What do you think?
Rate this book
Magnolia House
When you open up your home and your heart …
Rowan Forrester has it all – the happy marriage, the adorable dog, the good friends, the promising business and even the dream home after she and her husband Tom win a stunning but slightly dilapidated Georgian townhouse in London at auction.
But in the blink of an eye, Rowan’s picture-perfect life comes crashing down around her and she is faced with the prospect of having to start again.
To make ends meet she begins a search for housemates, and in doing so opens the door to new friends and new beginnings. But could she be opening the door to new heartbreak too?
Rowan Forrester has it all – the happy marriage, the adorable dog, the good friends, the promising business and even the dream home after she and her husband Tom win a stunning but slightly dilapidated Georgian townhouse in London at auction.
But in the blink of an eye, Rowan’s picture-perfect life comes crashing down around her and she is faced with the prospect of having to start again.
To make ends meet she begins a search for housemates, and in doing so opens the door to new friends and new beginnings. But could she be opening the door to new heartbreak too?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2019
45 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 27, 2019
Magnolia House by Angela Barton is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
This story is a little bit like mixing something spicy with something sweet. Somehow, as unlikely as it sounds, the flavors complement each other.
Magnolia House is a gentle read, with a lot of family drama and secrets, but it also has a bit of bite to it as well. There is a little mystery and sinister suspense, intertwined in the story, giving it a little bit of an edge. But the story is also a tender, and emotional, with family and friends working through difficult issues and supporting one another, and maybe a little romantic element to sweeten the pie.
When Rowan and Tom win the bid for Magnolia House, it seems all their dreams are starting to come true. They are busy and working hard, and the house will need some major renovations, but they are happily married and excited about the future.
However, a stunning series of events has left Rowan reeling, unsure if she can manage everything on her plate and deal with all the work Magnolia House requires. But, when she decides to open the house up to renters, her new tenants will bring stunning revelations into light and change the course of Rowan’s life, in ways she never imagined.
This is an engrossing story, touching on realistic topics and issues. Life happens, people are flawed and make mistakes, have trouble coping with stress, keep secrets, tell lies and all the rest, but there is also the hope of second chances, a new start in life, forgiveness and closure, and all of it centers around the love of special friends and family.
Overall, this is simply a wonderful and lovely story, with character development being its strongest suit. I found myself completely absorbed in the story and loved how everything came together in the end. The road to peace, contentment and happiness is not always an easy one, but these characters were willing to work for it and are justly rewarded.
This story is a little bit like mixing something spicy with something sweet. Somehow, as unlikely as it sounds, the flavors complement each other.
Magnolia House is a gentle read, with a lot of family drama and secrets, but it also has a bit of bite to it as well. There is a little mystery and sinister suspense, intertwined in the story, giving it a little bit of an edge. But the story is also a tender, and emotional, with family and friends working through difficult issues and supporting one another, and maybe a little romantic element to sweeten the pie.
When Rowan and Tom win the bid for Magnolia House, it seems all their dreams are starting to come true. They are busy and working hard, and the house will need some major renovations, but they are happily married and excited about the future.
However, a stunning series of events has left Rowan reeling, unsure if she can manage everything on her plate and deal with all the work Magnolia House requires. But, when she decides to open the house up to renters, her new tenants will bring stunning revelations into light and change the course of Rowan’s life, in ways she never imagined.
This is an engrossing story, touching on realistic topics and issues. Life happens, people are flawed and make mistakes, have trouble coping with stress, keep secrets, tell lies and all the rest, but there is also the hope of second chances, a new start in life, forgiveness and closure, and all of it centers around the love of special friends and family.
Overall, this is simply a wonderful and lovely story, with character development being its strongest suit. I found myself completely absorbed in the story and loved how everything came together in the end. The road to peace, contentment and happiness is not always an easy one, but these characters were willing to work for it and are justly rewarded.
March 23, 2019
5☆ Depth, Emotion, Warmth, Love, Secrets & Drama!
Wow what a fantastic read, so much depth and surprise.
Magnolia House is a wonderfully compelling story of New Beginnings, drama, secrets, heartache, friendship, relationships, all entwined within the rooms of Magnolia House.
When Rowan opens up Magnolia House to lodgers after the death of her husband, she never quiet imagines just how much they will impact and touch her life and how Magnolia House will impact the lives of others.
This story is very much character driven, which I really enjoyed, the characters are all deeply flawed with different stories to tell, they take you on a roller coaster of emotions.
Barton has written about some sensitive subjects such as bereavement, grief, miscarriage, infertility, depression, finding love after losing a partner, money worries, which some readers may find difficult to read, but they are all written in a sensitive and thoughtful manner.
I also just wanted to mention how adorable the cover is and not to forget the cute fur Baby. Which is always a winner for me!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this heart warming and poignant read, there are a few lil twists to keep you on your toes, plenty of drama, memorable characters, an Enthralling and compelling plot, mixed with some light hearted and funny moments.
It's a story about heartbreak, New Beginnings, overcoming challenges, dealing with emotions, making friends, working together, building relationships, strength and determination.
I highly recommend Magnolia House, it's full of warmth, love, secrets, drama and emotion, the perfect combination to a Contemporary Women's Fiction.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Wow what a fantastic read, so much depth and surprise.
Magnolia House is a wonderfully compelling story of New Beginnings, drama, secrets, heartache, friendship, relationships, all entwined within the rooms of Magnolia House.
When Rowan opens up Magnolia House to lodgers after the death of her husband, she never quiet imagines just how much they will impact and touch her life and how Magnolia House will impact the lives of others.
This story is very much character driven, which I really enjoyed, the characters are all deeply flawed with different stories to tell, they take you on a roller coaster of emotions.
Barton has written about some sensitive subjects such as bereavement, grief, miscarriage, infertility, depression, finding love after losing a partner, money worries, which some readers may find difficult to read, but they are all written in a sensitive and thoughtful manner.
I also just wanted to mention how adorable the cover is and not to forget the cute fur Baby. Which is always a winner for me!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this heart warming and poignant read, there are a few lil twists to keep you on your toes, plenty of drama, memorable characters, an Enthralling and compelling plot, mixed with some light hearted and funny moments.
It's a story about heartbreak, New Beginnings, overcoming challenges, dealing with emotions, making friends, working together, building relationships, strength and determination.
I highly recommend Magnolia House, it's full of warmth, love, secrets, drama and emotion, the perfect combination to a Contemporary Women's Fiction.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
March 16, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
He’s such a messy man, she thought. Was a messy man. The change of tense felt like an obscenity.
‘Last few things,’ said Ace, carrying a cactus through his new front door. ‘What on earth is that?’ said Rowan, pointing at the spiky plant. ‘It’s a bit …phallic.’ ‘This is Dick and you’d better not be laughing. He’s been a good friend to me and helped me out of a depression last year.’ … Ace placed the plant pot reverentially on his kitchen table. ‘When I was feeling low last year, my boyfriend bought Dick for me. And before you start questioning its name, it’s because my boyfriend was called Richard, okay? … He was sensitive and supportive when I couldn’t be bothered to get out of bed, wash or eat. We’re talking my boyfriend here by the way, not the cactus.’ … It really worked. It took some weeks but every time I glimpsed Dick sitting on my bathroom shelf, bulbous and proud – the cactus, not my boyfriend – it would make me smile.’
How can your impression of the man you’ve loved, change in an instant? It was as if she was viewing him through a distorted fairground mirror, where his image had changed beyond all recognition.
I never did like that Helen much. Likes to put her oar in but can’t row the boat.
‘You haven’t told me what the doctors have said about your pain. I heard you’d had stomach ache and were having a lobotomy.’ Libby giggled. ‘A laparoscopy.'
Don’t talk to me about time flying. Every time I look in the mirror I see less of Enrique Iglesias looking back and more of Julio.
'I’m relieved you’re on the mend now they’ve removed those trees from your oasis.’ ‘Endometriosis, idiot.’ ‘That’s what I just said.’
My Review:
Angela Barton is my new favorite author. I adored her sagacious use of clever levity, which handily balanced out the heavier storylines that were fraught with tension, angst, and indecision. The busy plot was highly active, well populated, shrewdly paced, and held my interest throughout with several intriguing concerns and relevant issues. Ms. Barton’s writing was unfailingly engaging and tapped all the feels, frequently swinging between heart squeezing and wittily amusing within the same scene. Her characters were uncommonly and deeply flawed yet they were also uniquely endearing, well drawn, and well-meaning while striving for betterment, although I might have wanted to give several of them a few sassy pinches at various times; except for Ace, who was the perfect comedic foil and had all the best lines and cleverest quips.
He’s such a messy man, she thought. Was a messy man. The change of tense felt like an obscenity.
‘Last few things,’ said Ace, carrying a cactus through his new front door. ‘What on earth is that?’ said Rowan, pointing at the spiky plant. ‘It’s a bit …phallic.’ ‘This is Dick and you’d better not be laughing. He’s been a good friend to me and helped me out of a depression last year.’ … Ace placed the plant pot reverentially on his kitchen table. ‘When I was feeling low last year, my boyfriend bought Dick for me. And before you start questioning its name, it’s because my boyfriend was called Richard, okay? … He was sensitive and supportive when I couldn’t be bothered to get out of bed, wash or eat. We’re talking my boyfriend here by the way, not the cactus.’ … It really worked. It took some weeks but every time I glimpsed Dick sitting on my bathroom shelf, bulbous and proud – the cactus, not my boyfriend – it would make me smile.’
How can your impression of the man you’ve loved, change in an instant? It was as if she was viewing him through a distorted fairground mirror, where his image had changed beyond all recognition.
I never did like that Helen much. Likes to put her oar in but can’t row the boat.
‘You haven’t told me what the doctors have said about your pain. I heard you’d had stomach ache and were having a lobotomy.’ Libby giggled. ‘A laparoscopy.'
Don’t talk to me about time flying. Every time I look in the mirror I see less of Enrique Iglesias looking back and more of Julio.
'I’m relieved you’re on the mend now they’ve removed those trees from your oasis.’ ‘Endometriosis, idiot.’ ‘That’s what I just said.’
My Review:
Angela Barton is my new favorite author. I adored her sagacious use of clever levity, which handily balanced out the heavier storylines that were fraught with tension, angst, and indecision. The busy plot was highly active, well populated, shrewdly paced, and held my interest throughout with several intriguing concerns and relevant issues. Ms. Barton’s writing was unfailingly engaging and tapped all the feels, frequently swinging between heart squeezing and wittily amusing within the same scene. Her characters were uncommonly and deeply flawed yet they were also uniquely endearing, well drawn, and well-meaning while striving for betterment, although I might have wanted to give several of them a few sassy pinches at various times; except for Ace, who was the perfect comedic foil and had all the best lines and cleverest quips.
February 20, 2019
I wasn’t sure about this with the opening chapter but I ended up really enjoying it which just shows sometimes it's not the best idea to give up on a book too early. It’s the story of Rowan and who has become widowed. To make money she converts her house into flats and we learn about her friendships with the people who are renting from her.
I was unsure of the romance to start with as she has only been widowed 16 months but the book does discuss the topic of when is too soon to move on which again I liked. My close friend is 2 years widowed and we’ve been having the exact same conversation. The book covers bereavement really well.
It's very easy to read. I read in one day in and around work. It flows really well and I liked all the characters. I can empathise with secondary character Libby. I’ve been in her shoes with several things and it felt quite true to me.
I was unsure of the romance to start with as she has only been widowed 16 months but the book does discuss the topic of when is too soon to move on which again I liked. My close friend is 2 years widowed and we’ve been having the exact same conversation. The book covers bereavement really well.
It's very easy to read. I read in one day in and around work. It flows really well and I liked all the characters. I can empathise with secondary character Libby. I’ve been in her shoes with several things and it felt quite true to me.
January 29, 2019
Are you looking for a romantic story? Are you looking for a romantic story about second chances and new friends? Are you looking for a story with all of the above and a bit of suspense added to the mix? No need to look any further because by reading this book, you have found it.
Life certainly is no bed of roses and can hand you a few blows, but when you are surrounded by family and friends, you can overcome anything. It still needs time, of course, but as long you don’t have to do it all by yourself, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel even if you don’t think there is.
The cover is very well chosen and you just have to love the little cute dog.
If you would ask me to pick a favourite character, one name comes to mind straight away : Ace. He is quite a character and he is the life of the party.
This story is beautiful, fluently written and very appropriate to help you spend those dark wintery nights.
I, for sure, would really, really like a sequel, please. 5 stars.
Thank you, Angela Barton and Choc Lit.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Life certainly is no bed of roses and can hand you a few blows, but when you are surrounded by family and friends, you can overcome anything. It still needs time, of course, but as long you don’t have to do it all by yourself, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel even if you don’t think there is.
The cover is very well chosen and you just have to love the little cute dog.
If you would ask me to pick a favourite character, one name comes to mind straight away : Ace. He is quite a character and he is the life of the party.
This story is beautiful, fluently written and very appropriate to help you spend those dark wintery nights.
I, for sure, would really, really like a sequel, please. 5 stars.
Thank you, Angela Barton and Choc Lit.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
January 29, 2019
I found this to be a really inspiring read! It is a story that features some very sad and dark times, but also shows how people can come out the other side, especially with the help of some supportive family members and friends, and that is what the main character Rowan finds when she is faced with the devastating loss of her husband, just after they'd bought the house of their dreams, Magnolia House, to renovate.
Her whole life is changed by these tragic events but after taking time out to process the news and deal with her grief, she begins to find light at the end of the tunnel and by renting out rooms in the house she also meets some wonderful new friends who become family to her.
Alongside the story of Rowan, we also get to follow Libby and her story. She is the sister in law of Rowan, so is distraught by the loss her brother, and is also trying to deal with issues she has with shopping and spending money she doesn't really have. Her husband is desperate to help her but she thinks she can menage on her own and keeps it all a secret - but secrets can take their toll as she soon finds out.
I loved how darker subject were dealt with in this story alongside the lighter moments, as it really reflected real life! It's not all rainbows and puppies! The author has created some really enjoyable characters in this book, Ace being one of my favourites with his humour and attitude to life!
Rowan has to deal with some unexpected twists in her journey, and is also torn by her feelings towards a new man - is it too soon to find love again? A fabulous read and I hope we get to hear more from these characters in the future as I'd love to revisit some of them as their lives move on!!
Her whole life is changed by these tragic events but after taking time out to process the news and deal with her grief, she begins to find light at the end of the tunnel and by renting out rooms in the house she also meets some wonderful new friends who become family to her.
Alongside the story of Rowan, we also get to follow Libby and her story. She is the sister in law of Rowan, so is distraught by the loss her brother, and is also trying to deal with issues she has with shopping and spending money she doesn't really have. Her husband is desperate to help her but she thinks she can menage on her own and keeps it all a secret - but secrets can take their toll as she soon finds out.
I loved how darker subject were dealt with in this story alongside the lighter moments, as it really reflected real life! It's not all rainbows and puppies! The author has created some really enjoyable characters in this book, Ace being one of my favourites with his humour and attitude to life!
Rowan has to deal with some unexpected twists in her journey, and is also torn by her feelings towards a new man - is it too soon to find love again? A fabulous read and I hope we get to hear more from these characters in the future as I'd love to revisit some of them as their lives move on!!
March 14, 2019
Gosh, what a surprising read this proved to be - in a great way. It is a story of trials and tribulations of life, with all its fraught moments in an engaging read that's a real emotional rollercoaster for most of the characters involved. There are many true to life issues involved in the story, handled in a very realistic but sensitive manner, including loss of a partner, miscarriage, infertility, grief and so much more that the various characters work through. There's also a thread of mystery adding suspense to the drama and a heartwarming romance.
This is a story with hidden depths, one with great relationships growing and developing, supportive friends and relatives and heartbreaking secrets. It has some vivid descriptions bringing the scenarios to life and it is easy to relate to the characters and their experiences. The characters have their own flaws, they have anxieties, worries and struggle in their own ways to cope with their lives and make their own mistakes. For some this involves keeping secrets, closing off from others and it is only through facing up to what is happening that they stand a chance of bringing harmony and happiness back into their lives. It is a story of forgiveness, acceptance and communication, working together to help resolve difficulties and develop alongside special people who may be friends or family - or both!
This story is a journey of life, filled with potholes, diversions and roadblocks but there's always a route round and through and who knows what we'll discover when we get through to the other side of all these obstacles? You'll have to read it for yourself to discover what happens! I thoroughly enjoyed this highly emotive story and really hope many of the characters will be revisited in future stories as I'd really like to know what happens to them! It is an engaging read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys reading about contemporary life with all its dramas with added mystery and romance elements.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a story with hidden depths, one with great relationships growing and developing, supportive friends and relatives and heartbreaking secrets. It has some vivid descriptions bringing the scenarios to life and it is easy to relate to the characters and their experiences. The characters have their own flaws, they have anxieties, worries and struggle in their own ways to cope with their lives and make their own mistakes. For some this involves keeping secrets, closing off from others and it is only through facing up to what is happening that they stand a chance of bringing harmony and happiness back into their lives. It is a story of forgiveness, acceptance and communication, working together to help resolve difficulties and develop alongside special people who may be friends or family - or both!
This story is a journey of life, filled with potholes, diversions and roadblocks but there's always a route round and through and who knows what we'll discover when we get through to the other side of all these obstacles? You'll have to read it for yourself to discover what happens! I thoroughly enjoyed this highly emotive story and really hope many of the characters will be revisited in future stories as I'd really like to know what happens to them! It is an engaging read that I have no hesitation in highly recommending to anyone who enjoys reading about contemporary life with all its dramas with added mystery and romance elements.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
January 30, 2019
Magnolia House is a wonderfully emotional and up-lifting book, which will stay with you a long time after shutting the last page. This is the first I have read by Angela Barton, so I came into this book with open eyes and I am so pleased to say that Ms Barton has grabbed my attention with her heart-warming story of moving on after heart-break and I know without a doubt that I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
The story opens to Rowan who basically has everything a woman could want; adoring husband and happy marriage, gorgeous dog, a plan to open her own business and winning her dream house at an auction. All is going more or less to plan, their Georgian house; Magnolia House may be in a bit of a state and need some work, Tom; her husband may be a little pre-occupied but this is their dream and they will make it work. That is until the worse thing that could ever happen to Rowan, does happen, and she is alone with a dilapidated house, no income and having to deal with a double heart-break.
Which is when she decides that the only way she is going to be able to pay the mortgage and all the bills that comes with owning a house and able to afford the work that is needed on it, she opens up the door to flatmates. My heart absolutely went out to Rowan, she has been through the mill anyone who reads this book will shed a tear of how cruel life has been for poor Rowan. She is a good woman, she is just trying to start a whole new life for herself and tragedy strikes and her whole world collapses, any other woman in Rowans’ position would have given up, yet she faces each change with a proper stiff upper lip. She refuses to allow her grief to take control and govern the way she lives her life.
After careful consideration she chooses the people who will share her home -the home she always thought she would share with Tom. Soon between them they start to move forward, forging new relationships and friendships. As Rowan again faces some tough trials ahead of her, some hard truths and skeletons coming out of the cupboard. She also struggles with her mixed feelings for James; one of her flatmates as well as feeling that she is betraying her husband with how she is feeling toward James.
There is a lot of up’s and down’s for Rowan, this book really tugs at the heart-strings, anyone who doesn’t get a lump in their throat after meeting Rowan then they must have a heart of stone. This is emotional, beautifully written, heart-breaking and heart-warming story. I love how realistic the plot is, Rowan’s personal story could happen to anyone, the reader can really relate to her. All the character’s are beautifully created and very likeable, even the secondary character’s such as Tom’s sister Libby who goes through her own issues. Magnolia House is a story that is full of hope, love and compassion, highly recommended!
The story opens to Rowan who basically has everything a woman could want; adoring husband and happy marriage, gorgeous dog, a plan to open her own business and winning her dream house at an auction. All is going more or less to plan, their Georgian house; Magnolia House may be in a bit of a state and need some work, Tom; her husband may be a little pre-occupied but this is their dream and they will make it work. That is until the worse thing that could ever happen to Rowan, does happen, and she is alone with a dilapidated house, no income and having to deal with a double heart-break.
Which is when she decides that the only way she is going to be able to pay the mortgage and all the bills that comes with owning a house and able to afford the work that is needed on it, she opens up the door to flatmates. My heart absolutely went out to Rowan, she has been through the mill anyone who reads this book will shed a tear of how cruel life has been for poor Rowan. She is a good woman, she is just trying to start a whole new life for herself and tragedy strikes and her whole world collapses, any other woman in Rowans’ position would have given up, yet she faces each change with a proper stiff upper lip. She refuses to allow her grief to take control and govern the way she lives her life.
After careful consideration she chooses the people who will share her home -the home she always thought she would share with Tom. Soon between them they start to move forward, forging new relationships and friendships. As Rowan again faces some tough trials ahead of her, some hard truths and skeletons coming out of the cupboard. She also struggles with her mixed feelings for James; one of her flatmates as well as feeling that she is betraying her husband with how she is feeling toward James.
There is a lot of up’s and down’s for Rowan, this book really tugs at the heart-strings, anyone who doesn’t get a lump in their throat after meeting Rowan then they must have a heart of stone. This is emotional, beautifully written, heart-breaking and heart-warming story. I love how realistic the plot is, Rowan’s personal story could happen to anyone, the reader can really relate to her. All the character’s are beautifully created and very likeable, even the secondary character’s such as Tom’s sister Libby who goes through her own issues. Magnolia House is a story that is full of hope, love and compassion, highly recommended!
February 7, 2019
An entrancing tale. I was enraptured from the first chapter. Plenty of intrigue throughout with a twist with a twist! Highs and lows this book has them all. It was so easy to lose myself in this book. I was sorry to say goodbye to the characters at the end. This is a book to binge on. Highly recommended read.
Thank you NetGalley.
March 15, 2019
This begins as the story of a young couple buying a new home and expands into so much more. A rather enjoyable read!
Rowan and Tom have made the decision to move south to the capital; now all they need is the ideal home. When the couple first see Magnolia House it's in a dreadful state of disrepair but they can see beyond that to the potential it offers. When their offer at auction is accepted, the future seems shiny and bright. However, fate has different ideas.
This story follows Rowan through two of the most fraught and eventful years of her life. Encompassing her friends, family and acquaintances, there is plenty going on. There is fun, humour, a bit of mystery and a few dollops of sadness all mixed in together, making this a charming read. I must admit to being a little disappointed that the renovation details were glossed over, given the book title. I did, however - as always - really love the addition of Jet, the spaniel - and the cover is gorgeous!
Rowan and Tom have made the decision to move south to the capital; now all they need is the ideal home. When the couple first see Magnolia House it's in a dreadful state of disrepair but they can see beyond that to the potential it offers. When their offer at auction is accepted, the future seems shiny and bright. However, fate has different ideas.
This story follows Rowan through two of the most fraught and eventful years of her life. Encompassing her friends, family and acquaintances, there is plenty going on. There is fun, humour, a bit of mystery and a few dollops of sadness all mixed in together, making this a charming read. I must admit to being a little disappointed that the renovation details were glossed over, given the book title. I did, however - as always - really love the addition of Jet, the spaniel - and the cover is gorgeous!
January 29, 2019
My goodness, the first quarter of this book is heartbreaking – life “crashing down” just about sums it up really, as you wonder what more heartbreak one person can bear. But from the point the builders started work to change the house into three apartments, and Rowan took a holiday with her parents in France for a while, the book really grabbed me and hooked me in, and I found myself thoroughly enjoying it.
The characters really are excellent – while Rowan’s strength and resilience place you firmly in her corner, wanting to give her a big hug, it would be impossible to review this book without giving particular mention to Mason. Otherwise known as Ace, he’s a magnificent creation with his wonderful one-liners, sparkly Dior lipgloss and passion for Kylie Minogue. He might be a little over-the-top at times, but for me he absolutely made this book – and provided many of its laughs amid the challenges and issues others were facing. But there were other characters who fascinated too, particularly sister-in-law Libby – and a parallel thread I really liked, with her marriage disintegrating under the weight of secrets. And when things start to look up a little, what can I possibly tell you about Rowan’s love interest – but what a very lovely man!
The real surprise about this book was that running through the story of supportive friendships, second chances and fresh starts there’s a sub-plot that’s rather more unsettling – quite unexpected, totally believable, and its twists and turns particularly well handled. But when you finish, it’s the warmth of the story that really stays with you – a strong and believable romance, with characters of real strength striving to overcome the odds and find their happy endings. A lovely read.
The characters really are excellent – while Rowan’s strength and resilience place you firmly in her corner, wanting to give her a big hug, it would be impossible to review this book without giving particular mention to Mason. Otherwise known as Ace, he’s a magnificent creation with his wonderful one-liners, sparkly Dior lipgloss and passion for Kylie Minogue. He might be a little over-the-top at times, but for me he absolutely made this book – and provided many of its laughs amid the challenges and issues others were facing. But there were other characters who fascinated too, particularly sister-in-law Libby – and a parallel thread I really liked, with her marriage disintegrating under the weight of secrets. And when things start to look up a little, what can I possibly tell you about Rowan’s love interest – but what a very lovely man!
The real surprise about this book was that running through the story of supportive friendships, second chances and fresh starts there’s a sub-plot that’s rather more unsettling – quite unexpected, totally believable, and its twists and turns particularly well handled. But when you finish, it’s the warmth of the story that really stays with you – a strong and believable romance, with characters of real strength striving to overcome the odds and find their happy endings. A lovely read.
January 22, 2019
Rowan Forrester and her husband, Tom, buy a large Georgian townhouse in London after they put in the winning bid in an auction. While the house needs a lot of work, to Rowan and Tom it's perfect - the location is awesome for Tom because it's near his sister, and it's great for Rowan because it's near her best friend, Libby. Rowan is pregnant and her jewelry business is just about to launch. Everything seems just so perfect.
Then, suddenly, everything goes wrong. Rowan's life is turned upside down and life as she knows it completely changes. She's forced to open the doors of the Magnolia house and take on roommates. She never thinks about how this would affect the rest of her life. In all honesty, Rowan's situation made me feel bad for her and I thought she kind of got the shaft.
Rowan's first roommate was "Ace" (Mason), the flamboyant gay owner of a second hand clothing shop and he's such a great character! Rowan seems to be pulling her life back together and things seem to be getting better.
The author definitely addresses some real issues in Magnolia House such as betrayal, depression and even infertility. On the flipside, the story is also about love and friendship. The characters are well developed and believable, and the story was great! I'll definitely be on the lookout for Ms. Barton's next novel!
I was provided with a complimentary electronic advanced reader copy as a member of the Star Blogging Team from Chic Lit Team through Ruby Fiction in exchange for my post. I was not required to post a positive review, but have chosen to do so! Thank you!
Then, suddenly, everything goes wrong. Rowan's life is turned upside down and life as she knows it completely changes. She's forced to open the doors of the Magnolia house and take on roommates. She never thinks about how this would affect the rest of her life. In all honesty, Rowan's situation made me feel bad for her and I thought she kind of got the shaft.
Rowan's first roommate was "Ace" (Mason), the flamboyant gay owner of a second hand clothing shop and he's such a great character! Rowan seems to be pulling her life back together and things seem to be getting better.
The author definitely addresses some real issues in Magnolia House such as betrayal, depression and even infertility. On the flipside, the story is also about love and friendship. The characters are well developed and believable, and the story was great! I'll definitely be on the lookout for Ms. Barton's next novel!
I was provided with a complimentary electronic advanced reader copy as a member of the Star Blogging Team from Chic Lit Team through Ruby Fiction in exchange for my post. I was not required to post a positive review, but have chosen to do so! Thank you!
January 12, 2019
Magnolia House is the name of the large Georgian townhouse in London which Rowan Forrester and her husband Tom buy after placing the winning bid in an auction. It seems like a dream come true. A beautiful new house, albeit one needing lots of work, very near to Tom's sister and Rowan's best friend Libby, a baby on the way and Rowan's jewellery making business just about to get off the ground. In a flash though, everything goes horribly wrong and Rowan faces a very different life in Magnolia House to the one she imagined. As she adapts to these changes, she also has to be practical and opens up Magnolia House to flatmates. Little does she know what a huge impact they will have on her life.
Ah poor Rowan, you'd have to be awfully hard- hearted not to feel for her when life could not have been any crueller. She was dealt such a blow and my heart just went out to her. I can only imagine how I would have felt in her position. Thankfully she had good friends to gently encourage and support her through the worst of times. And rather bizarrely, due to an accident in France, she soon has her first housemate in the wonderful character of Mason, known as Ace. Ace was just brilliant and my favourite of the other characters. Flamboyant, eccentric and the owner of a second hand clothes shop, he provided so many colourful and funny moments in the book. Some of his lines had me snorting out loud! He must have been great fun to write about.
Rowan has to battle with her guilt when she starts to feel attracted to Ace's handsome flatmate James. Although nothing can possibly happen between them - Ace is gay after all - Rowan can't help but feel she is betraying Tom. Much though she loved her husband, she is still a young woman with hopes and dreams. There isn't a manual for how you should act when life goes wrong and for what is acceptable and when. Just when Rowan seems to be getting her life back on track, the author has some surprises in store for her and they weren't all pleasant ones. There were some twists that I certainly didn't see coming at all.
This isn't just a lighthearted read, with some deeper issues addressed through some of the other characters such as betrayal, infertility and depression. But it's also a book about love, friendship and second chances. Angela Barton has created some wonderful characters who it is easy to care about. Magnolia House is a sweet, romantic read which is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.
Ah poor Rowan, you'd have to be awfully hard- hearted not to feel for her when life could not have been any crueller. She was dealt such a blow and my heart just went out to her. I can only imagine how I would have felt in her position. Thankfully she had good friends to gently encourage and support her through the worst of times. And rather bizarrely, due to an accident in France, she soon has her first housemate in the wonderful character of Mason, known as Ace. Ace was just brilliant and my favourite of the other characters. Flamboyant, eccentric and the owner of a second hand clothes shop, he provided so many colourful and funny moments in the book. Some of his lines had me snorting out loud! He must have been great fun to write about.
Rowan has to battle with her guilt when she starts to feel attracted to Ace's handsome flatmate James. Although nothing can possibly happen between them - Ace is gay after all - Rowan can't help but feel she is betraying Tom. Much though she loved her husband, she is still a young woman with hopes and dreams. There isn't a manual for how you should act when life goes wrong and for what is acceptable and when. Just when Rowan seems to be getting her life back on track, the author has some surprises in store for her and they weren't all pleasant ones. There were some twists that I certainly didn't see coming at all.
This isn't just a lighthearted read, with some deeper issues addressed through some of the other characters such as betrayal, infertility and depression. But it's also a book about love, friendship and second chances. Angela Barton has created some wonderful characters who it is easy to care about. Magnolia House is a sweet, romantic read which is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.
February 15, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this story which has a touch of everything from romance, to sadness and an interesting hint of suspense. Rowan and Tom’s plans include renovating a house in London but when their dreams are torn apart she struggles with a multitude of emotions while trying to decide a new direction for her life. The many sensitive issues this story touches on are handled deftly and we’re brought on the journey with Rowan, laughing and crying along with her. The secondary cast of characters only add to the depth of this book bringing intrigue along with a lot of laughter and bolster the uplifting resolution to a charming story.
February 23, 2019
When Rowan and Tom bought Magnolia House at auction, a beautiful townhouse they thought they were set up for life..... but fate had other things in store for them and Rowan its left grieving and trying to find a way forward on her own. Deciding to turn the house into three flats she gains Ace and Nora and her daughter as lodgers.
A lovely story full of heartbreak but also joy. I loved her tentative feelings for James which were also tempered with guilt..... was it wrong to move on from Tom?
A lovely story full of heartbreak but also joy. I loved her tentative feelings for James which were also tempered with guilt..... was it wrong to move on from Tom?
February 11, 2019
Suspense, hope and love
This is Rowan's story, which takes the reader on a wonderful journey that includes sorrow, happiness and hope.
Rowan's husband appears to have some secrets, but then so does Rowan, who is waiting for the right moment to tell hers. A move to a new house in Clapham, London seems just perfect. They are close to the Common, close to Rowan's sister in law and everything is very exciting. Then in a moment it all changes, and Rowan need to have a big re-think about her future.
Meanwhile Libby (Rowan's sister in law) enjoys shopping rather too much, and finds life is getting somewhat out of control.
4*s from me for this comforting, lovely read, about friendship, love and new beginnings. The writing style made me feel completely involved, and there were some wonderful details about English life. I enjoyed the suspense about Rowan's husband's secrets, and loved the characters. Although including some difficult themes, this is a book of joy and positivity.
This is Rowan's story, which takes the reader on a wonderful journey that includes sorrow, happiness and hope.
Rowan's husband appears to have some secrets, but then so does Rowan, who is waiting for the right moment to tell hers. A move to a new house in Clapham, London seems just perfect. They are close to the Common, close to Rowan's sister in law and everything is very exciting. Then in a moment it all changes, and Rowan need to have a big re-think about her future.
Meanwhile Libby (Rowan's sister in law) enjoys shopping rather too much, and finds life is getting somewhat out of control.
4*s from me for this comforting, lovely read, about friendship, love and new beginnings. The writing style made me feel completely involved, and there were some wonderful details about English life. I enjoyed the suspense about Rowan's husband's secrets, and loved the characters. Although including some difficult themes, this is a book of joy and positivity.
January 29, 2019
I expected this to be a book I could dip in and out whenever spare moments occurred. I was so wrong. Magnolia House became compulsive reading for me. The characters were fun, the plot seemed gentle, until the author decided to shake up and shock me with heartbreak and loss for the heroine. I won't give more away about the plot, except to say this is a compelling read that I thoroughly recommend.
January 29, 2019
The cover of this book is fresh and simple. The story is also fresh but not really simple. Rowan's life goes from happy and comfortable to devastation in a moment. Her way back to living her new life is complex and fraught, with people not always being whom they seem. So if you are ready for the unexpected twists her story takes don't wait, visit Magnolia House soon!
January 25, 2019
A lovely book about a woman remaking her life after tragedy. Rowan had so much to look forward to- and then not. What she had left was house, Magnolia House, but that's a little overwhelming. She opts to take in housemates, a positive in so many ways. Ace is just awesome and just the person she needs to perk up her life. James, however, is tempting but....There's a gentle dance toward romance here. Barton does not shy away from the serious issues Rowan faced or her conflict at finding a possibility of happiness. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A rewarding read.
April 13, 2019
A great read!
I loved reading Magnolia House! The characters came to life, grew and then warmed my heart. Thank you, Angela, for a well-written story.
I loved reading Magnolia House! The characters came to life, grew and then warmed my heart. Thank you, Angela, for a well-written story.
September 6, 2021
Absolutely loved the twists and turns of this book. A brilliant easy read for my holiday
January 31, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
There are times when I’ve read a story that has engaged my emotions made me feel for the characters – and there have been times when the events that happen to characters simply leave me an emotional wreck… that is what MAGNOLIA HOUSE did for me.
You will not close that final page of this book without feeling something – grief, hope, despair, anger, renewed faith, and the ability to breathe freely once more. You will wonder how the human heart can go through as much as Rowen does and still survive. You will, at the very least, get misty-eyed or downright sobbing may occur. In the end, you’ll discover that there is hope, life after you’ve been beaten down to the point where survival is the only option.
MAGNOLIA HOUSE delivers a strong story full of secrets, lies, tragedy, hope, friendship, recovery and a chance to find happiness again when you once thought that was an impossible dream.
I absolutely loved this story, I sincerely hope that we’ll get another story that follows these characters further along in life because I’m now emotionally engaged in their welfare. This is one of those stories where a reader needs to discover the nuances for themselves, to find those little nuggets of wisdom or solve a puzzle. My saying much more would take that gift away from you… and this story is a gift from the heart, and I hope you’ll enjoy every moment spent in this world, I know I did.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
There are times when I’ve read a story that has engaged my emotions made me feel for the characters – and there have been times when the events that happen to characters simply leave me an emotional wreck… that is what MAGNOLIA HOUSE did for me.
You will not close that final page of this book without feeling something – grief, hope, despair, anger, renewed faith, and the ability to breathe freely once more. You will wonder how the human heart can go through as much as Rowen does and still survive. You will, at the very least, get misty-eyed or downright sobbing may occur. In the end, you’ll discover that there is hope, life after you’ve been beaten down to the point where survival is the only option.
MAGNOLIA HOUSE delivers a strong story full of secrets, lies, tragedy, hope, friendship, recovery and a chance to find happiness again when you once thought that was an impossible dream.
I absolutely loved this story, I sincerely hope that we’ll get another story that follows these characters further along in life because I’m now emotionally engaged in their welfare. This is one of those stories where a reader needs to discover the nuances for themselves, to find those little nuggets of wisdom or solve a puzzle. My saying much more would take that gift away from you… and this story is a gift from the heart, and I hope you’ll enjoy every moment spent in this world, I know I did.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
January 31, 2019
Magnolia House is a heartwarming and entertaining read that doesn’t shy away from exploring the highs and lows faced by the main character, Rowan. Throughout the story, there are dark and light moments that the author has balanced well. While it incorporates loss, grief and deception, it is undoubtedly also a story of carrying on, and of finding the positives when all around you seems to be falling apart.
Rowan is a strong, likeable character, who doesn’t sit back and let her problems define her. She takes steps toward building a new life drawing the reader into her world, as they gain an understanding of her hopes and fears for the future.
I loved the supporting cast of characters, especially Mason, who brings energy and enthusiasm to all he does, and Jet – Rowan’s adorable dog. James is a likeable male lead, whose role is at first subtle but develops well as the story progresses.
As you’d expect from Angela Barton, the text is descriptive, making it picturesque in its depiction as images are brought to life from the page.
Rowan is a strong, likeable character, who doesn’t sit back and let her problems define her. She takes steps toward building a new life drawing the reader into her world, as they gain an understanding of her hopes and fears for the future.
I loved the supporting cast of characters, especially Mason, who brings energy and enthusiasm to all he does, and Jet – Rowan’s adorable dog. James is a likeable male lead, whose role is at first subtle but develops well as the story progresses.
As you’d expect from Angela Barton, the text is descriptive, making it picturesque in its depiction as images are brought to life from the page.
January 31, 2019
After the unforgettable Arlette's Story, I was curious about this new novel (in a different genre, as the first was historical and this one is contemporary) but also rather worried, knowing the heroine was going to face grief near the beginning (which could easily make for what I would consider a depressing read). Thankfully, after the darkest part (softened by supportive characters and the beautiful writing style that had already made me love Arlette's Story in spite of its tragic moments), most of the book has a good balance between sad and happy, with new friends, comparatively not-that-terrible problems, an intriguing little mystery and even some very funny scenes, so I really enjoyed it from there to the end.
February 2, 2019
A great novel
This is a lovely, easy but emotional read with believable, well rounded characters I could empathise with and care about. The story of a young widow, Rowan, who turns her house into apartments and rents two of them out. The novel deals with relationships, has a good pace and a satisfying ending for most of the characters and some very funny moments. I didn’t want to put it down. Thank you Angela Barton, I loved it and can't wait for the next one.
This is a lovely, easy but emotional read with believable, well rounded characters I could empathise with and care about. The story of a young widow, Rowan, who turns her house into apartments and rents two of them out. The novel deals with relationships, has a good pace and a satisfying ending for most of the characters and some very funny moments. I didn’t want to put it down. Thank you Angela Barton, I loved it and can't wait for the next one.
January 29, 2019
This story starts well and then improves. It is hard to review without giving too much away but suffice it to say this is a a great romance. The heroine, Rowan, is a believable girl trying to make the very best of her life and eventually succeeding. You will love following the downs and ups of her life, willing things to work out well for her. The men in her life, Tom, Ace and James are so well written I almost heard them speaking to me! A very readable, gentle story which keeps you reading.
January 31, 2019
What a great book! Angela Barton takes you through highs and lows of life. This book really grabbed my attention and held it! Hard to review without giving away spoilers! Since I don't like spoilers I will simply say "This is a book we all should read as it shows us the courage to find our own second chances."
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my open and honest review!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my open and honest review!
January 29, 2019
Thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Rowan is the main character and she has suffered a terrible loss, through no fault of her own. However she eventually moves forward in life and faces future challenges with bravery and good humour. I love her relationship with her sister-in-law, who faces her own challenges. The story is beautifully written with a nice touch of humour. Highly recommend it - 5 stars!
February 1, 2019
Magnolia House by Angela Barton
Source: NetGalley and Choc Lit Publishing
My Rating: 5/5 stars
Magnolia House is everything Rowan Forrester and her husband could have ever wished for in a home! With rooms perfect for living and for working, Magnolia House was meant to be the start of a wonderful future, the newest chapter in an already happy marriage. Unfortunately, the universe doesn’t always dance to the same tune as our wishes and within weeks of moving in, Rowan finds herself very much alone and unsure of her future.
Not willing to turn her life upside down yet again, Rowan decides to renovate Magnolia House making it suitable for both herself and renters. Bringing strangers into her home is a scary prospect, but for once, the universe seems to be on Rowan’s side. While visiting her parents in France, she inadvertently runs into (literally!) Ace, a wonderfully happy, energetic, and enthusiastic man who happens to be looking for a new place to call home back in jolly old England. One suite down, one to go . . .
Nora and her adorable daughter, Primrose have been down on their luck for a time, but things are starting to look up and the first bit of hope they have had comes in the form of a suite in Magnolia House. Nora is a model and wonderful mother and the new company brings a bit of joy back to Rowan’s life and certainly to Magnolia House.
As everyone settles into their new lives, new homes, and new arrangements, Rowan does her best to navigate it all and move past the heartache of her loss. She becomes fast friends with Ace, finds some small success with her jewelry making small business, adores looking after Primrose and chatting with Nora, and disturbingly attracted to Ace’s roommate. Yes, things are definitely changing in Rowan’s life; sadly, not all the changes are good.
Though Rowan’s jewelry is selling well, she needs to do more, make more, market more if she is going to have a successful and proper business. Her attraction to James is exciting yet also feels like a betrayal of her late husband, her best friend (and sister-in-law) is clearly struggling with something beyond the loss of her brother, and there are the nasty messages that keep appearing, messages that hint at a dark past Rowan knows nothing about. As if the grieving process weren’t enough, Rowan also must deal with all these issues as well as the day-to-day bits that life always seems to throw at her. Little does Rowan know, all the problems and all the issues are going to come to light and be dealt with in one crushing moment and Magnolia House will never be the same again.
The Bottom Line: I have had a truly excellent start to my book reading year and Magnolia House is just one more example of the excellence! The synopsis really doesn’t do this book justice with regards to how much actually occurs, how many lives and moments intersect, and how the past comes crashing, in a most spectacular way into the present. This isn’t just a story about love, friendship, and loyalty, but also one of learning to trust again, healing, and accepting the past for what it was and moving beyond it into a bright and hopeful future. Magnolia House is also very much about the strength of one woman who discovers rock bottom does indeed have a basement and there is nowhere to go from the basement, but up. I found this strange mixing of people and events to be most enjoyable with all the emotions and feels and plot twists to be entirely engrossing. Once Magnolia House really got moving, I found it hard to put down and very much plowed my way through to the much deserved HEA.
Source: NetGalley and Choc Lit Publishing
My Rating: 5/5 stars
Magnolia House is everything Rowan Forrester and her husband could have ever wished for in a home! With rooms perfect for living and for working, Magnolia House was meant to be the start of a wonderful future, the newest chapter in an already happy marriage. Unfortunately, the universe doesn’t always dance to the same tune as our wishes and within weeks of moving in, Rowan finds herself very much alone and unsure of her future.
Not willing to turn her life upside down yet again, Rowan decides to renovate Magnolia House making it suitable for both herself and renters. Bringing strangers into her home is a scary prospect, but for once, the universe seems to be on Rowan’s side. While visiting her parents in France, she inadvertently runs into (literally!) Ace, a wonderfully happy, energetic, and enthusiastic man who happens to be looking for a new place to call home back in jolly old England. One suite down, one to go . . .
Nora and her adorable daughter, Primrose have been down on their luck for a time, but things are starting to look up and the first bit of hope they have had comes in the form of a suite in Magnolia House. Nora is a model and wonderful mother and the new company brings a bit of joy back to Rowan’s life and certainly to Magnolia House.
As everyone settles into their new lives, new homes, and new arrangements, Rowan does her best to navigate it all and move past the heartache of her loss. She becomes fast friends with Ace, finds some small success with her jewelry making small business, adores looking after Primrose and chatting with Nora, and disturbingly attracted to Ace’s roommate. Yes, things are definitely changing in Rowan’s life; sadly, not all the changes are good.
Though Rowan’s jewelry is selling well, she needs to do more, make more, market more if she is going to have a successful and proper business. Her attraction to James is exciting yet also feels like a betrayal of her late husband, her best friend (and sister-in-law) is clearly struggling with something beyond the loss of her brother, and there are the nasty messages that keep appearing, messages that hint at a dark past Rowan knows nothing about. As if the grieving process weren’t enough, Rowan also must deal with all these issues as well as the day-to-day bits that life always seems to throw at her. Little does Rowan know, all the problems and all the issues are going to come to light and be dealt with in one crushing moment and Magnolia House will never be the same again.
The Bottom Line: I have had a truly excellent start to my book reading year and Magnolia House is just one more example of the excellence! The synopsis really doesn’t do this book justice with regards to how much actually occurs, how many lives and moments intersect, and how the past comes crashing, in a most spectacular way into the present. This isn’t just a story about love, friendship, and loyalty, but also one of learning to trust again, healing, and accepting the past for what it was and moving beyond it into a bright and hopeful future. Magnolia House is also very much about the strength of one woman who discovers rock bottom does indeed have a basement and there is nowhere to go from the basement, but up. I found this strange mixing of people and events to be most enjoyable with all the emotions and feels and plot twists to be entirely engrossing. Once Magnolia House really got moving, I found it hard to put down and very much plowed my way through to the much deserved HEA.
February 19, 2019
Rowan and Tom are a couple in love, with a dream to own a run-down Georgian townhome in London, just minutes from Tom’s sister and her husband. With the aid of Rowan’s inheritance from her grandmother, they get the house at auction, and are able to refit and renovate for a new start – with a photography studio in the basement for Tom and plenty of light and bright space for Rowan to create her jewelry. And things are lovely, with only a few hiccups from a client of Tom’s and Rowan’s big secret – she’s pregnant and can’t wait to share the news.
But a sudden appearance of a heart condition takes Tom away, leaving Rowan, his sister Libby and her husband / best friend David grieving and bereft. Wanting nothing more than to hide away until the pain subsides, but needing to do SOMETHING, Rowan organizes for contractors to split the house into three flats – giving her some income and people around her. And while she’s struggling to figure that all out, she heads to France to her parents’ home, just to regroup and have a break from the noise and construction debris. An ill-advised open car door results in her meeting her first tenant, Mason (or Ace) is flamboyant, friendly and utterly adorable, and with his own living situation in London going pear-shaped he’s moving in with plenty of laughter and good-will.
We follow Rowan through a year of her grief, interspersed with concerns about Libby and David’s marriage, a miscarriage, new feelings for someone else, and a series of strangely threatening notes, all leading to a climax that leave Rowan feeling both hollowed out and fed up with it all. Grief is a funny thing, and the moments of Rowan’s dealing with it by ignoring, pushing herself, railing and sobbing all felt normal and solidly portrayed, while the characters of Ace, James, Libby, David and Nora, as well as her little spaniel Jet gave little reprieves from both the grief and the struggles to move on. What emerges is a solidly presented and clever story that allows us to understand and appreciate Rowan, empathize with Libby and wonder about the changes as they are approaching almost before a year has passed since Tom’s death. Solid friendships, true caring and plenty of drama that results from poor choices and secrets are all clear and palpable, and the story brings brightness and happiness to most everyone we meet.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
But a sudden appearance of a heart condition takes Tom away, leaving Rowan, his sister Libby and her husband / best friend David grieving and bereft. Wanting nothing more than to hide away until the pain subsides, but needing to do SOMETHING, Rowan organizes for contractors to split the house into three flats – giving her some income and people around her. And while she’s struggling to figure that all out, she heads to France to her parents’ home, just to regroup and have a break from the noise and construction debris. An ill-advised open car door results in her meeting her first tenant, Mason (or Ace) is flamboyant, friendly and utterly adorable, and with his own living situation in London going pear-shaped he’s moving in with plenty of laughter and good-will.
We follow Rowan through a year of her grief, interspersed with concerns about Libby and David’s marriage, a miscarriage, new feelings for someone else, and a series of strangely threatening notes, all leading to a climax that leave Rowan feeling both hollowed out and fed up with it all. Grief is a funny thing, and the moments of Rowan’s dealing with it by ignoring, pushing herself, railing and sobbing all felt normal and solidly portrayed, while the characters of Ace, James, Libby, David and Nora, as well as her little spaniel Jet gave little reprieves from both the grief and the struggles to move on. What emerges is a solidly presented and clever story that allows us to understand and appreciate Rowan, empathize with Libby and wonder about the changes as they are approaching almost before a year has passed since Tom’s death. Solid friendships, true caring and plenty of drama that results from poor choices and secrets are all clear and palpable, and the story brings brightness and happiness to most everyone we meet.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews