Lovely festive Christmas read. Perfect for over the long winter nights. Magical storyline. Great characters that pull it all together

The Little Christmas Tea Shop of Second Chances
Donna Ashcroft
Bookoutre
4 stars
The Little Christmas Tea Shop of Second Chances is a perfect read for a winter evening.
Lily King is determined to make her dream come true. She has dreamed of being a chef and she’s finally screwed up the courage to ask her boss for a chance to work for him in his kitchen. Once he agrees to let her cook for him, the scheduled day is derailed and she’s forced to wait. In the meantime, her life is thrown a curve ball and the mother who left her as a child wants back in her life. Lily has to decide if she wants to inform her father and her overprotective brothers, she’s made contact with her mother. She fears their reaction.
A mysterious handsome man shows up in her life trying to run her off the road. She’s appalled by her first impression of him but as the story stretches on, she listens to him and decides to put what she wants first and she couldn’t be happier.
The setting of the story is magical and being set during Christmas adds that extra magical feeling. The characters are relatable and they make you want to live their lives. The romance is perfect and you can’t help but fall in love with everyone. The pace is slow but does not detract from the story. A very heartwarming, lovely read for the holiday season.

Many thanks given to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an Advanced Reading Copy (ARC) to review. All opinions expressed are my own.

What a lovely book! It's been a while since i read book #1 but no matter as this is the story of Lily, wannabe cook and Josh, top photographer (against his parents' wishes)

Set in Dorset, this envokes country castles and beachside walks, with the focus on Lily and Josh organising her best friend's and his brother's wedding.

Some hilarity ensues and a deep dive into complex relationships - overall a heartwarming 4* read

A perfect Christmas romance to enjoy with a cup of tea. Loved this one! Highly recommend, especially if you're a fan of Hallmark movies.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

I so loved this book it was such a good feel factor book but so well written. Often I could visualise the scenes because the author had described them so perfectly. Please please can we have a sequel

With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a glorious romp into love, life and laughter. It was very entertaining and easy to read and good fun.
Highly recommended.

I just loved The Little Christmas Teashop of Second Chances. Well written and a great book to get you in the festive mood. I read this book in a day I was hooked.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy. This is the second book wrote by this author that I have read. Both books were set in the mysterious Castle Cove. Lily is a hard working waitress in the Castle Teashop. She gets dumped by her boyfriend and is unsure of what she is going to do. She is working hard for her dream job as a chef. She is asked to help her friend Emily, who is out of the country doing humanitarian work with her fiance. Josh, who happens to be Emily's fiance's brother, is asked to also help plan the wedding. Planning this wedding throws Josh and Lily together. Little did they expect for their to be sparks between them. Love can develop in the most unusual places! I cannot wait to read the next book by this author.

The Little Christmas Teashop of Second Change was such a heartwarming story it's a perfect book to snuggle up with!

This is my first read from Donna Ashcroft and it certainly put me in the festive spirit.

This is a easy and enjoyable read with

all the ingredients to make a perfect story – romance, Christmas and a wedding.

The story begins with Lily King who is a likeable and relatable character. She puts everyone before herself until she meets Josh, a rebellious and sexy photographer.

When she ends up planning her friends wedding with Josh, Lily begins to open up and become the person she wants to be with help from Josh.

I enjoyed the few different storylines to the book and hope to read more of Donna Ashcrofts books in future.

Sometimes, there’s these characters that you just want to reach through the page and give a good shake. Honestly, this book counted at least 8 of them. At least.
There’s Josh’s parents who just plain old refuse to see what a talent he actually has. There’s Lily’s mum, who just up and left her when she was a baby. And, oh yeah, in the hospital with pneumonia. There’s Lily’s brothers, who take overprotective to a weird level. While, somehow, at the same time, failing to notice even the most obvious of things about their sister.
And then, of course… There’s the two main characters. Josh is one of those people that needs to be taken down a peck while, at the same time, being in desperate need of a confidence booster. Lily just needs the confidence booster. Honestly, there must be something about her mum leaving her that made her overly anxious to always please people because… That girl just takes it to a whole new level.
Bring all these (very shakeable) people together, though? And you’re left with a group of people that are all a little bit messed up, very relatable and incredibly, admirably human. Mix in a castle with a great library, a teashop and a restaurant that are interwoven with a dream that might come true, a whole lot of personal growth and, of course: a Christmas wedding? And you’re left with something that is just the right kind of cosy-with-a-blanket!
Rating: 3.5/5

This is my first novel by Donna, and it didn’t disappoint! Was a lovely read, nice and warming even thou was set at winter Christmas time! It was good to read and get involved in everyone’s lives and I would love to read further jollies into their lives in the future

Much like the first, this book is more about finding yourself and the supportive friends, townspeople and (hopefully) family that come to play a large part in your journey, this is a story about Lily and Josh. Lily is a local girl, overprotected by her father and two brothers, abandoned by her mother, and an integral part of the small village she calls home. Working at the castle that overlooks the town in the teashop/café and as a waitress in the posh restaurant upstairs, she wants to be a chef, in fact, it’s almost everything she’s ever wanted. She’s even got an ‘audition’ scheduled to cook for Luc, the head chef, and is working her way around deciding on a menu and picking something that he will like. And there is Lily’s problem: so worried about smoothing the waters for everyone else, she’s never quite managed to stand up for what she wants or would like, and her constant ‘what if’ refrain in her head is rooted deep within her mother’s abandonment when she was a toddler. On top of her own worries about work, her best friend Emily is stuck in Nepal after an earthquake, and with her return delayed, she’s asked Lily to step in and do the final organization for her wedding just before Christmas.

Josh is Emily’s soon-to-be brother-in-law, a photographer and one not so bothered by other people’s expectations, rules or appearances, and has agreed to work with Lily on organizing the last of the wedding, while gearing up for his own show at the local gallery in town. Josh is brash and brazen to Lily’s rather conventional eggshell-walk as she tries to not offend and make choices she thinks will make others happy or proud. Josh’s ongoing feud with his parents and their determination that he go to medical school as befits their position, his own lackadaisical approach to timekeeping and an interest in the buttoned up Lily are all enough to keep him busy – if finding inspiration for his centerpiece photo for the show is proving difficult.

Oh these two were fun, and finding Lily coming out of her shell to speak her own mind, especially when she let her ‘newly returned’ mother understand her actual desires – all courage fueled by Josh’s constant barrage of questions as to why she doesn’t speak out, and the quiet confidence he’s instilled in her had Lily seeming like a baby tulip – poking out its colors from beneath the green protective leaves, only to retreat again – although it’s always possible to see the brightening color there…… But, as always, men are often wrong-footed in their expressions of devotion, and Josh makes a right mess of things before some stern words from his brother and best-friend, gallery owner Marta speak up. With everyone seeing what they can’t, and Lily finding her own opportunity in the kitchen and a way back to Josh, they both find a new way of seeing the world, themselves and their lives together. A lovely story that is full of heart, hope, love, friends and family – with a dash of humor, and a need to have a recipe for “Death by Chocolate’ Cake – this is a wonderful escape read that leaves more in the offing for everyone we’ve met.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=”https://wp.me/p3OmRo-a5a/”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>

Oh my mince pies, could this book BE anymore fabulous?!?! I really did enjoy the first book in the series, but I have to say that this festive delight is something else! I was hooked from the very beginning, intrigued about Lily's personal past as well as what made Josh tick. Yes, Josh is one of those characters who you should instantly dislike due to his arrogant nature, however I couldn't help but be taken under his spell almost straight away. How the holly and ivy Lily managed to be immune to his charms for a little while was beyond me!
Even though this story is full of tantalising, stomach rumbling treats and friendships to last a life time, the thing that got right under my skin in such a beautiful manner , was the cleverly incorporated 'hidden' theme which made me relate to Lily on such a deep level. Take it from me, we have all felt as though we aren't good enough, and I am sure we have always ensured other people were happy before ourselves. And, I am also sure that a lot of us have put our emotions aside and done something because of someone else, ignoring our own personal feelings about the situation. Yes? Of course we have - we are human. It's not until you sit back and think about it or, in this case, read it in black and white, that you realise you have been living your life in the way that other people would prefer you to. Before anyone says anything, I know that it is our choice as to how we live our own life, but sometimes emotions get the better of us, just like Lily's in this book.
Lily's situation caught me off guard, despite seeing some of myself in the character. Weirdly, it was quite emotional. I also think that a certain family member of Lily's needs to get caught by some holly and ivy. What a bleeping bleep bleep they are!!
I absolutely loved this book from reading about the yummy treats, to following the characters around as they plan nuptials, to watching Lily and Josh's journey play out. Donna Ashcroft's novel is such a feel good, life affirming, huggable and touching novel which will leave you wanting to plan your own nuptials to Josh. He's definitely my sort of guy! Why are all the good ones fictional?!?! Pfft.
Honestly though, this book gave me the feels and I couldn't have wished for anything more as Donna Ashcroft ticked every single box. In my eyes, she is now the Mrs Claus of Christmas reads.

Dreams do come true, especially at Christmas time!🎄

This is a sweet romance all about believing in yourself... it does take place at Christmas time, however I wouldn’t call it a Christmas romance, more of a romance that takes place during Christmas.... I felt this was a wonderful balance and will really appeal to those who aren’t crazy about Christmas books... this also is the second book in the Castle Cove series, but it can be read as a standalone... although the first book in the series is quite fabulous!

Lily is content working in the Castle Teashop, however her dream is to be a chef... The only thing stopping her is herself! Josh is doing what he loves, he is a photographer, but his parents are still trying to persuade him to be a doctor.... two people who aren’t quite comfortable in their own skin thrown together to plan a wedding... Lilly’s BFF is marrying Josh’s big brother, the thing is they are not in the country so it is up to Lily and Josh to plan the perfect Christmas wedding.... it was sweet watching Josh and Lily trying to build each other up, and in doing so they both became more comfortable with themselves.... their flirting was very sweet and occasionally a little awkward, but still sweet...

Something I really liked about this book and the previous book in the series is how prominent a part family played... Lily was raised by her father and older brothers... her estranged mother has re-entered her life, making things a little complicated.... josh’s parents have a different idea about his future than he does, and he has also felt second-best to big brother Paul.... as most familial relationships are these were complicated, but there still was tremendous love and a tremendous sense of family... also loved the family that all the villagers really were to one another, blood or no blood! As they say friends are family that you get to pick!

Recommend to those of you that are fans of clean romance with fabulous characters and a beautiful setting💕

*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***

Lily King loves working at the Castle Teashop, but her dream job is to be a chef. She’d love to work at the restaurant at the castle, but the Head Chef doesn’t think she’s up to the job. So, life is looking a bit bleak at the moment for Lily…and to top it all she’s just been dumped by her boyfriend. When her best friend Emily needs help organising her Christmas Wedding, she ropes Lily in to help, along with the groom’s brother, Josh. When Lily and Josh are thrown together with the preparations it’s obvious that they couldn’t be more different. But as they spend more time together will that change?

How lovely it is to be back at Castle Cove! I loved the last book I read, Summer at the Castle Café, so I had no doubt whatsoever that I would love this one too! I absolutely fell in love with this book from the very first page. Everything about it was just so perfect and it provided me with some fantastic images in my head as to what everything was like.

Lily was brilliant – a very likeable character! I latched onto her story like a limpet and found her to be such an endearing character that I couldn’t help but smile every time she opened her mouth!! And, what can I say about Josh apart from…WOW!! Yes, he is a bit grumpy to begin with and his timekeeping could do with a bit of improvement, but the picture I drew from the descriptions of him left me wishing I lived in Castle Cove!

The story reeled me in from page one and I literally couldn’t put the book down until I’d finished it. It is a superb romantic comedy with a hint of sadness, regret and, obviously, second chances. The romantic “action” is quite steamy - hang on, who am I kidding, the sex scenes were hotter than a cat on a hot tin roof – and it did actually make be blush!! It’s also got plenty of divinely described cakes and food….what more could you want!

It’s a wonderful festive read, with just enough tinsels and baubles to remind you it’s a Christmas book but not too much that you can’t read it at any time of year! It’s the perfect all-year round read! Love the location, love the characters, love the story!! Fab fab fab!!!

Thank you to Bookouture for my copy of this book via Netgalley and for letting me take part in this tour. Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year and this was a great start to my season of Christmas stories!

In this story we follow Lilly King and Josh Havellin-Scott. Lilly and Josh are thrown together when Emily, Lilly's best friend and Paul, Josh's brother are stranded in Nepal and need the last few elements of their wedding finalised.

Lilly King has spent her life feeling inadequate. She has tried to please everyone by being who they want her to be rather than who she is. I really liked Lilly. She was easy to identify with and had a lot of issues that many women have probably had themselves.

Josh Havellin-Scott is the rebel in his family. His older brother is the doctor his parents would love him to be. Josh's parents think his profession of photographer is beneath their family and that he should get a real job. Josh was fun, cheeky and not to mention pretty easy on the eye.

This is the first book I have read by Donna but I am excited to read Donna's previous books and catch up with the other characters from Castle Cove. I really liked Donna's writing style. It was easy to read, with an engaging story that will have you rooting for these two characters. This was a real feel good romance that will help you find a little self confidence. If you like a romance book with a dash of Christmas then this is the book for you.

When Lily met Josh....that is how I like to think of this book.

Lily is working at a cafe and she is comfortable there. She loves her co-workers but she really wants to be a chef. Josh is a photographer who has never put down roots anywhere, which makes him the polar opposite of Lily, who has lived in Castle Cove her whole life. Both of them have mothers who want them to do different jobs to what they actually do, both mothers are actually quite unlikeable characters.

These two meet up when they have a minor collision - Lily's Micra vs. Josh's Porsche. As you do :). There are a few parts of this book which seem to be standard chick lit, but this story never strays into overly sentimental territory, which is wonderful. I really like the story between these two people and I love how Josh encourages Lily to be the best version of herself. We all need a Josh in our lives, I think!

All in all, this is a lovely read, very relaxing and positive. Set in the run-up to Christmas but not overly Christmassy either, if that makes sense.

4.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.

THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TEASHOP OF SECOND CHANCES by Donna Ashcroft is just as delicious as its beautiful cover and is definitely a perfect read to snuggle up with on a cold evening.

Lily King knows what she wants and that is to be a chef but something seems to be stopping her from reaching her true potential and she isn't quite sure how to achieve her dreams. It doesn't help that her love life is a mess and her family a tad overprotective. When she gets a shot at making her dreams come true, Lily's life suddenly gets a lot more complicated - the mother who walked away from her when she was a baby returns, a handsome stranger almost runs her off the road, and she has to help organise her best friend's wedding with the groom's brother whom she has never met. Oh, and it also happens to be Christmas which means she is run off her feet at the lovely teashop where she also works. Add in some misunderstandings, some Christmas magic, and a character who finally understands who she really is and sit back and enjoy the journey.

The setting is stunning in this story and I could picture the teashop and the mouth-watering desserts every time without fail (a piece of advice - get yourself a slice of cake and a cup of tea before you sit down to read this book!). The characters are endearing and very down-to-earth and while the pace is slow, it is never boring or drawn out. While this story can be read as a standalone, why deny yourself the enjoyment of more good books and it will help with some of the backstories in THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TEASHOP OF SECOND CHANCES.

For a lovely, heartwarming, and truly enjoyable read, look no further than THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TEASHOP OF SECOND CHANCES by Donna Ashcroft. It is sure to make you smile.

Twenty-five-year-old Lily King is wondering when her life is going to start. She adores working at the much-loved Castle Teashop, surrounded by familiar faces and delicious cakes. But she’s stuck in a rut. She’s just been dumped by her boyfriend and her dream job seems to be slipping through her fingers.

When her best friend Emily Campbell needs urgent help to organise her enchanting Christmas wedding, Lily realises it’s finally her moment to shine and reach for the opportunities she’s been wishing for. Can she pull off the biggest celebration Castle Cove has ever seen or will something - or someone - make things more complicated than she imagined?

Rebellious and handsome photographer Josh Havellin-Scott has always felt like an outsider, especially next to his perfect older brother, who is about to get married. At the last minute, Josh finds himself roped into plans for the Big Day, the very last thing he wants to do, until he is meets creative and quirky Lily King…

When Lily and Josh are thrown together, it’s clear they couldn’t be more different. But they begin to realise that opposites can attract – and sometimes when you’re not looking for love, it comes and finds you when you least expect it. With some festive magic, will they manage to work together and save the day?

My thoughts: The characters were fun and I enjoyed getting to know them. The town was so cute and everyone helping each other out. Lily was raised by her dad and her 2 brothers. Her mom had run out on them when Lily was a baby. Now all of a sudden she wants to meet lily. Josh is the kind of guy who never settles anywheres and his career is photography, which his parents hate. They want him to be a doctor like his brother. Watching Lily and Josh interact and pull the best features from each other to show they can be who and what they want.