A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse

Love Heart Lane #11

by Christie Barlow

Preorder the next book in the heartwarming and bestselling Love Heart Lane series Love Heart Lane – where friends are there for you no matter what When Bea Fernsby discovers her fiancé’s eyes have been wandering, she calls off the wedding and hits the road. The village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands is about as far away from home as she can get, and when she stumbles into the ideal summer job at The Little Blue Boathouse and meets gorgeous vacationer Nolan Hemingway, things finally start looking up. Now, as an old mystery surfaces and Bea and Nolan band together to find out what happened to his late grandfather’s one true love, fate throws Bea some unexpected curveballs…and promising opportunities. Bea’s stay is only supposed to last a couple of weeks, but as the old saying ‘Once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave…’

Genres: Romance

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2023

About the author

Author Girl - published by One More Chapter @HarperCollinsUK

Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse, by Christie Barlow, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The is the eleventh book in the, Love Heart Lane Book, series. Bea is only in town for a short time, she gets a job for the summer at the little blue boathouse, after calling off her wedding, and leaving town. Bea quickly settles into life in Love Heart Lane, even wanting to start a rescue organization. When her cheating ex Carl comes to town, will she go back to her old life, or stay and start over in Heartcross? A delightful read, a very fun series.

[The Book Review Café · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series they make for a read that’s pure escapism. You will fall in love with the characters and the village of Heartcross. Each story is beautifully told 💞

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great to be back in Heartcross and Bea a newcomer is a welcome addition to the community and fits right in when she decides to take on a seasonal job at The Little Blue Boathouse. Nolan is also visiting on his grandfather’s boat in search of a woman who he believes was the love of his grandfathers life. A beautifully written story full of friendship, community and love with a few twists and turns along the way with a wonderful ending.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book #11 in the Love Heart Lane series, and we return to the little village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands. Whilst it is a series, it can be read as a standalone book as each book focusses on a different character. This time we meet Bea, who arrives in Heartcross for a 2-week holiday whilst she nurses a broken heart. On arrival, she books into the local bed and breakfast, where she immediately falls in love with the little village. Bea offers her services at the local Boathouse for the duration of her stay, where she bumps into Nolan, another newcomer who is passing through on his boat following his grandfather’s death.

As like all the other books in the series, I feel in love with this one as soon as I started it. Bea is a lovely character, and we are kept wondering whether Heartcross would reel her in like it has done with all the other newcomers to the village! Nolan is your perfect leading male and you couldn’t blame Bea for taking a liking to him! Their relationship was fun and flirty, but I kept my fingers crossed throughout that it wouldn’t end in tears when they both went their separate ways a few weeks later. It was lovely to meet some of the other Heartcross residents again, and their storylines added to Bea’s and Nolan’s storyline perfectly!

The location of this series is breath-taking and again we are treated to views of the river and it’s hidden little coves. I was immediately transported to the riverbank as I read, sat outside the Little Blue Boathouse watching the world go by! The story was so delightful, making me laugh and cry throughout, and kept me intrigued with Nolan’s story and who the mysterious Patsy was!

It was filled with lots of love and laughter, a wonderful community spirit and a big dose of escapism to take us away from the stresses of everyday life. As soon as I started it, I couldn’t put it down until I’d turned the last page! Loved this book and can’t wait for the next visit to Heartcross!

[Kelly Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

They say that once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave, and it is so true. I love the Love Heart Lane series by Christie Barlow, and reading each book feels like coming home.

Bea finds herself heading to the village of Heartcross after discovering has been having an affair. Whilst there she ends up with a job at the Little Blue Boathouse, getting involved in the community and staying longer than the two weeks she had planned. All of which is helped by Nolan, who is staying on the water by the boathouse. Bea and Nolan become friends and look at uncovering the mystery of his grandfathers love for Heartcross and the woman he left behind.

Inevitably I absolutely adored this book, every time I can’t think that these stories can get any better and yet every time I fall in love a little bit more.

The chemistry between Bea and Nolan is obvious from when they meet. Each of them helping to unlock things in each other after their recent personal struggles. As individual characters they were great, and we got to catch up with our favourites from the previous books.

This is the eleventh book in the Love Heart Lane series, however you could easily read this as a standalone book. Although, if you haven’t already, I highly recommend you read them all.

A heart-warming easy read. I can’t wait to return once again. I wish I could move to Heartcross!

[Sam Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story with new characters and old ones from the village of Heartcross.

[Beverley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic read, and didn't matter that I have not read any of the others in the Love Heart lane series. But have ordered the one before and will read the next one too. Just pure magic. Thank you Christie.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse is the latest novel in Christie Barlow’s Love Heart Lane series. This novel follows Bea who arrives in the beautiful Scottish village of Heartcross looking to mend her broken heart. She stumbles into her ideal job at the Little Blue Boathouse and also stumbles upon the gorgeous Nolan Hemingway. I adored this book, the new characters of Bea and Nolan fit in perfectly alongside our old favourites and I found myself completely lost in the story. It’s uplifting, heartwarming and will put a smile on your face. One of my favourite books of the year. Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and the author for the chance to review.

[Sally Tyrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic read! Great to be back in Heart cross with both new and familiar characters!
The wonderfully welcoming community embrace another lost soul into their midst and in doing so enable change,happiness and a second chance at love!
Bea newly arrived in Heart cross nursing a broken heart, takes on a job at the little boathouse, this brings her into contact with lots of the boating community most notably Nolan who is also on his own voyage of discovery!
Friendships are formed,mysteries are solved and hearts are healed!
The most lovely heartwarming read that will stay with you long after you have read it!
Would highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.

[Henriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 11 in the series, but I am proof you can love these books without having read them all. Each story focuses on different characters and can easily be read as a stand-alone. One day I will go back and read all the ones I missed.

I just love Christie's writing! It feels like a warm hug in the best possible way and I was immediately drawn to Bea. She was my kind of girl! The community feeling she experiences in Heartcross is something I could only dream of experiencing and I love how I experienced it through her eyes. I loved being on her journey trying to figure out what is next for her and for the first time really living for herself and doing what makes her happy. Nolan was also a lovely character with quite a story of his own! If you enjoy heartwarming, uplifting fiction, you simply must read this book!

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love coming back to Love Heart Lane, it is very accurate when the residents of Heartcross say that once you arrive, you will never want to leave. It is a series that I adore and each book in the series is a story in its own right, but the author fills you in on what is happening with some of the other locals.

Bea Fernsy has had enough, she has jumped in her car and decided to get away from her cheating fiance and booked a stay in the B&B. It's not the first time he has cheated, but it is the last as far as she is concerned. She needs a chance to discover who she is and what she wants to do with her life. She has lost her friends, works nights, doesn't have a social life and has got stuck into the humdrum and mundane ruts of life. Hence the escape to Scotland and this gorgeous community.

When she arrives at Heartcross she discovers a warm welcome, everyone is so friendly. This is something she has been missing out on in her home in Staffordshire. What starts as a break to re-discover herself turns into a slightly extended stay when she takes on a holiday job at The Little Blue Boathouse. Her sister thinks that Bea has lost the plot, but Bea knows better.

I must admit if I lived somewhere like Heartcross I would not want to leave, the warm community, the welcoming atmosphere and the views. Not just the views of the mountains, lakes, and secret coves either, the view of Nolan boatowner sounds rather scenic as well!

With things changing and finding newfound freedom, she discovers that she is happy. Something that she has not felt for a long time, she isn't the only one who looks forward to getting out of bed in the morning and seeing what the day holds either. Nolan is just passing and then will be on his way again. He is trying to find his late grandfather's true love. He has discovered a letter for her in a box of nick-nacks. It will take bother Bea and Nolan to discover the identity of this mystery woman.

Every time I pick up one of the books in the series I am always amazed by how easily I slip back into village life. The names of friends met previously come back to say hello and then I also get to meet some newcomers. The author has made the community feel so real and when anyone new comes in they are welcomed. People have to fit in this community and Bea is a good fit from the start, everyone knows everyone and therefore they become a large extended family.

With the troubles that Bea is trying to leave behind, she is aware that Nolan is holding something back. It makes for some worrying moments in their gorgeous romantic story. Right through this storyline, there are expectations of things coming to an end, but there is also some shocks along the way as well for some of the older residents.

Once again the author has created another wonderful heartwarming story that had me grinning like a loon and I did have a few lumpy throat moments as well. It's just the way the author brings the who setting and the characters to life as she writes that I adore. If you are a fan of romance, community, friendship and starting anew then this is a book you should look at. If you have not come across any of these books before then I urge you to add them to your shelf. Either as standalone stories or as a series in order, each one is very special. I adored her latest story about the Boathouse and I would definitely recommend it.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #asummersurpriseatthelittleboathouse#netgalley

Bea's relationship has broken down and she's just living in the routine of nightshift work. So she decides to holiday in Heartcross. On her arrival she meet Nolan who is touring the canals of the UK following the log of his grandfather. Until Julia is left needing someone to run the little blue boathouse and Nolan needs a partner to help him solve his grandfathets mystery. Can Bea do both ? Will she be able to stay away from the Heartcross charm to return home after 2 weeks?

After reading book 2 in the series "Foxglove Farm." I have been following the author. Knowing I wanted to read all the books in the Love heart Lane series. So far I have read all the books after and including book 2.

This is book 11 however you would not know this when reading and this book makes a great stand alone. Something I think this author has got down to a fine art. Although I can guarantee you'll soon be reading the rest of the series because you just won't want to leave Heartcross

The heart cross community are each loving and generous characters, each with their own secrets and hardships, who you totally feel yourself taking into your heart. Whilst allowing you to become invested into their lives more and more with each passing book. It's always great to meet your old friends again in the next book and watch how their lives become what they wanted from it throughout their own book. The community spirit in Heartcross at many of the events speaks right to your soul. Something you can only hope is replicated in your own community. They also show you the raw sides to remote village life as well as the emotions this brings. Which nearly always leaves the community rallying.

This book is a great romance read. Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as forced adoption, death, injury and family feuds amongst other things. I do not feel this takes away from the romantic feel of the book but has you heart growing fonder of the struggles each character faces and you feel yourself trying to unpick the mystery which evolves with every passing page. Whilst being thankful that Christie brings up and raises the profile of important and often taboo subjects in modern Britain.

However I did find the first 20% was a bit slow going but once I passed that I flew through and felt myself wanting to pick it up whenever I physically could. I stayed up until 2am to finish it.

I Cannot wait to read the next book as always.

I would also say that I much prefer the titles like the other books of eg "Heartcross Castle." I feel changing it to the long title it now is 1, doesn't roll off of the tongue so easy and 2, isn't in keeping with the love heart Lane brand. This doesn't effect the book hence my review is no different but just a thought for the publishers and one I also said in book number 8 and 9 as well.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aww. It’s not often I read women’s fiction, or any kind of romance type read, but I will always make an exception for Christie Barlow, especially her Love Heart Lane series. These books are just so lovely and heartwarming, and if you haven’t taken a trip to Heartcross yet, you really need to fix that pretty soon. as the saying goes, once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave. Well, as soon as you start reading this series, you’ll be as desperate for the next instalment as all of us already in the know.

In this latest offering we met Bea Fernsby, a woman who has taken herself on an up country trip from Staffordshire to Heartcross in order to get over a broken heart caused by her former fiancé’s, latest infidelity. I say latest, because he has cheated on her before but this time, for Bea at least, there is no going back. What is meant to be a two week reboot, quickly turns into a two week working holiday as, hearing about a vacancy that has arisen rent out kayaks at the Little Blue Boathouse, Bea thinks this will be just the distraction she needs to get over her broken love life. How right she is as she meets Nolan, a young man who has sailed his grandfather’s old boat north in search of clues to the identity of a woman who may well have been the old man’s one true love.

I do love this series, and have to admire the way in which Christie Barlow manages to engage readers in the lives of new protagonists with every new instalment. Yes, we have the constant of the resident of Heartcross, those long loved characters who welcome our newbies, and us as readers, with open arms. But if the author didn’t manage to make us care about the people at the heart of the story, it just wouldn’t work as well. And I found I really did like Bea very quickly. there is something very wholesome and unassuming about her, so much so that it was probably easy to see why her former partner felt able to walk all over her emotions. But whilst she may be a romantic at heart, it’s clear she is no pushover and there is far more to her than meets the eye. She’s determined, resolute and stronger than she thinks, even if she does fall very quickly for Nolan.

To be fair to Bea, that’s completely understandable. Christie Barlow is adept at writing everyone’s (near) perfect man, and although Nolan was clearly nursing a few secrets and perhaps broken heart of his own, I was very quickly drawn to his charm and his flirtatious manner that quickly wins Bea’s heart. There was something appealing about him, perhaps that touch of sadness and melancholy that you could sense at times, but the chemistry that the author created between the pair was heartwarming and a beautiful thing to see blossom. And I’m the original cynic when it comes to romance, so I don’t say things like that lightly.

There is a mystery that accompanies this tale of budding romance, and whilst I had an inkling where the story was leading, Ms Barlow still kept a few surprises up her sleeve. As for Bea, it turns out she has a few hidden talents too, and after some hairy moments engaging in a riverside rescue, she has her sights set on more than just a summer romance with Nolan, and perhaps a longer term future in Heartcross too.

Another absolute cracker of a story that readers are just going to love. Definitely recommended.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christie Barlow can do no wrong in my eyes as the brilliant Love Heart Lane series continues to go from strength to strength getting better with each new story. Well, the only thing that could go wrong is that she brings the series to a conclusion. It’s a day I’m dreading but fingers crossed that won’t be for sometime yet as she would leave legions of readers bitterly disappointed. As the saying goes ‘once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave‘ and that’s exactly how I feel about this series. I just wish Christie would write faster as I’m always gutted when I reach the end of another fantastic book and have to wait several months for the next instalment. As with all the books in this series, A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse can easily be read as a standalone as there are reminders of past events. But trust me if this is your first visit to Heartcross once you reach the end you’ll want to go back and start at book one to discover all the fabulous tales that have emerged from the little village in the Scottish Highlands.

Bea Fernsby is not known for taking chances but now she is taking the greatest risk of all and going to a place she had until recently never heard of, the village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands. Her life is in turmoil as Carl, the man she had loved and trusted since she was 15, has let her down. All her memories are shattered, her engagement is over and her future is very scary. She wants to be anywhere that doesn’t reminder her of the cheater who let her down so badly.

I loved Bea from the outset. She knew her worth and what she deserved. All she had ever wanted was to settle down with the man of her dreams and have a family and lived the happily ever after life. But that vision has come crashing down around her and now she must somehow pick up the pieces and carry on. ’I want to make a difference in life and all I’ve been doing is standing still. It’s time to change’. I loved that Bea had this attitude and she carried it with her throughout the story.

Bea arrives in Heartcross to stay at Julia’s BnB (I was glad to see her feature again as it had been some time seen she had made a more significant appearance since the book that focused on her) and soon she is making friends and starting to settle in for her two week stay. Julia is dating Flynn, the owner of the Lake House and the Little Blue Boathouse. As Wilbur is retiring from the boathouse, Flynn needs to find someone new to run it and this is where Bea steps in and offers to work there for a short time. For years she had felt that Carl had squashed her stretching her wings or any ambition she may have had and taking this job is Bea stepping outside of her comfort zone and providing her with the distraction she so badly needed. ‘Sunshine and water were just what she needed to blow away the cobwebs and mend her broken heart’. I loved the descriptions of the boathouse and the nearby lake and all the water sports and activities that took place there. It was a hub of activity and allowed Bea to meet new people and keep her occupied. The Boathouse became a sanctuary for Bea but it also provided her with a very special friendship in the form of Nolan.

Nolan lives aboard the houseboat once owned by his grandfather. He is retracing his grandfathers voyages having renovated the boat and from the moment Bea sets eyes on him she finds him to be drop dead gorgeous with a twinkle in his eye and an air of confidence. Nolan was a charmer in some ways and enigmatic in others. As a reader you couldn’t fail but be drawn to him. He loves taking chances and living a carefree life on the water and painting when he can in order to sell said paintings and raise some cash. He really did have the best attitude in that he believed life is for living and taking chances and that you need to be brave and fearless. I think as Bea got to know him and spend some time with him this positive attitude rubbed off on her and it allowed her to be braver and just go for things and really start to put the recent past behind her. Nolan and the village really did work their magic on her.

Nolan, despite his outside bravado, does hide things and the years have been difficult for him too. He is lonely as he has no family to help him navigate life. Despite outward appearances he is struggling to come to terms with the past and he feels he doesn’t deserve love. You did wonder what has happened in his past to make him feel this way? As he tries to solve the mystery of his grandfather and a young woman named Patsy. A mystery which has its roots Nolan believes in Heartcross. Bea too becomes drawn into the mystery and even more involved in Nolan’s life.

I did initially think god they had only just met and by the end of day one they were really close. Is this all just a bit too unrealistic? Then I figured if there is a connection there you have to go with it and see where the wind takes you. Maybe Bea had unbeknownst to herself been ready to be rid of Carl for a long time and was ready to be free and explore things with Nolan. That’s not say things for them were all smooth sailing or that Bea was going to really rush headfirst into something very serious.After all she had just emerged from something traumatic and life changing.

Bea really does pull herself around very quickly once she arrives in Heartcross and she becomes a honorary villager for the summer. I loved how she was trying to work out the mystery of Patsy and Nolan’s grandfather. I had my suspicions about this and I was proven right. Not that it detracted from my enjoyment of the story at all. Bea really gets stuck into village life and I loved reading all about the preparations for the River Festival and her day to day experiences at the Boathouse and of course we had some drama added in towards the end which brought some danger and tension to the story. I really loved everything about the book and could find no fault with it all. Not that I was really looking for one. Bea’s story is a worthy addition to the series and I was rooting for her all the way.

Christie Barlow has created a series that I just fall more and more in love with as each new book is published. It’s sounds ridiculous to rave so much about a fictional setting and its characters but that’s how I feel. She weaves wonderful feel good tales of a consistently high standard with a unique writing flair that pulls you in from the first word and A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse is no different. It was a gorgeous read that I read in as few sittings as possible with such warm loveable characters who always have some troubles or obstacles in their way but the community of Heartcross and its special residents always make newcomers feel welcome and aid people in their time of need no matter how big or small their issue may be. It’s a really fabulous series, one always infused with warmth, kindness, humour and human understanding where the characters walk off the page to meet you and by the end they feel like firm friends. A Winter Wedding at Starcross Manor, the next book in the series will be published in September and I am already itching to get my hands on it. In the meantime do yourself a favour and don’t miss out on Bea’s heart-warming story.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have said it before; there is something quite magical about the Love Heart Lane books, Christie Barlow has discovered the recipe for real success, and I have loved each instalment. This time, we follow the adventures of Bea Fernsby as she arrives in the picturesque Scottish village. Her wedding dreams are in tatters, and she needs to get away. Arriving with no idea what to expect, she soon discovers that kindness is at the heart of all the residents and quickly settles in. She’s thrilled to see a vacancy for a seasonal worker at The Little Blue Boathouse and she sees an opportunity to extend her stay into the summer.
Also visiting Heartcross is Nolan Hemingway. He’s living on his late grandfather’s houseboat which he has lovingly restored since his death. He is on a mission to identify his grandfather’s former sweetheart, his one true love, and share some memories of their time together. Nolan is an artist, like his grandfather, and he earns his living by selling his artwork as he travels on the boat.
I loved being back in Heartcross amongst the many residents who have found their happiness on the shores of the River Heart. This time, we were more focused on the river itself and had the opportunity to explore some of the coves along the banks. I’ve visited so many times, that I can easily envisage the local landmarks and enjoy the warmth of the many characters.
I easily took Bea to my heart, she’s a gorgeous character and I felt that her backstory and determination to find happiness were thoroughly engaging. As for Nolan, he is a wonderful addition to the series, and I found myself hoping that he would stick around. As the story unfolded and secrets were revealed, I felt real joy and again hoped against hope for a happy ending. However, Christie made me work for this one, but the payoff was second to none and I’m already excited to read the next book in this wonderful series.

[Eeva · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse by Christie Barlow

This is book 11 in the Love Heart Lane series. I haven’t read any of the other books and it was not a problem at all. They are all standalones and I didn’t feel I was missing information.

A big thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this book.

Bea Fernsby books a vacation at Heartcross after deciding to leave her cheating fiance. She is planning to stay two weeks but what she doesn’t know is that she will fall in love with this beautiful town and leaving will be difficult, especially after she met the gorgeous Nolan Hemingway.

Bea is a wonderful, warm character and I immediately liked her. She decides to help out at the Little Blue Boathouse and quickly makes friends with all the townspeople. This is a town where people take care of each other like a family.

Nolan comes to Heartcross by boat. He is sailing his late grandfather's boat after he restored it by himself. During the restoration he found his grandfather's old logbooks and memorabilia box and decided to sail in his footsteps. Nolan also wants to find more information about his grandfather's true love and together with Bea they try to find her.

I really loved this book. I loved Heartcross, I loved the warm feeling in this town, like they were all one big family, helping each other out. This was such a feelgood book I immediately started one of Christie Barlows earlier books in this series.

[Rona Nimmo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse by Christie Barlow

A long awaited welcome back to the village of Heartcross and all our friends there. Bea’s has just started to fall apart and has just arrived from her life in Staffordshire to get over a broken love life. She is welcomed at the B&B along with community of the beautiful village. Bea takes on a job at the little boathouse to help out Julia from the B & B for the two weeks she is on holiday to get over her break up and to decide what she really want to do with her life going forward . She meets the happy Nolan on his travels on the ‘The Hemingway’ a fabulous houseboat that he has restored that originally was his grandfathers . The are both a journey regarding their lives. She loves the community and is making some wonderful friends in a very short time and she has a strange encounter with with old eccentric Mystic Martha and decides to have her fortune told.

The wonderful characters just welcome you with a warm hug like an old friend .

There is a mystery with many a twist which will go and unfold a few red herrings and laughter and tears.

A great page turner I curled on the sofa until it’s finished.

Yet another fantastic book not to be missed even if you have never ventured into Heartcross before.

[Kirsty (BookBlogger) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse by Christie Barlow

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and One More Chapter and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

When Bea Fernsby discovers her fiancé’s eyes have been wandering, she calls off the wedding and hits the road. The village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands is about as far away from home as she can get, and when she stumbles into the ideal summer job at The Little Blue Boathouse and meets gorgeous vacationer Nolan Hemingway, things finally start looking up. Now, as an old mystery surfaces and Bea and Nolan band together to find out what happened to his late grandfather’s one true love, fate throws Bea some unexpected curveballs…and promising opportunities. Bea’s stay is only supposed to last a couple of weeks, but as the old saying ‘Once you arrive in Heartcross, you never want to leave…’

My Opinion

A Summer Surprise at the Little Blue Boathouse is the 11th book in the Love Heart Lane series but it can be read as a standalone. Christie Barlow has written a delightful addition to the series. Bea is only visiting for a short time, but is made to feel very welcome by the lovely characters.

Rating 4/5

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming series that shouldn't be missed
Definitely one I can never resist.
So happy to visit the Highland village of Heartcross once more
With characters and attitudes there I adore!

Bea Fernsby is visiting for the first time at the start
After her two timing fiancé has broken her heart.
It wouldn't be so bad but this is the second time and so
She's had enough and decided to go.

What she hadn't expected was a psychic's prediction for her
Nor for a community which shows such great care.
She's keen to try out for an unexpected role, too,
Maybe a new job will help her find her way through?

The Little Blue Boathouse is where she will work and stay
Not looking forward to leaving one day.
When she meets Nolan Hemingway, there's attraction for sure
But both have been hurt, could romance be the cure?

There's a mystery that Nolan hopes to solve, too,
Along with danger, art, storms and so much to do!
A heartwarming read full of surprises and more
Making this a book I hope you'll also adore.

For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Heartcross is the place that just keeps giving,’

Bea needed a break from her life, from being the doormat girlfriend, from not being listened to, from not being Bea. So she heads to Heartcross – why not??! It’s summer and Heartcross is a beautiful place to forget your troubles!

Her stay to Heartcross isn’t just a journey of miles but Bea also takes stock of her life and makes changes; her personal journey is life changing. She finds joy in life and rediscovers her smile!

I don’t think I’ve made it through a trip to Heartcross without a few tears being shed and this was not different. I was blubbering like a baby. Barlow brings out both extremes on my crying, but this time they were happy tears.

A Summer Surprise At The Little Blue Boathouse is another brilliant addition to the Love Heart Lane series. Barlow has shown how a change of scenery can change a person, allow them to start afresh. Her writing captured my imagination, I had my own little boathouse by the river in my head welcoming all the tourists for some fun on the water. It’s the perfect escape for a Sunday afternoon, leaving me all warm and fuzzy.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always a treat to be back in Heartcross, and I felt right at home from the moment that Bea had her first sight of the village.

As a massive fan of the series let me just say how nice it is to catch up with many old friends and in once instance, discover the truth about something that we have perhaps been wondering about for a good few books.

However this can easily be read as a standalone, and I fell in love with our new characters of Bea and Nolan really quickly.

I was also enjoying seeing more of Martha, in the lead up to her special birthday and once again she does seem to be a gifted psychic too.

There are moments of peril, but for Bea who is originally only in Heartcross to mend a broken heart, it soon becomes apparent that she is also under the village's spell.

I also really loved Nolan and his backstory too, and so would like to date him for myself.

It's a joyous read and as always it has left me thinking that the next book in the series can't come soon enough!

Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The joy of series such as this is bringing fresh characters to join those we know and love, all in a common setting. This time we have Bea escaping to Heartcross after splitting with her ex, and meeting up with Nolan and his boat. Together they look into the mystery of "Patsy", a girl that Nolan's grandfather met many years ago in Heathrow and had never forgotten.
I have really enjoyed this said and always look forward to the next one, and yet again I'm not disappointed. Christie writes characters that I can relate to in a setting that I just wish I could live in. In addition to the budding romance there is the mystery around Patsy. This together with the upcoming festival kept me engrossed in the book, an ideal escape from everyday life. I just wonder if there are any vacancies at The Little Blue Boat house.....
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influenced my review of the book.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🛥Light, sunny, happy Scottish river town: feel good story🤗

4.5🌟 stars
This story put some light, sparkle and romance into my dreary, rainy spring day! Bea, the main female character, is such a positive go-getter; I loved her attitude and strength, even when life threw her some curves in the form of a cheating ex and Nolan, a handsome artist who sweetens her life but never makes a secret of his plans to leave.

The book is set in the fictional Scottish Highlands town of Heartcross, filled with friendly characters who make Bea feel at home there almost from the moment she arrives. What a lovely assembly of residents. Everyone and every element of this setting just work so well together to complete a heartwarming whole.

Thanks to HarperCollins UK/One More Chapter and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Sarahlovesbooks76 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest installment in the Love Heart Lane series sees newcomer Bea arriving for a two week stay after a messy break up. She soon finds herself caught up in the Heartcross way of life, and lands a job at the Little Blue Boathouse to help out owner Flynn. The annual river festival is due, and she meets boat owner Nolan who is travelling on his grandfather's boat. Can Bea rediscover herself in Heartcross, and will Nolan find the answers he needs?

I love this series, although each book definitely works as a standalone if you haven't read any of the previous books. Revisiting old favourite characters is always lovely, and I particularly enjoyed Martha getting more of a storyline this time round.

[Steph Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect book.
I absolutely loved this. The Love Heart Lane Series is very special.
These books make me feel so good!
Fabulous setting, great characters and that brilliant community spirit again.
I think I fell a little bit in love with Nolan.
It definitely is a place you don't want to leave. A place I now know so well that I feel like I'm living in the book. I know the people and all the places.
A message to any women’s fiction lover who hasn’t read any of the series, ‘Are you serious?’ ‘Get on it right away, you’ll love them’
Many thanks to Harper Collins, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for the chance to read an early copy, in which I give my honest opinion.

[Joanne D'Arcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleven books later and I am still revisiting Heartcross in the Love Heart Lane series as often as I can. I absolutely envy anyone first discovering book one and knowing that they have all the wonderful stories to catch up on.

Bea Fernsby has left behind everything, steady but boring job, family, fiancé and his wandering eyes and headed as far away as possible. She ends up in Heartcross and as it goes anyone that ends up there, never leaves.

Nolan Hemingway is determined to be leaving Heartcross on his adventure on his late grandfathers boat. It doesn’t matter who he meets, he no longer has the desire to settle.

Although it is meant to be a rest from everything that has gone on, Bea finds herself a little job in the Little Blue Boathouse and discovers she might have found the place to heal her heart. Becoming involved in the community, when a potential tragedy is averted, Bea finds herself determined to see safety to the river at the heart of this community. She then finds the pull of the community too much.

However Nolan is pulled by Bea’s enthusiasm and his humour and when she becomes involved in the real reason for Nolan’s landing in Heartcross, it seems that the community has a pull to Nolan that he never realised. Then of course there is Bea who has done something to Nolan, he never thought possible.

A book filled with mystery, warmth and laughter and plenty of old friends from Heartcross to become even more fond of if that is at all possible! What I love most is the fact that these books aren’t full of fluff, but tackle some real issues that many face and handles it with such skill, that you cannot but help cheer for more of the same!

As with all of the Love Heart Lane series, they can certainly be read as standalone novels but I implore you to just read them all. You will not regret it.

[Margaret Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back in Love Heart Lane for the 11th book in this lovely series. Bea finds that her fiancé’ is cheating on her and dumps him. She heads for the village of Heartcross for a 2 week stay where she quickly makes friends with all the locals and ends up helping at 'The little Blue Boathouse' She meets Nolan , who is living on his boat that he inherited from his Grandfather and is undertaking a trip visiting all the places he visited. Also he is trying to unlock secrets of the past. Secrets that were also in the village. Everything slowly becomes clear. I felt the ending a little rushed and the ending was a little in the air. However I can recommend this book.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bea escapes to Heartcross following a relationship breakdown and plans a 2 week break. She finds herself volunteering to work at the Boathouse with it's adorable accomodation. She meets Nolan who is retracing his grandfathers travels in his boat.
Together they try to solve a mystery and you wonder whether they will both fall under the Heartcross spell, or whether further heartbreak could be ahead.
Heartcross is such a magical place, we've got to know everyone and newcomers get the same warm welcome and soon become new friends.
I loved thinking about the boathouse , and Logan's boat and all the artwork adding more mystery.
You are never disappointed picking up a book by Christie Barlow.

[julieann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just an absolute joy to read

This series of books is amazing. The books are a light-hearted read with lots of emotions,romance,surprises, friends,family, and full of loveable characters. I loved it so much that I read the book in one day. While reading, I feel that I can imagine the area very well because its been well described. Its a wee village that you always dreamed about living in with family. These books show you that not all family members need to be blood related,you're not alone in the world, that there are good people in this world but most of all there is hope, and we all need a bit of hope sometimes.

[Kristin- Kristin's Bookstack · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a charming read! I really enjoyed the humor and the easy-going characters. It gave the story a laid-back feeling. My favorite part about the book was the vivid descriptions of the village of Heartcross. I could actually hear the speed boat skipping over the wake and the water lapping against the shore as I read. It made me want to visit the charming village for myself and hangout with the characters. I also liked the mystery behind the painting of the woman in Nolan’s collection.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and One More Chapter for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!