What do you think?
Rate this book
Make Do and Mend in Applewell
Can their marriage be mended in time for Christmas?
Lottie has always been thrifty. As a mother of three, it's even more important that she stretches the household budget as far as possible. Luckily, Lottie’s penchant for taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lottie he’s been made redundant. Instead, he pretends to go to work as usual while frantically job hunting. The race is on to find another role before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection – one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving, but will Lottie give Henry another chance if she learns about his lies? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have?
Lottie has always been thrifty. As a mother of three, it's even more important that she stretches the household budget as far as possible. Luckily, Lottie’s penchant for taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lottie he’s been made redundant. Instead, he pretends to go to work as usual while frantically job hunting. The race is on to find another role before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection – one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving, but will Lottie give Henry another chance if she learns about his lies? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have?
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2021
54 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Lilac Mills
84 books233 followersLilac lives on a Welsh hillside with her very patient husband and incredibly sweet dog, where she grows veggies (if the slugs don't get them), bakes (badly) and loves making things out of glitter and glue (a mess, usually).
She's been an avid reader ever since she got her hands on a copy of Noddy Goes to Toytown when she was five, and she once tried to read everything in her local library starting with A and working her way through the alphabet.
She loves long, hot summer days in the garden, and cold winter ones snuggled in front of the fire, but whatever the weather she's usually writing, or thinking about writing, with heartwarming romance and happy-ever-afters always on her mind.
She's been an avid reader ever since she got her hands on a copy of Noddy Goes to Toytown when she was five, and she once tried to read everything in her local library starting with A and working her way through the alphabet.
She loves long, hot summer days in the garden, and cold winter ones snuggled in front of the fire, but whatever the weather she's usually writing, or thinking about writing, with heartwarming romance and happy-ever-afters always on her mind.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 24, 2021
I really loved the themes of making do and mending, and upcycling that run through this book, and Lottie is fabulous at imagining and creating new uses for old things. What she can do with a ship and a door is rather impressive!
Although the second book in the Applewell series it can easily be read as a standalone, I love Applewell, it is such a lovely sounding village in Wales, and its residents all seem to care for the environment and not wasting things.
I also really loved Lottie's children, especially the youngest who seems to run her ragged, But what frustrated me was Lottie and Henry's marriage.
I wanted to shout at Henry to get him to tell the truth about what is going with him, while Lottie was suspecting things but not the right suspicions and I couldn't help but think I would have believed in them more as a couple if they actually talked to each other about what was concerning them, It was driving me demented!
But other than that I enjoyed this which was told in alternating perspectives between Lottie and Henry. Henry's troubles are real and will feel familiar to many, as will Lottie's suspicions.
I just really loved Lottie's creativity, and found that was my favourite thing about this book. It's a lovely story, nice and gentle, that drove me mad at the characters in places, but otherwise was warm and a pleasurable way to spend my time.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Although the second book in the Applewell series it can easily be read as a standalone, I love Applewell, it is such a lovely sounding village in Wales, and its residents all seem to care for the environment and not wasting things.
I also really loved Lottie's children, especially the youngest who seems to run her ragged, But what frustrated me was Lottie and Henry's marriage.
I wanted to shout at Henry to get him to tell the truth about what is going with him, while Lottie was suspecting things but not the right suspicions and I couldn't help but think I would have believed in them more as a couple if they actually talked to each other about what was concerning them, It was driving me demented!
But other than that I enjoyed this which was told in alternating perspectives between Lottie and Henry. Henry's troubles are real and will feel familiar to many, as will Lottie's suspicions.
I just really loved Lottie's creativity, and found that was my favourite thing about this book. It's a lovely story, nice and gentle, that drove me mad at the characters in places, but otherwise was warm and a pleasurable way to spend my time.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 14, 2021
ok, ok, I'll admit. It was the christmas scene on the front cover that I fell in love with. Hey, don't knock it. I love christmas. It's a good way to get people to pick the book up. Good advertisement in my opinion.
I also, understand this is the second in an on going series. But I wouldn't have guessed. You can definitely read this as a stand a lone novel.
Also, as an added bonus is that it's set at christmas. And honestly, I wouldn't mind moving to Applewell. Sounds an awesome place.
It's heart warming, well written and easy to follow. I don't usually read these types of books but this one I found to be an uplifting romance set in the season of goodwill.
Enjoy!
I also, understand this is the second in an on going series. But I wouldn't have guessed. You can definitely read this as a stand a lone novel.
Also, as an added bonus is that it's set at christmas. And honestly, I wouldn't mind moving to Applewell. Sounds an awesome place.
It's heart warming, well written and easy to follow. I don't usually read these types of books but this one I found to be an uplifting romance set in the season of goodwill.
Enjoy!
March 31, 2022
Lilac Mills books always puts a smile on my face. I really enjoyed my first trip to Applewell and was expecting to re visit George. This time we have couple Lottie and Henry and children. Lottie loves to upcycle furniture and Henry has been made redundant again, can Henry find another job before Lottie finds out? I really love this Applewell series a good mix of characters. Lottie and Henry are a great couple who just have communication problems, Henry trying to do his best for Lottie when he brought her a door I was like what the hell had me laughing. I hope we don't have to wait too long for another Applewell. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 1, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of “Make Do and Mend in Applewell” in exchange for an honest review. I did enjoy the author’s writing and the setting. I’m not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope. To me this is not a love story and is more of a cautionary tale and just a really good example of people who need therapy. That being said, I did feel happy for the family at the end of the book. This feels like something that would translate well on the screen. 2.5
December 15, 2022
CAWPILE 5.57
Loved the Cornwall setting, the recycling themes were fantastic and the community spirit.
I personally don't like miscommunication trope so this one didn't rate highly but I did enjoy the writing style and once I got an opportunity to sit down properly to read it then the pages flew by.
Loved the Cornwall setting, the recycling themes were fantastic and the community spirit.
I personally don't like miscommunication trope so this one didn't rate highly but I did enjoy the writing style and once I got an opportunity to sit down properly to read it then the pages flew by.
September 15, 2023
2.5 ⭐⭐
June 28, 2023
Not one of my favourite in this series I found myself getting really cross with Henry's character and how he was behaving.
January 13, 2022
oh this book guys!!! This book is very good! Not boring at all! It entertained me from first to last page! I am an absolute fan of Lilac Mills books and I am so happy I have read this one too! This book is all about trust in a relationship, but also a lot about love. It broke my hearts to see the main protagonists being so much in pain while trying to figure out what was in the other one'shead or trying to protect the other one from being worried. This book shows that the best way to be with your partner is bein honest and to communicate a lot! I loved this book! I almost gave a 5 stars out of 5 but in the end i will give it a 4! But a big 4!
October 25, 2023
Bio: Can their marriage be mended in time for Christmas?
Lottie has always been thrifty. As a mother of three, it’s even more important that she stretches the household budget as far as possible. Luckily, Lottie’s penchant for taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lottie he’s been made redundant. Instead, he pretends to go to work as usual while frantically job hunting. The race is on to find another role before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection – one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving, but will Lottie give Henry another chance if she learns about his lies? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have?
Post Date Recap: This book date was a setup. Translation: This is an ARC of Make Do and Mend in Applewell that I received from NetGalley to provide an unbiased review. Thank you to the team for allowing me this opportunity.
This was an audiobook and I have the same feelings about the narrator that I do about the overall book honestly. The narrator was okay. A single narrator for a dual POV story which is a little bit of a struggle for me because I do love to have a dual POV told in two voices.
This is a slightly more socially acceptable time of year for a holiday story, so at least I can say that. But really, I am a rulebreaker at heart (if you knew me you’d KNOW how completely unbelievable that particular statement is) so if Hallmark can broadcast Christmas stories all year long I certainly can read them.
I feel like this story had A LOT of potential that was never realized. Lottie, our female lead, upcycles furniture for her family. Somewhat because she enjoys it and somewhat because she tries to make her husband’s paycheck stretch so that they can put an addition on their home. She has an Instagram with a modest number of followers (something I feel like could have been inflated a bit and created a new facet to the story) who are invested in watching her before/during/after transformation of different items for personal use or for friends.
When her husband, Henry, is laid off from his job (and we learn that this is the second job this has happened with as the market for his career is shrinking) he is too proud to actually discuss it with his wife and, instead behaves in odd and suspicious ways that lead Lottie to believe he is cheating.
Here’s where this book missed the mark for me personally:
Lottie’s Instagram could have easily been inflated a bit to have a growing following which would give her a bit of social media influencer status. The breadcrumbs for this were all there, but it was never actually realized on page which was disappointing to me.
One word: REPETITION. Oh. Emm. Gee. Seriously I felt as though I was beaten over the head with Henry’s self-loathing and Lottie’s suspicions and their financial issues. Let’s be honest, in 2023 I am pretty sure nearly everyone who isn’t a Bezos, Gates, or Musk has some financial issues. Let me escape that in my reading, not relive it.
Lack of communication. I completely understand that miscommunication tropes are popular and completely understandable. Men and women have very different communication styles and a lot is missed along the way HOWEVER when the stage is set for a married couple, this deep of a level of miscommunication/lack of communication/dishonesty is concerning and, truthfully, the quick, easy resolution feels REALLY wrong given the depth of their communication issues.
https://romancedbybookscom.wordpress....
Lottie has always been thrifty. As a mother of three, it’s even more important that she stretches the household budget as far as possible. Luckily, Lottie’s penchant for taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lottie he’s been made redundant. Instead, he pretends to go to work as usual while frantically job hunting. The race is on to find another role before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection – one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving, but will Lottie give Henry another chance if she learns about his lies? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have?
Post Date Recap: This book date was a setup. Translation: This is an ARC of Make Do and Mend in Applewell that I received from NetGalley to provide an unbiased review. Thank you to the team for allowing me this opportunity.
This was an audiobook and I have the same feelings about the narrator that I do about the overall book honestly. The narrator was okay. A single narrator for a dual POV story which is a little bit of a struggle for me because I do love to have a dual POV told in two voices.
This is a slightly more socially acceptable time of year for a holiday story, so at least I can say that. But really, I am a rulebreaker at heart (if you knew me you’d KNOW how completely unbelievable that particular statement is) so if Hallmark can broadcast Christmas stories all year long I certainly can read them.
I feel like this story had A LOT of potential that was never realized. Lottie, our female lead, upcycles furniture for her family. Somewhat because she enjoys it and somewhat because she tries to make her husband’s paycheck stretch so that they can put an addition on their home. She has an Instagram with a modest number of followers (something I feel like could have been inflated a bit and created a new facet to the story) who are invested in watching her before/during/after transformation of different items for personal use or for friends.
When her husband, Henry, is laid off from his job (and we learn that this is the second job this has happened with as the market for his career is shrinking) he is too proud to actually discuss it with his wife and, instead behaves in odd and suspicious ways that lead Lottie to believe he is cheating.
Here’s where this book missed the mark for me personally:
Lottie’s Instagram could have easily been inflated a bit to have a growing following which would give her a bit of social media influencer status. The breadcrumbs for this were all there, but it was never actually realized on page which was disappointing to me.
One word: REPETITION. Oh. Emm. Gee. Seriously I felt as though I was beaten over the head with Henry’s self-loathing and Lottie’s suspicions and their financial issues. Let’s be honest, in 2023 I am pretty sure nearly everyone who isn’t a Bezos, Gates, or Musk has some financial issues. Let me escape that in my reading, not relive it.
Lack of communication. I completely understand that miscommunication tropes are popular and completely understandable. Men and women have very different communication styles and a lot is missed along the way HOWEVER when the stage is set for a married couple, this deep of a level of miscommunication/lack of communication/dishonesty is concerning and, truthfully, the quick, easy resolution feels REALLY wrong given the depth of their communication issues.
https://romancedbybookscom.wordpress....
December 31, 2024
Make Do and Mend in Applewell by Lilac Mills is the perfect cozy, heartwarming read for anyone who loves small-town charm, family dynamics, and a touch of creativity. Set in the picturesque village of Applewell, Wales, this second book in the series is a delightful exploration of upcycling, relationships, and the struggle to mend what is broken – both in objects and in life.
One of the things I absolutely adored about this book was the theme of making do and mending. Lottie, the protagonist, is incredibly resourceful, and her ability to take broken items and transform them into something useful is both inspiring and impressive. There’s something magical about seeing a ship and a door turned into something entirely new, and Lottie’s creativity made me appreciate the value of reusing and reimagining what we already have.
The village of Applewell itself is a lovely backdrop to the story. The residents all seem to share a sense of community and environmental care, making the setting feel warm and inviting. It’s a place that readers can easily fall in love with, and I can totally imagine spending time there, surrounded by people who are dedicated to sustainability and a slower, more thoughtful way of life.
I also really enjoyed Lottie’s children, particularly the youngest, who certainly keeps her on her toes. They add a lovely layer of family dynamic to the story, giving Lottie’s life both chaos and heart. However, the relationship between Lottie and her husband Henry was a bit more frustrating. I found myself wanting to shout at Henry to just be honest with Lottie about his job situation! The tension between them as they danced around their issues was exasperating at times, and while I understood the reasons behind their behavior, I kept wishing they would communicate more openly. Lottie, for her part, had her own suspicions but was distracted by the wrong things, which only made their relationship struggles feel more drawn-out.
Despite these frustrating moments, I really enjoyed the alternating perspectives between Lottie and Henry. It gave me insight into both of their inner turmoil and made me appreciate the depth of their emotions, even when they weren't handling things in the most effective way. Henry’s troubles are realistic and relatable, as many of us can understand the pressure of keeping up appearances and avoiding difficult conversations.
At its heart, Make Do and Mend in Applewell is a lovely story about love, family, and the importance of communication. It’s a gentle read with plenty of warmth, perfect for fans of cozy romances. While the characters’ communication issues did drive me a bit crazy, I found myself rooting for them to work things out. The creativity in the book is what truly won me over – it’s a wonderful, relaxing read that will leave you feeling warm and content.
One of the things I absolutely adored about this book was the theme of making do and mending. Lottie, the protagonist, is incredibly resourceful, and her ability to take broken items and transform them into something useful is both inspiring and impressive. There’s something magical about seeing a ship and a door turned into something entirely new, and Lottie’s creativity made me appreciate the value of reusing and reimagining what we already have.
The village of Applewell itself is a lovely backdrop to the story. The residents all seem to share a sense of community and environmental care, making the setting feel warm and inviting. It’s a place that readers can easily fall in love with, and I can totally imagine spending time there, surrounded by people who are dedicated to sustainability and a slower, more thoughtful way of life.
I also really enjoyed Lottie’s children, particularly the youngest, who certainly keeps her on her toes. They add a lovely layer of family dynamic to the story, giving Lottie’s life both chaos and heart. However, the relationship between Lottie and her husband Henry was a bit more frustrating. I found myself wanting to shout at Henry to just be honest with Lottie about his job situation! The tension between them as they danced around their issues was exasperating at times, and while I understood the reasons behind their behavior, I kept wishing they would communicate more openly. Lottie, for her part, had her own suspicions but was distracted by the wrong things, which only made their relationship struggles feel more drawn-out.
Despite these frustrating moments, I really enjoyed the alternating perspectives between Lottie and Henry. It gave me insight into both of their inner turmoil and made me appreciate the depth of their emotions, even when they weren't handling things in the most effective way. Henry’s troubles are realistic and relatable, as many of us can understand the pressure of keeping up appearances and avoiding difficult conversations.
At its heart, Make Do and Mend in Applewell is a lovely story about love, family, and the importance of communication. It’s a gentle read with plenty of warmth, perfect for fans of cozy romances. While the characters’ communication issues did drive me a bit crazy, I found myself rooting for them to work things out. The creativity in the book is what truly won me over – it’s a wonderful, relaxing read that will leave you feeling warm and content.
July 19, 2023
A lovely, heartwarming read that left me feeling very christmassy. I wanted to hug my husband, put my Christmas tree up, listen to Christmas music, drink hot cocoa and eat toasted marshmallows. Maybe a bit of upcycling too. I love upcycling.
I also love it when I can totally escape into a book. I escaped into Henry and Lottie’s world and loved every minute of it. I found the main characters relatable and very likeable. There are two main protagonists; husband and wife Henry and Lottie and their adorable [but not perfect] family. The chapters are split and alternate between Henry and Lottie’s points of view; to understand the story from each of their perspectives.
Henry and Lottie are happily married but are both exhausted, defeated and depressed, for different reasons. They have a huge mortgage and money is tight [although they have a savings account for a home extension]. They fail to communicate with each other and this causes no end of problems. And lots of suppositions. A series of misunderstandings almost costs them their marriage. In all of this, they are trying to protect one another and share a very deep love.
Lottie is very creative but lacks in confidence. It doesn’t help that there are jealous and judgmental ‘friends’ around who are ready to criticise her every move. She feels like a single parent at times. Henry tries desperately hard to protect his wife and children. He lacks in confidence and feels the huge burden of being the sole provider in an unfulfilling and dead-end-job that pays meagre wages. When he is made redundant, yet again, twice, in a short space of time, he is devastated and doesn’t want to ruin Christmas for his wife and children. His dishonesty causes his wife to think he’s having an affair. She is devastated. Because the book covers both Henry and Lottie’s perspective, it’s easy to understand why Henry acts the way he does, and he remains likeable. However, I did want to shout at him, at times, and say “just tell her the truth”.
Thankfully the small cast of supporting characters show support and encouragement for Henry and Lottie and their family. The supporting characters all have their place in this novel.
In summary, I loved it. My review doesn’t sound very ‘christmassy’ but it is a magical read and I recommend this book.
I also love it when I can totally escape into a book. I escaped into Henry and Lottie’s world and loved every minute of it. I found the main characters relatable and very likeable. There are two main protagonists; husband and wife Henry and Lottie and their adorable [but not perfect] family. The chapters are split and alternate between Henry and Lottie’s points of view; to understand the story from each of their perspectives.
Henry and Lottie are happily married but are both exhausted, defeated and depressed, for different reasons. They have a huge mortgage and money is tight [although they have a savings account for a home extension]. They fail to communicate with each other and this causes no end of problems. And lots of suppositions. A series of misunderstandings almost costs them their marriage. In all of this, they are trying to protect one another and share a very deep love.
Lottie is very creative but lacks in confidence. It doesn’t help that there are jealous and judgmental ‘friends’ around who are ready to criticise her every move. She feels like a single parent at times. Henry tries desperately hard to protect his wife and children. He lacks in confidence and feels the huge burden of being the sole provider in an unfulfilling and dead-end-job that pays meagre wages. When he is made redundant, yet again, twice, in a short space of time, he is devastated and doesn’t want to ruin Christmas for his wife and children. His dishonesty causes his wife to think he’s having an affair. She is devastated. Because the book covers both Henry and Lottie’s perspective, it’s easy to understand why Henry acts the way he does, and he remains likeable. However, I did want to shout at him, at times, and say “just tell her the truth”.
Thankfully the small cast of supporting characters show support and encouragement for Henry and Lottie and their family. The supporting characters all have their place in this novel.
In summary, I loved it. My review doesn’t sound very ‘christmassy’ but it is a magical read and I recommend this book.
December 25, 2023
Depicted as a holiday romance knitted with tingled threads of thriftiness, secrets, and second chances, "Make Do and Mend in Applewell" by Lilac Mills unfolds against the cozy backdrop of the Welsh village, Applewell. Lottie's knack for upcycling and keeping family finances afloat has always been her forte, but when Henry's job loss remains concealed, their marriage becomes a patched quilt of misunderstandings. As Christmas approaches, can the warmth of the season mend their fractured bond?”
The book presents an engaging narrative set in the picturesque village of Applewell, radiating cozy holiday vibes and an eco-conscious theme of upcycling. While the story delves into Lottie's creativity and the charming Welsh village, it tackles the strained dynamics between Lottie and Henry. The dual point of view storytelling provides insights into the couple's challenges, yet the lack of communication between them felt frustratingly repetitive. Lottie's suspicions and Henry's silence created a tense atmosphere that seemed stretched too thin, affecting the narrative's depth. The book offers a charming portrayal of Applewell, a place that feels cozy and environmentally conscious. Despite its position as the second installment in the series, it stands well as a standalone read. The Christmas setting adds warmth to the story, setting a festive tone for the narrative. Having gone through the story in an audiobook, I’m happy to praise Claire Morgan for her dual POV storytelling, and giving the characters their own voice.
Overall, "Make Do and Mend in Applewell" is a heartwarming holiday tale focusing on thriftiness, family bonds, and second chances. While it exudes a cozy atmosphere and portrays the struggles of a family during the holiday season, the repetitive nature of certain themes and the strained communication between the main characters might impede some readers' enjoyment.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Saga Egmont Audio, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #MakeDoandMendatApplewell #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
The book presents an engaging narrative set in the picturesque village of Applewell, radiating cozy holiday vibes and an eco-conscious theme of upcycling. While the story delves into Lottie's creativity and the charming Welsh village, it tackles the strained dynamics between Lottie and Henry. The dual point of view storytelling provides insights into the couple's challenges, yet the lack of communication between them felt frustratingly repetitive. Lottie's suspicions and Henry's silence created a tense atmosphere that seemed stretched too thin, affecting the narrative's depth. The book offers a charming portrayal of Applewell, a place that feels cozy and environmentally conscious. Despite its position as the second installment in the series, it stands well as a standalone read. The Christmas setting adds warmth to the story, setting a festive tone for the narrative. Having gone through the story in an audiobook, I’m happy to praise Claire Morgan for her dual POV storytelling, and giving the characters their own voice.
Overall, "Make Do and Mend in Applewell" is a heartwarming holiday tale focusing on thriftiness, family bonds, and second chances. While it exudes a cozy atmosphere and portrays the struggles of a family during the holiday season, the repetitive nature of certain themes and the strained communication between the main characters might impede some readers' enjoyment.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Saga Egmont Audio, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #MakeDoandMendatApplewell #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
November 30, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I was so excited to continue this series and I was not disappointed this read was so fun and full with the best characters, the story line & the vibe was so good - Lilac truly never misses with her books they will forever be a favourite of mine. I really enjoyed the change in dynamic for this read as this book was about a couple that are already married with their own family rather than getting to see a couple form we are giving the opportunity to watch them deal with an issue together and come out stronger on the other side which I absolutely adored! 🤍
I had so much fun getting to see Lottie follow her passion of upcycling and giving things a new lease of life - I wish I had half of the skills that this wonderful lady had, her drive and her fire was truly inspiring and I loved getting to read about her creating new things out other people’s “rubbish” especially with Henry being her biggest supporter even when he didn’t vocalise it that man loved his wife and his kids on another level, he truly wanted them to be at their happiest at all times and it was THE BEST to read about. I do have to admit though my favourite character within the whole read was Morgan he was the cutest & cheekiest little kid ever he was truly so so adorable he had me in his hole from the moment he made himself known 🥹
Overall, I really enjoyed this book it was a change in dynamic for me that I didn’t realise I needed but I am very happy that I took the time to read, Lottie & Henry are the sweetest couple and I love their dynamic so much. I am so glad that they are a part of the Applewell series and I cannot wait to get stuck into the third book of the series even though I don’t want the series to end I am so excited to see who the next story is about and to see how this series closes 📖
I was so excited to continue this series and I was not disappointed this read was so fun and full with the best characters, the story line & the vibe was so good - Lilac truly never misses with her books they will forever be a favourite of mine. I really enjoyed the change in dynamic for this read as this book was about a couple that are already married with their own family rather than getting to see a couple form we are giving the opportunity to watch them deal with an issue together and come out stronger on the other side which I absolutely adored! 🤍
I had so much fun getting to see Lottie follow her passion of upcycling and giving things a new lease of life - I wish I had half of the skills that this wonderful lady had, her drive and her fire was truly inspiring and I loved getting to read about her creating new things out other people’s “rubbish” especially with Henry being her biggest supporter even when he didn’t vocalise it that man loved his wife and his kids on another level, he truly wanted them to be at their happiest at all times and it was THE BEST to read about. I do have to admit though my favourite character within the whole read was Morgan he was the cutest & cheekiest little kid ever he was truly so so adorable he had me in his hole from the moment he made himself known 🥹
Overall, I really enjoyed this book it was a change in dynamic for me that I didn’t realise I needed but I am very happy that I took the time to read, Lottie & Henry are the sweetest couple and I love their dynamic so much. I am so glad that they are a part of the Applewell series and I cannot wait to get stuck into the third book of the series even though I don’t want the series to end I am so excited to see who the next story is about and to see how this series closes 📖
September 29, 2023
It's a sweet and gentle book that transports us to a family that is going through some problems, but solves them with dedication and love.
I really enjoyed the book, especially the family dimension it had. I loved the family moments, but I also appreciated when they made time for themselves and what they wanted. I felt the characters and their emotions, their affection, their concern, their frustration and their desire to protect those they love.
Of course, in order to protect, secrets accumulated and only caused problems, but even so, they demonstrated their support and willingness to fight for each other, with small gestures or even as big as a door and a piano.
I really liked the narrator, I think she did an excellent job bringing a voice to each character and individualizing them.
I really liked the book. It grew on me. Super sweet.
A huge thanks to
the author Lilac Mills
the narrator Claire Morgan
the publisher Saga Egmont Audio
and to Netgalley
I really enjoyed the book, especially the family dimension it had. I loved the family moments, but I also appreciated when they made time for themselves and what they wanted. I felt the characters and their emotions, their affection, their concern, their frustration and their desire to protect those they love.
Of course, in order to protect, secrets accumulated and only caused problems, but even so, they demonstrated their support and willingness to fight for each other, with small gestures or even as big as a door and a piano.
I really liked the narrator, I think she did an excellent job bringing a voice to each character and individualizing them.
I really liked the book. It grew on me. Super sweet.
A huge thanks to
the author Lilac Mills
the narrator Claire Morgan
the publisher Saga Egmont Audio
and to Netgalley
October 14, 2022
A Good Read
I really enjoyed this book but I must admit I did get a little irritated by Henry. Lottie and Henry are married with three children. Henry seems envious of his wife staying at home while he is out working. He obviously doesn't see child care as a job. In her "spare time" Lottie upcycles everything she can lay her hands on, even making a bed out of an old boat for one of their sons. When Henry finds out he is to be made redundant again, he is devastated but does not feel able to tell Lottie. There is a lot of misunderstanding while he is determined only to tell her when he has another job while Lottie is convinced he is having an affair. There were some funny moments and also some touching times but will they be able to save their marriage? It was a good read although I could have slapped Henry a few times!
I really enjoyed this book but I must admit I did get a little irritated by Henry. Lottie and Henry are married with three children. Henry seems envious of his wife staying at home while he is out working. He obviously doesn't see child care as a job. In her "spare time" Lottie upcycles everything she can lay her hands on, even making a bed out of an old boat for one of their sons. When Henry finds out he is to be made redundant again, he is devastated but does not feel able to tell Lottie. There is a lot of misunderstanding while he is determined only to tell her when he has another job while Lottie is convinced he is having an affair. There were some funny moments and also some touching times but will they be able to save their marriage? It was a good read although I could have slapped Henry a few times!
November 25, 2024
Love the Lilac mills books - make do and mend . Up cycling books .
Lottie has always been thrifty and is even more so now as a mother of three.Luckily , her habit of taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lotties he’s been made redundant.Hiding the truth from his wife, the race is on to find another job before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection- one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving , but will Lottie grant Henry another chance if she learns about his lies ? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have ?
Great reads . Definitely worth a read 📕
Lottie has always been thrifty and is even more so now as a mother of three.Luckily , her habit of taking broken items and upcycling them has worked wonders for living on a shoestring.
Henry can’t face telling Lotties he’s been made redundant.Hiding the truth from his wife, the race is on to find another job before Lottie discovers he’s another useless item for her collection- one that is beyond repair.
Christmas is a time for giving , but will Lottie grant Henry another chance if she learns about his lies ? And can Henry give Lottie and their kids the life he so desperately wants them to have ?
Great reads . Definitely worth a read 📕
January 30, 2023
This was a digital arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I've read numerous books by this author now and this applewell series is so lovely. The idea that everyone in the village is into recycling and not wasting things is great. We revisited a few characters from the previous book, but you would still be able to read this without having read that one.
April 13, 2023
In Make Do and Mend in Applewell we join Lottie, Henry and their children. Henry has just been made redundant and doesn't tell Lottie as he doesn't want to upset her and he urgently tries to find more work. Lottie - a dab hand at upcycling, starts questioning her husband's odd behaviour which is now putting quite a strain on their marriage. Will they get this resolved by Christmas?
I enjoyed this book - a sweet, predictable romance where the family go through difficult times and learn a lot about each other. Honestly, I initially picked this up as a Christmas read but Christmas wasn't much of a feature. I liked the character development and the overall plot.
I enjoyed this book - a sweet, predictable romance where the family go through difficult times and learn a lot about each other. Honestly, I initially picked this up as a Christmas read but Christmas wasn't much of a feature. I liked the character development and the overall plot.
July 30, 2023
Enjoyed this, surprisingly for me, as most of it is miscommunication from the couple who if only they'd talk and not keep secrets would be fine, but there would not then be a story. Usually that drives me crazy but rather it made me race through it til,of course, they finally sort themselves
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2022
Why Henry ?
You always wanted Henry to tell her the truths but sadly he didn't. How silly he was !!!! Why was so silly
You always wanted Henry to tell her the truths but sadly he didn't. How silly he was !!!! Why was so silly
June 27, 2022
A review will follow
August 10, 2022
A bit of an I Love Lucy episode with a sprinkling of sugar!
I'm not very patient with stories like this usually, but I'm glad I stayed the course. A sweet tale, indeed!
I'm not very patient with stories like this usually, but I'm glad I stayed the course. A sweet tale, indeed!
Want to read
October 11, 2022I learned of this book via this post: http://readbakecreate.com/summer-2022...
December 23, 2022
What a feel good story during the holidays! Bonus - it's about family and upcycling cast off items.
April 16, 2023
Enjoyable premise, but just a bit too long and angsty.
3.5
3.5
June 27, 2023
A sweet, easy read!
July 22, 2023
Lovely story set in Bakewell.
Although it’s number two in the series, I read it out of order, but can be read easily as a standalone 😍
I must put number one on my to read pile.
Although it’s number two in the series, I read it out of order, but can be read easily as a standalone 😍
I must put number one on my to read pile.
August 30, 2023
A very sweet family in trouble tale set in an idyllic Welsh coastal town. I do wish the couple was better at communication, but I enjoyed the DIY project aspect as a crafter
September 22, 2023
Make do and mend
Loved the storyline. We can all learn about repurposing items. do it when sewing , making toys from old clothes.
Loved the storyline. We can all learn about repurposing items. do it when sewing , making toys from old clothes.
October 23, 2023
Lovely audiobook read. The book follows a miscommunication theme which can be frustrating but this was enjoyable and easy to listen to during my day. Great!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews