Yes, I think I’m going to rather like it at Juniper Meadows – the family farmhouse, the gin distillery, the luxury hotel and spa, the whole estate and its farm and camping grounds, the surrounding Cotswolds countryside, all just perfect. And as for the Travers family – well, let’s just say there’s enough material there for a rather substantial series, as some of the secrets either hinted at or starting to be uncovered in this first episode continue to unspool.

At this story’s centre is Hope, finding life with her sprawling family all well and good, but keen to build a home of her own on the estate – but the discovery of some historical remains at the site she’s chosen bring her into contact with Cam, a lecturer in archaeology at the university, who agrees to organising a dig over the summer holiday. And that rather adds to the already substantial cast list – his friend and fellow lecturer Barnie (a character I particularly liked), a team of other archaeologists, and a group of students keen to develop their skills. There’s a multiplicity of storylines centred on different characters – which I’m not going to try and disentangle, as the author does it so much better – but it soon becomes clear that there are layers of secrets within this less than conventional but very close family that won’t remain hidden for much longer, and their impact will be far reaching.

There’s a convincing developing romance that I really enjoyed – despite the gulf between their very different backgrounds – and a considerable amount of well-handled drama when it becomes clear that someone has a vendetta against the estate and begins wreaking havoc. And there are a number of sub-plots – one about one of the students and his overbearing and obnoxious father is a perfect counterpoint to the warmth of the Travers clan, and a nice demonstration of class being about rather more than power and wealth. Fatherhood does prove to be rather a recurring theme – Hope herself has always had the perfect surrogates in Zig and Zap (ah yes, those names – all becomes clear as you read!), but her own father’s identity has long been shrouded in mystery, and as the truth emerges it proves a considerably less than comfortable experience.

I’ve tied myself up in knots a bit trying to share a flavour of the story (sorry!) but this book really is the most perfect start to a new series. By its end, I’d got a really strong fix on the Travers family themselves – all really well-drawn and intriguing characters, tremendously likeable – but with those well-guarded secrets about to create substantial waves. I’m very much looking forward to seeing how their various stories unfold…

I love Sarah Bennett books, so I was delighted that she is beginning a new series and I was thrilled to be invited along on the blog tour. It therefore made me even happier that Sarah’s writing (already so good) just seems to keep getting better all the time. Sarah writes realistic and relatable characters, the kind you’d be friends with in real life, but her supporting cast are just as well rounded and likeable too. I mean there’s a certain cousin I’m hoping we will see more of, or even get his own book, but this is Hope and Cameron’s tale.

I loved the concept of an archaeological dig, it’s not something I read often in romance, in fact this might be my first one. I found it so interesting and so nice to have a fresh take, what also impressed me was how clearly well researched this was, Sarah’s descriptions are immersive and you could be there yourself with one of those teeny tiny brushes, sweeping the dirt aside.

Of course, we have our drama, because no one wants to read a romance free of it, how boring would it be, couple meet, fall in love ,the end ! A bit of drama always makes things interesting (as long as it’s in books and not our own lives). I loved the themes of trust, who you give it to and if that is misplaced or not (read for yourself for the answers) I loved this so much and I'm eager to see where Hope and Cameron’s story takes us, this is a wonderful beginning to what looks to be another fantastic series from Sarah Bennett.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.



*******blog tour review**********

I started reading this book with high expectations. I have loved previous books from this author and hoped that a new location would be a good move. I was thrilled to discover that her writing seems to have reached a new, higher standard and I was able to fall straight into the story. There’s a great depth of supporting characters and I hope that bodes well for future books, but the main focus was definitely on Hope Travers and Cameron Ferguson.
Having uncovered signs of archaeological interest when breaking ground on her new home, Hope seeks help from local archaeologist, and University lecturer, Cameron Ferguson. Agreeing to investigate, Cameron arrives on site with a specialist team to open an onsite dig. While his colleague, Barnie, researches the family’s extensive archive, Cameron’s team starts the lengthy task of digging test trenches to look for more evidence. I found the story around the archaeological dig to be wonderfully researched and could easily imagine the scenes described.
While you will need to read the book to discover more about the dig, I don’t include spoilers, I can promise that there’s plenty of story to grab your attention. Beside the clear attraction between Hope and Cameron, I was particularly drawn to Hope’s cousin Rhys and hope that there will be a lot more to learn about him in future books. Sarah Bennett has a knack of creating characters that resonate with me, and they quickly take root in my imagination.
Of course, not everything goes smoothly and there is a definite underlying darkness as things start to go wrong. Forced to reveal family secrets, Hope’s family face the realisation that those who you think you can trust may let you down. This story is the perfect opening instalment to what looks like another smashing series.

I had high hopes for this new series from Sarah Bennett and this is a brilliant start. There are some lovely characters (and already one I could happily not see again!) that have created some interesting relationships I am keen to see develop.
With family secrets, historic finds, romance and drama; I feel like there is much more to come and I couldn’t be happier.
A nicely paced, calm read that pulls you in from the start. I have high hopes for Cameron and Hope, will there romance be a short term or something long lasting? Will any further secrets be uncovered affecting the lives of the family?
A lovely read, realistic and with characters that are believable and interesting. I will look forward to the next book.

A cracking start to a new series. With delightful new characters and a fair few dramas along the way. Plenty of new friendships to get to know and love, humour, secrets, it’s got everything for that gentle read that just flows brilliantly and you really care about what happens to them all.

There is great community feel about Juniper Meadows that I am sure will keep readers of this series yearning for more. Will Hope and Cameron find a long lasting love? maybe just a fling? Will Hopes new home be everything she’s always dreamed of or will the secrets that unfold become just to much to bear?

I really enjoy Sarah Bennetts writing style. She creates characters that are realistic and believable. Her plot lines are superb. Not far fetched and ridiculous, nope she keeps everyone and everything grounded likeable and credible. The perfect read for a cold spring day full of promise, heart-warming with just the right amount of intrigue.

What a brilliant start to a series that's new
Full of love and heart, I highly recommend it to you!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.

The Juniper Meadows estate, is where the Travers family live
Set in the Cotswold countryside, jobs to locals they like to give.
They're trying to keep their heritage from harm,
Running a spa, hotel, camp site, distillery and farm.

Hope has hopes to have her own home
It is being built on land her family own.
But just as digging starts a surprise it brings
What could be historic ruins stops everything.

Archaeologist Cameron Ferguson is enticed to start a dig
To decide if they really are ruins - could they be something big?
What is hidden underground about to be uncovered
And what family secrets will also be discovered?

A fascinating story with family at the heart
And members of a close community also taking part.
There's drama for more than one family in this story, too,
As well as potential romances for quite a few!

I can't wait to return to Juniper Meadows once more
To catch up on everyone and their interactions to explore!
A gorgeous romance, I thoroughly enjoyed and so
Highly recommend you also give it a go.

First in a new series. I liked how lots of storyline foundations were laid out, I found it a little slow, with the best of the plot being in the last 40% or so. It’s part of a series so I know that the characters and the storyline will be carried on and it will only get better. The archeological dig part was interesting I’m so curious to find out what really was built there and the history of the area. Lots of family secrets that are just waiting to be uncovered.

Building a house is something I've always wanted to do. To make it exactly how you want it. I liked the fact that they found lots of pieces of history along the way. The way the story played out the romance and especially the characters

In this book, the author demonstrates her excellent storytelling skills. It's themes of love, secrets and belonging run throughout the book and are portrayed through a cast of characters who are all as charming as this book is.

In fact, I think I am a little in love with Cam, who is one of the main characters. He, alongside the other main character Hope, make for a heartfelt romance which runs throughout this book. Ms. Bennett allows the readers to familiarise themselves with the characters in this book. It is utterly charming, and I am thrilled that it is the first in a planned series.

Set in the beauty of a rural Cotswolds village, I particularly liked the community spirit which is portrayed within it's pages. Not just by the family but by the village residents also.

Set in the beautiful Cotswolds we are at Juniper Meadows for the start of a new series by Sarah Bennett.

Hope is in the process of building a house on the easte grounds when haulted by archaeological ruins Cameron is called in charge of the dig.
Family secrets will be revealed.

I enjoyed the character developments throughout the book, beautiful settings which I devoured in just a few sittings.

This is going to be a fantastic series that I will have no problems recommending and cannot wait to read Amelia's story next what a cliffhanger to leave it on.... roll on autumn!

Where We Belong by Sarah Bennett

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

On paper, Hope Travers has an idyllic life. Living in a bustling farmhouse with her mum, aunt and uncles, cousin and too many dogs to count, surrounded by the breath-taking Cotswolds countryside, she knows she is privileged and protected. But all families have secrets, and the Travers family are no exception. Their farmhouse sits in the grounds of the Juniper Meadows estate, passed down through the generations and now being made to pay its own way with a myriad of businesses and projects. When a construction crew uncover what appear to be historical ruins, the history of the Travers family is put under ever closer scrutiny as a dig gets underway. Hope may have found a blossoming romance with local archaeologist Cameron Ferguson who is running the dig, but when things start to go wrong around the estate and family secrets begin to be revealed, Hope wonders if she’s made a big mistake in digging up the past.

My Opinion

This is the first book in a new series and I will be back to read more. For me, Sarah Bennett has been one of those authors that I have wanted to read more of, but never found the right book to grab me - this was the book.

Hope is looking to move out of the farmhouse she lives in with her extended family - but as the build starts, secrets may be uncovered. Juniper Meadows already feels like a great community and I cannot wait to learn more about the residents.

Rating: 4/5

My Review: This was an enjoyable and easy to follow story. Sarah's books are always engaging and warm. We follow Hope Travers journey as she builds a house on her families vast land. We meet her family Aunt Ro, her mother Stevie, Rhys her cousin, her uncle Ziggy and a pilates instructor. There's a find when breaking into the plot chosen for her house, which leads to Archaeology, Intrigue, and interesting turns. The black labs Sooty and Sweep which you can admire on the beautiful cover. I almost forgot to mention love, as well as Barnie and Cam.

I do enjoy Sarah Bennett’s books, she writes such fantastic communities into her stories, so I was really excited to read this book as it is a new series set with lots of interesting characters and plot lines.
Hope is a great character, she’s looking to move out of the family home and find a little independence from her family, however it turns out that something unexpected creates a hiccup in her plans!
Cam comes into her life and brings a chance of love, and support as Hope deals with the various issues that living and working with your family brings.
A fascinating backstory, involving history, plus in the mix are some very adorable dogs and a beautiful setting, this book was a gorgeous read and I’m already looking forward to book two!

Another stunning book by Sarah, expertly written. Lovely range of characters and plot, penned in Sarah's expert way. Loved it!

A lovely start to what promises to be an engaging series about Hope and her family, who live on the family's ancestral estate Juniper Meadows. I like the characterisation that delivers believable protagonists, immersing readers in their lives. There are secrets and deceitful people.,that lead to dramas. Family relationships, new friendships, gentle romance, and mystery make this entertaining. The vividly described setting makes this relaxing, escapist fiction.

I like the characters, the family dynamic and the lovely setting of this book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

The first book in a new series with a lovely slow burn romance. Easy and heartwarming read for a lazy, chilled day. Although I wasn't that fascinated by the archaeological details, the rest of the story was interesting enough to keep me hooked! Can't wait for the next book in the series !

Thank you net galley and the publisher for an early copy.

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

The first book by Sarah in a new series and I couldn’t put it down.

I absolutely loved the storyline which was about Hope, the life she lives and her family who live at Juniper Meadows as well as the secrets they hold.

Hope has found the area where she wants to build her own home on the family estate, but as work begins, it soon stops as the builders find what they think might be ancient ruins,

So she invites specialists in this field who find more than just some stones.

Cameron leads the team that arrive to carry out the works needed on the plot, hope makes new friends and finds love.

Along with this, secrets are revealed by the family. There’s also incidents happening on the site which cause problems for Hope and the team.

I loved the setting and the characters, and can’t wait to read what happens next in the lives of Hope, Barnie, Cam and Meena, as well as Hope’s family.

I highly recommend this book.

Where We Belong by Sarah Bennett is a delightful, contemporary novel and the first book in the Juniper Meadows series.
Sarah Bennett once more has created a marvelous set of characters who are warm and welcoming. Juniper Meadows is owned by a family whose heritage goes back centuries. They employ many in the village and have huge hearts. The community functions as a family, those in need are always helped.
An archeological dig sets out to uncover the secrets of the past. Mud is hiding history. Likewise, within a family, there are secrets that are hiding the truth. Scratch beneath the surface to reveal personal history.
We are not responsible for the actions of our parents, neither are we destined to turn into them. Within the novel we see bloodline fathers behaving appallingly. In contrast there are those who have taken on the role of a father, who treat youngsters with love and care.
We also see a character who has no right to lord it over others. He is a self-made man and pompous with it. In contrast, we see the love, care and respect, with which the true lords and ladies of the manor treat all those they meet.
I always love Sarah Bennett’s novels and I adored Where We Belong. I cannot wait for book two in this fabulous series.
I will leave you with my favourite quote:
“Count your blessings not your hurts.”
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

A fabulous start to Sarah Bennett's new series at Juniper Meadows!

I loved Sarah's other books, so was really excited to start this new series. Where We Belong did not disappoint!

The new location, families, businesses and characters leave so much opportunity for a fabulous series and this book will also make a great standalone title. I loved the interesting topics and the independent heroine Hope, her lists and the way she just takes every issue in her stride was so inspiring. Hope's romantic story was so relaxed and lovely and great to see a supportive balance between the characters.

I can't wait for my next visit to Juniper Meadows!

Hope's builders are just about to start work building her house on the family estate when they hit what looks like possible archaeological ruins pretty much straight away. Hope immediately stops the work so they can investigate further and contacts the archaeology department at the University where she meets
Cameron who agrees to be in charge of the dig
As they get started mysterious accidents start happening and family secrets start to come out
I hadn't realised it was the first of a new series so was disappointed as it just seemed to end, now I'm excited to read the next installment