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Elle's A to Z of Love
Haileybrook, a beautiful village in the peaceful Cotswolds countryside, is most people’s idea of heaven on earth.
Born and raised in this small slice of paradise, Elle Bea can’t wait to leave.
It should be easy, but every time she packs her bags for exotic adventures, old loves and loyalties pull her back.
Will Elle be forced to forget her dreams of far-flung places and epic romance, or can she grab one last chance to have it all?
An uplifting, romantic story about friends, family and the relationships that make a place a home.
Born and raised in this small slice of paradise, Elle Bea can’t wait to leave.
It should be easy, but every time she packs her bags for exotic adventures, old loves and loyalties pull her back.
Will Elle be forced to forget her dreams of far-flung places and epic romance, or can she grab one last chance to have it all?
An uplifting, romantic story about friends, family and the relationships that make a place a home.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
381 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2021
57 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Claire Huston
5 books157 followersClaire Huston lives in Warwickshire, UK. She writes uplifting modern love stories about characters who are meant for each other but sometimes need help figuring that out.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in her first novel, Art and Soul, on her website along with over 150 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.
As well as her website, you can find her on various social media. Find your favourite here: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 9, 2021
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Elle reminds me of myself in a lot of ways. She can't quite stick around in the place she grew up, and she wants to travel badly. That used to be most of my life as well.
But the only difference: Elle can't quite do it. I could. Every time the poor thing tries, some old form of her past comes back and grabs her, not letting her go.
It was one hell of a ride spending time with a lookalike (in the way she and I are similar), and getting to know her really, with all her past crowding in as well.
The writing flowed beautifully, the characters touched my heart to the deepest structure found within, and the emotional wreck that I was - became due to them.
One hell of a laugh out loud romantic lovestory and finding yourself piece if you are looking for some good laughs and heart melting words.
-TMR
Elle reminds me of myself in a lot of ways. She can't quite stick around in the place she grew up, and she wants to travel badly. That used to be most of my life as well.
But the only difference: Elle can't quite do it. I could. Every time the poor thing tries, some old form of her past comes back and grabs her, not letting her go.
It was one hell of a ride spending time with a lookalike (in the way she and I are similar), and getting to know her really, with all her past crowding in as well.
The writing flowed beautifully, the characters touched my heart to the deepest structure found within, and the emotional wreck that I was - became due to them.
One hell of a laugh out loud romantic lovestory and finding yourself piece if you are looking for some good laughs and heart melting words.
-TMR
July 13, 2021
Reading this book is likely to make you frustrated for poor Elle: every time it looks like she is making progress in her life or romances, something comes along and puts her back to square one. It’s a terrible game and I thought this book was full of false starts for our protagonist.
When we first meet Elle, she is a university student curled up in the library and surrounded by her imagination. A chance meeting with another student seems to go on the back-burner, until Huston pulls this back into the narrative. Having to return home to support close friends who have been like family, it feels like her dream of leaving her sleepy village is never going to materialise. With the narrative divided into parts, it is like the writer draws attention to the different set-backs that Elle experiences, giving her further reasons for not pursuing her travelling dreams. For example, not only do we see Elle finally get together with her childhood crush, she settles for staying in the village working in the pub and casually writing for the local newspaper. Ambitions for writing in London are put by the way side as more things get in Elle’s way.
Despite these frustrations, I did like watching life evolve around Elle. Her friends are generally very sweet, although I did not have much time for Serena or Faye. On reflection, I think I preferred the male characters instead as they generally have rather likeable personalities. I wanted to see things go further for Elle and Adam but cringed when her birthday appeared to bring more negativity than celebrations. However, when Huston re-introduces Elle’s university acquaintance, I thought this added more intrigue to how the plot would unfold.
The writer really emphasises the quaint English setting. There are several characters who rave about the idyllic village that Elle lives in, even if she is desperate to escape it! I could really picture the locations and especially liked watching the farm evolve to ensure it remained a success. Seth and Toby are warming characters and I enjoyed seeing how much of Elle’s life they have been a part of, even down to when she was having troubled times at school.
The significance of the title never really dawned on me until the end of the story! I think this is a sweet narrative that follows a troubled woman who cannot put herself before her loyalties. This self-sacrificing attitude is pleasing to see but I felt irritated that circumstances never gave Elle the opportunity for her to fulfil her dreams. This aside, I think this book will prove popular for fans of romance reads.
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When we first meet Elle, she is a university student curled up in the library and surrounded by her imagination. A chance meeting with another student seems to go on the back-burner, until Huston pulls this back into the narrative. Having to return home to support close friends who have been like family, it feels like her dream of leaving her sleepy village is never going to materialise. With the narrative divided into parts, it is like the writer draws attention to the different set-backs that Elle experiences, giving her further reasons for not pursuing her travelling dreams. For example, not only do we see Elle finally get together with her childhood crush, she settles for staying in the village working in the pub and casually writing for the local newspaper. Ambitions for writing in London are put by the way side as more things get in Elle’s way.
Despite these frustrations, I did like watching life evolve around Elle. Her friends are generally very sweet, although I did not have much time for Serena or Faye. On reflection, I think I preferred the male characters instead as they generally have rather likeable personalities. I wanted to see things go further for Elle and Adam but cringed when her birthday appeared to bring more negativity than celebrations. However, when Huston re-introduces Elle’s university acquaintance, I thought this added more intrigue to how the plot would unfold.
The writer really emphasises the quaint English setting. There are several characters who rave about the idyllic village that Elle lives in, even if she is desperate to escape it! I could really picture the locations and especially liked watching the farm evolve to ensure it remained a success. Seth and Toby are warming characters and I enjoyed seeing how much of Elle’s life they have been a part of, even down to when she was having troubled times at school.
The significance of the title never really dawned on me until the end of the story! I think this is a sweet narrative that follows a troubled woman who cannot put herself before her loyalties. This self-sacrificing attitude is pleasing to see but I felt irritated that circumstances never gave Elle the opportunity for her to fulfil her dreams. This aside, I think this book will prove popular for fans of romance reads.
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2021
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE is such a fun contemporary story that I was pulled in to from the very first page. The blurb really captured me, and the cover really pulled me in. I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Claire Huston has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go. My heart broke for Elle and how unlucky she is when it comes to finding the right guy. Besides that, she is stuck in the place where she grew up and all she wants to do is travel. She already has a trip planned with her bestie, Serena, but life may have other plans for Elle.
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Elle is nursing A broken heart thanks to Adam. They dated until the one day Adam took off and moved away. Elle has never gotten over him so imagine her shock when she learns Adam is back in town. I did not like Adam from the first time he was introduced in ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE and did not trust him to do the right thing where Elle is concerned. Before Adam comes back, Elle is swapping emails with a cute boy, Zach , whom she met at the local library when he was attacked by a shelf of books. He now lives in California with his girlfriend. I loved the back and forth emails with Zach and really wanted him to dump Sophie and come back to Haileybrook.
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Claire Huston was taking us and what would happen to Elle and Zach. There is so much heart in Claire’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. Elle is a little too nice and puts all the people of Haileybrook in front of her own life. She really needs to learn how to say no so she can go and find her dreams. She really needed to learn how to stick up for herself and not let people walk all over her, especially Adam! I am now a Claire Huston fan and look forward to reading all of her books in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Elle is nursing A broken heart thanks to Adam. They dated until the one day Adam took off and moved away. Elle has never gotten over him so imagine her shock when she learns Adam is back in town. I did not like Adam from the first time he was introduced in ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE and did not trust him to do the right thing where Elle is concerned. Before Adam comes back, Elle is swapping emails with a cute boy, Zach , whom she met at the local library when he was attacked by a shelf of books. He now lives in California with his girlfriend. I loved the back and forth emails with Zach and really wanted him to dump Sophie and come back to Haileybrook.
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Claire Huston was taking us and what would happen to Elle and Zach. There is so much heart in Claire’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. Elle is a little too nice and puts all the people of Haileybrook in front of her own life. She really needs to learn how to say no so she can go and find her dreams. She really needed to learn how to stick up for herself and not let people walk all over her, especially Adam! I am now a Claire Huston fan and look forward to reading all of her books in the future!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
November 20, 2021
Elle’s A to Z of Love is author Claire Huston’s second contemporary romance novel. That being said, one would expect the same or better caliber of writing like the first novel. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the case for me. Perhaps I just had very high expectations especially since I enjoyed her first novel so much.
The novel is a slow read and the realization behind the meaning of the title doesn’t occur until you are invested in at least 30% of the book. Something that I’ve grown not to appreciate so much these days.
The characters were developed enough, but were not at all likeable. Elle is painted as a bullied youngster that grew up with mommy issues. And the men in Elle’s life before she meets “the one,” are cads in my opinion.
The plot is simple. Boy meets girl, something sparks but nothing becomes of it until several years later. There isn’t much in between except flashbacks to childhood events and family drama that shaped Elle into the woman that she is.
Overall, Elle’s A to Z of Love is a respectable read. Too bad it wasn’t what I expected. Two acceptable stars.
I received a digital copy of the book from the author. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The novel is a slow read and the realization behind the meaning of the title doesn’t occur until you are invested in at least 30% of the book. Something that I’ve grown not to appreciate so much these days.
The characters were developed enough, but were not at all likeable. Elle is painted as a bullied youngster that grew up with mommy issues. And the men in Elle’s life before she meets “the one,” are cads in my opinion.
The plot is simple. Boy meets girl, something sparks but nothing becomes of it until several years later. There isn’t much in between except flashbacks to childhood events and family drama that shaped Elle into the woman that she is.
Overall, Elle’s A to Z of Love is a respectable read. Too bad it wasn’t what I expected. Two acceptable stars.
I received a digital copy of the book from the author. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 6, 2021
This book follows Elle, living in a small town in the countryside, and she has dreams of adventure. I really loved how I could relate in certain ways to Elle which was amazing. I liked the vulnerability, the Elle's past, and the topics that are talked about.
There were a lot of elements that grabbed my attention, some I have already referenced. Another things I liked as the interactions between the characters and the entire community and the background. The fact that it was set in the countryside, it made it a bit cozy and relatable to me.
I could say many other things. There were a lot of questions as I had while reading that made me curious. I wanted to know more about Elle and the town. I wanted to know what would happen in the end. And it was quite a good balance with the warmth the book had as well.
Overall, I enjoyed the plot. I liked how the story and the characters developed. It was a lovely book with romance, family, friendship, and moments of emotion and reflection.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Claire Huston for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
There were a lot of elements that grabbed my attention, some I have already referenced. Another things I liked as the interactions between the characters and the entire community and the background. The fact that it was set in the countryside, it made it a bit cozy and relatable to me.
I could say many other things. There were a lot of questions as I had while reading that made me curious. I wanted to know more about Elle and the town. I wanted to know what would happen in the end. And it was quite a good balance with the warmth the book had as well.
Overall, I enjoyed the plot. I liked how the story and the characters developed. It was a lovely book with romance, family, friendship, and moments of emotion and reflection.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Claire Huston for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
July 18, 2023
ELLE'S A TO Z OF LOVE is another charming, genteel story from the wonderful Claire Huston. If you want bright lights and big city, then you're definitely in the wrong place. Here you will find the Village Fayre (with a y) and lots of bunting!
The thing I really enjoyed about this is that Elle doesn't find her 'one' immediately. And it's not the typical boy she's known forever and just didn't realise it. Instead, Ms Huston gives a more realistic version of Elle stumbling through life and trying to figure it out. Now, Elle is mostly a passive character. Don't get me wrong, she's very nice, but she does need to grow a backbone! Thankfully, she does and I was cheering along with everyone else. I loved how life got in the way and things changed and evolved.
The pacing is smooth and the story moves along steadily, helped by an amazing supporting cast of characters. There were no errors that I noticed which helped me enjoy this story.
As far as I am concerned, this is another winner by Claire Huston and absolutely recommended by me. Anyone for a slice of cake?!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 25, 2021
The thing I really enjoyed about this is that Elle doesn't find her 'one' immediately. And it's not the typical boy she's known forever and just didn't realise it. Instead, Ms Huston gives a more realistic version of Elle stumbling through life and trying to figure it out. Now, Elle is mostly a passive character. Don't get me wrong, she's very nice, but she does need to grow a backbone! Thankfully, she does and I was cheering along with everyone else. I loved how life got in the way and things changed and evolved.
The pacing is smooth and the story moves along steadily, helped by an amazing supporting cast of characters. There were no errors that I noticed which helped me enjoy this story.
As far as I am concerned, this is another winner by Claire Huston and absolutely recommended by me. Anyone for a slice of cake?!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 25, 2021
July 23, 2021
Finished reading: July 23rd 2021
"You'll never be without friends as long as you have a good book."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
July 6, 2021
Elle’s A to Z of Love follows Elle Bea, a young woman torn between her dreams and her home. Though eager to leave her small hometown behind, Elle’s strong ties and loyalty to her family and friends continually bring her back. When a devastating phone call compels Elle to return home for an extended period of time, it seems like Elle will never get to go on her epic adventure. However, Elle might just learn that sometimes you find what you’re looking for when you least expect it.
Elle is an interesting and well-developed character. She spends much of the story helping and supporting others and finding herself. She reminds me a bit of myself when I was her age – torn between her duty and her dreams, attached to the past and yet longing for independence, constantly pulled back into the welcoming and safe fold of my family even when trying to take adventurous and independent steps in life, confounded by love. It’s a confusing and difficult time in many people’s lives, which Huston portrays wonderfully.
Elle also struggles with anxiety (again, I so relate!) and a complicated and toxic relationship with her mother, which affect many aspects of her life. Luckily, the toxicity is balanced with Elle’s supportive father and other wonderful parental influences. Elle’s at an interesting point in her life where she is learning who and what is important to her – what she wants in life, who she wants beside her, and how she wants to be treated. I enjoyed watching her grow, change, and become more self-assured. She learns to stand up for herself and not take such a passive role in life. She also starts to fight for and act on what she wants, which is fantastic! I think all of her relationships, good and bad, help Elle figure out what she wants from herself and others. However, this can be scary and stressful, especially when familial expectations, loyalties, and potential tragedies are thrown in.
Other characters in the story, including Elle’s friends Adam, Serena, and Toby are relatable and interesting. These friends must deal with their changing relationships. Can friends become something more? Should friends turn to lovers, especially when pressured by family? What does one do when expectations don’t match reality? You can tell that Elle and her childhood friends and their respective families share a close bond and care for each other, and new relationships also show the promise of long-lasting connections. Huston makes some really great points about the fluidity of relationships – how they constantly change and grow and become redefined.
There are several potential love interests, and each is unique and intriguing. Great dialogue, witty and touching scenes, and email messages add to the development of these characters and their relationships. I like that Elle experiences several relationships through the course of the novel. Each is very different from the others, and through them, Elle learns what she really wants in a partner. Again, I related to this. As a teenager, I wanted very different things in a partner than I did when I was in my early and mid-twenties, and I think Elle is experiencing the same thing. Ultimately, she makes the best decision and finds a wonderful partner!
Elle’s A to Z of Love is a great book for readers who like contemporary romances with realistic and relatable characters and messages about family, friends, love, and finding oneself. Thanks so much to Claire Huston and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Elle is an interesting and well-developed character. She spends much of the story helping and supporting others and finding herself. She reminds me a bit of myself when I was her age – torn between her duty and her dreams, attached to the past and yet longing for independence, constantly pulled back into the welcoming and safe fold of my family even when trying to take adventurous and independent steps in life, confounded by love. It’s a confusing and difficult time in many people’s lives, which Huston portrays wonderfully.
Elle also struggles with anxiety (again, I so relate!) and a complicated and toxic relationship with her mother, which affect many aspects of her life. Luckily, the toxicity is balanced with Elle’s supportive father and other wonderful parental influences. Elle’s at an interesting point in her life where she is learning who and what is important to her – what she wants in life, who she wants beside her, and how she wants to be treated. I enjoyed watching her grow, change, and become more self-assured. She learns to stand up for herself and not take such a passive role in life. She also starts to fight for and act on what she wants, which is fantastic! I think all of her relationships, good and bad, help Elle figure out what she wants from herself and others. However, this can be scary and stressful, especially when familial expectations, loyalties, and potential tragedies are thrown in.
Other characters in the story, including Elle’s friends Adam, Serena, and Toby are relatable and interesting. These friends must deal with their changing relationships. Can friends become something more? Should friends turn to lovers, especially when pressured by family? What does one do when expectations don’t match reality? You can tell that Elle and her childhood friends and their respective families share a close bond and care for each other, and new relationships also show the promise of long-lasting connections. Huston makes some really great points about the fluidity of relationships – how they constantly change and grow and become redefined.
There are several potential love interests, and each is unique and intriguing. Great dialogue, witty and touching scenes, and email messages add to the development of these characters and their relationships. I like that Elle experiences several relationships through the course of the novel. Each is very different from the others, and through them, Elle learns what she really wants in a partner. Again, I related to this. As a teenager, I wanted very different things in a partner than I did when I was in my early and mid-twenties, and I think Elle is experiencing the same thing. Ultimately, she makes the best decision and finds a wonderful partner!
Elle’s A to Z of Love is a great book for readers who like contemporary romances with realistic and relatable characters and messages about family, friends, love, and finding oneself. Thanks so much to Claire Huston and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
August 23, 2021
ELLE’S A TO Z OF LOVE is such a contemporary romance with lots of angst and luck, but the unlucky kind. Elle grew up in the small village of Haileybrook in the Cotswolds. It is a beautiful, peaceful town, but Elle wanted more, and so did her friend Adam. She went off to school and is ready to start a European tour with her friend Serena, when she gets a call that she is needed at home. Her neighbour and father of two of her dearest friends has had a heart attack and they don't know it he will survive. Elle rushes home and it is several years before she leaves again. Adam, is also still in Haileybrook and when he and Elle meet up, her feelings for him spill over. She has an intimate relationship with him, while helping him to land the job of his dreams in London. Elle believes that they will both move to London together if this happens, but she is sorely mistaken and left behind while Adam moves on to his dream life. Elle is heartbroken and doesn't know what to do with herself. Will she ever leave this village again? Will she find the love she is looking for?
Elle was a character that pulled at my heart. She is so insecure stemming from bullying as a child and teenager. She also had almost no relationship with her mother which added to her insecurities. I felt so bad for her with all her anxiety and worries that she would never find happiness. Adam was a selfish, narcissistic character that really did a number on Elle and I wanted him to get his comeuppance. The people in the village were wonderful. They supported Elle and did their best to build up her confidence, but she had to find it from within. Don't get me started on her mother, you wouldn't believe me, so you will need to read this story to find out about her. The story is divided into four main parts, each telling us about one of Elle's major setbacks. There was some humor as Elle traded messages back and forth with a college acquaintance that we met at the beginning of the book and then again about halfway through. It lightened up Elle's character as well. I enjoyed the descriptive writing and getting to know what life in this idyllic community was like. The fayre, dances, quiz nights and farming life all made me want to visit and meet all the wonderful people I read about.
This is a sweet narrative that follows a troubled woman who cannot put herself before her loyalties. This self-sacrificing attitude is fine at times, but is irritating at others. I wanted Elle to get a backbone, especially where Adam and Faye were concerned. You have to read this one to find out if she ever puts herself first and what the significance of the title is. I enjoyed this story, meeting Elle and her family and friends and watching this insecure young woman unload the baggage that is holding her back. One last comment, I loved how books were used in this story in different ways to move the plot forward and share the love of reading. I recommend this book to those who enjoy contemporary romance, with characters that grow exponentially. I want to thank Claire Huston for my copy of this story. After reading and loving her debut novel, I requested a copy of this one to read and review. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
Elle was a character that pulled at my heart. She is so insecure stemming from bullying as a child and teenager. She also had almost no relationship with her mother which added to her insecurities. I felt so bad for her with all her anxiety and worries that she would never find happiness. Adam was a selfish, narcissistic character that really did a number on Elle and I wanted him to get his comeuppance. The people in the village were wonderful. They supported Elle and did their best to build up her confidence, but she had to find it from within. Don't get me started on her mother, you wouldn't believe me, so you will need to read this story to find out about her. The story is divided into four main parts, each telling us about one of Elle's major setbacks. There was some humor as Elle traded messages back and forth with a college acquaintance that we met at the beginning of the book and then again about halfway through. It lightened up Elle's character as well. I enjoyed the descriptive writing and getting to know what life in this idyllic community was like. The fayre, dances, quiz nights and farming life all made me want to visit and meet all the wonderful people I read about.
This is a sweet narrative that follows a troubled woman who cannot put herself before her loyalties. This self-sacrificing attitude is fine at times, but is irritating at others. I wanted Elle to get a backbone, especially where Adam and Faye were concerned. You have to read this one to find out if she ever puts herself first and what the significance of the title is. I enjoyed this story, meeting Elle and her family and friends and watching this insecure young woman unload the baggage that is holding her back. One last comment, I loved how books were used in this story in different ways to move the plot forward and share the love of reading. I recommend this book to those who enjoy contemporary romance, with characters that grow exponentially. I want to thank Claire Huston for my copy of this story. After reading and loving her debut novel, I requested a copy of this one to read and review. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
July 2, 2021
If you enjoy spending time in an idyllic but realistic English village you will love this novel. When Elle Bea returns from University she is welcomed home to Haileybrook by her rather odd family and close friends. Her love life is non-existent but she will soon be travelling to Europe with her lively friend, Serena. However memories and old ties are entangling her. She cares deeply for old friend, Toby, who took care of her when she was a shy schoolgirl, but she still can’t stop thinking about Adam, the handsome publican’s son she had briefly dated.
I found Elle’s attitude rather irritating. Her dynamic mother has sapped her confidence and her life seems to be permanently on hold. The redeeming feature is the series of emails she exchanges with Zach, a charming young man she met briefly in the University Library, who is now living with his girlfriend in the States. Their frank remarks tell us a great deal about their personalities and interests. The events in Haileybrook such as a wedding and a country fayre are recoded by Elle as part of her job as a local journalist and we encounter a number of interesting characters such as the elderly Mrs Cooper who tries to provide Elle with guidance.
The usual misunderstandings and foolish mistakes are delightful resolved in an exciting conclusion.
I found Elle’s attitude rather irritating. Her dynamic mother has sapped her confidence and her life seems to be permanently on hold. The redeeming feature is the series of emails she exchanges with Zach, a charming young man she met briefly in the University Library, who is now living with his girlfriend in the States. Their frank remarks tell us a great deal about their personalities and interests. The events in Haileybrook such as a wedding and a country fayre are recoded by Elle as part of her job as a local journalist and we encounter a number of interesting characters such as the elderly Mrs Cooper who tries to provide Elle with guidance.
The usual misunderstandings and foolish mistakes are delightful resolved in an exciting conclusion.
July 16, 2021
Elle's A to Z of Love by Claire Huston
Elle grew up in a very unconventional family, in a very rural town. Her mother is generally absent, unlovable and controlling, and she is brought up by her Dad and the lady next door who she calls Aunty. A chance meeting in the University Library introduces you to Zach, and through Elle and Zach's witty emails some of the storyline is unfolded and the timeline is moved on.
After University, Elle moves back to her hometown and the sphere of her friends, brothers Toby and Seth, her close friend Lucy, and her childhood crush Adam. Whilst Seth and Lucy come across as thoroughly likeable characters, Toby and Adam do not. Neither does her friend Serena particularly or her friend and flatmate Faye who is positively vile! Unfortunately Elle herself comes across as a bit of a doormat, letting people and life push her around, and hiding under the bed when she can't cope, and all that I found a bit annoying.
However the book is a great holiday read, is witty and emotional in parts, and I was sufficiently invested in Elle to care about her happiness in the end.
Elle grew up in a very unconventional family, in a very rural town. Her mother is generally absent, unlovable and controlling, and she is brought up by her Dad and the lady next door who she calls Aunty. A chance meeting in the University Library introduces you to Zach, and through Elle and Zach's witty emails some of the storyline is unfolded and the timeline is moved on.
After University, Elle moves back to her hometown and the sphere of her friends, brothers Toby and Seth, her close friend Lucy, and her childhood crush Adam. Whilst Seth and Lucy come across as thoroughly likeable characters, Toby and Adam do not. Neither does her friend Serena particularly or her friend and flatmate Faye who is positively vile! Unfortunately Elle herself comes across as a bit of a doormat, letting people and life push her around, and hiding under the bed when she can't cope, and all that I found a bit annoying.
However the book is a great holiday read, is witty and emotional in parts, and I was sufficiently invested in Elle to care about her happiness in the end.
July 6, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to the author for very kindly forwarding me a copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for an honest review.
From the very first chapter, which immediately drew me in and I loved, I was hooked and couldn’t wait to keep reading more!
Elle’s A - Z of Love was a wonderful, heartwarming romance that keeps you guessing what is going to happen, right to the very end.
I absolutely love the sound of Haileybrook and I could quite honestly see myself living there! The authors writing is beautiful and makes everything feel real and believable.
I loved the characters especially Elle and there were a few funny moments that I found myself chuckling along at.
This was a very good book from a very talented author…..
From the very first chapter, which immediately drew me in and I loved, I was hooked and couldn’t wait to keep reading more!
Elle’s A - Z of Love was a wonderful, heartwarming romance that keeps you guessing what is going to happen, right to the very end.
I absolutely love the sound of Haileybrook and I could quite honestly see myself living there! The authors writing is beautiful and makes everything feel real and believable.
I loved the characters especially Elle and there were a few funny moments that I found myself chuckling along at.
This was a very good book from a very talented author…..
June 25, 2021
Elle lives in an idyllic Cotswold village. She has gone off to university and wants more adventures in life but she wants more.
She doesn't seem to have too much confidence and so far a lot of people have taken advantage of her.
Adam, Zach then Toby.... will she ever be able to trust someone enough to love them?
She was bought up by her loving dad as her mum was not committed to her upbringing.
The title sounded romantic and got me requesting this. The synopsis made me curious. Aunt Cath's cupcakes sounded divine and there are interesting characters in the small village.
I just wished Elle would change more and had loved the beginning. I thought the emails added something extra to the book.
I kept thinking "will she stay in Haileybrook or will she go?" She definitely had lots of conflicting loyalties to contend with.
Thanks to Claire Huston and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars
She doesn't seem to have too much confidence and so far a lot of people have taken advantage of her.
Adam, Zach then Toby.... will she ever be able to trust someone enough to love them?
She was bought up by her loving dad as her mum was not committed to her upbringing.
The title sounded romantic and got me requesting this. The synopsis made me curious. Aunt Cath's cupcakes sounded divine and there are interesting characters in the small village.
I just wished Elle would change more and had loved the beginning. I thought the emails added something extra to the book.
I kept thinking "will she stay in Haileybrook or will she go?" She definitely had lots of conflicting loyalties to contend with.
Thanks to Claire Huston and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
4 stars
June 16, 2021
Please don’t read this review if you don’t want spoilers...
There’s lots to love about this book. The dialogue is enjoyable and often witty, and there are several likeable characters in the story. The meet-cute at the beginning is great, too, and the subsequent email correspondence. Mrs Cooper, Adam and Serena were a lot of fun to read about, and Aunt Cath’s cakes made me drool. I also appreciated the depiction of village life.
What prevented me from giving it a higher rating was Elle’s character. I didn’t dislike her, I just felt very impatient with her complete lack of gumption in 99% of the book. This was a young woman who made the effort to go away to university, despite suffering with such awful anxiety that she feels the need to hide under the bed… yet after doing all that and graduating she acts like a complete doormat, not once or twice but over and over, until suddenly she transforms right at the end. I would have preferred a more gradual character development.
I wasn’t really sure about Toby’s place in the story - just as that started developing nicely, he became a bit of a dead end and an irrelevance. And Zach, while adorable, was almost too good to be true.
I also found Elle’s relationship with her family a bit bizarre. Such a forceful and unpleasant mother would surely not have allowed her to miss the trip of a lifetime, even if she believed she might die? It seemed inconsistent to me. And did Elle seriously not realise that the dynamic between her dad and her aunt wasn’t a bit cosier than just good friends? Convenient for Elle to be given a house, too - that seemed to drop in her lap a bit too easily. Overall I wished she’d had to work a bit harder for things and that we had seen her grow up more plausibly.
Still, despite these criticisms it was an easy and enjoyable read, and kept me interested to the end. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
There’s lots to love about this book. The dialogue is enjoyable and often witty, and there are several likeable characters in the story. The meet-cute at the beginning is great, too, and the subsequent email correspondence. Mrs Cooper, Adam and Serena were a lot of fun to read about, and Aunt Cath’s cakes made me drool. I also appreciated the depiction of village life.
What prevented me from giving it a higher rating was Elle’s character. I didn’t dislike her, I just felt very impatient with her complete lack of gumption in 99% of the book. This was a young woman who made the effort to go away to university, despite suffering with such awful anxiety that she feels the need to hide under the bed… yet after doing all that and graduating she acts like a complete doormat, not once or twice but over and over, until suddenly she transforms right at the end. I would have preferred a more gradual character development.
I wasn’t really sure about Toby’s place in the story - just as that started developing nicely, he became a bit of a dead end and an irrelevance. And Zach, while adorable, was almost too good to be true.
I also found Elle’s relationship with her family a bit bizarre. Such a forceful and unpleasant mother would surely not have allowed her to miss the trip of a lifetime, even if she believed she might die? It seemed inconsistent to me. And did Elle seriously not realise that the dynamic between her dad and her aunt wasn’t a bit cosier than just good friends? Convenient for Elle to be given a house, too - that seemed to drop in her lap a bit too easily. Overall I wished she’d had to work a bit harder for things and that we had seen her grow up more plausibly.
Still, despite these criticisms it was an easy and enjoyable read, and kept me interested to the end. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2021
The plot is very well balanced. The characters follow a very logical evolution especially the protagonist. She is a character with many contradictions and that is difficult to understand on many occasions as it would happen with a real life person and I think this has been another value of the author.
I think Elle’s A to Z of Love is much more than a romance novel. It’s a story that tells us about unconventional relationships, about second chances, heartbreak, bad relationships and decisions made at the wrong time. A reading that will appeal to all kinds of audiences.
Reseña completa en: https://libroshappy.org/elles-a-to-z-...
I think Elle’s A to Z of Love is much more than a romance novel. It’s a story that tells us about unconventional relationships, about second chances, heartbreak, bad relationships and decisions made at the wrong time. A reading that will appeal to all kinds of audiences.
Reseña completa en: https://libroshappy.org/elles-a-to-z-...
August 2, 2021
A perfect summer romance!
Haileybrook is the kind of village in the Cotswolds which those looking to move to the country flock to; however for many of those born and raised there, it’s all about getting out and heading to the bright lights of the capital. Elle Bea has been trying to move out for some time, but there’s always something which keeps her back. Will she ever manage to follow her dreams?
I read this author’s debut novel which was particularly good but with this second one she has really come into her own. Claire Huston’s writing shows the benefit of her experience and this is a gorgeous novel with everything a reader could want in a romance. The setting, the characters, the events all make for an appealing and well-conceived read which had me laughing and sympathising with Elle more than once. An ideal read for those of us with a bit of romance left in our souls; absolutely earns my recommendation and 4.5 sparkling stars.
Haileybrook is the kind of village in the Cotswolds which those looking to move to the country flock to; however for many of those born and raised there, it’s all about getting out and heading to the bright lights of the capital. Elle Bea has been trying to move out for some time, but there’s always something which keeps her back. Will she ever manage to follow her dreams?
I read this author’s debut novel which was particularly good but with this second one she has really come into her own. Claire Huston’s writing shows the benefit of her experience and this is a gorgeous novel with everything a reader could want in a romance. The setting, the characters, the events all make for an appealing and well-conceived read which had me laughing and sympathising with Elle more than once. An ideal read for those of us with a bit of romance left in our souls; absolutely earns my recommendation and 4.5 sparkling stars.
July 9, 2021
In
Elle’s A to Z of Love
, the readers first meet the character during a meet-cute in the library of her university. She receives a call from her hometown friend, Toby, whose family she is close to, and has to make a sudden trip back home to a gorgeous small town in the Cotswold. As Elle stays in her hometown, she reconnects with the community. The story follows Elle’s life with its many ups and downs in career, friendships, and love. There are three potential love interests in this story that all come about at different points in Elle’s life. The story takes place over four years from 2015 to 2019, which I loved as there was a natural progression for the characters in their careers, friendships, and romance, so nothing felt too rushed.
Adam is a childhood crush of Elle’s and I loved seeing how this crush formed as it felt very realistic. Adam himself was a well-written character with a lot of flaws. I enjoyed his character as there seemed to be no surprises to me as a reader. Everything he said and did match my thought process for him as a character. Next is Zach, who is the meet-cute boy from university. He reconnects with Elle after finding her online and they exchange emails while he lives abroad. I loved the emails as not only were they adorable between the characters, but it was a great mechanism for the reader to catch up on everything happening with the characters without having to witness the entirety of the page. Finally, there is Toby, who may have more feelings for Elle than friends.
For me, I could not stand Toby Cooper and to me, he was a horrible person. He does a lot of things that I do not agree with and I could not stand his character. Since I loved Seth, his brother, Lucy, Seth’s romantic partner, and Mrs. Cooper, I tolerated his character. Unfortunately, it is difficult to go into detail about how I came to that conclusion without spoiling the story. I may be in the minority as most likely others will not see him negatively, but if his character was a real-life person, I would avoid being around them at all costs. I do know a few other people that have read this novel and did not come to the same conclusion, so I would definitely recommend taking this opinion with a grain of salt and reading the novel to form your own conclusions.
Elle starts off as a person who lacks confidence in herself and experiences childhood bullying. She has a very loving relationship with her father, but a more complex one with her mother as she did not really want a child to raise. Over time Elle will do anything for others, even if they go against her dreams and she ends up being taken advantage of on multiple occasions. This happens more times than I can count throughout the entire story by almost everyone, even those that were not outright discussed. Although Elle does experience some growth in this aspect, I wish that it was explored more in-depth. I also wish that Elle had more conversations with those that hurt her along the way. There are some, but there are a lot more that should have apologized for their behavior.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story with a natural and realistic progression of events. The title is extremely fitting for the story and I loved how it ties into the novel. Elle’s desire to get out and see the world away from her small town was very relatable. There are a lot of responsibilities and people to keep her tied to staying home and adventure might not be possible, but she continues to dream in hopes that it will happen one day. The writing was well-done and made a nice easy read. Even though I personally could not stand some of the characters, they were still well-written. The story kept me interested for the entire novel and as this is a new-to-me author, I am definitely curious to try out more of her novels!
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources and the publisher, Goldcrest Books International Ltd for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
Adam is a childhood crush of Elle’s and I loved seeing how this crush formed as it felt very realistic. Adam himself was a well-written character with a lot of flaws. I enjoyed his character as there seemed to be no surprises to me as a reader. Everything he said and did match my thought process for him as a character. Next is Zach, who is the meet-cute boy from university. He reconnects with Elle after finding her online and they exchange emails while he lives abroad. I loved the emails as not only were they adorable between the characters, but it was a great mechanism for the reader to catch up on everything happening with the characters without having to witness the entirety of the page. Finally, there is Toby, who may have more feelings for Elle than friends.
For me, I could not stand Toby Cooper and to me, he was a horrible person. He does a lot of things that I do not agree with and I could not stand his character. Since I loved Seth, his brother, Lucy, Seth’s romantic partner, and Mrs. Cooper, I tolerated his character. Unfortunately, it is difficult to go into detail about how I came to that conclusion without spoiling the story. I may be in the minority as most likely others will not see him negatively, but if his character was a real-life person, I would avoid being around them at all costs. I do know a few other people that have read this novel and did not come to the same conclusion, so I would definitely recommend taking this opinion with a grain of salt and reading the novel to form your own conclusions.
Elle starts off as a person who lacks confidence in herself and experiences childhood bullying. She has a very loving relationship with her father, but a more complex one with her mother as she did not really want a child to raise. Over time Elle will do anything for others, even if they go against her dreams and she ends up being taken advantage of on multiple occasions. This happens more times than I can count throughout the entire story by almost everyone, even those that were not outright discussed. Although Elle does experience some growth in this aspect, I wish that it was explored more in-depth. I also wish that Elle had more conversations with those that hurt her along the way. There are some, but there are a lot more that should have apologized for their behavior.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story with a natural and realistic progression of events. The title is extremely fitting for the story and I loved how it ties into the novel. Elle’s desire to get out and see the world away from her small town was very relatable. There are a lot of responsibilities and people to keep her tied to staying home and adventure might not be possible, but she continues to dream in hopes that it will happen one day. The writing was well-done and made a nice easy read. Even though I personally could not stand some of the characters, they were still well-written. The story kept me interested for the entire novel and as this is a new-to-me author, I am definitely curious to try out more of her novels!
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources and the publisher, Goldcrest Books International Ltd for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
July 12, 2021
This book really does have the most perfect beginning. As Elle settles down in a quiet corner of the university library to disappear into the pages of her favourite EM Forster (and I loved her already), her peace is disturbed by a young man – a computer nerd, but rather attractive – searching for a book and causing a bit of a commotion. Their exchange is just wonderful – maybe he’s more interested in her friend Serena (men usually are), but she’s looking forward to finding out when she goes to the party he invites them to. But she never makes it to that party – there’s a bit of a crisis back at home in Haileybrook, and she needs to be there to provide support.
And as the story unfolds, as Elle makes a succession of choices between her hopes and dreams and the pull and obligations of “home” and people in her life sometimes behave particularly badly, you really begin to despair that she’ll ever be able to escape and find happiness of her own. But if the book’s beginning is excellent, I really have to say that its ending is even better – after all the trials and tribulations, all the frustrating decisions she makes, it’s a moment that entirely touches your heart and can’t fail to make you want to punch the air and shout “thank goodness for that – at last!”.
The author makes Elle’s succession of dilemmas very real – she’s dreamt since childhood of spreading her wings, leaving Haileybrook behind to see the world and live a little. But she has good friends there – and there’s also Adam, who won her heart when they were at school together, but who barely notices she exists. But they’ve always shared the same dream, and there’s always the possibility that they might just be able to make their escape together. Her family – to put it mildly – is a little unusual. Her father’s really lovely, but as for her mother… her words and actions frequently took my breath away. Thank goodness for Aunt Cath – she certainly fills the void left by her neglectful mother, with exceptional generosity and always accompanied by a lovely slice of cake. The brothers Seth and Toby feature heavily in her life too – along with their grandmother Mrs Cooper, a little forbidding but a source of sage advice and the occasional gentle push.
Haileybrook itself is a dying village – all its amenities are beginning to close down, its residents opposing any notion of changes that might just give it a fresh lease of life. The whole community is quite wonderfully drawn – filled with quirky incidental characters, every one of them vividly drawn and adding lovely touches of humour.
But this is very much Elle’s story – and although there was never any question that I really loved her, there were times when she really made me roll my eyes in despair as she made the wrong decisions, again and again, and being able to achieve her dreams looked increasingly impossible. Sometimes her actions are understandable – she’s a person who cares deeply, wants to please others – but there are certainly times when she severely tried my patience and I really wanted to shake her.
The writing is excellent (especially the dialogue, and the way Elle’s character was developed), and I particularly loved the way the story was constructed – Elle’s life journey seen in slices, sometimes moving backwards to the childhood experiences that shaped her (with a few nicely handled issues along the way). I also really enjoyed the email exchange that punctuates the story – it’s often a device I’m not too keen on, but it’s done so well here, moving the story forward and adding both humour and real insight into the characters involved. And then there’s the romance – and that’s really beautifully handled, filled with obstacles, twists and turns and misunderstandings, with real question marks about how things will work out until the very end.
Despite my occasional frustration (and infuriation) with Elle herself, her story certainly engaged me throughout, and I so desperately wanted her to achieve her happy ending. I really enjoyed this one – something a little different, a lovely read, and I recommend it really highly.
And as the story unfolds, as Elle makes a succession of choices between her hopes and dreams and the pull and obligations of “home” and people in her life sometimes behave particularly badly, you really begin to despair that she’ll ever be able to escape and find happiness of her own. But if the book’s beginning is excellent, I really have to say that its ending is even better – after all the trials and tribulations, all the frustrating decisions she makes, it’s a moment that entirely touches your heart and can’t fail to make you want to punch the air and shout “thank goodness for that – at last!”.
The author makes Elle’s succession of dilemmas very real – she’s dreamt since childhood of spreading her wings, leaving Haileybrook behind to see the world and live a little. But she has good friends there – and there’s also Adam, who won her heart when they were at school together, but who barely notices she exists. But they’ve always shared the same dream, and there’s always the possibility that they might just be able to make their escape together. Her family – to put it mildly – is a little unusual. Her father’s really lovely, but as for her mother… her words and actions frequently took my breath away. Thank goodness for Aunt Cath – she certainly fills the void left by her neglectful mother, with exceptional generosity and always accompanied by a lovely slice of cake. The brothers Seth and Toby feature heavily in her life too – along with their grandmother Mrs Cooper, a little forbidding but a source of sage advice and the occasional gentle push.
Haileybrook itself is a dying village – all its amenities are beginning to close down, its residents opposing any notion of changes that might just give it a fresh lease of life. The whole community is quite wonderfully drawn – filled with quirky incidental characters, every one of them vividly drawn and adding lovely touches of humour.
But this is very much Elle’s story – and although there was never any question that I really loved her, there were times when she really made me roll my eyes in despair as she made the wrong decisions, again and again, and being able to achieve her dreams looked increasingly impossible. Sometimes her actions are understandable – she’s a person who cares deeply, wants to please others – but there are certainly times when she severely tried my patience and I really wanted to shake her.
The writing is excellent (especially the dialogue, and the way Elle’s character was developed), and I particularly loved the way the story was constructed – Elle’s life journey seen in slices, sometimes moving backwards to the childhood experiences that shaped her (with a few nicely handled issues along the way). I also really enjoyed the email exchange that punctuates the story – it’s often a device I’m not too keen on, but it’s done so well here, moving the story forward and adding both humour and real insight into the characters involved. And then there’s the romance – and that’s really beautifully handled, filled with obstacles, twists and turns and misunderstandings, with real question marks about how things will work out until the very end.
Despite my occasional frustration (and infuriation) with Elle herself, her story certainly engaged me throughout, and I so desperately wanted her to achieve her happy ending. I really enjoyed this one – something a little different, a lovely read, and I recommend it really highly.
October 20, 2021
Told in five parts from the years 2015 to 2019 the story follows Elle around her birthday each year. The reader first meet her the day after she has celebrated her 23rd birthday. She is at university studying journalism and is dreaming of traveling the world as she’s never left the country. While she’s reading in the library one of her favourite books A Room With A View she is startled when a guy falls from a shelf that he climbed to reach a book. After a brief awkward exchange to see if he is ok, she learns he is studying Computer Science and he invites her to his friend’s party. However later that day one of her oldest friends, Toby from home rings her and tells her that The Cooper Curse has stuck again. His father, George Cooper is in hospital. The next thing she knows Elle is heading back to Haileybrook with her friend Serena. She has no way of contacting Mr. Computer Science guy and wonders if he only invited her because she’s friends with Serena who is popular on campus. But she has little time to worry as once she returns home she is faced with old memories and feelings she hoped would have faded with time. Once she wanted nothing more than to leave Haileybrook, pack her bags and explore the world. However things begin to get complicated in the form of Adam Fletcher. An old crush that still makes Elle go weak at the knees. Elle is faced with many difficult choices on her return, she is left standing at a crossroads, wary of which way to turn. Will she stay and be dutiful, putting her life and dreams on hold? Or will she take the risk, go for it and do what she’s always planned on doing? Be prepared dear reader for plenty of heartache and intense, emotional scenes. Tissues at the ready!
I fell in love with the pure beauty and charm of Haileybrook from the moment I stepped foot in the quaint, quiet village. The postcard views surrounded by fields of greens and yellow to the friendly residents offering advice and looking out for one another. It was a blissful escape and I was sad to leave. Huston writes rich, absorbing imagery that wraps you up and leaves you feeling all warm and cosy.
You can’t help but take a liking to Elle, she’s the kind, caring friend everyone needs in their life. Always thinking and putting others before herself, you want to give her a massive hug while gently pushing her on to a flight. She has dreams of traveling the world but every time the opportunity arises, something happens that stops her. You find yourself screaming at the page for her to go, run, be free as you want nothing more than the best for her. I came to think of her as a good friend by the end, a friend that needed that extra push but will always have your back.
I give Elle’s A to Z of Love By Claire Huston a Five out of Five paw rating
A picturesque, delightful and charming read, you will have your heart broken more than once during your stay at Haileybrook. I couldn’t get enough. It was a heavenly stay and I greedily wanted more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a hopeless romantic (guilty) and needs to escape for a few hours. It’s a story about finding out what you honestly want in life and what really matters, family, friends and love. Oops forgot cake! Always cake dear readers. And maybe KitKats.
I fell in love with the pure beauty and charm of Haileybrook from the moment I stepped foot in the quaint, quiet village. The postcard views surrounded by fields of greens and yellow to the friendly residents offering advice and looking out for one another. It was a blissful escape and I was sad to leave. Huston writes rich, absorbing imagery that wraps you up and leaves you feeling all warm and cosy.
You can’t help but take a liking to Elle, she’s the kind, caring friend everyone needs in their life. Always thinking and putting others before herself, you want to give her a massive hug while gently pushing her on to a flight. She has dreams of traveling the world but every time the opportunity arises, something happens that stops her. You find yourself screaming at the page for her to go, run, be free as you want nothing more than the best for her. I came to think of her as a good friend by the end, a friend that needed that extra push but will always have your back.
I give Elle’s A to Z of Love By Claire Huston a Five out of Five paw rating
A picturesque, delightful and charming read, you will have your heart broken more than once during your stay at Haileybrook. I couldn’t get enough. It was a heavenly stay and I greedily wanted more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a hopeless romantic (guilty) and needs to escape for a few hours. It’s a story about finding out what you honestly want in life and what really matters, family, friends and love. Oops forgot cake! Always cake dear readers. And maybe KitKats.
January 12, 2022
We meet Elle Bea the day after her 23rd birthday, secreted in a hidden corner of the library and wandering the streets of Florence in her imagination, immersed in E.M. Forster’s Room With A View. Elle, just returned from university, has never been abroad and can’t wait to leave the quiet confines of Haileybrook for a European tour with her friend, Serena, in the summer. But life can be anything but straightforward and often things don’t go to plan.
Life seems to happen around Elle and sweep her along. She has a tendency to put everyone else first and her own plans on hold, which isn’t a bad thing in moderation, but Elle lets herself be taken advantage of. Sometimes I just wanted to give her a shake, especially where her childhood crush is concerned and even more so with her lodger. What a horror! Otherwise the characters are likeable and I enjoyed the story.
The narrative is split into five parts, covering several years and the major events in Elle’s life. I enjoyed the messaging back and forth between Elle and a student she met at the beginning of the story. She was attracted to him but circumstances intervened, she missed her chance and he moved to the US.
'Elle smiled. It was like watching a Quentin Blake sketch come to life. Perhaps not his best work though. More like something he had scrawled on the back of a napkin. With a leaky biro.'
Elle’s family life is unconventional. Her mother doesn’t seem to have a maternal bone in her body, mostly off doing her own thing and critical when she does appear. Elle has been brought up by her father, and her Aunt Cath who lives next door. Coupled with her mother’s absence and attitude, plus being bullied as a child (thank goodness she had brothers Seth and Toby to watch out for her) Elle is lacking in confidence.
The setting is lovely and the descriptions of the village and its community make it sound very appealing, despite the fact the amenities seem to be disappearing. Luckily plans are afoot to breathe new life into the village. Characters are developed well as the story progresses and there are three possibilities for Elle’s happy ever after. I know who I hoped it was going to be…but did I get my wish…
Life seems to happen around Elle and sweep her along. She has a tendency to put everyone else first and her own plans on hold, which isn’t a bad thing in moderation, but Elle lets herself be taken advantage of. Sometimes I just wanted to give her a shake, especially where her childhood crush is concerned and even more so with her lodger. What a horror! Otherwise the characters are likeable and I enjoyed the story.
The narrative is split into five parts, covering several years and the major events in Elle’s life. I enjoyed the messaging back and forth between Elle and a student she met at the beginning of the story. She was attracted to him but circumstances intervened, she missed her chance and he moved to the US.
'Elle smiled. It was like watching a Quentin Blake sketch come to life. Perhaps not his best work though. More like something he had scrawled on the back of a napkin. With a leaky biro.'
Elle’s family life is unconventional. Her mother doesn’t seem to have a maternal bone in her body, mostly off doing her own thing and critical when she does appear. Elle has been brought up by her father, and her Aunt Cath who lives next door. Coupled with her mother’s absence and attitude, plus being bullied as a child (thank goodness she had brothers Seth and Toby to watch out for her) Elle is lacking in confidence.
The setting is lovely and the descriptions of the village and its community make it sound very appealing, despite the fact the amenities seem to be disappearing. Luckily plans are afoot to breathe new life into the village. Characters are developed well as the story progresses and there are three possibilities for Elle’s happy ever after. I know who I hoped it was going to be…but did I get my wish…
July 11, 2021
Elle is such a sweet character who I could completely identify with. Torn between her wanderlust and her loyalty to the small village where she lives, she is desperate to spread her wings but also has a fierce loyalty to her home and the people who live there. I loved how Elle was a bookworm and this is another way in which I identified with her. She spends a lot of time concerned for others and trying to do the best by everyone but herself and at times, I did want to give her a little shake and tell her to be more assertive or a little more selfish. I was pleased to see her develop this a little throughout the book when dealing with a variety of things.
The plot is a gentle romance and I enjoyed how The One wasn’t necessarily obvious or who the reader was led to believe. I liked how we were taken on Elle’s journey towards finding love, even when she wasn’t necessarily always looking for it. I liked the realism that he also wasn’t the first potential suitor she met. I know a lot of people who have had to chose between adventure or love and it is a real dilemma facing many people in the earlier days of relationships e.g. travelling, university, job offers etc. Claire Huston Writes about this with sensitivity and tenderness and really portrays Elle’s decision making and all the accompanying emotions well.
The narrative works beyond being solely a romance novel and explores family relationships and friendships as well as life in a small village. I enjoyed how it showed not all relationships are positive and beneficial to a persona and the effects these can have over time.
The setting of Haileybrook is charming and quaint and the sort of place I would love to live (but also need to travel away from sometimes). I loved the community feel and it just came across as idyllic.
This is a lovely gentle romance which focuses on Elle’s journey through love, family, friends and life and is a fabulous addition to your TBR.
The plot is a gentle romance and I enjoyed how The One wasn’t necessarily obvious or who the reader was led to believe. I liked how we were taken on Elle’s journey towards finding love, even when she wasn’t necessarily always looking for it. I liked the realism that he also wasn’t the first potential suitor she met. I know a lot of people who have had to chose between adventure or love and it is a real dilemma facing many people in the earlier days of relationships e.g. travelling, university, job offers etc. Claire Huston Writes about this with sensitivity and tenderness and really portrays Elle’s decision making and all the accompanying emotions well.
The narrative works beyond being solely a romance novel and explores family relationships and friendships as well as life in a small village. I enjoyed how it showed not all relationships are positive and beneficial to a persona and the effects these can have over time.
The setting of Haileybrook is charming and quaint and the sort of place I would love to live (but also need to travel away from sometimes). I loved the community feel and it just came across as idyllic.
This is a lovely gentle romance which focuses on Elle’s journey through love, family, friends and life and is a fabulous addition to your TBR.
July 11, 2021
Elle’s A to Z of Love is Claire Huston’s second book. Having read, and loved, Art and Soul I was very much looking forward to reading this book. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Elle and those in her life.
Elle is an easily likeable character who often puts everyone else’s needs above her own. She hasn’t had the most maternal of role models in her mother either. I found their relationship quite sad.
This book focuses heavily on the ups and downs of new and long-term friendships, and romances. Elle does come across as a bit of a soft touch at times and I’m sure many will relate to her relationship with Adam. Most of us have been in love with someone totally wrong for us at some point in our lives and it doesn’t matter how many people try to knock sense into us we have to find out for ourselves, eventually!
Toby is a lovely character, as is Zach. I loved the email conversation between Elle and Zach, especially the Kit Kat debate! LOL! I laughed out loud a lot!
Haileybrook sounds like such a beautiful place to live. It’s hard to understand why Elle seems so keen to leave at her first opportunity. I think many of us are guilty of not appreciating what we already have, although I’ve never really had any burning desire to travel the world. I understand why people do though.
It does seem like Elle is destined to stay put though as one thing after another gets in the way of her travelling plans. Will she ever get on that plane?
Reading this story was a bit like being on an emotional rollercoaster. No wonder Elle’s head is spinning at times. I probably wouldn’t know what to do for the best either! I'm pleased to say that I finished this book with a big smile on my face though.
Elle’s A to Z of Love is beautifully written, feel-good fiction which I think anyone would enjoy. I very much recommend! All the stars from me!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2021/07/1...
Elle is an easily likeable character who often puts everyone else’s needs above her own. She hasn’t had the most maternal of role models in her mother either. I found their relationship quite sad.
This book focuses heavily on the ups and downs of new and long-term friendships, and romances. Elle does come across as a bit of a soft touch at times and I’m sure many will relate to her relationship with Adam. Most of us have been in love with someone totally wrong for us at some point in our lives and it doesn’t matter how many people try to knock sense into us we have to find out for ourselves, eventually!
Toby is a lovely character, as is Zach. I loved the email conversation between Elle and Zach, especially the Kit Kat debate! LOL! I laughed out loud a lot!
Haileybrook sounds like such a beautiful place to live. It’s hard to understand why Elle seems so keen to leave at her first opportunity. I think many of us are guilty of not appreciating what we already have, although I’ve never really had any burning desire to travel the world. I understand why people do though.
It does seem like Elle is destined to stay put though as one thing after another gets in the way of her travelling plans. Will she ever get on that plane?
Reading this story was a bit like being on an emotional rollercoaster. No wonder Elle’s head is spinning at times. I probably wouldn’t know what to do for the best either! I'm pleased to say that I finished this book with a big smile on my face though.
Elle’s A to Z of Love is beautifully written, feel-good fiction which I think anyone would enjoy. I very much recommend! All the stars from me!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2021/07/1...
October 8, 2021
The Blurb :
Haileybrook, a beautiful village in the peaceful Cotswolds countryside, is most people’s idea of heaven on earth.
Born and raised in this small slice of paradise, Elle Bea can’t wait to leave.
It should be easy, but every time she packs her bags for exotic adventures, old loves and loyalties pull her back.
Will Elle be forced to forget her dreams of far-flung places and epic romance, or can she grab one last chance to have it all?
My Thoughts :
We meet Elle, returning home to a small village called Haileybrook from Uni, She isnt really happy living back there and just wants to travel, but things seem to get in the way all the time. Things just keep getting in the way and she doesnt get a break.
When her childhood sweetheart Adam arrives back in the village, Elle doesnt really know how to feel as she never really got over him.
She also has an interest in Zach, who she met in a Library at Uni. They continue to exchange emails as he is now living abroad in America. I must say I was rooting for these two most of the way through the story.
This story had some twists and turns which leaves you turning the page to see what happens.
I did enjoy the descriptions of the village and Elle’s surroundings, I felt at times I was right there in Haileybrook aswell.
Although Elle is a likeable character although she seemed to lack a lot of confidence. At times I wanted to shout at her to stand up for herself. She always seemed to end up back to square one and I got frustrated for her.
Overall a good read from Claire Huston.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
Haileybrook, a beautiful village in the peaceful Cotswolds countryside, is most people’s idea of heaven on earth.
Born and raised in this small slice of paradise, Elle Bea can’t wait to leave.
It should be easy, but every time she packs her bags for exotic adventures, old loves and loyalties pull her back.
Will Elle be forced to forget her dreams of far-flung places and epic romance, or can she grab one last chance to have it all?
My Thoughts :
We meet Elle, returning home to a small village called Haileybrook from Uni, She isnt really happy living back there and just wants to travel, but things seem to get in the way all the time. Things just keep getting in the way and she doesnt get a break.
When her childhood sweetheart Adam arrives back in the village, Elle doesnt really know how to feel as she never really got over him.
She also has an interest in Zach, who she met in a Library at Uni. They continue to exchange emails as he is now living abroad in America. I must say I was rooting for these two most of the way through the story.
This story had some twists and turns which leaves you turning the page to see what happens.
I did enjoy the descriptions of the village and Elle’s surroundings, I felt at times I was right there in Haileybrook aswell.
Although Elle is a likeable character although she seemed to lack a lot of confidence. At times I wanted to shout at her to stand up for herself. She always seemed to end up back to square one and I got frustrated for her.
Overall a good read from Claire Huston.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
July 13, 2021
This book surprised me. Elle frequently sacrifices her happiness for others and I wanted desperately to see her get her own happily ever after. It just wasn’t with the person I thought it would be.
Elle had plans to leave her small town of Haileybrook, to travel, and be a journalist in London, but life happened. In fact, every time Elle had an exciting opportunity to leave her hometown, something would keep her there. Be it love, illness, or just fear, her plans go by the wayside until she chooses her own happiness.
Elle is unlucky in love as she tries to work out her life and relationships. Her soulmate is out there, it just takes some time to find him. Her compliant nature is a little frustrating, but there is thankfully a point where she finally channels her formidable mother and grows a backbone. I enjoyed watching Elle grow and become more self-assured.
There are a number of compelling supporting characters. Elle’s friends, Lucy and Seth are over the top when it comes to wedding planning, Toby, Elle’s best friend, is brooding and playful, but sends mixed messages, Mrs. Cooper, Toby and Seth’s Nan is a sly matchmaker, and Zach, Elle’s college acquaintance, and pen pal is a hilarious KitKat fanatic.
I highly recommend this contemporary romance with relatable characters and compelling content filled with family, friends, love, and finding oneself.
Thank you to Ms. Huston for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Elle had plans to leave her small town of Haileybrook, to travel, and be a journalist in London, but life happened. In fact, every time Elle had an exciting opportunity to leave her hometown, something would keep her there. Be it love, illness, or just fear, her plans go by the wayside until she chooses her own happiness.
Elle is unlucky in love as she tries to work out her life and relationships. Her soulmate is out there, it just takes some time to find him. Her compliant nature is a little frustrating, but there is thankfully a point where she finally channels her formidable mother and grows a backbone. I enjoyed watching Elle grow and become more self-assured.
There are a number of compelling supporting characters. Elle’s friends, Lucy and Seth are over the top when it comes to wedding planning, Toby, Elle’s best friend, is brooding and playful, but sends mixed messages, Mrs. Cooper, Toby and Seth’s Nan is a sly matchmaker, and Zach, Elle’s college acquaintance, and pen pal is a hilarious KitKat fanatic.
I highly recommend this contemporary romance with relatable characters and compelling content filled with family, friends, love, and finding oneself.
Thank you to Ms. Huston for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
July 6, 2021
This is the second novel by Claire that I've read. Although a very different feel from her first book it was equally as enjoyable.
The course of true love never did run smooth, came to my mind when I read this book.
It will come as no surprise (as this is billed as a romantic novel) that Elle forms a relationship in this book. What was surprising is that we went on quite a journey with Elle before she finds the one. Along the way we follow Elle and her the unrequited love one, her friend maybe become boyfriend one and the cute guy one she bumps into. So we are left guessing, is this finally going to be the guy? Or is Elle destined to be on her own.
Elle was a little too weak willed for my liking and about 70% into the book I actually shouted at her "not again"!. I'll leave you to read the book to find out why, but she did seem to get on a repeat pattern in her life. With the flashbacks to her early life and her suffering some bullying, in one way it was understandable. That said when she finally did grow a backbone I was rooting for her all the way and could have given her a round of applause. With totally believable characters and events this was a lovely read. I was truly invested in Elle hence my shouting lol!
I'm giving this book four out of five stars. My thanks to the author for the ebook to review.
The course of true love never did run smooth, came to my mind when I read this book.
It will come as no surprise (as this is billed as a romantic novel) that Elle forms a relationship in this book. What was surprising is that we went on quite a journey with Elle before she finds the one. Along the way we follow Elle and her the unrequited love one, her friend maybe become boyfriend one and the cute guy one she bumps into. So we are left guessing, is this finally going to be the guy? Or is Elle destined to be on her own.
Elle was a little too weak willed for my liking and about 70% into the book I actually shouted at her "not again"!. I'll leave you to read the book to find out why, but she did seem to get on a repeat pattern in her life. With the flashbacks to her early life and her suffering some bullying, in one way it was understandable. That said when she finally did grow a backbone I was rooting for her all the way and could have given her a round of applause. With totally believable characters and events this was a lovely read. I was truly invested in Elle hence my shouting lol!
I'm giving this book four out of five stars. My thanks to the author for the ebook to review.
July 19, 2021
Poor Elle! She’s not been very lucky in love so far. First there was Adam Fletcher. Devastatingly handsome and suave but no-one except Elle likes him much. That’s because he’s a bit of a prat, but Elle is too smitten to notice.
Then there’s the tall, dark, brooding, Heathcliffe-esq (OK I exaggerate a bit) Toby Cooper who runs the farm with his brother Seth and fiance Lucy – a perfect couple straight out of Hello Magazine. Elle and Toby have always been friends but could there ever be more?
Finally there’s Zach, who she met at the University library, when a book fell on his head. He invited her to a party, but when she received a message telling her that Toby’s dad was ill, she had to rush home to help. Zach has now become her ‘pen-pal’ after moving to America.
Elle’s flamboyant and eccentric mum was never cut out for motherhood, so Elle was mostly raised by her dad and her Aunt Cath, baker extraordinaire and one of the stalwarts of Haileybrook, along with Toby and Seth’s nan – the formidable Mrs Rose Cooper, keeper of the library and when that closed, the librarian at the local high school.
Elle is desperate to leave Haileybrook and forge a career in London as well as travel the world, but everything so far seems stacked against her.
Libraries and books figure heavily in this marvellous, feel-good book. It will make you smile – a lot – laugh and gasp – and dream of Florence, A Room With a View by EM Forster and KitKats. Trust me it will all make sense when you read Claire Huston’s second novel – Elle’s A-Z of Love. But who will Elle get to spend the rest of her life with? I’m certainly not telling. A lovely summer read to lift your spirits.
Then there’s the tall, dark, brooding, Heathcliffe-esq (OK I exaggerate a bit) Toby Cooper who runs the farm with his brother Seth and fiance Lucy – a perfect couple straight out of Hello Magazine. Elle and Toby have always been friends but could there ever be more?
Finally there’s Zach, who she met at the University library, when a book fell on his head. He invited her to a party, but when she received a message telling her that Toby’s dad was ill, she had to rush home to help. Zach has now become her ‘pen-pal’ after moving to America.
Elle’s flamboyant and eccentric mum was never cut out for motherhood, so Elle was mostly raised by her dad and her Aunt Cath, baker extraordinaire and one of the stalwarts of Haileybrook, along with Toby and Seth’s nan – the formidable Mrs Rose Cooper, keeper of the library and when that closed, the librarian at the local high school.
Elle is desperate to leave Haileybrook and forge a career in London as well as travel the world, but everything so far seems stacked against her.
Libraries and books figure heavily in this marvellous, feel-good book. It will make you smile – a lot – laugh and gasp – and dream of Florence, A Room With a View by EM Forster and KitKats. Trust me it will all make sense when you read Claire Huston’s second novel – Elle’s A-Z of Love. But who will Elle get to spend the rest of her life with? I’m certainly not telling. A lovely summer read to lift your spirits.
July 5, 2021
This often feels like one of those stories you can sink into. It is warm and comforting and full of friendships and family. Not that everyone is a cosy, likeable character. There are several characters who are selfish and self centred and quite a backstory about bullying. The novel does keep you on your toes. I couldn't quite work out how it was going to turn out for Elle until very near the end. There are quite a few possibilities for her.
Elle is a well drawn character. You find out quite a lot about her background and come to understand why she has certain feelings of vulnerability despite her obvious commonsense. Above all, she is kind and a loyal friend. There are plenty of inter-generational issues in the novel. You get a real feel of the community in Haileybrook.There are several story strands in the book so you feel that there is plenty to keep your interest.
In short: Home is where the heart is.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Elle is a well drawn character. You find out quite a lot about her background and come to understand why she has certain feelings of vulnerability despite her obvious commonsense. Above all, she is kind and a loyal friend. There are plenty of inter-generational issues in the novel. You get a real feel of the community in Haileybrook.There are several story strands in the book so you feel that there is plenty to keep your interest.
In short: Home is where the heart is.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
July 23, 2021
A fantastic read. I just loved every minute of it. I could really relate to Elle's mismanagement of her love life but I was beginning to despair over her blindness over Adam and how close she came to completely wrecking everything with Zach. But sometimes you have to take a chance with the bad boys in order to appreciate the good when they come along. Zach was so adorable and sweet. I enjoyed their slow romance. It was quite old fashioned in a way as they spent most of it corresponding with one another. I loved it though and it made the ending all the more rewarding and sweet.
The entire cast of characters were lots of fun. I liked how close-knit Elle's group of friends were and Toby was a firm favourite.
My only criticism was Elle's mother who is stereotyped as a woman who didn't want children and is cold, absent and unfeeling. She doesn't have a big part in the story but she stood out for me as I have yet to see women like her portrayed as anything other than unlikeable.
This was such a beautifully told story; a feel-good romance sure to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling.
The entire cast of characters were lots of fun. I liked how close-knit Elle's group of friends were and Toby was a firm favourite.
My only criticism was Elle's mother who is stereotyped as a woman who didn't want children and is cold, absent and unfeeling. She doesn't have a big part in the story but she stood out for me as I have yet to see women like her portrayed as anything other than unlikeable.
This was such a beautifully told story; a feel-good romance sure to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling.
August 1, 2021
This is the story of Elle and is told over the course of 42 Chapters, which are spilt up into 5 parts. Each of these 5 parts cover a different year. It is very clear what each year is, this comes in handy when the story takes the reader back to the past. It is clear for the reader knowing exactly what year it is they are reading.
One thing to note about this book is that it is very easy to get stuck into. This is the kind of book where readers will start reading and the next time they look at the chapter, they discover they have actually read multiple chapters without knowing. The book is hard to put down, so readers will no doubt find themselves finishing it within one sitting.
Overall this is a brilliant book. Just like her debut novel this book is that both of them have a really good romance that readers will get addicted to. This book will leave the reader waiting with anticipation to see what Claire is going to come out with next.
One thing to note about this book is that it is very easy to get stuck into. This is the kind of book where readers will start reading and the next time they look at the chapter, they discover they have actually read multiple chapters without knowing. The book is hard to put down, so readers will no doubt find themselves finishing it within one sitting.
Overall this is a brilliant book. Just like her debut novel this book is that both of them have a really good romance that readers will get addicted to. This book will leave the reader waiting with anticipation to see what Claire is going to come out with next.
July 6, 2021
Elle’s A to Z of love is a romance with a difference and it kept me guessing right up to the end!
Elle is a true-to-life character, who goes through crushes, obsessions and bad decisions before she figures out who she is supposed to be with. Along the way she presents us with a series of attractive men and leaves us wondering, ‘is this the one?’
Elle’s home village is beautifully written and gives a real sense of place to the story, with further away cities and countries seeming as shadowy and as unobtainable as they turn out to be for Elle.
I liked the focus on authenticity and the consequences of being with someone who wants to change you. Elle has to confront this issue from a number of angles before she is able to find her happily ever after.
Ultimately, Elle’s A to Z of love is a lovely feel-good story and a perfect summer read.
Elle is a true-to-life character, who goes through crushes, obsessions and bad decisions before she figures out who she is supposed to be with. Along the way she presents us with a series of attractive men and leaves us wondering, ‘is this the one?’
Elle’s home village is beautifully written and gives a real sense of place to the story, with further away cities and countries seeming as shadowy and as unobtainable as they turn out to be for Elle.
I liked the focus on authenticity and the consequences of being with someone who wants to change you. Elle has to confront this issue from a number of angles before she is able to find her happily ever after.
Ultimately, Elle’s A to Z of love is a lovely feel-good story and a perfect summer read.
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