I loved all of the characters in this book, especially the main character, Autumn, she was so down to earth and lovable and I really warmed to her.
This was such a wonderful, heartwarming, romantic and funny story and I really enjoyed every word of it………

I just could not get into this book. I feel like the writing was not for me but also it moves too quickly for my liking, like I like the romance to build rather than be insta love.

Confronting a pivotal moment in her life post-job loss and personal challenges, Autumn Laine accepts an invitation from her penpal Rosie to explore The Lake District. In the midst of the inspiring scenery and Beatrix Potter's influence, she forms a connection with Dane, a cyclist navigating his own troubles. Their journey unfolds as a tale of healing, inspiration, and the possibility of a deeper connection than mere friendship. 'The Start of Something Wonderful' skillfully depicts Autumn's personal growth, the evolving penpal relationship, and the profound impact of friendship against the backdrop of a splendid setting.

This is a heartwarming story and the beginning of a. series. I loved the setting in the Lake District and the Beatrix Potter references. A good beach read.

What a brilliant book!!

Jessica Redland has done it again. My heart has been stolen and I’ve loved every moment of this one.

I have been transported to the pages of this one and felt able to visit Lake District from the comfort of my own garden.

Autumn is a wonderful character. Redland has made me feel as though I know her. She is fun and makes this a brilliant read.

This is one of those books that really leaves you feeling content. It’s definitely one that will improve your mood and keep you smiling.

I’ve read most (if not all) of Jessica’s books and they get better and better. This is definitely a firm favourite and one I have no hesitation in recommending.

This is a book I devoured in just one sitting and is completely brilliant.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

𝑨𝒅 | 𝑷𝑹 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒕 | 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝑪𝒐𝒑𝒚

A new series by Jessica. About autumn who is stuck in a rut. She is struggling with the loss of her grandad and she has just lost her job as. An illustrator that made her and her grandad close. Then she hears from her pen pal. Who invites her to stay in the Lake district. Autumn needs a break so decides to go. She is instantly swept off her feet by the rolling hills. The warm community and her creative juices begin flowing again. Could love be just around the corner? I think so.

I was very excited to see a new series by Jessica Redland and have loved this the first book. As always a lovely heartwarming story with very likeable characters and plenty going on to keep your interest. Now really looking forward to the next one in the series

A brilliant read and one I really enjoyed. The characters are loveable and varied, the plot is one that is engaging and medium paced. I found myself completely drawn into the story and enjoyed the writing style.

Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Autumn is a stuck in a rut and needs a break after losing both her grandad and job as an illustrator close together. Her pen pal Rosie who she has never met in person asks Autumn to go and stay with her in the Lake District, Autumn decides to go and get any from the hustle and bustle of Paris. When she arrives she is swept up by the stunning landscapes and is welcomed into the community and begins to get her creative juices flowing again. She then meets Dale who has returned to the Lake District for his own reasons. Will Autumn let her last continue to hold back or will she be able to let her barriers down and let Dale into her life?

This book felt different from others the author has written previously. It did not feel like the start of a series (even with the title hinting otherwise), but a quick glance at Goodreads before writing this has confirmed that it is the first in a longer series. There are some loose ends in the book, which probably will get tied up later.
We begin with one protagonist who is close to losing the only grandparent she has left and feeling let down in life. Autumn has an interesting job as an illustrator. It is something that morphs along the way, but it is a good starting place to begin with. The second thing that advances the story and is also presented in a believable fashion is the concept of a long-running penpal friendship. Autumn ends up running (physically) away from her heartache to her friend's home. Rosie is set to be the next protagonist in the series, but in this book, she is a very supportive friend with her own baggage.
Autumn grows through the book, working through her issues and listening to the people around her when they encourage her and suggest ideas. It does not make for a lot of highs and lows, but it is the kind of book I like reading.
Dane( the male protagonist) is also at a stage in life where he wants to set out in a new direction, and even with the initial attraction, the pairing up happens slowly. They help each other find new avenues and work through 'things'. I enjoyed the new pacing and overall transition of everything that happens in this. I am not well-versed in Beatrix Potter's life and works, but there might be more for those who are!
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

Jessica can really do no wrong in my eyes and she knocked it out of the park once again. Still grieving the loss of the Hedgehog Hollow series, Jessica has whisked us away to a gorgeous new setting filled with beautiful characters and heartfelt stories intertwined.

Autumn Laine is an illustrator who has lost her creative spark after a series of personal losses. Seeking solace and inspiration, she leaves Paris to stay with her penpal, Rosie, in the picturesque Lake District. The scenic beauty and the artistic history of the region begin to rekindle her creativity, and Autumn gradually finds herself reconnecting with her true self.

As Autumn becomes part of the welcoming community in Willowdale, her walls start to come down. However, meeting Dane, who also carries his own secrets, adds a layer of complexity to her journey.

A heartwarming tale set against the backdrop of a charming village and the legacy of Beatrix Potter. It's a story of hope, renewal, and the possibility of finding love and inspiration when you least expect it.

The first book in a brand new series, set in the Lake District. There was a lot of new characters to get to know, glorious landscapes, beautifully described, and as usual a great story to be told.
Autumns story this time, A set of life changing events means Autumn is very pleased to accept Rosie’s offer to come and stay with her , and her mum Alice in the Lake District. Rosie and Autumn are penpals who have never actually met, though they have been a part of each others lives for many years.
Add in a couple of male lead characters, each with their own issues, interesting secondary characters and you have a realistic novel with a strong storyline, believable characters and some drama and intrigue . Friendship and family are a strong part of this book all mixed up with the usual Jessica magic.
A highly recommended read
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and Jessica Redland, for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review

What an absolute joy this book is. I've read and loved every one of Jessica's books and couldn't wait to dive into the pages of this one. Where previous books have been set on the Yorkshire coast this one is centred in the stunningly scenic Lake District. I adored the beautiful descriptions of that area and quickly fell in love with the lovely characters. Autumn is an illustrator who has lost her mojo and has recently lost her beloved granddad. She grew up in France and moved to London but is then invited to visit her pen friend, Rosie,who lives in the Lake District. The two have been corresponding for decades but had never met. I loved the warm friendship between these two ladies. Autumn's ex, Etienne, a French man is also a central character as is the lovely Dane, writer of children's books. There are a lot of references to Beatrix Potter which I found especially interesting and endearing. There are many emotions, secrets, dilemmas and a slow burn romance that kept me riveted to this book. As this is the first in a series

Love Jessica’s books and this one didn’t disappoint
Had me hooked from the first to the last page
And I felt just like I was in the lakes with them
Loved the characters and I hope there is more in this series
Thanks NetGalley

I have read a few books by Jessica Redland and so far this is my favourite and I'm so glad it's the start of a new series.
I loved all the characters, they all have their own personalities and stories but they mould together perfectly this was such a sweet romance i adored so much and I can't wait for the sequel.

This novel is a testament to the power of love, friendship, and the magic of new beginnings.

Redland's writing is a breath of fresh air, infused with warmth and sincerity. Her ability to create vivid settings and relatable characters is truly commendable. As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself immersed in the picturesque landscapes of Lake District, a place that feels so real it could be your own backyard. The small-town charm is palpable, making it easy to get lost in the daily lives and aspirations of the characters.

The pacing of the story is spot-on, keeping you engaged from beginning to end. The author skillfully navigates between different character perspectives, allowing you to see the world through their eyes and connect with their individual journeys. As their lives become intertwined, you'll find yourself rooting for their happiness, celebrating their successes, and sympathizing with their challenges.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you so much!

"The Start of Something Wonderful" by Jessica Redland is a joyful and inspirational tale about second chances and fresh beginnings. Jessica Redland is one of my favorite authors. I fell in love with her characters and the place of the action., cafe, seaside, greenery and people of the town. I would strongly suggest this to anyone interested in romance books.

I absolutely love Jessica Redland and this book was no exception I just fall in love with her characters. Highly recommend this to anyone.

Jessica Redland’s “The Start of Something Wonderful” is a heartwarming and uplifting novel that captivates readers with its endearing characters and relatable themes of second chances and new beginnings. Earning its well-deserved four-star rating, this book is a delightful read that promises the start of an enchanting series.

Redland’s writing style is warm and engaging, enveloping readers in the comforting embrace of the story’s coastal setting and heartwarming characters.

The strength of “The Start of Something Wonderful” lies in its well-developed characters and relatable themes.

The book’s exploration of themes such as starting anew, finding one’s passion, and forming meaningful connections resonates with readers seeking stories of hope and positivity. The gentle pace of the narrative mirrors the healing process and the gradual transformation that Lori undergoes, allowing readers to connect with her on an emotional level.

Redland’s portrayal of the coastal town is vivid and inviting, adding to the overall charm of the book. The descriptions of the cafe and the seaside scenery create an immersive reading experience that captures the essence of a picturesque coastal community.

In conclusion, “The Start of Something Wonderful” by Jessica Redland is a heartwarming and engaging novel that celebrates the power of new beginnings, friendship, and finding love when least expected. With its endearing characters, relatable themes, and evocative setting, the book easily earns its four-star rating. If you’re looking for a feel-good read that promises a series filled with warmth and charm, “The Start of Something Wonderful” is a delightful choice. Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting world of Wynmouth and to eagerly anticipate the continuation of this heartwarming series.