I’ve noticed a lot of e galleys for forthcoming holiday reads. Somehow, I forgot to post on this festive themed story.

I go to books by this author when I truly need to relax and escape. Ashley can be trusted to tell a story with decent people facing some obstacles and, hopefully, finding their happy endings. In this one, I enjoyed the setting and found myself hoping that this Christmas would be a happier one for Maisie. Will they arrival of an Australian looking for seasonal work make a difference? That just may be.

Read this one when you need to take a break from day to day life. You will finish it feeling better than when you started and happy to have visited Gull Island.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this title. All opinions are my own.

Christmas on the Little Cornish Isles: the Driftwood Inn is a good fit for those seeking a heartwarming and uplifting tale of self-discovery, love, and new beginnings, set against the picturesque backdrop of a Cornish Christmas.

This is an older Christmas read, but still just as enjoyable! This is the first book in the series and we head off to the Isles of Scilly where we meet Maisie Samson who runs the Island's pub. She's only recently returned to take over the pub from her parents, and she's had a traumatic past year in her personal life. When Patrick, an Australian backpacker, arrives on the Island looking for work, Maisie finds a connection with him.

This was a lovely read! Firstly, the location was amazing! Although slightly isolated on Gull Island, you couldn't help but be in awe of the scenery and it's seemed a friendly place to live. I liked Maisie's character, but it was obvious she's been through some recent troubles, ones which were still affecting her. I loved the sound of her pub, and her relationship with her parents was lovely. Patrick was an eye-opener, and whilst like Maisie he seemed to be hiding some past issues, he was still a very welcome sight to the island! I loved their working relationship together and enjoyed the 'will they-won't they' storyline!

The book flowed along at a lovely pace. There are some likeable supporting characters and I found myself wrapped up in the storyline very quickly. It is set on the run up to Christmas, but does have some of the story set before and after, so isn't purely a "Christmas" story! It is a romantic read, and there is plenty of love and laughter throughout. There are also some more sensitive moments, and the story twists with an unexpected reveal towards the end! I loved all the drama and was completely hooked into Maisie and Patrick's story. Would definitely recommend!

An entertaining, undemanding read with a cosy Cornish setting. Perfect for those looking for a little stress relief in the build up to Christmas.

This isn’t my typical read but I adored this book. It was so lovely, a real heartwarming book. A great festive read

This is a lovely story set in a beautiful location, but we are not led to believe this is paradise as the local people seem to struggle to make a living at times. A visitor from Australia stirs everything up when he arrives and then decides to stay a little longer that he originally planned.

The characters in this book have many layers and are interesting to learn about as the book progresses. I saved this book to read over the Christmas period and I am glad I did. Finishing on New Years Day I didn't really want to say goodbye to the Little Cornish Isles and luckily this is the first in a series so there is more to come.

This is definitely a book that you can escape into - ideal for holiday reading too.

Review: This is a tale about returning home, trying to move on from the past and hoping for a happy ever after. Set around Christmas and in the wonderful setting of Cornwall one of my favourite places. This is a warm cosy read and I am looking forward to find out more in the series.

A lovely magical Christmas story. Beautiful setting, I wish I lived on that island. It was a relaxing read, just perfect in time for Christmas.

Christmas has almost arrived on the Cornish Isles of Scilly, bringing lots of surprises and scandals and a dusting of romance.

Maisie has moved back to the quant Gull Island where she grew up with her parents and is now taking charge in their busy family inn. Even though the festive period is meant to be a joyful occasion, Maisie has her own secrets and sad memories which could ruin the joyfulness.

And then in walks an Australian backpacker Patrick threatening to change everything. Maisie takes him on as the new barman and soon realises that not only is he handsome and charming that he could become more than just colleagues.

A lovely, good feel novel that will keep you warm on these cold winter days. Christmas on the Little Cornish Isles is the first in a stunning new series from Phillipa Ashley. Your love it.

A stunning setting, that makes you want to up sticks and head to Gull island yourself. Coupled with a wonderful story and likeable characters, make this a wonderful read at any time of year. The festive spin is just a bonus.

3.5* I was a big fan of Phillipa Ashley's Little Cornish Cafe series but must admit this one didn't grab me quite so much. I did enjoy reading it and the characters and setting were well drawn. In particular, Patrick was very intriguing as it was clear he was hiding something major but I certainly didn't guess what it was. One of my pet hates came up in the book (which I won't say as it'll give away a major plot point!) which spoiled it slightly for me but then again that did lead to a dramatic then optimistic end to the book!

A small island set off the coast of Cornwall and focuses on the lives of the inhabitants, the ups and downs and many secrets between them all. Things don’t always run smoothly but can that be about to change.
A great book to settle down in the winter months to read. Although Christmas is in the title it’s not fully focused on throughout so can be read anytime.
Another great book by Phillipa, it’s the first in a series and I can’t wait for the next one.

I've started my Christmas reading and this is a lovely cosy book to snuggle up with now the nights are closing in. Full of lovely characters and totally heartwarming. Aaaw!

Having adored Demi and Cal's story in the Cornish Cafe trilogy, I didn't think another wonderful and setting could come along and battle for my affections, yet this is what has happened. Phillipa Ashley's, Christmas on the Little Cornish Isles: The Driftwood Inn is the first in a new trilogy that easily won that battle within the first few chapters. This new series is all kinds of fabulous and I loved every minute of my time spent on the Isles of Scilly on the fictional islands created by Phillipa.

This is certainly one of the better Christmas books out there which does what it says on the tin and actually features Christmas rather than alluding to the big event rather sparingly. Not one fault could I find with the book and it's obvious that the author loved the time she spent researching and writing this book. Her love for the isles and the people who reside their shine through. I've never been to the Isles of Scilly but have watched the programme An Island Parish when it showcased this special little place with its own unique landscape and characters. Phillipa Ashley not only made me feel like I had been there many times but that I knew the characters intimately and was fully invested in their lives and the personal and professional problems they are experiencing.

It's mid October and Maisie has returned home to spend her first Christmas in 8 years with her family. They run the cosy Driftwood Inn on quiet Gull Island on the Isles of Scilly. Maisie loves her family, and of course the island where she grew up and spent so many happy years, but at the same time her return is a slight reluctant one. The reasons behind which don't become apparent for quite some time and keep the reader on their toes guessing why Maisie feels this time on the island is but a stop gap. Events of last Christmas constantly play on her mind and combined with the fact her parents who are semi-retired are considering selling the inn which she holds so dear to her heart, things clearly aren't all plain sailing.

As Gull Island is so small everyone knows each others business but this was something I liked about the book, the small community feel, the quirky characters and the fact that people realised nothing stayed secret for long. So if they wanted to keep anything to themselves they had to work at it. But sometimes a problem shared is one which can be more easily solved and the magic and spirit of the island will do its work in the most special way possible and in doing so provide the readers with a wonderful story that grabs you and doesn't let go until you finish the very last word.

Maisie without doubt was the stand out character. She was all kinds of things to all people. There for her parents and the residents when they needed her the most. She always pushed herself to the limit and with firm goals set she would do anything to achieve them. She was kind, considerate and loving but I don't think she always took the best care of herself or faced what was bothering her beneath the happy persona she presented to all. She is afraid of dealing with her feelings and commitment and romance present obstacles for her. I wanted her to experience the happiness and joy she brings to so many others but will this come with a price?

The arrival of a man Maisie briefly met and shared a kiss with turns things on their head. Patrick McKinnon is from Australia and on a trip to England. It's strange for visitors to stay for so long on the island but who's complaining when he is so handsome and helpful. Patrick really was a closed book for much of the story. He was secretive and very much kept his own personal story close to his chest. The reader could see there was a slight spark between himself and Maisie and fervently wished they could give in to it. Yet Maisie regarding these feelings really frustrated me. I wanted to shake her and say look at this hunk of a man who you have taken on to help out at the inn and here you are being elusive and not opening up to him when the opportunity presents itself. I suppose the time old saying- the path to true love never did run smooth lent itself to this book very well.

Apart from the romance element which will delight fans of the genre immensely there is the more pressing issue of Hugo Scorrier wanting to buy up everything on the island and use it for his own gain. He runs neighbouring Petroc Island as a resort of the highest quality and wants to expand his empire. His dog Basil provided plenty of comedic moments to lighten the tense situation as he runs amok at the most inopportune times. I didn't like Hugo at all, he seemed underhand and didn't speak very nicely to people at all. He put unnecessary pressure and worry on Maisie when she needed it the least.

Yet when the bad times start appearing the residents pull together led by Maisie. Maisie showed such leadership skills and her love for the island and the place she calls home may override everything else running through her head. All the other people mentioned throughout the story, Will Godfrey and his sister Jess at the flower farm on St. Saviour's Island, Javid from the Gull Island camp-site, Úna and Phyliss Barton from Hell Cove Cottages and Archie Pendower, an artist from Pendower Island, all got their little moment to shine. It all felt so lovely and warm and cosy despite the challenges they were facing. Patrick too shows his metal.

From the halfway point the story moved on at a cracking pace, even if I was reluctant that it do so, purely for the fact I didn't want this book to end. There were lots of surprises thrown in that really on reflection given the subtle hints I should have guessed at. But the surprise of the reveals overcame the fact that I missed out on the clues. The twist I never saw coming was jaw dropping in a way but it definitely made a lot of things fall into place. The question remains will there be happiness for all or will Hugo have his way and ruin the magic of Gull Island forever?

Christmas on the Little Cornish Isles more than provided the comfort and escape I was looking for at the time of reading. It kept my attention throughout and captured my imagination and showed happy endings are difficult to come by but could just be worth the fight. I can't wait to return to these rare isles where the characters walk off the page to meet you. Maisie and Patrick are certainly characters I will remember but at the same time I am looking forward to reading book two in February, Spring on the Little Cornish Isles: The Flower Farm, where our attention turns to Will, Jess and St. Saviour's Island.

I read this book in a day, it’s an easy read but one I couldn’t put down! I am buying this for my sister ... I can’t recommebd enough ! I laughed out loud at several times. The neighbours in the village are just like most neighbours! Hilarious! A must read !

This is book 1 in the Little Cornish Isles series, a new collection from Phillipa Ashley. I very much enjoyed her last series, about the Cornish Cafe, and was interested to find out about the Cornish Isles, or Isles of Scilly. I have never visited this part of the world, but felt sure that Phillipa's writing would bring them alive for me; I was not disappointed.



The story revolves around Maisie Samson and her parents, Ray and Hazel, who own the Driftwood Inn on the fictitious Gull Island. Maisie has returned home to help run the Inn after previously having worked in a busy Cornish pub. She is preparing the Inn for the festive season and also looking forward to her 40th birthday on New Year's Eve, all the time looking back on a less than happy time last Christmas. All is not well in the seemingly idyllic little island, as Hugo Scorrier, owner of neighbouring Petroc Island, is trying to expand his resort to encompass Gull Island and perhaps win Maisie's heart into the bargain. However, blond Australian Patrick McKinnon arrives on the scene and takes on the job of barman at the Inn, bringing with him a breath of fresh air for the islanders and a chance of romance for Maisie.



This was a lovely story, really well written as you would expect from Phillips Ashley, and full of evocative details about these islands. I enjoyed the idea of people sailing between the islands in their day to day activities; it made me determined to go and visit one of these days. In addition to the call of the sea, there were the little cottages with stunning views and the flower farm, all adding to the charm of the setting. I would heartily recommend this book as a heartwarming Christmas read, perfect for getting you into the mood for the coming season.

My Thoughts...
There is something inherently captivating about island life, so for me, this story is a must-read. The Cornish Isles inaccessibility and the reliance on those you live so closely with makes for some fantastic characters and relationships, which the author captures beautifully in this simple tale.
Maisie’s fierce determination to rebuild her life among the people she grew up with, is the story’s focus. She is a strong woman, but Patrick's unexpected arrival reveals her vulnerability and adds plenty of Christmas romance to this story.
Written chronologically, in a style that reinforces the story's credibility. The vibrant coastal setting and vividly described, cast of supporting characters leave an impression on the reader
I can't wait to see what happens in Spring on the 'Little Cornish Isles'.
A charming story with a twist of Christmas perfect for reading any time of the year.
I received a copy of this book from Avon via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Truly magical christmas read. Loved hearing about the setting over the winter months. Great mix of characters and just a great all round read. loved the cover too

Travel to the Scilly Isles, just off the coast of Cornwall, Gull Island and the Driftwood Inn become the focal point in this story of the islanders, their independence and the struggle to make a living and a life in a picturesque if remote location. Maisie has left her job on the mainland to come home and run the family business, The Driftwood Inn. After years away from family and a traumatic end to a relationship that left her bruised and grieving, the short tourist season is ending and the off season looms: a time to find money and energy to keep the inn viable and appealing to customers. While Maisie is determined to keep the locals on island, and working together to keep the independent spirit and unique flavor of the island, she’s battling against an upscale resort property on a neighboring island, with an owner with deep pockets and a ruthless determination to purchase the whole island for his own company’s growth.

Patrick is an Aussie on island for a bit of backpacking and some personal research. The season is ending, but he’s met Maisie and wants to know more, both for his own personal quest and to answer questions about the attraction he feels for her. After losing his parents at a young age, he was at loose ends and often in trouble, until a couple stepped in and provided him security and guidance, and a bit of tough love. After losing the man who was more a father figure to him, he’d retreated into grief and this field trip to Cornwall and the Scilly Islands is part of his own quest for answers and healing.

Philippa Ashley brought these islands to life and light: one would never assume that life was easy, but the balance of scenery, friendship and community shine through. From moments of grey fog through the bright sunshine contrasting with seascapes, wind and wildlife, every new moment of description adds color and depth to the visual images. Maisie and Patrick are both intriguing characters: both with secrets and agendas, neither willing to give over fully (at first) to the attraction that is building between them. With secondary characters that add both depth and angst to the story, plenty of moments to worry for both Maisie and her father, and a single-minded Labrador retriever who deserves his own story, I read this book in one sitting and wanted to go back for more.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: al conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=”http://wp.me/p3OmRo-9ov/”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>

You'd be "Scilly" not to read this!

Phillipa - if you ever decide to change genres - you'd make a great travel book writer! The descriptions of the Gull Island and the Scilly Islands in general, made me want to hop straight on a plane/boat! It is now definitely a bucket-list destination.

Maisie runs the pub and is hard-working, determined and susceptible. Aussie backpacker Patrick arrives and stays, working in the pub. The attraction is enormous but they both have baggage - Patrick a lot more than Maisie! There are a couple of twists to the story that I wasn't expecting, although hints had been given, had I noticed them!

This is the first of a series and I am really looking forward to the next ones. For personal reasons, I shall be following Patrick's story closely but look forward to seeing how the other characters' destinies are fulfilled.

Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.