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Return to Cornish Bay
By the Sunday Times bestselling author of A Golden Cornish Summer, discover the perfect escapist read.
'Warm and funny and feel-good. The best sort of holiday read' Katie Fforde
Miranda's taken great care to create a calm and ordered world for herself, and in her job as property manager of a spectacular island castle in Cornwall, she's had the castle running like clockwork. But this summer, its sexy owner returns to claim his birthright - and Miranda's careful life will never be the same again.
Dark, handsome and with a rakish reputation, Jago St Merryn not only looks like a pirate but is intent on flogging the Mount to a soulless leisure corporation. Miranda faces the battle of her life as she tries to persuade him to change his mind. But if she's going to convince him, she'll have to face some secrets from her past that she'd much rather keep hidden away - and she might even have to risk opening up her heart...
This lovely summer story is the perfect escape - take an armchair holiday to the spectacular Cornish countryside alongside a heroine who is determined to keep fighting for her castle of dreams.
*Previously published as MIRANDA'S MOUNT and RETURN TO CASTLE BAY*
'Warm and funny and feel-good. The best sort of holiday read' Katie Fforde
Miranda's taken great care to create a calm and ordered world for herself, and in her job as property manager of a spectacular island castle in Cornwall, she's had the castle running like clockwork. But this summer, its sexy owner returns to claim his birthright - and Miranda's careful life will never be the same again.
Dark, handsome and with a rakish reputation, Jago St Merryn not only looks like a pirate but is intent on flogging the Mount to a soulless leisure corporation. Miranda faces the battle of her life as she tries to persuade him to change his mind. But if she's going to convince him, she'll have to face some secrets from her past that she'd much rather keep hidden away - and she might even have to risk opening up her heart...
This lovely summer story is the perfect escape - take an armchair holiday to the spectacular Cornish countryside alongside a heroine who is determined to keep fighting for her castle of dreams.
*Previously published as MIRANDA'S MOUNT and RETURN TO CASTLE BAY*
368 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2012
80 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Phillipa Ashley
44 books1,171 followersPhillipa Ashley is a Sunday Times and Amazon Top 10 best selling author of uplifting romantic novels.
She has written 26 books under three pen names since her debut novel , Decent Exposure, was made into a Lifetime TV movie called 12 Men of Christmas.
Her latest release is An Endless Cornish Summer.
A Special Cornish Christmas will be published in November 2021.
She also writes the Oxford Blue series as Pippa Croft and The Love Solution as Ashley Croft.
She has written 26 books under three pen names since her debut novel , Decent Exposure, was made into a Lifetime TV movie called 12 Men of Christmas.
Her latest release is An Endless Cornish Summer.
A Special Cornish Christmas will be published in November 2021.
She also writes the Oxford Blue series as Pippa Croft and The Love Solution as Ashley Croft.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
October 8, 2012
This past weekend, I was suffering a horrible sinus attack. My brain was basically mush, and I didn't move too far from the bed all weekend. Fortunately I had Miranda's Mount, the latest romance by Phillipa Ashley to keep me amused. The book is set in Cornwall, one of the loveliest parts of the UK, with it dramatic coastline and relatively temperate climate. The specific setting is St. Merryn's Mount which, like its real life counterparts St. Michael's Mount in Cornwall and Mont Saint Michel in France, is a castle-topped island, which, depending upon the tides, is accessible by foot or boat. Ashley's style is witty and her characters are appealing. Miranda has been managing the castle for years, and it is both home and an escape from her past. Also, trying to escape his past is Jago, who finally returns to his ancestral home after a prolonged absence. Miranda is a likable heroine, and Jago is a bit of a pirate, quite literally at one point in the book!
However, the true star of the book is Cornwell and St. Merryn's Mount in particular. Ashley does an excellent job of capturing the mystical, wild beauty of Cornwall. In fact, while reading the book I couldn't help but start planning a holiday to Cornwall. I might even try surfing!
In sum, Miranda's Mount is a great book for when you are confined to bed like I was this weekend, or whenever you want to spend time escaping into a funny, well-written, book set in a truly amazing location.
However, the true star of the book is Cornwell and St. Merryn's Mount in particular. Ashley does an excellent job of capturing the mystical, wild beauty of Cornwall. In fact, while reading the book I couldn't help but start planning a holiday to Cornwall. I might even try surfing!
In sum, Miranda's Mount is a great book for when you are confined to bed like I was this weekend, or whenever you want to spend time escaping into a funny, well-written, book set in a truly amazing location.
October 11, 2012
On the coast of Cornwall, St. Merryn's Mount stands as a family sentinel and a metaphor. When the tide is out, the home of the ancient St. Merryn family is connected to both the mainland and the people who live there. But when the tide is in, the Mount stands apart, isolated and surrounded by currents and eddies that flow with the Atlantic Ocean's rhythms. Thus is the metaphor for Miranda's Mount, the story of Miranda Marshall, property manager of this heritage spot, and Jago St. Merryn, present Lord of the manor. These two damaged souls are both, like the Mount, connected to this piece of land and each other, yet isolated by past circumstances neither one of them could control.
When Miranda first meets Jago, he is in the armory, holding an ancient cutlass and looking for all the world like a pirate from a story book. According to Miranda, he looked like someone who had "seen and done and probably smoked or inhaled a lot of stuff." He also looks like "how D'Artagnan might have looked if Levis had been invented." Jago is the Earl of St. Merryn, returned home after ten years abroad. And while the staff is hoping he has decided to take on the responsibility of his heritage, Miranda soon finds out the truth. He is selling St.Merryn's Mount to a large leisure company, and getting out. His reasons at this point are unclear. What is clear to Miranda is that at the very least, Jago is the enemy. At the most, she is already falling for him. And with her own damaged family background and what she knows about Jago's plans for the Mount, she must confront her past and her future and try to determine if the sale presents an opportunity for her to finally let go of her own safety net and move on with her life; a dilemma that becomes more complicated as despite his plans, she and Jago become closer.
Miranda's Mount is so much more than a simple romantic, contemporary love story.
Ms. Ashley delves into both Jago and Miranda's pasts with obvious relish. There are reasons why these two cannot be together, why Jago feels it necessary to sell the Mount, and why Miranda is so afraid to move on. With this heavy psychological load, you would think this novel would veer toward the dark and depressing. Nothing is further than the truth. There is humor and wit threaded throughout, a technique that allows for laughter despite the somewhat dark obstacles these two face. There is one scene in particular that involves a rowboat, an incoming tide, some rocks, alcohol, and a very sexy Earl that will leave the reader laughing out loud. It's a talent that Ms. Ashley has that lightens up the mood of her novels and makes her characters so real to her readers. Speaking of all her characters, there are some wonderful secondary characters in this novel as well. There's Theo, a "pillar of the community and a serial hero," a man who has a definite problem with the St. Merryn family, and is a rival for Miranda's affections. There's Ronnie, head of security at the Mount, Karen the local bartender and various other additions to this colorful cast of Cornish characters.
There's even a scene that Richard Armitage fans may relate to involving a baby stroller and a body of water that most likely ended a bit less dramatically for Richard than it did for the little boy living it in this story. But even this scene serves a purpose. Ms.Ashley is very adept at using every opportunity to get her story across
When Jago's feelings for Miranda get too strong, he confesses to her why he is selling and why he will only break her heart. But as doubts on his chosen course beset him, Miranda reveals her family history, and she herself realizes why Jago's decision is so important to him and she stops fighting it. It's beginning to look a bit like a Gift of the Magi moment for these two with one exception. In the end, they both get what they really want without giving up what they already have.
I've read every one of Phillipa Ashley's novels and I have to say, this one is my favorite. Everything about it is pitch perfect and from beginning to end, the characters, the setting and the story itself rings true. Written with wit, feeling, intelligence and a good deal of the "hot" factor, Miranda's Mount is a must-read.
When Miranda first meets Jago, he is in the armory, holding an ancient cutlass and looking for all the world like a pirate from a story book. According to Miranda, he looked like someone who had "seen and done and probably smoked or inhaled a lot of stuff." He also looks like "how D'Artagnan might have looked if Levis had been invented." Jago is the Earl of St. Merryn, returned home after ten years abroad. And while the staff is hoping he has decided to take on the responsibility of his heritage, Miranda soon finds out the truth. He is selling St.Merryn's Mount to a large leisure company, and getting out. His reasons at this point are unclear. What is clear to Miranda is that at the very least, Jago is the enemy. At the most, she is already falling for him. And with her own damaged family background and what she knows about Jago's plans for the Mount, she must confront her past and her future and try to determine if the sale presents an opportunity for her to finally let go of her own safety net and move on with her life; a dilemma that becomes more complicated as despite his plans, she and Jago become closer.
Miranda's Mount is so much more than a simple romantic, contemporary love story.
Ms. Ashley delves into both Jago and Miranda's pasts with obvious relish. There are reasons why these two cannot be together, why Jago feels it necessary to sell the Mount, and why Miranda is so afraid to move on. With this heavy psychological load, you would think this novel would veer toward the dark and depressing. Nothing is further than the truth. There is humor and wit threaded throughout, a technique that allows for laughter despite the somewhat dark obstacles these two face. There is one scene in particular that involves a rowboat, an incoming tide, some rocks, alcohol, and a very sexy Earl that will leave the reader laughing out loud. It's a talent that Ms. Ashley has that lightens up the mood of her novels and makes her characters so real to her readers. Speaking of all her characters, there are some wonderful secondary characters in this novel as well. There's Theo, a "pillar of the community and a serial hero," a man who has a definite problem with the St. Merryn family, and is a rival for Miranda's affections. There's Ronnie, head of security at the Mount, Karen the local bartender and various other additions to this colorful cast of Cornish characters.
There's even a scene that Richard Armitage fans may relate to involving a baby stroller and a body of water that most likely ended a bit less dramatically for Richard than it did for the little boy living it in this story. But even this scene serves a purpose. Ms.Ashley is very adept at using every opportunity to get her story across
When Jago's feelings for Miranda get too strong, he confesses to her why he is selling and why he will only break her heart. But as doubts on his chosen course beset him, Miranda reveals her family history, and she herself realizes why Jago's decision is so important to him and she stops fighting it. It's beginning to look a bit like a Gift of the Magi moment for these two with one exception. In the end, they both get what they really want without giving up what they already have.
I've read every one of Phillipa Ashley's novels and I have to say, this one is my favorite. Everything about it is pitch perfect and from beginning to end, the characters, the setting and the story itself rings true. Written with wit, feeling, intelligence and a good deal of the "hot" factor, Miranda's Mount is a must-read.
November 5, 2012
What a super feel good romance. The eponymous heroine is likeable and real, an old fashioned romantic with a modern touch. Miranda has what to some would be a dream job - to others it would feel like a prison sentence. She manages a historic castle on a small island off the coast of Cornwall, St Merryns Mount, which is cut off from the mainland at high tide and at low tide reached only by a narrow causeway across the sand.
She does her job with great pride and a real deep affection for the place she is custodian of, efficiently dealing with staff, and looking after the many visitors dealing with the wide variety of daily events. On rare evenings off she likes to join her friend Ronnie who works with her on the island when the two girls go out on the pull in the local pubs, just a normal, single girl working and playing hard.
Then into her carefully ordered world steps Jago St Merryn, Lord of the castle and straight out of a pirate novel, handsome, unconventional, rich and unwelcome in Mirandas life as his presence at the Mount, when he returns after years of absence, threatens not just her job but her peace of mind.
Instant attraction fizzes between the two from the very start, in some ways he's the stuff of her dreams, he turns her on and she'd love him to make a move on her; but his presence stands to destroy all the security and stability in her life as he is going to sell the Mount, for reasons unknown he won't consider taking over the family castle and she and her friends will soon be out of a job and a home. So Miranda plans to try and thwart his efforts any way she can, which isn't easy especially when she finds him so darned attractive and can't stop fantasizing about the two of them getting together.
As truths are revealed and Jago's past is gradually revealed she realizes she has little chance of changing the man or his mind so what will happen next?
The book paints a lovely picture of life in a stately home, beautifully descriptive and evocative of Cornwall and there's enough lust and passion to make a maiden aunt blush, yet we really get inside the mind of a young woman falling hopelessly and helplessly for the wrong guy, (who you can't help fancying yourself - or maybe that was just me?)
Its always exciting to discover a new author, but it can be a bit daunting when you're invited to review a new book by an author whose work you've never read because, lets face it - theres some awful tosh out there masquerading as literature.
I'm delighted to say this isn't going to join the rubbish heap - Its a lovely read and one I'd recommend very highly to anyone who likes a fun contemporary romance with realistic characters, a great setting and a super storyline with loads going on to keep you entertained from page one right through to the very tantalizing end - whether thats to be a happy one or a tear jerker I'll leave you to find out, when you take your trip to Miranda's mount.
She does her job with great pride and a real deep affection for the place she is custodian of, efficiently dealing with staff, and looking after the many visitors dealing with the wide variety of daily events. On rare evenings off she likes to join her friend Ronnie who works with her on the island when the two girls go out on the pull in the local pubs, just a normal, single girl working and playing hard.
Then into her carefully ordered world steps Jago St Merryn, Lord of the castle and straight out of a pirate novel, handsome, unconventional, rich and unwelcome in Mirandas life as his presence at the Mount, when he returns after years of absence, threatens not just her job but her peace of mind.
Instant attraction fizzes between the two from the very start, in some ways he's the stuff of her dreams, he turns her on and she'd love him to make a move on her; but his presence stands to destroy all the security and stability in her life as he is going to sell the Mount, for reasons unknown he won't consider taking over the family castle and she and her friends will soon be out of a job and a home. So Miranda plans to try and thwart his efforts any way she can, which isn't easy especially when she finds him so darned attractive and can't stop fantasizing about the two of them getting together.
As truths are revealed and Jago's past is gradually revealed she realizes she has little chance of changing the man or his mind so what will happen next?
The book paints a lovely picture of life in a stately home, beautifully descriptive and evocative of Cornwall and there's enough lust and passion to make a maiden aunt blush, yet we really get inside the mind of a young woman falling hopelessly and helplessly for the wrong guy, (who you can't help fancying yourself - or maybe that was just me?)
Its always exciting to discover a new author, but it can be a bit daunting when you're invited to review a new book by an author whose work you've never read because, lets face it - theres some awful tosh out there masquerading as literature.
I'm delighted to say this isn't going to join the rubbish heap - Its a lovely read and one I'd recommend very highly to anyone who likes a fun contemporary romance with realistic characters, a great setting and a super storyline with loads going on to keep you entertained from page one right through to the very tantalizing end - whether thats to be a happy one or a tear jerker I'll leave you to find out, when you take your trip to Miranda's mount.
June 4, 2023
I did enjoy very much the first half of this book : fast and funny.
The second half was dedicated to reviling the past of the characters.
One thing which really surprised me was the sex description... a little bit too much for my liking.
Overall a good book, delivering the feeling of Cornwall to the reader.
The second half was dedicated to reviling the past of the characters.
One thing which really surprised me was the sex description... a little bit too much for my liking.
Overall a good book, delivering the feeling of Cornwall to the reader.
December 13, 2012
I loved this story. Not only does it feature Phillipa Ashley's trademark wit and spot-on dialogue (not to mention a deliciously piratical hero!), but also a vivid evocation of the eponymous Mount's real-life counterpart and Cornwall in general, an area of the country I know well and love.
June 1, 2025
Really good story, very heartwarming read.
April 16, 2013
Miranda Marshall loves her job as property manager of the beautiful castle and old fort, St. Merryn’s Mount. Steeped in history and home to the Cornish aristocratic family, the St. Merryn’s, this beautiful castle is not just a museum, but, a welcoming place for visitors to have fun in the beautiful Cornish countryside and get to learn a little about the Mount's past. Working her way up from taking tickets at the entrance, for the last three years Miranda has held the role of property manage and has helped grow the business dramatically during that time, attracting more visitors and organising regular family fund raising events, which are bigger and bigger successes each year. Miranda is Lady St. Merryn’s eyes and ears on site and even though she seems to be slowing down a little recently, Miranda’s boss still has a keen interest in everything to do with the family home.
We first meet Miranda at the end of a busy day when she is doing the final rounds following the days visitors who have all left on the last ferry back to the mainland. She is surprised by a man who appears to be an intruder, brandishing a cutlass which he has taken off the wall in the Armoury. After Calling security to detain him even though she doesn't believe he looks like a madman, Miranda finally comes to realise that this is no intruder but Jago St. Merryn, rightful heir to the Mount and son of Lady St Merryn. Jago has been away from Cornwall, travelling the world for over ten years and is seldom mentioned by Lady St Merryn. After his father’s death, Jago left the running of the family home to his mother who had welcomed the task at the time after years of living in the shadow of her cruel husband, the previous Earl.
Jago is handsome and dashing in a Johnny Depp kind of way and Miranda is instantly drawn to him, in-spite of his wielding a cutlass and his silly antics in the armoury. Soon she learns, however, that Jago has a plan for St Merryn’s Mount and he is back to execute this as his mother is ready to take somewhat of a back seat in the running of the estate and let him take over. Before long it is clear that his intentions are not what Miranda or any of the people who work there want to happen.
This is a funny, witty love story filled with interesting characters, not least of all the family estate itself. St Merryn’s Mount is based on the estate of St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall and plays a huge role in this story. I was so drawn to this lovely place that I had to take a peep at the St Michael’s Mount website, just to see what it looked like (http://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/). I was not surprised when I saw a photo of it as Phillipa Ashley does a great job of describing the island fort and her love of the Cornwall countryside is clear.
This is the fifth Phillipa Ashley book I have read and believe it to be the best one so far. She delves into the personalities and motivation of the main protagonists decision making and there are also many other well drawn players in this story to get to know. They are humorous, sometimes not quite what they seem and the dialogue is believable and flows easily.
If you want an enjoyable escape to Cornwall for a few hours entertaining reading, then this is the book for you.
Miranda's Mount is published in the US with the title Girl vs. Earl
Miranda's Mount
We first meet Miranda at the end of a busy day when she is doing the final rounds following the days visitors who have all left on the last ferry back to the mainland. She is surprised by a man who appears to be an intruder, brandishing a cutlass which he has taken off the wall in the Armoury. After Calling security to detain him even though she doesn't believe he looks like a madman, Miranda finally comes to realise that this is no intruder but Jago St. Merryn, rightful heir to the Mount and son of Lady St Merryn. Jago has been away from Cornwall, travelling the world for over ten years and is seldom mentioned by Lady St Merryn. After his father’s death, Jago left the running of the family home to his mother who had welcomed the task at the time after years of living in the shadow of her cruel husband, the previous Earl.
Jago is handsome and dashing in a Johnny Depp kind of way and Miranda is instantly drawn to him, in-spite of his wielding a cutlass and his silly antics in the armoury. Soon she learns, however, that Jago has a plan for St Merryn’s Mount and he is back to execute this as his mother is ready to take somewhat of a back seat in the running of the estate and let him take over. Before long it is clear that his intentions are not what Miranda or any of the people who work there want to happen.
This is a funny, witty love story filled with interesting characters, not least of all the family estate itself. St Merryn’s Mount is based on the estate of St Michael’s Mount in Cornwall and plays a huge role in this story. I was so drawn to this lovely place that I had to take a peep at the St Michael’s Mount website, just to see what it looked like (http://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/). I was not surprised when I saw a photo of it as Phillipa Ashley does a great job of describing the island fort and her love of the Cornwall countryside is clear.
This is the fifth Phillipa Ashley book I have read and believe it to be the best one so far. She delves into the personalities and motivation of the main protagonists decision making and there are also many other well drawn players in this story to get to know. They are humorous, sometimes not quite what they seem and the dialogue is believable and flows easily.
If you want an enjoyable escape to Cornwall for a few hours entertaining reading, then this is the book for you.
Miranda's Mount is published in the US with the title Girl vs. Earl
Miranda's Mount
February 25, 2013
The first time we meet Miranda she’s lost in the view from the battlements of St Merryn’s Mount. We find out that she’s worked there for almost a decade and the connection she feels to the Mount.
In this first chapter there is conflict with a thief and drama with an intruder in the armoury of the castle… my imagination and interest was hooked!
With the return of Jago there is mystery surrounding where he has been and why he hasn’t been back since his inheritance. Jago and Miranda both have childhood scars from parenting that are shaping the way they interact with the world. Neither are fully engaged in life … Jago also has emotional scars from the time he’s been away so despite their attraction, there is a reluctance to admit how they are drawn to each other.
Miranda’s Mount follows our two leads as they clash … not only about the future of St Merryn’s Mount but sparks fly emotionally as well.
Written in the third person we get to identify with both Jago and Miranda. I always enjoy this perspective as we see different facets to our characters personalities and it can leave the reader yelling at the characters because we know things the other doesn’t!
I enjoyed the whole culture and community on the Mount. Despite the isolation, there is plenty going on to hold the readers interest. The conflict between Theo and Jago is always simmering under the surface of their interactions and the annual Festival of Fools was very entertaining. I have to admit that I did like Theo … until the truth is uncovered of why he’s been getting closer to Miranda! The intimacy between Miranda and Jago has its amusing moments – the boat scene comes to mind here and although it could have had a very different ending, I couldn’t help but chuckle. I have no doubt that one seduction scene will hit into quite a few feminine fantasies …
The readers emotions are engaged not only by the romance but also with familial love. I must admit to tears at the Song of the Seas near Lands End.
Lady St Merryn is a fabulous character. I loved it that she was finally able to choose to be who she wanted to be and to do her ‘own thing.’ We all know I love to see a character grow into their own and it was brilliant that this time it was an older character. It’s never too late is the message here!
Although I could predict where the story was taking me, Miranda’s Mount has thoroughly entertained me and I’ve been left with that feel-good factor – which is exactly what you want to escape on these dark and grey days. I have no hesitation in recommending you add this to your reading list.
I would like to thank the author for providing a copy to review in exchange for an honest review.
In this first chapter there is conflict with a thief and drama with an intruder in the armoury of the castle… my imagination and interest was hooked!
With the return of Jago there is mystery surrounding where he has been and why he hasn’t been back since his inheritance. Jago and Miranda both have childhood scars from parenting that are shaping the way they interact with the world. Neither are fully engaged in life … Jago also has emotional scars from the time he’s been away so despite their attraction, there is a reluctance to admit how they are drawn to each other.
Miranda’s Mount follows our two leads as they clash … not only about the future of St Merryn’s Mount but sparks fly emotionally as well.
Written in the third person we get to identify with both Jago and Miranda. I always enjoy this perspective as we see different facets to our characters personalities and it can leave the reader yelling at the characters because we know things the other doesn’t!
I enjoyed the whole culture and community on the Mount. Despite the isolation, there is plenty going on to hold the readers interest. The conflict between Theo and Jago is always simmering under the surface of their interactions and the annual Festival of Fools was very entertaining. I have to admit that I did like Theo … until the truth is uncovered of why he’s been getting closer to Miranda! The intimacy between Miranda and Jago has its amusing moments – the boat scene comes to mind here and although it could have had a very different ending, I couldn’t help but chuckle. I have no doubt that one seduction scene will hit into quite a few feminine fantasies …
The readers emotions are engaged not only by the romance but also with familial love. I must admit to tears at the Song of the Seas near Lands End.
Lady St Merryn is a fabulous character. I loved it that she was finally able to choose to be who she wanted to be and to do her ‘own thing.’ We all know I love to see a character grow into their own and it was brilliant that this time it was an older character. It’s never too late is the message here!
Although I could predict where the story was taking me, Miranda’s Mount has thoroughly entertained me and I’ve been left with that feel-good factor – which is exactly what you want to escape on these dark and grey days. I have no hesitation in recommending you add this to your reading list.
I would like to thank the author for providing a copy to review in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2012
There is always such a great escape factor in Phillipa Ashley's books, and Miranda's Mount is no different. Set on the property of a historical castle on a small island in Cornwall, we meet Miranda, who essentially runs the property for the owners in welcoming guests to the island. As with many of Ashley's novels, there is a lightness to the story that pulls you in and is a fun time. This novel was no different. Miranda's professionalism in challenged right away when the aging property owner's son, Jago, returns to run the show. He's not the bossy type. In fact, he's the sell-and-run type.
In this contemporary novel, Miranda is the career girl and Jago is the dashing yet impersonal hero. We quickly learn that people's interests cannot be turned on and off like a spigot, even if they have every reason to not be together. Miranda is single minded in her career and loves her job, but Jago is broken by his past and determined to sell the property. These factors make the story complicated and interesting to watch unfold.
As with most of Ashley's novels, the first third of the book has a delightful humor and playfulness to it that made me like Miranda and the other characters. However, the twist in the story is always right around the corner! I really did love the location, with the island castle and the tide around the island that either shut them off from the world or gave them a nice sandbar to walk back to the mainland. I could picture that island and wanted to visit or stay for awhile. The characters in this novel were also complicated and lovable, mainly because of their flaws. In fact, I often wondered about Miranda's liking for Jago. He was obviously easy to look at (and very rich to own that castle), but obviously had secrets underfoot. What's not to like about a bit of mystery though, especially when it's couched in good looks, right?
Phillipa Ashley, once again, has written an escape read both in its story and location. I always enjoy a great Ashley novel because they are books that you can sink yourself into for a nice visit.
In this contemporary novel, Miranda is the career girl and Jago is the dashing yet impersonal hero. We quickly learn that people's interests cannot be turned on and off like a spigot, even if they have every reason to not be together. Miranda is single minded in her career and loves her job, but Jago is broken by his past and determined to sell the property. These factors make the story complicated and interesting to watch unfold.
As with most of Ashley's novels, the first third of the book has a delightful humor and playfulness to it that made me like Miranda and the other characters. However, the twist in the story is always right around the corner! I really did love the location, with the island castle and the tide around the island that either shut them off from the world or gave them a nice sandbar to walk back to the mainland. I could picture that island and wanted to visit or stay for awhile. The characters in this novel were also complicated and lovable, mainly because of their flaws. In fact, I often wondered about Miranda's liking for Jago. He was obviously easy to look at (and very rich to own that castle), but obviously had secrets underfoot. What's not to like about a bit of mystery though, especially when it's couched in good looks, right?
Phillipa Ashley, once again, has written an escape read both in its story and location. I always enjoy a great Ashley novel because they are books that you can sink yourself into for a nice visit.
February 24, 2013
Miranda Marshall is the property manager of an island castle in Cornwall that she loves. It's her home and after being alone and un-tethered, she feels she's finally found something that won't let her down. Until Jago St. Merryn returns to the castle bringing changes in the air. What's driving him to make such radical changes? And why is Miranda finding him attractive when his presence not only makes her feel many things she hasn't felt in sometime, but also makes her question decisions from her past?
Today was quite gloomy and this book was the perfect anecdote. The story is really engrossing. The setting is an island in Cornwall that is based off an actual location, St. Michael's Mount. The descriptions of the locales are so vivid and easy to see in my mind, that I want to be there right now. After all, untamed and natural beauty are things we all enjoy and admire.
I felt as if the book flew by. I laughed at Ronnie's antics and some of the situations Miranda got her self into. There were quite a few sympathetic groans, tears, and a few "Really?" moments. I would love to read more about Miranda, Jago, and the rest of the crew at the Mount.
It's really simple to see and understand why Miranda's Mount won the best e-book award at The Festival Romance in October 2012. Phillipa Ashley has written another wonderful funny love story that's not just about a man and woman, but also people and the place they call home.
Today was quite gloomy and this book was the perfect anecdote. The story is really engrossing. The setting is an island in Cornwall that is based off an actual location, St. Michael's Mount. The descriptions of the locales are so vivid and easy to see in my mind, that I want to be there right now. After all, untamed and natural beauty are things we all enjoy and admire.
I felt as if the book flew by. I laughed at Ronnie's antics and some of the situations Miranda got her self into. There were quite a few sympathetic groans, tears, and a few "Really?" moments. I would love to read more about Miranda, Jago, and the rest of the crew at the Mount.
It's really simple to see and understand why Miranda's Mount won the best e-book award at The Festival Romance in October 2012. Phillipa Ashley has written another wonderful funny love story that's not just about a man and woman, but also people and the place they call home.
November 4, 2012
Miranda Marshall is the property manager of St Merryn’s Mount - a castle that is cut off from the Cornish coast twice a day by the high tide. After surviving a difficult childhood it is not only Miranda’s home but her sanctuary and she has no plans to ever leave it -until she is confronted by a man wielding a cutlass in the castle’s armoury.
The man turns out to be Jago St Merryn, lord of the manor. He has plans to sell off the castle to a large corporation, threatening to upturn everything that Miranda holds dear. But despite his apparent determination to disrupt her life, Miranda finds she is attracted to Jago. And as the story unfolds it becomes clear that Jago has his own emotional baggage and a reason for not wanting to make his home at the castle.
Phillipa Ashley is an author whose writing career I’ve followed with interest since I first came across her work. I’ve read all her books, and I find her writing warm and witty. Miranda’s Mount is no exception. All her characters are well portrayed, including the minor characters, and I enjoyed the subplot of the growing romance between Ronnie and Neem and the story threads that concerned various other people as much as the main narrative.
There are some explicit sex scenes in this book, so it may not be to the taste of all readers, but there is also a strong storylines about the growing relationship between the main characters which leads to a conclusion that does not disappoint.
The man turns out to be Jago St Merryn, lord of the manor. He has plans to sell off the castle to a large corporation, threatening to upturn everything that Miranda holds dear. But despite his apparent determination to disrupt her life, Miranda finds she is attracted to Jago. And as the story unfolds it becomes clear that Jago has his own emotional baggage and a reason for not wanting to make his home at the castle.
Phillipa Ashley is an author whose writing career I’ve followed with interest since I first came across her work. I’ve read all her books, and I find her writing warm and witty. Miranda’s Mount is no exception. All her characters are well portrayed, including the minor characters, and I enjoyed the subplot of the growing romance between Ronnie and Neem and the story threads that concerned various other people as much as the main narrative.
There are some explicit sex scenes in this book, so it may not be to the taste of all readers, but there is also a strong storylines about the growing relationship between the main characters which leads to a conclusion that does not disappoint.
October 31, 2012
Like Miranda, I love ancient buildings (the older the better) and I have a specially fond spot for St Michael's Mount and Mont St Michel, so I loved reading about St Merryn's Mount! Jago is just perfect - a bit piratical (literally) but with a melting caramel centre... Also prone to rescuing small children. I certainly fell for him!
If you need a novel with a smoking-hot central romance and a setting to remind you of how beautiful England can be when the sun comes out, this is the one for you.
If you need a novel with a smoking-hot central romance and a setting to remind you of how beautiful England can be when the sun comes out, this is the one for you.
March 25, 2013
Take one woman who lives for the idyllic place she works at, introduce the new swarthy Lord of the Mount and you have the set-up for a fantastic romance. Rough, ready and ridiculously attractive Jago St Merryn turns up to take control of the Mount and throws Miranda's ordered life into chaos. There's an instant attraction but so much standing in their way. Will the Mount be sold and turned into a theme park? Will Miranda choose Jago or hunky lifeboat man Theo? You'll have to read it to find out!
Super romance, well-paced, with excellent three dimensional characters. Would recommend.
Super romance, well-paced, with excellent three dimensional characters. Would recommend.
March 6, 2015
Just reread this for the second time and it was just as good as the first time! Miranda has a job I would have loved in a place I have always loved! It is obvious from the writing just how much Philippa loves Cornwall!
I love Philippa's feisty females and Miranda is probably the best one! She fights tooth and nail for what she believes in and the ending is like a fabulous reward for her and the readers!
More please!!
I love Philippa's feisty females and Miranda is probably the best one! She fights tooth and nail for what she believes in and the ending is like a fabulous reward for her and the readers!
More please!!
October 21, 2012
Phillipa Ashley is one of my favorite authors and her newest release, Miranda's Mount, does not disappoint! The story is well written, the characters are lovable and the setting is so beautifully described, it becomes a character itself!
October 18, 2012
Loved this! It's my favourite of my author friend Phillipa Ashley's to date, and I've enjoyed all her previous releases. Miranda's Mount has Phillipa Ashley's trademark humour, snappy dialogue and fast pacing, but there is extra emotional depth here too. Highly recommended :)
January 14, 2013
This was a perfect book for me. Cornwall, castles, and distinctly dotty locals. Not to mention the dowager who has decided that now her son is back she's going to turn into a hippy and move to San Francisco. One to reread again and again.
September 24, 2012
Wickedly funny and deliciously naughty like a yummy box of chocolates.
October 8, 2012
Funny, emotional, naughty and sexy - Phillipa Ashley is on top form with Miranda's Mount. I loved this book. I shall read it more than once!
April 20, 2023
It was OK, and I am no prude, but unnecessary sex content. Not one of her best.
September 13, 2024
What a wonderful and uplifting book. I’m going on holiday to Cornwall next month and saw this book as the perfect way to get in the holiday mood. I actually enjoyed it even more than I thought I would. I loved that Miranda and Jago started off as enemies and became lovers (new favourite trope coming?! 🤩😇😂). I was invested in the story from the get go and even though the places were fictional I was constantly picturing St Michael’s Mount in my head. I wasn’t expecting this book to have any smut in it but I’ll admit I was pleasantly surprised by it 😇. I’m not sure if this will remain a stand alone or if Phillips Ashley will write a second book, but I’ll sure jump at the chance to read it. Would 100% recommend to any romance lovers. It’s also a perfect book to take on holiday and I finished it with a smile on my face. The only negative is that the book had several typos, grammar mistakes and even missing words but if you can get past this then you’ll love it like I did!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2024
This was one of my random book exchange finds. Suffice to say that I really enjoyed the story because I finished it in one go.
The storyline was full of great dialogue, funny moments, and swoon worthy romance. Also, unfortunately, a bit of smut that I was hoping would not be in there, and because of it I couldn’t give this book 5 stars.
However, I really appreciated how two characters both running from their own hurts found a love worth staying and fighting for. Their strengths and faults were written in such a real and believable way. The setting being in Cornwall also played in this books favor.
I can see myself picking up more books by this author, but can a person just get some fade to black scenes please.
The storyline was full of great dialogue, funny moments, and swoon worthy romance. Also, unfortunately, a bit of smut that I was hoping would not be in there, and because of it I couldn’t give this book 5 stars.
However, I really appreciated how two characters both running from their own hurts found a love worth staying and fighting for. Their strengths and faults were written in such a real and believable way. The setting being in Cornwall also played in this books favor.
I can see myself picking up more books by this author, but can a person just get some fade to black scenes please.
December 27, 2023
THERE MIGHT BE SOME SPOILERS, READ CAREFULLY!
So first of all, I didn’t like how this book was written from the narrator’s perspective because this way I didn’t get to know the characters that much. I also think that the story was cute but quite obvious. I also found a grammar mistake because it once said “has took”. (not trying to be rude but thought of pointing it out)
So first of all, I didn’t like how this book was written from the narrator’s perspective because this way I didn’t get to know the characters that much. I also think that the story was cute but quite obvious. I also found a grammar mistake because it once said “has took”. (not trying to be rude but thought of pointing it out)
June 30, 2024
CAWPILE 6.29
3.5 STARS
Read this in a morning and enjoyed it.
My first Phillipa Ashley book and I won't lie- the cover was the reason I bought it.
I liked the characters- all likeable, the setting sounded idyllic and gorgeous.
I'm going to pass this onto a friend who I think will adore this.
3.5 STARS
Read this in a morning and enjoyed it.
My first Phillipa Ashley book and I won't lie- the cover was the reason I bought it.
I liked the characters- all likeable, the setting sounded idyllic and gorgeous.
I'm going to pass this onto a friend who I think will adore this.
September 6, 2024
Easy to read.
June 7, 2025
Cute beach romance book but the writing was a bit cringe and the last few chapters just tried wrapping things up really quickly
July 15, 2025
not my cup of tea
November 1, 2012
I love Cornwall and think the idea of a castle in the sea off the Cornish coast is my idea of heaven. Phillipa Ashley quite obviously knows and loves Cornwall just as much, and skillfuly creates an emotional, sexy and in places very funny novel set on and around the imaginary St Merryn's Mount. There her heroine, Miranda Marshall is the property manager; with the widowed Lady St Merryn, she runs it as a spectacular and successful visitor attraction, but the responsibility of managing such an iconic location as a family concern is proving an almost overwhelming task. Ladty St Merryn's son, the current lord and master, has evaded the responsibility for years, but suddenly comes home, and proposes a radical new future for the Mount. What has brought him home, and can anything make him stay? The tension for both Jago and Miranda between the professional and the personal drives the novel to its very satisfying happy ending.
On the way, we find out about what goes into making a success of a venture like St Merryn's Mount and well before half way through I really really wanted to visit it myself, especially for its fictional Festival. Phillipa Ashley portrays a range of likeable, unlikeable, but above all believable characters and their relationships with one another with her accustomed wit, energy and skill, and her pitch perfect sense of place. I visited the real life version of St Merryn's Mount last time I was on holiday in Cornwall, and I could see every inch of it in my mind's eye as I read - such a pleasure.
Actually, the situation is a modern updating of one of my favourite novels of all time, John Meade Falkner's 'The Nebuly Coat' - Jago St Merryn is a 21st century Lord Blandamer, the handsome and wary heir to a spoiled fortune and to a place and the lives of its people, who comes home trailing an aura of mystery and tales of nameless wickedness. But no-one, characters in the novel or readers, really knows him, or what he will do. That Jago reminds me of Blandamer is one of the highest compliments I can pay him - even though he is the hero of a modern day romance and his sins and his virtues are far from those of an Edwardian aristocrat.
On the way, we find out about what goes into making a success of a venture like St Merryn's Mount and well before half way through I really really wanted to visit it myself, especially for its fictional Festival. Phillipa Ashley portrays a range of likeable, unlikeable, but above all believable characters and their relationships with one another with her accustomed wit, energy and skill, and her pitch perfect sense of place. I visited the real life version of St Merryn's Mount last time I was on holiday in Cornwall, and I could see every inch of it in my mind's eye as I read - such a pleasure.
Actually, the situation is a modern updating of one of my favourite novels of all time, John Meade Falkner's 'The Nebuly Coat' - Jago St Merryn is a 21st century Lord Blandamer, the handsome and wary heir to a spoiled fortune and to a place and the lives of its people, who comes home trailing an aura of mystery and tales of nameless wickedness. But no-one, characters in the novel or readers, really knows him, or what he will do. That Jago reminds me of Blandamer is one of the highest compliments I can pay him - even though he is the hero of a modern day romance and his sins and his virtues are far from those of an Edwardian aristocrat.
April 28, 2013
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
Miranda is the property manager for a large castle in the Lake District. The site is a favorite among tourists and also employs many of the local villagers. She has an excellent working relationship with the owner, Lady St. Merryn and her employees. Her best friend, Ronnie, works as a security officer and she worries that Miranda is too caught up in her work. When Miranda confronts what she thinks is a lagging tourist, she comes face to face with Lord St. Merryn, Jago, who has decided to surprise his mother with a visit home for the first time in years. He also has another surprise for Miranda, that he plans to sell the castle. Miranda is sworn to secrecy and frets about the employees while falling in lust with Jago.
This is such a fun read, perfect for summer with romance and humor. I really like Miranda and even with her devastating childhood, she still believes that she has a chance at love. Jago, on the other hand, has had a rough go at life as well, since he lost his wife in illness following a horrible accident. You can see why he doesn't want to keep the castle when he had planned to settle there with her. Even Lady St. Merryn was great fun and I would love to read more about her romance after her lonely marriage to Jago's father. The townspeople also offer some great minor characters and a bit of mystery is also with a few evil subplots.
The romance between the two was not something either of them were looking for and it was nice when they finally realized that they are perfect for each other. Something that Jago's mother noticed right away. The pair also generated some heat in one stand out sequence taking place in a boat. I don't think I have ever really laughed at a romance scene like I did with this one. I can't wait until Ashley writes her next one!
LOVED IT
Miranda is the property manager for a large castle in the Lake District. The site is a favorite among tourists and also employs many of the local villagers. She has an excellent working relationship with the owner, Lady St. Merryn and her employees. Her best friend, Ronnie, works as a security officer and she worries that Miranda is too caught up in her work. When Miranda confronts what she thinks is a lagging tourist, she comes face to face with Lord St. Merryn, Jago, who has decided to surprise his mother with a visit home for the first time in years. He also has another surprise for Miranda, that he plans to sell the castle. Miranda is sworn to secrecy and frets about the employees while falling in lust with Jago.
This is such a fun read, perfect for summer with romance and humor. I really like Miranda and even with her devastating childhood, she still believes that she has a chance at love. Jago, on the other hand, has had a rough go at life as well, since he lost his wife in illness following a horrible accident. You can see why he doesn't want to keep the castle when he had planned to settle there with her. Even Lady St. Merryn was great fun and I would love to read more about her romance after her lonely marriage to Jago's father. The townspeople also offer some great minor characters and a bit of mystery is also with a few evil subplots.
The romance between the two was not something either of them were looking for and it was nice when they finally realized that they are perfect for each other. Something that Jago's mother noticed right away. The pair also generated some heat in one stand out sequence taking place in a boat. I don't think I have ever really laughed at a romance scene like I did with this one. I can't wait until Ashley writes her next one!
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