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Willowbury #1
A Place to Call Home
When Charlie Thorpe met Holly Renton, they were not a match made in heaven…
Holly lives and works in the beautiful town of Willowbury in Somerset. An incorrigible optimist, she is determined to change the world for the better.
Charlie Thorpe on the other hand, is the ultimate pragmatist. As Willowbury’s new member of parliament, he has to be. While he’s determined to prove himself to the town, as far as Holly’s concerned, he’s just another politician on the make.
But when their paths cross again, it’s clear they’ve got more in common than they think. Can Holly and Charlie overcome their differences and work together, or are they destined to be forever on opposite sides? And why does Holly have a funny feeling she has met Charlie before…
Let Fay Keenan whisk you away to a world of glorious country views, unforgettable characters and once-in-a-lifetime love. Perfect for all fans of Fern Britton, Veronica Henry and Erica James.
Praise for Fay Keenan:
‘Guaranteed to put a spring in your step. Feel-good, frisky and great fun with a hearty dash of romance and intrigue.' Julie Houston
'Moving, funny, thoughtful and romantic. Bring on the next one!' Jenny Kane
332 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2019
310 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Fay Keenan
23 books121 followersFay Keenan lives and works in Somerset. When Fay is not chasing her children around or writing, she teaches English at a local secondary school. Fay writes ‘heart thumping romantic fiction’ and likes to cover subjects of interest in her novels, including UK Parliament, the Air Ambulance and the international cider making industry. Her novels explore relationships, country living and hopefully have a good sprinkling of escapism, too!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 23, 2020
This book is set in Somerset, an area I'm not personally very familiar with, but I completely fell in love with Willowbury and had to Google it to see if it was real or not! (It isn't). Fay Keenan has skilfully created a beautiful setting, given a strong vibe for the residents and I loved the festival details which made me feel like I was there. This is a gentle love story between shop owner Holly and new local MP, Charlie. Charlie is keen to make a positive impression on his constituents - and particularly Holly's family who have a vested interest in a cause he agrees to support - but is he a little too new to the role of MP and too green about how Parliament works to fulfil his promises? This story is written with warmth, humour and I also feel I learned a few things along the way which was lovely. I look forward to reading the next book in the Willowbury series
November 29, 2019
This is the first I have read by Fay Keenan and I will certainly be seeking out more of her work in the future, I liked her passionate and intelligent writing style, that combines real heart and a pleasurable and very enjoyable story.
Holly and Charlie, if ever there were a couple that shouldn’t be together then these two are it, honestly I was wondering how they were going get together as they are the complete opposite, yet those tantalising little burst of romance are well worth the wait and it does make for great reading as they manoeuvre there way to happily ever after.
This is far more than just a little village romance between two completely different fractions, it has a real hard edge to it which basically surrounds the subplot, the cause that Holly is fighting for and I really liked that element to it, I really won’t go into what that is, in this review, as I think it would be a major spoiler, but this book does raise awareness for this hugely important subject, but that is all your going to get from me, you need to read the book to know what I am hinting at.
I did think that it was a little too slow-paced for my liking, the beginning in particular did drag on for a bit too long as we got to know the character’s, as I said this is my personal view which is a real shame as I did enjoy the blossoming romance and the head-butting between Holly and Charlie, their heated conversations between the two of them are highly entertaining and shows just how passionate each of them are.
Overall this is a lovely and heartwarming story, that has a serious side hidden within the romance.
Holly and Charlie, if ever there were a couple that shouldn’t be together then these two are it, honestly I was wondering how they were going get together as they are the complete opposite, yet those tantalising little burst of romance are well worth the wait and it does make for great reading as they manoeuvre there way to happily ever after.
This is far more than just a little village romance between two completely different fractions, it has a real hard edge to it which basically surrounds the subplot, the cause that Holly is fighting for and I really liked that element to it, I really won’t go into what that is, in this review, as I think it would be a major spoiler, but this book does raise awareness for this hugely important subject, but that is all your going to get from me, you need to read the book to know what I am hinting at.
I did think that it was a little too slow-paced for my liking, the beginning in particular did drag on for a bit too long as we got to know the character’s, as I said this is my personal view which is a real shame as I did enjoy the blossoming romance and the head-butting between Holly and Charlie, their heated conversations between the two of them are highly entertaining and shows just how passionate each of them are.
Overall this is a lovely and heartwarming story, that has a serious side hidden within the romance.
December 7, 2019
"Is that a mouse in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?" Well, in Holly and Charlie's case, it turned out to be both.
Although it took a bit to warm up to this book, I found the further I read, the more enthralled I had become with 'The Weekender'. What a hidden gem! Charlie and Holly were just lovely as the politically-opposite couple. It is sweet, sensitive, tolerant, and forgiving. What was heralded as a story of romance, this tale also worked through Charlie's struggling conscience—choosing between his political ambitions or his principles. What a hero he came to be! It was a wonderful book, guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Fay Keenan for an ARC of 'The Weekender' in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Although it took a bit to warm up to this book, I found the further I read, the more enthralled I had become with 'The Weekender'. What a hidden gem! Charlie and Holly were just lovely as the politically-opposite couple. It is sweet, sensitive, tolerant, and forgiving. What was heralded as a story of romance, this tale also worked through Charlie's struggling conscience—choosing between his political ambitions or his principles. What a hero he came to be! It was a wonderful book, guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Fay Keenan for an ARC of 'The Weekender' in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
December 3, 2019
A family drama with a gentle romance between two unlikely individuals, who find they share more common beliefs than they thought. The setting in a small Somerset town is charming and realistic, and the political and social issues raised are integral to the story but resonate. This story has important messages but still manages to remain entertaining.
The pacing is slow, which takes a little getting used to but you do warm to the characters, once you get to know them. Similarly, the romance is realistically delivered in tantalising snippets, but they get there in the end.
Contemporary causes, family drama, and sweet romance are all found in this originally crafted story, with a relatable small town ethos.
I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The pacing is slow, which takes a little getting used to but you do warm to the characters, once you get to know them. Similarly, the romance is realistically delivered in tantalising snippets, but they get there in the end.
Contemporary causes, family drama, and sweet romance are all found in this originally crafted story, with a relatable small town ethos.
I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 24, 2019
A sweet book which made me smile at the romance between Holly and Charlie.
My first book by author Fay Keenan was a pleasure to read. The book started slow initially until Holly met Charlie and then their conversations make the book highly entertaining. The author’s writing brought out the charm of small town which was quite heartwarming.
Both Holly and Charlie were characterized quite well, they seemed like oil and water initially which made their banter all the more fun and humorous. The entire book was sweet and sensitive. Charlie was quite a great guy.
Overall, a sweet romantic read quite putting me in mood for Christmas.
My first book by author Fay Keenan was a pleasure to read. The book started slow initially until Holly met Charlie and then their conversations make the book highly entertaining. The author’s writing brought out the charm of small town which was quite heartwarming.
Both Holly and Charlie were characterized quite well, they seemed like oil and water initially which made their banter all the more fun and humorous. The entire book was sweet and sensitive. Charlie was quite a great guy.
Overall, a sweet romantic read quite putting me in mood for Christmas.
July 19, 2021
This is my first book by this author and I will be reading more such an easy read with great characters and the plot is very good and you get hooked in very quickly. Full of families heartbreak and fun and romance to and learning what comes first work or relationships.
Holly has her own shop and is close to her sister who has a child with an illness and she helps out. But when Charlie who is a local MP comes in to the shop she feels an attraction straight away. When she looks through some old photos she realises that she knew him from but will they fall for each other or will issues get in the way and can they make up or not and will they be happy.
Holly has her own shop and is close to her sister who has a child with an illness and she helps out. But when Charlie who is a local MP comes in to the shop she feels an attraction straight away. When she looks through some old photos she realises that she knew him from but will they fall for each other or will issues get in the way and can they make up or not and will they be happy.
January 14, 2020
Another true delight by Fay Keenan. This time we're taken to the Somerset village of Willowbury, where, quite clearly, we see two opposites do attract in Holly and Charlie.
Although this book covers a serious topic with Cystic Fibrosis, and involves politics - Charlie is one sexy politician, after all - do not be put off! It is so well done, you'll love every minute of the journey the author takes you on.
Although this book covers a serious topic with Cystic Fibrosis, and involves politics - Charlie is one sexy politician, after all - do not be put off! It is so well done, you'll love every minute of the journey the author takes you on.
May 28, 2020
A friend of mine raved about this book and, having just finished it, I can see why. This isn't your run-of-the-mill boy-meets-girl cliched romance (although, make no mistake, Charlie the politician sounds hot!). It is an intelligent, well-researched read that highlights sensitive issues in a way that makes you want to learn more. Really impressed with this lovely novel, and I can't wait to read more from Fay Keenan.
July 16, 2025
Found this book to be sweet and a nice palette cleanser
January 20, 2022
PLEASEEEE THE SCENE WITH THE MOUSE HAD ME DYING
October 6, 2021
I really enjoyed being back in Willowbury with Holly and Charlie it covered a very good cause as well.
September 18, 2021
This is the first book I've read by Fay Keenan and I really enjoyed it.
Set in the Somerset village of Willowbury, it is the story of local shop owner Holly Renton, and new local MP Charlie Thorpe.
Charlie is keen to make a good impression, on his local constituents, none more so than Holly and her immediate family, especially since they have a cause, which is very important to them, that Charlie agrees to lend his support to.
Is Charlie maybe just a little too new to politics, and more importantly Parliament, to be able to fulfil any of the promises he has made ?
It is clear that Holly and Charlie do have a lot in common, but Holly is very much the optimist, whilst Charlie is very pragmatic.
Will they forever be on opposing sides, or can they overcome their differences ?
Lovely story, gorgeous setting, if only it where real ! ( sadly it isn't ) looking forward to reading more by this author.
Set in the Somerset village of Willowbury, it is the story of local shop owner Holly Renton, and new local MP Charlie Thorpe.
Charlie is keen to make a good impression, on his local constituents, none more so than Holly and her immediate family, especially since they have a cause, which is very important to them, that Charlie agrees to lend his support to.
Is Charlie maybe just a little too new to politics, and more importantly Parliament, to be able to fulfil any of the promises he has made ?
It is clear that Holly and Charlie do have a lot in common, but Holly is very much the optimist, whilst Charlie is very pragmatic.
Will they forever be on opposing sides, or can they overcome their differences ?
Lovely story, gorgeous setting, if only it where real ! ( sadly it isn't ) looking forward to reading more by this author.
Read
February 24, 2021Holly lives and works in the beautiful town of Willowbury in Somerset. An incorrigible optimist, she is determined to change the world for the better.
Charlie Thorpe on the other hand, is the ultimate pragmatist. As Willowbury’s new member of parliament, he has to be. While he’s determined to prove himself to the town, as far as Holly’s concerned, he’s just another politician on the make.
But when their paths cross again, it’s clear they’ve got more in common than they think. Can Holly and Charlie overcome their differences and work together, or are they destined to be forever on opposite sides? And why does Holly have a funny feeling she has met Charlie before…
Fay Keenan is new to me but I enjoyed this so much I downloaded the second book in the series! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are well rounded and the story has the right balance between dialogue and scene setting. Given one of the main characters is an MP there is a fair amount of politics as well as describing the products that Holly sells, I felt neither character dominated. I would recommend this to anyone that has time to read two books in close succession :-)
Charlie Thorpe on the other hand, is the ultimate pragmatist. As Willowbury’s new member of parliament, he has to be. While he’s determined to prove himself to the town, as far as Holly’s concerned, he’s just another politician on the make.
But when their paths cross again, it’s clear they’ve got more in common than they think. Can Holly and Charlie overcome their differences and work together, or are they destined to be forever on opposite sides? And why does Holly have a funny feeling she has met Charlie before…
Fay Keenan is new to me but I enjoyed this so much I downloaded the second book in the series! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are well rounded and the story has the right balance between dialogue and scene setting. Given one of the main characters is an MP there is a fair amount of politics as well as describing the products that Holly sells, I felt neither character dominated. I would recommend this to anyone that has time to read two books in close succession :-)
December 3, 2019
A lovely story! Family, romance - and a more serious side to the tale.
Holly Renton has her own shop in Willowbury, Somerset and lives in the flat above. With a positive outlook on life, the only thorn in Holly's side is the illness her young nephew suffers from, and she supports her sister in any way she can. Into their lives comes newly elected MP Charlie Thorpe, idealistic and eager to help his constituents in any way he can. Holly has the distinct feeling that it's not the first time they've crossed paths . . .
Beautifully crafted, this is a story of romance, family and so very much more. Whilst there is a serious side, it is cleverly woven into the tale so the reader gets immersed in the ever-growing relationship between Holly and Charlie. There are lots of snippets of information about things I wasn't aware of beforehand, and it made for fascinating reading. A superb stand-alone story which left me surprised and delighted to see it is actually first in series! I wonder where it heads next? Certainly worth 4.5 stars, and a very enjoyable read it is too.
Holly Renton has her own shop in Willowbury, Somerset and lives in the flat above. With a positive outlook on life, the only thorn in Holly's side is the illness her young nephew suffers from, and she supports her sister in any way she can. Into their lives comes newly elected MP Charlie Thorpe, idealistic and eager to help his constituents in any way he can. Holly has the distinct feeling that it's not the first time they've crossed paths . . .
Beautifully crafted, this is a story of romance, family and so very much more. Whilst there is a serious side, it is cleverly woven into the tale so the reader gets immersed in the ever-growing relationship between Holly and Charlie. There are lots of snippets of information about things I wasn't aware of beforehand, and it made for fascinating reading. A superb stand-alone story which left me surprised and delighted to see it is actually first in series! I wonder where it heads next? Certainly worth 4.5 stars, and a very enjoyable read it is too.
May 7, 2021
This is the first ‘Fay Keenan’ book I have read. I was loving this story, as it was very interesting, romantic, young love, and I was looking forward to reading more until..... I got to a part of the story which ruined it for me (hence the 4 stars). Yes, a child’s health is of utmost importance, but when you are new to a particular role, you can’t always go in, guns blazing. If you are a rookie, you listen to more experienced workers and take direction from them. I thought Holly’s attitude (and Rachel’s) towards Charlie, when he explained that he had to back off from fighting the cause, was disgusting! Charlie did try!! When he knew he could go ahead and continue to fight, he did! Had Charlie been told to back off, otherwise he would lose his chances of progressing in his role, Holly would’ve ditched him, for sure. The reason for them being together was all due to fighting the cause. I commend the author for raising awareness of Cystic Fibrosis, but to conclude, this wasn’t a true love story for me.
December 2, 2019
This was my first Fay Keenan book and I am happy to say I will be reading more from this lovely author who writes intelligently and with true passion. This is a romance and more. When I first read it featured a politician I was hesitant to read it due to the current political situation in the UK but I am glad I gave it a chance. It was a pleasant and enjoyable story.
The author gives us a story set in a charming little village with so many lovely characters and a sprinkling of seriousness too. I prefer a faster paced story but sometimes it is nice to slow down and read a heartwarming tale. Overall this was a sweet, sensitive and enjoyable read which will get you in the mood for romance.
My sincere thanks to Boldwood Books for an advanced readers copy and inviting me to join the blog tour of ‘The Weekender’ by Fay Keenan.
All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The author gives us a story set in a charming little village with so many lovely characters and a sprinkling of seriousness too. I prefer a faster paced story but sometimes it is nice to slow down and read a heartwarming tale. Overall this was a sweet, sensitive and enjoyable read which will get you in the mood for romance.
My sincere thanks to Boldwood Books for an advanced readers copy and inviting me to join the blog tour of ‘The Weekender’ by Fay Keenan.
All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
January 26, 2021
Brilliant story!! I absolutely loved Holly and Charlie and I thought they were amazing protagonists. They really appealed to me because they are strong-willed, flawed in some way, passionate, easy to love and relatable. Holly annoyed me for a tiny bit (which is why I'm giving it 4 stars rather than 5) but I could understand her perspective and her frustrations. Charlie is such a charming and inspiring character and I love his desire to fight for justice and for Harry. I loved the inclusion of Cystic Fibrosis, the increased awareness around the condition, and how it loosely originates from real life. It was clear Fay did her research around the disease and she did a fantastic job writing this book! Can't wait to read more of her stories. On to the next one :)
January 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this family drama which was set in the charming village of Willowbury in Somerset. A story of gentle romance, relationships but with a serious side too as it explores the story of a young politician starting out in his career highlighting the very important cause of drugs for the illness of Cystic Fibrosis. Highly entertaining with some funny moments. Well paced with characters who I could easily identify with.
A perfect book for a relaxing weekend on the sofa or holiday read. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
A perfect book for a relaxing weekend on the sofa or holiday read. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
December 1, 2019
This book is much more than a romance story. It is also a story of a young politician starting his career, a story of him fighting for funding for a drug for a chronic condition affected by so many.
The topic is very current as this has been in the news in recent weeks.
There are so many likeable characters in this book.
Overall this book is a lovely romance which has a serious and moral story in its midst.
The topic is very current as this has been in the news in recent weeks.
There are so many likeable characters in this book.
Overall this book is a lovely romance which has a serious and moral story in its midst.
December 2, 2019
Funny, Romantic and lovable characters
Fell in love with the main characters from the start. Laughed out loud at the mouse scene...this book would work well on the screen. It highlights important issues and entertains and it certainly is a romance that sizzles...highly recommend. Can’t wait for the next one in series.
Fell in love with the main characters from the start. Laughed out loud at the mouse scene...this book would work well on the screen. It highlights important issues and entertains and it certainly is a romance that sizzles...highly recommend. Can’t wait for the next one in series.
March 27, 2020
Brilliant
What can I say but one word amazing. I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know the characters, smithereens storyline and one which gets you hooked from start to finish. Can't wait for the next one. Such a talented author. Well done Fay yet again and keep them coming.
What can I say but one word amazing. I enjoyed reading this book and getting to know the characters, smithereens storyline and one which gets you hooked from start to finish. Can't wait for the next one. Such a talented author. Well done Fay yet again and keep them coming.
February 1, 2021
Predictable but good story
The story has its ups and downs. We know what's going to happen with Charlie and Holly. It's rather predictable. But what's good to read is that good people in the government can bring about change that's important and life-changing for everyone.
The story has its ups and downs. We know what's going to happen with Charlie and Holly. It's rather predictable. But what's good to read is that good people in the government can bring about change that's important and life-changing for everyone.
May 16, 2021
Little did I realise that this story is based around the campaign to get the new Cystic Fibrosis (CF) drug commissioned on the NHS. CF is very close to my heart and this campaign is something I made a small contribution too.
June 16, 2021
A good story with an underlying twist about the fight to get new drugs licensed for CF. Have an interest here as a family member has this terrible disease. I did lobby my MP to get funding for the new drugs.
June 16, 2021
I really liked this book but I wouldn’t give it a 5 stars
In the beginning I really loved it but it got a little boring around the middle and got better around the end
I lovedddd the relationship and I REALLY connected to the characters which I loved
In the beginning I really loved it but it got a little boring around the middle and got better around the end
I lovedddd the relationship and I REALLY connected to the characters which I loved
September 6, 2021
Really good story. Loved the characters and setting. Charlie and Holly’s meet again after 15 years story had all the ingredients to keep you hooked!
December 27, 2020
It seemed that the fight for illness was the only reason they could be together. She was being unreasonable at times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2021
Adorable story with a purpose. Really enjoy Fay Keenan's works.
March 7, 2023
This book was ok. I really like how it tackles the issues around cystic fibrosis and how it really brings the challenges to light of those living with the condition and also their families. I grew up with a girl who had the condition and unfortunately she died when we were 18. What I remember vividly is that when she was poorly m, she was really poorly. I don’t know if this book is in anyway realistic as to treatments available now, as it was many years ago, but I’d like to think so. I also enjoyed the story of the couple and it was quite sweet but in my opinion the whole thing g of them meeting 15 years before made no sense what so ever and was just a quirk for the sakes of it, it added nothing. I also thought at times that the loves scenes got unnecessarily graphic at points and not in others and it just wasn’t needed and actually just didn’t go with the time of the rest of the book. Without that it would have just been a 4, but a bit off putting so a 3 from me.
November 23, 2022
Sweet tale of Holly who owns a store specializing in herbal remedies. Her sister Rachel and Rachels son Harry who is suffering from cystic fibrosis. Then along comes Charlie their local MP who wants to help get drugs that Harry and others with cf need but is on hold with the British government. It’s a good read and thoroughly enjoyable with very likeable characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews