Winter Wedding

The Rockwood Chronicles #2

by Dilly Court

Don’t miss the brand-new Christmas read from the No.1 Sunday Times bestselling author Dilly Court!

As the first Christmas snowflakes fall, Rosalind finds herself pregnant and alone…

Christmas is coming to the village of Rockwood. But the happiest time of the year is marred by the news that Rosalind Blanchard’s husband, Piers, is close to death after a shipwreck at sea. The fate of her beloved family home, the crumbling Rockwood Castle, is once more in her hands. She must find the strength to keep her family together.

Pregnant, Rosalind comes face to face with the only man who ever made her heart truly her husband’s brother, Alex. As the Christmas bells ring, news of Piers arrives that changes everything. And another chance of happiness might be the gift Rosalind has been waiting for…

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Christmas

522 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 14, 2021

About the author

Dilly Court grew up in North-east London and began her career in television, writing scripts for commercials. She is married with two grown-up children and four grandchildren, and now lives in Dorset on the beautiful Jurassic Coast with her husband. She is the author of eighteen novels and also writes under the name of Lily Baxter.

Reviews

[Louise Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rockwood Chronicles Book 2

Christmas is coming to the village of Rockwood. But the happiest time of the year is marred by the news that Rosalind Blanchard's husband, Piers, is close to death after a shipwreck at sea.The fate of her beloved family home, the crumbling Rockwood Castle, is once more in her hands. She must find the strength to keep the family together.

Once again we are back in Rockwood. Rosalind is pregnant but her husband, Piers, has been gravely wounded in a shipwreck. Rosalind is once again head of the family, trying to ensure the upkeep of her family home, Rockwood Castle. Pregnant and alone, she turns to his his brother Alex for help.

This is the second book out of a six part series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm a huge fan of the author, she never disappoints. It's well written with some great characters who are well rounded and believable. I like Rosalind, she's level headed and knows what she wants. But will she find happiness with Alex? You'll have to read the book to find out.

I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #HarperFiction and the author #DillyCourt for my ARC of #WinterWedding in exchange for an honest review.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, can we talk about this cover? It's absolutely gorgeous. I've never actually read a Dilly Court novel, but I was hooked by the romantic snow-covered castle, pine trees, and overall holiday aesthetic. I must admit that I was also enchanted by Court's beautiful descriptions of Rockwood and the yuletide celebrations.

This book is perfect for anyone that likes:

• English castles
• Historical fiction
• Forbidden romance
• Love triangles
• Sweet, wholesome Christmas proposals

That being said, I can tell that the author has a background in commercial television writing, because the dialogue took center stage; at times, I found the lack of insight into the characters' emotions slightly jarring (when Piers is in hospital and near death, for example, his brother Alex doesn't seem all that bothered).

I particularly loved the relationship between Rosalind and the two children that she took in (Nancy and Tommy) — it was such a nice touch to a wholesome holiday story.

Overall, I enjoyed the book — definitely worth a read if you're a fan of shows like "Downton Abbey" and you're looking for a fluffy (yet dramatic) holiday romance!

**I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.**

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just what I needed. A light, romantic, historical story. It is the second of a trilogy but I think you can read it as an individual story. I may see if I can get the third book but it's based on one of the character's I wasn't keen on.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book.

We rejoin the village of Rockwood. In the second book of the series.

Rosalind Blanchard is still living at and running the castle of Rockwood and everybody who lives there. A telegram arrives informing her that her husband Piers has been shipwrecked and is at death's door in France.
Even though Christmas is imminent and she is pregnant she decides she must go to France to see him and hopefully bring him home.

This charming book is another wonderful story from Dilly Court, this is about love, frustration, and is heartwarming.
You will not be disappointed. I was really sad when I had finished it and can't wait for the next installment.

[Kate Smith]

3.5 stars

[Tracey- Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

i found this for mum in a charity shop, and as i have read a few Dilly Court before decided to read it.
i've enjoyed this book, the main character Rosalind is very likeable, strong and determined. She has a soft heart for waifs and stays and will look after anybody she sees in trouble .
Alex is a fabulous character , in love with Rosalind who's married to his brother . It's not unrequited but it can't happen.
Rosalind's family are very selfish , i'm astounded that they are related - her mother is cold hearted and thinks herself most important to the detriment of others . Her sister Patsy is the character that i just wanted to shake the spoilt behaviour out of her , she's petulant and very much like her mother .
This book is full of love , adventure and it's part of a good book series .

[MRS S PUSEY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant story from this author

I really enjoyed this story it was lovely to catch up with all the Carey family again shame about her husband but Rosie managed to get through this and held the family members together.I can't wait to read the next book to see how everything turns out for everyone.Great story as always from Dilly.would recommend this author.

[StinaStaffymum · Rating 5 out of 5]

We rejoin the Careys and the Blanchards at Rockwood once again in the second book of the series WINTER WEDDING. As usual, Dilly delights us with the tales of scandal, love and woe in equal mesaure with her trademark rags to riches interwoven into the story.

Rosalind Blanchard remains living at Rockwood Castle, the unofficial custodian of the estate in the absence of her older brother Bertie who inherited their grandfather's baronetcy on his death some months before. Rosie married Piers who continues to divide his time between Trevenor in Cornwall and Rockwood in Devon, as well as overseeing affairs of the china clay mine he inherited from his father. For the past several months Rosie has longed for her husband's return and yet when he is home, he isn't quite present.

Christmas is approaching and with it the upcoming nuptials of Rosie's younger sister Patricia to Piers younger brother Alex, who once held a torch for Rosie. Their wedding is to be Christmas Eve and everyone who is anyone in the county and beyond are to attend. But then a telegram arrives informing her that Alex has been injured in a shipwreck and remains in a hospital in France until he is able to travel. Patricia is beside herself that he could do this to her and humiliate her in such a way. And then their mother comes back with a solution to their problem...unfortunately, only Felicia can see it as such whilst everyone else finds her idea tactless and insensitive. But then Felicia Carey could only ever think of herself.

Rosie decides to leave for France immediately and arranges a passage across the channel with Hester by her side. They arrive to discover that Piers was also injured in an adjoining wreck and is currenltly unconscious in hospital. Rosie and Hester rent premises close to the hospital so that she may visit Alex and Piers every day. When Alex is able to leave the hospital, Rosie continues to visit Piers daily until his condition improves. She will not leave France until both men are able to travel back with them.

Of course, a return would only mean histrionics as far as Patricia is concerned, who appears to be a younger version of her mother - self-centred and self-obsessed to the core. She gives no thought as to what Alex has endured, only that he apparently jilted her and left her humiliated when it should have been the happiest day of her life. I personally think he escaped something of a sentence. But what of Piers?

While I quite liked Patsy in the first book, I loathed her in this one. She was petulant, selfish and completely spoilt. She thought of no one but herself, much like her mother, dare she outshine Felicia! Thankfully they did not take precedence and featured very little. Rosie is the focus as is her relationships with Piers, Alex and the two children she took ujnder her wing - Nancy and Tommy.

As always, Dilly delights her fans with her distinctive style of rags to riches, romance, woe and a little bit of scandal. A definite read for fans of "Downton Abbey" and delightful Victorian sagas. I can't wait to continue the series with "Runaway Widow" to see what she has in store for us next...

I would like to thank #DillyCourt, #Netgalley and #HarperCollins for an ARC of #WinterWedding in exchange for an honest review.

This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.

[Cherrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t realise this was part of a series when I picked it up, so I accidentally started with book two—but I enjoyed it so much that I’ve already bought the first! It’s a perfect read for the colder months, full of heart, drama, and strong female leads.

🌟 Characters & Relationships
Rosie was the standout for me—determined, compassionate, and fiercely protective of Tommy and Nancy despite the judgment she faced. Her relationship with her sister Patsy was particularly interesting. They couldn’t be more different, and as someone with a sibling myself, I found their dynamic very relatable.

Patsy was a complex character. I liked her, but found her incredibly selfish—especially in how she treated Alex and others around her. Her mother Felicia was just as self-centred, clearly favouring one daughter over the other. That favouritism continued when Rosie took in Tommy and Nancy, which added a fascinating layer of emotional realism.

Claude, Felicia’s husband, was a lovely contrast—kind, perceptive, and supportive of Rosie. Hester also shone as a maternal figure, always looking out for Rosie. And Fletcher, who appears later in the story, was one of my favourite characters—strong, wise, and influential in both Rosie and Alex’s lives.

💕 Romance & Loyalty
The romance between Rosie and Alex was beautifully written. Alex’s devotion was touching, and although Rosie clearly had deep feelings for him, she remained loyal to her husband Piers. Despite Piers being largely absent, Rosie’s love for him added emotional depth and complexity.

🔍 Themes & Social Commentary
Rosie’s strength and independence were inspiring. Her confrontation with Mr Lambert was a highlight—she stood up for the poor families in her community and refused to be dismissed simply because she was a woman. The book does a great job showcasing strong female characters, from Rosie to Felicia, Patsy, Hester, Lady Pentelow, and Fletcher.

Lady Pentelow was another character you love to hate—always causing upset, but undeniably memorable. Her presence, like many of the women in this story, added richness and tension.

🌀 Plot Twists & Surprises
There were plenty of twists I didn’t see coming. Patsy’s engagement to Sir Michael was a surprise, and her character evolved significantly after marriage. The revelation about Piers’ illegal dealings abroad changed everything for Rosie and Alex, and added another layer of drama involving the Trimble family.

Rosie’s bond with Tommy was especially moving, and when his true identity was revealed, I was so glad she had fought to keep him close.

✅ Final Thoughts
The ending was perfect—satisfying and emotionally resonant. I also appreciated the map and family tree at the beginning, which helped keep track of the many characters.

My only critique: the book could’ve been about 100 pages shorter. But overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I’m excited to dive into the first book in the series

[Zulekha's Reflections · Rating 4 out of 5]

Key take-aways

Winter Wedding

Key take-aways:
- When someone puts their work or business before their partner, that is a telling sign of their priorities. Piers frequently went for long business trips despite apologizing for his absences and admitting that he needed to spend more time with Rosalind. He wasn't able to make amends because his business came first no matter how much he wanted to care for Rosalind.
- "A man who lies so glibly should never be trusted". This is in reference to Piers in the first book and actually a very important reminder not to be taken with a pinch of salt
- I didn't like how in the first half of this book Alex pursued his brother's wife with immense immaturity and selfishness - "Come away with me, Rosie. We might not be able to be married but we could live abroad." At one point he said "leave him. Come with me and I'll bring up the child as if it were my own." I am glad Alex did not get the opportunity to break Rosalind's marriage but I wonder if he would have if Piers had stayed in the picture. It is true that people desire that which they should not and the author demonstrates that one cannot always change the matters of the heart. But can you trust a man who is willing to break someone else's marriage for his own desires?
- However, following Pier's arrest in the second half of the book Alex seemed to have matured and didn't want Rosalind or Dolly to face the consequences of a scandal caused by him. Alex's actions and ability to restrain himself were of a man who wanted to protect and honour the woman he loved in all matters (of himself and the community) even if he couldn't have her.
- Rosalind chose to marry Piers and not Alex in book one, publicly announcing that she loved Piers so I find it strange that she had very strong feelings for Alex in book 2. Though it may be that previous feelings returned when her relationship with Piers was suffering which shows how every relationship requires constant effort from both partners. "We were happy at first. Then his desire to make money seemed to take over and things went wrong".
- Real love will reveal itself in times of patience and following separation. As the saying goes "let it go and if it comes back then it was yours all along". Alex and Rosalind both tried to create distance between them but eventually they came back together because they were meant to be.
- Rosalind was truly a remarkable woman. Her ability to overcome the challenges that came her way is astounding. Rosalind enjoyed the good times, accepted the bad times and during the difficult times she did whatever she could to improve the situation.
- Rosalind was also a woman who knew her own worth and was determined not to let the pain or shame of hardships define her - especially when it wasn't of her own doing.

[Sarah W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favourite book (with my favourite protagonist) in the Rockwood Chronicles series.
It is everything I wanted to read and it is utterly lovely. I remember when I first read it, how much I loved it. This is right up my street, oh how my past self would have loved this book!

Rosalind is a sweetheart. She has this kind of warmth to her, she's calm and empathetic. For me, I love seeing this female protagonist who is quite traditional, feminine, maternal and that is portrayed as quite a positive thing, it's not something that limits her like other authors tend to interpret these kind of stereotypical traits as.

I love the fact that she has this romance blossoming but it doesn't consume Rosa's life, it's presented as just another part of her life where there are other things going on as well and I like that even when she is obviously very romantic and heart-driven, she still sets boundaries with her love interest and makes choices that are morally right and fair to everyone. It's nice to have this kind of romance sprinkled in. I also like that Dilly creates this lovely Victorian world but there is an awareness of the harshness in some of the conditions people had to go through as well.

I do see the trope of the lady choosing between two suitors and having some kind of problems to do with the family reputation a lot in her books, but it's not a bad thing because I think this is the kind of book to read to wind down, anyway and I still enjoy Dilly's books.

So yes, overall, I love this book! Would recommend :)

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dilly Court (2021) WINTER WEDDING (AUDIOBOOK)
BorrowBox - HarperCollins

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 out of 5 stars

BorrowBox writes, "Christmas is coming to the village of Rockwood. But the happiest time of the year is marred by the news that Rosalind Blanchard’s husband, Piers, is close to death after a shipwreck at sea. The fate of her beloved family home, the crumbling Rockwood Castle, is once more in her hands. She must find the strength to keep her family together.
Pregnant, Rosalind comes face to face with the only man who ever made her heart truly sing: her husband’s brother, Alex. As the Christmas bells ring, news of Piers arrives that changes everything. And another chance of happiness might be the gift Rosalind has been waiting for…"
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♥️♥️♥️♥️
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#DillyCourt #WinterWedding #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #Review #Reviews #BookReview #BookReviews #GoodReads #Audiobook #Audiobooks #BorrowBox

[Rachel Quinlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Rockwood Chronicles (I hadn’t read the first, but I will).
I loved it, despite the trauma of one family. Set in the 1850’s in Devon, it has a bit of a feel of Poldark to it. Some of the characters annoyed me a bit at first, but they grew on me, and I ended up rooting for them.
I look forward to reading the first book, and the third when it comes out next year (in 2022).

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic read by Dilly Court. I could imagine this series of books as a really good television period drama. The stunning backdrop of Rockwood Castle and the dramatic Devon coastline provide the perfect setting for this story full of family secrets. I'm now looking forward to the next book.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!

I absolutely enjoyed this book, so sad that I finished reading it.
I would definitely recommend it, it was intriguing, and it had an ending, so you are not left wondering what happened!!!

[jill dunklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect Christmas read

I really enjoyed reading the Winter Wedding by Dilly Court. I look forward to reading her next book. I recommend this book to my family and friends. I give this book 5 stars.

[Patricia Moren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another delightful, feel good story by Dilly Court. She always finds waifs and strays to put in her stories and spreads benevolence and help wherever she goes. The characters seem so real and I am always totally absorbed whilst reading her wonderful stories.

[Nicci · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love reading period dramas then you can't go wrong picking up a book by Dilly Court.
Fantastic novel, well written and follows on perfectly from book 1.
Book 3 is out in February 2022 & I can't wait to read it

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dilly has done it again I really don't know how she manages to write such amazing books. Absolutely loving the Rockwood Chronicles can't wait for the next one to come out, loved all the characters in these books and now waiting to see what happens next.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 2nd book of this author and I have really enjoyed her story telling. As I am an avid reader, it's so nice to find a new author.
Well worth reading and I have just picked up the next book in the Rockwood series to read.

[dave jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t wait for the next instalment

I’m loving the Rockwood Chronicles, they keep you wanting more so here’s to book 3 that I’ve already purchased. Dilly Court never lets you down when looking a good book.

[J.J. JOHNSTONE · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

This is a really good read and would recommend it. I really like this and am looking forward to the next one.

[Sue Hickling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant book ,cant wait for the next one in the set to come out .

[mrs.m.rushgrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book I’ve read the first 2 two can’t wait for the other 2 .

It was a very good book couldn’t put it down . It had very good twists and turns in it.

[Sharon Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read looking forward to next book in series .

[Trudie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely excellent! I'm really getting into this series now and really enjoyed this installment of the saga.

[Mr Brian A Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winter wedding

I adore the books of Dilly Court.This one kept me guessing from day one. And it ended with a happy ending. I e Alex proposing

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read cant wait to start next one..

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

😘

[Sharon Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book loved it

Great book love the story and the twists and turns of all the family can't wait to read the next book its a great page turner
Looking forward to the next