What do you think?
Rate this book
Christmas in the Country #1
Appuntamento sotto la neve
Cosa fai quando dopo venticinque anni di matrimonio scopri che tuo marito ha una relazione con la tua migliore amica? Fai le valigie e ti trasferisci in un cottage isolato in campagna. La situazione, però, non è proprio idilliaca: la casetta avrà pure il fascino romantico della tipica abitazione inglese, ma non è messa così bene… Maddie Brooks non vuole abbattersi, stringe i denti e assume come operaio l’ex soldato Lewis Hart, che la gente del paese le ha raccomandato. Così quando comincia la ristrutturazione vengono alla luce la vera natura del cottage e… quella di Lewis! Non solo è la persona più brusca che Maddie abbia mai incontrato, ma ha i modi di un Neanderthal (senza offesa per l’uomo del Paleolitico). Mentre le piogge torrenziali isolano il villaggio, i lavori al cottage proseguono sotto il segno della sfortuna e sembra non ci siano prospettive di miglioramento, né dal punto di vista meteorologico né da quello della relazione tra Lewis e Maddie… Ma lei deve trovare al più presto un modo per finire la ristrutturazione e dare un nuovo inizio alla sua vita. Riuscirà a mettere da parte l’orgoglio e trovare un modo per scendere a patti con quel cavernicolo?
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2015
45 people are currently reading
904 people want to read
About the author
Linn B. Halton
26 books276 followersLinn B. Halton writes feelgood fiction: home is where the heart is! In 2013 she won the UK Festival of Romance: Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. Originally from Bristol, she now lives in Somerset with her husband, and Bengal cat, Ziggy.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 7, 2015
I will freely admit that the two alternative gorgeous covers are what drew me to this book originally. They looked amazing, and really inviting to this lovely cottage. And once you get inside the book you are not disappointed.
Maddie falls in love at first sight, with Ash Cottage, which she is looking to buy, as her divorce has finally come through. She is a cash buyer and hopes to move quickly so makes an immediate offer on the house, "sold as seen". She also fails to request a survey.
I loved this impetuousness of Maddie, as she is clearly a woman who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go after it, regardless of the consequences.
Due to various circumstances, the move is delayed quite a bit, and she eventually moves in a week before Christmas. She has strict budget and has organised every last bit of this move to within an inch of its life. What she can't organise however is the weather. Pretty much from the moment she moves in there is non stop rain, and it isn't long before she discovers the village she has moved to is a flood risk, although her new cottage is up on a hill.
As the rain and water level rises, she ends up stranded in the cottage with contractor, Lewis Hart, otherwise known as "the Man who Can". He is a whizz of a workman, but his attitude leaves something to be desired. And just what is he hiding.
Although 90% of the story is based around Maddie's point of view, which is nice enough, what is really interesting is the occasional chapter from Lewis' point of view. He definitely has a different take on most situations, and at times I couldn't even work out if even liked him. However I found I was rooting for him more than any other interest Maddie may have acquired,
For the first half of the book, I found it read like a comedy of disasters as one thing went wrong after another, which was very funny. And then the second half changed things a bit and it felt more character driven, with more of them being present, as well as the stranding.
I loved reading A Cottage in the Country, it touches on a serious issue of flooding in rural areas, as well as being a generally entertaining story and a gentle romance. I found it to be a great story that kept me interested from start to finish,
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
Maddie falls in love at first sight, with Ash Cottage, which she is looking to buy, as her divorce has finally come through. She is a cash buyer and hopes to move quickly so makes an immediate offer on the house, "sold as seen". She also fails to request a survey.
I loved this impetuousness of Maddie, as she is clearly a woman who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go after it, regardless of the consequences.
Due to various circumstances, the move is delayed quite a bit, and she eventually moves in a week before Christmas. She has strict budget and has organised every last bit of this move to within an inch of its life. What she can't organise however is the weather. Pretty much from the moment she moves in there is non stop rain, and it isn't long before she discovers the village she has moved to is a flood risk, although her new cottage is up on a hill.
As the rain and water level rises, she ends up stranded in the cottage with contractor, Lewis Hart, otherwise known as "the Man who Can". He is a whizz of a workman, but his attitude leaves something to be desired. And just what is he hiding.
Although 90% of the story is based around Maddie's point of view, which is nice enough, what is really interesting is the occasional chapter from Lewis' point of view. He definitely has a different take on most situations, and at times I couldn't even work out if even liked him. However I found I was rooting for him more than any other interest Maddie may have acquired,
For the first half of the book, I found it read like a comedy of disasters as one thing went wrong after another, which was very funny. And then the second half changed things a bit and it felt more character driven, with more of them being present, as well as the stranding.
I loved reading A Cottage in the Country, it touches on a serious issue of flooding in rural areas, as well as being a generally entertaining story and a gentle romance. I found it to be a great story that kept me interested from start to finish,
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
Read
November 5, 2017Such a lovely, enjoyable read
September 14, 2015
Originally reviewed on http://beccasbooooks.blogspot.co.uk/2...
I won't lie, as soon as I clapped eyes on the cover for A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton, I was in book-cover love. I don't know about you, but I absolutely adore anything remotely cottage or countryside related, and so once I'd read the blurb and got a 'feel' for what this novel was going to be about, I couldn't wait to begin reading. This is the very first novel that I have read by Linn B. Halton and I thoroughly enjoyed it, particularly her gorgeous imagery when it came to the cottage itself, and her fantastically developed characters. This, dear readers, was a delight!
In a nutshell, A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton focuses on Maddie Brooks who, as the novel begins, is just about to move into the home of her dreams. What Maddie doesn't realise though, is that the cottage is the home of someone else's dreams too. More specifically, the rugged, rolled-in-masculinity Lewis Hart, who was utterly divine, aloof, and had that addictive 'don't talk to me' vibe going on. Right from the get-go, there were sparks, sparks which I loved and couldn't get enough of. The author set the scene of Maddie's life, and her not-so-pretty past perfectly, and it didn't take long for me to get an image of Maddie clear in my head. I love her wittiness, her outlook and, although it didn't make an appearance constantly, her positivity and determination. I got the impression that, despite the unfortunate circumstances between Maddie and her ex-husband, she was a woman on a mission, finally doing things for herself rather than other people, and making the best of it. Maddie had spent almost the entirety of her life bending to the rules of other people, but now it was time for her to follow no one's rules except her own. The novel had such a brilliant premise, and the contrasts between Maddie and handyman Lewis worked so well. It seemed that fate had definitely brought these two together and I couldn't wait to see what would become of the two of them, especially in regards to having to be in such close proximity when the flooding arrives, eek!
The author's writing was a real joy to read, flowing beautifully fluidly and maintaining a great pacing throughout. There was always something for me to look forward to, and I really enjoyed watching the renovations taking place within the cottage, like I could see the transformation taking place in my mind. The characters, from beginning to end, developed fantastically and any interactions between Maddie and Lewis had me sitting up a little straighter, eager to see where the author would take the two of them next. The sparks were flying and the chemistry was popping, making this not only a brilliantly exciting read, but a read full of tension too.
Overall, I thought A Cottage in the Country Linn B. Halton was fabulous! With an idyllic setting, a soon-to-be gorgeous home, and two characters positively glowing with chemistry, this novel gave me a truly enjoyable couple of hours away from reality! And I would have gladly swapped places with Maddie Brooks!
Becca's Books is awarding A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton with FOUR GORGEOUS CUPCAKES! I'll definitely be looking forward to more from this author.
I won't lie, as soon as I clapped eyes on the cover for A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton, I was in book-cover love. I don't know about you, but I absolutely adore anything remotely cottage or countryside related, and so once I'd read the blurb and got a 'feel' for what this novel was going to be about, I couldn't wait to begin reading. This is the very first novel that I have read by Linn B. Halton and I thoroughly enjoyed it, particularly her gorgeous imagery when it came to the cottage itself, and her fantastically developed characters. This, dear readers, was a delight!
In a nutshell, A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton focuses on Maddie Brooks who, as the novel begins, is just about to move into the home of her dreams. What Maddie doesn't realise though, is that the cottage is the home of someone else's dreams too. More specifically, the rugged, rolled-in-masculinity Lewis Hart, who was utterly divine, aloof, and had that addictive 'don't talk to me' vibe going on. Right from the get-go, there were sparks, sparks which I loved and couldn't get enough of. The author set the scene of Maddie's life, and her not-so-pretty past perfectly, and it didn't take long for me to get an image of Maddie clear in my head. I love her wittiness, her outlook and, although it didn't make an appearance constantly, her positivity and determination. I got the impression that, despite the unfortunate circumstances between Maddie and her ex-husband, she was a woman on a mission, finally doing things for herself rather than other people, and making the best of it. Maddie had spent almost the entirety of her life bending to the rules of other people, but now it was time for her to follow no one's rules except her own. The novel had such a brilliant premise, and the contrasts between Maddie and handyman Lewis worked so well. It seemed that fate had definitely brought these two together and I couldn't wait to see what would become of the two of them, especially in regards to having to be in such close proximity when the flooding arrives, eek!
The author's writing was a real joy to read, flowing beautifully fluidly and maintaining a great pacing throughout. There was always something for me to look forward to, and I really enjoyed watching the renovations taking place within the cottage, like I could see the transformation taking place in my mind. The characters, from beginning to end, developed fantastically and any interactions between Maddie and Lewis had me sitting up a little straighter, eager to see where the author would take the two of them next. The sparks were flying and the chemistry was popping, making this not only a brilliantly exciting read, but a read full of tension too.
Overall, I thought A Cottage in the Country Linn B. Halton was fabulous! With an idyllic setting, a soon-to-be gorgeous home, and two characters positively glowing with chemistry, this novel gave me a truly enjoyable couple of hours away from reality! And I would have gladly swapped places with Maddie Brooks!
Becca's Books is awarding A Cottage in the Country by Linn B. Halton with FOUR GORGEOUS CUPCAKES! I'll definitely be looking forward to more from this author.
July 18, 2015
Maddie's husband cheated on Maddie with her best friend. Maddie needs a place to live and when she sees Ash Cottage she immediately falls in love with it. She can pay for it from the divorce settlement and has a small budget left to renovate it. She needs help though. Fortunately there's a local guy called Lewis who can do the work for her. When Maddie first meets him he's unbelievably rude to her, but he takes the job and there's nobody else she can find at such short notice.
Maddie's boss Ryan is a good friend to her and he stands by her. He doesn't understand her love for the country and the cottage though. He's a city man and he likes to have certain luxuries. Maddie discovers the worst part of country life when she moves into the cottage straight after receiving the keys. She's planning on staying there during the renovation process. At first it's uncomfortable being in her new home while Lewis is working on it. He's an army man and lives by his own rules. He's a man of few words and when he says something it isn't particularly nice. Slowly they're starting to feel comfortable in each other's company though. Does Lewis have an ulterior motive for helping her? While the village is trying to battle horrible floods Maddie is trying to get her life back on track. Is living in the country really what she fancies or will she be happier elsewhere?
Ash Cottage is a beautiful countryside home that needs a lot of work. I could totally understand why Maddie liked it so much. Linn B. Halton describes it so well that it immediately comes to life. I could see the renovations and had the idea I was watching them instead of just reading about them. I admired Maddie and instantly liked her. She's been hurt so badly and she's vulnerable, but she's trying to be brave. She's never been on her own and now she's bought a house and she decides to do the renovations and redecorating with just one person to help her. Even though it might sound like a stupid decision it wasn't. She was perfectly capable of handling the situation and I kept feeling proud of everything she achieved. It was wonderful to see her grow. She isn't perfect, she makes mistakes, a lot of them, but eventually she learns from them. That makes her human and for me that made the story even better.
It is great that there are some small chapters written from Lewis's point of view. I liked to know what he was thinking and it was great to see inside his mind as well. That gives the story an extra dimension which makes it even better. I think Linn B. Halton has written a fantastic story. As usual in her stories the main characters need a little bit of help, so there's a small hint of magic, which always makes them extra special. I'm very happy she does that as it's giving her work a unique character and it makes me fall in love with the stories even more. Near the end something completely unexpected happens and I kept wanting to talk some sense into Maddie. I liked that twist in the story, it completed the story in a brilliant way. I highly recommend A Cottage in the Country, it's a sweet romantic story with a setting that's as beautiful as the main characters.
Maddie's boss Ryan is a good friend to her and he stands by her. He doesn't understand her love for the country and the cottage though. He's a city man and he likes to have certain luxuries. Maddie discovers the worst part of country life when she moves into the cottage straight after receiving the keys. She's planning on staying there during the renovation process. At first it's uncomfortable being in her new home while Lewis is working on it. He's an army man and lives by his own rules. He's a man of few words and when he says something it isn't particularly nice. Slowly they're starting to feel comfortable in each other's company though. Does Lewis have an ulterior motive for helping her? While the village is trying to battle horrible floods Maddie is trying to get her life back on track. Is living in the country really what she fancies or will she be happier elsewhere?
Ash Cottage is a beautiful countryside home that needs a lot of work. I could totally understand why Maddie liked it so much. Linn B. Halton describes it so well that it immediately comes to life. I could see the renovations and had the idea I was watching them instead of just reading about them. I admired Maddie and instantly liked her. She's been hurt so badly and she's vulnerable, but she's trying to be brave. She's never been on her own and now she's bought a house and she decides to do the renovations and redecorating with just one person to help her. Even though it might sound like a stupid decision it wasn't. She was perfectly capable of handling the situation and I kept feeling proud of everything she achieved. It was wonderful to see her grow. She isn't perfect, she makes mistakes, a lot of them, but eventually she learns from them. That makes her human and for me that made the story even better.
It is great that there are some small chapters written from Lewis's point of view. I liked to know what he was thinking and it was great to see inside his mind as well. That gives the story an extra dimension which makes it even better. I think Linn B. Halton has written a fantastic story. As usual in her stories the main characters need a little bit of help, so there's a small hint of magic, which always makes them extra special. I'm very happy she does that as it's giving her work a unique character and it makes me fall in love with the stories even more. Near the end something completely unexpected happens and I kept wanting to talk some sense into Maddie. I liked that twist in the story, it completed the story in a brilliant way. I highly recommend A Cottage in the Country, it's a sweet romantic story with a setting that's as beautiful as the main characters.
July 20, 2015
Ash Cottage may be idyllically placed but it's a huge restoration project Maddie has taken on and she needs some of the work done urgently She doesn't have the luxury of living anywhere else while it's being done either. Not only that, the timing in the run up to Christmas means there's not many businesses that are available to provide the building staff, the only person available is Lewis Hart. Lewis has another agenda though - he wants Ash Cottage for himself...
From the very beginning, when Maddie is redirected by her SatNav goddess, I knew she was going to be easy to like and understand. Although Maddie is vulnerable emotionally she is still strong and determined that her vision of Ash Cottage will come to fruition.
Best friend and boss Ryan (who is 39 and still single) is there for her to discuss the renovation with, until that is, the flooding on the day she moves in just gets worse until finally, she is cut off by adverse weather conditions with only Lewis around ...
I enjoyed the dual narrative meaning that we get Lewis' point of view. Don't we all love a wounded hero?
I loved the isolation which Linn uses to full affect - very atmospheric with the harshness of the cold and everything back to basics.
Although I identified with Maddie from the beginning, I thought that at one point she made a decision that was so wrong - and then I hated her for a while (which is a good thing!). She was so emotionally raw that I don't think she saw the danger! We all gravitate to the familiar but what we find out made me shiver. I was shouting at her 'don't give up on your dream.'
There's a surprise that I didn't see coming and as with all Linn's novels, intuition/spiritual plays a part in making decisions. Oh and the tantric sex - such a connection on a soul level and so beautifully written. Linn has such a skill with being able to make her readers feel they are right there, from setting the scene to character interactions. Wonderful!
I would like to thank the author for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
From the very beginning, when Maddie is redirected by her SatNav goddess, I knew she was going to be easy to like and understand. Although Maddie is vulnerable emotionally she is still strong and determined that her vision of Ash Cottage will come to fruition.
Best friend and boss Ryan (who is 39 and still single) is there for her to discuss the renovation with, until that is, the flooding on the day she moves in just gets worse until finally, she is cut off by adverse weather conditions with only Lewis around ...
I enjoyed the dual narrative meaning that we get Lewis' point of view. Don't we all love a wounded hero?
I loved the isolation which Linn uses to full affect - very atmospheric with the harshness of the cold and everything back to basics.
Although I identified with Maddie from the beginning, I thought that at one point she made a decision that was so wrong - and then I hated her for a while (which is a good thing!). She was so emotionally raw that I don't think she saw the danger! We all gravitate to the familiar but what we find out made me shiver. I was shouting at her 'don't give up on your dream.'
There's a surprise that I didn't see coming and as with all Linn's novels, intuition/spiritual plays a part in making decisions. Oh and the tantric sex - such a connection on a soul level and so beautifully written. Linn has such a skill with being able to make her readers feel they are right there, from setting the scene to character interactions. Wonderful!
I would like to thank the author for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2016
When I first selected this book I was skeptical, thinking it might just be a British knock-off of Under the Tuscan Sun (the movie, not the book—the book was absolute rubbish). Thankfully, Linn B. Halton's A Cottage in the Country is a wonderful story of its own.
Madeleine (Maddie) Brooks has been on the hunt for a retreat in the country for some time after discovering her husband Jeff has been having an affair with her best friend. Nothing seems to be in her price range until a cottage in Forest is listed as a probate sale and she snaps it up, the first viewer on the first day it is listed. She moves in on December 19th during an onslaught of rain and flooding, wanting the heaviest renovations done by Christmas Eve at a time when everyone and everything is getting ready to hunker down for the holidays.
Here enters handyman Lewis Hart, the Man Who Can, who also happens to be a bit of a jerk. Or is he? Toss in Maddie's hot boss Ryan, and we have a fun and funny little love triangle set in a beautiful country setting, wrapped up in Linn B. Halton's prose.
This was an ARC that I was given on a read-to-review basis, and so it contained some typos that I'm sure will be polished up before actual publication. There were also a couple repetitive phrases that made me cringe and some unnecessary fleshing out that I found myself skimming through. All this aside (and likely no longer an issue once it is in the hands of "real" readers), I adored this story. It is witty and entertaining, with wonderfully descriptive landscape and characters that you cannot help but love. My only regret is that I now want a bathroom with a slipper tub and a full skylight, but have no Man Who Can to build it for me…so Halton's book will suffice instead, for now.
I would like to thank HarperCollins UK and Net Galley, who furnished an ARC of this book for my honest opinion, which this certainly is.
Madeleine (Maddie) Brooks has been on the hunt for a retreat in the country for some time after discovering her husband Jeff has been having an affair with her best friend. Nothing seems to be in her price range until a cottage in Forest is listed as a probate sale and she snaps it up, the first viewer on the first day it is listed. She moves in on December 19th during an onslaught of rain and flooding, wanting the heaviest renovations done by Christmas Eve at a time when everyone and everything is getting ready to hunker down for the holidays.
Here enters handyman Lewis Hart, the Man Who Can, who also happens to be a bit of a jerk. Or is he? Toss in Maddie's hot boss Ryan, and we have a fun and funny little love triangle set in a beautiful country setting, wrapped up in Linn B. Halton's prose.
This was an ARC that I was given on a read-to-review basis, and so it contained some typos that I'm sure will be polished up before actual publication. There were also a couple repetitive phrases that made me cringe and some unnecessary fleshing out that I found myself skimming through. All this aside (and likely no longer an issue once it is in the hands of "real" readers), I adored this story. It is witty and entertaining, with wonderfully descriptive landscape and characters that you cannot help but love. My only regret is that I now want a bathroom with a slipper tub and a full skylight, but have no Man Who Can to build it for me…so Halton's book will suffice instead, for now.
I would like to thank HarperCollins UK and Net Galley, who furnished an ARC of this book for my honest opinion, which this certainly is.
July 16, 2015
After her divorce Maddie falls in love with Ash Cottage and buys it without having a survey carried out. Her husband had an affair with her best friend and she just wants to escape to a peaceful part of the country.
When she finally moves in just before Christmas, torrential rain is causing terrible problems in the village, which she discovers is at flood risk. She has hired Lewis to do some essential work in the house and the flood cuts them off and she ends up with an unexpected house guest. He is very abrupt – just what is he trying to keep hidden? Will he open up and let her know what trouble him?
A lovely gentle story that keeps you drawn into the story. The cottage makes you fall in love with it- wouldn’t we all love a cottage in the country? I loved the characters and the setting. I will definately read more by this author.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
When she finally moves in just before Christmas, torrential rain is causing terrible problems in the village, which she discovers is at flood risk. She has hired Lewis to do some essential work in the house and the flood cuts them off and she ends up with an unexpected house guest. He is very abrupt – just what is he trying to keep hidden? Will he open up and let her know what trouble him?
A lovely gentle story that keeps you drawn into the story. The cottage makes you fall in love with it- wouldn’t we all love a cottage in the country? I loved the characters and the setting. I will definately read more by this author.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.
August 9, 2018
Loved it - easy to get in to, and a nice story to it.
What was even better, was the main character not being a 30-something and all that brings with it.
What was even better, was the main character not being a 30-something and all that brings with it.
August 24, 2021
Karin - per RFS
.
l suo look mi lascia ancora più sbalordita. Indossa una vecchia t-shirt di un tour dei Metallica del 1987, ormai lavata e rilavata – perfetta per lucidare i vetri! – e un paio di jeans sdruciti sulle ginocchia.
Questo libro è stato una sorpresa! Mi aspettavo il classico romance semplice e lineare, una storia da leggere durante il freddo week end e che parlasse di buoni sentimenti, ma senza grandi colpi al cuore. Uno di quei romanzi che ti lasciano piacevoli sensazioni senza suscitare ripercussioni emotive, un po’ come quelle pellicole di Natale con lo sfondo romantico in cui per vedere un bacio devi attendere gli ultimi cinque minuti del film.
Ho sbagliato! È un libro che sembra vero, nella sua semplicità parla al cuore e immedesimarsi in Maddie è talmente facile che quasi non ci credi. Vedi Lewis così a fuoco che vorresti toccarlo e averlo vicino, perché è l’emblema dell’uomo, quello che vorremmo tutte. Non perfetto, ma sincero e complicato.
Se dalla cover avete pensato a una storia natalizia, be’ siete in errore. Se immaginate il classico romance senza spessore, rimarrete deluse.
Il libro racconta la vita di due anime all’alba dei cinquant’anni, sì, avete letto bene. Preoccupate di non riuscire a immedesimarvi? L’ho pensato anche io inizialmente, quanto ho sbagliato! Maddie incarna la donna, una donna che nella sua vita ha dato tutto per un marito fedifrago e una famiglia, due figli che adora, ma che, in un’età in cui i giochi sembrano fatti, dovrà rimboccarsi le maniche e capire quale direzione prendere.
“Sai cosa mi manca?” Lo guardo e lui scuote la testa. “La grande fatica di accontentare tutti. Non sono abituata a decidere ogni cosa senza dover soddisfare bisogni e desideri altrui. A volte mi sento sola e spaventata”. […] “Si chiama libertà, Maddie. Ti ci abituerai, vedrai”.
Il viaggio di Maddie alla riscoperta della sua indipendenza inizierà ad Ash Cottage, nella Foresta di Dean. Qui comprerà d’impulso una piccola casa acciaccata, proprio come è lei, e dovrà risanarla. Trovo l’allegoria con la casa molto poetica, per me è il luogo in cui ti senti al sicuro, dove davvero ritrovi te stessa. In mezzo a mille disastri, un riscaldamento perennemente rotto, la linea telefonica che non funziona (le scarpinate per risalire la collina in cerca di qualche tacca per il cellulare immaginandomi polpacci da ciclista con la sensazione di un crampo immediato mi hanno molto divertita), quella benedetta cucina verde foresta, che mi ispirava maggiormente rispetto al verde oliva e la presenza del “tuttofare” Lewis hanno reso la storia speciale.
Parliamo di Lewis, un massiccio uomo muscoloso con mani da operaio che sanno come toccare una donna. La scena sensuale tra i due non aveva nulla di esplicito, ma era eccitante come il “vedo non vedo”. Un personaggio che ho amato nella sua fragilità emotiva, e quando l’ha afferrata tra le braccia… ho ancora i brividi!
L’amore può arrivare quando pensi che tutto sia rotto? Un matrimonio finito, figli grandi, un lavoro, e poi? Che succede?
La vita aveva un progetto in serbo per me e io non ero stata semplicemente abbandonata alla deriva, dimenticata e senza amore. Riprendi il controllo di te stessa, Maddie, sei una tipa tosta e puoi farcela, puoi farcela davvero. […] Anche con il cuore a pezzi, ogni mattina bisogna svegliarsi e affrontare il nuovo giorno. Rannicchiarsi in un buco e nascondersi può sembrare confortante, ma non è mai una vera opzione, giusto?
Non vi ho ancora parlato di Ryan, da sempre miglior amico di Maddie, nonché suo datore di lavoro, che la guarda come la luce in fondo al tunnel. Be’, che romance sarebbe senza un po’ di competizione. Vincerà la sicurezza o la scintilla?
Scrittura impeccabile, dialoghi perfetti… La fine, non aspettatevi anticipazioni, però è stata troppo veloce, volevo un’esplosione di emozioni da sogno, avete presente i fuochi d’artificio? Cascate del Niagara? Ma, forse, non sarebbe stata coerente con la storia! Vi state chiedendo se sia senza lieto fine? Tranquilli, è un romance, niente brutte sorprese!
Mi è piaciuto? Tanto! Soprattutto per il tema della rinascita, per la caratterizzazione dei personaggi, perché dà speranza e tutto arriva quando deve arrivare. Devo iniziare a crederci di più anche io a questa massima!
.
l suo look mi lascia ancora più sbalordita. Indossa una vecchia t-shirt di un tour dei Metallica del 1987, ormai lavata e rilavata – perfetta per lucidare i vetri! – e un paio di jeans sdruciti sulle ginocchia.
Questo libro è stato una sorpresa! Mi aspettavo il classico romance semplice e lineare, una storia da leggere durante il freddo week end e che parlasse di buoni sentimenti, ma senza grandi colpi al cuore. Uno di quei romanzi che ti lasciano piacevoli sensazioni senza suscitare ripercussioni emotive, un po’ come quelle pellicole di Natale con lo sfondo romantico in cui per vedere un bacio devi attendere gli ultimi cinque minuti del film.
Ho sbagliato! È un libro che sembra vero, nella sua semplicità parla al cuore e immedesimarsi in Maddie è talmente facile che quasi non ci credi. Vedi Lewis così a fuoco che vorresti toccarlo e averlo vicino, perché è l’emblema dell’uomo, quello che vorremmo tutte. Non perfetto, ma sincero e complicato.
Se dalla cover avete pensato a una storia natalizia, be’ siete in errore. Se immaginate il classico romance senza spessore, rimarrete deluse.
Il libro racconta la vita di due anime all’alba dei cinquant’anni, sì, avete letto bene. Preoccupate di non riuscire a immedesimarvi? L’ho pensato anche io inizialmente, quanto ho sbagliato! Maddie incarna la donna, una donna che nella sua vita ha dato tutto per un marito fedifrago e una famiglia, due figli che adora, ma che, in un’età in cui i giochi sembrano fatti, dovrà rimboccarsi le maniche e capire quale direzione prendere.
“Sai cosa mi manca?” Lo guardo e lui scuote la testa. “La grande fatica di accontentare tutti. Non sono abituata a decidere ogni cosa senza dover soddisfare bisogni e desideri altrui. A volte mi sento sola e spaventata”. […] “Si chiama libertà, Maddie. Ti ci abituerai, vedrai”.
Il viaggio di Maddie alla riscoperta della sua indipendenza inizierà ad Ash Cottage, nella Foresta di Dean. Qui comprerà d’impulso una piccola casa acciaccata, proprio come è lei, e dovrà risanarla. Trovo l’allegoria con la casa molto poetica, per me è il luogo in cui ti senti al sicuro, dove davvero ritrovi te stessa. In mezzo a mille disastri, un riscaldamento perennemente rotto, la linea telefonica che non funziona (le scarpinate per risalire la collina in cerca di qualche tacca per il cellulare immaginandomi polpacci da ciclista con la sensazione di un crampo immediato mi hanno molto divertita), quella benedetta cucina verde foresta, che mi ispirava maggiormente rispetto al verde oliva e la presenza del “tuttofare” Lewis hanno reso la storia speciale.
Parliamo di Lewis, un massiccio uomo muscoloso con mani da operaio che sanno come toccare una donna. La scena sensuale tra i due non aveva nulla di esplicito, ma era eccitante come il “vedo non vedo”. Un personaggio che ho amato nella sua fragilità emotiva, e quando l’ha afferrata tra le braccia… ho ancora i brividi!
L’amore può arrivare quando pensi che tutto sia rotto? Un matrimonio finito, figli grandi, un lavoro, e poi? Che succede?
La vita aveva un progetto in serbo per me e io non ero stata semplicemente abbandonata alla deriva, dimenticata e senza amore. Riprendi il controllo di te stessa, Maddie, sei una tipa tosta e puoi farcela, puoi farcela davvero. […] Anche con il cuore a pezzi, ogni mattina bisogna svegliarsi e affrontare il nuovo giorno. Rannicchiarsi in un buco e nascondersi può sembrare confortante, ma non è mai una vera opzione, giusto?
Non vi ho ancora parlato di Ryan, da sempre miglior amico di Maddie, nonché suo datore di lavoro, che la guarda come la luce in fondo al tunnel. Be’, che romance sarebbe senza un po’ di competizione. Vincerà la sicurezza o la scintilla?
Scrittura impeccabile, dialoghi perfetti… La fine, non aspettatevi anticipazioni, però è stata troppo veloce, volevo un’esplosione di emozioni da sogno, avete presente i fuochi d’artificio? Cascate del Niagara? Ma, forse, non sarebbe stata coerente con la storia! Vi state chiedendo se sia senza lieto fine? Tranquilli, è un romance, niente brutte sorprese!
Mi è piaciuto? Tanto! Soprattutto per il tema della rinascita, per la caratterizzazione dei personaggi, perché dà speranza e tutto arriva quando deve arrivare. Devo iniziare a crederci di più anche io a questa massima!
September 7, 2015
This review is based on an ARC from the author. This does not alter my opinion or the content of my review.
Maddie Brooks, on her way to a house viewing, is being held up in a queue of traffic by a flock of sheep and she’s already running late. After a fraught verbal exchange with the sat nav (love that – I do it myself!) she arrives at her destination to see a picturesque cottage and a fabulous view. It’s love at first sight, even taking into account the considerable renovation work needed. Maddie desperately needs a home after divorcing her cheating husband, and is able to buy the cottage outright. Her life has been turned upside down since she discovered her husband’s affair with her best friend and she’s still emotionally vulnerable. At least Maddie can count on the help and support of her boss and good friend, Ryan.
Lewis Hart, an ex soldier, who wanted to buy Ash Cottage himself for personal reasons, is more than a little put out when he realises it’s sold. And as luck would have it, he is the only person Maddie is able to hire at such short notice for the renovation work. She soon discovers her country idyll is not at all what she expected.
Circumstances conspire against Maddie from the outset and test her resolve to the extreme. I could empathise totally with the exasperation she feels as her plans are sabotaged due to the forces of nature. Not to mention the fact her 50th birthday is two days before Christmas and she’s stranded without friends or family…her only company is Lewis, the irascible ‘man who can’. Neither of them can leave because of the flood and Maddie is really questioning the wisdom of her purchase. The cottage itself is a main player in the story and Maddie’s vision of how it will look is described vividly and beautifully. I think I could live there. The fact the author has taken the setting and renovation work from real life experiences, which include the terrible weather conditions, lends an authenticity to the whole narrative.
Maddie is very sympathetic and easy to relate to, I love how her character strengthens as the story progresses and she begins to believe in herself, gaining confidence. She has the courage to start again in a completely different environment after the break up of her marriage and faces a daunting situation. A complete renovation is not for the faint hearted, especially when living in the property.
I like how several chapters are from Lewis’ point of view which give an insight into his character and make him more likeable than he first appears, especially as his reasons become apparent.
Maddie’s change of heart towards the end is perhaps a little abrupt but I’m glad she made the choice she did. A Cottage in the Country is an entertaining and feel good read, and I love how Linn Halton always adds a touch of the spiritual/paranormal to her books. There are two book covers to choose from, summer and winter. I love a winter scene.
Maddie Brooks, on her way to a house viewing, is being held up in a queue of traffic by a flock of sheep and she’s already running late. After a fraught verbal exchange with the sat nav (love that – I do it myself!) she arrives at her destination to see a picturesque cottage and a fabulous view. It’s love at first sight, even taking into account the considerable renovation work needed. Maddie desperately needs a home after divorcing her cheating husband, and is able to buy the cottage outright. Her life has been turned upside down since she discovered her husband’s affair with her best friend and she’s still emotionally vulnerable. At least Maddie can count on the help and support of her boss and good friend, Ryan.
Lewis Hart, an ex soldier, who wanted to buy Ash Cottage himself for personal reasons, is more than a little put out when he realises it’s sold. And as luck would have it, he is the only person Maddie is able to hire at such short notice for the renovation work. She soon discovers her country idyll is not at all what she expected.
Circumstances conspire against Maddie from the outset and test her resolve to the extreme. I could empathise totally with the exasperation she feels as her plans are sabotaged due to the forces of nature. Not to mention the fact her 50th birthday is two days before Christmas and she’s stranded without friends or family…her only company is Lewis, the irascible ‘man who can’. Neither of them can leave because of the flood and Maddie is really questioning the wisdom of her purchase. The cottage itself is a main player in the story and Maddie’s vision of how it will look is described vividly and beautifully. I think I could live there. The fact the author has taken the setting and renovation work from real life experiences, which include the terrible weather conditions, lends an authenticity to the whole narrative.
Maddie is very sympathetic and easy to relate to, I love how her character strengthens as the story progresses and she begins to believe in herself, gaining confidence. She has the courage to start again in a completely different environment after the break up of her marriage and faces a daunting situation. A complete renovation is not for the faint hearted, especially when living in the property.
I like how several chapters are from Lewis’ point of view which give an insight into his character and make him more likeable than he first appears, especially as his reasons become apparent.
Maddie’s change of heart towards the end is perhaps a little abrupt but I’m glad she made the choice she did. A Cottage in the Country is an entertaining and feel good read, and I love how Linn Halton always adds a touch of the spiritual/paranormal to her books. There are two book covers to choose from, summer and winter. I love a winter scene.
August 22, 2015
I would like to thank Linn for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I started this book on a Sunday morning as I needed to take my mind off other things in my life at the moment and found that I couldn't put it down.
When we first meet Maddie she is visiting the cottage of her dreams and instantly decides to buy it without a survey. Not the best of ideas I would say but I will go with it as Maddie is a lovely easily likeable character who has been cheated on by her husband and best friend, so I guess she is going with her heart and not her head in the purchase.
In walks gorgeous builder Lewis Hart, (I've got to say that it is nice to have a book boyfriend who is slightly older than normal, he is literally swoon city and moody to go with it). Lewis isn't happy as he was meant to be buying to cottage but circumstances took him away at the wrong time or could it be the right time as he would never have met Maddie had he purchased the cottage.
Maddie is naive in thinking she can have the cottage up and running in the few days before Christmas and lurches from one disaster to another. Also I've got to say I didn't really like her boss as he was a bit of a creep to me and no better than her husband at times. I was preparing to send a disgruntled email to Linn but I won't go into details as to why and spoil it for everyone else.
It's also great to find a book where the leading lady is slightly older and even though she is she can still make the same mistakes a young girl would make.
I started this book on a Sunday morning as I needed to take my mind off other things in my life at the moment and found that I couldn't put it down.
When we first meet Maddie she is visiting the cottage of her dreams and instantly decides to buy it without a survey. Not the best of ideas I would say but I will go with it as Maddie is a lovely easily likeable character who has been cheated on by her husband and best friend, so I guess she is going with her heart and not her head in the purchase.
In walks gorgeous builder Lewis Hart, (I've got to say that it is nice to have a book boyfriend who is slightly older than normal, he is literally swoon city and moody to go with it). Lewis isn't happy as he was meant to be buying to cottage but circumstances took him away at the wrong time or could it be the right time as he would never have met Maddie had he purchased the cottage.
Maddie is naive in thinking she can have the cottage up and running in the few days before Christmas and lurches from one disaster to another. Also I've got to say I didn't really like her boss as he was a bit of a creep to me and no better than her husband at times. I was preparing to send a disgruntled email to Linn but I won't go into details as to why and spoil it for everyone else.
It's also great to find a book where the leading lady is slightly older and even though she is she can still make the same mistakes a young girl would make.
February 19, 2016
Read for a book club I was pleasantly surprised by this book. We start with Maddie who is recently split up from her husband following an affair with her best friend and has bought a cottage in the middle of nowhere that's in need of some work. Enter handyman Lewis a quiet and broody man who knew the previous owner and who missed out on buying the property himself.
Being in the middle of nowhere was bound to cause a few problems but Maddie really got more than her fair share starting with having to walk up the hill to get a mobile signal through to torrential rain and flooding cutting her off completely from civilisation and all her incoming furniture deliveries.
The ghostly touch in this story was subtle in the form of Maddie sensing the ghost of the previous owner and occasionally finding things moved but definately didn't impact the story.
The only thing that annoyed me with this story was that Maddie didn't tell her grown children the reason for the split up leaving them hoping for a reunion I think they were grown enough to be put in the picture.
There were some twists I wasn't expecting which turned the story in directions I hadn't thought of
Overall enjoyable easy reading
Being in the middle of nowhere was bound to cause a few problems but Maddie really got more than her fair share starting with having to walk up the hill to get a mobile signal through to torrential rain and flooding cutting her off completely from civilisation and all her incoming furniture deliveries.
The ghostly touch in this story was subtle in the form of Maddie sensing the ghost of the previous owner and occasionally finding things moved but definately didn't impact the story.
The only thing that annoyed me with this story was that Maddie didn't tell her grown children the reason for the split up leaving them hoping for a reunion I think they were grown enough to be put in the picture.
There were some twists I wasn't expecting which turned the story in directions I hadn't thought of
Overall enjoyable easy reading
August 18, 2015
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Your spouse having an affair with your 'best friend' is probably the worst thing that can happen to a marriage--death excluded. The protagonist has had to endure just that, and feels that she is past her prime. She figures she might as well buy a little house, and get used to the solitary life.
Of course, everything that can go wrong does and she is left stranded and in the middle of a love triangle.
I adored the story and the characters were well written. I did find the ending a slight bit predictable, but overall a great romance, very similar to those of Mr.Sparks
Your spouse having an affair with your 'best friend' is probably the worst thing that can happen to a marriage--death excluded. The protagonist has had to endure just that, and feels that she is past her prime. She figures she might as well buy a little house, and get used to the solitary life.
Of course, everything that can go wrong does and she is left stranded and in the middle of a love triangle.
I adored the story and the characters were well written. I did find the ending a slight bit predictable, but overall a great romance, very similar to those of Mr.Sparks
July 16, 2015
I did not particularly care for this book, I had a lot of trouble connecting with Maddie as a character. See my full review here: A Cottage in the Country
November 27, 2016
Loved this book
Highly recommend this read to everyone. I loved maddies story and look forward to reading more books by this author.
Highly recommend this read to everyone. I loved maddies story and look forward to reading more books by this author.
August 9, 2015
A Cottage in the Country is the first book I have read by Linn B Halton and as it happens it is also a part of the Harpers Impulse READ- A- THON that runs from August 1st- 14th. I must say I fell in love with the cover of the book at first sight. There are actually two book cover designs( summer and winter). Both equally breathtaking. After I feasted my eyes on the covers I proceeded to the actual story written inside the book.
The opening chapter kicks off with Maddie Brooks, the main character, and also the very eager buyer of Ash Cottage. I instantly felt for Maddie and her determination to have a clean break from her cheating husband. But it is not easy for Maddie because there is always a niggling doubt in her mind mingled with the feeling of failure and a panic that from now on she will be the one to fend for herself.
But there is also sense of freedom and hopeful new beginnings.
Maddie is a gorgeous character, feisty woman and a bit of a perfectionist. Now she finally knows what she wants and she won't stand for anything less than that. I loved the way she was so eager to make Ash Cottage the perfect place for herself. After her initial struggle to hire a builder and a handy man who would help her bring the Ash Cottage to its former glory, Maddie finally finds Lewis Hart.
Lewis is a very closed off and grumpy" man who can" but he has an extremely hardworking nature and a soft spot for Maddie. Lewis hadn't had a great childhood and with a quite a tragic upbringing and a sting in army, Lewis is a hard one and a bit difficult to relate to at first but as the book progresses we are let inside his mind and get to understand his side of the story. He also has a very deep ties to the Ash Cottage. I must say it was a bit of a shock when I discovered just what is Lewis hiding from Maddie and why he is so eager to show her the hard way of living in the rural countryside.
I found it very endearing when Maddie is trying to connect with the previous owner of the Ash Cottage, Aggi, she finds herself talking to her as well as confiding her worries to the ghost of the previous owner. I also like Terrence, Maddies new neighbor, who was very warm, friendly and helpful. There was also Maddie's boss and a very good friend Ryan. I was not so sure about Ryan I liked the way he was so eager to help Maddie navigate the bumpy beginnings at Ash Cottage but Ryan also had his own ulterior motive hiding behind his friendly facade.
A Cottage in the country is a beautifully written book with lots of twists and turns, wonderful characters and a mesmerising setting. I utterly enjoyed it and will be keeping my eye on Linn B Halton next book.
The opening chapter kicks off with Maddie Brooks, the main character, and also the very eager buyer of Ash Cottage. I instantly felt for Maddie and her determination to have a clean break from her cheating husband. But it is not easy for Maddie because there is always a niggling doubt in her mind mingled with the feeling of failure and a panic that from now on she will be the one to fend for herself.
But there is also sense of freedom and hopeful new beginnings.
Maddie is a gorgeous character, feisty woman and a bit of a perfectionist. Now she finally knows what she wants and she won't stand for anything less than that. I loved the way she was so eager to make Ash Cottage the perfect place for herself. After her initial struggle to hire a builder and a handy man who would help her bring the Ash Cottage to its former glory, Maddie finally finds Lewis Hart.
Lewis is a very closed off and grumpy" man who can" but he has an extremely hardworking nature and a soft spot for Maddie. Lewis hadn't had a great childhood and with a quite a tragic upbringing and a sting in army, Lewis is a hard one and a bit difficult to relate to at first but as the book progresses we are let inside his mind and get to understand his side of the story. He also has a very deep ties to the Ash Cottage. I must say it was a bit of a shock when I discovered just what is Lewis hiding from Maddie and why he is so eager to show her the hard way of living in the rural countryside.
I found it very endearing when Maddie is trying to connect with the previous owner of the Ash Cottage, Aggi, she finds herself talking to her as well as confiding her worries to the ghost of the previous owner. I also like Terrence, Maddies new neighbor, who was very warm, friendly and helpful. There was also Maddie's boss and a very good friend Ryan. I was not so sure about Ryan I liked the way he was so eager to help Maddie navigate the bumpy beginnings at Ash Cottage but Ryan also had his own ulterior motive hiding behind his friendly facade.
A Cottage in the country is a beautifully written book with lots of twists and turns, wonderful characters and a mesmerising setting. I utterly enjoyed it and will be keeping my eye on Linn B Halton next book.
July 9, 2015
From the second Maggie started arguing with her satnav while taking a diversion from a traffic jam I knew she and I were going to be friends. I absolutely loved Maggie and really found that although she's a bit older than me that we were very similar, some of her reactions to things could definitely have been me. I loved how throughout the story you see Maggie change as a person, you learn more about her past, her potential dreams for the future and her feelings about those she encounters.
The descriptions of the cottage that is the star of this novel definitely won my heart, I have a penchant for beautiful country cottages and I found myself drawing pictures in my head of how I would want it to look if I was the one turning it into my own home. I would have installed an aga, because let's be honest who doesn't love an aga.
What I found interesting about the writing of Lewis Hart is that he is not fully described looks wise, but from what I do know I built up my own picture of him which I liked, I found that to me it added a personal touch to my reading experience. Sometimes characters can be overly described which doesn't give you a chance to imagine them, which if I'm honest is one of things I love about books over film or tv, the fact that my imagination can run a bit wild. It needs some exercise or is causes havoc!
Having the two perspectives of both Maggie and Lewis added something different to this novel as to begin with you don't hear much from Lewis, but as the book goes on you learn more and more from him. I found his later parts some of the best bits of the book for me and I will freely admit that at one point towards the end of this book I was crying so much I had to stop reading for a moment. For me his parts in the book were a winner, I adored his character, the rough exterior that in certain lights begins to crack. His stories of war are an interesting break away from the main story, but rather than taking anything away these actually added to the enjoyment of the story for me.
Far from being a straight forward lets get straight to the romance novel, there were twists a plenty in this novel from Linn.B.Halton and I defy you not to want to scream in frustration at points where people make what seem like utterly the wrong choices. A great read and definitely not my last Linn B Halton novel.
The descriptions of the cottage that is the star of this novel definitely won my heart, I have a penchant for beautiful country cottages and I found myself drawing pictures in my head of how I would want it to look if I was the one turning it into my own home. I would have installed an aga, because let's be honest who doesn't love an aga.
What I found interesting about the writing of Lewis Hart is that he is not fully described looks wise, but from what I do know I built up my own picture of him which I liked, I found that to me it added a personal touch to my reading experience. Sometimes characters can be overly described which doesn't give you a chance to imagine them, which if I'm honest is one of things I love about books over film or tv, the fact that my imagination can run a bit wild. It needs some exercise or is causes havoc!
Having the two perspectives of both Maggie and Lewis added something different to this novel as to begin with you don't hear much from Lewis, but as the book goes on you learn more and more from him. I found his later parts some of the best bits of the book for me and I will freely admit that at one point towards the end of this book I was crying so much I had to stop reading for a moment. For me his parts in the book were a winner, I adored his character, the rough exterior that in certain lights begins to crack. His stories of war are an interesting break away from the main story, but rather than taking anything away these actually added to the enjoyment of the story for me.
Far from being a straight forward lets get straight to the romance novel, there were twists a plenty in this novel from Linn.B.Halton and I defy you not to want to scream in frustration at points where people make what seem like utterly the wrong choices. A great read and definitely not my last Linn B Halton novel.
July 16, 2015
Jane Hunt Writer First Steps
Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Facebook
Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Google+
Anyone who has ever renovated property will recognise the disasters waiting to happen as Maddie finds her 'perfect' country cottage. This story is so much more than an escape to the country'; it's more an escape from life and after her recent betrayals, who can blame her?
Traumatic change is difficult at any age but none more so, for a woman whose family has left the nest and who is let down by those whom she should expect loyalty and respect. I empathised with Maddie from the first page. This story is full of believable characters, vivid imagery and simmering passion; peppered with witty humour that is the perfect counterpoint to the Maddie's poignant journey of self-discovery.
Maddie is an older heroine but despite her years, she is naive. It's this inherent vulnerability that appeals to the men in her life. Her sons want her to forgive their father, without knowing the full story, her boss and long time friend Ryan, wants her to experience life in the fast lane and Lewis wants her to go away. Unfortunately for his sense of self preservation, she gets under his skin and makes him want to protect her too. Maddie draws deep on her emotional resources in this story and proves to be the strongest of them all.
'A Cottage in the Country', is a charming, heartfelt tale with a suitably romantic ending, which I loved, even though I was a little sad to say goodbye to Maddie and her dream cottage.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Linn B. Halton
July 16, 2015
Firstly I’d like to thank the author for sending me this eBook to read and share my honest review. You should know by now that I’m a big fan of Linn’s writing so it’s fairly obvious that I couldn’t wait to get my hands on her latest book.
Once again I was hit by the personal touch that this author always seems to express in her writing. It made me feel like I already knew Maddie and, as she yelled at her sat nav in the opening chapter (something I’ve done many times), I knew she would be a character I took to heart. As each disaster happened, Maddie’s exasperation was palpable. I really felt for her as, one by one, her plans went all wrong.
Lewis was certainly a feisty character, he was a bit of a grump at times but for me that just made him more interesting because I wanted to know why he behaved like that. His moodiness around Maddie created such a tense atmosphere, so much so that I could almost feel the awkwardness sparking off the page at me.
The military element was fascinating, it gave some parts of the storyline a gritty, edgy feel – I liked the combination of a beautiful country cottage with images of war and all the suffering that goes alongside it. The cottage itself sounded wonderful to me, as I was reading I found myself picturing the views so vividly thanks to the clear descriptions. This book has a strong visual side – you just can’t help but see everything playing out in your mind.
Towards the end the storyline took an unexpected direction and this totally threw all my predictions out of the window. I found myself frowning at my Kindle because what was happening in front of me just wasn’t what I had hoped for! Then came another twist that I hadn’t seen coming so at that point I decided to give up trying to guess the ending.
This was a picturesque read with an edgy twist and plenty of surprises to keep you on your toes!
Once again I was hit by the personal touch that this author always seems to express in her writing. It made me feel like I already knew Maddie and, as she yelled at her sat nav in the opening chapter (something I’ve done many times), I knew she would be a character I took to heart. As each disaster happened, Maddie’s exasperation was palpable. I really felt for her as, one by one, her plans went all wrong.
Lewis was certainly a feisty character, he was a bit of a grump at times but for me that just made him more interesting because I wanted to know why he behaved like that. His moodiness around Maddie created such a tense atmosphere, so much so that I could almost feel the awkwardness sparking off the page at me.
The military element was fascinating, it gave some parts of the storyline a gritty, edgy feel – I liked the combination of a beautiful country cottage with images of war and all the suffering that goes alongside it. The cottage itself sounded wonderful to me, as I was reading I found myself picturing the views so vividly thanks to the clear descriptions. This book has a strong visual side – you just can’t help but see everything playing out in your mind.
Towards the end the storyline took an unexpected direction and this totally threw all my predictions out of the window. I found myself frowning at my Kindle because what was happening in front of me just wasn’t what I had hoped for! Then came another twist that I hadn’t seen coming so at that point I decided to give up trying to guess the ending.
This was a picturesque read with an edgy twist and plenty of surprises to keep you on your toes!
January 3, 2022
La copertina di questo libro è meravigliosa e pure il titolo...peccato che non c'entrino nulla con il libro. Non c'è nessun appuntamento sotto la neve, non c'è proprio nemmeno la neve!!! Tanta pioggia, questo si! Tant'è che provoca un'inondazione!
Infatti il titolo originale è 𝑨 𝑪𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒚.
Ero indecisa se consigliarlo o no perché per più di metà del libro è stata una lettura piacevole. Ogni tanto c'è anche il punto di vista maschile. Un'ambientazione da sogno, la rinascita della protagonista, un piccolo colpo di scena. Peccato per il finale sbrigativo e la poca aria natalizia. Delusione!
Consigliato: No
Ps:l'edizione che ho io ha 346 pagine!😉
Infatti il titolo originale è 𝑨 𝑪𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒚.
Ero indecisa se consigliarlo o no perché per più di metà del libro è stata una lettura piacevole. Ogni tanto c'è anche il punto di vista maschile. Un'ambientazione da sogno, la rinascita della protagonista, un piccolo colpo di scena. Peccato per il finale sbrigativo e la poca aria natalizia. Delusione!
Consigliato: No
Ps:l'edizione che ho io ha 346 pagine!😉
October 23, 2015
What a great book to settle in and enjoy with a tasty beverage while being carefree. I love this book, and I could read it over and over again. It is very good! What first drew me to it is the description of one Mr. Lewis Hart. Maddie thought that this "ex-soldier" was a neanderthal! I've met more than my fair share over the years. I just knew that they were going to butt heads, and I wanted a front row seat!
After finding out that her beloved husband was cheating on her with her best friend (I would have seriously hurt them both), Maddie makes a hasty offer on "Ash Cottage". After all, she did need a place to live. That is where Lewis comes in. Ash Cottage is in desperate need of repair; and Maddie was in desperate need of a handy man. Could the duo ever "work things out"?
The book had me wincing at times (anyone who has ever had work done on their homes could attest to this). More times than not, I laughed and loved this book. It is an absolute treat to take a much needed break from reality and read about someone who seems to have it much worse than my life ever could. Plus, there is so much that I could relate to that Maddie had to endure. Hence, I found much to laugh about.
I must very sincerely thank Harper Impulse UK and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book and to give my honest review. I really want to thank Ms. Halton for writing such a treasure. Now I have the perfect gift to buy my friends for Christmas this year. This book is a great "after the holidays" distressor as well! Any time is a good time to read this. I intend to do just that many more times, too. Did I mention I love this book?
After finding out that her beloved husband was cheating on her with her best friend (I would have seriously hurt them both), Maddie makes a hasty offer on "Ash Cottage". After all, she did need a place to live. That is where Lewis comes in. Ash Cottage is in desperate need of repair; and Maddie was in desperate need of a handy man. Could the duo ever "work things out"?
The book had me wincing at times (anyone who has ever had work done on their homes could attest to this). More times than not, I laughed and loved this book. It is an absolute treat to take a much needed break from reality and read about someone who seems to have it much worse than my life ever could. Plus, there is so much that I could relate to that Maddie had to endure. Hence, I found much to laugh about.
I must very sincerely thank Harper Impulse UK and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book and to give my honest review. I really want to thank Ms. Halton for writing such a treasure. Now I have the perfect gift to buy my friends for Christmas this year. This book is a great "after the holidays" distressor as well! Any time is a good time to read this. I intend to do just that many more times, too. Did I mention I love this book?
July 16, 2015
Maddie Brooks is delighted when she moves into her dream cottage. The cottage is the perfect place for her to begin her new life. The cottage needs a lot of work doing to it but Maddie can see the potential in the cottage to create a wonderful place for her to live and make the first step to the rest of her life.
Lewis Hart has a strong connection to the cottage. He feels sad he misses out on the chance to buy it for himself. Lewis was very close to the previous owner Aggie and he also had plans for the cottage. He finds himself employed by Maddie to help undertake the renovation work on the house.
Excited to begin her new life, Maddie moves in the cottage despite the mess and disruption while the repairs are been done. Things become even more difficult due to the work taking place over the Christmas holiday season and this and the winter causes more delays and complications to getting the cottage completed. Maddie soon gets use to having Lewis around and they become close, but when boundaries are crossed and confusion and communication cause more damage, will this be more complicated to fix and put back together than restoring the cottage?
A beautiful book by author Linn B. Halton. A wonderful, warm and romantic read. I liked that Maddie is a strong leading lady who knows what she wants out of life and is no longer afraid of doing things for herself and embracing a new life with a positivity and enthusiastic energy, when it could be so easily a sad situation. The location where the story is set too provides the heart of a well told and emotional love story.
Lewis Hart has a strong connection to the cottage. He feels sad he misses out on the chance to buy it for himself. Lewis was very close to the previous owner Aggie and he also had plans for the cottage. He finds himself employed by Maddie to help undertake the renovation work on the house.
Excited to begin her new life, Maddie moves in the cottage despite the mess and disruption while the repairs are been done. Things become even more difficult due to the work taking place over the Christmas holiday season and this and the winter causes more delays and complications to getting the cottage completed. Maddie soon gets use to having Lewis around and they become close, but when boundaries are crossed and confusion and communication cause more damage, will this be more complicated to fix and put back together than restoring the cottage?
A beautiful book by author Linn B. Halton. A wonderful, warm and romantic read. I liked that Maddie is a strong leading lady who knows what she wants out of life and is no longer afraid of doing things for herself and embracing a new life with a positivity and enthusiastic energy, when it could be so easily a sad situation. The location where the story is set too provides the heart of a well told and emotional love story.
August 13, 2015
I'm not quite sure when Haltons work became an 'insta-read' for me, but it's as I'm writing my review that I realise there wasn't a blurb for this book when I agreed to read it, there wasn't even a cover to entice me. Just an email asking if I'd be interested. I cant even say that I had nothing to read, my TBR list is out of control but I still jumped at the chance.
I love Haltons writing, her books are beautifully written, and this one especially just seems to ooze emotion. When Maddie walks in to Ash Cottage for the first time, I felt like she did.... I wanted her to have that cottage, even though I knew it was probably going to be more problematic than she wanted or expected. When she meets the very gruff Lewis for the first time, I too felt both annoyed and intrigued by him. When she was torn between staying at Ash Cottage and fleeing to warmth, I was there feeling it too, begging her to stay...
I love the interactions between the characters, not everyone is exactly how they portray themselves to everyone else and Maddie has a few surprises in store throughout this book. There are a few scenes I would have loved to have seen, but.... having taken some time to mull over my thoughts since finishing the book and I think Halton ended it perfectly. We don't need the answer to every thing placed in front of us. At the end of the book Maddie is so much stronger than she was when we first met her, almost a different person. She's learning to reach out for what she wants. And you cant ask for more than that...
I love Haltons writing, her books are beautifully written, and this one especially just seems to ooze emotion. When Maddie walks in to Ash Cottage for the first time, I felt like she did.... I wanted her to have that cottage, even though I knew it was probably going to be more problematic than she wanted or expected. When she meets the very gruff Lewis for the first time, I too felt both annoyed and intrigued by him. When she was torn between staying at Ash Cottage and fleeing to warmth, I was there feeling it too, begging her to stay...
I love the interactions between the characters, not everyone is exactly how they portray themselves to everyone else and Maddie has a few surprises in store throughout this book. There are a few scenes I would have loved to have seen, but.... having taken some time to mull over my thoughts since finishing the book and I think Halton ended it perfectly. We don't need the answer to every thing placed in front of us. At the end of the book Maddie is so much stronger than she was when we first met her, almost a different person. She's learning to reach out for what she wants. And you cant ask for more than that...
July 15, 2015
Well it was easy to love Maddie. I love that the author created a ‘real’ person with insecurities that are easy to identify with. Maddie has reached a milestone birthday and has accumulated the baggage that comes along with it, in the form of a cheating ex-husband. With the hurt still stinging and her children all grown up and leading their own lives, Maddie has reached a turning point when she wants to start living life her way. And she wants to live it in the adorably sweet cottage with the perfect view.
It seems to me that Maddies do-er-upper home, can be seen as a reflection on her life. Both need fixing with a bit of life injecting into them. Maddie is so invested in this property that she refuses to fail. Again, another reflection on her life? This is more than renovating walls.
Cute the cottage may be, but it proves to test Maddie to the limits when everything seems to go wrong. Lucky for her, Lewis Hart, is there to help, albeit grudgingly. He adds extra frost to an already damp and cold house. He obviously resents Maddie for some reason, and those reasons are revealed throughout the story with interesting POV changes, making you question who should be the one to bring the cottage to life. History and memories often get caught up in old walls – will love be there too?
An incredibly sweet read with a gentle romance.
It seems to me that Maddies do-er-upper home, can be seen as a reflection on her life. Both need fixing with a bit of life injecting into them. Maddie is so invested in this property that she refuses to fail. Again, another reflection on her life? This is more than renovating walls.
Cute the cottage may be, but it proves to test Maddie to the limits when everything seems to go wrong. Lucky for her, Lewis Hart, is there to help, albeit grudgingly. He adds extra frost to an already damp and cold house. He obviously resents Maddie for some reason, and those reasons are revealed throughout the story with interesting POV changes, making you question who should be the one to bring the cottage to life. History and memories often get caught up in old walls – will love be there too?
An incredibly sweet read with a gentle romance.
January 3, 2016
Won a copy of this in a Facebook competition
This was such a lovely comforting read! it was pure chick lit but not too sugary sweet. Maddie Brooks is looking to rebuild her life after her husband cheats on her with her so called best friend. With her sons being grown up she disappears to a lovely cottage in the countryside which she intends to modernise and start her life again. Running alongside her storyline is the story of Lewis who was very good friends with the previous owner of Ash Cottage, and had intended to buy the cottage for himself but fate conspired to keep him away at the crucial time. He ends up doing some building work for Maddie despite his obvious disappointment in losing the cottage he felt should be his.
The story goes along at a really good pace - doesn't feel rushed and there is instant empathy with Maddie and the struggles she's been through and how she is trying to move on with her life and regain her independence, and the problems that living in a rural area brings especially when the floods hit!
Highly recommended!!
This was such a lovely comforting read! it was pure chick lit but not too sugary sweet. Maddie Brooks is looking to rebuild her life after her husband cheats on her with her so called best friend. With her sons being grown up she disappears to a lovely cottage in the countryside which she intends to modernise and start her life again. Running alongside her storyline is the story of Lewis who was very good friends with the previous owner of Ash Cottage, and had intended to buy the cottage for himself but fate conspired to keep him away at the crucial time. He ends up doing some building work for Maddie despite his obvious disappointment in losing the cottage he felt should be his.
The story goes along at a really good pace - doesn't feel rushed and there is instant empathy with Maddie and the struggles she's been through and how she is trying to move on with her life and regain her independence, and the problems that living in a rural area brings especially when the floods hit!
Highly recommended!!
September 16, 2015
After divorce Maddie tries to find a place where she would live 'the rest of her life' without any man. And she does find it. The idyllic cottage in the country, which - at better look - proves not to be so idyllic after all. To top all that, she finds out, that after giving up men, she is pursuit by two - very different - men.
As hard as it is for her, she has to chose; between selling or staying and by making that decision, she decides about the right man for her too.
I enjoyed the story especially as the descriptions about the country side of the place I have heard so much about, but not yet managed to visit.
There is only one thing I missed in this novel - a little bit more about what the other party of the story has to say.
As hard as it is for her, she has to chose; between selling or staying and by making that decision, she decides about the right man for her too.
I enjoyed the story especially as the descriptions about the country side of the place I have heard so much about, but not yet managed to visit.
There is only one thing I missed in this novel - a little bit more about what the other party of the story has to say.
December 18, 2015
I enjoyed reading this novel very much and right up to the end was unsure and curious as to how the 'love interest' would work out! An interesting situation and likable main character, are both depicted with humour. I particularly liked the down-to-earth practical aspects of the story which brought a strong sense of reality to a romantic novel and the reader cannot help but empathise with Maddie in her struggle to overcome obstacles thrown her way, even if some of them are perhaps of her own making.
It is unusual the way the characters narrate their own story, in a sort of 'thinking aloud' way, and in the present tense which gives it all an emotional immediacy.
More please, Linn B Halton!
It is unusual the way the characters narrate their own story, in a sort of 'thinking aloud' way, and in the present tense which gives it all an emotional immediacy.
More please, Linn B Halton!
November 17, 2015
Linn B. Halton is a new-to-me author, and based on this book, I'd definitely read her work again. A Cottage in the Country is well-written and has a great mixture of fun and serious topics, as well as lashings of romance. It also had some twists I wasn't expecting. My only criticism is that I felt the ending was a tad rushed - I'm not giving anything away, but I would have liked to see the ending developed a bit more. Having said that, I'd still recommend this book and author to contemporary romance fans.
September 5, 2015
A lovely story set in a very wet village location! You really feel for new home-owner Maddie stuck in the floods just before Christmas with everything that could possibly go wrong going wrong! She does have a rather brooding, sexy handyman though! Will Maddie lose her heart to Lewis or will best-friend and would-be suitor Ryan win the day?
For fans of Katie Fforde. A gentle, feel-good story about self-belief and embracing seconds chances. Would highly recommend.
For fans of Katie Fforde. A gentle, feel-good story about self-belief and embracing seconds chances. Would highly recommend.
September 5, 2015
I couldn't completely loose myself in this book because I'd read a write up from the author that said the events portrayed in this book (not the characters though) were real, and in fact I remember that winter well for similar reasons. Having said that the book was good, well written and the characters were believable. You find yourself eager to know the secrets and yelling at the main character not to make a mistake - not saying any more, so I don't give it away.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews