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The Golden Oldies Guesthouse
Tess and Simon Sparrow may have a few more grey hairs than they used to, but that doesn’t stop them being swept up in a whirlwind romance and starting over. Swapping their city lives for an escape to the Cornish countryside, they fall in love with a crumbling hotel and impulsively buy it to renovate as their forever home. But soon the newlyweds have had their first fight (and their second and third…) and building costs are spiralling out of control. Their families think they’re mad and Tess is starting to agree – she just wants to escape back to civilisation.
Doing up the glorious, wisteria-clad property was meant to be a delightful retirement project. But the electrics are faulty, there’s no central heating, and the kitchen ceiling’s fallen in: the dream has become reality and things only get more chaotic when the first guests arrive…
Mysterious Celia, hapless romantic Dominic and tarnished, lovelorn actress Titania are all looking for a fresh start. Everyone in this eclectic group has their own reasons for being in Cornwall, but the summer is full of secrets and surprises. As plans go awry and truths are revealed, Tess and Simon realise that they’ve taken on a bigger challenge than they intended to: can their happily-ever-after survive the chaos or will this end up being the biggest mistake of their lives?
Doing up the glorious, wisteria-clad property was meant to be a delightful retirement project. But the electrics are faulty, there’s no central heating, and the kitchen ceiling’s fallen in: the dream has become reality and things only get more chaotic when the first guests arrive…
Mysterious Celia, hapless romantic Dominic and tarnished, lovelorn actress Titania are all looking for a fresh start. Everyone in this eclectic group has their own reasons for being in Cornwall, but the summer is full of secrets and surprises. As plans go awry and truths are revealed, Tess and Simon realise that they’ve taken on a bigger challenge than they intended to: can their happily-ever-after survive the chaos or will this end up being the biggest mistake of their lives?
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2019
1003 people are currently reading
462 people want to read
About the author
Dee MacDonald
16 books264 followersThe Runaway Wife is Dee’s first (published) novel but in fact she wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
July 25, 2019
Tess, Orla and Simon are back, YAYYYYY (although got to say this can easily be read as a stand alone)
We re join them as Tess and Simon are on holiday in Cornwall and discover a wonderful house with stunning views of the Atlantic
They cant afford it of course
They could never leave London of course
They couldn’t possibly renovate it of course
They do all 3!!! Tess reluctantly leaving life long friend Orla working in their oversized ladies dress shop and with her lorry driver lover!!
Then ensues a hilarious romp as they realise what they have taken on, meet the locals, ‘do up’ the house and decide to run a guest house....all this having to be done from ‘Windsor Castle’, a caravan they buy and put in their garden
Once the guesthouse is open as I expected there are larger than life characters who come to stay, all with a story and the hilarity continues as they all manage to get into various scrapes, some in the process falling in love!
Orla visits regularly and is ‘involved’ in the story at various times
Told as only Dee Macdonald can tell these stories of ‘older folk’ having another swipe at life and all that follows this book is funny, heartwarming, makes you feel good and like your favourite cake or sweet a comfort
As always with this author a joy to read
Cornwall is also described majestically as are the Cornish village folk
10/10. 5 Stars
September 6, 2020
This was my book club pick for September. One of the things I like about my book club is that I read books that I normally wouldn't. This one was fun, I've the sudden desire to go to Cornwall, UK and hike around the coast as the description of the scenery was well done. I wouldn't say this book is "the perfect feel good novel about second chances" as not all the second chances had happy outcomes. It also reminded me quite a bit of the movie "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" the movie is much better, but this book had that vibe.
May 11, 2021
Review coming soon.
August 8, 2019
Even though this is a follow on from one of the authors previous novels, the story reads easily as a standalone as we get to see Tess and Simon on a new adventure with lots of new characters.
I think I fell in love with the house that both Simon and Tess set their hearts on as soon as they see it. It did remind me slightly of the film, The Money Pit, as the house is in need of some restoration but again like the characters, I could see past the sorry state that it was currently in and the transformation that it was about to take.
There are plenty of humorous moments as Simon and Tess move down to Cornwall and start work on their project. Obviously being in a new area, there are lots of new characters that come in the form of workmen, business owners and last but not least, guests, when the house is nearly finished and been turned into a gorgeous guesthouse.
The guests are an intriguing bunch and a varied one at that. I so enjoyed getting to know them better and there are a few unexpected surprises in store. I’ve no idea if the author is going to carry on with another follow on from this one but I’m really hoping she does as, as well as catching up with the main characters, I can’t wait to see what the future guests are like!
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has a little bit of everything in it. From romance, humour, unlikely friendships and a bit of mystery thrown in for good measure. Where as I used to worry about getting old, this author has me looking forward to it and that life is far from over when you reach a certain age. An engaging, fun and heart warming read.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I think I fell in love with the house that both Simon and Tess set their hearts on as soon as they see it. It did remind me slightly of the film, The Money Pit, as the house is in need of some restoration but again like the characters, I could see past the sorry state that it was currently in and the transformation that it was about to take.
There are plenty of humorous moments as Simon and Tess move down to Cornwall and start work on their project. Obviously being in a new area, there are lots of new characters that come in the form of workmen, business owners and last but not least, guests, when the house is nearly finished and been turned into a gorgeous guesthouse.
The guests are an intriguing bunch and a varied one at that. I so enjoyed getting to know them better and there are a few unexpected surprises in store. I’ve no idea if the author is going to carry on with another follow on from this one but I’m really hoping she does as, as well as catching up with the main characters, I can’t wait to see what the future guests are like!
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has a little bit of everything in it. From romance, humour, unlikely friendships and a bit of mystery thrown in for good measure. Where as I used to worry about getting old, this author has me looking forward to it and that life is far from over when you reach a certain age. An engaging, fun and heart warming read.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
August 18, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Tess and Simon Sparrow are in their sixties and have recently gotten married. When they discover a hotel in Cornwall, despite the fact that it is falling apart at its seams, they both fall in love. They uproot their lives, sell their home and start over. This includes myriads of changes and repairs in their immediate future.
The renovation is rich with problems - but both Tess and Simon know that it will prove valuable beyond belief when it is completed. With very little plumbing, no heat, and room after room needing major repair, the two purchase a caravan as their temporary home.
Tess has children and grandchildren, and Simon has a son. Not only do they want to create a vacation destination, they want their new home to be a place to entertain their family, as well as dear friends. After much work, and more than a few mishaps, guests eventually begin to arrive.
I love how this story then shifted. There are two parts to The Golden Oldies Guesthouse. The first portion is about the purchase, repairs and their growth as a couple in this later stage in life. The second half of the book introduces the guests. Most are older like the Sparrows, and they are all rather unique and interesting.
I loved this book for so many reasons! For starters, it is always a delight to see people in love after the age of sixty. I also love the idea of completely starting over, and taking on unexpected challenges. Lastly, I can only imagine having a variety of guests to care for on a revolving basis. The surprises that Tess and Simon ran into did make me laugh more than once.
Although this is only my second book by Dee MacDonald, I was eager to grab it. I remember my first read by her, The Getaway Girls, which I truly enjoyed, so I wasn't surprised that this one would just as delightful. I look forward to reading more by her as time permits.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Tess and Simon Sparrow are in their sixties and have recently gotten married. When they discover a hotel in Cornwall, despite the fact that it is falling apart at its seams, they both fall in love. They uproot their lives, sell their home and start over. This includes myriads of changes and repairs in their immediate future.
The renovation is rich with problems - but both Tess and Simon know that it will prove valuable beyond belief when it is completed. With very little plumbing, no heat, and room after room needing major repair, the two purchase a caravan as their temporary home.
Tess has children and grandchildren, and Simon has a son. Not only do they want to create a vacation destination, they want their new home to be a place to entertain their family, as well as dear friends. After much work, and more than a few mishaps, guests eventually begin to arrive.
I love how this story then shifted. There are two parts to The Golden Oldies Guesthouse. The first portion is about the purchase, repairs and their growth as a couple in this later stage in life. The second half of the book introduces the guests. Most are older like the Sparrows, and they are all rather unique and interesting.
I loved this book for so many reasons! For starters, it is always a delight to see people in love after the age of sixty. I also love the idea of completely starting over, and taking on unexpected challenges. Lastly, I can only imagine having a variety of guests to care for on a revolving basis. The surprises that Tess and Simon ran into did make me laugh more than once.
Although this is only my second book by Dee MacDonald, I was eager to grab it. I remember my first read by her, The Getaway Girls, which I truly enjoyed, so I wasn't surprised that this one would just as delightful. I look forward to reading more by her as time permits.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 18, 2019
Sadly rather too true to life
The problem with this book is that it is too authentic. There are endless descriptions of all the detailed stages involved in restoring a large, neglected old house which inevitably costs a lot to do and involves dealing with tradesmen. I have read several real life accounts of this sort of thing, in a work of fiction, however, I expect something more than this. Something like a little imagination and a bit of excitement, intrigue, drama and even tragedy. The two main protagonists are lovely people, it seems. Boring but lovely. Some of the locals are unpleasant but mostly the salt of the earth types that populate these sentimental books. The first visitor to the eventually completed guest house is treated to tea on the terrace with locally-baked biscuits. The host and hostess welcome him warmly, but why do we need to read all the mind-numbing conversation? Sorry! No! The expensive patio doors not opening fully when first demonstrated to admiring family is not a plot twist! I have completed 43% of the book and have a decision to make: do I continue plodding through what is most likely to be more of the same in the hope that some original nuggets of story telling might surface or do I give up now and find something a little bit more challenging to read or get my excitement from the real life challenges of washing dishes?
The problem with this book is that it is too authentic. There are endless descriptions of all the detailed stages involved in restoring a large, neglected old house which inevitably costs a lot to do and involves dealing with tradesmen. I have read several real life accounts of this sort of thing, in a work of fiction, however, I expect something more than this. Something like a little imagination and a bit of excitement, intrigue, drama and even tragedy. The two main protagonists are lovely people, it seems. Boring but lovely. Some of the locals are unpleasant but mostly the salt of the earth types that populate these sentimental books. The first visitor to the eventually completed guest house is treated to tea on the terrace with locally-baked biscuits. The host and hostess welcome him warmly, but why do we need to read all the mind-numbing conversation? Sorry! No! The expensive patio doors not opening fully when first demonstrated to admiring family is not a plot twist! I have completed 43% of the book and have a decision to make: do I continue plodding through what is most likely to be more of the same in the hope that some original nuggets of story telling might surface or do I give up now and find something a little bit more challenging to read or get my excitement from the real life challenges of washing dishes?
September 8, 2020
An extremely lightweight undemanding read, perfect for middle of the night reading or snatched minutes at work.
September 8, 2019
We first meet Tess and Simon Sparrow on their honeymoon in Cornwall. When they set eyes upon a large clifftop house, they both fall in love with it. With retirement looming, Tess and Simon decide to take a huge leap of faith. They buy the property with a view to open a guesthouse which they will run together.
Once in Cornwall, they discover that it will take much more than a lick of paint for their dream to become a reality. With finances running out, ceilings falling down and no heating, their marriage is stretched to its limit.
Will the hotel be ready for their guests in time?
I saw this as a book of two halves. In the first half, we read about the extensive renovations and how the Sparrow’s coped with a Christmas family invasion. In the second part of the book, we get to know the guests who arrive. Each guest has their own reason to stay at Sparrow’s Nest. They are all quirky characters with interesting backstories. Dee MacDonald describes the Cornish coastline to perfection with the amazing clifftop location. You get a true feeling of the slower pace of life in that part of the country. I liked the contrast between Tess and Simon’s characters, they really balanced each other out well. There is so much humour and warmth throughout the book and you feel part of Tess and Simon’s journey. There are plenty of surprises in store and some life-changing decisions made.
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has some multi-layered characters, a stunning location, and a feel-good atmosphere. People of all ages will be inspired by this wonderful story. It really shows that you can turn your dreams into reality at any age!
Once in Cornwall, they discover that it will take much more than a lick of paint for their dream to become a reality. With finances running out, ceilings falling down and no heating, their marriage is stretched to its limit.
Will the hotel be ready for their guests in time?
I saw this as a book of two halves. In the first half, we read about the extensive renovations and how the Sparrow’s coped with a Christmas family invasion. In the second part of the book, we get to know the guests who arrive. Each guest has their own reason to stay at Sparrow’s Nest. They are all quirky characters with interesting backstories. Dee MacDonald describes the Cornish coastline to perfection with the amazing clifftop location. You get a true feeling of the slower pace of life in that part of the country. I liked the contrast between Tess and Simon’s characters, they really balanced each other out well. There is so much humour and warmth throughout the book and you feel part of Tess and Simon’s journey. There are plenty of surprises in store and some life-changing decisions made.
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has some multi-layered characters, a stunning location, and a feel-good atmosphere. People of all ages will be inspired by this wonderful story. It really shows that you can turn your dreams into reality at any age!
September 3, 2019
Tess and Simon Sparrow find a cliffside house for sale in Cornwall and impulsively buy it. They hope to set up a guest house for long term visitors but renovations take so long Tess despairs they will ever be completed. Her son and wife and their two kids come for Christmas in the middle of the mess but the holidays pass well with lots of fun and food. When the spring arrives the house is ready for guests.
The chapters that follow are mostly about the guests and their reasons for travelling to such a remote place for a holiday. I enjoyed this book very much, it was a light, fast and enjoyable read. I know I'll read more by this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy.
The chapters that follow are mostly about the guests and their reasons for travelling to such a remote place for a holiday. I enjoyed this book very much, it was a light, fast and enjoyable read. I know I'll read more by this author.
Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy.
June 1, 2023
2 1/2 stars
This was just "ok". The further I got into the story, the less I liked it. I particularly did not care for Tess gossiping to her friend Orla about all the B&B guests, and then the friend actually interacting with all of the guests.
NOTE: This is the 2nd book in which Tess and Orla appear. I consider this to be book #2 in a series, since it refers back to things that happened in the book "The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane".
Audiobook
Jilly Bond - Narrator
Duration: 08:32:40
This was just "ok". The further I got into the story, the less I liked it. I particularly did not care for Tess gossiping to her friend Orla about all the B&B guests, and then the friend actually interacting with all of the guests.
NOTE: This is the 2nd book in which Tess and Orla appear. I consider this to be book #2 in a series, since it refers back to things that happened in the book "The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane".
Audiobook
Jilly Bond - Narrator
Duration: 08:32:40
July 14, 2025
I absolutely loved this story about a couple in their 60's that buy and renovate a beautiful house on the Cornish coast. The first guests at their guesthouse are an eclectic mix, and I loved them all!
Since I am no longer under the age of 50, I am finding books about characters closer to my age range more enjoyable.
This was a new to me author and I just bought 3 more books by her this weekend. I can't wait to get them.
Since I am no longer under the age of 50, I am finding books about characters closer to my age range more enjoyable.
This was a new to me author and I just bought 3 more books by her this weekend. I can't wait to get them.
July 13, 2024
Round down to 3.5, because although the characters and setting were enchanting, the narrator’s various voices were sometimes hard to understand. The book probably would have been better. The story amazed me, mainly because of the characters’ ages. Just about all of them were over sixty but they didn’t let that slow them down. They were all living their lives to the fullest, starting new adventures. Lovely.
August 29, 2019
We last saw Tess at her daughter’s wedding : where she meets Simon the on-again-off-again actor with a mellifluous voice and charm enough for three. After a bit of a whirlwind courtship and marriage, and remodeling a London flat, the two are on a ‘getaway’ to Simon’s childhood vacation spot in Cornwall. Planning just a ‘fisherman’s cottage’ getaway, the two are soon looking at property that overlooks the town and ocean, the Over and Above it’s called. Soon they’ve sold the London flat, with plans to renovate and repurpose the old house into a luxurious, specialty longer-stay B&B.
From one sportscar that is woefully unequipped for country lane driving, to a campervan dubbed Windsor Castle, the struggle of adapting to “direkly” and the isolation – not to mention the expense and Simon’s rather cavalier attitude toward the costs involved, Tess is masterminding the plans, cajoling the workmen and generally holding down the fort while Simon is, as she has come to learn, charming his way through life and the unpleasant tasks. Again, MacDonald has created two characters who interact exactly as people really do – with the little things being more aggravating and causing more strops than the big ones, and everyone tense and worried about the unknown questions.
Yet soon, they have their first guests – a former publisher, now retired, in Cornwall to be close to his ex and to write a book on smuggling, a woman planning to paint with watercolors for a few weeks following her ‘retirement’, and a faded actress, dressed in clothes more appropriate to her great-grand-daughters with a need for all the attention……. The charm and stories unfold with the usual amounts of tumult, particularly when a couple arrives to “rekindle” their marriage and ends with him leaving in a not-so-gracious way. From finding new friends, reconnecting with family and discovering the ‘actual’ purposes of their guest’s extended visits, the story is a gentle and clever tale of taking the road less travelled on the way to a new start after 60.
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
From one sportscar that is woefully unequipped for country lane driving, to a campervan dubbed Windsor Castle, the struggle of adapting to “direkly” and the isolation – not to mention the expense and Simon’s rather cavalier attitude toward the costs involved, Tess is masterminding the plans, cajoling the workmen and generally holding down the fort while Simon is, as she has come to learn, charming his way through life and the unpleasant tasks. Again, MacDonald has created two characters who interact exactly as people really do – with the little things being more aggravating and causing more strops than the big ones, and everyone tense and worried about the unknown questions.
Yet soon, they have their first guests – a former publisher, now retired, in Cornwall to be close to his ex and to write a book on smuggling, a woman planning to paint with watercolors for a few weeks following her ‘retirement’, and a faded actress, dressed in clothes more appropriate to her great-grand-daughters with a need for all the attention……. The charm and stories unfold with the usual amounts of tumult, particularly when a couple arrives to “rekindle” their marriage and ends with him leaving in a not-so-gracious way. From finding new friends, reconnecting with family and discovering the ‘actual’ purposes of their guest’s extended visits, the story is a gentle and clever tale of taking the road less travelled on the way to a new start after 60.
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
August 12, 2019
I love a Dee MacDonald book, they're always so much fun, with this one being no exception. This book catches up with Tess from Dee's last book (The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane) and her new husband, sometime actor Simon.
Whilst on a holiday Tess and Simon come across a house for sale in Cornwall, with great views and great potential. After a bit of a discussion they decide to sell their London house and buy the Cornwall house and open it as a B&B. Of course there is loads of work to be done on it to get it to the level they want, as the last owners started the work, decided it was too much, and it has been on the market for a few years now.
The first half of the book is about the renovations on the house and slowly getting to know everyone around them, and the second half is when the guests start arriving and their stories. A real bunch of completely different characters, all over 60, and a couple with some interesting stories they're hiding from the other guests! Orla, Tess's best friend and ex-business partner, also makes an appearance and finds unexpected love.
It was like an unexpected matchmaking service for the golden oldies for a few of the guests! Very enjoyable story, with a little bit of intrigue, set in a wonderful location. The house sounds absolutely perfect, I'd love to stay there. I really enjoy Dee's books, they're always interesting and great fun and I look forward to reading her next one.
Whilst on a holiday Tess and Simon come across a house for sale in Cornwall, with great views and great potential. After a bit of a discussion they decide to sell their London house and buy the Cornwall house and open it as a B&B. Of course there is loads of work to be done on it to get it to the level they want, as the last owners started the work, decided it was too much, and it has been on the market for a few years now.
The first half of the book is about the renovations on the house and slowly getting to know everyone around them, and the second half is when the guests start arriving and their stories. A real bunch of completely different characters, all over 60, and a couple with some interesting stories they're hiding from the other guests! Orla, Tess's best friend and ex-business partner, also makes an appearance and finds unexpected love.
It was like an unexpected matchmaking service for the golden oldies for a few of the guests! Very enjoyable story, with a little bit of intrigue, set in a wonderful location. The house sounds absolutely perfect, I'd love to stay there. I really enjoy Dee's books, they're always interesting and great fun and I look forward to reading her next one.
October 18, 2019
3.5 Stars
I am a big fan of Dee MacDonald, I really enjoy her writing and I find her books fun and light hearted.
Tess and Orla from “The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane” return. This is a sequel, however, “The Golden Oldies Guesthouse” can easily be read as a stand alone.
The first half of the book is about Tess and Simon, who, on holiday in Cornwall come across an old house for sale. Noticing the fabulous views and realizing the great potential this house has to offer, they decide to buy it and run it as a B&B. They sell their house in London, buy and renovate the Cornwall house. There are tons of the renovations to be done and they get to meet some of the “quirky” villagers.
For the second half of the book, the B&B is up and running and it introduces the guests. People from different backgrounds, all over 60, some of whom who have interesting stories they're hiding from the other guests. Orla, Tess's best friend and ex-business partner, also makes an appearance and finds unexpected love.
Dee MacDonald’s writing style is fun and I love her storytelling. The fact that she made her characters in their 60’s, gives us a view that retirement can be a new beginning. It is a feel-good book and it will put a smile on your face.
I am a big fan of Dee MacDonald, I really enjoy her writing and I find her books fun and light hearted.
Tess and Orla from “The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane” return. This is a sequel, however, “The Golden Oldies Guesthouse” can easily be read as a stand alone.
The first half of the book is about Tess and Simon, who, on holiday in Cornwall come across an old house for sale. Noticing the fabulous views and realizing the great potential this house has to offer, they decide to buy it and run it as a B&B. They sell their house in London, buy and renovate the Cornwall house. There are tons of the renovations to be done and they get to meet some of the “quirky” villagers.
For the second half of the book, the B&B is up and running and it introduces the guests. People from different backgrounds, all over 60, some of whom who have interesting stories they're hiding from the other guests. Orla, Tess's best friend and ex-business partner, also makes an appearance and finds unexpected love.
Dee MacDonald’s writing style is fun and I love her storytelling. The fact that she made her characters in their 60’s, gives us a view that retirement can be a new beginning. It is a feel-good book and it will put a smile on your face.
August 29, 2019
This author’s books are always so good. She treats you to a very nice mixture of love and laughter and they are always heartwarming but sometimes a little bit of sadness creeps in as well. This time she also scattered a bit of suspense over the whole.
People often say that you have to grab your chances when you are young, but why can’t you make a u-turn when you are more mature? It’s not because you are over 50 that you should not make changes anymore. In every stage of your life you should try to do what you love most to do. It’s a pity it’s maybe not always possible, but sometimes you have to take a risk and see where your heart takes you.
There are a lot of single mature people and when Cupid strikes he does not check your age …
In the previous book we met Orla and Tess and in this one the spotlight is on Tess. I have an inkling we will be in for a sequel with the focus on Orla. I hope my feeling does not betray me.
A lovely story that I totally enjoyed. 5 stars.
Thank you, Dee MacDonald and Bookouture (via Netgalley)
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
People often say that you have to grab your chances when you are young, but why can’t you make a u-turn when you are more mature? It’s not because you are over 50 that you should not make changes anymore. In every stage of your life you should try to do what you love most to do. It’s a pity it’s maybe not always possible, but sometimes you have to take a risk and see where your heart takes you.
There are a lot of single mature people and when Cupid strikes he does not check your age …
In the previous book we met Orla and Tess and in this one the spotlight is on Tess. I have an inkling we will be in for a sequel with the focus on Orla. I hope my feeling does not betray me.
A lovely story that I totally enjoyed. 5 stars.
Thank you, Dee MacDonald and Bookouture (via Netgalley)
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
September 3, 2019
If you're a fan a Maeve Binchy, you'll definitely enjoy this cast of characters that meet via their stay at a newly converted Bed & Breakfast. I'd say the first half of the story focuses on Simon and Tess Sparrow. Just married and in their golden years they take a year renovating a costly home with amazing views of the ocean. In the second half, we are introduced to the elderly guests who come to stay at The Sparrow's Nest each with their secrets and reasons for staying in the remote countryside of Cornwall. Truly enjoyable! If you love books about B&B's you'll love the memoir Operatic Divas and Naked Irishmen: An Innkeeper's Tale by Nancy R. Hinchliff.
*Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
*Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2019
I got into this book right from the very beginning. I loved that the main characters (Simon and Tess) were older and trying to find their “second life.” There seriously are not enough books with that theme – there is life after 40 (and even 50)! I liked how the story was in three parts: the first was the set-up, part two was the introduction of the renters and the third dealt with all of the relationships and events at The Sparrows’ Nest. It was like reading a play in three acts with delightful characters and amusing, but realistic events. For a more in-depth review, please visit my blog at Fireflies and Free Kicks Fiction Reviews. Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and the author for a complimentary, pre-release, digital ARC of the book.
August 16, 2025
A fun read with the same characters from her first book.
January 1, 2020
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse by Dee MacDonald
Source: NetGalley and Bookouture
Rating: 4/5 stars
While most people in their sixties are looking forward to the rest and relaxation that comes with retirement, newly married Tess and Simon Sparrow are looking for a new adventure. On the cliffs of Cornwall, Tess and Simon find exactly what they’ve been looking for, a run-down house that with, a good bit of work, will make a lovely bed and breakfast.
A good bit of work . . . . .
With their respective homes in London sold for a tidy profit and a whole host of hope, Tess and Simon begin contacting laborers for estimates and timetables. Tess and Simon quickly discover life moves a bit slower in the country than it does in the city. With a pressing need to open for business and recoup some of the immense expenses, Tess and Simon dive in and help the laborers in any way they can. Painting, cleaning, buying new furnishings, sewing new curtains and cushions, all while living in a small caravan isn’t exactly how Tess envisioned her retirement and new marriage. Be that as it may, Tess tries to keep a good attitude as she soldiers on and begins to see her fixer-upper come to life.
The guests arrive . . . .
After months – long, cold months – of soul-sucking and bank account draining hard work, Tess and Simon’s newly remodeled and renamed Sparrows’ Nest is open for business. Their four rooms are booked, and each guest is meant to stay for more than a month. On the roster, a publisher-turned-novelist, a would-be painter, an aging stage star, and a couple looking to rekindle their forty-year romance. Each guest has his or her own agenda, some for the better and some for the worse, and a desire to find some peace in their respective lives. The writer needs inspiration, the painter needs a lay over prior to her escape, the actress is seeking revenge, and the couple is on the verge of a major life change. While none expect to find a good bit of healing and clarity, that is exactly what each, in his or her own way finds at the Sparrows’ Nest. To Tess and Simon’s credit, they work hard not to pry and simply allow their guests the peace and solitude they have paid for; it isn’t until the lot of them has come and gone that Tess and Simon discover the truth of their guests.
The Bottom Line: I enjoyed every aspect of this book except one, SIMON!!! Simon is a complete and total ass who adds nothing but anger (on my part!) to the read. He is selfish, thoughtless, and somewhat unkind so when his part in the story lessened in the second and third parts, my enjoyment increased. Outside of Simon, I greatly enjoyed the descriptions of the old house coming back to life, the idyllic setting, the varied and wonderfully strange mix of locals and guests, and the various storylines associated with everyone. Except Simon 😊 I’m not sure there is a message or moral to be taken from this book, but it is lovely read that kept me turning pages at a fair clip. It is a rather long read at 500+ pages, but I found the pacing and the various plot lines to be sufficient and entertaining enough to not notice the overall length. A solid read to be sure!
Source: NetGalley and Bookouture
Rating: 4/5 stars
While most people in their sixties are looking forward to the rest and relaxation that comes with retirement, newly married Tess and Simon Sparrow are looking for a new adventure. On the cliffs of Cornwall, Tess and Simon find exactly what they’ve been looking for, a run-down house that with, a good bit of work, will make a lovely bed and breakfast.
A good bit of work . . . . .
With their respective homes in London sold for a tidy profit and a whole host of hope, Tess and Simon begin contacting laborers for estimates and timetables. Tess and Simon quickly discover life moves a bit slower in the country than it does in the city. With a pressing need to open for business and recoup some of the immense expenses, Tess and Simon dive in and help the laborers in any way they can. Painting, cleaning, buying new furnishings, sewing new curtains and cushions, all while living in a small caravan isn’t exactly how Tess envisioned her retirement and new marriage. Be that as it may, Tess tries to keep a good attitude as she soldiers on and begins to see her fixer-upper come to life.
The guests arrive . . . .
After months – long, cold months – of soul-sucking and bank account draining hard work, Tess and Simon’s newly remodeled and renamed Sparrows’ Nest is open for business. Their four rooms are booked, and each guest is meant to stay for more than a month. On the roster, a publisher-turned-novelist, a would-be painter, an aging stage star, and a couple looking to rekindle their forty-year romance. Each guest has his or her own agenda, some for the better and some for the worse, and a desire to find some peace in their respective lives. The writer needs inspiration, the painter needs a lay over prior to her escape, the actress is seeking revenge, and the couple is on the verge of a major life change. While none expect to find a good bit of healing and clarity, that is exactly what each, in his or her own way finds at the Sparrows’ Nest. To Tess and Simon’s credit, they work hard not to pry and simply allow their guests the peace and solitude they have paid for; it isn’t until the lot of them has come and gone that Tess and Simon discover the truth of their guests.
The Bottom Line: I enjoyed every aspect of this book except one, SIMON!!! Simon is a complete and total ass who adds nothing but anger (on my part!) to the read. He is selfish, thoughtless, and somewhat unkind so when his part in the story lessened in the second and third parts, my enjoyment increased. Outside of Simon, I greatly enjoyed the descriptions of the old house coming back to life, the idyllic setting, the varied and wonderfully strange mix of locals and guests, and the various storylines associated with everyone. Except Simon 😊 I’m not sure there is a message or moral to be taken from this book, but it is lovely read that kept me turning pages at a fair clip. It is a rather long read at 500+ pages, but I found the pacing and the various plot lines to be sufficient and entertaining enough to not notice the overall length. A solid read to be sure!
June 9, 2025
Eclectic characters
This was a fast and fun read catching up with Tess & Orla from The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane. As a two-part story with part one introducing the reader to Tess' new life with her handsome Simon. Part 2 then introduced us to an eclectic array of house guests with hidden agendas. I want a follow-up story about each of them now that they've checked out of the Sparrows Nest! Part 1 was a bit lacking in flushing out the town characters, however, part 2 did a good job of creating an image and I felt I got to know the house guest characters while Tess, Simon & Orla became more of a supporting cast. All in all I enjoyed the book and would be glad to visit with any of these characters again.
This was a fast and fun read catching up with Tess & Orla from The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane. As a two-part story with part one introducing the reader to Tess' new life with her handsome Simon. Part 2 then introduced us to an eclectic array of house guests with hidden agendas. I want a follow-up story about each of them now that they've checked out of the Sparrows Nest! Part 1 was a bit lacking in flushing out the town characters, however, part 2 did a good job of creating an image and I felt I got to know the house guest characters while Tess, Simon & Orla became more of a supporting cast. All in all I enjoyed the book and would be glad to visit with any of these characters again.
April 5, 2020
I hadn't realised this was part of a series so I read this as a standalone. I think it reads well as a standalone and was a fantastic read.
Tess and Simon aren't planning on moving to Cornwall and starting a B&B but that's exactly what happens. It's love at first sight when they see the property and neither need any convincing to purchase it. The house is in need of lots of renovation work to turn it into the property of their dreams. When they finally open, their guests are nothing but quirky and completely different from one another.
The first half of the book was all about the renovation work being undertaken at their property. It feels slow at times but really builds the story up and sets the scene for the rest of the book. There are plenty of giggles with the characters around the village and the guests that visit the Sparrow's Nest.
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has a little bit of everything in it. Dee MacDonald has a fantastic writing style and managed to encapsulate humour, romance and mystery within. An easy, heartwarming read that you're sure to enjoy.
Tess and Simon aren't planning on moving to Cornwall and starting a B&B but that's exactly what happens. It's love at first sight when they see the property and neither need any convincing to purchase it. The house is in need of lots of renovation work to turn it into the property of their dreams. When they finally open, their guests are nothing but quirky and completely different from one another.
The first half of the book was all about the renovation work being undertaken at their property. It feels slow at times but really builds the story up and sets the scene for the rest of the book. There are plenty of giggles with the characters around the village and the guests that visit the Sparrow's Nest.
The Golden Oldies Guesthouse has a little bit of everything in it. Dee MacDonald has a fantastic writing style and managed to encapsulate humour, romance and mystery within. An easy, heartwarming read that you're sure to enjoy.
December 27, 2023
I listened to the Audible version of this, but Goodreads didn’t have that edition to choose.
I’ve listened to several of Dee MacDonald’s books and they’re easy and fun. This was the same. Easy. Fun. Sweet in certain places. Funny in places. Very relatable.
I like the way MacDonald keeps us in her world with things like MMM. I do wish she’d vary her characters a little. There often seems to be a woman who owns a dress shop. Greece is often mentioned and/or visited. It’s not unusual to find a caravan in the story. When these commonalities popped up this time, I felt like MacDonald could try a little harder.
Narration was great. I love listening to Jilly Bond read these books.
I’ve listened to several of Dee MacDonald’s books and they’re easy and fun. This was the same. Easy. Fun. Sweet in certain places. Funny in places. Very relatable.
I like the way MacDonald keeps us in her world with things like MMM. I do wish she’d vary her characters a little. There often seems to be a woman who owns a dress shop. Greece is often mentioned and/or visited. It’s not unusual to find a caravan in the story. When these commonalities popped up this time, I felt like MacDonald could try a little harder.
Narration was great. I love listening to Jilly Bond read these books.
January 6, 2020
Tess and Simon buy a rambling guesthouse and have lots of work to get it up and running. I absolutely adored this story- seeing the guesthouse transform and start to have guests , with their own stories to tell. I can't wait to read more by Dee MacDonald. The characters are just wonderful and you get totally immersed in the story.
August 23, 2024
Gorgeous
An Utterly Gorgeous Read.
Inadvertently, I seem to being drawn towards books, which turns out, leading to places I want to visit / revisit!
If there's ever a story to escape into, and to Cornwall, then please read. You will not be disappointed.
Dee MacDonald is now on my list.
An Utterly Gorgeous Read.
Inadvertently, I seem to being drawn towards books, which turns out, leading to places I want to visit / revisit!
If there's ever a story to escape into, and to Cornwall, then please read. You will not be disappointed.
Dee MacDonald is now on my list.
September 18, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining book. It kept me reading as I did want to find out what would become of the Sparrow's first group of house guests in their recently renovated Cornish B & B. I loved Simon & Tess and who wouldn't love Orla her Irish friend! I think I wouldn't mind a holiday in the Sparrow's nest myself.
November 5, 2024
DELIGHTFUL READ!!!
My heart felt so good while reading this charming stort!! It's just what I needed this past weekend. Charming story that held my total interest! The characters were very interesting, surprising me at times. I found myself excited about meeting the next round of guests. This story would make a fun series on PBS!!! PLEASE READ THIS BOOK.
My heart felt so good while reading this charming stort!! It's just what I needed this past weekend. Charming story that held my total interest! The characters were very interesting, surprising me at times. I found myself excited about meeting the next round of guests. This story would make a fun series on PBS!!! PLEASE READ THIS BOOK.
April 8, 2020
I loved this book. It was simply good. In a time with so much negativity I was looking for something to lift my spirits. This book delivered. I love each character and the story lines. I am hoping this becomes a series. There is so much more I want to know!
June 29, 2020
Batty as Bodmin
This is a hilarious story of a couple in their twilight years taking on a ramshackle old house and turning it into a boutique B&B. Some weird and wonderful characters become their first paying guests in this enjoyable, light-hearted tale.
This is a hilarious story of a couple in their twilight years taking on a ramshackle old house and turning it into a boutique B&B. Some weird and wonderful characters become their first paying guests in this enjoyable, light-hearted tale.
March 28, 2021
A great read
This was an easy book to read. It tells the tale of a mature couple setting up a guesthouse in Cornwall.
It is easy to read and interesting.
Well written and a really great read
This was an easy book to read. It tells the tale of a mature couple setting up a guesthouse in Cornwall.
It is easy to read and interesting.
Well written and a really great read
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