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Ottercombe Bay #1-4
Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay
Ottercombe Bay was originally published as a four-part serial. This is the complete story in one package.
Daisy Wickens has returned to Ottercombe Bay, the picturesque Devon town where her mother died when she was a girl. She plans to leave as soon as her great uncle’s funeral is over, but Great Uncle Reg had other ideas. He’s left Daisy a significant inheritance – an old building in a state of disrepair, which could offer exciting possibilities, but to get it she must stay in Ottercombe Bay for twelve whole months.
With the help of a cast of quirky locals, a few gin cocktails and a black pug with plenty of attitude, Daisy might just turn this into something special. But can she ever hope to be happy among the ghosts of her past?
Daisy Wickens has returned to Ottercombe Bay, the picturesque Devon town where her mother died when she was a girl. She plans to leave as soon as her great uncle’s funeral is over, but Great Uncle Reg had other ideas. He’s left Daisy a significant inheritance – an old building in a state of disrepair, which could offer exciting possibilities, but to get it she must stay in Ottercombe Bay for twelve whole months.
With the help of a cast of quirky locals, a few gin cocktails and a black pug with plenty of attitude, Daisy might just turn this into something special. But can she ever hope to be happy among the ghosts of her past?
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2018
216 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 29, 2018
4 Adorable Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
What a delightful book, filled with quirky characters in a quaint village... why is it I have not inherited A historic building filled with character... with the stipulation I must live in this charming village for a year in order to inherit? I’m up for it! I’ll even pretend I’m your long lost relative... I just want a cottage with a name in a small charming town, preferably by the beach in the UK... and while you’re at it I wouldn’t mind a best friend like Tamsen and a love interest like Max....
Daisy returns to her childhood village of Ottercombe Bay... Daisy has wanderlust so she is not all that thrilled with the prospect of staying in the same place for a year, and inheriting a building she’s not quite sure what she’s going to do with.... Daisy was such a real and relatable character and I would love to hang out with her and her BFF Tamsen... admittedly Tamsen was the best character in this book... any girl that will go swimming in freezing water in a gorilla costume is a girl we all want to hang out with! Right? The girl had spunk, sass, and she was loyal to a fault! So many lovely characters in this book sweet Jason, caring Cora, and annoying yet adorable max...
This really is the perfect beach read! A book that puts a smile on your face, makes you laugh, and gives you that warm fuzzy feeling in your heart! The perfect lighthearted read for that summer vacation... on the beach... poolside... or sitting out on your porch in the sun.... just don’t forget your sunscreen!
*** many thanks to Avon UK, the author, and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
What a delightful book, filled with quirky characters in a quaint village... why is it I have not inherited A historic building filled with character... with the stipulation I must live in this charming village for a year in order to inherit? I’m up for it! I’ll even pretend I’m your long lost relative... I just want a cottage with a name in a small charming town, preferably by the beach in the UK... and while you’re at it I wouldn’t mind a best friend like Tamsen and a love interest like Max....
Daisy returns to her childhood village of Ottercombe Bay... Daisy has wanderlust so she is not all that thrilled with the prospect of staying in the same place for a year, and inheriting a building she’s not quite sure what she’s going to do with.... Daisy was such a real and relatable character and I would love to hang out with her and her BFF Tamsen... admittedly Tamsen was the best character in this book... any girl that will go swimming in freezing water in a gorilla costume is a girl we all want to hang out with! Right? The girl had spunk, sass, and she was loyal to a fault! So many lovely characters in this book sweet Jason, caring Cora, and annoying yet adorable max...
This really is the perfect beach read! A book that puts a smile on your face, makes you laugh, and gives you that warm fuzzy feeling in your heart! The perfect lighthearted read for that summer vacation... on the beach... poolside... or sitting out on your porch in the sun.... just don’t forget your sunscreen!
*** many thanks to Avon UK, the author, and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
June 29, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Here was a prime example why people should leave home and explore the world, thought Daisy. Staying here had turned Tamsyn into Ottercombe Bay’s answer to Phoebe Buffay from Friends, blurring the line between adorable and certifiable.
Bloody hell, the grapevine here spreads faster than a Kim Kardashian selfie.
I have neither the patience nor the crayons to explain this to you.
‘I’ve been possessed by a demon.’ ‘Drink plenty of water, it’s just a hangover.’ ‘I suspected someone might have a voodoo doll of me and now I know it’s true… Even my hair hurts.’
You are different but in a good way. Like a limited edition.’
She’s a raisin away from being a total fruitcake.
… she couldn’t think of a time she’d been happier with the possible exception of when her parents had bought her bunk beds so her imaginary friend had somewhere to sleep.
My Review:
I adored, smirked, and speed my way through all four parts to this cleverly amusing and engaging series featuring a small quirky coastal village and an initially unwilling new inhabitant. The premise was entertaining and the storylines were active, well paced, laced with levity, and easy to fall into. I adored Ms. Osborne’s crisp writing style and breezy humor. I enjoyed each quirky and well-drawn character and reveled in the goat race with participants wittily named Hairy Potter, Billy the Kid, Barb. E. Cue, Hot to Trot, and Vincent Van Goat. What fun! The last two installments were busy and fast-paced with several twists and turns all the way through to the satisfying conclusion. I learned two new phrases to add to my Brit list with “load of witpot,” and “I’d fill my boots if I were you.”
Here was a prime example why people should leave home and explore the world, thought Daisy. Staying here had turned Tamsyn into Ottercombe Bay’s answer to Phoebe Buffay from Friends, blurring the line between adorable and certifiable.
Bloody hell, the grapevine here spreads faster than a Kim Kardashian selfie.
I have neither the patience nor the crayons to explain this to you.
‘I’ve been possessed by a demon.’ ‘Drink plenty of water, it’s just a hangover.’ ‘I suspected someone might have a voodoo doll of me and now I know it’s true… Even my hair hurts.’
You are different but in a good way. Like a limited edition.’
She’s a raisin away from being a total fruitcake.
… she couldn’t think of a time she’d been happier with the possible exception of when her parents had bought her bunk beds so her imaginary friend had somewhere to sleep.
My Review:
I adored, smirked, and speed my way through all four parts to this cleverly amusing and engaging series featuring a small quirky coastal village and an initially unwilling new inhabitant. The premise was entertaining and the storylines were active, well paced, laced with levity, and easy to fall into. I adored Ms. Osborne’s crisp writing style and breezy humor. I enjoyed each quirky and well-drawn character and reveled in the goat race with participants wittily named Hairy Potter, Billy the Kid, Barb. E. Cue, Hot to Trot, and Vincent Van Goat. What fun! The last two installments were busy and fast-paced with several twists and turns all the way through to the satisfying conclusion. I learned two new phrases to add to my Brit list with “load of witpot,” and “I’d fill my boots if I were you.”
June 7, 2018
The moment I saw the cover I totally fell in love with this book. Yes, yes I know. I should not be judging by appearances. But what was inside was equally heartwarming and comforting. The book traces one year in Daisy's life when she is forced to stay in Ottercombe Bay in order to get her inheritance. So keeping her wanderlust on hold, she is forced to confront the painful memories related to her mother's death.
There is a mystery, a bit of romance and a lot of funny moments all thanks to the cunning black pug, Bugsy. I am glad Osborne gave him much importance, we can't help but adore him. I eagerly waited for his pranks all the time.
Osborne has successfully captured the life of Ottercombe in its true beauty and it stays as a soothing, calm village with helping, lovely neighbours till the very end. Quirky Tamsyn, sweet Jason, annoying but loving Max, caring Coral and the list goes on. It was almost as if I was living there myself. We could feel the salty sea breeze and a certain cosiness that can only be found in Ottercombe Bay.
Thank you, Avon, for giving me a review copy via NetGalley. It was an enjoyable read!
There is a mystery, a bit of romance and a lot of funny moments all thanks to the cunning black pug, Bugsy. I am glad Osborne gave him much importance, we can't help but adore him. I eagerly waited for his pranks all the time.
Osborne has successfully captured the life of Ottercombe in its true beauty and it stays as a soothing, calm village with helping, lovely neighbours till the very end. Quirky Tamsyn, sweet Jason, annoying but loving Max, caring Coral and the list goes on. It was almost as if I was living there myself. We could feel the salty sea breeze and a certain cosiness that can only be found in Ottercombe Bay.
Thank you, Avon, for giving me a review copy via NetGalley. It was an enjoyable read!
May 6, 2022
3⭐ = Average Read.
Passed on to me via a work colleague.
A fairly enjoyable read with likeable characters.
I would describe this as a book that is easily picked up and put down. If you're a beach person... ideal. 🙂
Passed on to me via a work colleague.
A fairly enjoyable read with likeable characters.
I would describe this as a book that is easily picked up and put down. If you're a beach person... ideal. 🙂
November 1, 2025
Coming Home to Ottercombe Bays is an intriguing story of coming home/second chances. Delightful characters and untypical family dynamics. Overall, nothing riveting or page turning, just one of those good, easy going reads...
I received this ARC copy of Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay from Avon Books. This is my honest and voluntary review. Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is set for publication June 28, 2018.
I received this ARC copy of Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay from Avon Books. This is my honest and voluntary review. Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is set for publication June 28, 2018.
June 12, 2018
What on earth do you do if you discover you have inherited an old abandoned railway station that has had planning permission turned down for multiple times? What do you do if the conditions of this inheritance are that you have to stay in Ottercombe Bay for a whole year especially when you a someone with itchy feet and never stays in one place for long?
Well that is exactly what Daisy is faced with, and along with some old and new friends has to make some big decisions.
There are other questions from her past that need answering, other mysteries to be solved and potentially a new love interest too.
Easily though my favourite character was Tamsyn, Daisy's wonderful best friend, who has a real way with words and a delightfully inquisitive mind - or you could just call her bonkers!
Add in to this story Bugsy Malone, a pug who takes an instant dislike to Daisy, and at times seemingly wants to get rid of her, and you have a brilliant set of characters to make a hugely entertaining book.
i loved reading this, it felt like a breath of fresh air, in amongst other books featuring surprise inheritances and keeps you reading and interested from start to finish. I loved it!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Well that is exactly what Daisy is faced with, and along with some old and new friends has to make some big decisions.
There are other questions from her past that need answering, other mysteries to be solved and potentially a new love interest too.
Easily though my favourite character was Tamsyn, Daisy's wonderful best friend, who has a real way with words and a delightfully inquisitive mind - or you could just call her bonkers!
Add in to this story Bugsy Malone, a pug who takes an instant dislike to Daisy, and at times seemingly wants to get rid of her, and you have a brilliant set of characters to make a hugely entertaining book.
i loved reading this, it felt like a breath of fresh air, in amongst other books featuring surprise inheritances and keeps you reading and interested from start to finish. I loved it!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 9, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I loved this book - it is definitely a perfect read for the summer!!
Daisy is a really interesting character and I loved her interaction with the Ottercombe Bay residents but most of all I loved her dealings with Bugsy Malone - he is ace!! There are some very funny scenes with him and it did have me laughing.
This is a well written, fun story that is very easy to read and Ottercombe Bay is certainly a place I would have loved to visit! It didn't take me very long to read and I loved every minute.
Five stars from me, excellent characters and a really fun story!
I loved this book - it is definitely a perfect read for the summer!!
Daisy is a really interesting character and I loved her interaction with the Ottercombe Bay residents but most of all I loved her dealings with Bugsy Malone - he is ace!! There are some very funny scenes with him and it did have me laughing.
This is a well written, fun story that is very easy to read and Ottercombe Bay is certainly a place I would have loved to visit! It didn't take me very long to read and I loved every minute.
Five stars from me, excellent characters and a really fun story!
June 26, 2018
'Roll me in glitter and call me a unicorn...' I absolutely, totally adored this book. It had many laugh out loud moments and the writing was as exuberant as one of the stand-out characters, Tamsyn. It cheered me up and entertained me at a time when there is so much sheer doom, dour seriousness and po-faced proselytising all around. If I want to dwell on guilt and misery, I'll turn on the news or social media but if I want a light-hearted, joyous read - with an intriguing plot that kept me turning the pages - this is what I'll reach for. I know Bella Osborne and I got this as an ARC but I read a lot of novels in this genre, and this was my stand-out so far this year.
November 17, 2018
Another delightful read from this wonderful author Bella. She is fast becoming one of my fave authors.
Thoroughly loved getting to know each of the characters esp little Bugsy the pug, he sounds adorable and a right little character.
I would love to have visited Locos for real, the hot chocolates sounded yummy. I don't even know if I like gin but even I was tempted by the rhubarb and custard one.
The whole story was well written and was a fun entertaining read.
Thoroughly loved getting to know each of the characters esp little Bugsy the pug, he sounds adorable and a right little character.
I would love to have visited Locos for real, the hot chocolates sounded yummy. I don't even know if I like gin but even I was tempted by the rhubarb and custard one.
The whole story was well written and was a fun entertaining read.
June 28, 2018
Daisy's back in her old hometown, but desperately wants to leave. There's plenty of history she doesn't want to be reminded of. Going to a funeral saddens her and catching up with old friends is nice, but Daisy doesn't want to be there any longer than she has to. Daisy's Great Uncle Reg found a way to make Daisy reconsider her stay in Ottercombe Bay though. They used to be close and after his death he left Daisy an old railway station. She can only claim her inheritance if she doesn't leave for an entire year. Daisy's wanderlust knows no bounds and putting down roots scares her. However, she decides to give it a try. Together with the help of her lovely aunt and good friends she might survive the year and it may even be better than she initially expected.
Daisy has a building she can use and decides to turn it into a business. Making sure she has happy customers coming for a special drink is her new goal. Being a business owner keeps Daisy occupied and grounded. Ottercombe Bay might seem like a sleepy town, but there's a lot going on. Daisy finds herself in the middle of several mysteries. Uncovering secrets of the past and the present is a tough job. Will Daisy manage to ignore her itchy feet and make Ottercombe Bay her home for twelve months? Will she find happiness there eventually?
Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is a wonderful heartwarming story. Daisy is a fabulous woman. She has a fiery personality that I absolutely adored. I loved her spunk, her prickly nature and her resilience. She always knows what to say and she stands up for herself whenever she needs to. She's a fantastic main character with a lovely multilayered personality laced with pizazz and toughness, but with a sweet core. Bella Osborne skillfully explores Daisy's fascinating personality traits and the result is fun, fierce and captivating. She has a gorgeous sense of humor that makes the stubborn and dynamic Daisy a joy to read about.
Bella Osborne skillfully combines humor, suspense and romance. Each aspect of her story has been well thought through and she effortlessly manages to keep the balance. She's in full control of her story and that shows. She uses people's flaws to make them interesting, she knows what real love feels like, her dialogue is witty and strong and she's great at dividing tension. She combines this with descriptions of a marvelous small town. I loved Ottercombe Bay, it's a stunning setting filled with terrific surprises. Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is a true gem, it's a story to fall in love with. Bella Osborne's writing always puts a big smile on my face and I highly recommend this delightful book.
Daisy has a building she can use and decides to turn it into a business. Making sure she has happy customers coming for a special drink is her new goal. Being a business owner keeps Daisy occupied and grounded. Ottercombe Bay might seem like a sleepy town, but there's a lot going on. Daisy finds herself in the middle of several mysteries. Uncovering secrets of the past and the present is a tough job. Will Daisy manage to ignore her itchy feet and make Ottercombe Bay her home for twelve months? Will she find happiness there eventually?
Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is a wonderful heartwarming story. Daisy is a fabulous woman. She has a fiery personality that I absolutely adored. I loved her spunk, her prickly nature and her resilience. She always knows what to say and she stands up for herself whenever she needs to. She's a fantastic main character with a lovely multilayered personality laced with pizazz and toughness, but with a sweet core. Bella Osborne skillfully explores Daisy's fascinating personality traits and the result is fun, fierce and captivating. She has a gorgeous sense of humor that makes the stubborn and dynamic Daisy a joy to read about.
Bella Osborne skillfully combines humor, suspense and romance. Each aspect of her story has been well thought through and she effortlessly manages to keep the balance. She's in full control of her story and that shows. She uses people's flaws to make them interesting, she knows what real love feels like, her dialogue is witty and strong and she's great at dividing tension. She combines this with descriptions of a marvelous small town. I loved Ottercombe Bay, it's a stunning setting filled with terrific surprises. Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay is a true gem, it's a story to fall in love with. Bella Osborne's writing always puts a big smile on my face and I highly recommend this delightful book.
September 3, 2018
Daisy returns to Ottercombe Bay to attend her Great Uncle Reg’s funeral. Daisy has been working and travelling around Europe over the past few years and has kept in touch with the family but not visited for a long time. Uncle Reg has left her something in his will, and a stipulation that she remain for 1 year in Ottercombe Bay before she can officially take full possession of her inheritance.
This is a cracking read and my first experience of this author and I was definitley not disappointed. The author creates some lovely imagery for the setting and made it so easy for me to imagine Ottercombe Bay. Add into this a rather unusual and brilliant sounding inheritance that Daisy has been left, with the various conditions. Also add in her old friends and a curious and difficult family incident many years ago and I soon realised I was in for an outstanding read. There is definitely a lot more to this story than the synopsis gives away.
The inheritance is definitely something different and made me think about what sort of thing I would do if I were to be left it. Though I wouldn’t go down the route Daisy did, I none the less felt myself willing her on to stay the year and be successful. But more importantly I really wanted her to deal with an incident in her past and come to terms with her future potential. Yes I know this is another vague review about the plot of the story, but I am not going to spoil it for anyone else.
The author managed to instil a wonderful sense of community spirit, friendship and support in this story. Getting to know some of Daisy’s old friends was definitely interesting. The truly random Tammy, geeky Jason and the attitude of Max all had their way of helping Daisy along the way.
This is a wonderful read that transported me to an idyllic Devon village setting, it is a county I visit often for holidays so I found myself reminiscing, I love it when a book can transport me to old memories.
This is one I would definitely recommend to readers who like light romance, old family secrets, truth finding and a general all round feel good read. I loved it xx
This is a cracking read and my first experience of this author and I was definitley not disappointed. The author creates some lovely imagery for the setting and made it so easy for me to imagine Ottercombe Bay. Add into this a rather unusual and brilliant sounding inheritance that Daisy has been left, with the various conditions. Also add in her old friends and a curious and difficult family incident many years ago and I soon realised I was in for an outstanding read. There is definitely a lot more to this story than the synopsis gives away.
The inheritance is definitely something different and made me think about what sort of thing I would do if I were to be left it. Though I wouldn’t go down the route Daisy did, I none the less felt myself willing her on to stay the year and be successful. But more importantly I really wanted her to deal with an incident in her past and come to terms with her future potential. Yes I know this is another vague review about the plot of the story, but I am not going to spoil it for anyone else.
The author managed to instil a wonderful sense of community spirit, friendship and support in this story. Getting to know some of Daisy’s old friends was definitely interesting. The truly random Tammy, geeky Jason and the attitude of Max all had their way of helping Daisy along the way.
This is a wonderful read that transported me to an idyllic Devon village setting, it is a county I visit often for holidays so I found myself reminiscing, I love it when a book can transport me to old memories.
This is one I would definitely recommend to readers who like light romance, old family secrets, truth finding and a general all round feel good read. I loved it xx
June 20, 2018
This book was originally published in four parts which I read separately. I loved this book and eagerly awaited the next segment of the story.
A surprise inheritance, lovely cast of characters, gorgeous location and a pug named Bugsy Malone make this a brilliant read. I was engrossed from part 1 and really loved the whole book.
Highly recommended - perfect holiday read or sunday afternoon on the sofa.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
A surprise inheritance, lovely cast of characters, gorgeous location and a pug named Bugsy Malone make this a brilliant read. I was engrossed from part 1 and really loved the whole book.
Highly recommended - perfect holiday read or sunday afternoon on the sofa.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2018
This was a sweet coming home story with a gorgeous cover and a well written story inside. The main character was compelling and the supporting characters were sweet and overall the whole thing was done well. I enjoyed it a lot.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2018
Review on my Blog > Booklish Feelings
Daisy wickens is a free Spirit and a traveller . She comes to Ottercombe Bay , her hometown , for her great uncle's funeral . Years ago her mother died in a supposed accident by drowning . since then she only came for couple of weeks every year . Her father lives in goa after the death of his wife . He is coping in his own way .
When Daisy arrives in her hometown she has no plan to stay for no more than couple of days but her great uncle Reg has left her a historical Railway station and car park to Daisy in his will but at one condition . She has to live in Ottercombe bay for a full year .
At first , Daisy shows no interest in living in the small town but she meets a childhood friend Tamsen who insists Daisy to live . At last Daisy agree to live in Ottercombe Bay and give the town a chance . She also meets Max and Jason , her school mates . She lives with her aunt Coral and her dog Bug .
Overall , the book dodn't seem interesting to me . Daisy never trusted Max who also helped her renovating the Railway Station into a Gin bar . She also blamed him for stealing money which he didn't .
They were a thing but the chemistry lacked between both of them . Daisy was always blaming Max for something and Max was always being annoying friend .
Happy Reading....
Daisy wickens is a free Spirit and a traveller . She comes to Ottercombe Bay , her hometown , for her great uncle's funeral . Years ago her mother died in a supposed accident by drowning . since then she only came for couple of weeks every year . Her father lives in goa after the death of his wife . He is coping in his own way .
When Daisy arrives in her hometown she has no plan to stay for no more than couple of days but her great uncle Reg has left her a historical Railway station and car park to Daisy in his will but at one condition . She has to live in Ottercombe bay for a full year .
At first , Daisy shows no interest in living in the small town but she meets a childhood friend Tamsen who insists Daisy to live . At last Daisy agree to live in Ottercombe Bay and give the town a chance . She also meets Max and Jason , her school mates . She lives with her aunt Coral and her dog Bug .
Overall , the book dodn't seem interesting to me . Daisy never trusted Max who also helped her renovating the Railway Station into a Gin bar . She also blamed him for stealing money which he didn't .
They were a thing but the chemistry lacked between both of them . Daisy was always blaming Max for something and Max was always being annoying friend .
Happy Reading....
July 2, 2018
Daisy has returned to the Bay for the first time since her mother died for Great Uncle Reg’s funeral. Intending only to stay for a few days, Daisy discovers that Reg has left her an inheritance. The only snag is that Daisy must stay in Ottercombe Bay for one whole year before she can claim it as her own. Does Daisy manage to stay in Ottercombe Bay? Does she ever find out what really happened to her mum? Will she find her ‘happy-ever-after’?
I absolutely LOVED this series and I’m so excited to be on the Blog Tour for it! This book has previously been released as four separate instalments and I jumped up and down each time the Blog Tour came around as I really wanted to be part of it. Finally my persistence paid off, and here I am!! And I’m so pleased to be here for the release of Ottercombe Bay as a full length novel. If you are going to read this book (which you really need to!), you might as well do it in one go!!
So, where do we start? Daisy returns to Ottercombe Bay for the first time since her mother died for her Great Uncle’s funeral. She doesn’t really want to be there and is intending to leave as soon as the funeral is over. Sly old Great Uncle Reg though has left Daisy an inheritance, but she has to stay in Ottercombe Bay for one whole year before she can claim it as her own, else she gets nothing! I loved Daisy’s character, although at the beginning when she first returns she comes across as a bit ‘stroppy’ and ‘temperamental’. Obviously there is a lot of background to Daisy’s story, which we don’t find out about until some way into the book, and this does explain why she’s doesn’t want to be back home. Thankfully, as the book moves on, Daisy really comes into her own and becomes such a lovely character!
The location of the book was wonderful and it had my imagination picturing all these places. The old station building sounds beautiful, and I have to admit I have a bit of a thing about trains and stations so having this in the story was great for me! You are kept guessing for a little while as to what Daisy turns the station into, but what it becomes is such a fabulous and modern idea. It certainly made me want to plan a visit! I loved the fact that Daisy has to stay in Ottercombe Bay for a year before she gets her inheritance – me personally, I would have stayed there for free!
As like previous books, the author has given us some wonderful writing. The story is heart-warming and romantic with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Daisy’s character has grows and grows as the book moves on and by the end I can’t believe she’s the same character who turned up in Ottercombe Bay a year ago! I also have to give Bug the dog a special mention! I loved Bug all the way through and I nearly choked on my cup of tea with the command for him to get into his basket!! (You’ll understand when you read it!).
The cover of the book is the “pièce de résistance” – it is absolutely beautiful. The covers for all of Bella’s books are works of art, and I for one would love to have them hanging on the wall. If you’re the type of person who ‘judges a book by this cover’ then this is definitely the book for you!
A fantastic series! I’ve loved every single word of this book and would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone! Cock-a-doodle-doo!!
I absolutely LOVED this series and I’m so excited to be on the Blog Tour for it! This book has previously been released as four separate instalments and I jumped up and down each time the Blog Tour came around as I really wanted to be part of it. Finally my persistence paid off, and here I am!! And I’m so pleased to be here for the release of Ottercombe Bay as a full length novel. If you are going to read this book (which you really need to!), you might as well do it in one go!!
So, where do we start? Daisy returns to Ottercombe Bay for the first time since her mother died for her Great Uncle’s funeral. She doesn’t really want to be there and is intending to leave as soon as the funeral is over. Sly old Great Uncle Reg though has left Daisy an inheritance, but she has to stay in Ottercombe Bay for one whole year before she can claim it as her own, else she gets nothing! I loved Daisy’s character, although at the beginning when she first returns she comes across as a bit ‘stroppy’ and ‘temperamental’. Obviously there is a lot of background to Daisy’s story, which we don’t find out about until some way into the book, and this does explain why she’s doesn’t want to be back home. Thankfully, as the book moves on, Daisy really comes into her own and becomes such a lovely character!
The location of the book was wonderful and it had my imagination picturing all these places. The old station building sounds beautiful, and I have to admit I have a bit of a thing about trains and stations so having this in the story was great for me! You are kept guessing for a little while as to what Daisy turns the station into, but what it becomes is such a fabulous and modern idea. It certainly made me want to plan a visit! I loved the fact that Daisy has to stay in Ottercombe Bay for a year before she gets her inheritance – me personally, I would have stayed there for free!
As like previous books, the author has given us some wonderful writing. The story is heart-warming and romantic with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Daisy’s character has grows and grows as the book moves on and by the end I can’t believe she’s the same character who turned up in Ottercombe Bay a year ago! I also have to give Bug the dog a special mention! I loved Bug all the way through and I nearly choked on my cup of tea with the command for him to get into his basket!! (You’ll understand when you read it!).
The cover of the book is the “pièce de résistance” – it is absolutely beautiful. The covers for all of Bella’s books are works of art, and I for one would love to have them hanging on the wall. If you’re the type of person who ‘judges a book by this cover’ then this is definitely the book for you!
A fantastic series! I’ve loved every single word of this book and would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone! Cock-a-doodle-doo!!
February 5, 2020
An absolute fantastic read.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a novel by Bella Osbourne and I have to say I fell in love with all the characters. The story was beautifully written and the plot intricately woven, so much so that even when reading the last few chapters I was totally absorbed waiting for the resolution.
I loved Jason and Tamsyn. They were great side characters and perfect for each other. Jason and Max and Tamsyn and Daisy each compliment each other and bring out the best in the other. Aunt Coral and Pasco were just an added bonus.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a novel by Bella Osbourne and I have to say I fell in love with all the characters. The story was beautifully written and the plot intricately woven, so much so that even when reading the last few chapters I was totally absorbed waiting for the resolution.
I loved Jason and Tamsyn. They were great side characters and perfect for each other. Jason and Max and Tamsyn and Daisy each compliment each other and bring out the best in the other. Aunt Coral and Pasco were just an added bonus.
November 2, 2019
So glad I borrowed this from the library.
I found the characters to be quite flat, and there was no deviation in their actions, or any character growth beyond the bare minimum. The plot was pretty predictable and my attention wandered at times. Daisy’s temper tantrums annoyed the stuffing out of me. Max annoyed me, Pasco was blah, Tamsyn seemed to be the token ‘kooky’ friend, and Jason - the pining friend - suffered from unrequited feelings for part of the book. Even the darned pug was annoying. Honestly, I think my favourite character was good ol’ Great Uncle Reg - and he was dead! Although Aunt Coral wasn’t completely bland, so there’s that.
As you can see, this was not the story for me. However it was well written, and the small town setting was cosy and welcoming. I loved the idea of a vintage railway station being turned into a business (I’d have turned it into a bookshop, but that’s just me), and theReg’s will was a great way to ensured Daisy remained in one place. The plot of the story was interesting enough that I borrowed the book, so while it wasn’t my cup of tea, I know some people who would adore this.
2 stars
I found the characters to be quite flat, and there was no deviation in their actions, or any character growth beyond the bare minimum. The plot was pretty predictable and my attention wandered at times. Daisy’s temper tantrums annoyed the stuffing out of me. Max annoyed me, Pasco was blah, Tamsyn seemed to be the token ‘kooky’ friend, and Jason - the pining friend - suffered from unrequited feelings for part of the book. Even the darned pug was annoying. Honestly, I think my favourite character was good ol’ Great Uncle Reg - and he was dead! Although Aunt Coral wasn’t completely bland, so there’s that.
As you can see, this was not the story for me. However it was well written, and the small town setting was cosy and welcoming. I loved the idea of a vintage railway station being turned into a business (I’d have turned it into a bookshop, but that’s just me), and theReg’s will was a great way to ensured Daisy remained in one place. The plot of the story was interesting enough that I borrowed the book, so while it wasn’t my cup of tea, I know some people who would adore this.
2 stars
April 4, 2023
Daisy Wickens has returned to Ottercombe Bay, the picturesque Devon town where her mother died when she was a girl. She plans to leave as soon as her great uncle’s funeral is over, but Great Uncle Reg had other ideas. He’s left Daisy a significant inheritance – an old building in a state of disrepair, which could offer exciting possibilities, but to get it she must stay in Ottercombe Bay for twelve whole months.
I liked the book and the storyline, although I must admit the number of times a character, especially Daisy, dramatically bolted from a room after an argument annoyed me quite a bit. Lack of decent communication is a common thread throughout the entire book. My favourite character was Tamsyn; I loved her quirky ways.
I liked the book and the storyline, although I must admit the number of times a character, especially Daisy, dramatically bolted from a room after an argument annoyed me quite a bit. Lack of decent communication is a common thread throughout the entire book. My favourite character was Tamsyn; I loved her quirky ways.
July 4, 2018
Cute story with some great characters, though I did find Tamsyn to be annoying at times - wasn’t sure if the writer was intending her to be quirky, scatty or child-like. Kind of like a cross between Phoebe in Friends and Alice in Vicar of Dibley.
Also I felt the chemistry and romance between Max and Daisy was somewhat lacking in sparks.
Would not know that this was originally published in 4 parts, it feels like 1 book with no obvious joins.
Thank you Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
Also I felt the chemistry and romance between Max and Daisy was somewhat lacking in sparks.
Would not know that this was originally published in 4 parts, it feels like 1 book with no obvious joins.
Thank you Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
July 28, 2018
Coming home to Ottercombe Bay is actually 4 novella's combined into one book. Daisy is returning to Ottercombe Bay for her Uncle's funeral. She hasn't been back for a long time since this was where her mother died. She plans to leave as soon as the funeral is over but Uncle Reg changes her plans by requiring her to live for a year in Ottercombe Bay to inherit his properties. She falls back into a good friendship with Tamsyn the next door neighbor. Between the crazy town residents, Tamsyn, Max, her aunt and Uncle Reg's spoiled pug she thinks she can last for a year and then take off. But she soon learns some things about her mother's death that have her questioning her lifestyle. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 7, 2021
Loved this one . New author for me . Look forward to reading her other books in the future .
February 14, 2025
A captivating story this was funny and I enjoyed the ending
June 19, 2018
I loved this book. It's fun to read with lovely and quirky charachters.
The book hooked since the first pages and couldn't put it down.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Avon Books UK and Netgalley for this ARC
The book hooked since the first pages and couldn't put it down.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Avon Books UK and Netgalley for this ARC
September 4, 2018
Daisy finds it difficult to stay in one place for too long, and she really doesn't like staying in her hometown Ottercombe Bay, because it brings back a lot of painful and unresolved emotions. The death of her mother follows her everywhere in the place where she grew up.
When she returns home after the death of her Uncle Reg, she is surprised to find he has left her something quite interesting in his will. Unfortunately the wily old man has included specific conditions which must be fulfilled in order for Daisy to receive the inheritance, the kind of conditions he hoped would convince her to stay in O-Bay.
I have to say that Bugsy was the secret star of this book. The interactions between the obnoxious, stubborn pug and Daisy are hilarious. The scene with the chips and the last few pages had me laughing out loud. The two of them were made for each other. Good luck with the retraining!
Ottercombe Bay is all about discovering where you feel at home and most comfortable, even if it means having to lay some demons to rest. Daisy finds a lot of things she wasn't expecting. After many years of being by herself I think she struggles to accept that it's okay to let people in and to trust them.
Osborne has a knack for writing comedic scenes which seem completely effortless and natural, and of course this is what makes her books so enjoyable. She combines subtle romantic storylines with realistic emotional turmoil, and doesn't forget to add the small moments in life that make it both memorable and funny at times.
It's an entertaining and funny read with plenty of heartfelt moments.
*I received a copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley*
When she returns home after the death of her Uncle Reg, she is surprised to find he has left her something quite interesting in his will. Unfortunately the wily old man has included specific conditions which must be fulfilled in order for Daisy to receive the inheritance, the kind of conditions he hoped would convince her to stay in O-Bay.
I have to say that Bugsy was the secret star of this book. The interactions between the obnoxious, stubborn pug and Daisy are hilarious. The scene with the chips and the last few pages had me laughing out loud. The two of them were made for each other. Good luck with the retraining!
Ottercombe Bay is all about discovering where you feel at home and most comfortable, even if it means having to lay some demons to rest. Daisy finds a lot of things she wasn't expecting. After many years of being by herself I think she struggles to accept that it's okay to let people in and to trust them.
Osborne has a knack for writing comedic scenes which seem completely effortless and natural, and of course this is what makes her books so enjoyable. She combines subtle romantic storylines with realistic emotional turmoil, and doesn't forget to add the small moments in life that make it both memorable and funny at times.
It's an entertaining and funny read with plenty of heartfelt moments.
*I received a copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley*
June 21, 2018
I haven't read a book like Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay for quite a while. Although it has a romantic element, I think that I would be inclined to class it as 'chic lit' rather than a romance. I actually hate that phrase if I'm honest, but I think that it best sums up the style of this book. Daisy is a traveller, who has spent the last few years travelling the world and avoiding settling down. Now after the death of her Great Uncle, she finds that she has to return to her childhood home, that she left when she was 7 and face the demons of her past.
I enjoyed this book overall, it was a little slow in the odd part, but I think that matched the style of the storyline and characters. Daisy's Aunt and the dog Bugsy Malone were both entertaining and there was some light relief added by the next door neighbour, Tamsyn. Even if she was a little too over the top and out there at times.
There is a romantic element to this story, but it isn't the main point of the plot and I really liked that about it. There's little be upset or offended by and Daisy even tones down her favourite swear word to cock-a-doodle-do. This would be a great beach read in the summer or when lazing around and if you're looking for a relaxing and enjoyable read, you won't go far wrong with this.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed this book overall, it was a little slow in the odd part, but I think that matched the style of the storyline and characters. Daisy's Aunt and the dog Bugsy Malone were both entertaining and there was some light relief added by the next door neighbour, Tamsyn. Even if she was a little too over the top and out there at times.
There is a romantic element to this story, but it isn't the main point of the plot and I really liked that about it. There's little be upset or offended by and Daisy even tones down her favourite swear word to cock-a-doodle-do. This would be a great beach read in the summer or when lazing around and if you're looking for a relaxing and enjoyable read, you won't go far wrong with this.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 28, 2018
~4.5 STARS~
Great beach read full of charm, quirky characters, and a beautiful, quaint setting!!!
Daisy Wickens has returned to the picturesque town of Ottercombe Bay for her great-uncle, Reg’s, funeral. It holds some wonderful memories as well as some very sad ones. Not one to stay in one place for long, Daisy has plans to attend the funeral and leave again. However, her Uncle Reg had other ideas for her. Before she can obtain her inheritance of an old railway station, she has to stay put for an entire year! This will be one of the most difficult times, but she will also find out so much about herself and possibly even find her Mr. Right!
The characters were charming and quirky. Daisy is pretty complicated. She has traveled all over Europe, but not for all of the right reasons. She is running from the ghosts of her past. This is when the additional secondary characters are so important within the book. Each person, especially Max, helps her face those ghosts and become the woman she was meant to be. The romance between Max and Daisy is a slow build up, but this book is more about her journey, and he happens to be a great discovery along the way. As I wrote, the secondary characters, like her Aunt Coral, Tamsyn, Jason, and even her deceased Uncle Reg had an important part of the book. Even Aunt Coral’s beloved dog, Bugs, was a character I adored.
If you are looking for the perfect beach read this summer, look no further than Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay!!!
Great beach read full of charm, quirky characters, and a beautiful, quaint setting!!!
Daisy Wickens has returned to the picturesque town of Ottercombe Bay for her great-uncle, Reg’s, funeral. It holds some wonderful memories as well as some very sad ones. Not one to stay in one place for long, Daisy has plans to attend the funeral and leave again. However, her Uncle Reg had other ideas for her. Before she can obtain her inheritance of an old railway station, she has to stay put for an entire year! This will be one of the most difficult times, but she will also find out so much about herself and possibly even find her Mr. Right!
The characters were charming and quirky. Daisy is pretty complicated. She has traveled all over Europe, but not for all of the right reasons. She is running from the ghosts of her past. This is when the additional secondary characters are so important within the book. Each person, especially Max, helps her face those ghosts and become the woman she was meant to be. The romance between Max and Daisy is a slow build up, but this book is more about her journey, and he happens to be a great discovery along the way. As I wrote, the secondary characters, like her Aunt Coral, Tamsyn, Jason, and even her deceased Uncle Reg had an important part of the book. Even Aunt Coral’s beloved dog, Bugs, was a character I adored.
If you are looking for the perfect beach read this summer, look no further than Coming Home to Ottercombe Bay!!!
June 30, 2018
by Bella Osborne is a lovely novel about loss, love and finding your roots.
When Daisy comes back to the little childhood home town for her great uncle's funeral the last thing she expects is to stay long. So it comes as a great suprise to find out that she has inherited something but it comes with a clause that is will not under any circumstances accept. Until life happens and things begin to change her own life forever.
Deceptively llight and easy tone hides a moving story of a young woman's closure about her mother's myserious death, constant running away and keeping yourself at distance from anyone that you care about, because that is the only way not to get hurt.
Charming, nicely paced with endaring characters set in the beautiful coastal town this book will put a smile on your face. It will give you hope and mend your soul.
It's bursting with love, it tells a beautiful tale of friendship and second chances. With many funny moments it will make you laugh out loud. I just hope I will have a chance to meet again with wonderul people of Ottercombe Bay.
I enjoyed reading it so much and I highly recommend it to all lovers of intricate and alluring stories.
When Daisy comes back to the little childhood home town for her great uncle's funeral the last thing she expects is to stay long. So it comes as a great suprise to find out that she has inherited something but it comes with a clause that is will not under any circumstances accept. Until life happens and things begin to change her own life forever.
Deceptively llight and easy tone hides a moving story of a young woman's closure about her mother's myserious death, constant running away and keeping yourself at distance from anyone that you care about, because that is the only way not to get hurt.
Charming, nicely paced with endaring characters set in the beautiful coastal town this book will put a smile on your face. It will give you hope and mend your soul.
It's bursting with love, it tells a beautiful tale of friendship and second chances. With many funny moments it will make you laugh out loud. I just hope I will have a chance to meet again with wonderul people of Ottercombe Bay.
I enjoyed reading it so much and I highly recommend it to all lovers of intricate and alluring stories.
August 13, 2018
What a delightful book, about new beginnings and putting down roots.
Daisy has travelled extensively but the death of her Great Uncle Reg brings her back to Devon and Ottercombe Bay, where she spent so much of her formative years. The place holds many good memories but it's also the place where her Mum died when Dsisy was young, so she doesn't intend staying after the funeral.
Things don't go to plan when the will is read and Daisy has a big decision to make, run away or stay where she was happy, once upon a time?
Together with childhood friends Tamsyn (who lives with her parents next door to Daisy's Aunt and Daisys best friend) Jason (now the local policeman) and Max (local lifeboat crew and lifeguard) they decide what to do.
Along the way friendships are lost and mended, romance is found abd then there's Bug, and the love/hate relationship between him and Daisy.
I did laugh at some points in this book, it's so well written you feel as if you're there on the beach.
Well worth a read.
Daisy has travelled extensively but the death of her Great Uncle Reg brings her back to Devon and Ottercombe Bay, where she spent so much of her formative years. The place holds many good memories but it's also the place where her Mum died when Dsisy was young, so she doesn't intend staying after the funeral.
Things don't go to plan when the will is read and Daisy has a big decision to make, run away or stay where she was happy, once upon a time?
Together with childhood friends Tamsyn (who lives with her parents next door to Daisy's Aunt and Daisys best friend) Jason (now the local policeman) and Max (local lifeboat crew and lifeguard) they decide what to do.
Along the way friendships are lost and mended, romance is found abd then there's Bug, and the love/hate relationship between him and Daisy.
I did laugh at some points in this book, it's so well written you feel as if you're there on the beach.
Well worth a read.
June 16, 2018
Returning to Devon years after her mum died there, Daisy inherits a house from her great uncle Reg who's just passed away.
Along with her aunt Coral, neighbour Tamsyn and Max she is set on doing it up, after getting over the shock.
After Max's dad gets out of prison, Tamsyn gets a boyfriend and Daisy discovers what happened to her mum and how she died, tensions rise at the old railway station especially her turbulent relationship with Max as her ex returns to her and causes a lot of trouble...
I totally loved the idea of inheriting a railway station as well as the characters whom bounced well off each other with their voices and ways. There was a nice contrast and I could believe in their friendships and relationships. It was a nice long read dealing with issues that can effect us all from death, grief, love and doubt I will definitely look out for more by Bella in the future!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
Along with her aunt Coral, neighbour Tamsyn and Max she is set on doing it up, after getting over the shock.
After Max's dad gets out of prison, Tamsyn gets a boyfriend and Daisy discovers what happened to her mum and how she died, tensions rise at the old railway station especially her turbulent relationship with Max as her ex returns to her and causes a lot of trouble...
I totally loved the idea of inheriting a railway station as well as the characters whom bounced well off each other with their voices and ways. There was a nice contrast and I could believe in their friendships and relationships. It was a nice long read dealing with issues that can effect us all from death, grief, love and doubt I will definitely look out for more by Bella in the future!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
July 7, 2018
Humour runs through this story through the story lines, characters and even the pets. It makes for an enjoyable read which isn't overly 'hearts and flowers' but which flows along at a good pace. I didn't know when I read it that it had originally been serialized into four parts but I found it to hang together as a story well.
Daisy is a character with demons in her past which she has to come to terms with. I found her to be likeable but infuriating although as a character she did mature as the year went along. One character who I would like to have met was her Great Uncle Reg as I am sure that there is a story to be told in just how he came to own the railway station. With a lovely setting and a great cast of characters, it proved to be an enjoyable summer read.
In short: Family ties and friendships show Daisy just where home is.
Thabks to the author for a copy of the book.
Daisy is a character with demons in her past which she has to come to terms with. I found her to be likeable but infuriating although as a character she did mature as the year went along. One character who I would like to have met was her Great Uncle Reg as I am sure that there is a story to be told in just how he came to own the railway station. With a lovely setting and a great cast of characters, it proved to be an enjoyable summer read.
In short: Family ties and friendships show Daisy just where home is.
Thabks to the author for a copy of the book.
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