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Secrets Among the Spires

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Book 1 of Oxford Chronicles

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Pub Date Jul 16 2026 | Archive Date Not set

Avon Books UK | Avon


Description

Can a pair of later-in-life lovebirds find their way to one another along the cobbled streets of Oxford? Or will one too many bumps along the way throw their romance off course?

Everyone at St Peter’s College adores Reverend Clara Bennett’s sermons, but none more than choral singer, Tom Hartley. When Clara speaks to her congregation about seizing every opportunity for happiness, Tom decides plucks up the courage to ask her out. By some miracle, she says yes.

Sparks fly between Clara and Tom as they punt along the Cherwell and picnic at Port Meadow. But the course of true love never did run smooth and, before long, Clara is faced with a decision that could pull her away from her beloved Oxford, and Tom, forever…

This charming, Oxford-set romance about faith and finding love where you least expect it is perfect for fans of Sue Moorcroft, Cressida McLaughlin and Philippa Ashley.

Can a pair of later-in-life lovebirds find their way to one another along the cobbled streets of Oxford? Or will one too many bumps along the way throw their romance off course?...


Available Editions

EDITION Ebook
ISBN 9780008828202
PRICE £2.99 (GBP)
PAGES 384

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Average rating from 18 members


Featured Reviews

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I really enjoyed this book, I had been so looking forward to it and it didn't disappoint.

Its a warm, uplifting romance that captures both the beauty of Oxford and the difficulties of finding love later on in life! The romance developed naturally and felt believable rather than rushed.
I really liked Clare and found her to be a very relatable character as she tried to balance responsibility with her own happiness. Im looking forward to the next book to see what happens next in Claras new life and to catch up with everyone else!

This book was fabulous and has made me now want to visit Oxford and go punting!
Such a heartwarming read! Thank you for writing such a lovely book!

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This was a lovely, gentle story which although meandered on a bit was truly delightful, just what I needed at this time

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I loved this story. A beautiful setting Oxford . Covers a very delicate subject well. You just read and escape . Loved it and a good ending . Honesty pays .

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This is a cute read as we follow Flora in her work as Vicar and life as a woman. Flora is really appreciated by her congregation and by the students of the Oxford College where she works and yet she still lacks confidence in her ability to inspire other others. When Tom screws up his courage and asks her on a date her first thought is to laugh that someone so lovely wants to spend time with her. They tentatively take a few dates but something seems not quite right.
The book is incredibly gentle written in a simple pros that doesn’t aim to confuse or hide and just lays out Floras life and the reasons behind the decisions she takes. The romance is slow and I struggled to see the passion, even if both Flora and Tom are well portrayed..

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This was such a lovely read. I enjoyed this so much that I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I can't recommend it enough. I look forward to reading more by the author.

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First of all, the cover is breathtaking! And the novel is the same; an incredible read. It follows Clara. a late middle age reverend who has never found love. In walks Tom, a member of the choir, who is handsome and friendly and is interested in Clara. Sparks fly. But Tom is hiding a big secret from his past. Will Clara find out and can she still see a future with him?
This novel was very well written and the setting is perfectly set in historic Oxford. The romance was wholesome and the side characters were a hoot.
I was excited to learn that this is Book#1 in a three book series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

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