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The Cornish Cream Tea Novels #3
The Cornish Cream Tea Christmas
Hannah Swan is looking forward to Christmas for the first time in years. Her new job as an eco-consultant is taking her – and her geeky colleague, Noah – to the beautiful Cornish village of Porthgolow for the first time.
They’re are helping the Crystal Waters Hotel to ramp up its green credentials, though after a bumpy journey, Hannah can’t shake off the feeling that Porthgolow is strangely familiar. Never able to resist a mystery, her interest is piqued when the hotel’s staff and customers report odd noises and sightings, believing the hotel to be haunted.
When bad weather cuts off Porthgolow, Hannah and Noah are looking at a Cornish Christmas. It gives them plenty of time to work out what is really going on, but will their yuletide escape send shivers up their spines? Or will it be as warm and toasty as a glass of mulled wine?
They’re are helping the Crystal Waters Hotel to ramp up its green credentials, though after a bumpy journey, Hannah can’t shake off the feeling that Porthgolow is strangely familiar. Never able to resist a mystery, her interest is piqued when the hotel’s staff and customers report odd noises and sightings, believing the hotel to be haunted.
When bad weather cuts off Porthgolow, Hannah and Noah are looking at a Cornish Christmas. It gives them plenty of time to work out what is really going on, but will their yuletide escape send shivers up their spines? Or will it be as warm and toasty as a glass of mulled wine?
384 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2021
112 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books689 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
December 23, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. My first ever Christmas style book like this and i picked a good one!
The characters were great individually and the beautiful setting of porthgolow in Cornwall sounded amazing.
This book had it all.. cosy,creepy,storms! Secrets, love and also a little cheeky spice😉. What more could we possibly need for a beautiful christmas read.
The characters were great individually and the beautiful setting of porthgolow in Cornwall sounded amazing.
This book had it all.. cosy,creepy,storms! Secrets, love and also a little cheeky spice😉. What more could we possibly need for a beautiful christmas read.
December 5, 2022
These books are so good and very easy to sink into. I love the seaside town where they are set and the characters are always so interesting. Every time I start Cressida’s books I know I will enjoy them and this one was no exception.
January 15, 2021
I have loved this series so much and this one didn’t disappoint at all full of finding family secrets with romance and plenty about friendship and Christmas to. The characters are brilliant and the story plot is brilliant you feel as if you are there in Cornwall. It’s such a warm read and so wonderful.
Hannah is sent to Cornwall just before Christmas with her new job to check of the hotel in Cornwall can become eco friendly and support them in being more eco friendly. She is looking forward to going to Cornwall as she use to have family holidays as a child there but when she questions her mum she tries to shut her up and wants her home quickly but this makes Hannah dig more and see what she can find out and what she finds shocks her totally. Problem is just as she thought she would go home for Christmas and be with her mum there is bad weather which cuts the village off she staying in so she ends up staying for Christmas she makes new friends and finds out things from her past but will there be romance as well or not.
A brilliant read.
Hannah is sent to Cornwall just before Christmas with her new job to check of the hotel in Cornwall can become eco friendly and support them in being more eco friendly. She is looking forward to going to Cornwall as she use to have family holidays as a child there but when she questions her mum she tries to shut her up and wants her home quickly but this makes Hannah dig more and see what she can find out and what she finds shocks her totally. Problem is just as she thought she would go home for Christmas and be with her mum there is bad weather which cuts the village off she staying in so she ends up staying for Christmas she makes new friends and finds out things from her past but will there be romance as well or not.
A brilliant read.
December 11, 2022
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
Another lovely read in this series, I have really enjoyed returning to the Cornish coast – this time at Christmas! Although this is the third book in the Cream Tea series, it can easily be read on its own and I believe it is perfect for the festive season.
Another lovely read in this series, I have really enjoyed returning to the Cornish coast – this time at Christmas! Although this is the third book in the Cream Tea series, it can easily be read on its own and I believe it is perfect for the festive season.
November 29, 2020
Loved returning to the beautiful Porthgolow in Cornwall and catching up with Charlie and Daniel. Loved Hannah’s character and of course, the gorgeous Noah! Another fabulous book in the Cornish cream tea series. Made me so hungry again! A definite ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
December 3, 2020
Cressida McLaughlin has done it again, another mouther wateringly delicious treat of a book, that has me hungry at 3am while I write the review thanks to all the scrumptious descriptions of food within its pages.
I mean the book isn't all food, I mean there are possibly ghosts or at least some hard to explain occurrences. The dogs tend to steal most scenes just be being in in them, especially Spirt .
Oh and there are humans, and this third book in the series features Hannah as the main character. It can easily be read as a standalone, but for those that have read the previous books you will be excited to see more of Charlie and Daniel, and also some more from Lila and Sam.
And of course Reenie is back too, and other Porthgolow locals such as well Gertie, as I have to mention Gertie! After all Gertie is key to the whole series, or at least without her, it would probably have to be called something else!
There is so much happening in this book that I wouldn't know where to begin, although I should probably mention Noah, who is rather key. And I liked Hannah, she's a good leading lady and you could just see how she was clearly falling in love, as each chapter passes whether she would admit it to herself. But whether I mean she is in love with Porthgolow, or Noah, is for you to find out.
I absolutely loved the concept of the Santa tour, and generally enjoyed seeing Daniel and Charlie's different views regarding Christmas. I also enjoyed seeing Hannah wonder and try to work out just why she is so drawn to this village and why her mum seems so against it.
With so much to love, all I really want to say is go and read this book for yourself, its wonderful, or better still if you haven't already read the previous books in the series, go back to the start as they are all quality reads and will have you wanting to move to Cornwall yourself. In the meantime I'll sit and wait impatiently for the next book in the series!
Thank you to HarperCollins for this copy which i reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I mean the book isn't all food, I mean there are possibly ghosts or at least some hard to explain occurrences. The dogs tend to steal most scenes just be being in in them, especially Spirt .
Oh and there are humans, and this third book in the series features Hannah as the main character. It can easily be read as a standalone, but for those that have read the previous books you will be excited to see more of Charlie and Daniel, and also some more from Lila and Sam.
And of course Reenie is back too, and other Porthgolow locals such as well Gertie, as I have to mention Gertie! After all Gertie is key to the whole series, or at least without her, it would probably have to be called something else!
There is so much happening in this book that I wouldn't know where to begin, although I should probably mention Noah, who is rather key. And I liked Hannah, she's a good leading lady and you could just see how she was clearly falling in love, as each chapter passes whether she would admit it to herself. But whether I mean she is in love with Porthgolow, or Noah, is for you to find out.
I absolutely loved the concept of the Santa tour, and generally enjoyed seeing Daniel and Charlie's different views regarding Christmas. I also enjoyed seeing Hannah wonder and try to work out just why she is so drawn to this village and why her mum seems so against it.
With so much to love, all I really want to say is go and read this book for yourself, its wonderful, or better still if you haven't already read the previous books in the series, go back to the start as they are all quality reads and will have you wanting to move to Cornwall yourself. In the meantime I'll sit and wait impatiently for the next book in the series!
Thank you to HarperCollins for this copy which i reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 15, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thanks to Random T Tours & Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a beautiful gem of a book! Utterly heart warming.
The main character Hannah is such a kind, lovely character. You can’t help but like her and want everything to turn out well for her. She has such a connection with colleague Noah. But everything isn’t straightforward. This was one of them books that you want to savour. It’s that good you don’t want it to be over! The author describes Cornwall so wonderfully, it makes you want to go there yourself. I can’t wait to read what happens in the next book in the series! This book is the third in the series but does well as a stand alone. I really have to read the first two in the series now! Beautifully written story!
Synopsis:
Hannah Swan is looking forward to Christmas for the first time in years. Her new job as an eco-consultant is taking her – and her geeky colleague, Noah – to the beautiful Cornish village of Porthgolow for the first time.
They’re are helping the Crystal Waters Hotel to ramp up its green credentials, though after a bumpy journey, Hannah can’t shake off the feeling that Porthgolow is strangely familiar. Never able to resist a mystery, her interest is piqued when the hotel’s staff and customers report odd noises and sightings, believing the hotel to be haunted.
When bad weather cuts off Porthgolow, Hannah and Noah are looking at a Cornish Christmas. It gives them plenty of time to work out what is really going on, but will their yuletide escape send shivers up their spines? Or will it be as warm and toasty as a glass of mulled wine?
What a beautiful gem of a book! Utterly heart warming.
The main character Hannah is such a kind, lovely character. You can’t help but like her and want everything to turn out well for her. She has such a connection with colleague Noah. But everything isn’t straightforward. This was one of them books that you want to savour. It’s that good you don’t want it to be over! The author describes Cornwall so wonderfully, it makes you want to go there yourself. I can’t wait to read what happens in the next book in the series! This book is the third in the series but does well as a stand alone. I really have to read the first two in the series now! Beautifully written story!
Synopsis:
Hannah Swan is looking forward to Christmas for the first time in years. Her new job as an eco-consultant is taking her – and her geeky colleague, Noah – to the beautiful Cornish village of Porthgolow for the first time.
They’re are helping the Crystal Waters Hotel to ramp up its green credentials, though after a bumpy journey, Hannah can’t shake off the feeling that Porthgolow is strangely familiar. Never able to resist a mystery, her interest is piqued when the hotel’s staff and customers report odd noises and sightings, believing the hotel to be haunted.
When bad weather cuts off Porthgolow, Hannah and Noah are looking at a Cornish Christmas. It gives them plenty of time to work out what is really going on, but will their yuletide escape send shivers up their spines? Or will it be as warm and toasty as a glass of mulled wine?
December 19, 2023
Прекалено сладникава е! Кихах захар и се давех. От друга страна има всичко, за което може да се сети човек - любов, семейни тайни, призраци, Коледа, намеса на съдба, готвене - ама всиииичко, поради което става прекалено.
December 30, 2022
Really loved this book 💜 This was such a cosy Christmas read and 😊
December 22, 2020
Hannah Swan is an eco – consultant and her first assignement is to assess the green credentials of Crystal Waters Hotel in Porthgolow. Enter Noah, a freelancer, who’s there to help Hannah make a success of her first case. Their first meeting though is less than warm and now Hannah wonders how will they get along? Whatever, she’s determined to enjoy her time in Porthgolow, and there is also this niggling feeling that… perhaps… she has already visited this place as a child?
„The Cornish Cream Tea Christmas“ is the third in the Cornish Cream Tea series but you can read as a stand – alone. Next to characters that were already introduced to us in the previous books, there is also a new group. Hannah is passionate about all things green and so she loves her job as an eco – consultant and she’s determined to make Daniel’s hotel, Crystal Waters, as green as possible. Noah is a freelancer there to help Hannah with this project and I must admit that he has tested not only Hannah and her patience but also my own. This blowing hot and cold of him was annoying and not quickly understandable and his terse responses were truly out of place sometimes so no wonder that sometimes Hannah was afraid of saying anything. It took a lot of time to warm to him, to be honest.
The characters were well developed even though I had a feeling they are a bit too superficial – there weren’t surprises to them and I’d love them to be a bit more complex. Nevertheless, they fitted well in with the original ones.
The highlight of the book must have been the tea bus appearing – I love Gertie and it was lovely to see that she’s doing good and is still such an important point of Porthgolow. And of course food on offer there is absolutely extremelly mouth – watering and each time I read about the food festivals or food markets on the beach I wish I was there! It was also great to see Charlie and Daniel featuring on this story, to be honest I think they are really much more interesting than Hannah and Noah – well, at least their stories are flowing nicely.
But I had a huge problem with this book. As it was initially published as a four – parts series it felt like a never ending story – it dragged on and on and nothing was really happening there. I’d go so far and say that there was very little plot and it felt very forced. It makes me sad because I adore Cressida McLaughlin and she’s a great storyteller but this time the book simply didn’t deliver and was, honestly, annoying predictable. The author has tried, of course she has, but sometimes less is more and the subplots felt so forced and, sadly, they didn’t grip me.
Overall it was a nice, light and easy read. For sure it is so much needed escapism, uplifting and with lovely descriptions. It was full of warmth, with a bit of drama and mystery, lovely heart – warming and festive read and I am truly sad that I didn’t like it as much as I thought I’m going to. Nevertheless, it’s always a joy to read a new story by Cressida McLaughling and I am already looking toward her next offering.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
„The Cornish Cream Tea Christmas“ is the third in the Cornish Cream Tea series but you can read as a stand – alone. Next to characters that were already introduced to us in the previous books, there is also a new group. Hannah is passionate about all things green and so she loves her job as an eco – consultant and she’s determined to make Daniel’s hotel, Crystal Waters, as green as possible. Noah is a freelancer there to help Hannah with this project and I must admit that he has tested not only Hannah and her patience but also my own. This blowing hot and cold of him was annoying and not quickly understandable and his terse responses were truly out of place sometimes so no wonder that sometimes Hannah was afraid of saying anything. It took a lot of time to warm to him, to be honest.
The characters were well developed even though I had a feeling they are a bit too superficial – there weren’t surprises to them and I’d love them to be a bit more complex. Nevertheless, they fitted well in with the original ones.
The highlight of the book must have been the tea bus appearing – I love Gertie and it was lovely to see that she’s doing good and is still such an important point of Porthgolow. And of course food on offer there is absolutely extremelly mouth – watering and each time I read about the food festivals or food markets on the beach I wish I was there! It was also great to see Charlie and Daniel featuring on this story, to be honest I think they are really much more interesting than Hannah and Noah – well, at least their stories are flowing nicely.
But I had a huge problem with this book. As it was initially published as a four – parts series it felt like a never ending story – it dragged on and on and nothing was really happening there. I’d go so far and say that there was very little plot and it felt very forced. It makes me sad because I adore Cressida McLaughlin and she’s a great storyteller but this time the book simply didn’t deliver and was, honestly, annoying predictable. The author has tried, of course she has, but sometimes less is more and the subplots felt so forced and, sadly, they didn’t grip me.
Overall it was a nice, light and easy read. For sure it is so much needed escapism, uplifting and with lovely descriptions. It was full of warmth, with a bit of drama and mystery, lovely heart – warming and festive read and I am truly sad that I didn’t like it as much as I thought I’m going to. Nevertheless, it’s always a joy to read a new story by Cressida McLaughling and I am already looking toward her next offering.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
August 21, 2021
Who doesn't love a romantic story set at Christmas
December 30, 2022
“She stayed quiet as the bus crept along impossibly narrow streets with buildings crammed together on either side, painted blue and grey and clotted-cream yellow, the sun just beginning to hit their roofs. Seagulls screeched around them, and the streets were busy with people rugged up in woolly hats and gloves, nobody here fooled into thinking that the sunshine meant it would be warm.”
I have never visited Cornwall, but the way McLaughlin depicts Porthgolow made me feel like I had lived there with Hannah, Charlie, Daniel and Reenie. This was such a cosy story, and, like Caplin’s ‘The Christmas Castle in Scotland’, was jam-packed with festive food and gorgeous scenery. The romance between Hannah and Noah was very sweet, though I definitely preferred the depiction of Hannah’s friendships more overall — I felt that there could have been more overall pay off in the romance if there had been tension applied in a couple of extra places and less PDA towards the end of the text—. I’m looking forward to read more books in this series and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a cosy light-hearted festive romance.
I have never visited Cornwall, but the way McLaughlin depicts Porthgolow made me feel like I had lived there with Hannah, Charlie, Daniel and Reenie. This was such a cosy story, and, like Caplin’s ‘The Christmas Castle in Scotland’, was jam-packed with festive food and gorgeous scenery. The romance between Hannah and Noah was very sweet, though I definitely preferred the depiction of Hannah’s friendships more overall — I felt that there could have been more overall pay off in the romance if there had been tension applied in a couple of extra places and less PDA towards the end of the text—. I’m looking forward to read more books in this series and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a cosy light-hearted festive romance.
December 10, 2020
Oh what another fantastic addition to this series. Proof that even if the suns not shining Cornwall is still a place to be.
I loved Noah and how he was torn with his feelings, but seeing happy, carefree Noah was great. Hannah had an amazing story, the unfolding of her childhood, the photographs and her mums secret was brilliant.
The ghost hunt chapter had me sitting with goosebumps and scared to walk down the darkened corridor 😂
Daniels proposal at the end was beautiful and I can’t wait to see how they all cope with a wedding, hopefully on the cream tea bus.
I loved Noah and how he was torn with his feelings, but seeing happy, carefree Noah was great. Hannah had an amazing story, the unfolding of her childhood, the photographs and her mums secret was brilliant.
The ghost hunt chapter had me sitting with goosebumps and scared to walk down the darkened corridor 😂
Daniels proposal at the end was beautiful and I can’t wait to see how they all cope with a wedding, hopefully on the cream tea bus.
December 26, 2021
This was my first visit to Porthgolow and it was a lovely story.
I love the idea of a cream tea bus and I feel I need to read the others of this series.
I really liked Hannah's character and thought she was well suited to the lovely Noah. The hotel sounded amazing and I really liked the mystery and intrigue around the 'ghosts'.
I love the idea of a cream tea bus and I feel I need to read the others of this series.
I really liked Hannah's character and thought she was well suited to the lovely Noah. The hotel sounded amazing and I really liked the mystery and intrigue around the 'ghosts'.
October 10, 2021
Such a lovely book! Brilliant from start to finish. You know a book is good when you read it all in one weekend 🥰
December 4, 2020
Another fantastically romantic outing for the Cornish Cream Tea bus
December 28, 2022
This was an absolute gem. One of the best Christmas books I've ever read. Heart warming, feel good, festive fun with all things Cornish. A perfect cosy Christmas read. Would highly recommend.
January 11, 2021
Oh my goodness. I loved this book from start to end. I couldn't put it down. It was nice to go back to Porthgolow and catch up with Daniel, Charlie, Gertie the bus, plus newcomers to. Thank you Cressida for a fabulous book.
December 7, 2020
Loved this festive story, a nice cosy hunkered down book that I didn’t want to finish. Felt like catching up with old friends, a definite Christmas read
December 30, 2020
This is as gorgeous as a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winters day!
So, for many of us Christmas is not going quite to plan and we’re reluctantly staying home and not seeing our loved ones. It’s at times like these that you need a little light and sparkle. A good book always delivers and The Cornish Cream Tea Christmas has just the sparkle you might need. It was a delightful read. I adore Cornwall (and cream teas), so add a little romance, spooky goings on and a little Christmas magic and you have an absolutely winning combination.
Hannah is our leading lady and is very likeable (as are all the characters within this scrumptious story). She is visiting Porthgolow on business but it’s not long before a distant memory begins to unfurl There is mystery, a little romance and ghostly happenings all swept up in a glorious Cornish setting and I adored every moment. Perfect escapism this Christmas to lift the spirits. Quite simply a warm hug of a book.
So, for many of us Christmas is not going quite to plan and we’re reluctantly staying home and not seeing our loved ones. It’s at times like these that you need a little light and sparkle. A good book always delivers and The Cornish Cream Tea Christmas has just the sparkle you might need. It was a delightful read. I adore Cornwall (and cream teas), so add a little romance, spooky goings on and a little Christmas magic and you have an absolutely winning combination.
Hannah is our leading lady and is very likeable (as are all the characters within this scrumptious story). She is visiting Porthgolow on business but it’s not long before a distant memory begins to unfurl There is mystery, a little romance and ghostly happenings all swept up in a glorious Cornish setting and I adored every moment. Perfect escapism this Christmas to lift the spirits. Quite simply a warm hug of a book.
December 21, 2020
Simply not my cup of tea.. pun intended. The story was so forced that I was annoyed most of the time, nothing was happening, and whatever was to happen was so predictable.
August 22, 2024
This is not a book that I would normally have chosen to read but a friend sent it to me as it was a book that she had found at a book exchange and that she wouldn’t normally have chosen either. So, in the spirit of reading outside my comfort zone I thought I would give it a go.
Hannan Swan is a newly qualified eco-consultant and is travelling to the picturesque village of Porthgolow from her home town of Edinburgh. She is to work with Noah, a local freelancer and together they will help the very upmarket Crystal Waters Hotel to improve its green credentials. Hannah began her working life as a sous chef in one of Edinburgh’s bars but changed careers to echo that of her father who is a fervent eco warrior.
It’s coming up to Christmas in Porthgolow and Hannah keeps feeling that she’s been there before. A yellow house on the shoreline is strangely familiar although her mother, when asked, denies that they were previously there on family holidays. But Hannah has a photo of them on the beach with the yellow house behind them and is puzzled as to why her mother would refute it.
Hannah and Noah begin to get down to work and Hannah knows that she is immediately attracted to him. However, he seems to be already taken by the glamorous Beth.
And then one of the hotel guests, Audrey, announces that she is staying at Crystal Waters to research its alleged ghosts. Guests have reported cold spots and footsteps – the reminders of a long ago love affair and suicide. A ferocious storm blows in making Hannah’s journey home for Christmas impossible and so they are all stuck down there until it’s over. But Hannah has already made friends; Charlie the owner of Gertie, the Cornish Cream Tea Bus and wife to the hotel’s owner, David, Hugh the owner of the Seven Stars and the stray dog that she rescued from the storm and names Spirit. And she feels that Noah may be reciprocating her affections…
This is a Christmas romance novel, very fuzzy and warm, as twinkly as the fairy lights on a Christmas tree and a happy ending guaranteed. However, the characters do seem to spend a lot of their time grinning at each other and Hannah’s fascination with Noah’s wardrobe of jumpers soon became apparent as did the frequent references to his curly hair. I would also advise against reading the book on an empty stomach as it contains so many food references!
There were several plot strands besides the main love story: the haunting, the mystery of the family holidays and the locked room scenario of Hannah and the others being imprisoned in the hotel until the weather improves. I would have liked more about the alleged haunting as I do like a supernatural element in a story but it seemed to fizzle out. However, I liked the way that a tragic past love affair had echoes in the present. It’s a warm hug of a book but I prefer more drama.
But if you’re looking for a book to fill a Christmas stocking or a Secret Santa gift this could be the one!
Hannan Swan is a newly qualified eco-consultant and is travelling to the picturesque village of Porthgolow from her home town of Edinburgh. She is to work with Noah, a local freelancer and together they will help the very upmarket Crystal Waters Hotel to improve its green credentials. Hannah began her working life as a sous chef in one of Edinburgh’s bars but changed careers to echo that of her father who is a fervent eco warrior.
It’s coming up to Christmas in Porthgolow and Hannah keeps feeling that she’s been there before. A yellow house on the shoreline is strangely familiar although her mother, when asked, denies that they were previously there on family holidays. But Hannah has a photo of them on the beach with the yellow house behind them and is puzzled as to why her mother would refute it.
Hannah and Noah begin to get down to work and Hannah knows that she is immediately attracted to him. However, he seems to be already taken by the glamorous Beth.
And then one of the hotel guests, Audrey, announces that she is staying at Crystal Waters to research its alleged ghosts. Guests have reported cold spots and footsteps – the reminders of a long ago love affair and suicide. A ferocious storm blows in making Hannah’s journey home for Christmas impossible and so they are all stuck down there until it’s over. But Hannah has already made friends; Charlie the owner of Gertie, the Cornish Cream Tea Bus and wife to the hotel’s owner, David, Hugh the owner of the Seven Stars and the stray dog that she rescued from the storm and names Spirit. And she feels that Noah may be reciprocating her affections…
This is a Christmas romance novel, very fuzzy and warm, as twinkly as the fairy lights on a Christmas tree and a happy ending guaranteed. However, the characters do seem to spend a lot of their time grinning at each other and Hannah’s fascination with Noah’s wardrobe of jumpers soon became apparent as did the frequent references to his curly hair. I would also advise against reading the book on an empty stomach as it contains so many food references!
There were several plot strands besides the main love story: the haunting, the mystery of the family holidays and the locked room scenario of Hannah and the others being imprisoned in the hotel until the weather improves. I would have liked more about the alleged haunting as I do like a supernatural element in a story but it seemed to fizzle out. However, I liked the way that a tragic past love affair had echoes in the present. It’s a warm hug of a book but I prefer more drama.
But if you’re looking for a book to fill a Christmas stocking or a Secret Santa gift this could be the one!
December 19, 2020
As a massive fan of Cressida’s books, and the Cornish Cream Tea series in particular, I was really excited to return to Porthgolow at Christmas and see what all my favourite characters were up to, and meet some new ones. The life of coastal towns in the winter when tourists are thin on the ground and the town is handed back to the locals is an entirely different proposition to the previous books which have been set during the busy months of the year, and I was fascinated to get a peep at what might, or might not, be going on.
The book is set largely in the spa hotel, where new character Hannah has come down from Edinburgh to stay for a week and help owner Daniel improve the hotel’s eco credentials. She is assisted by local freelancer, Noah, whom she has never met before, so both we and Hannah are getting to know him at the same time. Hannah was a character that I warmed to from the very beginning, which meant I felt invested in the book from the first page and I fairly flew through the story. This is the overriding genius of Cressida’s writing, she always manages to create believable characters that you care about and draw you into the story until you are fully involved and desperate to know what happens to them. I loved the way she managed to integrate them so seamlessly into the tight knit community she has already built in my head.
The Cornish setting is equally as beautiful and tempting in the winter – perhaps even more so – with empty beaches, cosy pubs and Christmas sparkle dangling from every spare twig. You can practically smell the pine coming off the page as she brings the setting to life. And the food, oh the food. The main character, Hannah, is a foodie, so there is ample opportunity to shoehorn in descriptions of delicious dishes and delicacies – in the hotel, the pub, the weekly food market and, of course, on the Cornish Cream Tea Bus itself. You will come away from the book either starving or feeling like you have eaten a twelve course meal, it’s a toss up.
There is plenty of action to keep the plot moving along with violent storms, a dramatic coastal rescue and a ghostly mystery running alongside the romance, so there are no slow patches in the story. Despite being 370 pages, the book raced past in no time and I was sad to get to the end, but satisfied with the conclusion. As with all Cress’s books, I was left with a warm, contented glow, underscored with a wistful longing for her next book. Not much more that a fan of romantic Christmas stories could wish for. Just remind me never to visit Portgolow in real life, it is the Cornish equivalent of the Hotel California. ‘You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave!’
The book is set largely in the spa hotel, where new character Hannah has come down from Edinburgh to stay for a week and help owner Daniel improve the hotel’s eco credentials. She is assisted by local freelancer, Noah, whom she has never met before, so both we and Hannah are getting to know him at the same time. Hannah was a character that I warmed to from the very beginning, which meant I felt invested in the book from the first page and I fairly flew through the story. This is the overriding genius of Cressida’s writing, she always manages to create believable characters that you care about and draw you into the story until you are fully involved and desperate to know what happens to them. I loved the way she managed to integrate them so seamlessly into the tight knit community she has already built in my head.
The Cornish setting is equally as beautiful and tempting in the winter – perhaps even more so – with empty beaches, cosy pubs and Christmas sparkle dangling from every spare twig. You can practically smell the pine coming off the page as she brings the setting to life. And the food, oh the food. The main character, Hannah, is a foodie, so there is ample opportunity to shoehorn in descriptions of delicious dishes and delicacies – in the hotel, the pub, the weekly food market and, of course, on the Cornish Cream Tea Bus itself. You will come away from the book either starving or feeling like you have eaten a twelve course meal, it’s a toss up.
There is plenty of action to keep the plot moving along with violent storms, a dramatic coastal rescue and a ghostly mystery running alongside the romance, so there are no slow patches in the story. Despite being 370 pages, the book raced past in no time and I was sad to get to the end, but satisfied with the conclusion. As with all Cress’s books, I was left with a warm, contented glow, underscored with a wistful longing for her next book. Not much more that a fan of romantic Christmas stories could wish for. Just remind me never to visit Portgolow in real life, it is the Cornish equivalent of the Hotel California. ‘You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave!’
April 14, 2021
I’m not usually one to read Christmas books out of season but I have had this book since it was released in parts and somehow it slipped by me during the festive season. Seeing as the next Cornish instalment is a wedding I needed to read this to join up the dots before I can get onto the first part. So Christmas in April it has been and what a journey I have been on with them.
I’ve wholeheartedly loved each and every segment of the Cornish cream tea series. I would never have imagined that Charlie and Daniel’s story would be joined by a few other couples that have well and truly stole my heart. In the instalment before this one I fell for Lila and Sam and I didn’t think Cress could top them until I met Hannah and Noah.
Hannah & Noah brought me back to when I first met Daniel and Charlie and wow. It honestly felt like that first time in the Cornish seaside town and it was just the escapism I needed without realising I needed it. There story from colleagues to friends to more gave me all the feels and some. Noah is very much like Daniel in the sense he was stubborn and a little standoffish until he met Hannah. I loved seeing this tale through and they sure had some twists and turns along the way. I have to mention Noah’s mum she was adorable and I loved her Cupid’s effort it really did make me chuckle and gave me such love.
Not only has Cressida McLaughlin created a truly gorgeous Christmas story that encompasses everything you could wish for from the season. From the food to the mulled wine, mistletoe and the most perfect music alongside the stunning location of Porthgolow. This time around we’re also given a heartbreaking ghostly story and a love story to warm your heart forever more. The sense of community spirit and how each and every person who visits feels a sense of longing. It’s like Porthgolow sparks creativity and love.
I will warn you Hannah is a self obsessed foodie and my did I get hungry listening to her talk of food. I absolutely loved finding out more about Hannah and her own history with the town. I look forward to seeing how she’s doing in the next instalments.
A stunningly festive read, that is just as loveable out of season. I have until now read the segments of this tale but this one was a gorgeous audio read that gave me the added Cornish accents which really made the listening.
Just when you wonder where the story will go next there’s another couple to warm your heart. I already have part one of the Cornish Cream Tea Wedding on my kindle and I believe part two will be on its way tomorrow so will have to slot those into my reading.
I’ve wholeheartedly loved each and every segment of the Cornish cream tea series. I would never have imagined that Charlie and Daniel’s story would be joined by a few other couples that have well and truly stole my heart. In the instalment before this one I fell for Lila and Sam and I didn’t think Cress could top them until I met Hannah and Noah.
Hannah & Noah brought me back to when I first met Daniel and Charlie and wow. It honestly felt like that first time in the Cornish seaside town and it was just the escapism I needed without realising I needed it. There story from colleagues to friends to more gave me all the feels and some. Noah is very much like Daniel in the sense he was stubborn and a little standoffish until he met Hannah. I loved seeing this tale through and they sure had some twists and turns along the way. I have to mention Noah’s mum she was adorable and I loved her Cupid’s effort it really did make me chuckle and gave me such love.
Not only has Cressida McLaughlin created a truly gorgeous Christmas story that encompasses everything you could wish for from the season. From the food to the mulled wine, mistletoe and the most perfect music alongside the stunning location of Porthgolow. This time around we’re also given a heartbreaking ghostly story and a love story to warm your heart forever more. The sense of community spirit and how each and every person who visits feels a sense of longing. It’s like Porthgolow sparks creativity and love.
I will warn you Hannah is a self obsessed foodie and my did I get hungry listening to her talk of food. I absolutely loved finding out more about Hannah and her own history with the town. I look forward to seeing how she’s doing in the next instalments.
A stunningly festive read, that is just as loveable out of season. I have until now read the segments of this tale but this one was a gorgeous audio read that gave me the added Cornish accents which really made the listening.
Just when you wonder where the story will go next there’s another couple to warm your heart. I already have part one of the Cornish Cream Tea Wedding on my kindle and I believe part two will be on its way tomorrow so will have to slot those into my reading.
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December 19, 2020https://comfychairbooks.blogspot.com/...
Yet another mouth-watering, fun filled book by Cressida McLaughlin. I am a big fan of The Cornish Cream Tea series – this is book 3 but really they can each be read as a standalone. I would highly recommend each book.
As always, we are treated to some delicious sounding goodies and meals, honestly you shouldn’t read these books if you are hungry. Always be curled up with a mug of tea and some snacks. This time we have the addition of ghost stories, forbidden love, and family secrets to add to the excitement that seems to keep Porthgolow going!
Hannah takes a trip to Porthgolow for work, meeting local freelancer Noah who is supposed to be helping on her first assignment for the company. He doesn’t make a great first impression, if I’m honest I wasn’t holding much hope they would even get on at all, but as the story unfolds, we see how first impressions can change and how sometimes things aren’t always as they seem. Noah was a great character in terms of how he developed, loosen up and joined in the festivities; he seemed to really open himself up to Hannah and got involved with all the ghost hunting shenanigans.
We know that falling in love is usually key in these stories, but for fans of the other books of the series we also know that the real love story is with Porthgolow itself, and once you are there it is very hard to leave.
I’d be the same, it sounds amazing. The locals are quite an eclectic bunch who provide a lot of comedy and entertainment as always. Although the Cornish Cream Tea bus does feature as always, I enjoyed the ghost hunting and historic mystery element to the storyline, with some funny happenings that sent shivers through me!
Its definitely a great book to cosy up with this winter – I highly recommend this and others by this author. I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store!
Thank you to Random Things Tours & Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yet another mouth-watering, fun filled book by Cressida McLaughlin. I am a big fan of The Cornish Cream Tea series – this is book 3 but really they can each be read as a standalone. I would highly recommend each book.
As always, we are treated to some delicious sounding goodies and meals, honestly you shouldn’t read these books if you are hungry. Always be curled up with a mug of tea and some snacks. This time we have the addition of ghost stories, forbidden love, and family secrets to add to the excitement that seems to keep Porthgolow going!
Hannah takes a trip to Porthgolow for work, meeting local freelancer Noah who is supposed to be helping on her first assignment for the company. He doesn’t make a great first impression, if I’m honest I wasn’t holding much hope they would even get on at all, but as the story unfolds, we see how first impressions can change and how sometimes things aren’t always as they seem. Noah was a great character in terms of how he developed, loosen up and joined in the festivities; he seemed to really open himself up to Hannah and got involved with all the ghost hunting shenanigans.
We know that falling in love is usually key in these stories, but for fans of the other books of the series we also know that the real love story is with Porthgolow itself, and once you are there it is very hard to leave.
I’d be the same, it sounds amazing. The locals are quite an eclectic bunch who provide a lot of comedy and entertainment as always. Although the Cornish Cream Tea bus does feature as always, I enjoyed the ghost hunting and historic mystery element to the storyline, with some funny happenings that sent shivers through me!
Its definitely a great book to cosy up with this winter – I highly recommend this and others by this author. I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store!
Thank you to Random Things Tours & Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2020
Hannah loves Christmas and this is clear from the first page. She travels from her home in Edinburgh to Porthgolow, Cornwall to assist the Crystal Waters Hotel to become more eco-friendly.
Whilst there she has to work with Noel her counterpart. When Hannah first meets Noel he is a bit cold towards her, but he does eventually warm up as they get to know each other better and there are definite sparks between them.
Hannah’s stay at the hotel is definitely eventful. When a storm hits Porthgolow, Hannah’s short business visit is extended. As well as work, she also becomes involved in a ghost hunt as it transpires that the Crystal Water Hotel replaced the Victorian Cliff Top Hotel that use to be there and it is rumoured the hotel was haunted. She also has the chance to visit the Cornish Cream Tea Bus and she can’t seem to shake the feeling that she’s been to Porthgolow before.
This was definitely a book I loved to read. All the themes and storylines came together at the end in a nice little Christmas bow. I loved all the characters and felt by the end of the book that I was saying goodbye to old friends. I learned something new in mince pie scones, I did not know that this was a thing. Whilst reading I had many cravings for food especially Cornish cream tea and baked goods because they were described so perfectly and appetisingly from the outset. Plus it helped that the main character Hannah was a bit of a foodie so there were plenty of references to food. I love Cornwall and fell in love with the place all over again. I have already started planning my next visit.
One of my favourite things about this book is how the storyline centred on Hannah’s personal journey to find a place that she belonged. It was obvious from the story that this was lacking in her life. Her journey to Porthgolow not only bought more meaning to Hannah’s life but also strengthened her relationship with her mother.
It was interesting to read that the book was started before lockdown and the author continued to work on it when the world we lived in had changed forever. One of my favourite quotes from the book sums up life and the year we’ve had perfectly describing it as “Love, swearing and extra calories”.
Definitely one of my favourite reads of the year!
I received a gifted copy of this book for an honest review.
Whilst there she has to work with Noel her counterpart. When Hannah first meets Noel he is a bit cold towards her, but he does eventually warm up as they get to know each other better and there are definite sparks between them.
Hannah’s stay at the hotel is definitely eventful. When a storm hits Porthgolow, Hannah’s short business visit is extended. As well as work, she also becomes involved in a ghost hunt as it transpires that the Crystal Water Hotel replaced the Victorian Cliff Top Hotel that use to be there and it is rumoured the hotel was haunted. She also has the chance to visit the Cornish Cream Tea Bus and she can’t seem to shake the feeling that she’s been to Porthgolow before.
This was definitely a book I loved to read. All the themes and storylines came together at the end in a nice little Christmas bow. I loved all the characters and felt by the end of the book that I was saying goodbye to old friends. I learned something new in mince pie scones, I did not know that this was a thing. Whilst reading I had many cravings for food especially Cornish cream tea and baked goods because they were described so perfectly and appetisingly from the outset. Plus it helped that the main character Hannah was a bit of a foodie so there were plenty of references to food. I love Cornwall and fell in love with the place all over again. I have already started planning my next visit.
One of my favourite things about this book is how the storyline centred on Hannah’s personal journey to find a place that she belonged. It was obvious from the story that this was lacking in her life. Her journey to Porthgolow not only bought more meaning to Hannah’s life but also strengthened her relationship with her mother.
It was interesting to read that the book was started before lockdown and the author continued to work on it when the world we lived in had changed forever. One of my favourite quotes from the book sums up life and the year we’ve had perfectly describing it as “Love, swearing and extra calories”.
Definitely one of my favourite reads of the year!
I received a gifted copy of this book for an honest review.
December 17, 2020
I was so excited when I received the email from Anne about this tour and signed up straight away, I've heard such good things about Cressida's writing and the other two books in this series (which I NEED to read now btw) 'The Cornish Cream Tea Bus' and 'The Cornish Cream Tea Summer' so I knew I needed to read this. And I'm so glad I did.
Cressida already had a head start when the main character shared my name - I'm not sure about you guys but I really like it when I meet another character called Hannah and I always find myself relating to them just that little bit more. Even if Hannah hadn't had the same name as me I would have warmed to her as she was just such a lovely character; the kind of person who says 'Hello' to everyone and is always there to lend a hand.
Despite never having been to Cornwall myself, I love reading books set there and I found that this book really transported you to the village and the people there. I mean the storm sounded absolutely terrifying but I would definitely love to go to visit at some point in the Summer as you can just tell how picturesque the village is.
I really enjoyed this book and honestly don't have a bad word to say about it, some of the storyline was a bit predictable but I actually quite enjoyed this so it's definitely not a negative. The book was split into four sections and the chapters were just the right length to provide you with points to put the book down if you wanted to. Although it was also really easy to read in one or two sittings because you just want to keep reading!
Even if you've not read the other two books, like me, you can pick this book up and read it without getting lost. Although I do know want to know more about Charlie, Daniel and Gertie so I'll be adding her other two books to my collection VERY soon.
Cressida already had a head start when the main character shared my name - I'm not sure about you guys but I really like it when I meet another character called Hannah and I always find myself relating to them just that little bit more. Even if Hannah hadn't had the same name as me I would have warmed to her as she was just such a lovely character; the kind of person who says 'Hello' to everyone and is always there to lend a hand.
Despite never having been to Cornwall myself, I love reading books set there and I found that this book really transported you to the village and the people there. I mean the storm sounded absolutely terrifying but I would definitely love to go to visit at some point in the Summer as you can just tell how picturesque the village is.
I really enjoyed this book and honestly don't have a bad word to say about it, some of the storyline was a bit predictable but I actually quite enjoyed this so it's definitely not a negative. The book was split into four sections and the chapters were just the right length to provide you with points to put the book down if you wanted to. Although it was also really easy to read in one or two sittings because you just want to keep reading!
Even if you've not read the other two books, like me, you can pick this book up and read it without getting lost. Although I do know want to know more about Charlie, Daniel and Gertie so I'll be adding her other two books to my collection VERY soon.
December 22, 2020
Hannah Swan has drawn the short straw at the eco-consultancy where she works and is being sent the length of the country a week before Christmas to visit new client, The Crystal Waters in Porthgolow. As Hannah sets off on the long train journey from Edinburgh, she promises friends and family she will be back in plenty of time for the big day.
Upon her arrival Hannah is shocked to find she recognises the Cornish village. With her mum remaining uncharacteristically tight lipped when questioned on the matter, Hannah’s interest is piqued. But when a storm rolls in it doesn’t look likely Hannah will be keeping her promise to return…and does she really want to?
There is nothing more I love at this time of year than cosying down with some festive fiction, but what I love even more is returning to a well-loved series for the Christmas instalment.
This book follows Hannah who is visiting the village of Porthgolow for work and is swept up in the local lifestyle and the feelings of familiarity for her surroundings. Hannah was a really sweet protagonist who I liked from the very first page. She was kind-hearted, giving and highly relatable.
McLaughlin offers up another strong supporting cast in this novel, as she has done with both of its predecessors, and of course it is always lovely to revisit previous characters and have catch up snippets of how their lives are continuing on.
As usual the descriptions of my home county are faultless, and I think people reading will be equally as pleased with the Cornish setting without the sunshine and ice creams of summer. This book has definitely got me in the mood for a merry Christmas, especially all of the goodies I will be munching my way through during the coming days.
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
Upon her arrival Hannah is shocked to find she recognises the Cornish village. With her mum remaining uncharacteristically tight lipped when questioned on the matter, Hannah’s interest is piqued. But when a storm rolls in it doesn’t look likely Hannah will be keeping her promise to return…and does she really want to?
There is nothing more I love at this time of year than cosying down with some festive fiction, but what I love even more is returning to a well-loved series for the Christmas instalment.
This book follows Hannah who is visiting the village of Porthgolow for work and is swept up in the local lifestyle and the feelings of familiarity for her surroundings. Hannah was a really sweet protagonist who I liked from the very first page. She was kind-hearted, giving and highly relatable.
McLaughlin offers up another strong supporting cast in this novel, as she has done with both of its predecessors, and of course it is always lovely to revisit previous characters and have catch up snippets of how their lives are continuing on.
As usual the descriptions of my home county are faultless, and I think people reading will be equally as pleased with the Cornish setting without the sunshine and ice creams of summer. This book has definitely got me in the mood for a merry Christmas, especially all of the goodies I will be munching my way through during the coming days.
For more reviews, please visit: https://twiabblog.wixsite.com/theworl...
August 18, 2021
What a really good book. I’m loving the Cream Tea Bus series and this one is my favourite by far.
Hannah Swan has landed a new job as an Eco consultant and arrives in Porthgolow to meet up with her work colleague Noah Rosewall. They are tasked with the project of looking how to make the Crystal Waters Hotel, belonging to Daniel Harper more eco friendly. Things are quite strained when they first meet but then they settle into a smoother relationship and work well together. A writer called Audrey is at The Crystal Waters Hotel in search of ghosts and ghostly tales in the area to finish the book her good friend started, who sadly passed away in the middle of compiling the book. Hanna seems to feel pulled towards Porthgolow but her mum is adamant there’s nothing to it. Lots of mystery and secrets unfold as Hannah and Noah work side by side on the Eco project and they can’t help but get involved in all the happenings amidst a string storm that sweeps through the small village. Will Hannah make it back home in time for Christmas? Will she find the answers she’s searching for? Will love arrive this Christmas in Porthgolow? It’s a must read to find out more.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved the mystery, the ghosts and the secrects. It was great to catch up with Charlie Quilter, her dog Marmite, Gertie the Cream Tea Bus, Daniel Harper her boyfriend, the hotel owner and his dog Jasper. Reenie from the yellow cottage on the cliffs. Hugh the pub landlord and Lila and Sam. And new little dog spirit. As well as following Hannah’s story. 5 stars from me
Hannah Swan has landed a new job as an Eco consultant and arrives in Porthgolow to meet up with her work colleague Noah Rosewall. They are tasked with the project of looking how to make the Crystal Waters Hotel, belonging to Daniel Harper more eco friendly. Things are quite strained when they first meet but then they settle into a smoother relationship and work well together. A writer called Audrey is at The Crystal Waters Hotel in search of ghosts and ghostly tales in the area to finish the book her good friend started, who sadly passed away in the middle of compiling the book. Hanna seems to feel pulled towards Porthgolow but her mum is adamant there’s nothing to it. Lots of mystery and secrets unfold as Hannah and Noah work side by side on the Eco project and they can’t help but get involved in all the happenings amidst a string storm that sweeps through the small village. Will Hannah make it back home in time for Christmas? Will she find the answers she’s searching for? Will love arrive this Christmas in Porthgolow? It’s a must read to find out more.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved the mystery, the ghosts and the secrects. It was great to catch up with Charlie Quilter, her dog Marmite, Gertie the Cream Tea Bus, Daniel Harper her boyfriend, the hotel owner and his dog Jasper. Reenie from the yellow cottage on the cliffs. Hugh the pub landlord and Lila and Sam. And new little dog spirit. As well as following Hannah’s story. 5 stars from me
April 22, 2021
Another beautiful, heart-warming story from the pen of Cressida McLaughlin. This time we visit Cornwall in winter, with bracing winds, winter storms and snow, lots of snow. We follow Hannah and Noah as they advise Daniel on making Crystal Waters more eco-friendly, and whilst doing so; we become embroiled in a ghost story. Despite not getting off to the best start, Hannah and Noah become friends, and there is a will-they, won't-they scenario, which appears doomed when Noah answers his phone to a girlfriend. As Hannah settles into life at Porthgolow, she is plagued by a feeling that she has been there before. She asks her mum, who says she doesn't think so. Unable to return to Edinburgh for Christmas because of storm damage, Hannah decides to spend Christmas at Porthgolow, makes friends with Charlie, and Gertie - the cream tea bus - her offer to help Charlie sees her hopes of ever getting together with Noah dashed. They are joined for Christmas by Charlie's cousin, Lila and Sam, the actors we met in The Cornish Cream Tea Summer. Hannah, a one-time chef, offers to make her traditional Christmas dinner for everyone and Noah is invited. Will Hannah and Noah solve the mystery of the ghostly footsteps? Will Hannah find a solution to the feelings of having visited Porthgolow before? And will she return home to Edinburgh once trains services resume, or will she and Noah find true love?
This book is a must for lovers of Cornwall and romance.
This book is a must for lovers of Cornwall and romance.
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