The Farmhouse of Second Chances

by Helen Rolfe

'A heartwarming story about family, forgiveness and the importance of kindness' FIONA HARPER on The Kindness Club on Mapleberry Lane

'Comforting and uplifting, this book is a joy to read' MY WEEKLY

'A heartwarming tale' WOMAN'S OWN

Home is where the heart is...

Joy has made a family for herself. She's turned her beautiful old farmhouse into a safe haven for anyone who is looking for a new beginning. She's always ready with a kind word, a nugget of advice and believes that anyone can change their life for the better, if they really want to.

Libby has exchanged her high-flying job in New York for a break in the quiet Somerset countryside. She's soon drawn into Joy's world and into her family of waifs and strays - including Drew, whom Joy once helped get back on his feet.

So when a secret from Joy's past threatens everything, can the unlikely group come together to give Joy a second chance of her own?

Curl up with this uplifting new story of second chances and finding where you belong, from the author of The Little Village Library, perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley and Ali McNamara!

***

Readers adore Helen's heartwarming storytelling

'Enchanting... Employing all the warmth and charm of Maeve Binchy, and a special brand of kindness that she has made her own, Rolfe weaves together elements of mystery, romance, family relationships and the warmth of community in a story guaranteed to bring laughter, tears and miles of smiles' Lancashire Post

' A warm, comforting tale of family and community which brims with kindness and love' Annie Lyons

'A heartwarming story about family, forgiveness and the importance of kindness... If you're looking for a feelgood novel in these difficult times, this is definitely it!' Fiona Harper

'A lovely community, full of friendship and love'

'I enjoyed every minute of this book and found it very hard to put down'

'Lovely, feel-good...filled with lots of love'

'Gave you all the suspense, happiness and excitement'

'Helen Rolfe's writing brought a smile to my face'

'Loved loved loved this fabulous book'

Genres: Fiction, Chick Lit

352 pages, Paperback

First published February 17, 2022

About the author

Helen Rolfe also writes as Helen J. Rolfe

Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.

Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.

Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!

To learn more about Helen, find her at:

www.helenjrolfe.com

https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...

https://twitter.com/hjrolfe

https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/

Reviews

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a long while to get into this book, I knew I was enjoying it, but due to life getting in the way, I was struggling to read for more than a few mins at time. I feel if I had managed to spare the time to read a good amount of the early bit of the book in one go, I would have connected with it a lot quicker - but that's on me.

As by the time I got to the last quarter I had to read it one sitting, I couldn't be parted from the story, as I desperately needed to know just what is was that Joy has been hiding, and I would never have predicted how the finale section of this book would resolve.

I loved the dual view points of Joy and Libby, aunt and niece, as it really allowed me the chance to get to know the characters. Libby and her adjustment to life in the UK Countryside after quitting her New York city job. And Joy with what really is a farmhouse of second chances.

There are adorable puppies, and a rag tag group of people that Joy has helped over the years that have become her family. I loved getting to know Lauren and her cakes, Freddie and his fruit and veg business, Drew and his kayaks and Cameron who is the newest addition to the farmhouse, who is just starting to settle in.

I thoroughly enjoyed these well rounded characters who all have awkward pasts in common, and who all clearly care for Joy.

I had a lot of fun trying to guess what the big secret in Joy's past was, and generally enjoying the whole heartwarming vibe of the book. A very enjoyable story.

Thank you to Orion and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful read of family, whether chosen or related and second chances. The descriptions of the farmhouse kitchen and the chat and laughter around the dinner table made this story for me. The love of the characters for eachother jumped from the page and was so heartwarming.

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully heartwarming story about family and forgiveness. A lovely easygoing and enjoyable read, t really lovely There are several twists and turns which will keep you guessing and if your emotional like me you may shed a few tears. This is full of cute characters and an importMessage that home is where your heart makes it and taking second chances

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

[Lover_Of_Books91 · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm kind of disappointed to only be giving this book two stars, because it is a brilliant concept. However, I couldn't get past the mistakes that have been missed by the proof reader, or the timeline issue.

For Joy to be seventy in the present day, she would have been twenty-seven in the late seventies, meaning, that cashpoints and mobile phones would not have been available. Maybe, I'm being picky, but I shouldn't have to check what was available in a certain decade, to be able to continue a story.

[Adelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book.

An easy read but with a mystery running through it.

It's also about forgiveness, second changes & kindness.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found the first few chapters were a bit of a slow burner, though once you were introduced to the characters it was almost like you was part of them all.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helen Rolfe’s writing style is distinctive, I immediately know that my happy ending is in safe hands. There are no guarantees that there won’t be any heartache, along the way, but the final destination is never in any doubt.
We return to the idyllic village of Bramleywood, set in the beautiful countryside in Somerset. There are a couple of mentions of other villagers, but this story revolves around Joy, her family of waifs and strays, and her niece, Libby. There’s plenty going on, so there’s no feeling of missing out. More importantly, if this is your first visit to the village, you can definitely enjoy this book as a standalone.
Libby has stayed in touch with her maternal aunt, despite living in New York. When her job and relationship come to a sudden halt, it’s only natural that she should seek solace in the company of her family. Feeling detached from her father, who had sold the family home and moved to Windermere, she heads to Somerset. Her relationship with her aunt has remained a secret, as there is some dark event, from the past, that brought about an estrangement, meaning that Libby hasn’t actually seen Joy since she was very young.
I just adored Joy, her kind and caring nature seemed at odds with the suggestion of a dark past. Her life is dedicated to caring for those who have fallen through the proverbial cracks in life’s pavement. Her home is filled with love and those who have moved on, have mostly not moved very far, often remaining regular visitors to The Old Dairy Farmhouse.
This book gently examines the complexities of family relationships. The way that assumptions can breed prejudice that in turn may lead to devastating results. Joy’s story is not the only one that has felt the bitter twist of familial desertion and I found both Freddie and Cameron’s development to be quite beautiful.
As Libby settles into life at the farmhouse, strange events put Joy under increasing pressure as she fights to protect herself, the Old Dairy, and those that she loves.
For fear of including spoilers, I will leave my review here, but rest assured, there’s a lot to love about this really special book. Read it and escape to Bramleywood, it’s gorgeous there.

[Kerry https://likeherdingcatsblog.wordpress.com Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Farmhouse of Second Chances is a delightful story of Joy and her extended family who stay at the farmhouse in search of themselves or a different style of life.
Joy has been estranged from her family most of her life for a reasons that isn’t revealed early to the reader. Somehow she ended up been taken under the wings of the previous farmhouse residents and after they past she inherited it. Continuing the kindness, Joy continues to open her doors to souls in need of somewhere to stay and heal. Libby has been writing to her auntie Joy for years despite only meeting her once. Her job in New York has become too stressful and Libby’s mental health is very low. Can the farmhouse work its magic on Libby whilst giving Joy something she needs?
This book isn’t one to race through and devour (or it wasn’t for me). It is more a book to savour by drinking in the lovely characters and setting and to bask in the warmth of it’s community spirit and healing.
I became attached to all the characters in the farmhouse, but especially the gorgeous Luna and her puppies. Joy was such a kind soul, helping anyone who needed I and supporting others. Libby was a lovely character with a lot to deal with and I loved her relationship with her estranged aunt. Drew of course was charming, Sam the vet was a total gentleman and I loved seeing Cameron’s confidence grow with the support of everyone.
I liked the mild mystery aspect of the plot around Joy’s estrangement from her family. It was refereed to a lot and I had fun, and frustration, trying to guess the reason. It kept me on the edge of my seat as I wondered if it would cause issues between her and Libby or any of the others.
The setting was so serene and peaceful and I could do with spending a week or so there myself – without the Cockrel.
For me this novel was very character driven and focussed on Libby and Joy finding themselves and each other but also focussed on the impact we can have on the lives of the people around us with our actions and deeds.
This is a lovely read, emotional at times but heart-warming and hopeful.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warm-hearted, witty and engaging, Helen Rolfe’s The Farmhouse of Second Chances is sure to be the loveliest book you will read all year.

Transforming her beautiful farmhouse into a safe haven for anyone looking for a fresh start has not only proved to be a refuge for many people in need, but also given Joy the opportunity to make a family for herself. Joy is always willing to welcome anyone who walks through her door with a kind word, a sympathetic shoulder and a nugget of wisdom should they need it. Joy believes that anybody can change their life and shape their own future provided that they really want to – advice which newly arrived Libby could certainly benefit from!

High-flyer Libby is in desperate need of a break. The stress of her job and the many challenges life has thrown her way lately has left her needing an escape from her life in New York, so a brief sojourn in the Somerset countryside is just what the doctor ordered. No sooner has Libby arrived at Joy’s farmhouse that she finds herself enveloped by her and her family of waifs and strays. Libby immediately strikes a connection with Drew and begins to wonder whether he might give her a reason to stick around in Somerset…

Joy has given so many people so much love and support, but when a secret from her past threatens to jeopardise everything she has worked so hard for, her family will rally round her, support her and provide her with a second chance of her own.

Helen Rolfe’s The Farmhouse of Second Chances is an enchanting tale that celebrates love, friendship and community that will make you laugh and cry. Full of kind-hearted and nuanced characters you will simply adore, humour, pathos and plenty of charm, The Farmhouse of Second Chances is an escapist, uplifting and feel-good read you will love.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE FARMHOUSE OF SECOND CHANCES by Helen Rolfe
MY REVIEW
Joy Browne lives in a farmhouse in the village of Bramleywood, which has been her home for twenty-five years. Since inheriting The Old Dairy, she has been running it as a halfway house, helping people who needed it, as she had been helped years ago. Some of the “waifs and strays” are characters in this book, including Drew (who now runs his own kayaking business), Lauren (who has started up a cake business), Freddie (who looks after the land and farms fruit and vegetables) and Cameron (the newest arrival).
I thought it was really unusual to include these kinds of characters, the sort that often end up in trouble. It was great to see how they had made something of their lives and how Joy had helped them, but also how they gave back to her, so she has a kind of family. Now in her late sixties, Joy has become a sort of surrogate mum to these young adults.
Joy’s only biological family member she is in touch with is her niece Libby, who is now thirty-six. One day, Libby writes to her to say she is leaving New York and coming to England to see her aunt. The chapters are written from Joy and Libby’s viewpoints.
Libby comes over and things seem to be going well. But Joy has long held a dark secret which someone knows and is threatening to reveal…
I loved this book. All the characters are beautifully written and I loved how the farmhouse was such a positive place. The puppies are gorgeous too! The community is very realistic and I could easily see the settings and the people in them. You come to care for both Joy and Libby early on in the story and root for them throughout.
The story is really well-paced, never becomes boring and all the threads weave beautifully through the book, tying up perfectly at the end. A complete delight!
9 out of 10

[Hannah Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book had me in actual tears for the last few chapters! Such a journey, but one I really didn't want to finish as I fell a little in love with these characters, especially Joy and Samuel - I mean you just want to smile!

This book was so full of family, friendship and ultimately that feeling of home, home really is where the heart is and boy oh boy is there a lot of heart in The Old Dairy Farm! Joy is such a warm and bubbly character that it was breaking me a little to see her struggling with things and I really wanted to find out what the secret was, but was also dreading it at the same time. You know it's going to be a big secret when someone's willing to let go of everything they love to keep it hidden but it took me by surprise when the reveal happened. And then the second twist... wow, well everything made sense then but it wasn't what I was expecting at all - hence the tears!

The 'family' that Joy has created over the years is full of love for her, even the newest arrival (well, before Libby) soon becomes a dab hand around the farm and although he might not always be the most expressive, you can tell how much Cameron thinks of Joy. It always made me smile when his name appeared on the pages, especially when it was accompanied by Bisto - isn't that a duo to melt your heart!

I could go on and on about this book because there was just so much to it but I wont, I'll just urge you to go out and buy your own copy so that you can take a journey to Somerset and visit Joy yourself, I don't think you'll regret it!

[Joanne D'Arcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

You could say that home is where the heart is or wherever you lay your hat. For many people who have stayed at the Old Dairy Farm that is very true as they don’t move far and come back when and as much as they can. That is because of the love that Joy gives them, the love that Joy received when she was down on her luck all those years ago.

Libby is a high flyer in New York, but has swapped it for the quiet countryside of Somerset and her Aunt Joy’s home. The last time she saw her Aunt she was a mere child, but has kept up a correspondence over the years. Secret from her own parents as Joy was always considered someone you never spoke about within the family.

Libby doesn’t know what happened. Only Joy can share the story, but it is a story that will ripple out to everyone who has been living and working at the Old Dairy Farm.

This is book full of secrets and it kept me turning the page and I was intrigued in Joy’s past; my assumption was wrong and the real truth was heart breaking and I felt such a loss for the life Joy could have led. The emotions in the book are quite raw but there was such joy in seeing the characters interact, progress and develop that the books leaves you with such a lovely feeling. I was transported to the kitchen table for a full breakfast and I couldn’t wait to interact with the gorgeous puppies, being given new homes as well.

A book full of second chances and making a home wherever your heart is most at ease.

[Hayley Marsland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read quite a few of this authors books and thoroughly enjoyed them all and this one was no exception.

The Farmhouse Of Second Chances is literally just that, a place for anyone who is looking for a new beginning, for whatever reason.

Joy turned her beautiful farmhouse in Bramleywood, into a safe haven, a place of kind words and wise advice if needed.

Libby is Joy's niece, although they've never actually met, something happened in Joy's past, which caused her to be ostracized by her family, but Libby and Joy have been communicating secretly by letter.

Libby has decided to take a break from her high flying job in New York and arranges to stay with Joy in the quiet Somerset Countryside, and it isn't long before she is drawn into Joy's world at the farmhouse, along with the current occupants who are gradually getting back on their feet.

But as is often the case, secrets from the past have a habit of popping up unexpectedly, and it's Joy herself who now needs a second chance of her own.

Well there was I thinking oh yep, got this all worked out, I know exactly what the secret is, - oh no, nope, not even remotely close, I never would have guessed, didn't see that one coming at all !!

I really enjoyed all the characters, all of whom had difficult pasts, but ended up bonding together, pretty much like a proper family really.

An extremely enjoyable book.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A warm and uplifting read. Sixty-nine-year-old Joy Browne lives up to her name by delighting in the pleasures of life at the Old Dairy Farmhouse which she inherited from the kind couple who took her in when she was a troubled young woman, alone, homeless and disowned by her family. Now Joy pays the favour on, making her home into a haven for the waifs and strays of life she encounters. Into this mix comes Libby, Joy’s adult niece, the only member of her blood family who will give her the time of day. But can she save her aunt from the blackmailer who's threatening her and the future of the farmhouse?
This story has everything – empathetic characters, a pacy plot with hints of past secrets, a page-turning air of tension and a beautiful, rural setting that evokes feelings of peace and tranquillity that can never be totally destroyed by the elements of uncertainty that play out in the ever intriguing plot.
The theme right through the book really is one of redemption and reconciliation.
As the various threads in each of the characters’ lives draw to resolution there’s a storm – a wonderful allegory for the upset that’s happening in their lives, but also, in its cessation, a metaphor for the fresh start they can make if they can only forgive and forget.

[Martha Dunlop · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Farmhouse of Second Chances is a gentle story about healing trauma and finding family through love and nurture.

It’s impossible not to like Joy, the main character. She puts everything she has into caring for others, and people respond to her in kind. From the beginning we know she had a tough start and is paying forward the kindness she received when she was at her lowest. As the book progresses, we find out much more and the landscape shifts.

Libby was my favourite character in the book, and the most compelling. Leaving an unfulfilling life in America, she books a holiday in the UK to spend time with her aunt, Joy, who she has kept in touch with in secret. She doesn’t know why her parents didn’t want anything to do with Joy, but she does know she wants her in her own life. This relationship proves to be a catalyst for both of them, leading them to finally confront the problems they have been avoiding.

As well as Joy and Libby there is a whole cast of characters who fill the farmhouse every day, including a gorgeous litter of puppies. There is a little romance in the book, but mainly it is a story of different kinds of love for both the families the characters are born with, and the families they choose.

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Farmhouse of Second Chances by Helen Rolfe

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Random Things Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily

Curl up with this uplifting new story of second chances and finding where you belong, from the author of The Little Village Library

Sometimes a new beginning just needs a first step . . .

Joy Weatherford has made a family for herself. She's turned her beautiful old farmhouse into a safe haven for anyone who needs a helping hand, a place to stay, and a new beginning. She's always got a kind word, a practical suggestion, and a belief that everyone can change their life for the better.

I have been looking forward to reading this book since I saw the lovely cover at the back end of last year. It took me a few chapters to really get into this book and I was really enjoying it but work kept getting in the way. I really enjoy the way that Rolfe has used the dual narrative to tell the story - it really helped getting to know more about the characters.

This was a journey that I didn't want to end. A warm and uplifting read about family - even if that family is one of your own creation.

Rating 4/5

[Pam Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books which I did not want to put down. It is a really lovely uplifting story with a gorgeous setting and an interesting cast of characters who all have their own back story and reason for being gathered there. All about giving those in need a helping hand and a fresh start, Joy keeps on the traditions started by her foster parents when she was in that position. Of course, she has quite a secret to keep to herself about her background which I did not guess. As you discover, one or two other characters have secrets of their own.

Libby, Joy's niece, comes across as a likeable young woman who is nevertheless, feeling anxious and stressed about her life. She has many of Joy's qualities and has to learn to trust people again. She also does not take the easy route. If you are looking for a warm uplifting tale you can do no better. I would love to know what happens next to this family of friends.

In short: second chances, love and friendship

[Aly L · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful story about a 'mostly' found family. I loved Joy and Libby's relationship and how effortless it was for them to come together after being pen pals for so long.

I thought the reveal was good but I did find the bits about Joy's past a bit too long for what I needed. I would have personally been happy with a reveal and little background info as it all came out anyway.

I liked how light the romance was in this book, it felt like I was reading about normal life and love was happening naturally. It definitely wasn't the focus.

It's not a book I think I'd read again but it was certainly a well written and enjoyable read for me. I wanted something more true to life, relatable and this had elements of that throughout that really helped me connect with the story.

[Hannah Symonds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, it was such a lovely easy read. I cannot understand why I haven't read any of Helen's books before as this one was absolutely brilliant. I fell in love with Joy as she sounded such a wonderful person that anyone could easily get on with. I liked Libby too and some of the other characters. I liked how it was set around a farmhouse and what Joy does for everyone is truly inspiring. I felt as though I wanted to be there with everyone and help out. The story really drew me in, it was such a comforting read that I was sad when it ended. But never fear I have now ordered more of Helen's books so I can get my fix of her other books.

[Marianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story of forgiveness and redemption. Many people have passed through The Old Dairy, some have stayed a while and healed, others have quickly moved on. The ones who give the place and themselves a chance are forever grateful to Joy, who fully lives up to her name. Many years ago, Joy came to The Old Dairy in need and now approaching 70, she looks back on her life helping others, but still hiding from her own secrets.
A gentle story presented with kindness. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for this advance copy.

[StrictlySue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful read centred around the lives and relationships of Joy, Libby, Drew, Freddie, Cameron and Lauren within the farmhouse that Joy had fled to when she needed refuge, since then, the farm has been a place of safety and escape for those who need it most - picking people up, dusting them down and putting them back together again. I quickly became emotionally invested in all of the characters and their stories, wondering about hidden secrets and blackmail. You will love it.
A warm and cozy book that is the perfect read for evenings in front of the fire.

[Susanne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully heartwarming story. I became fully emerged in this book, it was beautifully written and I felt I was sat around the kitchen table with a cup of tea along with Joy.
The heart of this story is beautiful and I loved how it twisted and turned. A heartbreaking back story for Joy and Drew but how they came together and created such a bond was lovely.

The whole book was wonderful and gave me warm fuzzy feelings of family, both blood and the one you make yourself. I was please Joy finally got to tell her story and move on.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book, it was a real comfort read and a hug in a book. The storyline was a little predictable at the start but still offered surprises and secrets towards the end, which was a real twist of the book and kept me reading.

I loved the whole storyline of the book and the premise of second chances, as well as the main feeling of family within the story. The characters were varied and well connected and I loved the ending, which gives a little hope into a possible second book, as I would love to know what happens next for the characters.

[Sarah Hills · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book but it felt rather overlong for me.
The story of a farmhouse where the owner liked to give people a second chance is unusual but for some unknown reason left me a bit unimpressed. There was nothing wrong with the writing, a few typos in the book, but good characters, I just couldn't get into them.
The back stories of some of the cast were interesting and I enjoyed the book being written from a few of their points of view.
I just found it didn't engross me as other books can do. There is nothing essentially wrong, just not the book for me I fear.

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helen's books are always so lovely, like a warm hug in book form. This one didn't disappoint, it was a beautiful story, heartwarming, emotional, and full of love, just not so much in the romantic sense.

Beautifully written, with some empathetic characters, Joy being my favourite, as the matriarch of the family, who holds everything together, whilst hiding her own familial secrets.

And there's puppies.....

Many thanks to Random Things Tours for my tour spot.

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely lighthearted read. Full of misunderstands and adventures.

I loved Joy. What a sweet heart and total proof that good people can get themselves involved in things that aren’t good for them. But it’s how you deal with the consequences.

I would love to visit somewhere like The Old Dairy it sounds like such a lovely place to visit and live.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable read about new starts, forgiveness, grief and friendship. It is a charming and heartwarming read. There are several twists and turns and I didn't guess Joy's secret. I became very engrossed in the the story trying to figure it out. I liked the characters, and the setting was lovely..This is a lovely easygoing read. Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.

[Cherrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really gentle read with great characters and a lovely story at the heart.

What I liked:-

-Nice light read but with a really interesting story and mystery which had some really good twists and turns.
-Loved the descriptive writing of the farmhouse, the location and the food.
-Heart warming story about some really lovely characters with a found family trope.
-Loved Drew and Libby.

What I didn't like:-
-Slow start to this book.
-Chapters were too long.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With grateful thanks to netgalley and Helen Rolfe for an early copy in return for an honest opinion.
Once again Helen has brought as a joyful read of heartache finding ourselves and with the help of the kind and caring joy a truly wonderful read I can highly recommend ❤
Don't

[Louise]

This is a lovely story.
Joy looks after everyone else but her life rests on what she thinks is a terrible secret that can never be told.
But fate and the stars combine and lies and their impact are revealed.