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Cornish Hearts #3
The Christmas Tea Shop at Rosewood
There’s nothing a good cup of tea can’t fix.
Fran Gandolfini can’t help taking in strays; with four dogs, five cats and two bearded dragons, she refuses to give up on a creature in need. The only thing Fran has given up on, in fact, is her love life.
Moving from the city to Penhallow Sands to work in the Tea Shop, Ethan Clarke hopes he’s made the right choice for his daughter, Tilly.
Ethan’s past means he struggles to trust people. Just as Fran starts to change that, a life-changing secret that she’s keeping for a friend causes a rift between them. Fran can’t tell Ethan the truth, but she hates lying to him more. It’ll take a Christmas miracle to set things right...
A festive romance set in Cornwall and perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Phillipa Ashley.
320 pages, Paperback
Published September 3, 2020
37 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Darcie Boleyn
33 books196 followersDarcie Boleyn has a huge heart and is a real softy. She never fails to cry at books and movies, whether the ending is happy or not. Darcie is in possession of an overactive imagination that often keeps her awake at night. Her childhood dream was to become a Jedi but she hasn’t yet found suitable transport to take her to a galaxy far, far away. She also has reservations about how she’d look in a gold bikini, as she rather enjoys red wine, cheese and loves anything with ginger or cherries in it – especially chocolate. Darcie fell in love in New York, got married in the snow, rescues uncoordinated greyhounds and can usually be found reading or typing away on her laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 18, 2019
Fran, the local artist- dog mum- Holly’s best friend- happily single and independent helps Holly cover a secret which could throw a spanner in the works when she meets Ethan. Ethan is a single dad, burned by his ex, and wants nothing more than to settle down. Enter a lot of drama and laughs along the way.
Everything about Darcie’s books exudes happiness and a fantastic feel good vibes. I have binged the three Cornish Hearts books and each one was perfect.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Everything about Darcie’s books exudes happiness and a fantastic feel good vibes. I have binged the three Cornish Hearts books and each one was perfect.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
November 18, 2019
Just a little tip I highly recommend that you read book The House at Greenacres first before reading this one as they are linked and reading them both in order as I did, has made me enjoy them so very much.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest story written by Darcie, getting to know characters Fran and Ethan as well as Ethan's little girl Tilly who is a true joy and comes out with the most unexpected words/phrases, I just adored her. I also fell in love with all of Fran's animals especially the little Westie, it's just delightful how Darcie writes each animal into the story and gives them their own part to play.
Another thing that I absolutely loved about this story was getting to be reacquainted with previous characters Holly and Rich, just wonderful getting to see how they were doing and total bonus, the big news and one event that happens with them in this latest book. It just added something extra to the story.
So last words, there was plenty going on in the story, lots of heartfelt moments, some emotional scenes, as well as some laugh out loud moments. It made for a very enjoyable read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest story written by Darcie, getting to know characters Fran and Ethan as well as Ethan's little girl Tilly who is a true joy and comes out with the most unexpected words/phrases, I just adored her. I also fell in love with all of Fran's animals especially the little Westie, it's just delightful how Darcie writes each animal into the story and gives them their own part to play.
Another thing that I absolutely loved about this story was getting to be reacquainted with previous characters Holly and Rich, just wonderful getting to see how they were doing and total bonus, the big news and one event that happens with them in this latest book. It just added something extra to the story.
So last words, there was plenty going on in the story, lots of heartfelt moments, some emotional scenes, as well as some laugh out loud moments. It made for a very enjoyable read.
November 16, 2019
My word this book was brilliant from the first page I was totally hooked and brilliant characters and the plot is fantastic. Such an outstanding read and a great Christmas story full of romance and friendships and keeping secrets and of course plenty about the teashop to.
Ethan is going to be the chef at the tea shop and he's moved to the village with his daughter Tilly and he hopes to start afresh with her and settle down with her. He really hopes he's made the right choice for him and his daughter. In the village Fran lives with all her animals and is an artist but her best friend is out with Fran and learns she's pregnant but she doesn't want to tell anyone and puts the pregnancy test quickly in Fran's bag but when it rolls out on the fall people see it says pregnant so guess that it's Fran and she promises to keep it a secret and act as if it's hers. Problem is she never dreamt she would get close to both Ethan and his daughter and he's always had problems with trusting people. Will she be able to come clean to him and will he be able to forgive her or not. He's also promised he will open the tea shop on Christmas day for the lonely and will that be a success to. Many secrets to come out and will a romance fall flat or not.
Ethan is going to be the chef at the tea shop and he's moved to the village with his daughter Tilly and he hopes to start afresh with her and settle down with her. He really hopes he's made the right choice for him and his daughter. In the village Fran lives with all her animals and is an artist but her best friend is out with Fran and learns she's pregnant but she doesn't want to tell anyone and puts the pregnancy test quickly in Fran's bag but when it rolls out on the fall people see it says pregnant so guess that it's Fran and she promises to keep it a secret and act as if it's hers. Problem is she never dreamt she would get close to both Ethan and his daughter and he's always had problems with trusting people. Will she be able to come clean to him and will he be able to forgive her or not. He's also promised he will open the tea shop on Christmas day for the lonely and will that be a success to. Many secrets to come out and will a romance fall flat or not.
December 15, 2022
This book was enjoyable but not memorable for me. It felt middle the road for me as far as a romance goes. I’ll start with the pros of this story, I really enjoyed how Ethan relationships with his daughter Tilly as a single father was. I also enjoyed how this book emphasized what Christmas is really about, which is relationships and how coming together as a small community can help people who are lonely during the holidays. I really enjoyed the holiday moments in here such decorating a tree, Christmas dinner, Christmas shopping, and drinking hot chocolate. I liked Fran’s character but I felt like she was a pushover and I felt bad for her that she had a friend like Holly. Fran lying that she was pregnant for Holly because Holly didn’t want the news to overshadow her wedding and cause her grandma to be overexcited after recovering from the flu was not a great plot drive. I don’t know how giving good news to her grandma would affect her health, that doesn’t make sense.. anyways Fran lying to everyone to “protect” her friend ultimately staggered growth between her and Ethan’s possible romantic relationship. This cause the book to be very middle of the road for me and ultimately the romance fell flat for me. I will try other books in this series because the author does write really well for a small town settings and cozy vibes.
December 30, 2025
If you’re craving all the small-town, Hallmark vibes this holiday season, The Christmas Tea Shop at Rosewood delivers in the sweetest way. From the festive setting to the cheerful pacing, this story felt like a warm cup of cocoa on a snowy afternoon.
The family in this book was absolutely adorable. I especially loved the supportive dad who would do anything for his daughter. His devotion added so much heart to the story, and he quickly became my favorite character.
And let’s talk Christmas galore! The holiday spirit is drizzled throughout every page, from twinkling lights to cozy tea shop moments and heart-melting seasonal traditions. It’s exactly the kind of read that puts you in a festive mood and keeps you smiling.
Overall, this was a joyful, heartwarming read that hit all the right notes. Perfect for anyone looking for comfort, cheer, and a little Christmas magic. 🎄✨
The family in this book was absolutely adorable. I especially loved the supportive dad who would do anything for his daughter. His devotion added so much heart to the story, and he quickly became my favorite character.
And let’s talk Christmas galore! The holiday spirit is drizzled throughout every page, from twinkling lights to cozy tea shop moments and heart-melting seasonal traditions. It’s exactly the kind of read that puts you in a festive mood and keeps you smiling.
Overall, this was a joyful, heartwarming read that hit all the right notes. Perfect for anyone looking for comfort, cheer, and a little Christmas magic. 🎄✨
July 14, 2021
Ok book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2022
Cute but I was getting so riled up with everyone thinking they could comment unsolicited on the pregnancy and what was best for her. I was also riled up because SHE COULD HAVE TOLD HIM. She did not have to wait so long 😂
November 9, 2019
The more books I read from Darcie, the more I love her! She's fantastic at writing sweet, sassy, funny stories with gorgeous settings and great characters.
The dialogue flows perfectly and the conversations are just a joy to read, so much so that you become completely engrossed and feel a part of them.
Fran, Ethan and (especially) little Tilly are amongst the sweetest characters I've read in a long time and I loved watching their story unfold. I also loved the dynamics with Holly, Audrey and the rest of the gang.
Oh, and please will someone buy me a place just like Rosewood Tea Shop??
The dialogue flows perfectly and the conversations are just a joy to read, so much so that you become completely engrossed and feel a part of them.
Fran, Ethan and (especially) little Tilly are amongst the sweetest characters I've read in a long time and I loved watching their story unfold. I also loved the dynamics with Holly, Audrey and the rest of the gang.
Oh, and please will someone buy me a place just like Rosewood Tea Shop??
October 30, 2019
A lovely Christmas read, I enjoyed returning to Penhallow again and to the familiar cast of characters, especially Rich and Holly. This time it’s Fran, Holly’s friend and a misunderstanding about who is pregnant causes a whole lot of drama. It’s the usual adorable Darcie and I love a good Darcie book, fun, flirty and in this case festive. The only criticism I’d make is that I think the misunderstanding was stretched a little too long in this one, but only minor. It’s still an enjoyable and addictive read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
October 26, 2019
Such an adorable Christmas read, I liked the kind character of Fran and I was extremely intrigued to see how long she would be able to keep her secret and what the outcome of her revelations would be.
It was interesting to have a slightly different type of male character, Ethan showed his vulnerable side and this encouraged me to read on , to see if his anxieties and barriers could be resolved and that he could let other’s in to his small family unit.
A real heartwarming story that brings the true meaning of Christmas to the fore front. I loved the community feel, especially the Christmas dinner part.
It’s my first book by this entertaining author, it certainly won’t be my last! ❤️🎄💜🎁
It was interesting to have a slightly different type of male character, Ethan showed his vulnerable side and this encouraged me to read on , to see if his anxieties and barriers could be resolved and that he could let other’s in to his small family unit.
A real heartwarming story that brings the true meaning of Christmas to the fore front. I loved the community feel, especially the Christmas dinner part.
It’s my first book by this entertaining author, it certainly won’t be my last! ❤️🎄💜🎁
October 10, 2019
The Christmas Tea Shop at Rosewood by Darcie Boleyn and the 3rd book in the Cornish Hearts series, and my first book by this author. I found this book to be a delightful, romantic love story involving Fran, who has given up on her love life, and Ethan a single father. If your looking for looking for a lift your spirit Christmas story, than I recommend this book to you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
October 4, 2020
This had potential to be a 4-star read for me, but unfortunately I have a hard time sympathizing with characters who deceive their potential partner without a much better reason than this story has, and get into trouble as a result. There is almost always a better alternative than deception.
January 5, 2021
it was a good story, but sometimes I found it repetitive particularly about emotions and why things couldn't work... it was a bit off putting at times. I did enjoy the story. The authors style hung me up a bit.
April 3, 2021
Sorry everyone,I know this has good reviews but it was naff !
April 20, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #thechistmasteashopatrosewood
#netgalley
Fran, single and perfectly happy, is best friends with Holly who owns Greenacres vineyard. Recently Holly has been feeling ever more nauseous so Fran persuades her to take a pregnancy test. POSITIVE! What is she going to do, her grandmother Glenda is unwell and will her soon to be husband Rich be pleased? Holly quickly gives Fran the test to hold. Fran goes to pay and her bag gets stuck throwing the contents everywhere. There on the floor in front of the new handsome chef Ethan, is a positive pregnancy test! How will Fran get out of this predicament ? Will Holly persuade Fran she can let herself love!
The teashop on the cover drew me to this book. I then noticed the author and realised it was the third in he Cornish hearts series. Having read and enjoyed The cottage at plum tree Bay. I was overjoyed to be back in Penhallow sands and to see Catherine and Mark still together. However you would not know this was part of a series when reading it This book makes a great stand alone book, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
The first quarter of the book was a slow start and the text felt very simple. However about the first few chapters (1/4 of the book) this subsided and in came a feeling chunkier text which in parts was poetically emotional. Once hitting this part the book is a page turner.
Ethan's raw and sensitive being makes you instantly want to wrap him up in cotton wool. Whilst confident and loving Fran makes you laugh, cry and hold your breath. You will definitely find yourself shouting at the book out loud. Helped along by very well placed dual perspective laced throughout.
Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as parents death, single father hood, loneliness and mental health I do not feel this takes away from the romantic feel of the book. All of the characters have their own difficulties and this allows topics to be broached in a way that does not make the book too heavy.
Furthermore the first half of the book did not feel Christmassy. It was lacking the Christmas description. Meaning you had fantastic images that could have been placed anywhere. Eg I am reading this in the sun and my mind kept taking me to a summer
Penhallow sands. Which gave me a Shock when Christmas description was brought in halfway.
Please continue the series!
#netgalley
Fran, single and perfectly happy, is best friends with Holly who owns Greenacres vineyard. Recently Holly has been feeling ever more nauseous so Fran persuades her to take a pregnancy test. POSITIVE! What is she going to do, her grandmother Glenda is unwell and will her soon to be husband Rich be pleased? Holly quickly gives Fran the test to hold. Fran goes to pay and her bag gets stuck throwing the contents everywhere. There on the floor in front of the new handsome chef Ethan, is a positive pregnancy test! How will Fran get out of this predicament ? Will Holly persuade Fran she can let herself love!
The teashop on the cover drew me to this book. I then noticed the author and realised it was the third in he Cornish hearts series. Having read and enjoyed The cottage at plum tree Bay. I was overjoyed to be back in Penhallow sands and to see Catherine and Mark still together. However you would not know this was part of a series when reading it This book makes a great stand alone book, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art.
The first quarter of the book was a slow start and the text felt very simple. However about the first few chapters (1/4 of the book) this subsided and in came a feeling chunkier text which in parts was poetically emotional. Once hitting this part the book is a page turner.
Ethan's raw and sensitive being makes you instantly want to wrap him up in cotton wool. Whilst confident and loving Fran makes you laugh, cry and hold your breath. You will definitely find yourself shouting at the book out loud. Helped along by very well placed dual perspective laced throughout.
Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as parents death, single father hood, loneliness and mental health I do not feel this takes away from the romantic feel of the book. All of the characters have their own difficulties and this allows topics to be broached in a way that does not make the book too heavy.
Furthermore the first half of the book did not feel Christmassy. It was lacking the Christmas description. Meaning you had fantastic images that could have been placed anywhere. Eg I am reading this in the sun and my mind kept taking me to a summer
Penhallow sands. Which gave me a Shock when Christmas description was brought in halfway.
Please continue the series!
January 10, 2026
There’s nothing a good cup of tea can’t fix — and this book proves it.
The Christmas Tea Shop is the kind of cozy, heartwarming read that feels like a warm hug during winter. Set in the charming village of Penhallow Sands, the story beautifully captures the magic of small-town life, where people show up for each other, especially during moments of loneliness.
Fran Gandolfini is a genuinely kind and compassionate character who can’t resist helping anyone in need — animals or people. Ethan Clarke, a single father trying to rebuild his life for the sake of his daughter Tilly, brings emotional depth to the story. Their slow-burn romance felt natural and comforting, with just the right amount of tension caused by secrets and misunderstandings.
The side characters truly shine. Tilly is an incredibly sweet and intelligent child, and Audrey adds a warm, motherly presence that makes the village feel even more alive. I loved how the story focused not just on romance, but also on found family, healing, and standing by one another during difficult times — especially at Christmas.
And the tea and food descriptions? Absolutely delightful. Every chapter made me crave a warm drink and a slice of cake, which only added to the cozy reading experience.
Overall, this is a feel-good Christmas romance that’s perfect for readers who love small-town settings, gentle love stories, and festive vibes. A comforting, cozy read that I’d happily recommend for winter nights.
The Christmas Tea Shop is the kind of cozy, heartwarming read that feels like a warm hug during winter. Set in the charming village of Penhallow Sands, the story beautifully captures the magic of small-town life, where people show up for each other, especially during moments of loneliness.
Fran Gandolfini is a genuinely kind and compassionate character who can’t resist helping anyone in need — animals or people. Ethan Clarke, a single father trying to rebuild his life for the sake of his daughter Tilly, brings emotional depth to the story. Their slow-burn romance felt natural and comforting, with just the right amount of tension caused by secrets and misunderstandings.
The side characters truly shine. Tilly is an incredibly sweet and intelligent child, and Audrey adds a warm, motherly presence that makes the village feel even more alive. I loved how the story focused not just on romance, but also on found family, healing, and standing by one another during difficult times — especially at Christmas.
And the tea and food descriptions? Absolutely delightful. Every chapter made me crave a warm drink and a slice of cake, which only added to the cozy reading experience.
Overall, this is a feel-good Christmas romance that’s perfect for readers who love small-town settings, gentle love stories, and festive vibes. A comforting, cozy read that I’d happily recommend for winter nights.
December 12, 2020
This cover buy was such a cute Christmas read. Set in the small English, sea side town of Penhallow Sands we follow the growing relationship of Fran and Ethan
Fran is an artist who surrounds her self with stray and rescue animals, including 4 dogs, 5 cats and some bearded dragons. Ethan is a divorced single father who has recently moved to the small town to be closer to his extended family and give his young daughter Tilly some stability. The connection between the two is instant and intense. But there a few hurdles in the way. One of the main ones being that due to a misunderstanding Ethan believes that Fran is pregnant. And Ethan is over cautious with his affections both to protect his daughter and having been left raw by her mother.
I loved Fran's fierce unending loyalty and independent streak. It was also very refreshing to have male protagonist with such a sensitive and vulnerable side. Over all it was a generally uplifting, heartfelt tale perfect for the holidays.
Fran is an artist who surrounds her self with stray and rescue animals, including 4 dogs, 5 cats and some bearded dragons. Ethan is a divorced single father who has recently moved to the small town to be closer to his extended family and give his young daughter Tilly some stability. The connection between the two is instant and intense. But there a few hurdles in the way. One of the main ones being that due to a misunderstanding Ethan believes that Fran is pregnant. And Ethan is over cautious with his affections both to protect his daughter and having been left raw by her mother.
I loved Fran's fierce unending loyalty and independent streak. It was also very refreshing to have male protagonist with such a sensitive and vulnerable side. Over all it was a generally uplifting, heartfelt tale perfect for the holidays.
January 18, 2020
I had read and enjoyed The House at Greenacres so I was looking forward to starting this one. I wasn't disappointed. I loved all of the characters and it was great to catch up with Holly and Rich and I also loved Fran's animals particularly her westie (being a westie owner myself). A story of relationships, family, community and friendships. Heartwarming and very funny in places.
This could be read as a standalone novel but I would recommend reading The House at Greenacres before this one and recommend both books.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
This could be read as a standalone novel but I would recommend reading The House at Greenacres before this one and recommend both books.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
November 21, 2025
Such a lovely read - The Christmas Tea Shop - Darcie Boleyn .
There’s nothing a good cup of tea can’t fix … even a hopeless love life .
Fran Gandolfini can’t help taking in strays ; with four dogs and five cats , she refuses to give up on a creature in need. The only thing Fran has given up on is her love life.
Moving to Penhallow Sands to work in the Tea Shop, Ethan Clarke hopes he’s made the right choice for his daughter , Tilly . He struggles to trust people , though Fran might be one person to change that.
But when a life- changing secret causes a rift, Fran can’t tell Ethan the truth even if it will fix everything .It will take a Christmas miracle to set things right …
There’s nothing a good cup of tea can’t fix … even a hopeless love life .
Fran Gandolfini can’t help taking in strays ; with four dogs and five cats , she refuses to give up on a creature in need. The only thing Fran has given up on is her love life.
Moving to Penhallow Sands to work in the Tea Shop, Ethan Clarke hopes he’s made the right choice for his daughter , Tilly . He struggles to trust people , though Fran might be one person to change that.
But when a life- changing secret causes a rift, Fran can’t tell Ethan the truth even if it will fix everything .It will take a Christmas miracle to set things right …
November 24, 2021
A festively perfect read, filled with friendship, love and plenty of Christmas vibes. I loved the friendship between Holly and Fran and the hilarity as a mixed up pregnancy test ensued. With the new arrival of Ethan and his young daughter Tilly, will Fran finally find love at last?
I really enjoyed this book (audiobook in my case) and loved going back to it whenever I took a break. The story was lovely and even though this one my first book in this series, I definitely want to go back and read over the others in the series!
Definitely need more!
I really enjoyed this book (audiobook in my case) and loved going back to it whenever I took a break. The story was lovely and even though this one my first book in this series, I definitely want to go back and read over the others in the series!
Definitely need more!
December 1, 2020
This was a real feel-good book for me, with the cats and dogs, arts and crafts, food, and country life. Of course, the storyline was somewhat predictable, but that's how it has to be, for us to enjoy it all the way! The characters were mostly very realistic, although some of the men were quite obviously written by a woman.. I had to go and buy scones, after drooling at the description of all the pastries and cakes!
Read
January 8, 2022 Leftover from my Christmas reading, but I read it anyway. For me it didn't feel right, some of the characters were making their own problems. Also, in my opinion, the emotional insights went on for far too long, I kept thinking an honest conversation could have solved this. I know others have enjoyed this book and I wanted to too, but it didn't work for me.
May 19, 2023
wonderful
I throughly enjoyed this great written book. It pulled you in from the first few pages. The characters, the story line and a well thought out story all played a part to make this very emotional as well as fun book.
I would throughly recommend this book to anyone who wants a story with various elements .
I throughly enjoyed this great written book. It pulled you in from the first few pages. The characters, the story line and a well thought out story all played a part to make this very emotional as well as fun book.
I would throughly recommend this book to anyone who wants a story with various elements .
January 2, 2025
2.75/5 This audiobook was just ok. I find it annoying when the protagonist’s love interest objects to something rather inane and or creates problems based on a perceived truth. This story differs somewhat from that usual mode of conflict but it’s equally annoying as it’s clearly a manufactured obstacle.
January 11, 2020
Great heartwarming story
Loved this story and the characters. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, which was about ordinary people and the relationships they had.
A full 5/5 for me.
Loved this story and the characters. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, which was about ordinary people and the relationships they had.
A full 5/5 for me.
November 5, 2020
The basic plot is fine, but the dialogue and characters did not work for me at all. I kept thinking I would "adjust" or it would get better but definitely should have DNF... at least it was a quick read.
December 26, 2020
What a wonderful book to get in the mood for Christmas! Fran is such an endearing heroine & Ethan obviously needs someone to love and to love him. Even better that it’s set in beautiful Cornwall at Christmas.
January 7, 2022
A lighthearted, happy ending romance.
I wish it had more of that romcom type feel to it, as it fits more firmly in romance alone, and I didn't love way Ethan's character was depicted - but that's just personal preference. An easy, happy, Saturday read. :)
I wish it had more of that romcom type feel to it, as it fits more firmly in romance alone, and I didn't love way Ethan's character was depicted - but that's just personal preference. An easy, happy, Saturday read. :)
January 8, 2022
A quick read, very predictable and at points had me groaning at Fran's predicament. It is part of the Cornish Wave (I call it) of books, where Cornwall is some idyllic utopia lol. But festive escapism and suited my Christmas break.
September 4, 2020
Excellent
Loved this book from start to finish would be great to have another in this series. Such an easy book to lose yourself in.
Loved this book from start to finish would be great to have another in this series. Such an easy book to lose yourself in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews