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Country Secrets
Can you ever have a second chance at first love?
When Ronnie Percy's gorgeous on-off lover Blair is forced to deep-freeze their affair for the sake of his sick wife, she's delighted to be distracted by charismatic neighbour, Kit Donne, and – more surprisingly – finds herself drawn into a fight for the future of the village. But then the return of someone from her distant past threatens to expose long-buried secrets.
Meanwhile daughter Pax – already besieged by her controlling estranged husband – has started to suspect that new beau 'the horsemaker' Luca still loves somebody else. The last shoulder on earth she should cry on is Bay Austen's, but his marriage is crumbling and he's lost none of his dangerous charm. Moreover, Bay knows the way to her heart is through her horses...
Old friendships, new loves, jealousies, gossip and beautiful horses – these are the classic ingredients for Fiona Walker's latest gripping, sexy novel, set in the Cotswold village of Compton Magna and laced with her trademark humour.
When Ronnie Percy's gorgeous on-off lover Blair is forced to deep-freeze their affair for the sake of his sick wife, she's delighted to be distracted by charismatic neighbour, Kit Donne, and – more surprisingly – finds herself drawn into a fight for the future of the village. But then the return of someone from her distant past threatens to expose long-buried secrets.
Meanwhile daughter Pax – already besieged by her controlling estranged husband – has started to suspect that new beau 'the horsemaker' Luca still loves somebody else. The last shoulder on earth she should cry on is Bay Austen's, but his marriage is crumbling and he's lost none of his dangerous charm. Moreover, Bay knows the way to her heart is through her horses...
Old friendships, new loves, jealousies, gossip and beautiful horses – these are the classic ingredients for Fiona Walker's latest gripping, sexy novel, set in the Cotswold village of Compton Magna and laced with her trademark humour.
567 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 31, 2023
I read Fiona Walker's first 10 or so novels many, many years ago and loved them so much. I still have Lucy Talk and Kiss Chase on my bookshelf although I'm too scared to re-read them in case I don't love them today as much as I did then. So Country Secrets is the first Fiona Walker novel in at least 15 years that I have read and it feels a little like coming home after a long day.
Country Secrets is a part of a series which can be read as a standalone. It takes place in the Cotswolds in the UK, horse centered, with lots of dialogue that is not completely understood to a Canadian like me. But that doesn't take away from the chaos, the characters, and the big heartedness of all the plots and sub plots and sub sub plots. The cast of characters is immense, the town is small enough for everyone to know each other's business, and the humour is divine. I have truely missed reading her books. I was rooting for Mo, wanted Ronnie to be my mum, and would love a turn with Luca!
This is just plain fun, full of heart, and a great escape. It's a reminder not to take life too seriously, live your life, and take chances.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Country Secrets is a part of a series which can be read as a standalone. It takes place in the Cotswolds in the UK, horse centered, with lots of dialogue that is not completely understood to a Canadian like me. But that doesn't take away from the chaos, the characters, and the big heartedness of all the plots and sub plots and sub sub plots. The cast of characters is immense, the town is small enough for everyone to know each other's business, and the humour is divine. I have truely missed reading her books. I was rooting for Mo, wanted Ronnie to be my mum, and would love a turn with Luca!
This is just plain fun, full of heart, and a great escape. It's a reminder not to take life too seriously, live your life, and take chances.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 24, 2023
I received an advanced copy of this book from #NetGalley
Fiona Walker has created another story set in a small village based in the horse world. There are multiple characters that have their story interwoven into the main plot of the book.
At first, as the story was building I found it difficult to follow or to understand what the purpose of the story was however this sons become joined up with the story picking up more pace at 60% through.
I think there were a few too many characters in the side plots that were not needed however I did enjoy the main characters and their plots.
Fiona Walker has created another story set in a small village based in the horse world. There are multiple characters that have their story interwoven into the main plot of the book.
At first, as the story was building I found it difficult to follow or to understand what the purpose of the story was however this sons become joined up with the story picking up more pace at 60% through.
I think there were a few too many characters in the side plots that were not needed however I did enjoy the main characters and their plots.
October 16, 2023
Did not finish.
First of let me start by saying that my opinion is probably not your opinion, and that this book can totally be it for you.
However, it wasn't for me. There are two reasons why.
The first and main reason was that there are like a million characters that all have their own story, and it gets too chaotic for me. I like when theres 2 or 3 people whose stories eventually match up, but the amount of characters was just too much for me and i still dont know where half of them came from. And of course, this could totally be my own issue, but i cant help feel this way.
The second reason, which definitely is my own issue, is that i dislike horses lol. And i planned to just read around it, as i so often do in books with one minor dislike, but it just wasnt working for me this time, especially in combination with the other thing.
This does not mean that you should not read this book. These are my personal preferences. I sincerely hope it fits you guys more! Have fun reading (:
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review. It probably wasnt what you were looking for and i wish it was different.
First of let me start by saying that my opinion is probably not your opinion, and that this book can totally be it for you.
However, it wasn't for me. There are two reasons why.
The first and main reason was that there are like a million characters that all have their own story, and it gets too chaotic for me. I like when theres 2 or 3 people whose stories eventually match up, but the amount of characters was just too much for me and i still dont know where half of them came from. And of course, this could totally be my own issue, but i cant help feel this way.
The second reason, which definitely is my own issue, is that i dislike horses lol. And i planned to just read around it, as i so often do in books with one minor dislike, but it just wasnt working for me this time, especially in combination with the other thing.
This does not mean that you should not read this book. These are my personal preferences. I sincerely hope it fits you guys more! Have fun reading (:
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review. It probably wasnt what you were looking for and i wish it was different.
September 15, 2023
Stud Life
If you like reading Jilly Cooper, then you will enjoy Fiona Walker's Compton Magna series. Horses for courses and grooms in bedrooms with fillies.
The stud farm is on its uppers but it's star rider, Pax Ledwell is back in the family fold while divorcing the man who tried to ruin her. If she can just get a handle on her drinking and deal with her wayward mother then Compton Magna Stud might just survive her siblings how to sell it.
If you like reading Jilly Cooper, then you will enjoy Fiona Walker's Compton Magna series. Horses for courses and grooms in bedrooms with fillies.
The stud farm is on its uppers but it's star rider, Pax Ledwell is back in the family fold while divorcing the man who tried to ruin her. If she can just get a handle on her drinking and deal with her wayward mother then Compton Magna Stud might just survive her siblings how to sell it.
May 14, 2024
This book was nostalgia personified, and I enjoyed it immensely. Scandal? Check. Intrigue? Check. Romance? Check. Horses? Check.
With a diverse cast of characters and a through and through theme of growth and finding yourself, Country Secrets was a great conclusion to the Compton Magna trilogy. It had me rooting for success post-plot-twist, and it kept the pages turning for me.
With a diverse cast of characters and a through and through theme of growth and finding yourself, Country Secrets was a great conclusion to the Compton Magna trilogy. It had me rooting for success post-plot-twist, and it kept the pages turning for me.
November 22, 2023
Just the most fabulous book. Fun, flirty, highly entertaining romp through the Cotswolds horsey set with wonderful characters you totally fall in love with. Can’t recommend the latest instalment of the Percy family chronicles highly enough!
May 21, 2023
If Sex and the City were set in a small English country town, the end result would be this book. There are plenty of over the top plays on words, turns of phrase, and little jokes throughout this intricate story. All of the storylines intersect though the town of Compton Magna. The storylines we see are:
- Ronnie Ledwell, the prodigal daughter returned to town to run her family's legacy, a horse breeding farm on the verge of ruin.
- Pax, daughter of Ronnie, who is trying to leave a controlling, borderline abusive marriage and lands at the farm in the interim. Her son Kes is the light of her life. Pax was once a top-tier rider. Can she find her way back?
- Luca O'Brien - the Irish horseman with an Italian first name and an even more mysterious past.
- Bay Austen, Pax's first love who is also leaving his dysfunctional marriage. Bay has stayed in Compton Magna and Pax's return could be his second chance.
- Kenny Kay - a has-been British comedian from the 80s and 90s with a sketchy tie to the town. alongside his childhood frenemy, the hotel magnate Sir Peter.
- Maureen, the ultra competent local woman who gets taken for granted by basically everyone, until Mr. Kay gives her a chance as his PA.
- The local church, which appears to be starting a fundraiser for repairs, but things aren't always what they seem
- The Turner clan - a huge clan of travelers who are brawlers and troublemakers. Rumor has it that long-missing patriarch Nat is coming back for a big fight.
- Lester, the aging farmhand
While all of these storylines were themselves interesting, and they intersected in relevant ways, it was just too damn much to keep track of. Add in the names that all of these people have (Bay? Pax? Nana?) it felt like watching the screen at karaoke trying to keep up with the lyrics.
Honestly, if this book hasn't been optioned for a Netflix drama, I'm not sure what else there is for such a complex, dramatic story.
Pros:
- interesting setting - horse world and small town politics
- characters were all vivid and generally believable. even the supposed jerks could garner sympathy
- some of the reveals were incredibly well done.
Cons:
- way too complex
- lots of horse-world lingo
- Ronnie Ledwell, the prodigal daughter returned to town to run her family's legacy, a horse breeding farm on the verge of ruin.
- Pax, daughter of Ronnie, who is trying to leave a controlling, borderline abusive marriage and lands at the farm in the interim. Her son Kes is the light of her life. Pax was once a top-tier rider. Can she find her way back?
- Luca O'Brien - the Irish horseman with an Italian first name and an even more mysterious past.
- Bay Austen, Pax's first love who is also leaving his dysfunctional marriage. Bay has stayed in Compton Magna and Pax's return could be his second chance.
- Kenny Kay - a has-been British comedian from the 80s and 90s with a sketchy tie to the town. alongside his childhood frenemy, the hotel magnate Sir Peter.
- Maureen, the ultra competent local woman who gets taken for granted by basically everyone, until Mr. Kay gives her a chance as his PA.
- The local church, which appears to be starting a fundraiser for repairs, but things aren't always what they seem
- The Turner clan - a huge clan of travelers who are brawlers and troublemakers. Rumor has it that long-missing patriarch Nat is coming back for a big fight.
- Lester, the aging farmhand
While all of these storylines were themselves interesting, and they intersected in relevant ways, it was just too damn much to keep track of. Add in the names that all of these people have (Bay? Pax? Nana?) it felt like watching the screen at karaoke trying to keep up with the lyrics.
Honestly, if this book hasn't been optioned for a Netflix drama, I'm not sure what else there is for such a complex, dramatic story.
Pros:
- interesting setting - horse world and small town politics
- characters were all vivid and generally believable. even the supposed jerks could garner sympathy
- some of the reveals were incredibly well done.
Cons:
- way too complex
- lots of horse-world lingo
January 7, 2024
There’s drama, secrets, love and lots of spicy moments in this funny and uplifting novel set in a small Cotsowold village.
Fiona Walker is a prolific writer with eighteen books to her name but this was my first time reading one of her books. Don’t ask how I’ve missed them because I’ve no idea. But when I was asked to read this book and interview the author I jumped at the chance to do so. This is the third book in a trilogy but don’t worry if you’ve not read the other books because I hadn’t and read this as a standalone. I never felt confused because Walker does such a brilliant job of catching the reader up with what’s happened in the previous books. And that is no mean feat because this is a story filled with a large cast of characters, multiple narrators and complex, tangled histories.
Country life and horse-racing are at the centre of the story, two things that I know nothing about, but I was soon immersed in this vivid world of colourful characters and small-town dynamics. And being clueless about the world of horses, horse-riding, and horse-racing didn’t prevent me from enjoying the book. Admittedly there were times I felt a bit lost in that regard, but Walker would soon make it easy to follow again with her vast knowledge of the subject. And it was impossible not to be charmed by her life-long love of horses which shines through on every page.
This is definitely a book for those who like their romances with lots of spice. And I mean A LOT of spice. There are lovers, ex-lovers, extramarital affairs, first loves, and friends-with-benefits all heating up the pages of this book and I was glad to be reading it indoors. But alongside the sexy and funny storylines, Walker also explores serious issues such as toxic relationships, coercive control and alcoholism. It is expertly written, perfectly woven into the story and told with a sensitivity that makes it feel authentic and relatable.
Chaotic, witty, sexy, and entertaining, Country Secrets is an action-packed romance that fans of Jilly Cooper will love.
Fiona Walker is a prolific writer with eighteen books to her name but this was my first time reading one of her books. Don’t ask how I’ve missed them because I’ve no idea. But when I was asked to read this book and interview the author I jumped at the chance to do so. This is the third book in a trilogy but don’t worry if you’ve not read the other books because I hadn’t and read this as a standalone. I never felt confused because Walker does such a brilliant job of catching the reader up with what’s happened in the previous books. And that is no mean feat because this is a story filled with a large cast of characters, multiple narrators and complex, tangled histories.
Country life and horse-racing are at the centre of the story, two things that I know nothing about, but I was soon immersed in this vivid world of colourful characters and small-town dynamics. And being clueless about the world of horses, horse-riding, and horse-racing didn’t prevent me from enjoying the book. Admittedly there were times I felt a bit lost in that regard, but Walker would soon make it easy to follow again with her vast knowledge of the subject. And it was impossible not to be charmed by her life-long love of horses which shines through on every page.
This is definitely a book for those who like their romances with lots of spice. And I mean A LOT of spice. There are lovers, ex-lovers, extramarital affairs, first loves, and friends-with-benefits all heating up the pages of this book and I was glad to be reading it indoors. But alongside the sexy and funny storylines, Walker also explores serious issues such as toxic relationships, coercive control and alcoholism. It is expertly written, perfectly woven into the story and told with a sensitivity that makes it feel authentic and relatable.
Chaotic, witty, sexy, and entertaining, Country Secrets is an action-packed romance that fans of Jilly Cooper will love.
August 17, 2023
Fiona Walker at her absolute best - a gripping, sexy romp of a read filled with friendship, drama, love and laughter. All the best ingredients of a Jilly Cooper novel without the x rated bits! I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end, it’s one to get well and truly lost in its length making it a perfect holiday read. This is the third, and in my opinion the best, book in the Compton Magna series but works equally well as a standalone. As with all her other novels it is beautifully written and the characters and setting positively leap off the page. It is also a rare thing for a book that involves horses to be so factually accurate and a brilliant satire of both Gloucestershire village life and the horsey set.
Expertly weaving together multiple storylines, each filled with their own unique set of challenges and conflicts, Walker keeps the reader hooked and guessing till the last page. The horses are as beautiful and complicated as their owners and riders and her attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of the village add depth and authenticity to the story.
Filled with Walker’s trademark humour the witty dialogue and laughable situations provide moments of levity amidst the plentiful drama.
Overall it is a captivating and entertaining read with compelling characters and engaging plot lines wrapped up in the most dreamy worthy of settings. Fans of Fiona Walker won’t be disappointed and newcomers will be eager to read more. Perfect for those who enjoy Jilly Cooper, Tilly Bagshawe and Jo Carnegie.
Expertly weaving together multiple storylines, each filled with their own unique set of challenges and conflicts, Walker keeps the reader hooked and guessing till the last page. The horses are as beautiful and complicated as their owners and riders and her attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of the village add depth and authenticity to the story.
Filled with Walker’s trademark humour the witty dialogue and laughable situations provide moments of levity amidst the plentiful drama.
Overall it is a captivating and entertaining read with compelling characters and engaging plot lines wrapped up in the most dreamy worthy of settings. Fans of Fiona Walker won’t be disappointed and newcomers will be eager to read more. Perfect for those who enjoy Jilly Cooper, Tilly Bagshawe and Jo Carnegie.
August 25, 2023
Location: Cotswolds, England 🏴
Conclusion: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book reads like a soap opera. If you like this type of TV show I am certain that this book will be a big hit for you. Unfortunately I am not a huge soap opera fan, hence I had my difficulties with this type of plot. While the book started off very promising, especially if you like horses, the plot around Beck the stallion dies down very quickly and the reader gets introduced to the village shenanigans. I would have wished for a more straightforward plot development and more connectedness in the storyline. I believe this is book 3 in a rather loose series, but I think it might be beneficial to read book 1 & 2 before this one. All in all a 3⭐️ for me.
Characters:
The characters were interesting, but I would have wished for a bit more depth, also in connection with the above slightly disjointed plots. They all are interconnected somehow, but it takes a very long time for that to come through.
What I liked: the horse theme. I like horses and hence it was kinda fun to read about that world.
What I disliked: to me it was too much soap opera feeling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for this eARC copy in exchange for an honest review. (AD-PRODUCT)
Conclusion: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book reads like a soap opera. If you like this type of TV show I am certain that this book will be a big hit for you. Unfortunately I am not a huge soap opera fan, hence I had my difficulties with this type of plot. While the book started off very promising, especially if you like horses, the plot around Beck the stallion dies down very quickly and the reader gets introduced to the village shenanigans. I would have wished for a more straightforward plot development and more connectedness in the storyline. I believe this is book 3 in a rather loose series, but I think it might be beneficial to read book 1 & 2 before this one. All in all a 3⭐️ for me.
Characters:
The characters were interesting, but I would have wished for a bit more depth, also in connection with the above slightly disjointed plots. They all are interconnected somehow, but it takes a very long time for that to come through.
What I liked: the horse theme. I like horses and hence it was kinda fun to read about that world.
What I disliked: to me it was too much soap opera feeling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for this eARC copy in exchange for an honest review. (AD-PRODUCT)
August 13, 2023
This is a very long book but worth it. I've read a lot of Fiona Walker books and they are all lengthy, but they don't drag when you're reading them. In fact I read 90% of this in one day finishing about 1am as I had to finish it!
This picks up from the previous two books in the series. Pax is still fighting Mack for a divorce and custody of Kes. Luca is still as sexy as hell and the sparks between them fly. Ronnie is still trying to save the stud. In the village, Mo is unaware of who the gossips are talking about and is devastated when she finds out. Incomer Kenny is mourning the loss of his ex-wife and trying to hide a life changing problem. Bay is pining after Pax after his marriage breaks down. The Saddlebags are still full of gossip. Lester is still recovering in the main house.
This is a tale of horses, family politics, friendship and lovers. Fiona's books always make me want to head off to the country as they describe it so well.
Very readable, enjoy!
This picks up from the previous two books in the series. Pax is still fighting Mack for a divorce and custody of Kes. Luca is still as sexy as hell and the sparks between them fly. Ronnie is still trying to save the stud. In the village, Mo is unaware of who the gossips are talking about and is devastated when she finds out. Incomer Kenny is mourning the loss of his ex-wife and trying to hide a life changing problem. Bay is pining after Pax after his marriage breaks down. The Saddlebags are still full of gossip. Lester is still recovering in the main house.
This is a tale of horses, family politics, friendship and lovers. Fiona's books always make me want to head off to the country as they describe it so well.
Very readable, enjoy!
August 14, 2023
Book three in the Compton Magna series is readable as a standalone. Still, it's a good series; if you enjoy country life with scandal and spice, I recommend reading the other books too. A complex cast of believable characters entertains readers with small-town gossip, politics, humour, and a hint of scandalous goings-on. It's entertaining, escapist storytelling with characters to invest in and elements of poignancy as they try to live their best lives. Horses and all that living with them entails being the centre of the Compton Magna world. The author creates an authentic setting full of detail and sensory imagery, making everything easy to imagine with resonating characters. I have read most of this author's earlier novels, and this book reminds me of them in a positive way. I like this story's characters, humour and absorbing setting. It's a perfect escapist read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 4, 2023
A very horsey four-star read. I had such high hopes for this one, as I have adored this authors work before, but this one fell short of the mark, it just felt like there were too many people and too much thrown in all at once, instead of getting to know the main characters and story and then adding others as they flow naturally it felt like a jumble, and I was left feeling lost and a little lost and didn’t care too much about everyone, until quiet far into the story. It could just be me, as I was coming off a very emotion ringing story as my previous read, but it felt rushed compared to the others I have loved by this author. I will say that once you get into the story, and you know who everyone is and how they link up, and then when the twist drops, you really do feel for everyone and feel like you need to cheer at the end, but until it all clicks it’s a lot to get your head around.
September 8, 2023
I love a good romance book, a country setting always makes me feel at home
The storyline for me, didn’t connect, there seemed to be a lot of drawn out descriptions, this in turn was not as precise a connection for the characters.
The characters and their personalities were great but then it felt confusing to read. Later in the story I related more with the characters and their lives, so you need to stick with it!
I wanted this storyline to flow smoothly, I became a little lost so it didn’t for me.
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The storyline for me, didn’t connect, there seemed to be a lot of drawn out descriptions, this in turn was not as precise a connection for the characters.
The characters and their personalities were great but then it felt confusing to read. Later in the story I related more with the characters and their lives, so you need to stick with it!
I wanted this storyline to flow smoothly, I became a little lost so it didn’t for me.
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 18, 2023
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#CountrySecrets #NetGalley
Fiona Walker knows how to write the kinds of books that her readers enjoy and that is surely the case in this long (over 500 page) title. Her readers will like getting to know the many characters and will become involved in the plot lines.
This book is chockablock with characters’ romantic relationships. How will things work out for Ronnie, Blair (and his sick wife), Ronnie’s daughter and her husband, and the other characters who live in these pages?
Note that this title is part of a series. Those who have not read the other titles could, perhaps, feel that they want to start at the beginning. Other readers may not feel that there is any impediment to diving right in.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria for this title. All opinions are my own.
#CountrySecrets #NetGalley
Fiona Walker knows how to write the kinds of books that her readers enjoy and that is surely the case in this long (over 500 page) title. Her readers will like getting to know the many characters and will become involved in the plot lines.
This book is chockablock with characters’ romantic relationships. How will things work out for Ronnie, Blair (and his sick wife), Ronnie’s daughter and her husband, and the other characters who live in these pages?
Note that this title is part of a series. Those who have not read the other titles could, perhaps, feel that they want to start at the beginning. Other readers may not feel that there is any impediment to diving right in.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aria for this title. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2024
ARC received through Coundon Library Book Group Coventry
A departure from my usual reading genre and a long read. Read as a stand alone book having not read the others in series. I found this slow at the start but gathered some pace as stories unfolded. An unexpected comedic style which I enjoyed. I loved the Brummie Kenny Kay and his rhyming staff names added a titter or two. The Saddle Bags were funny and alarming true to yard friends who love a gossip while out on a hack. Some strong female characters from the sex craving Pax and Ronnie to the agoraphobic ex traveller Tina Turner
Like the Archers but saucier and way funnier
A departure from my usual reading genre and a long read. Read as a stand alone book having not read the others in series. I found this slow at the start but gathered some pace as stories unfolded. An unexpected comedic style which I enjoyed. I loved the Brummie Kenny Kay and his rhyming staff names added a titter or two. The Saddle Bags were funny and alarming true to yard friends who love a gossip while out on a hack. Some strong female characters from the sex craving Pax and Ronnie to the agoraphobic ex traveller Tina Turner
Like the Archers but saucier and way funnier
October 5, 2023
Whilst I really enjoyed being back with Ronnie,Pax, Bay and the gang and I really enjoyed the story as always, I felt that there was far too many words. Some of the paragraphs really didn’t make sense and didn’t have anything to do with what was actually going on. It really jumped about a lot and I got quite confused in places and had to go back and reread the page.
Also, there was SO many typos. I wouldn’t have minded so much if it had been a review copy but I paid full price for this book (around £18.99 if I remember correctly)
For the story I give 4⭐️’s
But for everything else 2-3 ⭐️’s
Also, there was SO many typos. I wouldn’t have minded so much if it had been a review copy but I paid full price for this book (around £18.99 if I remember correctly)
For the story I give 4⭐️’s
But for everything else 2-3 ⭐️’s
May 11, 2024
Less convincing than the other books in Fiona Walker’s “country” series.
Charmer Bay Austen lacks the memorable charisma of, say, Rupert Campbell-Black, whilst girlfriend Pax seems to be juggling about 8 different half-hearted relationships, none of which I felt invested in.
Some of the more memorable characters from previous books - Petra, Bridge, Pip - are reduced to minor mentions, whilst the key protagonists here (aging comics fighting over a meadow) are less riveting.
Enjoyable, but perhaps the series has run its course.
Charmer Bay Austen lacks the memorable charisma of, say, Rupert Campbell-Black, whilst girlfriend Pax seems to be juggling about 8 different half-hearted relationships, none of which I felt invested in.
Some of the more memorable characters from previous books - Petra, Bridge, Pip - are reduced to minor mentions, whilst the key protagonists here (aging comics fighting over a meadow) are less riveting.
Enjoyable, but perhaps the series has run its course.
August 17, 2025
I love Fiona walker’s first book ‘French relations’ and I re-read it every summer. I should have tried some of her others earlier, but I was always worried they wouldn’t stack up.
I was wrong - ‘Country Secrets’ was just like French relations; lots of characters, each chapter ends abruptly so you can’t wait to get back to that situation but then you get enthralled in the next. It gets pacey in the last 25% as everything builds up and you just can’t stop reading as so much is going on.
I loved the characters and all the hidden histories and secrets (even from the reader). Would definitely read again as my winter book.
I was wrong - ‘Country Secrets’ was just like French relations; lots of characters, each chapter ends abruptly so you can’t wait to get back to that situation but then you get enthralled in the next. It gets pacey in the last 25% as everything builds up and you just can’t stop reading as so much is going on.
I loved the characters and all the hidden histories and secrets (even from the reader). Would definitely read again as my winter book.
August 19, 2023
There’s a lot going on in this book but it’s definitely your small town romance. Sometimes it was a lot to recall from the beginning of the book however the ending ends as it should and it gets you to remember the rest of what’s happened in the book. When I say small town romance, think hookups, decent, politics. But remember the love that’s hidden there! I throughly enjoyed the book but felt it didn’t need to be as long.
Ps pax might be my favorite character!
Ps pax might be my favorite character!
July 11, 2024
I received a copy of Fiona Walker's "Country Secrets" from Coundon Library Book Club and took it away on my holiday.
It’s set against the backdrop of the English countryside and is a mix of romance, humour, and drama that kept me entertained from start to finish.
Country Secrets is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I think will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and women's fiction.
The perfect accompaniment to my summer holiday!
It’s set against the backdrop of the English countryside and is a mix of romance, humour, and drama that kept me entertained from start to finish.
Country Secrets is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I think will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and women's fiction.
The perfect accompaniment to my summer holiday!
July 27, 2023
So much fun, this series reminds me so much of the Jilly Cooper books I read back in the day. I think I’ve read everything by Fiona Walker and she’s a firm favourite for a good old romp, and this was a corker.
I love catching up with the village, all the gossip and scandal, but also the struggle of surviving the financial crisis that is hitting everyone but especially those in small rural communities. Seeing people come together to save their livelihoods.
A great read.
I love catching up with the village, all the gossip and scandal, but also the struggle of surviving the financial crisis that is hitting everyone but especially those in small rural communities. Seeing people come together to save their livelihoods.
A great read.
August 18, 2023
I gave up reading this one. I was bored, don't particularly have an affinity to horses and cannot say that I found the characters engaging. Sorry, this one was definitely not for me. I have read other books by Fiona Walker and thoroughly enjoyed them. For me this one missed the mark. It reminded me of Riders by Jilly Cooper, with out the sex and not as much fun to read.
September 17, 2023
Sadly, I just couldn't get into this book. I was at least 1/4 way through before calling it a day. I wanted to enjoy it. Maybe it's because I don't know about the 'horsey' world or really have any interest in it. Maybe it's a good choice if this is your thing.
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC to review. Opinions are my own.
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC to review. Opinions are my own.
October 10, 2023
Book three in Compton Manor.
When I pick up any of Fiona's books, I always know I'm in for a good read.
Her characters are fun, warm, and entertaining. Her description of village life is well-written you can see it clearly in your mind's eye. Set in and around the horse world, it opens your eyes to what goes on.
A gripping Romp.
When I pick up any of Fiona's books, I always know I'm in for a good read.
Her characters are fun, warm, and entertaining. Her description of village life is well-written you can see it clearly in your mind's eye. Set in and around the horse world, it opens your eyes to what goes on.
A gripping Romp.
November 8, 2023
Overall a great chunk of horse based romance and country life! It’s slightly slow moving and took me a while to get into the flow and become familiar with the characters and their relationships but I found it enjoyable. This is true light hearted escapism and fun from start to finish. Part of a series can be read as standalone with little issue.
Thank you Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley
December 8, 2023
I have been crossing my fingers hoping Fiona Walker will recapture the heady wonderfulness of French Relations but sadly this disappointed. It's OK, but it takes itself rather seriously and I was looking for something more engaging and light-hearted. This was a bit of a drag. I didn't really like any of the characters but the plot was mildly interesting enough to keep me reading to the end.
August 18, 2023
The latest gripping, sexy novel from Fiona Walker set in the Cotswold Village of Compton Magna.
Loved the countryside setting - the gossip and the humour, giving Jilly Cooper vibes.
An entertaining, escapist summer read.
Thanks @fionawalkeruk, @headofzeus & @netgalley for the eARC
Loved the countryside setting - the gossip and the humour, giving Jilly Cooper vibes.
An entertaining, escapist summer read.
Thanks @fionawalkeruk, @headofzeus & @netgalley for the eARC
August 20, 2023
There were too many characters, and it was sometimes difficult to make sense of the plot. I was heartily disappointed that Pax and Luca didn't get together after such a promising start in the previous book.
November 6, 2023
I was so looking forward to reading this third part of the Compton Magna trilogy, but it just didn't hit the mark for me. I loved all of the other Fiona Walker books but I struggled with this one. The action only picked up for the final quarter.
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