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Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell
George can’t throw anything away. But he’s in danger of throwing away this opportunity to be loved…
George Nightingale is a hoarder with a house full of junk. For years he’s kept it a secret, rarely leaving his house and keeping social interactions to a minimum, but his carefully balanced system is now under threat…
Nessa Millbrook can’t wait to get settled into her new home in quaint, rural Applewell. Everyone in the village is so friendly – except her neighbour, George, who wants nothing to do with her. But Nessa isn’t one to back down from a challenge and she’s determined to win George over.
The years have taught George to shield his heart and trust no one. Yet Nessa keeps reaching out to him – does he have the courage to take a chance, and reach back?
A gorgeously heartwarming romance with characters readers will fall in love with, perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Portia MacIntosh.
George Nightingale is a hoarder with a house full of junk. For years he’s kept it a secret, rarely leaving his house and keeping social interactions to a minimum, but his carefully balanced system is now under threat…
Nessa Millbrook can’t wait to get settled into her new home in quaint, rural Applewell. Everyone in the village is so friendly – except her neighbour, George, who wants nothing to do with her. But Nessa isn’t one to back down from a challenge and she’s determined to win George over.
The years have taught George to shield his heart and trust no one. Yet Nessa keeps reaching out to him – does he have the courage to take a chance, and reach back?
A gorgeously heartwarming romance with characters readers will fall in love with, perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Portia MacIntosh.
324 pages, Paperback
Published May 6, 2021
155 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Lilac Mills
84 books234 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
July 16, 2021
It's decided, Lilac Mills is now my favorite author of all times! I am giving this book a 5 stars out of 5 and if I could have I would have given even more! I already knew that I liked Lilac Mills books but this one was just so so so good, excellent even! So well written, so beautiful, so heart warming. What a lovely neighbourhood story this one is!!! It's just a very unique one too! I absolutely LOVED my time reading this book and I cannot wait to read another book by Lilac Mills!!!!
May 7, 2021
Heartwarming, Sweet, and Clean
This sweet story deals with a hoarder and his nosy neighbor. This is a tender story dealing with a form of mental illness and the associated loneliness. It explores the many reasons this man became such a recluse. It likely paints too easy of a picture in how they deal with his hoarding. And, of course, it all works out in the end. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
This sweet story deals with a hoarder and his nosy neighbor. This is a tender story dealing with a form of mental illness and the associated loneliness. It explores the many reasons this man became such a recluse. It likely paints too easy of a picture in how they deal with his hoarding. And, of course, it all works out in the end. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
March 28, 2021
Recently retired Nessa moves to Applewell to a beautiful cottage in the village, wanting to makes friends she bakes her new neighbours cakes.
All the locals are friendly and soon makes friends apart from next door neighbour George, who is a little strange to say the least.
Nessa makes it her mission to befriend George, behind closed doors he is a secret horder.
Oh my god I wanted to shake George I wanted to go round and tidy up and yet I felt sadness that people do actually live like that
I loved the bond between Nessa and Mahri a true friendship no matter the ages.
I also like the way the story was told with each chapter told by Nessa and George.
This was really enjoyable and so looking foward to my next visit to Applewell.
All the locals are friendly and soon makes friends apart from next door neighbour George, who is a little strange to say the least.
Nessa makes it her mission to befriend George, behind closed doors he is a secret horder.
Oh my god I wanted to shake George I wanted to go round and tidy up and yet I felt sadness that people do actually live like that
I loved the bond between Nessa and Mahri a true friendship no matter the ages.
I also like the way the story was told with each chapter told by Nessa and George.
This was really enjoyable and so looking foward to my next visit to Applewell.
July 29, 2023
This was such a cozy read. It had Ove/Harold/Eleanor vibes and I loved every page of it.
June 12, 2021
This was a very cute and refreshing idea for a romance. Loved that the leads were in their 50s instead of lost millennials like every other romance lately. Hope to read more about Applewell and it’s villagers!
February 24, 2023
A really lovely story. Heart warming at times, sad at other times. Relatable in many aspects. Would read next in series.
June 14, 2023
Narrated by Claire Morgan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story by Lilac Mills ⭐⭐⭐
If like me you enjoy a grumpy old man softens story then you'll enjoy going on this adventure with Nessa and George. Both nosey as each other
Story by Lilac Mills ⭐⭐⭐
If like me you enjoy a grumpy old man softens story then you'll enjoy going on this adventure with Nessa and George. Both nosey as each other
September 28, 2025
A lovely heart warming story.
May 9, 2021
George is a hoarder whose life is jolted out of its rut by the arrival of his new neighbour, Nessa.
I came across this book almost by accident and it definitely struck a chord with me, I can relate to the hoarding (who hasn't put something aside as it might come in useful one day?) plus the main characters being shall we say not being in the first flush of youth. It is sweet, set in a background of a small community where George rightly or wrongfully feels that he is being judged. There is a real feel good sentiment in the book where not everything is as George fears, attraction at first sight sounds unlikely until you experience it for yourself.
I can firmly add Applewell to the small list of places that I'd love to live in and I'm sure that there is scope for more stories set here. I definitely recommend the book to those who want something a little bit different, not sickly sweet, covering some real issues whilst still being throughly enjoyable.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
I came across this book almost by accident and it definitely struck a chord with me, I can relate to the hoarding (who hasn't put something aside as it might come in useful one day?) plus the main characters being shall we say not being in the first flush of youth. It is sweet, set in a background of a small community where George rightly or wrongfully feels that he is being judged. There is a real feel good sentiment in the book where not everything is as George fears, attraction at first sight sounds unlikely until you experience it for yourself.
I can firmly add Applewell to the small list of places that I'd love to live in and I'm sure that there is scope for more stories set here. I definitely recommend the book to those who want something a little bit different, not sickly sweet, covering some real issues whilst still being throughly enjoyable.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
October 19, 2021
What a great start to a new series from Lilac Mills, this time set in Wales in the village of Applewell.
And tackling issues such as hoarding and loneliness as you grow older this is definitely a book with a message.
It is also a really enjoyable story featuring George who is rather set in his ways, likes his routines and is rather disturbed by the fact he has a new neighbour.
And Netta who is the new neighbour, a now retired nurse, who just wants to make friends and fit in in her new community.
They are complete opposites and its heartwarming to see how Netta attempts to befriend George, and also how George responds to the various approaches,
I am loving the small community vibe in Applewell and starting to get to know some of the villagers. I can't wait to see who the next book will feature.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And tackling issues such as hoarding and loneliness as you grow older this is definitely a book with a message.
It is also a really enjoyable story featuring George who is rather set in his ways, likes his routines and is rather disturbed by the fact he has a new neighbour.
And Netta who is the new neighbour, a now retired nurse, who just wants to make friends and fit in in her new community.
They are complete opposites and its heartwarming to see how Netta attempts to befriend George, and also how George responds to the various approaches,
I am loving the small community vibe in Applewell and starting to get to know some of the villagers. I can't wait to see who the next book will feature.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 6, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Lilac Mill, and Canelo publishing for giving me a free arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
TW: Hoarding due to the death of a parent (the death occurred in the past)
This is a heartwarming book about two lonely people who find love next door. This book alternates between the two main characters' povs, George and Nessa. George is an grumpy middle aged man, who is reclusive and really has not interactions with the people of Applewell. Then one day, Nessa, a middle aged woman looking to make a fresh start, moves into the cottage across from George. Nessa is determined to make friends with the people of Applewell, but especially those who live near her. Nessa begins to slowly get to know George and discovers a man who just needs a friend to draw him out of his closed off world.
These characters were so sweet! I bought completely into their romance. I liked how these characters were middle aged, which made for a more realistic bond as well as a lot less drama. I felt sorry for George at times throughout this book. He seemed to turned into himself in order to grieve the loss of his father and the life he had by taking care of him in his latter years. I appreciated how patience Nessa was with George and his hoarding. She never pushed him to make the changes he needed, but allowed him to move at his own pace. Mary was also a very endearing character! I loved the friendship that developed between Nessa and Mary! The writing and pacing was very well done! There was a lot of wonderful dialogue that had me, at times, laughing out loud and then had me tearing up. Overall, this had a wonderful message of new beginnings can happen for all ages. This was my first book by author Lilac Mills and it will not be my last. I would recommend this book to those who are looking for a feel good middle aged romance!
4.5 stars
TW: Hoarding due to the death of a parent (the death occurred in the past)
This is a heartwarming book about two lonely people who find love next door. This book alternates between the two main characters' povs, George and Nessa. George is an grumpy middle aged man, who is reclusive and really has not interactions with the people of Applewell. Then one day, Nessa, a middle aged woman looking to make a fresh start, moves into the cottage across from George. Nessa is determined to make friends with the people of Applewell, but especially those who live near her. Nessa begins to slowly get to know George and discovers a man who just needs a friend to draw him out of his closed off world.
These characters were so sweet! I bought completely into their romance. I liked how these characters were middle aged, which made for a more realistic bond as well as a lot less drama. I felt sorry for George at times throughout this book. He seemed to turned into himself in order to grieve the loss of his father and the life he had by taking care of him in his latter years. I appreciated how patience Nessa was with George and his hoarding. She never pushed him to make the changes he needed, but allowed him to move at his own pace. Mary was also a very endearing character! I loved the friendship that developed between Nessa and Mary! The writing and pacing was very well done! There was a lot of wonderful dialogue that had me, at times, laughing out loud and then had me tearing up. Overall, this had a wonderful message of new beginnings can happen for all ages. This was my first book by author Lilac Mills and it will not be my last. I would recommend this book to those who are looking for a feel good middle aged romance!
April 29, 2021
Rating: 3.75/5
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Adult Fiction
Warnings: Hoarding and death of a parent (off page)
Read if you liked: The Switch
Review: George Nightingale has never let anything go, living by his father’s phrase of “waste not, want not” and for years he’s kept it a secret. He rarely leaves his house unless strictly necessary but now things seem to be changing with the addition of his new neighbor.
Nessa Millbrook is excited to settle in her new home of Applewell after her retirement. Everyone in the village delightfully friendly except for her neighbor and she isn’t one to back down from a challenge. As Nessa keeps reaching out, does George take a chance to change his life and make a friend?
It did take me a bit to get into this one but I am so glad I finished it! The story was told from dual perspectives, so I think you got a good gauge of the two main characters. The romance between them was really heartwarming, major slow burn. It was refreshing to read a story about a couple in their 50s, love is for everyone!
I spent a good amount of this book wanting to shake George while also feeling his pain. He was a warm and kind man behind his gruff exterior. I loved how kind Nessa was to everyone, especially with her neighbor Mairi. The side characters were also delighful and really cared about each other. If you need a feel good/hallmark movie vibes read, this should be on your list!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for proving this ARC for my honest opinion. Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell is released on May 6th.
#netgalley #wastenotwantnotinapplewell
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Adult Fiction
Warnings: Hoarding and death of a parent (off page)
Read if you liked: The Switch
Review: George Nightingale has never let anything go, living by his father’s phrase of “waste not, want not” and for years he’s kept it a secret. He rarely leaves his house unless strictly necessary but now things seem to be changing with the addition of his new neighbor.
Nessa Millbrook is excited to settle in her new home of Applewell after her retirement. Everyone in the village delightfully friendly except for her neighbor and she isn’t one to back down from a challenge. As Nessa keeps reaching out, does George take a chance to change his life and make a friend?
It did take me a bit to get into this one but I am so glad I finished it! The story was told from dual perspectives, so I think you got a good gauge of the two main characters. The romance between them was really heartwarming, major slow burn. It was refreshing to read a story about a couple in their 50s, love is for everyone!
I spent a good amount of this book wanting to shake George while also feeling his pain. He was a warm and kind man behind his gruff exterior. I loved how kind Nessa was to everyone, especially with her neighbor Mairi. The side characters were also delighful and really cared about each other. If you need a feel good/hallmark movie vibes read, this should be on your list!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for proving this ARC for my honest opinion. Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell is released on May 6th.
#netgalley #wastenotwantnotinapplewell
May 16, 2023
Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell by Lilac Mills
Narrated by Claire Morgan
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
George can’t throw anything away. But he’s in danger of throwing away this opportunity to be loved…
George Nightingale is a hoarder with a house full of junk. For years he’s kept it a secret, rarely leaving his house and keeping social interactions to a minimum, but his carefully balanced system is now under threat…
Nessa Millbrook can’t wait to get settled into her new home in quaint, rural Applewell. Everyone in the village is so friendly – except her neighbour, George, who wants nothing to do with her. But Nessa isn’t one to back down from a challenge and she’s determined to win George over.
The years have taught George to shield his heart and trust no one. Yet Nessa keeps reaching out to him – does he have the courage to take a chance, and reach back?
My Opinion
This is a lovely, heart-warming tale. George is a hoarder and Nessa cannot stand to see things untidy, can they take a chance on each other? The residents of Applewell all look out for each other and it was nice to see how they come together when one of the residents is in need. Lilac Mills has written a book that deals with loneliness, mental health and hoarding in a delicate manner.
This is the first book in a new series - I have already read later books in the series so I knew that I would enjoy this visit to Applewell. This is a well-written book that worked well with Claire Morgan narrating. A lovely read and I hope that I can visit Applewell again shortly.
Rating 4/5
Narrated by Claire Morgan
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
George can’t throw anything away. But he’s in danger of throwing away this opportunity to be loved…
George Nightingale is a hoarder with a house full of junk. For years he’s kept it a secret, rarely leaving his house and keeping social interactions to a minimum, but his carefully balanced system is now under threat…
Nessa Millbrook can’t wait to get settled into her new home in quaint, rural Applewell. Everyone in the village is so friendly – except her neighbour, George, who wants nothing to do with her. But Nessa isn’t one to back down from a challenge and she’s determined to win George over.
The years have taught George to shield his heart and trust no one. Yet Nessa keeps reaching out to him – does he have the courage to take a chance, and reach back?
My Opinion
This is a lovely, heart-warming tale. George is a hoarder and Nessa cannot stand to see things untidy, can they take a chance on each other? The residents of Applewell all look out for each other and it was nice to see how they come together when one of the residents is in need. Lilac Mills has written a book that deals with loneliness, mental health and hoarding in a delicate manner.
This is the first book in a new series - I have already read later books in the series so I knew that I would enjoy this visit to Applewell. This is a well-written book that worked well with Claire Morgan narrating. A lovely read and I hope that I can visit Applewell again shortly.
Rating 4/5
May 4, 2021
This is such a heartwarming and feel-good book!
I was in the right frame of mood for this book. A bit of lightness, happiness and perfectness to cheer me up amongst all the gloom. However, if I had read it in the wrong frame of mind, I could have found the characters a little too saccharine. Nessa was a bit too overkill with her kindness and friendliness, but luckily I was in the mood to lap this up and wished I lived next door to her.
George was such a mercurial character. The way he lived gave me the heebie-jeebies, but it really made him interesting. How he would have to find new places for things and how his life had become so small because of his obsession; it made for fascinating reading.
I loved the mention of Lampeter, where I went to university, hardly anyone has ever heard of it, but there it was popping up in this book. I’d sit and just stare at the word for a while, lost in my memories before I could move on. It also helped me envisage the area and remoteness that they were living in. I went to university there in the late 90s, and trust me; it was remote. I’ve even sat at Aberystwyth train station waiting hours for a train, so again it was lovely to be able to immerse myself in the scenery and my memories.
So, Lilac Mills has pulled on the heartstrings and written the perfect cheer-inducing book. Lovely characters and fascinating subject matter all wrapped up in the ideal surroundings. I hope there is going to be more set in Applewell?
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
I was in the right frame of mood for this book. A bit of lightness, happiness and perfectness to cheer me up amongst all the gloom. However, if I had read it in the wrong frame of mind, I could have found the characters a little too saccharine. Nessa was a bit too overkill with her kindness and friendliness, but luckily I was in the mood to lap this up and wished I lived next door to her.
George was such a mercurial character. The way he lived gave me the heebie-jeebies, but it really made him interesting. How he would have to find new places for things and how his life had become so small because of his obsession; it made for fascinating reading.
I loved the mention of Lampeter, where I went to university, hardly anyone has ever heard of it, but there it was popping up in this book. I’d sit and just stare at the word for a while, lost in my memories before I could move on. It also helped me envisage the area and remoteness that they were living in. I went to university there in the late 90s, and trust me; it was remote. I’ve even sat at Aberystwyth train station waiting hours for a train, so again it was lovely to be able to immerse myself in the scenery and my memories.
So, Lilac Mills has pulled on the heartstrings and written the perfect cheer-inducing book. Lovely characters and fascinating subject matter all wrapped up in the ideal surroundings. I hope there is going to be more set in Applewell?
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
April 28, 2021
Lilac Mills has recently become one of my favorite authors after reading her holiday series. So I am jolly excited when I got a chance to read this book, a brand new book by Lilac Mills.
Meet George, who is a loner, grumpy and always keeps to himself, never really talks to anyone in Applewell. Then meet Nessa, who moves into the cottage just opposite to where he lives. Nessa is determined to be friends with her neighbor George, even though her new friends tells her that it was fruitless. George seemed to be interested in Nessa and didn't realize that his life will change for good.
I actually enjoyed reading the story! The story is told from the perspectives of George and Nessa so we know as a reader, how the characters feel about each other. The romance between them is so cute and heartwarming that I was so hooked into the story and vowed that the two will eventually date--which they eventually did!!! Despite George being a grumpy character in the beginning, I got warmed to his character and even Nessa too. The author did a good job, keeping the reader into the story! Besides, I really like the book cover too, which got attracted me to the book besides the author. Though the ending was a bit predictable, I was happy with the ending. One of the cutes, heartwarming romance novels I have read.
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the ARC! The review is based on my honest opinion only. Worth five stars!
Meet George, who is a loner, grumpy and always keeps to himself, never really talks to anyone in Applewell. Then meet Nessa, who moves into the cottage just opposite to where he lives. Nessa is determined to be friends with her neighbor George, even though her new friends tells her that it was fruitless. George seemed to be interested in Nessa and didn't realize that his life will change for good.
I actually enjoyed reading the story! The story is told from the perspectives of George and Nessa so we know as a reader, how the characters feel about each other. The romance between them is so cute and heartwarming that I was so hooked into the story and vowed that the two will eventually date--which they eventually did!!! Despite George being a grumpy character in the beginning, I got warmed to his character and even Nessa too. The author did a good job, keeping the reader into the story! Besides, I really like the book cover too, which got attracted me to the book besides the author. Though the ending was a bit predictable, I was happy with the ending. One of the cutes, heartwarming romance novels I have read.
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the ARC! The review is based on my honest opinion only. Worth five stars!
August 21, 2022
I have come to the conclusion that Lilac Mills is one of my favorite feel good,happy read authors.
Nessa Millbrook is a new resident in the quaint little village of rural Applewell.
She's the friendly type taking homemade cakes to her neighbors on both sides of her.
Her lovely older lady embraces a warm friendship but on the other hand her other side neighbor George is eccentric and doesn't want a new neighbor. Being left alone is just fine with him.
One thing I liked about the book is the main characters are middle aged which you don't see a lot of in romance books.
Nessa has her sights set on George to become her friend and then more. George is shy after being made fun of while growing up but had to return to the village to take care of his ailing father years ago and he just stayed. As she starts to break down his walls George is doing things again he hasn't done in years, such as going to the pub and socializing.
A not so secret secret George has is he's a hoarder. He thought he was able to hide it from the villagers but now that his secret is out will it hold him back from discovering love and the human interaction he so desperately needs.
Warm,well developed story that just draws you right into its characters with it's feel good plot.
Pub Date 06 May 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Nessa Millbrook is a new resident in the quaint little village of rural Applewell.
She's the friendly type taking homemade cakes to her neighbors on both sides of her.
Her lovely older lady embraces a warm friendship but on the other hand her other side neighbor George is eccentric and doesn't want a new neighbor. Being left alone is just fine with him.
One thing I liked about the book is the main characters are middle aged which you don't see a lot of in romance books.
Nessa has her sights set on George to become her friend and then more. George is shy after being made fun of while growing up but had to return to the village to take care of his ailing father years ago and he just stayed. As she starts to break down his walls George is doing things again he hasn't done in years, such as going to the pub and socializing.
A not so secret secret George has is he's a hoarder. He thought he was able to hide it from the villagers but now that his secret is out will it hold him back from discovering love and the human interaction he so desperately needs.
Warm,well developed story that just draws you right into its characters with it's feel good plot.
Pub Date 06 May 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 15, 2021
I mean no offence to the author as I'm in awe of anyone writing a book but unfortunately this one did nothing for me. I did not empathise with or relate to either of the 2 main characters and just found them highly irritating. I understand George has issues hence his obsessive behaviour but I just couldn't feel for him - I just wanted him to put those milk cartons in the recycling bin 😁 (which I know is my problem) and if I had Nessa as a neighbour I would be hiding from her too. Why would someone persist in calling on another when they've made it clear they're not wanted. Then 2 minutes later these 2 are in bed together. I just found it very hard to believe, things changing about so quickly. Unfortunately the description of George, right down to his shopping bag, just made me think of Roy on Corrie, and once I had that in my head I couldn't distance Roy from George. I really like the character Roy and because I couldn't separate the 2 characters I couldn't fit Roy as behaving as George did!
I know books are escapism and I've read this author before and very much enjoyed hence why purchased 4 more of her books at once, so hopefully it's just me not feeling it this time and my bad for not feeling the pain of the characters.
I know books are escapism and I've read this author before and very much enjoyed hence why purchased 4 more of her books at once, so hopefully it's just me not feeling it this time and my bad for not feeling the pain of the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2021
Like in the author's previous work that I reviewed on my blog, here too, we have slightly older protagonists than your average book of this ilk. This age change provides a different set of issues and plotlines to work into the story.
We have the silent struggle between an established person in the community (George), who has not made any inroads into being part of the community and a new entrant (Nessa) trying to integrate herself into the town's life the first day. This latter part means that Nessa wants to befriend George as well, given that he is one of her closest neighbours. This is where George's careful set routine is shaken since he literally does not allow anyone in.
The time window for the bulk of the story is within a short window, but it has some drastic life moments for many people within the pages. I almost read it in one sitting!
Given a chance, I think I would pick up another of the author's works because the two that I have tried were both easy to read and had very different protagonists with various baggage- before they reach their happily ever after!
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley, the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this book.
We have the silent struggle between an established person in the community (George), who has not made any inroads into being part of the community and a new entrant (Nessa) trying to integrate herself into the town's life the first day. This latter part means that Nessa wants to befriend George as well, given that he is one of her closest neighbours. This is where George's careful set routine is shaken since he literally does not allow anyone in.
The time window for the bulk of the story is within a short window, but it has some drastic life moments for many people within the pages. I almost read it in one sitting!
Given a chance, I think I would pick up another of the author's works because the two that I have tried were both easy to read and had very different protagonists with various baggage- before they reach their happily ever after!
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley, the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this book.
May 26, 2023
This was such a bright and uplifting book to listen to! I feel like there are so many romances out there with younger main characters that I find so much joy when I find one with people who are more middle aged.
Nessa’s retired life sounds like a dream to me. Walking to the beach when the weathers nice, check. Reading curled up on the couch when it’s raining, check. Baking and socializing with friends when she can, check. But of course the one thing she really wants to do is to bring her neighbor George out of his shell.
George. Sweet sweet George. This poor man has had such a lonely solitary life. Partly because he was bullied as a child and now because he is a hoarder to the extreme. I loved how he slowly opened up and started trusting Nessa as she wriggled her way into his good graces. Their relationship blooming was just so sweet to read and I absolutely adored them together.
I really enjoyed the narrator and I think she did an excellent job! I can’t wait to pick up more books by Lilac Mills and read them because this was just so good!
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio for an advance audio version of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Nessa’s retired life sounds like a dream to me. Walking to the beach when the weathers nice, check. Reading curled up on the couch when it’s raining, check. Baking and socializing with friends when she can, check. But of course the one thing she really wants to do is to bring her neighbor George out of his shell.
George. Sweet sweet George. This poor man has had such a lonely solitary life. Partly because he was bullied as a child and now because he is a hoarder to the extreme. I loved how he slowly opened up and started trusting Nessa as she wriggled her way into his good graces. Their relationship blooming was just so sweet to read and I absolutely adored them together.
I really enjoyed the narrator and I think she did an excellent job! I can’t wait to pick up more books by Lilac Mills and read them because this was just so good!
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio for an advance audio version of this book. All thoughts are my own.
April 25, 2021
I really enjoyed Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell. It's refreshing to read a story where the main characters are older and proves love and lust is not just for the young. I wasn't sure how well a book whose hero is a reclusive hoarder would work, but I was happily surprised by the story and my depth of feelings towards these two lonely people.
Both George and Nessa are well-rounded and believable main characters and their kept me turning the pages. There were plenty of emotional and heart-warming moments and the ending was perfect.
The supporting cast of Applewell village are a friendly bunch and, as this is the first book in the Applewell Village Series, I'm looking forward to many more stories set there. Lilac Mills is right up there as one of my favourite romance authors.
A special mention for Sylvia the cat - she always managed to bring a smile to my face. I do love it when a character has a furry friend.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this advance review copy.
Both George and Nessa are well-rounded and believable main characters and their kept me turning the pages. There were plenty of emotional and heart-warming moments and the ending was perfect.
The supporting cast of Applewell village are a friendly bunch and, as this is the first book in the Applewell Village Series, I'm looking forward to many more stories set there. Lilac Mills is right up there as one of my favourite romance authors.
A special mention for Sylvia the cat - she always managed to bring a smile to my face. I do love it when a character has a furry friend.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this advance review copy.
May 5, 2021
This is such a lovely, beautiful book. It certainly has the feel-good factor. I really enjoyed reading it.
This book is written with Nessa and George narrating alternate chapters. They are both middle aged and it is refreshing to have protagonists who are getting a second chance of a new beginning.
I liked Nessa's optimism, and like her, I would also think that a beach 2 miles away is almost a seafront property! The village of Applewell sounds nice.
George was a character who I couldn't see changing that quickly. He was very set in his ways, as well as being a hoarder. I was intrigued as to how his character would develop, as well as really hoping that he would find happiness. It is not often that a romantic novel has a protagonist with such a big problem to overcome.
The subject of Waste not want not is interesting, I often reuse or upcycle my belongings, so I liked this theme. This book is different and refreshing with its storyline and age of the protagonists. It
is heartwarming and engaging.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC
This book is written with Nessa and George narrating alternate chapters. They are both middle aged and it is refreshing to have protagonists who are getting a second chance of a new beginning.
I liked Nessa's optimism, and like her, I would also think that a beach 2 miles away is almost a seafront property! The village of Applewell sounds nice.
George was a character who I couldn't see changing that quickly. He was very set in his ways, as well as being a hoarder. I was intrigued as to how his character would develop, as well as really hoping that he would find happiness. It is not often that a romantic novel has a protagonist with such a big problem to overcome.
The subject of Waste not want not is interesting, I often reuse or upcycle my belongings, so I liked this theme. This book is different and refreshing with its storyline and age of the protagonists. It
is heartwarming and engaging.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC
May 10, 2021
the cover of this book is very bewitching and the description is very inviting, so i was really excited to read it. and i wasn’t disappointed. it’s a very light, heart-warming story about two lonely people who find a company in each other.
what i was very interested to read about (apart from the romance part, of course) was george’s hoarding. i have very basic knowledge about this subject and never came upon it in any book, so i was very excited to know a little bit more about it. that’s definitely something worthy of note.
george and nessa’s relationship itself was also very compelling. it was sweet, moving and, above all, very healthy. i absolutely loved how supportive and patient nessa was; that is, in my opinion, a recipe for the perfect relationship.
i think i would enjoy this book more if i was a little bit older, since there is a really big age gap between me and the characters and we’re on a very different stages of life, but i still can appreciate an interesting and well-written story. 3 stars.
- arc kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
what i was very interested to read about (apart from the romance part, of course) was george’s hoarding. i have very basic knowledge about this subject and never came upon it in any book, so i was very excited to know a little bit more about it. that’s definitely something worthy of note.
george and nessa’s relationship itself was also very compelling. it was sweet, moving and, above all, very healthy. i absolutely loved how supportive and patient nessa was; that is, in my opinion, a recipe for the perfect relationship.
i think i would enjoy this book more if i was a little bit older, since there is a really big age gap between me and the characters and we’re on a very different stages of life, but i still can appreciate an interesting and well-written story. 3 stars.
- arc kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2023
Nessa Millbrook has just bought a home in Applewell to enjoy her retirement in. She is eager to settle in and make her home her own and meet her neighbors in the quant rural village. One neighbor, George Nightingale, is proving hard to get to know. George is a hoarder and keeps this fact hidden from all the nosy villagers by rarely leaving his house and keeping social interactions to the bare minimum. Nessa becomes enamored with George and makes it her mission to crack his hard exterior and get to know him. Thankfully, Nessa is quite determined and does not give up on the quirky man next door. After a series of events, Nessa and George realize that they both need each other and quickly, their new friendship becomes romantic. This is a sweet story of finding love later in life and learning to let go of the past. The audiobook was a delightful experience that enhanced the story.
I just reviewed Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell by Lilac Mills. #WasteNotWantNotinApplewell #NetGalley
I just reviewed Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell by Lilac Mills. #WasteNotWantNotinApplewell #NetGalley
April 16, 2021
Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell is my first Lilac Mills book and I absolutely loved it, finishing it pretty quickly because it's one of those books that has you wanting to know what happens next all the way through.
George is a long time resident of Applewell and Nessa has recently moved in next door to him, much to his annoyance. She wants to be friends with him whilst he'd rather have nothing to do with her, but not because he doesn't like her. In fact it's quite the opposite; he does like her but he's afraid that she'll find out his secret. I found George to be such an endearing character and Nessa complemented him beautifully, with her sunny and compassionate nature. I really enjoyed the way this story unfolded and the deepening connection between George and Nessa really was a delight to read. There were moments where I was laughing out loud and moments which brought a lump to my throat - a sure sign that the book is a winner for me.
George is a long time resident of Applewell and Nessa has recently moved in next door to him, much to his annoyance. She wants to be friends with him whilst he'd rather have nothing to do with her, but not because he doesn't like her. In fact it's quite the opposite; he does like her but he's afraid that she'll find out his secret. I found George to be such an endearing character and Nessa complemented him beautifully, with her sunny and compassionate nature. I really enjoyed the way this story unfolded and the deepening connection between George and Nessa really was a delight to read. There were moments where I was laughing out loud and moments which brought a lump to my throat - a sure sign that the book is a winner for me.
June 11, 2023
Nessa Millbrook purchases a cottage in Applewell, a rural Welsh town near the coast. Everyone is welcoming except next door neighbor George Nightingale. Nessa reaches out to George in neighborly ways leaving him a cake and inviting him over for tea. His curmudgeonly behaviors are actually a cover. He doesn’t want to be friendly as someone will know his secret, he is a hoarder. This is a very sweet story with mild heat. George reciprocates her kindness in odd and proper ways. As a retired nurse she understands his issue better than some. I’m not sure this book tackles true hoarders mentality issues. I liked the characters and the audiobook was an easy listen. I enjoyed the narration by Claire Morgan very much. Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Egmont Audio for the audiobook and I am leaving a voluntary review.
April 29, 2021
Waste Not, Want Not in Applewell - Lilac Mills
Having previously read and thoroughly enjoyed Sunset on the Square I was so excited to be approved this book via NetGalley. Once again the author enabled me to get lost in the setting of the story (Applewell) and fall in love with the characters (I just loved George and also Nessa's older neighbour Mahri). This was such a cosy heart-warming read, which also touches on the subject of hoarding....who knew this could be so interesting - loved it! I'm really looking for ward to Lilac's next book whether it is another visit to Applewell or elsewhere, I would be happy to follow this author anywhere. Overall another corker of a read from Lilac Mills!
Having previously read and thoroughly enjoyed Sunset on the Square I was so excited to be approved this book via NetGalley. Once again the author enabled me to get lost in the setting of the story (Applewell) and fall in love with the characters (I just loved George and also Nessa's older neighbour Mahri). This was such a cosy heart-warming read, which also touches on the subject of hoarding....who knew this could be so interesting - loved it! I'm really looking for ward to Lilac's next book whether it is another visit to Applewell or elsewhere, I would be happy to follow this author anywhere. Overall another corker of a read from Lilac Mills!
May 11, 2021
I wanted to read this book based on its cover - I didn't entirely read what it was about and I just expected your usual easy summer read, with a bit of romance.
But this isn't like your usual summer romance book, as firstly the main characters aren't your usual young people - in fact they are of retirement age (or thereabouts).
And secondly the main male character George, is a hoarder, which is not something I have ever personally seen covered in any sort of book at all. And although the book is mainly a lighthearted book, it does also have a sadder underlying storyline, as to why he ended up this way and how he didn't let anyone come close.
Great read, that I really enjoyed - would definitely recommend.
But this isn't like your usual summer romance book, as firstly the main characters aren't your usual young people - in fact they are of retirement age (or thereabouts).
And secondly the main male character George, is a hoarder, which is not something I have ever personally seen covered in any sort of book at all. And although the book is mainly a lighthearted book, it does also have a sadder underlying storyline, as to why he ended up this way and how he didn't let anyone come close.
Great read, that I really enjoyed - would definitely recommend.
August 17, 2022
I did enjoy this book. It gave an insight into wha t it was like to be someone who never throws things away thus it becoming an obsession. The support and understanding required to overcome this is covered in a sensitive manner and in its way gave an insight into the extent of the problems encountered. It was a touching and moving story with romance incorporated and playing an important role along with the sensitivity shown by people who care. It was well written and I liked the way it flicked between the main characters who were well characterised. I did feel that the personality of one character changed a bit too quickly but I guess that was because the story could have become boring and endless if not. Overall a good read.
March 2, 2025
I’ve never been more enthusiastic about decluttering my parents house than I am right now.
While the book dragged, and the narration of the two main characters personal relationship was ‘cringe’ for want of a better word… I DO think the author did a fair job portraying a hoarder, hoarding issues and how keeping more things than are necessary hold deeper meaning than someone living in a ‘messy’ or ‘cluttered’ home. It’s easy to say ‘oh just get rid of it?!’, ‘why have you got all this stuff?!’
Shaming people about their habits is not helpful at all and doesn’t encourage a solution, and I think Nessa’s kindness and patience with George in her approach to his hoarding was fair.
As an overall book?! Bit long winded. It would have been nice to hear more about Mairi.
While the book dragged, and the narration of the two main characters personal relationship was ‘cringe’ for want of a better word… I DO think the author did a fair job portraying a hoarder, hoarding issues and how keeping more things than are necessary hold deeper meaning than someone living in a ‘messy’ or ‘cluttered’ home. It’s easy to say ‘oh just get rid of it?!’, ‘why have you got all this stuff?!’
Shaming people about their habits is not helpful at all and doesn’t encourage a solution, and I think Nessa’s kindness and patience with George in her approach to his hoarding was fair.
As an overall book?! Bit long winded. It would have been nice to hear more about Mairi.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2021
A sweet story of finding love in middle age. Set in Wales, the descriptions of the scenery and village are enjoyable. The relationships and conversations between the villagers seem slightly old fashioned, but I hope that life like this, where people look out for each other and have almost instant friendships goes on somewhere. The romance part was sweet, but maybe a little too unbelievable in this day and age.
A pleasant read, following the traditional romantic book formula .... I need something with a little more bite as my next book
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
A pleasant read, following the traditional romantic book formula .... I need something with a little more bite as my next book
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
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