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Pastures New
The delightfully down-to-earth debut novel from Clare Balding.
‘Funny, sensitive, and insightful – the perfect book to turn to at the end of a long day’ Bonnie Garmus
Alex has perfected the art of dodging responsibility during her almost 40 years – until an unexpected letter turns her life upside down.
She’s inherited a crumbling sheep farm in wildest, wettest Wales. This was not her life plan. Not at all.
Now, her closest companion is a stubborn Welsh terrier, she’s speed-reading The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, and her arrival has set the village gossip mill spinning. With the farm near collapse, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her mysterious inheritance.
But as secrets surface, Alex finds her heart pulling her in a direction she never saw coming.
Will she pack her bags – or has she landed exactly where she’s meant to be?
Brimming with the warmth and wit that has made Clare Balding one of our best-loved TV personalities, Pastures New is a joyful celebration of new beginnings, community, and the delightful surprises of rural life.
Acclaim for Clare Balding's
'The reading equivalent of snuggling by the fire with a labrador' The Guardian
‘Funny and moving, James Herriot meets David Sedaris’ The Times
‘Forthright, thoughtful, funny … reads like a Jilly Cooper novel’ Sunday Times
‘Funny, sensitive, and insightful – the perfect book to turn to at the end of a long day’ Bonnie Garmus
Alex has perfected the art of dodging responsibility during her almost 40 years – until an unexpected letter turns her life upside down.
She’s inherited a crumbling sheep farm in wildest, wettest Wales. This was not her life plan. Not at all.
Now, her closest companion is a stubborn Welsh terrier, she’s speed-reading The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, and her arrival has set the village gossip mill spinning. With the farm near collapse, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her mysterious inheritance.
But as secrets surface, Alex finds her heart pulling her in a direction she never saw coming.
Will she pack her bags – or has she landed exactly where she’s meant to be?
Brimming with the warmth and wit that has made Clare Balding one of our best-loved TV personalities, Pastures New is a joyful celebration of new beginnings, community, and the delightful surprises of rural life.
Acclaim for Clare Balding's
'The reading equivalent of snuggling by the fire with a labrador' The Guardian
‘Funny and moving, James Herriot meets David Sedaris’ The Times
‘Forthright, thoughtful, funny … reads like a Jilly Cooper novel’ Sunday Times
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First published September 11, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
July 17, 2025
For almost 40 years, Alex has thumbed her nose at responsibility, until an unexpected letter turns everything upside down.
Alex is working as a journalist in London , writing a celebrity gossip column, when the earth shattering letter turns up. Due to an inheritance from someone she’s never heard of, she is now the owner of a sheep farm in deepest Wales. That’s a good thing right? Well in this case definitely not!
Now, this is taking responsibility to another level for Alex, especially when she sees the state of the place, a crumbling property, rusting and broken machinery, and not only that, but it’s a large sheep farm, and Alex knows nothing about sheep, in addition, it’s running at a loss.
Where on earth will she start, and does she even want to! Sadly, her present job is about to be replaced by AI so it looks like she has no choice but to try and make a go of it.
I won’t go into any more details, but this was a lovely warm hearted story, that really has the feel good factor. Some wonderful (human) characters, alongside plenty of lambs, dogs and a horse, to please us animal lovers. The perfect beach read!
*Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Alex is working as a journalist in London , writing a celebrity gossip column, when the earth shattering letter turns up. Due to an inheritance from someone she’s never heard of, she is now the owner of a sheep farm in deepest Wales. That’s a good thing right? Well in this case definitely not!
Now, this is taking responsibility to another level for Alex, especially when she sees the state of the place, a crumbling property, rusting and broken machinery, and not only that, but it’s a large sheep farm, and Alex knows nothing about sheep, in addition, it’s running at a loss.
Where on earth will she start, and does she even want to! Sadly, her present job is about to be replaced by AI so it looks like she has no choice but to try and make a go of it.
I won’t go into any more details, but this was a lovely warm hearted story, that really has the feel good factor. Some wonderful (human) characters, alongside plenty of lambs, dogs and a horse, to please us animal lovers. The perfect beach read!
*Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
September 28, 2025
There’s something quietly magical about Pastures New — Clare Balding’s debut novel is a warmly heartfelt story that reminds us that sometimes life’s unexpected detours lead us exactly where we belong.
The premise is wonderful: Alex, a journalist in her late 30s who’s mastered the art of avoiding responsibility, suddenly inherits a crumbling sheep farm in rural Wales from someone she doesn’t even know. It’s a situation she never asked for — but as Alex swaps city life for misty hills and the hustle of journalism for the rhythm of lambing season, her world begins to shift in ways she never expected.
What makes this book so special is the author’s love for animals, countryside living, and community shines through every page. Her particular passion for horse racing and all things equine really shines through. The Welsh Monmouthshire setting is beautifully evoked — damp winters, rusty farm machinery, grumpy local gossip, loyal dogs, and the rolling hills all feel vivid and alive. The author doesn’t shy away from the messy realities (financial struggles, learning what farm life actually means, awkward family tensions), but she balances those with humour, warmth, and a sense of joy.
Alex is a character you’ll definitely want to root for — she’s humanly imperfect, sometimes flustered, often unsure, but brave enough to try something totally new. The supporting cast is equally endearing: the grumpy terrier Jiffy, the housekeeper Ruth, the local villagers, and the quirky neighbours — each adds colour, humour, and genuine heart to the story. Indeed the characters and the setting are the real delights of this book.
In short, Pastures New is the kind of read you’ll want to savour with a hot drink, wrapped in a blanket, maybe on a rainy evening. It’s a reminder of the value of community, the beauty of embracing change, and the unexpected places we can call home. I wholeheartedly enjoyed it!
The premise is wonderful: Alex, a journalist in her late 30s who’s mastered the art of avoiding responsibility, suddenly inherits a crumbling sheep farm in rural Wales from someone she doesn’t even know. It’s a situation she never asked for — but as Alex swaps city life for misty hills and the hustle of journalism for the rhythm of lambing season, her world begins to shift in ways she never expected.
What makes this book so special is the author’s love for animals, countryside living, and community shines through every page. Her particular passion for horse racing and all things equine really shines through. The Welsh Monmouthshire setting is beautifully evoked — damp winters, rusty farm machinery, grumpy local gossip, loyal dogs, and the rolling hills all feel vivid and alive. The author doesn’t shy away from the messy realities (financial struggles, learning what farm life actually means, awkward family tensions), but she balances those with humour, warmth, and a sense of joy.
Alex is a character you’ll definitely want to root for — she’s humanly imperfect, sometimes flustered, often unsure, but brave enough to try something totally new. The supporting cast is equally endearing: the grumpy terrier Jiffy, the housekeeper Ruth, the local villagers, and the quirky neighbours — each adds colour, humour, and genuine heart to the story. Indeed the characters and the setting are the real delights of this book.
In short, Pastures New is the kind of read you’ll want to savour with a hot drink, wrapped in a blanket, maybe on a rainy evening. It’s a reminder of the value of community, the beauty of embracing change, and the unexpected places we can call home. I wholeheartedly enjoyed it!
June 21, 2025
I'm not sure where to start - maybe by saying I love Clare Balding! I was so pleased I was approved for this book and couldn't wait to read it. And it was great - a good storyline, some fab characters (some good guys and some not so good!) and an amazing part of the world as a setting. It was always likely to be based around horses, farming or similar as that is Clare's background but especially for a debut novel, that's got to be a good place to start. I raced through this (helped by the fact I haven't been well!) and really wanted to see where all the characters' stories would end. I wasn't disappointed with the outcomes; they seemed fitting.
However.......and I'm sorry, I really don't want to say this but I always write an honest review, I really didn't feel the story was very well constructed / edited. It would hardly seem to finish a thread before going off on something else. And I am aware this might just be me, but there seemed to be so much missing?! Where was mention of a meeting with the solicitor when you've inherited a property from someone you've never even heard of?! And was she left any money as well or just a farm to run with no finance? And a meeting with the Bank - there was never any mention of finance other than there wasn't any but how exactly did Alex keep running the place?! On top of that, wouldn't you want to try to find out who had left you a farm?! I'm not saying that there had to be chapters taken up with all these things, but there was really no mention (other than one small line I seem to recall much later on about a solicitors meeting but it was not a lot more than one line)! And Alex seemed to very quickly pick farming up - amazing what you can learn from a book!!
I'm truly sorry; as I say I love Clare and don't want to be nasty but I am giving my opinion as I am asked to do when given an advance copy. Perhaps there will have been some more editing before it is published which will improve it but I would say again, the premise for the story was really good and I would like to read whatever Clare produces next.
However.......and I'm sorry, I really don't want to say this but I always write an honest review, I really didn't feel the story was very well constructed / edited. It would hardly seem to finish a thread before going off on something else. And I am aware this might just be me, but there seemed to be so much missing?! Where was mention of a meeting with the solicitor when you've inherited a property from someone you've never even heard of?! And was she left any money as well or just a farm to run with no finance? And a meeting with the Bank - there was never any mention of finance other than there wasn't any but how exactly did Alex keep running the place?! On top of that, wouldn't you want to try to find out who had left you a farm?! I'm not saying that there had to be chapters taken up with all these things, but there was really no mention (other than one small line I seem to recall much later on about a solicitors meeting but it was not a lot more than one line)! And Alex seemed to very quickly pick farming up - amazing what you can learn from a book!!
I'm truly sorry; as I say I love Clare and don't want to be nasty but I am giving my opinion as I am asked to do when given an advance copy. Perhaps there will have been some more editing before it is published which will improve it but I would say again, the premise for the story was really good and I would like to read whatever Clare produces next.
August 20, 2025
⸻
🐑🚜🌾 Pastures New – Clare Balding 🌾🚜🐑
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
📖 Publication date: 11/9/25
Huge thank you to @harperfiction @harpercollinsuk for sending me such a gorgeous ARC package for this one
✨ Blurb ✨
Alex has spent nearly 40 years perfecting the art of dodging responsibility—until a mysterious letter changes everything. Suddenly, she’s the owner of a rundown sheep farm in the wilds of rainy Wales. 🐑☔
Armed with The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, a very stubborn Welsh terrier, and the whispers of a curious village, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her unexpected inheritance. But as secrets begin to surface, she starts to wonder if this life she never wanted might just be the one she needs…
💭 My Thoughts 💭
This book gave me all the cosy autumn vibes 🍂—the perfect kind of read to curl up with a blanket and a cuppa. I loved the quirky cast of characters and the fast-paced, feel-good storytelling. Yes, it was a little predictable in places, but that just made it even more comforting. 🥰 I found myself smiling from start to finish!
If you’re after a quick, heartwarming, happily-ever-after read that feels like a hug in book form, I’d definitely recommend this one. 📚✨
@clarebalding
#arcbooks #arcreview #arcreader #earlyread #bookreviewer #bookblogger #bookinfluencer #upcomingrelease #newbookalert
#clarebalding #harperfiction #harpercollinsuk
🐑🚜🌾 Pastures New – Clare Balding 🌾🚜🐑
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
📖 Publication date: 11/9/25
Huge thank you to @harperfiction @harpercollinsuk for sending me such a gorgeous ARC package for this one
✨ Blurb ✨
Alex has spent nearly 40 years perfecting the art of dodging responsibility—until a mysterious letter changes everything. Suddenly, she’s the owner of a rundown sheep farm in the wilds of rainy Wales. 🐑☔
Armed with The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, a very stubborn Welsh terrier, and the whispers of a curious village, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her unexpected inheritance. But as secrets begin to surface, she starts to wonder if this life she never wanted might just be the one she needs…
💭 My Thoughts 💭
This book gave me all the cosy autumn vibes 🍂—the perfect kind of read to curl up with a blanket and a cuppa. I loved the quirky cast of characters and the fast-paced, feel-good storytelling. Yes, it was a little predictable in places, but that just made it even more comforting. 🥰 I found myself smiling from start to finish!
If you’re after a quick, heartwarming, happily-ever-after read that feels like a hug in book form, I’d definitely recommend this one. 📚✨
@clarebalding
#arcbooks #arcreview #arcreader #earlyread #bookreviewer #bookblogger #bookinfluencer #upcomingrelease #newbookalert
#clarebalding #harperfiction #harpercollinsuk
June 19, 2025
This was a lovely debut novel from Clare. Such a sweet and easy read. It will appeal to everyone. A perfect beach read. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 7, 2025
Journalist Alex is about to turn 40 she has no ties. She doesn’t exactly love her job but she’s happy. Heading home for Christmas she knows it’s going to be a tough few days being back home with mum treating her like the child she used to be
Her and her mother have never quite got on. They seem to grate on each other’s nerves. Her and her dad get on much better.
The morning after she arrives home, she opens a letter telling her she has inherited a farm in Wales. She initially thinks it’s a great joke played by her best friend Ethan however when her dad hear the news he turns pale and suddenly clutches his heart his arm dropping to his side. Alex panics and causing ambulance turns out her dad has just had a stroke.
Over the next few months, we follow Alex as she loses her job and ends up moving to the farm she’s just inherited however things are not going to be easy. The farm is in debt. A clause in the will prevents her from selling for five years. She needs to find a way to turn things around. Her nearest neighbour is a grumpy horse trainer. Can they somehow work together to save both their farms?
Alex is still confused as to why she was named in the will of a man she’d never met, and well she’s trying to turn around the farm and bring it back to life she begins to go through old paperwork and find some letters which turn her life upside down and she discovers exactly why she was left the farm
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook narrated by Claire herself. She retold the story helped you to get into the character. This enabled me to feel like the character was a friend and you end up rooting for her and hoping she can turn things around and save the farm
This book is full of likable characters even the grumpy neighbour
Her and her mother have never quite got on. They seem to grate on each other’s nerves. Her and her dad get on much better.
The morning after she arrives home, she opens a letter telling her she has inherited a farm in Wales. She initially thinks it’s a great joke played by her best friend Ethan however when her dad hear the news he turns pale and suddenly clutches his heart his arm dropping to his side. Alex panics and causing ambulance turns out her dad has just had a stroke.
Over the next few months, we follow Alex as she loses her job and ends up moving to the farm she’s just inherited however things are not going to be easy. The farm is in debt. A clause in the will prevents her from selling for five years. She needs to find a way to turn things around. Her nearest neighbour is a grumpy horse trainer. Can they somehow work together to save both their farms?
Alex is still confused as to why she was named in the will of a man she’d never met, and well she’s trying to turn around the farm and bring it back to life she begins to go through old paperwork and find some letters which turn her life upside down and she discovers exactly why she was left the farm
I enjoyed listening to this audiobook narrated by Claire herself. She retold the story helped you to get into the character. This enabled me to feel like the character was a friend and you end up rooting for her and hoping she can turn things around and save the farm
This book is full of likable characters even the grumpy neighbour
December 15, 2025
Took a wee while for the threads to merge. I enjoyed the writers observations of people. Balding is obviously knowledgeable about countryside and horses and passes that information on, and on.
I’ve enjoyed Baldings non fiction which has a flow and ease of writing which this doesn’t. It’s not bad but I’ve enjoyed her other work more.
I’ve enjoyed Baldings non fiction which has a flow and ease of writing which this doesn’t. It’s not bad but I’ve enjoyed her other work more.
January 13, 2026
Fab first fiction book by author. Listened to audio which author narrates. Looking forward to more.
September 26, 2025
You wouldn't expect that this was Clare Balding's first novel, it was warm, full of lovely animals and a small town-romance, exactly what I like.
The highlights for me were the setting (the author clearly loves rural life and it shows) and the characters, especially the animals. It’s a very cosy comfort read, with themes of fresh starts, family, and finding your place in the world.
That said, it is a bit predictable at times, and some of the perspective changes felt slightly uneven. If you want something gentle, uplifting, and easy to sink into, it’s perfect for you.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
The highlights for me were the setting (the author clearly loves rural life and it shows) and the characters, especially the animals. It’s a very cosy comfort read, with themes of fresh starts, family, and finding your place in the world.
That said, it is a bit predictable at times, and some of the perspective changes felt slightly uneven. If you want something gentle, uplifting, and easy to sink into, it’s perfect for you.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 11, 2025
I’m afraid I found it all a little lame and kept experiencing wafts of various films I’ve seen blended into bits of her own life. A few typos and inaccuracies as well as unrealistic patches. Surely she would have thought about her father more when away from him as he recovered from his stroke?
Light and easy to read, but disappointing having attended a book launch and felt very excited to read.
Stick to non-fiction me thinks.
Light and easy to read, but disappointing having attended a book launch and felt very excited to read.
Stick to non-fiction me thinks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
4* Pastures New - Clare Balding - a fun and quirky book which feels like a big warm hug.
Alex works as a contributor to an online gossip magazine/website, peddling rumour and commentary about minor celebs. It suits Alex just fine as she has always been afraid of commitment, her only responsibility as she reaches her 40s being the mortgage on her London flat. That world of self contained insularity comes crashing down when Alex unexpectedly inherits a large (and debt ridden) sheep farm in the English/Welsh borders. First trying to straddle her two lives, she finds herself being sucked into a new world and one where she is both out of her depth but also strangely at home.
Clare Balding’s debut fiction is great fun. It’s a little predictable but all ‘warm hug’ books are. The characters are fabulous, the plot well tied together and it all zips along. There are huge gaps in how some of how this could hold together, but that really isn’t the point because we aren’t here for the finances, we are here for the entertainment. I loved Alex and all of the characters that eventually come to be her wider family (with very special mention for Coco (Pops) (not least because I have a Coco Pops of my own), Jiffy and Barry John) and I’d really love to see the gang back together for another book.
Having loved several of Clare’s non-fiction books, this one was also a winner.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an ARC.
Alex works as a contributor to an online gossip magazine/website, peddling rumour and commentary about minor celebs. It suits Alex just fine as she has always been afraid of commitment, her only responsibility as she reaches her 40s being the mortgage on her London flat. That world of self contained insularity comes crashing down when Alex unexpectedly inherits a large (and debt ridden) sheep farm in the English/Welsh borders. First trying to straddle her two lives, she finds herself being sucked into a new world and one where she is both out of her depth but also strangely at home.
Clare Balding’s debut fiction is great fun. It’s a little predictable but all ‘warm hug’ books are. The characters are fabulous, the plot well tied together and it all zips along. There are huge gaps in how some of how this could hold together, but that really isn’t the point because we aren’t here for the finances, we are here for the entertainment. I loved Alex and all of the characters that eventually come to be her wider family (with very special mention for Coco (Pops) (not least because I have a Coco Pops of my own), Jiffy and Barry John) and I’d really love to see the gang back together for another book.
Having loved several of Clare’s non-fiction books, this one was also a winner.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an ARC.
September 8, 2025
This is an autumnal hug in a book, filled with a surprise inheritance, family drama, friendship and finding yourself.
We follow the story mostly through Alex’s eyes and ears, but also with insights into Isobel (Alex’s mother), and the two women round off the story telling perfectly. Alex is hurtling towards 40, merrily avoiding responsibility and life long commitments but all that is thrown off kilter when she inherits a farm in Wales, far from the London city lifestyle she’s used to living. Armed with absolutely no farming knowledge and nothing more than a natural love for animals we then follow Alex’s journey along with the highs and lows of her new found responsibilities in Wales. Balding takes us on this emotional journey, telling the highs and lows Alex goes through, the bonds and friendships made along the way even if some are in the most unlikely of places and even asks the most important questions of is Alex being true to her authentic self and living the life that will truly make her happy.
I loved the way Alex’s family dynamic really played into this story and Balding didn’t shy away from making this relationship as complex as it truly needed to be to tell this story. As a city living LOL myself, there was a lot that felt incredibly relatable. Truly a tale to always remind you to not only keep an open mind, but also leave your heart open to change because you never truly know where your heart will decide your home is.
A great big thank you to @harpercollins for sending me this beautiful ARC, it’s been a pleasure to read and review. As you can see from the back cover, my cocker spaniel has taken to biting the post out of the letter box to give her full stamp of approval on all bookish mail also, which feels very appropriate given that she see Clare hosting her favourite competition every year. I can’t let my praise go without mentioning how pivotal Clare has been throughout her career leading the way for women, especially in sports and you best believe when I saw a witty mentioning of Sarina and the lionesses worked into this book, I banked that quote straight to my memory.
We follow the story mostly through Alex’s eyes and ears, but also with insights into Isobel (Alex’s mother), and the two women round off the story telling perfectly. Alex is hurtling towards 40, merrily avoiding responsibility and life long commitments but all that is thrown off kilter when she inherits a farm in Wales, far from the London city lifestyle she’s used to living. Armed with absolutely no farming knowledge and nothing more than a natural love for animals we then follow Alex’s journey along with the highs and lows of her new found responsibilities in Wales. Balding takes us on this emotional journey, telling the highs and lows Alex goes through, the bonds and friendships made along the way even if some are in the most unlikely of places and even asks the most important questions of is Alex being true to her authentic self and living the life that will truly make her happy.
I loved the way Alex’s family dynamic really played into this story and Balding didn’t shy away from making this relationship as complex as it truly needed to be to tell this story. As a city living LOL myself, there was a lot that felt incredibly relatable. Truly a tale to always remind you to not only keep an open mind, but also leave your heart open to change because you never truly know where your heart will decide your home is.
A great big thank you to @harpercollins for sending me this beautiful ARC, it’s been a pleasure to read and review. As you can see from the back cover, my cocker spaniel has taken to biting the post out of the letter box to give her full stamp of approval on all bookish mail also, which feels very appropriate given that she see Clare hosting her favourite competition every year. I can’t let my praise go without mentioning how pivotal Clare has been throughout her career leading the way for women, especially in sports and you best believe when I saw a witty mentioning of Sarina and the lionesses worked into this book, I banked that quote straight to my memory.
September 16, 2025
This is a rom-com that is a fun read as the story follows Alex as she discovers that she has inherited a sheep farm in Wales. Far removed from her life as a journalist living in London.
I will admit it was the author of this book who first caught my eye. I watch her on TV on various sports programs and I was aware of her writing books so I was interested in seeing what this one was like.
The story of Alex learning about life on a sheep farm is a great idea, she soon learn the downside of living in an idyllic area with gorgeous scenery, to actually trying to make a living. The author brings her knowledge of farming and the countryside into the story well, incorporating it into the story. Alex gradually understands more and more, meeting different people and then learns more about her mysterious benefactor.
There is more to the story than first meets the eye, and the author does a great job of weaving this mystery and other things together. There is a racehorse, a footballer, friendships, love interests, and the farm and what the day-to-day running entails.
This is a good story and one that I soon found myself caught up in. It is a rom-com that brings various issues into play and the author does a great job of putting a lot of info into this, but without it feeling too political or preachy. This is the sort of book that could easily be the start of a series, it has various things that could be expanded on. But equally works well as a single book.
Fun, interesting, light-hearted at times, with some more serious issues. Happy to recommend this.
I will admit it was the author of this book who first caught my eye. I watch her on TV on various sports programs and I was aware of her writing books so I was interested in seeing what this one was like.
The story of Alex learning about life on a sheep farm is a great idea, she soon learn the downside of living in an idyllic area with gorgeous scenery, to actually trying to make a living. The author brings her knowledge of farming and the countryside into the story well, incorporating it into the story. Alex gradually understands more and more, meeting different people and then learns more about her mysterious benefactor.
There is more to the story than first meets the eye, and the author does a great job of weaving this mystery and other things together. There is a racehorse, a footballer, friendships, love interests, and the farm and what the day-to-day running entails.
This is a good story and one that I soon found myself caught up in. It is a rom-com that brings various issues into play and the author does a great job of putting a lot of info into this, but without it feeling too political or preachy. This is the sort of book that could easily be the start of a series, it has various things that could be expanded on. But equally works well as a single book.
Fun, interesting, light-hearted at times, with some more serious issues. Happy to recommend this.
July 3, 2025
Clare Balding’s debut novel is a feel-good, cosy read. Alex, the main character, is a jet-setting journalist in London who writes for a celebrity gossip magazine. As the novel begins, Alex is heading off to spend Christmas with her parents. While there, and events happen, Alex receives a letter explaining she’s inherited a sheep farm. With her career about to be taken over by AI and with no knowledge of farming, Alex heads off to deepest, damp Wales.
Hats off to Clare, as I have to say I learnt a lot about farming and racehorses from this novel. Wasn’t expecting that! I could hear Clare’s voice, which was a pleasure. The characters are well captured in the small farming community. Overall I felt the plotting perhaps left a few too many unanswered what ifs, but I would recommend it as an easy, feel-good read. Next? There needs to be a sequel with Alex.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2025
Alex’s world is turned upside down when she receives a letter saying she’s inherited a crumbling sheep farm in wildest, wettest Wales. Now, her closest companion is a grumpy Welsh terrier, she’s speed-reading The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, and her arrival has set the village gossip mill spinning. With the farm near collapse and its community now relying on her, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her mysterious inheritance. Then she can finally get back to the carefree life she thought she wanted.
A well written interesting debut fiction novel, it’s entertaining, the characters are likeable & it’s well paced. I really liked Alex & enjoyed this easy to read entertaining book, which is ideal as a deck chair read or snuggling down with a hot drink on autumnal days. I hope there are more books featuring Alex, Coco
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
A well written interesting debut fiction novel, it’s entertaining, the characters are likeable & it’s well paced. I really liked Alex & enjoyed this easy to read entertaining book, which is ideal as a deck chair read or snuggling down with a hot drink on autumnal days. I hope there are more books featuring Alex, Coco
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 12, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
didnt know what to expect from this author and i have to say i was pleasantly surprised and loved how i was pulled into the book right from the beginning.... i loved every minute i was reading this book
alex has inherited a sheep farm.... why and how she does not know... she is based in london not wales ...it has to be a joke but the day she tells her father about the farm he has a stroke and her mother is saying anything.....
so with her best friend in tow they head off to wales to see this farm and try to understand they mystery surrounding it....
theres plenty to read in this book from the start of the adventure and the lack of knowledge to seeing what needs to be done and coping with it all but along the way there are some lovely characters to meet and some not so nice ...
i am looking forward to reading the next book from this author
didnt know what to expect from this author and i have to say i was pleasantly surprised and loved how i was pulled into the book right from the beginning.... i loved every minute i was reading this book
alex has inherited a sheep farm.... why and how she does not know... she is based in london not wales ...it has to be a joke but the day she tells her father about the farm he has a stroke and her mother is saying anything.....
so with her best friend in tow they head off to wales to see this farm and try to understand they mystery surrounding it....
theres plenty to read in this book from the start of the adventure and the lack of knowledge to seeing what needs to be done and coping with it all but along the way there are some lovely characters to meet and some not so nice ...
i am looking forward to reading the next book from this author
October 15, 2025
Wanted to give this a 5 so much but remembered the first third of the book took some time to get going, then when it did it went bang. A book with a really good feeling attached to it, a person living in the high pressure world of London, being thrown by circumstance into the Welsh countryside where life and morals are so much different. The lifestyle appealed to me, whilst incredibly hard work the rewards, whilst not financial, were far richer and satisfying. I'd like to think that the ending allows for a second book if not a series to follow but only Clare will know that. Full of community spirit, highlighting the difficulties of farming, and the reasons why programmes like Escape to the Country are so popular. Reveal towards the end could be worked out very early on but it didn't spoil the storyline.
September 24, 2025
Alex works for and online gossip magazine, a job that she's increasingly feeling uncomfortable doing. After being a little too truthful in a restaurant review after the owner tried to grope her, she finds herself out of a job.
Then she receives a letter telling her that she's bèn left a small farm in Wales by someone that she doesn't know.
With no other option, she moves to Wales and starts learning how to farm sheep with help from the locals.
Light hearted and fairly predictable on the surface but Clare Balding clearly know horses, animals and the financial challenges of farming.
An entertaining read.
Then she receives a letter telling her that she's bèn left a small farm in Wales by someone that she doesn't know.
With no other option, she moves to Wales and starts learning how to farm sheep with help from the locals.
Light hearted and fairly predictable on the surface but Clare Balding clearly know horses, animals and the financial challenges of farming.
An entertaining read.
September 25, 2025
This was a wonderful read. The characters were well rounded and I really warmed to them, I really wanted to be in the field with the lambs or the stables with the horses.
Alex was a great character who really stepped up and showed just who she really was. The added twists with her parents, job and warning off offending celebrities really brought a lot to the story. The animals were so very much a part of this book, they were characters in their own right. I hope there are more books like this and it would be great to visit again, I’m sure there’s an interesting story there about Owen Odd Job who doesn’t speak to anyone.
Alex was a great character who really stepped up and showed just who she really was. The added twists with her parents, job and warning off offending celebrities really brought a lot to the story. The animals were so very much a part of this book, they were characters in their own right. I hope there are more books like this and it would be great to visit again, I’m sure there’s an interesting story there about Owen Odd Job who doesn’t speak to anyone.
December 20, 2025
It’s the kind of story that I thought I could really get lost in, but sadly the writing was flat and every single plot line was obvious from the moment the characters were introduced. The ending was rushed (and predictable), as were many parts of the story, whereas others were described in unnecessary detail. The animals were the most real part. Nevertheless I didn’t hate it and it’s not a terrible for a debut novel.
October 23, 2025
Heartwarming listen following Alex's transition from city media journalist to ownership and responsibility for a run down Welsh farm. Delightful collection of animals, family, friends and neighbours who all rally round to pull things together. Narrated by the author, Clare Balding made it even more special.
August 6, 2025
Pastures New by Clare Balding ⭐️⭐️
Somewhere within this book could have been a good story. Alex inherits a farm and hasn’t a clue why. Instead of drawing you into a story of why she’s been bequeathed this …. You are sent on a detailed, boring story about animals and people you are not invested in. Cosy and predictable.
Somewhere within this book could have been a good story. Alex inherits a farm and hasn’t a clue why. Instead of drawing you into a story of why she’s been bequeathed this …. You are sent on a detailed, boring story about animals and people you are not invested in. Cosy and predictable.
January 4, 2026
Lovely strong well developed characters. A nice believable plot.
A nice blend of Dick Francis meet Celia Ahern
I look forward to reading more about Alex Skirry and the lovely locals . Fingers crossed for a follow up book soon .
A nice blend of Dick Francis meet Celia Ahern
I look forward to reading more about Alex Skirry and the lovely locals . Fingers crossed for a follow up book soon .
November 3, 2025
An easy read.
October 14, 2025
It was fine, and a quick read. Some good bits that got rushed and some dull bits that dragged pointlessly. The animals did a lot of heavy lifting.
September 26, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect from Clare Balding, this being her first novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it - it had a bit of everything in it. I do hope there is a follow up.
November 30, 2025
Free courtesy of Netgalley
A good debut novel from Claire Balding. The characters were great and the story believable, and the book was well written.
Alex is a 30 something journalist, living in London with Zero responsibilities. Her job is to travel the world and report on spoilt celebrities for an online magazine.
Whilst visiting her parents, she receives a letter from a solicitor, telling her she had been left a farm in Wales by a man she doesn't know. With no insight from her parents why this man would leave her a farm, she travels to Wales with her best friend to have a look around. She must decide if she wants to take on this responsibility, as she cannot sell the farm for a while. Negotiating more responsibility than she has ever had, trying to get answers off her mother, who she has an extremely difficult relationship with and navigating her dad's stroke, it was fascinating to read how she deals with it all, with the help of her neighbours and new friends.
The only niggle for me, as I am from that area ish, and others probably won't notice but describing Gwen's accent as strong Welsh and she is from the Monmouth area is not correct. The really strong Welsh accents are more West Wales as most people from the Monmouth/Hereford borders lean more towards an English accent, with a slight twang of Welsh. It was a minor detail but important for me as it bugged me a little.
I would however recommend this book, there are so many different arcs to the story that all fall into place in the end.
A good debut novel from Claire Balding. The characters were great and the story believable, and the book was well written.
Alex is a 30 something journalist, living in London with Zero responsibilities. Her job is to travel the world and report on spoilt celebrities for an online magazine.
Whilst visiting her parents, she receives a letter from a solicitor, telling her she had been left a farm in Wales by a man she doesn't know. With no insight from her parents why this man would leave her a farm, she travels to Wales with her best friend to have a look around. She must decide if she wants to take on this responsibility, as she cannot sell the farm for a while. Negotiating more responsibility than she has ever had, trying to get answers off her mother, who she has an extremely difficult relationship with and navigating her dad's stroke, it was fascinating to read how she deals with it all, with the help of her neighbours and new friends.
The only niggle for me, as I am from that area ish, and others probably won't notice but describing Gwen's accent as strong Welsh and she is from the Monmouth area is not correct. The really strong Welsh accents are more West Wales as most people from the Monmouth/Hereford borders lean more towards an English accent, with a slight twang of Welsh. It was a minor detail but important for me as it bugged me a little.
I would however recommend this book, there are so many different arcs to the story that all fall into place in the end.
June 23, 2025
This is just the loveliest book! I really really really enjoyed this book!
The story follows Alex, a journalist who has lost her job due to being replaced by AI. This is so relevant to today and is a threat to many jobs. Alex inherits a rundown sheep farm in Wales – along with its debts, and lots of problems with the farmhouse. I live in Wales so loved the setting! Alex has never farmed in her life, she has no experience of how to run a farm, make a farm profitable and cannot understand why on earth she has been left a farm and most importantly from who.
As the story unfolds, I did work out who gave Alex the farm before it was revealed. And if only they could see what a difference Alex’s life is now and how the farm turned her life around. I loved Alex’s relationship with Jiffy, the dog. It was as if Jiffy knew who Alex was related to as they bonded straight away.
Not only did the farm transform Alex’s life but Alex transformed the farm, the pub, the village and her neighbour Dickon, a racehorse trainer. Not getting off on a great footing with Dickon did not put Alex off and the difference she made to Dickon’s life and his horse, The Skirrid’s life was incredible. Alex is a very special person and always helping others. I think William would be incredibly proud of the impact Alex has made in the community.
I loved how the sheep stayed with the horse and how much the sheep kept the horse calm. Such a special relationship and a wonderful companionship for them both.
The book explores wonderfully the relationships between Alex and Mandy. She may be a magician and she certainly brought the magic into Mandy’s life and allowed Alex and us to see the transformation of Alex being herself and allowing her to open up to a new relationship, which she have never envisaged but when it did, everything fell into place.
Clare Balding has an immense amount of experience and knowledge about animals and farming life and this shines through and I felt it made the reader feel so part of the book. The wonderful setting, the very special characters and the vibrant and tight-knit community made this book a very special read indeed. I adored Gwen and loved how she was always on her quad bike, herding the sheep! I did not like Layton Brooks though!
So much fun, smiles and laughter in the story too and I laughed so much at the trampoline for the frog! There was so much in the book that was so relevant to today and where I said on many occasions, “that is so true! Or “we have said that!”.
I definitely would love to go and visit Alex’s sheep farm – I think she should definitely set up a glamping site so visitors can have a true Welsh farm experience!
A great book, tackling taking on a new challenge, overcoming the hugest of obstacles and finding your true self. I would love to see a follow-up book! I am very curious to see how Alex’s journey unfolds and where life takes her next!
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
The story follows Alex, a journalist who has lost her job due to being replaced by AI. This is so relevant to today and is a threat to many jobs. Alex inherits a rundown sheep farm in Wales – along with its debts, and lots of problems with the farmhouse. I live in Wales so loved the setting! Alex has never farmed in her life, she has no experience of how to run a farm, make a farm profitable and cannot understand why on earth she has been left a farm and most importantly from who.
As the story unfolds, I did work out who gave Alex the farm before it was revealed. And if only they could see what a difference Alex’s life is now and how the farm turned her life around. I loved Alex’s relationship with Jiffy, the dog. It was as if Jiffy knew who Alex was related to as they bonded straight away.
Not only did the farm transform Alex’s life but Alex transformed the farm, the pub, the village and her neighbour Dickon, a racehorse trainer. Not getting off on a great footing with Dickon did not put Alex off and the difference she made to Dickon’s life and his horse, The Skirrid’s life was incredible. Alex is a very special person and always helping others. I think William would be incredibly proud of the impact Alex has made in the community.
I loved how the sheep stayed with the horse and how much the sheep kept the horse calm. Such a special relationship and a wonderful companionship for them both.
The book explores wonderfully the relationships between Alex and Mandy. She may be a magician and she certainly brought the magic into Mandy’s life and allowed Alex and us to see the transformation of Alex being herself and allowing her to open up to a new relationship, which she have never envisaged but when it did, everything fell into place.
Clare Balding has an immense amount of experience and knowledge about animals and farming life and this shines through and I felt it made the reader feel so part of the book. The wonderful setting, the very special characters and the vibrant and tight-knit community made this book a very special read indeed. I adored Gwen and loved how she was always on her quad bike, herding the sheep! I did not like Layton Brooks though!
So much fun, smiles and laughter in the story too and I laughed so much at the trampoline for the frog! There was so much in the book that was so relevant to today and where I said on many occasions, “that is so true! Or “we have said that!”.
I definitely would love to go and visit Alex’s sheep farm – I think she should definitely set up a glamping site so visitors can have a true Welsh farm experience!
A great book, tackling taking on a new challenge, overcoming the hugest of obstacles and finding your true self. I would love to see a follow-up book! I am very curious to see how Alex’s journey unfolds and where life takes her next!
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 14, 2025
Pastures New by Clare Balding
To Alex Roberts, being successful meant having no responsibilities. Now, nearly forty, Alex is living her life doing a job that pays and has nothing to worry about, until she inherits a sheep farm — Tir Glas, which is crumbling under debt and requires the touch of a caring hand (more than a touch, perhaps). And now, Alex is speed-reading an idiot's guide to farming and trying to understand the mystery of inheriting the farm from a stranger. And as time passes, the decision to stay or leave needs to be taken, one that will change her life forever.
Beautiful, this is the first word that comes to my mind when I think about this book. The descriptions of the distant and wild Wales are stunning. They were so refreshing that I was breathing the cold, fresh air and grumbling about the uncontrolled rain. The baa-ing of the sheep and galloping of horses in the wide-open fields, while being surrounded by mountains, and living life with the kindest people, was as dreamy as it sounds. And while the dreaminess exists, it isn’t untouched by the taxes and the constant pressure that comes with running a farm.
The characters were fun, diverse, and rich. Never failing to entertain me or making me laugh out loud. Our main character, Alex, has a sense of humor worth coveting. Although her internal struggles weren't relatable to me all the time, I adored her optimism and perseverance. Being thrown into an unfamiliar place and profession, and being expected to save it, isn't easy. And I appreciated the fact that the author highlighted both the good and the bad in this situation without glamorizing either one.
Isobel and David, parents of Alex, were amazing. I really adored them, even though their behavior and attitude were infuriating sometimes. Their past and the inevitable love of family never failed to warm my heart. Gwen, Rhys, Dickon, and all the other farm neighbors were quirky and charming. The book wouldn't be the same without them.
And the best part about this book — animals! Innocent and absolutely adorable animals. The interactions between the characters and these animals (dogs, horses, and sheep) were endearing. The genuine love without expectations and the selfless acts of care always made me smile from ear to ear. The author's honest and genuine tone, mingled with the fun of farm life, impacted me more than I expected.
While the story and the characters were good, the pacing was a little too fast for me. Before I could relish and allow myself to immerse in a chapter, we were already in the next chapter with a new twist. This made me feel disconnected with the story and the characters sometimes, which is what took away 0.75 stars for me.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, and I'm really glad I read it. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to read something different that is relaxing and refreshing. If you have grown up on a farm or have visited it frequently while growing up, you are going to love this book even more.
Rating-4.25/5
Thank you, Harper Fiction and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
To Alex Roberts, being successful meant having no responsibilities. Now, nearly forty, Alex is living her life doing a job that pays and has nothing to worry about, until she inherits a sheep farm — Tir Glas, which is crumbling under debt and requires the touch of a caring hand (more than a touch, perhaps). And now, Alex is speed-reading an idiot's guide to farming and trying to understand the mystery of inheriting the farm from a stranger. And as time passes, the decision to stay or leave needs to be taken, one that will change her life forever.
Beautiful, this is the first word that comes to my mind when I think about this book. The descriptions of the distant and wild Wales are stunning. They were so refreshing that I was breathing the cold, fresh air and grumbling about the uncontrolled rain. The baa-ing of the sheep and galloping of horses in the wide-open fields, while being surrounded by mountains, and living life with the kindest people, was as dreamy as it sounds. And while the dreaminess exists, it isn’t untouched by the taxes and the constant pressure that comes with running a farm.
The characters were fun, diverse, and rich. Never failing to entertain me or making me laugh out loud. Our main character, Alex, has a sense of humor worth coveting. Although her internal struggles weren't relatable to me all the time, I adored her optimism and perseverance. Being thrown into an unfamiliar place and profession, and being expected to save it, isn't easy. And I appreciated the fact that the author highlighted both the good and the bad in this situation without glamorizing either one.
Isobel and David, parents of Alex, were amazing. I really adored them, even though their behavior and attitude were infuriating sometimes. Their past and the inevitable love of family never failed to warm my heart. Gwen, Rhys, Dickon, and all the other farm neighbors were quirky and charming. The book wouldn't be the same without them.
And the best part about this book — animals! Innocent and absolutely adorable animals. The interactions between the characters and these animals (dogs, horses, and sheep) were endearing. The genuine love without expectations and the selfless acts of care always made me smile from ear to ear. The author's honest and genuine tone, mingled with the fun of farm life, impacted me more than I expected.
While the story and the characters were good, the pacing was a little too fast for me. Before I could relish and allow myself to immerse in a chapter, we were already in the next chapter with a new twist. This made me feel disconnected with the story and the characters sometimes, which is what took away 0.75 stars for me.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book, and I'm really glad I read it. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to read something different that is relaxing and refreshing. If you have grown up on a farm or have visited it frequently while growing up, you are going to love this book even more.
Rating-4.25/5
Thank you, Harper Fiction and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
July 8, 2025
An apt title for a debut novel. Opening with a funeral in Monmouth, Wales. William Griffiths leaves behind a dedicated housekeeper, Gwen and a mourning Welsh terrier, Jiffy, and a large sheep farm which is making a loss.
In London Alex Roberts is getting ready to travel home for Christmas. Always an awkward affair on account of her mother continuing to treat her like an errant teenager. By her mother’s standards Alex is not performing her female duties as she had not taken on the role of a wife and mother. Lying in late in the morning like a teenager without responsibility Isobel Roberts feels her daughter is living too much of an unconventional life as a single woman in London. At 39 she ‘reminds’ Alex that the clock is ticking.
‘Her mother had an uncanny ability to make her feel like she was still twelve years old.’
Christmas Eve and her mother berates Alex for lying in bed too late. A letter arrives for Mr Alex Roberts announcing Alex is the beneficiary in the will of William Griffiths. While her mother goes off to shop for a prearranged dinner party she is holding Alex discovers her father in the midst of a stroke and has to summon an ambulance. Christmas is overshadowed by his hospitalisation though her mother carries on with her plans regardless. Alex’s life takes an unexpected turn as she has also become the owner of William’s farm. A world that seems so far away from her all-expenses-paid trips to celebrity parties as part of her freelance magazine writing job. After exposing some of the hypocrisies of the rich and famous Alex now faces the prospect of others watching her fail.
I found the choice of setting Interesting. The author uses carefully constructed descriptions of this border county between England and Wales and weaves the landscape’s influence on the lead character’s new life. Generally there is good character development - A few interesting and well rounded characters and a few interesting caricatures. It seems there will always be animals where Claire Balding is concerned including race horses. Friendships and human relationships are also part of the patchwork of this debut novel as are the struggles of the farming community.
I’m grateful to NetGalley to have access to the prepublished ebook although there were a lot more typos than I would have thought there should be this close to official publication day. There were also a couple of early clumsy what can only be called ‘speeches’ made by a couple of the characters that might have been better phrased by a more experienced writer. I also had trouble at the very beginning with someone touching the gravestone at the grave at which a funeral had just taken place - I pondered for a while about whether the ground has to settle around a grave first before a stone is laid or was it a family grave site - which I found disrupted my reading.
Overall an interesting read. With the typos eliminated it would make a good feel-good or holiday read.
In London Alex Roberts is getting ready to travel home for Christmas. Always an awkward affair on account of her mother continuing to treat her like an errant teenager. By her mother’s standards Alex is not performing her female duties as she had not taken on the role of a wife and mother. Lying in late in the morning like a teenager without responsibility Isobel Roberts feels her daughter is living too much of an unconventional life as a single woman in London. At 39 she ‘reminds’ Alex that the clock is ticking.
‘Her mother had an uncanny ability to make her feel like she was still twelve years old.’
Christmas Eve and her mother berates Alex for lying in bed too late. A letter arrives for Mr Alex Roberts announcing Alex is the beneficiary in the will of William Griffiths. While her mother goes off to shop for a prearranged dinner party she is holding Alex discovers her father in the midst of a stroke and has to summon an ambulance. Christmas is overshadowed by his hospitalisation though her mother carries on with her plans regardless. Alex’s life takes an unexpected turn as she has also become the owner of William’s farm. A world that seems so far away from her all-expenses-paid trips to celebrity parties as part of her freelance magazine writing job. After exposing some of the hypocrisies of the rich and famous Alex now faces the prospect of others watching her fail.
I found the choice of setting Interesting. The author uses carefully constructed descriptions of this border county between England and Wales and weaves the landscape’s influence on the lead character’s new life. Generally there is good character development - A few interesting and well rounded characters and a few interesting caricatures. It seems there will always be animals where Claire Balding is concerned including race horses. Friendships and human relationships are also part of the patchwork of this debut novel as are the struggles of the farming community.
I’m grateful to NetGalley to have access to the prepublished ebook although there were a lot more typos than I would have thought there should be this close to official publication day. There were also a couple of early clumsy what can only be called ‘speeches’ made by a couple of the characters that might have been better phrased by a more experienced writer. I also had trouble at the very beginning with someone touching the gravestone at the grave at which a funeral had just taken place - I pondered for a while about whether the ground has to settle around a grave first before a stone is laid or was it a family grave site - which I found disrupted my reading.
Overall an interesting read. With the typos eliminated it would make a good feel-good or holiday read.
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