What do you think?
Rate this book
Food for Thought: Her Husband is Gay. She's Going to Need Carbs.
"The Daily Post has got hold of some pap shots of me. They’re fairly… damning.” What do you do when the person you love threatens everything you’ve worked for? Evelyn Macleod has spent a decade helping her husband, charismatic TV chef Seb Macleod, to become a household name. Now they’re riding high and enjoying the spoils of their success. When a tabloid forces Seb to come out as gay, Evelyn and her young son flee to a friend’s luxury resort in rural Kent. Sorrel Farm is the perfect place to hide out, decompress from her disciplined London lifestyle, and comfort-eat. The enforced break also throws into question everything that Evelyn has worked so hard for. Should she continue to chase the glittering heights of wealth and power in London? Or should she choose balance—and the chance to find love—in the beautiful English countryside? What readers are saying about Food for @book_off_im_reading on Instagram "I was entertained from start to finish by the world of celebrity in this book but what I loved most was the warm, witty and intelligent writing and the ending which left me smiling from ear to ear." @readwithlauren_ on Instagram "I thought this was a completely original and innovative storyline, nothing like I have read previously, yet one which completely had me immersed from the beginning. All of the characters were strong, which again is rare in a book I find. I felt for Evelyn having to deal with such a bombshell, however she is a complete boss woman and took it completely in her stride. A perfect escapism read, an absolute belter for a debut fiction novel." handwrittengirl.com "I loved this book, it’s packed with sass and humour and was a really fun story ... The story travels at a fun pace and with witty dialogue and great characters that make it so easy to absorb yourself into the story. Evelyn was a fantastic protagonist and was an inspiration to read ... An up lifting and fun story about love and life, ‘Food For Thought’ is an entertaining book that made for delicious reading." @littlemissbooklover87 via Instagram "This is an easy and fun read which is beautifully written. This book has definitely converted me as a fan of this author.The descriptions within the book are amazing, so much so, that I could imagine the mouthwatering deliciousness described within the pages. I absolutely cannot believe this is a debut novel, it has been a fantastic read which I can say nothing negative about. The characters are brilliant, we see some wonderful friendships within this book. The book is completely unique to anything I’ve read previously. I definitely have been converted to a fan of this author from reading this book. A definite five star read which I haven’t wanted to put down. I highly recommend this gem." @MADEUP_Group via Twitter "Something that I adored about this book was that it was full of business minded women with strong personalities of varying types, and yet remained a light and fun read from start to end. I often find with chick lit that it’s a bit frivolous and just that bit too ‘fluffy’ feeling. This is realistic and FUN, it keeps you engaged with the story and the people in it, within becoming heavy reading … The thing that surprised me with this, was that it did NOT feel like a Debut! The prose flowed perfectly, the story didn’t stutter or halt in places, I didn’t feel like any part of it wasn’t necessary … this was a wonderful story, perfect to immerse yourself in! Start to end it was enjoyable and surprising, and I can’t wait to see what else the author brings us!"
Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2021
About the author
Sara Madderson
18 books494 followersI like to change things up! I spent my 20s as a banker and my 30s bringing up small children and running my own fashion brand (Madderson London).
Now, aged 43, I find myself writing, and I wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.
I’ve always loved writing. My daughter Tilly has an old notebook of mine filled with half-finished stories and accompanying drawings. I’ve read for as long as I can remember, guzzling up books so quickly that my mum always protested that I couldn’t be reading them properly. You can see my original, dog-eared version of A Little Princess in my photo. Its protagonist, Sara Crewe, is one of my all-time favourite heroines (alongside Anne Shirley, naturally).
I published my first book, Metamorphosis, in February 2020, right before lockdown happened. It’s a non-fiction book about escaping from our cocoons and living as a butterfly. As lockdown progressed, I found escapism in devouring lots of delicious chick-lit (for want of a better title) and I realised I had a few novels in me too. I have loved every single minute of writing them.
I’ve published my books independently, and I love the freedom it provides. The world of independent publishing is fascinating and so empowering—I’m delighted to share more of my experiences of self-publishing if you’re interested.
Now, aged 43, I find myself writing, and I wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.
I’ve always loved writing. My daughter Tilly has an old notebook of mine filled with half-finished stories and accompanying drawings. I’ve read for as long as I can remember, guzzling up books so quickly that my mum always protested that I couldn’t be reading them properly. You can see my original, dog-eared version of A Little Princess in my photo. Its protagonist, Sara Crewe, is one of my all-time favourite heroines (alongside Anne Shirley, naturally).
I published my first book, Metamorphosis, in February 2020, right before lockdown happened. It’s a non-fiction book about escaping from our cocoons and living as a butterfly. As lockdown progressed, I found escapism in devouring lots of delicious chick-lit (for want of a better title) and I realised I had a few novels in me too. I have loved every single minute of writing them.
I’ve published my books independently, and I love the freedom it provides. The world of independent publishing is fascinating and so empowering—I’m delighted to share more of my experiences of self-publishing if you’re interested.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Read
October 27, 2021Food for Thought was my first novel, and if you’d asked me two months before I started writing it, I would have told you definitively that I did not have a novel in me. I’d written a self-help book, and wrote almost exclusively non-fiction, and only allowed myself to read fiction when I was on a sun lounger.
Fast forward to lock-down, where the self-help went out the window and I found myself eating gluten and drinking rosé (shock horror!). We had a gorgeous spring in the UK, and I would walk by the River Thames with my puppy, revelling in the abundance of cow parsley and forget-me-nots on the tow-path, trying very hard to imagine I wasn’t in London. My in-laws live in rural Kent (about twenty miles south of London as the crow flies) and May was my favourite month down there. I couldn’t believe we were missing nature’s party at my favourite time of year.
Because of all the panic buying, it was difficult to buy exciting fresh food, and I started to dream about a parallel universe, where a city creature escaped down to Kent and gorged herself on food and drink and learnt how to be kinder to herself. What possible crisis could propel her down there, I wondered?
At the beginning, Food for Thought wasn’t a romance. It was about a woman trying to understand what she wants from life; what’s important. I even wondered if her rift with her husband would be temporary. And then I dreamed up Angus. Dot, dot, dot, as Sophie from Mamma Mia would say. I knew I wanted her to find new love. And so I needed a rift in her marriage that would be clearly irreparable. A gay husband is a pretty safe deal-breaker.
In the UK, a famous TV presenter, Philip Schofield, came out as gay on his morning TV show after twenty-seven years of marriage. I wondered how on earth his wife had dealt with that blow, whether she had always secretly suspected, just how honest he’d been with her. And so my inciting incident was born, and I made the whole episode as excruciating and shambolic as possible. It was a lot of fun! And without giving away any spoilers, Evelyn does get her big, fat, happy ending with a bow on it (it turns out I have a weakness for big, fat happy endings. All my books have them).
Writing Food for Thought was a transformative process for me at a time when nothing in the world felt certain. I fell very, very hard for Angus, my first book boyfriend, and I adored the world I’d created at Sorrel Farm so much that I realised I needed to write more books set in that special place. Food for Thought now has two sequels which are also standalone novels: Heaven on Earth and When Then Becomes Now.
I hope you enjoy Food for Thought, and I hope reading it provides you with the respite that writing it did for me!
(And finally, if you're craving Sorrel Farm, I was inspired by the gorgeousness that is Soho Farmhouse and Daylesford so check out their IG feeds for some idyllic inspiration!)
GET IT FREE HERE!!! http://saramadderson.com/free-book/
Fast forward to lock-down, where the self-help went out the window and I found myself eating gluten and drinking rosé (shock horror!). We had a gorgeous spring in the UK, and I would walk by the River Thames with my puppy, revelling in the abundance of cow parsley and forget-me-nots on the tow-path, trying very hard to imagine I wasn’t in London. My in-laws live in rural Kent (about twenty miles south of London as the crow flies) and May was my favourite month down there. I couldn’t believe we were missing nature’s party at my favourite time of year.
Because of all the panic buying, it was difficult to buy exciting fresh food, and I started to dream about a parallel universe, where a city creature escaped down to Kent and gorged herself on food and drink and learnt how to be kinder to herself. What possible crisis could propel her down there, I wondered?
At the beginning, Food for Thought wasn’t a romance. It was about a woman trying to understand what she wants from life; what’s important. I even wondered if her rift with her husband would be temporary. And then I dreamed up Angus. Dot, dot, dot, as Sophie from Mamma Mia would say. I knew I wanted her to find new love. And so I needed a rift in her marriage that would be clearly irreparable. A gay husband is a pretty safe deal-breaker.
In the UK, a famous TV presenter, Philip Schofield, came out as gay on his morning TV show after twenty-seven years of marriage. I wondered how on earth his wife had dealt with that blow, whether she had always secretly suspected, just how honest he’d been with her. And so my inciting incident was born, and I made the whole episode as excruciating and shambolic as possible. It was a lot of fun! And without giving away any spoilers, Evelyn does get her big, fat, happy ending with a bow on it (it turns out I have a weakness for big, fat happy endings. All my books have them).
Writing Food for Thought was a transformative process for me at a time when nothing in the world felt certain. I fell very, very hard for Angus, my first book boyfriend, and I adored the world I’d created at Sorrel Farm so much that I realised I needed to write more books set in that special place. Food for Thought now has two sequels which are also standalone novels: Heaven on Earth and When Then Becomes Now.
I hope you enjoy Food for Thought, and I hope reading it provides you with the respite that writing it did for me!
(And finally, if you're craving Sorrel Farm, I was inspired by the gorgeousness that is Soho Farmhouse and Daylesford so check out their IG feeds for some idyllic inspiration!)
GET IT FREE HERE!!! http://saramadderson.com/free-book/
January 5, 2023
Rapturous!
Seb and Evelyn seem to have it all. A foodie empire built around Seb’s chef’s magnetism and Evelyn’s ambition, an adorable son, friends galore and a glamorous home and lifestyle. The only problem is Seb’s gay. When Evelyn’s life and marriage implodes because of Seb’s secret being revealed, she grabs their son and escapes to the country, to her beloved Sorrel Farm. Run by her childhood best friend and her wife, Sorrel Farm has been turned into an idyllic resort and sustainable biodynamic farm. Here is where Evelyn finds herself, among the animals, the gardens, and the exquisite farm to table food. And she also finds romance and love with farm manager, Angus! I loved the richly detailed narrative of this book, with the setting coming to life as I read. I thought this was a beautiful book!
Seb and Evelyn seem to have it all. A foodie empire built around Seb’s chef’s magnetism and Evelyn’s ambition, an adorable son, friends galore and a glamorous home and lifestyle. The only problem is Seb’s gay. When Evelyn’s life and marriage implodes because of Seb’s secret being revealed, she grabs their son and escapes to the country, to her beloved Sorrel Farm. Run by her childhood best friend and her wife, Sorrel Farm has been turned into an idyllic resort and sustainable biodynamic farm. Here is where Evelyn finds herself, among the animals, the gardens, and the exquisite farm to table food. And she also finds romance and love with farm manager, Angus! I loved the richly detailed narrative of this book, with the setting coming to life as I read. I thought this was a beautiful book!
January 23, 2022
Food for Thought was so charming that I read it in a day. Scratch that, I devoured it. I love some detailed location descriptions to help me visualize, but this really set the stage. I absolutely loved the description of Sorrel Farm, the food, the fashion, and more. It felt like a complete immersion into this idyllic locale.
Evelyn is a super successful business women, mother, and wife. She's got a full plate and what many would consider a gilded life with her celebrity chef husband Seb and eight year old son Eddie. She runs marketing for her husband's namesake business, of which she's a C suite executive and supremely successful in her own rite. Needless to say, everything comes crashing down when he husband is forced to publicly come out as gay. Evie had no idea and is completely blindsided. Now, she's got to manage this PR nightmare, figure out what's next for her working relationship with Seb, and decide how to minimize the impact on Eddie. She decides to escape to her friends' resort, Sorrel Farm, for a few weeks out of the spotlight. A little rest and rejuvenation are just what they need while she figures out what's next. Should Evie continue living the well to do life in London she's used to or take a chance on love in the countryside?
This was so fun. I loved all the foodie descriptions and Zoe and her kitchen reminded me so much of this show my husband and I have been watching on Magnolia Network called The Lost Kitchen. I absolutely adored this!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Evelyn is a super successful business women, mother, and wife. She's got a full plate and what many would consider a gilded life with her celebrity chef husband Seb and eight year old son Eddie. She runs marketing for her husband's namesake business, of which she's a C suite executive and supremely successful in her own rite. Needless to say, everything comes crashing down when he husband is forced to publicly come out as gay. Evie had no idea and is completely blindsided. Now, she's got to manage this PR nightmare, figure out what's next for her working relationship with Seb, and decide how to minimize the impact on Eddie. She decides to escape to her friends' resort, Sorrel Farm, for a few weeks out of the spotlight. A little rest and rejuvenation are just what they need while she figures out what's next. Should Evie continue living the well to do life in London she's used to or take a chance on love in the countryside?
This was so fun. I loved all the foodie descriptions and Zoe and her kitchen reminded me so much of this show my husband and I have been watching on Magnolia Network called The Lost Kitchen. I absolutely adored this!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 27, 2020
Meet Evelyn and Seb McLeod, the Beckhams of the food industry. Seb is a ingenious chef with an eye for detail and is easy on the eye. Evelyn is the brains behind their business, stunning, meticulous, precise and together they share eight year old Eddie.
One Friday morning Evelyn's world is shattered when pictures of Seb are released, photos of him outside a local gay bar. She is lost for words, feels sick and betrayed, the list is endless. The press will hold off in exchange for an in depth coming out interview.
She continues with her weekend plans and packs up Eddie and they head to her best friends farm, Sorrel Farm in Kent for the weekend. Jess and her wife Zoe are also in the food industry and provide Evelyn a place for her to think and process the information.
Back in London the interview goes well, better than expected but Evelyn is dealt further blows in relation to Seb's betrayals.
She collects Eddie and heads to the place that provides her with safety and calm, Kent. She immerses herself in getting the holiday let side of the business off the ground and gets a few other treats along the way.
This book is the perfect autumn read. It is romantic, funny, beautifully written and just gorgeous. I didn't want it to end.
It's a 5⭐ all the way.
One Friday morning Evelyn's world is shattered when pictures of Seb are released, photos of him outside a local gay bar. She is lost for words, feels sick and betrayed, the list is endless. The press will hold off in exchange for an in depth coming out interview.
She continues with her weekend plans and packs up Eddie and they head to her best friends farm, Sorrel Farm in Kent for the weekend. Jess and her wife Zoe are also in the food industry and provide Evelyn a place for her to think and process the information.
Back in London the interview goes well, better than expected but Evelyn is dealt further blows in relation to Seb's betrayals.
She collects Eddie and heads to the place that provides her with safety and calm, Kent. She immerses herself in getting the holiday let side of the business off the ground and gets a few other treats along the way.
This book is the perfect autumn read. It is romantic, funny, beautifully written and just gorgeous. I didn't want it to end.
It's a 5⭐ all the way.
April 12, 2023
Quote: ‘I have learnt that it’s not wise to marry someone who’s gay—unless, of course, you are gay too; then it works well,’ Evelyn said.
Everybody loves a good fall from grace so the paparazzi had a field day when Evelyn's celebrity husband Seb was photographed with his gay lover and he had to come out officially. This news came as quite a shock to Evelyn who had no idea and had explained their sporadic sex life as stress related. Their press relations person advises them to give an interview and present a united front. There's quite a bit of money at stake in their business empire -- but how far can she fake serenity and be unflappable in the middle of the emotional wreck she's in?
The story is interesting in all its ramifications. What would you do if...? How would you cope with such notoriety and betrayal of trust from someone you loved? The writing is high quality but this is written in a third person narrative and has a lot of description, food talk, scenery, flowers, clothing and that sort of thing which I think keeps a little distance between me and the characters. Some of it comes across a bit like promotional instagram captions. So many brand names got dropped it feels like product placement sometimes. If the devil wears Prada this book will tell you if it's current season.
And I guess I'm such a slacker that Evelyn was a little hard for me to relate with in some respects. She is very Type A, very driven, very ambitious, very high maintenance, at least in her Before the Fall-incarnation. She may have been overcompensating a little for the lack of passion in her marriage, projecting all her energy to work and her manic routines. She is the sort of person who reads books about productivity, guards her diet religiously, has a social media influencer strategy, and does yoga poses before 6 am. Sorry luv, I can't really identify with any of that, and I wouldn't know some of her fancy luxury lifestyle items from a fork in the road. If you wear white designer silks to see tractors on a farm we can't be friends.
But she relaxes a bit and tries to adopt a bit of a f**k-it attitude when she flees the attention to Sorrel Farm which is a gorgeous rural place with great food and beautiful scenery, getting more in touch with nature. She distracts herself from her pain, getting some ideas about how to boost the fame and popularity of the farm, and she has to decide how she wants her own life to change. One of the attractions at Sorrel Farm is farmer Angus. Their romance doesn't really start until later in the book so you've got to wait for it. Wait for it. Wait for it. Oh there you go. It's very cute when they get there but they take their sweet time. Genre-wise, this has more of a women's fiction story feel than the romance vibes Madderson's later books have.
Of course, the first instinct is always to hate the evil cheater husband, and Seb seems rather insensitive about the way he handles his outing and asks Evelyn to fake happiness and go on working with him. But Evelyn and Seb are mature enough to work things out relatively amicably and Seb comes up in some of Madderson's later books and has useful insights for other characters so maybe try to allow him to have some redeeming qualities, OK?
Word A Day Section: I learned what hoggets and habotai are.
Source: A freebie on Amazon.
TL;DR: A great story with too many brand names.
Everybody loves a good fall from grace so the paparazzi had a field day when Evelyn's celebrity husband Seb was photographed with his gay lover and he had to come out officially. This news came as quite a shock to Evelyn who had no idea and had explained their sporadic sex life as stress related. Their press relations person advises them to give an interview and present a united front. There's quite a bit of money at stake in their business empire -- but how far can she fake serenity and be unflappable in the middle of the emotional wreck she's in?
The story is interesting in all its ramifications. What would you do if...? How would you cope with such notoriety and betrayal of trust from someone you loved? The writing is high quality but this is written in a third person narrative and has a lot of description, food talk, scenery, flowers, clothing and that sort of thing which I think keeps a little distance between me and the characters. Some of it comes across a bit like promotional instagram captions. So many brand names got dropped it feels like product placement sometimes. If the devil wears Prada this book will tell you if it's current season.
And I guess I'm such a slacker that Evelyn was a little hard for me to relate with in some respects. She is very Type A, very driven, very ambitious, very high maintenance, at least in her Before the Fall-incarnation. She may have been overcompensating a little for the lack of passion in her marriage, projecting all her energy to work and her manic routines. She is the sort of person who reads books about productivity, guards her diet religiously, has a social media influencer strategy, and does yoga poses before 6 am. Sorry luv, I can't really identify with any of that, and I wouldn't know some of her fancy luxury lifestyle items from a fork in the road. If you wear white designer silks to see tractors on a farm we can't be friends.
But she relaxes a bit and tries to adopt a bit of a f**k-it attitude when she flees the attention to Sorrel Farm which is a gorgeous rural place with great food and beautiful scenery, getting more in touch with nature. She distracts herself from her pain, getting some ideas about how to boost the fame and popularity of the farm, and she has to decide how she wants her own life to change. One of the attractions at Sorrel Farm is farmer Angus. Their romance doesn't really start until later in the book so you've got to wait for it. Wait for it. Wait for it. Oh there you go. It's very cute when they get there but they take their sweet time. Genre-wise, this has more of a women's fiction story feel than the romance vibes Madderson's later books have.
Of course, the first instinct is always to hate the evil cheater husband, and Seb seems rather insensitive about the way he handles his outing and asks Evelyn to fake happiness and go on working with him. But Evelyn and Seb are mature enough to work things out relatively amicably and Seb comes up in some of Madderson's later books and has useful insights for other characters so maybe try to allow him to have some redeeming qualities, OK?
Word A Day Section: I learned what hoggets and habotai are.
Source: A freebie on Amazon.
TL;DR: A great story with too many brand names.
November 28, 2025
I really hate the subtitle. The book isn’t anti-queer, but the title makes it sound like Evelyn is a hater and a “Karen.” The book does have a problem with gay insensitivity, especially in the blurbage and how others refer to Seb’s gayness as being the disaster instead of his dishonesty, infidelity, and carelessness with his amazing wife.
Evelyn’s pain is not because Seb’s gayness is awful, but because his secret made her question her sense of herself as a perceptive, powerful, sexual woman in a long term and utterly committed relationship. His secrets collapsed her future, and damaged her leadership role in the company she built.
I loved reading about the genesis of Sorrel Farm because it’s featured in so many of Madderson/Hart’s later books.
But I honestly don’t know how she can forgive him for his carelessness of her. You really understand why he stayed in the closet when he was younger, but as an adult he comes off as entitled and oblivious to the pain he caused.
Evelyn’s pain is not because Seb’s gayness is awful, but because his secret made her question her sense of herself as a perceptive, powerful, sexual woman in a long term and utterly committed relationship. His secrets collapsed her future, and damaged her leadership role in the company she built.
I loved reading about the genesis of Sorrel Farm because it’s featured in so many of Madderson/Hart’s later books.
But I honestly don’t know how she can forgive him for his carelessness of her. You really understand why he stayed in the closet when he was younger, but as an adult he comes off as entitled and oblivious to the pain he caused.
September 26, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was a fabulous escape into a world of glamorous lifestyles, gorgeous food and a rural retreat – what’s not to love?
Evelyn seems to have the perfect life. She is rich, beautiful and successful. She lives in a stunning house in Holland Park, is married to handsome celebrity chef Seb Mcleod and is the mother to a darling eight-year-old son, Eddie. They are described as The Beckhams of the Food World. That is until a national newspaper threatens to out Seb as gay and throws a spanner in the works of her perfectly controlled life. Evelyn is devastated by these revelations, made worse by the fact that the whole world comes out in sympathy for Seb, while she is left forgotten. So she escapes to her best friend’s luxury resort, Sorrell Farm, to give her some precious time to think away from the paps.
Evelyn and Eddie adjust to a different pace of life on the farm. She learns to relax and enjoy spending quality time with Eddie and her friends. She falls in love with her surroundings and indulges in lots of previously forbidden wine and cake and she also catches the eye of handsome farmer Angus. However, she misses the bright lights of the big city and so Evelyn has some big decisions to make.
Evelyn’s best friend Jess runs the farm with her wife Zoe. I absolutely loved these characters, Jess is hysterical and a brilliant friend to Evelyn, the dialogue between these two is fantastic. Zoe’s passion for organic farming and cooking is a major theme in this story. The descriptions of the food and wine are exquisite and will have your mouth watering and tummy rumbling all the way through. Equally the descriptions of the farm and lifestyle at the resort are beautiful and envy inducing. I also really enjoyed a glimpse into the world of business, marketing and PR. A lot of the book is based around women in business and I loved these strong and successful female characters.
I was entertained from start to finish by the world of celebrity in this book but what I loved most was the warm, witty and intelligent writing and the ending which left me smiling from ear to ear.
Now I can’t wait to read Sara’s second book – Parents and Teachers
Evelyn seems to have the perfect life. She is rich, beautiful and successful. She lives in a stunning house in Holland Park, is married to handsome celebrity chef Seb Mcleod and is the mother to a darling eight-year-old son, Eddie. They are described as The Beckhams of the Food World. That is until a national newspaper threatens to out Seb as gay and throws a spanner in the works of her perfectly controlled life. Evelyn is devastated by these revelations, made worse by the fact that the whole world comes out in sympathy for Seb, while she is left forgotten. So she escapes to her best friend’s luxury resort, Sorrell Farm, to give her some precious time to think away from the paps.
Evelyn and Eddie adjust to a different pace of life on the farm. She learns to relax and enjoy spending quality time with Eddie and her friends. She falls in love with her surroundings and indulges in lots of previously forbidden wine and cake and she also catches the eye of handsome farmer Angus. However, she misses the bright lights of the big city and so Evelyn has some big decisions to make.
Evelyn’s best friend Jess runs the farm with her wife Zoe. I absolutely loved these characters, Jess is hysterical and a brilliant friend to Evelyn, the dialogue between these two is fantastic. Zoe’s passion for organic farming and cooking is a major theme in this story. The descriptions of the food and wine are exquisite and will have your mouth watering and tummy rumbling all the way through. Equally the descriptions of the farm and lifestyle at the resort are beautiful and envy inducing. I also really enjoyed a glimpse into the world of business, marketing and PR. A lot of the book is based around women in business and I loved these strong and successful female characters.
I was entertained from start to finish by the world of celebrity in this book but what I loved most was the warm, witty and intelligent writing and the ending which left me smiling from ear to ear.
Now I can’t wait to read Sara’s second book – Parents and Teachers
July 16, 2020
A lovely summer read!
Beautifully written, this book was a fun, easy summer read. I loved the wonderful descriptions of all the glorious food, wine & English countryside - escapism at its best!
Beautifully written, this book was a fun, easy summer read. I loved the wonderful descriptions of all the glorious food, wine & English countryside - escapism at its best!
September 24, 2020
From the outside Evelyn’s life is perfect. Married to celebrity chef Seb and CEO of his vast eponymous food empire, they are the Beckhams of the food world. Seb is charismatic, handsome and has the natural ability to make you feel like the only person in the room. Everyone adores him. He is the face of their business, the talent and is obsessed with celebrating only the best, freshest produce. Evelyn has spent years building the brand and steering it in a new direction. They work effortlessly as a team and are well matched in their work ethic. However things aren’t always as they seem are they dear reader? The tabloids have photos of Seb that threaten to expose the secrets and lies he has kept hidden from Evelyn for years. As he drops the bombshell onto her that he is gay Evelyn’s life explodes into chaos. She flees with their eight year old son Eddie to her friend Jess’ luxury resort in rural Kent, Sorrel Farm, for some much needed R and R. She begins to question everything she has worked hard for. Evelyn is now faced with the choice of returning to her fast-paced life in London and continuing to work with Seb. Or maybe, just maybe take a chance on love in the breathtaking countryside and rediscover herself.
The narrative is told in third person and follows Evelyn as she tries to make sense of Seb’s confession. Her world is shattered in seconds as Seb admits he was caught by photographers outside a gay club in Soho. They have been married for 9 years and he admitted that he cheats on her once a fortnight. He does his best to limit the damage by assuring her that her and Eddie are his real life and being gay is something he deals with privately on the side. He’s known since school that he was attracted to men but wanted to focus on his career. It’s a part of his life she’s never seen and he’s kept separate. Evelyn’s emotions are all over the place yet she is still focused enough to make the needed arrangements to find a solution so the business and their careers survive this ordeal. It is only once she is at Sorrel Farm, away from Seb and the stressful demands of her job that it sinks in. Soon the whole world will know her husband is gay. You feel for her and hope she doesn’t give up. It makes you feel angry on her behalf but also sad for Seb as he forced himself to hide who he really is. Sometimes honesty is the best policy, less people end up getting hurt and life is too short to pretend to be something you’re not.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Evelyn’s character development. When you first meet her it becomes clear pretty quickly that she is a hard working, organised woman. By the time it is 7:30am she has already completed a 30 minute bootcamp workout online, 20minutes of meditation practice, recited daily affirmations, read a chapter of a book on productivity, checked and answered emails, showered, blow-dried her hair, applied make-up, dressed and had a cup of coffee. Phew, just typing that is making me feel exhausted. She loves mornings as she views them as a fresh start. Each day can be approached with multiple opportunities. However with the unexpected collapse of her marriage Evelyn decides to adopt Jess’ ‘Fuck It’ philosophy. She begins indulging more in food and enjoying the results. During her stay at the farm she learns more about how they grow and prepare food. It’s inspiring to read her adapt a new approach to life and allow herself to enjoy the fruits it has to offer. She allows herself to finally surrender and accept the lie that was their marriage. It’s empowering and makes you fist pump the air for her bravery and strength.
The first meeting between Evelyn and Angus made me giggle. She feels an instant attraction to him as she tries to convince herself otherwise and stay focused. I loved reading them together as it was calming and steals you away to the isolated quietness of the countryside. Bliss. Evelyn begins to feel the life of the farm as Angus talks more to her about his connection to the earth. You can’t help but smile as they filrt and spend time together. It’s clear they like each other and find yourself shouting “JUST KISS ALREADY!” You are desperate for Evelyn to find happiness and love again. Angus gives you hope that no matter what life throws at you, things have a harmonious way of working out.
I could smell the flowers from the moment Evelyn and Eddie drove into the countryside. Madderson captures the beauty and relaxing atmosphere of the country as you see the light through the trees and hear the birds singing. It was heaven and I could have just stayed there forever. I fully envisioned myself watching the sunset with a glass of wine while chatting to Evelyn, Angus, Jess and Zoe while listening to jazz. Beautiful.
This book made me hungry, so, so hungry. I craved the appetising dishes that were served up. I felt incredibly humbled during my stay at the farm. They do biodynamic farming and feel a connection to the earth. Zoe, Jess’ wife shows Evelyn how she prepares the food. It was mesmerising reading them gently wash leaves and roll them up in a towel to dry. They make food that feeds the soul and draws you to this appetising way of life.
I give Food For Thought By Sara Madderson a Five out of Five paw rating.
A delicious story of rediscovering yourself while taking a chance at love as you indulge in a plate of heartwarming, honest food. This book will make you feel all cosy and snuggly as the breathtaking scenery of Kent steals your heart. Bon appetit!
The narrative is told in third person and follows Evelyn as she tries to make sense of Seb’s confession. Her world is shattered in seconds as Seb admits he was caught by photographers outside a gay club in Soho. They have been married for 9 years and he admitted that he cheats on her once a fortnight. He does his best to limit the damage by assuring her that her and Eddie are his real life and being gay is something he deals with privately on the side. He’s known since school that he was attracted to men but wanted to focus on his career. It’s a part of his life she’s never seen and he’s kept separate. Evelyn’s emotions are all over the place yet she is still focused enough to make the needed arrangements to find a solution so the business and their careers survive this ordeal. It is only once she is at Sorrel Farm, away from Seb and the stressful demands of her job that it sinks in. Soon the whole world will know her husband is gay. You feel for her and hope she doesn’t give up. It makes you feel angry on her behalf but also sad for Seb as he forced himself to hide who he really is. Sometimes honesty is the best policy, less people end up getting hurt and life is too short to pretend to be something you’re not.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Evelyn’s character development. When you first meet her it becomes clear pretty quickly that she is a hard working, organised woman. By the time it is 7:30am she has already completed a 30 minute bootcamp workout online, 20minutes of meditation practice, recited daily affirmations, read a chapter of a book on productivity, checked and answered emails, showered, blow-dried her hair, applied make-up, dressed and had a cup of coffee. Phew, just typing that is making me feel exhausted. She loves mornings as she views them as a fresh start. Each day can be approached with multiple opportunities. However with the unexpected collapse of her marriage Evelyn decides to adopt Jess’ ‘Fuck It’ philosophy. She begins indulging more in food and enjoying the results. During her stay at the farm she learns more about how they grow and prepare food. It’s inspiring to read her adapt a new approach to life and allow herself to enjoy the fruits it has to offer. She allows herself to finally surrender and accept the lie that was their marriage. It’s empowering and makes you fist pump the air for her bravery and strength.
The first meeting between Evelyn and Angus made me giggle. She feels an instant attraction to him as she tries to convince herself otherwise and stay focused. I loved reading them together as it was calming and steals you away to the isolated quietness of the countryside. Bliss. Evelyn begins to feel the life of the farm as Angus talks more to her about his connection to the earth. You can’t help but smile as they filrt and spend time together. It’s clear they like each other and find yourself shouting “JUST KISS ALREADY!” You are desperate for Evelyn to find happiness and love again. Angus gives you hope that no matter what life throws at you, things have a harmonious way of working out.
I could smell the flowers from the moment Evelyn and Eddie drove into the countryside. Madderson captures the beauty and relaxing atmosphere of the country as you see the light through the trees and hear the birds singing. It was heaven and I could have just stayed there forever. I fully envisioned myself watching the sunset with a glass of wine while chatting to Evelyn, Angus, Jess and Zoe while listening to jazz. Beautiful.
This book made me hungry, so, so hungry. I craved the appetising dishes that were served up. I felt incredibly humbled during my stay at the farm. They do biodynamic farming and feel a connection to the earth. Zoe, Jess’ wife shows Evelyn how she prepares the food. It was mesmerising reading them gently wash leaves and roll them up in a towel to dry. They make food that feeds the soul and draws you to this appetising way of life.
I give Food For Thought By Sara Madderson a Five out of Five paw rating.
A delicious story of rediscovering yourself while taking a chance at love as you indulge in a plate of heartwarming, honest food. This book will make you feel all cosy and snuggly as the breathtaking scenery of Kent steals your heart. Bon appetit!
January 18, 2023
Place of Dreams
Do you remember the whispering voice in the Kevin Costner movie, Field of Dreams? “If you build it, they will come.” Well, in this author’s case, the words whispered could very well be, “If you write it, they will read.”
I wonder if Sara Madderson ever envisioned she would create a place that would live only in dreams? How she’s created this place of fantasy, I have no idea. And yet, it feels so real and I’m very grateful that in my daydreams, Sorrel Farm can live forever.
I want to be Evelyn. I don’t necessarily want my husband to come out as gay, but I want to find passion and create a new career that is more attuned to who I truly am, in a new life with a sexy gardener, who also loves my son. And what I want most is to live in a place as lovely as I picture Sorrel Farm in my head, eat amazing food that communes with nature, and feel like I’m making a difference in the future of our world every single day.
This series, my friends, is why books are so much better than movies.
Food for Thought is the first book in the Sorrel Farm series. This one is definitely a slow and low burner. It isn’t until the very end that it all comes together and Evelyn realizes her very own farm of dreams and the perfect life it brings. It took me aback, compared to the heat of her other books, but it’s worth the wait. There is so much to set up for the rest of the series in this book. In fact, I didn’t want to even write this review until I’d read the next one, because it is so unlike what I expected. I do love a good surprise!
My favourite passage is when Angus hugs Evelyn for the first time:
Maybe it’s more than, “If you write it, they will read” What if, in this case, it’s actually, “If you write it, they will believe.”?
I believe.
Do you remember the whispering voice in the Kevin Costner movie, Field of Dreams? “If you build it, they will come.” Well, in this author’s case, the words whispered could very well be, “If you write it, they will read.”
I wonder if Sara Madderson ever envisioned she would create a place that would live only in dreams? How she’s created this place of fantasy, I have no idea. And yet, it feels so real and I’m very grateful that in my daydreams, Sorrel Farm can live forever.
I want to be Evelyn. I don’t necessarily want my husband to come out as gay, but I want to find passion and create a new career that is more attuned to who I truly am, in a new life with a sexy gardener, who also loves my son. And what I want most is to live in a place as lovely as I picture Sorrel Farm in my head, eat amazing food that communes with nature, and feel like I’m making a difference in the future of our world every single day.
This series, my friends, is why books are so much better than movies.
Food for Thought is the first book in the Sorrel Farm series. This one is definitely a slow and low burner. It isn’t until the very end that it all comes together and Evelyn realizes her very own farm of dreams and the perfect life it brings. It took me aback, compared to the heat of her other books, but it’s worth the wait. There is so much to set up for the rest of the series in this book. In fact, I didn’t want to even write this review until I’d read the next one, because it is so unlike what I expected. I do love a good surprise!
My favourite passage is when Angus hugs Evelyn for the first time:
“As if in a trance, he rubbed his hand backwards and forwards, from one adorable little shoulder to the other, soaking up the touch of her satiny skin against his fingertips. Her face still lay against his chest, and her breath was warm through his shirt. He’d done nothing, hadn’t even kissed her, and yet this interaction felt profound in a way that little else had in a long time … She stood back and stared at him, exhaling. ‘Jesus,’ she said, ‘you’re a good hugger.’ The look in her eyes said far more than the banality of her words. She’d felt it, too. That wasn’t hugging. That was transcendent.”
Maybe it’s more than, “If you write it, they will read” What if, in this case, it’s actually, “If you write it, they will believe.”?
I believe.
September 28, 2020
This is a wonderfully enjoyable book – you might say delicious! And very moreish. You plan to just read a couple of chapters but can’t resist another one, and then another one… I devoured this book in one sitting. Quite possibly there were family dramas of my own going on around me but I was too absorbed in this book to notice!
Evelyn is a lovely character. She’s very conscientious and kind, maybe a tad too regimented with her journaling and other daily routines, hard-working and caring. The brand she and Seb have built up between them is all-important, but not never more important as their son. (He’s a total sweetie, by the way.) When Seb pulls open the oven door on the perfectly rising soufflé of their life to that point, and the rush of the cold air or reality makes it sink, she hangs in their. Shaken, obviously, by the initial shock, and boosted by a little bit of comfort eating, she quickly sets to with cracking eggs and whisking a new life into shape. But it’s not going to be a doddle – soufflés never are. The enjoyment for us lies in seeing how she meets the challenges that come her way and the decisions she makes. She has some fascinating friends too and they add great interest and sparkle to the story.
The book has a beautiful cover, and which matches a theme the author has established for her books. The only thing I’d change is the title: there are many, many books with the same title so I do hope this one won’t get lost in their midst. There’s a phrase in the book, Evelyn’s words, along the lines of ‘Life’s not a buffet’ which I personally felt would have been a much more distinctive choice of title.
All in all, a tempting treat of a book.
Evelyn is a lovely character. She’s very conscientious and kind, maybe a tad too regimented with her journaling and other daily routines, hard-working and caring. The brand she and Seb have built up between them is all-important, but not never more important as their son. (He’s a total sweetie, by the way.) When Seb pulls open the oven door on the perfectly rising soufflé of their life to that point, and the rush of the cold air or reality makes it sink, she hangs in their. Shaken, obviously, by the initial shock, and boosted by a little bit of comfort eating, she quickly sets to with cracking eggs and whisking a new life into shape. But it’s not going to be a doddle – soufflés never are. The enjoyment for us lies in seeing how she meets the challenges that come her way and the decisions she makes. She has some fascinating friends too and they add great interest and sparkle to the story.
The book has a beautiful cover, and which matches a theme the author has established for her books. The only thing I’d change is the title: there are many, many books with the same title so I do hope this one won’t get lost in their midst. There’s a phrase in the book, Evelyn’s words, along the lines of ‘Life’s not a buffet’ which I personally felt would have been a much more distinctive choice of title.
All in all, a tempting treat of a book.
October 3, 2020
With the world outside being a scary shell of what it was, I promised myself I would fill my life with more positivity and light, funny reads. And boy, I'm enjoying it. .
This book follows the breakdown of Evelyn's perfect life when her husband has to come out of the closet. Not my words or his choice, it's a threat from the press and a promise for the rights to the exclusive. You follow poor Evelyn down a whirlwind of emotions as she tries to make sense the situation, and rediscover her love for food.
She takes their son to rediscover herself whilst her husband Seb finally lives his true self in her friends countryside resort. The country air helps to reevaluate, though love was the last thing she thought would come looking for her.
Food for Thought by Sara Madderson was such a quirky, funny read with a countryside feel. I blitzed through it, loving Evelyn and the cast of strong characters. Including Jess, oh that girl was always on point and blunt. I need her as a friend. They make you remember them, as well as promise to leave you hungry. I think my stomach was growling after reading this book.
So I'm warning you, have a snack plate ready, you are going to need it.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for something new, with a 21st century feel and countryside getaway for those on a bookish holiday. The themes are current, modern and it feels relevant. The characters are strong, vibrant and full of personality. And the story is just refreshing. A perfect little romance discovery hidden amongst the country views.
This book follows the breakdown of Evelyn's perfect life when her husband has to come out of the closet. Not my words or his choice, it's a threat from the press and a promise for the rights to the exclusive. You follow poor Evelyn down a whirlwind of emotions as she tries to make sense the situation, and rediscover her love for food.
She takes their son to rediscover herself whilst her husband Seb finally lives his true self in her friends countryside resort. The country air helps to reevaluate, though love was the last thing she thought would come looking for her.
Food for Thought by Sara Madderson was such a quirky, funny read with a countryside feel. I blitzed through it, loving Evelyn and the cast of strong characters. Including Jess, oh that girl was always on point and blunt. I need her as a friend. They make you remember them, as well as promise to leave you hungry. I think my stomach was growling after reading this book.
So I'm warning you, have a snack plate ready, you are going to need it.
This book is perfect for anyone looking for something new, with a 21st century feel and countryside getaway for those on a bookish holiday. The themes are current, modern and it feels relevant. The characters are strong, vibrant and full of personality. And the story is just refreshing. A perfect little romance discovery hidden amongst the country views.
September 29, 2020
This book will definitely have you smiling throughout and possibly craving delicious food and wine too!
The book gets into it straight away, as we learn that Evelyn’s husband is gay and we then follow Evelyn on this journey to rural Kent as she tries to put the pieces of her life back together. I especially liked how it took a look at the way the wife in this situation was ignored. Seb was accepted, gained more wealth and status, meanwhile no one ever asked how Evelyn was feeling. I felt truly sorry for her and I thought the book handled this really well.
Her escape to Sorrel Farm was fabulous. I loved reading about all the food and wine she was consuming. This is also where we meet the handsome Angus. Again I loved how this was handled. It was done slowly, not like your typical romance books where they fall head over heels in love at first sight. It just starts off with a hug, someone being there for her and he never does any grand gestures of love. It definitely wasn’t cheesy!
I think the character who made this book for me was Evelyn’s best friend Jess. She doesn’t hold back with the coarse language but she made me laugh with her comments and I think everyone should have a friend like Jess in their life.
If you’re looking for the perfect summer read then this is it! A lovely easy and heartwarming book that will have you smiling from the start.
The book gets into it straight away, as we learn that Evelyn’s husband is gay and we then follow Evelyn on this journey to rural Kent as she tries to put the pieces of her life back together. I especially liked how it took a look at the way the wife in this situation was ignored. Seb was accepted, gained more wealth and status, meanwhile no one ever asked how Evelyn was feeling. I felt truly sorry for her and I thought the book handled this really well.
Her escape to Sorrel Farm was fabulous. I loved reading about all the food and wine she was consuming. This is also where we meet the handsome Angus. Again I loved how this was handled. It was done slowly, not like your typical romance books where they fall head over heels in love at first sight. It just starts off with a hug, someone being there for her and he never does any grand gestures of love. It definitely wasn’t cheesy!
I think the character who made this book for me was Evelyn’s best friend Jess. She doesn’t hold back with the coarse language but she made me laugh with her comments and I think everyone should have a friend like Jess in their life.
If you’re looking for the perfect summer read then this is it! A lovely easy and heartwarming book that will have you smiling from the start.
July 13, 2022
It´s nothing new that I love Sara´s books. I haven't read one that I didn´t like. Maybe some more than other but I loved them and I love her writting. This was no different. I loved Evelyn and how she took in stride what happened to her with Seb and how she rises from the ashes of her relationship. She´s a truly admirable character. And Angus? he is such a gentleman!! my only problem with this is that the relationship and mostly their love came out of nowhere,. By the half of the book they have seen each other twice, thrice at most. and it wasn´t that swoony. It was mostly seeing Evelyn move on (to be honest she was way more civil about the entire thing that I would have been) and all her progress. But the relationship wasn´t something taht took front row. I love good aold pinning and slow burn but this was another level. I loved it though and I will keep on reading everything from Sara because she is definetly one of my favourites (I might not read the next one in this series though, because it´s a triangle and those piss me off) But everything else it's a YES!
January 17, 2023
This is Sara Madderson's debut novel and the first in the Sorrel Farm series.
I think this is less of a classic romance and more a novel about a woman finding herself after the world she thought she knew is completely turned on its head. At the start of the novel, Evelyn is living a charmed life: she is married to a famous chef, has a lovely son, and a fulfilling career as a partner in her husband's company. She's a large part of the reason her husband has become a star. But then, she finds out her husband is gay. This forces her to ask herself: what's best for her, her husband, and their company? Lots of people are looking out for the second two areas, but only she is going to prioritize her needs.
Evelyn retreats to her friend's luxury farm resort to grieve and assess her next steps. This is one area where Madderson excels: she describes Sorrel Farm so beautifully that I can picture the entire property. What will Sorrel Farm teach Evelyn about what she wants moving forward? And will she find love again?
I think this is less of a classic romance and more a novel about a woman finding herself after the world she thought she knew is completely turned on its head. At the start of the novel, Evelyn is living a charmed life: she is married to a famous chef, has a lovely son, and a fulfilling career as a partner in her husband's company. She's a large part of the reason her husband has become a star. But then, she finds out her husband is gay. This forces her to ask herself: what's best for her, her husband, and their company? Lots of people are looking out for the second two areas, but only she is going to prioritize her needs.
Evelyn retreats to her friend's luxury farm resort to grieve and assess her next steps. This is one area where Madderson excels: she describes Sorrel Farm so beautifully that I can picture the entire property. What will Sorrel Farm teach Evelyn about what she wants moving forward? And will she find love again?
January 19, 2023
Thoughtfully charming!
I came to this book, the 1st in the Sorrel Farm series, in a very roundabout manner because I read A Manny for Christmas first. And I flitted around the other books in Sara Madderson’s backlist in a very disorganized fashion, so I had already ‘met’ Evelyn & Angus before & knew they had an HEA in a previous book. But that did nothing to lessen my enjoyment once I finally read Food for Thought.
The book is simply delightful even though what Evelyn goes through with her husband is quite dreadful — Evelyn simply rises above it all with fierce determination & class. And eventually gets her own, glorious happy ending with Angus, a man of few words but with a huge, gentle heart.
Food for Thought is a delightful slow-burn that leads something wonderfully incendiary and sublime. It was absolutely delicious!
I came to this book, the 1st in the Sorrel Farm series, in a very roundabout manner because I read A Manny for Christmas first. And I flitted around the other books in Sara Madderson’s backlist in a very disorganized fashion, so I had already ‘met’ Evelyn & Angus before & knew they had an HEA in a previous book. But that did nothing to lessen my enjoyment once I finally read Food for Thought.
The book is simply delightful even though what Evelyn goes through with her husband is quite dreadful — Evelyn simply rises above it all with fierce determination & class. And eventually gets her own, glorious happy ending with Angus, a man of few words but with a huge, gentle heart.
Food for Thought is a delightful slow-burn that leads something wonderfully incendiary and sublime. It was absolutely delicious!
October 13, 2021
Evelyn has a life that seems perfect. She is married to Seb, a celebrity chef and they run a lucrative business that revolves around him. They have an 8 year old son and a gorgeous home. Everything changes when a tabloid contacts them and threatens to publish pictures they took of Seb outside of a gay bar unless they agree to an exclusive interview in which he comes out. Evelyn is shattered and we follow her efforts to rebuild and redefine her life. The path she follows is interesting, funny, and inspirational. I look forward to reading the next offering in this series.
September 6, 2020
Outstanding maiden novel by this promisng new author with a well-worked plot and interesting characters. As the supremely confident heroine moves effortlessly between chic corporate city and beautifully bucolic Bourne Valley one suspects that the writer has first-hand experience of both lifestyles so easily does she convey the contrasting scenes to the reader. All the sensitive moments are handled with skill yet leaves one wanting more - perhaps a second novel will soon appear? Can't wait.
December 26, 2022
Sorrel Farm Book 1
So many great characters; Jess and Zoe, Evelyn and Angus, Eddie, even Seb. This story catches your attention from the start and what could have turned into a really sad book is actually a happy, loving book.
The farm, the food, the clothing are described so well I felt like I had visited Sorrel Farms at some point in my life. I M completely captivated by these characters and look forward to the next book.
So many great characters; Jess and Zoe, Evelyn and Angus, Eddie, even Seb. This story catches your attention from the start and what could have turned into a really sad book is actually a happy, loving book.
The farm, the food, the clothing are described so well I felt like I had visited Sorrel Farms at some point in my life. I M completely captivated by these characters and look forward to the next book.
April 24, 2026
could not put it down
What horrible trauma Evi went through, to be honest I don’t know how she did it. I think I would have had a few tantrums or had done a bit of swearing at Seb. I felt like Seb took so so so so much advantage of Evi, it made me pissed off. I am so glad she got out of there. I could not put the book down because I had to find out if Evi and Angus ended up together …..
What horrible trauma Evi went through, to be honest I don’t know how she did it. I think I would have had a few tantrums or had done a bit of swearing at Seb. I felt like Seb took so so so so much advantage of Evi, it made me pissed off. I am so glad she got out of there. I could not put the book down because I had to find out if Evi and Angus ended up together …..
October 8, 2021
Entertaining
This story is a bit complex. A foodie will enjoy the parts about "honest" foods and different kinds of farming to raise the best vegetables, fruits and meats. There is the act of coming out that disrupts a marriage and a business. Read to learn how all of this is handled.
This story is a bit complex. A foodie will enjoy the parts about "honest" foods and different kinds of farming to raise the best vegetables, fruits and meats. There is the act of coming out that disrupts a marriage and a business. Read to learn how all of this is handled.
December 21, 2023
I just couldn’t buy into the characters in this book— but it does have an interesting plot line. There was hardly any interactions with Evelyn and Angus, the love interest, which surprised me because this is supposed to be a romance… didn’t like it as much as some of her other books, but it was still cute.
October 27, 2025
As a fan of Sara, I am working my way through her catalogue and am having a great time doing it.
This story is lovely. It's well written, and I love seeing the full story behind the characters we have met in other series.
Lovely, cosy read for the time of year when the days get shorter and the blankets come out!
This story is lovely. It's well written, and I love seeing the full story behind the characters we have met in other series.
Lovely, cosy read for the time of year when the days get shorter and the blankets come out!
July 21, 2020
Delicious!
A fabulous first novel; an absolute treat!
Definitely a book to make you smile all the way through; and to make you lust after the food, the settings, the friendships and Evelyn’s outfits!
Loved the afterword and can’t wait to be introduced to Tilly’s character 💖💪🏻💖
A fabulous first novel; an absolute treat!
Definitely a book to make you smile all the way through; and to make you lust after the food, the settings, the friendships and Evelyn’s outfits!
Loved the afterword and can’t wait to be introduced to Tilly’s character 💖💪🏻💖
October 6, 2022
Spellbinding, moving novel
This story really put me through all the possible feelings, but the payoff was a really pleasing character development arc, and a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after. Worth the emotional workout!
This story really put me through all the possible feelings, but the payoff was a really pleasing character development arc, and a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after. Worth the emotional workout!
January 20, 2023
Sorrel Farms
This was a fantastic read. I love how Evelyn was able to think logically and process her emotions about Seb in such a magical place leaving her to come out stronger and better off in the end. Wonderfully done.
This was a fantastic read. I love how Evelyn was able to think logically and process her emotions about Seb in such a magical place leaving her to come out stronger and better off in the end. Wonderfully done.
October 13, 2023
Delicious Mature Romance
Besides being a delightful romance, this book is a delicious food guide. Ms Madderson does an excellent job describing gastronomic experiences that leave my mouth watering. The book is a joy to read.
Besides being a delightful romance, this book is a delicious food guide. Ms Madderson does an excellent job describing gastronomic experiences that leave my mouth watering. The book is a joy to read.
November 16, 2024
A fun read!!
I really enjoyed this book. It captured my interest right from the start and I couldn’t stop reading. I am so glad that Evelyn got her happily ever after. She deserved to have all the things in her life to make her happy and feel loved.
I really enjoyed this book. It captured my interest right from the start and I couldn’t stop reading. I am so glad that Evelyn got her happily ever after. She deserved to have all the things in her life to make her happy and feel loved.
May 23, 2025
nice little read
Not the sort of book that is going to change your life but if you want a book that you can pick up and put down at your convenience this is for you. Light weight but very enjoyable.
Not the sort of book that is going to change your life but if you want a book that you can pick up and put down at your convenience this is for you. Light weight but very enjoyable.
May 27, 2022
Super good
I liked this book a lot. I could have lived without the sex scene details but the story itself is really good.
I liked this book a lot. I could have lived without the sex scene details but the story itself is really good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews