Sometimes facing up to the past is the only way to create a better future…
Since the tragic death of his father, Lowen Treneary has kept to himself in his pottery studio on the remote island of Bryher.
His quiet life is just the way he likes it.
Until Pippa comes along.
The local café owner plunges his peaceful existence into chaos and brightens his days while she’s at it.
Soon, he has an employee livening up his workplace with her determination to make his studio more profitable… and a growing attraction to Pippa which he’s trying hard to ignore.
Just as he starts to warm to the idea of letting people into his life again, a crisis hits the island, causing old memories to crash to the surface.
Can the events of the present help to heal wounds from the past? And will Pippa still accept Lowen when she learns the secrets he’s been keeping from everyone around him?
Hannah Ellis spent many years working in childcare before deciding she'd like to write books. When she's not busy writing she likes to read, drink tea and eat chocolate. She also enjoys yoga and jogging.
This has been my most favourite book of the series to date. In this case, it wasn’t just focused on the budding romance between one of the brothers and a female on the island. Instead, Ellis develops the storyline that little bit further, making it more interesting and involved.
Firstly, the novel focuses on Lowen, the recluse of the Treneary family. The previous books have all alluded to the reasons why Lowen is so isolated from his mother and brothers and this time Ellis tells his story. In this way, I think it helps to have read the previous books of the story because past characters continue to make an appearance and it is nice to understand how they are all connected. Approaching this book, I was excited because I felt that Ellis had portrayed Lowen as a bit of an enigma; I was keen to know more beyond his gruff exterior.
Lowen enlists the help of Mia to help with his pottery business and I loved seeing how her enthusiasm ensures growth and success. There is more to Lowen than what his family and community realise and I enjoyed seeing the bare truths revealed. At the same time of seeing his friendship with Mia develop, the plot also explores his connection with Pippa, the local café owner. Him and Pippa have a business arrangement whereby Lowen regularly delivers his ceramics for Pippa to sell in her café. Except that her café is a failing project and Pippa knows the future is incredibly uncertain.
These two plot strands weave together and I liked how different the book felt to the others I have read by Ellis. In this case, watching Mia and Pippa’s interaction with Lowen and his pottery business was quite fascinating, especially seeing the positive impact that Mia has. However, there are also doubts about Mia and Lowen which causes Pippa to intervene. This leads to a tense few scenes and I was uncertain with how they would develop. It isn’t until much later in the story does the romance theme really become more obvious and by this point, Lowen is really shedding the layers of mystery about his character.
Along the way I could identify other areas where Ellis might follow on with this book. I am looking forward to reading about the next brother in the family – absent Jay – and hope that it will be just an interesting as this one. The remoteness of Lowen’s house was particularly appealing in this novel and I enjoyed seeing a different aspect to the Scilly Isles. This is a relaxing, summery read with a bit more ‘bite’ than Ellis’s previous stories.
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BOOK DESCRIPTION: The Potter’s House Sometimes facing up to the past is the only way to create a better future… Since the tragic death of his father, Lowen Treneary has kept to himself in his pottery studio on the remote island of Bryher. His quiet life is just the way he likes it. Until Pippa comes along. The local café owner plunges his peaceful existence into chaos and brightens his days while she’s at it. Soon, he has an employee livening up his workplace with her determination to make his studio more profitable… and a growing attraction to Pippa which he’s trying hard to ignore. Just as he starts to warm to the idea of letting people into his life again, a crisis hits the island, causing old memories to crash to the surface. Can the events of the present help to heal wounds from the past? And will Pippa still accept Lowen when she learns the secrets he’s been keeping from everyone around him?
MY THOUGHTS: #ThePotter’sHouse is book 4 in the Isles Of Scilly series. It can easily be read as a standalone story, but this series is a delight and full of sunshine, so I’d urge anyone to read the whole series, in order.
The Potter’s House is Lowan’s story. He is a bit of a grumpy recluse. Pippa runs a local cafe and sells Lowan’s pottery. Pippa is also a bit of a grump. Lowan and Pippa’s exchanges tend to be a little frosty. Then Mia, Pippa’s niece arrives for the summer and is like a little beam of sunshine for everyone around her. Lowan, carries darkness in his heart and has a troubled past. Pippa is hiding her own stress and worries. Can the growing attraction between the two, begin to warm their frosty hearts?
This is another gorgeous read in the Isles Of Scilly series. I enjoyed reading more from the Treneary family. They are a believable bunch who share their ups and downs, but have a deep love for each other.
The setting for this whole series is idyllic and has left me longing for summer.
The Potter’s House is a charming and heart warming read. It’s well written, with great warmth heart. I’ve loved the journey that this series has taken me on and I can’t wait to read what comes next in book 5.
AUTHOR BIO: Hannah spent many years working in childcare before deciding she'd like to write books. When she's not busy writing she likes to read, drink tea and eat chocolate. She also enjoys yoga and jogging.
What a lovely story! I wasn’t aware it was part of a series. I guess it would be Lowen’s story then. Pippa owns a cafe that sells Lowen’s pottery. They each think the other is grumpy at the start of the book. Pippa’s niece comes to spend the summer with her and brings a breath of fresh air into their lives. It’s a nice romantic story with some family issues thrown in. Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for the copy
I’m loving The Isles of Scilly series from Hannah Ellis. The characters in the Treneary family are so wonderful - flaws and all. Lowen’s story is emotional and as more of his history is unveiled I found myself falling for the family again. Meeting up with the family again in The Potter’s House is a great reminder of how well Hannah Ellis writes about a community. Pippa and Mia both provide a great addition to the story and I loved how they both found their space in the neighbourhood. I can’t wait to learn more about Jago next time.
I am delighted to be on the book tour for Hannah Ellis's The Potter's House. This is book 4 in the series and I enjoyed learning about the Treneary family. The author does a good job introducing characters from the book series and I had no trouble following the plot.
Pippa has been on the Isles of Scilly for two years now and her crazy idea to open a cafe on a beautiful island was not paying off as she hoped. She finds she hates getting up early, she hates backing mediocre cakes every day, and being a cafe owner is not all it's cracked up to be. She works all the time and has no close friends. What was she thinking about inviting her niece to stay and work for her? She can barely afford the wages for her other two employees. If it weren't for Lowen Treneary's pottery, she wouldn't be making any money. Will she be able to save her business and not be a disappointment to her family?
Lowen is used to living alone with his successful pottery business. He has many foibles and secrets; some of which affect his family relationships. After turning down his brother Trystan's request to be his best man, the family dynamics don't get any better. It's the help of Pippa, the grumpy cafe owner, who is the catalyst for Lowen changing his path. Her honest and sympathetic personality starts to shine through as he gradually reveals his private family secrets and his misdirected anger. However, can he forgive his past to make a brighter future?
Talk about two stubborn people. Pippa and Lowen are so set in their ways. They just need to get over their personal issues and grow the hell up. Mia (Pippa's niece) said it best, "Sometimes it feels as though you’re the teenager here, not me." I don't know if I felt the attraction between them because they were so standoffish. I got whiplash from the mood swings Pippa and Lowen had and though I liked their teasing banter, I just wasn't feeling it. It's really weird, but I felt more of a chemistry between Mia and Lowen than Pippa and Lowen (and there is a "misunderstanding" about that in the story). The ribbing between the Treneary brothers is funny and it's good to see them finally make amends. Lowen is a truly nice person and is great with children and Pippa is kind and compassionate, but between both of them jumping to conclusions and giving out mixed signals, it was frustrating because I just wanted them to get together and make each other happy. Once they conquered their insecurities and Pippa came up with a creative way to save her failing business, it made for a satisfying ending.
The Treneary family is a believable and important addition to the story as they all share their vulnerabilities and have a deep love for each other.
Overall, this was a pleasant story about two lonely insecure people who needed a little help in the love department. The location is gorgeous and I have added a visit to the Isles of Scilly to my bucket list.
Thank you to Ms. Ellis for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Back again on the Isles of Scilly with the Treneary family. This is the 4th book in the series and each book has focused on one of the siblings. This time it is the turn of Lowan. He has been a character in the books but keeps his distance, which has made him a little bit of an enigma and I couldn't wait for the author to get to him.
Lowan lives on Bryher, runs a pottery and supplies pots to Pippa who runs the cafe on the main island.
Lowan's story is a little different to the others in the family and I will let you discover for yourself what the author has to tell you. He is a bit of a grumpy recluse, this is very different to the friendly and almost overbearing siblings. He delivers his pottery to Pippa but there is always a comment or a sarcastic comment between them. Neither really knows why, but it takes the blunt force of Pippa's niece, Mia, to get past his gruff exterior.
Mia is like a breath of fresh air for Pippa. She has just finished uni and taking the summer to work in the cafe to save money for a year of travelling. The thing is that there isn't really much for Mia to do in the cafe, but she has her eyes set on a different place to work.
The author doesn't give much away in the synopsis, but if you have read the series then you are aware of the grief that this family went through. It has left a sort of rift, and anger that seems to simmer. Even though the islands are a lovely and wonderful place they are dangerous, it is something that the Trenearys know all too well.
While the author focuses on one particular member of the family, she doesn't forget to keep up to date with the goings on of the others that have already had their turn in the spotlight. This for me is an essential part of the book as the family bonds are shown in each book and show how the family work together.
This is another gorgeous story that gives the reader a chance to step away and visit the islands, a chance to wander around the Potters House and discover more about living and working on the Isles of Scilly.
This is one for those who love to read contemporary fiction and romance novels where family and friendships are strong. Another wonderful book in the series and one that I would definitely recommend.
Pippa is having a hard time making her little cafe in St. Mary’s a success. She had taken a big chance on setting up a cafe in a place she barely knew, serving people she barely knew. Pippa’s cafe also sells Lowan’s pottery and they both discover that they have a thing for each other but are afraid to admit it. Gruffy and quiet, Lowan seems to like the brave attitude of Pippa as a result of which she settled down on the island. But the very same decision seems rash to Pippa now as she struggles to make money. Meanwhile, her niece, Mia, joins her as a helping hand and ends up working with Lowan as his assistant. But Lowan’s and Mia’s growing closeness makes Pippa uncomfortable. Pippa keeps her calm whilst managing her cafe affairs but she isn’t sure how long she can do that.
The Potter’s House is a comfortable read as I have already been introduced to the characters. Of course, it is a standalone so even if you are new to the series, it’s alright. It is a good book with a fast narrative. Pippa is introduced in detail, and Mia’s character is sweet and enthusiastic. We get to know Lowan better in this book. Beth and Trystan are about to get married and Kit and Seren are struggling with their own problems. It’s like the story continues and moves ahead for all the characters. That gives a feel-good feeling because it is as if I am making the journey with them.
But I also felt that there was less romance here. I mean this is supposed to be a romantic story and it is, but unlike the previous book, this one has lesser instances of romance between Lowan and Pippa. Other than that, I enjoyed the book and am waiting to read the next.
If you are a romance lover, then I would highly recommend this series. Do check it out.
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Since the tragic death of his father, Lowen Treneary has kept to himself in his pottery studio on the remote island of Bryher.
His quiet life is just the way he likes it.
Until Pippa comes along.
The local café owner plunges his peaceful existence into chaos and brightens his days while she’s at it.
Soon, he has an employee livening up his workplace with her determination to make his studio more profitable… and a growing attraction to Pippa which he’s trying hard to ignore.
Just as he starts to warm to the idea of letting people into his life again, a crisis hits the island, causing old memories to crash to the surface.
Can the events of the present help to heal wounds from the past? And will Pippa still accept Lowen when she learns the secrets he’s been keeping from everyone around him?
My Opinion
This is one of those series that I stumbled upon and I just keep coming back for me. Hannah Ellis writes about a delightful community and we slowly learn more about the residents, with the main focus being the Treneary family. This is another wonderful addition to the series and I would highly recommend them all.
I read this book far too fast, I was at the end before I knew it. Ellis has an ability to whisk you away and you forget about everything else you are supposed to be doing.
Four brothers in, and it feels like the Treneary lads are falling faster and faster, their family growing stronger and stronger after the tragedy that took their father's life and shattered their bonds of brotherhood.
Rather than grumpy/sunshine, for once we have grumpy/grumpy, with reclusive potter Lowen enjoying a quiet life until stressed cafe owner Pippa asks him to give her niece Mia a job. Mia definitely brings the sunshine - and the matchmaking - but life has loaded Lowen and Pippa with too much baggage to be ignored. There's careful handling of the weight of childhood expectations, even well into adulthood, along with the realisation that sometimes it was all in your head - and sometimes you need to let it out.
The delicate dance of two jaded people slowly realising they're falling in love plays out against the backdrop of the Scilly Isles, and it's poetic that they must each be reminded of the beauty right in front of them. I loved seeing the rest of the Treneary brothers (and their respective families), not just because enjoyed their books but because it showcased the slow repair of the relationship between Lowen and his brothers. I can't wait to read Jago's upcoming book!
Dislaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out my blog!
What a gorgeous read this proved to be, Set in the Scilly Isles with drama from family. Pippa's a café owner who won't let her family know That her business is struggling so may have to go.
Meanwhile the potter, Lowen Treneary, is struggling, too, He's isolated himself from his family's view On a remote island is where he lives alone. Claiming mixing with people will make him groan.
As his pots - and their sale - bring these two together Can their growing attraction cope with the stormy weather? With family drama causing problems in different ways They need to be careful what either of them says!
A story of family and facing up to the past To enable them to move on to the future at last. With mysteries and secrets needing to be shared So all can move forward and show they really cared.
I really enjoyed reading this delightful book And highly recommend you give it more than just a look! For my complementary copy, I say thank you, As I share with you this, my honest review
I am officially OBSESSED with this series and I can’t wait for book 5 to come out to hear Jago’s story!
I started the first book as I was intrigued to read a book set on the Isles of Scilly… and now I need to visit. And get the fifth book. Maybe I can read it there?
Anyway.
I loved this story. We hadn’t heard so much about Lowen from the other stories due to him being somewhat of a recluse, and we had met Pippa briefly in previous books. Grief from the death of the Treneary’s father continues as a thread through this book as well, and it’s been interesting to see how his death affected each of the brothers. It’s also great to see how the other Treneary brothers’ relationships grow and change when featured as secondary characters.
Definitely a must read but make sure you’ve read the first three books already!
A fantastic 4th visit to the Isles of Scilly, this time focusing on Lowan Treneary and his pottery on Bryher. An incredible book that I could not put down - great characters that are explored more deeply in this book and great to get to know new characters as well.
I love Hannah Ellis’s books and he ability to whisk me away and delve into the lives of this lovely family.
I love this series of books. Honestly I have read every one of Hannah Ellis' books and they keep getting better and better. I am an empty nester mother of two who has time on her hands and reads a lot when I am not working.. Her books are easy to read and you feel like you right there part of the family!
I had to really pace myself with this book so I wouldn’t read it all in one day! I love that Hannah is able to take characters we slightly disliked from previous books and open them up in a way that makes us love them. Can’t wait to learn about Jago, hoping he is next!
Can't wait for the next book. The Scilly Isle books are great, I love the! Ups and downs of the characters relationships. They are beautifully written and bring a tear to the eye. Hannah Ellis has a brilliant way of writing children's characters. Same as Aaron in the Skye books, they are so lovable and real. Great book
I was fortunate to receive a space on the blog tour from Boldwood Books for this book.
Despite being part of a series I didn't feel I was struggling to follow who was who or the storyline. This was a lovely gentle read. It was an interesting insight into sibling bonds (for me as an only child). I would have liked more description on the Scilly Isles as I'm not familiar with it, but maybe this was in earlier books in the series.
I have enjoyed this series. Until this book. The description is deceiving, because I can't see how Poppa possibly brightens Lowen's day. She's awful. Glum, depressing, and judgmental. I kept waiting for her to get better and halfway through, she was even more awful. So I have up on the book. Life is too short.
Favorite book of the series so far! Can’t wait to meet Jago in the next book, but getting to know Pippa and Lowen in this one was really interesting. I could see the pottery in my mind. I could smll the ocean. I could feel Pippa’s despair.
Read this series, it’s so good. But then, that’s Hannah Ellis, she really sets the scene and the characters.
Another really feel good story revolved about the family who live on the Scilly’s it was written well, had loads of romance and scary moments involving the Rescue Team. Lots of coffee and cake but the best Cookies.Wish I could visit there and join the barbecues on the beach.
Loved getting to learn more about the fourth brother in the Treneary family! We see a lot of things come together for both Lowen and also the other brothers as the series continues. Another quick read that was so enjoyable but this one dove into some deeper topics and I think the author did a really good job balancing the deeper topics with the romantic element!
Another brilliant book from Hannah Ellis. This book is about Loren the potter who has a big secret he has kept from his family. Pippa owns the cafe and is struggling with the business.
I’ve been to the islands, so to dream about the scenery and sun isn’t a hard leap but to throw in lovable characters and warm feelings makes for a great read .
I loved finding out Lowen's story. And learning more of the Treneary brothers' history. Beautifully crafted escapism- get whisked away to the Isles of Scilly.
I love these books to read. They are entertaining and make me smile. All of Hannah Ellis's books do, and I highly recommend them looking forward to the next one.