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Ανθολογία Επιστημονικής Φαντασίας Ιστορίες των εκδόσεων Ωρόρα #66
The Start of Something
Two lonely people.
One note in the window.
And what happens when they reach out…
Lachlan Wallace is stuck at home after a car accident stalled his army career. With months of physiotherapy still to endure and only his rescue dog and cat for company, he’s taken to gazing out of the window, watching the world spin on without him. And then he notices a vase of flowers on the windowsill of the apartment opposite his. Drawn to their hope and colour, he decides to reach out and sticks a message in his window…
Bethan Gwynne is a stranger in a new town. Bringing up her son Noah by herself, she is slowly rebuilding her life, but loneliness is one obstacle she has yet to overcome. She’s intrigued by a glimpse of her neighbour in the apartment across from hers – and then, one evening, she sees a message in his window just for her:
WHAT ARE THOSE FLOWERS CALLED?
And so begins a love story of two people reaching out, daring to trust a stranger…
One note in the window.
And what happens when they reach out…
Lachlan Wallace is stuck at home after a car accident stalled his army career. With months of physiotherapy still to endure and only his rescue dog and cat for company, he’s taken to gazing out of the window, watching the world spin on without him. And then he notices a vase of flowers on the windowsill of the apartment opposite his. Drawn to their hope and colour, he decides to reach out and sticks a message in his window…
Bethan Gwynne is a stranger in a new town. Bringing up her son Noah by herself, she is slowly rebuilding her life, but loneliness is one obstacle she has yet to overcome. She’s intrigued by a glimpse of her neighbour in the apartment across from hers – and then, one evening, she sees a message in his window just for her:
WHAT ARE THOSE FLOWERS CALLED?
And so begins a love story of two people reaching out, daring to trust a stranger…
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2000
173 people are currently reading
2711 people want to read
About the author
Miranda Dickinson
28 books659 followersMiranda Dickinson has always had a head full of stories. Coming from a creative family where stories and songs were always present, it was perhaps inevitable that she would end up adoring words. A songwriter for over 15 years, Miranda has successfully penned over thirty songs, delivering both live and recorded performances in a range of venues across the UK and Europe. Her first solo project album, About Time is due for release this year. To hear her music, visit www.mirandadickinson.com - and be sure to leave a message if you like it!
Miranda began writing in earnest four years ago with her first novel, Coffee at Kowalski's - a romantic comedy set in New York's Upper West Side. This was spotted on HarperCollins' site for unpublished authors, Authonomy.com at the end of 2008 and was released by Avon (part of HC) as Fairytale of New York on 12th November 2009. She has also written several short stories, scripts and novel excerpts, many of which are published on Helium.com. Miranda is also a regular contributor for www.myvillage.com writing a range of local interest articles for the Birmingham area and national film and festival reviews.
Miranda began writing in earnest four years ago with her first novel, Coffee at Kowalski's - a romantic comedy set in New York's Upper West Side. This was spotted on HarperCollins' site for unpublished authors, Authonomy.com at the end of 2008 and was released by Avon (part of HC) as Fairytale of New York on 12th November 2009. She has also written several short stories, scripts and novel excerpts, many of which are published on Helium.com. Miranda is also a regular contributor for www.myvillage.com writing a range of local interest articles for the Birmingham area and national film and festival reviews.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 469 reviews
July 8, 2022
3⭑
This book is about Bethan and Lachie who live across from each other and start communicating by leaving notes on their windows. It gave me Taylor Swift ‘You Belong With Me’ music video vibes and I kinda loved it.
I loved all parts of this book of them leaving notes for each other especially when they didn’t know yet or what each other looked like. And the part where the see each other for the first time was so cute!!
Bethan is a single mum but doesn’t want to tell Lachie in case he is put off by this but Lachie was in an accident and has a severe leg injury which he also doesn’t want her to know about in case she doesn’t like that about him.
There was a bit of miscommunication which I was not a fan of, and is ultimately what brought my rating down from a 4 to a 3.
It also felt a bit insta love-ish, which isn’t my favourite thing to read, but I think it felt that way because it wasn’t very clear how much time had passed from them leaving their notes and them meeting in person for the first time.
Overall, this was still a cute romance and I enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book is about Bethan and Lachie who live across from each other and start communicating by leaving notes on their windows. It gave me Taylor Swift ‘You Belong With Me’ music video vibes and I kinda loved it.
I loved all parts of this book of them leaving notes for each other especially when they didn’t know yet or what each other looked like. And the part where the see each other for the first time was so cute!!
Bethan is a single mum but doesn’t want to tell Lachie in case he is put off by this but Lachie was in an accident and has a severe leg injury which he also doesn’t want her to know about in case she doesn’t like that about him.
There was a bit of miscommunication which I was not a fan of, and is ultimately what brought my rating down from a 4 to a 3.
It also felt a bit insta love-ish, which isn’t my favourite thing to read, but I think it felt that way because it wasn’t very clear how much time had passed from them leaving their notes and them meeting in person for the first time.
Overall, this was still a cute romance and I enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2021
3 Stars
This is the first time I've read a Miranda Dickinson book and although it wasn't perfect, I enjoyed it enough to want to read another of her books in the future.
The Start of Something is about two lonely people connecting through messages left to one another in their windows.
Our lead female Bethan is a single mum to three year old Noah. She is working at a struggling garden centre, has money issues and is feeling pretty lonely. I really liked Bethan, she is a great mum, a hard worker and has a lovely, upbeat personality. Our lead male is Lachlan, a soldier recovering from a bad car crash where he has suffered life changing injuries which he is struggling to come to terms with. He is a lovely, genuine guy who has two sidekicks in the form of his dog and cat (Bert and Ernie!). I really liked the story being from two points of view as it allowed us to get to know both characters equally.
The romance for me was cute but quite unrealistic. I love the messages in the windows but felt it went on too long and I had no idea how neither of them even thought about exchanging phone numbers. I thought they went well together but the instalove was a bit too much too soon for me. There is always some kind of problem or misunderstanding between the characters in romance books but this one was utterly ridiculous and I don't think two adults in their mid 30s would have acted in that manner.
The story was in general a little too long. The side stories and characters were good although there is one rather horrible character that I didn't think added anything apart from quite shockingly rude and sexist comments which I could have done without.
The writing was really good and engaging. Although the story has its problems, I still enjoyed it and felt a connection with the characters. It is a nice live story with some deeper aspects which added alot to the book.
Overall, a cute instalove story with relatable and cute characters. For me parts of the storyline let it down but I still did enjoy the read and would read the author's books again.
Please note that I was gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first time I've read a Miranda Dickinson book and although it wasn't perfect, I enjoyed it enough to want to read another of her books in the future.
The Start of Something is about two lonely people connecting through messages left to one another in their windows.
Our lead female Bethan is a single mum to three year old Noah. She is working at a struggling garden centre, has money issues and is feeling pretty lonely. I really liked Bethan, she is a great mum, a hard worker and has a lovely, upbeat personality. Our lead male is Lachlan, a soldier recovering from a bad car crash where he has suffered life changing injuries which he is struggling to come to terms with. He is a lovely, genuine guy who has two sidekicks in the form of his dog and cat (Bert and Ernie!). I really liked the story being from two points of view as it allowed us to get to know both characters equally.
The romance for me was cute but quite unrealistic. I love the messages in the windows but felt it went on too long and I had no idea how neither of them even thought about exchanging phone numbers. I thought they went well together but the instalove was a bit too much too soon for me. There is always some kind of problem or misunderstanding between the characters in romance books but this one was utterly ridiculous and I don't think two adults in their mid 30s would have acted in that manner.
The story was in general a little too long. The side stories and characters were good although there is one rather horrible character that I didn't think added anything apart from quite shockingly rude and sexist comments which I could have done without.
The writing was really good and engaging. Although the story has its problems, I still enjoyed it and felt a connection with the characters. It is a nice live story with some deeper aspects which added alot to the book.
Overall, a cute instalove story with relatable and cute characters. For me parts of the storyline let it down but I still did enjoy the read and would read the author's books again.
Please note that I was gifted this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2022
SPOILERS AHEAD
I was really excited to read this book since I tried finding it everywhere for months before but couldn't. The plot wasn't anything amazing but it felt like a no-stress read which is what I wanted.
The start was okay, but about 1/4 in I was starting to get bored. There were a lot of details about the people and things around them as compared to how much I actually care about it. I didn't want to know about the rest, I wanted to know about them. It felt like their interactions were mostly only via letters on the windows for too long. And I was skimming past way too many pages. Like reading the first few words of the sentence and then moving onto the next page. So when Lachlan said this, I thought what a good decision that was:
I got to admit, them waiting for each other's replies nervously was kinda cute. I mean we have all probably had conversations with strangers right? So I get that feeling. The first meet was something I didn't predict. It wasn't spectacular but wasn't bad either. The second meet though was cute to read. I think the thing about talking to strangers is you open up your heart quickly but then fear losing them because of whoever you are. Lachie was the same and understandably so:
But, an extreme turn off was the love that they felt for each other, so quickly. What they had would have been special to them given their circumstances but it didn't seem to fit into love. It felt more like comfort or adoration. Not the type of "electrifying attraction" you'd hope to feel. The miscommunication played such a huge part in this book and it was really frustrating. But I guess that's a must for every chick lit?
I'd say the 2 ⭐ was for it not being intense and because I could relate to Lachie's and Bethan's jitters.
This book was the no tension, light read I wanted. I would say it could have gone better definitely but it fit the clean, no smut at all, laid-back book it was going for.
I was really excited to read this book since I tried finding it everywhere for months before but couldn't. The plot wasn't anything amazing but it felt like a no-stress read which is what I wanted.
Against all odds, today was a good day. Whatever happens – or doesn’t happen – tomorrow, tonight I’ll sleep knowing someone else in the world knows I’m here
The start was okay, but about 1/4 in I was starting to get bored. There were a lot of details about the people and things around them as compared to how much I actually care about it. I didn't want to know about the rest, I wanted to know about them. It felt like their interactions were mostly only via letters on the windows for too long. And I was skimming past way too many pages. Like reading the first few words of the sentence and then moving onto the next page. So when Lachlan said this, I thought what a good decision that was:
Because I’ve been thinking about that, too. More than I should. We can’t keep sticking messages in our windows for ever
I got to admit, them waiting for each other's replies nervously was kinda cute. I mean we have all probably had conversations with strangers right? So I get that feeling. The first meet was something I didn't predict. It wasn't spectacular but wasn't bad either. The second meet though was cute to read. I think the thing about talking to strangers is you open up your heart quickly but then fear losing them because of whoever you are. Lachie was the same and understandably so:
If she caught sight of my walk looking through gaps in the hedge, all my good work would be undone
But, an extreme turn off was the love that they felt for each other, so quickly. What they had would have been special to them given their circumstances but it didn't seem to fit into love. It felt more like comfort or adoration. Not the type of "electrifying attraction" you'd hope to feel. The miscommunication played such a huge part in this book and it was really frustrating. But I guess that's a must for every chick lit?
I'd say the 2 ⭐ was for it not being intense and because I could relate to Lachie's and Bethan's jitters.
This book was the no tension, light read I wanted. I would say it could have gone better definitely but it fit the clean, no smut at all, laid-back book it was going for.
February 8, 2022
2,5 ⭐
I wanted to feel something while reading this book and, even though it was a fast and easy read, all I felt was a huge void.
For once I don´t understand how the two main characters fell in love that fast. You are just exchangind really silly messages throughout your windows, making jokes about biscuits and saying something 2 to 3 times a day and then suddently you love the person? I get that both of them were in pretty uncomfortable and shitty situations but still... This is a recipe for failure if you ask me.
Also all the characters felt very one dimensional. The girl was welsh (and that seemed to be her only trait as well for the fact that she liked plants) and the guy was in military. And that´s all you get from their personality folks.
Overall, I´m just really tired of picking up books that have an amazing premise but keep getting disappointed time and time again of how bland they all are.
I wanted to feel something while reading this book and, even though it was a fast and easy read, all I felt was a huge void.
For once I don´t understand how the two main characters fell in love that fast. You are just exchangind really silly messages throughout your windows, making jokes about biscuits and saying something 2 to 3 times a day and then suddently you love the person? I get that both of them were in pretty uncomfortable and shitty situations but still... This is a recipe for failure if you ask me.
Also all the characters felt very one dimensional. The girl was welsh (and that seemed to be her only trait as well for the fact that she liked plants) and the guy was in military. And that´s all you get from their personality folks.
Overall, I´m just really tired of picking up books that have an amazing premise but keep getting disappointed time and time again of how bland they all are.
February 24, 2022
I started listening to this audio in the morning had finished it by the evening as I was enthralled by the gentle story I was listening to and also the great narration. Highly recommended if you're looking for an audio book to put a smile on your face
January 16, 2022
Lachlan is a soldier, serving in the British Army until he is in a car accident and it all goes wrong, he is now doing rehab to try and strengthen his leg to enable him to walk properly and go back to work, things weren't going well until one day he looks out the window and sees a neighbour moving into the flat opposite.
One day he decides to put a note in the window to say Hi and he meets Bethan, a single mother who had just moved from a rough area, struggling to get by and support her son on her own and the sparks fly and the window notes commence.
Its all going well until they want to meet, Bethan knows nothing about Lachlans fight to regain his strength and Lachlan knows nothing about Behan being a single mother, will that change things?
I loved this book. The notes in the window reminds me of the last Taylor Swift music video and I thought it was so sweet and found myself cheering them on as I wanted them to be together. I enjoyed how it wasn't just about the growing relationship but we also got to hear about Lachlans struggle with dealing with the car accident and a potential life changing situation and Bethan trying to get by being a single mother after a tough past with the baby daddy. There was more depth to this book that a typical romance and it made me smile and gave me the excited butterflies which made this a great read for me.
Thank you to @bloggerhq and @mirandadickensonn for gifting me a copy of this book for my honest review.
One day he decides to put a note in the window to say Hi and he meets Bethan, a single mother who had just moved from a rough area, struggling to get by and support her son on her own and the sparks fly and the window notes commence.
Its all going well until they want to meet, Bethan knows nothing about Lachlans fight to regain his strength and Lachlan knows nothing about Behan being a single mother, will that change things?
I loved this book. The notes in the window reminds me of the last Taylor Swift music video and I thought it was so sweet and found myself cheering them on as I wanted them to be together. I enjoyed how it wasn't just about the growing relationship but we also got to hear about Lachlans struggle with dealing with the car accident and a potential life changing situation and Bethan trying to get by being a single mother after a tough past with the baby daddy. There was more depth to this book that a typical romance and it made me smile and gave me the excited butterflies which made this a great read for me.
Thank you to @bloggerhq and @mirandadickensonn for gifting me a copy of this book for my honest review.
March 31, 2023
mi ha tenuta incollata alle pagine fino alla fine, è un romance scritto veramente bene che oltre a raccontare una bella storia d'amore ispira, come ogni libro ben scritto dovrebbe fare. Due insicurezze che si danno forza a vicenda, due ferite che si guariscono l'un l'altra. La speranza e la fiducia nelle possibilità del futuro. Lo consiglio!
September 16, 2021
‘The start of something’ is everything you could want in a romance; two likeable characters with their own complicated back stories, a Hallmark channel first encounter and two adorable pets in Bert and Ernie to watch over their interactions.
The story all starts when Lachlan is stuck at home recovering from a leg injury and notices a new neighbour in the flat opposite and in a random act begins a conversation through a poster in the window asking about their vase of flowers. Yes I know this is a cheesy move but because of the way Dickinson depicts Lachlan (and the recent times of lockdown) you can understand the need to reach out and make connections even when you feel foolish that no-one will reply.
Bethan, the neighbour with said flowers, decides to respond because she also feels that sense of loneliness but for her there is a fear of trusting people, especially because she and her young son have been hurt before.
The posters and flirtations go on but what I really enjoyed was the fuller descriptions of Bethan’s garden centre colleagues and Lachlan’s softer side with his cat and dog. This is a very unrealistic love story but who really wants realistic? If you want to be caught up in a cute romance with well rounded characters, funny moments and engaging plotlines this is a perfect book choice.
The story all starts when Lachlan is stuck at home recovering from a leg injury and notices a new neighbour in the flat opposite and in a random act begins a conversation through a poster in the window asking about their vase of flowers. Yes I know this is a cheesy move but because of the way Dickinson depicts Lachlan (and the recent times of lockdown) you can understand the need to reach out and make connections even when you feel foolish that no-one will reply.
Bethan, the neighbour with said flowers, decides to respond because she also feels that sense of loneliness but for her there is a fear of trusting people, especially because she and her young son have been hurt before.
The posters and flirtations go on but what I really enjoyed was the fuller descriptions of Bethan’s garden centre colleagues and Lachlan’s softer side with his cat and dog. This is a very unrealistic love story but who really wants realistic? If you want to be caught up in a cute romance with well rounded characters, funny moments and engaging plotlines this is a perfect book choice.
February 6, 2024
My first 5 star read of the year. And well deserved to.
This book was amazing. It made me cry... twice.
And it was so fun too. He named the dog and cat Bert and Bernie
The messages on the window were cute and innocent.
It was also a very emotional read, the way the mmc didn't feel heard by anyone even his family was just so sad. His breakdowns felt so real.
the way they saw each other for the first time on page 159 you would think you would be bored but no.
The way the son proudly said he did a big poo made me laugh so hard.
There was 1 small mistake in it. someone was eating tea, or I'm just dumb.
This book was amazing. It made me cry... twice.
And it was so fun too. He named the dog and cat Bert and Bernie
The messages on the window were cute and innocent.
It was also a very emotional read, the way the mmc didn't feel heard by anyone even his family was just so sad. His breakdowns felt so real.
the way they saw each other for the first time on page 159 you would think you would be bored but no.
The way the son proudly said he did a big poo made me laugh so hard.
There was 1 small mistake in it. someone was eating tea, or I'm just dumb.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2022
3.5
The story is beautiful, the characters are lovable and you definitely get hooked on them instantly.
My objection, at times the situations feel a bit forced.
In any case, many phrases are right on target and many of the situations are very deep human.
Enjoyable
The story is beautiful, the characters are lovable and you definitely get hooked on them instantly.
My objection, at times the situations feel a bit forced.
In any case, many phrases are right on target and many of the situations are very deep human.
Enjoyable
January 3, 2024
Lovely story, gripping throughout with twists and turns. You really get to know the characters and what they're going through. The ending touching, though I did feel it ended rather quickly.
Will hold this read close to my heart. Thank you, Mum.
Will hold this read close to my heart. Thank you, Mum.
April 26, 2022
Voto libro: 3.5
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
February 7, 2022
Take two characters who are vulnerable and dealing with horrible injustices brought on by others and give them one of the nicest meet cutes without actually meeting. Then as if that wasn’t enough to win me over throw in an aloof cat called Ernie. There is also a dog called Bert for all you dog lovers out there.
But cute pets aside this is really the story of two neighbours Lachlan/Lachie and Bethan with her dragon loving son Noah. The author wrote them in such a way that you knew through all their despair and weakness that they had amazing inner strength and if ever there were two to root for these were it. I’m not sure who was looking forward to the notes in the windows more, them or me?
For me though the best part of this book was the author’s writing on the stigma of being a single mum. So thank you from someone who proudly wears that T-shirt. Darren riled me with his views, but he was one of the best and most realistic baddies I’ve come across and I was itching for him to get his comeuppance.
While I would have been more than happy to stay with Lachie and Beth, there are so many more wonderful characters. From army mate Rigsy who was full of something I just wasn’t sure what! To all of the staff and customers at the garden centre. As in life they represent a whole spectrum of different personalities and some you will love while others not so much.
This is a book that is as happy as ranunculus, like watching and waiting for seeds to germinate the will they won’t they is a test of patience and the bloom is always worth the wait.
But cute pets aside this is really the story of two neighbours Lachlan/Lachie and Bethan with her dragon loving son Noah. The author wrote them in such a way that you knew through all their despair and weakness that they had amazing inner strength and if ever there were two to root for these were it. I’m not sure who was looking forward to the notes in the windows more, them or me?
For me though the best part of this book was the author’s writing on the stigma of being a single mum. So thank you from someone who proudly wears that T-shirt. Darren riled me with his views, but he was one of the best and most realistic baddies I’ve come across and I was itching for him to get his comeuppance.
While I would have been more than happy to stay with Lachie and Beth, there are so many more wonderful characters. From army mate Rigsy who was full of something I just wasn’t sure what! To all of the staff and customers at the garden centre. As in life they represent a whole spectrum of different personalities and some you will love while others not so much.
This is a book that is as happy as ranunculus, like watching and waiting for seeds to germinate the will they won’t they is a test of patience and the bloom is always worth the wait.
January 26, 2022
This is such a great idea for a romantic story - notes in the window to establish the start of a friendship for two individuals. It’s a sweet and emotional story and I really liked getting to know Lachie and Bethan as they started to share thoughts and feelings with eachother as the trust and friendship grew. I always enjoy Miranda Dickinson’s writing and this is as wonderful as always. Sensitive and warm-hearted it’s a love story to enjoy.
February 2, 2022
If you're looking for a nice, romantic story, with likable characters with back stories that add depth to the book, you mightn't have to look any further.
The writing is very good and engaging, the story felt a bit too long and somewhat unrealistic at times, but the romance was cute and I enjoyed listening to it
The narrators were fantastic!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review
The writing is very good and engaging, the story felt a bit too long and somewhat unrealistic at times, but the romance was cute and I enjoyed listening to it
The narrators were fantastic!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review
March 2, 2022
What a fabulous read!
This had my heart pounding and me saying awwww lots of times. A very unconventional way to make a friend but it worked! It's a glorious story and I fell in love with little Noah.
Brilliant from start to finish
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion
This had my heart pounding and me saying awwww lots of times. A very unconventional way to make a friend but it worked! It's a glorious story and I fell in love with little Noah.
Brilliant from start to finish
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion
April 2, 2022
a slow burn that feels like the development of two separate people who come together at the very end rather than a story of them together but it works
not the best writing but enjoyable :)
a gentle story about finding your way in life with really well developed side characters
not the best writing but enjoyable :)
a gentle story about finding your way in life with really well developed side characters
August 23, 2022
Oh, this was so lovely! A really heart-warming tale of two people needing connection who tentatively reach out to each other and develop a bond. I adored it.
March 22, 2025
bethan has just moved into a new apartment with her son and notices a cat in the window of an apartment opposite hers. one day, that window has a sign in the window asking what type of flower bethan has in her window. they start sending messages in their window to eachother but they have still not fully seen eachother or met in person. bethan is hesitant because she is a single mum and is often judged for it. lachland is hesitant because he was recently in an accident and he is struggling walking so does not want to meet bethan yet.
this was giving the you belong with me music video. it was so sweet and innocent and i just love them so much. they were so cute and i LOVE the notes in the window. there was also the slight mystery surrounding lachie's injury which was interesting because it was unclear at first about what happened which just made it even more interesting.
this was giving the you belong with me music video. it was so sweet and innocent and i just love them so much. they were so cute and i LOVE the notes in the window. there was also the slight mystery surrounding lachie's injury which was interesting because it was unclear at first about what happened which just made it even more interesting.
August 31, 2021
A big thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for sending a copy of this my way to read and review.
I really enjoyed reading about Bethan and Lachlan’s lives. Especially when they intertwine and start sending each other messages by putting up pieces of paper in there windows. I also loved the adorable inclusion of Burt and Ernie which added more cuteness to this story. I love how the author gave them there own story lines as well as a joint one together. They both had to deal with a lot of hardships in this book and I enjoyed going on that journey with them.
I especially loved seeing Bethan find her voice as well as Lachlan when he gets put in a difficult situation. I also enjoyed the misunderstanding however it is a ploy that quite a lot of books use.
I really enjoyed reading about Bethan and Lachlan’s lives. Especially when they intertwine and start sending each other messages by putting up pieces of paper in there windows. I also loved the adorable inclusion of Burt and Ernie which added more cuteness to this story. I love how the author gave them there own story lines as well as a joint one together. They both had to deal with a lot of hardships in this book and I enjoyed going on that journey with them.
I especially loved seeing Bethan find her voice as well as Lachlan when he gets put in a difficult situation. I also enjoyed the misunderstanding however it is a ploy that quite a lot of books use.
April 21, 2025
‘We’re going to be fine. The End.’
I honestly really enjoyed this book, loved how it focused on both sides of a story and then came together at the end. If I have to start making notes to stick on the window to find love I think I will 😂 no but honestly really liked this book!! Lachlan and Bethan are perfect for each other, they need each other.
I honestly really enjoyed this book, loved how it focused on both sides of a story and then came together at the end. If I have to start making notes to stick on the window to find love I think I will 😂 no but honestly really liked this book!! Lachlan and Bethan are perfect for each other, they need each other.
Read
May 3, 2022REALLY lovely. Lots of sweet vulnerability on both sides, for good reason, even though the MCs are both hardened by years of tough situations.
August 8, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins for this lovely book.
Well, I really liked this one! What a nice premise of meeting in such a way over notes in a window. The main characters were good people who both had a lot on their plates and life hadn't dealt them the kindest of cards.
Bethan is likeable, strong and kind, clearly with a good heart and friendly nature so she's easy to follow on her journey.
Lachie is frustratingly stubborn but he has that gem inside that provokes that first move. It's lovely to see the relationship develop over their notes. I think the only thing stopping me from believing this and giving it a full 5 stars is not believing that in this modern world, that they'd not exchange numbers? Also, the through the hedge meetings after the first time I'm not sure how I could envisage this being ok when it would take a few steps to be face to face. Maybe I'm trying too hard to put myself into that but I couldn't relate to it.
The drama with the hearing (hated Adam from the get go) and with Hattie and the missing money. I knew it was Darren without needing any hints there. He's written as the stereotypical bad guy so of course it was him. However during this and their estrangement from each other I actually felt nervous for them, tense and on edge! I was there with them the whole way!
Lastly, I'd of liked a little more of the relationship build up face to face, it ended too soon for me in that regard. All the build up and a few sentences to cover it at the end.
Overall really enjoyed, just tiny wee niggles or it would have been 5*.
Well, I really liked this one! What a nice premise of meeting in such a way over notes in a window. The main characters were good people who both had a lot on their plates and life hadn't dealt them the kindest of cards.
Bethan is likeable, strong and kind, clearly with a good heart and friendly nature so she's easy to follow on her journey.
Lachie is frustratingly stubborn but he has that gem inside that provokes that first move. It's lovely to see the relationship develop over their notes. I think the only thing stopping me from believing this and giving it a full 5 stars is not believing that in this modern world, that they'd not exchange numbers? Also, the through the hedge meetings after the first time I'm not sure how I could envisage this being ok when it would take a few steps to be face to face. Maybe I'm trying too hard to put myself into that but I couldn't relate to it.
The drama with the hearing (hated Adam from the get go) and with Hattie and the missing money. I knew it was Darren without needing any hints there. He's written as the stereotypical bad guy so of course it was him. However during this and their estrangement from each other I actually felt nervous for them, tense and on edge! I was there with them the whole way!
Lastly, I'd of liked a little more of the relationship build up face to face, it ended too soon for me in that regard. All the build up and a few sentences to cover it at the end.
Overall really enjoyed, just tiny wee niggles or it would have been 5*.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2021
I received ab ARC from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I usually love this author's books but found this one rather disappointing. A great premise - communication through notes on the window - but this went on for far too long and the story was so slow. The meeting and 'misunderstanding' actually made no sense to me. I really dislike the use of inconvenient misunderstandings (which could be straightened out by actually talking to one another) as a way of inserting conflict and obstacles into the story. This one really made no sense because I truly did not understand why either party believed what they did.
Bethann, the heroine had fought to make a life for herself and her son and was an attractive character but the author just piled on the angst until I kept thinking - really - and now this?
The hero's back story was equally angst-filled and made worse by his own lack of judgment and at times, he felt like an adolescent, not a grown man.
I enjoyed it - a pleasant enough read, if overlong, but I was disappointed.
I usually love this author's books but found this one rather disappointing. A great premise - communication through notes on the window - but this went on for far too long and the story was so slow. The meeting and 'misunderstanding' actually made no sense to me. I really dislike the use of inconvenient misunderstandings (which could be straightened out by actually talking to one another) as a way of inserting conflict and obstacles into the story. This one really made no sense because I truly did not understand why either party believed what they did.
Bethann, the heroine had fought to make a life for herself and her son and was an attractive character but the author just piled on the angst until I kept thinking - really - and now this?
The hero's back story was equally angst-filled and made worse by his own lack of judgment and at times, he felt like an adolescent, not a grown man.
I enjoyed it - a pleasant enough read, if overlong, but I was disappointed.
February 20, 2022
It would be a very interesting book if not for the lukewarm romance.
Yet another book where two people are in love after like a week one 5minutes long convo.
I found the idea of talking through messages in the windows really cool, but it would be better if they progressed to some other form of communication and not just one sentence per day.
Also being a single mum and Welsh is not a personality trait. Being a soldier is not a personality trait either.
All the characters were extremely one dimensional and I found myself being bored and skimming the book.
I received this book from the publisher in an exchange for an honest review
Yet another book where two people are in love after like a week one 5minutes long convo.
I found the idea of talking through messages in the windows really cool, but it would be better if they progressed to some other form of communication and not just one sentence per day.
Also being a single mum and Welsh is not a personality trait. Being a soldier is not a personality trait either.
All the characters were extremely one dimensional and I found myself being bored and skimming the book.
I received this book from the publisher in an exchange for an honest review
August 31, 2021
Actual rating 3.75⭐️
If you’re looking for a gentle charming romance to melt your heart and make you feel all gooey inside then The Start of Something might just fit the bill. Lachlan Wallace,an army captain is living alone in his flat, recuperating from a terrible injury, with only his cat Ernie and dog Bert for company. With plenty of time to watch the world go by from his window his attention is drawn to a neighbouring flat where it would seem a new tenant is moving in. Over the coming days he catches glimpses of the woman inside the flat and when his eyes are drawn to the colourful flowers on display in her window Lachlan comes up with a simple but rather ingenious way to begin a conversation without having to leave the confines of his flat.
It is this quaint form of communication that Lachlan instigates that is the selling point of this novel. The idea of conversing and striking up a friendship via handwritten messages taped to your window is such a lovely thoughtful one given most of the population have their heads down and eyes glued to their phone screens as they rapidly text or swipe left or right! To me it seems like an incredibly romantic way in which to slowly get to know someone and form a first impression without immediately judging that person by physical appearance alone which is what we all tend to do. In Lachlan and Bethan’s case there’s that mystery element of not knowing what each other looks like that adds to the deliciousness of their rapidly developing relationship. Having to imagine the person behind the increasingly flirtatious messages when you can only catch the odd glimpse of a bicep or a tattoo or the back of a ponytail is quite wonderful and refreshing. You can’t help but wonder whether these two will progress from their window “conversations” to meeting face to face or whether they’ll remain hidden, too shy and wary to take the next brave step. Who, if either of them will make the first move??
If like me you read a lot of this type of fiction then you’ll realise what Miranda Dickinson is offering conforms to the usual tried and trusted formula with the main characters paths following the standard trajectory. She fulfils the brief in terms of comfort reading as this storyline is undemanding, inoffensive but utterly charming. Your mind is free to drift to a happy safe secure place, the author tapping into that small section of your brain where childhood dreams of princesses marrying their handsome prince and living happily ever after still linger. As a child who grew up on a diet of Enid Blyton, this book represents the adult equivalent and there’s nothing wrong with that!
The two main characters are lovely even if they don’t particularly stand out from the crowd. Both are scarred individuals whether that be physically or mentally but you hope that just maybe they can heal together. It might be the start of a slow burning romance but as we all know slow and steady wins the race! Besides the obvious romantic element it is the theme of friendship that makes this such a comforting and uplifting read. No man is an island and however much we might enjoy our own company, us humans are social creatures at heart so friendship is vital for our well being. That’s especially true for Lachlan who’s not in the best physical health and having a tough time coming to terms with his new limitations and for Bethan who is a single mum to a toddler and also experiencing another form of hardship. As someone who knows first hand how lonely and insular life can be as a single parent I can honestly say I only survived those early years thanks in part to the friendships I built around me. Her story totally resonated with me as I’m sure it will with anyone who suffers from loneliness or feels isolated from the rest of society for whatever reason. Therefore it’s perfectly understandable how a friendly message from a neighbour across the way might just end up being the highlight of Bethan’s or Lachlan’s day, putting a smile on their faces, a spring in their step and restoring their faith in humanity. The thought that they are not entirely alone and someone out there (who they’ve yet to meet in person!)is thinking about them is reason enough to give them and the reader a warm fuzzy glow. Little Noah is adorable and I liked how super supportive childminder Michelle is of Bethan. Even better are the friendships that are in full bloom between this hardworking woman and her garden centre colleagues. I loved the sense of community spirit that the majority of the characters display, all pulling together when the chips are down, providing Bethan especially with a renewed sense of purpose. Bright Hill nurseries are lucky to have her as part of the team! This angle leaves you feeling extremely happy and contented and sums up the overall vibe of the novel. Naturally there are a few bad pennies to ensure the outlook isn’t always sunny together with some inevitable misunderstandings, hastily formed assumptions, a minuscule amount of prejudice and a fair bit of misplaced loyalty but fingers crossed eventually Bethan and Lachlan will come up smelling of roses!
Overall this is a lovely, gentle pleasurable read which doesn’t quite hit the 4⭐️ mark for me but comes very close! The Start of Something is the first book I’ve read from this author but on the strength of this title I’ll be sure to check out some more!
My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re looking for a gentle charming romance to melt your heart and make you feel all gooey inside then The Start of Something might just fit the bill. Lachlan Wallace,an army captain is living alone in his flat, recuperating from a terrible injury, with only his cat Ernie and dog Bert for company. With plenty of time to watch the world go by from his window his attention is drawn to a neighbouring flat where it would seem a new tenant is moving in. Over the coming days he catches glimpses of the woman inside the flat and when his eyes are drawn to the colourful flowers on display in her window Lachlan comes up with a simple but rather ingenious way to begin a conversation without having to leave the confines of his flat.
It is this quaint form of communication that Lachlan instigates that is the selling point of this novel. The idea of conversing and striking up a friendship via handwritten messages taped to your window is such a lovely thoughtful one given most of the population have their heads down and eyes glued to their phone screens as they rapidly text or swipe left or right! To me it seems like an incredibly romantic way in which to slowly get to know someone and form a first impression without immediately judging that person by physical appearance alone which is what we all tend to do. In Lachlan and Bethan’s case there’s that mystery element of not knowing what each other looks like that adds to the deliciousness of their rapidly developing relationship. Having to imagine the person behind the increasingly flirtatious messages when you can only catch the odd glimpse of a bicep or a tattoo or the back of a ponytail is quite wonderful and refreshing. You can’t help but wonder whether these two will progress from their window “conversations” to meeting face to face or whether they’ll remain hidden, too shy and wary to take the next brave step. Who, if either of them will make the first move??
If like me you read a lot of this type of fiction then you’ll realise what Miranda Dickinson is offering conforms to the usual tried and trusted formula with the main characters paths following the standard trajectory. She fulfils the brief in terms of comfort reading as this storyline is undemanding, inoffensive but utterly charming. Your mind is free to drift to a happy safe secure place, the author tapping into that small section of your brain where childhood dreams of princesses marrying their handsome prince and living happily ever after still linger. As a child who grew up on a diet of Enid Blyton, this book represents the adult equivalent and there’s nothing wrong with that!
The two main characters are lovely even if they don’t particularly stand out from the crowd. Both are scarred individuals whether that be physically or mentally but you hope that just maybe they can heal together. It might be the start of a slow burning romance but as we all know slow and steady wins the race! Besides the obvious romantic element it is the theme of friendship that makes this such a comforting and uplifting read. No man is an island and however much we might enjoy our own company, us humans are social creatures at heart so friendship is vital for our well being. That’s especially true for Lachlan who’s not in the best physical health and having a tough time coming to terms with his new limitations and for Bethan who is a single mum to a toddler and also experiencing another form of hardship. As someone who knows first hand how lonely and insular life can be as a single parent I can honestly say I only survived those early years thanks in part to the friendships I built around me. Her story totally resonated with me as I’m sure it will with anyone who suffers from loneliness or feels isolated from the rest of society for whatever reason. Therefore it’s perfectly understandable how a friendly message from a neighbour across the way might just end up being the highlight of Bethan’s or Lachlan’s day, putting a smile on their faces, a spring in their step and restoring their faith in humanity. The thought that they are not entirely alone and someone out there (who they’ve yet to meet in person!)is thinking about them is reason enough to give them and the reader a warm fuzzy glow. Little Noah is adorable and I liked how super supportive childminder Michelle is of Bethan. Even better are the friendships that are in full bloom between this hardworking woman and her garden centre colleagues. I loved the sense of community spirit that the majority of the characters display, all pulling together when the chips are down, providing Bethan especially with a renewed sense of purpose. Bright Hill nurseries are lucky to have her as part of the team! This angle leaves you feeling extremely happy and contented and sums up the overall vibe of the novel. Naturally there are a few bad pennies to ensure the outlook isn’t always sunny together with some inevitable misunderstandings, hastily formed assumptions, a minuscule amount of prejudice and a fair bit of misplaced loyalty but fingers crossed eventually Bethan and Lachlan will come up smelling of roses!
Overall this is a lovely, gentle pleasurable read which doesn’t quite hit the 4⭐️ mark for me but comes very close! The Start of Something is the first book I’ve read from this author but on the strength of this title I’ll be sure to check out some more!
My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2022
Confesso che sono stata attratta dal gatto del titolo... Dopo un inizio promettente, ho trovato che il libro era un po' lento, ma forse sono io che sono abituata ai ritmi più sostenuti dei romantic suspense. Comunque sia, l'ultimo terzo o poco più del libro è più interessante, tanto che non ho messo giù l'ereader finché non ho finito la lettura, visto che ne avevo il tempo. Con questa parte finale, il libro arriva alle 4 stelle.
July 1, 2022
This was so incredibly bad. I should’ve known that it wasn’t going to be great considering I got for £3 at Sainsburys. The characters are boring and don’t meet in person until over halfway through the book yet they love each other 5 pages later. It felt rushed yet soooo slow all at the same time. The concept is interesting to a degree but it needed a lot more TLC.
February 28, 2024
i really enjoyed this! i loved the concept and writing style
October 13, 2023
3,5/5 .. Το μισό αστεράκι για τη νοσταλγία των εκδόσεων Ωρόρα, για τον φοβερό Γιώργο Μπαλάνο και για τον ακόμα φοβερότερο και αγαπημένο μεταφραστή, Θωμά Μαστακούρη 🖤
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