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The Cornish Midwife #1
The Cornish Midwife
The last thing Ella Mehenick wants is the fifteen minutes of fame she’s found herself landed with. After all, who wants to star in a viral video of the very public ending of their relationship?
Newly single, and desperate to get as far away from her former fiancé as possible, Ella heads back to the Cornish seaside town of Port Agnes, where she grew up.
Working as a community midwife keeps her busy and, even if some of the locals seem to have an unhealthy fascination with the breakdown of her relationship, the other midwives soon make her feel like one of the team. Despite her disastrous dating history, Ella manages to play matchmaker to her new best friend and even dodges her parents’ attempts to get her to settle down with the boy next door.
Her only problem is Dan Ferguson, who seems hell bent on destroying a local landmark, which will tear the heart out of Port Agnes. When Dan turns out to be the one person who can help Ella, after a high risk pregnancy puts a patient in danger, she discovers he’s not the man she thought he was. But getting to know the real Dan is not as easy as she’d like it to be…
Someone in Port Agnes is determined not to let her move on from the past and will stop at nothing to make sure no-one forgets why Ella is back in town, even if that means breaking the law.
Will she ever be allowed to enjoy her return to Port Agnes, or are some things just impossible to leave behind?
Newly single, and desperate to get as far away from her former fiancé as possible, Ella heads back to the Cornish seaside town of Port Agnes, where she grew up.
Working as a community midwife keeps her busy and, even if some of the locals seem to have an unhealthy fascination with the breakdown of her relationship, the other midwives soon make her feel like one of the team. Despite her disastrous dating history, Ella manages to play matchmaker to her new best friend and even dodges her parents’ attempts to get her to settle down with the boy next door.
Her only problem is Dan Ferguson, who seems hell bent on destroying a local landmark, which will tear the heart out of Port Agnes. When Dan turns out to be the one person who can help Ella, after a high risk pregnancy puts a patient in danger, she discovers he’s not the man she thought he was. But getting to know the real Dan is not as easy as she’d like it to be…
Someone in Port Agnes is determined not to let her move on from the past and will stop at nothing to make sure no-one forgets why Ella is back in town, even if that means breaking the law.
Will she ever be allowed to enjoy her return to Port Agnes, or are some things just impossible to leave behind?
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 366 reviews
April 24, 2021
I enjoyed this Audio and it's my first Jo Bartlett book. It's a well written and heartwarming story about a Midwife, Ella who has just been jilted at the alter and she returns home to her village of Port Agnes, in Cornwall, England. There she meets up with her first love Dan.
It is the first book in a series and it is very promising. I enjoyed the midwifery aspect and found the stories and situations around that very realistic and entertaining. I loved meeting the secondary characters from around Port Agnes and the other midwives. As a Canadian I especially found it fun to listen to all the Cornwall accents and attitudes surrounding that region of England. I did however feel that the romance between Ella and Dan lacked a bit of spark so that aspect might bring down the story half a star for me. (3.5) I think fans of, “Call the Midwife" would really enjoy this book!
It is the first book in a series and it is very promising. I enjoyed the midwifery aspect and found the stories and situations around that very realistic and entertaining. I loved meeting the secondary characters from around Port Agnes and the other midwives. As a Canadian I especially found it fun to listen to all the Cornwall accents and attitudes surrounding that region of England. I did however feel that the romance between Ella and Dan lacked a bit of spark so that aspect might bring down the story half a star for me. (3.5) I think fans of, “Call the Midwife" would really enjoy this book!
March 6, 2021
I’m all for feel good and easy-read at the moment and that’s what Jo Bartlett brings her readers as she introduces us to the residents of the Cornish village of Port Agnes.
In a rural midwifery unit, with our patients spread across such a wide geographical area, there’s never a dull moment.”
I have to admit I was far more invested in the love life of local chippy owner and all round good-egg, Brae than I was in the romance between Ella and Dan which lacked the spark and pull I want from a couple, but this is a series that definitely could have potential and Jo Bartlett has done enough to make me want to return to Port Agnes and see what lies in store for some of the characters we’ve met.
Copy received courtesy of Boldwood Books via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
In a rural midwifery unit, with our patients spread across such a wide geographical area, there’s never a dull moment.”
I have to admit I was far more invested in the love life of local chippy owner and all round good-egg, Brae than I was in the romance between Ella and Dan which lacked the spark and pull I want from a couple, but this is a series that definitely could have potential and Jo Bartlett has done enough to make me want to return to Port Agnes and see what lies in store for some of the characters we’ve met.
Copy received courtesy of Boldwood Books via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
October 16, 2023
*New Beginnings*
Midwife Ella was a longed for child that her parents struggled to have, because of this she always put pressure on herself to be better, work harder and so it went on. She decided to become a midwife and off to London she went. Sadly her then boyfriend Dan love of her life refused to go and although heartbroken life carried on. She is about to get married but after a public humiliation she decides to go back to her hometown of Port Agnes in Cornwall.
With some trepidation she has to face her old friends and old flame. Lots of work to do as she is hoping to return to London.
She is working temporarily In Cornwall just until that next big job comes up, there are tensions in the town over properly and her parents need help so after an altercation with an enemy of the town she is threatened to move away for the sake of her parents to protect them. When she meets her old flame Dan she feels torn as she wants to forgive him and does not know what she wants.
After an accident involving Ella that could have been worse after Dan gives her some home truths she finally realises her answer…
A easy enjoyable tale filled with nosy parkers, everyone knowing your business,misunderstandings and throw in a colourful cast especially Ella’s Dad Jago who was comical with his principals not forgetting new babies coming into the world.
Midwife Ella was a longed for child that her parents struggled to have, because of this she always put pressure on herself to be better, work harder and so it went on. She decided to become a midwife and off to London she went. Sadly her then boyfriend Dan love of her life refused to go and although heartbroken life carried on. She is about to get married but after a public humiliation she decides to go back to her hometown of Port Agnes in Cornwall.
With some trepidation she has to face her old friends and old flame. Lots of work to do as she is hoping to return to London.
She is working temporarily In Cornwall just until that next big job comes up, there are tensions in the town over properly and her parents need help so after an altercation with an enemy of the town she is threatened to move away for the sake of her parents to protect them. When she meets her old flame Dan she feels torn as she wants to forgive him and does not know what she wants.
After an accident involving Ella that could have been worse after Dan gives her some home truths she finally realises her answer…
A easy enjoyable tale filled with nosy parkers, everyone knowing your business,misunderstandings and throw in a colourful cast especially Ella’s Dad Jago who was comical with his principals not forgetting new babies coming into the world.
May 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, it was such a down to earth story that felt so true and realistic. There were lots of mentions of births and babies (I mean, what do you expect from a book with midwife in the title) but it wasn't overpowering and it wasn't graphic. The community feel of this book made me think of a modern day Call The Midwife which I really loved.
I loved all of the characters but especially Ella, or El as Dan calls her. She just has such as warm heart and clearly wants the best for everyone. She fits back into Port Agnes straight away and it's almost as if she never left. I could just see her staying there for the rest of her time and falling back in love with Dan, but she seemed set on staying for just the 6month cover period and then moving on again.
All of the midwifes are such a close knit community and really cherish their clients but also each other and this is so nice as you know that they would all be there for each other when needed. It feels like the kind of work environment that anyone would want to be in, where your colleagues become your friends.
Jo's writing enables you to conjure up images and scenes so easily, I could just envisage waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread and walking along the coast. I think that must be the dream, living somewhere near the beach and being able to get up at the crack of dawn to watch the boats come in.
This is the first book by Jo that I've read but I've now seen that there are more to come in the series and I can't wait to read them! A word of warning though, don't look for them on Amazon as there are spoilers if you haven't read this book yet.
I loved all of the characters but especially Ella, or El as Dan calls her. She just has such as warm heart and clearly wants the best for everyone. She fits back into Port Agnes straight away and it's almost as if she never left. I could just see her staying there for the rest of her time and falling back in love with Dan, but she seemed set on staying for just the 6month cover period and then moving on again.
All of the midwifes are such a close knit community and really cherish their clients but also each other and this is so nice as you know that they would all be there for each other when needed. It feels like the kind of work environment that anyone would want to be in, where your colleagues become your friends.
Jo's writing enables you to conjure up images and scenes so easily, I could just envisage waking up to the smell of freshly baked bread and walking along the coast. I think that must be the dream, living somewhere near the beach and being able to get up at the crack of dawn to watch the boats come in.
This is the first book by Jo that I've read but I've now seen that there are more to come in the series and I can't wait to read them! A word of warning though, don't look for them on Amazon as there are spoilers if you haven't read this book yet.
March 29, 2021
It has been a good few years since I last read a Jo Bartlett book but I seemed to recall enjoying my previous experiences of her writing, so to see she had a new release and signed with one of my favourite publishers, well I was hardly going to ignore it.
And I'm so glad I did decide to read it, from the first chapter I felt rather comforted by the writing style. I can't put my finger on what it was, but it felt familiar and warm, and almost like I was coming home. The fact the first chapter was full of drama possibly helped too.
In fact just due to Ella being a midwife, there is a fair bit of drama involved in this book as let's face it babies have a mind of their own when it comes to when they want to enter the world, and giving birth never sounds like the simplest of things either.
And Port Agnes the Cornish setting for this gorgeous book, was just perfect. I loved the sense of community there, even if Ella isn't as keen on it, given the circumstances of her own homecoming. She perhaps would have preferred a bit more anonymity than she has.
I really loved getting to know the other midwifes in the unit where Ella is working temporarily, as well her her catching up with old friends and loves.
I get the feeling that this may be the first of a series, in which case I can't wait to see which of the midwifes we get to know better next, as well as more of Port Agnes.
And any book that gives me a brand new book boyfriend to fall in love with, is a winner in my eyes, and there is definitely one rather stunning candidate in this novel for that role! I'll miss him!
This is a fabulous book to read on a bright and sunny day in a garden, or well anywhere! Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 21, 2022
“I could put on my own art exhibition in Pottery and Paper, with a gallery of all the willy pictures I’ve been sent! I never knew they could come in so many shapes and sizes, and there are enough variations in colour to rival a Dulux paint chart.”
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
I feel like any review I leave will not do this book justice. I loved this quaint little story based around a group of midwives in Cornwall. I’ve never been to Cornwall myself, but I know there are some picturesque villages along the seaside, and this is exactly the village in which the book was set. Ella is the main character and she has been through more than a lot, and is very relatable to many readers for her overthinking personality, but always wanting to do the best for her family to make them proud, and in the process forgets about making herself happy.
I think a lot of readers think this is likely just a story of finding lost love, and oneself again. This book has a lot of background to it. It really delves deep into the everyday life of midwives, from antenatal appointments, to births and everything in between. There are also a lot of secondary characters that I’m hoping will get their happily ever afters!
The romance on the story was great. It’s the return to ones first love, or shall I say true love! I loved Ella and Dan, they had a great connection, even from the moment he walked in you just knew all those deeply buried feelings were coming out the woodwork. They really build the story between them, and compel me to read the next book. Saying that, I knew the title of the next book was about a wedding so i thought they’d be engaged at the end, that just wasn’t the case which threw me a bit, but the ending was still great!
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
I feel like any review I leave will not do this book justice. I loved this quaint little story based around a group of midwives in Cornwall. I’ve never been to Cornwall myself, but I know there are some picturesque villages along the seaside, and this is exactly the village in which the book was set. Ella is the main character and she has been through more than a lot, and is very relatable to many readers for her overthinking personality, but always wanting to do the best for her family to make them proud, and in the process forgets about making herself happy.
I think a lot of readers think this is likely just a story of finding lost love, and oneself again. This book has a lot of background to it. It really delves deep into the everyday life of midwives, from antenatal appointments, to births and everything in between. There are also a lot of secondary characters that I’m hoping will get their happily ever afters!
The romance on the story was great. It’s the return to ones first love, or shall I say true love! I loved Ella and Dan, they had a great connection, even from the moment he walked in you just knew all those deeply buried feelings were coming out the woodwork. They really build the story between them, and compel me to read the next book. Saying that, I knew the title of the next book was about a wedding so i thought they’d be engaged at the end, that just wasn’t the case which threw me a bit, but the ending was still great!
April 18, 2021
I just love reading about a character that is either a nurse or a midwife so when I was serendipitously asked to be a part of this blog tour, I immediately jumped on it. I am so glad I did. I also love a great second chance story and characters looking for a fresh start, and this book was all that I wanted in a fun and cozy escape read, with the right amount of drama and romance I exactly needed.
Main character Ella Mahenick is a midwife who left her hometown of Port Agnes for a perfect life in London, but as life would have it, plans do change. Coming back home to Port Agnes she was welcomed by the midwives community and do I love these women, but it also means facing the ever so handsome Ex Dan, who didn’t quite ever get over her sudden departure from Port Agnes.
I enjoyed this writing style where there is just enough going on to keep me entertained and keeping me turning those pages. I adored the characters and I was invested in their stories. I recommend this well written novel for a fun read for fans of second chance stories in a beautiful small town setting.
Main character Ella Mahenick is a midwife who left her hometown of Port Agnes for a perfect life in London, but as life would have it, plans do change. Coming back home to Port Agnes she was welcomed by the midwives community and do I love these women, but it also means facing the ever so handsome Ex Dan, who didn’t quite ever get over her sudden departure from Port Agnes.
I enjoyed this writing style where there is just enough going on to keep me entertained and keeping me turning those pages. I adored the characters and I was invested in their stories. I recommend this well written novel for a fun read for fans of second chance stories in a beautiful small town setting.
April 22, 2021
Cornwall has been my perfect holiday destination for many years, so any story that is set in this beautiful part of the world instantly grasps my attention.
In this story we follow the life of Ella Mahenick is a midwife who upped and left her hometown of Port Agnes for what she hoped would be a perfect life in London. However, as we all know too well, life doesn’t always follow the path we expect – or want – it to, and when Ella finds herself the talk of social media following being jilted at the alter, her wonderful new life comes to an abrupt end.
Ella is in desperate need of some time to recover from this unwanted scandal, and she soon finds herself heading back to Port Agnes to stay with her parents after she manages to secure herself a six month work placement there. The midwife community within Port Agnes welcomes Ella back with open arms, and she soon finds herself settling back into the life she had years ago, all whilst embracing the job she adores.
Ella’s return is far from smooth sailing though. She soon comes face to face with Dan – her ex boyfriend who is far from over her rather sudden, unexpected departure many years ago. There is clearly a misunderstanding between them, and they both seem to be holding a grudge against one another. As they find themselves being forced together once again whilst living within the village, It becomes apparent that they both harbour feelings for one another, but with Ella feeling hurt by both Dan and her husband to be in London, she is a long way from putting her trust in a man any time soon.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I can truthfully say that it won’t be the last. I loved the way in which this story was written, it really allows us to connect with Ella and understand her passion for her job on a much deeper level. The relationship between Ella and Dan was also lovely to follow, as they got to know one another once again, and had to face up to their past and what caused the demise of their romance all those years ago.
The characters were wonderfully developed and interesting, each of them having unique traits that changed the dynamic of the village considerably. Ella is one of those characters you just want the absolute best for, and I found myself really rooting for her and her happiness from the start.
A gorgeous storyline, a dreamy setting and characters that well and truly capture your heart. I fell in love with this story, and can’t wait to read future books by Jo Bartlett.
In this story we follow the life of Ella Mahenick is a midwife who upped and left her hometown of Port Agnes for what she hoped would be a perfect life in London. However, as we all know too well, life doesn’t always follow the path we expect – or want – it to, and when Ella finds herself the talk of social media following being jilted at the alter, her wonderful new life comes to an abrupt end.
Ella is in desperate need of some time to recover from this unwanted scandal, and she soon finds herself heading back to Port Agnes to stay with her parents after she manages to secure herself a six month work placement there. The midwife community within Port Agnes welcomes Ella back with open arms, and she soon finds herself settling back into the life she had years ago, all whilst embracing the job she adores.
Ella’s return is far from smooth sailing though. She soon comes face to face with Dan – her ex boyfriend who is far from over her rather sudden, unexpected departure many years ago. There is clearly a misunderstanding between them, and they both seem to be holding a grudge against one another. As they find themselves being forced together once again whilst living within the village, It becomes apparent that they both harbour feelings for one another, but with Ella feeling hurt by both Dan and her husband to be in London, she is a long way from putting her trust in a man any time soon.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I can truthfully say that it won’t be the last. I loved the way in which this story was written, it really allows us to connect with Ella and understand her passion for her job on a much deeper level. The relationship between Ella and Dan was also lovely to follow, as they got to know one another once again, and had to face up to their past and what caused the demise of their romance all those years ago.
The characters were wonderfully developed and interesting, each of them having unique traits that changed the dynamic of the village considerably. Ella is one of those characters you just want the absolute best for, and I found myself really rooting for her and her happiness from the start.
A gorgeous storyline, a dreamy setting and characters that well and truly capture your heart. I fell in love with this story, and can’t wait to read future books by Jo Bartlett.
September 15, 2023
The Cornish Midwife is a heartwarming and uplifting novel about a young woman who returns to her hometown of Port Agnes, Cornwall, after being jilted at the altar. Ella is determined to rebuild her life and find a new purpose, and she soon finds herself drawn to the work of midwifery.
The book follows Ella as she learns the ropes of midwifery and gets to know the people of Port Agnes. She befriends the other midwives, including the kind and experienced Rose, and she also reconnects with her childhood sweetheart, Dan.
As Ella settles into her new life, she faces some challenges. She must deal with the emotional fallout of her broken engagement, and she also has to learn to cope with the physical demands of midwifery. But through it all, she finds strength and support in the people of Port Agnes.
The Cornish Midwife is a beautifully written novel that celebrates the power of community and the joy of new beginnings. It is a perfect read for fans of heartwarming fiction and historical romance.
Here are some of the things that I liked about the book:
- The characters are well-developed and relatable. Ella is a strong and determined young woman who is easy to root for. The other characters are also well-drawn, and I enjoyed getting to know them.
- The setting is beautifully described. I could almost feel the wind in my hair and the sand between my toes as I read about Port Agnes.
- The story is heartwarming and uplifting. It is a perfect read for when you need a pick-me-up.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Cornish Midwife. It is a well-written and heartwarming novel that I would recommend to anyone looking for a good read. If you are a fan of heartwarming fiction, then I would definitely recommend The Cornish Midwife. It is a charming and heartwarming story that will leave you feeling good.
The book follows Ella as she learns the ropes of midwifery and gets to know the people of Port Agnes. She befriends the other midwives, including the kind and experienced Rose, and she also reconnects with her childhood sweetheart, Dan.
As Ella settles into her new life, she faces some challenges. She must deal with the emotional fallout of her broken engagement, and she also has to learn to cope with the physical demands of midwifery. But through it all, she finds strength and support in the people of Port Agnes.
The Cornish Midwife is a beautifully written novel that celebrates the power of community and the joy of new beginnings. It is a perfect read for fans of heartwarming fiction and historical romance.
Here are some of the things that I liked about the book:
- The characters are well-developed and relatable. Ella is a strong and determined young woman who is easy to root for. The other characters are also well-drawn, and I enjoyed getting to know them.
- The setting is beautifully described. I could almost feel the wind in my hair and the sand between my toes as I read about Port Agnes.
- The story is heartwarming and uplifting. It is a perfect read for when you need a pick-me-up.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Cornish Midwife. It is a well-written and heartwarming novel that I would recommend to anyone looking for a good read. If you are a fan of heartwarming fiction, then I would definitely recommend The Cornish Midwife. It is a charming and heartwarming story that will leave you feeling good.
May 1, 2021
4.5/5 stars
There is so much to love about this charming story including an enchanting setting and endearing characters.
The Setting: I’ve always had a soft spot for stories set in Devon and Cornwall and look forward to such novels, especially if the author takes the opportunity to immerse readers in the setting. Jo Bartlett immediately wins over my heart when she pops me into a small seaside town where the sounds, sights and smells are seamlessly worked into the narrative. Ella, our protagonist, draws her strength from her family and small community of Port Agnes. By describing the businesses, locals and tourists who make up the town, the author allows readers to experience Port Agnes through Ella’s eyes and heart.
Ella: Our protagonist is the epitome of sweetness and drive. I’ll admit, Ella’s determination to do what she perceives as right by her parents got a little much at times, as it’s blatantly obvious her parents simply want her to be happy. However, that’s pretty much a main conundrum Ella has to work through. She must figure out why she is so compelled to over achieve. At what point will she be ‘enough’? I love that we’re allowed to see Ella in her various roles: as midwife, friend, daughter and romantic interest. We’re also privy to her growth in each area.
Ella’s Parents: They certainly provide some of the biggest ‘aww’ moments and several of the funny ones too! The sense of love of family and love of community they create is a key element of the story. Jago is the quintessential Cornishman – proudly born and bred, no outsiders need apply. Lol. But it’s never too late to teach an old dog some new tricks and Jago himself comes to see the value in the tourist industry…
Dan: Our male protagonist is book boyfriend worthy with his charm, compassion and ambition. I wish we’d had a couple chapters from his perspective to really make his character shine. That said, however, through his interactions with Ella and others, his motivations are made quite clear.
The Midwife Role: I’ve always thought what a noble but often undervalued profession. I adored the midwives I met during my pregnancies and really enjoyed seeing the same spirit of commitment and competence reflected in the characters of this novel. Through the midwife unit in Port Agnes, readers get a sense of the inner workings of the town and the types of people living there.
The Story: This is a feel-good tale. I’ll admit, there are some cringe-worth moments, especially with Weller (whom, we should not be too hasty to judge), but the overarching sentiments are hope and love. Loose ends are all neatly tied up at the close and we have a pretty good idea of what’s happening with various members of the Ella’s immediate circle.
I fully enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more tales set in Port Agnes!
There is so much to love about this charming story including an enchanting setting and endearing characters.
The Setting: I’ve always had a soft spot for stories set in Devon and Cornwall and look forward to such novels, especially if the author takes the opportunity to immerse readers in the setting. Jo Bartlett immediately wins over my heart when she pops me into a small seaside town where the sounds, sights and smells are seamlessly worked into the narrative. Ella, our protagonist, draws her strength from her family and small community of Port Agnes. By describing the businesses, locals and tourists who make up the town, the author allows readers to experience Port Agnes through Ella’s eyes and heart.
Ella: Our protagonist is the epitome of sweetness and drive. I’ll admit, Ella’s determination to do what she perceives as right by her parents got a little much at times, as it’s blatantly obvious her parents simply want her to be happy. However, that’s pretty much a main conundrum Ella has to work through. She must figure out why she is so compelled to over achieve. At what point will she be ‘enough’? I love that we’re allowed to see Ella in her various roles: as midwife, friend, daughter and romantic interest. We’re also privy to her growth in each area.
Ella’s Parents: They certainly provide some of the biggest ‘aww’ moments and several of the funny ones too! The sense of love of family and love of community they create is a key element of the story. Jago is the quintessential Cornishman – proudly born and bred, no outsiders need apply. Lol. But it’s never too late to teach an old dog some new tricks and Jago himself comes to see the value in the tourist industry…
Dan: Our male protagonist is book boyfriend worthy with his charm, compassion and ambition. I wish we’d had a couple chapters from his perspective to really make his character shine. That said, however, through his interactions with Ella and others, his motivations are made quite clear.
The Midwife Role: I’ve always thought what a noble but often undervalued profession. I adored the midwives I met during my pregnancies and really enjoyed seeing the same spirit of commitment and competence reflected in the characters of this novel. Through the midwife unit in Port Agnes, readers get a sense of the inner workings of the town and the types of people living there.
The Story: This is a feel-good tale. I’ll admit, there are some cringe-worth moments, especially with Weller (whom, we should not be too hasty to judge), but the overarching sentiments are hope and love. Loose ends are all neatly tied up at the close and we have a pretty good idea of what’s happening with various members of the Ella’s immediate circle.
I fully enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more tales set in Port Agnes!
July 23, 2021
What a wonderful summer read. I loved the central character Ella and the setting of the small harbour town of Port Agnes. The story had a wonderful positive vibe but at the same time never felt overly sentimental . The characters were complex and felt well-grounded in the real world. The details of Ella's work as a midwife were so interesting and incredibly well researched. The detail about life in a village in Cornwall was authentic and real, positive and heartwarming but never sentimental. A lovely book that I would highly recommend xx
March 5, 2023
This was a lovely easy read. Ella and dan had a lot to overcome and learn about themselves but it was amazing to see how they developed. It is going to be amazing to read other midwife’s in the teams stories. The community was also lovely and it was really good to see everyone helping each other.
May 8, 2021
When senior midwife Ella Mehenick’s life in London comes to a sudden end in the most publicly humiliating way, the only place she wants to be is back in Port Agnes, the Cornish town where her parents Jago and Ruth run the bakery and which has a hold over her heart. It’s unfortunate that the reasons behind her return will not escape the locals but she will have to ride it out.
Ella slips easily into community life by covering for a midwife in the local community team and quickly becomes a friend and confidante to many. There is just one cloud – Dan Ferguson. Dan was the love of her life aged 18 before she left Port Agnes and things didn’t end well between them. Dan is now a successful property developer (and still single!) and even though Ella is not yet in the right place emotionally for another relationship she can’t help but feel those familiar sparks when they first meet again.
There is strong cast of supporting characters and a great feeling of camaraderie with Ella’s new work colleagues and they all have their own stories which become intertwined with hers. Ella was a much wanted baby and her parents still treat her like precious china, to the point of not so subtly trying to interfere in her life, for what they see as the best of reasons! Her father Jago is particularly stubborn and loyal to his Cornish heritage which causes some anguish and drama. He has a particular dislike of property developers who he perceives to be spoiling his beloved town.
The village of St Agnes becomes a character in its own right and there is a superb sense of place, with the Cornish landscape brought to life with vivid descriptions. I’ve always loved Cornwall and could easily visualise the typical landscape in my mind.
Ella is a fantastic character, excellent at her job, she is calm and efficient and is a great help to the expectant mothers in the village, one or two of which rely on her rather more than strictly necessary as she can’t help involving herself in their problems. It’s just a pity she finds it so difficult making up her own mind about what what she wants for her future! I did admit to being a little frustrated at times when she kept flip flopping about her own plans but expecting others to fall in with hers.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in St Agnes with Ella, her friends and family (and, of course Dan ❤️). It was definitely the right book at the right time for me, for although it was a warm and engaging read, there was also depth to the story with more serious issues. It obviously has some romance, actually for more than one couple, with the will they/won’t they question keeping me guessing.
Jo Bartlett has an excellent way of storytelling. I really enjoyed this and will be continuing with the rest of the series. The second of which is A Summer Wedding for the Cornish Midwife, due for publication in July.
Ella slips easily into community life by covering for a midwife in the local community team and quickly becomes a friend and confidante to many. There is just one cloud – Dan Ferguson. Dan was the love of her life aged 18 before she left Port Agnes and things didn’t end well between them. Dan is now a successful property developer (and still single!) and even though Ella is not yet in the right place emotionally for another relationship she can’t help but feel those familiar sparks when they first meet again.
There is strong cast of supporting characters and a great feeling of camaraderie with Ella’s new work colleagues and they all have their own stories which become intertwined with hers. Ella was a much wanted baby and her parents still treat her like precious china, to the point of not so subtly trying to interfere in her life, for what they see as the best of reasons! Her father Jago is particularly stubborn and loyal to his Cornish heritage which causes some anguish and drama. He has a particular dislike of property developers who he perceives to be spoiling his beloved town.
The village of St Agnes becomes a character in its own right and there is a superb sense of place, with the Cornish landscape brought to life with vivid descriptions. I’ve always loved Cornwall and could easily visualise the typical landscape in my mind.
Ella is a fantastic character, excellent at her job, she is calm and efficient and is a great help to the expectant mothers in the village, one or two of which rely on her rather more than strictly necessary as she can’t help involving herself in their problems. It’s just a pity she finds it so difficult making up her own mind about what what she wants for her future! I did admit to being a little frustrated at times when she kept flip flopping about her own plans but expecting others to fall in with hers.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in St Agnes with Ella, her friends and family (and, of course Dan ❤️). It was definitely the right book at the right time for me, for although it was a warm and engaging read, there was also depth to the story with more serious issues. It obviously has some romance, actually for more than one couple, with the will they/won’t they question keeping me guessing.
Jo Bartlett has an excellent way of storytelling. I really enjoyed this and will be continuing with the rest of the series. The second of which is A Summer Wedding for the Cornish Midwife, due for publication in July.
April 20, 2021
Prior to being invited to take part in the blog tour for ‘The Cornish Midwife’, I hadn’t actually across Jo Bartlett before. I know where have I been? Having read and enjoyed ‘The Cornish Midwife’ as much as I did, I am now rather ticked off at myself for leaving it this long to discover what a flipping fantastic author Jo is! I really enjoyed reading ‘The Cornish Midwife’ but more about that in a bit.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this story but once I got into it, I found it almost nigh on impossible to put the book down for any length of time. The book seemed to have developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t going to break any time soon. I loved the character of Ella and I ended up thinking of her as a friend. I felt all protective of her and there were several times where I wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to either give her a hug or give a slap to whoever was upsetting her. I had to keep reading to see if she got the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. The pages turned over at speed as I worked my way through the story. I would become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and I also lost track of just how quickly I was getting through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of the story and I had to say a temporary farewell to Ella.
‘The Cornish Midwife’ is well written. Jo has one of those easy going writing styles that reads more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Jo certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into the story. I loved the detailed way in which Jo describes Port Agnes. She makes it sound so idyllic that I was ready to go and pack a suitcase and go there for a holiday. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s all thanks to Jo’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found ‘The Cornish Midwife’ to be a light hearted and feel good story, which held my attention throughout.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Cornish Midwife’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jo’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this story but once I got into it, I found it almost nigh on impossible to put the book down for any length of time. The book seemed to have developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t going to break any time soon. I loved the character of Ella and I ended up thinking of her as a friend. I felt all protective of her and there were several times where I wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to either give her a hug or give a slap to whoever was upsetting her. I had to keep reading to see if she got the ‘happy ever after’ ending that she so deserved. The pages turned over at speed as I worked my way through the story. I would become so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and I also lost track of just how quickly I was getting through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of the story and I had to say a temporary farewell to Ella.
‘The Cornish Midwife’ is well written. Jo has one of those easy going writing styles that reads more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Jo certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into the story. I loved the detailed way in which Jo describes Port Agnes. She makes it sound so idyllic that I was ready to go and pack a suitcase and go there for a holiday. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s all thanks to Jo’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found ‘The Cornish Midwife’ to be a light hearted and feel good story, which held my attention throughout.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘The Cornish Midwife’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jo’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
June 6, 2021
The novel is set in Port Agnes (named after a combination of Port Isaac and St Agnes, the latter of which my family have lived in for generations) and contains a father who is a member of Mebyon Kernow (geddon) and a village being run ragged by emmets (the worst). The lines about Cornish independence and the state of homeownership were some of my favourites, and had me smiling as I read.
My main issue with the novel was the lack of characterisation. I struggled to find any characterisations for any of the characters beyond being “nice”. Even the attempts at self-deprecation are nothing short of moaning. They were all so one-dimensional that I struggled to believe or be slightly interested in.
Also, I know it’s the point and the set-up for the next few books, but all the girls’ boyfriends SUCKED. I struggled to feel sympathetic for them because they were so aware of how awful they were yet stayed with them!
This book also unlocked a new pet peeve for me: characters having incredibly long and unimportant conversations in the middle of emergencies. A woman is going into labour and you’re discussing speed-dating?! LADIES PLEASE!
Plot hole: mention of Uber in Cornwall. We wish.
My main issue with the novel was the lack of characterisation. I struggled to find any characterisations for any of the characters beyond being “nice”. Even the attempts at self-deprecation are nothing short of moaning. They were all so one-dimensional that I struggled to believe or be slightly interested in.
Also, I know it’s the point and the set-up for the next few books, but all the girls’ boyfriends SUCKED. I struggled to feel sympathetic for them because they were so aware of how awful they were yet stayed with them!
This book also unlocked a new pet peeve for me: characters having incredibly long and unimportant conversations in the middle of emergencies. A woman is going into labour and you’re discussing speed-dating?! LADIES PLEASE!
Plot hole: mention of Uber in Cornwall. We wish.
January 25, 2023
I found this book to be so frustrating and literally said to myself upon finishing the audible version, “Thankfully it is finished!” The main character Ella is emotionally a 16 year old child who has not grown at all during her 10 years away from her home town so when she returns it’s as if she never left. She has an overwhelming sense of responsibility, so whatever happens around her she somehow thinks “It’s all my fault”. It’s just so hard being that self indulgent to the point of no matter who does anything, it’s all on Ella. Thankfully as soon as her boy friend from teen years expresses his longing and love for her, the two live happily ever after and all that ails Ella is cured.
July 25, 2021
Extremely trite
The worn out formula of will she, won't she. Angst ridden, neurotic woman vascillating about !ove. Give me strength! Are we really to believe that this high powered career woman is such a lame brain when it comes to her personal life? I read it because I am from Cornwall, even this was disappointing. The background hardly had any realistic impact, the characters were weak, with just the odd vaguely Cornish name chucked t
o give a tad of credibility.
The worn out formula of will she, won't she. Angst ridden, neurotic woman vascillating about !ove. Give me strength! Are we really to believe that this high powered career woman is such a lame brain when it comes to her personal life? I read it because I am from Cornwall, even this was disappointing. The background hardly had any realistic impact, the characters were weak, with just the odd vaguely Cornish name chucked t
o give a tad of credibility.
June 16, 2020
I've read all of Jo Bartlett's books and loved every single one. This was no exception. This is the start of a new series focusing around a midwifery unit in Cornwall and I loved meeting a new set of characters and making friends with them. Already got the next one on my Kindle and looking forward to delving into it really soon
May 13, 2021
Didn’t really care for this. If Ysella was so proud of her heritage and name why make people (even locals) just call her Ella? Bit strange.
The midwifery parts were clunky at best. Detailed in strange places and lacking in others.
Dan and Ella were just not believable and everything moved too fast for me to feel satisfied as a reader.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review
The midwifery parts were clunky at best. Detailed in strange places and lacking in others.
Dan and Ella were just not believable and everything moved too fast for me to feel satisfied as a reader.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review
March 21, 2023
A cutesy rom-com. Reminds me of Jenny Colgan books. An easy, enjoyable, pretty predictable read. Nothing smutty. Not excellent literature, but a fun story.
TW: references to fornication, abortion, and homosexuality. Nothing overtly descriptive.
TW: references to fornication, abortion, and homosexuality. Nothing overtly descriptive.
August 14, 2021
a very light read
3/5
3/5
March 2, 2024
If he had asked her out on the third chapter this whole book could have been avoided. All the characters are delusional😍.
April 18, 2021
I knew I was going to enjoy this book from its opening chapter – the author’s style draws you in, I immediately liked (and really felt for) Ella and her wonderful parents, and I really wanted to find out how she put her life back together after her disappointment and very public humiliation. At the height of her midwifery profession in a London hospital (with her certificates on display behind the counter in her parents’ seafront bakery), she decides to return home to Port Agnes, covering the six month absence of a member of the community midwife team – and as she comes to terms with her return, and tries to decide whether it’s where she plans to make her future, the book is filled with a succession of small dramas within the community of the kind only the unpredictably of childbirth and babies can bring.
Ella herself is very much at the heart of the story, as she settles back into family life, running across old friends and getting to know the other members of the midwifery team. When she went away, she left behind Dan, the love of her life – now a successful property developer (with rather higher standards that Ella’s father believes), their paths cross once more, and there’s still the same spark that it might just be possible to fan into a flame. Her father has rather higher hopes for a relationship with her childhood friend Brae, who runs the fish and chip shop, and does everything he can to push them together – with some moments that are deliciously embarrassing and very funny indeed. But as well as following Ella’s love life, we also find out about the lives of the rest of the midwifery team, and those of others in the well-drawn Port Agnes community – all those little ups and downs of life, and the perfect way to start a new series as you get to know them all rather better.
The whole cast is excellent, but I really must say a special word for Ella’s parents. She was something of a miracle baby herself, and being in her thirties doesn’t stop them treating her like their precious little girl – and I found that particularly lovely. Her father Jago is a quite wonderful character – a proud Cornishman, fierce about the changes brought about with all the incomers and second-home owners, and I really loved his passion, however many problems it might cause.
I always really enjoy books with a strong sense of place and community, and you won’t find it done much better than this. The whole book has the feel of a Sunday night series, that strong central story line and established characters interspersed with dramatic moments they encounter – the obvious comparison is Call the Midwife, but with a contemporary setting, but (perhaps because of its setting too) I couldn’t help getting more of a feeling of Doc Martin (and they’re both series I always enjoy). And it also has the feel of a really involving saga, although I know that’s not a term often used for a story very much set in the present day.
I enjoyed it very much – a light and easy read, but with plenty of drama to keep the pages turning, filled with warmth, plenty of gentle humour, a few real tugs at the heartstrings, some great dramatic tension, a lovely touch of romance, and just a really perfect book to start a new series. I’ll be looking forward to my next visit to Port Agnes – there are a few friends I’d like to catch up with, and I rather like it there.
Ella herself is very much at the heart of the story, as she settles back into family life, running across old friends and getting to know the other members of the midwifery team. When she went away, she left behind Dan, the love of her life – now a successful property developer (with rather higher standards that Ella’s father believes), their paths cross once more, and there’s still the same spark that it might just be possible to fan into a flame. Her father has rather higher hopes for a relationship with her childhood friend Brae, who runs the fish and chip shop, and does everything he can to push them together – with some moments that are deliciously embarrassing and very funny indeed. But as well as following Ella’s love life, we also find out about the lives of the rest of the midwifery team, and those of others in the well-drawn Port Agnes community – all those little ups and downs of life, and the perfect way to start a new series as you get to know them all rather better.
The whole cast is excellent, but I really must say a special word for Ella’s parents. She was something of a miracle baby herself, and being in her thirties doesn’t stop them treating her like their precious little girl – and I found that particularly lovely. Her father Jago is a quite wonderful character – a proud Cornishman, fierce about the changes brought about with all the incomers and second-home owners, and I really loved his passion, however many problems it might cause.
I always really enjoy books with a strong sense of place and community, and you won’t find it done much better than this. The whole book has the feel of a Sunday night series, that strong central story line and established characters interspersed with dramatic moments they encounter – the obvious comparison is Call the Midwife, but with a contemporary setting, but (perhaps because of its setting too) I couldn’t help getting more of a feeling of Doc Martin (and they’re both series I always enjoy). And it also has the feel of a really involving saga, although I know that’s not a term often used for a story very much set in the present day.
I enjoyed it very much – a light and easy read, but with plenty of drama to keep the pages turning, filled with warmth, plenty of gentle humour, a few real tugs at the heartstrings, some great dramatic tension, a lovely touch of romance, and just a really perfect book to start a new series. I’ll be looking forward to my next visit to Port Agnes – there are a few friends I’d like to catch up with, and I rather like it there.
May 11, 2021
This book was outstanding and didn’t want it to end the characters were brilliant and of course set in Cornwall so more than happy. Had plenty of heartache but finding new friends and settling in a new job but plenty of romance as well and well worth reading and would give more than five stars.
Ella lives in Cornwall all her life but went off to London to be a midwife and she was with her boyfriend but when he stood her up on her wedding day she headed back home to see what to do with her life next. She became a midwife in Cornwall and settled in well and enjoyed seeing friends. Biggest problem is when she bumps into her first love Dan and she realises she still has feeling for him but tries to act as if she hasn’t. Will she decide what to do with her life will she help her parents out and more importantly will she settle and be happy again.
Ella lives in Cornwall all her life but went off to London to be a midwife and she was with her boyfriend but when he stood her up on her wedding day she headed back home to see what to do with her life next. She became a midwife in Cornwall and settled in well and enjoyed seeing friends. Biggest problem is when she bumps into her first love Dan and she realises she still has feeling for him but tries to act as if she hasn’t. Will she decide what to do with her life will she help her parents out and more importantly will she settle and be happy again.
July 31, 2023
Sweet story, set in a very charming village close to an area of UK that I'm familiar with, so I recognized many of the place names ;-)
The plot in itself wasn't really anything special, but it was charmingly written (and narrated) and definitely turned out to be a feel-good novel. I was slightly worried about how the third act conflict would shape out, but it fortunately turned out to have a quicker resolution than I had feared.
The plot in itself wasn't really anything special, but it was charmingly written (and narrated) and definitely turned out to be a feel-good novel. I was slightly worried about how the third act conflict would shape out, but it fortunately turned out to have a quicker resolution than I had feared.
June 18, 2023
I absolutely adored this book , if small village dramas are your thing then this one doesn't disappoint.
Ella Mehenick is about to get married , only she doesn't and ends up returning to her home town of Port Agnes.
She isn't looking to stay for too long , and is hoping to avoid the first man who broke her heart.
Ella Mehenick is about to get married , only she doesn't and ends up returning to her home town of Port Agnes.
She isn't looking to stay for too long , and is hoping to avoid the first man who broke her heart.
April 6, 2021
I had never read a Jo Bartlett book until last year and I instantly fell in love with the wonderful midwives and couldn't wait to visit them again.
Set against the wonderful backdrop of St Agnes I loved this story right from the beginning. Ella is looking for a stop gap whilst she reassess and returns home and that is how we meet her.
A story full of wonderful characters and full of love and hope. I really enjoyed my visit and felt keen to keep turning the pages to sit what birth story or what dilemma Ella would face next. Over the past year we have all cherished time with family and this story is brimming with the importance of family and unconditional love.
I can't wait to read more by this wonderful author and revisit these lovely ladies that are so important within our community.
Set against the wonderful backdrop of St Agnes I loved this story right from the beginning. Ella is looking for a stop gap whilst she reassess and returns home and that is how we meet her.
A story full of wonderful characters and full of love and hope. I really enjoyed my visit and felt keen to keep turning the pages to sit what birth story or what dilemma Ella would face next. Over the past year we have all cherished time with family and this story is brimming with the importance of family and unconditional love.
I can't wait to read more by this wonderful author and revisit these lovely ladies that are so important within our community.
May 30, 2021
A great story that I devoured in a day !
Growing up I always wanted to be a midwife and it’s still something that I dream of now. So to read about Ella being a midwife in Port Agnes , Cornwall was lovely. The setting made this story even more dreamy as did Dan !
The will they / won’t they vibes between Ella and Dan were intense, I was constantly rooting for them to reunite.
This story is perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Jenny Colgan and Carole Mathews. I can’t wait to read the sequel now.
Growing up I always wanted to be a midwife and it’s still something that I dream of now. So to read about Ella being a midwife in Port Agnes , Cornwall was lovely. The setting made this story even more dreamy as did Dan !
The will they / won’t they vibes between Ella and Dan were intense, I was constantly rooting for them to reunite.
This story is perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Jenny Colgan and Carole Mathews. I can’t wait to read the sequel now.
June 30, 2021
Absolutely captivating story, beautiful romantic read set in a Cornish village, I mean as soon as you say Cornish I am going to be hooked, and characters are so well written you can’t but help be drawn into their lives. Looking for a great summer escape this year, jump right in.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
October 26, 2022
3.5 - liked this book. Thought it was easy to listen to and I liked the characters. It was quite predictable though which is why it didn’t rate higher. I would definitely read more of this series and would recommend it for a light easy read 😊
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