The Cottage at the edge of the woods by Jane Lovering #Review

 

Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can't Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage's story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.

 

My Thoughts

The mystery at the centre of this story is quite intriguing. In fact, I should probably say 'mysteries' because there are several unexpained situations and a couple of surprises. You see the story through Libby's eyes although at times, her memories are hazy and disjointing. She is certainly very vulnerable but has tried to put down roots and do the best she can for her young daughter.

    Ross is also a complicated character but he develops a friendship with Libby without being too pushy. He seems to be the opposite in character to her ex-partner. Libby and Ross are both desperate for his rundown cottage to be vacated. Ross wants to take part in a reality show and to bolster up his career as an architect. Libby is desperate for money and wants to sort out a secure living space for herself and her daughter. The fly in the ointment is Isobel, a mysterious old lady who has moved into the cottage which seems to be crumbling around her. Libby shows sympathy and empathy for the old lady whose past childhood seems to haunt her. This is an enjoyable read with atmosphere and some interesting characters.

In short: The past holds the answers 

About the Author

Jane Lovering is the bestselling and award-winning romantic comedy writer who won the RNA Contemporary Romantic Novel Award in 2023 with A Cottage Full of Secrets. She lives in Yorkshire and has a cat and a bonkers terrier, as well as five children who have now left home.

You can follow Jane here:  Twitter  | Facebook |  Website   |  Bookbub  |  Newsletter Sign up

 Purchase Links 

Thanks to Jane Lovering, Boldwood Books and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour. 

Check out these great bloggers!