What do you think?
Rate this book
Swallowtail Bay #2
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay
'Seaside, strawberries and a sexy hero – what's not to love?' Mandy Baggot, author of My Greek Island Summer Hetty Colman loves her life in the cosy seaside town of Swallowtail Bay, organising children’s birthdays, anniversaries and retirement parties. But after her recent break up from long-term boyfriend Ben, she’s been searching for something new.
So, when Hetty overhears locals wondering how to return the old strawberry festival to its former glory, she jumps at the chance to relaunch it. There are just two problems – she only has four weeks to organise it and absolutely nowhere to host it!
When Hetty manages to convince the aloof, yet extremely handsome, John Thornhill to use the grounds of his rundown manor, things start to look up. But as Hetty and John grow closer and Ben tries to win back her affections, can Hetty make the festival and her love life run smoothly at the same time?
Fans of Rachael Lucas, Cathy Bramley and Jenny Colgan will fall in love with this hilarious summer read from Katie Ginger!
So, when Hetty overhears locals wondering how to return the old strawberry festival to its former glory, she jumps at the chance to relaunch it. There are just two problems – she only has four weeks to organise it and absolutely nowhere to host it!
When Hetty manages to convince the aloof, yet extremely handsome, John Thornhill to use the grounds of his rundown manor, things start to look up. But as Hetty and John grow closer and Ben tries to win back her affections, can Hetty make the festival and her love life run smoothly at the same time?
Fans of Rachael Lucas, Cathy Bramley and Jenny Colgan will fall in love with this hilarious summer read from Katie Ginger!
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2020
65 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Katie Ginger
13 books146 followersKatie is a mystery and romance writer. Her debut novel The Little Theatre on the Seafront, published by HarperCollins, HQ Digital was nominated for the Katie Fforde Debut Novel of the Year Award and some of her books have been Amazon bestsellers. Her most recent series is the Swallowtail Bay series featuring a gloriously quaint seaside town and hunky heroes galore!
As well as writing romance, she also writes cozy mysteries under the pen name K E Coburn.
Sign-up to her mailing list to keep up to date with her bookish news and be the first to know the behind-the-scenes gossip!
As well as writing romance, she also writes cozy mysteries under the pen name K E Coburn.
Sign-up to her mailing list to keep up to date with her bookish news and be the first to know the behind-the-scenes gossip!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 25, 2020
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is the second book in Katie Ginger's Swallowtail Bay series. The first book was an absolute delight so I jumped at the chance to read this one when I saw it on NetGalley. The story follows Hetty, an event planner who is determined to return the town's annual Strawberry Festival to its former glory. But there's one big problem - she has no location to hold the event. With only four weeks until the festival, she desperately tries to convince John Thornhill, an elusive aristocrat, to let her use his family's land. The Thornhills are not very popular with the villagers and like to keep to themselves. Will John agree? And more importantly, if he does, will the festival be successful?
This is a delightful and uplifting read, with a gorgeous setting, lovable characters, and a sense of family and community. The story is well-written and has a good pace that will keep the reader engaged and turning pages. Hetty was my favorite character. She was kind-hearted, confident, feisty, and not afraid to take risks. I thought the relationship between her and John progressed at a realistic pace. They had wonderful chemistry, and I enjoyed following their journey to a happy ending. This story will leave you with a smile on your face and make you wish you could take a vacation to the lovely seaside town of Swallowtail Bay. This is the third book I have read from Katie Ginger, and I have to say, it's definitely my favorite so far. If you enjoy sweet, heartwarming stories, then I highly recommend her books.
Thank you to Katie Ginger, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a delightful and uplifting read, with a gorgeous setting, lovable characters, and a sense of family and community. The story is well-written and has a good pace that will keep the reader engaged and turning pages. Hetty was my favorite character. She was kind-hearted, confident, feisty, and not afraid to take risks. I thought the relationship between her and John progressed at a realistic pace. They had wonderful chemistry, and I enjoyed following their journey to a happy ending. This story will leave you with a smile on your face and make you wish you could take a vacation to the lovely seaside town of Swallowtail Bay. This is the third book I have read from Katie Ginger, and I have to say, it's definitely my favorite so far. If you enjoy sweet, heartwarming stories, then I highly recommend her books.
Thank you to Katie Ginger, HQ Digital, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2020
4☆An Uplifting, Entertaining, Lighthearted Romance that will leave you Smiling and Giggling
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is the Second book in the Series but can be read as a standalone with ease
Hetty is determined to revive Swallowtail Bay's Strawberry Festival and make it special. She has four weeks to get everything prepared and organised for the big event.
There is just one thing standing in her way...John Thornhill. He's not the most popular person but she needs him if she is to make the Festival a success. But convincing him to let them hold the Festival on his land, might be harder than she thought!
I loved Hetty she's fun, loveable, relatable and her zest and passion for planning and organising shone through.
John is a little more reclusive, grumpy, blending into the background. So watching the two come together was heart warming and melted my heart to see them blossom.
With ups and downs, some laugh out loud moments, a stunning location and a blossoming romance not to mention the scrumptious Strawberries, this book has a lil bit of everything!
So if you are looking for an Uplifting, Entertaining, Lighthearted Romance that will leave you smiling and giggling and falling in love with Swallowtail Bay and the Endearing Characters, then I highly recommend reading Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is the Second book in the Series but can be read as a standalone with ease
Hetty is determined to revive Swallowtail Bay's Strawberry Festival and make it special. She has four weeks to get everything prepared and organised for the big event.
There is just one thing standing in her way...John Thornhill. He's not the most popular person but she needs him if she is to make the Festival a success. But convincing him to let them hold the Festival on his land, might be harder than she thought!
I loved Hetty she's fun, loveable, relatable and her zest and passion for planning and organising shone through.
John is a little more reclusive, grumpy, blending into the background. So watching the two come together was heart warming and melted my heart to see them blossom.
With ups and downs, some laugh out loud moments, a stunning location and a blossoming romance not to mention the scrumptious Strawberries, this book has a lil bit of everything!
So if you are looking for an Uplifting, Entertaining, Lighthearted Romance that will leave you smiling and giggling and falling in love with Swallowtail Bay and the Endearing Characters, then I highly recommend reading Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
June 27, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Stanley was the limpy seagull Hetty had adopted and fed regularly from a special little plate. They’d both grown very fond of him as they imagined his deformed foot meant all the other seagulls teased him and wouldn’t let him join their gangs.
His family didn’t need any more egg on their faces. They had a whole omelette there already.
She hadn’t mentioned camping to Macie yet. Hetty and Macie had a shared loathing of this particular outdoor pursuit. Neither of them could understand the appeal of sleeping on the ground and were terrified that ants might crawl into their knickers in the middle of the night. Admittedly, it would probably be more traumatic for the ant, but it would leave an emotional scar on them too.
I thought rule number one was always go to the toilet before a kids’ party started because you definitely won’t want to go in there afterwards?
A man who even after a year gave her the kind of kisses that made cartoon stars appear over her head and the world burst into song.
My Review:
This was a delightful diversion and pleasant and sweet read, something light and frothy to relax with and ease the tension from my shoulders after reading too many thrillers in a row. The writing was smooth and amusing, the characters were earnest and endearing, and the storylines were easy to follow and engaging with a bit of family drama that plucked at my curiosity as to how it would all play out.
Stanley was the limpy seagull Hetty had adopted and fed regularly from a special little plate. They’d both grown very fond of him as they imagined his deformed foot meant all the other seagulls teased him and wouldn’t let him join their gangs.
His family didn’t need any more egg on their faces. They had a whole omelette there already.
She hadn’t mentioned camping to Macie yet. Hetty and Macie had a shared loathing of this particular outdoor pursuit. Neither of them could understand the appeal of sleeping on the ground and were terrified that ants might crawl into their knickers in the middle of the night. Admittedly, it would probably be more traumatic for the ant, but it would leave an emotional scar on them too.
I thought rule number one was always go to the toilet before a kids’ party started because you definitely won’t want to go in there afterwards?
A man who even after a year gave her the kind of kisses that made cartoon stars appear over her head and the world burst into song.
My Review:
This was a delightful diversion and pleasant and sweet read, something light and frothy to relax with and ease the tension from my shoulders after reading too many thrillers in a row. The writing was smooth and amusing, the characters were earnest and endearing, and the storylines were easy to follow and engaging with a bit of family drama that plucked at my curiosity as to how it would all play out.
June 23, 2020
A sweet and scrumptious romance. Katie Ginger has written a charming story packed with delightful characters. Hetty is a lively event planner determined to revamp Swallowtail Bay’s annual strawberry festival. Part of the event planning involves her trying to convince be somewhat reclusive John Thornhill to allow the event to be held on his property. What follows is a sweet story with some complications. I loved watching Hetty and John‘s relationship bloom. It was so fun watching them plan the strawberry festival. I wanted to be right there with them, especially when it came to the food tasting. Hetty was such a fun vivacious character her bubbly personality and energy dripped from the pages. John really was her perfect match. The blurb made me think there was going to be more of a love triangle, but I was very grateful there really wasn’t. So grab your beach towel, your sunscreen, settle in on that lounge chair and relax with this book. And don’t forget the strawberries!
This book in emojis 🍓 🎟 ⛱ 💞 🍰
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book in emojis 🍓 🎟 ⛱ 💞 🍰
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
June 2, 2020
This story is as sweet as a bowl of strawberries and cream. No extra sugar required! I loved it.
Hetty is determined to bring back the Swallowtail Bay Strawberry Festival and the perfect venue is the home of stuffy aristocrat John Thornhill. Will he agree? Will they get on? And what will Hetty's ex but not so ex boyfriend Ben make of it all?
I loved the characters of Hetty and John and it was beautiful how their friendship developed. Fans of Mr Darcy, this is the read for you! The whole book had such a cosy feel, set in the village with the local community becoming involved in the fair. Hetty is a wonderful female protagonist - ambitious, funny, very much a woman with her own mind, yet vulnerable and sensitive as well.
The perfect cosy, heartwarming summer read to escape into.
Hetty is determined to bring back the Swallowtail Bay Strawberry Festival and the perfect venue is the home of stuffy aristocrat John Thornhill. Will he agree? Will they get on? And what will Hetty's ex but not so ex boyfriend Ben make of it all?
I loved the characters of Hetty and John and it was beautiful how their friendship developed. Fans of Mr Darcy, this is the read for you! The whole book had such a cosy feel, set in the village with the local community becoming involved in the fair. Hetty is a wonderful female protagonist - ambitious, funny, very much a woman with her own mind, yet vulnerable and sensitive as well.
The perfect cosy, heartwarming summer read to escape into.
July 17, 2020
Summer is in full swing and the locals are getting excited for the launch of the Swallowtail Bay strawberry food festival. But will all run smoothly when festival organiser Hetty’s heart is torn between lord of the manor John Thornhill and successful bakery owner Ben?
Hetty wants to revive the strawberry festival but there isn't anywhere's to hold it except for the mad of the Thornhills. The festival committee says good luck and there is one member who doesn't think Hetty can do the festival at all. So she goes knocking on John Thornhill's door asking him if they use some of their land. his answer is a big NO but she is not going to give up and will wear him down.
This book was so much fun to read and I really wanted to be a part of the town and the festival.
I received this from NetGalley for review.
Hetty wants to revive the strawberry festival but there isn't anywhere's to hold it except for the mad of the Thornhills. The festival committee says good luck and there is one member who doesn't think Hetty can do the festival at all. So she goes knocking on John Thornhill's door asking him if they use some of their land. his answer is a big NO but she is not going to give up and will wear him down.
This book was so much fun to read and I really wanted to be a part of the town and the festival.
I received this from NetGalley for review.
August 27, 2020
A big YES for this book, the second part of the Swallowtail Bay series by Katie Ginger! I already enjoyed very much the first time and I really enjoyed this second part that you can read separately from the first time, you will still understand what's going on in the story. I really enjoyed the storyline but mainly I enjoyed getting to know the main characters. They are so lovely and charming and the romance part in the book is very well written. I loved this book!!! Can't wait to read the third part to this series!!!!! I highly recommend this author and this book!
July 24, 2024
I can’t get enough of Swallowtail Bay! These books just hit a special place in my heart! The setting is just utter perfection. If you’re looking for a feel good romance the. i highly recommend you check out this series!
June 21, 2020
What a gorgeous book! A beautiful setting, fantastic characters who you can't stop thinking about, and a perfect love story! I adored this story of Hetty who is trying to bring back the Swallowtail Bay Strawberry Festival and organising it on the grounds of the impressive but crumbling Thornhill Manor with a little help from the standoffish but gorgeous owner of the manor, John Thornhill.
The setting is so beautifully described that you can picture it instantly, and I know the characters will stick in my mind for a long time to come. I loved bubbly Hetty, with her ambitious and can-do attitude, positivity, kindness, and refusal to give up, and I loved gorgeous Jane Austen-esque hero, John Thornhill, who is nowhere near as standoffish as he first seems. I loved the way their romance developed and couldn't wait to get back to my Kindle every night to spend more time with them, and I enjoyed getting to learn more about the Thornhill history and family. I also loved the side characters like Hetty's friend Macie, and Jaz, and even ex Ben, and especially the limping seagull!
It made me laugh out loud, snort, smile, and finally cry at the perfect ending. A charming romantic read that I didn't want to put down! This was my first trip to Swallowtail Bay, but it definitely won't be my last!
The setting is so beautifully described that you can picture it instantly, and I know the characters will stick in my mind for a long time to come. I loved bubbly Hetty, with her ambitious and can-do attitude, positivity, kindness, and refusal to give up, and I loved gorgeous Jane Austen-esque hero, John Thornhill, who is nowhere near as standoffish as he first seems. I loved the way their romance developed and couldn't wait to get back to my Kindle every night to spend more time with them, and I enjoyed getting to learn more about the Thornhill history and family. I also loved the side characters like Hetty's friend Macie, and Jaz, and even ex Ben, and especially the limping seagull!
It made me laugh out loud, snort, smile, and finally cry at the perfect ending. A charming romantic read that I didn't want to put down! This was my first trip to Swallowtail Bay, but it definitely won't be my last!
June 7, 2020
If you want something organised in Swallowtail Bay then you go to Hetty. She can do pretty much anything, she is not afraid to get her hands dirty and whether it is anniversary parties or birthday parties for hyped up children she can deliver. Events management is what she does the absolute best.
But Hetty is looking for that next big project and when she thinks she can pull off bringing back the local Strawberry Festival bigger and better than ever before within four weeks she sees it as a make or break moment.
The only problem she can foresee is persuading the residents of Thornhill Manor that it is a good idea and that it will be beneficial for them. John Thornhill, youngest son takes a lot of convincing, but it seems Hetty has something that he has never encountered before.
As plans gather pace with, food stalls, bouncy castles, fairground rides and a outdoor cinema, it seems that Hetty is going to pull it all together.
Trouble is she is also having to deal with her mother who has made decision which shocks not just Hetty but her father as well.
Then Ben, the man Hetty finished with is suddenly back in her life with a plan - one that Hetty could never see coming.
Hetty is not the only one having trouble, John Thornhill is dealing with the fallout of his father's actions, his mother is retreating further into her shell and his older brother is about to make the worse decision for the family without consulting anyone. Surely he can rely on Jaz his personal assistant to sort out everything else - it seems not.
So much is packed into this story, that you almost forget about the success of the festival. Brought to life from visiting potential fairgrounds, tasting food as well as the wonders of dealing with the general public. It feels like you are there walking round the stalls, tasting the food, listening to the music, letting it all wash over you.
Of course that is what Hetty and John want you to feel? What do they feel and will they be able to solve it all before the festival finishes and becomes the success they both want?
A second visit to Swallowtail Bay, but it doesn't matter if this is your first, a great summer story for any point in the year.
Like perfect strawberries with a big dollop of luscious cream on top - simply irresistible.
But Hetty is looking for that next big project and when she thinks she can pull off bringing back the local Strawberry Festival bigger and better than ever before within four weeks she sees it as a make or break moment.
The only problem she can foresee is persuading the residents of Thornhill Manor that it is a good idea and that it will be beneficial for them. John Thornhill, youngest son takes a lot of convincing, but it seems Hetty has something that he has never encountered before.
As plans gather pace with, food stalls, bouncy castles, fairground rides and a outdoor cinema, it seems that Hetty is going to pull it all together.
Trouble is she is also having to deal with her mother who has made decision which shocks not just Hetty but her father as well.
Then Ben, the man Hetty finished with is suddenly back in her life with a plan - one that Hetty could never see coming.
Hetty is not the only one having trouble, John Thornhill is dealing with the fallout of his father's actions, his mother is retreating further into her shell and his older brother is about to make the worse decision for the family without consulting anyone. Surely he can rely on Jaz his personal assistant to sort out everything else - it seems not.
So much is packed into this story, that you almost forget about the success of the festival. Brought to life from visiting potential fairgrounds, tasting food as well as the wonders of dealing with the general public. It feels like you are there walking round the stalls, tasting the food, listening to the music, letting it all wash over you.
Of course that is what Hetty and John want you to feel? What do they feel and will they be able to solve it all before the festival finishes and becomes the success they both want?
A second visit to Swallowtail Bay, but it doesn't matter if this is your first, a great summer story for any point in the year.
Like perfect strawberries with a big dollop of luscious cream on top - simply irresistible.
June 29, 2020
A lovely summery read as Hetty organises a strawberry festival in Swallowtail Bay amid much opposition from certain members of the committee and lord of the manor John Thornhill. This is perfect for reading in the garden, with a dish of strawberries, of course, to put you in the mood.
Will Hetty discover that John has a gentler side to the brush facade he offers to the world or will she fall back into the arms of ex, Ben? With many twists and turns, this book will keep you engrossed as you see whether Hetty can pull off the biggest event of her career.
Will Hetty discover that John has a gentler side to the brush facade he offers to the world or will she fall back into the arms of ex, Ben? With many twists and turns, this book will keep you engrossed as you see whether Hetty can pull off the biggest event of her career.
May 31, 2020
I loved my first trip to Swallowtail Bay and was very excited to see the second book in the series advertised.
I love the location of the book, set along the Kent coast in a fictional town with the countryside just a stone throw away. I love living close to the sea and it really brings the setting to life with the thrum of the chatter on the beaches on a sunny day and seagulls lurking, these scenes are picture perfect.
In this story we get to know Hetty who has her own business as an events organiser and is looking for a way to branch out and create more business. This is how she comes to meet John who lives in a rundown house that is always in need of maintenance with its sprawling fields and and the gorgeous scent of roses in the gardens.
I loved the details of the planning for the event as I read and the relationships we got to know more about as we read, as well as revisiting some of the lovely characters who we had initially met in our first trip to Swallowtail Bay.
A wonderful second visit to the gorgeous seaside town where you get to know more wonderful characters. An absolutely pleasure to read, I loved delving into these pages and was smiling as I reached the end.
I love the location of the book, set along the Kent coast in a fictional town with the countryside just a stone throw away. I love living close to the sea and it really brings the setting to life with the thrum of the chatter on the beaches on a sunny day and seagulls lurking, these scenes are picture perfect.
In this story we get to know Hetty who has her own business as an events organiser and is looking for a way to branch out and create more business. This is how she comes to meet John who lives in a rundown house that is always in need of maintenance with its sprawling fields and and the gorgeous scent of roses in the gardens.
I loved the details of the planning for the event as I read and the relationships we got to know more about as we read, as well as revisiting some of the lovely characters who we had initially met in our first trip to Swallowtail Bay.
A wonderful second visit to the gorgeous seaside town where you get to know more wonderful characters. An absolutely pleasure to read, I loved delving into these pages and was smiling as I reached the end.
November 18, 2020
I loved every page of this book. Katie Ginger creates believable characters and beautiful settings along with a captivating story line.
Hetty is an events planner and jumps at the chance to reinstate the Strawberry festival and make it a huge success. Her biggest challenge is trying to persuade the local landowners to let them use their fields. She manages to break down the reserve and you can feel the exciting build up unfolding before you.
I love the sound of a strawberry festival and felt part of this one. A lovely summery read.
Hetty is an events planner and jumps at the chance to reinstate the Strawberry festival and make it a huge success. Her biggest challenge is trying to persuade the local landowners to let them use their fields. She manages to break down the reserve and you can feel the exciting build up unfolding before you.
I love the sound of a strawberry festival and felt part of this one. A lovely summery read.
June 30, 2020
As part of the Swallowtail Bay series, this is a standalone book which is the perfect summer read.
When we first meet Hetty, and her assistant Macie they are wrangling children at a birthday party, and it’s clear that Hetty is a genius at organising events, and troubleshooting issues! When she decides to revive a traditional Strawberry Festival, reminiscent of her childhood in Swallowtail Bay, it’s clear that she will take everything in her stride. I found that I instantly warmed to Hetty who is so capable and confident in her own abilities. Her sometimes ditzy assistant Macie provided the perfect sidekick for her.
When it comes to love with Hetty, life was not so simple or so easily resolved. Just as she meets the lord of the manor, John Thornhill, whose family’s financial situation leads him to agree to provide the location for the festival, her ex Ben comes back into her life too, and this is where I have a terrible confession to make. Ben could have been the most handsome man in the entire fictional world, but I honestly did not notice him for one reason, and one reason only. For the entirety of the book, John Thornhill gave me such strong Richard Armitage (in the role of John Thornton in North and South) vibes, that I fell hopelessly for him! It’s tricky when a real life obsession turns into fictional perfection, and perfection John Thornhill was, grumpy, brooding, slightly misunderstood, caring, thoughtful and incredibly sexy! Step out of the way all of my previous book boyfriends, I have a new one now!
Romance aside, and no spoilers from me about that, I loved the way the festival came together. It really felt very real, and incredibly traditional, with the fairground and the many different food stalls, and an open air movie night. I loved the glimpses of characters I met in the previous book, but as I have said, it is a standalone book, so although it’s nice to see familiar faces, it would not be at all detrimental to read it and not know them. As to be expected with the open air event, things do not always run smoothly, but between Hetty and John they manage to work together to sort things out for the benefit of everyone.
I really loved the fictional location of Swallowtail Bay, and this book made me want to hop in the car and drive in search of it, or somewhere just like it, and not just because of John! Joking aside, this is such a wonderful summery read, that will have you craving strawberries, at the very least!
When we first meet Hetty, and her assistant Macie they are wrangling children at a birthday party, and it’s clear that Hetty is a genius at organising events, and troubleshooting issues! When she decides to revive a traditional Strawberry Festival, reminiscent of her childhood in Swallowtail Bay, it’s clear that she will take everything in her stride. I found that I instantly warmed to Hetty who is so capable and confident in her own abilities. Her sometimes ditzy assistant Macie provided the perfect sidekick for her.
When it comes to love with Hetty, life was not so simple or so easily resolved. Just as she meets the lord of the manor, John Thornhill, whose family’s financial situation leads him to agree to provide the location for the festival, her ex Ben comes back into her life too, and this is where I have a terrible confession to make. Ben could have been the most handsome man in the entire fictional world, but I honestly did not notice him for one reason, and one reason only. For the entirety of the book, John Thornhill gave me such strong Richard Armitage (in the role of John Thornton in North and South) vibes, that I fell hopelessly for him! It’s tricky when a real life obsession turns into fictional perfection, and perfection John Thornhill was, grumpy, brooding, slightly misunderstood, caring, thoughtful and incredibly sexy! Step out of the way all of my previous book boyfriends, I have a new one now!
Romance aside, and no spoilers from me about that, I loved the way the festival came together. It really felt very real, and incredibly traditional, with the fairground and the many different food stalls, and an open air movie night. I loved the glimpses of characters I met in the previous book, but as I have said, it is a standalone book, so although it’s nice to see familiar faces, it would not be at all detrimental to read it and not know them. As to be expected with the open air event, things do not always run smoothly, but between Hetty and John they manage to work together to sort things out for the benefit of everyone.
I really loved the fictional location of Swallowtail Bay, and this book made me want to hop in the car and drive in search of it, or somewhere just like it, and not just because of John! Joking aside, this is such a wonderful summery read, that will have you craving strawberries, at the very least!
June 24, 2020
This is the second book in a gorgeous new series from Katie Ginger (who I am a big fan of). The first visit to Swallowtail Bay – ‘Spring Tides at Swallowtail Bay’ was a delight so I jumped at the chance of reading this next book, ‘Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay’.
Although it does mention characters, we have grown to love from the first book, this is written so that it can be read as a standalone book.
With this trip to Swallowtail Bay, Hetty wants to reinvigorate the strawberry festival famed but comes up against an extremely reluctant Lord of the Manor. Will she make turn her plans into a success and help the failing Thornhill Manor and will her love for ex-boyfriend Ben be reignited?
This is an adorable love story that will leave you with a smile on your face and characters that have a place in your heart. The characters of Hetty and John are brilliant and the relationship they have is fantastic; she is bright, confident and does not back down easily and he needs that kind of firecracker to break down his defences.
I love books with a strong sense of community and supporting each other and this book has it in droves. The setting is so well written, I can clearly imagine the whole town as well as the Manor and from the beautiful descriptions I wish I could live there! It sounds a gorgeous place to be.
This book is an absolute charm, I laughed along, I smiled and felt every emotion for Hetty, by the end I was so happy for everyone. I read it in no time, I just didn’t want to put it down but then I was gutted to finish it and not be able to go on being part of that community anymore.
I have enjoyed everything Katie Ginger has written but this series is something very special.
Although it does mention characters, we have grown to love from the first book, this is written so that it can be read as a standalone book.
With this trip to Swallowtail Bay, Hetty wants to reinvigorate the strawberry festival famed but comes up against an extremely reluctant Lord of the Manor. Will she make turn her plans into a success and help the failing Thornhill Manor and will her love for ex-boyfriend Ben be reignited?
This is an adorable love story that will leave you with a smile on your face and characters that have a place in your heart. The characters of Hetty and John are brilliant and the relationship they have is fantastic; she is bright, confident and does not back down easily and he needs that kind of firecracker to break down his defences.
I love books with a strong sense of community and supporting each other and this book has it in droves. The setting is so well written, I can clearly imagine the whole town as well as the Manor and from the beautiful descriptions I wish I could live there! It sounds a gorgeous place to be.
This book is an absolute charm, I laughed along, I smiled and felt every emotion for Hetty, by the end I was so happy for everyone. I read it in no time, I just didn’t want to put it down but then I was gutted to finish it and not be able to go on being part of that community anymore.
I have enjoyed everything Katie Ginger has written but this series is something very special.
June 24, 2020
Although I haven't yet read the first book in
Katie Ginger's
wonderful 'Swallowtail Bay' series the attractive cover design of this one caught my eye and I thought the premise of the book sounded fabulous.
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay
was a really lovely story and I especially liked the main character, event planner Hetty Colman, to whom I could really relate. She was rather amusing, feisty and confident and I loved the Summer theme with it's festive charm and watching Hetty and John's relationship bloom. It was such fun overseeing them plan the strawberry festival. I wanted to be right there alongside them, especially when it came to the food tasting. The story's overall tone which was so snug and uplifting, bringing with it all those delicious foodie treats.
This was a beautifully written, humorous story of love, friendship, dreams, accepting help, and overcoming obstacles. A dash of sparkling friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful read with a really strong sunshiny feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family.
A special thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, HQ Digital, the author, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this novel at my request. This review is my unbiased opinion.
This was a beautifully written, humorous story of love, friendship, dreams, accepting help, and overcoming obstacles. A dash of sparkling friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful read with a really strong sunshiny feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family.
A special thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, HQ Digital, the author, and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this novel at my request. This review is my unbiased opinion.
June 13, 2020
Hetty, an events planner, decides she's going to revive the Strawberry festival- it will be a terrific boost for Swallowtail Bay- and she's going to do it at Thornhill Manor. Hah. Little does she know that there's a reason the Thornhills haven't been active in the community but then she meets John- and he's, well, he's the friend to love in this fun read. Organizing the festival is easy enough but there's all sorts of other things going on. Hetty's parents are having pr0blems which surprise her (and them). Her old flame Ben is back in her life (is that a good thing?). This is one of those takes a village reads and it's a delightful one. Don't worry if you didn't read the first book; this is fine as a standalone. The characters are good, the dialogue spritely, and the plot zips along. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This was a pandemic read for me and it will be great at the beach or in the garden this summer (or save it for the winter when you need to cheer up!).
May 20, 2020
This is the second book in the Swallowtail Bay series It can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
This is such a sweet, gentle and easygoing summer read.
The main character, Hetty is so lovely and likeable, and it was easy to be swept along the story by her enthusiasm. I managed to read the whole book when I was having a lazy and relaxing day. The location of the book is gorgeous, and sounds like a perfect place to visit. I really enjoyed reading this book and I hope that there will be another book in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.
This is such a sweet, gentle and easygoing summer read.
The main character, Hetty is so lovely and likeable, and it was easy to be swept along the story by her enthusiasm. I managed to read the whole book when I was having a lazy and relaxing day. The location of the book is gorgeous, and sounds like a perfect place to visit. I really enjoyed reading this book and I hope that there will be another book in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.
June 23, 2020
This is my first visit to the fictional seaside town of Swallowtail Bay and it had me yearning for lazy, hazy summer days of long ago when all that mattered was winning a fish on the hook a duck and zooming down on the helter-skelter! Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is the second book set in Swallowtail Bay however, each novel is written as a standalone story but I can honestly say the author's words made me feel very welcomed and left me wanting a return visit to this idyllic location.
Hetty is an events planner and loves her home town especially the Strawberry Fairs of summers gone by. She's hoping to drum up support with the business community of the bay to rejuvenate the fair and make it a bank holiday weekend long extravaganza. However, she only has four weeks to get approved and then plan the whole event! A task not for the faint hearted!
With time ticking by she feels she has only one option for the location of the fair and that is by using the grounds of Thornhill Hall. However, there's a glitch in this option; she has to persuade the owner of the hall to agree.
John Thornhill is the youngest son of the current owners of the hall and feels like all the recent financial hardship is on his shoulders to provide a solution. His parents are struggling emotionally and John is drawing at a blank with ways to help his family out of the financial and emotional hole they've found themselves in. Can optimistic, vibrant Hetty be the answer to his problems?
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is a delightful romcom that is a wonderful mix of nostalgia, community spirit, warmth and hopefulness.
Hetty is an events planner and loves her home town especially the Strawberry Fairs of summers gone by. She's hoping to drum up support with the business community of the bay to rejuvenate the fair and make it a bank holiday weekend long extravaganza. However, she only has four weeks to get approved and then plan the whole event! A task not for the faint hearted!
With time ticking by she feels she has only one option for the location of the fair and that is by using the grounds of Thornhill Hall. However, there's a glitch in this option; she has to persuade the owner of the hall to agree.
John Thornhill is the youngest son of the current owners of the hall and feels like all the recent financial hardship is on his shoulders to provide a solution. His parents are struggling emotionally and John is drawing at a blank with ways to help his family out of the financial and emotional hole they've found themselves in. Can optimistic, vibrant Hetty be the answer to his problems?
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay is a delightful romcom that is a wonderful mix of nostalgia, community spirit, warmth and hopefulness.
July 28, 2020
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay by Katie Ginger 4stars
The cover enticed me to read this book. This is my first from this author and the premise sounds good. It’s a really feel good summer read. Hetty is a workaholic and likes to be in command. She also wants to expand her party business so she wants to manage the Swallowtail Bay Food festival. Hetty is not discouraged with a NO and will not give up.
Then comes John Thornhill. Handsome and reclusive. John and Hetty discover that they are a good team as they work together for the festival. They can’t help their growing feelings for each other too. I find their moments cute. I don’t like Ben but I guess he gives spice to the story. Hetty’s parents' story is adorable. It tells us that communication is key for a relationship to work.
All the food at the festival makes me hungry. I want to try the sundried tomato bread and the chocolates and many more. Swallowtail Bay sounds like a great place to visit with it’s wonderful views and of course now we have the festival!
It was a fun read. For the romance part, just a few kisses but there are talks about living together, getting hot etc.
Thank you #netgalley and HQ Digital for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pub date 06.24.20
The cover enticed me to read this book. This is my first from this author and the premise sounds good. It’s a really feel good summer read. Hetty is a workaholic and likes to be in command. She also wants to expand her party business so she wants to manage the Swallowtail Bay Food festival. Hetty is not discouraged with a NO and will not give up.
Then comes John Thornhill. Handsome and reclusive. John and Hetty discover that they are a good team as they work together for the festival. They can’t help their growing feelings for each other too. I find their moments cute. I don’t like Ben but I guess he gives spice to the story. Hetty’s parents' story is adorable. It tells us that communication is key for a relationship to work.
All the food at the festival makes me hungry. I want to try the sundried tomato bread and the chocolates and many more. Swallowtail Bay sounds like a great place to visit with it’s wonderful views and of course now we have the festival!
It was a fun read. For the romance part, just a few kisses but there are talks about living together, getting hot etc.
Thank you #netgalley and HQ Digital for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pub date 06.24.20
June 19, 2020
Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay if the second book in the Swallowtail Bay series by Katie Ginger.
Hetty is an event planner and she has done a variety of events, but she just feels she can do bigger and better things. She loves Swallowtail Bay and knows this is where she has always belonged.
She attends a town meeting and the topic of the annual Swallowtail Bay Strawberry Festival is brought up and the town board is set on having it be a small even but Hetty knows she can make it a huge success. She voices her ideas at the meeting, and they give her a chance to show them what she can come up with, but they know it is just a few short weeks.
Hetty has one big problem- the location to have the event. She goes to the only place she can think of that has the room she needs. The problem will be convincing the owners of Thornhill Manor that with the use of their land she can make the event what she dreams if can be. John Thornhill, youngest son of the family will need to be convinced she knows what it will take.
Read this fun book to enjoy the time spent with Hetty and you will have had a wonderful time with her.
Thank you to NetGalley, HQ Digital and Katie Ginger for an ARC. This is my honest review in exchange for this book.
Hetty is an event planner and she has done a variety of events, but she just feels she can do bigger and better things. She loves Swallowtail Bay and knows this is where she has always belonged.
She attends a town meeting and the topic of the annual Swallowtail Bay Strawberry Festival is brought up and the town board is set on having it be a small even but Hetty knows she can make it a huge success. She voices her ideas at the meeting, and they give her a chance to show them what she can come up with, but they know it is just a few short weeks.
Hetty has one big problem- the location to have the event. She goes to the only place she can think of that has the room she needs. The problem will be convincing the owners of Thornhill Manor that with the use of their land she can make the event what she dreams if can be. John Thornhill, youngest son of the family will need to be convinced she knows what it will take.
Read this fun book to enjoy the time spent with Hetty and you will have had a wonderful time with her.
Thank you to NetGalley, HQ Digital and Katie Ginger for an ARC. This is my honest review in exchange for this book.
June 21, 2020
This was my first book from Katie Ginger and I really enjoyed it.
The story is about Hetty who take's on organising the town's summer strawberry festival and making it bigger and better than ever before, but to that she first need's to persuade John to let her use the grounds of his family's home. Hetty also hits other problems along the way of planning a festival as well as dealing with ex-boyfriends and her growing feelings for John. I loved all the characters in this book and it really had a feeling of community coming together. I wish that I could attend a food festival like this one !!
The story had a good pace and I sucked into the story right from the beginning and didn't want to put it down once I started. There were lots of twists and turns in the story and I loved that you got view's from both Hetty and John as I really thought it added to the story. I would actually love more from them and what happens at Thornhill Hall next.
This was a perfect, feel good summer rom-com romance story which I really enjoyed and I will definitely be checking out the first book in this series (each can be read as a standalone). This book certainly put me in a summer mood.
The story is about Hetty who take's on organising the town's summer strawberry festival and making it bigger and better than ever before, but to that she first need's to persuade John to let her use the grounds of his family's home. Hetty also hits other problems along the way of planning a festival as well as dealing with ex-boyfriends and her growing feelings for John. I loved all the characters in this book and it really had a feeling of community coming together. I wish that I could attend a food festival like this one !!
The story had a good pace and I sucked into the story right from the beginning and didn't want to put it down once I started. There were lots of twists and turns in the story and I loved that you got view's from both Hetty and John as I really thought it added to the story. I would actually love more from them and what happens at Thornhill Hall next.
This was a perfect, feel good summer rom-com romance story which I really enjoyed and I will definitely be checking out the first book in this series (each can be read as a standalone). This book certainly put me in a summer mood.
April 5, 2021
This book was brillant I was hooked from the first page to the last so many twists and turns. The characters are brillant and the story really makes you think of the summer. Plenty of romance and planning a big festival and saving the big house.
Hattie is set on making the summer festival bigger than it's ever been before she goes to the big house to speak to John to see if she can use his grounds but he's against it but she works on him and she manages to use it and she's getting closer to John as time goes on but she also has her ex Ben who wants her back so who will she choose. Will she be able to help the big house and save it for John by doing the festival and who will she choose to be with forever and how well will the festival go.
A very heartwarming read.
Hattie is set on making the summer festival bigger than it's ever been before she goes to the big house to speak to John to see if she can use his grounds but he's against it but she works on him and she manages to use it and she's getting closer to John as time goes on but she also has her ex Ben who wants her back so who will she choose. Will she be able to help the big house and save it for John by doing the festival and who will she choose to be with forever and how well will the festival go.
A very heartwarming read.
June 7, 2020
Hetty, a bubbly, kind and hard-working events organiser is looking for something more challenging in her job, she’s organised kids parties for far too long now. After being reminded of the towns Strawberry Festival, the once nostalgic, blooming and magical event where community comes together as one, now likened to nothing more than a jumble sale, Hetty’s ideas and aspirations blossom. Despite some of the towns concerns, Hetty is determined to bring the Strawberry Festival back to life.
Just one problem. She needs to find land large enough to hold it on. Only four weeks until the festival, Hetty desperately tries to persuade John Thornhill to let her use his family’s land. But it isn’t that simple. John and his family are struggling to keep their beautiful home alive, with constant need for maintenance and the pile of bills growing by the day, will he agree to hold the festival in the mass of land outside his home? Will the two unlikely pair work together to restore the Strawberry Festival to what it once was? Or, will disaster strike again and again?
The name of the book, blurb and cover drew me in immediately, I knew I just had to read this book. It was an absolutely beautiful summer’s read and has made me longing to pack my bags and start a new adventure in Swallowtail Bay.
This book is a light, cosy and ridiculously sweet read, indulged in a matter of hours. Full of lovely descriptions of cafes, warm bread and flowers dancing in the breeze.
I would love to read more about these characters and their next adventures, and I can’t wait to get my hands on Katie Ginger’s previous Swallowtail Bay novel; Spring Tides at Swallowtail Bay.
Sure, the ending was cliche. Everything worked out spectacularly well, but it was such a glorious read I didn’t mind at all.
Just one problem. She needs to find land large enough to hold it on. Only four weeks until the festival, Hetty desperately tries to persuade John Thornhill to let her use his family’s land. But it isn’t that simple. John and his family are struggling to keep their beautiful home alive, with constant need for maintenance and the pile of bills growing by the day, will he agree to hold the festival in the mass of land outside his home? Will the two unlikely pair work together to restore the Strawberry Festival to what it once was? Or, will disaster strike again and again?
The name of the book, blurb and cover drew me in immediately, I knew I just had to read this book. It was an absolutely beautiful summer’s read and has made me longing to pack my bags and start a new adventure in Swallowtail Bay.
This book is a light, cosy and ridiculously sweet read, indulged in a matter of hours. Full of lovely descriptions of cafes, warm bread and flowers dancing in the breeze.
I would love to read more about these characters and their next adventures, and I can’t wait to get my hands on Katie Ginger’s previous Swallowtail Bay novel; Spring Tides at Swallowtail Bay.
Sure, the ending was cliche. Everything worked out spectacularly well, but it was such a glorious read I didn’t mind at all.
June 8, 2020
Having enjoyed Spring Tides at Swallowtail Bay, I was pleased to be approved for a NetGalley copy of Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Bay. I wasn’t disappointed by this sequel. It was easy to read, and a very enjoyable story - even more so than the first book in the series. I liked the vast majority of characters (though I took a fairly immediate dislike to Ben, who seemed arrogant, and as the story went on, juvenile). John, Hetty and Macie were especially lovable people. There were also many secondary characters, who felt just as real as the main ones, with their own stories and motivations going on. It was great to see the main characters from the previous book popping in here and there.
The setting - both Thornhill Hall and the food festival itself - was interesting and entertaining. There were plenty of humorous moments throughout the book, keeping it lighthearted even when there were serious things going on. I really enjoyed the subplot with Hetty’s parents too - it’s so easy to stop communicating effectively, so it was good when they finally did so. The epilogue just finished off the story nicely, giving a very satisfactory happy ending for all the characters that I’d come to care for during the course of the book.
I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun summer romance, with plenty of interesting events and characters to get involved with. I’m hoping to return to Swallowtail Bay again soon, and will certainly be looking out for any more books by Katie Ginger.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
The setting - both Thornhill Hall and the food festival itself - was interesting and entertaining. There were plenty of humorous moments throughout the book, keeping it lighthearted even when there were serious things going on. I really enjoyed the subplot with Hetty’s parents too - it’s so easy to stop communicating effectively, so it was good when they finally did so. The epilogue just finished off the story nicely, giving a very satisfactory happy ending for all the characters that I’d come to care for during the course of the book.
I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun summer romance, with plenty of interesting events and characters to get involved with. I’m hoping to return to Swallowtail Bay again soon, and will certainly be looking out for any more books by Katie Ginger.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
June 27, 2020
This takes place in the summer. The main characters from the last book are in this one, too. This time as minor characters. I didn't like the main characters in this book. Although, I liked John by the end. There was supposed to be love triangle, but fortunately, that didn't amount to anything. I liked the strawberry festival/food festival theme. That was delightful.
May 30, 2020
I do enjoy books by this author and Summer Strawberries at Swallowtail Cove is the second book in this series, it can be read as a standalone.
the thing I really enjoy about Katie’s books is the wonderful descriptions of the setting and the scenery. She builds such a good vivid image that I can almost see the area from her words. The next things I adore are the characters and the way they are woven in to create a wonderful sense of friendship and community.
The main character is Hetty, a local events organiser and she attends a business forum, a chance for local business owners to get together and discuss upcoming things. The mention of the Strawberry Festival, that has over time diminished and is a mere shadow of its former self gives Hetty the idea of bringing it back but on a much larger scale. The only place large enough is Thornhill Hall, and more specifically John Thornhill himself. The family are not particularly popular as they have become reclusive over the years.
I have to say I really liked Hetty, she is a go-getter who has a natural way about her and especially with people. After some needling, she convinces John to let her use some of the fields for her festival. Somehow her ends up helping out more and she gets to see that there is more to this man than the stand-offish person she thought he was.
There is obviously a romantic theme with this story and it is not as straight-forward as it would first appear. So begins the will they won’t they scenario and it could have gone either way or not at all, and I wasn’t sure who with but I did hope!
The storyline of the Festival and the organisation along with family hiccups and the romance made for a fabulous read. It all felt nicely balanced and I was definitely hooked as things gradually played out. It had a very realistic feel to it especially the Festival that had gone into decline over the years. As well as the financial struggles associated with the upkeep of a large house.
I sat and read this book in one sitting and it was an ideal book for sitting out in the garden in the glorious sunshine to read. If you are a fan of romance, rom-com, heartwarming stories and having a right good read then I would definitely recommend this one, it was fabulous.
the thing I really enjoy about Katie’s books is the wonderful descriptions of the setting and the scenery. She builds such a good vivid image that I can almost see the area from her words. The next things I adore are the characters and the way they are woven in to create a wonderful sense of friendship and community.
The main character is Hetty, a local events organiser and she attends a business forum, a chance for local business owners to get together and discuss upcoming things. The mention of the Strawberry Festival, that has over time diminished and is a mere shadow of its former self gives Hetty the idea of bringing it back but on a much larger scale. The only place large enough is Thornhill Hall, and more specifically John Thornhill himself. The family are not particularly popular as they have become reclusive over the years.
I have to say I really liked Hetty, she is a go-getter who has a natural way about her and especially with people. After some needling, she convinces John to let her use some of the fields for her festival. Somehow her ends up helping out more and she gets to see that there is more to this man than the stand-offish person she thought he was.
There is obviously a romantic theme with this story and it is not as straight-forward as it would first appear. So begins the will they won’t they scenario and it could have gone either way or not at all, and I wasn’t sure who with but I did hope!
The storyline of the Festival and the organisation along with family hiccups and the romance made for a fabulous read. It all felt nicely balanced and I was definitely hooked as things gradually played out. It had a very realistic feel to it especially the Festival that had gone into decline over the years. As well as the financial struggles associated with the upkeep of a large house.
I sat and read this book in one sitting and it was an ideal book for sitting out in the garden in the glorious sunshine to read. If you are a fan of romance, rom-com, heartwarming stories and having a right good read then I would definitely recommend this one, it was fabulous.
August 10, 2020
4.5 out of 5
June 24, 2020
I have been a fan of Katie's work for a little while now. I have read and adored every book that she has written to date. 'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' is actually the second book in the 'Swallowtail Bay' series. I read the first book and I adored it, so when I heard that there was going to be a second book in the series I knew that I just had to read it as soon as I could. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely loved the character of Hetty and I warmed to her from the start. It didn't take me long to start to think of Hetty as a friend. She is one feisty and determined young lady. Hetty has a successful business arranging themed parties. Whilst networking, Hetty becomes determined to revive the Strawberry Festival and restore it to its former glory. Hetty has all sorts of ideas as to how this can be achieved but she needs the cooperation of the Thornhill family as she thinks that their house and grounds would be an ideal venue and would minimise the disruption to the Bay. However, things don't exactly go according to plan at the beginning as John Thornhill, the rather dishy sounding son of the family, refuses to let it happen. Hetty is certainly determined as she doesn't let this put her off. She finds herself becoming increasingly attracted to John Thornhill. However there could be a problem on the horizon as Hetty's ex-boyfriend wants to win her back. Is the Strawberry Festival a success? Who will Hetty choose to be with? Well for the answers to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' was a truly delightful read. As soon as I was introduced to Hetty, I just knew that I was going to be unable to put the book down very easily. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn't bear to miss a single second of the story. To say that reading this book became an addiction is a huge understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I read for a lot longer than any couple of chapters. Despite my intention to ration how much I read in one go so I could prolong my enjoyment of the book, I ended up enjoying the story too much and I couldn't stop reading.
'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' is superbly written but then I have thought that to be true of all of Katie's books. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start. I found myself chuckling away to myself with the opening scenes of the book as I visualised the superhero themed party going on. What I love about Katie's books, is that she sets them in adorable sounding places and she creates adorable sounding characters, who are impossible to dislike. She describes her characters so vividly that they literally seemed to jump off the page and seemed just as real as you and I. I felt as though I was part of the story and that is all thanks to Katie's fantastic storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. This was a fun and light hearted read, which is guaranteed to lift your spirits. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely loved the character of Hetty and I warmed to her from the start. It didn't take me long to start to think of Hetty as a friend. She is one feisty and determined young lady. Hetty has a successful business arranging themed parties. Whilst networking, Hetty becomes determined to revive the Strawberry Festival and restore it to its former glory. Hetty has all sorts of ideas as to how this can be achieved but she needs the cooperation of the Thornhill family as she thinks that their house and grounds would be an ideal venue and would minimise the disruption to the Bay. However, things don't exactly go according to plan at the beginning as John Thornhill, the rather dishy sounding son of the family, refuses to let it happen. Hetty is certainly determined as she doesn't let this put her off. She finds herself becoming increasingly attracted to John Thornhill. However there could be a problem on the horizon as Hetty's ex-boyfriend wants to win her back. Is the Strawberry Festival a success? Who will Hetty choose to be with? Well for the answers to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' was a truly delightful read. As soon as I was introduced to Hetty, I just knew that I was going to be unable to put the book down very easily. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn't bear to miss a single second of the story. To say that reading this book became an addiction is a huge understatement. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I read for a lot longer than any couple of chapters. Despite my intention to ration how much I read in one go so I could prolong my enjoyment of the book, I ended up enjoying the story too much and I couldn't stop reading.
'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' is superbly written but then I have thought that to be true of all of Katie's books. She certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start. I found myself chuckling away to myself with the opening scenes of the book as I visualised the superhero themed party going on. What I love about Katie's books, is that she sets them in adorable sounding places and she creates adorable sounding characters, who are impossible to dislike. She describes her characters so vividly that they literally seemed to jump off the page and seemed just as real as you and I. I felt as though I was part of the story and that is all thanks to Katie's fantastic storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Summer Strawberries At Swallowtail Bay' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. This was a fun and light hearted read, which is guaranteed to lift your spirits. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
May 24, 2020
**** Provided by Netgalley for review***
If you’re looking for a sweet, easy summer beach read, look no further! This book is full of wonderful descriptions that you can almost see the beautiful gardens and smell the chocolate at the food fair. This is the second book in this series. It is full of likable characters and a love triangle or maybe a love square! The main character, Hettie is an event planner but in her latest event, she gets more than she planned for!
If you’re looking for a sweet, easy summer beach read, look no further! This book is full of wonderful descriptions that you can almost see the beautiful gardens and smell the chocolate at the food fair. This is the second book in this series. It is full of likable characters and a love triangle or maybe a love square! The main character, Hettie is an event planner but in her latest event, she gets more than she planned for!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews