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The Little Cornish Cove #3

Christmas at Polkerran Point

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Fate may have brought them together, but secrets seem destined to keep them apart... An accident and a lost passport mean Gemma's six-month sabbatical to go travelling is not off to a strong start. She heads to Polkerran Point to stay at her aunt’s while her new passport is processed and to find temporary work in the meantime.

Enter musician Matt. Newly moved into a secluded, renovated mill – complete with a recording studio – Matt is preparing for his band’s big reunion tour. Focused on writing new music for the album, he needs a live-in housekeeper.

Even as sparks fly, Gemma can sense Matt's keeping secrets and with her role ending once Christmas is over, will there be anything to keep her in Polkerran?

A cosy, festive Cornish romance for fans of Phillipa Ashley and Cressida McLaughlin.

348 pages, Paperback

Published August 22, 2024

22 people are currently reading
161 people want to read

About the author

Cass Grafton

40 books80 followers
Cass began her writing life in Regency England, enlisted Jane Austen’s help to time-travel between then and the present day and is now happily ensconced in 21st century Cornwall.


Well, in her imagination and soul; her heart and physical presence reside in northern England with her ever-patient husband and Tig and Tag, their cute but exceptionally demanding moggies.


A bit of a nomad, Cass has called three countries home, as well as six different English counties, but her aspiration is to one day reunite with her beloved West Country.


In the meantime, she writes feel-good contemporary romances set in Cornwall and, in doing so, manages to live there vicariously through her characters and settings.


An Ambassador for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation, Cass is also a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, the Jane Austen Society UK and the Society of Authors.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for sophie fuller.
359 reviews
November 30, 2024
i’m usually a one-line review girlie but i feel this one deserves more. gemma was such an insufferably whiny bitch. what do you mean you can’t go travelling (first world) and you just HAPPEN to have rich relatives to live with instead. and there just happens to be a famous guy on your doorstep. who you fall in love with, but randomly 200 pages in without any build up. and don’t even get me started on her getting involved with harry and matt. miss girl was too busy insulting matt’s eating habits and blackmailing his best friend. the only redeemable points were the chapter titles
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amy Fraser.
13 reviews
January 6, 2025
This was a very very slow book. Cute ending and had some festivities but sometimes felt like the author had forgotten what had been said as felt extremely repetitive at times and felt like not a lot really happened. I was expecting a romance book but felt more like I was reading a friendship than a love story
Profile Image for Anjelica.
19 reviews
October 23, 2024
Not that festive, but christmassy enough for october. I didn’t really connect with the characters.
Profile Image for Christine.
127 reviews8 followers
August 22, 2024
What a way to start off my first Christmassy Read of the Year with a Tour from @lovebookstours for Christmas at Polkerran Point by @cassgraftonwriter. Thank you for my gifted ebook for my free review.

I love this series, and I am so glad to be back for book 3 at Polkerran, It definitely gives you Christmas in July movie vibes, (although we are in august) and i am here for it. If you've read the other 2 of the series, we have our returning characters, and then with this one, we have the story of Gemma ( our new MC) and Matt. I enjoyed seeing the character development individually, and between these 2, although (and hats off to Cass Grafton for her great writing), I absolutely disliked Matt and his behaviour at first! But it was great seeing their relationship blossom and them developing and bringing out their personalities.

I would love to visit Cornwall as I love the imagery that Cass Grafton brings to her books, which makes you feel like you are there!

Another fabulous read, where we can escape to polkerran for our Christmassy needs
Profile Image for Sams_Fireside.
470 reviews55 followers
November 8, 2024
Christmas, Cornwall, Polkerran Point, a cute but grumpy man and lots of baked goodies - happiness in a book! I had an early November visit to Polkerran Point and was quickly reacquainted with all the characters I’ve grown to love, along with their quirks and oh-so-funny peculiarities. Gemma brings along her own little oddity - she talks to inanimate objects - but do they answer back?! Matt is an oddity in himself, grumpy, introspective and full of self-importance - at least to begin with, and Gemma is the one who needs to deal with him!

I loved the adapted Christmas song lyrics at the beginning of each chapter, each one written to tie in with the coming chapter. Such a clever idea, I enjoyed those a lot!

I can’t wait to read Cass’s next trip to Polkerran Point. I have a sneaky feeling that Dev might be our main character, but we will all need to wait and see!

Thank you to Cass Grafton and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Christmas at Polkerran Point.
Profile Image for April.
482 reviews28 followers
August 27, 2024
This is Book 3 of The Little Cornish Cove Series.

This time, we're following the story of Gemma and Matt - can a grumpy celeb fall for an unlucky lady?

Once again, I absolutely adore Cass' stories of The Cove.

Poor Gemma hasn't had much luck recently, so I was team Gemma/Matt from the start, plus grumpy Matt absolutely needed someone like Gemma in his life.

This time, our story takes place around Christmas, and I ended up feeling all Christmasy learning about life on The Cove.

Once again, we see of our favourite residents, too, and their amusing little quirks!

Cass' stories have a heartwarming romance that develops over the course of the book but she also wraps other elements around this much as mystery, intrigue, drama so you get an enticing and engaging overall story that hooks you until the end.

Please say that there will be a Book 4 soon, Cass! ❤️
Profile Image for theweebookworm .
424 reviews28 followers
November 16, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the first 2 books in the series therefore was looking forward to reading this one.

It was lovely being back in the Cove, especially at Christmas, with lots of the regulars making an appearance. The main focus of the story, however, is on Gemma and Matt (although Anna and Oliver feature a lot).

I did feel the book was slow to start and I wasn't really sure about Gemma and Matt when we first met them, however, they certainly grew on me. They were definitely well suited. I loved the grumpy/sunshine vibes and the slow burn romance.

The author has written a lovely Christmas read to cosy up with but in addition there is some mystery, intrigue and more serious topics in there too.
Profile Image for Anne.
2,203 reviews
August 23, 2024
When life isn’t going quite as well as you wanted it to – Gemma’s travel plans are temporarily on hold after losing her passport – some time at Polkerran can be just what you need. Those wonderful conversations in Anna’s kitchen, where the community gathers to put the world to rights (and enjoy her baking), will lift anyone’s spirits and bring a smile. But she needs to earn some money while she’s there – and Anna’s newly found brother Matt is in need of a live-in housekeeper. Fair to say they might not have exactly warmed to each other at first meeting – she’s bouncy and chatty, he’s reserved and a touch spiky. And there’s the small issue that she really can’t cook – but Anna’s on hand to help with that, filling the freezer and teaching her a little. And it turns out it doesn’t matter too much – he hardly eats any meal she struggles to put on the table.

Matt is staying at an isolated mill with a recording studio attached – he was in a really successful boyband, and the other members are due to arrive to prepare for a reunion tour. But it’s clear he has his concerns – the not eating, the time he spends alone, and the fact that he seems to have the weight of the world on his shoulders. Gemma’s relentless cheerfulness might prove a bit of a trial for him – and with Christmas just around the corner, the time of year she really loves, she’s particularly full of the joys of the season. But she’s a dab hand at managing the small boat that maintains their connection with Polkerran – and, despite the festive decorations she insists must be part of their lives, they get on with things. But she really does need to know what makes him so very difficult to get on with at times – when he’s in a better mood, there’s a lot about him that she really likes – and, having uncovered a few secrets, whether there’s anything she can do to help put things right.

Their relationship is at the centre of the story – a really well-handled grumpy/sunshine one, a friendship at first, their connection growing but with more than a few complications along the way, and between two quite complex individuals I grew to really like, becoming increasingly invested in the possibility of a much hoped for happy ending. And despite the many obstacles along the way, it all turned out exactly the way I wanted it to – a romance that became strong, convincing, and particularly moving.

But there was so much more I enjoyed too, especially the time spent at Polkerran in the run-up to Christmas (endured by Matt, enthusiastically embraced by Gemma) with events and traditions that bring the community together. Every individual is so well drawn, and I loved all the little touches of detail that really brought the season to life. And there’s a happy event on the horizon too – the wedding of Anna and Oliver – and that was so beautifully done, really bringing a tear to the eye.

This really is the most gorgeous series, and this was a perfect addition – filled with warmth and the most perfect festive touches, wonderful characters and a touch of mystery, a perfectly drawn location and such a well-told story. If you’ve missed the two earlier books, do read it as a standalone – I loved spending time with old friends, but a visit at Christmas would be just fine (and, if you then want to, you can always catch up later…). A really lovely read – and one I’d heartily recommend.
Profile Image for Amorina Carlton.
Author 2 books38 followers
Read
August 27, 2024
Oh goodness. This left me wanting to curl up with a big cup of hot chocolate, pretend like it’s snowing outside (I always have to pretend that living in the Deep South anyway), and that we’re not still triple digits away from the big day.

Warm hearts and cold days are too far away. And, yes, I know it’s not even Christmas in July anymore, but we over here at the #LBTCrew are making these sacrifices for you to help you build that #ChristmasTBR for when it’s time. And you absolutely want to add this one to your list. The good news is, since – in my completionist opinion – you should read the first two books in the series before reading this one, you have plenty of time to do that before the holiday season. You’re welcome!

Okay, so technically, yes – you can read this as a standalone. But why would you? Each of these books is a treasure! You can catch my review of the first one – New Dreams at Polkerran Point – further down and at my #linkinbio. And I snuck the second one in between, not on tour.

I loved the first and second. This one started a little slow for me, but by the end, I loved it just as much! I don’t know how authors do that sometimes. Like… you are magic, and I want to be you when I grow up. I’m grown up now, but I sure hope that when I publish, I will have even 1/10th of your magic!

This series has such a cozy feel, with a small town that is almost a character all its own. All three stories so far (not sure if we’re expecting more or not – fingers crossed!) are intertwined. It’s a series of separate but connected stories. These seem more frequent lately, and I’ve really grown to like them. It’s a nice way to keep stories going without beating a dead horse, so to speak.

If you love a great holiday romance, you will absolutely want to pick this one up. It’s a slow burn with a HEA – because I’m firmly camped, it isn’t romance if it doesn’t have a HEA – so that’s the only spoiler I’ll ever give you (on purpose). This is a delightfully interconnected series with a strong foundation in two previous books. I recommend you read those first, but it definitely can be read as a standalone. If you’re reading this pretty soon after I’ve posted it (and with the speed of the internet, that’s almost a guarantee), you have plenty of time to read them and get this on your holiday TBR!

Content Warnings: Adoption, Accident (off page), Infidelity (off page), Betrayal, Adult Situations, Adult Language, Alcohol Abuse (off page)
Profile Image for amanda_coffee_books.
683 reviews26 followers
August 29, 2024
Love a small town read

I couldn’t wait to read this book. And be back in my favorite little town. With all my favorite old characters that feel like family. And we meet two new characters. To which I fell in love with. Like book 1 and 2 this book didn’t disappoint at all. I am super glad that I preorder this book. This author is always going to be auto buy for me. I love her writing style and the world that she has built in these books. I feel like I have been apart of this town the moment Anna came to first come back. Now we are introduced to her long lost brother Matt that Anna never knew she had. We also introduced Gemma Who is related to aunt Jean.
This book did take me a longer time to finish not because of the book or the story. Just I didn’t want to miss any moment, Now I will tell you my favorite part. When Gemma and Matt would take the boat back and forth to the house Matt is renting with the little cottage in the back. I almost felt like I was there enjoying the peace and the views. Reading a book or watching Matt and Gemma dispute back and forth.
I was a little worried about how Matt was handling the stress of band life and he was keeping secrets. So he wasn’t eating and he was a little stand offish in the beginning. To which he got sick.
Gemma is a strong woman to be putting up with a man like Matt. But I sense Gemma has a big heart for people she becomes close too.
I don’t honestly have any negative things to say about this book. Every-time I read one of this author books I know I am going to be taken to another world and cuddling up. I kinda hope there is a maybe one or two more books. I would like to know but I am also okay with how this book ended. We got to see old characters mention in this book. And someone getting married. I highly recommend this book and her other two first books. Thank to the author and lovebooktours for the opportunity read another amazing book.
Profile Image for Book Escapes Babs.
659 reviews26 followers
November 10, 2024
Returning to Polkerran Point and catching up with the gorgeous characters there was a real treat. Anna and Oliver's wedding was on the horizon, and some familiar names were set to return for the big day. We meet Gemma who is on a sabbatical after a shocking experience while travelling, and we get to learn more about Matt, who we met as Anna’s brother with whom she only recently reunited.
Gemma is staying with relatives but craves her own space and some independence. She also needs to earn money if she is ever going to pick up with her travels. Gemma’s family members bring some terrific comedic moments as they are series regulars and fluent in the local dialect. ‘Dreckly’ is one of my favourite words. Gemma’s friendship with Anna proves to be crucial as it leads to a job and a place to stay. Gemma is a fabulous character, and made wish that I had been brave enough to explore the world more when I was single. Thankfully, I’ve done quite well since being married.
Matt is a grumpy guy who carries the weight of his world on his shoulders. Smouldering good looks and a boyband past only go so far in excusing him from his aloof behaviour. Gemma is certainly a stronger girl than me as I’m not convinced that I would have tolerated his moody ways as well as she did. As the story goes on, a web of hurt and pain is revealed, and we soon get a greater understanding of what is making Matt tick. Not enough to excuse his behaviour, but…
When the wedding comes around, we have a chance to revisit characters from earlier in the series and catch up with their lives. In particular, I have a soft spot for Lauren and Daniel because I read the first two books out of sequence, so I loved learning more about them and their daughter, Mia.
One particularly enjoyable element of Cass Grafton’s writing is her skill in including Cornwall as an additional character and I loved her descriptions of navigating the waterways to reach Riverside, where Matt and Gemma were staying.
There’s enough Christmas to make this a Christmas book, but the focus is on the developing relationship between grumpy Matt and sunshine Gemma. It’s fabulous and highly recommended.
Profile Image for Georgina Prince.
193 reviews10 followers
November 17, 2024
Christmas at Polkerran Point
by Cass Crafton

Genre: festive romance

Christmas romance has to be one of the cosiest genres to read during Santa season! Curl up with a hot drink of choice, a blanket and enjoy!

With endearing characters and a cute slow burn romance this was the perfect book to read in the run up to Christmas. The Cornish backdrop is *chefs kiss* 😘, it’s a character itself in the book and really adds to the charm.

There’s very minimal spice which I like for this kind of read but the romance is highly endearing and I was so happy for the characters. This is book 3 in the series but can easily be read as a standalone like I did!

✨Blurb✨

Fate may have brought them together, but secrets seem destined to keep them apart...
An accident and a lost passport mean Gemma's six-month sabbatical to go travelling is not off to a
strong start. She heads to Polkerran Point to stay at her aunt’s while her new passport is processed
and to find temporary work in the meantime.
Enter musician Matt. Newly moved into a secluded, renovated mill – complete with a recording
studio – Matt is preparing for his band’s big reunion tour. Focused on writing new music for the
album, he needs a live-in housekeeper.
Even as sparks fly, Gemma can sense Matt's keeping secrets and with her role ending once Christmas
is over, will there be anything to keep her in Polkerran?
A cosy, festive Cornish romance for fans of Phillipa Ashley and Cressida McLaughlin

Thanks to and the author for sending me a copy and having me along on the tour.

#bookstagramuk #bookstagram #bookreview #bookrecommendations #newbook #booklover #bookobsessed #booknerd #readersgonnaread #readersofinstagram #bookish #bibliophile#bookstagrammersunite #bookishfeatures #bookstagramcommunity
Profile Image for Diana Shand.
14 reviews1 follower
August 8, 2024
I received an early author copy of the 3rd book in the Cornish Cove series entitled "Christmas at Polkerran Point" and am giving my honest opinion.

Before I begin, I wanted to say that I had been looking forward to this book ever since finishing and closing Escape to Polkerran Point (Book 2 in the series). I loved reading the first two books and really wanted the Christmas book to be special, too, because it is one of my favourite times of the year.

And...it didn't disappoint!
For me, it was another page turner. I'd read a few pages before work, and during my lunch hour and then I was counting the hours until I would have time to sit down again to read on.

I adore books that have that effect on me. Many old characters from the previous books make an appearance again, and then their is the new kid on the block. I loved meeting her. Gemma, that is. If you enjoy escaping to Cornwall, albeit in literary form, this book is absolutely for you, and I think you can't help but fall in love with Gemma. She is such a likeable character.

I enjoyed every single chapter. Despite not having had the opportunity to visit Cornwall, I could picture Polkerran and its environs. What a sweet spot Rivermills is, and reading about it felt a little like being there.

Christmas at Polkerran Point was a wonderful read, and it makes me sit on edge, having to wait for book Nr. 4 in the series.

I hope you'll enjoy this sweet Christmas book as much as I did - and I read it at the end of July/ beginning of August.

The only bad thing was - it had to finish... withdrawal symptoms are severe.

10/10 from me again.
90 reviews
September 24, 2024
My Bookish Thoughts 💬
Oh my goodness, I’ve found a new favourite comfort read author! Alongside Jenny Colgan, Laurie Gilmore, and Trisha Ashley, Cass Grafton is now on my go-to list. Even though this is the third book in The Little Cornish Cove series, it reads perfectly as a stand-alone. Lovely Cass was kind enough to gift me the first two books, but with moving our son to uni, I didn’t have time to read them—yet! I can't wait to dive in soon.

This book has everything you need for the festive season: cosy seaside vibes, a tight-knit community, a heartwarming found family, the spark of new beginnings, and a potential romance that will leave you keeping everything crossed.

The characters are so real and loveable, I could easily imagine myself sitting around Anna's table for hot chocolate and cake! While it's a comfort read, it’s also deeply emotional, especially the found family theme, which really tugged at my heart. Cass has such a gift for bringing Polkerran Point to life—you can almost feel the sea breeze and hear the waves as you walk alongside the characters.

Speaking of characters, I didn’t expect to fall for musician Matt, but his grumpy charm, romantic tension, and backstory completely won me over. And Gemma, with her funny, caring, and strong personality. She reminded me of myself—talking to herself out loud!

I highly recommend this if you're craving a heartwarming, festive read with all the Christmas feels and potential enemies to lovers.

🙏🏼 A huge thank you to L ve Book Tours, Canelo and Cass Grafton for gifting me this gorgeous book and goodies in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Felicity Terry.
1,232 reviews23 followers
November 28, 2024
Despite being the third book in the series this is my first time visiting the Little Cornish Cove and what better time than Christmas?

The first question I'll doubtlessly be asked about the book is, listed as part of a series, is it really readable as a standalone novel?

My answer?

Though I'm sure many readers will be wanting to start with book one, New Dreams at Polkerran Point, after all there is the argument that by not doing so you potentially miss out on the background story of any character{s} who have appeared in previous books. For myself, despite that there were some characters who had obviously featured in book one and/or two, I thought this was cleverly written so as to be read as a novel in its own right.

The second question?

Just how 'Christmassy' is it?

Hmm! Just how Christmassy is Christmassy? Well ...

There is a delightful sense of community and goodwill throughout the book AND whilst this made for a cosy read in the run-up to Christmas; main characters, Matt and Gemma, putting me in mind of myself and Mr T {him less enthusiastic about the festivities, me, more, much more, so}, for me personally Christmas At Polkerran Point just didn't quite hit the spot as far as Christmassy reads go.

That said, it did have lots to recommend it ...

Namely, the quaint Cornish setting which, central to the story, is penned with such love that {ahhh, bliss!} I was transported right there.

There was none of the instalove that tends to annoy me. Matt and Gemma's relationship was grounded in friendship and I found myself increasingly invested in whether or not theirs was to be a happy ending despite their differing opinions on, well, not just Christmas.

I enjoyed that interlaced with the romance there was the mystery aspect to the novel. Something that, oddly enough, enhanced the overall story when it could so easily have taken away from it, keeping me intrigued from start to finish.

Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Publication Day Push of this book, agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own; no financial compensation was asked for nor given; threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.
Profile Image for Pam Robertson.
1,444 reviews8 followers
November 13, 2024
In The Cottage in the Cornish Cove we followed Anna's story. In this latest story, we return to Polkerran Point we are introduced to her brother, Matt, who is keeping a low profile and planning his band's reunion for the New Year. When Gemma finds herself in Polkerran Point, she is at a low ebb. Following an accident, she has had to return to England after an horrific crash. All her plans for travel are on hold and she somehow finds herself working for Matt as his housekeeper. It is soon obvious that they both have some issues in the past and are looking for a new direction. Matt seems to be particularly layered as a personality and Gemma finds it hard to get to know him at first.

The community in Polkerran Point are as welcoming as you would like. Anna seems to be run off her feet with a wedding to plan and there is a real feeling of celebration throughout the story. Nevertheless, she is determined to make sure her brother thrives and seems to see Gemma as a bit of a lifeline. As Christmas gets near, Gemma embraces the season and loves bringing it into the house which she is sharing with Matt. She is such a lively character, especially compared to the rather stressed Matt but has a real bond with her friends and family. This is a delightful romance which uses its gorgeous setting to maximum effect.

In short: festive romance and well drawn characters
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Profile Image for Kirsty (BookBlogger).
2,049 reviews63 followers
November 14, 2024
Christmas at Polkerran Point by Cass Grafton

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Fate may have brought them together, but secrets seem destined to keep them apart... An accident and a lost passport mean Gemma's six-month sabbatical to go travelling is not off to a strong start. She heads to Polkerran Point to stay at her aunt’s while her new passport is processed and to find temporary work in the meantime.

Enter musician Matt. Newly moved into a secluded, renovated mill – complete with a recording studio – Matt is preparing for his band’s big reunion tour. Focused on writing new music for the album, he needs a live-in housekeeper.

Even as sparks fly, Gemma can sense Matt's keeping secrets and with her role ending once Christmas is over, will there be anything to keep her in Polkerran?

My Opinion

I started this series earlier this year and I have to say that I have enjoyed all three books. This was a fabulous visit to Polkerran Point and it was nice to catch up with some familiar characters. Gemma is temporarily in Polkerran Point whilst she waits for a replacement passport and whilst she is there, she finds herself working for Matt who needs a live-in housekeeper.

Cass has once again written a delightful book with a heart-warming romance. Pack your bags for Christmas in Cornwall.

Rating 4/5
Profile Image for Megan.
105 reviews12 followers
August 6, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of Christmas at Polkerran Point in exchange for an honest review.

I am all about romance at Christmas! This book was festive and had a charming sea side town that celebrated Christmas like you would expect in a Hallmark movie. I loved Gemma's Christmas spirit and appreciated the setting.

The characters and romance part was what fell flat for me. It started with Matt's eating disorder. You can roll your eyes at me all you want, but he barely ate. I know that is one of the reasons that Gemma was hired was to cook for him, but his lack of eating was such a strong focus that it was concerning. He also drank way too much and was a complete ass to Gemma majority of the time. It wasn't until all of HIS problems were resolved that he could focus any time or energy on Gemma and what she had gone through. Everything was about him.

I feel like Gemma had a bit of a Savior complex and that was the only reason she fell in love with him because he honestly did not have a single thing going for him until the last few pages. Like I said all his troubles were fixed, and he actually gave a crap about Gemma. He said he had been in love with her since the beginning, but there was no indication of that at all.

Their "we" and "us" and "our home" shtick at the end seemed unreal rather than invoke feelings of festive, romantic cheer unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Deanne Patterson.
2,414 reviews118 followers
November 13, 2024
Do you have favorite places you enjoy traveling to? So do I but I also have favorite places I love traveling to through the books that I have to always read the latest when it releases. As I real I feel as though I'm on a grand vacation visiting the characters who are best friends with me.
I'm always so excited to see when Christmas books start releasing every year as they are one of my favorite types to read and this one is full of holiday spirit.
I love the author's books and her writing style and was so happy to be back in the world of Polkerran Point. We meet a few new characters this time around, one of them being Gemma. An accident has her spending the holidays in Polkerran Point and taking a job with boyband member, Matt. Now we have a grumpy meets sunshine here, Matt being the grumpy one here. Gemma takes a dislike to Matt, and I'll say he didn't really have a lot to recommend himself with at first. After all, how far do good looks go if you don't have the personality to back it up. I loved watching Gemma and Matt's relationship grow and evolve as they came to understand each other and start getting on better with each other. A slow burn romance that you'll love snuggling in with while getting lost in it.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Emma book blogger  Fitzgerald.
639 reviews22 followers
August 25, 2024
Thank you @cassgrafton @canelo_co @KellyALacey @lovebookstours #Ad #LBTCrew #BookTwitter #FreeReview #FreeBookReview #LBTChristmas for letting me be part of this tour and reviewing this book. Christmas at Polkerran Point has a gorgeous Christmas feel to the front cover that puts you in proper festive mood. This is book 3 in the series, and you can read it as a standalone which is what I did. The story is about Gemma who loses her passport which means she can't go travelling until she finds it. Gemma heads to Polkerran Point to stay with her aunt but then meets Matt who is a musician and ends up housekeeping for him and being friends with his sister Anna while trying to keep Matt's secrets. Christmas at Polkerran Point is a gorgeous and heart-warming read that will get you in the Christmas mood. I liked Gemma and Anna a lot and felt like I connected with all of them including Matt. I did feel sorry for him at times due to what was going on his life. This is a well written book and I loved the ending it made me all musshie inside. I do love good romance. I read this in one sitting and loved that it was set in Cornwall which made me want to go there on holiday. Furthermore, I will definitely go back and read the rest of the series. Cosy and lovely read . 5 star
Profile Image for Esther Peacock.
477 reviews11 followers
November 19, 2024
(The Little Cornish Cove series Book 3) 
Book 3 of 4
An accident and a lost passport mean Gemma's six-month sabbatical to travel is not off to a strong start. She heads to Polkerran Point to stay at her aunt's while her new passport is processed and to find temporary work in the meantime.
Enter musician Matt. Newly moved into a secluded, renovated mill – complete with a recording studio – Matt is preparing for his band's big reunion tour. Focused on writing new music for the album, he needs a live-in housekeeper.
Even as sparks fly, Gemma can sense Matt's keeping secrets, and with her role ending once Christmas is over, will there be anything to keep her in Polkerran?
With themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the power of love, Cass Grafton has added another lovely, cosy romance to the Cornish Cove series.
The characters are easy to like, the setting is not just perfect, it's enchanting, and it's Christmas, and you know what that means, a will they won't they......
Well, you will have to read it to find out.
I have enjoyed all three books and highly recommend them; they are lovely to read.
I want to thank publishers Canelo Romance, author Cass Grafton, and Rachel's Random Resources for providing a copy to read and review.
Profile Image for The Book Elf.
325 reviews14 followers
November 22, 2024
What a beautiful book to read on the hottest day of the year. Strangely enough I actually found it quite cooling reading a Christmas story with snow and twinkling lights and Christmas trees etc.

This was such a wonderful hug of a story to read , allowing escapism for a few hours from the madness of the world. I took to the characters straight away and Cass has a varied mix of them within this lovely story, most of which you will be able to liken to someone you know if you live in a “proper” village where everyone knows everyone and all their business too .

There are times when you will want to bang Gemma’s and Matt’s heads together but that adds to the intrigue and the “will they won’t they” aspect of this story which is what it is all about.

There are so many beautiful moments within the book that will make you realise, and appreciate, what relationships are all about and how the little things that we do mean a lot. By the time I finished Christmas at Polkerran Point I was looking forward to to the excitement and fun of Christmas and reminiscing on traditions that we have in place.

This will be an absolutely lovely story to include in someone’s Christmas gifts, or to leave lying around for guests to read over the festive period.

Profile Image for Cheryl Carpenter.
316 reviews12 followers
August 26, 2024
The perfect (pre) Christmas book. This slow burn romance plucked at my heartstrings.

Gemma is a delight. A terrible cook who talks to herself and inanimate objects.
" 'Ouch.' She yanked the hair out. 'You are out of order,' she told it, before placing the strand in the bin."

After an accident whilst on her travels she's forced to spend the final months of the year at Polkerran Point, Cornwall with her 'aunties'. After recovering, she gets bored and takes a housekeeping job for Matt, a musician who she took an instant dislike to.
"The fact that Gemma found him easy on the eye frustrated rather than compensated."

This story filled with interesting characters, a wonderful Cornish backdrop and amusing Cornish turns of phrase amused me greatly.
Spice level is extremely low, but the emotional level is high. This is a perfect light romance to make anyone feel good.

Apparently this is the final book in a trilogy, but having not read the other two books I can attest that it can be read perfectly well as a standalone. I haven't read any books from Cass Grafton prior to this one, but I am now sorely tempted to read the previous books in the series.
Profile Image for Kez Marie.
1,236 reviews76 followers
September 23, 2024
A cosy Christmassy slow burn standalone romance, set on the Cornish Coast.
Gemma had been off travelling the world until she lost her passport and needs to stay with her family and get a temporary job until her plans get back on track. When her friend's brother comes to stay in the same town and needs a housekeeper she reluctantly accepts the role.
Matt is preparing for his band's reunion and hasn't got a clue how to look after himself or the house. He comes across as arrogant and spoilt for most for the story, but it also explores his vulnerabilities and the burdens he's been carrying.
As they are forced to see each other every day and Matt is dependent on Gemma, they form an unexpected friendship, even if they do have personality clashes.
This is very much a slow burn journey and there is limited romantic encounters, but we see the development of a close and supportive bond that they both needed.
I loved the Cornish setting, and the Christmassy feel to the book, and it has a sweet finale.

"Despite your best efforts to come across as an arrogant twonk, I saw through you and your disguise"
Profile Image for Rachael.
490 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2024
This was my first time visiting Polkerran Point and although this book is part of a series, I found that this didn't matter, as it worked well as a stand alone.
I liked the storyline of the book, as it followed Gemma's journey on her return to the area. I really liked her character and although she did show vulnerabilities, you could see her character development as the story progressed. I liked the relationship between her and Matt, although I did feel it was a little rushed at the end, but the ending for them was everything I wanted throughout and I liked the way Gemma was surprised with his big gesture.
The settings of the book were just so perfect and Christmas time within Polkerran Point sounds so festive and the ideal place to spend your time, especially with the Christmas markets along the front.
The writing style of the book was so easy to read and I instantly became invested with the characters lives. I also loved that at the beginning of each chapter, it had a Christmas song with a twist and these definitely made me giggle in places.
This was the ideal festive read, that was so easy and comforting to read and I would like to know what happens next for them.
Profile Image for ☆Laura☆.
5,172 reviews60 followers
July 19, 2024
Gemma estaba disfrutando de viajar en su año sabático hasta que todas sus cosas se quemaron, incluyendo su pasaporte, dinero, ropa y su más precisada posesión: el collar de su abuela. Como no podía seguir viajando hasta obtener el repuesto del pasaporte, tuvo que quedarse con su tía en Polkerran por unas semanas y conseguir empleo. Ahí conoce a Matt, un músico que formaba parte de un banda famosa, la cual se separó hace años y ahora quieren hacer su reencuentro.

El libro gira en torno a lo que Matt está escondiendo y como Gemma intenta descubrir por qué él recibe amenazas.

Tengo temporadas en las que necesito este tipo de libros en los que sientes que estas poniéndote al corriente de la vida de una amiga, en donde no hay drama entre los protagonista, donde te enteras de los chismes del pueblo y hay romance, pero no demasiado.



Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1,160 reviews27 followers
August 25, 2024
This is the third book in the Polkerran series, and it's set at the most wonderful time of the year (and when all my favourite books are set!) So it's no surprise that it's an absolute winner.
Anna and Oliver are still huge focal points. Having seen their relationship develop from book 1, it's lovely to have that continuation.
There was only a brief glimpse at Lauren and Daniel, I'd have definitely liked more.
The madcap gang are still roaming Anna's kitchen and the village up to their mischief - yes, Mrs Clegg, I think you knew all along what those ice cream cones resembled - ha!
As with the first two, it's a VERY slow burn, and usually, I'd prefer the characters to get on with it much earlier, but I do enjoy the way Cass writes her tales with no rush.
The setting is always key to these stories. It's described in such a magical way that I'd love to visit.
I'm hopeful that there's still more to come from the Polkerran series, and the author in general!
Profile Image for Sonja Charters.
2,746 reviews138 followers
September 2, 2024
This is the third book in The Little Cornish Cove Series and the third that I've had the pleasure of reading - and let me tell you, when I spotted both the cover and title, I was beside myself!

Books 1&2 - New Dreams at... and Escape to... Polkerran Point were just the perfect feel good reads and to combine all that I loved about these with the excitement of Christmas too - I just couldn't wait!!

I love that we see a fair amount from some returning characters. This helps to pull the series together and creates a believable and close knit community as a backdrop to the new characters that we focus on in this story.

Once again, this is a real slow burn romance. A perfect read for a lazy weekend - I can see myself reading this wrapped in a blanket with a hot chocolate - even though I was in the garden in the sun! - but it still gave me such feel-good festive vibes throughout.

I loved to see Gemma and Matt's relationship develop - even though it looked like they were destined to be kept apart, I still felt that seed of hope and the magic of Polkerran and was rooting for them right to the end.

As ever, the setting is beautifully described and totally transports us there with the characters.
I used to always holiday on the Cornish coast when I was younger so love to have those memories and vivid images of such a beautiful area brought back for a time.
I always hanker to head back after reading this series.

Another enjoyable trip to Polkerran and I can't wait to head back soon.
Profile Image for Kristin.
1,021 reviews83 followers
August 29, 2024
While this is book three in the series, this can be read as a stand alone. I didn’t know that this was a series when I signed up for the book tour. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything as I was reading the book. In fact, if I didn’t know that it as part of a series ahead of reading it, I wouldn’t have known as I was reading it.

Grafton sets these atmosphere beautifully. I was able to picture the scenes and everything that was included in them. There was some focus on food (which I love) and I could envision it all and I wanted nothing more than to smell the delicious goodness too. There were a lot of great characters in the book as well. Anna had to be one of my favs.

Matt is the tortured musician. Gemma is the person that wants to help everyone. It did feel a little slow burn, and that it took a while for Matt to even see past himself to see that Gemma was more than just a housekeeper. The ending was nice, though maybe a touch rushed.

Overall, a good book.
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