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Port Willow Bay #2
Matchmaking at Port Willow
Beatrice found love at Port Willow – now she’s helping others
Since arriving in the Scottish Highlands village of Port Willow six months ago while nursing a broken heart, Beatrice Halliday has turned her life around.
Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn, madly in love with gorgeous boyfriend Atholl Fergusson, and welcoming visitors from around the globe.
Life couldn’t be sweeter – until a surprise discovery threatens to turn her life upside down. Trying to distract herself, eternal romantic Beatrice sets her sights on rekindling the romance between an empty-nester couple holidaying at the Inn, while also trying to bring together city girl Nina, who’s hiding her pain behind a tough exterior, and Atholl’s handsome, easygoing cousin, Mutt.
But as Beatrice is about to learn, sometimes the magic of Port Willow doesn’t work on everyone…
A gorgeously uplifting read all about finding love and friendship, set in the beautiful Scottish countryside – fans of Jenny Colgan and Trisha Ashley will love this heartwarming, totally romantic read
Since arriving in the Scottish Highlands village of Port Willow six months ago while nursing a broken heart, Beatrice Halliday has turned her life around.
Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn, madly in love with gorgeous boyfriend Atholl Fergusson, and welcoming visitors from around the globe.
Life couldn’t be sweeter – until a surprise discovery threatens to turn her life upside down. Trying to distract herself, eternal romantic Beatrice sets her sights on rekindling the romance between an empty-nester couple holidaying at the Inn, while also trying to bring together city girl Nina, who’s hiding her pain behind a tough exterior, and Atholl’s handsome, easygoing cousin, Mutt.
But as Beatrice is about to learn, sometimes the magic of Port Willow doesn’t work on everyone…
A gorgeously uplifting read all about finding love and friendship, set in the beautiful Scottish countryside – fans of Jenny Colgan and Trisha Ashley will love this heartwarming, totally romantic read
- GenresRomanceContemporary
321 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2021
15 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
September 30, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
Sometimes tourists stopped them in the street when they were on days out in Fort William or Inverness, wanting a selfie with a true redheaded Scotsman of the clan warrior type. She’d come to think of it as the Outlander effect.
Years ago, she would joke with her girlfriends – thank goodness for girlfriends – about the need for regular marriage maintenance sex. Maintenance sex was a bit like sending your car for a service to keep it roadworthy… If Ruth’s sex life was a car, its road tax had well and truly expired and it was up on bricks in the driveway.
My Review:
This was a fun and satisfying women’s fiction read with clever wry humor and interesting twists on several familiar tropes with something to appeal to just about everyone. The book started with a dumped broken-hearted traveler hoping to save her career in the back of beyond who wasn’t all that sympathetic on arrival as she was aloof, self-serving, and acted like a snob, but she grew on me. I also enjoyed the empty nest couple with the exasperated menopausal wife hoping she could reconnect with her workaholic husband on their holiday. However, the majority of the storylines belonged to the loved-up innkeepers - an anxious older mother-to-be and her ever attentive and lovable Scottish weaver, the perfect BBF with a delicious burr in his voice. Rounding out the cast was a small village full of gentle and unique characters and family members. The storylines were engaging, the characters were endearing, and the writing was insightful, amusing, and easy to fall into. Sigh, I need more Scotsmen in my life.
Sometimes tourists stopped them in the street when they were on days out in Fort William or Inverness, wanting a selfie with a true redheaded Scotsman of the clan warrior type. She’d come to think of it as the Outlander effect.
Years ago, she would joke with her girlfriends – thank goodness for girlfriends – about the need for regular marriage maintenance sex. Maintenance sex was a bit like sending your car for a service to keep it roadworthy… If Ruth’s sex life was a car, its road tax had well and truly expired and it was up on bricks in the driveway.
My Review:
This was a fun and satisfying women’s fiction read with clever wry humor and interesting twists on several familiar tropes with something to appeal to just about everyone. The book started with a dumped broken-hearted traveler hoping to save her career in the back of beyond who wasn’t all that sympathetic on arrival as she was aloof, self-serving, and acted like a snob, but she grew on me. I also enjoyed the empty nest couple with the exasperated menopausal wife hoping she could reconnect with her workaholic husband on their holiday. However, the majority of the storylines belonged to the loved-up innkeepers - an anxious older mother-to-be and her ever attentive and lovable Scottish weaver, the perfect BBF with a delicious burr in his voice. Rounding out the cast was a small village full of gentle and unique characters and family members. The storylines were engaging, the characters were endearing, and the writing was insightful, amusing, and easy to fall into. Sigh, I need more Scotsmen in my life.
August 18, 2021
Matchmaking at Port Willow by Kiley Dunbar is the second book in her Port Willow Bay series, however, it can easily be read as a stand-alone book. It is a heartwarming, and sweet story with a load of quirky characters in a small-town setting.
Nina works in a glamorous company in New York City called MicroTrend, a company that seeks new luxury products to sell to the rich and famous who are always looking for the next new thing. Her boyfriend, Luke, took her under his wing when she was an intern with the company and he engineered her rise in the company due to his rich and famous friends and contacts. Just before Christmas, Nina is called into the CEO’s office and is demoted and sent to the Scottish Highlands to find new and exciting new products. She’s sure the demotion is due to her boyfriend, Luke, finding a new girlfriend while on a business trip to Tokyo and dumping her via a letter given to her by his assistant.
Nina ends up in Port Willow at the Princess and the Pea Inn, run by Beatrice and Atholl. At the Inn, she meets Murray or Mutt as the locals call him, a decorator, working with Beatrice and Atholl to spruce up the Inn. Nina wants to find something amazing to bring back to her company and prove that she can do her job without Luke’s help and his social contacts, and is not interested in staying in Port Willow any longer than she has to.
I loved the small village of Port Willow and its quirky inhabitants. Beatrice and Atholl are so endearing and adorable, and their love story continues in this second book in this series. The Inn is vividly described as well as the surrounding village and the willow fields. I also enjoyed the lonely empty-nester couple, Ruth and Mark as Beatrice helps them to overcome their fractured marriage. Nina is a lot more difficult to relate to. Her ambition to succeed led her to a disastrous relationship with Luke and it was difficult for me to sympathize with her, even when Luke dumped her in a very cowardly way. She’s abrupt and single-minded in her search for the next great product, and she doesn’t have any empathy or interest in the townspeople. She does eventually redeem herself, although it was later in the story and almost too late for me.
I recommend this book to lovers of small-town romance and heartwarming stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Nina works in a glamorous company in New York City called MicroTrend, a company that seeks new luxury products to sell to the rich and famous who are always looking for the next new thing. Her boyfriend, Luke, took her under his wing when she was an intern with the company and he engineered her rise in the company due to his rich and famous friends and contacts. Just before Christmas, Nina is called into the CEO’s office and is demoted and sent to the Scottish Highlands to find new and exciting new products. She’s sure the demotion is due to her boyfriend, Luke, finding a new girlfriend while on a business trip to Tokyo and dumping her via a letter given to her by his assistant.
Nina ends up in Port Willow at the Princess and the Pea Inn, run by Beatrice and Atholl. At the Inn, she meets Murray or Mutt as the locals call him, a decorator, working with Beatrice and Atholl to spruce up the Inn. Nina wants to find something amazing to bring back to her company and prove that she can do her job without Luke’s help and his social contacts, and is not interested in staying in Port Willow any longer than she has to.
I loved the small village of Port Willow and its quirky inhabitants. Beatrice and Atholl are so endearing and adorable, and their love story continues in this second book in this series. The Inn is vividly described as well as the surrounding village and the willow fields. I also enjoyed the lonely empty-nester couple, Ruth and Mark as Beatrice helps them to overcome their fractured marriage. Nina is a lot more difficult to relate to. Her ambition to succeed led her to a disastrous relationship with Luke and it was difficult for me to sympathize with her, even when Luke dumped her in a very cowardly way. She’s abrupt and single-minded in her search for the next great product, and she doesn’t have any empathy or interest in the townspeople. She does eventually redeem herself, although it was later in the story and almost too late for me.
I recommend this book to lovers of small-town romance and heartwarming stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 15, 2021
I was delighted to be back in Port Willow which is one of my favourite settings of Kiley Dunbar's, and to be back amongst familiar characters too.
This could easily be read as a standalone as enough background is given, plus the other main focal characters are brand new to the series,
Nina is really hard to get to know initially, you kind of sense her heart is in the right place but that she has forgotten how to be a more regular person since she has been dumped in a really cruel fashion.
Then there are the couple that are competition winners that aren't quite what Bea and Atholl thought they would be like.
It's a good thing Bea likes nothing more than "meddling" in others relationships and she is involved in making romance spark all over the place,
She's also got her own new storyline that had me on edge as I really wasn't quite usre which way it would go, although I'm happy with how it played out.
And so good to see Atholl and Gene again, the brothers who are continually showing what great men they have turned out to be.
It was a joy and a pleasure to return to this setting and I really hope this isn't the last we have seen of these characters.
Thank you to Hera Books for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This could easily be read as a standalone as enough background is given, plus the other main focal characters are brand new to the series,
Nina is really hard to get to know initially, you kind of sense her heart is in the right place but that she has forgotten how to be a more regular person since she has been dumped in a really cruel fashion.
Then there are the couple that are competition winners that aren't quite what Bea and Atholl thought they would be like.
It's a good thing Bea likes nothing more than "meddling" in others relationships and she is involved in making romance spark all over the place,
She's also got her own new storyline that had me on edge as I really wasn't quite usre which way it would go, although I'm happy with how it played out.
And so good to see Atholl and Gene again, the brothers who are continually showing what great men they have turned out to be.
It was a joy and a pleasure to return to this setting and I really hope this isn't the last we have seen of these characters.
Thank you to Hera Books for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 16, 2021
Matchmaking at Port Willow
by: Kiley Dunbar
Hera Books
Dunbar's new novel showcases the rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands through a romantic storyline linked to local craftsman and their talents in creating works of art.
An arts and crafts holiday at the nineteenth century The Princess and the Pea Inn on the beautiful shores of Port Willow Bay sounds divine, especially during the winter holidays. It would be hard to choose between classes such as watercolor, glassmaking, cookery, and silversmithing, but I think I'd select the willow weaving and crocheting. With the magic of both new and renewed love always in the air here as well, I might want to stay a while.
Romantic relationships and friendships are paramount, with Nina coming from New York to Port Willow for a job assignment. She gets to know community members Beatrice, Atholl, Kitty and Gene, as well as a cast of Inn guests, locals, two charming dogs, and one special guy named Mutt. Dunbar vividly portrays the culture of her stunning setting through exquisite portrayals of language, landscape, foods, and traditions.
Come and get lost in romance and experience the taste of Scottish shortbread and the smell of lavender amid the splendid sights of the Scottish Highlands. This book can stand alone but is a sequel to Summer at the Highland Coral Beach.
Thank you to Net Galley and Hera Books for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
#MatchmakingatPortWillow #NetGalley
by: Kiley Dunbar
Hera Books
Dunbar's new novel showcases the rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands through a romantic storyline linked to local craftsman and their talents in creating works of art.
An arts and crafts holiday at the nineteenth century The Princess and the Pea Inn on the beautiful shores of Port Willow Bay sounds divine, especially during the winter holidays. It would be hard to choose between classes such as watercolor, glassmaking, cookery, and silversmithing, but I think I'd select the willow weaving and crocheting. With the magic of both new and renewed love always in the air here as well, I might want to stay a while.
Romantic relationships and friendships are paramount, with Nina coming from New York to Port Willow for a job assignment. She gets to know community members Beatrice, Atholl, Kitty and Gene, as well as a cast of Inn guests, locals, two charming dogs, and one special guy named Mutt. Dunbar vividly portrays the culture of her stunning setting through exquisite portrayals of language, landscape, foods, and traditions.
Come and get lost in romance and experience the taste of Scottish shortbread and the smell of lavender amid the splendid sights of the Scottish Highlands. This book can stand alone but is a sequel to Summer at the Highland Coral Beach.
Thank you to Net Galley and Hera Books for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
#MatchmakingatPortWillow #NetGalley
September 22, 2021
I would like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for very kindly forwarding me an ARC copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
This is book number two in the Port Willow Bay series but can very easily be be read as a stand alone.
It is a small town setting with wonderful characters and is a cosy, heartwarming story.
Beatrice and Atholl are from book one and their love story continues in this instalment.
There are also a few new characters too and they each bring a wonderful part to the story.
I loved this book and couldn’t wait to keep reading more and more.
This is book number two in the Port Willow Bay series but can very easily be be read as a stand alone.
It is a small town setting with wonderful characters and is a cosy, heartwarming story.
Beatrice and Atholl are from book one and their love story continues in this instalment.
There are also a few new characters too and they each bring a wonderful part to the story.
I loved this book and couldn’t wait to keep reading more and more.
August 22, 2021
Can I just say, I was so excited to be heading back to Port Willow, with Kiley Dunbar!
I've been a huge fan of Dunbar's stories over the last couple of years and was thrilled that I was able to read the next book about The Princess and Pea Inn, and its lost soul inhabitants and guests.
It was a joy to be back with Atholl and Beatrice, Gene and Kitty, and to meet all the newer characters that made the story so great to read.
Beatrice and Atholl have settled into their life at the Inn, with plenty of exciting new projects to get their teeth into. They have a couple coming to stay, who are to celebrate their twenty-fifth Anniversary, during their month-long stay, and a young woman from New York, coming to find some new trends around the Highlands that she can tout to her company back home, as the next 'big thing'.
Each of these characters has stories of their own that bring about the 'Matchmaking' part of the book's title.
I don't want to go into too much detail, and give things away, but, despite being a book two in a series, it is easily readable as a stand-alone.
There are trigger warnings with regards to miscarriage, but it has been health with sensitively, and as I mentioned before, I've read the first book, so was aware of this side of the story. Also, hats off to the author for bringing menopause into the equation.
Also, it is lovely to have a cast of characters who aren't all young, beautiful people, looking for love and finding it, but those more advanced in their years, with a history behind them, and, yes, still finding it!
A heart-warming story with the capacity for more to happen... hint, hint!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I've been a huge fan of Dunbar's stories over the last couple of years and was thrilled that I was able to read the next book about The Princess and Pea Inn, and its lost soul inhabitants and guests.
It was a joy to be back with Atholl and Beatrice, Gene and Kitty, and to meet all the newer characters that made the story so great to read.
Beatrice and Atholl have settled into their life at the Inn, with plenty of exciting new projects to get their teeth into. They have a couple coming to stay, who are to celebrate their twenty-fifth Anniversary, during their month-long stay, and a young woman from New York, coming to find some new trends around the Highlands that she can tout to her company back home, as the next 'big thing'.
Each of these characters has stories of their own that bring about the 'Matchmaking' part of the book's title.
I don't want to go into too much detail, and give things away, but, despite being a book two in a series, it is easily readable as a stand-alone.
There are trigger warnings with regards to miscarriage, but it has been health with sensitively, and as I mentioned before, I've read the first book, so was aware of this side of the story. Also, hats off to the author for bringing menopause into the equation.
Also, it is lovely to have a cast of characters who aren't all young, beautiful people, looking for love and finding it, but those more advanced in their years, with a history behind them, and, yes, still finding it!
A heart-warming story with the capacity for more to happen... hint, hint!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
September 20, 2021
I have been a fan of Kiley’s work for a little while. I haven’t quite caught up with everything that she has written but I am getting there. I read the synopsis for ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ and it certainly sounded as though I was going to be in for a treat with what sounded like a heart warming and feel good story with more than a sprinkle of romance. Well this book ticked those boxes and then some. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ but more about that in a bit.
It took no time at all to get into this story. In fact the synopsis was enough to grab my attention and draw me into this story. I couldn’t wait to get started on the story and so without further ado I dove straight in. To say that reading ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ became addictive is a bit like saying I like reading- in other words a massive understatement. I took to two of the female characters so well that I had to keep reading to find out how the story panned out for them both. I found it extremely difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. My Kindle certainly travelled far and wide that day. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of this delightful book.
‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ is extremely well written and then some. Kiley has one of those writing styles that reads more like a chat between friends rather than reading a story. I hope that makes sense. Kiley has touched upon some sensitive topics, but she handles them extremely well. I won’t go into too much detail as I would hate to spoil the story but what I will say is that I knew somebody who had gone through the same as one of the characters has gone through and I recognised the feelings that such an incident stirs up. I like the very vivid and realistic way in which Kiley describes Port Willow. She describes it so well that I was all set to pack a bag and go for a holiday. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s thanks to Kiley’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Kiley’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It took no time at all to get into this story. In fact the synopsis was enough to grab my attention and draw me into this story. I couldn’t wait to get started on the story and so without further ado I dove straight in. To say that reading ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ became addictive is a bit like saying I like reading- in other words a massive understatement. I took to two of the female characters so well that I had to keep reading to find out how the story panned out for them both. I found it extremely difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. My Kindle certainly travelled far and wide that day. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of this delightful book.
‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ is extremely well written and then some. Kiley has one of those writing styles that reads more like a chat between friends rather than reading a story. I hope that makes sense. Kiley has touched upon some sensitive topics, but she handles them extremely well. I won’t go into too much detail as I would hate to spoil the story but what I will say is that I knew somebody who had gone through the same as one of the characters has gone through and I recognised the feelings that such an incident stirs up. I like the very vivid and realistic way in which Kiley describes Port Willow. She describes it so well that I was all set to pack a bag and go for a holiday. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s thanks to Kiley’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Matchmaking At Port Willow’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Kiley’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
September 21, 2021
4.5*
I was looking forward to another visit to Port Willow after reading Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, getting reacquainted with the residents and imaging myself in the beautiful setting. Since she arrived in Port Willow earlier in the year, Beatrice Halliday has found the love of her life in Atholl Fergusson and turned the Princess and the Pea Inn into something special creating, among other things, crafting holidays which bring in more guests and visitors than ever before. A true romantic at heart, Beatrice hopes some of them would find what she had, but if they needed a nudge a little help along the way wouldn’t go amiss.
In New York, expat Nina Miller has fast tracked to a successful career and glamorous lifestyle thanks to her rich, jet setting boyfriend, Luke. The company sources the newest luxury products to tempt the rich and set trends. Nina believed she’d talked Luke into taking Christmas week off and had organised the perfect romantic Christmas for two. Or so she thought. Luke had other ideas, and Nina found herself on a flight to the Highlands on assignment as a product scout, looking for traditional crafts such as whiskey, tweed, and crystal.
The story follows the fortunes of the guests staying at The Princess and the Pea Inn for the Christmas festivities, as well as the residents of the village. One shock piece of news seems a step too far after a devastating previous experience. More than one person is coping with heartbreak and it was good mix the generations and have some more mature characters who had lost their way.
As I found in previous books, Kiley Dunbar has a distinct talent for bringing characters to life and evoking a real sense of place and community spirit. There’s a good mix of angst, romance, humour, emotions, and sensitive issues are treated thoughtfully. It took a while to warm to Nina but I could understand why she was irritable and touchy. Second chances and self discovery also feature, leading to very satisfactory outcomes, and someone gets a well deserved comeuppance. I enjoyed it immensely.
I was looking forward to another visit to Port Willow after reading Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, getting reacquainted with the residents and imaging myself in the beautiful setting. Since she arrived in Port Willow earlier in the year, Beatrice Halliday has found the love of her life in Atholl Fergusson and turned the Princess and the Pea Inn into something special creating, among other things, crafting holidays which bring in more guests and visitors than ever before. A true romantic at heart, Beatrice hopes some of them would find what she had, but if they needed a nudge a little help along the way wouldn’t go amiss.
In New York, expat Nina Miller has fast tracked to a successful career and glamorous lifestyle thanks to her rich, jet setting boyfriend, Luke. The company sources the newest luxury products to tempt the rich and set trends. Nina believed she’d talked Luke into taking Christmas week off and had organised the perfect romantic Christmas for two. Or so she thought. Luke had other ideas, and Nina found herself on a flight to the Highlands on assignment as a product scout, looking for traditional crafts such as whiskey, tweed, and crystal.
The story follows the fortunes of the guests staying at The Princess and the Pea Inn for the Christmas festivities, as well as the residents of the village. One shock piece of news seems a step too far after a devastating previous experience. More than one person is coping with heartbreak and it was good mix the generations and have some more mature characters who had lost their way.
As I found in previous books, Kiley Dunbar has a distinct talent for bringing characters to life and evoking a real sense of place and community spirit. There’s a good mix of angst, romance, humour, emotions, and sensitive issues are treated thoughtfully. It took a while to warm to Nina but I could understand why she was irritable and touchy. Second chances and self discovery also feature, leading to very satisfactory outcomes, and someone gets a well deserved comeuppance. I enjoyed it immensely.
December 29, 2021
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
In Matchmaking at Port Willow Kiley Dunbar takes us back to the magical setting of Port Willow, the Scottish Highland village where Beatrice mended her broken heart and found a new wonderful life alongside Atholl. Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn and has set herself to give others the same happy ending she got.
Although second book in the series it can be read perfectly as a stand alone as the main plot is about two new characters and enough background information about the returning ones is given.
Nina’s life in NYC turned upside down in a matter of minutes (and at Christmas time, at that!) and now she finds herself in Port Willow on an unwanted work assignment trying to regain her boss’ trust. But, is that really what she wants? It took me a while to warm up to her. I didn’t like how she was so set up in her ways and her ideas at first, belittling some of the people of Port Willow when it was clear they were a thousand times better than the people she left behind in NYC. As the story progressed she became much more sympathetic and I really liked her relationship with Mutt.
It was a joy seeing how well life was treating Beatrice, Atholl and all the lovely people of Port Willow. One thing I love in this series is the sense of community and how everyone will help each other no matter what.
Bea’s “meddling” will have another chance to shine with an older couple who may have lost their spark after a long marriage and, although there were some moments of complete lack of communication and assuming things (hate that!), at the end it turned out a great side plot.
It was a pleasure to return to Port Willow and its inhabitants, and I enjoyed this second visit even more. Hopefully there will be a third.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
In Matchmaking at Port Willow Kiley Dunbar takes us back to the magical setting of Port Willow, the Scottish Highland village where Beatrice mended her broken heart and found a new wonderful life alongside Atholl. Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn and has set herself to give others the same happy ending she got.
Although second book in the series it can be read perfectly as a stand alone as the main plot is about two new characters and enough background information about the returning ones is given.
Nina’s life in NYC turned upside down in a matter of minutes (and at Christmas time, at that!) and now she finds herself in Port Willow on an unwanted work assignment trying to regain her boss’ trust. But, is that really what she wants? It took me a while to warm up to her. I didn’t like how she was so set up in her ways and her ideas at first, belittling some of the people of Port Willow when it was clear they were a thousand times better than the people she left behind in NYC. As the story progressed she became much more sympathetic and I really liked her relationship with Mutt.
It was a joy seeing how well life was treating Beatrice, Atholl and all the lovely people of Port Willow. One thing I love in this series is the sense of community and how everyone will help each other no matter what.
Bea’s “meddling” will have another chance to shine with an older couple who may have lost their spark after a long marriage and, although there were some moments of complete lack of communication and assuming things (hate that!), at the end it turned out a great side plot.
It was a pleasure to return to Port Willow and its inhabitants, and I enjoyed this second visit even more. Hopefully there will be a third.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2021
Today I am delighted to be sharing my review for the 2nd book where we visit Port Willow and the lovely Beatrice & Atholl. This can be read as part of the series as well as a standalone, after reading this book I can not wait to read the next one.
Beatrice is a lovely character who you straight away want to get to know, she is intent on matchmaking the local residents and helping to repair the marriage of the competition winners. Atholl is a quieter character to Beatrice and is the ying to her yang, he is much more reserved yet also has a heart of gold and will do anything to make Beatrice happy.
Set in the lead up to Christmas, we meet a selection of characters who have come to stay at the Inn. Some to escape other events happening in their lives, some to rekindle their love and others to look for that dream product to help them re-establish their careers.
A heartwarming story that I loved from start to finish, set in a gorgeous location that I can’t wait to revisit in the next story
Beatrice is a lovely character who you straight away want to get to know, she is intent on matchmaking the local residents and helping to repair the marriage of the competition winners. Atholl is a quieter character to Beatrice and is the ying to her yang, he is much more reserved yet also has a heart of gold and will do anything to make Beatrice happy.
Set in the lead up to Christmas, we meet a selection of characters who have come to stay at the Inn. Some to escape other events happening in their lives, some to rekindle their love and others to look for that dream product to help them re-establish their careers.
A heartwarming story that I loved from start to finish, set in a gorgeous location that I can’t wait to revisit in the next story
February 17, 2022
This book is feel-good, sweet and heartwarming. The author took me to the Scottish setting with her beautiful descriptions and attention to detail. There’s an important lesson for the reader - life can be terrible but it can always surprise you with unexpected love and happiness.
February 28, 2023
The first book I read by Kylie Dunbar was The Borrow a Bookshop Holiday. I really liked that one so I decided to give this one a try. I wound up enjoying it toward the end but I did not like it as much as the Bookshop story.
This is told in third person about multiple characters at a small inn in Scotland. We are introduced to Nina Miller, a British young woman making her way in New York who in true romance style fashion gets unceremoniously dumped by her jerk of a boyfriend and replaced by his new girlfriend both at their apartment and her job at the company. She gets shunted off to Scotland to "scout brands" for the same job or they will fire her when she returns. I would have told them good riddance but then we wouldn't have a book, yes?
There are also multiple other characters in the story - Beatrice, who had her own heartbreak and found love at this inn, her handsome Scotsman "boyfriend" who owns the inn, a couple who wins a month long stay at the resort who have grown apart over 25 years of marriage and Murray, affectionately known as Mutt, who is a wayward soul with a dark secret.
I found the setting of the book to be quaint and charming, such as to be expected in this genre. It actually is quite a cute idea. I had to get used to the British expressions and some of the Scottish ones as well but I definitely appreciated the author's use of the Scottish brogue and I could definitely "hear" it when I was reading it. My favorite part was Burns Night, as I had been exposed to this in another story, albeit not in Scotland and I was delighted to see it written about again.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
This is told in third person about multiple characters at a small inn in Scotland. We are introduced to Nina Miller, a British young woman making her way in New York who in true romance style fashion gets unceremoniously dumped by her jerk of a boyfriend and replaced by his new girlfriend both at their apartment and her job at the company. She gets shunted off to Scotland to "scout brands" for the same job or they will fire her when she returns. I would have told them good riddance but then we wouldn't have a book, yes?
There are also multiple other characters in the story - Beatrice, who had her own heartbreak and found love at this inn, her handsome Scotsman "boyfriend" who owns the inn, a couple who wins a month long stay at the resort who have grown apart over 25 years of marriage and Murray, affectionately known as Mutt, who is a wayward soul with a dark secret.
I found the setting of the book to be quaint and charming, such as to be expected in this genre. It actually is quite a cute idea. I had to get used to the British expressions and some of the Scottish ones as well but I definitely appreciated the author's use of the Scottish brogue and I could definitely "hear" it when I was reading it. My favorite part was Burns Night, as I had been exposed to this in another story, albeit not in Scotland and I was delighted to see it written about again.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
September 16, 2021
I adored the Port Willow setting when I read the first book the author set there – vividly created, filled with quirky and well-drawn characters – and I’ve always thought I’d love a stay at the Princess and the Pea Inn, enjoying Gene’s wonderful food, learning about some new crafts on one of Atholl and Beatrice’s special breaks and experiencing the warm welcome that they give every guest that crosses their doorstep. Don’t worry if this book is your first visit – you’ll soon feel entirely at home there, and love discovering the beach with its white coral sand, the bothie where Atholl teaches willow weaving, chat with some of the eccentric locals who prop up the bar. In the last book, Beatrice was a visitor who never returned home – now she’s helping run the business, very happy in her relationship with the lovely Atholl, improving the hotel itself and the breaks they offer with her special little touches. And when she finds that she’s expecting a baby, it’s more than she could have possibly hoped for – especially after all the trauma she’s experienced in the past.
But while this book follows Atholl and Beatrice’s path to parenthood, the book’s focus is largely on some of the inn’s visitors. I always think it’s particularly brave to focus a story on a character who’s initially unlikeable – Nina’s a highflier, English but having had a stellar career in New York finding luxury products for rich clients, her contacts found through her glamorous boyfriend Luke and the lifestyle he’s made her familiar with. But he’s very cruelly moved on, and she finds herself banished to the wilds of Scotland as Christmas approaches, with one last chance to prove herself by finding some unique products that the company can develop. She’s hurting badly, but she’s also very difficult to like – it’s impossible to find bubble tea and the diet she’s used to in Port Willow, she really doesn’t have the right shoes, she was expecting a media centre at the hotel rather than a computer and printer set up in a newly painted and windowless room, and she initially makes no attempt at all to endear herself to the welcoming locals. But there’s a certain magic to Scottish homemade shortbread, and she slowly unfurls a little – helped by an unlikely friendship with Murray the decorator (known to all as Mutt) who has depths and issues of his own.
And Beatrice – an incurable romantic – is excited to welcome a couple of competition winners as the hotel’s guests. Ruth and Mark are empty-nesters, ready for their first childless holiday, and she expects them both to be ready to rekindle their marriage and rediscover their former relationship – but it turns out that the couple aren’t really on the same page, their happy ending might take rather more work that she expected, and might even be doomed to failure.
I really enjoy the author’s writing – her characterisation is always so excellent, the humour well-judged, her emotional touch always perfect, issues always very sensitively handled, and I particularly enjoyed the setting of this one and all the character interactions. Loved-up Beatrice’s passion for trying to help others bring romance into their lives is just wonderful – and her own relationship with Atholl really warms the heart as their own story develops, with some of the loveliest touches.
Nina’s enemies-to-friends romance is well handled and convincing too – and I really loved Mutt. But although she certainly redeems herself with particular panache as the story unfolds, I really did find it quite difficult to sympathise with or warm to her character. For that reason – and that reason only – I’ll admit that this perhaps wasn’t quite my favourite of the author’s books, although I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others. In fact, I really rather hope we’ll return again to Port Willow – I’ve grown particularly fond of Beatrice and Atholl, and I rather like it there…
But while this book follows Atholl and Beatrice’s path to parenthood, the book’s focus is largely on some of the inn’s visitors. I always think it’s particularly brave to focus a story on a character who’s initially unlikeable – Nina’s a highflier, English but having had a stellar career in New York finding luxury products for rich clients, her contacts found through her glamorous boyfriend Luke and the lifestyle he’s made her familiar with. But he’s very cruelly moved on, and she finds herself banished to the wilds of Scotland as Christmas approaches, with one last chance to prove herself by finding some unique products that the company can develop. She’s hurting badly, but she’s also very difficult to like – it’s impossible to find bubble tea and the diet she’s used to in Port Willow, she really doesn’t have the right shoes, she was expecting a media centre at the hotel rather than a computer and printer set up in a newly painted and windowless room, and she initially makes no attempt at all to endear herself to the welcoming locals. But there’s a certain magic to Scottish homemade shortbread, and she slowly unfurls a little – helped by an unlikely friendship with Murray the decorator (known to all as Mutt) who has depths and issues of his own.
And Beatrice – an incurable romantic – is excited to welcome a couple of competition winners as the hotel’s guests. Ruth and Mark are empty-nesters, ready for their first childless holiday, and she expects them both to be ready to rekindle their marriage and rediscover their former relationship – but it turns out that the couple aren’t really on the same page, their happy ending might take rather more work that she expected, and might even be doomed to failure.
I really enjoy the author’s writing – her characterisation is always so excellent, the humour well-judged, her emotional touch always perfect, issues always very sensitively handled, and I particularly enjoyed the setting of this one and all the character interactions. Loved-up Beatrice’s passion for trying to help others bring romance into their lives is just wonderful – and her own relationship with Atholl really warms the heart as their own story develops, with some of the loveliest touches.
Nina’s enemies-to-friends romance is well handled and convincing too – and I really loved Mutt. But although she certainly redeems herself with particular panache as the story unfolds, I really did find it quite difficult to sympathise with or warm to her character. For that reason – and that reason only – I’ll admit that this perhaps wasn’t quite my favourite of the author’s books, although I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to others. In fact, I really rather hope we’ll return again to Port Willow – I’ve grown particularly fond of Beatrice and Atholl, and I rather like it there…
September 25, 2021
I couldn’t wait to get back to Port Willow and find out what was happening to Beatrice and Atholl after the end of Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, as I had fallen in love with all of the characters and the setting in the last book. Beatrice’s story is particularly close to my heart, having been through a similar experience myself, so I have a real soft spot for this couple and I wanted to see what Kiley had in store for their future, hoping it was a happy one. Sure enough, they are still loved up and working on improving and building up the business at The Princess and the Pea Inn, and Beatrice has lots of ideas about how to bring in new customers, including trying to find other people the happy-ever-afters she has discovered with Atholl. But, of course, life is never plain sailing and, when Beatrice gets some unexpected news, it stirs up the past and lots of emotion. I can’t say much more without spoiling the story for people who are new to the series but, suffice it to say, Kiley’s handling of this sensitive storyline continues to be delicate and true and I thought it was beautifully done.
And then we have a new character to bring new drama to Port Willow. Poor Nina, she’s like a fish out of water. Transported from a life of glamour in New York to this tiny Scottish village, recently dumped, demoted and spending Christmas amongst strangers, she can probably be forgiven for being a bit miserable and unpleasant, but she is definitely a hard character to like at the beginning. She doesn’t even try and endear herself to the locals, so intent is she on her own misery, but Port Willow and its inhabitants creep under skin anyway. Especially Mutt. Who wouldn’t fall in love with Mutt? (Anyone else got pictures from the first few seasons of Schitt’s Creek in their heads when they hear this name, which isn’t in any way a bad thing as you’ll know if you’ve watched it. I wonder if Kiley is a fan?) Surely Nina can’t be immune to his charms for long? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
There are other guests that arrive in need to Beatrice’s matchmaking skills, the return of my favourite character, Seth, and plenty of and lots of fun going on that feels uniquely Port Willow. If you enjoy Kiley’s writing, all of her usual trademarks are here – gentle humour, great characterisation, a rolling good plot, and serious topics handled with care and charm. I haven’t yet read a book by this author that I didn’t love, and this is no exception. In fact, her writing feels to me like it is getting better and better and I can’t wait to read more. I particularly hope that we will be coming back to Port Willow in the future because I am not ready to leave these characters or this place behind yet. And here I will make my persistent plea to the publisher, please, please, please can we have paperback copies of Kiley’s books for our bookshelves (or just a single copy of each for me will do!) I am determined to wear them down on this issue eventually because these novels really need to exist in physical format for posterity!
And then we have a new character to bring new drama to Port Willow. Poor Nina, she’s like a fish out of water. Transported from a life of glamour in New York to this tiny Scottish village, recently dumped, demoted and spending Christmas amongst strangers, she can probably be forgiven for being a bit miserable and unpleasant, but she is definitely a hard character to like at the beginning. She doesn’t even try and endear herself to the locals, so intent is she on her own misery, but Port Willow and its inhabitants creep under skin anyway. Especially Mutt. Who wouldn’t fall in love with Mutt? (Anyone else got pictures from the first few seasons of Schitt’s Creek in their heads when they hear this name, which isn’t in any way a bad thing as you’ll know if you’ve watched it. I wonder if Kiley is a fan?) Surely Nina can’t be immune to his charms for long? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
There are other guests that arrive in need to Beatrice’s matchmaking skills, the return of my favourite character, Seth, and plenty of and lots of fun going on that feels uniquely Port Willow. If you enjoy Kiley’s writing, all of her usual trademarks are here – gentle humour, great characterisation, a rolling good plot, and serious topics handled with care and charm. I haven’t yet read a book by this author that I didn’t love, and this is no exception. In fact, her writing feels to me like it is getting better and better and I can’t wait to read more. I particularly hope that we will be coming back to Port Willow in the future because I am not ready to leave these characters or this place behind yet. And here I will make my persistent plea to the publisher, please, please, please can we have paperback copies of Kiley’s books for our bookshelves (or just a single copy of each for me will do!) I am determined to wear them down on this issue eventually because these novels really need to exist in physical format for posterity!
September 27, 2021
4.5 Stars
Sweet, heartfelt and absolutely enchanting, it’s impossible not to be completely charmed by Kiley Dunbar’s latest novel, Matchmaking at Port Willow.
Everything has been coming up roses for Beatrice Halliday ever since she had moved to the magical town of Port Willow six months ago. After nursing a broken heart she had thought beyond repair, Beatrice had managed to turn her life around. Now successfully running The Princess and the Pea Inn where she welcomes tourists from all over the world, Beatrice has also met her own Prince Charming who has made her so happy: the gorgeous Atholl Fergusson. Beatrice is on top of the world, until she makes a surprise discovery that threatens the life that has come to mean everything to her!
In desperate need of a distraction, Beatrice decides that the best way to stop herself from dwelling on her problems is by match-making. With an empty-nester couple holidaying at the inn needing to bring the spark back into their relationship, not to mention city girl Nina and Atholl’s handsome Mutt needing a push in the right direction, Beatrice certainly has her hands full in the romance stakes. But will cupid’s arrow strike again in Port Willow? Or is she about to realise that sometimes one should just let the laws of attraction take their course…
Kiley Dunbar’s Matchmaking at Port Willow is a little escapist slice of happiness that will leave readers with a massive smile on their face. Matchmaking at Port Willow is a lovely story that is uplifting, heart-warming and so irresistible, I simply didn’t want to put it down.
It’s such fun to catch up with Beatrice, Atholl and all the latest goings-on at the Princess and the Pea Inn. New character Nina comes across as initially rather prickly, but I soon found myself warming to her and hoping that she would get her happy ending in Port Willow.
Warm, witty and absolutely wonderful, heart-melting contemporary romance does not get any better than Kiley Dunbar’s Matchmaking at Port Willow.
Sweet, heartfelt and absolutely enchanting, it’s impossible not to be completely charmed by Kiley Dunbar’s latest novel, Matchmaking at Port Willow.
Everything has been coming up roses for Beatrice Halliday ever since she had moved to the magical town of Port Willow six months ago. After nursing a broken heart she had thought beyond repair, Beatrice had managed to turn her life around. Now successfully running The Princess and the Pea Inn where she welcomes tourists from all over the world, Beatrice has also met her own Prince Charming who has made her so happy: the gorgeous Atholl Fergusson. Beatrice is on top of the world, until she makes a surprise discovery that threatens the life that has come to mean everything to her!
In desperate need of a distraction, Beatrice decides that the best way to stop herself from dwelling on her problems is by match-making. With an empty-nester couple holidaying at the inn needing to bring the spark back into their relationship, not to mention city girl Nina and Atholl’s handsome Mutt needing a push in the right direction, Beatrice certainly has her hands full in the romance stakes. But will cupid’s arrow strike again in Port Willow? Or is she about to realise that sometimes one should just let the laws of attraction take their course…
Kiley Dunbar’s Matchmaking at Port Willow is a little escapist slice of happiness that will leave readers with a massive smile on their face. Matchmaking at Port Willow is a lovely story that is uplifting, heart-warming and so irresistible, I simply didn’t want to put it down.
It’s such fun to catch up with Beatrice, Atholl and all the latest goings-on at the Princess and the Pea Inn. New character Nina comes across as initially rather prickly, but I soon found myself warming to her and hoping that she would get her happy ending in Port Willow.
Warm, witty and absolutely wonderful, heart-melting contemporary romance does not get any better than Kiley Dunbar’s Matchmaking at Port Willow.
October 21, 2021
CW: mention of past miscarriage
{Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for the gift of an eARC in exchange for an honest review.}
A few days before Christmas, which she expects to spend quietly with her boyfriend, an executive at the company she works at, Nina finds herself dumped, demoted, and sent on a scouting trip to the Scottish Highlands. At the Princess and the Pea Inn, she meets Mutt, a disgruntled handyman, and they dislike each other at first sight. In parallel, there is Beatrice and her boyfriend Atholl, who found love in the previous book in the series, and the older married couple whose romance Beatrice is hoping to rekindle.
▪ Scottish Highlands Setting. If it were up to me, all romance novels would be set in the Highlands. There is something about the weather, the topography, and the flora that makes it perfect: it provides plenty of naturally occurring obstacles (snow, fog, various farm animals) and breathtaking beauty.
▪ This book begins like a Hallmark Christmas movie. I mean that in the best possible way. I love those movies, no matter how predictable they are. So it charmed me right from the start. However, things depart from that format, most notably with the three parallel romances happening at once. I admit I was much more interested in Nina (and Mutt) than in the other couples, even though the other two romances grew on me towards the end.
▪ Small town, quirky people. This is another of my favourite romance tropes: quirky supporting characters. Port Willow has a few eccentrics, but everyone is kind and generous, and they make you want to move there like Beatrice did. I would definitely read more books in this series to spend time with these characters again.
In conclusion, this is a lovely, cosy book that will make you feel (there is a bit of grief mixed in with the joy) and dream of moving to a small coastal town in Scotland.
{Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for the gift of an eARC in exchange for an honest review.}
A few days before Christmas, which she expects to spend quietly with her boyfriend, an executive at the company she works at, Nina finds herself dumped, demoted, and sent on a scouting trip to the Scottish Highlands. At the Princess and the Pea Inn, she meets Mutt, a disgruntled handyman, and they dislike each other at first sight. In parallel, there is Beatrice and her boyfriend Atholl, who found love in the previous book in the series, and the older married couple whose romance Beatrice is hoping to rekindle.
▪ Scottish Highlands Setting. If it were up to me, all romance novels would be set in the Highlands. There is something about the weather, the topography, and the flora that makes it perfect: it provides plenty of naturally occurring obstacles (snow, fog, various farm animals) and breathtaking beauty.
▪ This book begins like a Hallmark Christmas movie. I mean that in the best possible way. I love those movies, no matter how predictable they are. So it charmed me right from the start. However, things depart from that format, most notably with the three parallel romances happening at once. I admit I was much more interested in Nina (and Mutt) than in the other couples, even though the other two romances grew on me towards the end.
▪ Small town, quirky people. This is another of my favourite romance tropes: quirky supporting characters. Port Willow has a few eccentrics, but everyone is kind and generous, and they make you want to move there like Beatrice did. I would definitely read more books in this series to spend time with these characters again.
In conclusion, this is a lovely, cosy book that will make you feel (there is a bit of grief mixed in with the joy) and dream of moving to a small coastal town in Scotland.
October 4, 2021
Beatrice has always given the Princess and The Pea Inn her all, working tirelessly at a job she loves, and working alongside the man she loves certainly helps make her work day more enjoyable too.
On the build up to Christmas Beatrice and Atholl are going about their regular business, preparing for the festivities ahead, however an even bigger surprise arrives for the couple as they discover they are expecting a baby.
Despite the overwhelming happiness, Beatrice definitely seems to feel the weight of her forthcoming life change weighing on her so she is even more grateful when a married couple who are looking to rekindle their love for one another arrives at the Inn. Beatrice seizes this opportunity to embrace her somewhat meddling ways and makes it her own personal mission to help this couple in any way she can, something that doesn’t always run smoothly that’s for sure!.
The thing I love most about picking up a book by Kiley Dunbar is, before I have even turned the first page I know I am in for an incredible adventure alongside the characters within her story. Beatrice is a strong willed character who secures a place in your heart instantly. She always goes above and beyond to help others, even though sometimes her meddling can go a little bit too far – it always comes from her heart.
The storyline is original and has several different life stories intertwined throughout, making each of the characters more realistic and relatable at times too. This story was an absolute joy to read, and if you love a captivating romantic comedy then this is undoubtedly the book for you.
On the build up to Christmas Beatrice and Atholl are going about their regular business, preparing for the festivities ahead, however an even bigger surprise arrives for the couple as they discover they are expecting a baby.
Despite the overwhelming happiness, Beatrice definitely seems to feel the weight of her forthcoming life change weighing on her so she is even more grateful when a married couple who are looking to rekindle their love for one another arrives at the Inn. Beatrice seizes this opportunity to embrace her somewhat meddling ways and makes it her own personal mission to help this couple in any way she can, something that doesn’t always run smoothly that’s for sure!.
The thing I love most about picking up a book by Kiley Dunbar is, before I have even turned the first page I know I am in for an incredible adventure alongside the characters within her story. Beatrice is a strong willed character who secures a place in your heart instantly. She always goes above and beyond to help others, even though sometimes her meddling can go a little bit too far – it always comes from her heart.
The storyline is original and has several different life stories intertwined throughout, making each of the characters more realistic and relatable at times too. This story was an absolute joy to read, and if you love a captivating romantic comedy then this is undoubtedly the book for you.
September 24, 2021
Wow, simply wow! It is my honor to be on the blog tour for this absolutely heartwarming book today. It has really touched me and I loved every minute of it and want to share my thoughts with anyone that will listen to me.
This book is the second in a series, but I can honestly say that it can be read as a stand-alone. I have not yet read the first in this series, but being familiar with Kiley’s writing style I was eager to read Matchmaking at Port Willow even without having read the first and I definitely don’t regret doing so!
What will happen if you skip book 1 and go straight to this book?
You will know how book 1 ended, but if you read the synopsis above you already know that. I expect book 1 to be full of love and loss and this lovely community, so even knowing how it will end I still have every intention of going back and reading it.
In my opinion there are 3 main stories and 6 main characters in this book and I loved hearing about all of them and will miss all 6 now that the book is finished. I would definitely love to read more books set in Port Willow, even if some of these 6 characters only make guest appearances in them!
I wish I could go on a crafting holiday and stay at the inn and meet all these lovely people!
What to expect:
✅ beautiful setting in an inn in the Scottish Highlands
✅ lots of crafts and the comfort one gets from crafting and learning new skills
✅ handsome Scottish me, perhaps stereotypical, but ever so lovely
✅ not one, but two dogs! One is a super cute pup named Bear. If this doesn’t make you want to know more… I simply don’t know.
✅ matchmaking
✅ relationships ups and downs, both for new and old relationships
✅ heartwarming friendships
✅ enjoying the small things
✅ smiles and tears.
This book is the second in a series, but I can honestly say that it can be read as a stand-alone. I have not yet read the first in this series, but being familiar with Kiley’s writing style I was eager to read Matchmaking at Port Willow even without having read the first and I definitely don’t regret doing so!
What will happen if you skip book 1 and go straight to this book?
You will know how book 1 ended, but if you read the synopsis above you already know that. I expect book 1 to be full of love and loss and this lovely community, so even knowing how it will end I still have every intention of going back and reading it.
In my opinion there are 3 main stories and 6 main characters in this book and I loved hearing about all of them and will miss all 6 now that the book is finished. I would definitely love to read more books set in Port Willow, even if some of these 6 characters only make guest appearances in them!
I wish I could go on a crafting holiday and stay at the inn and meet all these lovely people!
What to expect:
✅ beautiful setting in an inn in the Scottish Highlands
✅ lots of crafts and the comfort one gets from crafting and learning new skills
✅ handsome Scottish me, perhaps stereotypical, but ever so lovely
✅ not one, but two dogs! One is a super cute pup named Bear. If this doesn’t make you want to know more… I simply don’t know.
✅ matchmaking
✅ relationships ups and downs, both for new and old relationships
✅ heartwarming friendships
✅ enjoying the small things
✅ smiles and tears.
September 15, 2021
Thanks to Hera Books and the author, too,
For my copy of this book, here's my honest review:
It is great to return to Port Willow to see
What's been happening in this Highland community.
The Princess and the Pea Inn is the centre of the drama
Where Beatrice is expecting, hope she'll stay calmer!
I really enjoyed escaping up to Scotland for this fun read
To spend the festive season there is a dream, indeed.
It has a great sense of community, love and romance,
And shares a willingness to try again when given another chance.
Christmas is coming and festivities are being planned
To help themselves and others share a taste of the Highland.
There are several romances involved in this story for you -
One new, one needing rekindling and one octogenarian couple, too!
With Beatrice determined to help a couple who're needing some aid
To remember loving feelings from when their vows were first made.
Meanwhile a new visitor, arriving with a broken heart,
May be fortunate indeed to find her soul's missing part.
The characters are great, and their antics so fun,
This is a book to keep you smiling right until you're done.
It does deal with some sensitive issues, too,
In a way that shows caring and thought through and through.
There are animals there. too, each playing a part,
And secrets about someone breaking a heart.
With surprises, family, friendship and romance
I highly recommend you give this fun read a chance!
For my copy of this book, here's my honest review:
It is great to return to Port Willow to see
What's been happening in this Highland community.
The Princess and the Pea Inn is the centre of the drama
Where Beatrice is expecting, hope she'll stay calmer!
I really enjoyed escaping up to Scotland for this fun read
To spend the festive season there is a dream, indeed.
It has a great sense of community, love and romance,
And shares a willingness to try again when given another chance.
Christmas is coming and festivities are being planned
To help themselves and others share a taste of the Highland.
There are several romances involved in this story for you -
One new, one needing rekindling and one octogenarian couple, too!
With Beatrice determined to help a couple who're needing some aid
To remember loving feelings from when their vows were first made.
Meanwhile a new visitor, arriving with a broken heart,
May be fortunate indeed to find her soul's missing part.
The characters are great, and their antics so fun,
This is a book to keep you smiling right until you're done.
It does deal with some sensitive issues, too,
In a way that shows caring and thought through and through.
There are animals there. too, each playing a part,
And secrets about someone breaking a heart.
With surprises, family, friendship and romance
I highly recommend you give this fun read a chance!
January 15, 2022
ARC received from Netgalley and author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.
tw//
brief mention of miscarriage
Matchmaking at Port Willow by Kiley Dunbar is the second book in the Port Willow Bay series and follows 3 couples.
We get to see Beatrice and Atholl's relationship develope and oh my god they were so sweet to each other!! i loved them! And seeing Beatrice overcome her struggles with her miscarriage and children was so heartwarming! and i was sp nervous throughout, i really didn't know where her storyline was going but it ended up being good, thank god!
Nina's character was really different and unique from others shown in the book, she was distand and constantly put up walls around her (i mean i get why I HATED LUKE AND HOW HE TREATED HER) and seeing Mutt slowly remove those walls made me so happy. Not to mention, Nina's character development was IMMACULATE. she finally stood up for herself in the end and I loved her.
Now Mutt and Nina's relationship was so great, plus they had great chemistry and i was always on the edge of my seat reading them!
It's a good thing Beatrice continued to meddle with other people's relationship and play matchmaker because it was the best part of the story for me lol.
All the other characters were still the same, lovable, funny bunch and I'm kinda hoping we get another novella !!
tw//
brief mention of miscarriage
Matchmaking at Port Willow by Kiley Dunbar is the second book in the Port Willow Bay series and follows 3 couples.
We get to see Beatrice and Atholl's relationship develope and oh my god they were so sweet to each other!! i loved them! And seeing Beatrice overcome her struggles with her miscarriage and children was so heartwarming! and i was sp nervous throughout, i really didn't know where her storyline was going but it ended up being good, thank god!
Nina's character was really different and unique from others shown in the book, she was distand and constantly put up walls around her (i mean i get why I HATED LUKE AND HOW HE TREATED HER) and seeing Mutt slowly remove those walls made me so happy. Not to mention, Nina's character development was IMMACULATE. she finally stood up for herself in the end and I loved her.
Now Mutt and Nina's relationship was so great, plus they had great chemistry and i was always on the edge of my seat reading them!
It's a good thing Beatrice continued to meddle with other people's relationship and play matchmaker because it was the best part of the story for me lol.
All the other characters were still the same, lovable, funny bunch and I'm kinda hoping we get another novella !!
October 5, 2023
Kiley Dunbar's books are just gorgeous in every way, from the writing, to the characters, and the beautiful cover designs.
This was my second visit to the Scottish Highlands and the beautiful village of Port Willow.
All the regular characters are back, and we get introduced to some new ones, but more about them in a moment.
It's coming up to a busy time at The Princess and The Pea Inn, with Christmas fast approaching, and as always, Beatrice is keen for everyone to experience the magic of Port Willow, and if possible help others find that special someone.
This is how we get to meet four new faces, Mutt - who is a relative of Atholl and Gene Fergusson - has come to Port Willow to escape relationship problems, Nina, a high flying executive from New York, whose career has taken a sudden nose dive, and Ruth and Mark Fifth a couple who won a competition, for a month long stay at The Princess and The Pea Inn, they're celebrating their silver wedding anniversary, whilst also trying to reignite their love for each other, which seems to have waned lately.
It's clear that Beatrice is going to have her work cut out, with these four people, but let's face it, she does enjoy a challenge, of a romantic nature, and is sure to throw herself into things wholeheartedly.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I would love to think I could have a return visit here in the future, but there are still a number of Kiley's books, that I haven't yet had the pleasure of reading, so I know I have lots more to look forward to soon.
This was my second visit to the Scottish Highlands and the beautiful village of Port Willow.
All the regular characters are back, and we get introduced to some new ones, but more about them in a moment.
It's coming up to a busy time at The Princess and The Pea Inn, with Christmas fast approaching, and as always, Beatrice is keen for everyone to experience the magic of Port Willow, and if possible help others find that special someone.
This is how we get to meet four new faces, Mutt - who is a relative of Atholl and Gene Fergusson - has come to Port Willow to escape relationship problems, Nina, a high flying executive from New York, whose career has taken a sudden nose dive, and Ruth and Mark Fifth a couple who won a competition, for a month long stay at The Princess and The Pea Inn, they're celebrating their silver wedding anniversary, whilst also trying to reignite their love for each other, which seems to have waned lately.
It's clear that Beatrice is going to have her work cut out, with these four people, but let's face it, she does enjoy a challenge, of a romantic nature, and is sure to throw herself into things wholeheartedly.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I would love to think I could have a return visit here in the future, but there are still a number of Kiley's books, that I haven't yet had the pleasure of reading, so I know I have lots more to look forward to soon.
September 8, 2021
💘Happy matches seasoned with sadness in a Scottish setting🎑
I really enjoyed this sweet tale of romance breaking through the surface of a snowy Scottish winter. I did not read the first book in the series but it really wasn't required. Beatrice and Atholl from that first book return, here in an established relationship which prompts Beatrice to want to spread love and romance to others visiting or residing in her adopted (fictional) Highland coastal village just up the coast from the Isle of Skye.
Four visitors are the objects of Beatrice's matchmaking plans and, along with their stories, a scary wrinkle develops in Beatrice and Atholl's own story. From the way the book started, I thought Nina with her career and relationship problems would be the main focus. While I liked the storylines for all three couples, I think I would have preferred the story focusing on one, possibly two couples instead so more pages could be devoted to each.
Dunbar really knows how to evoke a feeling for the natural beauty of the place and the community of characters she creates. Seth McVie, the energetic octogenarian bachelor looking for companionship, even game for speeddating, was one of my favorite secondary characters.
Thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this sweet tale of romance breaking through the surface of a snowy Scottish winter. I did not read the first book in the series but it really wasn't required. Beatrice and Atholl from that first book return, here in an established relationship which prompts Beatrice to want to spread love and romance to others visiting or residing in her adopted (fictional) Highland coastal village just up the coast from the Isle of Skye.
Four visitors are the objects of Beatrice's matchmaking plans and, along with their stories, a scary wrinkle develops in Beatrice and Atholl's own story. From the way the book started, I thought Nina with her career and relationship problems would be the main focus. While I liked the storylines for all three couples, I think I would have preferred the story focusing on one, possibly two couples instead so more pages could be devoted to each.
Dunbar really knows how to evoke a feeling for the natural beauty of the place and the community of characters she creates. Seth McVie, the energetic octogenarian bachelor looking for companionship, even game for speeddating, was one of my favorite secondary characters.
Thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
September 23, 2021
I have loved each of Kiley Dunbar’s books so far and this one was no exception. They are all easy to read allowing you to become absorbed into the story and are therefore perfect escapism.
Matchmaking at Port Willow returns to the story of Beatrice who we met in Summer at the Highland Coral Beach. Although this is the second book set in Port Willow, it could be read as a standalone with the background that is provided.
Beatrice has settled into life in Port Willow and at the Princess and the Pea Inn. After some unexpected news she is ready to distract herself with one of her favourite things to do, matchmaking. This is where we are introduced to Nina and Mutt and Ruth and Mark. Beatrice sets her sights on bringing each of these pairs together.
Nina is a big part of the story in this book. She was making a career for herself in New York alongside her boyfriend, when just before Christmas she is dumped and sent off to Port Willow on ‘assignment’ for work. Desperate to get back to New York Nina isolates herself from those in the Inn, including handyman, Mutt, but can she resist the pull of Port Willow life.
The new characters we are introduced to are great additions to the Port Willow story alongside Beatrice, Atholl, Gene, Kitty and Seth from the original visit.
Port Willow, as I said after reading Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, sounds amazing, peaceful and picturesque, the perfect place to escape reality.
Another hit from Kiley, and I can’t wait to read what she brings out next.
Matchmaking at Port Willow returns to the story of Beatrice who we met in Summer at the Highland Coral Beach. Although this is the second book set in Port Willow, it could be read as a standalone with the background that is provided.
Beatrice has settled into life in Port Willow and at the Princess and the Pea Inn. After some unexpected news she is ready to distract herself with one of her favourite things to do, matchmaking. This is where we are introduced to Nina and Mutt and Ruth and Mark. Beatrice sets her sights on bringing each of these pairs together.
Nina is a big part of the story in this book. She was making a career for herself in New York alongside her boyfriend, when just before Christmas she is dumped and sent off to Port Willow on ‘assignment’ for work. Desperate to get back to New York Nina isolates herself from those in the Inn, including handyman, Mutt, but can she resist the pull of Port Willow life.
The new characters we are introduced to are great additions to the Port Willow story alongside Beatrice, Atholl, Gene, Kitty and Seth from the original visit.
Port Willow, as I said after reading Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, sounds amazing, peaceful and picturesque, the perfect place to escape reality.
Another hit from Kiley, and I can’t wait to read what she brings out next.
September 17, 2021
Having enjoyed the first in the series, I found that I picked up the story seamlessly. There is plenty of mileage to be had from the characters we already know and the new ones proved to have some interesting depths. Family proved to be a major theme in the story and I was delighted that Beatrice was still showing her problem- solving side, alongside showing us her vulnerabilities. Loss and grief still hover in the background but there is an underlying feeling of hope and renewal.
There is plenty of humour to be found in the villagers who form such a lovely community. I liked the subplots, especially seeing how guests Ruth and Mark tried to sort out their problems, encouraged by Beatrice. The setting is as stunning as before. Port Willow feels like a magical place, full of hope and possibilities. This really feels like Nina and Mutt's story. At the beginning they could not be more different but as the story develops, you see Nina rediscover what she actually wants to do with her life. Mutt has his own secrets which eventually are discovered. You do feel as though Port Willow has a healing power.
In short: can love find a way?
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
There is plenty of humour to be found in the villagers who form such a lovely community. I liked the subplots, especially seeing how guests Ruth and Mark tried to sort out their problems, encouraged by Beatrice. The setting is as stunning as before. Port Willow feels like a magical place, full of hope and possibilities. This really feels like Nina and Mutt's story. At the beginning they could not be more different but as the story develops, you see Nina rediscover what she actually wants to do with her life. Mutt has his own secrets which eventually are discovered. You do feel as though Port Willow has a healing power.
In short: can love find a way?
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
September 16, 2021
Beatrice found love in the Highlands, and now she’s helping others.
Although this is the second book of the Port Willow series, it works perfectly as a standalone. It probably have helped to have an introduction and knowledge of the background to the characters, but it is not a necessity.
This has multiple characters, all with different levels of complexities, making this an enjoyment read of you like character analysing whilst reading. There are some sensitive issues within the plot, but these are handle carefully by the author.
The scene setting was beautiful, but having never visited Scotland I am unaware of how accurate this was. Either way the community spirit within this location was written incredibly well, making this heart warming and entertaining.
If you are looking for a sweet, tender and romantically pleasing read, this is the book for you! I will definitely be picking up more by this author in the future.
Thank you Rachel’s Random Resources, Hera Books and Keily Dunbar for a gifted copy of this book and a place on the book tour, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Although this is the second book of the Port Willow series, it works perfectly as a standalone. It probably have helped to have an introduction and knowledge of the background to the characters, but it is not a necessity.
This has multiple characters, all with different levels of complexities, making this an enjoyment read of you like character analysing whilst reading. There are some sensitive issues within the plot, but these are handle carefully by the author.
The scene setting was beautiful, but having never visited Scotland I am unaware of how accurate this was. Either way the community spirit within this location was written incredibly well, making this heart warming and entertaining.
If you are looking for a sweet, tender and romantically pleasing read, this is the book for you! I will definitely be picking up more by this author in the future.
Thank you Rachel’s Random Resources, Hera Books and Keily Dunbar for a gifted copy of this book and a place on the book tour, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
September 20, 2021
This books starts out with a couple that I loved reading about the first time around: Atholl and Beatrice! They’re hate-to-love romance pulled me in, in the first book of the series, Summer at the Highland Coral Beach. That book was one of my absolute favorites from last year… and I was remarkably glad to be brought back to Port Willow.
The story continues with more Beatrice and Atholl and the evolution of their relationship–and all that entails. Let me tell you–I’m still so in love with this couple! I love the way Kiley Dunbar is writing this series, so that I’m still getting to see some of my favorite couples while reading about new ones.
Because there is another new couple in this book. And, they take up just as much attention. And I love them! Nina and Mutt are so wonderful and I loved reading about how they came together. Especially since poor Nina really had a time of it in the beginning of this one.
Kiley Dunbar can write twenty more of these books and I’ll be there for them. I’m absolutely in love with Port Willow and all the characters who live there. Reading this, I felt like I was at home, visiting with dear, sweet friends.
The story continues with more Beatrice and Atholl and the evolution of their relationship–and all that entails. Let me tell you–I’m still so in love with this couple! I love the way Kiley Dunbar is writing this series, so that I’m still getting to see some of my favorite couples while reading about new ones.
Because there is another new couple in this book. And, they take up just as much attention. And I love them! Nina and Mutt are so wonderful and I loved reading about how they came together. Especially since poor Nina really had a time of it in the beginning of this one.
Kiley Dunbar can write twenty more of these books and I’ll be there for them. I’m absolutely in love with Port Willow and all the characters who live there. Reading this, I felt like I was at home, visiting with dear, sweet friends.
August 1, 2021
Another wonderful and heartwarming book from Kiley Dunbar. I haven’t read the first book in this series, but that doesn’t detract from the story at all as the characters are well written and believable (having said that, I will be buying the first book as I absolutely fell in love with Port Willow and it’s gorgeous residents!) . It is a story of heartbreak, running away, new beginnings, life and love after children have left home and village life. Simply wonderful.
There is mention of miscarriage in this book, if this is an issue for you. However, the thread of the story I was particularly pleased to read was Ruth and her struggle with the menopause, something you rarely read about in a novel, let alone anywhere else, and I thought that Kiley did a great job of describing how it can feel to be menopausal, feeling overlooked, unloved, unimportant and invisible as well as the well know hot flushes and those ‘rages!’
Highly recommended. I hope we will be treated to another visit to Port Willow - I’m sure Gene has a story to be told (just saying Kiley 😉……)
There is mention of miscarriage in this book, if this is an issue for you. However, the thread of the story I was particularly pleased to read was Ruth and her struggle with the menopause, something you rarely read about in a novel, let alone anywhere else, and I thought that Kiley did a great job of describing how it can feel to be menopausal, feeling overlooked, unloved, unimportant and invisible as well as the well know hot flushes and those ‘rages!’
Highly recommended. I hope we will be treated to another visit to Port Willow - I’m sure Gene has a story to be told (just saying Kiley 😉……)
September 12, 2021
Matchmaking at Port Willow - Kiley Dunbar
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Since arriving in the Scottish Highlands village of Port Willow six months ago while nursing a broken heart, Beatrice Halliday has turned her life around.
Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn, madly in love with gorgeous boyfriend Atholl Fergusson, and welcoming visitors from around the globe.
It was a lovely experience to return to Port Willow Bay - whilst this is the second book in the series I feel that it could easily be read as a standalone. Such a heart-warming and sweet story set in a small town, with a vast array of unusual characters. We meet Nina Miller early on who is set to the Scottish Highlands for work following a unceremonious dumping by her boyfriend.
I read this book in one setting as I loved the charming sitting, and as a fan of Kiley it was exactly what I expected from her latest book. I would highly recommend this book to fans of Kiley Dunbar, small-town romance and heart-warming stories.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Since arriving in the Scottish Highlands village of Port Willow six months ago while nursing a broken heart, Beatrice Halliday has turned her life around.
Now she’s running The Princess and the Pea Inn, madly in love with gorgeous boyfriend Atholl Fergusson, and welcoming visitors from around the globe.
It was a lovely experience to return to Port Willow Bay - whilst this is the second book in the series I feel that it could easily be read as a standalone. Such a heart-warming and sweet story set in a small town, with a vast array of unusual characters. We meet Nina Miller early on who is set to the Scottish Highlands for work following a unceremonious dumping by her boyfriend.
I read this book in one setting as I loved the charming sitting, and as a fan of Kiley it was exactly what I expected from her latest book. I would highly recommend this book to fans of Kiley Dunbar, small-town romance and heart-warming stories.
Rating 4/5
September 17, 2021
I really enjoyed Summer at the Highland Coral Beach, so I was really pleased to receive a copy of Matchmaking at Port Willow, which is the sequel.
It was so wonderful to return to Port Willow, and to see how all the lovely characters are getting on. I particularly enjoyed catching up with Beatrice, after going through such an emotional journey with her in the first book. That journey continues in this story, in a satisfying way (I can’t really say much more without spoilers).
As well as catching up with old friends, this book also follows several new characters. The characters are all well written (as is the whole book), and I especially loved Nina’s story.
The setting is lovely (again). The Princess and the Pea Inn is continuing it’s renovation, and the surrounding area creates a great atmosphere.
Overall, this was an emotional, but rewarding story, following old and new characters. I recommend it, but make sure you have your tissues handy.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
It was so wonderful to return to Port Willow, and to see how all the lovely characters are getting on. I particularly enjoyed catching up with Beatrice, after going through such an emotional journey with her in the first book. That journey continues in this story, in a satisfying way (I can’t really say much more without spoilers).
As well as catching up with old friends, this book also follows several new characters. The characters are all well written (as is the whole book), and I especially loved Nina’s story.
The setting is lovely (again). The Princess and the Pea Inn is continuing it’s renovation, and the surrounding area creates a great atmosphere.
Overall, this was an emotional, but rewarding story, following old and new characters. I recommend it, but make sure you have your tissues handy.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
November 25, 2021
Be prepared to be drawn into the magic of Port Willow at Christmas.
Beatrice manager of the Inn, is a kind and intuitive host, helping all of her visitors grow as they stay with her and adds in the bit of matchmaking for good measure.
However, despite it’s real light and feel good buts, this book also touches on some really serious themes such as work problems, loneliness and baby loss.
It very sensitively explores the thoughts and feelings attached to pregnancy after baby loss. It really highlights that sometimes it isn’t always about celebration and rainbow babies but brings to the forefront dealing with those feelings of fear. This really makes Bea seem all that much more real, I really felt like she could have just stepped out of the pages.
The setting of the beautiful Scottish Highlands and the welcoming inn, alongside these themes made this a heart wrenching but delightful read!
I finished truly wishing for a full on Scottish Christmas with all the wonderful traditions and meanings behind them.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kelly Dunbar and Hera books, I really loved this!
Beatrice manager of the Inn, is a kind and intuitive host, helping all of her visitors grow as they stay with her and adds in the bit of matchmaking for good measure.
However, despite it’s real light and feel good buts, this book also touches on some really serious themes such as work problems, loneliness and baby loss.
It very sensitively explores the thoughts and feelings attached to pregnancy after baby loss. It really highlights that sometimes it isn’t always about celebration and rainbow babies but brings to the forefront dealing with those feelings of fear. This really makes Bea seem all that much more real, I really felt like she could have just stepped out of the pages.
The setting of the beautiful Scottish Highlands and the welcoming inn, alongside these themes made this a heart wrenching but delightful read!
I finished truly wishing for a full on Scottish Christmas with all the wonderful traditions and meanings behind them.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kelly Dunbar and Hera books, I really loved this!
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