****4.5 stars!****

It’s been too long since I was last in Westenbury. (Boring side note: each book is a complete standalone.)

This book hit me right in the feels. I. Was. Obsessed. It’s one of those stories that consumes you even when you’re not reading it… ‘What’s going to happen next?’, ‘Ohh, are they who I think they are?’, ‘WHAT THE WHAT?!’ I think you catch my drift *snorts*

They say that to have loved and lost is better than to have never loved at all but trying to heal a broken heart is no mean feat. I don’t blame Frankie for wanting to escape, but now she’s back and she has to decide. Decide between living a half-life where she is merely existing or admitting there will always be a part of her missing. Trying to find her new happy while embracing the new challenge of her role within the family business of Piccione’s Pickles and Preserves. It kinda rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? *giggles*

Although A Family Affair centres around the main character of Frankie, her story becomes intertwined with that of her Aunty Pam and the parallels of their lives. You all know I have a (burning) need to know everything so going between past and present had me metaphorically happy dancing. Nosey? Moi?!

AFA delves into all the facets of love, family, and relationships. My poor blood pressure was spiking towards the end as I had the fear (never poo-poo the fear – it’s a thing!) of how it was all going to turn out.

I only had one teeny grumble that a certain event at the end felt a bit rushed to me, but I still ended the book by giving the biggest happy sigh along with a cheesy grin.

*sighs*

What can I say?! When life gives you lemons make crema al limone, baby!!

I simply adored this book! A family affair is told from a now and then perspective, through the eyes of Frankie and her Aunt Pam. Julie Houston weaves the threads of the story in such a way that the tension builds towards the half-way mark, where the present day fully takes over. The thread that joins our two central characters is their mourning for lost love.
Pam’s story takes us back to the early seventies; a time when misogyny was common-place and sex outside of marriage was a greater issue than in more modern times. The devastating effect of a decision, made whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol, has a lasting impact on her future.
Frankie’s story only takes us back a few years, but her devastation is equally heart-breaking. Again, it’s outside influences and intolerance that dictate her path. For Frankie, the wound is still raw, and she is reluctant to put down roots on her return to Westenbury. Thankfully, the source of her sadness, the handsome Dr. Daler, is now living in London.
It’s hard to ignore the symmetry of Pam and Frankie’s lives as they are both denied the chance to be with the men that they love. Pam, however, has used her pain to build an impressive role within Piccione’s Pickles, despite the environment being completely male dominated. It’s the gap, caused by Pam’s retirement, that Frankie is asked to help fill. Also filling the gap is American import, Cameron Mancini.
I thoroughly enjoyed Frankie and Pam’s relationship, it reminded me of my own Aunt and how she is like a Mum, to me. Frankie is also blessed with her childhood best friend, Daisy. This friendship provides her with an option for somewhere to live, away from her brother. However, it’s this accommodation that puts her in the spotlight with Cameron Mancini. It was interesting to learn more of Frankie’s relationship with her other family members, especially her brother. As long buried truths come to the surface, Frankie is forced to re-examine her perceptions of her family’s dynamic.
As I reached the closing chapters, I was saddened to be saying goodbye to the Piccione family, but heartened that the future, for the women who had captured my imagination, was looking a lot happier.
Julie Houston has created characters who will stay with me for some time. Her understanding of the complications of family have helped her to create relationships and situations which are not for the faint hearted. Her last book won awards, I wouldn’t be surprised to see A Family Affair nominated for more accolades.

Whenever I pick up a new book by Julie Houston, I wonder whether it will meet my high expectations and be another book I’ll love as much as the many I’ve read before – she’s set the bar particularly high, but has never yet failed to delight me.

At first, this is Frankie’s story – she fled Westenbury a few years ago after a very special relationship fell apart, but is now back to take her place on the board of Piccione’s Pickles and Preserves, the rather tired and ailing family business run by her father and grandfather. American go-getter Cameron has already been brought in to try and fill the big shoes of Auntie Pam, recently retired, and it does seem that the only expertise Frankie can bring – she trained to be a nurse, spent time in Italy with her family, and had a spell as an air hostess – is her knowledge that their lemon curd has a definite absence of Sicilian lemons and the honey is distinctly ordinary. Her mother, now married to the local parliamentary candidate, is a bit of a horror – it’s Auntie Pam who stepped in to take her place, giving her all the support, warmth and security she could possibly want while growing up. But Pam does have quite a story of her own – from the time she joined the family business as a fifteen year old in the 1970s, through a series of events that changed the course of her life.

I’m not going to even try to retell the full story, but I really think there’s a particular skill in telling a story over three distinct timelines – Pam’s coming of age story starting in the 70s, Frankie’s love affair and its sad end that sees her running away, and the present day story following her return – and the way it’s done in this wonderful book is just about as perfect as you could possibly hope for. There’s never the wrenching that you can sometimes feel when moving from one story to another, that “oh no” feeling that you’d prefer to stay with the story you’ve become immersed in – all three are equally engaging with twists and turns that involve you totally. I think that’s largely down to the strength of the two main characters, both women finding a place in your heart, and the creation of a superb supporting cast where every individual leaps into life from the pages. But it’s also down to the wonderful storytelling, effortlessly moving from the 1970s world – just perfectly recreated, with so many little touches that you’ll recognise and smile when they feel so familiar (no, I never made it to Wigan Casino either…!), a real slice of social history – to developments in the present day.

This book really does have a bit of everything – plenty of romance, strong friendships, family relationships, drama and betrayal – and the pace never wavers for an instant. And, of course, the other thing that never wavers is the essential lightness with which the book is infused, whatever traumatic events the characters might be going through – the author’s sense of humour, and the way it plays into the story, is one I most definitely share, whether simply raising a smile or leaving me helpless with laughter, and all with that distinct Yorkshireness that I love so much (and, in this book, a touch of Italian too!). And she shifts with absolute ease from humour to poignancy and heartbreak – there are a lot of moments in this book that can’t fail to bring a tear to your eye, particularly through Pam’s story. And there are plenty of more weighty issues too, along with matters of the heart – cultural differences particularly well handled, social conventions and expectations through the 70s, sustainability in the present day.

But I must say a little more about the characters – and it really was an absolute delight to be back in Westenbury, with quite a few characters from previous books making cameo appearances. It felt like a particular treat if you’ve read any of the author’s previous books – I was particularly thrilled to meet Deimante again, with her fractured English and passion for football – but so cleverly done because not recognising the references really wouldn’t spoil anything for a new reader. We even return to Holly Close Farm, where Frankie moves in with her wonderful best friend Daisy in one of the cottages I remember being built and given to her and her sister – and where Cameron, becoming an increasingly rounded and intriguing character as the book goes on, then moves into the one next-door and gets Frankie a little hot under the collar.

This isn’t the first time I’ve read one of the author’s wonderful books from cover to cover in one afternoon in the summer sunshine, but I find her writing totally enchanting – it ended, with a few surprises, in the way I really hoped it would, leaving me with a smile on my face, a bit of an ache in my heart, and the feeling that I’d read and enjoyed something rather special. Highly recommended by me – I loved every moment.

This book I found a little confusing, it darted back and forth from Frankie Piccione to her Auntie Pam without warning.
I found I just couldn't get into the story because of this and gave up on it. I'm so sorry but it wasn't for me.
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this book. x

Two years ago Frankie ran away from a relationship which ended in a dramatic and heartbreaking way. After touring some countries and staying with relatives in Sicily ,working on their farm she is ordered home by her father and grandfather to take her place in the pickle and preserve factory they own.
We then hear about her Aunty Pam and her broken relationship when she was just 16 and how to this day she still thinks about her lost love.

It was good to be back in Midhope and hear the mention of some characters from previous books as well as Clementine's restaurant which is still doing good.
I enjoyed this story. I really didn't guess how it would turn out for Frankie but I did feel like giving her a kick and tell her to get on with her life and not to still be stuck wanting someone after two years.
There were lots of threads running through the story that I thought could have been expanded further, like Frankie's relationship with her brother as it was only just getting started. And the beehives and their honey, I felt like Cameron was going to explore that more. And who won the election.
Maybe we'll get those answers in another book to follow.
I always enjoy Julie Houston's books.

At the risk of repeating myself, as I say this every time I read a Julie Houston novel, I absolutely loved this book! The skilful intertwining of multiple characters, points of view and timelines is such a joy to read, and shows Julie Houston's absolute mastery of storytelling. Pam and Frankie are both fully realised, engaging characters, and their twin stories drive this novel forward to a satisfying and emotional conclusion. I adored the colours and flavours in this book, from the food, the settings, the characters themselves, and found the attention to detail fascinating, whether it was describing a Sikh wedding or a beekeeping project for asylum seekers. The heart stopping moment, in the third act, with the beehives, will stay with me always.

This book gave me a massive lift in the end stages of the global pandemic, and is just the riot of colour, humour, pathos and love, friendship and romantic, that anyone needs to put a smile on their face and a spring in their step. Little glimpses of characters from past books were absolutely lovely, too. Thank you so much to Julie Houston and Aria Fiction for another wonderful read - I'm already waiting impatiently for the next one!

I enjoyed this book. I liked the flow of the story. There were many different characters to connect with. Some of them had some very strong personalities and it was fun getting to know them.

Unfortunately I was not drawn into this story. Although there were some very likeable characters in it, there were too many others that I did not like and was not particularly interested in reading about them. I also had very mixed feelings about the swapping of times, "now" and "then". I wanted to go forward with the story so I found reminiscing about the past a bit too much. But my biggest problem was that I could not relate to the heroine Francesca. Unforunately I felt no connection with her.
But all these are so subjective feelings. Maybe I was simply not in the right mood for this story. I suppose I'll try it another time again.

Thank you NetGalley, Julie Houston and Aria & Aries for the ARC of A Family Affair. This is my personal review.
This was a story covering four decades and had two strong woman , Frankie, and Auntie Pam. Their lives were so well described to give me a great family drama. Giving me them in both past and present was a good way to get me to know them better and see why their lives were as they were in the story.

Book Review of A Family Affair by Julie Houston
The novel tells the story of Frankie Piccione and her Aunt Pam, showing both the past and present of their lives. Aunt Pam’s story starts in the 1970’s, as a fifteen-year-old joining family firm Piccione’s. The novel shows the sorrow she faces at losing the love of her life and marrying at a young age. Back in the present, she is retiring from Piccione’s as her niece Frankie, returns from travelling the world to join the family firm. Three years ago, Frankie left home after her romance ended in heartbreak. Now that both women are moving on with their lives, could there be a second chance at happiness for them both?
My thoughts
The vivid details in the novel gave a clear picture of the past and present. I thought the historical section gave a great sense of the 1970’s. The characters were well rounded and I really got to know them well as the novel progressed. The portrayal of the two young women, Pam in the 1970’s and Frankie in the present day were realistic and drew me into the narrative. I really felt for both of the characters with all the problems and obstacles they went through and wanted them to find happiness in their lives.
I thought the author also provided great cultural details for the Piccione family as well as Frankie’s love interest Daler. I enjoyed learning new information about these two different cultures.
Would I recommend this book?
Overall, I found this to be an absorbing read that provided a great insight into Frankie and her Aunt Pam’s life as part of the Piccione family. A great family drama and romantic read.
I gave this novel five out of five stars. With thanks to NetGalley and Aria for this ARC, which I received in exchange for an honest review.

Even a few days after this I can't quite decide how I feel about this book. It was different than what I was expecting based on the description and I found Frankie kind of a disappointing character. She is smart and tough in some ways and almost pathetically weak in others. I understand that her heart was broken by Daler, but it was three years ago! Toughen up and stop letting that man run you out of town. Their big reconciliation scene felt rushed and incomplete. I had to read the section multiple times because I was sure I had missed something - was he the one who knocked her over, or did he just pin her down when she was already on the ground? I know that's something silly to get frustrated by, but it just made the entire moment feel off. I also didn't like that he basically tells her it's her fault he couldn't make his marriage work (even though his wife was already hooking up with some other guy) - I'm not sure that's what he meant, but it is basically what he said. My last complaint with regard to Frankie is that I didn't think it was fair that the blame for her bad relationship with her brother was her fault for not reaching out to him more. He acts like she's been on vacation for the entire time she was gone when she was the one actually learning to work on their family's land and understand the products their business was making.

As for Pam, her story is just too depressing to handle. Marco treats her horribly and it's all forgiven because he was hiding the fact that he was gay. He left her with a newborn and barely looked back. I love that she fought for herself, got an education, and took her place in the business rather than sitting around feeling bad for herself. I'm also so glad she got her second chance with her first love.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

After being away for two years, Frankie has had enough of running away from her responsibilities.

Now, she’s thinking it’s time she took her place on the board of the family business.

The business Piccione's Pickles and Preserves is not doing so well and she thinks she can turn the sad state of the business into a happy one.

With her brother Luca and a Cameron watching her, she knows that her plan to bring the Piccione to where it should be is going to need to be special, and also to prove that she belongs in the board.

Aunt Pam and Daisy, help her and now that she’s got something to aim for she’s thriving.

But, her past is back, and now it could ruin everything she’s overcome.

Until someone from her past walks right back into her life and threatens to ruin everything.

Recommend It.

I read this book over a weekend in my back garden and it was the perfect place to be, it's a joyful story, with characters you'll love - poor Aunt Pam has had her dramas and Frankie is finding her way, but I very much enjoyed the journey with them both in Westonbury. There's lot's in this book, but mostly, it's exactly what we need right now, feel good fiction from someone who knows how to tell a good tale. Bravo!
Another gorgeous read from Julie Houston!

Spanning four decades, with two formidable leading ladies, Julie Houston's latest novel, deftly weaves together the personal stories of Frankie and her Auntie Pam.

Being back in Westonbury was a joy. Meeting new characters that are well drawn and situations that resonate. Once again Ms Houston manages to expertly balance light and shade - tackling cultural and social issues and sketching awkward situations with a fabulous wit and humour.

A cracking read.

Highly Recommend.

I love reading stories by this author and this one really was up with them all. Loved the family drama surrounding the story. Nice to have the daughter return home to the family business which always uncovers secrets.

While Daisy and Pam drew me in a while kept my attention, I had a difficult time finding other characters as likable. It’s still an enjoyable book and story though.

The Board Room Is Calling....
The family board room is calling for Frankie Piccione but can she make the business work? I do enjoy Julie Houston's writing - always engaging and often difficult to disengage with. 'A Family Affair ' was no exception to this. Credible scenarios, strong women - a tale told with empathy but certainly no lack of humour. An excellent read. If new to this author then I would strongly recommend 'The One Saving Grace' and 'Goodness Grace And Me' - both excellent reads amongst others.

Julia Houston has done it again! Another wonderful book that finished far to early for my liking! Another 200 pages might have just about pleased me!
Francesca Piccione has returned to Yorkshire after 'running away' two years previously after having her heart broken. She is asked to join the family firm Piccione's Pickles & Preserves to bring new ideas to the company. The family are a complex lot with many secrets & untruths hidden. Through the book, they are revealed & you see the characters very differently. Loved the links to past books through characters & places.
Now hurry up Julia & write another, I know it's not too much to ask!

I didn’t expect to be so drawn in to the characters in this book and half expected a slightly twee storyline. But actually it contained a wide breadth of themes and was so interesting. Frankie & Pam (auntie and niece) had a lovely relationship and the story flitted between the past for Pam, the past for Frankie and the now. It was all very seamless and easy to follow. The characters seemed believable and it was an easy and enjoyable read.

Hmm where to start with this. Let's say the good bits first:

The best friend, Daisy, was such a good friend and so nice, that I found myself wanting my very own Daisy

The aunt Pam was such a wonderful woman with such a hard life that throughout I was itching to see her get a happy ending more than the main character Francesca

The bad:

I found Francesca and Daler's story top unrealistic. Who falls in love so hard and fast in just 3 months that it prevents them from ever dating again for years.

Cameron the American didn't come across as likeable though it seemed the author wanted the reader to like him. It was just his attitude towards people that wasn't very nice.

All in all I wouldn't say it's a bad book, but the above points combined with what I felt wasn't an ending (you only saw Pam's ending and nothing really of Francesca's, and even then it was rather rushed) make me unlikely to recommend, but it's not bad to read to kill some time (I have stopped reading books part way through before because they're either really frustrating or not held my interest). 3 out of 5