The Little Cottage on the Hill: A gorgeous feel good romance to escape with (The Little Cottage Series Book 1)

This is the first book by Emma Davies that I've read, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emma manages to create a beautiful setting for her novel, with such vivid descriptions that you feel as if you're actually there with her characters. Joy's Acre comes to life under the deft touch of the author, and I totally fell in love with the farm, complete with cottages, farmhouse and gardens.I quickly became absorbed in the story, intrigued by Maddie and what, exactly, someone like her was doing in a place like that. I wondered how she would fit in, how her ideas could ever be reconciled with those of the owner of Joy's Acre, Seth. It seemed that, from their very first meeting, they were destined to disagree, to clash swords over the future of the farm. I needn't have wondered, because Emma Davies handles the storyline perfectly, pacing it beautifully and carefully edging Seth and Maddie towards common ground, an understanding of each other's viewpoint, and onto so much more.The characters were appealing - even if Seth did come across as pretty unforgiving and unapproachable at first. As layers of his personality were revealed, bit by bit, I grew to like him very much. I may even have developed a bit of a crush on him, actually.Every single character in the book is interesting and likeable - with the possible exception of Agatha, although even she has her reasons for her behaviour. I was intrigued by Tom the thatcher. He clearly has issues and I'm wondering what the author has in store for him. Maddie is a likeable heroine, and Trixie and Clara are the sort of women you'd want to be friends with. The whole set-up at the farm, with the five adults working together to create something absolutely magical, was most enjoyable and made for a delightful read.I'm happy to see that there is a forthcoming sequel to this novel, and I've already pre-ordered it, so that says a lot.Overall, it's definitely a winner, and I'm happy to give it five stars.

I do love me a little local literature and with The Little Cottage On The Hill not only being by a local Shropshire Lass but also set in the county, I couldn't resist taking a look. And I'm very glad a did as what I found was a really fun, heart-warming story of second chances, peppered with a sprinkling of feel good romance.From the minute I met Maddie I was uncertain how I felt about her. You could already see the makings of conflict, the oh too perfectly poised and coiffed woman in the wild setting of the Shropshire countryside - it was a clash just waiting to happen. Introduce a surly outdoors type in Seth who was angry to make her acquaintance and far from prepared for her ideas for his farm and you knew exactly where this story was heading. But oh it was such fun getting there.Maddie is an out and out city type, hired to breathe some life into a planned-to-be state of the arr meeting and conference venue. She has never seen the site, recruited remotely from the safety of the city. What she finds when she arrives at Joy's Acre is far from the site of her dreams and from the sounds of Seth's vision for the place, it will never come close. Caught in the middle of a conflict between Seth and his not so silent partner, Maddie still dreams that she can totally transform the site but she needs to make some sacrifices along the way. How many and how far it will push her from her dream of a fresh start remains to be seen.Despite my initial misgivings about Maddie, she's an easy person not to like, especially when pushed out of her comfort zone, she really did grow on me quite quickly. It is clear from the off that something has happened, something to force these new beginnings on her, and that she is running from her past as fast as her fancy convertible will carry her. She has grand designs for Joy Acres that would impress Kevin McCloud but everything she suggests seems out of kilter. She is all clean lines and bright sterile design whereas Joy's Acre is more about tradition and heritage. The stick out like a sort thumb in this environment and some of her mistakes did make me chuckle. But there is something also vulnerable and endearing about her that made me want to see her come good, not least because of the clear chemistry with Seth.Now Seth - he's a dark horse. It was hard to place him initially, and I'll be honest, I had visions of a much older man than he turned out to be. The way in which his character contrasts with Maddie's is a pure delight - it makes for what turns out to be a deliciously slow dance of will they won't they. He is secretive, reserved and again there is clearly something that he is not telling Maddie, a secret that she, and us as readers, must wait to learn. He is charming, in his own gruff way, and every bit as stubborn as Maddie appears to be. But of you are a country girl at heart, like what I am, then you cannot help but fall  in love with his vision for Joy's Acre, and understand his need to preserve the heritage of the old place.As the story progresses you learn more of the farm's beginnings and the stroy which Seth is trying to preserve. There is so much beauty and romance in this story alone that you will start to see another side to Seth, just as Maddie does in the story. Parts of it, especially when they truth about Seth and his friends is revealed, may bring a tear to the eye, but as many elements will make you smile and chuckle. It's one of those kinds of story.This isn't all about Seth and Maddie though and you'll find as that Joy's Acre is a magnet for the 'waifs and strays' so to speak. Clara, Trixie and Tom are brilliant characters who all have their own stories, their own reasons to be drawn to the farm and their stories, Clara's especially will definitely move you. This really is a story of second chances, of the power of family and friendship, but also of enduring love. If this doesn't give you a warm and fuzzy feeling inside then I don't know what will.I'm also hoping there is a recipe book to accompany at some point as I have to be honest, some of Trixie's dishes sound delicious. Not that I cook, but it's the thought that counts ...

Lovely story enjoyable read

Loved this book, very easy to read and a wonderful story. I’m on second book in series now and can’t put it down. Really like this author’s style.

Nice and easy read

"The Little Cottage on the Hill" whisks you away to a charming countryside escape, and it left me feeling truly enchanted. Here's why I found it captivating:1. Heartwarming Retreat: This book offers a heartwarming retreat from the daily grind. It's a story where love and hope flourish, providing the perfect escape.2. Sarah's Determination: Sarah, our resilient protagonist, embarks on a journey to rediscover herself. Her character development is inspiring.3. Enigmatic Alex: Alex adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. His chemistry with Sarah is both electrifying and heartwarming.4. Cottage Renovations & Surprises: Amidst cottage renovations and life's twists, the plot keeps you engaged throughout.5. A Glimpse of Future Tales: As the first book in "The Little Cottage Series," it hints at more enchanting stories to come. I'm looking forward to the next chapter.In summary, "The Little Cottage on the Hill" offers a delightful escape into a world of romance and dreams. It falls just short of a perfect rating due to minor pacing issues but is undeniably a 4-star gem.

Emma Davies’ The Little Cottage on the Hill is exquisitely written and serenely filled with serendipity! Each character (including the Victorian thatched cottage, main house, generously full garden and barn) has their unique needs, which are skillfully resolved by making desirable discoveries (seemingly by accident) all for the best results for Joy’s beautiful Acres success. I have already read and now enthusiastically ordered several more of Emma Davies books❣️

Couldn't put this book down. Captivating, heartfelt, inspirational. I could go on. Such a great feel good read. Highly recommend.

I loved it, I lived every moment in the book.Beautfully written...Thank you

Highly recommend this to anyone who wants a light and adorable summer-read :)This was actually better than some of the hyped books I've read recently^^

I enjoyed reading this book.I'm not a big fan of romance,but this book is exceptional.i felt like watching a feel good movie. The characters are too realistic and optimistic. The story focus on a career oriented woman who's full focus is on her job and how a past bad experience can change people. Romance part is too sweet and realistic.