attitude we would get no where in life.
Callum's arrival is a catalyst of change for Evie but that's not to say she welcomes him with open arms after all he is a guest. Callum is escaping his problems in New York but really our problems don't remain where they originated, they stay with us until we find the courage to resolve them no matter how long that may take. Callum from his descriptions was gorgeous and fit seen as he was a fire-fighter and yes you really wanted him to connect with Evie. His main aim is to find his long lost grandfather. A series of letters with just an initial as a signature is all he has to go on but using the descriptions of the countryside mentioned in the letters Evie sets about helping him to hopefully uncover the truth. I did have my suspicions fairly early on as to who Callum's grandfather could have been and I was proven correct. I felt quite smug about the fact that I had guessed but I was eager to see what were the exact circumstances surrounding everything.
Callum in a similar way to Evie was hiding things and hurting and his back story and the reasons for his reticence in speaking about his past were truly understandable when things do become known. I wouldn't have thought such a topic would have been dealt with in a women's fiction story that some people may think to be light and fluffy and very easy reads but I was so glad that the author chose to bring this issue to the readers attention. I thought it was handled in the most perfect way and it showed Callum's sensitive side and that despite him being all masculine and strong and a lover of the great outdoors that he did have his vulnerable and emotional side in a similar way to Evie. If they could both admit and confront their fears then maybe the journey they embark upon together to find Callum's grandfather will prove more fruitful in more ways than one.
Callum brings plenty of surprises to Evie's life when all she wanted was for her life to be safe and predictable and I can see this book is neither of these things. It's a pure joy to read from start to finish which teaches us so many life lessons and the characters are really taken out of their comfort zones. It shows us how family, friends and of course community play such a vital role in our lives and they should never be underestimated. Evie and Callum's story had me from page one and didn't relinquish it's grip until the final word. If you want to take your mind off everything going on right now I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Little Village of New Starts it's such a fabulous enjoyable read.
May 12, 2020
Evie Stuart has been bitten and is well and truly shy. Who wouldn't be?!
Will she ever risk opening her heart again?!
Hot American firefighter, Callum Ryder, takes a journey to Scotland in the hope of finding his maternal Grandfather. Lucky for Evie, he stays at her family home, Buttermead Farm in Lockton. But will Evie feel lucky? Each have their own issues and I was so hoping that they could help each other with their difficulties.
Evie could be a hard nut to crack and Callum is concentrating on finding his Grandfather. Also, Callum will be returning home to America so will it be worth getting close? There's certainly a lot for them both to think about.
I absolutely adored reading this! It is magical and heartwarming; it offers so much to us!
Learning to trust is hard and the plot and sub plots merge into a fantastic story that was a joyful treat.
I loved the characters, obviously Callum, and even Fergus who made me chuckle at times, but my favourite is definitely Nana Agnes! Agnes has an endearing personality - she's loving, caring and so much fun. Plus a great cook!
I have to say I didn't like Lilith at all! She really is a nasty piece of work and I will say, that I would not have put up with her!
This story has enough going on and is very engaging; I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next!
I loved the Jampionships that are held every year and this year was of much importance to Evie and her friend, Meg, who owns a Christmas Shop and Café, in Lockton.
The author's writing made me feel a part of the community, so warm and welcoming such were the main characters and I'm going to miss them.
I highly recommend this book, it is perfect for losing yourself in and will fill your heart to bursting with happiness and will really make you laugh out loud in parts.
This book is worth more than a million stars!
Thank you very much to the author for writing it and to Bookoutre via NetGalley for my arc copy.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
Will she ever risk opening her heart again?!
Hot American firefighter, Callum Ryder, takes a journey to Scotland in the hope of finding his maternal Grandfather. Lucky for Evie, he stays at her family home, Buttermead Farm in Lockton. But will Evie feel lucky? Each have their own issues and I was so hoping that they could help each other with their difficulties.
Evie could be a hard nut to crack and Callum is concentrating on finding his Grandfather. Also, Callum will be returning home to America so will it be worth getting close? There's certainly a lot for them both to think about.
I absolutely adored reading this! It is magical and heartwarming; it offers so much to us!
Learning to trust is hard and the plot and sub plots merge into a fantastic story that was a joyful treat.
I loved the characters, obviously Callum, and even Fergus who made me chuckle at times, but my favourite is definitely Nana Agnes! Agnes has an endearing personality - she's loving, caring and so much fun. Plus a great cook!
I have to say I didn't like Lilith at all! She really is a nasty piece of work and I will say, that I would not have put up with her!
This story has enough going on and is very engaging; I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next!
I loved the Jampionships that are held every year and this year was of much importance to Evie and her friend, Meg, who owns a Christmas Shop and Café, in Lockton.
The author's writing made me feel a part of the community, so warm and welcoming such were the main characters and I'm going to miss them.
I highly recommend this book, it is perfect for losing yourself in and will fill your heart to bursting with happiness and will really make you laugh out loud in parts.
This book is worth more than a million stars!
Thank you very much to the author for writing it and to Bookoutre via NetGalley for my arc copy.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
May 4, 2020
Rating: 🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐
What would you do if a handsome stranger showed up to your family farm and stripped naked then went for a swim? That’s how Evie meets Callum fresh off a plane after losing a family to a fire he was fighting and here to track down his biological grandfather after his grandmother’s passing unearthed their letters. Evie is helping out on her family’s farm and with their guest yurts. She has a goat named Daisy and a boyfriend, but he’s more of a defense against getting involved with anyone after she found out her last love was actually married with a baby on the way. The Little Village of New Starts has romance and beautiful scenery of the Scottish countryside. It’s like embarking on a vacation to a wonderful town where there is a year round Christmas Store and the town hosts a Jampionship jam-making contest! This was exactly the kind of uplifting, sweet book that makes you smile when you remember it!
What would you do if a handsome stranger showed up to your family farm and stripped naked then went for a swim? That’s how Evie meets Callum fresh off a plane after losing a family to a fire he was fighting and here to track down his biological grandfather after his grandmother’s passing unearthed their letters. Evie is helping out on her family’s farm and with their guest yurts. She has a goat named Daisy and a boyfriend, but he’s more of a defense against getting involved with anyone after she found out her last love was actually married with a baby on the way. The Little Village of New Starts has romance and beautiful scenery of the Scottish countryside. It’s like embarking on a vacation to a wonderful town where there is a year round Christmas Store and the town hosts a Jampionship jam-making contest! This was exactly the kind of uplifting, sweet book that makes you smile when you remember it!
May 18, 2020
A beautiful heartwarming story by author Donna Ashcroft, the story slowly unveiled Evie's story, filled with pathos initially until life surely and completely found her again.
Deciding to lose the impulsive persona, she wanted to be careful in her decisions until she met up with Vallum who was the complete opposite. And an adventure ensued which helped Evie find her fun side.
A captivating tale with beautiful descriptions of the Scottish landscapes, the story was a winner in my heart as it inspired me too. I fell in love with the story right from the beginning and was completely ensconced in Evie's life.
This book was pure sunshine and happiness, for me.
Deciding to lose the impulsive persona, she wanted to be careful in her decisions until she met up with Vallum who was the complete opposite. And an adventure ensued which helped Evie find her fun side.
A captivating tale with beautiful descriptions of the Scottish landscapes, the story was a winner in my heart as it inspired me too. I fell in love with the story right from the beginning and was completely ensconced in Evie's life.
This book was pure sunshine and happiness, for me.
April 3, 2020
This is such a good read. I loved Evie and Callum, and as a fellow Scot, I loved the setting. My favourite character has to be Nana Agnes! She’s hilarious. It had a lot going on in the story, with great character development. A must read in these dark days
June 17, 2020
What a lovely story! I enjoyed reading this book a lot!!! Everything feels cozy and exciting in this book. You never get bored. There is so much going on on this little piece of heaven of Scotland! This book is all about second chances and getting over the pain of the past and finding happiness and love again. It's beautifuly written and the characters are all very lovable. Perfect summer read! I recommend it!!!! 4 stars out of 5 for me!
April 29, 2020
**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.**
Title The Little Village of New Starts
Author Donna Ashcroft
Description from Amazon
Sometimes turning everything upside down feels just right…
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
Release Date May 12, 2020
Initial Thoughts
I loved The Christmas Countdown by Donna Ashcroft so I knew when she had a new book available, that I wanted to read it. It is wrong that I kind of want to read Christmas books right now? Anyway, back on topic. I was excited to read this book. I really enjoy books set in Scotland and I also like Donna Ashcroft’s writing style.
Some Things I Liked
Scotland as a setting. Lochton sounds like such a great place to visit. Filled with family and warm memories. I loved the rich descriptions and this book only fueled my desire to travel / retire there.
Miss Daisy and Tiki. I loved the role animals played in the story. It can be hard to give animals real personality in contemporary stories, as there is no magical element to lean on. But, I think it was really well done in this story. I felt like I knew both the goat and parrot well by the end of the story and they felt like they were characters just as much as anyone else in the story.
Nana Agnes. I loved her. She reminds me of a Scottish version of my grandma. She was a perfect side character and I loved her story almost as much as Evie and Callum’s.
Series Value
I would definitely continue reading this series if Donna Ashcroft chooses to set more books here. I’d like to see stories about Meg and Lilith as well as a bit of an epilogue for Evie and Callum. I liked the ending, but I wouldn’t be opposed to more.
Final Thoughts
This was a super fast read, started at around 9pm and finished at about 1am. I liked the story, engaged with the characters, and confirmed what I already knew, that I was a fan of Donna Ashcroft. If you are looking for a quick, rom-com, definitely check this one out.
Final note, this book is available for free with Kindle Unlimited.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommendations for Further Reading
The Christmas Countdown by Donna Ashcroft – if you liked the writing style and small town setting, try this Christmas release by Donna Ashcroft.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo by Julie Caplin – if you liked the themes of a main character who didn’t totally trust her judgement in men (or herself), try this upcoming June 2020 release.
The Move by Whitney Dineen – if you’re looking for a bit of a gender bent version of The Little Village of New Starts look no further. In The Move, our heroine moves to a new town, discovers a part of herself that she had lost, and meets a nice local guy.
Title The Little Village of New Starts
Author Donna Ashcroft
Description from Amazon
Sometimes turning everything upside down feels just right…
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
Release Date May 12, 2020
Initial Thoughts
I loved The Christmas Countdown by Donna Ashcroft so I knew when she had a new book available, that I wanted to read it. It is wrong that I kind of want to read Christmas books right now? Anyway, back on topic. I was excited to read this book. I really enjoy books set in Scotland and I also like Donna Ashcroft’s writing style.
Some Things I Liked
Scotland as a setting. Lochton sounds like such a great place to visit. Filled with family and warm memories. I loved the rich descriptions and this book only fueled my desire to travel / retire there.
Miss Daisy and Tiki. I loved the role animals played in the story. It can be hard to give animals real personality in contemporary stories, as there is no magical element to lean on. But, I think it was really well done in this story. I felt like I knew both the goat and parrot well by the end of the story and they felt like they were characters just as much as anyone else in the story.
Nana Agnes. I loved her. She reminds me of a Scottish version of my grandma. She was a perfect side character and I loved her story almost as much as Evie and Callum’s.
Series Value
I would definitely continue reading this series if Donna Ashcroft chooses to set more books here. I’d like to see stories about Meg and Lilith as well as a bit of an epilogue for Evie and Callum. I liked the ending, but I wouldn’t be opposed to more.
Final Thoughts
This was a super fast read, started at around 9pm and finished at about 1am. I liked the story, engaged with the characters, and confirmed what I already knew, that I was a fan of Donna Ashcroft. If you are looking for a quick, rom-com, definitely check this one out.
Final note, this book is available for free with Kindle Unlimited.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommendations for Further Reading
The Christmas Countdown by Donna Ashcroft – if you liked the writing style and small town setting, try this Christmas release by Donna Ashcroft.
The Little Teashop in Tokyo by Julie Caplin – if you liked the themes of a main character who didn’t totally trust her judgement in men (or herself), try this upcoming June 2020 release.
The Move by Whitney Dineen – if you’re looking for a bit of a gender bent version of The Little Village of New Starts look no further. In The Move, our heroine moves to a new town, discovers a part of herself that she had lost, and meets a nice local guy.
April 14, 2020
Evie lives in a small village in Scotland. She lives on a farm with Mam, Da and Nan, as well as Miss Daisy. These are her mother, father, grandmother Agnes and her goat, Daisy.
A year ago, Evie fell completely in love. She moved too quickly and found that the rat was a married man. Since then, she has hidden on her family farm, seldom going into the village. She believes that everyone is laughing at her.
In point of fact, nearly everyone in the village cares about her, wants the best for her and feels badly that she was deceived. Evie seemed to imagine she is the center of the universe. It took me awhile to warm up to her.
Callum is a fireman from New York City. He has come to the village to try and find his grandfather. After her death, he found remarkable letters which were sent to his late grandmother. The man writing the letters had the soul of a poet and the heart of a man who had found true love.
Because he is alone in the world, Callum has come to Scotland to see if he might actually have a member of his family. He stays at the farm in one of the yurts rented out to tourists. He spends time with Evie, Grandma Agnes and the goat. He loves every minute of his time there. He is an athlete who bicycles, hikes, swims and generally spends his energy in physical activities.
The Scottish countryside is beautiful. The villagers are friendly, very nosy, but friendly. It is evident that Callum’s search will be an interesting one.
Evie and Callum are thrown together by Grandma Agnes. She is trying to get Evie to realize that her life must move forward. And Callum is gorgeous, intelligent, kind and funny. He would be perfect to help Evie move on.
This is a story filled with wonderful characters. Ms Ashcroft has created people who are devoted to one another. Evie’s family, the villagers and the farmers in the area are all complete people.
There are secondary plots which add interest to the story. Grandma Agnes and her plan for Fergus, a neighbor was the storyline which I liked the best. She is a brave and courageous woman who cares deeply for all the people in her life. She also has determined that life is short and she intends to live in the way best suited to her. And she is a very funny character.
The search for Callum’s grandfather takes a back seat to the growing attraction between Evie and Callum. But it is always in the background waiting for the solution. The solution will not come as a surprise, but it still is an interesting journey.
I enjoyed this book.
I received the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
A year ago, Evie fell completely in love. She moved too quickly and found that the rat was a married man. Since then, she has hidden on her family farm, seldom going into the village. She believes that everyone is laughing at her.
In point of fact, nearly everyone in the village cares about her, wants the best for her and feels badly that she was deceived. Evie seemed to imagine she is the center of the universe. It took me awhile to warm up to her.
Callum is a fireman from New York City. He has come to the village to try and find his grandfather. After her death, he found remarkable letters which were sent to his late grandmother. The man writing the letters had the soul of a poet and the heart of a man who had found true love.
Because he is alone in the world, Callum has come to Scotland to see if he might actually have a member of his family. He stays at the farm in one of the yurts rented out to tourists. He spends time with Evie, Grandma Agnes and the goat. He loves every minute of his time there. He is an athlete who bicycles, hikes, swims and generally spends his energy in physical activities.
The Scottish countryside is beautiful. The villagers are friendly, very nosy, but friendly. It is evident that Callum’s search will be an interesting one.
Evie and Callum are thrown together by Grandma Agnes. She is trying to get Evie to realize that her life must move forward. And Callum is gorgeous, intelligent, kind and funny. He would be perfect to help Evie move on.
This is a story filled with wonderful characters. Ms Ashcroft has created people who are devoted to one another. Evie’s family, the villagers and the farmers in the area are all complete people.
There are secondary plots which add interest to the story. Grandma Agnes and her plan for Fergus, a neighbor was the storyline which I liked the best. She is a brave and courageous woman who cares deeply for all the people in her life. She also has determined that life is short and she intends to live in the way best suited to her. And she is a very funny character.
The search for Callum’s grandfather takes a back seat to the growing attraction between Evie and Callum. But it is always in the background waiting for the solution. The solution will not come as a surprise, but it still is an interesting journey.
I enjoyed this book.
I received the book from the publisher through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are completely my own.
May 15, 2020
I'm giving this book five stars, but really I would give it as many as I could! It's a wonderfully written with a fantastic cast of extremely well-written characters that make you feel like you are living in their village. I want to go and live there and actually live with Nana Agnes. What a fantastic romance, family story, coming-of-age, getting-over-breakup all jumbled into one. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful! I seriously can't recommend it enough. Our main protagonist is Evie, who is living back home after an extremely messy breakup. She's been had by a cad! A married man who played her and broke her sweet and loving heart. Her family runs a little group of Yurts, that they use as holiday vacation homes. Quite honestly, I'd love to try one out. One of the guests is an American firefighter, Callum Rider, who's kind of on vacation for a two fold reason. One, to lick his wounds and recover from a tragedy that occurred at work. And another, to try and find his maternal grandfather. Lucky for Evie, he chooses to stay at her family's business, ButterMead Farm in Lockton, Scotland. They both have many issues and they both help each other find their way to each other. Callum is in possession of 50 year old handwritten love letters from his grandfather to his grandmother, who he didn't end up marrying, but he did end up impregnating. Beautifully written from the heart and so poetic and beautiful they make you want to have anyone write you letters like that. My favorite character by far was Callum. He really grew throughout the storyline. And even crusty old Fergus, who we end up finding out is the grandfather that everyone's been looking for and is a Distillery owner of fine whiskeys. There's a lot of early-morning skinny dipping in the loch, a sassy talking parrot named Tiki, a sweet little goat that's Evie's personal pet, Meg, who is Evie's best friend, that owns a Christmas shop and cafe in Lockton. The author has a fantastic writing style with extremely well-developed characters and an excellent plot. The town is so warm and welcoming that I'm really going to miss this book. I highly recommend it. It's perfect for losing yourself in, especially during these times. I found myself laughing out loud at quite a few spots. Bravo!!
I would like to thank Donna Ashcroft, bookoutoure, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange a fair and honest review.
I would like to thank Donna Ashcroft, bookoutoure, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange a fair and honest review.
May 17, 2020
I have been a fan of Donna's for a fair while now. I love the way in which she writes fun, charming and at the same time moving stories. When I heard that Donna was due to release another book, I just knew that I had to read it as soon as I could get my hands on a copy. Well I did eventually get my hands on a copy and I devoured the book (not literally because that would be weird) in just under a day. I absolutely ADORED reading 'The Little Village Of New Starts' but more about that in a bit.
'The Little Village Of New Starts' developed a hold over me from the moment I first picked the book up and that hold lasted until the moment I read the last word on the last page. I immersed myself into the story so deeply that I lost all track of time and I lost track of how quickly the pages were turning. When I first looked up to check on my progress, I was surprised to learn that I had already read over a third of the book. For me, 'The Little Village Of New Starts' was an unputdownable, page turner of a book. I was gripped from start to finish. I loved the character of Evie and I cared about what happened to her. I soon raced through the story and I reached the end of the book far quicker than I had wanted to.
'The Little Village Of New Starts' is really well written but then I think that to be true of all of Donna's books to date. She grabs your attention from the start and draws you into the story. She writes moving, emotional but ultimately uplifting stories that will make you chuckle away at certain bits of the story but others may well make you feel emotional. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that's down to Donna's fantastic and very vivid storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'The Little Village Of New Starts' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Donna's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
'The Little Village Of New Starts' developed a hold over me from the moment I first picked the book up and that hold lasted until the moment I read the last word on the last page. I immersed myself into the story so deeply that I lost all track of time and I lost track of how quickly the pages were turning. When I first looked up to check on my progress, I was surprised to learn that I had already read over a third of the book. For me, 'The Little Village Of New Starts' was an unputdownable, page turner of a book. I was gripped from start to finish. I loved the character of Evie and I cared about what happened to her. I soon raced through the story and I reached the end of the book far quicker than I had wanted to.
'The Little Village Of New Starts' is really well written but then I think that to be true of all of Donna's books to date. She grabs your attention from the start and draws you into the story. She writes moving, emotional but ultimately uplifting stories that will make you chuckle away at certain bits of the story but others may well make you feel emotional. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that's down to Donna's fantastic and very vivid storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'The Little Village Of New Starts' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Donna's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
November 30, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #thelittlevillageofnewstarts #netgalley
Evie Stuart has returned to the Highlands from Edinburgh. After a relationship with Liam where she found out he was married with a baby on the way. Since then Evie hasn't been able to stand the village grapevine and has locked herself away in her bedroom on the family farm. Until the new hot toddy Callim arrives for a four week stay in the families yurt. Will Evie manage to keep herself locked away?
I have previously read Donna's book "If everyday was Christmas." Which I thoroughly enjoyed therefore new I wanted to read all the other books from Donna.
It was very difficult to find out the order to read Donna's books in. However after recognising Lilleth from the previous book I read. I did some research and found this was actually the first book in the series. However you would not know this when reading it and this book makes a great stand alone book, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
This book is an easy read. The pace gets ramped up in the second half. It does have a hint of a predictable ending although a further twist is added in as we. Which is a nice touch to prevent it being solely the predictable ending.
This book does exactly what it says on the tin. A lovely light read whisking you away to a the Scottish Highlands. With the beautiful descriptions Which tell you your swimming in the Lochan too. The characters all have amazing souls which you feel drawn into with every breath they take.
However I did feel that Evie suddenly let her guard down, with very little effort, about a quarter of the way through. This went against the information we had been given about her attempts to stay safe. She then went back to having her guard up again although nothing bad had happened. It felt like it had mistakenly been added at that point.
Evie Stuart has returned to the Highlands from Edinburgh. After a relationship with Liam where she found out he was married with a baby on the way. Since then Evie hasn't been able to stand the village grapevine and has locked herself away in her bedroom on the family farm. Until the new hot toddy Callim arrives for a four week stay in the families yurt. Will Evie manage to keep herself locked away?
I have previously read Donna's book "If everyday was Christmas." Which I thoroughly enjoyed therefore new I wanted to read all the other books from Donna.
It was very difficult to find out the order to read Donna's books in. However after recognising Lilleth from the previous book I read. I did some research and found this was actually the first book in the series. However you would not know this when reading it and this book makes a great stand alone book, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
This book is an easy read. The pace gets ramped up in the second half. It does have a hint of a predictable ending although a further twist is added in as we. Which is a nice touch to prevent it being solely the predictable ending.
This book does exactly what it says on the tin. A lovely light read whisking you away to a the Scottish Highlands. With the beautiful descriptions Which tell you your swimming in the Lochan too. The characters all have amazing souls which you feel drawn into with every breath they take.
However I did feel that Evie suddenly let her guard down, with very little effort, about a quarter of the way through. This went against the information we had been given about her attempts to stay safe. She then went back to having her guard up again although nothing bad had happened. It felt like it had mistakenly been added at that point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2020
A lovely story of finding family, self and new opportunities for happiness in a small highland village. Evie has retreated to home, working with her family after a relationship went horribly wrong. The formerly impulsive and daring Evie is now second-guessing her every move and trying to protect herself and her heart from further injury. Callum has booked a month in one of the glamping yurts, he’s trying to deal with stress from his work as a firefighter and discover the secrets revealed only after clearing out his mother’s things after her death.
These two are adorable and wonderful together – from the sparks and snark to their genuine attraction that springs from the pages. Both have issues with their pasts and relationships, and neither is quite sure what to do with the attraction. Evie has chosen to avoid it, and much of her ‘old self’ while Callum isn’t willing to just let her go. Full of laughter, family and some serious sharing on both sides, Evie starts to move forward, with a push from her best friend and family, while Callum has found his ‘answers’, taken the first gruff reactions as truth and is leaving.
Full of as much heart and hope as one would expect, the family, the people" and the two animals who provide comic relief and a bit of ‘advice’, along with a subplot for Evie’s grandmother, the village ‘jam festival’ that brings entries and preserves from around the world, and some grand gestures and this is a lovely ‘getaway’ story, sure to please fans of Ashcroft’s gentle romances.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
These two are adorable and wonderful together – from the sparks and snark to their genuine attraction that springs from the pages. Both have issues with their pasts and relationships, and neither is quite sure what to do with the attraction. Evie has chosen to avoid it, and much of her ‘old self’ while Callum isn’t willing to just let her go. Full of laughter, family and some serious sharing on both sides, Evie starts to move forward, with a push from her best friend and family, while Callum has found his ‘answers’, taken the first gruff reactions as truth and is leaving.
Full of as much heart and hope as one would expect, the family, the people" and the two animals who provide comic relief and a bit of ‘advice’, along with a subplot for Evie’s grandmother, the village ‘jam festival’ that brings entries and preserves from around the world, and some grand gestures and this is a lovely ‘getaway’ story, sure to please fans of Ashcroft’s gentle romances.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
March 14, 2021
I’ve always wanted to return to Scotland one day. I last went as a teenager, so my memories are very blurred and vague. Some things stand out due to family reminisces, but I’m sure I didn’t appreciate my surroundings’ beauty back then, which is why I wish to return. This book only served to fuel that desire due to Miss Ashcroft’s excellent writing.
The setting was fantastic, which only served to bring out the characters’ life, or perhaps it was the other way around. Whichever way it worked, the author brought the characters to life, all in their unique way. Evie is almost a hermit; she shies away from people and only ventures out when she thinks nobody else is around. She believes everyone is talking about her and her mistakes when, in reality, they aren’t. So she avoids social contact until Callum practically falls into her life. He’s also trying to forget his past mistakes (although the error is only his guilt, making it seem like a mistake). Thrown together on a mission to find Callum’s long lost grandfather, they let go of the things holding them back and challenge each other’s fears.
I loved Evie’s grandmother Agnes too. Rather than being just a secondary character to complement the main characters, she has her own story to tell. She is also instrumental in the theme of second chances, proving they can come at any age.
This story was an enjoyable adventure and even held a few surprises along the way, which this genre is not known for. That’s one of the beauties of chick-lit for me, and I like being sure of a happy ending. This tale had that and so much more, so it’s a big thumbs up from me.
The setting was fantastic, which only served to bring out the characters’ life, or perhaps it was the other way around. Whichever way it worked, the author brought the characters to life, all in their unique way. Evie is almost a hermit; she shies away from people and only ventures out when she thinks nobody else is around. She believes everyone is talking about her and her mistakes when, in reality, they aren’t. So she avoids social contact until Callum practically falls into her life. He’s also trying to forget his past mistakes (although the error is only his guilt, making it seem like a mistake). Thrown together on a mission to find Callum’s long lost grandfather, they let go of the things holding them back and challenge each other’s fears.
I loved Evie’s grandmother Agnes too. Rather than being just a secondary character to complement the main characters, she has her own story to tell. She is also instrumental in the theme of second chances, proving they can come at any age.
This story was an enjoyable adventure and even held a few surprises along the way, which this genre is not known for. That’s one of the beauties of chick-lit for me, and I like being sure of a happy ending. This tale had that and so much more, so it’s a big thumbs up from me.
April 9, 2020
This was an uplifting, heartwarming book. I read it in one day. Evie has had some recent heartbreak and so has retreated to her family's farm in Scotland where she feels safe spending her days with her goat, Miss Daisy, and helping her family with the yurts they rent out to vacationers. Everything in Evie's life is nice and predictable, as she prefers, until Callum shows up to stay in a yurt for a month. Callum is an American firefighter trying to solve a mystery about his family's past and recover from his own trauma. He's also everything Evie is trying to avoid. Callum is unpredictable, outgoing, and a lover of adventure. The two find themselves together more than not and begin to realize that, despite outward appearances, they may be more of a match than they thought.
The Little Village of New Starts is a fun, well-written book. It reads like a movie in the best of ways. The setting of Scotland cannot be beat. The cast is full of great characters, including Evie's Nana who is hysterical. I had a hard time putting this one down. I gave the book one 4 stars. I loved it but did find some of the very un-American things Callum would say or do sometimes slightly distracting as they were out of character; however, it wasn't too extreme and did not detract from the story. A great read and an author I would be happy to return to again.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. The opinions here are my own.
The Little Village of New Starts is a fun, well-written book. It reads like a movie in the best of ways. The setting of Scotland cannot be beat. The cast is full of great characters, including Evie's Nana who is hysterical. I had a hard time putting this one down. I gave the book one 4 stars. I loved it but did find some of the very un-American things Callum would say or do sometimes slightly distracting as they were out of character; however, it wasn't too extreme and did not detract from the story. A great read and an author I would be happy to return to again.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. The opinions here are my own.
February 2, 2024
Just like the Amazon synopsis below - this book was long-winded. I got a little annoyed at the constant mental nattering. But I stuck with it because I liked the characters.
Amazon synopsis:
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
Amazon synopsis:
Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again.
Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family.
Yet the pair might have more in common than they think… When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives.
But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all… Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her?
May 7, 2020
Sweet romance and a💌 letter to deliver, but to whom?
4-4.5🌟stars
I felt like this story took me on a cozy ramble through the Highlands, complete with a curmudgeonly whiskey distiller and quirky animals (a parrot obsessed with Simple Minds?! and Jaws the Seagull, to name a few). But at the heart there's a young woman and her grandmother with opposing perspectives on living and loving in the aftermath of loss and disappointment. Yank (American) firefighter Callum shows up looking for a long lost relative and shakes things up.
I found Callum's story the most touching and my first impression of him as a cocky rogue gave way to a more sympathetic one. He's a rootless man who needs something to anchor and support him. The letter he carries could be his passport to family and acceptance but he also risks rejection.
Callum and Evie's romance is supplemented with jam wars and grannie Agnes's pursuit of a new beau eight years after her dear husband's passing. Agnes is quite a character, wise, more lively than any granny of her years I know and touched with a bit of Highland magic. She and the other secondary characters like nervous Meg and nosey Morag added lots of small-town charm.
Thanks to publisher Bookouture and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review and the opinions expressed are my own.
4-4.5🌟stars
I felt like this story took me on a cozy ramble through the Highlands, complete with a curmudgeonly whiskey distiller and quirky animals (a parrot obsessed with Simple Minds?! and Jaws the Seagull, to name a few). But at the heart there's a young woman and her grandmother with opposing perspectives on living and loving in the aftermath of loss and disappointment. Yank (American) firefighter Callum shows up looking for a long lost relative and shakes things up.
I found Callum's story the most touching and my first impression of him as a cocky rogue gave way to a more sympathetic one. He's a rootless man who needs something to anchor and support him. The letter he carries could be his passport to family and acceptance but he also risks rejection.
Callum and Evie's romance is supplemented with jam wars and grannie Agnes's pursuit of a new beau eight years after her dear husband's passing. Agnes is quite a character, wise, more lively than any granny of her years I know and touched with a bit of Highland magic. She and the other secondary characters like nervous Meg and nosey Morag added lots of small-town charm.
Thanks to publisher Bookouture and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review and the opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2020
Raise your hand if your heart has never been broken! Hmmm, don’t see to many hand here, so I know you know what I am talking about when I say that the thing you want most at that moment is to bask in the love of your family and, in the meantime, continue to build a high sturdy wall around your heart.
You never want to be hurt again, so you decide that love is not for you anymore. Then someone comes along and starts scratching at that wall and even when the cracks become bigger, you still do not want to take a chance. You still don’t have enough trust.
There are two options : fight or flight. Which one would you choose…?
The author has created some very likeable characters. Nana Agnes is great. She definitely goes for the ‘fight’ option but in a very loveable way. Fergus is grumpy, more in favour of the ‘flight’ option, but his heart is thawing.
It’s nice to see the changes in both Callum and Evie. Which option did they pick? That is something if won’t reveal 🙂
Donna Ashcroft always writes the cutest stories that pull your heartstrings in every possible way, but also make you go ‘ooooowwww’. If you are charmed by these ingredients too, make sure to add this book to your list. 🙂 5 stars
Thank you, Donna Ashcroft and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
You never want to be hurt again, so you decide that love is not for you anymore. Then someone comes along and starts scratching at that wall and even when the cracks become bigger, you still do not want to take a chance. You still don’t have enough trust.
There are two options : fight or flight. Which one would you choose…?
The author has created some very likeable characters. Nana Agnes is great. She definitely goes for the ‘fight’ option but in a very loveable way. Fergus is grumpy, more in favour of the ‘flight’ option, but his heart is thawing.
It’s nice to see the changes in both Callum and Evie. Which option did they pick? That is something if won’t reveal 🙂
Donna Ashcroft always writes the cutest stories that pull your heartstrings in every possible way, but also make you go ‘ooooowwww’. If you are charmed by these ingredients too, make sure to add this book to your list. 🙂 5 stars
Thank you, Donna Ashcroft and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
June 4, 2020
Evie Stuart is hiding away on the family farm in picturesque Scotland, trying to forget about her ex-fiance who turned out to be married with a baby on the way. She is scared of being judged by the people in the village so stays on the farm as much as possible.
Her family hire out yurts to guests and Callum arrives from America searching for his biological grandfather, armed only with his grandmother's letters as clues. He is a fire fighter, haunted by the family he couldn't save. Can Evie and Callum heal each other's hearts...?
The Little Village of New Starts is a warm and gentle romance novel with a dash of passion. Evie and Callum are both vulnerable and likeable so I found myself willing them to love each other!
The other character that really stands out is Agnes; Evie's nan is a great character, full of life and enthusiasm as well as wisdom. She has her own love interest and shows us that age is just a number and shouldn't be an impediment to finding love.
There is a subplot of the Jampionships: I am quite tempted to try making jam! This adds an extra dimension to the book and supports the main plot of Evie and Callum's developing romance alongside their mutual search for his grandfather.
There is a richness and warmth to the descriptions, plot and characters that make The Little Village of New Starts a real feelgood book.
Her family hire out yurts to guests and Callum arrives from America searching for his biological grandfather, armed only with his grandmother's letters as clues. He is a fire fighter, haunted by the family he couldn't save. Can Evie and Callum heal each other's hearts...?
The Little Village of New Starts is a warm and gentle romance novel with a dash of passion. Evie and Callum are both vulnerable and likeable so I found myself willing them to love each other!
The other character that really stands out is Agnes; Evie's nan is a great character, full of life and enthusiasm as well as wisdom. She has her own love interest and shows us that age is just a number and shouldn't be an impediment to finding love.
There is a subplot of the Jampionships: I am quite tempted to try making jam! This adds an extra dimension to the book and supports the main plot of Evie and Callum's developing romance alongside their mutual search for his grandfather.
There is a richness and warmth to the descriptions, plot and characters that make The Little Village of New Starts a real feelgood book.
April 20, 2020
Provided in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity.
New Starts is exactly what it says on the jam pot - which is no bad thing. Are you looking for romance (check x 2) are you looking for quaint Scottish village life (check), are you looking for lots of whiskey drinking and jam eating (c-c-c-check!)? Then this is the read for you.
The trope explored here is two people hiding from trauma in their past (loss, a failed relationship filled with deception) and how important it is to be open to love and life. Whilst there were some parts which I felt were rushed (Evie held back from openness and romance consistently until suddenly from one page to the next her whole demeanour shifted - would have been nice to see some reasoning for that, or a slower transition) and sometimes that negates from the emotional payoff. However there’s also a charming cast of supporting characters to make up for it. The couple of plot twists written in are hugely obvious from almost the very start, but that doesn’t really detract from the read.
New Starts’s toast and jam is charm and this is present in spades. A quarantine read that is gentle, sweet and easy going - just what I was looking for. Perfect with a dram of Whiskey and a slow Sunday indoors.
New Starts is exactly what it says on the jam pot - which is no bad thing. Are you looking for romance (check x 2) are you looking for quaint Scottish village life (check), are you looking for lots of whiskey drinking and jam eating (c-c-c-check!)? Then this is the read for you.
The trope explored here is two people hiding from trauma in their past (loss, a failed relationship filled with deception) and how important it is to be open to love and life. Whilst there were some parts which I felt were rushed (Evie held back from openness and romance consistently until suddenly from one page to the next her whole demeanour shifted - would have been nice to see some reasoning for that, or a slower transition) and sometimes that negates from the emotional payoff. However there’s also a charming cast of supporting characters to make up for it. The couple of plot twists written in are hugely obvious from almost the very start, but that doesn’t really detract from the read.
New Starts’s toast and jam is charm and this is present in spades. A quarantine read that is gentle, sweet and easy going - just what I was looking for. Perfect with a dram of Whiskey and a slow Sunday indoors.
May 3, 2020
Having loved other books by Donna Ashcroft (I loved the Christmas Countdown) I was excited to preview her latest novel, The Little Village of New Starts.
Although the book starts well with an interesting premise, the plotlines get a little thin and too many, and some are more interesting than others.
The pacing of the main mystery isn't really given the time it deserves for readers to explore (though the ending is quite sweet) which is a shame as it had lots of potential.
The setting of the Scottish Highlands was great and Agnes was definitely the standout character of this novel; I would have loved to have learned more about her! Evie and Callum's story was also lovely, if a little predictable.
Overall I'd say this is a good novel to while away a couple of hours, but unfortunately this is not one of Ashcroft's strongest in terms of plot and pacing. But if you're looking for a good beach read, this would do the job nicely.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to its publication. Views and opinions are entirely my own.
Although the book starts well with an interesting premise, the plotlines get a little thin and too many, and some are more interesting than others.
The pacing of the main mystery isn't really given the time it deserves for readers to explore (though the ending is quite sweet) which is a shame as it had lots of potential.
The setting of the Scottish Highlands was great and Agnes was definitely the standout character of this novel; I would have loved to have learned more about her! Evie and Callum's story was also lovely, if a little predictable.
Overall I'd say this is a good novel to while away a couple of hours, but unfortunately this is not one of Ashcroft's strongest in terms of plot and pacing. But if you're looking for a good beach read, this would do the job nicely.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to its publication. Views and opinions are entirely my own.
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