Escape to Lilacwell

Lilacwell Village #1

by Sasha Morgan

Adira Summers has spontaneously quit her high-flying career as a barrister in London. She needs to escape from the rat race and, encouraged by her bohemian gran, has bought a campervan to do so.

Taking off for a tour around Britain, disaster strikes early on when her van breaks down outside the quaint village of Lilacwell. But things look up after she meets handsome Jasper, who is visiting to check on his ailing uncle and his crumbling estate, The Laurels.

As Adira falls for Lilacwell, she is torn between forgoing her travel plans to stay, or continuing with her adventure. Jasper must also choose between returning to his job in Dubai or moving back for his uncle – and Adira.

Genres: Contemporary, Fiction

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2022

About the author

Sasha lives in a coastal village in Lancashire, in the North West of England with her husband and Labrador dog, Zac and has a grown up son.

Besides novels, she writes articles, short stories and is on the writing team for a childrens publishers.

She loves drinking wine, walking her dog and curling up with a good book.

Reviews

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this lovely summer read very much but, it follows so many books that are very similar. Girl unhappy in her job suddenly leaves her home life and boyfriend behind. Sets off in a camper van and arrives where the old man is struggling with looking after his mansion and himself and she helps and falls in love. Don’t get me wrong it was a good read but, I kept thinking that I’d read it before. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

‘I think you were meant to find Lilacwell, don’t you?’

The answer to that question is a resounding yes! This book was perfection - an in between read that really ticked all the boxes. Putting it simply, it tells a story of when you have had enough of your job and the rat race and decide to leave, buy a campervan and embark on an adventure - now that is something we have all felt at some stage in our lives. The sweet aspect of this book is that Adira (main character) doesn’t get that far as she falls in love with the most wonderful village and its occupants.

‘… she realised what she didn’t want. To be here, stuck in this car park, stuck in this city and stuck in this job.’

I was attracted to this book because the questions Adira was asking herself about her path in life and needing time to reassess her priorities was totally relatable. Add in ‘Sheila’ (the campervan) with the most charming Lancashire village and the tale is just so enchanting. Another aspect I appreciated about Sasha’s book is that it was multidimensional - this is not just a romantic chick lit - far from it. Sasha’s inclusion of topics such as the cost of maintaining an English manor, setting up a new business, working abroad, the problems of aging and caring for the aged, workplace issues - truly, it is an impressively written book that touches on some highly relevant issues. I love it when a book such as this offers the reader that little bit extra.

‘He’d come to realise just how much his memories had played a part in his life, and not always in a positive way.’

The only issue I had was the changing in voice at times - it would suddenly flip to an alternate speaker and I had to backtrack to check who was actually speaking/thinking. However, this was a minor transgression to what is essentially a fabulous piece of escapism. Full to overflowing with a quaint village, charming characters that effuse such sincerity and friendship in the quest to find happiness.

‘Destination reached,’ she whispered in his ear, ‘I’ve found what I’ve been searching for.’





This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

[Kaitlyn Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was so charming!! I was captivated by the story the whole time and connected to the characters. I wish I could visit Lilacwell!! Definitely read this if you’re: itching to travel, looking for a cute feel-good summer read, and are in a reading slump. One issue I had with this was the overuse of the word “whilst”, but I’ll forgive it. There was also a weird sub-plot that I thought went a little over-the-top but I don’t want to say much about it since most of it takes place in the later parts of the book. Overall I loved reading this one and I hope to see a lot more people reading this once it comes out!

A very special thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Sasha Morgan for this ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review. Escape to Lilacwell will be published July 28, 2022.

[Vanessa Ingle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a heartwarming easy read . Some good characters were created here . A great holiday read !!

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I experienced a slight 'reading slump' during this book so it did take me slightly longer than normal. However, this is a light-hearted, quick read which I thoroughly enjoyed, and would recommend for a summer beach read.

Based within the U.K's quaint villages, this book has a gorgeous setting. I enjoyed getting to know the characters (Fletcher really was my favourite by the end - such a sweet little man!)

I'm rating this book 4 out of 5 stars, due to it being quite predictable (but then a lot of books in this genre can be), and I did struggle to get into it for the first few chapters. That being said, I ended up hooked on this book and finished the second half within a couple of hours.

If you're looking for a meet-cute romance story to read this summer, then this would be perfect! This book is part of a series and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.

Also the cover of the book is so pretty, I just couldn't not have this on my bookshelf!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely read. I could have done without any mention of the gross Zara though. Everyone else in Lilacwell was enjoyable to read about. The setting was nice and the story flowed well.

[My_every_day_chilling · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review.
Book: Escape to Lilacwell
Author: Sasha Morgan
Rating 3,5 stars

Positive thoughts:
The story was a wonderful adventure, fun experiences with lovely small town vibes. A clean romance with heart-warming characters and scenes. I enjoyed the plot and every turn the story took me. I enjoyed reading about the characters, and how they ended up too. I was literally rooting for Fletcher and Lilly.

Negative thoughts:
I'm not a fan of long paragraphs and I had trouble with them in this book (I was lucky the story was interesting or that would have put me off straight away). I sometimes felt that some scenes were not necessary especially with the secondary characters. I was hoping to see more of Adira's past, we read so much of her search, I was expecting some big reveal (perhaps we'll get in in the second book with Rory and Cassie?)

Overall:
I really enjoyed this clean romance, although it was quite bland on the romance side, the experiences Adira goes through fill the gap. If you like the small town vibe and where every one knows every one and just wants to help out and to the best for the people, this is a good book for you. If you like a road trip adventure that takes you to your destination where you find your happiness, this is a book for you.

Romance: 3/5
Spice: 0,5/5
Suspense: 1/5
Humour: 2/5
Foul language: 0/5


Tropes:
- small town romance
- forced proximity
- road trip adventure
- drop your job for the adventure
- grumpy - sunshine

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

Escape to Lilacwell was a pleasure to read from start to finish. I was obviously crazy jealous that Adira was able to pack up and go on an adventure. We have all had those days where we wish we could just that, so it was nice to live vicariously through her for a bit. It was somewhat amusing that her grand adventure did not end up getting her that far which I guess just shows it doesn't matter where you are, just what you do wherever it is you go. Adira was open to whatever came her way and that was why she was able to create a new, happier life for herself. Adira may also be somewhat too good of a person to really exist, but I liked her so much I'll forgive that. I liked her and Jasper together, they just sort of fell into their romance so naturally. Jasper's assistant was a piece of work and I kind of wish we got to hear the conversation with her bosses after her behavior came to be known. I appreciated that Jasper didn't wait to get home to clear up everything with Adira and figured out how to get a message to her. I also liked that Adira was willing to listen. The one thing I could not understand was why Jasper's parents stayed together for so long. I get why she didn't leave her husband when Jasper was young, but she could have at any point after that. Fletcher's story was so sad and I felt bad for him when he realized how much of his life he had wasted because (since this was not a scifi story) there was no way to correct that mistake. I wish there had been more of friendship between Adira and Rory to better explain why she invited him to the party at the end. I was left with the question as to whether or not there might be a second book so we can get to know him better and see if he too can find love? I'd definitely be interested in that book.

[Lyndi (mibookobsession) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adira has spent her whole life under pressure to be better, first by her mother, then her college, now her job as a barrister in London. The only one that teaches her to be herself is her grandmother Edie, with her bohemian lifestyle and knowledge of medicinal plants. After being forced to represent one too many rich, entitled, and cheating men through divorce, Adira has had enough. She quits her job, buys a campervan named Sheila, and decides to travel for a year. Searching for a relaxed small town vibe, she tries several places, but they're either too touristy, too unwelcoming, or just not quite right. Then Sheila breaks down outside Lilacwell and she parks in a nearby field.
Jasper has a promising career in Dubai, but when his ailing Uncle Fletcher needs help, he comes back to his hometown. He's always been closer to his uncle than his own father, and he's set to inherit the estate, the Laurels, when his uncle is gone. At first suspicious of the strange yet enigmatic woman his uncle had welcomed onto his land, Jasper determines to keep a close eye on Adira. But the more they're thrown together, the more he realizes she's just what he and this close-knit community need. But can he convince her to stay?
This was a cozy and charming travel romance that made me want to give up everything and travel myself. I liked the grumpy uncle matchmaker and the stalker side story that made things more interesting.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.

[Anjana · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read a lot of books in this genre. Sometimes (very rarely), I come across books that work for the majority of the population and not for me. If you look at the ratings for this book, you will know what I mean.
We have multiple separate voices here. The central figure is Adira. She has quit her high-paying job, a career that her mother, rather than her own interest, pushed her into. She sets off on an adventure in her camper van but does not get far. She ends up stranded in Lilacwell on another's property. Jasper is the heir to the Laurels, and he does not trust this stranger or his attraction to her. He, too, has paused his high-flying job to be here to take care of his uncle. There are several other pieces to the story. There is a secret and just plain discovery in the area - One for Jasper and another for Adira.
I found the concept good but somehow failed to connect to the people or their grievances. Some styles of narration work better for me than others, and this time I struggled with the connection I wanted. I have wept with books like this before, but I think I would still recommend this to fans of this genre! I believe there is another book in the works for this location, so whoever likes this will have more to explore in Lilacwell, and that's always a good thing.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this lovely, but predictable romance set in the charming village of Lilacwell in the U.K. Adira has left her successful career as an attorney in London as a result of job burnout, purchased a campervan and intends to spend the next year traveling. Not long into her adventure, when weary from a long day of driving, she pulls off the road into a woodsy area through a broken gate and decides to camp for the night. Turns out that it’s private property, owned by a doddering 85 year old man who has let it run down since he no longer has the energy to maintain his estate. Adira makes herself useful and is soon accepted into the household of the old man, Fletcher, his handsome young nephew Jasper and their aged housekeeper. She finds the town and its inhabitants charming and feels at home there. Jasper is only there for a few weeks, though, as he must return to his job in Dubai. Adira and Jasper are obviously attracted to each other, but when he returns to Dubai, she is left wondering whether they have any future together.

The Lilacwell characters in this novel are all friendly and lovely; but the characters in Dubai aren’t so nice. So it’s no surprise that Jasper decides to return, either predictable results…

[Fleurtje Eliza · Rating 4 out of 5]

It wasn't just Adira's Escape to Lilacwell, it was mine too. Feeling low this book was excellent escapism for me, I really enjoyed the three main characters and their banter.

Adira being Hebrew for strong, thankfully she wasn't just that. She shed a few tears here and there when she was overwhelmed or sad and that's what I liked about her. And her being friends with both Rory and Cassie... I'm hoping for a sequel :)

It was a bit flat regarding diversity when it comes to skin color, sexual orientation, religion, history, cultural background, income (or lack of), and chronics, but I could add that to a lot of reviews on books I've read recently...

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.

[Mary Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

Sweet story. Adira was getting fed up of her london centric life as a lawyer. Her Grandmother suggested she bought a campervan and took a year off. So she does that and ends up al Lilacwell a country estate run by Jasper's uncle. Adira is excepted by the local community and because she's also got a qualification in massage is able to help the local Inn set up a spa space. Jasper realises that the estate needs more work and his uncle is not coping so comes over from Dubai. His possessive stalkerish PA is not happy and that's were the trouble starts.

Not that much passion but quite a realistic comtemporary romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Darci Kester · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adina leaves her job and takes a gap year where she plans to travel. After stopping in Lilacwell, there are several things there that pique her interest, so she stays longer than intended. Jasper is one of those things. He’s back visiting his aging uncle and is struggling on what steps to take next for his life/future.

Lovely story set in the beautiful countryside, although there were a couple aspects of the book that were a bit too dramatic/angsty for me, as I tend to go for pure romcom storylines. However, for anyone who prefers a bit more drama in their books, this would be a great read for you.

Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Escape to Lilacwell to come out July 28, 2022!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape to Lilacwell offers a well-crafted and engaging story, brought to life by strong character development and believable personalities. The characters feel authentic, and their individual arcs are thoughtfully explored, making it easy to become invested in their experiences. The plot is interesting and unfolds at a steady, satisfying pace that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

The writing is clear and well-structured, with a natural flow that enhances the overall reading experience. The author’s ability to balance narrative momentum with emotional depth is impressive, and it left me eager to continue exploring the Lilacwell series. I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.

[Grace Challinor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contains spoilers!!!

I loved this book! It was such an interesting concept. This little village sounds so sweet and homely. I think it offers a welcome break from the other, more dramatic romance novels I'm used to reading. The characters are all so good—each has their own unique personality, making them quite lovable. I love how Jasper and Adira decide to forgo travelling and old jobs to be together. I felt so much sympathy for Lilly in how she has been pining for Fletcher for most of her life. I really hope something happens between the two of them in the next books. Also, the twist of Fletcher's affair with Jasper's mum, Alice, and him being Jasper's biological father was interesting. I found it cool that Sasha sets up the central romance of book 2 for Rory and Cassie.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun, entertaining read for the summer. Adira takes a break from the path her parents have put her on and escapes to the gorgeous setting in the countryside. She steps sideways it seems and takes the opportunity to reassess her priorities and do something completely different. As a character, she is easy to like and it is very credible that the people she meets form strong friendships with her. Of course, she is not the only one who decides to reassess their high powered career and Jasper has to decide where his heart lies.
An enjoyable read with a gorgeous setting.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book

[Tara Hyatt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adira has always done what her mother expected and now, as a barrister she is feeling stuck and unhappy. Then her beloved grandmother shows her an ad for a used campervan which sets her off on a 'gap year" to rediscover who she is. Jasper is living and working in Dubai but worried about his elderly Uncle and how he is coping so takes a trip back home to check on him. When Adira and Jasper cross paths, exciting ventures take place in more ways than one.
I really enjoyed this read. The characters were all likable (execpt for one) and I could visualize the setting of Lilacwell. A great storyline and an easy read made for a great novel.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author and certainly won’t be my last this was such a beautiful poignant escapism read and once had started I couldn’t put it down and read it in almost one sitting. It was full to the brim of charming characters and gorgeous scenery with a delightful story of romance friendship and finding happiness.

I was disappointed to finish reading it as didn’t want the story to end but felt uplifted when I got to
The acknowledgments to find there is going to be a sequel which I am already looking forward to immensely.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was planning to give it a four but thinking back, I skimmed some paragraphs since, again, they were too long and some details are unnecessary. And again, I wish there is more to that conflict and ending.

If you are looking for something cozy and romantic with little to no conflict, I think you would enjoy this book.

The full book review is up on my blog. Here is the link for anyone interested:
https://thecatwithabook.wordpress.com...

[Rachel Stansel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun romance about a woman who leaves her job and busy life behind to travel, but finds herself in a beautiful small village that steals her heart. I enjoyed the characters and found the story a sweet bit of escapism.

Full disclosure- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adria Summers has had enough of her job as a high flying barrister in London. She dreams of freedom and spontaneously quits her job to drive around England in a campervan.

When her van breaks down outside the little village of Lilacwell it seems like fate is stepping in.

A lovely romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Veronika · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up. This was an escapist romance read and it was fine, there were parts that I found quite charming but it also bored me a little and some parts were wholly unrealistic, I liked many of the characters (though some also felt as an afterthought) and I would like to visit a town like Lilacwell irl. All in all it was an ok read.

[Jessica Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 out of 5 stars

it was okay. boring in some areas though. i feel as though this book just wasn’t really for me. i didn’t really feel any connection to the characters, which is sad because i was very excited for this book.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining and heartwarming story that made me smile and escape reality.
I liked the fleshed out characters and the plot, well developed and compelling.
The characters are fleshed out and likeable.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5⭐
I wanted to like it more- I really did. Cute premise, cute characters. I didn't mind the evil secretary side story, but I just couldn't connect to the writing style. The writing just didn't work for me.

[Mrs J Whatley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very smiley

This book held me right from the start. I eagerly read it as I was so keen to engulf it all. Lovely characters, each with their funny different ways. Definitely a "feel-good read". Looking forward to the next one. Well done.

[Ellen Abrahams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read by this author and I will definitely be reading more.
Loved the setting of this book, could imagine myself there. The characters were also charming and I loved the storyline as to how this progressed. Cannot wait to read on.

[Nicola Britnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb heart warming book

Thank you Sasha Morgan for this book wonderfully written and heart warmingly wonderful
I can picture all the characters and all their quirks simply beautiful x

[Julie Brookes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am loving Sasha’s books this is the first in this series and I am enjoying the characters and the setting it seems such an ideal place to live, as I’m from the North I may have to investigate to see if I can find this village, looking forward to reading the next instalment