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Hope Farm #2
Christmas for Beginners
The gloriously festive sequel to readers' favourite and Sunday Times bestselling novel Happiness for Beginners
SPEND THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR AT HOPE FARM . . .
Christmas is fast approaching at the new Hope Farm. Owner Molly Baker has been convinced to organise an open day to raise some much-needed funds ahead of the New Year, but the nativity tableau is proving challenging. With anti-social sheep, awkward alpacas and a seriously sequined Santa Claus to assemble, Molly is feeling overwhelmed, and in desperate need of some Christmas spirit . . .
Despite the chaos of the farm getting in the way of her event planning, Molly is looking forward to spending the holidays with Shelby and Lucas, hopeful that a happy family Christmas is exactly what they need to draw them all together. But while she is busy making plans on the farm, Shelby, it seems, has ideas of his own.
As the nativity draws near, the team are working hard to pull off a spectacular festive fete - and make sure the animals and humans remain on their best behaviour. Will this Christmas be merry and bright, or is there more than one surprise in store for Hope Farm?
A must-read festive tale from the queen of fun-filled and life-affirming fiction, Christmas for Beginners is the PERFECT winter treat!
SPEND THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR AT HOPE FARM . . .
Christmas is fast approaching at the new Hope Farm. Owner Molly Baker has been convinced to organise an open day to raise some much-needed funds ahead of the New Year, but the nativity tableau is proving challenging. With anti-social sheep, awkward alpacas and a seriously sequined Santa Claus to assemble, Molly is feeling overwhelmed, and in desperate need of some Christmas spirit . . .
Despite the chaos of the farm getting in the way of her event planning, Molly is looking forward to spending the holidays with Shelby and Lucas, hopeful that a happy family Christmas is exactly what they need to draw them all together. But while she is busy making plans on the farm, Shelby, it seems, has ideas of his own.
As the nativity draws near, the team are working hard to pull off a spectacular festive fete - and make sure the animals and humans remain on their best behaviour. Will this Christmas be merry and bright, or is there more than one surprise in store for Hope Farm?
A must-read festive tale from the queen of fun-filled and life-affirming fiction, Christmas for Beginners is the PERFECT winter treat!
416 pages, Paperback
First published October 29, 2020
304 people are currently reading
1522 people want to read
About the author
Carole Matthews
75 books1,718 followersCarole Matthews is an international bestselling author of hugely successful romantic comedy novels. Her unique sense of humour has won her legions of fans and critical acclaim all over the world.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
October 4, 2020
This follow up to Carole Matthew's wonderful Happiness for Beginners is the perfect escape from our wretched world, become reacquainted and entranced with Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Johnny Rotten, the obstreperous trio of alpacas, Anthony, the aggressive and anti-social sheep, one legged chickens, the pygmy goats and more, all animals rescued from traumatising circumstances or were unwanted, on the new Hope Farm in Buckinghamshire. Hope Farm is run by loner Molly Baker, in her late thirties, as a alternative school for struggling children with issues in mainstream education but is in constant need of funding. The children have behavioural and/or emotional issues, been excluded, or are on the autism spectrum, but respond well to what the farm offers, and whilst there are certainly extremely challenging days, for kids and animals, Molly could not love them, her misfits, more.
It's the run up to Christmas, and Molly is hoping for a loving and unifying time with her new partner, Shelby, a famous soap star celebrity, and his son, 16 year old Lucas. Father and son are in a constant state of conflict, but Molly loves Lucas as a son, and he is living with her in the new, all mod cons, caravan. Shelby is not a regular visitor to the farm, allergic to the animals, and what with their different dreams for their lives, will Molly and Shelby's relationship survive the rocky path in front of them? To make matters more pressurising, Molly is being pushed out of her comfort zone by best friend Bev and is organising a festive open day with a nativity tableau for the farm to raise funds and introduce the farm, kids and animals, to the local community. On top of it all, Lucas, the angry poet, is in the throes of his first love relationship, and there's a new mayor who wants to help the farm project.
Matthews has a winner on her hands here, particularly with the unforgettable animals, all of whom have their own characters, many with issues, much like the children who attend the farm, and Lucas, now with an apprenticeship on the farm and studying Animal Management. There are a raft of serious issues that arise, including a nasty case of domestic abuse in the home of one of the children, not to mention the chaos, mayhem and madness that goes hand in hand with taking care of a wide range of animals. However, the festive season and planning for the open day also brings out the best in the children, and there is plenty of charm, warmth, and quirkiness in the storytelling to beguile the reader and perhaps, just perhaps, Molly is becoming less of a loner. A lovely read. Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
It's the run up to Christmas, and Molly is hoping for a loving and unifying time with her new partner, Shelby, a famous soap star celebrity, and his son, 16 year old Lucas. Father and son are in a constant state of conflict, but Molly loves Lucas as a son, and he is living with her in the new, all mod cons, caravan. Shelby is not a regular visitor to the farm, allergic to the animals, and what with their different dreams for their lives, will Molly and Shelby's relationship survive the rocky path in front of them? To make matters more pressurising, Molly is being pushed out of her comfort zone by best friend Bev and is organising a festive open day with a nativity tableau for the farm to raise funds and introduce the farm, kids and animals, to the local community. On top of it all, Lucas, the angry poet, is in the throes of his first love relationship, and there's a new mayor who wants to help the farm project.
Matthews has a winner on her hands here, particularly with the unforgettable animals, all of whom have their own characters, many with issues, much like the children who attend the farm, and Lucas, now with an apprenticeship on the farm and studying Animal Management. There are a raft of serious issues that arise, including a nasty case of domestic abuse in the home of one of the children, not to mention the chaos, mayhem and madness that goes hand in hand with taking care of a wide range of animals. However, the festive season and planning for the open day also brings out the best in the children, and there is plenty of charm, warmth, and quirkiness in the storytelling to beguile the reader and perhaps, just perhaps, Molly is becoming less of a loner. A lovely read. Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
December 6, 2021
***4 stars***
Before I started listening to Christmas for beginners, I didn't know it was part of a series. So I didn't know any of the backstories of the MCs. But luckily after a few chapters, it wasn't difficult to follow the plot and who's who.
Honestly, I was initially going to give this only 3 stars, because I wasn't really into it. I was expecting a cute christmasy romance, but it's clearly not that. It's actually more of a story about an unlikely friendship that emerged between a woman and the son of the man she's dating.
Right at the end, there's a moment between these two that had me bawling like a baby and it's in fact what made me completely change my feelings about this book.
Would I recommend this? Yes.
But not as a Christmas romance, but more as a slow moving, family type of story.
Before I started listening to Christmas for beginners, I didn't know it was part of a series. So I didn't know any of the backstories of the MCs. But luckily after a few chapters, it wasn't difficult to follow the plot and who's who.
Honestly, I was initially going to give this only 3 stars, because I wasn't really into it. I was expecting a cute christmasy romance, but it's clearly not that. It's actually more of a story about an unlikely friendship that emerged between a woman and the son of the man she's dating.
Right at the end, there's a moment between these two that had me bawling like a baby and it's in fact what made me completely change my feelings about this book.
Would I recommend this? Yes.
But not as a Christmas romance, but more as a slow moving, family type of story.
April 22, 2021
5☆ An Uplifting Page Turner!
Christmas for Beginners was an Uplifting, Laugh out Loud, Heart Warming Romance that swept me off my feet.
Oh and not forgetting an array of cheeky loveable farm animals, some Christmas Sparkle and you have an unputdownable book!
Molly has a hard time with Christmas, she just doesn't go all out to celebrate.
But this year is certainly going to be different, when co worker and best friend convinces her to hold a Christmas Open Day to raise money for the farm and children.
However things don't get off to a great start when the mischievous Alpacas Eat Baby Jesus. I can't tell you how much I laughed especially when you discover what their names are 🙈😂
Also things are looking up for Molly, her gorgeous wealthy boyfriend Shelby and his troubled son Lucas are firmly in her life and she couldn't be happier.... or could she?
Is the New Hunky Mayor, who's spending a fair amount of time helping out around the farm.... about to throw a spanner in the works?
I guess your going to have to read it to find out.
I absolutely adored this book, it was just the tonic I needed after such a miserable year!
So if you are looking for an Uplifting Read that will literally have you laughing out Loud and Smiling the whole way through, that has Romance, Drama and the most
adorable, mischievous farm animals that will melt your heart.
Then I highly recommend you grab a copy of Christmas for Beginners.
This book can be read anytime of the year, it truly is the perfect pick me up!
Thank you to Little Brown Book Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
Christmas for Beginners was an Uplifting, Laugh out Loud, Heart Warming Romance that swept me off my feet.
Oh and not forgetting an array of cheeky loveable farm animals, some Christmas Sparkle and you have an unputdownable book!
Molly has a hard time with Christmas, she just doesn't go all out to celebrate.
But this year is certainly going to be different, when co worker and best friend convinces her to hold a Christmas Open Day to raise money for the farm and children.
However things don't get off to a great start when the mischievous Alpacas Eat Baby Jesus. I can't tell you how much I laughed especially when you discover what their names are 🙈😂
Also things are looking up for Molly, her gorgeous wealthy boyfriend Shelby and his troubled son Lucas are firmly in her life and she couldn't be happier.... or could she?
Is the New Hunky Mayor, who's spending a fair amount of time helping out around the farm.... about to throw a spanner in the works?
I guess your going to have to read it to find out.
I absolutely adored this book, it was just the tonic I needed after such a miserable year!
So if you are looking for an Uplifting Read that will literally have you laughing out Loud and Smiling the whole way through, that has Romance, Drama and the most
adorable, mischievous farm animals that will melt your heart.
Then I highly recommend you grab a copy of Christmas for Beginners.
This book can be read anytime of the year, it truly is the perfect pick me up!
Thank you to Little Brown Book Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
November 26, 2021
This book is for you if… you read >Christmas books for the sake of their christmas-y feeling rather than anything an intricate plot.
⤐ Overall.
In case anybody is still reading my reviews y'all are gonna be tired of hearing this probably, but let me just say that my heart is not in the right place to properly grasp books and what's happening in them at the moment.
That being said, this book really helped me get into the Christmas mood a bit more. As somebody who used to despise Christmas (it's what happens when your parents tell you they're getting a divorce the weekend before Christmas), I can honestly say I did a 1-80 in the last years. I'm getting the decorations up early, enjoying them lights, baking them treats, listening to them tracks, loving them blanket-and-mulled-wine evenings with friends. But this extremely cosy, soft-like-a-fluffy-snowflake book about a woman and her animal sanctuary touched a place of my heart the lights weren't able to get to yet.
I enjoyed taking walks along that farm immensely and am glad that my book buddy Dora drew my attention towards it.
_____________________
4 STARS. Would stay up beyond my typical hours to finish it. I found some minor details I didn't like, agree with or lacked in some kind but overall, this was enjoyable and extraordinary.
November 12, 2021
2,5 in realtà non è scritto male, ma come ho intuito sin da subito e poi accertata in seguito, questa storia è il seguito di un primo romanzo che non è stato pubblicato. Quindi si entra in una storia già iniziata e non si riesce a provare nessun tipo di empatia, mi sono annoiata molto e anche il finale non è un vero finale, dulcis in fundo il natale qui c'entra poco o niente.
October 15, 2020
I loved this book, it was the second in the series and luckily I had read the first one which you do need to do to understand what is going on. This followed on from the first one and although I guessed the ending it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of this wonderful series. It had a Christmassy theme which made it all the more enjoyable and I do hope that she writes more in this series.
October 29, 2020
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Happiness for Beginners, so I jumped at the chance of a second visit to Hope Farm.
Molly is an unlikely heroine, more likely to be covered in manure than smelling of perfume, she lives in a caravan on the grounds of Hope Farm, a place which rescues both animals and children (albeit the children are only day-visitors). In the previous book she meets the TV actor Shelby and his recalcitrant son Lucas. Molly and Lucas get on well and he has come to live with her in the caravan, despite Shelby owning a large manor house nearby. Shelby and Lucas do not get on and there is a constant battle between them.
We join Hope Farm on the run up to Christmas. Shelby is about to leave his soap opera and has accepted the opportunity to play the villain in a Birmingham pantomime show, while Molly's assistant Bev has persuaded the anti-social Molly to put on a Christmas open day to raise funds for the farm, a prospect that fills her with dread.
This is such a feel-good, cheery, holiday novel, despite some sadness and some big issues. Molly and her motley crew of animals, most of which have issues, her students, most of which have behavioural or family issues, and the characters around the farm will make you laugh and make you cry
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release and correction of typos.
Molly is an unlikely heroine, more likely to be covered in manure than smelling of perfume, she lives in a caravan on the grounds of Hope Farm, a place which rescues both animals and children (albeit the children are only day-visitors). In the previous book she meets the TV actor Shelby and his recalcitrant son Lucas. Molly and Lucas get on well and he has come to live with her in the caravan, despite Shelby owning a large manor house nearby. Shelby and Lucas do not get on and there is a constant battle between them.
We join Hope Farm on the run up to Christmas. Shelby is about to leave his soap opera and has accepted the opportunity to play the villain in a Birmingham pantomime show, while Molly's assistant Bev has persuaded the anti-social Molly to put on a Christmas open day to raise funds for the farm, a prospect that fills her with dread.
This is such a feel-good, cheery, holiday novel, despite some sadness and some big issues. Molly and her motley crew of animals, most of which have issues, her students, most of which have behavioural or family issues, and the characters around the farm will make you laugh and make you cry
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release and correction of typos.
November 22, 2020
A Lovely Christmas Read!
Normally, I turn to Mary Berry for advice on cooking (always good), but a couple of years ago she mentioned that one of her prime requirements for enjoying a holiday was "the lastest Carole Matthews".
Well, it turns out that her advice on books is excellent too! This is the first Carole Matthews book I have read, and it certainly won't be the last! Full of engaging and likeable characters, all with flaws. Add a farm with alpacas, a surly teenager, a TV star luvvie and a hot mayor, and you have the makings of a cracking read. Carole Matthews weaves them all together into a lovely narrative that is highly readable - and highly recommended by me!
Normally, I turn to Mary Berry for advice on cooking (always good), but a couple of years ago she mentioned that one of her prime requirements for enjoying a holiday was "the lastest Carole Matthews".
Well, it turns out that her advice on books is excellent too! This is the first Carole Matthews book I have read, and it certainly won't be the last! Full of engaging and likeable characters, all with flaws. Add a farm with alpacas, a surly teenager, a TV star luvvie and a hot mayor, and you have the makings of a cracking read. Carole Matthews weaves them all together into a lovely narrative that is highly readable - and highly recommended by me!
November 19, 2021
Joy, white Christmas and happiness is how I’d describe this book. Carole never seems to fail me in giving such a truly feel good story. This is a follow on from “Happiness for beginners” which I also loved about Hope Farm. It is a really wonderful place to help teenagers who do not fit the mould of conventional schooling. Molly is an amazing character and her love for the animals and children in her charge and her simple life leaves me feeling happy. Bev her best friend is one we could all do with. We tend to go for so much in materialistic things we forget the simple things in life. I loved this story … there’s tears and not everything goes to plan but it’s a good ending so enjoy!
December 21, 2020
I just loved the book preceding this one - the farm for children as an alternative / addition to education has long been a winner in my eyes. So I was looking forward to reading this one and it didn't disappoint with laughs-a-plenty and some really heartwarming scenes.
But I was really freaking happy that Molly ditched Shelby in the end, I was all for their love in the first book, but goodness not in this one. I guess his character was written in such a manner that people were rooting for the end of their relationship. I was though a little dismayed, but not surprised, that the next relationship was pretty much kickstarted the next week or so! Such a clever idea to not always have the expected happy ever after.
I once again adored Lucas, and his and Molly's relationship just went from strength to strength. Brilliant.
But I was really freaking happy that Molly ditched Shelby in the end, I was all for their love in the first book, but goodness not in this one. I guess his character was written in such a manner that people were rooting for the end of their relationship. I was though a little dismayed, but not surprised, that the next relationship was pretty much kickstarted the next week or so! Such a clever idea to not always have the expected happy ever after.
I once again adored Lucas, and his and Molly's relationship just went from strength to strength. Brilliant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2020
This was definitely a case of impulse requests. I mean, look at that cover? How gorgeous and festive it is, I just couldn't pass it by!
I did actually read Happiness for Beginners last year so it didn't take me long to get back into life on the farm with Molly and co. This story is based around a fund raiser that Molly organises in the hopes of raising more funds for Hope Farm. But, of course, with those mischievous animals up to their usual antics, and her trying to enjoy the festivities with her new family, not everything goes quite to plan.
Now this is the sequel to Happiness and whilst I don't necessarily think you need to read it first, you will miss out a bit on the backstory of the relationships between characters. For me it was nice to see them all again and I really enjoyed seeing how Molly is growing closer to Shelby and Lucas, and how they go about having a family Christmas together.
My favourite part of these books is hands down the farm. Right from the very beginning I could tell I was going to love the animals and their many different personalities, they're all delightfully quirky and individual. And their names are adorable (the alpacas!). The research Matthews put in on how a farm works, and how the animals live, was brilliant.
The reason this book is marked at a three when I did enjoy so much of it, is mostly down to the narration. It's just not a style I would normally read and it took me a while to get into (I remember having the same problem when I first read Happiness). Matthews writes in a very informal, chatty kind of manner. So it's all 'must get a hurry on, got loads more to do' before segueing into more chatter. It didn't really work for me because a lot is made over Molly being a recluse who hates talking to strangers - yet its written as though she's talking very easily to the reader, a stranger.
That niggle aside though this is a nice, festive book and fans of Matthews other books, particularly Happiness for Beginners, will find a lot to like here.
Many thanks to Little Brown Books and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did actually read Happiness for Beginners last year so it didn't take me long to get back into life on the farm with Molly and co. This story is based around a fund raiser that Molly organises in the hopes of raising more funds for Hope Farm. But, of course, with those mischievous animals up to their usual antics, and her trying to enjoy the festivities with her new family, not everything goes quite to plan.
Now this is the sequel to Happiness and whilst I don't necessarily think you need to read it first, you will miss out a bit on the backstory of the relationships between characters. For me it was nice to see them all again and I really enjoyed seeing how Molly is growing closer to Shelby and Lucas, and how they go about having a family Christmas together.
My favourite part of these books is hands down the farm. Right from the very beginning I could tell I was going to love the animals and their many different personalities, they're all delightfully quirky and individual. And their names are adorable (the alpacas!). The research Matthews put in on how a farm works, and how the animals live, was brilliant.
The reason this book is marked at a three when I did enjoy so much of it, is mostly down to the narration. It's just not a style I would normally read and it took me a while to get into (I remember having the same problem when I first read Happiness). Matthews writes in a very informal, chatty kind of manner. So it's all 'must get a hurry on, got loads more to do' before segueing into more chatter. It didn't really work for me because a lot is made over Molly being a recluse who hates talking to strangers - yet its written as though she's talking very easily to the reader, a stranger.
That niggle aside though this is a nice, festive book and fans of Matthews other books, particularly Happiness for Beginners, will find a lot to like here.
Many thanks to Little Brown Books and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2020
I loved this book. I hadn’t read the previous book ‘Happiness for beginners’ but it really didn’t matter. There’s a wonderful reintroduction in the first chapter so you know who everyone is.
I instantly felt Mollys connection to the farm and I loved her friendship with Lucas, that boy won a special place in my heart too. I tried very hard to like Shelby, I could see that whilst he cared for Molly he didn’t share her love of the farm. I was waiting for his ‘big gesture’ when he realises that he needs to put her and his son Lucas first and embraced farm life, however all that happened was he seemed to drift further and further away. When Matt was introduced I have to say I really longed for him and Molly to get together. I felt every anxious moment that Molly felt, and every joy. I loved her heart and how she helped those in need and knew just how to reach them. Towards the end I actually felt a bit sorry for Shelby as he chose to walk away from it all, he missed out on what a great person his son turned out to be and the awesomeness of Molly. Knowing that they both have Matt made me so happy.
I loved reading every minute of this book.
I instantly felt Mollys connection to the farm and I loved her friendship with Lucas, that boy won a special place in my heart too. I tried very hard to like Shelby, I could see that whilst he cared for Molly he didn’t share her love of the farm. I was waiting for his ‘big gesture’ when he realises that he needs to put her and his son Lucas first and embraced farm life, however all that happened was he seemed to drift further and further away. When Matt was introduced I have to say I really longed for him and Molly to get together. I felt every anxious moment that Molly felt, and every joy. I loved her heart and how she helped those in need and knew just how to reach them. Towards the end I actually felt a bit sorry for Shelby as he chose to walk away from it all, he missed out on what a great person his son turned out to be and the awesomeness of Molly. Knowing that they both have Matt made me so happy.
I loved reading every minute of this book.
February 4, 2021
I love Carole Matthews, she is one of my top favorite authors and I was super excited to read her new book! "Christmas for beginners" was no exceptions, I loved this book as much as the other ones from Carole! A brilliant, very cheery, christmassy with a nice romance but also touches serious and grave topics such as domestic violence and I really enjoyed this book. I recommend it! 4 stars out of 5 for me!
December 18, 2020
I loved this! It was the perfect holiday read. I was taken with the animals, the farm, and the alternative school for adolescents. I loved the characters, the story was engaging and I finished the book wanting more. The narrator was wonderful. I am hoping this is not the last book about Hope Farm.
December 18, 2020
Heart warming novel set in BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
I first met dear Molly when I read Happiness for Beginners. A wonderful and caring woman who looks after life’s waifs and strays, both human and animal. Her farm, Hope Farm, may have relocated but once again we trundle the fields with her, as she looks after the curious selection of animals that have found their way into her tender care. She also encourages young people, who have lost their way in life, to come to her sanctuary, where she can help them acclimatise to a new and hopefully more fulfilling life.
As the novel opens, the alpaca trio – Johnny Rotten, Tina Turner and Rod Stewart – have devoured Baby Jesus who was destined for the Nativity. The Open Day is looming, Christmas is around the corner and things could really be going a little more smoothly.
Molly is still in her relationship with Shelby, TV actor and doyen of screen and (soon-to-be) stage, whose home is in a real manor, with butler and accoutrements. She meanwhile resides in a rather basic caravan. Added to which, Lucas, Shelby’s son, is living with her and she is a kind of surrogate mum, prioritising his needs as Shelby is otherwise engaged in the demanding world of acting. He has a pivotal part in a TV soap that has brought him fame and fortune and sometimes unwelcome attention. Their relationship – he to the manor born (well, not quite but you know what I mean) and she living perfectly happily in a ramshackle caravan, surrounded by all her animals – certainly comes under stress.
This is an uplifting novel – just what we need for these Covid times – full of positive energy and caring people, although the author does not shy away from addressing life issues that blight the lives of many people. She is clearly averse to the HS2 project which has driven a devastating hammer blow to the lives of many living along the route and has destroyed valuable natural heritage, enabling people between London and Birmingham to perhaps trim their journey time by 20 minutes. But at what cost? That cost, in part, is Hope Farm, which had to be relocated because of the construction works.
In these times – with Christmas in striking distance – this is a heart warming and life affirming book, highlighting that love and care do in fact make the world go round.
I first met dear Molly when I read Happiness for Beginners. A wonderful and caring woman who looks after life’s waifs and strays, both human and animal. Her farm, Hope Farm, may have relocated but once again we trundle the fields with her, as she looks after the curious selection of animals that have found their way into her tender care. She also encourages young people, who have lost their way in life, to come to her sanctuary, where she can help them acclimatise to a new and hopefully more fulfilling life.
As the novel opens, the alpaca trio – Johnny Rotten, Tina Turner and Rod Stewart – have devoured Baby Jesus who was destined for the Nativity. The Open Day is looming, Christmas is around the corner and things could really be going a little more smoothly.
Molly is still in her relationship with Shelby, TV actor and doyen of screen and (soon-to-be) stage, whose home is in a real manor, with butler and accoutrements. She meanwhile resides in a rather basic caravan. Added to which, Lucas, Shelby’s son, is living with her and she is a kind of surrogate mum, prioritising his needs as Shelby is otherwise engaged in the demanding world of acting. He has a pivotal part in a TV soap that has brought him fame and fortune and sometimes unwelcome attention. Their relationship – he to the manor born (well, not quite but you know what I mean) and she living perfectly happily in a ramshackle caravan, surrounded by all her animals – certainly comes under stress.
This is an uplifting novel – just what we need for these Covid times – full of positive energy and caring people, although the author does not shy away from addressing life issues that blight the lives of many people. She is clearly averse to the HS2 project which has driven a devastating hammer blow to the lives of many living along the route and has destroyed valuable natural heritage, enabling people between London and Birmingham to perhaps trim their journey time by 20 minutes. But at what cost? That cost, in part, is Hope Farm, which had to be relocated because of the construction works.
In these times – with Christmas in striking distance – this is a heart warming and life affirming book, highlighting that love and care do in fact make the world go round.
December 9, 2020
I have enjoyed this authors books for many years and they're always a joy to read. I love all of the characters that the author creates and her storylines always hold my attention and give me something to think about.
Christmas for Beginners follows on from Happiness for Beginners, and it was wonderful to spend time on Hope Farm again - well, Hope Farm mk2 - with Molly, Lucas, Bev, Alan, the students and certainly not forgetting all of the lovely (some, not so!) animals. It was nice to have some new additions, too, one of which, a cat, that Molly has called, Phantom.
Daily life down on the Farm, well, I really felt that I was there. On their daily morning and evening walks, having a brew and a choccy biccie, if I'm lucky! And sharing the banter that was in abundance. I loved every minute of my time with them.
The love that Molly has for Lucas really made my heart swell, it is just what he needs, even if he doesn't open up and accept love and kindness offered to him, he seems to be thriving, and it really, really touched me. Molly and Bev care deeply for their charges and do their utmost to bring some good to their lives.
I really felt for Molly at times. Who is there to love and care for her?! She has Bev, but that isn't the same. I really could have given Shelby a rollicking. In my opinion he doesn't deserve Molly and he certainly doesn't deserve to be a Father.
On a brighter note, the appearance of a handsome, kind, Mayor, brings some extra light to the story - I loved him!
I thought that the author wrote the sensitive parts with much empathy, I was choked up at times, sometimes with sadness, but mostly with joy. I just love books like this, that feel so real and that really make you feel for the characters and care about them.
I also love how I didn't know how the story would end; before you know it the author has changed route and I'm thinking something else.
Christmas for Beginners, as well as being set around Christmas time - which is wonderful, - is full of hope, kindness, love, taking chances, and a message to us all, that there are people out there who care about us. Caring people don't need to be family.
I hope that the author continues with this series, I feel that Hope Farm has so much more life in it that can be shared with us.
I most definitely recommend this book!
My thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK via NetGalley.
Christmas for Beginners follows on from Happiness for Beginners, and it was wonderful to spend time on Hope Farm again - well, Hope Farm mk2 - with Molly, Lucas, Bev, Alan, the students and certainly not forgetting all of the lovely (some, not so!) animals. It was nice to have some new additions, too, one of which, a cat, that Molly has called, Phantom.
Daily life down on the Farm, well, I really felt that I was there. On their daily morning and evening walks, having a brew and a choccy biccie, if I'm lucky! And sharing the banter that was in abundance. I loved every minute of my time with them.
The love that Molly has for Lucas really made my heart swell, it is just what he needs, even if he doesn't open up and accept love and kindness offered to him, he seems to be thriving, and it really, really touched me. Molly and Bev care deeply for their charges and do their utmost to bring some good to their lives.
I really felt for Molly at times. Who is there to love and care for her?! She has Bev, but that isn't the same. I really could have given Shelby a rollicking. In my opinion he doesn't deserve Molly and he certainly doesn't deserve to be a Father.
On a brighter note, the appearance of a handsome, kind, Mayor, brings some extra light to the story - I loved him!
I thought that the author wrote the sensitive parts with much empathy, I was choked up at times, sometimes with sadness, but mostly with joy. I just love books like this, that feel so real and that really make you feel for the characters and care about them.
I also love how I didn't know how the story would end; before you know it the author has changed route and I'm thinking something else.
Christmas for Beginners, as well as being set around Christmas time - which is wonderful, - is full of hope, kindness, love, taking chances, and a message to us all, that there are people out there who care about us. Caring people don't need to be family.
I hope that the author continues with this series, I feel that Hope Farm has so much more life in it that can be shared with us.
I most definitely recommend this book!
My thanks to Little, Brown Book Group UK via NetGalley.
November 17, 2020
I was a few chapters into Christmas for Beginners when I realised how much I'd been missing Hope Farm and how good it was to be back with Molly, Lucas and easily the best cast of animals in any book around at the moment.
We have mischievous alpacas who had me laughing out loud at one point, adorable bunnies, troublesome dogs, a reclusive cat, an antisocial sheep, and all manner of other animals resulting in general hilarity!
Like in Happiness for Beginners I love the concept of this farm, and just what Molly is trying to achieve and getting to know all the characters so much better in this sequel has been a joy. And the various children she is trying to help really do get under your skin, they are just fabulous.
And Molly who finds it easier to be among animals than people is preparing for a Christmas Open day, which has the potential to either be a fabulous fundraiser or a disaster. Add in a new gorgeous local mayor who seems to enjoy life on a farm, and her own boyfriend Shelby seemingly being more distanced and it has all the ingredients to be a really wonderful book.
To which Carole Matthews doesn't disappoint and proves herself to be a rather handy poet to, with more poetry from Lucas too, and there are some gripping storylines going on all over the book. There is so much fitted in, its no wonder I have sat there going just one more chapter for a few hours until I well ran out of pages!
There is enough backstory for me to believe it can be read as a standalone, and definitely enough to remind this forgetful reviewer of key points from the previous book.
Such a wonderful book, truly enjoyable and one for animal lovers as well as Carole Matthew fans, women's fiction fans and those that enjoy a bit of festive fiction too!
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
We have mischievous alpacas who had me laughing out loud at one point, adorable bunnies, troublesome dogs, a reclusive cat, an antisocial sheep, and all manner of other animals resulting in general hilarity!
Like in Happiness for Beginners I love the concept of this farm, and just what Molly is trying to achieve and getting to know all the characters so much better in this sequel has been a joy. And the various children she is trying to help really do get under your skin, they are just fabulous.
And Molly who finds it easier to be among animals than people is preparing for a Christmas Open day, which has the potential to either be a fabulous fundraiser or a disaster. Add in a new gorgeous local mayor who seems to enjoy life on a farm, and her own boyfriend Shelby seemingly being more distanced and it has all the ingredients to be a really wonderful book.
To which Carole Matthews doesn't disappoint and proves herself to be a rather handy poet to, with more poetry from Lucas too, and there are some gripping storylines going on all over the book. There is so much fitted in, its no wonder I have sat there going just one more chapter for a few hours until I well ran out of pages!
There is enough backstory for me to believe it can be read as a standalone, and definitely enough to remind this forgetful reviewer of key points from the previous book.
Such a wonderful book, truly enjoyable and one for animal lovers as well as Carole Matthew fans, women's fiction fans and those that enjoy a bit of festive fiction too!
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 20, 2020
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/revie...
It was great to be back at Hope Farm again with Molly and Lucas. Before I go any further, I’m going to tell you I LOVED this story and I felt so sad to be leaving at the turning of the last page. I could live in this world!
You don’t have to read Happiness for Beginners to make sense of Christmas for Beginners because Carole Matthews builds the backstory in from the beginning. You’ll soon get to know Molly, Lucas, Bev and Shelby. I love Molly. She’s a woman who takes action for others although that often means putting herself last. She was definitely the one in the middle in this story.
I loved hearing about the new additions to Hope Farm and of course the quirky animals that are still there. And the new Mayor, Matt Eastman – swoon! When Molly first meets him, oh, so funny! Shelby is noticeable by his absence with his acting commitments. Still generous to a fault though.
As much as I loved the moments of laughter, my heart ached several times. Life doesn’t run smoothly for several of the characters … this author sure knows how to hook in your emotions. A couple of things didn’t work out how I thought they would and tested my loyalties. I thought I knew which way we were heading and then bam! something happens to change it all. Poppy’s situation was heart-breaking and I was so hoping for a good resolution for her and her mum. Lucas’ poem on Christmas Day brought me to tears. And the ending had me sobbing. Perfection.
This is a story that will entertain you. You’ll be taken out of the world around you and immersed in a world where the pandemic doesn’t exist and life wraps around you with all the colours of emotions and a feeling that eventually, all is right with the world.
Highly recommended!
It was great to be back at Hope Farm again with Molly and Lucas. Before I go any further, I’m going to tell you I LOVED this story and I felt so sad to be leaving at the turning of the last page. I could live in this world!
You don’t have to read Happiness for Beginners to make sense of Christmas for Beginners because Carole Matthews builds the backstory in from the beginning. You’ll soon get to know Molly, Lucas, Bev and Shelby. I love Molly. She’s a woman who takes action for others although that often means putting herself last. She was definitely the one in the middle in this story.
I loved hearing about the new additions to Hope Farm and of course the quirky animals that are still there. And the new Mayor, Matt Eastman – swoon! When Molly first meets him, oh, so funny! Shelby is noticeable by his absence with his acting commitments. Still generous to a fault though.
As much as I loved the moments of laughter, my heart ached several times. Life doesn’t run smoothly for several of the characters … this author sure knows how to hook in your emotions. A couple of things didn’t work out how I thought they would and tested my loyalties. I thought I knew which way we were heading and then bam! something happens to change it all. Poppy’s situation was heart-breaking and I was so hoping for a good resolution for her and her mum. Lucas’ poem on Christmas Day brought me to tears. And the ending had me sobbing. Perfection.
This is a story that will entertain you. You’ll be taken out of the world around you and immersed in a world where the pandemic doesn’t exist and life wraps around you with all the colours of emotions and a feeling that eventually, all is right with the world.
Highly recommended!
November 7, 2020
I really warmed to the central character of Molly; just as much as her crazy rabble of animals all with their own unique personalities. You really do get a feel for life on Hope Farm and the residents.
Dive in as everyone pulls together to raise some funds for the farm with a Christmas open day and nativity.
Filled with warmth, some of Lucas's quick witted one liners will have you smiling, Molly's mishaps with the animals.....and the mishaps in her love life too with her partner Shelby!
Chaos, fun and personal problems make this an entertaining read.
Christmas for beginners is the sequel to happiness for beginners.
Dive in as everyone pulls together to raise some funds for the farm with a Christmas open day and nativity.
Filled with warmth, some of Lucas's quick witted one liners will have you smiling, Molly's mishaps with the animals.....and the mishaps in her love life too with her partner Shelby!
Chaos, fun and personal problems make this an entertaining read.
Christmas for beginners is the sequel to happiness for beginners.
December 7, 2025
Na površini simpatična cozy božićna obiteljska pričica s malo romanse, ali ispod površine likovi bez dubine, banalni površni dijalozi i nelogične situacije (primjerice, pobačaj kod kuće u toaletu bez odlaska liječniku, jer kao sve će biti u redu u zdravstvenom smislu).
Ono što mi se najviše svidjelo u priči su presmiješne životinjice koje su spašene i dovedene na farmu koja je utočište za napuštene, bolesne i stare životinje, ludi ovan koji kad pobjegne iz tora sve oko sebe pokušava udarati rogovima, smiješne alpake s dobrim frizurama koje su pojele figuricu Isusa iz jaslica, dragi dragi psići i zečići za maženje, patke i guske i još mnoge druge drage drage životinjice.
A-Z 2025.
Globalni ciljevi: nastavak serijala
Ono što mi se najviše svidjelo u priči su presmiješne životinjice koje su spašene i dovedene na farmu koja je utočište za napuštene, bolesne i stare životinje, ludi ovan koji kad pobjegne iz tora sve oko sebe pokušava udarati rogovima, smiješne alpake s dobrim frizurama koje su pojele figuricu Isusa iz jaslica, dragi dragi psići i zečići za maženje, patke i guske i još mnoge druge drage drage životinjice.
A-Z 2025.
Globalni ciljevi: nastavak serijala
December 4, 2025
This had all the elements of a good Christmas story but it felt lacking somehow. The author used ‘as you know’ too often. There were a few surprises along the way. And it all worked out in the end. It is a jolly easy read but I found some of it a little annoying.
December 15, 2020
One more bad romance and I will remove romance from my dictionary. It was on sale so I brought it without hesitation - it's JUST a holiday read anyways, how can it bad? Well...
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5% to this book, you will feel a deep gulf between the female protagonist and her boyfriend. They live in two worlds - one owning a charity organisation and a farm, one being an actor living in a glamorous world. The character of the actor is flat, and the only role of him in this book is being a romantic interest and a useless dad. We don't see how their love started and how it developed. They simply 'love' each other. What I have learned growing up in an Asian household is that love is not something that is expressed verbally. In this book, there's nothing in their behaviour that sparks love. If you have read my reviews of Hush, Hush then you know how much I hate miscommunication. Here, miscommunication is not a problem. There is simply NO communication. We would learn that there are two worlds, and they don't cross. But how did they initially fall in love with each other? The readers don't have any chance to have a glimpse of their love life - and yes, the last time I checked the genre is romance.
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There's no character development in this book whatsoever (except a teenager), am I asking too much from an adult book? I was also annoyed by the protagonist's strong disapproval of the 'glamorous world' being a 'nature-embracing farmer' herself. Not that I'm a Hollywood celebrity, but I'm sure I won't leave her good impressions being a 'sophisticated, polite girl' by her standards, which were literally her reasons why she disliked a girl in the book. Riddikulus, if you ask me.
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Things I like: there are good poems delivered by the teen who has character development. I love the charity and the animals and how loving the protagonist is to people with harsh home situations. The book also ends with a happy ending to everyone's standards.
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Conclusion: This book has some lovely elements and would not RUIN your festive mood, but I still would not recommend it as I did not fully enjoy it.
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5% to this book, you will feel a deep gulf between the female protagonist and her boyfriend. They live in two worlds - one owning a charity organisation and a farm, one being an actor living in a glamorous world. The character of the actor is flat, and the only role of him in this book is being a romantic interest and a useless dad. We don't see how their love started and how it developed. They simply 'love' each other. What I have learned growing up in an Asian household is that love is not something that is expressed verbally. In this book, there's nothing in their behaviour that sparks love. If you have read my reviews of Hush, Hush then you know how much I hate miscommunication. Here, miscommunication is not a problem. There is simply NO communication. We would learn that there are two worlds, and they don't cross. But how did they initially fall in love with each other? The readers don't have any chance to have a glimpse of their love life - and yes, the last time I checked the genre is romance.
-
There's no character development in this book whatsoever (except a teenager), am I asking too much from an adult book? I was also annoyed by the protagonist's strong disapproval of the 'glamorous world' being a 'nature-embracing farmer' herself. Not that I'm a Hollywood celebrity, but I'm sure I won't leave her good impressions being a 'sophisticated, polite girl' by her standards, which were literally her reasons why she disliked a girl in the book. Riddikulus, if you ask me.
-
Things I like: there are good poems delivered by the teen who has character development. I love the charity and the animals and how loving the protagonist is to people with harsh home situations. The book also ends with a happy ending to everyone's standards.
-
Conclusion: This book has some lovely elements and would not RUIN your festive mood, but I still would not recommend it as I did not fully enjoy it.
December 2, 2020
Was brilliant to go back to hope farm and have more wonderful tales it was so well written with brilliant characters and has you on your toes all the way through wondering what will happen next. It’s an amazing read and can’t recommend it enough worth more than five stars.
Molly is in charge of hope farm and wants to hold an open day to raise funds for the farm things are mite tricky than she thought but she wants to do her best and she really needs more of the Christmas spirit. She has Shelby son Lucas living with her in her caravan most of the time as he’s happy living there but Shelby gets a job which will take him away and holly is missing him but looking forward to spending the holidays with him. Problem is she learns she is pregnant and wants to tell him but can’t seem to and then things happen and he decides to change and move to New York for a new job so where will this leave molly and Lucas. Also a handsome mayor turns up offering his help and support and will he torn some heads or not and what will happen with the Christmas nativity will it be a success or not.
Molly is in charge of hope farm and wants to hold an open day to raise funds for the farm things are mite tricky than she thought but she wants to do her best and she really needs more of the Christmas spirit. She has Shelby son Lucas living with her in her caravan most of the time as he’s happy living there but Shelby gets a job which will take him away and holly is missing him but looking forward to spending the holidays with him. Problem is she learns she is pregnant and wants to tell him but can’t seem to and then things happen and he decides to change and move to New York for a new job so where will this leave molly and Lucas. Also a handsome mayor turns up offering his help and support and will he torn some heads or not and what will happen with the Christmas nativity will it be a success or not.
December 31, 2020
Absolutely loved this book what a tear jerker highly recommend everyone to read hope there is a follow up
December 10, 2022
Ensam är inte stark 💪🏼
På Lyckans gård närmar det sig jul. Molly är dock inte mycket för flärd, utan trivs bäst i slitna kläder och gummistövlar. Så när det beslutas att de ska anordna en välgörenhetsdag, är det med blandade känslor för henne. De behöver verkligen få in pengar och det känns inte bra att förlita sig på Mollys pojkvän när det kommer till sponsring.
Men så när allt ståhej sen är över, ser Molly fram emot en mysig jul med hennes Shelby och hans son, som hon kommit att älska som sin egen.
Men livet blir ju aldrig som man har tänkt. Olyckor och sjukdom drabbar dem, och vad gäller julefriden blir den inte alls som planerat.
I denna andra bok om Lyckans gård, får vi åter möta de härliga personerna och alla galna djur. Det är så fint, hur de jobbar med ungdomar som har bekymmer och behöver en fristad. Detta blandat med karaktärernas personliga dilemman är en härlig mix.
Blev riktigt berörd på slutet.
Tack för att jag fått läsa 🙏🏼
🐷🐷🐷🐷 av 5🐷
#julstämningpålyckansgård #lyckansgård @matthews.carole @printzpublishing #caritasläsning2022 #108 #julbok
På Lyckans gård närmar det sig jul. Molly är dock inte mycket för flärd, utan trivs bäst i slitna kläder och gummistövlar. Så när det beslutas att de ska anordna en välgörenhetsdag, är det med blandade känslor för henne. De behöver verkligen få in pengar och det känns inte bra att förlita sig på Mollys pojkvän när det kommer till sponsring.
Men så när allt ståhej sen är över, ser Molly fram emot en mysig jul med hennes Shelby och hans son, som hon kommit att älska som sin egen.
Men livet blir ju aldrig som man har tänkt. Olyckor och sjukdom drabbar dem, och vad gäller julefriden blir den inte alls som planerat.
I denna andra bok om Lyckans gård, får vi åter möta de härliga personerna och alla galna djur. Det är så fint, hur de jobbar med ungdomar som har bekymmer och behöver en fristad. Detta blandat med karaktärernas personliga dilemman är en härlig mix.
Blev riktigt berörd på slutet.
Tack för att jag fått läsa 🙏🏼
🐷🐷🐷🐷 av 5🐷
#julstämningpålyckansgård #lyckansgård @matthews.carole @printzpublishing #caritasläsning2022 #108 #julbok
December 22, 2020
Carole Matthews writes Christmas brilliantly, loved this, gorgeous warm festive read
November 25, 2024
A great page turning sequel that I found hard putting down. Very enjoyable.
December 17, 2021
My first Carole Matthew's and not my usual genre, but wanted something Christmassy. I hadnt read the first in the series but didnt find that a problem. Enjoyed this, both the people and animal characters and the story.
December 27, 2021
Christmas at Hope Farm. Molly owns Hope Farm and with anti-social sheep, awkward alpacas and a seriously sequined Santa Claus to assemble, Molly is feeling overwhelmed, and in desperate need of some Christmas spirit ✨
I really enjoyed this festive read, it was lovely. It had me laughing out loud at the naughty animals and the shenanigans they got into. I was cheering for Molly and Lucas by the end. 4 🌟
I really enjoyed this festive read, it was lovely. It had me laughing out loud at the naughty animals and the shenanigans they got into. I was cheering for Molly and Lucas by the end. 4 🌟
November 11, 2020
Welcome back to Hope Farm.
Aptly named as after reading this book, you cannot help but be full of hope for the future. Full of laughs, drama and enough alpaca's to shake a stick of, I loved this book from first page to last and really hope that this is not the last time this author visit's Hope Farm.
Don't wait until Christmas to buy and read this Christmas book!
Aptly named as after reading this book, you cannot help but be full of hope for the future. Full of laughs, drama and enough alpaca's to shake a stick of, I loved this book from first page to last and really hope that this is not the last time this author visit's Hope Farm.
Don't wait until Christmas to buy and read this Christmas book!
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