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Hopley Village #1
Den lille bokens hemmeligheter
Da Gwens foreldre dør, flytter hun til tanten, som bor i en landsby i Kent. Den første tiden er hun nedfor og usikker på hva hun skal gjøre med livet sitt. Men da hun en søndag besøker kirken og får vite at den må stenge fordi det vil koste for mye å reparere taket, får hun en idé. Gjesteboken er full av hilsener fra besøkende som elsket den nydelige kirken. Kanskje hun kan kontakte dem og samle inn penger til renoveringen?
Hun trodde hun skulle holde på med dette alene, men en annen frivillig melder seg. Jarvis er en ung mann som til tross for sin barske fremtoning, også sliter med å finne fotfestet. Mens de går gjennom gjesteboken sammen, blir Gwen overrasket over hvor mye denne oppgaven betyr for henne. Flere av dem hun får kontakt med, avslører hendelser fra fortiden, og det viser seg snart at Jarvis har sine egne grunner for å hjelpe henne ...
Hun trodde hun skulle holde på med dette alene, men en annen frivillig melder seg. Jarvis er en ung mann som til tross for sin barske fremtoning, også sliter med å finne fotfestet. Mens de går gjennom gjesteboken sammen, blir Gwen overrasket over hvor mye denne oppgaven betyr for henne. Flere av dem hun får kontakt med, avslører hendelser fra fortiden, og det viser seg snart at Jarvis har sine egne grunner for å hjelpe henne ...
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 7, 2021
440 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Rees
11 books562 followersTracy Rees is a Cambridge graduate with a degree in Modern and Medieval Languages. After an eight-year career in nonfiction publishing, she worked as a counselor for people with cancer and their families. Amy Snow is her first novel. She lives in Swansea, Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 9, 2021
This is a Women's Fiction book with a lovely cover. This book is all about two young out cast handed the challenge to save the church by raising the money they need to replace the roof on the old church. This is a long journey. The journey was sweet and fill with so many different kind of people. I really enjoyed reading this book so much. I loved all the characters in this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Bookouture) or author (Tracy Rees) via NetGalley, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that. (*)
November 20, 2023
What an absolutely charming and delightful book! It's one of those feel warm and can't help but smile every so often, also have a chuckle at the banter between our two main characters :) Such an unlikely and definitely opposites attract type couple; her a shy nerdy bookworm and him an outgoing but gothic looking (it sounded like) yet both both actually genuinely caring and likeable souls++.Some disheartening descriptions in a sense as the "prospect of church FFS" and "the sermon dragged on forever" (he had been hungover from the evening before)....not lively despite their vicar (British) being such a wonderful loving minister. I am used to the loud( at times) full of energy type with drums, keyboards, kids galore, full of life type services so that was kind of sad how it was portrayed. Anyway, these two young adults had gone through some rough patches with sorrows but found purpose when it came to helping others; so true! Gwen had lived with a miserable old shrew of an aunt after her parents died, which nearly sucked the life out of her but with her helping on this project, she blossomed! Jarvis had a loving family who he was considerate towards and cared for them too... These two made such a difference to the lives of the whole community and outside....it was a wholesome book overall and I can wholeheartedly recommend this! I have to find the next book by her set in this village :)
July 2, 2021
Reading this book was pure, pure joy!! I loved everything about this cute, heartwarming book and I had a big smile on my face by the end of it 💖! I adored both the main characters, Gwen Stanley and Jarvis Millwood, two broken, lost souls who bloom and end up finding a purpose to their lives (both professional and personal) while volunteering to help raise funds needed to mend the broken roof of their church. I loved their banter and the fact that Gwen, who is very shy and socially awkward as a person, feels comfortable with Jarvis straight away and how their interaction helps her slowly open up. The setting and all the supporting characters add their own charm to the story. This was a positive book all the way through and it left me with a nice, warm, tinkling, fudgy feeling.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Tracy Rees for the e-Arc of the book.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Tracy Rees for the e-Arc of the book.
May 1, 2021
I didn't think I would find a book about saving a church roof enjoyable, but I did, and I loved it!
I guess it was exactly what I needed at the moment: an uplifting, nice read, with wonderful character, that are caring and nice and so lovable. So good that they're hardly believable, but that's what books are for sometimes, aren't they? To make us live in a world where good people do exist.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I guess it was exactly what I needed at the moment: an uplifting, nice read, with wonderful character, that are caring and nice and so lovable. So good that they're hardly believable, but that's what books are for sometimes, aren't they? To make us live in a world where good people do exist.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2021
This is Tracy Rees first foray into writing more contemporary fiction, and of course when an author deviates from what they are known for it is always a sense of trepidation that you approach their new work.
For me, Tracy Rees need not worry. This was a book which was simply magical and marvellous and let me escape as I devoured it in one day.
Gwen and Jarvis both in the twenties are lost. Gwen an aspiring writer is lost after losing her parents, she is still grieving and she has taken shelter and sanctuary with her Aunt Mary in the village of Hopley. But this sanctuary is more like a prison and Gwen feels trapped in the life that she has created for herself.
Her only escape is church.
Jarvis an aspiring artist. His first exposure to the art world has left him broken and with self doubt and he spends his days sleeping off the night before and his nights blotting out his days. The village of Hopley is not really the place for him, but what other choice does he have if he wants to stay at his parents.
His only escape the dream of finding the woman from three years previous at the church.
When the local vicar, pleads to his dwindling congregation for help to save the church roof, he hits upon the idea of appealing to all those who have visited the church and maybe left a message in their visitors book. He looks for volunteers.
Gwen and Jarvis step forward; Gwen has been fascinated by the visitors book and the back stories to all those people who wrote something. Jarvis is simply looking for that woman.
This very unlikely couple form a friendship and when they start to reveal the secrets of those visitors to the church they see perhaps that the little village of Hopley might have a new church roof after all. But it is not just a church roof that needs building both Gwen and Jarvis become cheer leaders for each others talents and the future for both of them looks a lot better.
A warm and heartfelt book where I wasn’t sure if I could warm to the two main protagonists who I found tiresome, sullen and quite prickly at the beginning. They both needed a good shake, but how wonderful to see such a small task be able to change Gwen and Jarvis and also my perception about them as I learnt more.
Thank you Tracy Rees this book was a pure tonic of a read and if you want to write more like this I for one will certainly be reading them. A little book of pure joy.
For me, Tracy Rees need not worry. This was a book which was simply magical and marvellous and let me escape as I devoured it in one day.
Gwen and Jarvis both in the twenties are lost. Gwen an aspiring writer is lost after losing her parents, she is still grieving and she has taken shelter and sanctuary with her Aunt Mary in the village of Hopley. But this sanctuary is more like a prison and Gwen feels trapped in the life that she has created for herself.
Her only escape is church.
Jarvis an aspiring artist. His first exposure to the art world has left him broken and with self doubt and he spends his days sleeping off the night before and his nights blotting out his days. The village of Hopley is not really the place for him, but what other choice does he have if he wants to stay at his parents.
His only escape the dream of finding the woman from three years previous at the church.
When the local vicar, pleads to his dwindling congregation for help to save the church roof, he hits upon the idea of appealing to all those who have visited the church and maybe left a message in their visitors book. He looks for volunteers.
Gwen and Jarvis step forward; Gwen has been fascinated by the visitors book and the back stories to all those people who wrote something. Jarvis is simply looking for that woman.
This very unlikely couple form a friendship and when they start to reveal the secrets of those visitors to the church they see perhaps that the little village of Hopley might have a new church roof after all. But it is not just a church roof that needs building both Gwen and Jarvis become cheer leaders for each others talents and the future for both of them looks a lot better.
A warm and heartfelt book where I wasn’t sure if I could warm to the two main protagonists who I found tiresome, sullen and quite prickly at the beginning. They both needed a good shake, but how wonderful to see such a small task be able to change Gwen and Jarvis and also my perception about them as I learnt more.
Thank you Tracy Rees this book was a pure tonic of a read and if you want to write more like this I for one will certainly be reading them. A little book of pure joy.
March 31, 2021
NetGalley
Member Review
Cover Image: The Little Book of Secrets
The Little Book of Secrets
by Tracy Rees
Pub Date: 7 May 2021
Review by
jeanie m, Reviewer
Last updated on 31 Mar 2021
My Recommendation
With thanks to netgalley and Tracy Rees for an early copy in return for an honest opinion
Well this book was quite a revelation certainly not what I thought I would enjoy but how wrong I was Gewn and Jarvis are the two most unlikely characters that you could imagine doing good for the church as in fund raising jarvis would rather be in bed on a Sunday morning sleeping off his hangover and gwen only goes to get out away from her very demanding aunt who she lives with since her both her parents are dead. Put a churches visitor's book into the mix and you have one amazing story. Can't praise this book enough and highly recommend.
Member Review
Cover Image: The Little Book of Secrets
The Little Book of Secrets
by Tracy Rees
Pub Date: 7 May 2021
Review by
jeanie m, Reviewer
Last updated on 31 Mar 2021
My Recommendation
With thanks to netgalley and Tracy Rees for an early copy in return for an honest opinion
Well this book was quite a revelation certainly not what I thought I would enjoy but how wrong I was Gewn and Jarvis are the two most unlikely characters that you could imagine doing good for the church as in fund raising jarvis would rather be in bed on a Sunday morning sleeping off his hangover and gwen only goes to get out away from her very demanding aunt who she lives with since her both her parents are dead. Put a churches visitor's book into the mix and you have one amazing story. Can't praise this book enough and highly recommend.
April 8, 2021
I LOVED this book! It is such a feel good read with lots of heart and a little bit of edge.
I've read books by Tracy Rees previously and enjoyed them so I was pleased to see this title being offered on my Netgalley dashboard.
I wasn't sure if I would like the characters initially - mousy, softly-spoken Gwen, who is being bullied by an older relative after the death of her parents; and Jarvis, perpetually drunk and underachieving. However, as their stories come together I couldn't wait to pick the book up again to see what was going to happen next.
The church of St Domneva in Hopley is in trouble - the ancient roof won't survive another winter and Vicar Dave needs a whopping £50,000 in 5 months to save the church and his home, where his daughter with special needs has finally just settled. He has the idea to use the visitors' book to try and contact people who have been touched by the lovely village church to try to raise the much needed funds, after bake sales and car washes predictably do little to help.
Jarvis and Gwen find themselves unlikely volunteers in this slightly madcap scheme; they also need a bit of rescuing and it is through connecting with others that they start to rebuild their lives and find the path of their true destiny.
I finished the book this morning with a little tear in my eye: after the year we have had connection to those around us is so important and this book just serves as another reminder to be kind to all - you never know what battle they are fighting! Thanks so much to Tracy Rees - this book was pure joy!
Also thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an early release copy in exchange for an honest review :)
I've read books by Tracy Rees previously and enjoyed them so I was pleased to see this title being offered on my Netgalley dashboard.
I wasn't sure if I would like the characters initially - mousy, softly-spoken Gwen, who is being bullied by an older relative after the death of her parents; and Jarvis, perpetually drunk and underachieving. However, as their stories come together I couldn't wait to pick the book up again to see what was going to happen next.
The church of St Domneva in Hopley is in trouble - the ancient roof won't survive another winter and Vicar Dave needs a whopping £50,000 in 5 months to save the church and his home, where his daughter with special needs has finally just settled. He has the idea to use the visitors' book to try and contact people who have been touched by the lovely village church to try to raise the much needed funds, after bake sales and car washes predictably do little to help.
Jarvis and Gwen find themselves unlikely volunteers in this slightly madcap scheme; they also need a bit of rescuing and it is through connecting with others that they start to rebuild their lives and find the path of their true destiny.
I finished the book this morning with a little tear in my eye: after the year we have had connection to those around us is so important and this book just serves as another reminder to be kind to all - you never know what battle they are fighting! Thanks so much to Tracy Rees - this book was pure joy!
Also thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an early release copy in exchange for an honest review :)
August 27, 2021
St. Domneva may be a small church in Hopley Village, but it is stooped in history and memories. However, the church just might have to close its doors. Will a fundraiser by means of a visitor's book from a long time ago be the answer the little church needs to recover?
Vicar Dave has the idea, but will the idea be effective, and who indeed can do the hard work of contacting countless people in order to ask for donations? Two people step up, albeit reluctantly - Gwen and Jarvis. They are each connected to the church for very different reasons. They both know that the roof needs replacing on the church and that the funds required will be very difficult to come by.
Gwen and Jarvis each have a story - both lost but now with a common goal. They devise a plan of action with the visitor's book and begin the long process of contacting people who have signed the visitor's books. In Gwen's case she has lost her parents and her aunt has taken her in. However, their relationship is challenged and thus Gwen is quite unhappy. With Jarvis, his education in art took a wrong turn and he has found solace in the bottle. Will Gwen and Jarvis be able to put aside their problems long enough to present a united force?
What an endearing story! I love how, despite their difficulties, both Gwen and Jarvis were able to draw upon their strengths in order to work together to save the church. Jarvis has a more of a bit of an uphill battle. Not only must he put the drink behind, he is trapped in the dream of finding a woman he met previously at the church. Their selflessness shines through on the journey for the church, all while interesting characters and stories cross their paths.
I hadn't read anything by Tracy Rees before now but I am glad to say that I was more than enamored with this story. I actually could not put the book down as I was very drawn to the drama in their lives, all while enjoying the pair forging a strong friendship even though at first they seemed like polar opposites.
Not only did I love the story and the characters - and that includes Vicar Dave - but I really loved the village. The ending was a pure delight. How exciting to know that this is the first book in a new series! I cannot wait to see what future stories will be developed as well as other characters that are to come.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Vicar Dave has the idea, but will the idea be effective, and who indeed can do the hard work of contacting countless people in order to ask for donations? Two people step up, albeit reluctantly - Gwen and Jarvis. They are each connected to the church for very different reasons. They both know that the roof needs replacing on the church and that the funds required will be very difficult to come by.
Gwen and Jarvis each have a story - both lost but now with a common goal. They devise a plan of action with the visitor's book and begin the long process of contacting people who have signed the visitor's books. In Gwen's case she has lost her parents and her aunt has taken her in. However, their relationship is challenged and thus Gwen is quite unhappy. With Jarvis, his education in art took a wrong turn and he has found solace in the bottle. Will Gwen and Jarvis be able to put aside their problems long enough to present a united force?
What an endearing story! I love how, despite their difficulties, both Gwen and Jarvis were able to draw upon their strengths in order to work together to save the church. Jarvis has a more of a bit of an uphill battle. Not only must he put the drink behind, he is trapped in the dream of finding a woman he met previously at the church. Their selflessness shines through on the journey for the church, all while interesting characters and stories cross their paths.
I hadn't read anything by Tracy Rees before now but I am glad to say that I was more than enamored with this story. I actually could not put the book down as I was very drawn to the drama in their lives, all while enjoying the pair forging a strong friendship even though at first they seemed like polar opposites.
Not only did I love the story and the characters - and that includes Vicar Dave - but I really loved the village. The ending was a pure delight. How exciting to know that this is the first book in a new series! I cannot wait to see what future stories will be developed as well as other characters that are to come.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 1, 2021
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church (Hopley Village) by Tracy Rees is a wonderful, heartwarming, and positive contemporary romance that I thoroughly enjoyed.
This is my first book by Ms. Rees that I have had the pleasure to read and I have to say I am now a fan.
I loved the adorable small village in England, the historic church, the character cast, and I loved the positive and uplifting ending.
I really enjoyed how Gwen and Jarvis transformed and grew during the course of the book. I liked how they worked to overcome their own obstacles and their relationship not just with one another, but also within themselves. I also enjoyed how they were able to find success and happiness focussing on others and helping out Vicar Dave.
Such a wonderful and sunny novel that I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Bookouture for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
This is my first book by Ms. Rees that I have had the pleasure to read and I have to say I am now a fan.
I loved the adorable small village in England, the historic church, the character cast, and I loved the positive and uplifting ending.
I really enjoyed how Gwen and Jarvis transformed and grew during the course of the book. I liked how they worked to overcome their own obstacles and their relationship not just with one another, but also within themselves. I also enjoyed how they were able to find success and happiness focussing on others and helping out Vicar Dave.
Such a wonderful and sunny novel that I highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Bookouture for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
May 1, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Hidden Secrets At The Little Village Church' by Tracy Rees.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Tracy Rees, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous.
Publication date 7th May 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Hopley Village' series. This book was previously titled 'The Little Book Of Secrets'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Heidi Swain, and anybody longing for the ultimate feel-good escapist read!'. I am a huge fan of Jenny Colgan and could definitely do with an escape so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 39 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Kent, England, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited England on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Tracy has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Gwen, Jarvis and Vicar Dave. The benefits of third person perspective especially with are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
OMG!!! What an absolutely gorgeous, beautiful heartwarming book!!! I am sooo glad that this is the first book in a series as I cannot wait to read more from this author as well as news from Hopley Village!!
The book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions and lovely settings. The cover, title and synopsis worked perfectly with the storyline and the name change definitely suits it more.
The storyline itself is so heartwarming and I was completely engaged and absorbed throughout. It is filled with friendship, faith, adventures and mysteries of sorts and it ended absolutely perfectly. It was a realistic storyline and I loved reading all the notes in the visitors book. I love reading visitor books when I see any wherever I go as its always intriguing to read the thoughts of people who stayed before me and once in a while you may find a gem of a story, just like Gwen and Jarvis does in this book. I really enjoyed the community spirit and felt it was very realistic of any small village. The story made me absolutely laugh out loud in several places to the point where my partner and kids were looking at me like I had 3 heads. There were some absolutely cracking and side splitting moments as well as some thought provoking ones.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with the characters. I had absolutely no problem in this case and I fell in love with Jarvis and Gwen. They were absolutely worlds apart and came from such different backgrounds but they worked together and complimented each other perfectly. It was lovely watching their friendship grow and blossom. Vicar Dave and his family were really refreshing and I enjoyed getting to know them all, nothing like the boring elderly vicars many books portray. They, along with all the other characters, were strong and realistic. I enjoyed getting to meet each of the characters and reading their stories and how they related to St Domneva's and what became of them since writing their comments in the visitors book. I cannot wait to meet them again in what promises to be an absolutely epic series.
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Tracy Rees on an absolutely fantastic page turning book. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the Hopley Village series and get to find out more of some of the amazing characters I've met. I'd like to welcome you to my top authors list!! I would also love to see this on the big screen.
Overall a heartwarming, addictive page turning novel about faith, friendship and what 2 unlikely people can achieve when put together.
Some of my favourite quotes from the book include the following :
🚀"‘Why have you drawn a massive penis?’‘What? I haven’t! It’s a rocket, you fool. I thought it would be a bit more fun than just doing a graph or something. A bit more interesting.’ Jarvis squints. ‘It’s interesting alright. Gwendoline Poppy, maybe you should stick with words and leave the visuals to me. That’s phallic. Must be your subconscious longings coming out.’‘Shut up . Look, those are the launchy bits, and that’s the top of the rocket… Anyway, let’s argue about it later"
🚀"‘That’s great, Gwen. Only, can I ask, do you think that’s entirely appropriate? I mean, why a… a…?’‘Vicar Dave thinks it looks like a penis too,’ puts in Jarvis helpfully. ‘He does not,’ exclaims Gwen hotly. ‘Do you?’ she adds anxiously. ‘Um… I’m afraid so.’‘It was meant to be a rocket.’"
Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel, Contemporary Fiction and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Heidi Swain. I would also recommend it to anyone who loves a heart warming story or anyone who enjoys peeking at comments in a visitor book.
285 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'Hidden Secrets At The Little Village Church' by Tracy Rees.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Tracy Rees, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous.
Publication date 7th May 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Hopley Village' series. This book was previously titled 'The Little Book Of Secrets'.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Heidi Swain, and anybody longing for the ultimate feel-good escapist read!'. I am a huge fan of Jenny Colgan and could definitely do with an escape so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 39 chapters. The chapters are medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Kent, England, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited England on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Tracy has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Gwen, Jarvis and Vicar Dave. The benefits of third person perspective especially with are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
OMG!!! What an absolutely gorgeous, beautiful heartwarming book!!! I am sooo glad that this is the first book in a series as I cannot wait to read more from this author as well as news from Hopley Village!!
The book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions and lovely settings. The cover, title and synopsis worked perfectly with the storyline and the name change definitely suits it more.
The storyline itself is so heartwarming and I was completely engaged and absorbed throughout. It is filled with friendship, faith, adventures and mysteries of sorts and it ended absolutely perfectly. It was a realistic storyline and I loved reading all the notes in the visitors book. I love reading visitor books when I see any wherever I go as its always intriguing to read the thoughts of people who stayed before me and once in a while you may find a gem of a story, just like Gwen and Jarvis does in this book. I really enjoyed the community spirit and felt it was very realistic of any small village. The story made me absolutely laugh out loud in several places to the point where my partner and kids were looking at me like I had 3 heads. There were some absolutely cracking and side splitting moments as well as some thought provoking ones.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with the characters. I had absolutely no problem in this case and I fell in love with Jarvis and Gwen. They were absolutely worlds apart and came from such different backgrounds but they worked together and complimented each other perfectly. It was lovely watching their friendship grow and blossom. Vicar Dave and his family were really refreshing and I enjoyed getting to know them all, nothing like the boring elderly vicars many books portray. They, along with all the other characters, were strong and realistic. I enjoyed getting to meet each of the characters and reading their stories and how they related to St Domneva's and what became of them since writing their comments in the visitors book. I cannot wait to meet them again in what promises to be an absolutely epic series.
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Tracy Rees on an absolutely fantastic page turning book. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the Hopley Village series and get to find out more of some of the amazing characters I've met. I'd like to welcome you to my top authors list!! I would also love to see this on the big screen.
Overall a heartwarming, addictive page turning novel about faith, friendship and what 2 unlikely people can achieve when put together.
Some of my favourite quotes from the book include the following :
🚀"‘Why have you drawn a massive penis?’‘What? I haven’t! It’s a rocket, you fool. I thought it would be a bit more fun than just doing a graph or something. A bit more interesting.’ Jarvis squints. ‘It’s interesting alright. Gwendoline Poppy, maybe you should stick with words and leave the visuals to me. That’s phallic. Must be your subconscious longings coming out.’‘Shut up . Look, those are the launchy bits, and that’s the top of the rocket… Anyway, let’s argue about it later"
🚀"‘That’s great, Gwen. Only, can I ask, do you think that’s entirely appropriate? I mean, why a… a…?’‘Vicar Dave thinks it looks like a penis too,’ puts in Jarvis helpfully. ‘He does not,’ exclaims Gwen hotly. ‘Do you?’ she adds anxiously. ‘Um… I’m afraid so.’‘It was meant to be a rocket.’"
Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel, Contemporary Fiction and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Heidi Swain. I would also recommend it to anyone who loves a heart warming story or anyone who enjoys peeking at comments in a visitor book.
285 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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May 7, 2021
★★★★ 4.5 stars
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Tracy Rees' delightful tale HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH previously titled "The Little Book of Secrets" .
This is my second book by Tracy Rees, the first being an historical fiction "The House at Silvermoor" which totally loved. So I was excited by the prospect of another foray into her world, albeit somewhat different, not really knowing what to expect. Women's fiction is generally not my genre of choice but there has been the odd one that I have enjoyed...this being one of them. Although I did find the title somewhat of a mouthful and as it conjured up images of secrets being unearthed and maybe a little gossiping going on, what it actually entailed was something vastly different. Misleading descriptions are a bit of a pet hate of mine, so while I didn't know what to expect entirely, I guess I was kind of expecting something different. Having said that, HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH was a thoroughly delightful journey into Hopley and its residents...but especially Gwen and Jarvis.
The setting for this story begins in a picturesque little village I envisioned to be something you would see in an episode of Midsomer Murders...but without the murder. It is adorably quaint filled with a mix of characters to charm and delight the reader and the beautiful historic church that is at the heart of the story.
Having lost her parents two years previously, Gwen Stanley moved in with her aunt Mary who had offered her a home more than likely out of obligation rather than any desire to help the grieving young woman. Aunt Mary was positively awful bringing a depressing air of doom over everything she touched and every word she uttered. She did nothing to help Gwen get over the loss of her beloved parents instead belittling her at every turn, complaining whenever Gwen did a good turn and basically sucked the life out of her niece...and not to mention the reader. I honestly dreaded Gwen going home every evening to Aunt Mary's bitter unhappiness and doom and gloom view of the world.
It was one Sunday during the church service that the Vicar Dave shared his idea with the sleepy congregation to raise funds for the much needed roof repairs to keep St Domneva's going and to remain at the heart of the village. But unless he raise a substantial amount then nothing can save the little church. That's when he comes up with his rather extraordinary idea that brings two unlikely people together to help raise the much needed funds.
Gwen was immediately enamoured with the idea of trawling through the church's visitor's book, taking in its history and its secrets, in a bid to seek out donors to help save their little church. However, Gwen is terminally shy and hadn't thought much beyond the thought of losing herself to the little book's secrets...like phoning other people. Jarvis Millwood, a twenty seven year old art school dropout, has done nothing with his life since returning from a prestigious art school in London. But when he heard Vicar Dave put his unusual call out for volunteers, a seed was planted in Jarvis' head that began to form as he harboured his own reasons for wanting to peruse the visitor's book. Vicar Dave was apprehensive about leaving these two misfits in charge thinking he may have just made a huge error of judgement concerning St Dom's future.
At first Gwen was horrified that she had to share the prized visitor's book with another as she was looking forward to delving into it herself. She wasn't comfortable with other people and as socially inept as she was, Jarvis took her discomfort and her way of doing things in his stride. They are complete opposites, and yet in some ways quite similar, thrown together with their own reasons for wanting to participate in this little venture. Both unsatisfied with their lack lustre lives, the visitor book gives them hope and together they find themselves not only helping the church raise their much-needed funds, but they also find themselves along the way.
And two of the most unlikely people soon find themselves becoming the best of friends. Their journey becomes one of self discovery as Gwen steps out of her comfort zone in which she's been hiding for the past two years and Jarvis discovers a new appreciation for the love he had and thought he'd lost. Together they hope, dream and encourage one another to be the best version of themselves.
I can't say much more without giving the rest of the story away but it is a delightfully enjoyable read that could easily be read in one sitting if you are a fast reader or savoured by those who like to take their time. Either way, the journey you will find yourself on with Gwen and Jarvis will be one that charms and delights you.
Told in the third person narrative from the alternating perspectives of Gwen and Jarvis (mainly) and Vicar Dave (on occasion), HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH (somewhat of a mouthful) is a feel-good tale that is contemporary with a little romance thrown in. The narration is smooth and light with no melodramatic tension to weigh the reader down.
My only complaint is really the change in title. It really is a mouthful and the original title of "The Little Book of Secrets" I felt was more apt to the story, though it does allude to secrets being kept within the book when in actual fact it is not the case at all. So a tad misleading on that front. But still, an enjoyable foray into this little English village.
For a light and easy read, HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH is just the ticket to bring a feel-good smile to your day. The perfect weekend read.
I look forward to the second Hopley book in October wondering what Ms Rees has in store for us then.
I would like to thank #TracyRees, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #HiddenSecretsAtTheLittleVillageChurch in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Tracy Rees' delightful tale HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH previously titled "The Little Book of Secrets" .
This is my second book by Tracy Rees, the first being an historical fiction "The House at Silvermoor" which totally loved. So I was excited by the prospect of another foray into her world, albeit somewhat different, not really knowing what to expect. Women's fiction is generally not my genre of choice but there has been the odd one that I have enjoyed...this being one of them. Although I did find the title somewhat of a mouthful and as it conjured up images of secrets being unearthed and maybe a little gossiping going on, what it actually entailed was something vastly different. Misleading descriptions are a bit of a pet hate of mine, so while I didn't know what to expect entirely, I guess I was kind of expecting something different. Having said that, HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH was a thoroughly delightful journey into Hopley and its residents...but especially Gwen and Jarvis.
The setting for this story begins in a picturesque little village I envisioned to be something you would see in an episode of Midsomer Murders...but without the murder. It is adorably quaint filled with a mix of characters to charm and delight the reader and the beautiful historic church that is at the heart of the story.
Having lost her parents two years previously, Gwen Stanley moved in with her aunt Mary who had offered her a home more than likely out of obligation rather than any desire to help the grieving young woman. Aunt Mary was positively awful bringing a depressing air of doom over everything she touched and every word she uttered. She did nothing to help Gwen get over the loss of her beloved parents instead belittling her at every turn, complaining whenever Gwen did a good turn and basically sucked the life out of her niece...and not to mention the reader. I honestly dreaded Gwen going home every evening to Aunt Mary's bitter unhappiness and doom and gloom view of the world.
It was one Sunday during the church service that the Vicar Dave shared his idea with the sleepy congregation to raise funds for the much needed roof repairs to keep St Domneva's going and to remain at the heart of the village. But unless he raise a substantial amount then nothing can save the little church. That's when he comes up with his rather extraordinary idea that brings two unlikely people together to help raise the much needed funds.
Gwen was immediately enamoured with the idea of trawling through the church's visitor's book, taking in its history and its secrets, in a bid to seek out donors to help save their little church. However, Gwen is terminally shy and hadn't thought much beyond the thought of losing herself to the little book's secrets...like phoning other people. Jarvis Millwood, a twenty seven year old art school dropout, has done nothing with his life since returning from a prestigious art school in London. But when he heard Vicar Dave put his unusual call out for volunteers, a seed was planted in Jarvis' head that began to form as he harboured his own reasons for wanting to peruse the visitor's book. Vicar Dave was apprehensive about leaving these two misfits in charge thinking he may have just made a huge error of judgement concerning St Dom's future.
At first Gwen was horrified that she had to share the prized visitor's book with another as she was looking forward to delving into it herself. She wasn't comfortable with other people and as socially inept as she was, Jarvis took her discomfort and her way of doing things in his stride. They are complete opposites, and yet in some ways quite similar, thrown together with their own reasons for wanting to participate in this little venture. Both unsatisfied with their lack lustre lives, the visitor book gives them hope and together they find themselves not only helping the church raise their much-needed funds, but they also find themselves along the way.
And two of the most unlikely people soon find themselves becoming the best of friends. Their journey becomes one of self discovery as Gwen steps out of her comfort zone in which she's been hiding for the past two years and Jarvis discovers a new appreciation for the love he had and thought he'd lost. Together they hope, dream and encourage one another to be the best version of themselves.
I can't say much more without giving the rest of the story away but it is a delightfully enjoyable read that could easily be read in one sitting if you are a fast reader or savoured by those who like to take their time. Either way, the journey you will find yourself on with Gwen and Jarvis will be one that charms and delights you.
Told in the third person narrative from the alternating perspectives of Gwen and Jarvis (mainly) and Vicar Dave (on occasion), HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH (somewhat of a mouthful) is a feel-good tale that is contemporary with a little romance thrown in. The narration is smooth and light with no melodramatic tension to weigh the reader down.
My only complaint is really the change in title. It really is a mouthful and the original title of "The Little Book of Secrets" I felt was more apt to the story, though it does allude to secrets being kept within the book when in actual fact it is not the case at all. So a tad misleading on that front. But still, an enjoyable foray into this little English village.
For a light and easy read, HIDDEN SECRETS AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCH is just the ticket to bring a feel-good smile to your day. The perfect weekend read.
I look forward to the second Hopley book in October wondering what Ms Rees has in store for us then.
I would like to thank #TracyRees, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #HiddenSecretsAtTheLittleVillageChurch in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 2, 2025
Őszintén szólva a bájos borítója miatt választottam, és nem is csalódtam a szívmelengető, kisvárosi történetben. Ez is egy gyászfeldolgozós könyv, de a felnőtté válás is jellemzi a főszereplőket. Szeretem hinni, hogy nem csak a mesében létezik ilyen fajta összefogás egy közösségben a valódi értékek védelmében. Néhol döcögtek a mondatok, nem tudom, hogy a szerző vagy a fordító hibájából, a tördelést viszont átnézhette volna még valaki.
May 9, 2021
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is Tracy Rees’ first foray into contemporary women’s fiction having written historical fiction which she still continues to do so. I always wonder why an author chooses to deviate from their usual genre and question will it work? Here it has proven to be very successful and I do hope that Tracy continues to write in both genres.
This book is an absolutely gorgeous and charming read with two main characters you root for from page one. They both gradually realise their true potential as the story unfolds and they go on a journey they perhaps didn’t think they could face but the issue of the church brings them together leading to unexpected but welcome understanding and acceptance. Before I read this book it underwent both a title and cover change, and at times this frustrates me as it seems to happen quite regularly for no obvious reason, but here I could see the reasons for it and I feel both the new cover and title are much more apt for the book overall.
As much as I liked Jarvis as a character, for me Gwen is the stand out character in this book. I think we can all see aspects of ourselves in her, be they big or small. She is easy to identify with and you feel great sympathy for the situation she finds herself in. She is troubled, worn down and the numbing depression continues to erode at her on a daily basis. She never feels excited or enthusiastic anymore. Everything is such an effort for her and her low spirits means she is really struggling. Following the death of her parents in a car crash she moved to the little village of Hopely to live with her Aunt. You would think her Aunt would offer the comfort, solace and protection she so desperately needs at such a tragic time in her life. But this is not forthcoming and the constant barbs, put downs, complaints and just down right nastiness only add to her state of shyness, isolation and sadness. Gwen is made to feel like an unwelcome guest at a time when she should be embraced. You can see her sinking further and further into a place that will be very hard to come back from.
The only form of light that Gwen has is when she attends a weekly service at St. Domena’s church where Reverend David Fairfield is in desperate need of some sort of saviour who can raise enough funds to get the church roof repaired. Time is running out and he has but a few short months to get the funds needed or else the church will close for good. A visitors guest book is the catalyst that begins a transformation in Gwen. This change is slow and steady and perfectly executed throughout the book. Nothing is forced or rushed for if it had been it wouldn’t have been realistic as Gwen is so deep in her grief and anxiety that an overnight new Gwen emerging would have been too far fetched. A project is born where Gwen will look through the visitors book in the hopes of making contact with those who visited in the past and perhaps they will make a donation to the roof repairs. This task gives Gwen a focus and a means of getting away from her aunt if even for a short while.
As she is so shy and avoids human contact if at all possible poor Gwen doesn’t bank on having Jarvis muscling in on the project. But maybe St. Domena’s, the village of Hopely, and Gwen herself need Jarvis by their side even if Gwen wants to run a mile when she sees him appear at the church. Gwen had never been the most confident person, never felt able to reach out and grab life like her friend Amma and with the loss of her parents these feelings and opinions come ever closer to the fore. She has no faith in herself to make a go of things and her sense of self has been eroded so much that she can’t imagine an independent life that would make her happy. But the meeting of herself and Jarvis is a pivotal turning point in her life if she is only willing to step outside of the confines that she has erected around herself and find her true potential and the place where she is meant to be.
Jarvis is the total anthesis of Gwen. He spends his nights drinking and partying with friends and his parents can barely get him to do anything. His job at the local shop is not where his life’s ambitions lie but the art degree he was working on is now but a distant memory. He drinks a lot to transcend the jittery uncomfortable feelings that plague him and when he doesn’t he has suspicions that he isn’t good enough and that he is a waste of space. Beneath this bravado of partying and drinking lies a much gentler Jarvis and one you would love to get to know more deeply. He is missing purpose and self respect, perhaps even friendship, and you hope he can find these things once again and fulfil his hidden aspiration. You would never have thought he would have volunteered for the project but he has his own personal reasons which were just so lovely and heart-warming. In one sense you hoped to see his own mission completed but as the story developed you desperately hoped that something else would step in and take it’s place as it seemed a natural course for the book to turn in.
Gwen and Jarvis on first meeting really rub each other up the wrong way. Gwen wants total control over the project and has her own set way of doing things but as they open up to each other and Jarvis introduces her to his family. She can see that there is a better life outside the realm of her penny pinching, butter and sharp tongued Aunt. You wonder whether she can build up the confidence to embrace what is within her grasp if she can only be pushed in the right direction. The book is the only little thing that makes her feel again and she can’t bare to let it go again. I loved the little stories that emerged as Gwen and Jarvis made contact with some of the names they find in the visitors book. They worked so well within the overall story. Their various life stories and their reasons for making a donation were heart warming and offered inspiration for both Gwen and Jarvis in more ways than one. It’s such a unique overall concept that perfectly formed the backbone of the book and allowed many other strands to effortlessly develop from it. Overall, it gave the book a lovely and natural flow and you just hope that the church can be saved and that Jarvis and Gwen find what has evaded them for so long.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church was a wonderful read with such heart-warming, generous and pleasing themes at its centre. I loved every minute of it and you’ll find it difficult to put down once you begin. Two lost souls unit for a common cause and in doing so a wonderful, life affirming story unfolds. Initially both Gwen and Jarvis are unlikely and perhaps uninspiring but Tracy Rees wove a fantastic story that brought them together for one common cause and in doing so their efforts did as much for them as they have done for the church. I was delighted to see that there will be a second story set in Hopely and fingers crossed this will be arriving sooner rather than later as I very much enjoyed my time in this brilliant setting.
This book is an absolutely gorgeous and charming read with two main characters you root for from page one. They both gradually realise their true potential as the story unfolds and they go on a journey they perhaps didn’t think they could face but the issue of the church brings them together leading to unexpected but welcome understanding and acceptance. Before I read this book it underwent both a title and cover change, and at times this frustrates me as it seems to happen quite regularly for no obvious reason, but here I could see the reasons for it and I feel both the new cover and title are much more apt for the book overall.
As much as I liked Jarvis as a character, for me Gwen is the stand out character in this book. I think we can all see aspects of ourselves in her, be they big or small. She is easy to identify with and you feel great sympathy for the situation she finds herself in. She is troubled, worn down and the numbing depression continues to erode at her on a daily basis. She never feels excited or enthusiastic anymore. Everything is such an effort for her and her low spirits means she is really struggling. Following the death of her parents in a car crash she moved to the little village of Hopely to live with her Aunt. You would think her Aunt would offer the comfort, solace and protection she so desperately needs at such a tragic time in her life. But this is not forthcoming and the constant barbs, put downs, complaints and just down right nastiness only add to her state of shyness, isolation and sadness. Gwen is made to feel like an unwelcome guest at a time when she should be embraced. You can see her sinking further and further into a place that will be very hard to come back from.
The only form of light that Gwen has is when she attends a weekly service at St. Domena’s church where Reverend David Fairfield is in desperate need of some sort of saviour who can raise enough funds to get the church roof repaired. Time is running out and he has but a few short months to get the funds needed or else the church will close for good. A visitors guest book is the catalyst that begins a transformation in Gwen. This change is slow and steady and perfectly executed throughout the book. Nothing is forced or rushed for if it had been it wouldn’t have been realistic as Gwen is so deep in her grief and anxiety that an overnight new Gwen emerging would have been too far fetched. A project is born where Gwen will look through the visitors book in the hopes of making contact with those who visited in the past and perhaps they will make a donation to the roof repairs. This task gives Gwen a focus and a means of getting away from her aunt if even for a short while.
As she is so shy and avoids human contact if at all possible poor Gwen doesn’t bank on having Jarvis muscling in on the project. But maybe St. Domena’s, the village of Hopely, and Gwen herself need Jarvis by their side even if Gwen wants to run a mile when she sees him appear at the church. Gwen had never been the most confident person, never felt able to reach out and grab life like her friend Amma and with the loss of her parents these feelings and opinions come ever closer to the fore. She has no faith in herself to make a go of things and her sense of self has been eroded so much that she can’t imagine an independent life that would make her happy. But the meeting of herself and Jarvis is a pivotal turning point in her life if she is only willing to step outside of the confines that she has erected around herself and find her true potential and the place where she is meant to be.
Jarvis is the total anthesis of Gwen. He spends his nights drinking and partying with friends and his parents can barely get him to do anything. His job at the local shop is not where his life’s ambitions lie but the art degree he was working on is now but a distant memory. He drinks a lot to transcend the jittery uncomfortable feelings that plague him and when he doesn’t he has suspicions that he isn’t good enough and that he is a waste of space. Beneath this bravado of partying and drinking lies a much gentler Jarvis and one you would love to get to know more deeply. He is missing purpose and self respect, perhaps even friendship, and you hope he can find these things once again and fulfil his hidden aspiration. You would never have thought he would have volunteered for the project but he has his own personal reasons which were just so lovely and heart-warming. In one sense you hoped to see his own mission completed but as the story developed you desperately hoped that something else would step in and take it’s place as it seemed a natural course for the book to turn in.
Gwen and Jarvis on first meeting really rub each other up the wrong way. Gwen wants total control over the project and has her own set way of doing things but as they open up to each other and Jarvis introduces her to his family. She can see that there is a better life outside the realm of her penny pinching, butter and sharp tongued Aunt. You wonder whether she can build up the confidence to embrace what is within her grasp if she can only be pushed in the right direction. The book is the only little thing that makes her feel again and she can’t bare to let it go again. I loved the little stories that emerged as Gwen and Jarvis made contact with some of the names they find in the visitors book. They worked so well within the overall story. Their various life stories and their reasons for making a donation were heart warming and offered inspiration for both Gwen and Jarvis in more ways than one. It’s such a unique overall concept that perfectly formed the backbone of the book and allowed many other strands to effortlessly develop from it. Overall, it gave the book a lovely and natural flow and you just hope that the church can be saved and that Jarvis and Gwen find what has evaded them for so long.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church was a wonderful read with such heart-warming, generous and pleasing themes at its centre. I loved every minute of it and you’ll find it difficult to put down once you begin. Two lost souls unit for a common cause and in doing so a wonderful, life affirming story unfolds. Initially both Gwen and Jarvis are unlikely and perhaps uninspiring but Tracy Rees wove a fantastic story that brought them together for one common cause and in doing so their efforts did as much for them as they have done for the church. I was delighted to see that there will be a second story set in Hopely and fingers crossed this will be arriving sooner rather than later as I very much enjoyed my time in this brilliant setting.
July 9, 2023
Tracy Rees könyve már jó ideje a radaromon volt, de valahogy sose volt jó akcióban, és csak halogattam a beszerzését. Így esett, hogy végül Audible-ön vettem meg.
Kellemes, hangulatos, szórakoztató olvasmány, amelyben Hopley templomának új tetőre van szüksége. Dave tiszteletes szokatlan ötlettel áll elő, amivel újabb támogatásokat lehetne gyűjteni, és ez rögtön felkelti Gwen érdeklődését, aki nagy lelkesedéssel veti bele magát a látogatók könyvébe, hogy potenciális adakozókat találjon köztük a templom számára. Csakhogy nem marad egyedül a projekttel, Jarvis is önkéntesnek jelentkezik, bár más motiváció hajtja elsősorban, mint hogy a templomot megmentse a pusztulástól.
Tetszett, ahogy haladtunk a képzeletbeli létrán felfelé, az elérendő célösszegig, még ha kicsit néha hihetetlen is volt, hogy mennyire adakozó lelkületűek voltak a korábbi látogatók. De ez egy ilyen sztori, a happy end garantált, feelgood nyári olvasmánynak tökéletes, nem bárgyú és nem csöpögős, hurrá! :)
https://pupillaolvas.blogspot.com/202...
Kellemes, hangulatos, szórakoztató olvasmány, amelyben Hopley templomának új tetőre van szüksége. Dave tiszteletes szokatlan ötlettel áll elő, amivel újabb támogatásokat lehetne gyűjteni, és ez rögtön felkelti Gwen érdeklődését, aki nagy lelkesedéssel veti bele magát a látogatók könyvébe, hogy potenciális adakozókat találjon köztük a templom számára. Csakhogy nem marad egyedül a projekttel, Jarvis is önkéntesnek jelentkezik, bár más motiváció hajtja elsősorban, mint hogy a templomot megmentse a pusztulástól.
Tetszett, ahogy haladtunk a képzeletbeli létrán felfelé, az elérendő célösszegig, még ha kicsit néha hihetetlen is volt, hogy mennyire adakozó lelkületűek voltak a korábbi látogatók. De ez egy ilyen sztori, a happy end garantált, feelgood nyári olvasmánynak tökéletes, nem bárgyú és nem csöpögős, hurrá! :)
https://pupillaolvas.blogspot.com/202...
April 26, 2022
This book was the one to get me out of a rather long reading slump. It's a sweet book with characters you don't immediately like (not until you get to know them). I like that.
May 15, 2021
I was completely taken by this book from start to finish. Who would think that a story hinging on the fundraising for a church roof could be so entertaining? I could totally see myself getting wrapped up in a project such as Gwen and Jarvis undertook. I would thrive on something like that. I really enjoyed watching (reading?) Gwen and Jarvis both grow. There was a good lesson of never let other people define your self-worth to be learned, as well as a mini-mystery that made it highly enjoyable. Definitely a feel-good novel I enjoyed from beginning to end. For a full review, please visit Fireflies and Free Kicks. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital ARC of the book.
December 11, 2022
Sweet story. Predictable ending but was a great journey to get there
March 24, 2021
Wow. I absolutely loved this book. Read it in one sitting, Could not put it down. Didn't imagine for a second that i'd be captivated by a village church visitor book but yes i was. Gwen and Jarvis, two unlikely volunteers to support the local church, both with their own weird and wonderful motivations that amuse, delight and warm your heart. Both are troubled and you warm to them in a not at all relatable fashion, then as they get to know each other and barriers come down, so do yours as a reader. The visitor book brings some real characters along the way. You giggle at the rambling Welsh lady, want to give Greta a hug, and the village sense of community past and present really comes to light. Although a smaller character, I appreciated an autistic character-not seen enough in books in my opinion. Tracy Rees fans will note that this is very different to her other books and has no timeframe hopping or historical time period. Do not let that stop you reading. Its her finest work yet.
May 5, 2022
A gentle uplifting story of two adrift 20-somethings who work together to save the local village church. And in the process they find themselves and each other.
June 8, 2022
Such a cute, funny, feel-good story!
January 7, 2023
Lovely easy read with a charming story set in a quaint village... I accidentally read book 2 of the series first mind!
May 7, 2021
Just beautiful. Written with heart. This author takes you on a journey engaging all of your emotions. Loved this one so much. Brilliant. Engaging. Just wow.
May 22, 2021
Great start to the series. Can't wait to see what else is in store for the residents.
Review coming soon.
Review coming soon.
December 16, 2022
I absolutely loved this uplifting charming novel full of warmth and soul by Tracy Rees. It truly touched my heart for it is a story about the need for connection with others. And how a church can be the heartbeat of a community. It is a place to socialise, find strength, nurture friendships and find refuge. But this little church was in trouble and in danger of closing. It needed repairs and funds to restore it. How would they accomplish this? The church’s visitor book becomes a door to many exciting adventures and a path to restoration, not only for the church but for the many souls that entered it in the past.
Who was going to take this mission on? Well, our two most unlikely heroes: Gwen and Jarvis. Both seemingly very different people. Two young people who thought they had little to offer-- that eventually not only surprised others but also themselves at what they could achieve when they set their minds to a daunting task. In the end their strengths came out, their confidences flourished and their friendships blossomed. They reached out to all the persons they could find who had written in the church’s visitor book, sharing the church’s dilemma and hoping for donations. They began to hear each of their stories and by connecting with them, drew out more kindness and love from the community than anyone could imagine.
I loved watching these two main characters Gwen and Jarvis being transformed by their encounters and while working with each other. Gwen’s appearance even changed and Jarvis’ habits. So much good came from this original dilemma of the church needing funds to repair its structure. Many were reborn in the process who became involved. Joy blossomed when everyone came together to save the church through such an unlikely avenue--the visitors’ book. The church had been there when they each needed something, so they wanted to give back some of what they had reaped. It was a common desire to see this facility flourish and continue to be a resource for others.
I will say it again, this unlikely set of heroes really came to life on the pages and I absolutely adored them. Jarvis had many great humorous lines and Gwen shared amazing lightbulb revelations. They were such a likeable pair with all their quirks and frailties. Their quest drew out the best in each of them and the transformation was nothing short of miraculous. It is incredible how one who has experienced loss or discouragement can get back their joy for life through helping another human. Focusing on the needs of others somehow helps us grow and heal, for when we go from just being dormant and existing to being active and giving – we start living. Maybe because everyone wants to feel needed and to have purpose.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is about many things and these are just a few: rising up from the ashes of grief, finding new worth, learning to trust and love others, giving and receiving and being transformed by it all. This tender tale made me smile and boosted my spirits to a whole new level. The fictional town of Hopley and its residents found a new place in my heart. This story shines with community spirit and pure unselfish love. I highly recommend it. An easy 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Who was going to take this mission on? Well, our two most unlikely heroes: Gwen and Jarvis. Both seemingly very different people. Two young people who thought they had little to offer-- that eventually not only surprised others but also themselves at what they could achieve when they set their minds to a daunting task. In the end their strengths came out, their confidences flourished and their friendships blossomed. They reached out to all the persons they could find who had written in the church’s visitor book, sharing the church’s dilemma and hoping for donations. They began to hear each of their stories and by connecting with them, drew out more kindness and love from the community than anyone could imagine.
I loved watching these two main characters Gwen and Jarvis being transformed by their encounters and while working with each other. Gwen’s appearance even changed and Jarvis’ habits. So much good came from this original dilemma of the church needing funds to repair its structure. Many were reborn in the process who became involved. Joy blossomed when everyone came together to save the church through such an unlikely avenue--the visitors’ book. The church had been there when they each needed something, so they wanted to give back some of what they had reaped. It was a common desire to see this facility flourish and continue to be a resource for others.
I will say it again, this unlikely set of heroes really came to life on the pages and I absolutely adored them. Jarvis had many great humorous lines and Gwen shared amazing lightbulb revelations. They were such a likeable pair with all their quirks and frailties. Their quest drew out the best in each of them and the transformation was nothing short of miraculous. It is incredible how one who has experienced loss or discouragement can get back their joy for life through helping another human. Focusing on the needs of others somehow helps us grow and heal, for when we go from just being dormant and existing to being active and giving – we start living. Maybe because everyone wants to feel needed and to have purpose.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is about many things and these are just a few: rising up from the ashes of grief, finding new worth, learning to trust and love others, giving and receiving and being transformed by it all. This tender tale made me smile and boosted my spirits to a whole new level. The fictional town of Hopley and its residents found a new place in my heart. This story shines with community spirit and pure unselfish love. I highly recommend it. An easy 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 24, 2021
4.3 Stars
The little village church has a bad roof that’s ready to collapse anytime. The vicar does his bit to get donations and funds. But unless he can raise a substantial amount, nothing can save the little church. That’s when he comes up with an idea that brings two unlikely youngsters together and makes them consider their future with a fresh outlook.
Gwen and Jarvis are total opposites. Gwen is trying to recover from heartbreak, while Jarvis appears to be nothing more than an alcoholic and an idler when we first know him. The story deals with how the Visitor’s Book in the church gives them a chance to reevaluate their lives and decisions.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is truly a sweet and feel-good book set in a small village called Hopley. The backdrop of England’s countryside makes it a pleasant and soothing read. There is a mandatory stiff character or two, but the rest of them are sweet and lovable. Maybe a little too sweet, but considering the real-life situation, I’m glad to read a story that focuses on positivity.
The story is in the limited third person, with the POV altering between Gwen, Jarvis, and Vicar Dave (at times). We see things from their perspective and gain deeper insights into their lives. Gwen’s life is pretty much clear from the first instant.
Jarvis comes across as a pretty worthless guy until we see that he’s a sweet, talented, and compassionate guy struggling with confidence issues.
The writing flows well with no abrupt breaks or jerks. The narration is smooth and light. Even the heavy scenes don’t get too intense or melodramatic. The book ends on a happy note for not just all three of them but also for many others.
There are times when readers want nothing but some peace books like this one come to rescue. The book gets the extra 0.3 for the same. Overall, this may not be a must-read. But it does bring a smile to those who pick it up.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bookouture and am voluntarily leaving a review.
P.S: The only thing I’m not sure is about the use of ‘secrets’ in the title. There isn’t anything secretive in the book, nor does something that has to be uncovered.
#HiddenSecretsattheLittleVillageChurch #NetGalley
The little village church has a bad roof that’s ready to collapse anytime. The vicar does his bit to get donations and funds. But unless he can raise a substantial amount, nothing can save the little church. That’s when he comes up with an idea that brings two unlikely youngsters together and makes them consider their future with a fresh outlook.
Gwen and Jarvis are total opposites. Gwen is trying to recover from heartbreak, while Jarvis appears to be nothing more than an alcoholic and an idler when we first know him. The story deals with how the Visitor’s Book in the church gives them a chance to reevaluate their lives and decisions.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is truly a sweet and feel-good book set in a small village called Hopley. The backdrop of England’s countryside makes it a pleasant and soothing read. There is a mandatory stiff character or two, but the rest of them are sweet and lovable. Maybe a little too sweet, but considering the real-life situation, I’m glad to read a story that focuses on positivity.
The story is in the limited third person, with the POV altering between Gwen, Jarvis, and Vicar Dave (at times). We see things from their perspective and gain deeper insights into their lives. Gwen’s life is pretty much clear from the first instant.
Jarvis comes across as a pretty worthless guy until we see that he’s a sweet, talented, and compassionate guy struggling with confidence issues.
The writing flows well with no abrupt breaks or jerks. The narration is smooth and light. Even the heavy scenes don’t get too intense or melodramatic. The book ends on a happy note for not just all three of them but also for many others.
There are times when readers want nothing but some peace books like this one come to rescue. The book gets the extra 0.3 for the same. Overall, this may not be a must-read. But it does bring a smile to those who pick it up.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bookouture and am voluntarily leaving a review.
P.S: The only thing I’m not sure is about the use of ‘secrets’ in the title. There isn’t anything secretive in the book, nor does something that has to be uncovered.
#HiddenSecretsattheLittleVillageChurch #NetGalley
May 10, 2021
This new to me author, Tracy Rees had me hooked from literally the first page of this book to the last. I absolutely loved this unputdownable read. This is definitely a read in one sitting book.
Oh my goodness I almost don’t know where to begin with this amazing book. Gwen Stanley experiences a tragedy in her life that leaves her heartbroken, destitute and lost. She retreats to the tiny village of Hopley, to find her way in life. As Gwen wanders through the English countryside, at the edge of the village, she finds a tiny old dilapidated church. Gwen pushes her way through the front doors. As she roams through the church building, she finds a book and written inside are secrets of the town. And then in walks local artist Jarvis, who is just as curious about the book as Gwen is. Her relationship with Jarvis develops as the two of them decide to answer the Vicar’s request to fix the church’s roof. Did Gwen find not only happiness but also a new purpose for her life?
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Jarvis and Gwen and found myself cheering them on. The English Village of Hopley is so beautifully described, it immediately became a place I would love to visit. The characters are so well developed and relatable, that I easily visualized the story. The flow of the the story has so smooth that I absolutely could not put it down until I turned the last page. I am so happy to hear that this is a new series, I can’t wait for the next book. Thank you Tracy Rees for such a wonderful and heartfelt story, it was a fantastic escape.
Oh my goodness I almost don’t know where to begin with this amazing book. Gwen Stanley experiences a tragedy in her life that leaves her heartbroken, destitute and lost. She retreats to the tiny village of Hopley, to find her way in life. As Gwen wanders through the English countryside, at the edge of the village, she finds a tiny old dilapidated church. Gwen pushes her way through the front doors. As she roams through the church building, she finds a book and written inside are secrets of the town. And then in walks local artist Jarvis, who is just as curious about the book as Gwen is. Her relationship with Jarvis develops as the two of them decide to answer the Vicar’s request to fix the church’s roof. Did Gwen find not only happiness but also a new purpose for her life?
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Jarvis and Gwen and found myself cheering them on. The English Village of Hopley is so beautifully described, it immediately became a place I would love to visit. The characters are so well developed and relatable, that I easily visualized the story. The flow of the the story has so smooth that I absolutely could not put it down until I turned the last page. I am so happy to hear that this is a new series, I can’t wait for the next book. Thank you Tracy Rees for such a wonderful and heartfelt story, it was a fantastic escape.
May 1, 2021
Well if this story that alternates between Gwen and Jarvis doesn't leave you feeling uplifted then I don't know what else will!
Gwen and Jarvis are total opposites yet in some ways quite similar. They are both unsatisfied with where their lives are going until they both find themselves helping the local church in their plight to save the roof. Am sure we have all seen fund raisers for helping churches as sadly they don't get much help when it comes to maintaining these properties. I adored the idea of the book that Gwen finds. I don't want to say too much but how Gwen and Jarvis go around raising money from the use of this book is quite ingenious and it makes for some heart-warming reading.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is such an endearing and sweet read. I loved Gwen and Jarvis and watching their friendship grow. The story offers hope and I truly felt light and uplifted after finishing this wonderful story. My first book by Tracy Rees and certainly won't be my last!
Gwen and Jarvis are total opposites yet in some ways quite similar. They are both unsatisfied with where their lives are going until they both find themselves helping the local church in their plight to save the roof. Am sure we have all seen fund raisers for helping churches as sadly they don't get much help when it comes to maintaining these properties. I adored the idea of the book that Gwen finds. I don't want to say too much but how Gwen and Jarvis go around raising money from the use of this book is quite ingenious and it makes for some heart-warming reading.
Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church is such an endearing and sweet read. I loved Gwen and Jarvis and watching their friendship grow. The story offers hope and I truly felt light and uplifted after finishing this wonderful story. My first book by Tracy Rees and certainly won't be my last!
January 7, 2022
Koselig bok, som var grei kveldslektyre. Klarte fint å stoppe ved kapitlene, slik at den holdt flere kvelder (bortsett fra siste tre kapitlene). Innholdsmessig fin, men noen rare karakterer som ble presentert og som hadde sin egen agenda, og ga boka et snev av å være en selvhjelpsbok. Har ikke lest bøker av denne forfatteren tidligere, og vet ikke om det er en del av formen hennes. Jeg kommer til å lese flere av henne, for å bli litt kjent og se om det er mer variasjon.
May 16, 2021
When I first started to read this book. It just didn’t appeal to me. I put it down a few times but the reviews were so good, so i persevered. I’m so glad I did, a wonderful story of two complete opposites and many other, normal & true to life characters, who come together and help each other grow and find their true selves.
Brilliant and well written.
Brilliant and well written.
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