I really enjoyed the story, it had an interesting twist to it that was very unexpected. I love that the author made you feel like you were walking on the pretty streets and beautiful gardens. It was easy to get involved in the lives of the characters and keep reading until you found out how it all played out. Read it in one day, couldn't put it down. Looking forward to more of Carole's writing!
Permelia Cottage: A Novel
by Carole Lehr Johnson
Can an old English cottage bring renewed faith and healing to several broken hearts?
Susannah Wilkinson leaves her country, and the son she no longer believes wants nor needs her, and flees to England to fulfill her lifelong dream of owning a centuries-old cottage. Life in the quiet village of Neville is everything she dreamed of, though an interest in the charming Colin Heard was never on the agenda. Their mutual attraction comes to an abrupt end when Susannah finds herself in an unexpected life-altering situation.
Two years later, Ryan Wilkinson travels to Neville to settle his mother's affairs. He longs to forget the past and return to his structured life in New York City. During his days in the village, he meets local bookstore owner April Conyers. He unexpectedly feels drawn to her as they work together for her to purchase his mother's beloved cottage. Ryan returns to the U.S. after his interactions with April have shaken him to his core and pulled down walls between him and the painful past. Although, there may be a path to redemption if he is willing to step out in faith.
Reviews
This novel was so engaging and the words are a work of art themselves! The description of everything makes it seem like you are there seeing it all with your own eyes. The characters practically jump out of the pages and become people you just grow to love. The story is very interesting and intriguing, making it difficult to put down. This touching novel has become a treasure to me!
The opening immediately grabbed my attention and I was involved with these characters and their lives. The journey I went on with them was riveting. I fell in love with the community Suzannah lived in almost as much as she did and felt I accompanied them in daily life. The aroma of fruity scones and aromatic tea in my cup puts me right there in that lovely atmosphere. Meeting these people visiting in front of her cottage fireplace and hearing their tales would be a nice cozy afternoon I would not soon forget. I was so sorry when this book came to an end.
A beautiful story of life and how things aren't always what they seem to be. Permelia Cottage had a personality all its own, the people enhanced the mystery and intrigue unfolding over the miles and years. I am sad the story is over but Carole made the town and countryside so vivid you feel as if you are part of the story yourself.
Thank you Carole for taking us on this adventure. I look forward to the next adventure with you.
When I began to read this book, I feared the book was about abortion. That is not a subject I enjoy reading while relaxing. If this is your thought as well—Fear not. This book does not focus on abortion. It is a story of love and strength, as life takes Susannah Wilkinson on unexpected paths. This well-written piece of art had tension to keep me turning the pages, and serene moments to chillax before bedtime. Sit back and take in the sights and sounds of Neville, North Yorkshire, England. Preferably with a scone in one hand and tea in the other, of course.
I was so disappointed that the book ended! Such a great read! Would love to have a sequel! I couldn’t put the book down until it was finished!
Such a good book. Felt like I was there. Now I want to go. Book 2 please. Enjoy
I was addicted! Love the way it weaved in and out of the lives of the characters. Looking forward to more books by this author.