A gorgeously uplifting, romantic read that will warm your heart – take a trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon, where magic happens…
It’s autumn in beautiful Stratford-Upon-Avon and Kelsey Anderson is enjoying her new life in her adopted town. Her Shakespearean tour guide days behind her, she’s now opened her own photography studio and loved up with boyfriend Jonathan – even if a long-distance relationship is sometimes lonely.
When best friend Mirren Imrie moves down from Scotland, Kelsey is delighted to have her friend at her side – and as the nights turn colder, Mirren throws herself into dating, until she finds herself growing closer to sexy journalist, Adrian Armadale. But when Mirren uncovers a long-buried scandal while working at the local newspaper, her big scoop might throw Kelsey’s – and Jonathan’s – life upside down. Will she choose her career over her friends’ happiness?
And when Jonathan returns from America and discovers the secrets Mirren has uncovered about his family, it throws his relationship with Kelsey onto shaky ground. Can they find their way back to love, before it becomes the winter of their discontent?
A romantic, funny and feelgood read that will make you smile from ear to ear. Fans of Milly Johnson, Heidi Swain and Holly Martin will fall in love with this cosy winter read!
This was an engaging feel good story. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with these charming characters in Statford-Upon-Avon. This is a follow-up to Kiley Dunbar’s ONE SUMMER’S NIGHT, but it can most definitely be read as a standalone. The story bounces back-and-forth between the perspectives of Kelsey and her BFF Merrin. Kelsey is starting a new photography business and learning to navigate her long distance relationship with her actor boyfriend Jonathan. Merrin has had it with her misogynistic work environment in Scotland and has decided to stay with her friend Kelsey for a while to regroup. Really liked both Kelsey and Merrin. It was amusing watching them live together in a shoebox sized apartment. I enjoyed watching Kelsey get her business off the ground and for Merrin to find her footing again. Kelsey’s enigmatic neighbor Blythe was a lovely addition to the story. Some romance, a little mystery, New beginnings, second chances, good friends, A dash of Shakespeare, and a peppering of festive cheer. This was just such a great feel-good story that warmed my heart.
This book in emojis ❄️ 📸 🗞 🎭 🍺
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I love reading holiday book’s. One Winter Night was an okay read it started of slow then picked up a good winter book 3 star book.
This is the second book following the new life of Kelsey Anderson in Stratford-upon-Avon. According to the author, you can read it as a stand-alone, and that's what I did.
In One Winter's Night, Kelsey has set up a photography studio in Shakespeare's hometown. It hasn't been easy to start this new project, and throughout the story we see how she manages to deal with this and her long-distance relationship with Jonathan, an American stage actor who is now playing Hamlet in Canada.
On the other hand, we see that Mirren, Kelsey's best friend who lives in Scotland, has been dealing with the consequences of her breakup, some problems at work and living with her mom. It seems like it's time for a change for her too.
We meet new characters, as well, and enjoy the cosy autumn/winter season in the picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon.
Thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Fantastic read, absolutely adored this, perfect Christmas read, made me want to sit indoors , snuggle with a hot chocolate and ignore the world for a few hours.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
I got this eARC from Netgalley in exhange for a honest review DNF 29% Really not invested in the story nor was i interested in the two main character. I just felt that the story was boring. Sadly.
This book follows on from One Summer’s Night, which I hadn’t read, but One Winter’s Night can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone, particularly as the author gives a short recap of the previous book at the start.
Kelsey Anderson had spent the summer working as a tour guide in the pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon, where she met her boyfriend. Jonathan Hathaway is an American stage actor and was only in Stratford for the summer season. He was now touring in America so Kelsey was left alone in Stratford with a long distance relationship until Jonathan came back for the Christmas holidays, both having to make do with facetime calls.
Norma, Kelsey’s ex boss at the tour guide company, had let her have the old tour guide premises at a very reduced rent, to give Kelsey chance to get her much anticipated photography business up and running.
When Kelsey’s best friend, Mirren, packs in her job after one too many incidents of harassment and bullying, she hotfoots it down to Stratford to stay with Kelsey while she ponders her options and tries to get her life back on track. In the process she gets caught up with a local journalist and uncovers a secret scandal that could potentially cause ructions for Jonathan and his family, not to mention his relationship with Kelsey, if it became public.
This is a lovely, easy read with Shakespearian and theatre references scattered throughout, alternating between the perspectives of Kelsey and Mirren. More so because I could picture the setting very well. I love Stratford and used to live within easy travelling distance for a day out.
The characters are well drawn and easy to like, especially the intriguing and eccentric ex actress, Blythe. A secondary cast of diverse characters add to the story. All are brought to life in a wonderful setting, seeing their growth while showcasing love, friendship, hope and family though dramas, disappointments, uncertainties and perhaps ultimately happiness.
A gorgeous uplifting romantic story, that will warm your heart, takes place in Stratford-Upon-Avon, plus uncovering a long buried scandal.
This was a great book about Stratford-Upon-Avcon, Shakespeare, the heater, both old and new actors and their stories.. Very warm characters and plenty of romance. I want to read Kiley’s :One Summer Night. I recommend this book.
First of all i did not know this book was second book in the duology. But the author Said you could read this book As a standalone. I guess you can, but for me i felt like I just joined in a book too late. Did i read this book? Yes i did. A enjoyed the characters very miuch. I liked the romance in the book . But for me the story was too light,of you know what I mean. But thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
A feel-good, uplifting story! There's romance, strong friendship, mystery, and new beginnings - the perfect mix. Also, it was nice to read a book set in Stratford-upon-Avon.
If you’re looking for a cosy Christmas read, then this is perfect. With loveable characters and Shakespearean anecdotes galore, this was gorgeous escapism to the beautiful Stratford-Upon-Avon.
I haven’t read the first book in this series so all of the characters were new to me. However, this works perfectly as a stand alone novel. I wish I had read the first novel though now!
The story follows two main characters Kelsey and Mirren. Kelsey is juggling starting a career in photography, a long-distance relationship and financial worries. Meanwhile up in Scotland, Mirren is dealing with an intolerable colleague and has come to stay with Kelsey in Stratford-Upon-Avon. It’s a heartlifting read as we get to see them both overcome obstacles in their careers and love lives.
I loved how each chapter started with a Shakespeare reference and how Shakespeare plays were intertwined in the story as well. The subtle theatre references and links to Shakespeare plays did not go unnoticed.
I’ve never been to Stratford-Upon-Avon but the setting seems so magical that I definitely want to visit at some point soon. It’s the perfect backdrop for this festive story and a brilliant homage to William Shakespeare too.
The only thing I would change about it is the length of the book. It seemed a bit long-winded at times but didn’t detract from the story.
An easy, gentle Christmas read perfect for reading with the fire on during these colder nights!
This heartwarming book literally cheered me up! Thank you @netgalley and @hera_books for sending an e-ARC in exchange of honest review. Here's the blurb: One winter's night, a badger arrives in the forest, cold and hungry. There is little food this harsh wintertime, but something special about the kind gentle badger moves Fox, Mouse and Hare. They each help as best they can, and badger goes on his way. But the storms are getting worse and the animals start to worry. Christmas romances are always a good choice. This uplifting romantic book will take you to Stratford and it's beautiful surroundings. Kelsey Anderson leaves her Shakespearean tour guide job and opens up her new photography studio. Her long distance relationship with Jonathan was perfect untill her best friend Mirren uncovers some scandal which can throw Kelsey's love life in fire. Umm I liked Mirren. Her complex and wonderful behaviour portrays the kind of best friend we have in our life. Kelsey is my absolutely new favourite character. Her independent and confidence is awesome. And Blythe! I’m in awe of this character. In short, the characters of this book will not disappoint you. The romance, Shakespearean vibes will give you cozy, warm feelings.
This sequel to One Summer’s Night is better than the first book. You can read this as a stand alone book too! So grab a cuppa and happy reading.
The first thing I have to say about this book is that I haven´t read the previous one, "One Summer's Night", and I wish I had. But like the author said at the beginning of the story, you can read this one as a standalone. Kelsey Anderson is enjoying her new life in Stratford-Upon-Avon. And her new life as owner of a photography studio. She has a long distance relationship with her boyfriend Jonathan. When her best friend Mirren Imrie moves down from Scotland, Kelsey is delighted to have her friend at her side. When Mirren starts dating, she finds herself growing closer to sexy journalist, Adrian Armadale. But things get heated when Mirren uncovers a long-buried scandal while working at the local newspaper, her big scoop might throw Kelsey’s – and Jonathan’s – life upside down. And when Jonathan returns from America and discovers the secrets Mirren has uncovered about his family, it throws his relationship with Kelsey onto shaky ground. Can they find their way back to love, before it becomes the winter of their discontent? I like this book, is sweet and easy to read. Maybe a bit too long, but mostly enjoyable and romantic. I love the dynamics between the two friends and their partners. This is one of those books to read near a Christmas tree with a cup of hot chocolate next to you. Enjoy! I did. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book featuring the main character, Kelsey Anderson, but I can honestly say that you don’t need to have read that to thoroughly enjoy this one as I seem to have missed reading the first one. Kelsey has moved from her home in Scotland to live and work in Stratford-Upon-Avon, initially as a tour guide but now she’s setting up her own photographic studio and counting down the days until the return of the man she loves, American actor John Hathaway.
Kelsey’s best friend is journalist Mirren Imrie, who is struggling with everything life is throwing her way, especially by her sexist bosses, to the point where she quits her job, goes to stay with Kelsey and decides to give dating a miss. However, journalist Adrian Armadale seems different so should she give him a chance?
The characters are all superbly portrayed and my favourite just has to be septuagenarian Blythe Goode, I’m sure you’ll understand why if you read the story! With laugh out loud moments, the accidental uncovering of family secrets, lots of Shakespearean quotes and references, this is a delightful and festive read that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing, entertaining and heartwarming romance to escape into.
Thank you to Hera Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Was lovely to be back in Stratford-Upon-Avon, and to see how Kelsey's new photography studio is going, as well as her relationship with Jonathan.
I don't really recall best friend Mirren from the first book, so she was like a whole new character to me, and I enjoyed getting to know her.
I love the Stratford setting of this book, I just don't tend to read many books set there, and the way its described made me feel as though I was in the city myself alongside Kelsey and Mirren.
This was a really enjoyable book to read, and had me smiling regularly as I read it. I loved the dynamics between the various characters, and discovering Blythe, Kelsey's neighbour was great, Blythe was great, and has clearly lived an full and interesting life, and the bits she shared with Kelsey were great - plus who doesn't like an older lady who makes her own gin in her kitchen!
Was just a lovely book, a good sequel, and a great chance to catch up with some much loved characters and see what they are currently up to.
Thank you to Hera Books for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
After reading “One Summers Night” I couldn’t wait to read this...& it did not disappoint! I loved revisiting Kelsey’s adventures & with the added bonus of Mirren it was extra special. This book also brings Stratford-on-Avon alive. The area still holds a special place in my heart & can’t wait to visit there once again. I really hope Kiley Dunbar would like to write more about Kelsey & the gang sometime in the future. I feel like there is more to be told with their story.
What I love: • the coziness while reading, the Hallmark-y vibes • the mystery surrounding the characters • the characters are inter-connected (somehow)
What I don't love: • the reconciliation with the absentee father was abrupt
overall, it's a good read during the holidays (was actually saving it up for December reading but I'm on a (reading) roll)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Unfortunately gave up with this one. I read quatre of it. I found it was quite slow. Just didnt keep my interest. Personal preference though, don't be put off by what I think.
One Winter's Night by Kiley Dunbar was a great way to get into the holiday spirit. I've been to Stratford-Upon-Avon before, so it was beautiful to feel like I was there again with this novel. It took me a little while to feel invested in the main character Kelsey. I think if I had read the first book, this wouldn't have been an issue. My favorite memories of the book involved Kelsey's best friend, Mirren. I definitely would recommend this book for a cozy feelgood holiday romantic read.
Another nice book by Kiley Dunbar! But I have to be honest, her writing style is not so smooth and I found myself a bit bored from time to time during my read. I almost gave this book a 3 stars but in the end I gave it a 4 because the storyline is good, there are plenty of events and I loved the characters and the setting in this book. All in all it's still pretty good!
What a lovely read! As I hadn’t read One Summer’s Night, I thought it was a particularly nice idea that the author started the book with a bit of a “catch up” on the characters and what had gone before – as a separate note – but I really didn’t need it because I engaged with Kelsey from the moment I met her. She’s really missing actor boyfriend Jonathan, on tour in the US, and eagerly awaiting his return for Christmas – a really nicely drawn long-distance relationship – but she has plenty to keep her busy as she strives to get her photography business off the ground, trying to come up with ideas that will bring in the customers.
But this is also Mirren’s story – treated quite appallingly back in Edinburgh (and perhaps having behaved rather badly herself too), now homeless and jobless, she arrives in Stratford-Upon-Avon looking for a bit of a fresh start. Self esteem issues figure large for both friends – Kelsey doubting she has what it takes to be the success that would make her father proud, Mirren swearing off men (the source of so many of her problems) and trying very hard to stand on her own feet.
The other main character is Blythe, living in the garden flat of the block where Kelsey has her small flat: she’s an ex-actress with a very intriguing past, and such a wonderfully drawn character with her gin, her rich vein of memories, her words of wisdom, and secrets to be uncovered.
It builds into a mystery that impacts all their lives and relationships, and it’s a really excellent story – journalist Adrian certainly sets Mirren’s heart racing, but might just not be the good and trustworthy guy he appears to be (or then again…). It’s a really well-told story, and I particularly enjoyed the way the characters were developed – I raced through it, and loved all its twists and turns. There’s some really nice lightness and humour (oh Mirren!), but also a fair bit of drama and conflict, and a good amount of sadness and poignancy too.
I loved the Stratford-Upon-Avon setting – really brought vividly to life, with its river and barges and theatrical ambience (time for a visit again soon, I think!). Each chapter begins with a Shakespeare quotation related to its story, which was a particularly nice touch. And I did like the strength of the supporting characters – some who will have featured in the first book making a return, Kelsey’s mum Mari restarting her life and trying to find happiness back in Edinburgh, the various characters in the pub where Mirren works, the entirely horrendous Jamesy, and rather seedy editor Mr Ferdinand.
I really liked the book’s timeframe too – that lead-up to Christmas and Jonathan’s return, everything Christmas that you might be looking for, but then extending into the New Year and the approach of Valentine’s Day – which makes it more of a winter read than an overtly Christmassy one, nicely done.
There was absolutely nothing I failed to enjoy about this book – a great story, the best of writing, well paced, with characters I grew increasingly fond of as the story developed. Heart-warming, uplifting and gorgeous – I loved it.
A wonderful wintry read that is just perfect for cosy fireside reading with a mug of hot chocolate and a thick woolly blanket, Kiley Dunbar’s One Winter’s Night is superb romantic escapism at its best!
Kelsey Anderson is loving her new life in Stratford-Upon-Avon. The former Shakespearean tour guide has not only made a new life for herself in the beautiful town she is living in, but has also opened up her own photography studio and is loved-up with her gorgeous boyfriend, Jonathan. Their relationship is going from strength to strength and although a long-distance romance is not always ideal, Kelsey cannot imagine being with anybody else. Her boyfriend might not be close by, but Kelsey gets some wonderful news when her best friend Mirren announces that she is moving from Scotland to Stratford-Upon-Avon!
Mirren is looking forward to her brand-new start. She cannot wait to spend more time with her best friend Kelsey and while in Stratford-Upon-Avon, she plans to throw herself wholeheartedly in the local dating scene. Mirren is determined to find her Prince Charming and it seems like Cupid is on her side when she meets sexy journalist Adrian. All of Mirren’s dreams look like they are coming true when she begins working on a new story that promises to be absolutely explosive – even if her discoveries shed light on some shocking revelations about Jonathan’s family. Torn between her love for her friends and her career, what is Mirren going to do? Will she choose her career over her friendship? And is she ready to throw her friendship away for the sake of an exclusive?
Jonathan has returned from America, but it is not a happy homecoming. The revelations Mirren has uncovered will have devastating effects on his life – and on his relationship with Kelsey. Kelsey’s perfect world has been turned upside down and she is in danger of losing everything which she has worked so hard for: her best friend, her hard-earned dreams and the love of her life. Is there any way back for Kelsey and Jonathan? Is their relationship truly over? Or will the magic of wintertime bring them back together again?
An irresistible romance it is hard not to fall for, Kiley Dunbar’s One Winter’s Night is a swoon-worthy romance that is perfect for losing oneself in as the nights begin to get colder. Warm-hearted, captivating, atmospheric and with believable characters readers cannot help but fall in love with, One Winter’s Night is a brilliantly written tale about the ties that bind us together, the importance of friendship and fighting for your heart’s desire told with such gusto, style and flair that readers will simply not want this book to end.
With One Winter’s Night, the talented Kiley Dunbar has once again penned an irresistible treat readers will want to devour in a single sitting – roll on the next book!
Oh My Gosh!!! What can I say about this book! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!!!! Dunbar introduces us to Kelsey, a loved up photographer who had taken the next step to set up her own studio/photography business. Her boyfriend, Johnathon, was working abroad pursing his acting career, and wouldn't be home until Christmas.... As Kelsey starts looking further afield to get the word out about her business, she comes across the opportunity to take some headshots of a well known actress, Blythe, for the local, Examiner. As Kelsey and Blythe strike up a friendship sharing stories their lives (mainly Blythe telling the stories) over gin jam, some mysterious pieces of history start to come out. During this time, Kelsey's friend from Scotland, Mirren, is being gaslighted at her job by two senior members of staff. After having enough of being bullied and harassed, Mirren decides to quite her job and join Kelsey for a visit to clear her head. I really felt sorry for Mirren, as while this was going on, she had also split with her long-time partner due to coming clean about cheating, and was living with her mum who was an alcoholic. Mirren's life had literally hit rock bottom, BUT she meets a guy, who could be worth a second chance with.... Kelsey gives Mirren a place to stay, and Mirren finds a job at the local bar when Kelsey gets an idea (with encouragement from Blythe) about what to do with her photography business!! As part of the studio contract with her former boss, Kelsey also had a barge to use. While Mirren was using the living side of the accommodation, there was plenty of space to make her own exhibition of her photographs... Back to Kelsey's boyfriend - Johnathan doesn't know who his real father is, and after seeing a photo at the back of an old book Blythe was donating, Kelsey figured that the actor, John Westgate, from this book, was Johnathan's father. Confused?! I was too!!! I won't spoil too much, but as you read through those chapters you experience the hurt, betrayal and love of those who are closest to you. Was Kelsey right to trust Mirren with Johnathan's possible dad identity? Was Adrian (Mirren's new friend) all that he seemed? Will Kelsey's business take off? Will there be a happy ever after? f you are wondering about the answers to those questions, you seriously need to read the book!! The ending was so well done, that when I finished this book, I had tears in my eyes, and I just can't wait to re-read it again soon!! FANTASTIC! Can see more of my review on www.literacyindulgence.com!
I happened upon Kiley Dunbar and her debut last year, and after devouring the first one, I have awaited any other releases with great anticipation, and she's never failed to satisfy. Hearing that the characters from One Summer Night, Dunbar's debut were getting another outing in One Winter's Night, made my summer. I love Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon is a place we visited plenty when I was growing up, And though I've never been, Scotland and its. beauty has always enticed me. One day I will visit. And romance? Well, I love a bit of romance, so, having all these components in a book should be a guaranteed good read, for me, at least. And it surely was! Catching up with Kelsey Anderson, as the Scottish lass comes to grips with settling far south of her home town, in Shakespeare's land, attempting to set up a business fuelled by her passion for photography, with no good friends or family close by, and the love of her life off acting across the Atlantic was a joy. And I loved the parallel story of Kelsey's best friend Mirren, the newly single, Scottish journalist who's finally had enough of the sexist world of broadsheet journalism, and finds herself swearing off men, jacking in her job, and jumping on a train to join her best friend, for a little while, as she straightens her life out. There were a whole host of new characters introduced, including the old soak, propping up the local bar, who ended up being a rather famous actor in his prime, with a hidden secret, and Blythe. Oh, I loved Blythe! Everyone needs a Blythe in their lives. An eccentric elderly woman who was a force to be reckoned with in her prime, on stage, until life threw her some huge curveballs. Blythe may be a bit of a recluse, but she has amassed a veritable smorgasbord of memorabilia and hard-learned wisdom over the years, along with the talent of distilling her own extremely strong flavoured gins. Kelsey's unusual, initial meeting with Blythe cements a multi-generational friendship that adds another layer to an already wonderful story. So there's love, heartbreaks, more romance, Shakespeare, family angst, and GIN! What more could a reader want? Absolutely a recommended read. Many thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Before even reading the first official sentence in Chapter One, I was fond of the author's use of Shakespeare quotes at the top of the page. I love how the author used quotes that not only reminisced about the excellent works of the playwright and fitting with the location of the novel, but it also correlated to each piece of the story.
As a side-note, you do not need to read One Summer's Night (#1) in the series in order to understand the events in this novel. The author inserts tidbits into her story to catch the reader up, which helps those of us who haven't read the first one (Unfortunately, I am one of them, but will soon remedy that). Another positive point is that it doesn't go too much into detail for the recaps which is beneficial to those that did read the first novel. However, when they discuss events from the first novel such as Kelsey and Jonathan's love story, you feel like you're missing out.
This novel makes me want to pack my bags and move straight to Stratford-upon-Avon. Kelsey and her new love Jonathan must navigate long distance as he is off acting overseas. Her best friend Mirren has sworn off of men and has come to stay with Kelsey. The magic of winter provides the backdrop to this double feature Hallmark movie where we get to simultaneously observe the obstacles Kelsey and Mirren each face.
Despite the title of One Winter's Night, the story takes place after the last novel left off so we move through the fall, winter, and some of the spring/summer season. Kelsey is trying to set up her photography business, have her long distance relationship, and be there for her friends. Mirren is trying to put her life back together while also trying to establish herself as a more serious journalist. Jonathan is acting and teaching overseas while counting the days to see Kelsey again. Adrian is a journalist who befriends Mirren and, like her, has sworn off dating for his own reasons. As we navigate between the foursome, we get a well-rounded story that wraps up everything nicely in the end while leaving it just open enough for another sequel.
One smaller issue I had sometimes while reading were the phrasings Jonathan uses as they weren't American sayings/word choices (no state/place I have ever been to has been that way, but I did hear them a lot around the UK and Ireland). It wasn't a huge issue though, it was just something I would notice while reading. If you read this novel for what it is, then it is the perfect feel-good book. However, if you go into it expecting more, then you might come away disappointed. I'll reiterate that the novel is similar to a holiday Hallmark movie where coincidences happen that don't seem as probable and there will be conflicts that might be wrapped up differently than you, as a reader prefer. This is what I loved about this book though as I read it for what it was and left with that warm and fuzzy feeling. I shall definitely be reading more from this author!
**Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
The author has knocked it out of the park again with this cosy, autumn read. The minute I started reading, I was back in Stratford with Kelsey and eager to find out what was going on with her fledgling photography business and her blossoming romance with actor boyfriend, Jonathan. This book would work equally well as a standalone, though, if you haven’t read the first book.
Kelsey is absolutely brilliant at creating a sense of place in her books and you can tell she has a detailed knowledge of Stratford and a great affection for the place, it shines out from the page and takes the reader to the heart of the town. Her prose is full of beautiful descriptions which evoke the season and stimulate all of the readers senses, so they are experiencing the action, rather than just reading it. Her writing always gives me the warm fuzzies!
As well as finding out how Kelsey’s new life is moving on in Stratford, the action catches up with Kelsey’s best friend Mirren, who is having a big shake up in her own circumstances and decides that she needs to take a leaf out of Kelsey’s book and make some brave changes. She ends up joining her friend in Warwickshire, with some unforeseen consequences for both of them. It was fabulous to have some new characters to freshen up the scene; I particularly loved Kelsey’s neighbour Blythe.
Kiley’s books are full of charm and warmth, her characters always likeable and empathetic and she makes you care about what is happening to them. Reading one of her books is a bit like sinking into a warm bubble bath, relaxing and soothing. In fact, a warm bubble bath is the perfect place to read them. I absolutely cannot get enough of her books, and she is such an inspiration to me as a writer. I find myself studying her books to see how she manages to create the atmosphere she does, and then stepping back in awe because she is so skilled. I hop this isn’t the end of our visits to Stratford with Kelsey, I have grown so attached to the world that Kiley has created here.
This novel is perfect to curl up with at this time of year and, any fans of cosy romance novels who hasn’t picked up one of Kiley’s books yet needs to remedy that omission immediately. I know you will fall in love with her writing just as I have. I am now just waiting to get hold of a paperback copy of Summer at the Highland Coral Beach now to complete my collection. Please, Hera Books, if you are listening!
In Stratford-upon-Avon, Kelsey is trying to get her fledgling photography business up and running whilst at the same time conducting a long distance love affair with her boyfriend, Jonathan. Meanwhile, up in Scotland, Kelsey's best friend, Mirren, is facing some substantial life changes, and her decision to leave her job and move to Stratford means that the two friends are reunited and are able to support each other through some complicated issues.
I liked the idea of setting the book in Stratford, and enjoyed all the thespian references, especially the Shakespeare quotes which head each chapter, and even though I hadn’t read the first book in the series, which I gather from a few well placed hints, at the start of the book, was about how Kelsey met her, actor, boyfriend, Jonathan, so I was soon able to enjoy One Winter’s Night entirely on its own merits as a sequel which also works as a standalone story.
The author writes well and brings place and people to life in a lovely understated way. I’ve visited Stratford several times, and I could picture the town really well from the author’s descriptions. The story made me smile, and I enjoyed the alternate chapters in getting to know both Kelsey and Mirren, and watching, with interest, how they both grow in confidence as the story progresses. There’s also a rather lovely character called Blythe, a retired actress, who added a little bit of her own brand of thespian sparkle to the story .
One Winter’s Night is a lovely feel-good read for a cosy autumn evening by the fire, preferably with a glass of Blythe’s home made gin!
About a week after getting a place on this blog tour I was chuffed to stumble across the prequel to this 'One Summer's Night' in a charity shop so just knew I'd have to read both of them! You can read my review of One Summer's Night over on Goodreads but you don't have to have read it to enjoy this book - although I'd say you should do!
So this book follows the story of Kelsey, taking off straight away from One Summer's Night which was fab when reading the two straight after each other! I love the character of Kelsey but one thing I really enjoyed about this was getting to know more about her best friend, Mirren. Talking of characters, can we have a third book focusing on Mari please Kiley (let's hope you read this)? You could call it One Spring's Night for her new beginning! I'll say no more to not spoil anything!!
This book was full of ups and downs for both Kelsey and Mirren but I just love the warming hug that you get at the end of the book as everything is nicely wrapped up. There were also a couple of shocks in the story that I wasn't expecting, enough to make you sit up straight! Another thing I really liked from both of these books were the little quotes at the start of every chapter, a true touch of Shakespeare and the memories of theatres. As someone who's never watched or read a Shakespeare book, sonnet or play I've been educated and now feel that I need to start! I also really want to pay Stratford upon Avon a visit because the place just sounds absolutely amazing!!!
This was such a cute, uplifting story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face!
If you’re feeling blue and in need of an escape, then do yourself a favor and lose yourself in this book for a little while. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or tea, wrap yourself in a big warm blanket, and escape into this story that will lift your spirits and transport you into a cozy autumn wonderland filled with magic and hope.
One Winter’s Night showcases a little bit of everything from romance and drama to lovely locations in both England and Scotland. The main character was lovely and the love story was adorable, so all aspects of this story had just the right amount of charm and appeal to make it whimsical and sweep you away.
This is also a festive read of sorts, as it features a few different holidays, spanning from Christmas to Valentine’s Day. This just further added to the feel good and cheery mood of the novel. After all, holidays are all about feeling happy!
This is a feel good novel filled with characters and moments to be cherished. It’s about finding hope when you are unsure, as characters are pulled apart only to come together again. It’s a story about friends, love, family, and relationships.
Brew a pot of coffee and settle in for this cozy, heartwarming read. You won’t regret it!
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review- thanks Netgalley and Hera Books!
One Winter's Night follows best friends Kelsey and Mirren. Kelsey has just finished a life-changing summer as a tour-guide in Stratford-on-Avon where she met the love of her life, an actor. After a short time together, Kelsey and Jonathan are navigating a long-distance relationship while Kelsey tries to get her photography business off the ground. Mirren is a reporter, fighting against the old boys' club and finds herself needing a new direction, so joins Kelsey in Stratford for the winter trying to find her next step.
The character development in this book is really well done and the writing is pleasant and enjoyable. It was a pleasant romantic book, dealing with real-world issues in a relatable way. The setting in Stratford-on-Avon is picturesque and will be enjoyed by any Shakespear fan. This book is minimal on the steam and heat, with a minimal close-door romantic interlude. I did feel like the book possibly tried to do too much by continuing Kelsey and Jonathan's story from the previous book (which did not necessarily need to be read first) and introducing Mirren and her storyline as well. I also felt at times that the point-of-view shifted without much warning and it was at times hard to tell who was narrating at that point.