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Art Café #4
Dromen in het kunstcafé
Rosie Bunting heeft haar hele leven voor anderen gezorgd, vaak ten koste van haar eigen wensen en dromen. Maar als ze hoort dat iemand haar als saai omschrijft, besluit ze dat het tijd is voor verandering.
Ze realiseert zich niet dat de brochure over outdooractiviteiten die ze in het plaatselijke Kunstcafé krijgt, het begin zal zijn van een zomer waarin ze in een neonkleurige legging van een klif in Wales abseilt, haar artistieke talent herontdekt en onverwachts een oude
brandweerauto erft. Ze ontmoet ook de stoere outdoor-instructeur Gareth Merwyn-Jones. Hoewel die natuurlijk nooit geïnteresseerd kan zijn in “saaie” Rosie Bunting… of wel?
Ze realiseert zich niet dat de brochure over outdooractiviteiten die ze in het plaatselijke Kunstcafé krijgt, het begin zal zijn van een zomer waarin ze in een neonkleurige legging van een klif in Wales abseilt, haar artistieke talent herontdekt en onverwachts een oude
brandweerauto erft. Ze ontmoet ook de stoere outdoor-instructeur Gareth Merwyn-Jones. Hoewel die natuurlijk nooit geïnteresseerd kan zijn in “saaie” Rosie Bunting… of wel?
446 pages, Paperback
First published June 29, 2021
43 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 24, 2021
After caring for her mother, the funeral was shattering. Rosie Bunting loved her mother dearly but when she overheard a comment at the funeral, she was hurt beyond measure. Lucy, her good friend at the Art Café, saw her despondency and handed her a brochure. And the rest, as they say, was history!
Rosie’s weekend on the outdoor pursuits course, with young, fit, active people – she was in her forties and overweight – was an eye opener. After her initial fear of humiliation, and fear of being unable to do what the others could, Rosie had a wonderful time. Her meeting with Gareth Merwyn-Jones, the instructor of the course, influenced her weekend and on learning they didn’t live far apart, Gareth drove Rosie home instead of her having a five hour train journey ahead of her. But her arrival back home shot those happy and confident endorphins straight out the window. What were they doing there, at her house, inside her house? Could the confidence that Rosie had gained, the strength she’d found she had, help her sort out the mess that was in front of her?
Summer of Hopes and Dreams is the 4th in the Art Café series by Sue McDonagh and I absolutely loved it! I laughed so much, and unexpectedly, that people turned to look at me! Rosie is a beautiful person, inside and out and her character was perfect! There was grief from loss of a loved one; bitterness and hurt from marriage breakdowns; and the delight of friendships – both new and old, along with the wonder of kids. Satisfaction from a job well done and the building of confidence was high on the agenda. All in all, Summer of Hopes and Dreams (which can be read as a standalone) is a wonderful story which I highly recommend.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Rosie’s weekend on the outdoor pursuits course, with young, fit, active people – she was in her forties and overweight – was an eye opener. After her initial fear of humiliation, and fear of being unable to do what the others could, Rosie had a wonderful time. Her meeting with Gareth Merwyn-Jones, the instructor of the course, influenced her weekend and on learning they didn’t live far apart, Gareth drove Rosie home instead of her having a five hour train journey ahead of her. But her arrival back home shot those happy and confident endorphins straight out the window. What were they doing there, at her house, inside her house? Could the confidence that Rosie had gained, the strength she’d found she had, help her sort out the mess that was in front of her?
Summer of Hopes and Dreams is the 4th in the Art Café series by Sue McDonagh and I absolutely loved it! I laughed so much, and unexpectedly, that people turned to look at me! Rosie is a beautiful person, inside and out and her character was perfect! There was grief from loss of a loved one; bitterness and hurt from marriage breakdowns; and the delight of friendships – both new and old, along with the wonder of kids. Satisfaction from a job well done and the building of confidence was high on the agenda. All in all, Summer of Hopes and Dreams (which can be read as a standalone) is a wonderful story which I highly recommend.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I always enjoy returning to the Art Café connecting series, and Summer of Hopes and Dreams simply continues that sense of returning to a familiar, beloved place with a new story of discovery and romance to dive into. If you haven’t experienced this series before, no worries for Rosie’s and Gareth’s story can stand on its own easily but we will run into some familiar faces to those who have followed the series. Besides, it’s a great story and an equally enjoyable introduction to this world.
This time we’re about to meet Rosie who probably isn’t the most socially active person around, but neither is she totally “boring” as she overheard someone she loves voice that opinion and even more hurtful things about her. She might be in what many consider midlife but that does not mean she’s completely boring and ready to be put out to pasture… right? Right. As Rosie lets her emotions out to Lucy at the Art Cafe she’s about to discover that life never, ever is predictable and that she is definitely not as boring as she fears. Rosie is about to let her inner adventurer out to play, maybe with trepidation but determination as well, and her life is about to get very interesting.
I adored Rosie – loved Gareth, too, but for me, this one was all about Rosie finding the courage to step outside of her comfort zone and take on those challenges of things she’s never done – and she does them in Rosie style, often screaming at the top of her lungs and totally afraid… but she still takes the chance to prove something to others but more importantly to herself. Summer of Hopes and Dreams is very much a self-discovery story of a woman who has been put down, stepped upon, and overlooked by those who should have loved and encouraged her throughout her life. Unfortunately, we can pick our friends or leave them behind, but not so much family. There were some characters that I loathed, simply for their cruelness toward Rosie. But fortunately, we don’t need to run into those folks for long before Rosie sets out to experience life, maybe change her life a bit, and it is an exciting, enjoyable, relatable journey.
I had a great time back in this world once again. I’d encourage you to visit the Art Café series for yourself if you haven’t had the pleasure yet. You’ll meet believable people facing their own issues and coming out the other side better for the experience… and perhaps find love along the way.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I always enjoy returning to the Art Café connecting series, and Summer of Hopes and Dreams simply continues that sense of returning to a familiar, beloved place with a new story of discovery and romance to dive into. If you haven’t experienced this series before, no worries for Rosie’s and Gareth’s story can stand on its own easily but we will run into some familiar faces to those who have followed the series. Besides, it’s a great story and an equally enjoyable introduction to this world.
This time we’re about to meet Rosie who probably isn’t the most socially active person around, but neither is she totally “boring” as she overheard someone she loves voice that opinion and even more hurtful things about her. She might be in what many consider midlife but that does not mean she’s completely boring and ready to be put out to pasture… right? Right. As Rosie lets her emotions out to Lucy at the Art Cafe she’s about to discover that life never, ever is predictable and that she is definitely not as boring as she fears. Rosie is about to let her inner adventurer out to play, maybe with trepidation but determination as well, and her life is about to get very interesting.
I adored Rosie – loved Gareth, too, but for me, this one was all about Rosie finding the courage to step outside of her comfort zone and take on those challenges of things she’s never done – and she does them in Rosie style, often screaming at the top of her lungs and totally afraid… but she still takes the chance to prove something to others but more importantly to herself. Summer of Hopes and Dreams is very much a self-discovery story of a woman who has been put down, stepped upon, and overlooked by those who should have loved and encouraged her throughout her life. Unfortunately, we can pick our friends or leave them behind, but not so much family. There were some characters that I loathed, simply for their cruelness toward Rosie. But fortunately, we don’t need to run into those folks for long before Rosie sets out to experience life, maybe change her life a bit, and it is an exciting, enjoyable, relatable journey.
I had a great time back in this world once again. I’d encourage you to visit the Art Café series for yourself if you haven’t had the pleasure yet. You’ll meet believable people facing their own issues and coming out the other side better for the experience… and perhaps find love along the way.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
March 9, 2024
Tegen wil en dank dit boek in 1 adem uitgelezen. Het is net als MacDonalds. Soms kan ik daar geen weerstand aan bieden. De uiterlijkheden die verheerlijkt worden, stiekem geniet ik er soms van.
En op zich een boeiend verhaal, het draait niet alléén om de liefde, maar ook moeder-dochter problemen.
Het blijkt deel 4 te zijn, ik ben zowaar benieuwd naar de eerste delen.
En op zich een boeiend verhaal, het draait niet alléén om de liefde, maar ook moeder-dochter problemen.
Het blijkt deel 4 te zijn, ik ben zowaar benieuwd naar de eerste delen.
June 29, 2021
When we first meet Rosie, she is at a very low ebb. She has spent much of her life looking after others, first her children then her mother. Her musician husband left her a few years ago and she has taken on a series of low paid jobs to make ends meet. At her mother’s funeral tea (held in the art café), she overhears someone saying she is boring – and worse. On impulse, she decides to book onto an outdoor pursuits weekend in Wales, a weekend which will literally change her life. It doesn’t get off to the best of starts for reasons I’ll leave you to discover for yourself (and based on the author’s own experience which made me smile) but Rosie is determined to make the most of all the opportunities that weekend and surprises herself and others.
Oh I so felt for Rosie. She has spent so long looking out for other people that she has forgotten to look after herself. She just needed time to work out what – and who – would make her happy and the people she met on that weekend, notably instructor Gareth and fellow attendee Leanne, really helped. Over the course of the book it was a joy to read about her beginning to rediscover herself and grow in self-belief. She is someone that I think many people will identify with as we often put others before ourselves and put our own hopes and dreams on hold.
This might just be my favourite in the Art Café series. It ticks all my boxes for an enjoyable and uplifting read. There’s a troubled heroine and a handsome hero who are clearly made for each other, difficulties to be overcome (some more unexpected than others), lots of comical moments and a heartwarming conclusion. It’s not every day you come across felting, a fire engine and a flood in a novel!
I enjoyed Summer of Hopes and Dreams from start to finish and really recommend it to anyone who likes funny, warm and romantic stories. It’s a hopeful and inspiring book and perfect summer reading.
Oh I so felt for Rosie. She has spent so long looking out for other people that she has forgotten to look after herself. She just needed time to work out what – and who – would make her happy and the people she met on that weekend, notably instructor Gareth and fellow attendee Leanne, really helped. Over the course of the book it was a joy to read about her beginning to rediscover herself and grow in self-belief. She is someone that I think many people will identify with as we often put others before ourselves and put our own hopes and dreams on hold.
This might just be my favourite in the Art Café series. It ticks all my boxes for an enjoyable and uplifting read. There’s a troubled heroine and a handsome hero who are clearly made for each other, difficulties to be overcome (some more unexpected than others), lots of comical moments and a heartwarming conclusion. It’s not every day you come across felting, a fire engine and a flood in a novel!
I enjoyed Summer of Hopes and Dreams from start to finish and really recommend it to anyone who likes funny, warm and romantic stories. It’s a hopeful and inspiring book and perfect summer reading.
Read
September 25, 2022Dit boek was precies wat ik nodig had, heerlijk ontspannend lezen. Rosie is een vrouw in we ons kunnen inleven. Zelfs met leeftijdsverschil van 27 jaar lukte dat echt perfect. Haar leven is verre van perfect, er is redelijk wat drama, maar het meeste is verbonden. Het drama van Gareth was een beetje te cliché. Maar dat kan ik vergeven.
Het verhaal laat ons zien dat het niet erg is om saai te zijn, maar enkel en alleen als je daar zelf ook mee in orde bent. Er zit echt een mooie levensles(sen) in verweven. Het is een deel 4, en het kunstcafé is lichtjes verweven, het van mij wel iets meer gemogen. Maar dat komt omdat ik verwend ben :P
Volledige recensie te vinden op https://followmemove.com/2022/06/13/d...
Het verhaal laat ons zien dat het niet erg is om saai te zijn, maar enkel en alleen als je daar zelf ook mee in orde bent. Er zit echt een mooie levensles(sen) in verweven. Het is een deel 4, en het kunstcafé is lichtjes verweven, het van mij wel iets meer gemogen. Maar dat komt omdat ik verwend ben :P
Volledige recensie te vinden op https://followmemove.com/2022/06/13/d...
January 4, 2022
A gentle read, just what I needed
June 5, 2022
Recensie volgt :)
September 11, 2023
Een heerlijk weglezende roman!
December 22, 2023
no
Her daughter was horrible and I would not have given her ex husband money or a helping head fu*k him sincerely
Her daughter was horrible and I would not have given her ex husband money or a helping head fu*k him sincerely
December 14, 2025
Love & Arts Cafe
I hated to see this series end. I enjoyed every one of these books. What great writing! Thanks Sue McDonagh for the great read!!😊❤️
I hated to see this series end. I enjoyed every one of these books. What great writing! Thanks Sue McDonagh for the great read!!😊❤️
July 11, 2023
A very entertaining read. Rosie Bunting is a lovely character & seems to have many strings to her bow, a fact she needed reminding of after her mother died. After being trapped for years as mother to her children & carer to her mother, Rosie finally has the chance to remember herself, although it takes a very nasty comment from her daughter to get her moving. The outdoor adventure weekend was just what she needed to wake her up, giving her new experiences & introducing her to new people. Gareth, the instructor, had a few issues to deal with himself but they really did seem suited to each other.
I fail to see how that stupid daughter of hers could have been so taken in by her shit of a father, but I guess you see what you want to see, particularly when you're young. Generally, a fun read with a happy ending, very relaxing.
I fail to see how that stupid daughter of hers could have been so taken in by her shit of a father, but I guess you see what you want to see, particularly when you're young. Generally, a fun read with a happy ending, very relaxing.
September 19, 2022
Een opmerking waardoor veel zal veranderen
Nadat Rosie opnieuw hoort dat ze saai is, is haar hart min of meer gebroken. In een opwelling besluit ze om iedereen maar eens het tegendeel te bewijzen en ze geeft zich op voor een outdoor experience.
“Dit krijg je ervan als je in een opwelling iets boekt, op een piepklein telefoontje, na een halve fles prosecco en met dronkemansmoed, zei ze tegen zichzelf.” – Sue McDonagh
Er is tenslotte niets saai aan klimmen en abseilen. Zelfs haar felgekleurde outdoorlegging is niet saai. Rosie had echter niet verwacht dat ze de experience met nieuwe energie en met nieuwe plannen zou verlaten.
Ze had er ook geen rekening mee gehouden dat ze het toch wel een beetje warm zou krijgen van de knappe instructeur. Maar Rosie weet ook wel dat ze veel te suf voor hem is. Of is dat haar onzekerheid die spreekt?
Dromen in het Kunstcafé van Sue McDonagh is het vierde, gemakkelijk afzonderlijk leesbare, boek over het Kunstcafé en de mensen die daar aan het werk zijn of op bezoek komen.
Ieder boek rond het Kunstcafé herbergt een eigen verhaal en zet andere hoofdpersonen in het zonnetje. Hierdoor kunnen de personages telkens een nieuwe op zichzelf staande vertelling naar de lezers brengen. Natuurlijk hebben de boeken meer gemeen dan alleen het Kunstcafé, want wat zou een feelgood roman zijn zonder vriendschap en liefde.
Sue McDonagh schrijft prettig en toegankelijk, waardoor het voor de lezers makkelijk wordt gemaakt om een verbondenheid met de personages te voelen. Haar verhalen bieden ruimte voor een lach en een traan en ademen een echte feelgoodsfeer uit. En ook in Dromen in het Kunstcafé zijn al deze ingrediënten volop aanwezig.
De boeken rondom het Kunstcafé zijn echt gemaakt om van te genieten en bij weg te dromen, terwijl ze ondertussen ook een gevoelige snaar raken. Het verhaal van Rosie en Gareth heeft mij het meest geraakt door dingen die misschien heel klein lijken, maar ondertussen een grote impact hebben. Zoals ondoordachte opmerkingen, ongevraagde adviezen, pijnlijke (voor)oordelen en onmogelijke verwachtingen. Dingen die makkelijk worden gezegd of gedaan, maar die heel lang kunnen nadreunen.
In Dromen in het Kunstcafé proberen de personages ondanks al het voorgaande hun, soms nieuwe, weg te vinden, zodat ze er aan de andere kant sterker uit kunnen komen. Of Sue McDonagh zorgt dat je het boek met een fijn gevoel dicht kunt slaan, kun je het beste zelf ontdekken. Maar het is een heerlijke feelgood roman en de kans is dus groot dat dat wel goed zit. Van mij krijgt Dromen in het Kunstcafé in ieder geval 4.5 sterren.
Nadat Rosie opnieuw hoort dat ze saai is, is haar hart min of meer gebroken. In een opwelling besluit ze om iedereen maar eens het tegendeel te bewijzen en ze geeft zich op voor een outdoor experience.
“Dit krijg je ervan als je in een opwelling iets boekt, op een piepklein telefoontje, na een halve fles prosecco en met dronkemansmoed, zei ze tegen zichzelf.” – Sue McDonagh
Er is tenslotte niets saai aan klimmen en abseilen. Zelfs haar felgekleurde outdoorlegging is niet saai. Rosie had echter niet verwacht dat ze de experience met nieuwe energie en met nieuwe plannen zou verlaten.
Ze had er ook geen rekening mee gehouden dat ze het toch wel een beetje warm zou krijgen van de knappe instructeur. Maar Rosie weet ook wel dat ze veel te suf voor hem is. Of is dat haar onzekerheid die spreekt?
Dromen in het Kunstcafé van Sue McDonagh is het vierde, gemakkelijk afzonderlijk leesbare, boek over het Kunstcafé en de mensen die daar aan het werk zijn of op bezoek komen.
Ieder boek rond het Kunstcafé herbergt een eigen verhaal en zet andere hoofdpersonen in het zonnetje. Hierdoor kunnen de personages telkens een nieuwe op zichzelf staande vertelling naar de lezers brengen. Natuurlijk hebben de boeken meer gemeen dan alleen het Kunstcafé, want wat zou een feelgood roman zijn zonder vriendschap en liefde.
Sue McDonagh schrijft prettig en toegankelijk, waardoor het voor de lezers makkelijk wordt gemaakt om een verbondenheid met de personages te voelen. Haar verhalen bieden ruimte voor een lach en een traan en ademen een echte feelgoodsfeer uit. En ook in Dromen in het Kunstcafé zijn al deze ingrediënten volop aanwezig.
De boeken rondom het Kunstcafé zijn echt gemaakt om van te genieten en bij weg te dromen, terwijl ze ondertussen ook een gevoelige snaar raken. Het verhaal van Rosie en Gareth heeft mij het meest geraakt door dingen die misschien heel klein lijken, maar ondertussen een grote impact hebben. Zoals ondoordachte opmerkingen, ongevraagde adviezen, pijnlijke (voor)oordelen en onmogelijke verwachtingen. Dingen die makkelijk worden gezegd of gedaan, maar die heel lang kunnen nadreunen.
In Dromen in het Kunstcafé proberen de personages ondanks al het voorgaande hun, soms nieuwe, weg te vinden, zodat ze er aan de andere kant sterker uit kunnen komen. Of Sue McDonagh zorgt dat je het boek met een fijn gevoel dicht kunt slaan, kun je het beste zelf ontdekken. Maar het is een heerlijke feelgood roman en de kans is dus groot dat dat wel goed zit. Van mij krijgt Dromen in het Kunstcafé in ieder geval 4.5 sterren.
July 5, 2021
All the feels - and more!! I loved the latest in the Art Cafe series - easily read as a standalone! - and it has yet more fabulous characters you take to your heart in the most wonderful of settings!
Rosie is the main focus of this story and I dare you not to want to be her best friend!! She's the kind of woman who is always putting others first, without complaining, yet she's forgotten just who she is. And when she overhears her own daughter calling her boring - shame on her!! - she throws caution to the wind and sets about finding herself and putting herself first for a change!
After a visit to the Art Cafe, she finds out about an outdoor pursuits weekend - what better way than doing something out of the ordinary and challenging yourself!! And while she's there she starts a journal so she can chart her progress - I loved this aspect of the book and loved reading her entries! She's more honest with a pen in her hand and seeing her thoughts on everything written down seems to make her more relaxed and feel in control!
She meets all kinds of different people on the weekend and I loved the variety and how that seemed to help with her confidence - the lovely instructor Gareth helped on that front too!! He was dealing with his own family issues after his marriage broke down.
Rosies' ex is still on the scene too and sniffing around when there's money to be had, so I loved watching how Rosie dealt with this new challenge. And how others helping her, made her happy again to be helping others with their own problems and finding solutions to make the future seem more 'rosy' for Rosie!! I'm sorry I couldn't resist!!
A fabulously inspiring story!! Loved it!!
Rosie is the main focus of this story and I dare you not to want to be her best friend!! She's the kind of woman who is always putting others first, without complaining, yet she's forgotten just who she is. And when she overhears her own daughter calling her boring - shame on her!! - she throws caution to the wind and sets about finding herself and putting herself first for a change!
After a visit to the Art Cafe, she finds out about an outdoor pursuits weekend - what better way than doing something out of the ordinary and challenging yourself!! And while she's there she starts a journal so she can chart her progress - I loved this aspect of the book and loved reading her entries! She's more honest with a pen in her hand and seeing her thoughts on everything written down seems to make her more relaxed and feel in control!
She meets all kinds of different people on the weekend and I loved the variety and how that seemed to help with her confidence - the lovely instructor Gareth helped on that front too!! He was dealing with his own family issues after his marriage broke down.
Rosies' ex is still on the scene too and sniffing around when there's money to be had, so I loved watching how Rosie dealt with this new challenge. And how others helping her, made her happy again to be helping others with their own problems and finding solutions to make the future seem more 'rosy' for Rosie!! I'm sorry I couldn't resist!!
A fabulously inspiring story!! Loved it!!
June 29, 2021
Set in Gower and featuring the Art Café like the other books in the series but can be read as a standalone book.
Rosie has been browbeaten by life, divorced from an unreliable musician, missing her son Tom (working abroad) and having a strained relationship with both her mother Lara and daughter Keira. She’s also nursed her ailing mother through Parkinson’s. At Lana’s wake, she overhears her daughter Keira call her boring & say she wishes Rosie had died instead of Lana. Understandably upset, she confides in Lucy (owner of the café) and Lucy advises her to shake up her life by going on an activity weekend.
After a shaky start (not bringing a sleeping bag & having to use a pair of curtains to sleep in!), she begins to enjoy the activities and writes in her journal about the highs and lows.
I like Rosie’s warm, awkward character. She might have lost her confidence but Gareth, Leanne and the rest of the activity team help her find herself again. The novel also shows that you don’t always know what people are going through and that they often put a brave front on to mask their true feelings.
Rosie has been browbeaten by life, divorced from an unreliable musician, missing her son Tom (working abroad) and having a strained relationship with both her mother Lara and daughter Keira. She’s also nursed her ailing mother through Parkinson’s. At Lana’s wake, she overhears her daughter Keira call her boring & say she wishes Rosie had died instead of Lana. Understandably upset, she confides in Lucy (owner of the café) and Lucy advises her to shake up her life by going on an activity weekend.
After a shaky start (not bringing a sleeping bag & having to use a pair of curtains to sleep in!), she begins to enjoy the activities and writes in her journal about the highs and lows.
I like Rosie’s warm, awkward character. She might have lost her confidence but Gareth, Leanne and the rest of the activity team help her find herself again. The novel also shows that you don’t always know what people are going through and that they often put a brave front on to mask their true feelings.
September 17, 2022
I so enjoyed returning to, Wales and The Art Cafe, I've loved all four books without exception.
In this instalment we meet Rosie Bunting, she has spent most of her life caring about other people, often at the expense of herself.
At her mothers funeral wake, which was held at The Art Cafe, Rosie overheard a comment describing her as 'boring', and was understandably, shattered by it.
After being handed a leaflet at The Art Cafe about an outdoor pursuits weekend, on a whim Rosie decides to book herself onto one, despite being woefully unprepared.
So begins a summer of kayaking, abseiling down Welsh cliff faces, eye-watering, sports leggings, self discovery, self confidence building, rediscovering a long forgotten artistic side, oh and the very unexpected inheritance of an old fire engine.
There is also the meeting of the outdoor instructor, Gareth Merwyn-Jones, who is so lovely to Rosie, helping her so much throughout the weekend.
Ross's path to achieving new hopes and dreams, is going to be far from boring.
This is such a fabulous book, which just shows that almost anything is possible, if you put your mind to it and believe in yourself.
In this instalment we meet Rosie Bunting, she has spent most of her life caring about other people, often at the expense of herself.
At her mothers funeral wake, which was held at The Art Cafe, Rosie overheard a comment describing her as 'boring', and was understandably, shattered by it.
After being handed a leaflet at The Art Cafe about an outdoor pursuits weekend, on a whim Rosie decides to book herself onto one, despite being woefully unprepared.
So begins a summer of kayaking, abseiling down Welsh cliff faces, eye-watering, sports leggings, self discovery, self confidence building, rediscovering a long forgotten artistic side, oh and the very unexpected inheritance of an old fire engine.
There is also the meeting of the outdoor instructor, Gareth Merwyn-Jones, who is so lovely to Rosie, helping her so much throughout the weekend.
Ross's path to achieving new hopes and dreams, is going to be far from boring.
This is such a fabulous book, which just shows that almost anything is possible, if you put your mind to it and believe in yourself.
June 29, 2021
Highly entertaining
When Rosie, mid 40's, divorced, lacking in confidence and very much overweight, hears herself being described as boring, there's only one thing she can do and that's to re-discover the real Rosie. She spontaneously books a weekend away advertised to 'push your boundaries'. Hoping to push her mental boundaries followed by inactivity, drinking wine and relaxation, instead she's faced with outdoor pursuits of rock climbing, canoeing and abseiling.
Gareth, her activity instructor, is both attracted to and entertained by Rosie's sense of humour and her persistence of trying everything at least once, usually screaming in terror.
Expect the unexpected with Rosie in her attempt to turn her life around, proving that she's definitely not boring.
An entertaining plot with believable characters that'll keep the reader laughing.
Even the eye-catching book cover was painted by the author, a very talented lady.
When Rosie, mid 40's, divorced, lacking in confidence and very much overweight, hears herself being described as boring, there's only one thing she can do and that's to re-discover the real Rosie. She spontaneously books a weekend away advertised to 'push your boundaries'. Hoping to push her mental boundaries followed by inactivity, drinking wine and relaxation, instead she's faced with outdoor pursuits of rock climbing, canoeing and abseiling.
Gareth, her activity instructor, is both attracted to and entertained by Rosie's sense of humour and her persistence of trying everything at least once, usually screaming in terror.
Expect the unexpected with Rosie in her attempt to turn her life around, proving that she's definitely not boring.
An entertaining plot with believable characters that'll keep the reader laughing.
Even the eye-catching book cover was painted by the author, a very talented lady.
July 18, 2021
Sue MCDonagh has done it again with her fourth in the Arts Cafe series - Summer of Hopes and Dreams. I have loved all her books and this latest didn’t disappoint at all. When Rosie Bunting overhears unpleasant comments at her mother’s funeral, and realises it’s her own daughter saying those things, she hits rock bottom. In a knee-jerk reaction to prove her daughter wrong, she books on a weekend course with the lovely Gareth hoping it might be just the thing to start rebuilding her confidence. As ever Sue’s book is filled with such endearing, relatable characters, all facing their own issues, you can’t help but root for them all. This was a lovely easy read, but totally gripping, which meant there was no way I was going to put this down. As always with Sue’s books I was sad to come to the end and realise I would have to wait a while for her next one.
June 11, 2021
As indicated on the cover, this new book is linked to the Art Café series - that is, it's partly set in the same Welsh location and includes a couple of scenes at the café. If you haven't read the other books yet, it won't be a problem at all.
No motorbikes this time, but an outdoor pursuits course (really not for me either in real life, but fun to read about too) attended by a heroine determined to prove she's not as boring as her daughter thinks. And dreams that may come true, for each of the main characters, with a little help and support from new friends.
I enjoyed meeting Rosie, Gareth and everyone else, and I hope there will be more stories in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
No motorbikes this time, but an outdoor pursuits course (really not for me either in real life, but fun to read about too) attended by a heroine determined to prove she's not as boring as her daughter thinks. And dreams that may come true, for each of the main characters, with a little help and support from new friends.
I enjoyed meeting Rosie, Gareth and everyone else, and I hope there will be more stories in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2021
The ‘Art Cafe’ series of books is well worth reading – it’s not necessary to read them in order, but it doesn’t hurt. This latest one is a great instalment – a really good story, with a happy ending – what more could you wish for? Ms McDonagh has got these heroines down to a T – initially somewhat down-trodden without any self esteem, but pulling up their socks and getting themselves going. I had some trouble putting the book down to eat etc – and thoroughly enjoyed the journey through it all. I think somewhere like the Art Cafe would go down very well – I would very much like to visit the place myself. So, I heartily recommend the book – I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. My star rating was very easy!
June 29, 2021
Loved this story from start to finish. Rosie has lost herself- raising her children, being abandoned by her husband and nursing her ungrateful mother, all whilst trying to refurbish her semi inhabitable house - no wonder her daughter declared her “boring” and worse. This declaration spurs Rosie to step completely outside her comfort zone by signing up for an outwards bound course. Adventure, friendship and possibly more are awaiting Rosie on her journey to rediscovering herself.
Loved this story from the first page to the totally satisfactory ending! Highly recommend this latest novel by the very talented Sue McDonagh
Loved this story from the first page to the totally satisfactory ending! Highly recommend this latest novel by the very talented Sue McDonagh
August 20, 2022
I love the Art Cafe Series and I’m looking forward to the next one.
Rosie Bunting has spent the last few years caring for her elderly mother. When her mother passes away, Rosie feels a bit at odds with her life. After hearing a remark at her late mother’s funeral about her being boring, she decides to do something exciting. She books an adventure weekend.
She has so much fun and ends up being good friends with the instructor Graham and another lady who goes regularly to the weekends Leanne. Rosie’s ex husband Cheater keeps reappearing trying to squeeze money out of her. There’s a few ups and downs and everyone’s lives have a new start.
Great little read
Rosie Bunting has spent the last few years caring for her elderly mother. When her mother passes away, Rosie feels a bit at odds with her life. After hearing a remark at her late mother’s funeral about her being boring, she decides to do something exciting. She books an adventure weekend.
She has so much fun and ends up being good friends with the instructor Graham and another lady who goes regularly to the weekends Leanne. Rosie’s ex husband Cheater keeps reappearing trying to squeeze money out of her. There’s a few ups and downs and everyone’s lives have a new start.
Great little read
May 18, 2023
Deze serie geeft zo'n heerlijk vakantie gevoel. Al kwam het kunstcafé dit keer in maar een heel kleine mate terug. Maar genoeg om toch een grote rol te hebben.
Zo hoorde Rosie daar de kwetsende woorden van haar dochter die haar impulsief een sportief weekend weg lieten boeken. Een weekend wat haar Gareth bracht, de vriendschap met Leanne en het allerbelangrijkste zelfvertrouwen en weer zicht op wat zijzelf wilde. Wat haar dromen waren voor ze voor iedereen ging zorgen.
Een heerlijke feelgood over dromen die waar kunnen worden als je er wat voor doet. Uiteraard met een vleugje drama, in de vorm van een irritante en hebberige ex, en over een brandweerauto.
Zo hoorde Rosie daar de kwetsende woorden van haar dochter die haar impulsief een sportief weekend weg lieten boeken. Een weekend wat haar Gareth bracht, de vriendschap met Leanne en het allerbelangrijkste zelfvertrouwen en weer zicht op wat zijzelf wilde. Wat haar dromen waren voor ze voor iedereen ging zorgen.
Een heerlijke feelgood over dromen die waar kunnen worden als je er wat voor doet. Uiteraard met een vleugje drama, in de vorm van een irritante en hebberige ex, en over een brandweerauto.
June 29, 2021
This is a stand alone book in the Art Cafe series. It is a totally different story line to normal featuring a lady of more mature years. Rosie is a real star in this story as she decides on the spur of the moment to go on an outdoor pursuits course. Whilst on it she comes to terms with her life, losses and relationships. All in addition to the course content which fully stretches her physically. The author has portrayed the characters brilliantly, they really zing alive and become real. A lovely romance which gives all a joyous feeling.
June 30, 2021
Would you go abseiling? I'm not sure I would even with the gorgeous instructor Gareth encouraging me. Rosie is at the top of the cliff and has to decide.
Recently her life has been overwhelming, and overhearing her daughter's horrible remarks about her are the end. On a whim she goes to an outdoor activities weekend, and the story unfolds in several different directions from there. Rosie's story is a completely stand alone book but is blended with our friends from the Art Cafe as she is an artist and lives in the area. It is a really enjoyable read from a really excellent writer.
Recently her life has been overwhelming, and overhearing her daughter's horrible remarks about her are the end. On a whim she goes to an outdoor activities weekend, and the story unfolds in several different directions from there. Rosie's story is a completely stand alone book but is blended with our friends from the Art Cafe as she is an artist and lives in the area. It is a really enjoyable read from a really excellent writer.
July 10, 2021
When Rosie hears herself described as boring by her own daughter at her mother's funeral she decides it is time to do something about it and so she books onto an outdoor adventure weekend in Wales, something completely and utterly outside her comfort zone.... it can't be that bad can it!
I loved this book along with the rest in the series, Rosie is a great character who has no idea of her own worth and it is great to see her growing in confidence as she takes on challenges..... and of course Gareth is gorgeous! Lovely funny warm book.
I loved this book along with the rest in the series, Rosie is a great character who has no idea of her own worth and it is great to see her growing in confidence as she takes on challenges..... and of course Gareth is gorgeous! Lovely funny warm book.
June 21, 2022
Een heerlijke feelgood waarbij je als lezer terugkeert naar het Kunstcafé. We maken kennis met Rosie en Gareth en leren ze goed kennen. De emoties komen echt binnen en Rosie maakt een groei door als persoon. Het verhaal wordt goed opgebouwd en er komt genoeg drama in voor maar Sue McDonagh zorgt ervoor dat je wel dit boek met een heerlijk gevoel dichtslaat.
De rest van de recensie lees je hier
https://divabooks.nl/2022/06/17/blogt...
De rest van de recensie lees je hier
https://divabooks.nl/2022/06/17/blogt...
December 12, 2021
Awesome
Another excellent book from sue that I couldn’t put down. Can’t wait for the next one. I love getting to know the characters and their stories.
Another excellent book from sue that I couldn’t put down. Can’t wait for the next one. I love getting to know the characters and their stories.
July 2, 2021
Summer of hopes and dreams
I absolutely loved this book, it reminded me so much about myself, I could not put it down, fantastic read.
I absolutely loved this book, it reminded me so much about myself, I could not put it down, fantastic read.
May 7, 2023
Another brilliant read - can't put the book down
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews