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Talyton St. George #10
Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage:
After years of training, horse-mad Flick has finally achieved her dream of becoming one of the few female blacksmiths in the country.Her first job is in Talyton St George. The little cottage on the green where she is staying is idyllic, and it feels like the fresh start she needs. But she soon finds she is having to work overtime to prove her abilities to the not-so-welcoming locals.One person very much on her side though is Robbie Salterton. He’s a bit of a local celebrity – a handsome stunt rider who does charity work in his spare time – and he seems to be going out of his way to look out for Flick. But is he just being friendly or does he see Flick as something more?Despite swearing off men, Flick can’t help wanting to find out . . .
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2016
20 people are currently reading
659 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Woodman
29 books183 followersI began my working life as a small-animal vet. Like turning the pages in a book, I was never quite sure what was going to happen at the surgery next. From the sausage dog who swallowed a sewing needle to the telly addict of a rabbit who lost an eye to infection, there was never a dull moment.
I have always loved to read, escaping into all kinds of novels during those long nights on call, but I didn’t have much time to pursue writing until after my children were born and I gave up full-time work to look after them. I joined a creative writing group and entered all the writing competitions I could find.
My break into becoming a published author came in 2002 when I was joint winner of the Harry Bowling First Novel Award. At the award ceremony, I met Laura Longrigg of MBA Literary Agents who signed me up on delivery of a finished manuscript.
In April 2003, Laura rang to say that Headline were offering me a two book deal. I had to dial 1471 to check she really had called me and I wasn’t dreaming.
My first novel, Under The Bonnet, was published in November 2004. My second, Our House, was published in 2005, the third, Family Matters in 2006, and the fourth, The Boy Next Door in 2007.
Since then, I’ve been working on an exciting new project, a series of novels about The Otter House Vets, a fictional practice set in a quiet Devonshire market town. Trust Me, I’m a Vet, which will be published in paperback by Arrow Books in April 2010, closely followed by the second book in September 2010.
Since I last updated my website, my menagerie of animals has grown, much to my family’s delight. We now share our lives with two cats, three mad Border Terriers, two ponies and two pet rats which we found abandoned to starve in a cage in the woods nearby. You should have heard my husband’s sigh of resignation when I told him we were bringing them home!
I have always loved to read, escaping into all kinds of novels during those long nights on call, but I didn’t have much time to pursue writing until after my children were born and I gave up full-time work to look after them. I joined a creative writing group and entered all the writing competitions I could find.
My break into becoming a published author came in 2002 when I was joint winner of the Harry Bowling First Novel Award. At the award ceremony, I met Laura Longrigg of MBA Literary Agents who signed me up on delivery of a finished manuscript.
In April 2003, Laura rang to say that Headline were offering me a two book deal. I had to dial 1471 to check she really had called me and I wasn’t dreaming.
My first novel, Under The Bonnet, was published in November 2004. My second, Our House, was published in 2005, the third, Family Matters in 2006, and the fourth, The Boy Next Door in 2007.
Since then, I’ve been working on an exciting new project, a series of novels about The Otter House Vets, a fictional practice set in a quiet Devonshire market town. Trust Me, I’m a Vet, which will be published in paperback by Arrow Books in April 2010, closely followed by the second book in September 2010.
Since I last updated my website, my menagerie of animals has grown, much to my family’s delight. We now share our lives with two cats, three mad Border Terriers, two ponies and two pet rats which we found abandoned to starve in a cage in the woods nearby. You should have heard my husband’s sigh of resignation when I told him we were bringing them home!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 24, 2020
Reading this book was one of the best decisions that I have made this year (books whise).
My only regret is that I haven't read it sooner, in spring, when it first came out.
I can imagine how beautiful it would be to enjoy this story somewhere outside, where you can smell flowers and hear little bees flying.
I loved this story, but I know I would enjoy it so much more if I read it under prior described conditions.
I fell in love with Talyton St George and it's residents.
The beautiful nature that Woodman described so well took my breath away and made me want to transform myself there.
It also woke up my sentimentality, because I started to miss (I always miss it, but only suppress my longing every day of my life) the village I spent months, years visiting when I was little.
Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage not only has beautiful nature, but also animals. Lots and lots of animals.
And horses. So many horses.
If you love horses, I guarantee you, you will love this book!
The writing style is so beautiful, so passionate. The writer grew up in a place similar to Talyton St George, and you can feel her love for that kind of surrounding.
The story follows Flick, a new woman in village, who came to Talyton St George to replace their local farrier while he's in recovery, due to an operation.
Being farrier is usually a man's work so when a woman comes to do a job, people question her ability and quality.
Therefor, she has to work hard to prove herself.
Robbie is a single father and a local celebrity.
When Flick starts working for him the chemistry is obvious, but he has a rule he sticks to. He doesn't want to march around with a girl, until he is sure there is something serious between them. He doesn't want his daughter to get attached to a woman who can easily go away from their lives. He doesn't want for his daugter to end up with a broken heart.
I like how Maisie wasn't just a kid in this story. Her role wasn't just to be Robbie's daughter, but she also had her own personality full of carisma and I, as a reader, couldn't help but adore her, and I really enjoyed reading about her.
The only book that I can remember, in which a kid is not there just for sake of being there, but has so much personality, is My Life Next Door , where Goerge, one of the siblings, even though he's a side character, won readers' hearts with his personality.
There was an instant attraction between our main characters, but the love took time to develop.
I enjoyed reading scenes where the strong connection between Flick and Robbie was almost touchable, and that sweet temptation made me almost impatiant because I was ready for their happily ever after.
Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage is a part of Talyton St George series, but it can be easily read as standalone.
It was my first time reading a book from this series and, even though I really, really enjoyed it, I believe that people who read previous books will appreciate it so much more because of the side characters who all showed up with their own stories in previous books. I can imagine that readers who connected with them before would be happy to revisit them in this novel.
After finishing this lovely story, I now want to read every single book in this series that came out prior this one.
It makes me so happy to know that there are another 9 books set in this beautiful little village.
Note: I got this book for free in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you Penguin Random House UK.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
My only regret is that I haven't read it sooner, in spring, when it first came out.
I can imagine how beautiful it would be to enjoy this story somewhere outside, where you can smell flowers and hear little bees flying.
I loved this story, but I know I would enjoy it so much more if I read it under prior described conditions.
I fell in love with Talyton St George and it's residents.
The beautiful nature that Woodman described so well took my breath away and made me want to transform myself there.
It also woke up my sentimentality, because I started to miss (I always miss it, but only suppress my longing every day of my life) the village I spent months, years visiting when I was little.
Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage not only has beautiful nature, but also animals. Lots and lots of animals.
And horses. So many horses.
If you love horses, I guarantee you, you will love this book!
The writing style is so beautiful, so passionate. The writer grew up in a place similar to Talyton St George, and you can feel her love for that kind of surrounding.
The story follows Flick, a new woman in village, who came to Talyton St George to replace their local farrier while he's in recovery, due to an operation.
Being farrier is usually a man's work so when a woman comes to do a job, people question her ability and quality.
Therefor, she has to work hard to prove herself.
Robbie is a single father and a local celebrity.
When Flick starts working for him the chemistry is obvious, but he has a rule he sticks to. He doesn't want to march around with a girl, until he is sure there is something serious between them. He doesn't want his daughter to get attached to a woman who can easily go away from their lives. He doesn't want for his daugter to end up with a broken heart.
I like how Maisie wasn't just a kid in this story. Her role wasn't just to be Robbie's daughter, but she also had her own personality full of carisma and I, as a reader, couldn't help but adore her, and I really enjoyed reading about her.
The only book that I can remember, in which a kid is not there just for sake of being there, but has so much personality, is My Life Next Door , where Goerge, one of the siblings, even though he's a side character, won readers' hearts with his personality.
There was an instant attraction between our main characters, but the love took time to develop.
I enjoyed reading scenes where the strong connection between Flick and Robbie was almost touchable, and that sweet temptation made me almost impatiant because I was ready for their happily ever after.
Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage is a part of Talyton St George series, but it can be easily read as standalone.
It was my first time reading a book from this series and, even though I really, really enjoyed it, I believe that people who read previous books will appreciate it so much more because of the side characters who all showed up with their own stories in previous books. I can imagine that readers who connected with them before would be happy to revisit them in this novel.
After finishing this lovely story, I now want to read every single book in this series that came out prior this one.
It makes me so happy to know that there are another 9 books set in this beautiful little village.
Note: I got this book for free in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you Penguin Random House UK.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
March 14, 2016
3.5 - "I'm not one of the lads now." Stars!
I have been reading the Talyton St. George books by Cathy Woodman, since the beginning of the series and it’s always a great way to escape to the country for a few hours of reading pleasure.
I like that although each book features around a new couple, you get to revisit all the past characters and places in the town and surrounding areas, Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage was no exception and on this occasion the story was built around newly qualified Farrier Felicity and Horse Stunt Rider Robbie, both have their own set of commitment issues, and it made the story in parts a little heavier going than most of the previous books have been.
Dating only leads to disappointment.
Flick is new in town and as such is trying to keep her head down, and work on the round she has agreed to cover for the local Farrier, due to him needing an operation. Getting to know the locals poses its own set of challenges in that, being a woman in what is generally considered a man’s’ job raises quite a few eyebrows, and wherever she goes disaster seems to follow. Robbie for the most part seems to be with her when a lot of the unplanned occurrences happen as well, but whereas everyone else judges her, he tries to offer support and the hand of friendship (initially anyway).
"Tell me I’ve got this right… I thought… I can stop. I mean I don’t want to wreck our friendship."
I really liked the build-up between the two of them, Robbie has his own interesting life and unique livelihood, and in bringing Flick into it gives her an extended family and friends that makes starting out somewhere new a little bit more bearable.
What I really struggled with was Flick’s attitude and behavior once they stepped out of the Friend-zone. Robbie as a single father makes it very clear to her that his daughter takes priority and that he would rather keep their relationship separate until they decide they are serious about pursuing it, and as you would expect, that on occasion did put a bit of a dent in their time together, the subsequent internal moaning monologues about their plans going awry, and whinging about Robbie leaving her to her own devices in favor to care for his daughter really did get a little grating on the nerves after a while.
"If you’re trying to say I have no balls, then you’re wrong."
My other issue is the fact Flick blew so hot and cold with him, I understood that she had been burnt in the past, but you cannot whinge one minute that the guy you are seeing wants to keep things quiet because you both aren’t sure where the relationship is going, to then turn round and profess that you think you may be better off going back to 'just friends'.
"You’re behaving like a stroppy mare."
Still an enjoyable read, but it lacked the normal all round likability that I have come to associate with the characters from the previous books. The story-line in general was still superb, and getting to see a few of the previous characters and how they are getting on, bought a smile to my face.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I have been reading the Talyton St. George books by Cathy Woodman, since the beginning of the series and it’s always a great way to escape to the country for a few hours of reading pleasure.
I like that although each book features around a new couple, you get to revisit all the past characters and places in the town and surrounding areas, Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage was no exception and on this occasion the story was built around newly qualified Farrier Felicity and Horse Stunt Rider Robbie, both have their own set of commitment issues, and it made the story in parts a little heavier going than most of the previous books have been.
Dating only leads to disappointment.
Flick is new in town and as such is trying to keep her head down, and work on the round she has agreed to cover for the local Farrier, due to him needing an operation. Getting to know the locals poses its own set of challenges in that, being a woman in what is generally considered a man’s’ job raises quite a few eyebrows, and wherever she goes disaster seems to follow. Robbie for the most part seems to be with her when a lot of the unplanned occurrences happen as well, but whereas everyone else judges her, he tries to offer support and the hand of friendship (initially anyway).
"Tell me I’ve got this right… I thought… I can stop. I mean I don’t want to wreck our friendship."
I really liked the build-up between the two of them, Robbie has his own interesting life and unique livelihood, and in bringing Flick into it gives her an extended family and friends that makes starting out somewhere new a little bit more bearable.
What I really struggled with was Flick’s attitude and behavior once they stepped out of the Friend-zone. Robbie as a single father makes it very clear to her that his daughter takes priority and that he would rather keep their relationship separate until they decide they are serious about pursuing it, and as you would expect, that on occasion did put a bit of a dent in their time together, the subsequent internal moaning monologues about their plans going awry, and whinging about Robbie leaving her to her own devices in favor to care for his daughter really did get a little grating on the nerves after a while.
"If you’re trying to say I have no balls, then you’re wrong."
My other issue is the fact Flick blew so hot and cold with him, I understood that she had been burnt in the past, but you cannot whinge one minute that the guy you are seeing wants to keep things quiet because you both aren’t sure where the relationship is going, to then turn round and profess that you think you may be better off going back to 'just friends'.
"You’re behaving like a stroppy mare."
Still an enjoyable read, but it lacked the normal all round likability that I have come to associate with the characters from the previous books. The story-line in general was still superb, and getting to see a few of the previous characters and how they are getting on, bought a smile to my face.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
March 21, 2016
This is an extremely entertaining, easy to read Talyton St George romance in which we meet Flick, a woman in a man’s world, who arrives to help farrier Mel by looking after his clients whilst he recovers from an operation on his back. Recovering from a break up, she is not looking for romance but then she meets local stunt rider and single father Robbie Salterton and almost immediately the sparks begin to fly and chemistry fizzes.
There are oodles of romance here as well as plenty of spanners being thrown in the works to make sure that the course of love doesn’t flow too easily. It is relaxingly predictable and great fun to read. There is a heck of a lot of horsey talk here which would normally turn me off (I am not a horsey person at all) but on this occasion I really enjoyed it. Flick herself is a very entertaining character, although she did really annoy me at times. She could be stubborn, impetuous and rather selfish and there were times when she could have shown a lot more understanding towards Robbie and his situation as a single father.
There is a lot of story packed into the read which is the 10th in the Talyton St George series. I know I have read a couple but certainly not all of them although that didn’t really matter as I found this book very easy to fall into. There were times when, especially at the start when the author was using dialogue to explain characters and their history, that dialogue felt a bit stilted and unnatural but as the read goes on that feeling disappeared.
All in all, this is a recommended book – relaxing, entertaining, easy to read and, most of all, fun. Thanks to the publishers via Netgalley for the review copy.
There are oodles of romance here as well as plenty of spanners being thrown in the works to make sure that the course of love doesn’t flow too easily. It is relaxingly predictable and great fun to read. There is a heck of a lot of horsey talk here which would normally turn me off (I am not a horsey person at all) but on this occasion I really enjoyed it. Flick herself is a very entertaining character, although she did really annoy me at times. She could be stubborn, impetuous and rather selfish and there were times when she could have shown a lot more understanding towards Robbie and his situation as a single father.
There is a lot of story packed into the read which is the 10th in the Talyton St George series. I know I have read a couple but certainly not all of them although that didn’t really matter as I found this book very easy to fall into. There were times when, especially at the start when the author was using dialogue to explain characters and their history, that dialogue felt a bit stilted and unnatural but as the read goes on that feeling disappeared.
All in all, this is a recommended book – relaxing, entertaining, easy to read and, most of all, fun. Thanks to the publishers via Netgalley for the review copy.
January 13, 2026
Oh dear… this one just didn’t quite work for me 🌸😕 I really wanted to love it, small village, fresh start, strong woman learning a skilled trade,but it all ended up feeling a bit too safe, flat, and predictable.
Flick is a likeable enough heroine in theory, and I genuinely appreciated the idea of a woman carving out space for herself in a male dominated job 🔨🐎 But in practice, she never fully came alive on the page. Her struggles with the locals are mentioned a lot, yet never explored with much depth, so the tension feels more told than felt.
And Robbie… well. He’s pleasant. Handsome. Supportive. And that’s kind of the problem 😬 He’s so perfectly nice and unchallenging that the romance never sparks. There’s very little chemistry, no real push-and-pull, and I never once felt that fluttery oh no, I care now feeling 💔
The setting is undeniably charming cottages, village greens, springtime vibes,but it leans heavily into cosy clichés without adding anything fresh 🌼 It all felt very familiar, like I’d read this story (and these characters) many times before, just with slightly different names.
The pacing is slow, the conflict is mild, and the emotional beats are very gentle,which might suit readers looking for pure comfort, but for me it bordered on dull. I kept waiting for something to happen, or for the characters to surprise me… and they never really did.
It’s not awful,just bland. Sweet but forgettable, cosy but lacking spark. A nice enough idea that never quite lifts off 💭
Flick is a likeable enough heroine in theory, and I genuinely appreciated the idea of a woman carving out space for herself in a male dominated job 🔨🐎 But in practice, she never fully came alive on the page. Her struggles with the locals are mentioned a lot, yet never explored with much depth, so the tension feels more told than felt.
And Robbie… well. He’s pleasant. Handsome. Supportive. And that’s kind of the problem 😬 He’s so perfectly nice and unchallenging that the romance never sparks. There’s very little chemistry, no real push-and-pull, and I never once felt that fluttery oh no, I care now feeling 💔
The setting is undeniably charming cottages, village greens, springtime vibes,but it leans heavily into cosy clichés without adding anything fresh 🌼 It all felt very familiar, like I’d read this story (and these characters) many times before, just with slightly different names.
The pacing is slow, the conflict is mild, and the emotional beats are very gentle,which might suit readers looking for pure comfort, but for me it bordered on dull. I kept waiting for something to happen, or for the characters to surprise me… and they never really did.
It’s not awful,just bland. Sweet but forgettable, cosy but lacking spark. A nice enough idea that never quite lifts off 💭
July 12, 2019
I’m done with this series now. I thought I might be, but I gave this a go. I didn’t like the heroine or the hero and they didn’t really improve in the resolution.
April 30, 2020
This was a fun little story, however I think the reason I enjoyed it was mainly the setting more than the actual love story or characters. Overall it was a light and quick read and a good choice during Spring.
April 1, 2017
"Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage" is the tenth book in the Talyton St George series. Having read the previous 9 books and really enjoyed them, I had high hopes for this book.
However, I was a bit disappointed when I picked it up and started to read it. To begin with it didn't feel like the other books in the series. The story seemed long and drawn out and to be honest, it felt like it could have ended halfway through. There was little to link it to Talyton St George and the characters from the other books hardly appeared and when they did it felt very forced. It was almost as if it was written NOT as part of the Talyton St George series but at the last minute slipped in a few of the regular characters to make it part of the series.
Sadly perhaps maybe the Talyton St George series has now run it's course. It would've been better if the series had been left at the ninth book rather than making a ten book series with this last one. I have genuinely loved all the other books but this one was not in the same league at all.
However, I was a bit disappointed when I picked it up and started to read it. To begin with it didn't feel like the other books in the series. The story seemed long and drawn out and to be honest, it felt like it could have ended halfway through. There was little to link it to Talyton St George and the characters from the other books hardly appeared and when they did it felt very forced. It was almost as if it was written NOT as part of the Talyton St George series but at the last minute slipped in a few of the regular characters to make it part of the series.
Sadly perhaps maybe the Talyton St George series has now run it's course. It would've been better if the series had been left at the ninth book rather than making a ten book series with this last one. I have genuinely loved all the other books but this one was not in the same league at all.
April 5, 2016
I really loved this return to Talyton St George and must read the odd one that I'm missing in this series. It's so lovely to return to village life and catching up with some familiar characters.
Flick has just qualified as a farrier and has taken over Mel's practice whilst he gets over a back operation. She meets some resistance - but also meets some interesting characters including Robbie who owns a stunt riding stables. There is an instant spark between them.
There are some very touching moments in the book aswell as romance. The horses are also very strong characters and you can imagine Paddington settling into his new home being loved by Maisie.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book to review.
Flick has just qualified as a farrier and has taken over Mel's practice whilst he gets over a back operation. She meets some resistance - but also meets some interesting characters including Robbie who owns a stunt riding stables. There is an instant spark between them.
There are some very touching moments in the book aswell as romance. The horses are also very strong characters and you can imagine Paddington settling into his new home being loved by Maisie.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book to review.
September 30, 2017
Attracted to this as I love horses and was interested in the struggles of a female farrier. Sadly the storyline was a bit too fluffy for me, and the language, particularly by the male lead, was less than realistic. I also found myself strangely irritated by his sideline in horses as therapy, for which he appeared to have no training or talent.
I finished it, and it was okay, but too slushily Mills & Boon for me, so I won't be reading more from this author.
I finished it, and it was okay, but too slushily Mills & Boon for me, so I won't be reading more from this author.
February 22, 2016
I love my annual visit to Talyton St Georges and this years visit is again over too soon. It was great to meet some more of the residents and be able to learn more about the farrier's workplace and the dangerous trade of stunt rider.
Full review to follow
Full review to follow
December 24, 2016
Book Review By Becky Holland (Feedback Welcome)
Cathy Woodman’s Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage
Pegasus Books
ISBN: 078-1-68177-361-2
Ratings: 4.6 Stars
The latest book in the Talyton St. George book series by Cathy Woodman is called ‘Springtime at Cherry Tree.’
Though I have only read one other work by Woodman, I must say that this one was artistically-inclined with its vivid use of imagery through words. Not only could you see the horses, the stalls, you could literally feel the emotions erupting from the pages.
I received this book from Pegasus purely complimentary in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Flick is in need of a change. She detests her sales and marketing job – a job that she took because it was expected of her. The parents don’t know what to think of her decision. Her friends have married and moved away. Her boyfriend dumped her and duped her.
So she quits it all. She packs everything up, tries to pull her lip from dragging the ground in sadness, and heads to the countryside – close to Talyton St. George so Flick can start her change. She is going to be a blacksmith. Flick falls in love with the work she does and earns herself a good reputation. She focuses on work and that is it. Until the handsome Robbie Salterton rides into the picture. Woodman weaves the story of Flick becoming her own woman in with the a romance she wasn’t looking for with grace and style that you can’t help but become anxious for what is to happen next.
You find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat as you turn page after page, silently cheering and encouraging Robbie and Flick to give in to love.
It was a good rainy Saturday afternoon novel to grab onto, I will give it that. Only reason I didn’t give it a perfect five were some of the connections of characters weren’t very clear, and some of the dialogue read like a typical love story. (I like stories that aren’t typical.)
I highly recommend it. Bravo, Ms. Woodman!
Cathy Woodman’s Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage
Pegasus Books
ISBN: 078-1-68177-361-2
Ratings: 4.6 Stars
The latest book in the Talyton St. George book series by Cathy Woodman is called ‘Springtime at Cherry Tree.’
Though I have only read one other work by Woodman, I must say that this one was artistically-inclined with its vivid use of imagery through words. Not only could you see the horses, the stalls, you could literally feel the emotions erupting from the pages.
I received this book from Pegasus purely complimentary in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Flick is in need of a change. She detests her sales and marketing job – a job that she took because it was expected of her. The parents don’t know what to think of her decision. Her friends have married and moved away. Her boyfriend dumped her and duped her.
So she quits it all. She packs everything up, tries to pull her lip from dragging the ground in sadness, and heads to the countryside – close to Talyton St. George so Flick can start her change. She is going to be a blacksmith. Flick falls in love with the work she does and earns herself a good reputation. She focuses on work and that is it. Until the handsome Robbie Salterton rides into the picture. Woodman weaves the story of Flick becoming her own woman in with the a romance she wasn’t looking for with grace and style that you can’t help but become anxious for what is to happen next.
You find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat as you turn page after page, silently cheering and encouraging Robbie and Flick to give in to love.
It was a good rainy Saturday afternoon novel to grab onto, I will give it that. Only reason I didn’t give it a perfect five were some of the connections of characters weren’t very clear, and some of the dialogue read like a typical love story. (I like stories that aren’t typical.)
I highly recommend it. Bravo, Ms. Woodman!
March 9, 2018
I did enjoy this one, though at times it really just seemed to be another version of Tessa and Jack's story, or one of the others. I'm still sad/annoyed that Flick didn't take to Maisie more in the beginning. Also, the name "Flick" just doesn't work for me. It's awkward, for one thing, and reminds me too much of another horse book I read as a kid, with a character that went by that nickname. And Maisie came across more like a child of five, rather than age eight. Plus, I don't think it was necessary for Robbie to have that accident right there at the end. Of course we knew he was going to be ok, based on the small number of pages remaining, but I was really rooting for Diva to come into her own and perform beautifully, rather than become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
So, that's that. I've read the whole series, thus far- except for Follow Me Home which the post office has apparently lost, as it has now been FIVE WEEKS since I ordered it, with no sign of it since Feb. 1st, when it went "out for delivery" but was then "forwarded". I've contacted the post office by various means with absolutely no luck and no help.
So, that's that. I've read the whole series, thus far- except for Follow Me Home which the post office has apparently lost, as it has now been FIVE WEEKS since I ordered it, with no sign of it since Feb. 1st, when it went "out for delivery" but was then "forwarded". I've contacted the post office by various means with absolutely no luck and no help.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2017
This book does not come across as the tenth book in a series, it can be read as a standalone.
I liked the characters. It was refreshing for the main female character to have such an interesting job. I liked that she was trying to be so independent but was not ashamed to admit that at times everyone needs some help.
I liked Maisie as a character, she made you realise that as a kid you can read things into situations that are not there.
I would recommend this book.
I liked the characters. It was refreshing for the main female character to have such an interesting job. I liked that she was trying to be so independent but was not ashamed to admit that at times everyone needs some help.
I liked Maisie as a character, she made you realise that as a kid you can read things into situations that are not there.
I would recommend this book.
July 12, 2018
I have read all of the Talyton St George stories this year and enjoyed every one, Follow me home was a bit of a slow burn but still a good read. I spotted the entire series for £0.99 each, plus a free novella, and decided to take a chance on a new (to me) author. CW creates characters you care about and I will miss the good folk of Talyton however I found some more titles by CW, also @ £0.99 so anticipate many more happy hours of reading.
September 4, 2018
I struggle with stories where there are any cheaters. Flick was cheated on before the story begins and she revisits it at one point. So I didn't care for that. And there is other cheating happening throughout so, yeah... not my favorite The story is mostly cute though. The morals of all parties are different than mine, so I probably enjoyed it less than some. 2.5 stars from me
November 10, 2017
This is the first Cathy Woodman book I have read and I was really pleased.
I think the main characther, Flick is a wonderful woman trying to get along in what is predominately a mans world. Her strength and stamina give some humourous points in the book.
This is a well written book, fully plausable and a great read.
I think the main characther, Flick is a wonderful woman trying to get along in what is predominately a mans world. Her strength and stamina give some humourous points in the book.
This is a well written book, fully plausable and a great read.
November 6, 2020
Book 10 and seems the last in this great series. I have got to know these fantastic characters over the past months.
A easy delightful read with horses, romance and personal crisis and dilemias thrown in the mix.
A book to read on a frosty day snuggled up with cuppa and cost jumper.
Will now have to do some research to find similar read.
A easy delightful read with horses, romance and personal crisis and dilemias thrown in the mix.
A book to read on a frosty day snuggled up with cuppa and cost jumper.
Will now have to do some research to find similar read.
November 14, 2018
The perfect romance for horse loving people. There’s some strife, lots of horses, and a hunky man and a spunky female farrier who fall for one another.
Woodman has mastered the formula of country life and love.
Woodman has mastered the formula of country life and love.
June 4, 2023
The main characters were so immature and some of the stuff Robbie said during arguments was awful. But the worst thing for me was the cheating subplot and how the main characters just brushed it under the rug, it was gross.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2016
Since I've discovered the Talyton St. George series by Cathy Woodman, I am always looking forward to a new release. I haven't read all of the books but the few that I've read made me fell in love with the place, with Ms Woodman's writing and it is always a great feeling to be back to this lovely village - you could think, a small place, but there are so many things happening, right?
What I so adore in these books is the fact that each story introduces us to new characters, but some of the past characters and places are always a part of the book, and spotting them always makes me smile. This time "Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage" introduces us to Flick and Robbie, both madly in love with horses - which I, personally, adored, as I am also mad about horses and I thought, finally a book for me! Flick has just passed her tests to become a farrier and is new in Talyton, working as a replacement for a local farrier Mel who's due a serious operation. She isn't looking for new friends or new love, as she's recently broken up with her boyfriend, and the only thing she wants is to work and to have a place for her adorable horse Rafa. Robbie is a stunt rider, he and his brother have their own school and they often work for films, but apart of this Robbie has his own issues as well - he is a single dad to Maisie, as her mum has died giving birth to her. The story then follows those two, Flick trying to break new ground and prove she is as good a farrier as a man, and Robbie training his horses, and of course the paths of these two cross, earlier rather than later.
As much as I liked Flick, she was just a girl after my own heart, she also annoyed me incredibly occasionally, especially with her attitude towards Robbie's being a single dad. I think it is very clear for all that being a single parent is not easy and that the whole world centres around this child, whereas Flick couldn't understand this at the beginning, and truly, when she was unhappy with Maisie's presence, or when she wished for Maisie to disappear, I just wanted to shake my head and tell her to grow up and stop behaving like a spoiled child - Robbie has his priorities. On the other hand, I also wanted to slap Robbie when he - deliberately or not - made Flick feeling like a third wheel. But altogether, these two worked together in a brilliant way, although there were moments that I wanted to bang their heads first together, and then separately on the wall, as they were stubborn and they were immediately jumping to - wrong - conclusions. Especially Flick. But altogether, the characters were so lovely, and I really felt great in their company. I kept my fingers crossed for them, I applauded them and I also felt angry with them - and I love when the characters make me do this. They were full of life and they acted in a way that was so normal and realistic. They had their own problems, they weren't flawless, and each and every one of them had their own place in this story.
I absolutely, totally adored the way the author described horses, the way they're acting, their faces and how they always try to find something to eat. You can really see that she knows what she's writing about and that she loves horses - there is a lot of feelings to them in this book. But back to being mad about horses. Like, totally mad. As much as I adore every mention of this animal in the books that I'm reading, here the author took them to a totally different level, I think. She really knows her shop, and some of the information about farrier's job were new even for me, but there were moments that even I, the total horse freak, felt a little overwhelmed with the very detailed information about making a shoe and about every single requirements that you must fulfil to be a farrier. This book really focused hard on Flick and her being a ferrier, and I am only a little afraid that for people who are not as much into horses it might be a little too much. I'd also like to see a closure to the fact that Flick has been financially deceived by her ex - boyfriend.
The pace of the story is just right, it's not too quick and not too slow, just like I imagine life in Talyton St. George to be. There is warmth to the writing style and a lot of passion in the words, and even though not only good things happen in this story, it had this lovely feel - good factor that makes reading so enjoyable. The dialogues were realistic, they felt like they were taken from everyday life, and Flick's internal monologues were brilliant. There couldn't be a village life without a festival or two, and we also have them in this story, and they were lovely described. And the book is not only about horses and people being mad about them, but it also touches upon some really important, difficult and sad issues, such as autism, difficult relationships with parents, disappointments and hopes, betrayal. Altogether, "Springtime at Cherry Tree Cottage" is all what I've expected from this book - engaging story with lovely characters, interesting plot and full of animals. Just what the doctor ordered. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
June 23, 2017
I really enjoyed the book!
July 7, 2018
Such a good concept that we hardly ever see, i loved the story, the characters and the writing style of the author. Its definitely a feel good novel and easy to read. would recommend!
October 2, 2019
Fantastic!
Great book, great romantic story line! I've really enjoyed these stories set in a lovely Devon countryside. Cathy Woodman books have become some of my favourites!
Great book, great romantic story line! I've really enjoyed these stories set in a lovely Devon countryside. Cathy Woodman books have become some of my favourites!
February 22, 2021
Okay so some of this was a bit cringeworthy to read - mainly when she's swooning over Robbie. But other than that, it was a good read.
August 3, 2021
Not my faviourite in series but going to miss talyton
Read
September 27, 2021Skimmed actually. Loved the others I read in this series but just couldn't get into this one.
July 11, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Kept me interested throughout, although I did find some characters quite frustrating and the main character's indecisiveness annoying at times.
Kept me interested throughout, although I did find some characters quite frustrating and the main character's indecisiveness annoying at times.
March 16, 2023
Farrier falls for stunt rider - can they make it work? This is a fun straight romance with the focus on Flick and her struggle to balance independence with connection.
June 4, 2023
A very easy read, quite cheesy but a nice summer book to lose yourself in
July 10, 2023
A lovely light cosy story
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