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Hope Farm #1
Μαθήματα Ευτυχίας
Όλοι έχουν μια δεύτερη ευκαιρία στο Αγρόκτημα Ελπίδα!
Η Μόλι Μπέικερ απολαμβάνει μια γεμάτη ζωή.
Στα τριάντα οχτώ της χρόνια, ζει στο Αγρόκτημα Ελπίδα, μια φάρμα εκατό στρεμμάτων στην αγγλική εξοχή, περιτριγυρισμένη από τους (κυρίως) τετράποδους φίλους της σ’ ένα ειδυλλιακό τοπίο. Ανάμεσά τους, ο Άντονι το αντικοινωνικό πρόβατο, η Τίνα Τέρνερ το αλπάκα–ντίβα, και ο Φλιτζάνης, το επικών διαστάσεων γουρούνι.
Η Μόλι έχει μετατρέψει το αγρόκτημα σε εναλλακτικό σχολείο για παιδιά που χρειάζονται ένα είδος εκπαίδευσης έξω από τα συνηθισμένα. Η δουλειά είναι απαιτητική, αλλά η Μόλι τη λατρεύει. Όταν ο κομψός και πετυχημένος Σέλμπι Ντέικερ φέρνει στο σχολείο της το γιο του τον Λούκας, η Μόλι δεν εντυπωσιάζεται.
Όμως ο Λούκας είναι απόμακρος και η Μόλι δεν αργεί να καταλάβει ότι η περίπτωσή του δεν είναι τόσο απλή όσο νόμιζε. Ένα επιπλέον πρόβλημα είναι ότι ο μπαμπάς του αποδεικνύεται επικίνδυνα γοητευτικός. Η Μόλι πρέπει να προστατέψει το αγαπημένο της αγρόκτημα. Σύντομα όμως θα πρέπει να κάνει μια επιλογή. Αν αφήσει τον Λούκας και τον Σέλμπι να μπουν στη ζωή της θα κάνει ένα τρομερό λάθος ή ένα υπέροχο νέο ξεκίνημα;
Η βασίλισσα του αισθηματικού μυθιστορήματος Κάρολ Μάθιους επιστρέφει με ένα απολαυστικό μυθιστόρημα που θα σας ζεστάνει την καρδιά.
Η Μόλι Μπέικερ απολαμβάνει μια γεμάτη ζωή.
Στα τριάντα οχτώ της χρόνια, ζει στο Αγρόκτημα Ελπίδα, μια φάρμα εκατό στρεμμάτων στην αγγλική εξοχή, περιτριγυρισμένη από τους (κυρίως) τετράποδους φίλους της σ’ ένα ειδυλλιακό τοπίο. Ανάμεσά τους, ο Άντονι το αντικοινωνικό πρόβατο, η Τίνα Τέρνερ το αλπάκα–ντίβα, και ο Φλιτζάνης, το επικών διαστάσεων γουρούνι.
Η Μόλι έχει μετατρέψει το αγρόκτημα σε εναλλακτικό σχολείο για παιδιά που χρειάζονται ένα είδος εκπαίδευσης έξω από τα συνηθισμένα. Η δουλειά είναι απαιτητική, αλλά η Μόλι τη λατρεύει. Όταν ο κομψός και πετυχημένος Σέλμπι Ντέικερ φέρνει στο σχολείο της το γιο του τον Λούκας, η Μόλι δεν εντυπωσιάζεται.
Όμως ο Λούκας είναι απόμακρος και η Μόλι δεν αργεί να καταλάβει ότι η περίπτωσή του δεν είναι τόσο απλή όσο νόμιζε. Ένα επιπλέον πρόβλημα είναι ότι ο μπαμπάς του αποδεικνύεται επικίνδυνα γοητευτικός. Η Μόλι πρέπει να προστατέψει το αγαπημένο της αγρόκτημα. Σύντομα όμως θα πρέπει να κάνει μια επιλογή. Αν αφήσει τον Λούκας και τον Σέλμπι να μπουν στη ζωή της θα κάνει ένα τρομερό λάθος ή ένα υπέροχο νέο ξεκίνημα;
Η βασίλισσα του αισθηματικού μυθιστορήματος Κάρολ Μάθιους επιστρέφει με ένα απολαυστικό μυθιστόρημα που θα σας ζεστάνει την καρδιά.
456 pages, Paperback
First published February 21, 2019
326 people are currently reading
3315 people want to read
About the author
Carole Matthews
76 books1,730 followersCarole Matthews is an international bestselling author of hugely successful romantic comedy novels. Her unique sense of humour has won her legions of fans and critical acclaim all over the world.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
A Minor Indiscretion and A Compromising Position both reached the Top 5 in the Sunday Times bestseller chart in the UK. You Drive Me Crazy reached number 8 in the original fiction charts. The novel Welcome To The Real World was shortlisted for RNA romantic novel of the year 2007.
In 2006 Carole co-edited - with writer Sarah Mlynowski - two new editions of the hugely popular Girls' Night In charity series called Girls' Night Out - one for the USA and one for Canada. All proceeds go to War Child.
Carole has presented on television and is a regular radio guest. When she’s not writing novels, television or film scripts she manages to find time to trek in the Himalayas, rollerblade in Central Park, take tea in China and snooze in her garden shed in Milton Keynes which is near London, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 484 reviews
January 31, 2019
I have never read a Carole Matthews novel before, and I only chose to read this when I saw how well it was being received by so many readers. I have to admit that I struggled to get into it at the beginning when it crossed my mind that this was not going to be for me, but it was not long before everything changed. It grabbed hold of me and never let go until before I knew it, it was the end of the book. This is a delightful read, funny, witty, with bags full of heart and overflowing with charm. 38 year old Molly Baker is a misfit, a loner, shy, running Hope Farm in Buckinghamshire, which she inherited from her beloved Aunt Hettie, now dead, but still desperately missed by Molly. The animals on her farm are the real stars here, unwanted, damaged, missing limbs, with attitude and health issues, all taken in by Molly who loves them to pieces.
Molly's life is pared down to the basics, she lives in a dilapidated and ancient caravan, has no TV, her life revolves around running the farm, trying to make ends meet financially, but never succeeding. She runs the farm as an alternative school for those children that mainstream education cannot cope with, those with behavioural and learning difficulties, autism, and more. The children respond to the animals, taking care of them, learning to bond with other children, develop self esteem and confidence that has sadly been lacking in their lives. Helping Molly run and maintain the farm are the offbeat and capable Bev and the retired taciturn Alan. Shelby Dacre is the famous good looking celebrity soap star playing a farmer in a long running series. He is at the end of his tether, unable to cope with his son, Lucas, thrown out of school with a penchant for arson. He is hoping that Molly can reach and connect with Lucas when he cannot.
Molly finds a troubled teen, having lost his mother, drowning in grief, getting barely any attention from his father. Lucas worms his way into Molly's heart, and despite their different lives, she begins to hanker after Shelby, surely she is setting herself up for inevitable heartbreak? Meanwhile, Molly's farm, her home, the school and the animals face being closed down for good. Become acquainted and entranced with Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Johnny Rotten, the obstreperous trio of alpacas, the aggressive and anti-social sheep, one legged chickens, the pygmy goats and more. This is a fabulously entertaining read from an author who is a natural storyteller. I am thinking there will not be many readers who will be able to resist this novel! Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
Molly's life is pared down to the basics, she lives in a dilapidated and ancient caravan, has no TV, her life revolves around running the farm, trying to make ends meet financially, but never succeeding. She runs the farm as an alternative school for those children that mainstream education cannot cope with, those with behavioural and learning difficulties, autism, and more. The children respond to the animals, taking care of them, learning to bond with other children, develop self esteem and confidence that has sadly been lacking in their lives. Helping Molly run and maintain the farm are the offbeat and capable Bev and the retired taciturn Alan. Shelby Dacre is the famous good looking celebrity soap star playing a farmer in a long running series. He is at the end of his tether, unable to cope with his son, Lucas, thrown out of school with a penchant for arson. He is hoping that Molly can reach and connect with Lucas when he cannot.
Molly finds a troubled teen, having lost his mother, drowning in grief, getting barely any attention from his father. Lucas worms his way into Molly's heart, and despite their different lives, she begins to hanker after Shelby, surely she is setting herself up for inevitable heartbreak? Meanwhile, Molly's farm, her home, the school and the animals face being closed down for good. Become acquainted and entranced with Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Johnny Rotten, the obstreperous trio of alpacas, the aggressive and anti-social sheep, one legged chickens, the pygmy goats and more. This is a fabulously entertaining read from an author who is a natural storyteller. I am thinking there will not be many readers who will be able to resist this novel! Many thanks to Little, Brown for an ARC.
February 26, 2019
”I brush the dirt from my hands, my jeans, my shirt. I should introduce myself to you. How rude of me not to have done it before. I’m Molly Baker. I’m thirty-eight – no idea how that’s even possible. I’m single, but I’m not a mad cat lady. I’m a mad all-kinds-of-animals lady. Welcome to my life at Hope Farm.”
Molly runs Hope Farm, an untraditional farm that provides a home to unwanted animals: Anthony the anti-social sheep, Tina Turner, one of the alpacas with attitude; Teacup, a definitely-not-miniature pig, and a rooster named Dick-the-Cock, a horse that’s allergic to her mane, and Little Dog and Big Dog. Additionally, she offers alternative education to kids who haven't blossomed in mainstream schools. Then the distractingly attractive Shelby Dacre, an actor famous for his role in a beloved soap-opera, turns up hoping to enroll his wayward son, Lucas, Molly isn't fazed, after all she doesn’t even own a television set, so she has no idea who he is. She does, however, immediately accept his son as a student, if only to grow concerned that Lucas might prove to be more of a handful than she predicted. Is believing in Lucas a terrible mistake or will Lucas, like all the others, find a second chance at Hope Farm?
When the farm faces foreclosure, Molly finds herself forced to make more social contacts than she is comfortable with, but she can’t bear to think of losing this farm that she inherited from her godmother-Aunt Hattie.
”When Hettie died I took over the running of the farm and the mantle of family weirdo.”
This is the first book I’ve read by Carole Matthews, and I really enjoyed this. I loved her devotion to these left-behind animals, and her connection to Lucas.
A quirky, loving character, another that struggles with human interaction but was very lovable, this was made all the more entertaining when I found out that a farm owned by a friend of the author was the inspiration for this novel. The culture and philosophy of this farm is very close to that of Hope Farm.
https://www.carolematthews.com/a-litt...
Published: 23 Apr 2019
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Little, Brown Book Group UK / Sphere
Molly runs Hope Farm, an untraditional farm that provides a home to unwanted animals: Anthony the anti-social sheep, Tina Turner, one of the alpacas with attitude; Teacup, a definitely-not-miniature pig, and a rooster named Dick-the-Cock, a horse that’s allergic to her mane, and Little Dog and Big Dog. Additionally, she offers alternative education to kids who haven't blossomed in mainstream schools. Then the distractingly attractive Shelby Dacre, an actor famous for his role in a beloved soap-opera, turns up hoping to enroll his wayward son, Lucas, Molly isn't fazed, after all she doesn’t even own a television set, so she has no idea who he is. She does, however, immediately accept his son as a student, if only to grow concerned that Lucas might prove to be more of a handful than she predicted. Is believing in Lucas a terrible mistake or will Lucas, like all the others, find a second chance at Hope Farm?
When the farm faces foreclosure, Molly finds herself forced to make more social contacts than she is comfortable with, but she can’t bear to think of losing this farm that she inherited from her godmother-Aunt Hattie.
”When Hettie died I took over the running of the farm and the mantle of family weirdo.”
This is the first book I’ve read by Carole Matthews, and I really enjoyed this. I loved her devotion to these left-behind animals, and her connection to Lucas.
A quirky, loving character, another that struggles with human interaction but was very lovable, this was made all the more entertaining when I found out that a farm owned by a friend of the author was the inspiration for this novel. The culture and philosophy of this farm is very close to that of Hope Farm.
https://www.carolematthews.com/a-litt...
Published: 23 Apr 2019
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Little, Brown Book Group UK / Sphere
July 19, 2019
Happiness for Beginners is very gentle, very slow build romance. Molly Baker runs Hope Farm in Buckinghamshire with an abundance of various animals and a host of children who for one reason or another have dropped out of school. One of those children has a soapstar actor for a dad who soon becomes the obvious love interest for Molly. The story is one I thought would sweep me off my feet and at certain moments it did but the detail of mundane activities and descriptions lost my interest and somewhat burst the story bubble for me. Molly is almost too good to be true, everyone loves her, and she is definitely pretty perfect and maybe that was one of my issues. Well-rounded characters are not necessarily perfect in every way. This perfection and other elements led to some overly sweet moments for my tastes. This story was not completely my cup of tea but would perhaps be a good fit for those who enjoy an easy on the ear, gentle romance full of descriptions and happy moments.
Thank you to Netgalley for my advance copy *
Thank you to Netgalley for my advance copy *
October 15, 2023
*Delightful Cosy Tale*
This is a wonderful cosy read, it is based on Hope Farm run by Molly who prefers animals to people. She lives in a run down caravan and she qualified as a teacher it just was not for her in the conventional way. The farm belonged to her aunt and was left to her. She has two trusted employees and between them they make it work. There is fun, laughter especially with the animals with their different personalities some with rockstar names. They also take in animals that their mothers ignore and hand rear them.
Hope farm is not like an ordinary farm over time she has taken in children who have special needs, autism, adhd, troubled kids etc and after gaining the necessary certificates she has become what’s known as the last chance saloon. The children gain an understanding of how to care for the animals and it becomes a great therapy for them.
One day a handsome man Shelby Dacre turns up with his son Lucas. Unbeknownst to Molly he is a famous soap actor, she does not own a tv and has no interest in celebrities. Shelby and his son are virtually estranged, since his wife passed away it is evident that she was the glue that held them together. Lucas is a handful, does Molly hold the key to help mend their relationship? In order to do so it means that it could change the lives of all three of them, it also means that Molly has to step out of her comfort zone…
I notice there is a Christmas sequel called ‘Christmas for Beginners’
This is a wonderful cosy read, it is based on Hope Farm run by Molly who prefers animals to people. She lives in a run down caravan and she qualified as a teacher it just was not for her in the conventional way. The farm belonged to her aunt and was left to her. She has two trusted employees and between them they make it work. There is fun, laughter especially with the animals with their different personalities some with rockstar names. They also take in animals that their mothers ignore and hand rear them.
Hope farm is not like an ordinary farm over time she has taken in children who have special needs, autism, adhd, troubled kids etc and after gaining the necessary certificates she has become what’s known as the last chance saloon. The children gain an understanding of how to care for the animals and it becomes a great therapy for them.
One day a handsome man Shelby Dacre turns up with his son Lucas. Unbeknownst to Molly he is a famous soap actor, she does not own a tv and has no interest in celebrities. Shelby and his son are virtually estranged, since his wife passed away it is evident that she was the glue that held them together. Lucas is a handful, does Molly hold the key to help mend their relationship? In order to do so it means that it could change the lives of all three of them, it also means that Molly has to step out of her comfort zone…
I notice there is a Christmas sequel called ‘Christmas for Beginners’
December 30, 2018
Always a happy day when I am able to read a new book by Carole Matthews, and Happiness for Beginners was a joy to read.
Mollie introduces us to Hope Farm and what they do there, plus all the animals and their back stories over the first few chapters, in such a chatty style you feel like she is talking directly to you.
And what fabulous place Hope Farm is, with its assortment of animals all with their own distinct personalities.
And then there is the school aspect of what they do there, as its not a farm in the traditional sense, rather a place where troubled teens who have most likely been excluded from schools, can learn practical skills and become more independent and more from helping to take care of the animals.
And this really is a delight for all animal lovers, I'm not sure I could pick a favourite, but Fifty the sheep that thinks its anything else, the Shetland pony that is allergic to its own hair and Teacup the pig that is rather larger than its name all have soft spots for me.
The story focuses on one pupil and his recently widowed father, and Lucas couldn't help but get under my skin. Such a lovely boy, just misunderstood.
In some respects this feels quite different from Carole Matthews' other books, possibly due to the setting, but equally it has everything you would expect to see from her too, all mixed into one amazing book.
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Mollie introduces us to Hope Farm and what they do there, plus all the animals and their back stories over the first few chapters, in such a chatty style you feel like she is talking directly to you.
And what fabulous place Hope Farm is, with its assortment of animals all with their own distinct personalities.
And then there is the school aspect of what they do there, as its not a farm in the traditional sense, rather a place where troubled teens who have most likely been excluded from schools, can learn practical skills and become more independent and more from helping to take care of the animals.
And this really is a delight for all animal lovers, I'm not sure I could pick a favourite, but Fifty the sheep that thinks its anything else, the Shetland pony that is allergic to its own hair and Teacup the pig that is rather larger than its name all have soft spots for me.
The story focuses on one pupil and his recently widowed father, and Lucas couldn't help but get under my skin. Such a lovely boy, just misunderstood.
In some respects this feels quite different from Carole Matthews' other books, possibly due to the setting, but equally it has everything you would expect to see from her too, all mixed into one amazing book.
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 22, 2019
I couldn't finish this novel, though I really tried. Seeing all the rave reviews and high ratings, it must be me... It doesn't help that it's written in first person. Perhaps I am not patient enough to wade through so much sweetness. I found it all rather predictable and nauseating.
Read
March 15, 2021This sort of observation really annoys me: “I don’t mention that so often with our students it can be the parents who are part of the problem”. (p46)
She runs an alternative school for children with learning disabilities and autism. How can that be the parents fault? The child she is talking about lost his mum...maybe that is why he keeps setting fire to stuff?? But nope, let’s just blame the parents.
DNF p60.
She runs an alternative school for children with learning disabilities and autism. How can that be the parents fault? The child she is talking about lost his mum...maybe that is why he keeps setting fire to stuff?? But nope, let’s just blame the parents.
DNF p60.
March 22, 2020
Πολύ ωραίο βιβλίο, ευχάριστο, αισιόδοξο και τρυφερό, ότι πρέπει για τις δύσκολες ημέρες που διανύουμε...
February 29, 2020
Βλέποντας τον τίτλο και μόνο νομίζεις πως πρόκειται για βιβλίο αυτοβελτιωσης. Αυτός ήταν ο λόγος που ενώ με τραβούσε τόσο το εξώφυλλο δεν ήθελα να το διαβάσω μιας και δεν τα πάω καλά με τα βιβλία αυτοβελτιωσης. Όταν έμαθα ότι πρόκειται για μυθιστόρημα το ξεκίνησα και απλά δεν ήθελα να το αφήσω ποτέ από τα χέρια μου. Δεν ήθελα να τελειώσει αλλά δεν άντεχα και να το διαβάσω αργά!!!!!είναι το πιο αισιόδοξο το πιο χαλαρωτικό το πιο ευχάριστο και το πιο αστείο βιβλίο που έχω διαβάσει. Το αγάπησα και το πρότεινα αμέσως σε άτομα που ξέρω ότι θέλουν ένα διάλειμμα από την σκληρη πραγματικότητα. Κάτι ακόμα που μου αρέσει πολύ στα βιβλία είναι όταν τα κεφάλαια είναι μικρά και όμορφα δομημένα όπως αυτό! Δεν με κούρασε σε κανένα απολύτως σημείο. Έμαθα και τόσα πολλά για τα ζώα και τη ζωή σε ένα αγρόκτημα. Ναι μπορώ να πω με περηφάνια ότι ετοιμάζομαι για το Μικρό Σπίτι στο Λιβάδι!!! Απλά υπέροχο, μου πήρε όλο το στρες και το άγχος!
February 21, 2019
One thing I like about this author's books is that they come with an inbuilt 'feel good factor'. Secondly, I like the slightly older heroines she portrays - ladies who have given up on finding love and happiness and then - wham - it finds them. This book is no exception. It also has the added bonus of farm animals with attitude (good and bad), an assistant whose t-shirts keep the heroine and her sidekick guessing (nice touch) and a to-di-for-hero in the form of Shelby. Factor in children with learning difficulties, Lucas - still grieving for his dead mother and the fact that the government has decided to drive a high speed Trainline straight through the farm and you have many nail biting/page turning moments. I am now going to read all the Carole Matthew's books I've missed (I was a late beginner) starting with 'Platform 8' and my happiness will be complete.
November 28, 2022
I rarely read this kind of book and I've never read this author but I was looking for a change to what I normally read so I decided to give it a go and I'm glad i did. I loved it from the 1st page to the last. I loved all the characters and I found it funny at times. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fiction.
October 15, 2019
I've never read a book by Carole that doesn't disappoint me and this one was brilliant such an easy read and full of animals and students along with romance and having to move forward. It's a fantastic read and has you hooked straight away and you just want to keep reading to find out what is going to happen. Many heartbreaks along the way and can they be solved or not.
Molly lives in an old caravan on a farm where she takes in animals to rescue them and then she has students come to help on the far who have problems at school they may have learning difficulties or be home schooled but she loves what she does and being with her students. One day on the farm a posh car turns up and when the man gets out he wants his son Lucas to start coming to the farm he had problems at school and set fire to it and also he's lost his mum and dad isn't around much she accepts Lucas and when the father who is called Shelby goes the person on the farm who works for her says you do j ow he was don't you but she has no idea. She learns he's an actor and big on the tv but she doesn't have a tv so didn't recognise him. She starts getting close to Lucas as he starts to open up a bit and realises that his dad doesn't really have the time for him and won't listen to his problems and what he can do. He's excellent at poetry and she really listens to him. Shelby comes to sign some paperwork and ends up that they have a night of passion but she can't see it will last although she wants it to. But then she gets really upsetting news that the farm is going to have to close as she's loosing her land she's so upset and Shelby turns up to drop Lucas off and she cries and he says he will see what he can do to help and they work together to see what can happen there is also a fire on the farm and she blames Lucas with out thinking so can they work through this or not and can they find her new land. Will Shelby start listening and helping his son more or not. Will everyone be happy or has it gone past that will there be romance or will something stop them from that.
Perfect book to curl up and escape the world perfect book.
Molly lives in an old caravan on a farm where she takes in animals to rescue them and then she has students come to help on the far who have problems at school they may have learning difficulties or be home schooled but she loves what she does and being with her students. One day on the farm a posh car turns up and when the man gets out he wants his son Lucas to start coming to the farm he had problems at school and set fire to it and also he's lost his mum and dad isn't around much she accepts Lucas and when the father who is called Shelby goes the person on the farm who works for her says you do j ow he was don't you but she has no idea. She learns he's an actor and big on the tv but she doesn't have a tv so didn't recognise him. She starts getting close to Lucas as he starts to open up a bit and realises that his dad doesn't really have the time for him and won't listen to his problems and what he can do. He's excellent at poetry and she really listens to him. Shelby comes to sign some paperwork and ends up that they have a night of passion but she can't see it will last although she wants it to. But then she gets really upsetting news that the farm is going to have to close as she's loosing her land she's so upset and Shelby turns up to drop Lucas off and she cries and he says he will see what he can do to help and they work together to see what can happen there is also a fire on the farm and she blames Lucas with out thinking so can they work through this or not and can they find her new land. Will Shelby start listening and helping his son more or not. Will everyone be happy or has it gone past that will there be romance or will something stop them from that.
Perfect book to curl up and escape the world perfect book.
July 17, 2019
As a fan of Carole Matthews’ books, I thought Happiness for Beginners was one of her best. Molly runs a farm for children who don’t thrive in mainstream schools. She has a collection of oddball animals that the children help to look after. She has her work cut out with the arrival of Lucas, a deeply troubled teenager whose father sees Hope Farm as a last resort. This relationship is the main focus of the story, unusually, rather than the romance between Molly and Shelby. There is a lot of humour despite the serious issues, with the animals stealing the show (I really liked the alpacas, bizarrely named Tina Turner, Rod Stewart and Johnny Rotten). The story is told in the first person so we see everything through Molly’s eyes and this helps to keep the focus on the farm. The eye-catching cover will make you want to buy the book and you won’t be disappointed; it’s a heart-warming tale. If this is your first Carole Matthews book, then you have her whole back catalogue to look forward to (my favourite is A Whiff of Scandal).
March 1, 2019
Reading this book made me remember why I’ve always loved Carole Matthews’ writing – she can be very, very funny (combine that with a clutch of animals with distinct personalities and wills of their own and you have a definite winning combination), but also handles a range of emotions and a number of serious issues with absolute ease. The characters in this book – human and otherwise – are just superb. Carole’s books do tend to have a charismatic heroine at their centre, and I loved Molly from the very first encounter – she has such a passion for the animals and children in her care, still feeling sad after the loss of her aunt, crippled by awkwardness and shyness, living a solitary life in her ramshackle caravan and really well overdue to find some happiness of her own.
Hope Farm is a wonderful setting, vividly described, providing a home for the farm animals – the damaged, difficult and demanding – that no-one else wants: and it also provides an alternative for young people who’ve had problems in mainstream education, introducing them to the whole concept of caring for others while having fun, with the less popular conventional lessons in the afternoons. When difficult and misunderstood teen Lucas joins them, and Molly slowly breaks down his barriers and defences, it’s just the start of a brush with a very different world – TV sets and stardom, charity events and mansions with extensive estates larger than the farm itself – that brings about so many changes to all their lives. I’m sure you’ll have guessed that Lucas’ father Shelby is the potential, if unlikely, love interest – I just loved the fact that he’s the star of a TV soap set in a farming community, but severely allergic to animals and more comfortable in fashionable loafers than a pair of wellies. He has a badly fractured relationship with his son – and can be an unsympathetic character at times, which is rather brave – but I really enjoyed the way this was worked through as the story unfolded.
I want to talk about other characters too – the wonderful Bev who is Molly’s rock but also much of the source of human-based humour, hardworking and enigmatic Alan hidden behind his facial hair, and the flamboyant celebrity hairdresser who… but no, you’ll really need to read the book. But I really have to talk about the animals – because although I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book with its relationship issues, moments of real drama and the developing romance, they probably made the book for me. My personal favourite was Little Dog with his permanent smile and close attachment to Molly, but whether it’s shetland ponies, alpacas, pigs, one-legged chickens, orphaned lambs, shire horses or Shadow the barn cat that might make this the book for you, you’ll find this book an absolute joy.
There really is a perfect balance with the drama around human relationships and fears for the future, the day-to-day activities of caring for life’s neglected ones, but with the next laugh never too far away – I raced through this book in one glorious sitting, and found it absolutely enchanting. And it was good to be reminded why the author has so many devoted fans – although it’s sometimes not all it takes to climb to the top of the rom com tree, she’s a very fine writer indeed. Highly recommended.
Hope Farm is a wonderful setting, vividly described, providing a home for the farm animals – the damaged, difficult and demanding – that no-one else wants: and it also provides an alternative for young people who’ve had problems in mainstream education, introducing them to the whole concept of caring for others while having fun, with the less popular conventional lessons in the afternoons. When difficult and misunderstood teen Lucas joins them, and Molly slowly breaks down his barriers and defences, it’s just the start of a brush with a very different world – TV sets and stardom, charity events and mansions with extensive estates larger than the farm itself – that brings about so many changes to all their lives. I’m sure you’ll have guessed that Lucas’ father Shelby is the potential, if unlikely, love interest – I just loved the fact that he’s the star of a TV soap set in a farming community, but severely allergic to animals and more comfortable in fashionable loafers than a pair of wellies. He has a badly fractured relationship with his son – and can be an unsympathetic character at times, which is rather brave – but I really enjoyed the way this was worked through as the story unfolded.
I want to talk about other characters too – the wonderful Bev who is Molly’s rock but also much of the source of human-based humour, hardworking and enigmatic Alan hidden behind his facial hair, and the flamboyant celebrity hairdresser who… but no, you’ll really need to read the book. But I really have to talk about the animals – because although I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book with its relationship issues, moments of real drama and the developing romance, they probably made the book for me. My personal favourite was Little Dog with his permanent smile and close attachment to Molly, but whether it’s shetland ponies, alpacas, pigs, one-legged chickens, orphaned lambs, shire horses or Shadow the barn cat that might make this the book for you, you’ll find this book an absolute joy.
There really is a perfect balance with the drama around human relationships and fears for the future, the day-to-day activities of caring for life’s neglected ones, but with the next laugh never too far away – I raced through this book in one glorious sitting, and found it absolutely enchanting. And it was good to be reminded why the author has so many devoted fans – although it’s sometimes not all it takes to climb to the top of the rom com tree, she’s a very fine writer indeed. Highly recommended.
February 21, 2019
Happiness For Beginners is a fun and uplifting book which is perfect for coseying up with on a cold night.
I was drawn into the book immediately with the most hilarious opening to a book I’ve ever read! I don’t remember ever having laughed so hard at poor Molly’s attempts to placate her temperamental goat. The author’s writing style makes this book easy to read and makes you think that you are conversing with a friend due to the way the author seems to talk directly at you.
The characters in this book are just brilliant with a fantastic mix of both animals and humans that helps keep the reader thoroughly entertained. I loved that all the animals seemed to have their own little quirks and personality which made Hope Farm seem a very friendly and colourful place to live. I wanted to move there instantly to meet all the characters and live Molly’s life with even the thought of the outside shower not putting me off!
The story develops at a good pace with lots of descriptions of the farm and everyday life there which keeps the reader thoroughly engaged in the book. I found I so enjoyed spending time with Molly at her farm that I didn’t notice the pages flying by and found myself quite sad to have finished and have to leave it all behind. I so hope the author writes a sequel to this book as I’d love to revisit all of them.
Huge thanks to Millie Seward from Little Brown for providing me with a copy of this book via Netgalley which I received in exchange for an honest review. If you’re looking for a fun and quirky read that you’ll just fall in love with then you’ll love this book!
I was drawn into the book immediately with the most hilarious opening to a book I’ve ever read! I don’t remember ever having laughed so hard at poor Molly’s attempts to placate her temperamental goat. The author’s writing style makes this book easy to read and makes you think that you are conversing with a friend due to the way the author seems to talk directly at you.
The characters in this book are just brilliant with a fantastic mix of both animals and humans that helps keep the reader thoroughly entertained. I loved that all the animals seemed to have their own little quirks and personality which made Hope Farm seem a very friendly and colourful place to live. I wanted to move there instantly to meet all the characters and live Molly’s life with even the thought of the outside shower not putting me off!
The story develops at a good pace with lots of descriptions of the farm and everyday life there which keeps the reader thoroughly engaged in the book. I found I so enjoyed spending time with Molly at her farm that I didn’t notice the pages flying by and found myself quite sad to have finished and have to leave it all behind. I so hope the author writes a sequel to this book as I’d love to revisit all of them.
Huge thanks to Millie Seward from Little Brown for providing me with a copy of this book via Netgalley which I received in exchange for an honest review. If you’re looking for a fun and quirky read that you’ll just fall in love with then you’ll love this book!
May 12, 2019
I’m debating between a 2.5 and a 3 for this one. It wouldn’t be one id choose myself however it was a book club choice. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would have reading the first couple of chapters however I found it very predictable and uneventful. I liked most of the characters and it did have a handful of funny moments however I don’t think I’d be in a great rush to read anything else by this author again.
February 13, 2019
Every single time I review a Carole Matthews book I say "this is her best one yet, it doesn't get better" and every single time she replies with "hold my tea"! I swear this woman is the QUEEN of #ChickLit!!!
Carole has taken a lovely, quirky rom-com and added animal antics galore!!!
Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!!!
100 STARS!!!
Carole has taken a lovely, quirky rom-com and added animal antics galore!!!
Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!!!
100 STARS!!!
March 20, 2019
Heartwarming romance novel set in BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
If you have ever come across Carole on Twitter, or seen her beaming smile in her promotion photos, you KNOW that Happiness for Beginners will be an upbeat and (mostly!) feel good story. She just exudes positivity and a generous spirit (and I haven’t even met her!).
Molly runs Hope Farm, from her battered caravan. She largely took over when her Aunt Hettie, with whom she grew up, passed away. Molly had a difficult childhood with a mother who was fond of too many tipples and Hettie took her under her wing. Now at Hope Farm Molly wants for nothing, her pleasure is giving the wayward animals in her care a good enough home.
There is Anthony the anti-social sheep, the trio of Alpacas, Little Dog and Big Dog, Dick the cockerel and so many others, all awkward animals with troubled histories and individual quirks. At Hope Farm, however, they can find redemption and love. Children and young adults – who are struggling to fit in at school and society – come to learn about animals and work through their own difficulties under Molly’s watchful eye and tutelage. For both children and animals this is the last-chance saloon….
The farm is on a financial knife-edge. Molly still lives in a caravan with no facilities to speak of. One day Lucas arrives with his father Shelby Dacre. As Molly doesn’t own a TV she has no idea that this man plays Gordon Flinton, the main character (and farmer) of Flinton’s Farm, a very popular TV soap. The irony is not lost on anyone – this is a man and actor who is allergic to animals!
Shelby is dropping Lucas into her tender care because he has seemingly been misbehaving at school, even accused of arson but Molly is just the person to bring him round. Soon, however, Shelby is spending a little more time than necessary at Hope Farm, although he is officially dating stellar actress Scarlett Vincent. Life is never simple!
The future of the farm is under threat from the HS2 development (a demonstration of the impact this costly development will have on ordinary folk!) and a fire takes hold in one of the barns. The bottom falls out of Molly’s world, what can she do, how can she save what she has? Might she just find a knight in shining armour coming to her rescue?
This is a delightful and uplifting novel, written with the author’s hallmark cheeky humour and there are plenty of wry observations. The setting is bucolic England with lovely characters, both animal and human, careening across the green and pleasant land.
If you have ever come across Carole on Twitter, or seen her beaming smile in her promotion photos, you KNOW that Happiness for Beginners will be an upbeat and (mostly!) feel good story. She just exudes positivity and a generous spirit (and I haven’t even met her!).
Molly runs Hope Farm, from her battered caravan. She largely took over when her Aunt Hettie, with whom she grew up, passed away. Molly had a difficult childhood with a mother who was fond of too many tipples and Hettie took her under her wing. Now at Hope Farm Molly wants for nothing, her pleasure is giving the wayward animals in her care a good enough home.
There is Anthony the anti-social sheep, the trio of Alpacas, Little Dog and Big Dog, Dick the cockerel and so many others, all awkward animals with troubled histories and individual quirks. At Hope Farm, however, they can find redemption and love. Children and young adults – who are struggling to fit in at school and society – come to learn about animals and work through their own difficulties under Molly’s watchful eye and tutelage. For both children and animals this is the last-chance saloon….
The farm is on a financial knife-edge. Molly still lives in a caravan with no facilities to speak of. One day Lucas arrives with his father Shelby Dacre. As Molly doesn’t own a TV she has no idea that this man plays Gordon Flinton, the main character (and farmer) of Flinton’s Farm, a very popular TV soap. The irony is not lost on anyone – this is a man and actor who is allergic to animals!
Shelby is dropping Lucas into her tender care because he has seemingly been misbehaving at school, even accused of arson but Molly is just the person to bring him round. Soon, however, Shelby is spending a little more time than necessary at Hope Farm, although he is officially dating stellar actress Scarlett Vincent. Life is never simple!
The future of the farm is under threat from the HS2 development (a demonstration of the impact this costly development will have on ordinary folk!) and a fire takes hold in one of the barns. The bottom falls out of Molly’s world, what can she do, how can she save what she has? Might she just find a knight in shining armour coming to her rescue?
This is a delightful and uplifting novel, written with the author’s hallmark cheeky humour and there are plenty of wry observations. The setting is bucolic England with lovely characters, both animal and human, careening across the green and pleasant land.
January 18, 2019
Such an endearing story! Happiness For Beginners is a fun romp through a wonderful world. The animals are awesome. The humans are loveable and real. It's an all around warm blanket read. If you want to smile, read this book. You will not be disappointed. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
If ever there was a book that is sure to pick you up out of a funk and put a smile on your face and hope in your heart, then HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS by Carole Matthews is that book.
Hope Farm is Molly's entire life. It saved her from her childhood when her reclusive aunt took her in there and showed her how to love the land and the animals that belonged there, and it saved her after her aunt passed away. And now with the help of some very close friends, Hope Farm helps animals and kids that need some extra tlc by providing them with a place to feel comfortable, wanted, and needed, and Molly thrives on helping others. But when Lucas, a sullen teenager, and his handsome father drive through her gate one day it will change the course of Molly's life for good, and change isn't something that Molly deals well with. Her feelings for Lucas' father is complicated and unwanted, especially considering he is a hot-shot actor with glamorous women throwing themselves at his feet, while Molly struggles to wash the chicken poop out of her hair. And as Lucas struggles with grief and anger towards his dad, Molly knows that she needs to step back and not become too attached. But when Hope Farm comes under threat, Molly's whole world is about to fall apart. Can they all come together to save this special place?
With characters of the two-legged and four-legged variety that will completely capture your heart and turn you to mush, HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS by Carole Matthews really pulls the reader into the story and everyone at Hope Farm soon feels like family. While Lucas' dad can be frustrating at times in this story, the author deftly shows how grief is never the same for each person and my heart went out to Lucas so many times. The setting is superb and as it is based on a real-life place called Animal Antiks, it comes alive in a way which is beyond description.
There is sadness, inspiration, friendship, commitment, and strengths strewn among these pages and I highly recommend this story to all contemporary fiction fans.
If ever there was a book that is sure to pick you up out of a funk and put a smile on your face and hope in your heart, then HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS by Carole Matthews is that book.
Hope Farm is Molly's entire life. It saved her from her childhood when her reclusive aunt took her in there and showed her how to love the land and the animals that belonged there, and it saved her after her aunt passed away. And now with the help of some very close friends, Hope Farm helps animals and kids that need some extra tlc by providing them with a place to feel comfortable, wanted, and needed, and Molly thrives on helping others. But when Lucas, a sullen teenager, and his handsome father drive through her gate one day it will change the course of Molly's life for good, and change isn't something that Molly deals well with. Her feelings for Lucas' father is complicated and unwanted, especially considering he is a hot-shot actor with glamorous women throwing themselves at his feet, while Molly struggles to wash the chicken poop out of her hair. And as Lucas struggles with grief and anger towards his dad, Molly knows that she needs to step back and not become too attached. But when Hope Farm comes under threat, Molly's whole world is about to fall apart. Can they all come together to save this special place?
With characters of the two-legged and four-legged variety that will completely capture your heart and turn you to mush, HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS by Carole Matthews really pulls the reader into the story and everyone at Hope Farm soon feels like family. While Lucas' dad can be frustrating at times in this story, the author deftly shows how grief is never the same for each person and my heart went out to Lucas so many times. The setting is superb and as it is based on a real-life place called Animal Antiks, it comes alive in a way which is beyond description.
There is sadness, inspiration, friendship, commitment, and strengths strewn among these pages and I highly recommend this story to all contemporary fiction fans.
October 16, 2020
The title couldn't be more apt!!! I am a thriller addict. I dont do twee, romance, soft or heartwarming.....until now. I read a book which was heavy on emotions recently and felt I need for once something in between reads to shake my head out of the last book a bit. I am so pleasantly surprised that rather than rolling my eyes, skimming or quitting I got engrossed very quickly and like it I did, love it even- so much so I'm going off to order the xmas themed sequel. Fabulous stuff that made me laugh and put a smile on my face.
December 1, 2020
Lijepo, toplo i duhovito.
Stanovnici farme Nada osvojili su me na prvu.
Pravi užitak za čitanje!
Stanovnici farme Nada osvojili su me na prvu.
Pravi užitak za čitanje!
February 14, 2022
What a fabulous feel-good audiobook that helped me get my Brit on. (Full disclosure, I grew up around Buckinghamshire and miss that part of England horribly.)
Humor aside, this romance also features a full cast of broken souls and unwanted animals, who all find a second chance at Hope Farm. I loved the messages of healing and acceptance, and a father and son making their way back to each other after unimaginable loss.
So, so good.
Humor aside, this romance also features a full cast of broken souls and unwanted animals, who all find a second chance at Hope Farm. I loved the messages of healing and acceptance, and a father and son making their way back to each other after unimaginable loss.
So, so good.
June 17, 2019
What a lovely story, I’ve read many of Ms Matthews books and have loved them all, so this one didn’t disappoint me at all.
It was funny and charming and although I guessed the ending it didn’t spoil anything at all. Thanks to Netgalley for this free ebook.
It was funny and charming and although I guessed the ending it didn’t spoil anything at all. Thanks to Netgalley for this free ebook.
May 30, 2019
Molly Baker is nearly 40 years old, living in a decrepit caravan she inherited from her aunt, more at home with animals than humans she runs a rescue centre for unloved or disabled animals which also serves as a therapy centre for children with disabilities or plain anti-social behaviour. Although she lives from hand to mouth, constantly robbing Peter to pay Paul she enjoys her life to the full. Then one day a famous TV star arrives at the farm with his teenage son Lucas in tow. Lucas has been expelled from school for starting fires and is grieving the loss of his mother to cancer.
Suddenly in Lucas Molly finds a human who she wants to help as much as any of her motley crew of animals, his father's good looks and charm don't hurt either, but when the farm comes under threat from compulsory purchase will it be the end of Molly's dreams?
I enjoyed reading this, especially Luke's poetry and the ragtag assortment of three legged, PTSD, blind animals that Molly cares for. I enjoyed the gentle humour associated with looking after animals with personality. I even enjoyed Molly and her assistant Bev's daily guesses as to the rock star t-shirt the other assistant Alan will be wearing. The biggest disappointment in my opinion was the hero, Shelby. I found him too self-centred and focused on his career and age-inappropriate girlfriend rather than his grieving son. Also, this just seemed to be a very long book for not very much happening, I think it could have benefited from either more plot strands or some significant pruning as I didn't feel that there was a passing of time to account for the length of the novel.
Recommended for fans of All Creatures Great And Small.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Suddenly in Lucas Molly finds a human who she wants to help as much as any of her motley crew of animals, his father's good looks and charm don't hurt either, but when the farm comes under threat from compulsory purchase will it be the end of Molly's dreams?
I enjoyed reading this, especially Luke's poetry and the ragtag assortment of three legged, PTSD, blind animals that Molly cares for. I enjoyed the gentle humour associated with looking after animals with personality. I even enjoyed Molly and her assistant Bev's daily guesses as to the rock star t-shirt the other assistant Alan will be wearing. The biggest disappointment in my opinion was the hero, Shelby. I found him too self-centred and focused on his career and age-inappropriate girlfriend rather than his grieving son. Also, this just seemed to be a very long book for not very much happening, I think it could have benefited from either more plot strands or some significant pruning as I didn't feel that there was a passing of time to account for the length of the novel.
Recommended for fans of All Creatures Great And Small.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
February 23, 2019
I know I keep saying so, but since I bought my very first Carole Matthews’ novel nearly 20 years ago it’s been a crescendo of laughter, emotions, tears, more laughter, more emotions and yes, more tears (mainly tears of joy, I hasten to add). Hers are captivating, beautifully written stories that you can’t possibly put down until you reach the end (and usually leaving you with a strong will to go to the first page and start all over again).
Happiness for Beginners is no exception and it had me up until the small hours for a couple of days until I reached the final page.
With her trademark positive approach to life and to its ups and downs, the author tells us the story of a quirky and well assorted group of characters (and I’m not only talking about the humans here. Animals do become characters themselves and I dare you not to fall in love with them all) through the voice of the protagonist.
I can promise you you’re in a for a fantastic read. The positivity and the optimism radiating from this book (make that all of her books) should be bottled and prescribed when in need of a tonic for the soul.
As a Carole Matthews’ fan I was beyond happy and beyond grateful when I was granted access to a review copy of Happiness for Beginners on NetGalley for which I thank the publisher, the author and NetGalley .
Happiness for Beginners is no exception and it had me up until the small hours for a couple of days until I reached the final page.
With her trademark positive approach to life and to its ups and downs, the author tells us the story of a quirky and well assorted group of characters (and I’m not only talking about the humans here. Animals do become characters themselves and I dare you not to fall in love with them all) through the voice of the protagonist.
I can promise you you’re in a for a fantastic read. The positivity and the optimism radiating from this book (make that all of her books) should be bottled and prescribed when in need of a tonic for the soul.
As a Carole Matthews’ fan I was beyond happy and beyond grateful when I was granted access to a review copy of Happiness for Beginners on NetGalley for which I thank the publisher, the author and NetGalley .
July 23, 2019
Are you in a reading slump?
Then Molly baker got you covered! Join her and her awesome animal friends at Hope Farm where she deals with all sorts of issues!
.
Molly Baker is not your typical social girl. At 38 years old, she’s more comfortable managing Hope Farm, also your non-typical farm -, where she hangs out with her animal friends, takes care of kids who are in dire need of attention and help. And much needed tea and biscuits!
.
But when the farm faces disclosure, she is forced to get out of her comfort zone and interact with more humans. Oh, the horror!!
.
Fun, witty and adorable, you can’t help but fall deeply in love with Molly! I absolutely adored her! I also don’t think there is a single character in the book which I didn’t like.
.
I devoured this book in a day! I couldn’t put it down. I just didn’t want it to end and I didn’t want to leave Hope Farm, Molly, her saucy sidekick friend, Dev, the dashing Shelbey, his troubled son and other awesome characters.
.
I totally recommend this read specifically to women literature lovers, to those who are willing to try this genre and for anyone who’s looking for that perfect summer read!
.
.
🔅Hope Farm was based on real life Farm @animalantiks
.
🔅Thank you @littlebrown for the #gifted copy and for including me on the tour.
Then Molly baker got you covered! Join her and her awesome animal friends at Hope Farm where she deals with all sorts of issues!
.
Molly Baker is not your typical social girl. At 38 years old, she’s more comfortable managing Hope Farm, also your non-typical farm -, where she hangs out with her animal friends, takes care of kids who are in dire need of attention and help. And much needed tea and biscuits!
.
But when the farm faces disclosure, she is forced to get out of her comfort zone and interact with more humans. Oh, the horror!!
.
Fun, witty and adorable, you can’t help but fall deeply in love with Molly! I absolutely adored her! I also don’t think there is a single character in the book which I didn’t like.
.
I devoured this book in a day! I couldn’t put it down. I just didn’t want it to end and I didn’t want to leave Hope Farm, Molly, her saucy sidekick friend, Dev, the dashing Shelbey, his troubled son and other awesome characters.
.
I totally recommend this read specifically to women literature lovers, to those who are willing to try this genre and for anyone who’s looking for that perfect summer read!
.
.
🔅Hope Farm was based on real life Farm @animalantiks
.
🔅Thank you @littlebrown for the #gifted copy and for including me on the tour.
June 7, 2019
I Recommend This Book
Strongly
This book had me laughing, sometimes very loudly, crying and in general just capturing me into a place of contentment.
I loved the sound of the Hope Farm, the animals with all of their whacky characters, which, I must add, were absolutely hysterical. I found myself nodding in agreement with Molly's thoughts especially after working with children who are a little bit different, and maybe a little bit broken, but are just wanting someone to invest some time into them.
Yes it's a bit cheesy, but we all need some romance in our lives.
Absolutely brilliant!
Thanks to NetGalley, Carole Matthews and The Little Brown Book Group for the opportunity to read and review this marvellous book.
#HappinessForBeginners #NetGalley
Strongly
This book had me laughing, sometimes very loudly, crying and in general just capturing me into a place of contentment.
I loved the sound of the Hope Farm, the animals with all of their whacky characters, which, I must add, were absolutely hysterical. I found myself nodding in agreement with Molly's thoughts especially after working with children who are a little bit different, and maybe a little bit broken, but are just wanting someone to invest some time into them.
Yes it's a bit cheesy, but we all need some romance in our lives.
Absolutely brilliant!
Thanks to NetGalley, Carole Matthews and The Little Brown Book Group for the opportunity to read and review this marvellous book.
#HappinessForBeginners #NetGalley
June 30, 2022
Always entertaining to read a book by Matthews, hopelessly romantic with a lot of humour. Never fails to deliver. Once you start you can't put a Matthews book down.
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