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Outro Natal no Castelo
"Sabine Powys é proprietária do magnífico Castelo Mitra, que está na sua família há gerações. Por saber que só irá passar mais um Natal na casa que tanto adora, ela decide recriar as celebrações da sua infância, fazendo-se rodear de pessoas amadas, decorações festivas e comida deliciosa.
Dido e Henry, melhores amigos e donos de uma empresa de catering muito exclusiva, são contratados para realizar o sonho de Sabine.
Dido apaixona-se então pelo próprio Castelo e pelos jardins que o circundam, acabando mesmo por descobrir uma ligação inesperadamente pessoal a tudo o que envolve o lugar.
Xan, o afilhado de Sabine e convidado muito especial, não parece lembrar-se dela, mas Dido nunca o esquecera, afinal, ele fora o grande amor da sua adolescência.
Entretanto, rapidamente se percebe que a decisão de contratar Dido não foi aleatória, e Sabine esconde alguns segredos.
Quando a neve começa a cair e a família está reunida, as tensões aumentam em torno do futuro do Castelo e os mistérios há muito enterrados começam a desvendar-se...
À medida que os segredos do passado vêm à tona, poderá este Natal manter a sua magia?
O que ficará para recordar?"
Dido e Henry, melhores amigos e donos de uma empresa de catering muito exclusiva, são contratados para realizar o sonho de Sabine.
Dido apaixona-se então pelo próprio Castelo e pelos jardins que o circundam, acabando mesmo por descobrir uma ligação inesperadamente pessoal a tudo o que envolve o lugar.
Xan, o afilhado de Sabine e convidado muito especial, não parece lembrar-se dela, mas Dido nunca o esquecera, afinal, ele fora o grande amor da sua adolescência.
Entretanto, rapidamente se percebe que a decisão de contratar Dido não foi aleatória, e Sabine esconde alguns segredos.
Quando a neve começa a cair e a família está reunida, as tensões aumentam em torno do futuro do Castelo e os mistérios há muito enterrados começam a desvendar-se...
À medida que os segredos do passado vêm à tona, poderá este Natal manter a sua magia?
O que ficará para recordar?"
528 pages, Unknown Binding
Published November 15, 2022
433 people are currently reading
1606 people want to read
About the author
Trisha Ashley
40 books1,104 followersTrisha Ashley is now a full-time novelist, but she has been known to work for stained glass makers and/or plumbers. She likes to paint, eat, drink, and read literary biographies. Her previous hobbies included getting divorced and packing to move. She claims to have once actually eaten Bronte burgers at the Branwell café, but her publisher declines to verify this. She lives in North Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 353 reviews
October 17, 2021
Trisha Ashley provides some perfect Christmas escapism, set in the run up to the festive season and with a marvellous sense of its Northumberland location with the requisite snow and freezing temperatures. You can experience a traditional Christmas vicariously as elderly widow, Sabine Powys, is feeling nostalgic, yearning for the magic of her childhood seasonal Xmas celebrations at the remote Mitras Castle. She hires Heavenly Houseparties, run by Dido Jones and her good friend, Henry, to organise her last Christmas party, she has a terminal illness and is not given long to live. Sabine sees this as an occasion to invite all the family she has left, assess their characters with a view to making the necessary decisions regarding her will. Her beloved godson, Xan Fellowes will be staying too, working on writing a biography on her late husband, Asa, with his plans for interviewing Sabine, and working his way through the papers and contents of Asa's study.
Dido with her never ending lists is an extremely organised and gifted cook, in charge in the kitchen, whilst Henry takes over the other household tasks required, whilst occasionally indulging in his love of making delicious baked snacks. Sabine proves to be an imperious and formal woman, intent on making clear that social lines should not be crossed, but as Xan and Henry know each other from their school days, she softens when it comes to Henry, but she is far more frosty towards Dido. It is no accident that Heavenly Houseparties were hired, there are family secrets behind the bitterness that Sabine feels towards Dido, and she is not above deliberately escalating family tensions once her guests arrive. There is plenty of intrigue amidst the Christmas festivities, with Dido cooking up a storm with her mouthwatering food, not to mention love, fun, and friendships, as everyone gets into the spirit of a never to be forgotten Christmas.
This is not a novel to race through, but one to savour at a more leisurely pace to imbibe the oodles of atmosphere, appreciate the joys of a traditional Christmas and all that goes with it, set in the picture perfect location, ideal for preparing to become immersed in your own plans for Christmas this year. Ashley creates a wide range of characters, the wonderful in the likes of Dido, Henry, and Nancy, and including the odd dislikeable one too to add a little spice to the mix. You can always rely on the author to write a quality Christmas novel that you can lose yourself in. This is engaging, entertaining and an utterly enjoyable read that I think many other readers will love too. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Dido with her never ending lists is an extremely organised and gifted cook, in charge in the kitchen, whilst Henry takes over the other household tasks required, whilst occasionally indulging in his love of making delicious baked snacks. Sabine proves to be an imperious and formal woman, intent on making clear that social lines should not be crossed, but as Xan and Henry know each other from their school days, she softens when it comes to Henry, but she is far more frosty towards Dido. It is no accident that Heavenly Houseparties were hired, there are family secrets behind the bitterness that Sabine feels towards Dido, and she is not above deliberately escalating family tensions once her guests arrive. There is plenty of intrigue amidst the Christmas festivities, with Dido cooking up a storm with her mouthwatering food, not to mention love, fun, and friendships, as everyone gets into the spirit of a never to be forgotten Christmas.
This is not a novel to race through, but one to savour at a more leisurely pace to imbibe the oodles of atmosphere, appreciate the joys of a traditional Christmas and all that goes with it, set in the picture perfect location, ideal for preparing to become immersed in your own plans for Christmas this year. Ashley creates a wide range of characters, the wonderful in the likes of Dido, Henry, and Nancy, and including the odd dislikeable one too to add a little spice to the mix. You can always rely on the author to write a quality Christmas novel that you can lose yourself in. This is engaging, entertaining and an utterly enjoyable read that I think many other readers will love too. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
February 9, 2023
•| ⊱✿⊰ |• 3 Stars •| ⊱✿⊰ |•
Não tenho muito a dizer acerca deste livro, exceto ser demasiado extenso.
A história está gira, o enredo cativa-nos, mas depois perdemo-nos em demasiada descrição.
Nada de especial, lê-se, mas não deixa marcas.
A capa, na versão portuguesa, é lindíssima.
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I don't have much to say about this book except that it's too long.
The story is cute, the plot captivates us, but then we get lost in too much description.
Nothing special, leaves no marks.
The cover, in the Portuguese version, is beautiful.
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December 11, 2021
⭐⭐⭐
I keep getting pulled in by these festive book covers. I always hope this will be the book that gets me back in to enjoying the romance genre. 😂 Overall I enjoyed this one. It was WAY too long (IMO) However; it was festive. It was cozy. It was well written. It had a plethora of interesting characters. So many, in fact, that I had a hard time keeping everyone straight. 🤷🏻♀️ And it made me extremely hungry. My goodness, I wanted to eat everything described in this book. 😂
**ARC Vua NetGalley**
I keep getting pulled in by these festive book covers. I always hope this will be the book that gets me back in to enjoying the romance genre. 😂 Overall I enjoyed this one. It was WAY too long (IMO) However; it was festive. It was cozy. It was well written. It had a plethora of interesting characters. So many, in fact, that I had a hard time keeping everyone straight. 🤷🏻♀️ And it made me extremely hungry. My goodness, I wanted to eat everything described in this book. 😂
**ARC Vua NetGalley**
September 27, 2023
*Secrets & Revelations*
Sabine Powys is an elderly widow and due to health reasons she now knows that this will be her last Christmas. She is a wealthy woman and has to divide up her assets. She decides to throw a Christmas dinner party to remember at her home the wonderfully sounding Mitras Castle. In order to do so she Employs Dido and her business partner Henry. Their company is called ‘Heavenly House-parties’ they specialise is doing all the cooking, organising and some of the household chores to ensure the clients can have the dinner party of their dreams without having to lift a finger .
Dido and Henry were momentarily disappointed when their pre booked event was cancelled last minute but miraculously a new booking came in shortly afterwards, this new booking was from Sabine, why?… they are booked for a month and the guests will be staying a few days.
When Dido and Henry make the journey up north to the castle Henry receives a warm welcome, while Dido receives a cold reception, why!!!
What is left of Sabine’s family arrive and some wanting to get their hands on her cash. Sabine is using this party to decide who and how to divide up her assets. Amongst the relatives is none other than Xan Dido’s teenage crush. She acts like they have never met but he recognises Henry immediately. Henry is a hilarious character who is also man of many skills, together with Dido they make a great team.
We see drama, scheming and when Sabine makes her final decision as to who she is leaving the castle to everyone is left gobsmacked including herself.
This is a wonderful festive read with substance, tender and comedic moments. I was totally engrossed. The dishes Dido served up had my mouthwatering, also included in the book are some of the recipes that Dido used.
Sabine Powys is an elderly widow and due to health reasons she now knows that this will be her last Christmas. She is a wealthy woman and has to divide up her assets. She decides to throw a Christmas dinner party to remember at her home the wonderfully sounding Mitras Castle. In order to do so she Employs Dido and her business partner Henry. Their company is called ‘Heavenly House-parties’ they specialise is doing all the cooking, organising and some of the household chores to ensure the clients can have the dinner party of their dreams without having to lift a finger .
Dido and Henry were momentarily disappointed when their pre booked event was cancelled last minute but miraculously a new booking came in shortly afterwards, this new booking was from Sabine, why?… they are booked for a month and the guests will be staying a few days.
When Dido and Henry make the journey up north to the castle Henry receives a warm welcome, while Dido receives a cold reception, why!!!
What is left of Sabine’s family arrive and some wanting to get their hands on her cash. Sabine is using this party to decide who and how to divide up her assets. Amongst the relatives is none other than Xan Dido’s teenage crush. She acts like they have never met but he recognises Henry immediately. Henry is a hilarious character who is also man of many skills, together with Dido they make a great team.
We see drama, scheming and when Sabine makes her final decision as to who she is leaving the castle to everyone is left gobsmacked including herself.
This is a wonderful festive read with substance, tender and comedic moments. I was totally engrossed. The dishes Dido served up had my mouthwatering, also included in the book are some of the recipes that Dido used.
January 5, 2022
This book was overlong, with way too many details. I expected a romantic story, not endless shopping lists, supermarket deliveries and details of every meal.
August 4, 2021
I received an ARC from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I normally like this author’s books but I was disappointed in this one. Reading all the 5 star reviews, I am wondering if I read a different book! There were too many characters and I was struggling with the cast of characters - trying to remember who was who. The coincidences and amazing connections stretched my credulity rather too much. Dido and Xan were a great couple.
The overall story was well written but felt it would have benefited from some judicious editing. Some detail which fleshes out a story is perfect but when the detail overwhelms the story - that’s not good.
Overall, an entertaining read.
I normally like this author’s books but I was disappointed in this one. Reading all the 5 star reviews, I am wondering if I read a different book! There were too many characters and I was struggling with the cast of characters - trying to remember who was who. The coincidences and amazing connections stretched my credulity rather too much. Dido and Xan were a great couple.
The overall story was well written but felt it would have benefited from some judicious editing. Some detail which fleshes out a story is perfect but when the detail overwhelms the story - that’s not good.
Overall, an entertaining read.
October 16, 2021
That was painful; I've been reading this book for around three weeks now, and the first few days I was reading it (prior to my book tour date) I was really enjoying it. But then I got to about halfway and just wanted it to end as soon as possible because it is SO SLOW. But it's over 500 pages so I obviously had to carry on when I got to halfway 🙄
This book could have been so much shorter and so much more enjoyable if the exciting bits had been kept in and all the rest cut out. Sabine is a great character and Dido was boring so why did we have so many more chapters from the latter's perspective rather than from Sabine's??
The romance element was so cringey and awkward, and I'm usually a massive romance lover but just no.
I did like that this got me in the festive spirit and I did like the majority of characters but I struggled to keep track of who a lot of them were.
I have bought another Trisha Ashley book because this one hasn't put me off completely and I definitely loved it in the beginning. I just wish more had actually happened as it was so damn long.
If you like slow-paced books then you'll probably love this.
This book could have been so much shorter and so much more enjoyable if the exciting bits had been kept in and all the rest cut out. Sabine is a great character and Dido was boring so why did we have so many more chapters from the latter's perspective rather than from Sabine's??
The romance element was so cringey and awkward, and I'm usually a massive romance lover but just no.
I did like that this got me in the festive spirit and I did like the majority of characters but I struggled to keep track of who a lot of them were.
I have bought another Trisha Ashley book because this one hasn't put me off completely and I definitely loved it in the beginning. I just wish more had actually happened as it was so damn long.
If you like slow-paced books then you'll probably love this.
November 29, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️
Una lettura corposa che scorre lenta.
Tante descrizioni, minuziose e dettagliate, sulle attività che precedono il natale tradizionali britanniche, che mi sono anche piaciute da leggere ma che hanno rallentato la lettura
Una lettura corposa che scorre lenta.
Tante descrizioni, minuziose e dettagliate, sulle attività che precedono il natale tradizionali britanniche, che mi sono anche piaciute da leggere ma che hanno rallentato la lettura
December 27, 2023
A similar Christmas and food themed story to other Trisha Ashley books I have read. A few enjoyable characters though ☺️
December 2, 2021
I love Trisha Ashley's books and this is my favourite!
It was a delightful read - a mix of likeable characters in the perfect setting and the story is so much more than a romance.
Yes, it has romance, but secrets and new starts. Friendship and the cutest dog, Plum, who I still think about now.
I thought of his little paws in the snow and didn't want him feeling too cold and could clearly visualise his acrobatic moves!
I felt constantly hungry and loved the whole atmosphere, more so once Cousin Sabine thaws, but good grief! She had every reason to feel and react the way she did.
This is different to other books in this genre. Some can feel too alike for my liking, but this one wasn't.
I did feel for Dido, and felt glad that she had such a good friend in Henry who I adored. He played a big part in providing with me lots of entertainment and he really made me laugh - not at him, with him. Xan is another character that I took to and he was the calm to the storm where Sabine was concerned.
I would love to spend a Christmas at Mitras Castle and wrap up and take in the snowy scenery.
I cannot fault this book and it's a perfect read for the winter season. I will read this book again and I cannot recommend it enough.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
It was a delightful read - a mix of likeable characters in the perfect setting and the story is so much more than a romance.
Yes, it has romance, but secrets and new starts. Friendship and the cutest dog, Plum, who I still think about now.
I thought of his little paws in the snow and didn't want him feeling too cold and could clearly visualise his acrobatic moves!
I felt constantly hungry and loved the whole atmosphere, more so once Cousin Sabine thaws, but good grief! She had every reason to feel and react the way she did.
This is different to other books in this genre. Some can feel too alike for my liking, but this one wasn't.
I did feel for Dido, and felt glad that she had such a good friend in Henry who I adored. He played a big part in providing with me lots of entertainment and he really made me laugh - not at him, with him. Xan is another character that I took to and he was the calm to the storm where Sabine was concerned.
I would love to spend a Christmas at Mitras Castle and wrap up and take in the snowy scenery.
I cannot fault this book and it's a perfect read for the winter season. I will read this book again and I cannot recommend it enough.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
October 1, 2021
Omg this needs more than 5 stars, what a book trisha ashley has out done herself again, I was hooked from the start, but how the story line progresses etc was brilliant I love the main character Dido and how independent and strong she is, but I also loved Sadie grumpy but loveable, this is definitely a book you will not want to miss so get pre ordering it's out next month, such a fantastic Christmas book and so detailed that you feel like you are there in this book, that's why I love trishas style of writing she can make you feel your the main character and this is your story x
November 6, 2021
This was a nice story, with a cosy, festive setting and very enjoyable. I struggled a little with too many characters and sometimes I got a bit confused about who was who, but the story is captivating and very well written, definitely worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2022
Yes it was long and had endless lists of food consumed, and nothing dramatic happens but for me it was comforting, cosy and Christmasy, and thats what its all about really 😊
January 1, 2022
3.5⭐️
If you are looking for lots of Christmas, this story has it! Big castle, getting it prepped and decorated, getting seasonal foods ready for the big day. Dido and Henry are a well oiled machine when it comes to holiday and party planning.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. They are each different, fun to get to know, and aren’t always what you expect. The romance between our male and female was lacking substance and feeling. I was not getting the feeling of love or even lust. It was almost as though aspects of them liking each other were implied as opposed to actually mentioned for the readers benefit.
I enjoyed reading about each character’s happenings and what they were up to, but the overall plot as a whole was also kind of lacking. There really wasn’t a ton to it and towards the end it kind of felt parts were being added in to being something new and/or different to the mix.
An entertaining read, give it a try and form your own opinion!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Random House UK, and Trisha Ashley for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you are looking for lots of Christmas, this story has it! Big castle, getting it prepped and decorated, getting seasonal foods ready for the big day. Dido and Henry are a well oiled machine when it comes to holiday and party planning.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. They are each different, fun to get to know, and aren’t always what you expect. The romance between our male and female was lacking substance and feeling. I was not getting the feeling of love or even lust. It was almost as though aspects of them liking each other were implied as opposed to actually mentioned for the readers benefit.
I enjoyed reading about each character’s happenings and what they were up to, but the overall plot as a whole was also kind of lacking. There really wasn’t a ton to it and towards the end it kind of felt parts were being added in to being something new and/or different to the mix.
An entertaining read, give it a try and form your own opinion!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Random House UK, and Trisha Ashley for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
Trisha Ashley provides writes of a delightful Northumberland location set in the run-up to the festive season in One More Christmas at the Castle. The reader can experience a traditional Christmas vicariously as elderly widow, Sabine Powys, feeling nostalgic, yearns for the magic of her childhood seasonal celebrations at the remote Mitras Castle. Heavenly Houseparties, organises events which is run by Dido Jones and her friend and business partner, Henry. Sabine hires them to organise her last Christmas at Mitras Castle. With secrets unlocked and some terrific character dynamics, this was a compelling, mesmerising tale. The Xmas elements were terrific as well. Light, magical Christmas festivity at its best!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Random House/ Transworld Publishers/ Bantam via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Random House/ Transworld Publishers/ Bantam via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 3, 2021
This was a nice story, with a cosy, festive setting and very enjoyable. I struggled a little with too many characters and sometimes a got a bit confused about who was who, but the story is captivating and very well written, definitely worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2021
I have been wanting to read a Trisha Ashley book for a while, so jumped at the chance to get her latest novel (many thanks to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and NetGallery for granting me a copy of the book).
This book will not fail at getting you into the Christmas spirit (I’ve just ordered fairy lights in August!) And if you’re having family over it may give you an excellent idea or two to make the season more festive. The story is packed with food preparation and menu descriptions, so if you are a foodie you will probably appreciate this book- unfortunately I didn’t.
The deathbed Christmas gathering of family (who are mostly unlikeable) is a fairly short affair, which is a shame, since that provided the only real interest in the story - The romance is lukewarm at best and we never do find out what illness Mrs Powys had; which is odd since the story centres around that!
It’s safe to assume that live-in cooks/housekeepers have a pretty repetitive life; and although Dido and Henry clearly enjoy their work, it’s pretty boring to read about. I personally feel the book would benefit from a ruthless edit - for example, we don’t need to read about Dido taking Mrs Powys her breakfast tray 6 times in detail and we don’t need to read about them taking the dog for a walk countless times either - we get the gist after the first time, second at most!
This is a long detailed book and if I hadn’t had an ARC and felt duty bound to finish it, I probably would have DNF’d it at 25%. SO disappointed that I won’t become a fan of this Author.
This book will not fail at getting you into the Christmas spirit (I’ve just ordered fairy lights in August!) And if you’re having family over it may give you an excellent idea or two to make the season more festive. The story is packed with food preparation and menu descriptions, so if you are a foodie you will probably appreciate this book- unfortunately I didn’t.
The deathbed Christmas gathering of family (who are mostly unlikeable) is a fairly short affair, which is a shame, since that provided the only real interest in the story - The romance is lukewarm at best and we never do find out what illness Mrs Powys had; which is odd since the story centres around that!
It’s safe to assume that live-in cooks/housekeepers have a pretty repetitive life; and although Dido and Henry clearly enjoy their work, it’s pretty boring to read about. I personally feel the book would benefit from a ruthless edit - for example, we don’t need to read about Dido taking Mrs Powys her breakfast tray 6 times in detail and we don’t need to read about them taking the dog for a walk countless times either - we get the gist after the first time, second at most!
This is a long detailed book and if I hadn’t had an ARC and felt duty bound to finish it, I probably would have DNF’d it at 25%. SO disappointed that I won’t become a fan of this Author.
January 16, 2024
I started this book at the beginning of December and I've only just finished it so I think that tells you everything you need to know about how riveting it is.
Firstly, the writing is cringey to read; the main character is supposed to be in her early 30's but is very obviously written by someone much older (The phrase 'I said, with dignity' comes up at least once a page)
However, my major problem isn't with the author but with the editor (or absence of one?). The level of EXCRUCIATING detail we get that is in no way relevant to the plot and doesn't move the story is unbelievable. Literally pages and PAGES of the main character telling us what they've put on the shopping list, what they're batch booking for the freezer, every single book they find whilst dusting on the shelf.
The premise is that they run a business that provides live in help for a month and believe me you will get a step by step of EVERY single meal that's cooked for all 31 days. The rate at which I read this, the plot happened in real time 😭
You also will get every single conversation that happens with every single character absolutely verbatim, even when it adds absolutely nothing to the story. There was one mundane conversation that took place over SIX straight pages of dialogue.
I could go on and on about this but I feel it would get as long and unnecessary as this book.
Plus point is it genuinely did help me to get to sleep as one chapter was enough to wind my brain down for bed.
Firstly, the writing is cringey to read; the main character is supposed to be in her early 30's but is very obviously written by someone much older (The phrase 'I said, with dignity' comes up at least once a page)
However, my major problem isn't with the author but with the editor (or absence of one?). The level of EXCRUCIATING detail we get that is in no way relevant to the plot and doesn't move the story is unbelievable. Literally pages and PAGES of the main character telling us what they've put on the shopping list, what they're batch booking for the freezer, every single book they find whilst dusting on the shelf.
The premise is that they run a business that provides live in help for a month and believe me you will get a step by step of EVERY single meal that's cooked for all 31 days. The rate at which I read this, the plot happened in real time 😭
You also will get every single conversation that happens with every single character absolutely verbatim, even when it adds absolutely nothing to the story. There was one mundane conversation that took place over SIX straight pages of dialogue.
I could go on and on about this but I feel it would get as long and unnecessary as this book.
Plus point is it genuinely did help me to get to sleep as one chapter was enough to wind my brain down for bed.
February 28, 2025
ONE MORE CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE by TRISHA ASHLEY.
With thanks to #NetGalley and #RandomHouseUk for an ARC of #OneMoreChristmasAtTheCastle by #TrishaAshley.
Mitras Castle is the home of Sabine. An elderly lady who knows this will likely be her last Christmas.
The castle has been in Sabine’s family for generations and now with no immediate relatives to pass the castle onto, Sabine needs to look to her extended family to find an heir.
She invites everyone for one last Christmas and plans to use the festive period to decide who should inherit the castle.
Wanting everything to run smoothly and to be a perfect Christmas, Sabine hires Dido and her Heavenly Houseparties business to oversea the running of the festivities.
With her deep bonds rooted in the castle, Sabine is keen to make the right decision for the future of her much loved home.
This is a lovely story, cosy, warm and full of festive feels.
You’ll find a very traditional, family Christmas written within the pages of this book.
As much as this is a charming Christmas story, I did struggle with the amount of characters in the book. It took quite a number of chapters and a few are-reads before everything and everyone fell into place.
Overall, a cracking Christmas story that deserves a place in your festive reading pile.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 15, 2021
This book has all the makings of a wonderful Christmas novel, cosy manor house with open fires, winter gardens, traditional festive decor, and mouthwatering food! There's certainly a lot of intrigue and drama and though I felt some of the plot was predictable, I did enjoy the subterfuge and pantomime entertainment of it all.
I found Sabine a very difficult character to like, quite Miss Havisham, but I think that was kind of the point, the bitterness and snobbery was quite disturbing at times. I did feel disappointed that many of the other female characters were portrayed as such appalling human beings or judged as being half-witted, it did seem a bit unfair and disparaging, but that may be because of my personal preference for more of a feminist theme in books.
Overall a fun, festive romance if you enjoy wealthy family houses & inheritance themes.
I found Sabine a very difficult character to like, quite Miss Havisham, but I think that was kind of the point, the bitterness and snobbery was quite disturbing at times. I did feel disappointed that many of the other female characters were portrayed as such appalling human beings or judged as being half-witted, it did seem a bit unfair and disparaging, but that may be because of my personal preference for more of a feminist theme in books.
Overall a fun, festive romance if you enjoy wealthy family houses & inheritance themes.
December 6, 2021
Spoiler alert!
Trisha Ashley’s previous Christmas books are part of my Christmas traditions. I am very well acquainted with them, which didn’t help on reading this year’s offering. I was very disappointed that this seems to be a rehash of previous books and in particular the 12 Days of Christmas.
Tall main female character ? Tick
Brought up up by elderly “grand parent” under unusual circumstances? Tick
Running a house sitting/ catering service? Tick
Unexpectedly (!) related to employers family? Tick
Great detail of every meal prepared? Tick
Family dog becomes attached to lead female? Tick
I could go on (the jelly mould found on a shelf in the kitchen is a castle in this book, a bunny in 12 Day of Christmas!) but I won’t.
Hoping for a more original book next year!
Trisha Ashley’s previous Christmas books are part of my Christmas traditions. I am very well acquainted with them, which didn’t help on reading this year’s offering. I was very disappointed that this seems to be a rehash of previous books and in particular the 12 Days of Christmas.
Tall main female character ? Tick
Brought up up by elderly “grand parent” under unusual circumstances? Tick
Running a house sitting/ catering service? Tick
Unexpectedly (!) related to employers family? Tick
Great detail of every meal prepared? Tick
Family dog becomes attached to lead female? Tick
I could go on (the jelly mould found on a shelf in the kitchen is a castle in this book, a bunny in 12 Day of Christmas!) but I won’t.
Hoping for a more original book next year!
November 9, 2021
*****Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review****
I think this might be my last Trisha Ashley - or new one at least. I have loved her books for years, but increasingly over the last few they have seemed like a mash up of previous plots, but not as good and this is even more of that than ever. If you want to read a long lost family story in a big house, read Winters Tale - that is much more fun, romantic and whimsically magic, but without the plot points you can see a mile off and insta-love for a couple you never really see have any conversations. It makes me so sad to say this though.
I think this might be my last Trisha Ashley - or new one at least. I have loved her books for years, but increasingly over the last few they have seemed like a mash up of previous plots, but not as good and this is even more of that than ever. If you want to read a long lost family story in a big house, read Winters Tale - that is much more fun, romantic and whimsically magic, but without the plot points you can see a mile off and insta-love for a couple you never really see have any conversations. It makes me so sad to say this though.
January 7, 2022
An enjoyable, if a bit predictable, light hearted festive read.
October 16, 2021
I’m a huge fan of this author and I always look forward to her Christmas books each year, so you can imagine my excitement when I was invited on the blog tour for Last Christmas At The Castle. Once again the author has written a feel good, absorbing and festive read which will help get readers into the festive spirit.
Firstly I love a good Christmas read. There’s nothing nicer than snuggling up as the weather gets colder and reading to get you into the festive spirit. As the books says it’s never too early to get excited for Christmas and I wholeheartedly agree with that! This book helps to bring to life all those magical Christmases you had as a child and hope to recreate with your own family. I loved all the wonderful descriptions of a traditional family Christmas with friends, family and lots of yummy food. Just a warning, don’t eat this book whilst hungry!
The author’s wonderful descriptions made me feel like I was actually there experiencing everything alongside the characters. I felt like I could really imagine the beautiful countryside and could see the characters doing the ice skating on the lake. The characters were all fabulous creations who I enjoyed following throughout the book. I especially loved Dido who definitely warmed my heart with her attempts to always see the best in people and wanting to make everyone happy. I wasn’t sure about Sabrine however as she didn’t seem a very nice person and seemed to use her money to try and manipulation people to do what she wants so she can get her own way.
Overall I really enjoyed this book which has made me very excited for Christmas. I was quickly drawn into the story and found the book hard to put down as I so wanted to find out what would happen next. The storyline was surprisingly gripping with lots of secrets and surprisingly revelations being revealed. I thought the ending was wonderfully heart warming and I felt very sad when the book ended as I had to leave the characters and the castle behind.
Huge thanks to Anne Cater for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Transworld for my copy of this book via netgalley.
Firstly I love a good Christmas read. There’s nothing nicer than snuggling up as the weather gets colder and reading to get you into the festive spirit. As the books says it’s never too early to get excited for Christmas and I wholeheartedly agree with that! This book helps to bring to life all those magical Christmases you had as a child and hope to recreate with your own family. I loved all the wonderful descriptions of a traditional family Christmas with friends, family and lots of yummy food. Just a warning, don’t eat this book whilst hungry!
The author’s wonderful descriptions made me feel like I was actually there experiencing everything alongside the characters. I felt like I could really imagine the beautiful countryside and could see the characters doing the ice skating on the lake. The characters were all fabulous creations who I enjoyed following throughout the book. I especially loved Dido who definitely warmed my heart with her attempts to always see the best in people and wanting to make everyone happy. I wasn’t sure about Sabrine however as she didn’t seem a very nice person and seemed to use her money to try and manipulation people to do what she wants so she can get her own way.
Overall I really enjoyed this book which has made me very excited for Christmas. I was quickly drawn into the story and found the book hard to put down as I so wanted to find out what would happen next. The storyline was surprisingly gripping with lots of secrets and surprisingly revelations being revealed. I thought the ending was wonderfully heart warming and I felt very sad when the book ended as I had to leave the characters and the castle behind.
Huge thanks to Anne Cater for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Transworld for my copy of this book via netgalley.
June 27, 2023
I will admit I get pulled in by a pretty cover, then I’m worse if it’s a pretty Christmas cover and then add Trisha Ashley’s name to it and it’s a must read. It’s festive, cozy, well written as always, full of relatable and interesting characters. It will make you hungry though, Trishas descriptions made me want everything, you will end up on a snack run , delightful festive read, one I thoroughly recommend
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2021
This is the first Trisha Ashley book that I’ve read but they’ve come very highly recommended and I’ve got one of her previous Christmas books sat patiently waiting on my tbr shelf. I think I may have to try and fit that into this years Christmas reads as well now!
I found that this book had a slower pace to some of the recent books I’ve read but it was a nice relaxing pace and suited the story really well. Trisha builds great characters and you really get to know Dido, Sabine and Henry especially, as well as being able to have pretty good impressions of the other house guests. I loved Nancy that’s for sure and Simon captured my attention as I felt like there was so much more to him than we got to know. I did love to see the little bits about him in the epilogue though!
Now there were quite a lot of secrets in this book, some of them I was able to guess but others stumped me, and I loved the way that they all kind of snuck up on you in a way that you weren’t expecting. Or the reveals of them at
least!
Xan was another character that I quickly took a liking to, much like Dido, but mainly because of how inclusive he was to Henry and Dido. He treated them like everyone else rather than as ‘the staff’ and their cosy nights in the staff sitting room sound like absolute heaven!
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the food though, oh my, the food! To say Dido is a great cook is an understatement, the food that came out of her and Henry’s kitchen sounded absolutely delicious, just imagine all the home cooked comfort foods you love, add in loads of savoury nibbles and a cooked breakfast - that’s what we’re talking about here. Yep, I know, I’ll leave you to drool and dream to!!!
December 11, 2022
Acho que este é o primeiro livro de Natal que leio e que não gosto. Eu tentei, juro, mas foi uma dor ler este livro. Estava à espera de um romance fofinho num castelo, não tive nada disso.
É um livro longo desnecessáriamente, para além disso parecia que estava a ler um livro com receitas de comida para o Natal. Era descrições das refeições atrás de descrições das listas das compras e da rotina de todas as personagens. Tudo, menos Natal.
Depois, o romance também odiei. Não senti química entre as personagens, achei que tudo aconteceu demasiado rápido e completamente do nada e só conseguia revirar os olhos. Para além disso, o final também foi super apressado, mesmo o livro sendo enorme, e a necessidade de mostrar todas as personagens felizes no final foi desnecessária.
Infelizmente não foi um livro para mim.
É um livro longo desnecessáriamente, para além disso parecia que estava a ler um livro com receitas de comida para o Natal. Era descrições das refeições atrás de descrições das listas das compras e da rotina de todas as personagens. Tudo, menos Natal.
Depois, o romance também odiei. Não senti química entre as personagens, achei que tudo aconteceu demasiado rápido e completamente do nada e só conseguia revirar os olhos. Para além disso, o final também foi super apressado, mesmo o livro sendo enorme, e a necessidade de mostrar todas as personagens felizes no final foi desnecessária.
Infelizmente não foi um livro para mim.
October 1, 2021
One more Christmas at the castle is the epitome of the most delectable,atmospheric, traditional country house Christmas!
From the very beginning you are absorbed into a fully immersive Christmas experience,the location, the snowy weather, family traditions, and the most delectable Christmas food you could ever imagine! Added to this longstanding family feuds, letting go of the past, new romance and unexpected revelations make this book the perfect read for the festive season and one that will stay with you long after you have read it!
Sabine owner of the castle and with a progressive illness needs to get her affairs in order and to help her with this she decides to throw the best Christmas ever, inviting friends and family for a festive break, ably catered for by a professional catering company who have been handpicked for just this occasion! Fantastic characters, great plot and a brilliant read would highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
From the very beginning you are absorbed into a fully immersive Christmas experience,the location, the snowy weather, family traditions, and the most delectable Christmas food you could ever imagine! Added to this longstanding family feuds, letting go of the past, new romance and unexpected revelations make this book the perfect read for the festive season and one that will stay with you long after you have read it!
Sabine owner of the castle and with a progressive illness needs to get her affairs in order and to help her with this she decides to throw the best Christmas ever, inviting friends and family for a festive break, ably catered for by a professional catering company who have been handpicked for just this occasion! Fantastic characters, great plot and a brilliant read would highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
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