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The Cornish Midwife #4
A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife
Midwife Jess knows she’ll never have a baby of her own, but she’s determined to still be a mum. So Jess decides to foster, providing love and support for children who desperately need it – something Jess never had as a child when she was in foster care.
Jess loves caring for the precious babies who come into her life, but letting them go again breaks her heart every time - can she really be a mum after all?
But then Jess finds a surprise on her doorstep – a newborn baby! As the search for the missing mum begins, Jess cares for the precious babe day and night. She desperately wants to reunite mum and baby, but knows that when the day comes, her own heart will shatter.
Jess loves caring for the precious babies who come into her life, but letting them go again breaks her heart every time - can she really be a mum after all?
But then Jess finds a surprise on her doorstep – a newborn baby! As the search for the missing mum begins, Jess cares for the precious babe day and night. She desperately wants to reunite mum and baby, but knows that when the day comes, her own heart will shatter.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2022
337 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
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November 12, 2023
*Family Dynamics*
This instalment focuses on midwife Jess, she has always wanted children and tests revealed she is unlikely to realise that dream. Her husband decided to run off with other women therefore fracturing her heart. Sadly her mother died when Jess was young and her father could not cope so she was in the foster care system and never felt loved.
She decides with encouragement to explore short term fostering with her job pulling out all the stops to enable her to fulfil her dream.
One day she finds a surprise arrival on her doorstep a newborn baby. The child looks familiar and when she finds out the baby’s parentage she is gobsmacked. The trouble is Jess starts to bond with the child.
We see her journey into fostering and the pain she feels letting go of the child and then there is a surprise opportunity for love that she fights all the way due to her fear of getting hurt. We also see how she re-emerges from a shy blend in the background person to someone who even surprises herself as she almost misses what is right in front of her…
This instalment focuses on midwife Jess, she has always wanted children and tests revealed she is unlikely to realise that dream. Her husband decided to run off with other women therefore fracturing her heart. Sadly her mother died when Jess was young and her father could not cope so she was in the foster care system and never felt loved.
She decides with encouragement to explore short term fostering with her job pulling out all the stops to enable her to fulfil her dream.
One day she finds a surprise arrival on her doorstep a newborn baby. The child looks familiar and when she finds out the baby’s parentage she is gobsmacked. The trouble is Jess starts to bond with the child.
We see her journey into fostering and the pain she feels letting go of the child and then there is a surprise opportunity for love that she fights all the way due to her fear of getting hurt. We also see how she re-emerges from a shy blend in the background person to someone who even surprises herself as she almost misses what is right in front of her…
November 12, 2025
The fourth installment of the Cornish Midwife series is here. I really appreciated the third book (A Winter Wish for the Cornish Midwife), so jumping at the chance to lay my hands on A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife has been a straightforward decision.
December 30, 2021
Without a doubt the best book in this series so far, don't bother reading the rest of this review, just trust me and if anything about the blurb, or your knowledge of this author appeals to you, then just start reading as you won't regret it.
When I read the previous book I was marginally surprised that it didn't feel as dramatic as the others in the series, well the author has certainly rectified that in this book, and this is absolutely chock a block full of drama.
From a baby arriving on Jess's doorstep, a cliffside rescue, some tricky births there is not a chance to pause for breath as you read this. And that's before you take into account how well the emotions are depicted, to the extent that towards the end I had tears pouring down my face, and it's rare a book will make me actually cry! But that is testament to how well it is written and how much I was caring for those that star in it.
I loved finally getting to know Jess a lot more, and of course we keep up with the stories of the other midwives too, but even if you haven't read the previous books, this can certainly be read as a standalone novel.
I absolutely adore spending time in Port Agnes with these midwives, and feel like I'm part of the team whenever I start reading. From the first few pages I felt completely at home again with these characters and unlike some series, I do tend to remember things from book to book which does help.
I can't get enough of these books, and am amazed how fresh each one feels, even with the heart of them being about community midwives and women giving birth, the individuals that work at the unit and their lives are just so great to learn about that I am hooked.
Already can't wait to find out who the focus of the next book will be, just please don't make me wait too long.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
When I read the previous book I was marginally surprised that it didn't feel as dramatic as the others in the series, well the author has certainly rectified that in this book, and this is absolutely chock a block full of drama.
From a baby arriving on Jess's doorstep, a cliffside rescue, some tricky births there is not a chance to pause for breath as you read this. And that's before you take into account how well the emotions are depicted, to the extent that towards the end I had tears pouring down my face, and it's rare a book will make me actually cry! But that is testament to how well it is written and how much I was caring for those that star in it.
I loved finally getting to know Jess a lot more, and of course we keep up with the stories of the other midwives too, but even if you haven't read the previous books, this can certainly be read as a standalone novel.
I absolutely adore spending time in Port Agnes with these midwives, and feel like I'm part of the team whenever I start reading. From the first few pages I felt completely at home again with these characters and unlike some series, I do tend to remember things from book to book which does help.
I can't get enough of these books, and am amazed how fresh each one feels, even with the heart of them being about community midwives and women giving birth, the individuals that work at the unit and their lives are just so great to learn about that I am hooked.
Already can't wait to find out who the focus of the next book will be, just please don't make me wait too long.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 11, 2021
I enjoyed reading Jess's story. I found it believable and both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
Jess had a good start in life but still at the young age of 10, her life takes a turn for the worse.
What happened affected her deeply and my heart went out to this kind, caring woman who is great at her midwifery job - nothing is too much trouble for her and all this done whilst she is suffering so much inside.
Jess looks into fostering, and I can see why she would want to, but how will she cope emotionally, even with support from her midwife friends and Dexter; a former Social Worker, who she has formed a close friendship with.
One day she finds an unexpected 'delivery' on her doorstep. A newborn baby.
Jess has an idea of who the baby belongs to but for now she is determined to look after the baby and in doing so it opens up her maternal instincts and she dreads having to part with the baby.
At this point I imagined how Jess would be feeling and I did find the narrative a little bit too repetitive. Then again, I felt even more of Jess's anxiety and in the real world, this is exactly how someone might feel.
It came as a shock on finding out the identity of the baby's birth parents and where does it now leave Jess?
I loved the setting and would love to live on the Cornish Coast. Puffin's nest looking out over Port Agnes sounded idyllic, and with the close-knit community spirit, it would be the perfect place to live.
I wanted peace to settle into Jess's heart and for her to find a huge slice of happiness because nobody deserved it more than her.
I definitely recommend this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
Jess had a good start in life but still at the young age of 10, her life takes a turn for the worse.
What happened affected her deeply and my heart went out to this kind, caring woman who is great at her midwifery job - nothing is too much trouble for her and all this done whilst she is suffering so much inside.
Jess looks into fostering, and I can see why she would want to, but how will she cope emotionally, even with support from her midwife friends and Dexter; a former Social Worker, who she has formed a close friendship with.
One day she finds an unexpected 'delivery' on her doorstep. A newborn baby.
Jess has an idea of who the baby belongs to but for now she is determined to look after the baby and in doing so it opens up her maternal instincts and she dreads having to part with the baby.
At this point I imagined how Jess would be feeling and I did find the narrative a little bit too repetitive. Then again, I felt even more of Jess's anxiety and in the real world, this is exactly how someone might feel.
It came as a shock on finding out the identity of the baby's birth parents and where does it now leave Jess?
I loved the setting and would love to live on the Cornish Coast. Puffin's nest looking out over Port Agnes sounded idyllic, and with the close-knit community spirit, it would be the perfect place to live.
I wanted peace to settle into Jess's heart and for her to find a huge slice of happiness because nobody deserved it more than her.
I definitely recommend this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
September 26, 2022
The plot of this book was something quite different from what I usually read and I was a bit apprehensive considering I don't much like reading about the bond between a kid and a parent figure but the author captured my heart beautifully and I was totally enamored by Jess and her story.
Jess was kind, caring and so so sweet and the author didn't shy away from showing her vulnerabilities, it made it easier for me to connect to her on some level. Although I couldn't completely relate to her in the true sense , it was an emotional journey and watching her from the sidelines made me quite teary eyed as well.
Jess was kind, caring and so so sweet and the author didn't shy away from showing her vulnerabilities, it made it easier for me to connect to her on some level. Although I couldn't completely relate to her in the true sense , it was an emotional journey and watching her from the sidelines made me quite teary eyed as well.
January 8, 2022
This is the fourth book in the series but each book is a stand alone as they each feature a different midwife. The author has done a lot of research on the day to day duties of midwives as evidenced in the story. This is a bit heartbreaking as a strong attachment is made but it is unable to continue.
It's about wanting to do what you know is right even though you know your own heart will shatter in the process.
Pub Date 04 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
It's about wanting to do what you know is right even though you know your own heart will shatter in the process.
Pub Date 04 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
December 30, 2021
I have been loving this series so jumped at the chance to revisit the lovely ladies in Port Agnes and I was not disappointed. After a bit of a reading slump this book captured me and left me keen to keep picking up my book.
As Jess continues her journey into fostering whilst getting to know more of the charming Dexter, Anna is edging closer to maternity leave and the arrival of her twins. A story packed with emotional highs and lows, where we get to know we midwives and also spend time with our favourites.
This story held my attention from first to last page and has totally recaptured my love of reading. A truly superb read, to curl up with as we are once again welcomed into this wonderful community.
As Jess continues her journey into fostering whilst getting to know more of the charming Dexter, Anna is edging closer to maternity leave and the arrival of her twins. A story packed with emotional highs and lows, where we get to know we midwives and also spend time with our favourites.
This story held my attention from first to last page and has totally recaptured my love of reading. A truly superb read, to curl up with as we are once again welcomed into this wonderful community.
January 6, 2022
As for me, a mother of 3 children, this book has become a real treasure. I love A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife so much! Amazing start for New Year!
Dreams always come true, the main thing is to want it very much!
Jess dreamed to be a mom, but her dream would never have come true if her desire were less than this dream. She is an amazing woman, who is always ready to help, kind and sympathetic. She had a rough childhood, unsuccessful marriage and worst of all, Jess could not have children. It seemed that happiness did not wait for Jess, until she has found a surprise at her doorstep in one fine morning. Would she be able to free herself from the burden of the past, her childhood and would she allow herself to be happy?
Jess is a midwife. It's great, that the author showed so realistic what it would mean to be pregnant and the mother of a newborn. Reading these moments, I felt that I was reliving those unique emotions when my children just came into this World. Wonderful!
I will definitely recommend this book to book lovers who enjoy reading women's fiction and romance, who prefer well-written books.
Thanks to Jo Bartlett, Bolwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Dreams always come true, the main thing is to want it very much!
Jess dreamed to be a mom, but her dream would never have come true if her desire were less than this dream. She is an amazing woman, who is always ready to help, kind and sympathetic. She had a rough childhood, unsuccessful marriage and worst of all, Jess could not have children. It seemed that happiness did not wait for Jess, until she has found a surprise at her doorstep in one fine morning. Would she be able to free herself from the burden of the past, her childhood and would she allow herself to be happy?
Jess is a midwife. It's great, that the author showed so realistic what it would mean to be pregnant and the mother of a newborn. Reading these moments, I felt that I was reliving those unique emotions when my children just came into this World. Wonderful!
I will definitely recommend this book to book lovers who enjoy reading women's fiction and romance, who prefer well-written books.
Thanks to Jo Bartlett, Bolwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
January 3, 2022
Get the tissues ready when you read this emotional book
At which I can't recommend highly enough that you look.
It is the fourth in the series but will standalone so
I really suggest you give it a go!
Whilst it follows the midwives in the Port Agnes team
Life for each of them isn't always a dream
Jess is the main character and what she's been through
Really have you hoping that, at last, her dreams will come true.
It is a highly emotive, action filled read
With an abandoned baby, a sea and cliff rescue and folks in need.
Through it all, dare Jess risk her heart taking chances?
Will this prove to be heartbreak or heartwarming romances?
The drama of her childhood, so movingly shared,
Has her assuming all will leave when she for them cares.
Now with new twists that keep you gasping as your read
This is when those tissues I warned about you're really going to need.
With opportunities and chances, more births and romances,
This is a fantastic addition filled with many different chances
To discover how things work out for Jess, this book you really need
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, for me its a 5* read!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed escaping into it and this is my honest review.
At which I can't recommend highly enough that you look.
It is the fourth in the series but will standalone so
I really suggest you give it a go!
Whilst it follows the midwives in the Port Agnes team
Life for each of them isn't always a dream
Jess is the main character and what she's been through
Really have you hoping that, at last, her dreams will come true.
It is a highly emotive, action filled read
With an abandoned baby, a sea and cliff rescue and folks in need.
Through it all, dare Jess risk her heart taking chances?
Will this prove to be heartbreak or heartwarming romances?
The drama of her childhood, so movingly shared,
Has her assuming all will leave when she for them cares.
Now with new twists that keep you gasping as your read
This is when those tissues I warned about you're really going to need.
With opportunities and chances, more births and romances,
This is a fantastic addition filled with many different chances
To discover how things work out for Jess, this book you really need
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, for me its a 5* read!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed escaping into it and this is my honest review.
January 28, 2022
Fans of the Cornish Midwife series will not be disappointed with the latest installment in the series A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife.
I loved, loved, loved this book even though it did break my heart at times. Be sure to have a box of tissues nearby; you will definitely need it. I was so excited to read this book because I adore Jess and could wait to watch as she started her journey as a foster mom. Jo has done an excellent job with this series. Each book is fresh and heartfelt, and even after four books, I still feel engaged with the characters and plot, and I’m just so excited to see what will happen next.
This book starts with Jess anxiously waiting for her first assignment as a foster mom while avoiding calls and texts from her ex-husband and Dexter (her love interest in this book). Thank goodness she has her job as a midwife and her friends to help keep her grounded. Jess’s life takes an expected turn when she opens her front door to find a newborn baby on her doorstep. Everyone agrees that Jess should look after the baby until the mom can be found. But the longer Jess cares for the baby, the more she realizes letting little Teddy go will break her heart. If life wasn’t complicated enough for Jess, she has an ex-husband that doesn’t understand the meaning of no, her job is SUPER busy, her estranged father is trying to reconnect with her, and she can’t figure out where she stands with Dexter (are they friends, lovers, or just acquaintances).
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/01/...
I loved, loved, loved this book even though it did break my heart at times. Be sure to have a box of tissues nearby; you will definitely need it. I was so excited to read this book because I adore Jess and could wait to watch as she started her journey as a foster mom. Jo has done an excellent job with this series. Each book is fresh and heartfelt, and even after four books, I still feel engaged with the characters and plot, and I’m just so excited to see what will happen next.
This book starts with Jess anxiously waiting for her first assignment as a foster mom while avoiding calls and texts from her ex-husband and Dexter (her love interest in this book). Thank goodness she has her job as a midwife and her friends to help keep her grounded. Jess’s life takes an expected turn when she opens her front door to find a newborn baby on her doorstep. Everyone agrees that Jess should look after the baby until the mom can be found. But the longer Jess cares for the baby, the more she realizes letting little Teddy go will break her heart. If life wasn’t complicated enough for Jess, she has an ex-husband that doesn’t understand the meaning of no, her job is SUPER busy, her estranged father is trying to reconnect with her, and she can’t figure out where she stands with Dexter (are they friends, lovers, or just acquaintances).
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/01/...
November 2, 2024
Absolutely loved this.
January 10, 2022
I thought Jo had hit the emotions hard with the previous book; A Winter’s Wish for the Cornish Midwife, but she does it again with this book. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for the tissues while reading this, I did on a few occasions! I also found myself holding my breath for a few chapters while we were at Ocean’s Cove, that is a pretty intense experience I can tell you!
The multitude of characters in this book is just as welcoming as in the previous books, there are a lot of midwives but I love how much you get to know them all throughout the books. Because of this if doesn’t feel like there are too many characters, but instead it gives a sense of community and a friendship network that you feel part of. I always look forward to returning to Port Agnes and finding out what’s happening with everyone.
A Spring Surprise is based around Jess, who hasn’t had the best couple of years recently - in fact she’s not had the best of luck for a very long while but things started looking up in the previous book with her starting to process to become a foster parent. She had started to develop a friendship with her previous social worker Dexter and I was so excited to see where this path would take her - it looked so promising and like most of the midwives she really does deserve a happy ending!
There are a lot of ups and downs in this book and it’s safe to say it’s far from plain sailing but throughout it all I really wanted the best for Jess and felt for her on a lot of levels. Riley is also just the cutest little boy and I can just picture the sandcastle scene so clearly - and his utter joy when they didn’t get washed away!
Another cracking instalment from Jo and I’m already ready and waiting for book 5! I’m also looking forward to hearing more from Gwen one day maybe? Although I think my interest has been peaked by Izzy at the moment…
The multitude of characters in this book is just as welcoming as in the previous books, there are a lot of midwives but I love how much you get to know them all throughout the books. Because of this if doesn’t feel like there are too many characters, but instead it gives a sense of community and a friendship network that you feel part of. I always look forward to returning to Port Agnes and finding out what’s happening with everyone.
A Spring Surprise is based around Jess, who hasn’t had the best couple of years recently - in fact she’s not had the best of luck for a very long while but things started looking up in the previous book with her starting to process to become a foster parent. She had started to develop a friendship with her previous social worker Dexter and I was so excited to see where this path would take her - it looked so promising and like most of the midwives she really does deserve a happy ending!
There are a lot of ups and downs in this book and it’s safe to say it’s far from plain sailing but throughout it all I really wanted the best for Jess and felt for her on a lot of levels. Riley is also just the cutest little boy and I can just picture the sandcastle scene so clearly - and his utter joy when they didn’t get washed away!
Another cracking instalment from Jo and I’m already ready and waiting for book 5! I’m also looking forward to hearing more from Gwen one day maybe? Although I think my interest has been peaked by Izzy at the moment…
January 8, 2022
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife by Jo Bartlett
MY REVIEW
Jess Kennedy is 29 and after a difficult life, she is now happy being a midwife in Port Agnes in Cornwall. She just been approved for foster care when baby boy appears on her doorstep. Jess has had to deal with infertility and has reluctantly accepted she will never be a mother, but with baby Teddy to look after, she wonders if that situation could change.
To further complicate matters, her ex-husband Dom keeps messaging her and she is becoming close to a man called Dexter and his stepson Riley.
Of course, you’ll have to read the book to discover what happens – and I recommend you do.
This is the fourth novel in The Cornish Midwives series, but it was the first one I have read and it works perfectly well as a standalone book. It features so many lovely characters and I really enjoyed the great camaraderie between the midwives.
There are lots of exciting “adventures” along the way too – more than I expected for this kind of book, which kept me reading and held my interest throughout.
Jess can be really infuriating, I was shouting at her (in my head!) several times, telling her to make a different decision – but that shows how engaged I was in the story and that I cared about the characters and what was going to happen to them.
It was an enjoyable read, easy to get into and well written.
MY REVIEW
Jess Kennedy is 29 and after a difficult life, she is now happy being a midwife in Port Agnes in Cornwall. She just been approved for foster care when baby boy appears on her doorstep. Jess has had to deal with infertility and has reluctantly accepted she will never be a mother, but with baby Teddy to look after, she wonders if that situation could change.
To further complicate matters, her ex-husband Dom keeps messaging her and she is becoming close to a man called Dexter and his stepson Riley.
Of course, you’ll have to read the book to discover what happens – and I recommend you do.
This is the fourth novel in The Cornish Midwives series, but it was the first one I have read and it works perfectly well as a standalone book. It features so many lovely characters and I really enjoyed the great camaraderie between the midwives.
There are lots of exciting “adventures” along the way too – more than I expected for this kind of book, which kept me reading and held my interest throughout.
Jess can be really infuriating, I was shouting at her (in my head!) several times, telling her to make a different decision – but that shows how engaged I was in the story and that I cared about the characters and what was going to happen to them.
It was an enjoyable read, easy to get into and well written.
January 4, 2022
A Spring Surprise For The Cornish Midwife
By Jo Bartlett Pub Date 4th January 2022
Midwife Jess knows she'll never have a baby of her own, but she's determined to still be a mum. So Jess decides to foster, providing love and support for children who desperately need it – something Jess never had as a child when she was in foster care.
Jess loves caring for the precious babies who come into her life, but letting them go again breaks her heart every time - can she really be a mum after all?
But then Jess finds a surprise on her doorstep – a newborn baby! As the search for the missing mum begins, Jess cares for the precious babe day and night. She desperately wants to reunite mum and baby, but knows that when the day comes, her own heart will shatter.
Jo Bartlett conjures up another excellent instalment of the Cornish Midwife Series. Having read all three previous books, I particularly enjoy how each new story focuses on a different midwife each time but still keep us in touch with the lives of the others in the unit and familiar faces we have met along the way.
Jo has invested time in making rememberable, likeable, loveable characters; it felt like catching up with old friends and the joy of meeting new ones.
The stories invariably deal with some sensitive subjects, and there are heartbreaking, unsettling
elements, but there is also happiness, tenderness and love.
I would recommend reading as a Series as they are delightful, and you get to know the characters' backstories, which would add to your enjoyment.
You can find the first three books in all good bookstores, online and in-store and book four available to pre-order.
The Cornish Midwife - Book 1
A Summer Wedding For The Cornish Midwife - Book 2
A Winters Wish For The Cornish Midwife - Book 3
By Jo Bartlett Pub Date 4th January 2022
Midwife Jess knows she'll never have a baby of her own, but she's determined to still be a mum. So Jess decides to foster, providing love and support for children who desperately need it – something Jess never had as a child when she was in foster care.
Jess loves caring for the precious babies who come into her life, but letting them go again breaks her heart every time - can she really be a mum after all?
But then Jess finds a surprise on her doorstep – a newborn baby! As the search for the missing mum begins, Jess cares for the precious babe day and night. She desperately wants to reunite mum and baby, but knows that when the day comes, her own heart will shatter.
Jo Bartlett conjures up another excellent instalment of the Cornish Midwife Series. Having read all three previous books, I particularly enjoy how each new story focuses on a different midwife each time but still keep us in touch with the lives of the others in the unit and familiar faces we have met along the way.
Jo has invested time in making rememberable, likeable, loveable characters; it felt like catching up with old friends and the joy of meeting new ones.
The stories invariably deal with some sensitive subjects, and there are heartbreaking, unsettling
elements, but there is also happiness, tenderness and love.
I would recommend reading as a Series as they are delightful, and you get to know the characters' backstories, which would add to your enjoyment.
You can find the first three books in all good bookstores, online and in-store and book four available to pre-order.
The Cornish Midwife - Book 1
A Summer Wedding For The Cornish Midwife - Book 2
A Winters Wish For The Cornish Midwife - Book 3
January 4, 2022
The real stars of this series are the team of midwives who are ai its centre. It is great to be able to catch up with the ones we have met earlier in the series and to guess whose turn it will be next to be centre stage. Jess is a wonderful character with a complicated childhood and a real drive to make life better for young people who have had a poor start in life. I was surprised at how the story went but she always managed to work through what life was throwing her and to reason her way out of things. She has some serious choices to make, not all of which will lead to her total happiness but her desire to be a mother is a driving force which just seems to get stronger.
What constitutes a family and how people can meet the challenges life throws at them are major themes in the story. Is it possible to forgive and to move on? Dexter is also a believable character who has so many good qualities that Jess can hardly believe he can exist! Whether they can work through her vulnerabilities where relationships are concerned remains to be seen. With a stunning setting, sense of community and a whole cast of characters, this is a great series and I can't wait for number 5!
In short: New starts and old memories
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
What constitutes a family and how people can meet the challenges life throws at them are major themes in the story. Is it possible to forgive and to move on? Dexter is also a believable character who has so many good qualities that Jess can hardly believe he can exist! Whether they can work through her vulnerabilities where relationships are concerned remains to be seen. With a stunning setting, sense of community and a whole cast of characters, this is a great series and I can't wait for number 5!
In short: New starts and old memories
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
December 30, 2021
The first thing to say about this book is that although it is part of a series, each book focusses on a different midwife so it’s no problem to read them out of order. I certainly felt I got to know the characters easily enough. The main character in this book is Jess and the story centres on her fostering the abandoned baby boy, Teddy, who she found on her doorstep. I really felt for her growing so attached to this baby, even though she knew that eventually she wouldn’t be able to keep him.
Although Jess was the main character, I actually found Issy’s story even more engaging. She was helping her grandma fulfil some of her dreams and this was all the more poignant since her grandparents had taken her in as a young child.
There is plenty of drama in the book and it’s not all about the births! There’s a cliffside rescue, a meddling ex causing all kinds of unexpected difficulties and the added complication of a potential new relationship for Jess, but she is keeping rather a big secret from the man in question which is making her feel rather guilty.
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife gave an interesting glimpse into life as a community midwife with the pressures and joys that brings. The team were clearly so dedicated to their work and the author created a real sense of camaraderie and support between them. A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife was an easy to read and enjoyable book.
Although Jess was the main character, I actually found Issy’s story even more engaging. She was helping her grandma fulfil some of her dreams and this was all the more poignant since her grandparents had taken her in as a young child.
There is plenty of drama in the book and it’s not all about the births! There’s a cliffside rescue, a meddling ex causing all kinds of unexpected difficulties and the added complication of a potential new relationship for Jess, but she is keeping rather a big secret from the man in question which is making her feel rather guilty.
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife gave an interesting glimpse into life as a community midwife with the pressures and joys that brings. The team were clearly so dedicated to their work and the author created a real sense of camaraderie and support between them. A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife was an easy to read and enjoyable book.
March 15, 2022
Best book I’ve read this year heartwarming story and fun read
June 5, 2022
The fourth instalment of the Cornish midwife series concentrated on Jess and her story of previous heartbreak, let downs and infertility, it was at times both heartbreaking but also heartwarming as Jess learnt to trust and love once again!
Jess a midwife, recently separated from her cheating husband and newly approved foster carer finds a surprise delivery on her doorstep one day! Baby Teddy changes Jess’s life as she learns to love Teddy all helped by the delectable Dexter however the path of true love never runs smoothly and we follow Jess as she experiences huge highs and lows emotionally as she works through her feelings for Dexter, Teddy and her previously estranged father!
A good read full of ups and downs, missed opportunities, conflicted emotions, but overwhelmingly of learning to trust and second chances!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Jess a midwife, recently separated from her cheating husband and newly approved foster carer finds a surprise delivery on her doorstep one day! Baby Teddy changes Jess’s life as she learns to love Teddy all helped by the delectable Dexter however the path of true love never runs smoothly and we follow Jess as she experiences huge highs and lows emotionally as she works through her feelings for Dexter, Teddy and her previously estranged father!
A good read full of ups and downs, missed opportunities, conflicted emotions, but overwhelmingly of learning to trust and second chances!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
November 27, 2024
Great book again, good characters and storyline
January 6, 2025
Really enjoying this series, very wholesome and British with interesting midwifery facts thrown in.
February 7, 2022
Love it
I adore this series. It has the most lovable characters. I could honestly read about them and their lives forever ❤️
I adore this series. It has the most lovable characters. I could honestly read about them and their lives forever ❤️
November 4, 2025
loved it,
January 22, 2022
Wow what a story. This is the fourth book in The Cornish Midwife series and boy this is a emotional rollercoaster. Jess comes back home after her marriage falls apart and decides to become a foster parent until one day someone leaves a surprise on her doorstep. You need to read this to find out what Jess does next. Although this is book four in this series it is a definite standalone.
January 5, 2022
Was so looking forward to revisiting Port Agnes again and this book didn’t disappoint. Jess’s story was both heartbreaking, had me reaching for the tissues and uplifting as everything she ever wanted fell into place for her and she got her happy ever after. Full of laughter, tears and bonnie babies this story gave me an aww feeling.
December 5, 2021
This is the second book I have read in the Cornish Midwives series. The characters are wonderfully unique and flawed which makes them realistic and likeable. The setting sounds beautiful and I would love to walk on the beach. This book centres on Jess as she begins to foster children. She is trying to recover from the breakup of her marriage and the realization that she will never have children of her own. Her childhood has deeply affected her, living in various foster homes and never feeling like she belonged has left her unable to get close to people. As she leaves for work she finds a baby on her doorstep. The story behind who the baby belongs to becomes the centre of this book. Jess must find the strength to rebuild her life and learn to love again.
The other midwives appear in the story but more as secondary characters. This book could be a stand alone book although it would be easier if you read a the other books in the series so you know their backstory.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this lovely book. A quick read that will leave you feeling hopeful.
The other midwives appear in the story but more as secondary characters. This book could be a stand alone book although it would be easier if you read a the other books in the series so you know their backstory.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this lovely book. A quick read that will leave you feeling hopeful.
November 24, 2021
Wow this was another amazing read in the Cornish midwife series and I was so excited to be able to read it that once I had picked it up I couldn’t put it down and read it in almost one sitting. This is the fourth book in the series and was fabulous to be able to be transported on a journey of escapism back to port Agnes. These books really get to your heart and are such heartbreaking yet heartwarming reads all rolled into one.
I loved that this one explored the character of Jess further and her chance of becoming a foster parent and how it followed her developing relationship with dexter the social worker who helped her to fulfil her dream of being able to look after a child and the heart wrenching journey and steps she has to take to be able to carry this out and how it helps to strengthen the bond between these two characters I can’t wait to here more about how the relationship between these two characters develops and hope their story is continued in the next novel of this series. We are also introduced to Anna twins one of the other midwifes in the team and also find out more about tori’s developing pregnancy and Frankie reappears back from New Zealand the bond of these amazing midwifes continues to be strengthened through the challenges and Events they face on a daily basis and the community spirit continues to be ever present. These stories are perfect escapism reads yet at the same time are very realistic and cut to the core with their engaging and relatable story lines.
I loved that this one explored the character of Jess further and her chance of becoming a foster parent and how it followed her developing relationship with dexter the social worker who helped her to fulfil her dream of being able to look after a child and the heart wrenching journey and steps she has to take to be able to carry this out and how it helps to strengthen the bond between these two characters I can’t wait to here more about how the relationship between these two characters develops and hope their story is continued in the next novel of this series. We are also introduced to Anna twins one of the other midwifes in the team and also find out more about tori’s developing pregnancy and Frankie reappears back from New Zealand the bond of these amazing midwifes continues to be strengthened through the challenges and Events they face on a daily basis and the community spirit continues to be ever present. These stories are perfect escapism reads yet at the same time are very realistic and cut to the core with their engaging and relatable story lines.
February 18, 2024
Another great story in the Cornish Midwife series!
November 18, 2021
A proper Heartbreaker.
Jess Kennedy of the Port Agnes Midwifery unit lives at Puffins Rest with her cat Luna and it's a busy full on day in the anti-natal clinic, as she is now a foster carer. Social workers are giving her her first placement soon in respite fostering to work around her midwife hours, an unexpected visitor is awaiting her on her doorstep and its isn't Luna her cat. Jess is going to be needing all the love and support she can get from her co-workers and also social worker Dexter who has Riley in his care now. She takes up permanent care of baby Teddy till they find his mother, it will be hard to adjust around her work and this tiny little baby but as time goes on she is terrified of the day when she will say goodbye to him.
Oh this book is so heart-wrenching to read, the bond is so powerful and the outcome of who are his parents is a complete shock to her, I could not put this book down once I picked it up I enjoyed all the other books in this series but this has to be my favourite and awaiting more I hope to come.
Jess Kennedy of the Port Agnes Midwifery unit lives at Puffins Rest with her cat Luna and it's a busy full on day in the anti-natal clinic, as she is now a foster carer. Social workers are giving her her first placement soon in respite fostering to work around her midwife hours, an unexpected visitor is awaiting her on her doorstep and its isn't Luna her cat. Jess is going to be needing all the love and support she can get from her co-workers and also social worker Dexter who has Riley in his care now. She takes up permanent care of baby Teddy till they find his mother, it will be hard to adjust around her work and this tiny little baby but as time goes on she is terrified of the day when she will say goodbye to him.
Oh this book is so heart-wrenching to read, the bond is so powerful and the outcome of who are his parents is a complete shock to her, I could not put this book down once I picked it up I enjoyed all the other books in this series but this has to be my favourite and awaiting more I hope to come.
December 1, 2021
This is the only book I have read in the series and it stood alone fine. Overall, I enjoyed the story and characters, but it felt a bit repetitive, so dragged some. Fine read, but not so good that I will seek out the others in the series.
Full disclosure- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Full disclosure- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2022
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife is a warm-hearted slice of cosy escapism from the fabulous Jo Bartlett.
Being a mum is all midwife Jess has ever wanted, but sadly, it looks like her dream will never come true. While Jess might not be able to have a baby of her own, she is determined to still be a mum so she decides to become a foster parent and to give the children in her care the love, help and support which she herself had been desperate for when she had been in care as a child. Kind-hearted Jess loves all of the babies that come into her life – even if it’s a wrench to say goodbye to them. However, little does Jess realise that life has got a surprise in store for her that will rock her world: a newborn baby that is left on her doorstep!
Whose baby is this? And why was it left in front of her house? As the search for the child’s parents’ intensifies, Jess vows to be there for the baby that has been left in her care. Jess will pull out all the stops to reunite mother and child, but the more time she spends caring for this adorable baby, the more she finds herself wondering how she will ever manage to hand over this little bundle of love that has come to mean everything to her?
Will Jess ever hold a baby in her arms? Is a happy ending on the cards for her? Or is she set to be disappointed and heartbroken?
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife is a heartfelt, poignant and emotional tale from Jo Bartlett that will bring a tear to the eye. Full of characters you cannot help but love and care for, a gorgeous Cornish setting that is vividly evoked and plenty of pathos, drama and intensity to keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife is a delightful tale by Jo Bartlett readers will be bowled over by.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Being a mum is all midwife Jess has ever wanted, but sadly, it looks like her dream will never come true. While Jess might not be able to have a baby of her own, she is determined to still be a mum so she decides to become a foster parent and to give the children in her care the love, help and support which she herself had been desperate for when she had been in care as a child. Kind-hearted Jess loves all of the babies that come into her life – even if it’s a wrench to say goodbye to them. However, little does Jess realise that life has got a surprise in store for her that will rock her world: a newborn baby that is left on her doorstep!
Whose baby is this? And why was it left in front of her house? As the search for the child’s parents’ intensifies, Jess vows to be there for the baby that has been left in her care. Jess will pull out all the stops to reunite mother and child, but the more time she spends caring for this adorable baby, the more she finds herself wondering how she will ever manage to hand over this little bundle of love that has come to mean everything to her?
Will Jess ever hold a baby in her arms? Is a happy ending on the cards for her? Or is she set to be disappointed and heartbroken?
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife is a heartfelt, poignant and emotional tale from Jo Bartlett that will bring a tear to the eye. Full of characters you cannot help but love and care for, a gorgeous Cornish setting that is vividly evoked and plenty of pathos, drama and intensity to keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
A Spring Surprise for the Cornish Midwife is a delightful tale by Jo Bartlett readers will be bowled over by.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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