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The Cornish Cream Tea Novels #6
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday
It’s going to be an unforgettable Cornish summer…
Thea Rushwood was looking forward to exploring the beautiful Cornish tourist spot of Port Karadow, but when her friend drops out at the last minute, she is forced to go solo. Arriving at her cosy holiday cottage to discover a building site next door, Thea and the annoyingly attractive, but grumpy builder, Ben, don’t get off to the best start.
Thea starts to wonder if her perfect escape wasn’t meant to be. That’s before she realizes there is more to Ben – and to the community – than she first thought. As a magical Cornish summer stretches out in front of her, Thea discovers this is one holiday that she never wants to end…
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2022
56 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books695 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
July 18, 2022
This is an absolute dream for any book lover. A librarian looking for premises to open a bookshop, numerous mentions of books (as if my tbr pile wasn’t already ridiculous!) and a hunky love interest to swoon over.
Thea had my heart from the second she said “books were an essential part of her life”. Me too Thea, me too. But when a bucket list was mentioned I did start to panic that I had got attached to someone who was about to cark it. Surely Cressida wouldn’t do that to me? Fear not folks nobody dies, phew.
It is more a holiday checklist of things that she was meant to do with her friend Esme, but with her having to stay behind due to a work emergency, Thea is flying solo. Well she would have been but this is Port Karadow , one of the friendliest communities there is. Plus there is Ben the builder next door although I preferred his nickname Mr Irascible Hash Browns.
Before long her checklist is rapidly being added to and ticked off but the one thing she really wants is proving elusive.
Thea was a character that had a lot of growth throughout the book and although this is book six it can be read as a standalone. It was lovely seeing her interactions with characters from the previous book though and it was nice for me to catch up with them too. But it is the romance and the hope for that eternally wonderful happy ever after for Thea that makes this such a special book.
Another delightfully charming and sweetly funny book in the cream tea series that is just begging to be read while eating fish and chips by the sea.
Thea had my heart from the second she said “books were an essential part of her life”. Me too Thea, me too. But when a bucket list was mentioned I did start to panic that I had got attached to someone who was about to cark it. Surely Cressida wouldn’t do that to me? Fear not folks nobody dies, phew.
It is more a holiday checklist of things that she was meant to do with her friend Esme, but with her having to stay behind due to a work emergency, Thea is flying solo. Well she would have been but this is Port Karadow , one of the friendliest communities there is. Plus there is Ben the builder next door although I preferred his nickname Mr Irascible Hash Browns.
Before long her checklist is rapidly being added to and ticked off but the one thing she really wants is proving elusive.
Thea was a character that had a lot of growth throughout the book and although this is book six it can be read as a standalone. It was lovely seeing her interactions with characters from the previous book though and it was nice for me to catch up with them too. But it is the romance and the hope for that eternally wonderful happy ever after for Thea that makes this such a special book.
Another delightfully charming and sweetly funny book in the cream tea series that is just begging to be read while eating fish and chips by the sea.
February 14, 2023
Another lovely book in this series. So good to go back to Cornwall and sink into another lovely read. This time it was all about the buying of a bookshop, together with the usual romance. I love this series I do hope it goes on.
December 29, 2022
There was nothing intrinsically wrong with this book, I just found it rather bland. I did like the heroine, Thea, but Ben was a little lacklustre and far too forgettable. Since the book is written only from Thea's point of view I found it really hard to buy into the romance in this one and grew bored. I put the book down and just didn't have the motivation to pick it back up. I may do one day - who knows it could just have been not for me at that moment rather than just not for me.
I would read more books by this author in the future.
23rd - 24th June 2022
I would read more books by this author in the future.
23rd - 24th June 2022
December 20, 2022
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
As I draw closer to reaching the current end of this series (one more book to go – I wonder if there will be more?!), I feel a slight panic that Charlie and her tea bus remain steadfastly in the background. Like the previous novel, this story is set down the road in Port Karadow and, whilst Charlie and former friends make an appearance for a chapter, this remains like a new beginning for McLaughlin, instead featuring characters from the previous book. In this way, I think this is a series that is in two parts, coinciding with the locations.
As I draw closer to reaching the current end of this series (one more book to go – I wonder if there will be more?!), I feel a slight panic that Charlie and her tea bus remain steadfastly in the background. Like the previous novel, this story is set down the road in Port Karadow and, whilst Charlie and former friends make an appearance for a chapter, this remains like a new beginning for McLaughlin, instead featuring characters from the previous book. In this way, I think this is a series that is in two parts, coinciding with the locations.
August 21, 2023
Another fab instalment in the Cornish Cream Tea series.
A dream of having a bookshop by the sea. I couldn’t think of anything better. I loved Thea and Ben (😍😍) and it was great catching up with the other characters from previous books and obviously re-visiting the idyllic Cornish setting.
Loved it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A dream of having a bookshop by the sea. I couldn’t think of anything better. I loved Thea and Ben (😍😍) and it was great catching up with the other characters from previous books and obviously re-visiting the idyllic Cornish setting.
Loved it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 12, 2022
It is always good to be back in Cressida McLaughlin's Cornwall and this was no exception. It's a perfect summer read, and I read the last half of it in one sitting in a few hours in my garden on a nice early evening, and it calmed me down from being furious about stuff earlier in the day.
So definitely a relaxing read too, and it really summed up summers days in Cornwall so well.
Set in Port Karadow so close by to the more familiar Porthgolow, it is a book filled with cameos of familiar characters from the Cream Tea Bus books, and being able to catch up with Finn and Meredith from the fifth book was a joy too.
It is though a completely standalone story, so please don't worry if you haven't read the previous five amazing books in this series.
So we have Thea who has come away on holiday, but also has her mind on her future and making her dreams come true. She is staying next door to builder Ben, who is renovating his own home and clearly running from something himself.
They are fabulous at being able to distract each other and it soon feels as though Thea is really getting to grips with her holiday, and with Ben helping her, I loved seeing Cornwall through her eyes.
And with new friends, there is a beach BBQ competition to tantalise the taste buds, as well as a sandcastle competition, not to mention typical touristy activities. When I think of Thea's first day on holiday, to how she develops over the course of her stay, I can't help but feel proud of her!
This was a joy to read, I absolutely love this author and this was another top not bit of writing from her. I loved every second of this story, and didn't want it to end. I felt as though I was in Cornwall with the characters, and loved the immersion I had in this fabulous story.
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
So definitely a relaxing read too, and it really summed up summers days in Cornwall so well.
Set in Port Karadow so close by to the more familiar Porthgolow, it is a book filled with cameos of familiar characters from the Cream Tea Bus books, and being able to catch up with Finn and Meredith from the fifth book was a joy too.
It is though a completely standalone story, so please don't worry if you haven't read the previous five amazing books in this series.
So we have Thea who has come away on holiday, but also has her mind on her future and making her dreams come true. She is staying next door to builder Ben, who is renovating his own home and clearly running from something himself.
They are fabulous at being able to distract each other and it soon feels as though Thea is really getting to grips with her holiday, and with Ben helping her, I loved seeing Cornwall through her eyes.
And with new friends, there is a beach BBQ competition to tantalise the taste buds, as well as a sandcastle competition, not to mention typical touristy activities. When I think of Thea's first day on holiday, to how she develops over the course of her stay, I can't help but feel proud of her!
This was a joy to read, I absolutely love this author and this was another top not bit of writing from her. I loved every second of this story, and didn't want it to end. I felt as though I was in Cornwall with the characters, and loved the immersion I had in this fabulous story.
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 24, 2023
The perfect summer read that will whisk you away to Cornwall and the quaint seaside town.
Thea is a librarian, but has a dream to open a book shop by the sea (isn't that a bookworms dream?) so books a holiday with her friend to Port Karradow a childhood destination.
Unfortunately, her friend can't go at the last minute, so Thea visits on her own and bumps into a rather abrupt Ben.
Grumpy x sunshine trope anyone? This was fun and I loved Thea as a character, obviously Scooter the dog had my heart too!
The romance was solid, but the main reason I loved it was that Thea was following her dreams, making them happen and it wasn't just luck that got her there.
I spent the majority of this book with a smile on my face and I cant wait to read the next one in the series, so I can go back.
Thea is a librarian, but has a dream to open a book shop by the sea (isn't that a bookworms dream?) so books a holiday with her friend to Port Karradow a childhood destination.
Unfortunately, her friend can't go at the last minute, so Thea visits on her own and bumps into a rather abrupt Ben.
Grumpy x sunshine trope anyone? This was fun and I loved Thea as a character, obviously Scooter the dog had my heart too!
The romance was solid, but the main reason I loved it was that Thea was following her dreams, making them happen and it wasn't just luck that got her there.
I spent the majority of this book with a smile on my face and I cant wait to read the next one in the series, so I can go back.
June 23, 2022
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc ebook.
Although the 6th book in the series, it also works perfectly well as a stand alone.
This book was like the breath of fresh sea air I needed. I felt like I was on holiday with them! Cressida has bought to life the most wonderful characters - and she sure knows how to create a leading man! It's a heartwarming, comforting summer read and I loved it.
Although the 6th book in the series, it also works perfectly well as a stand alone.
This book was like the breath of fresh sea air I needed. I felt like I was on holiday with them! Cressida has bought to life the most wonderful characters - and she sure knows how to create a leading man! It's a heartwarming, comforting summer read and I loved it.
May 7, 2022
This was my first time reading this series and the fact that it is number 6 didnt matter it reads well as a standalone.
The story is set in Port Karadow, Cornwall. It is wonderfully descriptive allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the narrative.
The story was somewhat predictable as are the majority of this genre but I was not disappointed. I liked the characters and how their lives interacted. Heartwarming and a great holiday read
I will be seeking out the others in the series to enjoy
Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review
The story is set in Port Karadow, Cornwall. It is wonderfully descriptive allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the narrative.
The story was somewhat predictable as are the majority of this genre but I was not disappointed. I liked the characters and how their lives interacted. Heartwarming and a great holiday read
I will be seeking out the others in the series to enjoy
Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review
August 22, 2023
I absolutely love Cressida McLaughlin's books, and I loved this summer romance.
The story is about a woman called Thea who goes on holiday to Cornwall for three weeks. She comes across Ben the builder and she can't get away from him, since he owns the property there, and he is busy doing it up. Soon they become besties, and maybe more. Thea and Ben are lovely characters, who I enjoyed reading about. I also liked the other characters of the book, and the setting.
This is a perfect, easy to read holiday book for the summer. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
The story is about a woman called Thea who goes on holiday to Cornwall for three weeks. She comes across Ben the builder and she can't get away from him, since he owns the property there, and he is busy doing it up. Soon they become besties, and maybe more. Thea and Ben are lovely characters, who I enjoyed reading about. I also liked the other characters of the book, and the setting.
This is a perfect, easy to read holiday book for the summer. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
June 23, 2022
Cressida McLaughlin’s Cornish Cream Tea series is definitely up there with my favourite series and each time I finish one I am already sitting there wishing the months by eager for the next one to be released.
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday is book number 6 in the series but to be completely honest if you haven’t read the previous books it is not a problem at all as this can easily be read as a standalone but you will be desperate to go back an read the others straight after.
I am sure every reader will love our new main character Thea because she has a dream I am sure most of us keen readers have had at some point through our lives! When her holiday to Cornwall with her best friend Esme faces a hiccup because Esme is unable to come Thea goes anyway armed with a list of things to do sites to see and a secret mission to see if she can possibly make her dream come true. What was not on her list was finding an irresistible builder named Ben living next door to her rental who soon becomes a consistent distraction!
We are reunited with some of much-loved characters from previous books, Meredith and Finn are weaved in around the storyline and it is great to see how well they are doing. We also have a very brief appearance from Charlie and Daniel but I really wish we could have more of them and Gertie in the novels but I need to stop being needy and just appreciate that a little bit of a good thing is probably what makes you want and love something even more.
Watching Thea building her confidence and pushing forward to try and make her dream a reality and a new life for herself was both exciting and inspiring, I was cheering her on all the way.
Ben was an intriguing character who I grew to love. His past shadowed his pure heart of gold but as his barriers began to come down we could see he was a pure gentleman with a whole lot of love to give, he had just lost his way.
I would have loved to have seen more of the renovation process in the book to go on Thea’s journey from start to end but that is just me being greedy and wanting to live a little of my dream through her! I definitely feel like there is still so much to come from both Thea and Ben so I am hoping that they make a strong reappearance in a future novel.
This was up there as my second favourite in the series and I highly recommend this for those looking for an uplifting romance with Cornish charm to take away on your holibobs or to enjoy on your staycation this year.
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday is book number 6 in the series but to be completely honest if you haven’t read the previous books it is not a problem at all as this can easily be read as a standalone but you will be desperate to go back an read the others straight after.
I am sure every reader will love our new main character Thea because she has a dream I am sure most of us keen readers have had at some point through our lives! When her holiday to Cornwall with her best friend Esme faces a hiccup because Esme is unable to come Thea goes anyway armed with a list of things to do sites to see and a secret mission to see if she can possibly make her dream come true. What was not on her list was finding an irresistible builder named Ben living next door to her rental who soon becomes a consistent distraction!
We are reunited with some of much-loved characters from previous books, Meredith and Finn are weaved in around the storyline and it is great to see how well they are doing. We also have a very brief appearance from Charlie and Daniel but I really wish we could have more of them and Gertie in the novels but I need to stop being needy and just appreciate that a little bit of a good thing is probably what makes you want and love something even more.
Watching Thea building her confidence and pushing forward to try and make her dream a reality and a new life for herself was both exciting and inspiring, I was cheering her on all the way.
Ben was an intriguing character who I grew to love. His past shadowed his pure heart of gold but as his barriers began to come down we could see he was a pure gentleman with a whole lot of love to give, he had just lost his way.
I would have loved to have seen more of the renovation process in the book to go on Thea’s journey from start to end but that is just me being greedy and wanting to live a little of my dream through her! I definitely feel like there is still so much to come from both Thea and Ben so I am hoping that they make a strong reappearance in a future novel.
This was up there as my second favourite in the series and I highly recommend this for those looking for an uplifting romance with Cornish charm to take away on your holibobs or to enjoy on your staycation this year.
June 30, 2022
This is the romance version of a mystery cozy. In other words, everything from plot to characters is tame and bland and soporific. Two stars for the descriptions of the Cornish coast.
May 5, 2022
This is book #6 in the Cornish Cream Tea series, it can easily be read as a standalone book however. We are back in Cornwall, but this time in the little Cornish village of Port Karadow. Library assistant Thea, and her friend Esme were due to visit on holiday, but when Esme is unable to come, Thea decides to carry on with the holiday on her own. She has booked a lovely little cottage but finds her next-door neighbour is a grumpy builder called Ben, who is in the middle of a huge renovation of his cottage. They don’t get off to the best of starts, but thanks to him, Thea soon finds herself distracted from the real reason why she was in Port Karadow…
I was a bit of a late starter with this series, having only started reading them a couple of months ago. I have however, loved them all and whizzed through them, finding myself waiting patiently for this new instalment. I loved Thea’s character instantly! I could connect with her so well, not just because we both work in libraries, but because she’s such a likeable character. I applauded her for going on holiday on her own, but also envied her for the prospect of three weeks peace and quiet, lying on beaches and reading books! The male interest in this book is the grumpy but equally lovely Ben who lives next door to the cottage where Thea is staying. Ben does have his issues, but they can all be forgiven for how perfect he seems…at times! We all know that there will be a will they-won’t they storyline, but we also find there’s a lot of stops and starts along the way.
The storyline flew along at a great pace. Even though they were new characters, I was hooked into their stories straight away. We do also get to meet some characters which we have met in previous books, and that was a lovely addition. If Thea and Ben’s storylines don’t win it over for you, then the village of Port Karadow certainly will. I read this book on a rainy day in May, but thanks to the author’s delightful descriptions I could fully picture myself lying on a hot sunny beach, drinking Pimms and eating barbequed fish! The sun’s rays radiated out through the book on every turn of the page, and it was a very welcome piece of escapism! The storyline was delightful, with lots of love and laughs and it was a true pleasure to be back down in Cornwall! I hope future instalments of the series will go back to visit Port Karadow, just to get a little glimpse of how everyone is getting on!! Would definitely recommend!
I was a bit of a late starter with this series, having only started reading them a couple of months ago. I have however, loved them all and whizzed through them, finding myself waiting patiently for this new instalment. I loved Thea’s character instantly! I could connect with her so well, not just because we both work in libraries, but because she’s such a likeable character. I applauded her for going on holiday on her own, but also envied her for the prospect of three weeks peace and quiet, lying on beaches and reading books! The male interest in this book is the grumpy but equally lovely Ben who lives next door to the cottage where Thea is staying. Ben does have his issues, but they can all be forgiven for how perfect he seems…at times! We all know that there will be a will they-won’t they storyline, but we also find there’s a lot of stops and starts along the way.
The storyline flew along at a great pace. Even though they were new characters, I was hooked into their stories straight away. We do also get to meet some characters which we have met in previous books, and that was a lovely addition. If Thea and Ben’s storylines don’t win it over for you, then the village of Port Karadow certainly will. I read this book on a rainy day in May, but thanks to the author’s delightful descriptions I could fully picture myself lying on a hot sunny beach, drinking Pimms and eating barbequed fish! The sun’s rays radiated out through the book on every turn of the page, and it was a very welcome piece of escapism! The storyline was delightful, with lots of love and laughs and it was a true pleasure to be back down in Cornwall! I hope future instalments of the series will go back to visit Port Karadow, just to get a little glimpse of how everyone is getting on!! Would definitely recommend!
July 28, 2023
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday is one of my favourite books this year and it is the perfect summer holiday read!
It follows the story of Thea as she takes a three-week holiday to Port Karadow, a place that she once visited when she was younger. Her best friend, Esme, remains at home in Bristol, leaving Thea to holiday on her own, which for a introverted bookworm wasn’t what she was planning.
But when she’s in Port Karadow, Thea has goals of her own to make her dreams come true as well as ticking activities off her Cornwall bucket list. However, her holiday becomes even better when she makes friends with Ben, her neighbour, and his friends Finn and Meredith, from Christmas Carols and a Cornish Cream Tea.
I really enjoyed this book because I feel that Thea is one of Cressida’s protagonists that resonates with me the most. I’m introverted and bookish, just like Thea. Also, I loved seeing Thea change the more time she spent in Port Karadow and with Ben. She started off apologising and not having much confidence but by the end, she was a confident, independent woman.
Ben’s character is the grumpy to Thea’s sunshine. He hides his layers behind walls after being hurt back home, which led to him moving to Port Karadow. Ben is charmingly handsome, sometimes grumpy, but also very sweet.
Thea and Ben grow closer as they spend more time together, going on walks, visiting the lighthouse and more. I loved reading about their relationship and it tugged on my heart when the third act conflict/dark night of the soul happened.
But the ending was so so good!! I loved all the side characters, the subplots and everything about this book! It really makes you want to visit Cornwall and open a bookshop of your own!
It follows the story of Thea as she takes a three-week holiday to Port Karadow, a place that she once visited when she was younger. Her best friend, Esme, remains at home in Bristol, leaving Thea to holiday on her own, which for a introverted bookworm wasn’t what she was planning.
But when she’s in Port Karadow, Thea has goals of her own to make her dreams come true as well as ticking activities off her Cornwall bucket list. However, her holiday becomes even better when she makes friends with Ben, her neighbour, and his friends Finn and Meredith, from Christmas Carols and a Cornish Cream Tea.
I really enjoyed this book because I feel that Thea is one of Cressida’s protagonists that resonates with me the most. I’m introverted and bookish, just like Thea. Also, I loved seeing Thea change the more time she spent in Port Karadow and with Ben. She started off apologising and not having much confidence but by the end, she was a confident, independent woman.
Ben’s character is the grumpy to Thea’s sunshine. He hides his layers behind walls after being hurt back home, which led to him moving to Port Karadow. Ben is charmingly handsome, sometimes grumpy, but also very sweet.
Thea and Ben grow closer as they spend more time together, going on walks, visiting the lighthouse and more. I loved reading about their relationship and it tugged on my heart when the third act conflict/dark night of the soul happened.
But the ending was so so good!! I loved all the side characters, the subplots and everything about this book! It really makes you want to visit Cornwall and open a bookshop of your own!
July 4, 2022
4.5 stars
Full review on my blog: http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/202...
My goodness. I absolutely loved this book and its characters! I could totally relate to Thea's dream of something more, especially a bookshop by the sea (let's be honest, who cannot?!), and I immediately fell head over heels in love with her grumpy neighbour Ben (again, who did not?!). Sure, he may seem distant the first team we meet him, but beneath that stand-offish exterior is a kind and generous man (and a six-pack to boot).
I loved joining Thea on her Cornish adventures, especially the ones that didn't quite go to plan. I went to Cornwall for the first time myself last summer, and I've been wanting to go back ever since. And while I've not quite managed this physically yet, mentally author Cressida McLaughlin took me on a much-needed holiday, filled with beach barbeques, hikes along the rugged coastline, pasties in the sunshine, and picture-perfect Cornish towns. I want more of this please. Immediately.
In addition to her wonderful descriptions of Cornwall, Cressida has created a heart-warming and uplifting story for readers to get swept away with. The main romance was not hugely surprising, but it's the journey to get there that made this one hell of a ride. I especially adored the wonderful cast of characters surrounding our two loved-up leads, from favourites from past books to brand-new ones to fall in love with. A wonderful mixture for both old and new readers of The Cornish Cream Tea series.
(And, while I completely understand why the book's title made this story a part of an already well-known and loved series, I hope it's sparked a brand-new one with a more apt title, such as The Cornish Book Shop by the Sea.)
As if the Cornish setting, wonderful characters, and heart-fluttering romance wasn't enough already to make readers pick up this novel immediately, it's also a love letter to books within itself. Thea's joy for the written word providing the perfect opportunity for Cressida to throw in lots of fantastic book titles and authors within her story. So after turning the final page on this one, the reader is left with a big summer reading list to dive into. An absolute joy.
Full review on my blog: http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/202...
My goodness. I absolutely loved this book and its characters! I could totally relate to Thea's dream of something more, especially a bookshop by the sea (let's be honest, who cannot?!), and I immediately fell head over heels in love with her grumpy neighbour Ben (again, who did not?!). Sure, he may seem distant the first team we meet him, but beneath that stand-offish exterior is a kind and generous man (and a six-pack to boot).
I loved joining Thea on her Cornish adventures, especially the ones that didn't quite go to plan. I went to Cornwall for the first time myself last summer, and I've been wanting to go back ever since. And while I've not quite managed this physically yet, mentally author Cressida McLaughlin took me on a much-needed holiday, filled with beach barbeques, hikes along the rugged coastline, pasties in the sunshine, and picture-perfect Cornish towns. I want more of this please. Immediately.
In addition to her wonderful descriptions of Cornwall, Cressida has created a heart-warming and uplifting story for readers to get swept away with. The main romance was not hugely surprising, but it's the journey to get there that made this one hell of a ride. I especially adored the wonderful cast of characters surrounding our two loved-up leads, from favourites from past books to brand-new ones to fall in love with. A wonderful mixture for both old and new readers of The Cornish Cream Tea series.
(And, while I completely understand why the book's title made this story a part of an already well-known and loved series, I hope it's sparked a brand-new one with a more apt title, such as The Cornish Book Shop by the Sea.)
As if the Cornish setting, wonderful characters, and heart-fluttering romance wasn't enough already to make readers pick up this novel immediately, it's also a love letter to books within itself. Thea's joy for the written word providing the perfect opportunity for Cressida to throw in lots of fantastic book titles and authors within her story. So after turning the final page on this one, the reader is left with a big summer reading list to dive into. An absolute joy.
May 8, 2022
Wow what a fabulous addition to the Cornish cream tea series!
The most delectable,perfect,summery read just right for this time of year!
Set in cornwall in the most picturesque village of Port Karadow, we meet Thea holidaying alone as her friend Esme has let her down! Thea is well out of her comfort zone staying alone for three weeks in her idyllic holiday cottage not helped by the building site next door which is being done up by a grumpy taciturn builder called Ben!
Thea has a mission whilst she’s here to realise her childhood dream and to complete lots of things on her holiday list that she and Esme had drawn up together!
During the three weeks,disappointment, misunderstandings, new friendships and experiences all collude to make Thea realise what she is capable of and what she wants both professionally and personally in her life!
Fantastic characters particularly Ben and Thea, great storyline, wonderful setting, delicious food and romance what more could you want? Would highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
The most delectable,perfect,summery read just right for this time of year!
Set in cornwall in the most picturesque village of Port Karadow, we meet Thea holidaying alone as her friend Esme has let her down! Thea is well out of her comfort zone staying alone for three weeks in her idyllic holiday cottage not helped by the building site next door which is being done up by a grumpy taciturn builder called Ben!
Thea has a mission whilst she’s here to realise her childhood dream and to complete lots of things on her holiday list that she and Esme had drawn up together!
During the three weeks,disappointment, misunderstandings, new friendships and experiences all collude to make Thea realise what she is capable of and what she wants both professionally and personally in her life!
Fantastic characters particularly Ben and Thea, great storyline, wonderful setting, delicious food and romance what more could you want? Would highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
June 28, 2022
Although it's part of the Cornish Cream Tea Series it can easily be read as a standalone...although why you'd want to read just the one is beyond me! 🤷♀️
I love venturing back to Cornwall, whether to Portgalow or Port Karadow, I know I'm going to have the best time EVER and catch up with old friends and make some new.
I loved Ben and Thea, such great characters and the chemistry between them was great!
As always Cressida's descriptions are spot on and I was able to immerse myself into the pages, visualising everything so clearly from the food, the scenery 💤....wake up Stacey you're dreaming again!
Highly enjoyable, uplifting and the perfect book for the beach, or the back garden whilst soaking up the sun.
When can I go back again?
Many thanks to Random Things Tours for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love venturing back to Cornwall, whether to Portgalow or Port Karadow, I know I'm going to have the best time EVER and catch up with old friends and make some new.
I loved Ben and Thea, such great characters and the chemistry between them was great!
As always Cressida's descriptions are spot on and I was able to immerse myself into the pages, visualising everything so clearly from the food, the scenery 💤....wake up Stacey you're dreaming again!
Highly enjoyable, uplifting and the perfect book for the beach, or the back garden whilst soaking up the sun.
When can I go back again?
Many thanks to Random Things Tours for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 27, 2023
I listened to this on audiobook.
I’m absolutely loving this series of books situated in Cornwall, so much so that I wish I was staying there.
Anyway in this story we meet Thea and Ben, get to know them and their backgrounds, seeing how they interact with each other and ultimately get together and the obstacles that come part and parcel with that. I really enjoyed their story, lots of drama and another pet to fall in love with, a dog called Scooter. There’s a whole load of bats too, but I definitely didn’t fall in love with those lols.
As with previous books from the series we get reacquainted with some previous characters and this time it is Merry and Flynn, so very lovely to see them again.
I already can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I’m absolutely loving this series of books situated in Cornwall, so much so that I wish I was staying there.
Anyway in this story we meet Thea and Ben, get to know them and their backgrounds, seeing how they interact with each other and ultimately get together and the obstacles that come part and parcel with that. I really enjoyed their story, lots of drama and another pet to fall in love with, a dog called Scooter. There’s a whole load of bats too, but I definitely didn’t fall in love with those lols.
As with previous books from the series we get reacquainted with some previous characters and this time it is Merry and Flynn, so very lovely to see them again.
I already can’t wait for the next book in this series.
October 15, 2022
It’s been wonderful being back in Port Karadow, and seeing the beautiful village by the sea though Thea’s eyes.
I loved seeing her explore the village and get to know the community. New characters have been introduced yet there’s still time for some old favourites and I loved seeing Charlie and Daniel again.
Cress McClaughlin writes such vivid stories and I always feel part of the community in each book I read - Thea was a warm and wonderful character and it was amazing to see her confidence grow as the people and village itself gave her the strength to be brave.
I loved seeing her explore the village and get to know the community. New characters have been introduced yet there’s still time for some old favourites and I loved seeing Charlie and Daniel again.
Cress McClaughlin writes such vivid stories and I always feel part of the community in each book I read - Thea was a warm and wonderful character and it was amazing to see her confidence grow as the people and village itself gave her the strength to be brave.
September 7, 2024
Wow, wow and wow is all I can say. I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I’m a big fan of Cressida McLaughlin’s books and this book didn’t disappoint.
It was so lovely to catch up with the old characters but I loved the story of Thea and Ben.
It was pure escapism and a very heartwarming read. I love any book set in Devon or Cornwall so this was right up my street.
I would definitely recommend this book in the fact the whole series so far has been brilliant. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
It was so lovely to catch up with the old characters but I loved the story of Thea and Ben.
It was pure escapism and a very heartwarming read. I love any book set in Devon or Cornwall so this was right up my street.
I would definitely recommend this book in the fact the whole series so far has been brilliant. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
July 9, 2022
Just perfect as always x
October 18, 2025
I LOVED this book!! Was so sad when I finished it as I throughly enjoyed it! Even though it is book number #6 in the series this could easily be a stand alone. I loved the built up with the romance in it, and it was also exciting to see where it would lead. This book was very well written and highly recommend!!
October 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this lovely read set in Cornwall during the summer. Who wouldn't want to visit a sunny coastal town on the hunt for premises to become a book shop?! Easy read that I could have finished in a day.
August 8, 2022
4.5/5
October 30, 2022
Once I got into this I thoroughly enjoyed it. My daughter had read it first and loved it so I wanted to see what she enjoyed about it so much. It was easy going and a simple story really, but lots of nice characters and lovely setting in Cornwall which is what made it a lovely read. I will read more from this Author.
July 22, 2022
What a perfect summer read, especially if you can pair it with a cup of tea and a scone with all the jam and cream!
I’ve really enjoyed Cressy’s Cornish Cream Tea series but I think this has been my favourite so far, I loved Ben and Thea and was so engrossed in their story. We also spent a lot of time with Meredith and Finn from the previous book so it felt like returning to a group of friends that you’ve not seen for a while.
The setting, Port Karadow, is so stunning, with its walking trails, the beaches, the coves and then the quaint high street and shops… I feel like these books could go on forever! I mean I’m already eagerly awaiting the next Christmas one as it sounds amazing and I can’t wait to see Thea’s next chapter!!!
I’ve really enjoyed Cressy’s Cornish Cream Tea series but I think this has been my favourite so far, I loved Ben and Thea and was so engrossed in their story. We also spent a lot of time with Meredith and Finn from the previous book so it felt like returning to a group of friends that you’ve not seen for a while.
The setting, Port Karadow, is so stunning, with its walking trails, the beaches, the coves and then the quaint high street and shops… I feel like these books could go on forever! I mean I’m already eagerly awaiting the next Christmas one as it sounds amazing and I can’t wait to see Thea’s next chapter!!!
June 20, 2022
Thea was looking forward to a Cornish escape with her best friend, but when Esme drops out Thea finds herself flying solo! Arriving at her holiday cottage, armed with her bucket list of must do activities, Thea is a little disappointed to discover a building site next door.
Determined not to let the noise or the grumpy builder ruin her holiday mood, Thea sets about ticking things off her list. But she soon realises that she might have bitten off more than she can chew with her solo seaside escape.
But when the locals take Thea under their wing, she begins to see Port Karadow and herself in a whole new light and begins to wish she could stay longer than her intended 3 weeks.
Having lived in Cornwall my whole life up until very recently, I love losing myself in McLaughlin’s fictional counterpart. Initially, I wasn’t enamoured with the change in location when the previous instalment came out, but I feel with this new novel I warmed to Port Karadow more. I think this was helped by the summer setting opposed to Christmas. Cornwall is magic in the sunshine, not so much in the cold mizzle! (Note: That's what we Cornish call that really light rain that gets you absolutely soaked!)
The cast of characters in this story were hugely likeable and I found it somewhat refreshing that it was the male protagonist suffering from a hard past and trust issues whilst our leading lady was determined and focussed come what may.
This is the perfect read for the beach, sun lounger or sofa, if the British summertime doesn’t deliver! Great series but equally so as a standalone read. Highly recommend.
* Thanks to HarperCollins UK, via NetGalley, for this ARC *
Determined not to let the noise or the grumpy builder ruin her holiday mood, Thea sets about ticking things off her list. But she soon realises that she might have bitten off more than she can chew with her solo seaside escape.
But when the locals take Thea under their wing, she begins to see Port Karadow and herself in a whole new light and begins to wish she could stay longer than her intended 3 weeks.
Having lived in Cornwall my whole life up until very recently, I love losing myself in McLaughlin’s fictional counterpart. Initially, I wasn’t enamoured with the change in location when the previous instalment came out, but I feel with this new novel I warmed to Port Karadow more. I think this was helped by the summer setting opposed to Christmas. Cornwall is magic in the sunshine, not so much in the cold mizzle! (Note: That's what we Cornish call that really light rain that gets you absolutely soaked!)
The cast of characters in this story were hugely likeable and I found it somewhat refreshing that it was the male protagonist suffering from a hard past and trust issues whilst our leading lady was determined and focussed come what may.
This is the perfect read for the beach, sun lounger or sofa, if the British summertime doesn’t deliver! Great series but equally so as a standalone read. Highly recommend.
* Thanks to HarperCollins UK, via NetGalley, for this ARC *
June 23, 2025
3.5 stars 🌟
Really enjoyed the storyline, the main character Thea, and the descriptive writing of Cornwall.
I personally don't like books with swearing, and there were a few swear words dotted throughout the book. I also wasn't comfortable with the level of descriptions of the male main characters body/appearance.
Really enjoyed the storyline, the main character Thea, and the descriptive writing of Cornwall.
I personally don't like books with swearing, and there were a few swear words dotted throughout the book. I also wasn't comfortable with the level of descriptions of the male main characters body/appearance.
July 7, 2022
I hold my hands up and confess that I still haven’t gotten around to reading the last book in Cressida McLaughlin’s, Cornish Cream Tea series, Christmas Carols and a Cornish Cream Tea which was published last year but I will definitely rectify that once Christmas reading season comes around again. But not having read the previous book did not in any way detract from the huge amount of enjoyment I got from reading this new book, The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday. This was a brilliant read from start to finish and it’s been rare this year that I have given a book five stars but this story deserves it and so much more. Once I started it, I couldn’t leave it out of my hands and in fact I read it one sitting which these days is unusual for me but it just goes to show how good it was. This is the perfect summer read that delivers on all fronts - the perfect location, characters you root for, an interesting plot and a great pace that keeps you rapidly turning the pages and of course all the mentions of books and bookshops. I mean you can’t fail to love Thea and her passion for books. She is a character that will speak to so many people and you root for her every step of the way on her journey.
It really makes no difference at all to your reading experience if you have not read any of the previous books as all can be read as standalone stories and in particular I feel this one even more so than some of the others. Cressida whisks us away once again to Cornwall and the seaside town of Port Kadow. Wow, is all I can say. The descriptions of the town and the surrounding coast and countryside were just fantastic. I have no hope of going anywhere on holiday this year but reading this book I felt I was transported to the hot days of summer near the beach and I was with Thea on her holiday which turned into much more of a life journey than she had anticipated.
Thea arrives from Bristol to spend a few weeks in Cornwall. She works in a library (my dream job if I wasn’t teaching) and has been looking forward to some time away for ages. Everything had been so carefully planned with her work colleague and best friend Esme and numerous things were going to be ticked off their summer bucket lists as well as lots of reading. But work commitments mean Esme has had to pull out. Of course, Thea is angry and upset and you can tell she is not looking forward to spending so much time on her own but still she will make the best of the situation. As soon as she pulls up at Sunfish Cottage with its uninterrupted panoramic sea views Thea feels herself start to unwind but that’s not to say her time away will be all smooth sailing.
The glorious coastal descriptions had me from page one and didn’t relinquish their grip until the final page. The use of the landscape and the coast throughout the story was just fantastic and so vital to the overall plot. I could easily visualise Thea sitting outside the cottage reading a book and enjoying the sunshine but next door at Oyster Cottage noise abounds as its been renovated by Ben. Thea and Ben don’t get off to the best of starts and although he is very handsome he is quite closed off and wasn’t perhaps as welcoming as he should have been. He can be gruff and cantankerous but the more we get to know him and he slowly reveals himself the more I thought oh please let good things happen for both himself and Thea in both their personal and professional lives.
The reader can instantly tell that Ben has secrets and a backstory and you know over time that Thea will try and delve that little bit deeper and get to the heart of the man that is Ben. But the journey to do so was just so amazing and incredible that I didn’t want to rush through any of it. Unfortunately, I did because I was just so gripped by everything. It was like Cressida wove a spell over me and I just became so deeply invested in the story. I don’t know what makes some books just OK reads and then others you are just so totally taken in by but I was just wrapped up and enveloped by Thea and her story and all the elements came together to make for the most perfect book that I have read in the contemporary women’s fiction genre in a very long time.
I could identify with Thea so much. I mean who doesn’t love a girl who says books are an essential part of her life. She was just such a real and down to earth character. Yes she has her flaws but she knows she does and is trying to repair them. The scenes where she was determined to tick something off the bucket list despite dreading it so much, well that would be me all over. I felt every bit of her pain as she traversed the cliff edge on a scorching day and the blisters just intensified. She was stubborn and wasn’t going to admit to Esme that she would rather curl up with a book for the day. What really makes Thea stand out is her hidden lifelong dream. Yes she has come to Cornwall for a holiday but she has other motives too. For as long as she can remember she has wanted to open and run a bookshop. Thanks to a friend Alex, she has gotten support and has a business plan together. She hopes to explore the streets of Port Kadow and find a suitable location for her shop. She has kept this all secret from Esme despite them having such a close bond which goes back to troubles during Thea’s time at school. This aspect was handled so well and allowed the reader to truly understand what was motivating Thea. Her time at school had given Thea a mistrust of people that she couldn’t banish but books and her job give her a confidence that was otherwise absent in other areas of her life. I hoped this confidence would shine through and allow her to fulfil her dreams.
There was so much that occurred in this book but at no point did things feel overwhelming or just added to the storyline for the sake of it. The adventures Ben and Thea took were wonderful and of course food and cream teas have to be mentioned and again this fitted in perfectly with everything. The further I got into the story the more I was enjoying it and I didn’t want it to end. I could have kept reading about Thea and Ben for many hours. Thea starts to grow and change and is enhanced by her new experiences and the friends she makes. Whilst out walking she stumbles across The Old Port House which overlooks Port Kadow and was once the post office. Sylvia lives there alone and it is in desperate need of repair and is being handed back to the council. I could picture so clearly the old house and what it could be in the future. Will Thea see the same? Has she the resources to make her wishes come true?
No doubt about it, this book was a fabulous read that I urge you to place at the very top of your summer reading this year. It will provide you with the perfect slice of escapism that so many people are desperately craving right now. The only thing I will say is that I understand that this book is book six in the series and using Cornish Cream Tea has worked well for the books all along but I feel we are moving away from the cream tea aspect. I understand wanting to keep the same words in the titles as readers have become familiar with the series and the setting etc but the characters that established this series have been dealt with. Yes, they do make a brief appearance in this book and it’s fun to be able to say oh yes I recall so and so from this book and you remember what happened. But I think the series has become so well established and we have even moved away from the original setting, although not too far, that perhaps the title is slightly misleading at this stage. But that’s just my opinion and really in the major scheme of things it’s very minor.
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday is certainly one for the keeper shelf and has reminded me why I love Cressida’s writing so much. November can’t come quick enough, as that’s when the next book will be published, because I felt we were left on a slight cliff-hanger at the end and it just gave me a sense that there is a lot more to come from Thea and I desperately want to see her ambitions and life dream come full circle. Of course with some new characters thrown in too. The Cornish Cream Tea Bookshop is firmly on my wish list and I feel it’s going to be just as good if not better, which will be hard really, than this wonderful book which was so captivating, uplifting and simply an utter joy to read.
It really makes no difference at all to your reading experience if you have not read any of the previous books as all can be read as standalone stories and in particular I feel this one even more so than some of the others. Cressida whisks us away once again to Cornwall and the seaside town of Port Kadow. Wow, is all I can say. The descriptions of the town and the surrounding coast and countryside were just fantastic. I have no hope of going anywhere on holiday this year but reading this book I felt I was transported to the hot days of summer near the beach and I was with Thea on her holiday which turned into much more of a life journey than she had anticipated.
Thea arrives from Bristol to spend a few weeks in Cornwall. She works in a library (my dream job if I wasn’t teaching) and has been looking forward to some time away for ages. Everything had been so carefully planned with her work colleague and best friend Esme and numerous things were going to be ticked off their summer bucket lists as well as lots of reading. But work commitments mean Esme has had to pull out. Of course, Thea is angry and upset and you can tell she is not looking forward to spending so much time on her own but still she will make the best of the situation. As soon as she pulls up at Sunfish Cottage with its uninterrupted panoramic sea views Thea feels herself start to unwind but that’s not to say her time away will be all smooth sailing.
The glorious coastal descriptions had me from page one and didn’t relinquish their grip until the final page. The use of the landscape and the coast throughout the story was just fantastic and so vital to the overall plot. I could easily visualise Thea sitting outside the cottage reading a book and enjoying the sunshine but next door at Oyster Cottage noise abounds as its been renovated by Ben. Thea and Ben don’t get off to the best of starts and although he is very handsome he is quite closed off and wasn’t perhaps as welcoming as he should have been. He can be gruff and cantankerous but the more we get to know him and he slowly reveals himself the more I thought oh please let good things happen for both himself and Thea in both their personal and professional lives.
The reader can instantly tell that Ben has secrets and a backstory and you know over time that Thea will try and delve that little bit deeper and get to the heart of the man that is Ben. But the journey to do so was just so amazing and incredible that I didn’t want to rush through any of it. Unfortunately, I did because I was just so gripped by everything. It was like Cressida wove a spell over me and I just became so deeply invested in the story. I don’t know what makes some books just OK reads and then others you are just so totally taken in by but I was just wrapped up and enveloped by Thea and her story and all the elements came together to make for the most perfect book that I have read in the contemporary women’s fiction genre in a very long time.
I could identify with Thea so much. I mean who doesn’t love a girl who says books are an essential part of her life. She was just such a real and down to earth character. Yes she has her flaws but she knows she does and is trying to repair them. The scenes where she was determined to tick something off the bucket list despite dreading it so much, well that would be me all over. I felt every bit of her pain as she traversed the cliff edge on a scorching day and the blisters just intensified. She was stubborn and wasn’t going to admit to Esme that she would rather curl up with a book for the day. What really makes Thea stand out is her hidden lifelong dream. Yes she has come to Cornwall for a holiday but she has other motives too. For as long as she can remember she has wanted to open and run a bookshop. Thanks to a friend Alex, she has gotten support and has a business plan together. She hopes to explore the streets of Port Kadow and find a suitable location for her shop. She has kept this all secret from Esme despite them having such a close bond which goes back to troubles during Thea’s time at school. This aspect was handled so well and allowed the reader to truly understand what was motivating Thea. Her time at school had given Thea a mistrust of people that she couldn’t banish but books and her job give her a confidence that was otherwise absent in other areas of her life. I hoped this confidence would shine through and allow her to fulfil her dreams.
There was so much that occurred in this book but at no point did things feel overwhelming or just added to the storyline for the sake of it. The adventures Ben and Thea took were wonderful and of course food and cream teas have to be mentioned and again this fitted in perfectly with everything. The further I got into the story the more I was enjoying it and I didn’t want it to end. I could have kept reading about Thea and Ben for many hours. Thea starts to grow and change and is enhanced by her new experiences and the friends she makes. Whilst out walking she stumbles across The Old Port House which overlooks Port Kadow and was once the post office. Sylvia lives there alone and it is in desperate need of repair and is being handed back to the council. I could picture so clearly the old house and what it could be in the future. Will Thea see the same? Has she the resources to make her wishes come true?
No doubt about it, this book was a fabulous read that I urge you to place at the very top of your summer reading this year. It will provide you with the perfect slice of escapism that so many people are desperately craving right now. The only thing I will say is that I understand that this book is book six in the series and using Cornish Cream Tea has worked well for the books all along but I feel we are moving away from the cream tea aspect. I understand wanting to keep the same words in the titles as readers have become familiar with the series and the setting etc but the characters that established this series have been dealt with. Yes, they do make a brief appearance in this book and it’s fun to be able to say oh yes I recall so and so from this book and you remember what happened. But I think the series has become so well established and we have even moved away from the original setting, although not too far, that perhaps the title is slightly misleading at this stage. But that’s just my opinion and really in the major scheme of things it’s very minor.
The Cornish Cream Tea Holiday is certainly one for the keeper shelf and has reminded me why I love Cressida’s writing so much. November can’t come quick enough, as that’s when the next book will be published, because I felt we were left on a slight cliff-hanger at the end and it just gave me a sense that there is a lot more to come from Thea and I desperately want to see her ambitions and life dream come full circle. Of course with some new characters thrown in too. The Cornish Cream Tea Bookshop is firmly on my wish list and I feel it’s going to be just as good if not better, which will be hard really, than this wonderful book which was so captivating, uplifting and simply an utter joy to read.
August 21, 2022
Thea has come away for a long break where all she wants is to escape in a beautiful place and with as many books as possible. Books are her world, being a librarian satisfies only a small part of that, but if she could own a bookshop then that would be even better. But these are just dreams.
And when on holiday, Thea can but dream of her future.
Ensconced in the holiday cottage, she finds herself disturbed by the next door neighbour, Ben.
Ben is rather grumpy and is in the process of renovating the property next door to where Thea is staying.
When they first meet, there is something that infuriates them both about each other, and it soon seems that their paths are going to cross more than once throughout Thea’s stay. But what exactly do they both have to hide from each other? And will the dreams they have actually come true?
Part of this author’s Cornish Cream Tea series, this is book can be read as a standalone, previous characters are mentioned but they in no way distract from this current storyline. Full of what you would expect from Cressida if you gave read her previous work and the perfect escapism for an afternoon without the calories of a full cream tea!
And when on holiday, Thea can but dream of her future.
Ensconced in the holiday cottage, she finds herself disturbed by the next door neighbour, Ben.
Ben is rather grumpy and is in the process of renovating the property next door to where Thea is staying.
When they first meet, there is something that infuriates them both about each other, and it soon seems that their paths are going to cross more than once throughout Thea’s stay. But what exactly do they both have to hide from each other? And will the dreams they have actually come true?
Part of this author’s Cornish Cream Tea series, this is book can be read as a standalone, previous characters are mentioned but they in no way distract from this current storyline. Full of what you would expect from Cressida if you gave read her previous work and the perfect escapism for an afternoon without the calories of a full cream tea!
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