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Penvennan Cove #1
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove
Can Kerra's Cornish hometown offer the fresh start she needs? When Kerra left the quiet Cornish town of Penvennan Cove for the bright lights of London she didn't look back. But after the death of her mother, she's decided it's time to face her past and return to the place she called home. Her father needs her, and perhaps she needs him more than she's willing to admit? Tackling town gossip, home renovations and a flame from her past, it's not quite smooth sailing for Kerra. Ross is the bad boy she was meant to forget, not a man who still sets her heart aflutter. As he helps bring her dream home to life, they begin to break down the barriers that have been holding them back and in the process learn things about themselves they never thought possible. As friends old and new come together, the future in Penvennan looks bright. Perfect for fans of Milly Johnson, Phillipa Ashley and Julie Houston.
368 pages, Paperback
Published January 14, 2021
238 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Linn B. Halton
26 books276 followersLinn B. Halton writes feelgood fiction: home is where the heart is! In 2013 she won the UK Festival of Romance: Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. Originally from Bristol, she now lives in Somerset with her husband, and Bengal cat, Ziggy.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
For Linn, life is all about family, friends and writing. She is a self-confessed hopeless romantic and an eternal optimist. When Linn is not writing, she spends time in the garden weeding, or practising Tai Chi. And she is often found with a paintbrush in her hand indulging her passion for upcycling furniture.
Linn is represented by Sara Keane from the Keane Kataria Literary Agency.
She also writes under the pen name of Lucy Coleman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 2, 2022
My first book of 2022!
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is the first book in Linn B.Halton's new series featuring a picturesque village in Cornwall, a thirty year old who decides to come back home after having built up a successful company, an unforgettable first crush, a kind and understanding neighbour, a proud and independent Bengal cat with a very cute name (Ripley) and lots of other memorable characters.
I love a good homecoming story, although usually they start with a series of disasters that force the protagonist to run to their small town where the community spirit is strong and everybody knows what you looked like in pimary school. This time there is a twist: Kerra Shaw is a successful entrepreneur who wants to come back to stay with and support her grieving father. She might feel a bit lost about what she would like to do with her life now that she sold her company, but there are neighbours and old friends and her tiny cottage. When Kerra's neighbour Drew designs an extension to both parts of their semi and hires a local contractor, Kerra is in for a huge surprise-it's Ross -her first crush and first heartbreak.
This is my first book by Linn Halton, although, of course, I've heard of her books. Penvennan Cove is an archetypal small town with lots of gossip and people making assumptions based on very little evidence (well, Kerra herself does it!). It can be stifling and it might feel next to impossible to change what other people think of you, but it can also be very caring and supportive with neighbours turning up on your step with Welcome Home baked goods. You have to think twice about staying over at your friend's, because the whole village will know your car wasn't parked in its usual place, but you can also depend on your neighbours to check on you simply because they are worried about your safety.
A huge part of the book is about friendships and relationships- building things over time and taking a leap of faith. It captures well the particular problems of having a relationship when you are both serious, decent people, but you've been hurt before or you've made mistakes and would like to avoid making them again or lost the love of your life. Do you take a chance when you feel things are right or do you stall because you don't want to move too quickly, impose, come across as needy? what about other people in your life and how your relationship might affect them?
I will admit that this wasn't a super fast read- I needed time to get used to the author's writing style and ...the minutiae of Penvennan Cove life. On one hand, it seems like nothing much is happening, on the other hand, I was oddly fascinated and hooked on the story.
Pick this book if you love British women's fiction, small town settings, and second chance romance.
I will definitely be picking up the second book in the series.
3.5
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is the first book in Linn B.Halton's new series featuring a picturesque village in Cornwall, a thirty year old who decides to come back home after having built up a successful company, an unforgettable first crush, a kind and understanding neighbour, a proud and independent Bengal cat with a very cute name (Ripley) and lots of other memorable characters.
I love a good homecoming story, although usually they start with a series of disasters that force the protagonist to run to their small town where the community spirit is strong and everybody knows what you looked like in pimary school. This time there is a twist: Kerra Shaw is a successful entrepreneur who wants to come back to stay with and support her grieving father. She might feel a bit lost about what she would like to do with her life now that she sold her company, but there are neighbours and old friends and her tiny cottage. When Kerra's neighbour Drew designs an extension to both parts of their semi and hires a local contractor, Kerra is in for a huge surprise-it's Ross -her first crush and first heartbreak.
This is my first book by Linn Halton, although, of course, I've heard of her books. Penvennan Cove is an archetypal small town with lots of gossip and people making assumptions based on very little evidence (well, Kerra herself does it!). It can be stifling and it might feel next to impossible to change what other people think of you, but it can also be very caring and supportive with neighbours turning up on your step with Welcome Home baked goods. You have to think twice about staying over at your friend's, because the whole village will know your car wasn't parked in its usual place, but you can also depend on your neighbours to check on you simply because they are worried about your safety.
A huge part of the book is about friendships and relationships- building things over time and taking a leap of faith. It captures well the particular problems of having a relationship when you are both serious, decent people, but you've been hurt before or you've made mistakes and would like to avoid making them again or lost the love of your life. Do you take a chance when you feel things are right or do you stall because you don't want to move too quickly, impose, come across as needy? what about other people in your life and how your relationship might affect them?
I will admit that this wasn't a super fast read- I needed time to get used to the author's writing style and ...the minutiae of Penvennan Cove life. On one hand, it seems like nothing much is happening, on the other hand, I was oddly fascinated and hooked on the story.
Pick this book if you love British women's fiction, small town settings, and second chance romance.
I will definitely be picking up the second book in the series.
3.5
October 14, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
You never get over the first one, do you? All those fantasy ‘what if?’ daydreams, although in my case it was more if only… I was way too shy, in those days, to let my feelings be known.
That’s another thing about village life. There are circles. And some you don’t want to join. Others, well, you need an invite. Me, I’m going to create my own little circle because I’ve suddenly remembered one of the reasons why I left in the first place. Square peg, round hole.
It’s funny how life can begin to feel more like a treadmill than a path, and we don’t even notice it happening.
Love is the thing that grows over time, lust is the thing that tempts you to hang around long enough to find out if it has a chance of going anywhere.’
I want a cat’s life, I decide. Sleep, eat, have people fawn over you, put the world to rights in cat talk and pretend you can’t understand when anyone talks back. Sounds like heaven to me.
My Review:
This was an enjoyable, gentle, and slowly evolving character-driven story with real-life issues and concerns. I took pleasure in the author’s relaxed pace, easy to follow, and tender and warm style. The story was written in the first person POV of Kerra, a successful and intelligent young businesswoman who had more than achieved her business dreams at age twenty-nine and felt at loose ends, exhausted, and disengaged. Returning to her small village in Cornwall to assist her recently widowed father became Kerra’s new agenda.
As the story unfolded, I noticed all the characters primary and secondary appeared to be experiencing upheaval and significant transitions. I enjoyed Kerra’s inner narratives, personal epiphanies, and insightful observations of her neighbors, adopted cat, friends, family, and small village life. The storylines flowed at a leisurely pace and were filled with a large cast of knowable and engaging characters to care for and about.
You never get over the first one, do you? All those fantasy ‘what if?’ daydreams, although in my case it was more if only… I was way too shy, in those days, to let my feelings be known.
That’s another thing about village life. There are circles. And some you don’t want to join. Others, well, you need an invite. Me, I’m going to create my own little circle because I’ve suddenly remembered one of the reasons why I left in the first place. Square peg, round hole.
It’s funny how life can begin to feel more like a treadmill than a path, and we don’t even notice it happening.
Love is the thing that grows over time, lust is the thing that tempts you to hang around long enough to find out if it has a chance of going anywhere.’
I want a cat’s life, I decide. Sleep, eat, have people fawn over you, put the world to rights in cat talk and pretend you can’t understand when anyone talks back. Sounds like heaven to me.
My Review:
This was an enjoyable, gentle, and slowly evolving character-driven story with real-life issues and concerns. I took pleasure in the author’s relaxed pace, easy to follow, and tender and warm style. The story was written in the first person POV of Kerra, a successful and intelligent young businesswoman who had more than achieved her business dreams at age twenty-nine and felt at loose ends, exhausted, and disengaged. Returning to her small village in Cornwall to assist her recently widowed father became Kerra’s new agenda.
As the story unfolded, I noticed all the characters primary and secondary appeared to be experiencing upheaval and significant transitions. I enjoyed Kerra’s inner narratives, personal epiphanies, and insightful observations of her neighbors, adopted cat, friends, family, and small village life. The storylines flowed at a leisurely pace and were filled with a large cast of knowable and engaging characters to care for and about.
January 7, 2022
A lovely start to a brand new series.
The Cornish town of Pennevan Cove is a gorgeous setting, and I loved getting to know all the various people that live there.
I especially loved the stories of the friends that Kerra was trying to help, while being frustrated with her views on love and romance and relationships
Linn B Halton is very good at writing about house makeovers, and this was no exception. I could see the renovations in the cottage oh so clearly and loved what Kerra was doing to the place. I also really enjoyed Ripley the cat who seems rather smart!
This is a really good start to a new series, and I'm very eager to see how it progresses from here.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
The Cornish town of Pennevan Cove is a gorgeous setting, and I loved getting to know all the various people that live there.
I especially loved the stories of the friends that Kerra was trying to help, while being frustrated with her views on love and romance and relationships
Linn B Halton is very good at writing about house makeovers, and this was no exception. I could see the renovations in the cottage oh so clearly and loved what Kerra was doing to the place. I also really enjoyed Ripley the cat who seems rather smart!
This is a really good start to a new series, and I'm very eager to see how it progresses from here.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 20, 2020
I do enjoy a good homecoming story and this was definitely a good one.
Kerra was brought up in a quiet Cornish town – the Penvannan Cove in the title – but left for London where she set up an extremely successful business. With her business now sold, there are no more ties in London other than her good friend, Sy, and the time has come to return home and be around for her dad who she suspects has been struggling more than he’ll admit it since Kerra’s mum died.
Life back in Penvannan Cove is so different to life in London. With speculation running rife as to why she’s returned home after all of these years and trying to adjust to a small cottage that simply isn’t her, she’s struggling to settle. When her neighbour, Drew, shares plans to extend his cottage, she sees a way to turn her adjoining cottage into the home of her dreams. She’s excited when work gets underway but is not prepared for the builder, Ross, to be a blast from the past; the one who got away.
This is a lovely story of returning home and recognising the value of friends and family, new and old. There are some fabulous characters in the community and I particularly adored the star-turn from Drew’s cat, Ripley, who clearly identifies more as dog than cat!
There is a lovely romance thread but I’d say this book is more about Kerra and her journey in starting over and finding herself. I loved how she’s actually a really strong, successful businesswoman rather than someone fleeing from a negative experience. This gave her a very different character arc to what we might typically see in a homecoming tale. There’s also an intriguing mystery that adds a sense of danger and, again, something a little different.
This is a warm hug of a book that draws you into a beautiful setting and friendly community. I’m delighted to see it’s the first part of a series and look forward to returning to Penvannan Cove and catching up with Kerra and her friends – including those of the animal variety.
Kerra was brought up in a quiet Cornish town – the Penvannan Cove in the title – but left for London where she set up an extremely successful business. With her business now sold, there are no more ties in London other than her good friend, Sy, and the time has come to return home and be around for her dad who she suspects has been struggling more than he’ll admit it since Kerra’s mum died.
Life back in Penvannan Cove is so different to life in London. With speculation running rife as to why she’s returned home after all of these years and trying to adjust to a small cottage that simply isn’t her, she’s struggling to settle. When her neighbour, Drew, shares plans to extend his cottage, she sees a way to turn her adjoining cottage into the home of her dreams. She’s excited when work gets underway but is not prepared for the builder, Ross, to be a blast from the past; the one who got away.
This is a lovely story of returning home and recognising the value of friends and family, new and old. There are some fabulous characters in the community and I particularly adored the star-turn from Drew’s cat, Ripley, who clearly identifies more as dog than cat!
There is a lovely romance thread but I’d say this book is more about Kerra and her journey in starting over and finding herself. I loved how she’s actually a really strong, successful businesswoman rather than someone fleeing from a negative experience. This gave her a very different character arc to what we might typically see in a homecoming tale. There’s also an intriguing mystery that adds a sense of danger and, again, something a little different.
This is a warm hug of a book that draws you into a beautiful setting and friendly community. I’m delighted to see it’s the first part of a series and look forward to returning to Penvannan Cove and catching up with Kerra and her friends – including those of the animal variety.
November 7, 2020
I read Coming Home to Penvennan Cove by Linn B. Halton in staves with other Pigeonholers as part of a group.
This was the first book for me by this author and it was a cracking read about growing up and living in a small community in Cornwall. A highly successful businesswoman, Kerra has decided she wants to return to her home town of Penvennan Cove to support her father, Eddie following the recent death of her mother and has sold her company for a vast sum of money. As she catches up with old friends, new opportunities lie in store for her.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a contemporary romance and an incredibly engaging story, all about friendships, grief, support, and hope. The characters are very well written, especially Riley the Bengal cat who was a great help to Kerra, magically assisting her to make the right decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Coming Home to Penvennan Cove and I would definitely recommend this story to others. I will certainly be reading more of this author's work in the future.
Thank you to Linn B. Halton and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read this book. This review is my unbiased opinion.
This was the first book for me by this author and it was a cracking read about growing up and living in a small community in Cornwall. A highly successful businesswoman, Kerra has decided she wants to return to her home town of Penvennan Cove to support her father, Eddie following the recent death of her mother and has sold her company for a vast sum of money. As she catches up with old friends, new opportunities lie in store for her.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a contemporary romance and an incredibly engaging story, all about friendships, grief, support, and hope. The characters are very well written, especially Riley the Bengal cat who was a great help to Kerra, magically assisting her to make the right decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Coming Home to Penvennan Cove and I would definitely recommend this story to others. I will certainly be reading more of this author's work in the future.
Thank you to Linn B. Halton and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read this book. This review is my unbiased opinion.
October 1, 2020
I have read many of Linn’s books and loved them. Penvennan Cove is well written and entertaining there is no doubt about that. It is narrated by central character Kerra Shaw, who has sold her IT company and returned home following the death of her mother. Ross Treloar was her schoolgirl crush. He runs the building company undertaking the construction work to extend Pedrevan, her grandmother’s cottage which she now owns.
I found the story a little slow to start with but it picked up once Kerra had arrived home and I got to know the various characters who lived in the Cove. It’s an easy feel good read with a bit of a mystery running through it regarding the former tenant of Pedrevan Cottage. I am sure fans of Linn’s will love this book…and the good news is there are two more books to come!
Many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for an ARC of Coming Home to Penvennan Cove in exchange for an honest review.
I found the story a little slow to start with but it picked up once Kerra had arrived home and I got to know the various characters who lived in the Cove. It’s an easy feel good read with a bit of a mystery running through it regarding the former tenant of Pedrevan Cottage. I am sure fans of Linn’s will love this book…and the good news is there are two more books to come!
Many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for an ARC of Coming Home to Penvennan Cove in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2020
2 1/2, elevated to 3.
When the main character doesn't meet her love interest until the 37% mark, it's not romance—it's women's fiction.
The writing is competent and the characters are not without their charms, but I have to confess the disappointment in the genre.
Like the title says, it's a story about a woman returning to the village where she grew up after the sale of a successful business. It's a busy cast of secondary characters with an emphasis on friendships and relationships.
Readers who like women's fiction will like this book.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
When the main character doesn't meet her love interest until the 37% mark, it's not romance—it's women's fiction.
The writing is competent and the characters are not without their charms, but I have to confess the disappointment in the genre.
Like the title says, it's a story about a woman returning to the village where she grew up after the sale of a successful business. It's a busy cast of secondary characters with an emphasis on friendships and relationships.
Readers who like women's fiction will like this book.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
September 4, 2020
Kerra is back in her hometown of Penvennan Cove after the death of her mother, after living life in the hustle and bustle of London.
Drew her next door neighbour wants to develop his cottage so with a brainwave they decide to do them both matching so save on costings.
Ross from her past comes back into her life and helps with the renovations.
Can Kerra leave Ross in the past?
I really enjoyed this read, full of freindship, love and a happy place oh and a cute cat called Ripley.
Well worth a read .
Drew her next door neighbour wants to develop his cottage so with a brainwave they decide to do them both matching so save on costings.
Ross from her past comes back into her life and helps with the renovations.
Can Kerra leave Ross in the past?
I really enjoyed this read, full of freindship, love and a happy place oh and a cute cat called Ripley.
Well worth a read .
October 22, 2020
My first time reading a book by Linn B Halton and I did enjoy reading about growing up and living in a small community in Cornwall. Kerra is a successful business women who has sold her company for a six figure sum and has decided to return to her home town of Penvennan Cove to support her father Eddie following the recent death of her mother.
The storyline is filled with interesting characters, a lovely enigmatic cat called Ripley and focuses on her grandparents old cottage which Kerra decides to renovate. After several years living in the fast lane in London life is very different for her, will love blossom with an old flame, will her father manage the kennels that her mother ran before her death and can she find a project to keep her busy? Thank you Pigeonhole and Linn for the opportunity to read this book in ten staves.
The storyline is filled with interesting characters, a lovely enigmatic cat called Ripley and focuses on her grandparents old cottage which Kerra decides to renovate. After several years living in the fast lane in London life is very different for her, will love blossom with an old flame, will her father manage the kennels that her mother ran before her death and can she find a project to keep her busy? Thank you Pigeonhole and Linn for the opportunity to read this book in ten staves.
July 22, 2021
The perfect visit to Cornwall. Great characters, beautiful sounding village and the start of a wonderful series. Kerra was a great main character - having left her home sometime ago it takes strength to move back and begin again. Really looking forward to seeing what comes next in the series.
October 6, 2020
It took me a while to immerse myself in this story of coming home, friendship and second chances. Perhaps, because it's a little different from previous books I've read by this author.
As the first book in a series, world-building is a requirement, and the first part of this story does that. It begins with Kerra wrapping up her old life after a successful sale of her website business, and returning to her home village to help her dad. She also wants to try something new, as she recovers from her mother's death. Life in Penvennan Cove is a surprise for Kerra, whilst the sense of community, gossip and many of the inhabitants are as she remembers them, there are significant changes too.
As I get to know the characters, their lives, and how they connect to Kerra, and each other, this becomes a heartwarming, page-turning read. The characters are diverse and relatable with believable lives and relationships.
Romance features in this story for Kerra and her friends, but although this is an important theme, it's not the only one. Kerra and Drew renovate their cottages. The details included add authenticity. This story, explores a myriad of human emotion bringing characters to life, and drawing the readers' empathy. Written from Kerra's point of view in the first person it gives an intimate insight into her feelings and thoughts.
The Penvennan Cove community has plenty of scope for future stories, and I look forward to future visits.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus - Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
As the first book in a series, world-building is a requirement, and the first part of this story does that. It begins with Kerra wrapping up her old life after a successful sale of her website business, and returning to her home village to help her dad. She also wants to try something new, as she recovers from her mother's death. Life in Penvennan Cove is a surprise for Kerra, whilst the sense of community, gossip and many of the inhabitants are as she remembers them, there are significant changes too.
As I get to know the characters, their lives, and how they connect to Kerra, and each other, this becomes a heartwarming, page-turning read. The characters are diverse and relatable with believable lives and relationships.
Romance features in this story for Kerra and her friends, but although this is an important theme, it's not the only one. Kerra and Drew renovate their cottages. The details included add authenticity. This story, explores a myriad of human emotion bringing characters to life, and drawing the readers' empathy. Written from Kerra's point of view in the first person it gives an intimate insight into her feelings and thoughts.
The Penvennan Cove community has plenty of scope for future stories, and I look forward to future visits.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus - Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
October 1, 2020
I always think I'm in for a treat when I open one of this author's novels - and I'm always right!
Kerra left her Cornish home to head for the bright lights of London and make something of herself; after the death of her mother the lights don't seem quite so bright and she head back home to Penvennan Cove to help out her father. But small places are full of gossip and speculation, and her life isn't as anonymous as it was in the capital city, and meeting old friends isn't always as stress-free as she hoped!
Another enjoyable read from Linn B Halton and I only had one problem with it - mine, not hers. I tend to read in accents and I've never really mastered the Cornish one; for some strange reason every time there was a Cornish name, in my head it sounded more Welsh! However, that doesn't take away from what a terrific story this is. With a wide array of characters, a bit of mystery, a spectacular setting and a superb story it kept me riveted all the way through. A real feel-good read, and refreshing in these troubling times when everyone seems to be out for themselves to read a heartwarming book with a lot of community spirit. Tremendously enjoyable and well worth every single one of the five sparkling stars I'm happy to give it!
My thanks to the publisher for my copy and to Vicky Joss for my spot on this tour; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.
Kerra left her Cornish home to head for the bright lights of London and make something of herself; after the death of her mother the lights don't seem quite so bright and she head back home to Penvennan Cove to help out her father. But small places are full of gossip and speculation, and her life isn't as anonymous as it was in the capital city, and meeting old friends isn't always as stress-free as she hoped!
Another enjoyable read from Linn B Halton and I only had one problem with it - mine, not hers. I tend to read in accents and I've never really mastered the Cornish one; for some strange reason every time there was a Cornish name, in my head it sounded more Welsh! However, that doesn't take away from what a terrific story this is. With a wide array of characters, a bit of mystery, a spectacular setting and a superb story it kept me riveted all the way through. A real feel-good read, and refreshing in these troubling times when everyone seems to be out for themselves to read a heartwarming book with a lot of community spirit. Tremendously enjoyable and well worth every single one of the five sparkling stars I'm happy to give it!
My thanks to the publisher for my copy and to Vicky Joss for my spot on this tour; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.
February 3, 2021
Kerra has sold her IT business in London & is moving back to Penvennan Cove where she grew up & where her widowed Dad is running her mum's kennel business. Moving into her late grandparents cottage, where she makes friends with her neighbour Drew & begins to change her life. Lots of gossiping people in Penvennan who take an interest in Kerras circumstances & some make the wrong conclusions.
Nicely written book, easy to read & I liked Kerra. Interesting to see her friendships grow & where her life is taking her. A great book for a quiet Sunday afternoon.
Nicely written book, easy to read & I liked Kerra. Interesting to see her friendships grow & where her life is taking her. A great book for a quiet Sunday afternoon.
October 26, 2020
This is a comfortable, curl up in your chair, easy kind of read with perfectly likeable characters and a super Cornish location.
Kerra has made a mint at her chosen career and upon selling the business moves back to Penvennan Cove to help her Dad with the kennel business now that her Mum has sadly passed away. Kerra lives in the cottage that used to belong to an aunt and, along with architect neighbour Drew, decides on big plans to renovate the cottage into her forever home.
Coming back though isn't always easy and Kerra seems to question her future and her burgeoning relationship with past crush Ross. Not only that but she also seems very wary of a personal relationship growing between former employee Sy and her best friend Teagan.
Add in a mystery about the tenant Mr Mills who used to rent the cottage, my favourite character, feline Ripley, who seems to be looking out for the humans, the on-off romance with Ross and Kerra, and you have an enjoyable plot that won't shake up the world but will give you a few hours pleasant reading time.
Kerra has made a mint at her chosen career and upon selling the business moves back to Penvennan Cove to help her Dad with the kennel business now that her Mum has sadly passed away. Kerra lives in the cottage that used to belong to an aunt and, along with architect neighbour Drew, decides on big plans to renovate the cottage into her forever home.
Coming back though isn't always easy and Kerra seems to question her future and her burgeoning relationship with past crush Ross. Not only that but she also seems very wary of a personal relationship growing between former employee Sy and her best friend Teagan.
Add in a mystery about the tenant Mr Mills who used to rent the cottage, my favourite character, feline Ripley, who seems to be looking out for the humans, the on-off romance with Ross and Kerra, and you have an enjoyable plot that won't shake up the world but will give you a few hours pleasant reading time.
September 14, 2020
Review to come 2nd October :)
September 5, 2021
Did not enjoy this book Found the story pretty boring But did finish reading it right through to the end
January 25, 2022
This story was okay I didn't find myself connecting with any of the characters though. It's an easy read and the story was interesting it just felt a little meh.
October 10, 2020
I have been a fan of Linn’s work for quite a while now. I haven’t quite caught up with all of her books yet but I am getting there. I will let you into a little secret but don’t tell anyone- Linn B. Halton also writes under the name of Lucy Coleman. I love Linn and Lucy’s books. I read the synopsis for ‘Coming Home To Penvannen Cove’ and the thought of somebody trying to create a new life for themselves really appealed to me. So without further ado I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and settled down to read this lovely sounding book. Linn has done it again and she has written one heck of a book, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
I loved the lead character of Kerra. Years ago she left her home town/ village and went to live in London, where she had a very successful career in something to do with computing and the internet. She did love her life in London. Kerra’s world falls apart when her mother dies of terminal cancer. It’s whilst Kerra is grieving that she pauses and takes stock of her life by looking at what is really important and what isn’t. Kerra decides to make some pretty big life changes and after selling her business, she goes home to Penvannen Cove. Kerra wants to start a new chapter in her life. Kerra goes home for a number of reasons- she is still grieving for her mother, she worries about her father so she wants to be closer to support him and she wants to surround herself with familiar people and friends. I suppose in a sense after her Mam dies, Kerra realises just how insignificant certain things are and work is not worth stressing over to the point where it is beginning to affect your health. Kerra embarks on creating her new life with gusto. I kept everything crossed that she would settle well back in her home town/ village and that she would get the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I think part of the reason why I loved this book was the fact that to a degree I identified with Kerra. No I am not a multi millionaire nor am I that good with computers but what we have in common is that we lost a parent to a terminal illness. My Dad died of leukaemia a number of years ago. My world fell apart and it wasn’t until after his death that I realised that certain things I had been stressing over were insignificant and nonsense when compared to the loss I had suffered. Anyway that’s enough of my little burblings and back to the review I do go.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this story. Pretty much by the time I got to the bottom of the first couple pages, I knew that I was going to find it increasingly difficult to put the book for any length of time. I loved the place where the story is set, I loved the character of Kerra and I enjoyed getting to know her friends. To say that reading ‘Coming Home To Penvennan Cove’ was addictive seems like a huge understatement. When I wasn’t reading this book, my Kindle was talking to me telling me to get back to reading the book. I was that classic addict-saying just one page or chapter more and then I will put it down. Well I didn’t put my Kindle down very often and I managed to read the book over the course of a single day, which is pretty good going for me, since I find it hard to concentrate for any length of time, I am easily distracted and I need to change position every so often so that my back doesn’t start protesting.
‘Coming Home To Penvennan Cove’ is extremely well written but then I have thought that to be true of Linn/ Lucy’s books in general. She creates lovely characters, who are nigh on impossible to dislike and she writes about them with great warmth. In fact she describes her characters so well that they seem just as real as you and I. Linn grabs your attention from the start and draws you into the story. Once Linn has your attention, she will not let you have it back until the moment you read the last word on the last page. I felt as though I was part of the story myself, which is all thanks to Linn’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. Penvannen Cove sounded so idyllic that I was ready to pack a suitcase and go to find it!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Coming Home To Penvannen Cove’ and I would definitely recommend this story to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Linn’s and Lucy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the lead character of Kerra. Years ago she left her home town/ village and went to live in London, where she had a very successful career in something to do with computing and the internet. She did love her life in London. Kerra’s world falls apart when her mother dies of terminal cancer. It’s whilst Kerra is grieving that she pauses and takes stock of her life by looking at what is really important and what isn’t. Kerra decides to make some pretty big life changes and after selling her business, she goes home to Penvannen Cove. Kerra wants to start a new chapter in her life. Kerra goes home for a number of reasons- she is still grieving for her mother, she worries about her father so she wants to be closer to support him and she wants to surround herself with familiar people and friends. I suppose in a sense after her Mam dies, Kerra realises just how insignificant certain things are and work is not worth stressing over to the point where it is beginning to affect your health. Kerra embarks on creating her new life with gusto. I kept everything crossed that she would settle well back in her home town/ village and that she would get the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I think part of the reason why I loved this book was the fact that to a degree I identified with Kerra. No I am not a multi millionaire nor am I that good with computers but what we have in common is that we lost a parent to a terminal illness. My Dad died of leukaemia a number of years ago. My world fell apart and it wasn’t until after his death that I realised that certain things I had been stressing over were insignificant and nonsense when compared to the loss I had suffered. Anyway that’s enough of my little burblings and back to the review I do go.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this story. Pretty much by the time I got to the bottom of the first couple pages, I knew that I was going to find it increasingly difficult to put the book for any length of time. I loved the place where the story is set, I loved the character of Kerra and I enjoyed getting to know her friends. To say that reading ‘Coming Home To Penvennan Cove’ was addictive seems like a huge understatement. When I wasn’t reading this book, my Kindle was talking to me telling me to get back to reading the book. I was that classic addict-saying just one page or chapter more and then I will put it down. Well I didn’t put my Kindle down very often and I managed to read the book over the course of a single day, which is pretty good going for me, since I find it hard to concentrate for any length of time, I am easily distracted and I need to change position every so often so that my back doesn’t start protesting.
‘Coming Home To Penvennan Cove’ is extremely well written but then I have thought that to be true of Linn/ Lucy’s books in general. She creates lovely characters, who are nigh on impossible to dislike and she writes about them with great warmth. In fact she describes her characters so well that they seem just as real as you and I. Linn grabs your attention from the start and draws you into the story. Once Linn has your attention, she will not let you have it back until the moment you read the last word on the last page. I felt as though I was part of the story myself, which is all thanks to Linn’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. Penvannen Cove sounded so idyllic that I was ready to pack a suitcase and go to find it!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Coming Home To Penvannen Cove’ and I would definitely recommend this story to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Linn’s and Lucy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
October 1, 2020
It’s quite unusual to find a focus on “coming home” in one of the author’s books – I’ve got rather used to them involving a bit of armchair travel to somewhere I’d like to add to my bucket list. But we’re a little closer to home this time, in Cornwall and the town of Penvennan Cove, as Kerra decides to return to the place where she grew up and provide some support to her recently widowed father. She’s sold her website business, The Happy Hive, and plans to wind down for a while: friend and assistant Sy thinks she’s entirely taken leave of her senses, as well as being worried about his own future.
She moves into a cottage inherited from her grandmother, just across the road from her dad Eddie and his dog-sitting business: and she reconnects with childhood friend Tegan, struggling with the recent loss of her husband and partner while running her demanding house cleaning business.
But the cottage isn’t quite all Kerra wants it to be, and when neighbour Drew outlines his plans for improving his cottage next door as a home for himself and his absent girlfriend, they decide to join forces and improve both properties at the same time. Does that make it sound a bit like a home improvement programme? In some ways it is, and I found a lot of the detail simply fascinating – but this book is really all about the community and its characters, as Kerra makes her fresh start, builds new relationships and develops existing ones, explores what makes her happy, and tries to make Penvennan Cove her home again.
There’s really very little I enjoy more than a story with a strong sense of community, and every character is quite perfectly drawn – including the wonderful Ripley, a cat with real personality who decides she’d far prefer to live with Kerra than with her owner Drew – with a lovely focus throughout on friendship and family. When Sy visits, he discovers Cornwall has a few attractions he certainly hadn’t expected: builder Ross provides Kerra’s romantic interest, and yes, he certainly made me go a little weak at the knees too.
And as well as the sometimes emotional back stories of some of the characters, there’s an intriguing mystery and edge of danger around the goings-on of the former tenant at the cottage – nicely done, a little unsettling, and well resolved by the book’s end. There are new friends too, and opportunities for investment and developing other interests… and I really loved it all.
I will just mention that his book is written in the first person, present tense: I’ll admit it’s something I don’t always like, but by the end of the first chapter I barely noticed, and it worked really well in increasing engagement with Kerra’s character, her thoughts and feelings. The writing, as always, is excellent – the author’s books often feel like a nice cuddle, and this one most certainly ticks all those boxes while being a thoroughly engaging read.
I see that there are plans for this book to be the first in a three book series, and that makes me very happy. Like Kerra, I now feel entirely at home in Penvennan Cove, part of the community, surrounded by friends – and I’ll really be looking forward to my next visit.
She moves into a cottage inherited from her grandmother, just across the road from her dad Eddie and his dog-sitting business: and she reconnects with childhood friend Tegan, struggling with the recent loss of her husband and partner while running her demanding house cleaning business.
But the cottage isn’t quite all Kerra wants it to be, and when neighbour Drew outlines his plans for improving his cottage next door as a home for himself and his absent girlfriend, they decide to join forces and improve both properties at the same time. Does that make it sound a bit like a home improvement programme? In some ways it is, and I found a lot of the detail simply fascinating – but this book is really all about the community and its characters, as Kerra makes her fresh start, builds new relationships and develops existing ones, explores what makes her happy, and tries to make Penvennan Cove her home again.
There’s really very little I enjoy more than a story with a strong sense of community, and every character is quite perfectly drawn – including the wonderful Ripley, a cat with real personality who decides she’d far prefer to live with Kerra than with her owner Drew – with a lovely focus throughout on friendship and family. When Sy visits, he discovers Cornwall has a few attractions he certainly hadn’t expected: builder Ross provides Kerra’s romantic interest, and yes, he certainly made me go a little weak at the knees too.
And as well as the sometimes emotional back stories of some of the characters, there’s an intriguing mystery and edge of danger around the goings-on of the former tenant at the cottage – nicely done, a little unsettling, and well resolved by the book’s end. There are new friends too, and opportunities for investment and developing other interests… and I really loved it all.
I will just mention that his book is written in the first person, present tense: I’ll admit it’s something I don’t always like, but by the end of the first chapter I barely noticed, and it worked really well in increasing engagement with Kerra’s character, her thoughts and feelings. The writing, as always, is excellent – the author’s books often feel like a nice cuddle, and this one most certainly ticks all those boxes while being a thoroughly engaging read.
I see that there are plans for this book to be the first in a three book series, and that makes me very happy. Like Kerra, I now feel entirely at home in Penvennan Cove, part of the community, surrounded by friends – and I’ll really be looking forward to my next visit.
October 4, 2020
Kerra works in London and is in need of a change. She has to leave when her mother suddenly dies and life sees Kerra crossing the country to Penvenna Cove, Cornwall where she grew up.
The beginning was a little slow but I did get a sense of the rapport and friendship she had had with work colleague and friend, Si.
She is back with her dear dad, friend Tegan and the dogs Kerra's mum cared for.
There's a project in store when they have to renovate a cottage and life is full with rekindling old friendships.
Ross, Kerra's first love is still in the area. But there's also Drew next door.....
Will returning home to Penvenna Cove be enough for Kerra to feel like she is really moving on, or will memories of London lure her back to the life she left?
Having lived in cities and towns, I could sympathise with Kerra's fears as to whether she had done the right thing, and what people would gossip about: namely whether she had "failed" by coming back as well as assumptions around that if you move away, you want to lose contact with people and people not seeing it from your point of view, that by moving away you are chasing your dream or have to be forced to relocate.
I liked the way she and Drew connected straight away over their ups and downs in life.
Penvennan is a quaint place.
I did notice a few clichés though, first, Kerra's mother passing away from cancer. I have a thing about diagnoses not being varied in books as so many use cancer as an example. It is quite an overused one in many books. The other was Drew being the "guy next door", as well as an conveniently an architecht when the task at hand is to renovate a house. Again, maybe more varied choices would have been good.
I enjoyed all the catch up with old neighbours and the detail of the stars and being able to see them as compared to when you are in a city.
Kerra's dad was lovely and so welcoming and loving. I liked how enthusiastic Tegan was when she saw Kerra was back.
The novel is both happy and sad as Kerra, her dad and Tegan all lost people they loved.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a novel about taking chances, having the courage to change your reality no matter how much it hurts. It is about reconnection, memories as well as learning to not care what people think and just love life.
Pedravan, her mother's childhood home, is a tiny cottage and it needs a lot of work.
Can it be renovated to Kerran's taste?
Kerran's mum wanted her to live there but Kerran wanted something bigger and more modern.
Her dad wants her happiness and is worried she will up and leave if the place is not what she wants it to be.
Can Kerra and Drew tun the place around? What will it take to make Pendravan her dream home? She has the IT skills, but does she have what it takes to build a new life in Penvenna Cove?
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a lighthearted book perfect for these trying times.
Thanks to Linn. B. Halton and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars.
The beginning was a little slow but I did get a sense of the rapport and friendship she had had with work colleague and friend, Si.
She is back with her dear dad, friend Tegan and the dogs Kerra's mum cared for.
There's a project in store when they have to renovate a cottage and life is full with rekindling old friendships.
Ross, Kerra's first love is still in the area. But there's also Drew next door.....
Will returning home to Penvenna Cove be enough for Kerra to feel like she is really moving on, or will memories of London lure her back to the life she left?
Having lived in cities and towns, I could sympathise with Kerra's fears as to whether she had done the right thing, and what people would gossip about: namely whether she had "failed" by coming back as well as assumptions around that if you move away, you want to lose contact with people and people not seeing it from your point of view, that by moving away you are chasing your dream or have to be forced to relocate.
I liked the way she and Drew connected straight away over their ups and downs in life.
Penvennan is a quaint place.
I did notice a few clichés though, first, Kerra's mother passing away from cancer. I have a thing about diagnoses not being varied in books as so many use cancer as an example. It is quite an overused one in many books. The other was Drew being the "guy next door", as well as an conveniently an architecht when the task at hand is to renovate a house. Again, maybe more varied choices would have been good.
I enjoyed all the catch up with old neighbours and the detail of the stars and being able to see them as compared to when you are in a city.
Kerra's dad was lovely and so welcoming and loving. I liked how enthusiastic Tegan was when she saw Kerra was back.
The novel is both happy and sad as Kerra, her dad and Tegan all lost people they loved.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a novel about taking chances, having the courage to change your reality no matter how much it hurts. It is about reconnection, memories as well as learning to not care what people think and just love life.
Pedravan, her mother's childhood home, is a tiny cottage and it needs a lot of work.
Can it be renovated to Kerran's taste?
Kerran's mum wanted her to live there but Kerran wanted something bigger and more modern.
Her dad wants her happiness and is worried she will up and leave if the place is not what she wants it to be.
Can Kerra and Drew tun the place around? What will it take to make Pendravan her dream home? She has the IT skills, but does she have what it takes to build a new life in Penvenna Cove?
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a lighthearted book perfect for these trying times.
Thanks to Linn. B. Halton and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars.
December 18, 2020
Kerra has made it in London, and now with the sale of her business, she’s returning to her childhood home to live in the small cottage left to her by her grandmother and to start her next chapter. Her best friend Sy isn’t thrilled, but he’s gotten a big promotion and will be staying in London, at least until he can buy some wellies and come for a visit in ‘the back of beyond”.
Arriving in Penvennan Cove, the talk is rampant, as Kerra knew it would be Fueled by her cousin Alice, and her father’s rather ‘hands off’ approach, she’s floundering a bit with the changes, but connecting with old friends and meeting her new neighbor, and agreeing to a refit of their cottages becomes her focus. Until the builder turns out to be her first “crush” and longtime subject of fantasy.
Ross has made a name for himself with quality work, and the opportunity to restructure and renovate the two cottages is right up his alley – and no one is mor surprised to find Kerra than he, even as he’s still trying to ‘stay out of the limelight’ when it comes to town gossips.
Throughout the story, we meet Kerra’s childhood friends, see relationships evolve and develop, and with Sy arriving to stay with her father and help him to refit and re-organize the kennels that her mother had started so long ago, the story is a collection of interwoven moments, bits, some mystery and plenty of heart. From the village coming together to support her best friend (and her father) to finally finding her ‘new direction” and some closure and understanding of her rather thoughtless and cavalier cousin Alice, Ross and Kerra find a way to define their relationship and make a start with the help of time, friends and one very chatty and opinionated cat. A lovely read that feels very “village centric’ even as the characters are doing their level best to stay out of the headlines on the town grapevine. Grab this for a bit of relief and entertainment – you won’t be disappointed.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my responsibility.
Review first appeared at < a> I am, Indeed
Arriving in Penvennan Cove, the talk is rampant, as Kerra knew it would be Fueled by her cousin Alice, and her father’s rather ‘hands off’ approach, she’s floundering a bit with the changes, but connecting with old friends and meeting her new neighbor, and agreeing to a refit of their cottages becomes her focus. Until the builder turns out to be her first “crush” and longtime subject of fantasy.
Ross has made a name for himself with quality work, and the opportunity to restructure and renovate the two cottages is right up his alley – and no one is mor surprised to find Kerra than he, even as he’s still trying to ‘stay out of the limelight’ when it comes to town gossips.
Throughout the story, we meet Kerra’s childhood friends, see relationships evolve and develop, and with Sy arriving to stay with her father and help him to refit and re-organize the kennels that her mother had started so long ago, the story is a collection of interwoven moments, bits, some mystery and plenty of heart. From the village coming together to support her best friend (and her father) to finally finding her ‘new direction” and some closure and understanding of her rather thoughtless and cavalier cousin Alice, Ross and Kerra find a way to define their relationship and make a start with the help of time, friends and one very chatty and opinionated cat. A lovely read that feels very “village centric’ even as the characters are doing their level best to stay out of the headlines on the town grapevine. Grab this for a bit of relief and entertainment – you won’t be disappointed.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my responsibility.
Review first appeared at < a> I am, Indeed
October 10, 2020
Kerra has had a successful career in London but after her mother's death, she has made the decision to see her business and return home to Penvennan Cove. She expects to take this time to re-evaluate what she wants from life and primarily to support her dad who is struggling a bit after losing his wife. Kerra has a cottage in Penvennan Cove which had belonged to her grandmother and so after serving due notice on the tenant, she moves in there.
There is quite a gentle start to the book as the author sets the scene and introduces us to her characters, giving us time to get to know them. Kerra is immediately shown to be a hard worker but also someone who values her family and friends. Despite having made a huge amount of money on the sale of her business, it's not beneath her to get stuck in and help her friend Tegan with her business, cleaning holiday cottages when she's short staffed. I did wonder whether Kerra, being used to a busy lifestyle in London, a modern spacious apartment and the finer things in life would settle into the quieter life in Cornwall and in particular to the small cottage she had moved to. This was one of the main themes of the book.
There is a strong focus on Kerra's family and friends running throughout the book and how Kerra fits back into the community. Not everyone is welcoming and of course being a small community there's a fair bit curtain twitching and gossip. There's a hint of danger and mystery surrounding Kerra's former tenant too. Then there's the love interest with Ross, the man who made her knees go weak when she was a teenager and seems to have the same effect now! I would say that there isn't a huge emphasis on the romance aspect in the book, but rather it brings a pleasing additional element to the story. Kerra's romance isn't, in fact, the only love story nor perhaps the most touching from my point of view.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a book about going back, second chances and moving on, and not just for Kerra. Having got to know many of the residents of Penvennan Cove quite well in this book, I look forward to seeing what happens next for them in what is to be a trilogy of books.
There is quite a gentle start to the book as the author sets the scene and introduces us to her characters, giving us time to get to know them. Kerra is immediately shown to be a hard worker but also someone who values her family and friends. Despite having made a huge amount of money on the sale of her business, it's not beneath her to get stuck in and help her friend Tegan with her business, cleaning holiday cottages when she's short staffed. I did wonder whether Kerra, being used to a busy lifestyle in London, a modern spacious apartment and the finer things in life would settle into the quieter life in Cornwall and in particular to the small cottage she had moved to. This was one of the main themes of the book.
There is a strong focus on Kerra's family and friends running throughout the book and how Kerra fits back into the community. Not everyone is welcoming and of course being a small community there's a fair bit curtain twitching and gossip. There's a hint of danger and mystery surrounding Kerra's former tenant too. Then there's the love interest with Ross, the man who made her knees go weak when she was a teenager and seems to have the same effect now! I would say that there isn't a huge emphasis on the romance aspect in the book, but rather it brings a pleasing additional element to the story. Kerra's romance isn't, in fact, the only love story nor perhaps the most touching from my point of view.
Coming Home to Penvennan Cove is a book about going back, second chances and moving on, and not just for Kerra. Having got to know many of the residents of Penvennan Cove quite well in this book, I look forward to seeing what happens next for them in what is to be a trilogy of books.
October 12, 2020
The Blurb :
When Kerra left the quiet Cornish town of Penvennan Cove for the bright lights of London she didn't look back. But after the death of her mother, she's decided it's time to face her past and return to the place she called home. Her father needs her, and perhaps she needs him more than she's willing to admit?
Tackling town gossip, home renovations and a flame from her past, it's not quite smooth sailing for Kerra. Ross is the bad boy she was meant to forget, not a man who still sets her heart aflutter. As he helps bring her dream home to life, they begin to break down the barriers that have been holding them back and in the process learn things about themselves they never thought possible.
My Thoughts :
Being a huge fan of Linn b Halton’s writing, I could not wait to get started on her newest book Coming Home to Penvennan Cove.
Here we meet Kerra Shaw, Kerra has recently lost her mum so decides to move back home to Cornwall, to be nearer her Dad. Moving from London where she has been living and has a successful business is a big step, one that Si, her assistant thinks shes crazy to do.
Moving into her late Gran’s Cottage, which needs a lot of love and attention, Kerra sets about making a home for herself again.
Neighbour Drew is only to willing to help and will a blast from the past also set her heart alight or is that one crush she needs to leave well in the past!?.
I really enjoyed connecting with Kerra throughout the book and almost felt as I was her friend cheering her on in some areas. All the other Charactors were a joy to follow, especially her Dad.
Linn b Halton has a way with words that brings the story together and makes you feel all warm inside.
I love reading her books and every new addition she adds to her collection doesnt disappoint.
Waiting on another great story very soon.
When Kerra left the quiet Cornish town of Penvennan Cove for the bright lights of London she didn't look back. But after the death of her mother, she's decided it's time to face her past and return to the place she called home. Her father needs her, and perhaps she needs him more than she's willing to admit?
Tackling town gossip, home renovations and a flame from her past, it's not quite smooth sailing for Kerra. Ross is the bad boy she was meant to forget, not a man who still sets her heart aflutter. As he helps bring her dream home to life, they begin to break down the barriers that have been holding them back and in the process learn things about themselves they never thought possible.
My Thoughts :
Being a huge fan of Linn b Halton’s writing, I could not wait to get started on her newest book Coming Home to Penvennan Cove.
Here we meet Kerra Shaw, Kerra has recently lost her mum so decides to move back home to Cornwall, to be nearer her Dad. Moving from London where she has been living and has a successful business is a big step, one that Si, her assistant thinks shes crazy to do.
Moving into her late Gran’s Cottage, which needs a lot of love and attention, Kerra sets about making a home for herself again.
Neighbour Drew is only to willing to help and will a blast from the past also set her heart alight or is that one crush she needs to leave well in the past!?.
I really enjoyed connecting with Kerra throughout the book and almost felt as I was her friend cheering her on in some areas. All the other Charactors were a joy to follow, especially her Dad.
Linn b Halton has a way with words that brings the story together and makes you feel all warm inside.
I love reading her books and every new addition she adds to her collection doesnt disappoint.
Waiting on another great story very soon.
October 19, 2020
This is a lovely story with Kerra returning to her Cornish hometown after successfully developing a London based company which she has sold for a seven figure sum. She’s still worried about her employees, especially her friend and supporter, Sy, but knows it is time to return to keep an eye on her Dad and face her past. She never really felt she fit in the Cornish community, but she’s really missed it all and her Mother’s untimely death has awakened her to the need to return. She’s moving into the cottage that used to belong to her Grandmother, now that the tenant has moved out. However, she has no plans on letting the locals know just how successful she was, wanting to be accepted for who she is rather than her bank balance. Will she settle back into this small community? What will she do next? How will the locals react to her? All will be revealed as the story develops, but you need to read it for yourself to discover!
This is a fabulous story, showing how family and friends react to someone returning home. Kerra’s cousin is something of a nightmare . . . . her Dad is fiercely independent and offers to help Kerra financially if she’s struggling . . . . there’s also Drew, her neighbour, who is an architect with plans . . . . a school best friend who is need of help . . . . and the boy who was her schoolgirl crush is now an attractive man. With dogs, an independent cat, mysterious strangers and a variety of romances, this is a gorgeous story, delightful to escape into and a fabulous read. There are plenty of surprises as the story progresses and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
This is a fabulous story, showing how family and friends react to someone returning home. Kerra’s cousin is something of a nightmare . . . . her Dad is fiercely independent and offers to help Kerra financially if she’s struggling . . . . there’s also Drew, her neighbour, who is an architect with plans . . . . a school best friend who is need of help . . . . and the boy who was her schoolgirl crush is now an attractive man. With dogs, an independent cat, mysterious strangers and a variety of romances, this is a gorgeous story, delightful to escape into and a fabulous read. There are plenty of surprises as the story progresses and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
October 6, 2020
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher.
A warm and enjoyable story from start to finish, COMING HOME TO PENVENNAN COVE by Linn B. Halton is a gentle balm to all of the craziness that is happening at the moment.
When Kerra's mother dies, she soon finds herself leaving the hustle and bustle of the big city to return to her childhood home in Cornwall to look after her father who needs her, even though he thinks he doesn't. It might take Kerra a little while to adjust to small-town living again but she wants to make it work and first up is some renovations for their cottage. But Kerra soon learns that some things never change, like nosy gossips always having an opinion on everything and everyone. And Kerra is soon finding it harder to push down old feelings for her building contractor, Ross, her first crush from all those years ago. As relationships develop, friendships are formed, and trust begins to grow, will this move prove to be the best decision Kerra ever made? Or will she find herself yearning to return to city life where things were less complicated?
A gently paced romance that will leave you feeling warm inside, COMING HOME TO PENVENNAN COVE is sure to put a smile on your face. Kerra and Ross are great characters and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them. This story has a little something for everyone but most of all it has real heart, which I have come to expect with Linn B. Halton, and I am already looking forward to more from one of my favourite authors in this genre. A truly lovely story!
A warm and enjoyable story from start to finish, COMING HOME TO PENVENNAN COVE by Linn B. Halton is a gentle balm to all of the craziness that is happening at the moment.
When Kerra's mother dies, she soon finds herself leaving the hustle and bustle of the big city to return to her childhood home in Cornwall to look after her father who needs her, even though he thinks he doesn't. It might take Kerra a little while to adjust to small-town living again but she wants to make it work and first up is some renovations for their cottage. But Kerra soon learns that some things never change, like nosy gossips always having an opinion on everything and everyone. And Kerra is soon finding it harder to push down old feelings for her building contractor, Ross, her first crush from all those years ago. As relationships develop, friendships are formed, and trust begins to grow, will this move prove to be the best decision Kerra ever made? Or will she find herself yearning to return to city life where things were less complicated?
A gently paced romance that will leave you feeling warm inside, COMING HOME TO PENVENNAN COVE is sure to put a smile on your face. Kerra and Ross are great characters and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them. This story has a little something for everyone but most of all it has real heart, which I have come to expect with Linn B. Halton, and I am already looking forward to more from one of my favourite authors in this genre. A truly lovely story!
October 4, 2020
Kerra has decided that after living in London and having a successful business she needs to go home. Home is her Grandmothers tiny cottage in the village of Penvennan Cove, she is mourning her mum and her dad is struggling with their business although he will not admit it.
Her best friend Tegan is pleased that she is back as she is bringing up her small children after the loss of her husband Pete and running her own business and it’s difficult for her.
Moving back to the village she grew up in gives her many reminders of her childhood, some good, some not so.
She feels claustrophobic in the cottage and wants more but can she persuade her neighbour Drew to sell his cottage or is there another way. Drew has a plan that will be beneficial for them both but will Kerra be able to settle in her Cornish home?
On the day the renovations are to begin Drew has to leave suddenly and leaves Kerra in charge of the builders and she is nervous about meeting up with someone from her past.
I enjoyed this read, I love a book set in Cornwall and Penvennan Cove felt cosy. Kerra is a successful business woman and know her own mind, she finds living back in a small village a challenge to begin with after living in London. The characters were warm and friendly and I loved the addition of Ripley the cat !
A great read to be enjoyed on a wet afternoon to remind us of warmer day to come.
Her best friend Tegan is pleased that she is back as she is bringing up her small children after the loss of her husband Pete and running her own business and it’s difficult for her.
Moving back to the village she grew up in gives her many reminders of her childhood, some good, some not so.
She feels claustrophobic in the cottage and wants more but can she persuade her neighbour Drew to sell his cottage or is there another way. Drew has a plan that will be beneficial for them both but will Kerra be able to settle in her Cornish home?
On the day the renovations are to begin Drew has to leave suddenly and leaves Kerra in charge of the builders and she is nervous about meeting up with someone from her past.
I enjoyed this read, I love a book set in Cornwall and Penvennan Cove felt cosy. Kerra is a successful business woman and know her own mind, she finds living back in a small village a challenge to begin with after living in London. The characters were warm and friendly and I loved the addition of Ripley the cat !
A great read to be enjoyed on a wet afternoon to remind us of warmer day to come.
January 8, 2021
Thanks author Linn B. Halton and NetGalley for giving me a free E-book ARC of this book in exchange for my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have recently become obsessed with British books/ authors. There is just something so wholesome and cozy in regards to their character development, relationships, and plot. This book hit the spot I was looking for when it comes to a good coming home story. I loved Kera as a character. She was strong and successful, but yet felt the pull back home. I like how even though, Kera came back home, she was not dependent on her friends and family to financial support her, but was willing to jump right in to help improve her family and friends businesses with her experience. Many of the characters within this book were going through different life changes. Such as her dad trying to figure out his former wife's dog kennel business and her friends trying to make her cleaning business a success without her husband. While there is a romance woven throughout the story, it is not the central plot point. The main point of this book centers around relationships of all kinds and the concept of finding your "home." The story moves along at an easy pace with the inter thoughts and quips of Kera sprinkled in. The author did a wonderful job of capturing the small village atmosphere. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is the perfect read for those rainy weekends. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I have recently become obsessed with British books/ authors. There is just something so wholesome and cozy in regards to their character development, relationships, and plot. This book hit the spot I was looking for when it comes to a good coming home story. I loved Kera as a character. She was strong and successful, but yet felt the pull back home. I like how even though, Kera came back home, she was not dependent on her friends and family to financial support her, but was willing to jump right in to help improve her family and friends businesses with her experience. Many of the characters within this book were going through different life changes. Such as her dad trying to figure out his former wife's dog kennel business and her friends trying to make her cleaning business a success without her husband. While there is a romance woven throughout the story, it is not the central plot point. The main point of this book centers around relationships of all kinds and the concept of finding your "home." The story moves along at an easy pace with the inter thoughts and quips of Kera sprinkled in. The author did a wonderful job of capturing the small village atmosphere. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is the perfect read for those rainy weekends. I look forward to reading more by this author.
October 24, 2020
The first book I have read by this author and it will definitely not be my last. This was an adorable easy read which made you feel good. The characters were extremely well defined and the setting of the book was idyllic. As you read you can visualize the scenery of Cornwall as if you were there. Kerra was born and raised in Penvennan Cove. Always different from her peers she decided that she wanted to move and work in London. She becomes very successful and has her own business. When her mother dies she decides it's time to go home to find herself and be there for her dad. Meeting up with old friends brings back many memories. An old flame from the past, Ross, bounces back into the forefront of her life again. As you go through the book the past intertwined with the past. There is a mystery running through this as well. I adored Ross, he was a kind, considerate guy. Kerra was a controller to begin with and then realised that maybe it's not always right. She is extremely kind hearted and puts her friends and family first. The next door neighbor, Drew, is one of those neighbors you would want to have yourself. Nothing too much trouble. He has a cat named Ripley and he stole my heart. He was the hero of the book, you can't help but fall in love with him. If you want a brilliantly written feel good book then please purchase this. You will not regret it.
August 28, 2022
This one is a slow burn, second chance/first love/forced proximity(sorta) which I don't necessarily mind if done right.
Oh boy.
So, here we go:
71% in is when the Kerra (heroine) and Ross (Hero) first kiss. Sure a bit late but I've seen this before and if done right it can be just a DAMMMMNNN. Yah no. It was soooo boring. There's little to no lead up. No heat, no passion, no anticipation. ZERO
76% they sleep with each other, but it's BARELY a mention. It was one sentence. One I had to read 3 times because it was just so flippant and brushed over that I stopped and actual said out loud, "WHAT?!" Honestly was just shocked and completely thought of DNF'ing right there. NO, just no.
92% in they have fight. But you don't even know about it until Kerra mentions it when thinking back to the night before. (Like a you kidding me right now.) It was an all out fight too because she was worrying her neighbour would hear. SERIOUSLY? and the author decided not to write about it. (I mentioned this to my 13 year old because I was just so mad. They even said, "Maybe the author was just lazy" You got that right kid, geez)
Do not label a book romance when everything important for a romance is completely left out.
All this book was was business deals, house renovations and family dynamic. Nothing more.
Oh boy.
So, here we go:
71% in is when the Kerra (heroine) and Ross (Hero) first kiss. Sure a bit late but I've seen this before and if done right it can be just a DAMMMMNNN. Yah no. It was soooo boring. There's little to no lead up. No heat, no passion, no anticipation. ZERO
76% they sleep with each other, but it's BARELY a mention. It was one sentence. One I had to read 3 times because it was just so flippant and brushed over that I stopped and actual said out loud, "WHAT?!" Honestly was just shocked and completely thought of DNF'ing right there. NO, just no.
92% in they have fight. But you don't even know about it until Kerra mentions it when thinking back to the night before. (Like a you kidding me right now.) It was an all out fight too because she was worrying her neighbour would hear. SERIOUSLY? and the author decided not to write about it. (I mentioned this to my 13 year old because I was just so mad. They even said, "Maybe the author was just lazy" You got that right kid, geez)
Do not label a book romance when everything important for a romance is completely left out.
All this book was was business deals, house renovations and family dynamic. Nothing more.
October 11, 2020
Kerra returns to her native Cornwall after selling her Internet business based in London in order to look after her widowed father. She decides to put the money she made from her business, together with her Internet skills, to use helping those around her.
This is unashamedly a feel - good story that I really enjoyed. I liked the way it showed that having money and success isn't a guarantee of happiness, but love and friendship can help. A star is Drew's cat, a Bengali, who is very vocal - I've not encountered one of these, but did have a Burmese who talked all the time so can visualise the encounters. The description of the community and the characters made me wish I could join them, which is a hallmark of the type of book that I generally enjoy. This is just the type of book to read cosied up on a Winter's evening and forgetting about the real world out there for a time. There is plenty of opportunity to set more stories in this setting and I believe that this is part of a trilogy so am really looking forward to reading the next one.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
This is unashamedly a feel - good story that I really enjoyed. I liked the way it showed that having money and success isn't a guarantee of happiness, but love and friendship can help. A star is Drew's cat, a Bengali, who is very vocal - I've not encountered one of these, but did have a Burmese who talked all the time so can visualise the encounters. The description of the community and the characters made me wish I could join them, which is a hallmark of the type of book that I generally enjoy. This is just the type of book to read cosied up on a Winter's evening and forgetting about the real world out there for a time. There is plenty of opportunity to set more stories in this setting and I believe that this is part of a trilogy so am really looking forward to reading the next one.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
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