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Greynox to the Sea #2
Farview
Winner of the 2021 BookLife Prize for Fiction
Ravaged by a horrific experience, Oliver Webb flees the smog-bound city of Greynox for a quiet seaside village and the inheritance he’s never seen: a cottage called Farview. He discovers clear skies, friendly imps, and a charming storyteller named Felix Corbyn.
With help from Felix’s tales, Oliver learns surprising secrets about his family history and discovers what home really means. But with Felix cursed, Oliver growing deathly ill, and an obligation in Greynox hanging heavy around his neck, it seems that not even wizards can save the day.
Still, as Felix knows, stories are the best truths and the most powerful magic. Perhaps the right words might yet conjure a chance for happiness.
Ravaged by a horrific experience, Oliver Webb flees the smog-bound city of Greynox for a quiet seaside village and the inheritance he’s never seen: a cottage called Farview. He discovers clear skies, friendly imps, and a charming storyteller named Felix Corbyn.
With help from Felix’s tales, Oliver learns surprising secrets about his family history and discovers what home really means. But with Felix cursed, Oliver growing deathly ill, and an obligation in Greynox hanging heavy around his neck, it seems that not even wizards can save the day.
Still, as Felix knows, stories are the best truths and the most powerful magic. Perhaps the right words might yet conjure a chance for happiness.
268 pages, Paperback
First published June 10, 2021
18 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Kim Fielding
176 books1,306 followersKim Fielding lives in Oregon and travels as often as she can manage. A professor by day, at night she rushes into a phone booth to change into her author costume (which involves comfy clothes instead of Spandex and is, sadly, lacking a cape). Her superpowers include the ability to write nearly anywhere, often while simultaneously doling out assistance to her family. Her favorite word to describe herself is "eclectic" and she finally got that seventh tattoo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 19, 2022
So utterly charming
*
An absolute gem
*
At once gut wrenching and heartwarming
*
Food for my soul
*
I read it slowly as I couldn't bear to finish it
*
Some of the most enchanting, fanciful characters ever to grace a page
*
Devastating storms, yellow ogrewort flowers, firestones, moor cats, ghostly guardians, mangled wings, water fae
*
Lessons of duty and love and friendship and devotion
*
Epic tales and secret destinations
*
I'm out of words...
*
An absolute gem
*
At once gut wrenching and heartwarming
*
Food for my soul
*
I read it slowly as I couldn't bear to finish it
*
Some of the most enchanting, fanciful characters ever to grace a page
*
Devastating storms, yellow ogrewort flowers, firestones, moor cats, ghostly guardians, mangled wings, water fae
*
Lessons of duty and love and friendship and devotion
*
Epic tales and secret destinations
*
I'm out of words...
Read
May 25, 2021I'm so excited about this book!
This story takes place in the same setting as my novella Treasure but can easily be read as a standalone. The world is a lot like Victorian-era Britain, but with sprinkles of magic (and dragons and imps and other creatures hard to find in our world).
If you've ever dreamed of staying at a seaside cottage--with stunning views and a charming fishing village nearby--this is the story for you.
This story takes place in the same setting as my novella Treasure but can easily be read as a standalone. The world is a lot like Victorian-era Britain, but with sprinkles of magic (and dragons and imps and other creatures hard to find in our world).
If you've ever dreamed of staying at a seaside cottage--with stunning views and a charming fishing village nearby--this is the story for you.
Read
July 21, 2021Fairview takes place in the same universe as Treasure, one of my earliest Kim Fielding reads.
The setting is a mix of fantasy (dragons, curses) and Victorian England (taverns, cottages), with a dash of steampunk (factories and machines are mentioned). I love Fielding's work and have five starred many of her books, but I couldn't get into this story. I read through to 30 percent, then mostly skimmed the rest.
I'm not going to rate this book as I think this was a case of ME, not the author. I just wasn't feeling the magic, imps, fairytales, and spells. The romance was quite muted and took a backseat to the mystery/magical suspense plot.
Kim Fielding knows how to weave a tale. This story is beautifully written and will prove quite engaging for the right reader.
The setting is a mix of fantasy (dragons, curses) and Victorian England (taverns, cottages), with a dash of steampunk (factories and machines are mentioned). I love Fielding's work and have five starred many of her books, but I couldn't get into this story. I read through to 30 percent, then mostly skimmed the rest.
I'm not going to rate this book as I think this was a case of ME, not the author. I just wasn't feeling the magic, imps, fairytales, and spells. The romance was quite muted and took a backseat to the mystery/magical suspense plot.
Kim Fielding knows how to weave a tale. This story is beautifully written and will prove quite engaging for the right reader.
June 14, 2021
A lovely fairytale style story with a nice rhythm about it, easy to fall into the bards tales and get caught in the accents. Exactly what I was in the mood for.
Strong unassuming main character reminiscent of some other Fielding heros, an interesting village community that adds life without intruding. Mythical and yet also mundane. With Imps.
Familiar themes of payment for curse/gift, balance and powerful selfless love. Some mystery and some old faces from 'Treasure' but can be read as a standalone.
The end felt a bit rushed to me, suddenly there was combining the old and new storylines and a lot going on. But I really enjoyed the story, even liked the sound of the fabric print.
Strong unassuming main character reminiscent of some other Fielding heros, an interesting village community that adds life without intruding. Mythical and yet also mundane. With Imps.
Familiar themes of payment for curse/gift, balance and powerful selfless love. Some mystery and some old faces from 'Treasure' but can be read as a standalone.
The end felt a bit rushed to me, suddenly there was combining the old and new storylines and a lot going on. But I really enjoyed the story, even liked the sound of the fabric print.
June 27, 2021
Oliver Webb comes to Croftwell - a seaside village - and a cottage that he inherits, Farview, to die. What he doesn't expect is people who welcome him, ghosts in the cottage, imps, and a gorgeous storyteller named Felix Corbyn...
This is a lovely fairytale. I loved how Fielding woven the tale - and the way Felix tells his story feels like magic. There are stories about love, about water fae, about ghosts ... just what you want your fairytale to be. The relationship between Oliver and Felix is wonderful as well.
The ending might feels a bit rushed... but that epilogue makes me sigh in happiness.
This is a lovely fairytale. I loved how Fielding woven the tale - and the way Felix tells his story feels like magic. There are stories about love, about water fae, about ghosts ... just what you want your fairytale to be. The relationship between Oliver and Felix is wonderful as well.
The ending might feels a bit rushed... but that epilogue makes me sigh in happiness.
October 26, 2023
I've given this an A for narration and a B+ for content at AudioGals, so 4.5 stars
You know how, sometimes, you finish a book, sit back with a sigh and think “what a lovely story!”? I did just that after listening to Kim Fielding’s Farview (book two in her Greynox to the Sea series), a charming, whimsical romance set in a kind of fantasy/AU Victorian England where dragons pull carriages, imps, chatty ghosts, and winged people live side-by side and magic is a part of everyday life. Although it’s the second book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone – and I liked it sufficiently to want to backtrack and listen to book one, Treasure .
When the story begins, Oliver Webb has left the colourless, grime-filled streets of the city of Greynox, where he’s lived his entire life, to settle in the small fishing village of Croftwell , planning to live at Farview Cottage, a property that’s been in his family for generations and which he’s inherited from the mother who died when he was a child. Tired from the long journey, he ventures into one of the village taverns, The Merman, for a drink and a meal, and is somewhat surprised – and maybe a teeny bit irritated – at the friendliness of the locals; he’s not in Croftwell to make friends and he just wants to be left to his own devices. But not long after he sits down, he’s approached by a cheerful (and very attractive) young man called Felix who offers to tell him a story in return for a pint. Intrigued despite himself, Oliver agrees, and Felix tells him the ages old tale of Farview Cottage and the legendary Lyra Moon. Oliver finds himself completely caught up in the story and maybe just a little bit captivated by the storyteller.
Although it’s late by the time he leaves the pub, Oliver makes his way to the remote cottage, dismayed to find it in a bit of a mess. He beds down for the night, and is awoken the next morning by Felix, who has brought food and offers to help get the place tidied up. Following a tasty picnic breakfast, Oliver and Felix begin the work of cleaning and tidying, and Oliver has to admit to himself that he doesn’t exactly hate Felix’s company. The man’s good mood is almost infectious, and much as Oliver tries to avoid looking at him, at something he can never have, he finds that harder and harder to do. But by the end of the day, the cottage is clean at least, and they’re about to prepare a meal when Felix suddenly cries out – the fire in the hearth is out of control and he just about manages to escape being badly burned.
Oliver acts quickly to douse the flames and is surprised when Felix turns down the offer of some magical healing salve for his hands. Then Felix tells his story, explaining how he’s allergic to magic, how it goes badly wrong whenever he’s around, and how it’s made him pretty much an outcast in the community. He’s well-liked, but in a world in which magic-use is the norm, he can’t even have a permanent job or home and has ended up doing odd jobs and couch surfing, moving around every couple of days because having him under one roof for too long could lead to disaster. Oliver is angry on his behalf, but Felix isn’t ground down by or bitter about any of it; he’s wistful and a bit sad sometimes, but mostly he just gets on with life, his naturally upbeat and sunny outlook carrying him through. Oliver is deeply affected by his story, all at once feeling an affinity born of always feeling like an outsider, too, and he decides to help Felix however he can. Over the next few days and weeks, he and Felix become closer, and watching these two damaged men fall for each other is an absolute delight. But it’s clear, right from the beginning, that all is not well with Oliver (not a spoiler, it’s in the blurb) and it soon becomes impossible for him to hide the fact that he’s seriously ill from Felix – or deny that his purpose in coming to Croftwell and to Farview was to live out his remaining days quietly and alone. But that plan has to be set aside when the reason for Oliver’s departure from Greynox – the thing he was running from – resurfaces and he realises he has the ability to set things right. To do so he’ll need to return to the city, which means sacrificing his remaining time with Felix – but the stakes are too high and lives hang in the balance… and Oliver needs to do the right thing even though it will probably be the last thing he does.
(If you’re worried at this point, don’t be – it all works out, I promise.)
Farview is, as I said at the beginning, a lovely story, a fairy tale cleverly woven of stories within stories, featuring two truly endearing characters, complete opposites whose differences complement each other and who bring out the best in one another. The world-building is subtle, full of small day-to-day details that are both magical and mundane, and there’s a well-drawn secondary cast that adds vibrancy to the story.
The only criticism I can really level at the book is that the ending, while it is foreshadowed, feels rather rushed and overly convenient, removing the agency from both leads in favour of a bit of magical hand-waving. The epilogue is swoony, though.
Joel Leslie is a narrator I listen to and review frequently, and it can be difficult to find things to say about a performer who is so consistently good! He has a way of getting into the heads and under the skins of the characters he portrays, and of really getting to the emotional heart of a story; he absolutely nails those things here, navigating the gentle humour, the whimsicality and the moments of heartbreak with effortless skill. His interpretations of Oliver and Felix are excellent, Felix’s softly accented speech full of warmth and good-humour while Oliver’ initial cantankerous standoffishness slowly evaporates as he comes to love Felix and feel a sense of belonging for the first time in his life. Mr. Leslie brings his considerable versatility to bear when it comes to the various secondary characters – who include the ghost of an elderly wizard with more than a hint of the valleys in his voice and cameo appearances from the couple from Treasure – who are all distinctly portrayed and clearly differentiated.
A magical, tender and sweetly sensual story coupled with a warmly perceptiveperformance from Joel Leslie, Farview is a delightful listen and one I can recommend wholeheartedly.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
You know how, sometimes, you finish a book, sit back with a sigh and think “what a lovely story!”? I did just that after listening to Kim Fielding’s Farview (book two in her Greynox to the Sea series), a charming, whimsical romance set in a kind of fantasy/AU Victorian England where dragons pull carriages, imps, chatty ghosts, and winged people live side-by side and magic is a part of everyday life. Although it’s the second book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone – and I liked it sufficiently to want to backtrack and listen to book one, Treasure .
When the story begins, Oliver Webb has left the colourless, grime-filled streets of the city of Greynox, where he’s lived his entire life, to settle in the small fishing village of Croftwell , planning to live at Farview Cottage, a property that’s been in his family for generations and which he’s inherited from the mother who died when he was a child. Tired from the long journey, he ventures into one of the village taverns, The Merman, for a drink and a meal, and is somewhat surprised – and maybe a teeny bit irritated – at the friendliness of the locals; he’s not in Croftwell to make friends and he just wants to be left to his own devices. But not long after he sits down, he’s approached by a cheerful (and very attractive) young man called Felix who offers to tell him a story in return for a pint. Intrigued despite himself, Oliver agrees, and Felix tells him the ages old tale of Farview Cottage and the legendary Lyra Moon. Oliver finds himself completely caught up in the story and maybe just a little bit captivated by the storyteller.
Although it’s late by the time he leaves the pub, Oliver makes his way to the remote cottage, dismayed to find it in a bit of a mess. He beds down for the night, and is awoken the next morning by Felix, who has brought food and offers to help get the place tidied up. Following a tasty picnic breakfast, Oliver and Felix begin the work of cleaning and tidying, and Oliver has to admit to himself that he doesn’t exactly hate Felix’s company. The man’s good mood is almost infectious, and much as Oliver tries to avoid looking at him, at something he can never have, he finds that harder and harder to do. But by the end of the day, the cottage is clean at least, and they’re about to prepare a meal when Felix suddenly cries out – the fire in the hearth is out of control and he just about manages to escape being badly burned.
Oliver acts quickly to douse the flames and is surprised when Felix turns down the offer of some magical healing salve for his hands. Then Felix tells his story, explaining how he’s allergic to magic, how it goes badly wrong whenever he’s around, and how it’s made him pretty much an outcast in the community. He’s well-liked, but in a world in which magic-use is the norm, he can’t even have a permanent job or home and has ended up doing odd jobs and couch surfing, moving around every couple of days because having him under one roof for too long could lead to disaster. Oliver is angry on his behalf, but Felix isn’t ground down by or bitter about any of it; he’s wistful and a bit sad sometimes, but mostly he just gets on with life, his naturally upbeat and sunny outlook carrying him through. Oliver is deeply affected by his story, all at once feeling an affinity born of always feeling like an outsider, too, and he decides to help Felix however he can. Over the next few days and weeks, he and Felix become closer, and watching these two damaged men fall for each other is an absolute delight. But it’s clear, right from the beginning, that all is not well with Oliver (not a spoiler, it’s in the blurb) and it soon becomes impossible for him to hide the fact that he’s seriously ill from Felix – or deny that his purpose in coming to Croftwell and to Farview was to live out his remaining days quietly and alone. But that plan has to be set aside when the reason for Oliver’s departure from Greynox – the thing he was running from – resurfaces and he realises he has the ability to set things right. To do so he’ll need to return to the city, which means sacrificing his remaining time with Felix – but the stakes are too high and lives hang in the balance… and Oliver needs to do the right thing even though it will probably be the last thing he does.
(If you’re worried at this point, don’t be – it all works out, I promise.)
Farview is, as I said at the beginning, a lovely story, a fairy tale cleverly woven of stories within stories, featuring two truly endearing characters, complete opposites whose differences complement each other and who bring out the best in one another. The world-building is subtle, full of small day-to-day details that are both magical and mundane, and there’s a well-drawn secondary cast that adds vibrancy to the story.
The only criticism I can really level at the book is that the ending, while it is foreshadowed, feels rather rushed and overly convenient, removing the agency from both leads in favour of a bit of magical hand-waving. The epilogue is swoony, though.
Joel Leslie is a narrator I listen to and review frequently, and it can be difficult to find things to say about a performer who is so consistently good! He has a way of getting into the heads and under the skins of the characters he portrays, and of really getting to the emotional heart of a story; he absolutely nails those things here, navigating the gentle humour, the whimsicality and the moments of heartbreak with effortless skill. His interpretations of Oliver and Felix are excellent, Felix’s softly accented speech full of warmth and good-humour while Oliver’ initial cantankerous standoffishness slowly evaporates as he comes to love Felix and feel a sense of belonging for the first time in his life. Mr. Leslie brings his considerable versatility to bear when it comes to the various secondary characters – who include the ghost of an elderly wizard with more than a hint of the valleys in his voice and cameo appearances from the couple from Treasure – who are all distinctly portrayed and clearly differentiated.
A magical, tender and sweetly sensual story coupled with a warmly perceptiveperformance from Joel Leslie, Farview is a delightful listen and one I can recommend wholeheartedly.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
July 6, 2021
This is a lovely fairytale-like story with a sweet ending. Oliver travels from the grime of the city he has always lived in to a tiny cottage on the top of a cliff that he inherited, planning for a life of quiet isolation. But when he arrives in Croftwell, the small village below, he finds a town of cheerful, helpful, nosy, and compassionate people who won't let him brood and isolate. He also meets Felix, a young man with a talent for telling magical tales, and a curse that keeps him wandering door to door and staying outside the comforts of hearth and home.
Felix isn't ground down by his problem, but he's a bit sad and wistful, and Oliver can't help wanting to make him feel better. Or, simply wanting him. The problem Oliver's escaping seems insurmountable, but maybe he can do a bit of good in a small way. And as they get closer, he starts looking at his life in a new way, even as news from the city brings his past back to haunt him.
The feel of this story is charming, magical and yet full of small day-to-day details that add hints of reality. The little stories within it, told by Felix, are not diversions and weave well into the whole of the narrative. The climactic ending slid just a bit too far into taking agency away from the main characters in pursuit of a fairytale totally happy ending, but the epilogue was heart-warming.
Felix isn't ground down by his problem, but he's a bit sad and wistful, and Oliver can't help wanting to make him feel better. Or, simply wanting him. The problem Oliver's escaping seems insurmountable, but maybe he can do a bit of good in a small way. And as they get closer, he starts looking at his life in a new way, even as news from the city brings his past back to haunt him.
The feel of this story is charming, magical and yet full of small day-to-day details that add hints of reality. The little stories within it, told by Felix, are not diversions and weave well into the whole of the narrative. The climactic ending slid just a bit too far into taking agency away from the main characters in pursuit of a fairytale totally happy ending, but the epilogue was heart-warming.
August 14, 2021
This book gets 5 stars just for the feels alone. I was charmed, excited, plunged into despair and became desperately sad, cautiously hopeful and then finally elated. I loved the MCs - stoic Oliver and the wonderful and ebullient Felix (a real charmer that one); plus a surprise re-visit with the MCs from the author's novella Treasure.
Kudos to Ms Fielding for taking me along a magic-ride ... in a world with imps and sprites, wingless dragons, winged-folk and merpeople, ghosts and guardian spirits, wizards with charms, devastating and murderous curses - and yes ... there's fae. All kinds of goodies that kept me enraptured, entertained and deeply moved for several hours. 5 plus stars.
Kudos to Ms Fielding for taking me along a magic-ride ... in a world with imps and sprites, wingless dragons, winged-folk and merpeople, ghosts and guardian spirits, wizards with charms, devastating and murderous curses - and yes ... there's fae. All kinds of goodies that kept me enraptured, entertained and deeply moved for several hours. 5 plus stars.
September 24, 2021
I have not read a single book for almost 2 years and ive always wanted to get back to reading. Life just got in the way. :(
Im glad i decided to read this one. I was charmed by the story. Ive forgotten how a book can instantly transport you to another world. What a wonderful read. 4.5 stars
Im glad i decided to read this one. I was charmed by the story. Ive forgotten how a book can instantly transport you to another world. What a wonderful read. 4.5 stars
June 26, 2021
Always a pleasure to read Kim Fielding.
Two very well developed characters on an unexpected and enjoyable adventure.
Two very well developed characters on an unexpected and enjoyable adventure.
February 21, 2022
https://www.bookwormblues.net/2022/02...
I came across this book because one of my friends recommended it. I was in the mood for something a bit enchanting, a bit lighter and this sounded like exactly my thing. Plus, it’s LGBTQIA+ friendly, which is always a huge, huge bonus. So, I jumped on it. I bought a copy, and reader, I blazed through this thing. I mean, I opened the book, and I basically read it in one sitting, and then immediately upon finishing it I thought, “I really want to read that again.”
Farview is…
I can’t even figure out how to sum up this book. To say it’s utterly charming is one of the biggest understatements I can think of. To say it’s captivating doesn’t do it justice. Farview is… I think it’s as close to perfection as a novel like this can be, and I don’t say that lightly.
What you first need to know, is that while this is billed as the second book in a series, it stands perfectly on its own. I did not read the first book in this series before I got to Farview, and I felt absolutely no drawback due to that. The story is its own thing, perfectly encapsulated here, with no real need for book one before you enjoy book two.
Oliver Webb arrives in a small, quiet seaside village and the cottage he inherited from his mother (and has never seen) in an effort to basically just fade away. He is running from something and he’s coming to this place to get away from it, live in this cottage alone, and waste away quietly. He’s a rather cantankerous man at the start of the book, unimpressed and doesn’t want to be messed with. Almost as soon as he arrives in Croftwell, Felix, a local storyteller and bard, attaches himself to Oliver. The two couldn’t, at first, be more opposite, and that’s where part of the magic is.
But only part of it.
First, let me talk a bit about Oliver and Felix, because it is very rare I come across such a perfectly suited couple in a book. Oliver’s cantankerous, closed off nature and Felix’s overflowing excitement and enthusiasm really pair well, like wine and cheese. It’s really nothing short of absolutely delightful to watch these characters become attached, and how they not only complement each other, but change each other for the better. Furthermore, both Oliver and Felix have secrets, have things the other needs to work around and account for, and never once was any of that excused away, or downplayed. Their strengths and weaknesses were fundamental parts of their characters and narrative arcs, and that just made them feel so much more real to me.
Oliver and Felix are an interesting couple in the fact they are both grappling with aspects of their pasts, and their present. They are, in a lot of ways, getting to know themselves as well as each other, and while Felix’s life is a bit more… imbedded in a certain routine, I’d say they are both at a time of transition and change. They end up being each other’s strengths during the unexpected storms they must weather. Their unlikely partnership is really the shining light of the book, so sweet and natural, so true, it’s an unfolding romance the way a romance should be written with high and low notes, emotional intensity, and moments of genuine, soul-deep connection.
And oh, reader, in this book, we get men that cry and I love that.
Magic, as I mentioned above, is prevalent. It’s everywhere, from imps who hang around and steal things that are left unaccounted for, to firestones, to magic flowers, and ghosts, merpeople, winged people… it is all here, and its everywhere. When I say, this world is steeped in magic, I mean it. Every page positively sings with enchantments. What’s more, it was so cleverly done, so carefully woven together, and somehow, it felt so natural to the world Fielding created, I never once doubted it. Elements I might otherwise have written off as “too ham-handed” became enchanting under this author’s careful ministrations. Slowly the world unfolded itself to me, and I realized, by the end of the book, I had fallen so much under its spell, I felt like Farview had worked a bit of its own magic on me.
If you’re looking for a fairytale, you really can’t do better than this. This is the sort of fantasy that does the soul good, but it’s also just stunningly well written. The world is absolutely breathtaking, and the love story is nothing short of pure perfection. Rarely have I seen an author master a story so well, and I know this one will be a re-read. If you like Quenby Olson, you’ll like this book.
I sat down to read this book hoping for something a bit softer, a bit enchanting, a bit sweet, and in every respect, Farview knocked it out of the park. I don’t think I’ve been this delighted by a book in a long, long time.
I came across this book because one of my friends recommended it. I was in the mood for something a bit enchanting, a bit lighter and this sounded like exactly my thing. Plus, it’s LGBTQIA+ friendly, which is always a huge, huge bonus. So, I jumped on it. I bought a copy, and reader, I blazed through this thing. I mean, I opened the book, and I basically read it in one sitting, and then immediately upon finishing it I thought, “I really want to read that again.”
Farview is…
I can’t even figure out how to sum up this book. To say it’s utterly charming is one of the biggest understatements I can think of. To say it’s captivating doesn’t do it justice. Farview is… I think it’s as close to perfection as a novel like this can be, and I don’t say that lightly.
What you first need to know, is that while this is billed as the second book in a series, it stands perfectly on its own. I did not read the first book in this series before I got to Farview, and I felt absolutely no drawback due to that. The story is its own thing, perfectly encapsulated here, with no real need for book one before you enjoy book two.
Oliver Webb arrives in a small, quiet seaside village and the cottage he inherited from his mother (and has never seen) in an effort to basically just fade away. He is running from something and he’s coming to this place to get away from it, live in this cottage alone, and waste away quietly. He’s a rather cantankerous man at the start of the book, unimpressed and doesn’t want to be messed with. Almost as soon as he arrives in Croftwell, Felix, a local storyteller and bard, attaches himself to Oliver. The two couldn’t, at first, be more opposite, and that’s where part of the magic is.
But only part of it.
First, let me talk a bit about Oliver and Felix, because it is very rare I come across such a perfectly suited couple in a book. Oliver’s cantankerous, closed off nature and Felix’s overflowing excitement and enthusiasm really pair well, like wine and cheese. It’s really nothing short of absolutely delightful to watch these characters become attached, and how they not only complement each other, but change each other for the better. Furthermore, both Oliver and Felix have secrets, have things the other needs to work around and account for, and never once was any of that excused away, or downplayed. Their strengths and weaknesses were fundamental parts of their characters and narrative arcs, and that just made them feel so much more real to me.
Oliver and Felix are an interesting couple in the fact they are both grappling with aspects of their pasts, and their present. They are, in a lot of ways, getting to know themselves as well as each other, and while Felix’s life is a bit more… imbedded in a certain routine, I’d say they are both at a time of transition and change. They end up being each other’s strengths during the unexpected storms they must weather. Their unlikely partnership is really the shining light of the book, so sweet and natural, so true, it’s an unfolding romance the way a romance should be written with high and low notes, emotional intensity, and moments of genuine, soul-deep connection.
And oh, reader, in this book, we get men that cry and I love that.
Magic, as I mentioned above, is prevalent. It’s everywhere, from imps who hang around and steal things that are left unaccounted for, to firestones, to magic flowers, and ghosts, merpeople, winged people… it is all here, and its everywhere. When I say, this world is steeped in magic, I mean it. Every page positively sings with enchantments. What’s more, it was so cleverly done, so carefully woven together, and somehow, it felt so natural to the world Fielding created, I never once doubted it. Elements I might otherwise have written off as “too ham-handed” became enchanting under this author’s careful ministrations. Slowly the world unfolded itself to me, and I realized, by the end of the book, I had fallen so much under its spell, I felt like Farview had worked a bit of its own magic on me.
If you’re looking for a fairytale, you really can’t do better than this. This is the sort of fantasy that does the soul good, but it’s also just stunningly well written. The world is absolutely breathtaking, and the love story is nothing short of pure perfection. Rarely have I seen an author master a story so well, and I know this one will be a re-read. If you like Quenby Olson, you’ll like this book.
I sat down to read this book hoping for something a bit softer, a bit enchanting, a bit sweet, and in every respect, Farview knocked it out of the park. I don’t think I’ve been this delighted by a book in a long, long time.
December 7, 2022
Brute is the only other book I've read by Kim Fielding, which is strange because it slots so perfectly into my Totally Cornball but I Love It Anyway shelf. This one's similarly sweet, not in plot but in, well, theme, if that's not too lit-crit a way to look at it: suffering oddballs find love.
I enjoyed Farview even though in retrospect a number of elements annoyed me or seemed unrealistic -- not, obviously, the magical aspects, those come with the territory.
First, the characterization of the seaside village of Croftwell. The residents of small isolated villages are not as a rule welcoming to outsiders the way Croftwell's people are. And we hear more than once about how everyone is related to everyone else, so even while I was reading the phrase "Habsburg jaw" kept popping into my head.
Second, I'm a city person, I love cities, and I get a little cranky sometimes when cities are presented as irredeemably awful places. To be fair, Greynox, the city MC1, Oliver, leaves in order to (as he expects) die, is more Dark Satanic Mills than Cosmopolitan Mecca.; it's kind of a cross between Victorian London and Industrial Revolution Manchester. But still: cranky.
Third, the ending. This is such a thing with romance novels: they almost always pile on too much sugar at the end, as if we can't possibly believe that the MCs are going to make it together unless the point is hammered home. And then hammered home some more. (Apologies for clashing metaphors.) I don't hate epilogues in principle but more and more I understand why so many readers hate them -- they almost always overdo it.
So, that sounds as if I should have hated the book. But I didn't! I liked Oliver and Felix very much and all in all I would say if you're in the mood for a nice warm bath, with bubbles perhaps, Farview would be a good choice. 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed Farview even though in retrospect a number of elements annoyed me or seemed unrealistic -- not, obviously, the magical aspects, those come with the territory.
First, the characterization of the seaside village of Croftwell. The residents of small isolated villages are not as a rule welcoming to outsiders the way Croftwell's people are. And we hear more than once about how everyone is related to everyone else, so even while I was reading the phrase "Habsburg jaw" kept popping into my head.
Second, I'm a city person, I love cities, and I get a little cranky sometimes when cities are presented as irredeemably awful places. To be fair, Greynox, the city MC1, Oliver, leaves in order to (as he expects) die, is more Dark Satanic Mills than Cosmopolitan Mecca.; it's kind of a cross between Victorian London and Industrial Revolution Manchester. But still: cranky.
Third, the ending. This is such a thing with romance novels: they almost always pile on too much sugar at the end, as if we can't possibly believe that the MCs are going to make it together unless the point is hammered home. And then hammered home some more. (Apologies for clashing metaphors.) I don't hate epilogues in principle but more and more I understand why so many readers hate them -- they almost always overdo it.
So, that sounds as if I should have hated the book. But I didn't! I liked Oliver and Felix very much and all in all I would say if you're in the mood for a nice warm bath, with bubbles perhaps, Farview would be a good choice. 3.5 stars.
November 14, 2021
Actual rating 4.25 stars.
Review to come. Maybe…
Review to come. Maybe…
August 17, 2021
This story is simply beautiful! This is the 24th Kim Fielding story that I’ve read and loved! I just loved the imagery this story conjured up; I could see the vivid landscape of the cottage and its glorious view of the sea, smell the sunshine, feel the storm, hear the chirping of the imps. This book was magical, poetic, and haunting altogether.
I loved the character the author created in Felix, so charming that you’d want nothing hurting him. His whole demeanor also feels magical, which is ironic because his ‘curse’ is supposedly an anti-magic one.
Oliver’s character, on the other hand, isn’t like Felix. His disposition was shaped by his surroundings growing up with an absent father (and mother since she died when he was two), a slew of nannies by his side, and a life that isn’t going anywhere until he decided to claim a cottage he inherited near a fishing village.
I adored watching Felix and Oliver’s relationship develop; though Oliver was resisting at first due to his illness, I thought it was sweet, it was heartbreaking at times, and you’ll root for them. You see, they’ve gone through a lot, individually. You can feel their sadness, but they are still hopeful, especially Felix, who is the “spirit” of the village.
I also loved the people of the village. They all have unique characterizations as they add more flavor to the story. I loved the stories of Felix recounting the history of the town and its people. I also loved Julian and Kit, the main character from the first book of the series, Treasure. I haven’t read the first book, but I am now very excited to read it because they seem to be very interesting and the whole vibe of the setting is just absolutely fantastic.
Farview is a beautiful contemporary story, which I would categorize in the fairy tale genre. The writing, as usual, was very descriptive and consistent with the mood of the book, which I’ve already expected from one of my favorite authors. It is a definite must-read!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
I loved the character the author created in Felix, so charming that you’d want nothing hurting him. His whole demeanor also feels magical, which is ironic because his ‘curse’ is supposedly an anti-magic one.
Oliver’s character, on the other hand, isn’t like Felix. His disposition was shaped by his surroundings growing up with an absent father (and mother since she died when he was two), a slew of nannies by his side, and a life that isn’t going anywhere until he decided to claim a cottage he inherited near a fishing village.
I adored watching Felix and Oliver’s relationship develop; though Oliver was resisting at first due to his illness, I thought it was sweet, it was heartbreaking at times, and you’ll root for them. You see, they’ve gone through a lot, individually. You can feel their sadness, but they are still hopeful, especially Felix, who is the “spirit” of the village.
I also loved the people of the village. They all have unique characterizations as they add more flavor to the story. I loved the stories of Felix recounting the history of the town and its people. I also loved Julian and Kit, the main character from the first book of the series, Treasure. I haven’t read the first book, but I am now very excited to read it because they seem to be very interesting and the whole vibe of the setting is just absolutely fantastic.
Farview is a beautiful contemporary story, which I would categorize in the fairy tale genre. The writing, as usual, was very descriptive and consistent with the mood of the book, which I’ve already expected from one of my favorite authors. It is a definite must-read!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
September 2, 2021
This was such a lovely and sweet story. I like the way that this book was written, and there's quite a bit of feels. The book kept my interest all throughout. The ending felt a bit rushed I think..and I also wish there was more on page sex. There were certainly a lot about this world that caught my interest, and even thought should be explored more. I still really enjoyed it though! In particular the two main characters and them finding joy in their life through each other, it was sweet.
I think this is the third book I've read by Kim Fielding? But one favorite of mine is "Brute" (I really enjoyed this work) , and elements of this story reminds me of her characters in that book..just there are a lot of tender and sweet moments.
The setting of this book...there's mention of dragons, fae , wizards, ghosts. Much of this book is in a small town, there's a cottage by the sea. So a town that's kind of a slow paced life with fishing, taverns etc. But there's also parts of this story that refers to a city, factories with labor abuses , poverty , politics, royalty and nobility ..that kind of gives off an industrial revolution Victorian Era vibe . I kind of felt like there was a bit of everything, and strangely I enjoyed it and was definitely curious. I think mostly because the focus was on the two main characters and their lives
I think this is the third book I've read by Kim Fielding? But one favorite of mine is "Brute" (I really enjoyed this work) , and elements of this story reminds me of her characters in that book..just there are a lot of tender and sweet moments.
The setting of this book...there's mention of dragons, fae , wizards, ghosts. Much of this book is in a small town, there's a cottage by the sea. So a town that's kind of a slow paced life with fishing, taverns etc. But there's also parts of this story that refers to a city, factories with labor abuses , poverty , politics, royalty and nobility ..that kind of gives off an industrial revolution Victorian Era vibe . I kind of felt like there was a bit of everything, and strangely I enjoyed it and was definitely curious. I think mostly because the focus was on the two main characters and their lives
August 28, 2021
Interesting approach. The story is actually a weaving of multiple stories that come together to tell a larger tale. It was a fairy tale feel to it and includes fantastical elements such as fairies, wizards, and dragons. I would have preferred more world building, but it was a charming tale nevertheless.
February 6, 2022
This is just such a completely lovely story, beautifully written with an amazing setting that was a character itself.
Felix and Olly were imperfectly perfect, and I love everything about their story(ies).
This one will be a reread for me, and also just bought the audiobook.
I hope more stories are to come from this world.
Felix and Olly were imperfectly perfect, and I love everything about their story(ies).
This one will be a reread for me, and also just bought the audiobook.
I hope more stories are to come from this world.
September 27, 2022
What an amazing story. I loved every minute . . . even the minutes where I was crying. I sure hope we get more stories in this world.
The audiobook narration was solid, as well.
The audiobook narration was solid, as well.
July 4, 2023
WONDERFUL! Grabbed my attention from the moment I started reading and didn't let me go until it ended.
November 19, 2022
Gorgeous!!
I devoured this book in one day. I love, love LOVED it. Oliver and Felix are delightful, the story is absolutely captivating, and I am enamoured with Farview. Will try to write a more coherent review later , but right now I am basking in the afterglow.
I still don't have the words to describe this book. Part romance, part fantasy, and all incredibly warm and magical and wonderful. Set in a land something like the British Isles, Farview follows Oliver, a young man who leaves the city for a coastal town where he can live in solitude for a while and come to terms with the fact he is dying of a prolonged illness.
His intent to live a hermit-like existence in the tiny cottage atop a sea-wind kissed cliff, called Farview, is foiled by the villagers who take him under their wing like one of their own--and by handsome storyteller Felix, who regales Oliver with fantastic tales which may or may not be true, but distract Oliver from his imminent mortality in more ways than one.
Magic is the mundane in this world, from dragon-drawn coaches to delicate little imps who beg at the doorstep for scraps. But neither Oliver nor Felix are ready for the kind of magic they discover together, and both their lives are forever changed.
I devoured this book in one day. I love, love LOVED it. Oliver and Felix are delightful, the story is absolutely captivating, and I am enamoured with Farview. Will try to write a more coherent review later , but right now I am basking in the afterglow.
I still don't have the words to describe this book. Part romance, part fantasy, and all incredibly warm and magical and wonderful. Set in a land something like the British Isles, Farview follows Oliver, a young man who leaves the city for a coastal town where he can live in solitude for a while and come to terms with the fact he is dying of a prolonged illness.
His intent to live a hermit-like existence in the tiny cottage atop a sea-wind kissed cliff, called Farview, is foiled by the villagers who take him under their wing like one of their own--and by handsome storyteller Felix, who regales Oliver with fantastic tales which may or may not be true, but distract Oliver from his imminent mortality in more ways than one.
Magic is the mundane in this world, from dragon-drawn coaches to delicate little imps who beg at the doorstep for scraps. But neither Oliver nor Felix are ready for the kind of magic they discover together, and both their lives are forever changed.
April 13, 2022
Loved it!
Felix’s stories were such fun and drew me right in.
Audiobook April 2022. Joel Leslie did an AMAZING job!
Felix’s stories were such fun and drew me right in.
Audiobook April 2022. Joel Leslie did an AMAZING job!
August 27, 2021
4.5 stars
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: While technically the second book in this series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. However I heartily recommend the first book because it’s so good and also for insight into some of the characters who appear later in the book.
Oliver Webb has spent his entire life in Greynox. But after a terrible event there, he leaves the city to head to the seaside village of Croftwell. There his mother, who he does not even remember as she died when he was a toddler, has left him his inheritance – a cottage called Farview. He’s never left the city and despite his increasing illness, he wishes to spend whatever time he has someplace better than Greynox and with few options, he’s off on the journey.
Once Oliver has arrived in Greynox, he makes his way to a pub, has a delicious dinner and meets one Felix Corbyn – who invites himself to dinner with Oliver in return for telling him a story 🙂 Seems that storytelling is Felix’s primary talent. Oliver is attracted to the lovely Felix, but he needs to make his way to the cottage he’s inherited. It’s a slow trip in the dark and he finds the purportedly haunted cottage in a bit of a mess as no one has lived there in some time. When Felix offers to help him get the place in shape for a fee (and more stories), Oliver takes him up on it. The distraction and the help proves to make much shorter work of getting the lovely and cozy cottage put to rights. However, Oliver discovers that Felix has a bit of a curse and that magic goes wrong around him – nearly resulting in disaster! Oliver is at first angry, but then he is sympathetic to Felix’s affliction – especially when he comes to know how it has affected Felix’s life. And he continues to be captivated and charmed by Felix.
Unfortunately the issue that Oliver thought he’d left behind in Greynox makes it’s way to Croftwell after a fashion. By this time, Felix and Oliver have grown quite close. Oliver can no longer hide his encroaching illness from Felix. He also has a vision and realizes he has to do what he can to make things right – even if it costs him time with Felix. He’s adamant about traveling back to Greynox alone and doing what he can to make sure justice is served despite Felix begging him not to go. Lives hang in the balance – and not just our heroes!
Oh how do I love this story. Let me count the ways. I swear that Kim Fielding can write anything. Fantasy, contemporary, historical, urban fantasy, horror, you name it, she can make you love the story, the world and the characters. Never is that more evident than in this lovely tale of Oliver and Felix – with a lot of absolutely delightful secondary characters along the way. Oliver has never felt like he belonged. His upbringing wasn’t affectionate and he’s figure out a way to get by and put some money aside for a quiet retirement. When he arrives in Croftwell his first interaction with Felix gives us some idea of where this story will go – but the twists and turns, the secrets and connections are so varied and wonderfully entertaining and surprising. Felix’s gifts as a storyteller keep Oliver and the reader on their toes the entire time. Oliver’s realization of what he needs to do to set things right just make us love him all the more – even if there is a chance that Felix will be left alone. The slow burn and push-pull of their relationship is sweet 🙂 Oliver has never been able to openly be with a man before, but he’s beginning to realize that in Croftwell, nobody will think any differently of him. Felix has never had anybody to call his own. He’s a free spirit and his “curse” tends to make him unwelcome long term. The fact that Oliver loves him gives him renewed strength and courage.
The many lovely secondary characters of this story really make it shine. Whether it’s Felix’s numerous family members, ghosts who encourage, a local wizard, solicitor or pub owner, all are beautifully rendered. They are full-fledged characters in their own right – and I’d love to read a story about any one of them 🙂 We do see the MCs from the first book again also – a real treat for readers of that book, although it’s not necessary to have read it to appreciate those characters (I highly recommend it on its own merits however 😉 ). Without all these folks, Oliver and Felix would be doomed and the help they give is absolutely required. There are also new and exciting parts and places to this world that we also get a glimpse of that just add to the depth of the story. The family history and the revelations of the ties to the past and the cottage for Oliver and for Felix and the unusual path to their HEA are just so well done. I enjoyed every single word of this story. Highly recommended!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: While technically the second book in this series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. However I heartily recommend the first book because it’s so good and also for insight into some of the characters who appear later in the book.
Oliver Webb has spent his entire life in Greynox. But after a terrible event there, he leaves the city to head to the seaside village of Croftwell. There his mother, who he does not even remember as she died when he was a toddler, has left him his inheritance – a cottage called Farview. He’s never left the city and despite his increasing illness, he wishes to spend whatever time he has someplace better than Greynox and with few options, he’s off on the journey.
Once Oliver has arrived in Greynox, he makes his way to a pub, has a delicious dinner and meets one Felix Corbyn – who invites himself to dinner with Oliver in return for telling him a story 🙂 Seems that storytelling is Felix’s primary talent. Oliver is attracted to the lovely Felix, but he needs to make his way to the cottage he’s inherited. It’s a slow trip in the dark and he finds the purportedly haunted cottage in a bit of a mess as no one has lived there in some time. When Felix offers to help him get the place in shape for a fee (and more stories), Oliver takes him up on it. The distraction and the help proves to make much shorter work of getting the lovely and cozy cottage put to rights. However, Oliver discovers that Felix has a bit of a curse and that magic goes wrong around him – nearly resulting in disaster! Oliver is at first angry, but then he is sympathetic to Felix’s affliction – especially when he comes to know how it has affected Felix’s life. And he continues to be captivated and charmed by Felix.
Unfortunately the issue that Oliver thought he’d left behind in Greynox makes it’s way to Croftwell after a fashion. By this time, Felix and Oliver have grown quite close. Oliver can no longer hide his encroaching illness from Felix. He also has a vision and realizes he has to do what he can to make things right – even if it costs him time with Felix. He’s adamant about traveling back to Greynox alone and doing what he can to make sure justice is served despite Felix begging him not to go. Lives hang in the balance – and not just our heroes!
Oh how do I love this story. Let me count the ways. I swear that Kim Fielding can write anything. Fantasy, contemporary, historical, urban fantasy, horror, you name it, she can make you love the story, the world and the characters. Never is that more evident than in this lovely tale of Oliver and Felix – with a lot of absolutely delightful secondary characters along the way. Oliver has never felt like he belonged. His upbringing wasn’t affectionate and he’s figure out a way to get by and put some money aside for a quiet retirement. When he arrives in Croftwell his first interaction with Felix gives us some idea of where this story will go – but the twists and turns, the secrets and connections are so varied and wonderfully entertaining and surprising. Felix’s gifts as a storyteller keep Oliver and the reader on their toes the entire time. Oliver’s realization of what he needs to do to set things right just make us love him all the more – even if there is a chance that Felix will be left alone. The slow burn and push-pull of their relationship is sweet 🙂 Oliver has never been able to openly be with a man before, but he’s beginning to realize that in Croftwell, nobody will think any differently of him. Felix has never had anybody to call his own. He’s a free spirit and his “curse” tends to make him unwelcome long term. The fact that Oliver loves him gives him renewed strength and courage.
The many lovely secondary characters of this story really make it shine. Whether it’s Felix’s numerous family members, ghosts who encourage, a local wizard, solicitor or pub owner, all are beautifully rendered. They are full-fledged characters in their own right – and I’d love to read a story about any one of them 🙂 We do see the MCs from the first book again also – a real treat for readers of that book, although it’s not necessary to have read it to appreciate those characters (I highly recommend it on its own merits however 😉 ). Without all these folks, Oliver and Felix would be doomed and the help they give is absolutely required. There are also new and exciting parts and places to this world that we also get a glimpse of that just add to the depth of the story. The family history and the revelations of the ties to the past and the cottage for Oliver and for Felix and the unusual path to their HEA are just so well done. I enjoyed every single word of this story. Highly recommended!
August 29, 2021
Just An Amazing Magical Emotional Journey, highly recommended
Rating : 5 🌈
When I see a new release from Kim Fielding, i always know to expect several things. I’m about to embark on a remarkable journey. It will be one of both deep despair and incredible highs. I’ll meet many unique and memorable beings along the way, often those like Oliver Webb and Felix Corbyn, to name just two, who have a huge adventure in front of them.
As do we.
There will be some humor, light as rare pink sprights in flight or warm-hearted as a tiny imp with a treasure. But , true to form, there’s also immense pain and darkness and despair. For no one knows better then Fielding that to truly appreciate the brightest of that golden light that glows at the final peak for the brave that successfully overcome all odds to achieve their quest that they first must endure the darkness, the brutality , the loss of hope and love in order to gain it again.
Sometimes in one of her stories you’re not even sure the heroes will prevail. That is the journey they endure and learn from itself that’s the quest and not whatever the item to be found at the end they’ve been asked to find.
It’s in her characters, their relationships, the universe and the peoples and beings around them that’s the treasure each reader finds and gleans something personal from. I can find something new each time I reread her stories. They have that much depth.
Farview contains everything I expect from a Kim Fielding story. Outstanding universe building, characters that slowly reveal their layers, of character and history, as they grow together and into your heart. A magical mystery, a heartbreaking illness, imps, dragons, and a village by the sea that will exert a emotional pull on you just as it does on Oliver.
At times I found myself bawling my eyes out. My heart hurt that badly for all involved. And I wasn’t sure exactly how it all would work out.
Strangely and perfectly enough, not in anyway I foresaw.
Love it when that happens.
The ending left me smiling, eyes closed, listening as I imagined the sounds of the sea calling, the salt in the wind and the sounds of laughter ringing up from over the cliffs…..
Perfection.
I highly recommend Farview and Kim Fielding if you haven’t found this author yet.
Now to wait impatiently for her next release!
Synopsis: Ravaged by a horrific experience, Oliver Webb flees the smog-bound city of Greynox for a quiet seaside village and the inheritance he’s never seen: a cottage called Farview. He discovers clear skies, friendly imps, and a charming storyteller named Felix Corbyn.
With help from Felix’s tales, Oliver learns surprising secrets about his family history and discovers what home really means. But with Felix cursed, Oliver growing deathly ill, and an obligation in Greynox hanging heavy around his neck, it seems that not even wizards can save the day.
Still, as Felix knows, stories are the best truths and the most powerful magic. Perhaps the right words might yet conjure a chance for happiness
Rating : 5 🌈
When I see a new release from Kim Fielding, i always know to expect several things. I’m about to embark on a remarkable journey. It will be one of both deep despair and incredible highs. I’ll meet many unique and memorable beings along the way, often those like Oliver Webb and Felix Corbyn, to name just two, who have a huge adventure in front of them.
As do we.
There will be some humor, light as rare pink sprights in flight or warm-hearted as a tiny imp with a treasure. But , true to form, there’s also immense pain and darkness and despair. For no one knows better then Fielding that to truly appreciate the brightest of that golden light that glows at the final peak for the brave that successfully overcome all odds to achieve their quest that they first must endure the darkness, the brutality , the loss of hope and love in order to gain it again.
Sometimes in one of her stories you’re not even sure the heroes will prevail. That is the journey they endure and learn from itself that’s the quest and not whatever the item to be found at the end they’ve been asked to find.
It’s in her characters, their relationships, the universe and the peoples and beings around them that’s the treasure each reader finds and gleans something personal from. I can find something new each time I reread her stories. They have that much depth.
Farview contains everything I expect from a Kim Fielding story. Outstanding universe building, characters that slowly reveal their layers, of character and history, as they grow together and into your heart. A magical mystery, a heartbreaking illness, imps, dragons, and a village by the sea that will exert a emotional pull on you just as it does on Oliver.
At times I found myself bawling my eyes out. My heart hurt that badly for all involved. And I wasn’t sure exactly how it all would work out.
Strangely and perfectly enough, not in anyway I foresaw.
Love it when that happens.
The ending left me smiling, eyes closed, listening as I imagined the sounds of the sea calling, the salt in the wind and the sounds of laughter ringing up from over the cliffs…..
Perfection.
I highly recommend Farview and Kim Fielding if you haven’t found this author yet.
Now to wait impatiently for her next release!
Synopsis: Ravaged by a horrific experience, Oliver Webb flees the smog-bound city of Greynox for a quiet seaside village and the inheritance he’s never seen: a cottage called Farview. He discovers clear skies, friendly imps, and a charming storyteller named Felix Corbyn.
With help from Felix’s tales, Oliver learns surprising secrets about his family history and discovers what home really means. But with Felix cursed, Oliver growing deathly ill, and an obligation in Greynox hanging heavy around his neck, it seems that not even wizards can save the day.
Still, as Felix knows, stories are the best truths and the most powerful magic. Perhaps the right words might yet conjure a chance for happiness
October 25, 2021
This story is set in an alternate version of Victorian England, a fact I'd forgotten from the synopsis despite having read it twice. So it was a surprise to see the protagonists making a purchase with "coppers" on the first page. Not to mention a coach being pulled by dragons on the second page. It was a pleasant surprise, though.
The main character is Oliver, who leaves the polluted and miserable city of Greynox and heads to the seaside village of Croftwell. He owns a cottage there called Farview that he inherited from his mother. Oliver's reason for leaving Greynox is a terrible illness. And he just wants a peaceful place to spend his last days. He doesn't expect to meet Felix in Croftwell. Felix is the kindest and most selfless person Oliver has ever met. He has a gift for storytelling and a curse that he's learned to live with.
Both of the protagonists are wonderful. It took a few chapters for Felix to grow on me. But like Oliver, the more I found out about Felix, the more I loved him. Oliver himself is great too. And their quiet love story that progresses gradually despite all the horrors of the world... it's beautiful.
There's actually a lot about this book that's beautiful. The writing, for one. The way it describes Croftwell and Farview and lets us feel the emotions of the characters... it's so charming. I also loved the approach to world-building too. The world feels familiar in almost every way except for the existence of magic and magical creatures. But the author doesn't make a production of the magical elements. They're just a part of the world. Dragons pull coaches, fishing nets have enchantments, and imps are cute and will be very nice if you give them food.
The world-building here is immersive and well-thought-out. And I really liked being a part of this world. I'm actually thinking of reading the first book soon, called Treasure . And I'm hoping the author will write more in this world.
The only complaint I have is that I found the ending to be rushed. There's a couple of big issues to deal with, and they get solved in one convenient scene. But other than that, I loved pretty much everything about this book. The characters, the setting, both the plotlines and the romance. I highly recommend checking it out. And after, if you're wondering about Aygun and Tural, they have a short story called A Fair Enough Trade that you can read here.
The main character is Oliver, who leaves the polluted and miserable city of Greynox and heads to the seaside village of Croftwell. He owns a cottage there called Farview that he inherited from his mother. Oliver's reason for leaving Greynox is a terrible illness. And he just wants a peaceful place to spend his last days. He doesn't expect to meet Felix in Croftwell. Felix is the kindest and most selfless person Oliver has ever met. He has a gift for storytelling and a curse that he's learned to live with.
Both of the protagonists are wonderful. It took a few chapters for Felix to grow on me. But like Oliver, the more I found out about Felix, the more I loved him. Oliver himself is great too. And their quiet love story that progresses gradually despite all the horrors of the world... it's beautiful.
There's actually a lot about this book that's beautiful. The writing, for one. The way it describes Croftwell and Farview and lets us feel the emotions of the characters... it's so charming. I also loved the approach to world-building too. The world feels familiar in almost every way except for the existence of magic and magical creatures. But the author doesn't make a production of the magical elements. They're just a part of the world. Dragons pull coaches, fishing nets have enchantments, and imps are cute and will be very nice if you give them food.
The world-building here is immersive and well-thought-out. And I really liked being a part of this world. I'm actually thinking of reading the first book soon, called Treasure . And I'm hoping the author will write more in this world.
The only complaint I have is that I found the ending to be rushed. There's a couple of big issues to deal with, and they get solved in one convenient scene. But other than that, I loved pretty much everything about this book. The characters, the setting, both the plotlines and the romance. I highly recommend checking it out. And after, if you're wondering about Aygun and Tural, they have a short story called A Fair Enough Trade that you can read here.
July 13, 2021
Very sweet fairy tale-like romance, and apparently what I need right now are love stories that bear no resemblance to reality whatsoever, so it hit the spot. Set in an alternative 19th century world where dragons pull carriages, and magic is an accepted part of life, Fairview refers to the cottage by the sea that Oliver has inherited from his long-dead mother. Leaving behind his life in the big city, he comes there to be left in peace and quiet, only to meet a community of warm, caring people and a young man named Felix who loves to tell stories but has neither permanent job nor home. Both Oliver and Felix are under curses of a sort, and falling in love might save them, but only if Oliver has the courage and strength to face the horrific events that sent him running to Fairview.
I wasn't a big fan of the first Kim Fielding book I read, Teddy Spenser Isn't Looking for Love: An LGBTQ Romcom, but I think that contemporary workplace romance just might not be her best niche. She seems more at home in this world where she can use her lyrical style to create a tale that includes immortal fae, mischievous imps, helpful ghosts, and magical talismans. (I feel like the dragons are somewhat wasted though - all they do is replace horses, basically). There's a bit of grumpy/soft in Oliver and Felix's relationship, although Oliver realizes pretty quickly that he cares deeply for Felix, and from that point only external factors keep them from their HEA.
I'm glad I took a second chance on Kim Fielding, and I will definitely seek out her work again, especially if it's something with a fanciful plot.
I wasn't a big fan of the first Kim Fielding book I read, Teddy Spenser Isn't Looking for Love: An LGBTQ Romcom, but I think that contemporary workplace romance just might not be her best niche. She seems more at home in this world where she can use her lyrical style to create a tale that includes immortal fae, mischievous imps, helpful ghosts, and magical talismans. (I feel like the dragons are somewhat wasted though - all they do is replace horses, basically). There's a bit of grumpy/soft in Oliver and Felix's relationship, although Oliver realizes pretty quickly that he cares deeply for Felix, and from that point only external factors keep them from their HEA.
I'm glad I took a second chance on Kim Fielding, and I will definitely seek out her work again, especially if it's something with a fanciful plot.
March 2, 2024
A Cottage By The Sea, For Thee
GreynoxSea2
The first story in this universe that i read was “Treasure” - Julian Massey and Kit Archer - in the anthology The Sacrifice.
Farview is an ancillary that overlaps a bit, but stands alone.
Oliver Webb was left a house in Croftwell by his long dead mother. His life has changed so much by recent events, that he has come to investigate his holdings, and live in peace. But first, he meets a story-teller who shares his tales for a pint of ale and a willing ear. Oliver thinks they are nonsense, but entertaining.
Felix Coyburn is a man of all work, if there isn’t much magic about. Felix has an affliction - he is allergic to magic and it doesn’t work as it is supposed to around him. Since most folk use magical items without thought, it takes some doing for Felx to make a living without undoing others’ livelihoods. But, Felix is beloved of his family, and they make it work.
Oliver has been poisoned with a curse, and no one has the skills or means to reverse it, so he has come to Croftwell to die. But, history has a stronger hold on the lives of Crofters, and Oliver’s ties stretch back eons. There is a lot of truth in stories, even if the stories aren’t accurate…
GreynoxSea2
The first story in this universe that i read was “Treasure” - Julian Massey and Kit Archer - in the anthology The Sacrifice.
Farview is an ancillary that overlaps a bit, but stands alone.
Oliver Webb was left a house in Croftwell by his long dead mother. His life has changed so much by recent events, that he has come to investigate his holdings, and live in peace. But first, he meets a story-teller who shares his tales for a pint of ale and a willing ear. Oliver thinks they are nonsense, but entertaining.
Felix Coyburn is a man of all work, if there isn’t much magic about. Felix has an affliction - he is allergic to magic and it doesn’t work as it is supposed to around him. Since most folk use magical items without thought, it takes some doing for Felx to make a living without undoing others’ livelihoods. But, Felix is beloved of his family, and they make it work.
Oliver has been poisoned with a curse, and no one has the skills or means to reverse it, so he has come to Croftwell to die. But, history has a stronger hold on the lives of Crofters, and Oliver’s ties stretch back eons. There is a lot of truth in stories, even if the stories aren’t accurate…
July 3, 2024
I did not expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I thought perhaps my enjoyment of book one was a fluke and add the fact that it's been a while since I read that I made some erroneous assumptions. I should have known better. Kim Fielding is an amazing storyteller and this is indeed a story worth telling. Add in the outstanding performance by Joel Leslie and a revisit with Julian and Kit from book one (Treasure and this is a hands-down 5 star story.
I found it very difficult to take a sleep break last night but I managed to find ways to sneak the story in throughout this morning and just totally ignored my work until this story was done. Oliver and Felix were memorable on their own and I'm sure I'll remember them as easily as I do Julian and Kit. Then mix in the residents of this tiny seaside town, including ghosts, and the sagas from the past that detail the heartbreaking story of the young couple who originally built Farview, and this will be one story I do not easily forget.
Very definitely highly recommended.
I found it very difficult to take a sleep break last night but I managed to find ways to sneak the story in throughout this morning and just totally ignored my work until this story was done. Oliver and Felix were memorable on their own and I'm sure I'll remember them as easily as I do Julian and Kit. Then mix in the residents of this tiny seaside town, including ghosts, and the sagas from the past that detail the heartbreaking story of the young couple who originally built Farview, and this will be one story I do not easily forget.
Very definitely highly recommended.
October 20, 2023
Thank you to the author and MM celebration anniversary 2023.
I enjoyed this well-rounded story. It flowed well and had a good ending. I felt it was well-written and the characters had depth to them.
Oliver has moved to a remote village to a small cottage he had inherited. Though, the move is more motivated by what he had experienced in the big city.
Running from nightmares.
There he meets Felix— a joyful lad who works odd jobs to keep afloat. Usually problems come around with Felix.
We find out that magic affects him differently than others. But that doesn’t seem to bother Oliver.
As Oliver fights off his inner demons— Felix is there him.
They both believe neither is good enough but as the days pass and feeling develop they must learn that sometimes fighting is worth it.
Oliver learns from Felix and other unlikely guests the truth about his ancestors.
And not all memories are true.
Together they race to try to safe others and bring true justice.
And along the way they learn of love and sometimes thinking of the future isn’t bad.
I enjoyed this well-rounded story. It flowed well and had a good ending. I felt it was well-written and the characters had depth to them.
Oliver has moved to a remote village to a small cottage he had inherited. Though, the move is more motivated by what he had experienced in the big city.
Running from nightmares.
There he meets Felix— a joyful lad who works odd jobs to keep afloat. Usually problems come around with Felix.
We find out that magic affects him differently than others. But that doesn’t seem to bother Oliver.
As Oliver fights off his inner demons— Felix is there him.
They both believe neither is good enough but as the days pass and feeling develop they must learn that sometimes fighting is worth it.
Oliver learns from Felix and other unlikely guests the truth about his ancestors.
And not all memories are true.
Together they race to try to safe others and bring true justice.
And along the way they learn of love and sometimes thinking of the future isn’t bad.
June 5, 2022
5 stars for story and the narration by Joel Leslie. A
This is a beautifully written story, full of lyrical descriptions and well-written emotions. It has beauty, humor, sadness, loss, hope, loyalty, and love. The wonderful stories Felix told are some of my favorite parts of the book. There is so much depth and cleverness here.
Oliver is a broken man when he comes back to an ancestral cottage by the sea to live out his days. There he meets a young man, Felix, with his own "curse." They strike up a friendship and Felix tells Oliver wonderful stories of his own beginnings. With the help of ghosts and imps, love and friendship, and support of the townspeople, Oliver and Felix set out to right a wrong and perhaps make peace with themselves in the process. A beautiful love story.
This is a beautifully written story, full of lyrical descriptions and well-written emotions. It has beauty, humor, sadness, loss, hope, loyalty, and love. The wonderful stories Felix told are some of my favorite parts of the book. There is so much depth and cleverness here.
Oliver is a broken man when he comes back to an ancestral cottage by the sea to live out his days. There he meets a young man, Felix, with his own "curse." They strike up a friendship and Felix tells Oliver wonderful stories of his own beginnings. With the help of ghosts and imps, love and friendship, and support of the townspeople, Oliver and Felix set out to right a wrong and perhaps make peace with themselves in the process. A beautiful love story.
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