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Abi's Cornwall #1
A Cornish Escape
Newly widowed at barely thirty, Abi Carter is desperate to escape the Stepford Wives lifestyle that Luke, her late husband, had been so keen for her to live.
Abi decides to fulfil a lifelong dream. As a child on holiday in a Cornwall she fell in love with a cottage – the prophetically named Abbey’s House. Now she is going to see if she can find the place again, relive the happy memories … maybe even buy a place of her own nearby?
On impulse Abi sets off to Cornwall, where a chance meeting in a village pub brings new friends Beth and Max into her life. Beth, like Abi, has a life-changing decision to make. Max, Beth’s best mate, soon helps Abi track down the house of her dreams … but things aren’t quite that simple. There’s the complicated life Abi left behind, including her late husband’s brother, Simon – a man with more than friendship on his mind …
Will Abi’s house remain a dream, or will the bricks and mortar become a reality?
Abi decides to fulfil a lifelong dream. As a child on holiday in a Cornwall she fell in love with a cottage – the prophetically named Abbey’s House. Now she is going to see if she can find the place again, relive the happy memories … maybe even buy a place of her own nearby?
On impulse Abi sets off to Cornwall, where a chance meeting in a village pub brings new friends Beth and Max into her life. Beth, like Abi, has a life-changing decision to make. Max, Beth’s best mate, soon helps Abi track down the house of her dreams … but things aren’t quite that simple. There’s the complicated life Abi left behind, including her late husband’s brother, Simon – a man with more than friendship on his mind …
Will Abi’s house remain a dream, or will the bricks and mortar become a reality?
288 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2015
21 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Kane
20 books72 followersUsually to be found within range of plate of hot buttered toast, a huge mug of black coffee, and a with a bar of emergency chocolate tucked in her jacket pocket, Jenny Kane spends her days in her local cafe typing away…
Inspired by everything and anything, Jenny combines her past experiences as an archaeologist, university tutor, cheese seller, newsagent, hat maker, and data clerk, with the sights and sounds of everyday life, to weave tales of relaxingly relatable romance.
When Jenny isn’t writing romance, she is exploring her historical side as Jennifer Ash or her darker side as Kay Jaybee (the erotica world’s Queen of Kink!!).
Jenny Kane I the author of the romcom's Another Cup of Coffee, Another Cup of Christmas, Christmas in the Cotswolds, Christmas at the Castle, Another Glass of Champagne, Abi's House, Abi's Neighbour and Romancing Robin Hood.
Jenny Kane is currently awaiting the publication of her 9th book. Watch this space...
Inspired by everything and anything, Jenny combines her past experiences as an archaeologist, university tutor, cheese seller, newsagent, hat maker, and data clerk, with the sights and sounds of everyday life, to weave tales of relaxingly relatable romance.
When Jenny isn’t writing romance, she is exploring her historical side as Jennifer Ash or her darker side as Kay Jaybee (the erotica world’s Queen of Kink!!).
Jenny Kane I the author of the romcom's Another Cup of Coffee, Another Cup of Christmas, Christmas in the Cotswolds, Christmas at the Castle, Another Glass of Champagne, Abi's House, Abi's Neighbour and Romancing Robin Hood.
Jenny Kane is currently awaiting the publication of her 9th book. Watch this space...
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 27, 2017
Sumptuous summery story, would be a great summer holiday read, while picturing yourself in Cornwall alongside Abi, having cream teas and generally making the most of the slower pace of life.
I absolutely loved how Abi remembers a house in Cornwall from when she was a child, remembers it was called Abbey's House but not much more, and now that she is widowed and determined to make a fresh start, she feels drawn to not only Cornwall, but to Sennen, to try and ideally locate this house, and then find somewhere to live.
Not long after Abi arrives in Cornwall she meets Max whos is a decorator, and all around nice guy, and he introduces her to Beth, his best friend. Beth is a school teacher who is also on the verge of a life changing decision, and a friendship is soon struck up between the three of them.
I was really hooked in by the decisions the characters had to make, the new friendships being formed, my shock at how outrageous Abi's brother in law Simon behaves, and the way new opportunities are presented to the main trio. The incredibly sexy potter that appears also ramps up the appeal too!
I love books set in Cornwall, and this one really gives a good feel for the area, while providing some fascinating storylines, that I just don't want to even hint at, but rest assured they are worth reading.
This is the first book I have read by Jenny Kane, and I found myself really enjoying her writing style, which is easy to follow, and the story flowed really well. I loved her characters, and even the Cornish burr for Stan I could really hear in my head. In fact Stan was one of my favourite characters, although in theory he could be seen as a naive old man, he really is a gentleman, and he adds a lot of local colour to the story.
I am already eagerly awaiting the sequel to this charming book.
I absolutely loved how Abi remembers a house in Cornwall from when she was a child, remembers it was called Abbey's House but not much more, and now that she is widowed and determined to make a fresh start, she feels drawn to not only Cornwall, but to Sennen, to try and ideally locate this house, and then find somewhere to live.
Not long after Abi arrives in Cornwall she meets Max whos is a decorator, and all around nice guy, and he introduces her to Beth, his best friend. Beth is a school teacher who is also on the verge of a life changing decision, and a friendship is soon struck up between the three of them.
I was really hooked in by the decisions the characters had to make, the new friendships being formed, my shock at how outrageous Abi's brother in law Simon behaves, and the way new opportunities are presented to the main trio. The incredibly sexy potter that appears also ramps up the appeal too!
I love books set in Cornwall, and this one really gives a good feel for the area, while providing some fascinating storylines, that I just don't want to even hint at, but rest assured they are worth reading.
This is the first book I have read by Jenny Kane, and I found myself really enjoying her writing style, which is easy to follow, and the story flowed really well. I loved her characters, and even the Cornish burr for Stan I could really hear in my head. In fact Stan was one of my favourite characters, although in theory he could be seen as a naive old man, he really is a gentleman, and he adds a lot of local colour to the story.
I am already eagerly awaiting the sequel to this charming book.
December 4, 2017
Well, the story itself is pretty good. It's about Abi moving to Cornwall, starting a new life with new friends and the house of her dreams.
There are a lot of events happening, sometimes even too many. It felt a little crammed with different stuff going on. Also, there was too much being-modest and fawning on the last 100 pages.
And while it was still lovely in general, it was also somehoe a bit clumsily written at times. (And whoever's-responsible-for-this forgot to run the auto-correction on the final version.)
There are a lot of events happening, sometimes even too many. It felt a little crammed with different stuff going on. Also, there was too much being-modest and fawning on the last 100 pages.
And while it was still lovely in general, it was also somehoe a bit clumsily written at times. (And whoever's-responsible-for-this forgot to run the auto-correction on the final version.)
March 9, 2017
Bu kitap hakkında hiçbir fikrim yoktu. Agapi Yayınlarının kazandığım yılbaşı çekilişinden hediye gelen kitaplarından biriydi ve daha önce hiçbir yerde de görmemiştim. Ama artık bu yazarı takibe aldım -o kadar ki güzel- ve şu anlık çıkmış olan tek kitabı bu.
Dediğim gibi kitap çok güzeldi. Harika diye İnstasnap'ten birçok defa bahsettiğim gibi. Konusu, yazarın anlatımı ikisinin aşırı güzelliği ve ortaya çıkan mükemmel bir kitap.
Kendi ayakları üzerinde durmak, geçmişte bir anıya ait bir düşünü gerçekleştirmek isteyen, artık bir erkeğin boyunduruğunda yaşamak istemeyen bir kadın ve aldığı büyük kararlar... Yine bir diğer kadın karakterimizin de bir konuda bir karar alması gerekmektedir. Bu iki kadının yollarının bir şekilde kesişmesi ve ikisininde aşka yakalanışı.
Güçlü duran kadınları okumayı seviyorum, gerçi kim sevmez ki? Bu kitap bunu çok güzel konu almış. Kitabın hiçbir yerinde abartı bir durum veya bizi sıkabilecek herhangi bir klişe yoktu. Erkek baş karakterler de oldukça iyidi.
Kitap akıp gidiyor ve kitapla birlikte sizde bu maceraya atılmak istiyorsunuz.
Bence bu kitabı herkes okumalı! Şiddetle tavsiye ediyorum.
Kitabın konusu: Kocasının ölümü üzerine dul kalmış ve gösterişli iş adamı eşi hayatından kaçan, Abi Canter; bir düşü olan, çocukken ailesiyle tatile gittiklerinde kaldıkları, âşık olduğu kır evini -adı Abi'ye benzeyen: Abbey'in Evi'ne- bulmak için yollara düşmüştür.
Abi, uzun bir zamandan sonra gittiği yerde Beth ve Max adında arkadaş kazanır. Ve Beth'in de alması gereken bazı kararları vardır.
Abi'nin ölen eşinin kardeşi Simon, Abi'ye karşı bir şeyler beslemekte ve ona sorun yaratmaktadır.
Abi ve Beth'in büyük kararlar alıp, uygulması ve sorunlarını tek tek halletmeleri gerekmektedir.
Dediğim gibi kitap çok güzeldi. Harika diye İnstasnap'ten birçok defa bahsettiğim gibi. Konusu, yazarın anlatımı ikisinin aşırı güzelliği ve ortaya çıkan mükemmel bir kitap.
Kendi ayakları üzerinde durmak, geçmişte bir anıya ait bir düşünü gerçekleştirmek isteyen, artık bir erkeğin boyunduruğunda yaşamak istemeyen bir kadın ve aldığı büyük kararlar... Yine bir diğer kadın karakterimizin de bir konuda bir karar alması gerekmektedir. Bu iki kadının yollarının bir şekilde kesişmesi ve ikisininde aşka yakalanışı.
Güçlü duran kadınları okumayı seviyorum, gerçi kim sevmez ki? Bu kitap bunu çok güzel konu almış. Kitabın hiçbir yerinde abartı bir durum veya bizi sıkabilecek herhangi bir klişe yoktu. Erkek baş karakterler de oldukça iyidi.
Kitap akıp gidiyor ve kitapla birlikte sizde bu maceraya atılmak istiyorsunuz.
Bence bu kitabı herkes okumalı! Şiddetle tavsiye ediyorum.
Kitabın konusu: Kocasının ölümü üzerine dul kalmış ve gösterişli iş adamı eşi hayatından kaçan, Abi Canter; bir düşü olan, çocukken ailesiyle tatile gittiklerinde kaldıkları, âşık olduğu kır evini -adı Abi'ye benzeyen: Abbey'in Evi'ne- bulmak için yollara düşmüştür.
Abi, uzun bir zamandan sonra gittiği yerde Beth ve Max adında arkadaş kazanır. Ve Beth'in de alması gereken bazı kararları vardır.
Abi'nin ölen eşinin kardeşi Simon, Abi'ye karşı bir şeyler beslemekte ve ona sorun yaratmaktadır.
Abi ve Beth'in büyük kararlar alıp, uygulması ve sorunlarını tek tek halletmeleri gerekmektedir.
May 12, 2017
The story follows Abi, whose husband died just six months ago. Their marriage was not the happiest, what with Abi having to act as her husband's trophy wife and do nothing more than look pretty next to him.
To escape her miserable life and make a fresh start, Abi heads off to Cornwall. There, she wants to find the dream house from her childhood holidays - Abbey's House.
With the help of her newly found friends Beth and Max she begins the search and finds much more than just a house...
'Abi's House' was a really nice story, but not worth a full five star rating for me. I don't know, but there was a lack of... something? I cannot really put my finger on it.
That may sound quite negative, but the story as a whole was wonderful, I can assure you. I liked Abi and her new friends, I loved the setting of course, I loved the house. Lovely, but not lovely enough, the icing on the cake was missing, I guess.
I don't quite understand the publisher, or whoever is to blame, though. The cover has absolutely nothing to do with the story. Don't get me wrong, the cover is totally adorable and pretty, but why are there so many teacups? Abi isn't one of the thousands of main characters who wants to open a café or something. So that might be a bit misleading.
Also, did no one ever read the book before they published it? There are so many spelling mistakes in it, or words completey missing. It's not even my job and I detected quite a lot of them.
It didn't ruin the story for me or something, not at all, but it was still sticking out quite regularly.
All in all, I do recommend the book, even if I sounded so negative! ♥
To escape her miserable life and make a fresh start, Abi heads off to Cornwall. There, she wants to find the dream house from her childhood holidays - Abbey's House.
With the help of her newly found friends Beth and Max she begins the search and finds much more than just a house...
'Abi's House' was a really nice story, but not worth a full five star rating for me. I don't know, but there was a lack of... something? I cannot really put my finger on it.
That may sound quite negative, but the story as a whole was wonderful, I can assure you. I liked Abi and her new friends, I loved the setting of course, I loved the house. Lovely, but not lovely enough, the icing on the cake was missing, I guess.
I don't quite understand the publisher, or whoever is to blame, though. The cover has absolutely nothing to do with the story. Don't get me wrong, the cover is totally adorable and pretty, but why are there so many teacups? Abi isn't one of the thousands of main characters who wants to open a café or something. So that might be a bit misleading.
Also, did no one ever read the book before they published it? There are so many spelling mistakes in it, or words completey missing. It's not even my job and I detected quite a lot of them.
It didn't ruin the story for me or something, not at all, but it was still sticking out quite regularly.
All in all, I do recommend the book, even if I sounded so negative! ♥
January 23, 2018
If you are looking for something to take your mind off the cold weather and endless grey skies, I can highly recommend this fantastic read by the extremely talented Jenny Kane.
Almost as soon as I picked up Abi's House, I found myself unable to put it down. Well-written, beautifully observed and with fully-formed, complex characters you immediately warm to, this is a real page-turner. The end of each chapter left me asking, "What will she do?" "What is X up to?" and is the reason that I finished the book around 3.30 am - I had to know what happened next.
Jenny's writing style is very easy to read and the story flowed so naturally that, having intended to read the first chapter whilst having a cup of tea, I found I'd read the first six chapters without realising how far through the book I was! I'm very much looking forward to reading Abi's Neighbour to see how Abi's story develops - it will be like checking up on an old friend.Jenny KaneJenny Kane
Almost as soon as I picked up Abi's House, I found myself unable to put it down. Well-written, beautifully observed and with fully-formed, complex characters you immediately warm to, this is a real page-turner. The end of each chapter left me asking, "What will she do?" "What is X up to?" and is the reason that I finished the book around 3.30 am - I had to know what happened next.
Jenny's writing style is very easy to read and the story flowed so naturally that, having intended to read the first chapter whilst having a cup of tea, I found I'd read the first six chapters without realising how far through the book I was! I'm very much looking forward to reading Abi's Neighbour to see how Abi's story develops - it will be like checking up on an old friend.Jenny KaneJenny Kane
June 25, 2018
Read this book on holiday. Absolutely loved it! Interesting characters, you love and hate! Makes you want to go to Cornwall! Enjoyed it so much I ordered the sequel as soon as I got home. A great read.
October 23, 2021
Good solid feel good book. I recommend borrowing the paperback from Stanton library so you can see the pencil corrections to printing mistakes someone has marked.
February 11, 2023
I wanted a book about honest people who are kind to each other, and I wanted a book about England which I miss so much. This book met these needs: the relationships it describes are so sincere, the protagonists so well-meaning, that it feels like a cozy comfort blanket. Who wouldn't want to live in a Cornish cottage surrounded by friends? And those friends seem real. Perhaps all this good humor and quick resolution of problems is just too easy, though? And the innuendo, especially in the banter between Beth and her boyfriend, seemed jarring to me.
June 16, 2017
Pure escapism. I enjoyed my three days in the company of Abi and her new friends, even though no part of it is at all likely to happen to anyone in real life. Jenny Kane knows her audience and all the necessary ingredients are here - Cornwall, summer, artists, good looking men and dreams come true. The publishers need to get some proper proofreading done though - some really obvious typos jar more than a little...
September 15, 2019
This is a real feel-good story. Not my usual genre but I enjoyed what it could have been. Unfortunately the book was littered from start to finish with typos, inconsistencies and unrealistic plot-lines (has Jenny Kane ever sold a house?) and this was really distracting. It has also put me off reading more of her books, which is a shame because I'm sure they would be great stories.
July 19, 2022
A very light, easy read.
Predictable but gentle and easy.
Having holidayed in Sennen Cove for more years than I care to remember I guess it was a bit of a no-brainer that I would love this with it's representation of some of my favourite places.
A good beach read possibly.
The edition I read had so many typos, spelling mistakes, grammar errors which I found really irritating, I'm afraid.
Predictable but gentle and easy.
Having holidayed in Sennen Cove for more years than I care to remember I guess it was a bit of a no-brainer that I would love this with it's representation of some of my favourite places.
A good beach read possibly.
The edition I read had so many typos, spelling mistakes, grammar errors which I found really irritating, I'm afraid.
December 19, 2024
Pleasant and easy read which my little one chose for me from the library. All of the characters were likeable. Unfortunately, the second half of the book was riddled with typos which were so frequent that it was distracting from the story itself at time. I’ve always wanted to visit Cornwall but more so after reading this
April 25, 2020
Couldn't give this book many stars as I really struggled to finish it. I found the storyline predictable and the numerous grammatical errors really annoyed me, so much so that I almost gave up halfway!
December 16, 2017
loved it. truely romantic book. really took me away from harsh reality and stresses.
October 31, 2022
'Life should be about looking and not just seeing'
May 26, 2020
This is such a beautiful and lovely read – one of those that you don’t want to end because it makes you so happy!
Abi has recently been widowed at a young age, and realises that her current lifestyle may not be for her. Thinking about where she could go to, she revisits her fond memories of family holidays to Cornwall and embarks on an adventure to find the house that she fell in love with when she was eight. Arriving in Cornwall she realises she has a challenge on her hands, but bumps in to a local, Max in the pub and makes some new friends. This chance encounter also brings Beth into her life and things start to come together. However, one person doesn’t appear to want the best for Abi – making things much more complicated than necessary. And then there is the house she loves…….can she find it? And if so, will she be able to make it her own and live out the dream she has had for over 20 years………?
The first thing about this book is the cover……how beautiful is it! Just looking at it makes me happy – a beautiful cottage, sea, flowers, sunshine…..that would definitely be my perfect house!
In terms of the book, I absolutely loved it and only have positive things to say! The storyline is wonderful, enchanting and draws you in. Jenny Kane does such an amazing job of describing the scenery and I honestly felt like I was there, in Cornwall, on the adventure with Abi. It made me really want to be in Cornwall right now! From the sea, to the little tea/coffee shops, to the shop and the houses – you can see and feel it all. I could even imagine the seagulls having a sing in the morning (easy when I live near the sea I suppose!). A Cornish Escape has just re-enforced the fact that I have to visit Cornwall at some point – I seem to be drawn to it and this made me love it so much more.
So on to the characters…….I adore Abi, the protagonist. She has had a bit of rough time, her Husband has recently passed away, and she is trying to re-find herself. Learning about what she’s been through, and making new friends with her, you can’t help but fall in love with her. I was behind her every decision and felt so protective; just like she’s one of my real life friends!! Beth and Max are both equally amazing. They’re exactly the sort of people you’d want to bump into and be taken under their wing. Again, you can’t help but love them and only want the best for them. And probably my ultimate favourites – Stan and his dog! Amazing and utterly adorable, I just wanted to hug him constantly! But as you would expect, not everyone can be nice…..and there is one character you will not love and not route for. He is a piece of work and the things he gets up to will shock you – I honestly just wanted to punch him myself!
Although this is a happy and heartwarming story, don’t be fooled. This will also take you on a bit of a rollercoaster as you go on the journey with Abi. At points I was fuming, then I was hoping and had everything crossed, then I was nearly in tears, and then I’d be smiling! But this is because Jenny Kane has done such a wonderful job of making the characters relatable, real and loveable.
The story is enjoyable to read; a dual-narrative that is easy to follow with a beautiful plot. I honestly couldn’t give this any more praise! If you’re looking for your next read and fancy something that you will enjoy reading, will draw you in and make you completely invested in the characters; whilst taking you on a journey to beautiful Cornwall then this is for you. You really don’t want to miss this, it will warm your insides and put a big smile on your face. This comes highly recommended by me – I’m glad I have the paperback to keep and read again and I’m so excited that there is another book, A Cornish Wedding which I cannot wait to read!
Abi has recently been widowed at a young age, and realises that her current lifestyle may not be for her. Thinking about where she could go to, she revisits her fond memories of family holidays to Cornwall and embarks on an adventure to find the house that she fell in love with when she was eight. Arriving in Cornwall she realises she has a challenge on her hands, but bumps in to a local, Max in the pub and makes some new friends. This chance encounter also brings Beth into her life and things start to come together. However, one person doesn’t appear to want the best for Abi – making things much more complicated than necessary. And then there is the house she loves…….can she find it? And if so, will she be able to make it her own and live out the dream she has had for over 20 years………?
The first thing about this book is the cover……how beautiful is it! Just looking at it makes me happy – a beautiful cottage, sea, flowers, sunshine…..that would definitely be my perfect house!
In terms of the book, I absolutely loved it and only have positive things to say! The storyline is wonderful, enchanting and draws you in. Jenny Kane does such an amazing job of describing the scenery and I honestly felt like I was there, in Cornwall, on the adventure with Abi. It made me really want to be in Cornwall right now! From the sea, to the little tea/coffee shops, to the shop and the houses – you can see and feel it all. I could even imagine the seagulls having a sing in the morning (easy when I live near the sea I suppose!). A Cornish Escape has just re-enforced the fact that I have to visit Cornwall at some point – I seem to be drawn to it and this made me love it so much more.
So on to the characters…….I adore Abi, the protagonist. She has had a bit of rough time, her Husband has recently passed away, and she is trying to re-find herself. Learning about what she’s been through, and making new friends with her, you can’t help but fall in love with her. I was behind her every decision and felt so protective; just like she’s one of my real life friends!! Beth and Max are both equally amazing. They’re exactly the sort of people you’d want to bump into and be taken under their wing. Again, you can’t help but love them and only want the best for them. And probably my ultimate favourites – Stan and his dog! Amazing and utterly adorable, I just wanted to hug him constantly! But as you would expect, not everyone can be nice…..and there is one character you will not love and not route for. He is a piece of work and the things he gets up to will shock you – I honestly just wanted to punch him myself!
Although this is a happy and heartwarming story, don’t be fooled. This will also take you on a bit of a rollercoaster as you go on the journey with Abi. At points I was fuming, then I was hoping and had everything crossed, then I was nearly in tears, and then I’d be smiling! But this is because Jenny Kane has done such a wonderful job of making the characters relatable, real and loveable.
The story is enjoyable to read; a dual-narrative that is easy to follow with a beautiful plot. I honestly couldn’t give this any more praise! If you’re looking for your next read and fancy something that you will enjoy reading, will draw you in and make you completely invested in the characters; whilst taking you on a journey to beautiful Cornwall then this is for you. You really don’t want to miss this, it will warm your insides and put a big smile on your face. This comes highly recommended by me – I’m glad I have the paperback to keep and read again and I’m so excited that there is another book, A Cornish Wedding which I cannot wait to read!
June 19, 2016
I'm sure I have already given my views on this book but seemingly it was not registered. I chose it because it was set in Cornwall and we absolutely loved it there. Bad choice.
As I have limited my reading to Kindle books for some time now I am reliant upon the ratings given any book by previous readers. Over 70 people gave this book four stars (I'm not joking)!!! So here's a thing - I suggest that all readers give themselves a 'Mills and Boon' rating with 1 being 'Read Mills and Boon ALL THE TIME' and 10 being 'haven't read a Mills and Boon since early adolescence. Perhaps reviewers should also mention the century they were born in.
What a heap of unrealistic trash Abi's House was. Just to give you an idea - the main protagonist almost had a nervous breakdown because the holiday house of her youth (when she was six) was run-down when she finally traced it!!! Oh no - imagine THAT? And ALL the main characters fell in love at first sight and managed to develop their relationships into full blown love affairs within a few days. What are the chances? But don't expect any hot sex scenes - closest it got to that was mentioning clothing strewn all over the room.
Simply perfect for the modern era - cram the whole of life into a 30 minute soapy. Horrid book, worse characterization and very little about Cornwall. That's a few reading hours of my life I'm never getting back again. Ugh.
As I have limited my reading to Kindle books for some time now I am reliant upon the ratings given any book by previous readers. Over 70 people gave this book four stars (I'm not joking)!!! So here's a thing - I suggest that all readers give themselves a 'Mills and Boon' rating with 1 being 'Read Mills and Boon ALL THE TIME' and 10 being 'haven't read a Mills and Boon since early adolescence. Perhaps reviewers should also mention the century they were born in.
What a heap of unrealistic trash Abi's House was. Just to give you an idea - the main protagonist almost had a nervous breakdown because the holiday house of her youth (when she was six) was run-down when she finally traced it!!! Oh no - imagine THAT? And ALL the main characters fell in love at first sight and managed to develop their relationships into full blown love affairs within a few days. What are the chances? But don't expect any hot sex scenes - closest it got to that was mentioning clothing strewn all over the room.
Simply perfect for the modern era - cram the whole of life into a 30 minute soapy. Horrid book, worse characterization and very little about Cornwall. That's a few reading hours of my life I'm never getting back again. Ugh.
April 7, 2021
I just finished reading Mexican Gothic and I was feeling pretty messed up, both emotionally and mentally. And I knew I needed a feel good book right away. A friend recommended A Cornish Escape and it was exactly what I needed.
Abi's husband just died and she is having an identity crisis. Being turned into a stereotype executive housewife was not who she is, and she knew it, so she decided to do something about it. She remembers a house in Cornwall that her family joked about when they would go there for vacation as meant to be her home someday because it was called Abbey's House and went in search of it. Along the way, she meets Max and his bestfriend Beth, and a beautiful new relationship blooms. I love how it developed so easily. There was an instant attraction between Max and Abi but it was not instalove, thank goodness. I especially love Stan, his fun-loving and quirky personality brought much delight in this novel for me. We have a minor villain in Simon, Abi's brother-in-law, but nothing too stressful. This was a light read and made me feel good. I am happy to say I have fully recovered from the side effects of a Mexican Gothic.
Abi's husband just died and she is having an identity crisis. Being turned into a stereotype executive housewife was not who she is, and she knew it, so she decided to do something about it. She remembers a house in Cornwall that her family joked about when they would go there for vacation as meant to be her home someday because it was called Abbey's House and went in search of it. Along the way, she meets Max and his bestfriend Beth, and a beautiful new relationship blooms. I love how it developed so easily. There was an instant attraction between Max and Abi but it was not instalove, thank goodness. I especially love Stan, his fun-loving and quirky personality brought much delight in this novel for me. We have a minor villain in Simon, Abi's brother-in-law, but nothing too stressful. This was a light read and made me feel good. I am happy to say I have fully recovered from the side effects of a Mexican Gothic.
May 16, 2020
My word this book was outstanding I didn’t want it to end. Full of heart break and happiness with making a new life and being happy again. Full of making new friends and romance and plenty about Cornwall. You really feel you are there when reading it. Brilliant characters and can’t praise the book enough.
Abi was married to Luke and she wasn’t happy with her life and Luke telling her what she can and can’t do so when he passes away she decides to follow a childhood dream and head to Cornwall in search of a house she always wanted to own. She meets max as soon as she arrives and makes friends and he invites her to the pub and when he goes Beth turns up to and she thinks they are a couple and is feeling gutted as she has a feeling she fancies Mac. Beth is opening a gallery and Abi offers to help but she explains about this house and max and Beth want to find it for her. They find the house and go to knock on the door and an elderly man lives there and they start getting very friendly. Problem is when Simon her brother in law turns up and demands she goes back home. Will she be able to make a new life and be happy in Cornwall in the house she always wants or will she have to head home again can she be happy and find love or not.
Abi was married to Luke and she wasn’t happy with her life and Luke telling her what she can and can’t do so when he passes away she decides to follow a childhood dream and head to Cornwall in search of a house she always wanted to own. She meets max as soon as she arrives and makes friends and he invites her to the pub and when he goes Beth turns up to and she thinks they are a couple and is feeling gutted as she has a feeling she fancies Mac. Beth is opening a gallery and Abi offers to help but she explains about this house and max and Beth want to find it for her. They find the house and go to knock on the door and an elderly man lives there and they start getting very friendly. Problem is when Simon her brother in law turns up and demands she goes back home. Will she be able to make a new life and be happy in Cornwall in the house she always wants or will she have to head home again can she be happy and find love or not.
June 13, 2015
When Abi is suddenly widowed at 30 years old she realises that she has become a shell – modelled into the wife her dead husband wanted her to be and not the person she wants to be.
Feeling suffocated in Surrey by the ‘lifestyle’ and her In Laws Abi up sticks and heads to Cornwall to find Abbey House – a place her family found years before whilst on holiday. Once in Sennan Abi quickly makes new friends and soon realises she has found the one place she wants to call home.
Jenny’s style of writing is wonderful. You can feel the sand in your toes, the gentle waves lapping at your feet, the sun and the wind and smell the Fish and Chips! It was whilst reading this book that I realised I really missed a good old fashioned pub garden – we just don’t have them where I live. Jenny’s stories always draw me in, I get so engrossed in and involved with the characters. It’s like you are there. I want to live in a Jenny Kane book!
I was lucky enough to be able to read an ARC of this book. It is over a month since I read the book and as I told Jenny I feel like I have lost some friends since I finished reading it.
Feeling suffocated in Surrey by the ‘lifestyle’ and her In Laws Abi up sticks and heads to Cornwall to find Abbey House – a place her family found years before whilst on holiday. Once in Sennan Abi quickly makes new friends and soon realises she has found the one place she wants to call home.
Jenny’s style of writing is wonderful. You can feel the sand in your toes, the gentle waves lapping at your feet, the sun and the wind and smell the Fish and Chips! It was whilst reading this book that I realised I really missed a good old fashioned pub garden – we just don’t have them where I live. Jenny’s stories always draw me in, I get so engrossed in and involved with the characters. It’s like you are there. I want to live in a Jenny Kane book!
I was lucky enough to be able to read an ARC of this book. It is over a month since I read the book and as I told Jenny I feel like I have lost some friends since I finished reading it.
May 19, 2020
A while back, I read an earlier edition of Jenny Kane’s A Cornish Escape, and thoroughly enjoyed it. When I discovered the book’s idyllic new cover, I just had to read it again. What a treat in the time of pandemic! A chicken soup for the soul!
A Cornish Escape isn’t just about romance. It is also about loss, recovery, starting over, and many acts of basic human kindness. It doesn’t feature only the young and the beautiful. There is a wide spectrum of characters, including the elderly who are portrayed with great sensitivity. Stan is my absolute hero, and he is no spring chicken!
If you’re feeling slightly under the weather and a little bit in emotional lockdown, warm your heart up with that lovely story. It is well written with beautiful descriptions of Cornwall which are vivid enough to make you feel, just for that one fleeting moment, that you are actually there.
A Cornish Escape isn’t just about romance. It is also about loss, recovery, starting over, and many acts of basic human kindness. It doesn’t feature only the young and the beautiful. There is a wide spectrum of characters, including the elderly who are portrayed with great sensitivity. Stan is my absolute hero, and he is no spring chicken!
If you’re feeling slightly under the weather and a little bit in emotional lockdown, warm your heart up with that lovely story. It is well written with beautiful descriptions of Cornwall which are vivid enough to make you feel, just for that one fleeting moment, that you are actually there.
June 15, 2015
Abi’s House by Jenny Kane
What a great book! It is nice to take a break from my usual reads to read a love story. Abi’s House is a book that everyone should read. Abi has been through a lot and what she needs is love from a real good man. She thought she had it made but it wasn’t what it seemed to be. The best thing for her to do is leave the life she has now behind and move on to something better. If only the past would let her go that is. There is one person that will help her but will she be able to open up her heart and let him in? Such a moving story in some parts and yes I did tear up a little. Definitely take time to read this story and you will fall in love with Jenny Kane. I received this book as a gift from the author in return for an honest review.
What a great book! It is nice to take a break from my usual reads to read a love story. Abi’s House is a book that everyone should read. Abi has been through a lot and what she needs is love from a real good man. She thought she had it made but it wasn’t what it seemed to be. The best thing for her to do is leave the life she has now behind and move on to something better. If only the past would let her go that is. There is one person that will help her but will she be able to open up her heart and let him in? Such a moving story in some parts and yes I did tear up a little. Definitely take time to read this story and you will fall in love with Jenny Kane. I received this book as a gift from the author in return for an honest review.
June 25, 2016
The story is quite predictable. But there is something nice and comforting about stories which develop 'as they should'. I chose the book because I love stories which take place the sea, favourable including some walks at the beach etc.. so even when I am not able to travel to the sea, sometimes books give me a "beach /at the sea feeling". This book did not suceed in this area. Probably it was not the topic/aim of the author. But thats why it does not get 5 stars. And because i fell not quite into the chracers like in other books (e.g. the comfort food cafe). but the story is nice. "spoiler" no one is dying (not even a dog) which i quite liked. So you do not have to shed tears. It is quite nice with good people and nice characters. Good relaxing reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2015
Reading a Jenny Kane book is like opening a journal by a much loved friend. I'm spirited away into a world of warm, friendly and interesting people. To places that I not only want to visit but actually live in. Shops, cafés and pubs that I want to be my locals and life that I want to experience and be a part of. Abi's House gives you all of these feelings and left me with a huge smile on my face and a glowing in my heart. More of this wonderfulness please!!
Copy kindly gifted by author for honest review.
Copy kindly gifted by author for honest review.
December 16, 2015
Abi's House is definitely one to persevere with. At the beginning, I was worried that I wouldn't enjoy it, because all of the characters you meet bothered me slightly, and I was struggling to enjoy the read. Thankfully for me, Abi doesn't like them either, so once you accept that the book is about her leaving those people behind it becomes a much different read!
It was a lovely, lighthearted book to read on holiday.
It was a lovely, lighthearted book to read on holiday.
January 10, 2016
A real feel good read set in Cornwall, a story you know is going to have a happy ending but you read it anyway for the fluffy feeling
February 25, 2016
Irritating. DNF. Too many spelling mistakes. Found the main character, Abi, got on my nerves a bit too much. Not my kind of girl.
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