Super fun and easy to read story. Loved all the characters in this one. They all gave to the story and moved it along at a great pace.

Dive right in!
Published on 30 April 2022 at 10:22

Just viewing the cover made me want to hit the water. I knew Jules Wake from the books she writes under her other author name Julie Caplin whose Romantic Escapes series has hit the bestseller charts around the world.

I was curious about this book too, especially after reading the blurb:

She’s trying to figure out her future.

He’s trying to forget his past.

But with the help of some unlikely friends, young and old, and a scruffy dog who just can’t help getting into trouble, a new community is formed – just when they all need each other the most.

‘She’ is Ettie who after school moved to London, going from job to job until her latest mishap pushes her back to her small hometown. She takes on a job as a temporary assistant at Hepplewaite Estate where her boss, the ‘he’ called Dominic is the one trying to forget his past.

I don’t want to give anything away but as the title already mentions the swimming club, I think I can safely say that this takes place in the lake of the estate. The people in the swimming club are fantastic characters, most have a lot going on their lives. Slowly through the story it’s revealed why they act as they do.

What I love about Julie Caplin and, thus, also Jules Wake is that she makes her characters so real. They are not black and white. It feels like making friends when you get to know them and there’s usually a lot of humour around.

The book also very much made me want to go swimming again because I too love to be in the water to mull things out, the repetitive movement helping with writing poetry, deciding if I should take that new job or just having a moment for myself away from any kind of distraction. This is how Ettie beautifully describes it:

“Her brain always seemed to be humming with ideas and thoughts, and a few lengths in the pool allowed her to switch off all the superficial, unnecessary stuff and drill down to the important things.”



Needless to say romantic developments bloom at the estate and people get to face their demons. I love how this all pans out, but no, I am not giving anything away only that I did laugh quite a bit, and when I’d finished I just wished I could go visit them all.

I’m sure you’ll feel the same, so why not dive in with Ettie and all the other wonderful characters in The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim.

PS I wrote this honest review after receiving an advanced readers copy.

Who's Jules Wake?
After reading English at the University of East Anglia, Jules Wake worked in PR where she honed her fiction writing skills on press releases. She’s now a full-time author and what better job is there than making stuff up! It certainly beats housework. Jules says. You can find loads more info about her on her website.

The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim is a heart-warming and beautifully written story of friendship, love and healing that Jules Wake masterfully weaves together. The main characters, Ettie and Dominic, take readers on a captivating journey as they explore a new-found community formed in an old-fashioned wild swimming spot. With strong character development, memorable relationships and vivid imagery of the idyllic countryside setting, the reader will be unable to put this book down until the very last page. An amazing story that shows how much we can all gain from getting out and being active together, The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim is one to savor.

The Wednesday Morning Wild Swin by Jules Wake, a NetGalley read. Ettie and Dominic are both lost for different reasons however this begins to change as they meet each other and as we are introduced to more characters, unlikely friends are made. I picked this book because I really enjoyed the Saturday Morning Park Run the first in this series however sadly I didn’t enjoy this one. I hate saying that I found it bland and boring and it just seemed so repetitive, it felt like you were getting somewhere in the story and things would fall into place and then it seemed to take 10 steps backwards and in my head I was just screaming ‘get on with it’. It was very predictable and I think that’s probably what made this book such a difficult and sadly unenjoyable read. I will say that I loved Etties character, she was ballsey, confident, forthright and kind hearted but also vulnerable, lost and scared and because of that she is relatable. So sadly not my favourite book of the year it from this author and because of that I won’t be recommending it to friends and family and will be giving it just ⭐️⭐️

This was a great beach read!!Full of friendship, community, romance, and loveable characters.
Many thanks to HarperCollins UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

What does an Ethel look like? No point in asking Ettie, as she most definitely didn’t look like one, despite her Mother’s best efforts!

I loved the main characters from the start of the book – Dominic and Gracie were about to start bringing things together for their hotel, with Ettie’s help. It seemed as though each of the three eclectic characters was hiding something though:

Dominic – the truth behind his divorce and the accident where he broke his leg. Why is he so dead set against anyone wild swimming in his lake!
Gracie – seems very lonely; what does she really want from the hotel project?
Ettie – encouraging locals to swim in the lake when Dominic is not around, and swimming herself, despite knowing that Dominic will not be happy about it. Why did she HAVE to drop out of school?
As Dominic and Ettie’s ’friendship’ thrives, are they getting serious about each other, despite Ettie being the first to protest that this is in no way the case? What will happen when Dominic finds out that Ettie has been going behind his back, by arranging regular swimming sessions for the group of swimmers that have unwittingly become her friends?.

Meanwhile the hotel is working its magic on the swimming group, with the members ’growing’ organically, as work on the hotel progressed and as potential new activities were discovered for future guests. I loved the loyalty and cohesiveness of the swimming group, and how they rapidly became that way, particularly with regard to amputee Josh. Such was the dynamic between this diverse group of people, that I found myself wanting to dive on into the pages of the book (were that even remotely possible), in order to join this wonderful group of people, every one of whom proved that its never too late to change yourself, your life and your own ’part’ and journey within that story.

This story certainly did make one look at oneself with a healthy critique, and give life to the idea of change for the positive. We could all no doubt benefit from some kind of combination of a Dominic, a Gracie, an Ettie and a Grandad in our life. What a wonderful book that consumed me from start to finish – and no sooner had I finished, then I felt compelled to start again, just in case I had missed something. In fact I was so gripped by this book that I felt myself wanting to jump into my nearest lake for a dip – just momentarily mind, until I remembered that I hate swimming and I especially loath cold water!

I loved this book. A new Jules Wake title is always a treat and this one was no exception. The range of characters, each of which are so sensitively written, gives you such a sense of community and makes her books so relatable while giving you hope that all is not lost for human connection. As a swimmer myself, I could totally understand the lure of the water and came away as ever feeling soothed and with the warm, glowy feeling only a really good read can give you.

A beautifully written book, full of quirky characters which are very relatable. Full of friendship, romance and humour. This book draws the reader in . Extremely enjoyable and highly recommended
Thank you to Netgalley, Harper Collins Uk, One more Chapter and Jules Wake for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review

Ettie takes a new job helping Dominic and Gracie after a series of disastrous jobs which lead to the shop she was working int be destroyed by a gas explosion. Ettie loves swimming and there is a lake in the grounds of the hotel she is helping to restore which she decides to take advantage of while she is there. However, Dominic doesn’t want anyone swimming in there, which causes more of an issue when a group of varied individuals start to join her for a swim.

Not only is this set in the most idyllic location, it has a wide range of varied characters which I loved. There are some serious subjects but it's not a heavy read as there is also plenty of humour. The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim is based around friendships and skips across those if varying ages, backgrounds, races, and genders.

Each of the characters brings something new to the story and keeps you captivated throughout. There is great character development, and I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Ettie, who is in her 30’s and Gracie who is in her 60’s.

This is a humorous read which is perfect for a quiet day in the sun.

Jules Wake writes with such beauty- she draws you into her story and makes you fall in love with her characters (and makes you want to be friends with them as well!).

In the first few chapters, Ettie came across as a bit flaky (Dominic's words, not mine!), but she soon found her calling. I absolutely loved Ettie's relationships with Dominic (she's a hoot when she speaks her mind!), with Gracie and with the swimmers. The swimmers were lovely on their own and I thoroughly enjoyed everyone's backstories. The multi-generational friend group was heartwarming and hilarious at the same time.

I had not read the previous book in this collection, but there's no need to- this was wonderful all on its own.

I am always really excited to hear that Jules Wake is releasing a new book and this was a wonderful book to jump into.

We meet Ettie as her life in London implodes and she moves back in with her Mum & Grandad and tries to get a job at a local hotel that is just preparing to reopen. Whilst walking to the hotel she stumbles across an open water lake that she remembers from childhood and a wonderful community who love to cold water swim.

I love the back story that runs alongside this of how Ettie was taught to swim by her Grandad and how these experiences are what evoked her love of swimming and prompted her to become a qualified lifeguard when she was younger.

A wonderful story, that I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end.

When Ettie's job comes to a dramatic close, she leaves London and returns home. She interviews for a job at the local country house that is planning to open as a hotel. Whilst there she is tempted to swim in the lake and gets caught by her new boss. Swimming is her 'happy place' and she gradually meets more people who take advantage of her bosses weekly appointments to have a wild swim meet.

I loved the characters- Ettie is a sweetheart. Her new boss Dominic also has a soft spot for her, but is very resistant to allowing people to swim on his estate. Ettie's grandad is a real character and I loved his interaction with the young lad and Ettie's other boss.

This is a real feel good read, and discovering that it is part of a series I need to find the first book and keep an eye out for the next one.

I enjoyed this book tremendously and cannot what to read more from Jules Wake. Likable and well rounded characters who are charming and witty I could not put this down.

Thank you to NG and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review - I loved it!

Jules Wake strikes again.

It is high praise when I say that I will put down whatever book I am currently reading to pick up the next delight from Jules Wake and her alter ego and The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim, book 2 in the Yorkshire Escape series, is no different.

The author’s voice and the tone of the story had me hooked from chapter one and I knew that life would be put on hold until I finished (much to the upset of family with food being late to the table.)

The tension between Ettie and Dominic is delicious and the counter balance offered by Ettie’s granddad and Gracie is the perfect contrast.
The main story is perfectly complimented by sub characters swimmers, and as they and we learn more about them, it becomes clear that you shouldn’t judge someone by their first look.

Many thanks to #Netgalley and #OneMoreChapter for allowing me to read and review #TheWednesdayMorningWildSwim by @JulesWake, its 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me.

Purchase links:

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09DKBVNKV/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_5833SP0ZRJQNF1E2W070
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DKBVNKV/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_BEAGE0SR182QPKJX9JSV
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-wednesday-morning-wild-swim-jules-wake/1140049349?ean=9780008408992
Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-wednesday-morning-wild-swim/jules-wake/9780008409005

A great book! Enjoyable read with a great cast of characters. Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book

Thanks to NetGalley once again for allowing me access to both the written and audio versions of this book. This means of course that I can access the book whenever suits and it is good not to have to put it down when I go out for a walk or in the car. This is an excellent, unusual story which made a most refreshing change from the norm. The characters are very varied and all with a back story which makes them interesting. The romance is lovely too. This book has funny moments and well worth reading/listening too.

Not being used to the Yorkshire accent, it took me a short while to tune my ear in, but the narration was very clear and all the different characters clearly vocalised. I will look out for books both written by Jules Wake and narrated by Laura Brydon in future.

I have a little confession to make. I have several books by Jules Wake on my ‘to be read’ mountain but I just don’t seem to have had the time to read them. What a mistake to make as the saying goes. Having just finished reading ‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’ and enjoyed it as much as I did, I can say that the books on the mountain will not be there for much longer. I flipping well LOVED reading ‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me no time at all to getting ‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first chapter, I knew that this was a book that I would become addicted to and I would find it increasingly difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was right on both counts. Part of reason why I loved the book so much has to do with the fact that I ended up loving most of the characters. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I became so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the characters that I was still sat there reading several chapters later. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the story and I had to say goodbye to Ettie, Dominic, Grandpa and the rest of the characters. I found ‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’ to be a delight to read and I enjoyed every minute of it.
‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’ is superbly written. The author has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. Jules certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and entice the reader into the story. Jules clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. Jules describes the characters so well that they seem just as real as you and I and I began to think of them as friends. This book has a bit of everything – drama, romance and humour. I love the fact that this book shows how strong friendships can form between the unlikeliest of people. I love the way in which Jules makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed ‘The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim’ and I wholeheartedly recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jules’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

THE WEDNESDAY MORNING WILD SWIM is a delightful novel by Jules Wake.

This book is technically the second in a series, but I read and enjoyed it as a standalone story. Ettie, Dominic, and the whole cast of characters in this novel are lovable, genuine, and entertaining. After reading this story, I will certainly seek out Wake’s other work- her writing is lovely and therapeutic.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC I received in exchange for my honest review.

Whoa! What a ride. It was very fast-paced. The writing style kept me hooked and I didn't find myself losing any interest. I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and how real the story felt. The author did a great job painting the setting, so it was easy for me to visualize the scene played out before me. I recommend giving this one a chance!

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Jules Wake celebrates hope, optimism, community, friendship and the power of love with her wonderful new novel, The Wednesday Morning Wild Swim.

Ettie and Dominic are two lost souls who have both experienced their fair share of heartache. Ettie feels as if she doesn’t know who she is and is trying to find her place in the world, but with the future stretching uncertainly in front of her she doesn’t know which way to turn or what tomorrow will bring. On the other hand, Dominic’s past is weighing heavily on him. Regardless of how far he tries to outrun old ghosts, they somehow always manage to catch up with him. Dominic feels unable to move forward and to make a fresh start, but little does he realise that – alongside Ettie – everything he has always wanted, which he had long given up on, might just be within his grasp…

Ettie and Dominic have long felt as if the world had left them behind, but when an unlikely group of friends comes into both of their lives, for the first time in a long while, they find themselves feeling hopeful and optimistic. No longer scared about what’s around the corner, Ettie, Dominic and their new friends – including a scruffy dog – decide to take stock of their lives, stop hiding from life and take a chance on themselves – and each other.

Life is for living and with good friends by your side to see you through the good times and the bad, Ettie and Dominic realise that there is absolutely nothing they cannot do – but they first need to trust themselves and take a leap of faith.

Jules Wake’s books are always such a joy to read and The Wednesday Morning Swim is another feel-good charmer that will brighten up every reader’s day. Beautifully told and sparkling with humour, wit and heart, The Wednesday Morning Swim is an uplifting tale about the kindness of strangers, letting down one’s walls and the joys of living that will strike a chord with readers everywhere and have them laughing out loud as well as shed a tear or two.

With characters readers cannot help but care for and packed with relatable drama, heartfelt emotion and touching romance, The Wednesday Morning Swim is another winner by Jules Wake.