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4.06 AVERAGE
4.06 AVERAGE
This was a cute, fun read, with all the bases covered in terms of drama and happy endings.
funny
lighthearted
reflective
I do so enjoy Jessica Redland’s lovely uplifting books and am pleased to say that Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow is just as lovely.
It’s the story of Sam, who we meet when she is the bridesmaid at the wedding of her cousin Chloe who is also her best friend. The only slight issue is that she is marrying the man Sam loves, James, who used to be Sam’s boyfriend. While on an errand after the ceremony, she gets lost and ends up finding an elderly man ill in his remote farmhouse, Hedgehog Hollow. As she’s a nurse, she stops to help and this chance meeting leads to a firm friendship between Sam and grumpy Thomas which it’s fair to say, changes both their lives for the better. However, events at the wedding reception when she finally makes it back, very late and rather muddy, result in some very unpleasant scenes and undeserved ill feeling towards Sam.
Jessica Redland explores a lot of very complicated family relationships throughout the book and it was fascinating to read about how the difficult situations had come about and to what extent they resolved over the course of the book. The relationship between Sam and her mum was particularly difficult and was sad to read about. On the other hand, the growing friendship between Sam and Thomas, the owner of Hedgehog Hollow, was just lovely. It was very touching to read about an earlier connection between Sam and Thomas’ late wife Gwendoline. Thank goodness for Sam’s Dad and her other good friends when at times so many people seemed so unjustly against her.
Sam was a character I really took to heart. She really was kindness personified. It was just in her nature to show kindness to people and to animals, even when sometimes the people in particular didn’t deserve it. It was certainly true what her grandad used to say “The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose”. It’s not a phrase I’d heard before but is about acts of kindness ultimately benefiting the giver. Although Sam would never do anything with the expectation of reward, all her kindnesses definitely do reward her.
I have spoken a bit about the relationships within the book and about Sam herself but haven’t even touched on the fact that there is also a rather nicely done romance within the story, as you might guess from the title. It’s not perhaps the main focus but really added to my enjoyment, the way the love was not sought or expected but was without doubt a meeting of minds. And then there’s the hedgehog rescue centre which Sam is tasked with setting up, to fulfil Thomas and Gwendoline’s plans. Perhaps coincidentally, we’ve had visits to our garden almost every evening this week from a hedgehog (sometimes two) – perhaps they knew I was reading about them!
I very much enjoyed Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow. It’s a delightful story of friendship, kindness and love and of being true to yourself. It’s a wonderfully heart-warming story which I recommend if you are looking for a really feel-good read. I am looking forward to reading more about Sam and her hedgehogs in future books about Hedgehog Hollow.
It’s the story of Sam, who we meet when she is the bridesmaid at the wedding of her cousin Chloe who is also her best friend. The only slight issue is that she is marrying the man Sam loves, James, who used to be Sam’s boyfriend. While on an errand after the ceremony, she gets lost and ends up finding an elderly man ill in his remote farmhouse, Hedgehog Hollow. As she’s a nurse, she stops to help and this chance meeting leads to a firm friendship between Sam and grumpy Thomas which it’s fair to say, changes both their lives for the better. However, events at the wedding reception when she finally makes it back, very late and rather muddy, result in some very unpleasant scenes and undeserved ill feeling towards Sam.
Jessica Redland explores a lot of very complicated family relationships throughout the book and it was fascinating to read about how the difficult situations had come about and to what extent they resolved over the course of the book. The relationship between Sam and her mum was particularly difficult and was sad to read about. On the other hand, the growing friendship between Sam and Thomas, the owner of Hedgehog Hollow, was just lovely. It was very touching to read about an earlier connection between Sam and Thomas’ late wife Gwendoline. Thank goodness for Sam’s Dad and her other good friends when at times so many people seemed so unjustly against her.
Sam was a character I really took to heart. She really was kindness personified. It was just in her nature to show kindness to people and to animals, even when sometimes the people in particular didn’t deserve it. It was certainly true what her grandad used to say “The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose”. It’s not a phrase I’d heard before but is about acts of kindness ultimately benefiting the giver. Although Sam would never do anything with the expectation of reward, all her kindnesses definitely do reward her.
I have spoken a bit about the relationships within the book and about Sam herself but haven’t even touched on the fact that there is also a rather nicely done romance within the story, as you might guess from the title. It’s not perhaps the main focus but really added to my enjoyment, the way the love was not sought or expected but was without doubt a meeting of minds. And then there’s the hedgehog rescue centre which Sam is tasked with setting up, to fulfil Thomas and Gwendoline’s plans. Perhaps coincidentally, we’ve had visits to our garden almost every evening this week from a hedgehog (sometimes two) – perhaps they knew I was reading about them!
I very much enjoyed Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow. It’s a delightful story of friendship, kindness and love and of being true to yourself. It’s a wonderfully heart-warming story which I recommend if you are looking for a really feel-good read. I am looking forward to reading more about Sam and her hedgehogs in future books about Hedgehog Hollow.
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
“Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” by Jessica Redland is a heartwarming and enchanting novel that will capture the hearts of readers. With its endearing characters, picturesque setting, and emotionally resonant storyline, this book is a standout gem that deserves its well-earned five-star rating.
The story follows Sam, a woman who inherits a dilapidated farm known as Hedgehog Hollow. Determined to restore the property and save the hedgehogs that reside there, Sam finds unexpected friendships, romance, and a journey of self-discovery along the way. Redland’s vivid descriptions of the idyllic countryside bring Hedgehog Hollow to life, immersing readers in a world that is both charming and captivating.
What makes “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” truly special is the depth and relatability of its characters. Sam is a protagonist who resonates with readers, as she grapples with personal challenges, loss, and the pursuit of her dreams. The supporting characters, from the quirky and lovable villagers to the wounded souls who find solace at Hedgehog Hollow, are beautifully crafted and add layers of authenticity to the story.
Jessica Redland’s writing style is evocative and emotive, effortlessly drawing readers into the lives of the characters. The author skillfully balances heartwarming moments with emotional depth, weaving a narrative that tugs at the heartstrings without feeling overly saccharine. The themes of love, healing, and second chances are explored with nuance and grace, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
While “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” is a satisfying and complete story in itself, it also leaves readers yearning for more. The book’s immersive world and the compelling dynamics between the characters make readers eager to revisit Hedgehog Hollow and explore further tales from the talented author.
In conclusion, “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” is an enchanting and uplifting novel that deserves its five-star rating. Jessica Redland’s ability to create relatable characters, picturesque settings, and heartfelt storylines is commendable. Fans of heartwarming contemporary fiction will find solace and joy in this captivating tale. As readers close the book, they’ll eagerly anticipate future works from Redland, eager to be transported to the enchanting world she creates once again.
The story follows Sam, a woman who inherits a dilapidated farm known as Hedgehog Hollow. Determined to restore the property and save the hedgehogs that reside there, Sam finds unexpected friendships, romance, and a journey of self-discovery along the way. Redland’s vivid descriptions of the idyllic countryside bring Hedgehog Hollow to life, immersing readers in a world that is both charming and captivating.
What makes “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” truly special is the depth and relatability of its characters. Sam is a protagonist who resonates with readers, as she grapples with personal challenges, loss, and the pursuit of her dreams. The supporting characters, from the quirky and lovable villagers to the wounded souls who find solace at Hedgehog Hollow, are beautifully crafted and add layers of authenticity to the story.
Jessica Redland’s writing style is evocative and emotive, effortlessly drawing readers into the lives of the characters. The author skillfully balances heartwarming moments with emotional depth, weaving a narrative that tugs at the heartstrings without feeling overly saccharine. The themes of love, healing, and second chances are explored with nuance and grace, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
While “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” is a satisfying and complete story in itself, it also leaves readers yearning for more. The book’s immersive world and the compelling dynamics between the characters make readers eager to revisit Hedgehog Hollow and explore further tales from the talented author.
In conclusion, “Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow” is an enchanting and uplifting novel that deserves its five-star rating. Jessica Redland’s ability to create relatable characters, picturesque settings, and heartfelt storylines is commendable. Fans of heartwarming contemporary fiction will find solace and joy in this captivating tale. As readers close the book, they’ll eagerly anticipate future works from Redland, eager to be transported to the enchanting world she creates once again.
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book,
A beautifully written book by Jessica. Had me in tears in parts.
When Samantha watches her cousin marry her ex boyfriend it’s the hardest day of her life. On the way to the wedding reception she gets lost and stumbles across an old farm, where she finds an elderly gentleman has fallen inside the house following a stroke. She builds a friendship with the old man who changes her life in so many different ways. A book full of loss and love.
A beautifully written book by Jessica. Had me in tears in parts.
When Samantha watches her cousin marry her ex boyfriend it’s the hardest day of her life. On the way to the wedding reception she gets lost and stumbles across an old farm, where she finds an elderly gentleman has fallen inside the house following a stroke. She builds a friendship with the old man who changes her life in so many different ways. A book full of loss and love.
This book was fantastic. I came across this book while browsing audible after this author’s latest release was recently recommended to me in the audible weekly latest releases email i receive on a weekly bases. I liked the sound of it so went to the authors page to see what else was available and found that this plus a few of her other titles were part of the plus catalogue. When i read the description of the book i knew i had to read it. I am really glad i started with this one. The characters are well developed and the story was heart warming. I loved Sam as a character she was loving and caring and how her mum and Chloe could treat her the way they did was horrible. Her relationship with thomas was developed really well, i liked the fact that she was determined to help him despite his effort to push her away. The way things started with Josh was funny but sometimes the best relationships can be formed from two people not liking each other to start with and this proved to be the case. I am looking forward to the rest of the series specially learning more about hedgehog care.