Sweet Mercies

The Sisters of Saint Philomena #2

by Anne Booth

Even saints need second chances...

The new heartwarming Christmas adventure with the Sisters of Saint Philomena, about friendship, family and forgiveness, for fans of AJ Pearce, Katie Fforde and Call the Midwife.

Everyone loves Sister Bridget.

The cheerful Mother Superior of St Philomena's convent is friend to many in the town of Fairbridge and the irrepressible caller at the weekly Parish Bingo. There is nothing she can't sort out with a kind word, a cup of tea and a slice of her amazing chocolate cake.

But is everything as rosy as she thinks?

As the Christmas tree goes up and festive cheer rises, a visitor arrives at the convent who doesn't like Sister Bridget one bit.

Good intentions don't always go to plan.

Sister Bridget learns that secrets are bubbling to the surface back home in Ireland - especially for her younger sister Mary. She will need to face up to past deeds, however well-intended. With the help of her friends, and the power of love and forgiveness, maybe she can finally make things right.

With warmth and grace, Sweet Mercies reminds us that none of us is perfect, and everybody deserves another chance at finding peace and happiness.

Praise for Anne Booth's previous novel Small

'Charming, witty and warm, Small Miracles is a gentle gem of a novel, a cheery balm in troubling times.' AJ Pearce, bestselling author of Dear Mrs Bird

'With gentle humour, and surprising twists and turns, this is just the book we need in these difficult times. I didn't want it to end' Katie Fforde

'This book felt like a hug' ***** Reader Review

Genres: Christmas

368 pages, Hardcover

Published October 19, 2023

About the author

Anne Booth always wanted to be a children’s writer, but has also cleared tables in a restaurant, sold books, been a tour guide at a haunted medieval hospital, taught English in Italy, and organized arts and crafts in a nursing home, among other things. Anne Booth lives in Kent, England, with her husband, four children, two hens, and two dogs.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, Sweet Mercies by Anne Booth, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Sister Bridget is absolutely lovely, I can see why almost everyone is in love with her. Shes a great cook, bingo caller, Catholic, and friend. I liked Fr. Hugh too, a lovely priest. A feel good Christmas read.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters of Saint Philomena are back to tell another lovely, feel-good story. If you’re looking for a dynamic, on the edge of your seat read, this is not it. What you will find if you pick up this book however is a very cosy, comforting story. I predicted the end to each sub plot - as I’m sure you will - but this doesn’t matter. It’s a tale of kindness and community and is a gentle, thoughtful read.

My thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for an ARC exchange for a honest

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet book full of loveable characters without an evil swine in sight. It is in keeping with the first book in that it is delightful.

I must admit to being a bit fascinated with nuns, priests and the Pope. My family is Presbyterian, which is quite a dour religion. I think this might be why Catholicism is so interesting. When I find myself at a Catholic service for a wedding or a funeral, it always surprises me that everyone else there knows the words and the moves.

I don’t want to be a Catholic, especially given some of the scandals that have engulfed it and given I am an atheist. But these books aren’t about that. They are full of whimsy and are about community, family, belonging and forgiveness. These are values that are important irrespective of your beliefs.

Everything is tied up neatly at the end, just like the first book. There is nothing confronting in this book, it is like a warm hug. So if you have an aversion to feel good books about nuns, maybe choose another read.

[Tilly Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

The absolutely perfect read when you’re looking for a big warm hug of a book 🤗

Now I had wanted to read the first book in this series, but as usual life got away from me, but thankfully this can absolutely be read as a standalone! And I would so recommend reading it, because it’s a total delight -
I’m not usually a fan of religion, but I’d make an exception for these Sisters!

Whilst it is a total joy of a book, that doesn’t mean it shies away from tough subjects - there’s a lot to get emotional about, and I especially felt for poor Mary throughout the story, and couldn’t help but hope for a happy ending for her!

I adored this book. Naughty kittens, naughty nuns with their dodgy Bingo, lots of cake and LOTS of heart - what’s not to love?! Will definitely be going back to book one soon!

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful, heart-warming read, perfect for the festive season.

The sisters of St. Philomena's are, as always, busy in the community whilst getting to grips with running their new B&B. Sister Bridget is their stalwart, running many things to enhance the lives of everyone living in the village and beyond and she's very popular - or at least, she always has been up until now. When a visitor arrives from Ireland who quite obviously does not like her, she's not the only one who's puzzled Things are happening back home in Ireland and Sister Bridget, although well-intentioned, may wel be putting her foot in it . . .

I loved the first in this series and couldn't wait to read this one. There's a wonderful spirit of love and happiness throughout, but also the lesson that - no matter how well=intentioned - we can all get it wrong. A delightful and enjoyable read filled with a wide array of characters and a lot of love. 4.5*.

[Janette Hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a lovely book and you get to know the characters and it’s full of love and forgiveness and how to live with difficult people

[Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the characters are back from the first book in this series set at St Philomena’s convent. If you haven’t read the first book Small Miracles, you can easily read this one as a stand alone, and to be honest I thought the plot for this latest book was a bit faster paced and altogether more interesting.

At one time the nuns were teachers but with the convent getting ever smaller and with no one really wanting to give their lives up to the church, the nuns had to find a new way to save their dwindling sisterhood and now run a kind of guest house/hostel with Sister Bridget (also Mother Superior of two other nuns) as chief cook. They are still very much involved in the day to day running of the church as well, supporting the Priest.

In this book we meet up with Bridget’s sister Mary who still lives in Ireland. Mary and her rather overbearing husband, a successful property developer, form one of the story threads running through. Mary has spent most of her married life playing second fiddle to her husband, never managing to fulfill her own dreams of becoming a professional artist. He’s an all round unpleasant man, who believes he has always done right by his wife but that’s only because she’s fallen into line and always put his needs first.

Back at the Convent the spritely but somewhat curmudgeonly 90 year old Sister Cecelia has a bigger role to play in this second book when she becomes the reluctant adoptee of the Convent’s cat. A guest staying at the Convent’s new accommodation has taken a distinct dislike to Sister Bridget. No one knows why, especially when you couldn’t meet a more kindly person. Though perhaps sometimes her desire to do all she can to help people can be seen by some as meddling.

I enjoyed this one much more than the last book. Though it does have many references to God and the Catholic faith, it can still be enjoyed by the less religious amongst us. There’s a gentle humour to it, but with some more serious matters covered. Always written with great sensitivity, I zipped through it, finding it an absorbing read. I was quite sorry to reach the end. It’s perhaps a little overly sweet at times but by the time I reached the end, it left me feeling like that was time well spent on an enjoyable, wholesome read. If there’s to be a third book in this series, I would love to read it.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone loves Sister Bridget.

The cheerful Mother Superior of St Philomena's convent is friend to many in the town of Fairbridge and the irrepressible caller at the weekly Parish Bingo. There is nothing she can't sort out with a kind word, a cup of tea and a slice of her amazing chocolate cake.

But is everything as rosy as she thinks?

As the Christmas tree goes up and festive cheer rises, a visitor arrives at the convent who doesn't like Sister Bridget one bit.

Good intentions don't always go to plan.

Sister Bridget learns that secrets are bubbling to the surface back home in Ireland - especially for her younger sister Mary. She will need to face up to past deeds, however well-intended. With the help of her friends, and the power of love and forgiveness, maybe she can finally make things right.

With warmth and grace, Sweet Mercies reminds us that none of us is perfect, and everybody deserves another chance at finding peace and happiness.

Being from an Irish catholic family this book was like slipping into a warm bath. It's a story of forgiveness, faith, living your best life and trying to find the best in everyone and every situation - and speaking to God as your constant companion. I'm sure it could also be read as a gentle feel-good book without delving too deeply into the religious aspects and I'm equally sure that it will give a huge amount of enjoyment to an awful lot of people.

My thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for an advance copy in return for an honest review.

[Joy Lenton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a joy to reunite with the Sisters of Saint Philomena’s again and discover what happens to them next. As ‘Sweet Mercies’ opens, we find the Sisters in the throes of preparing for the hectic Christmas/New Year period.

They’re managing the convent, supporting a school on the premises, and running a busy B&B. All this hard work brings its own rewards and stressors that are heightened by the excitement and busyness of the season.

Nevertheless, the same gentle humour is available here. Light relief is provided by Sister Cecilia and the antics of Pingu, a kitten, who takes an unexpected, devoted shine to Sister Cecilia and slowly melts her resistance and her heart.

Sister Bridget is extra busy in the kitchen and overly preoccupied with family drama which creates tension between her and her younger sister, Mary. She is also perplexed by an unsettling visitor who seems to take an instant, inexplicable dislike to her.

Another guest turns out to have surprising roots and connections to Sister Bridget’s home in Ireland, which precipitates a visit that enables secrets from the past to become revealed, helping to create a redemptive atmosphere of understanding, forgiveness, and healing.

Some serious societal issues, such as homelessness, addiction and abuse involving the Catholic Church are unearthed. Yet, like ‘Small Miracles’, this is a feel-good, heartwarming read that can be enjoyed independently. Grateful thanks to Harvill Secker and NetGalley for the eARC.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved Small Mercies and was very excited to meet Sisters Margaret, Cecilia and Bridget of St Philomena's convent again. This was a less dramatic story than Small Mercies, which centred on saving the convent, but it was just as enjoyable. A gentle, easy pace introduces us to both familiar and new characters, with all their strengths and frailties and stories to tell. There's plenty humour here - nonagenerian Sister Cecilia's adventures with kitten Pangur would make a book of their own - but also lots of emotions as Sister Bridget's sister in Ireland, Mary, reflects on life, marriage and the unfulfilment of her younger dreams. Can Sister Bridget make amends?
I particularly like the way God, belief and religion are woven into this story with neither drum banging, moralising nor apology - just a simple assumption that faith can make better people of us all. It reflects the sisters' atitiude to their friends, acquaintances and neighbours. Of course, the sisters themselves have their faults and failoings, but it makes them all the more endearing. A warm, witty and delightful read.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot - you should read this book for yourself!

Having read and enjoyed "Small Miracles", I was very pleased to receive an ARC of this novel, featuring the Sisters of St Philomena's. I really enjoyed this novel, which has a thread of "redemption" running through it, adding a slightly more sombre note at times. However it's still a lovely read, with plenty of the same warmth, wit, humour and hope. If (like me) you were raised a Catholic, you'll recognise the innocent hope and belief shown by the Sisters in their prayers.

We meet many old friends from "Small Miracles" - George, Matthew, Chris and Em, Father Hugh, and of course the Sisters themselves - as well as plenty of new characters. As in the previous novel, the interconnections and histories of the characters add depth to the writing. A very enjoyable read, and I hope there will be more books in this series.

Warning: As in the previous book, you will find yourself craving tea and cake at various points (thanks to Sister Bridget!)

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.

[Paromjit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anne Booth returns us to Fairbridge, the Sisters of Saint Philomena, the priests and the community that surrounds them for the Christmas period, in her marvellous warm hearted series. The familiar characters are joined by a raft of new ones, this includes the put upon, anxious Mary in Ireland, a below the radar artist, married to Declan, a successful developer, who has never really seen her. Mary is the sister of the nun, Sister Bridget, who no one can help but adore for her wonderful compassion, kindness, and baking, but in her efforts to fix others problems, Bridget is to learn the uncomfortable lesson that the road to hell can be paved with good intentions.

Moreover, Bridget takes really hard the arrival of Peter, who is taking care of the dying JJ, despite having endured a hard life, JJ bears no ill will to anyone, accepting his fate with remarkable fortitude. Peter takes against Bridget, refusing all overtures and the cakes she bakes, not used to this, her spirit takes a huge knock, and combined with the shock of Mary's anger, she struggles to cope during the festive season. When Declan, her brother-in law, turns up unexpectedly on their doorstep, Bridget goes into overdrive, doing what she thinks is best in addressing his issues, only to fail to comprehend why her good deeds are not always appreciated. The elderly, grumpy Sister Cecilia, acquires the love and constant attention of a gorgeous and playful kitten, despite her doing nothing to earn this, a close bond develops between them.

It's a Christmas season of joy and challenges, Maura and Annabel Sanders, mother of George, prove to be difficult members of the congregation, and after one bingo night, we see Sister Margaret lose her temper with them in a way she is to regret later. One of the reasons I love this series are the flaws in the characters that make them all so human, they are people for the most part doing their best in life. There is judgementalism, being blind to what others might desire in their lives, and so much more, but this is always against a background of hope, humanity and supportive relationships that allow small miracles, mercy and love to flourish. This is a delightfully entertaining festive read that I think many readers will be engrossed by and enjoy. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.

[Colin Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Revisiting the Sisters of Saint Philomena this can readily be read as a standalone book. Although the main characters are nuns and there is a strong religious theme the story is more about love and forgiveness. I get a strong sense of the TV program Sister Boniface, although Sister Bridget isn't a sleuth, more almost a force of nature. She is badly shaken, however, by the arrival of someone who really doesn't like her and she doesn't understand why. It is confusing switching between the different characters in the convent in England and those in Ireland, although this helps the story along, but you do get used to it. Not a book to be skipped through, but one to read and pondered upon and ultimately very satisfying - I did end up reading it in the middle of the night when I couldn't sleep.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Roberta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Small Miracles, so I was thrilled to be offered a copy of Sweet Mercies (the sequel) to review.

I was such a joy to return and spend time with the Sisters of Saint Philomena again. I loved the sense of community, both in the convent, and the wider area. It’s wonderful to see how all the characters are getting on, they feel like old friends. I especially loved the kittens, and their interactions with Sister Cecilia.

The plot was great, I loved all the different threads running through the book, and the way they intertwined. I enjoyed the sense of history, and the way it all comes together in the end.

Overall, this book was a joy to read, full of community and kindness. I really hope that there will be more books in the series. I’d love to learn more about Sister Cecilia’s past.

I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

[Daren Kearl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small Mercies is a bit different from Small Miracles. In the first book everything was positive and cuddly throughout but in Mercies the story acknowledges that people have troubles and that these can affect a person’s character and relationships to others.
This makes it slightly more difficult to embrace initially but the resolution teaches all of us to not judge, to be helpful, supportive and forgiving.
Readers who have not read the first book may struggle. I have and still could have done with reminders of who people were and the previous plot; there was casual mention of the sale of paintings that helped the convent, for example.
These are small gripes, however, in a redemptive story that brings everything to a happy conclusion and has a positive message to help individuals and be the one who brings joy to another rather than unhappiness.

[Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in the series finds Sister Bridget still trying to help everyone in her unfailingly cheerful way, be it with kind words or great cakes. But sometimes even she can’t solve everything.

Having loved the first book in this series I was pleased to find that I enjoyed this one just as much. It’s an uplifting read whether or not you’re religious, with ordinary, kind people, the odd grump and realistic story lines. Add to that an odd kitten or two and it makes for an entertaining way to spend a lazy day. Mary was a good character, if a bit over whelmed, but coming into her own. Bridget as usual trying to help everyone she meets, and being desolate when she is snubbed by anyone. She does get a bit carried away but all with the best of intentions. Although I could tell where the story was heading, it was still a lovely read.Recommended.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Mercies by Anne Booth is the second book in the Sisters of Saint Philomena Series.

We are back with the characters from the first book, and we visit them around Christmas time. Sister Bridget is more popular than ever before until a visit from mother superior turns out not her biggest fan. She gets more popular especially the cakes she bakes, which are made and given as prizes at the local bingo night. The three sisters are also trying to make more money by running a B&B until her brother-in-law Declan comes to stay. He has just had some bad news about his health and asks Bridget for help to sort out life before the end of his days.
This is another thought provoking and uplifting story that I really enjoyed 4 stars from me.

[Lesley N · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Sweet Mercies" continues the story of the nuns of St Philomena's Convent and B&B, their families and friends in Fairbridge and back in Ireland. These events take place around Christmas and New Year 1995/6. This was a time when most people still made holiday and travel arrangements via a travel agent, in this case George. There is plenty of drama as old acquaintances from long ago turn up, and their identities and back stories are gradually revealed.

This is a gentle book, with plenty of Catholic religion in it, but it also addresses some serious issues, particularly addiction. There is also a great deal of friendship and support between the cast of characters.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Fairbridge, the Sisters of Saint Philomena, prepare for Christmas. With the indomitable Sr Brigid at the helm the sisters bring joy to the parish with the bingo, the cakes & being there to lend an ear. This is the second book in a series but it can be read as a standalone. I love the different characters & various offshoots- Sr Cecelia & the kitten deserve a book to themselves! The book also makes the reader think how events of the past can continue to follow you down the years & often shock you by their repercussions.

Being brought up a Catholic with an Irish dad, there were lots of things that were familiar & jogged memories which added to my enjoyment of the story. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this lovely book.

[Anneke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the perfect book to snuggle up with on your couch during those grey days leading up to Christmas. The book is comforting while simultaneously addressing complex issues of loneliness, unrequited love and addiction. Its strength lies in its well-written balance of addressing hardships while paving paths of hope and comfort. "Sweet Mercies" breathes such a sense of community that, as a reader, you'll start to feel like you are in Fairbridge yourself at the convent during bingo nights munching on sister Bridget's homemade cakes. The only risk is that by the end of this book, you'll probably have booked a holiday to Connemara.

[lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book about the Sisters of St Philomena's convent. This is as heart warming and entertaining as the previous book. I loved the story and although the topics covered include addiction, exploitation and abuse it is an easy read. We follow the lives of Sister Bridget and her sister Mary as we meet members of their family in Ireland. Along with the other Sisters at the Convent in London as they come with the financial difficulties of the 1960's. Father Hugo and Father Stephen are very gentle priests, alongside the staff of the B & B.
I can recommend this book to all.

[Cath Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters of Saint Philomena are getting ready for Christmas and are ready to share Christmas cheer. Sister Bridget certainly is but despite being a popular Mother Superior someone arrives at the convent who doesn’t like her at all.

Sister Bridget needs to look to her own past and her family and be prepared to give herself a second chance.

A lovely heart warming story to be read eating one of Sister Bridget’s famous chocolate cakes.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not religious but that’s not an issue where this cosy read is concerned. Set around Christmas time and the new year it continues on beautifully from the first book with the three very different nuns settling into running their b&b whilst still being a big part in the community. This time there are family issues for Bridget as well as other troubled relationships in the community. Overall this is a thoughtful but sweet read with beautiful characters and an uplifting feel.

[Catrin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a disappointing read. There seemed to be an assumption you knew the characters, which made sense when I released it was a sequel. Perhaps it would have been more enjoyable had I read the first book initially. I found sister Bridget irritating and somewhat a bully. The main lesson you learn from the story is communicate, don't make assumptions and certainty don't sit on regrets for a lifetime.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was more of a like than a love.. Having fallen in love with the Nuns and their friends in the previous book, I was disappointed that each of the plot lines were tantalising in their interest but never really fleshed out enough. I think much more could have been made of relationships within the circle of friends and far less of the kitten storyline which was repetitive and obvious . Resolutions were rushed so pay offs felt hollow .

I enjoyed it but it did not leave me wholly satisfied.

[StrictlySue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet and comforting story catching up with Sister Bridget and the other Sisters from St Philomena’s convent. This time, as their B&B is successfully up and running, we catch up with Mary, Bridget’s sister, and her family as they struggle with ill health, financial struggles and the past coming back to haunt them. If you enjoyed the first book in this series, you will love this! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Mabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a delight to read about the nuns in Anne’s novels. This time it’s set around Christmas and the importance of reflection and forgiveness. It’s warm, touching and thought provoking. I also enjoyed being reminded about some of the products we got only at home in Ireland - brought back great memories! - thank you Anne!

[Verity W · Rating 4 out of 5]

****Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review*****

A charming Christmas return to the Sisters of St Philomena. It's hard to categorise these, but they're multi-strand slightly inspirational interconnected stories with a religious tinge. I think if you like Beverly Jenkins' Blessings series, this would probably work for you although there is less of a romance strand to this. Once you get going on it, it's hard to put down and it just whooshes by.

[Marianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A feel good series that proves nobody’s perfect, not even nuns. Second in the series with the nuns of St. Philomena, Sister Bridget rights a wrong from the past. Slow to start with all threads coming together in the end. A gentle read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy, easy to recommend to general audiences.

[Marina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warm loving and enjoyable story

Warm, loving and enjoyable story of different types of relationships, with an unusual, human look at those serving in the Catholic church.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading the first one in the series and this second didn't disappoint.
Already looking forward to the Christmas offering! (😉😁)