Today I am happy to be featuring Jenny Kane's Midsummer Dreams at Mill Grange on the blog. It was published by Aria on 25th June.
Thea Thomas needs
to get away from her old life... and the interfering ex who won't leave her
alone. When she lands a job heading up the restoration of Mill Grange, a
stunning Victorian manor, it feels like the perfect opportunity to start
afresh.
What Thea didn't anticipate was how hostile the volunteer team, led by
the formidable Mable Hastings, would be about accepting new leadership. And
with the deadline looming before the grand opening, Thea is in desperate need
of more volunteers.
A broadcast appeal on the local news attracts the interest
of arrogant but undeniably attractive celebrity historian Shaun Cowlson, who
wants to make a TV programme about the restoration. It's hard enough adding one
more big personality to the mix –but then her ex turns up as one of the
volunteers! What seemed like a dream come true is fast becoming a total
disaster! Can Thea find a way to save the manor?
My Thoughts
You are given two romances in this story and both slow burning threads are enjoyable to follow. The setting of a Manor House in Exmoor which is being renovated as a historical artefact, is the perfect background for the range of characters and I found the cast of volunteers to be a lively bunch. Mabel, of course, stands out and adds a touch of humour. You get to see the central characters' insecurities and fears. They are certainly well drawn.
The writing style is relaxed and easy to get into. With a level of suspense built in as to the fate of Mill Grange and the mystery behind John's behaviour, there is plenty to interest the reader. I also liked the details around the archaeological element and could absolutely visualise the beautiful Manor House and its grounds. The villagers add warmth to the story. This is the first in a series and I can see that there is much potential for future visits.
In short: Fresh starts all round.
About the Author
Jenny Kane is the bestselling author of
several romantic fiction series. Her first novel, Another Cup of Coffee (Accent
Press), was a Kindle bestseller. The final novel in this series, Another Glass
of Champagne, was released in June 2016. Jenny Kane’s Cornish romance, A
Cornish Escape, hit No.1 in the Amazon Romance, Contemporary Fiction, and
Women’s Fiction charts, and was followed by a sequel, Abi’s Neighbour, Jenny’s
seventh novel.
Thanks to Jenny Kane, Aria for a copy of the book and a place on the event.
Check out the rest of the tour.
Huge thanks for hosting me today- and for your lovely review. Jenny xx (Posting from my Kay page as Google playing up this end!) xx
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