Member Reviews
If you are a fan of charming romances with endearing characters, then you are going to love Dreams Come True at Primrose Hall by Jill Steeples.
Reading this book was like being wrapped in a cozy warm blanket. It leaves you feeling happy and oh-so content. I love Jill's writing. She has this wonderful ability to transport her readers to these charming English countryside settings and create these stories that touch your heart.
Dreams Come True at Primrose Hall was delightful and just so lovely to read. It's one of those books you can read in one sitting because you don't want to put it down. It had a lovely flow; there wasn't too much drama, twists, or turns. You get to sit back and enjoy the story. Fans of Jill's books will be delighted to know that characters from her other books make an appearance in this story. I always love when authors do this because it allows readers to see what these beloved characters have been up to since we last saw them.
Pia is endearing and delightful. She is such a wonderful character, and I loved watching her grow and become more confident in herself. I liked Jackson; he has this mysterious vibe to him. I found myself attracted to him and trying to figure out his story and what was going on in that gorgeous head. The man is like an onion; he's got layers. The characters' interactions are fun and lighthearted while still having a certain amount of depth. There are plenty of heart-to-heart conversations and connections being made in this book.
Those who love a good HEA romance will love this book. This story has a love triangle romance in it. Pia has two love interests in this story who are Jackson and Daniel. I'm not always a fan of love triangles, but I didn't mind this one. Jill did a fabulous job weaving this trope in her story entertainingly and charmingly. Pia and Jackson are sweet together, and their interactions have a slow, slow-burn vibe to it. This is a closed-door romance, so think kisses and hugs. I just loved Pia and Jackson to bits.
Dreams Come True at Primrose Hall is beautifully written and perfect to read on the weekend with your favourite cuppa tea.
Thank you, Boldwood Books and Rachel Random Resources for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I took to Pia and her story in an instant; I’m well aware of some of the challenges that come with aged parents, and I felt a real kinship for her. Finding the job advert was serendipitous and led to a whole new opportunity for her. I particularly loved her devotion to her former neighbour, and Bertie the daft Dalmatian.
The wonderful descriptions of Primrose Hall helped to create a clear image in my mind, and I could almost imagine relaxing in Pia’s gorgeous apartment. It must have been slightly tainted to learn that the design was down to the skills of Tara, Jackson’s gorgeous ex-girlfriend, but Pia was able to rise above this detail and relax in her luxurious new home.
Jackson is the archetypal bad boy who made good. Pia certainly viewed him as being beyond her reach and felt justified in that opinion when Tara reappears at the Hall.
I felt all my boxes being ticked as I followed the characters through this delightful story. There was an obvious connection remaining between Pia and Jackson, a ghost of a memory that grew as the weeks passed. Of course, I don’t include spoilers, so you’ll need to read the book to learn more.
This gorgeous book is filled with the most charming characters and fits perfectly with the rest of the series. We had previously had a glimpse of the Hall’s new owner in Snowflakes Over Primrose Woods, but each of the books can be read as a standalone story.
This was a delightful escape, and I can highly recommend it.
I’m so delighted to have discovered Jill Steeples writing – the beautiful setting of Primrose Woods (I’d rather like to walk the Wildflower Trail with Pia and Bertie too), the well developed characters and community (but although this is the third in a series, you’d have no problems reading this one as a standalone), the gentle storytelling and the warmth that permeates every page.
Pia gave up on her future to care for her parents – but she’s now alone, packing up the family home and needing to find a job and somewhere to live rather than moving in with her brother and his wife-to-be. She has concerns too about leaving friend and neighbour Wendy behind – although fiercely independent, it’s becoming clear that she’s struggling to live alone and to care for energetic dalmatian Bertie, the dog whose care she took on for her son who works in Australia. When Pia spots an advert for a live-in personal assistant at nearby Primrose Hall, it looks like the answer to her problems – until she discovers that the hall’s owner is Jackson, the childhood sweetheart who left her behind and broke her heart. But she’s fairly desperate, the job’s one she can do, it pays well, and the flat provided is the answer to her problems – and when Wendy has an accident and she finds herself looking after Bertie, she’s relieved to find that he’ll be welcome at the hall too.
The relationship between Pia and Jackson is central to the story – a friendship at first (she’s aware of his glamorous girlfriend Tara, and involved herself in the early stages of a possible relationship), but a second chance romance might just be on the cards. And surrounding them is the loveliest cast of characters – Jackson’s eccentric mother Ronnie setting her sights on shy gardener Mateo, maintenance man Frank, housekeeper Ivy, then the unexpected appearance of the charming Rex. Pia’s friendship with Abbey – who we met in the first two books, and runs the local care home – helps Pia find a possible solution for Wendy, and there’s a lovely focus on family too with the wedding preparations for her brother Connor and partner Ruby. And then, of course, there’s Tara – and she might be the obstacle to Pia and Jake ever becoming more than friends.
I’ve already mentioned the word “gentle” – there’s conflict that keeps the story engaging, but it never disturbs the overall warmth and feel-good of the story, which unfolds at a perfect pace. The whole idea of developing activities – craft workshops, a wedding venue, a literary festival – in the hall’s outbuildings is one I’ve come across several times before, but it’s particularly well handled. And the whole story has just the right emotional touch – Pia can’t help but win your heart, and Jackson, with his chequered past and secrets, proves to be the perfect romantic hero. All that, and animals too – a mischievous donkey and shetland pony, and Bertie the dalmatian making himself very much at home.
I really hope there are more books to come in this series – I’m really enjoying it, and this book was thoroughly lovely in every way. A definite recommendation from me.
Can you believe we're already on book three of the Primrose Woods series? It can be read as a standalone, but trust me when I say you're missing out if you don't read them in order.
Everyone loves a bad boy, so I couldn't wait to get acquainted with Jackson, now owner of Primrose Hall. Pia deserved a little happiness in her life after putting her life on hold to care for both her parents and second mum, neighbour Wendy.
Dreams Come True was an absolute joy to read, as are all of Staples' books. It'll warm the cockles of your heart and make you smile.
An uplifting story of second chance and starting over.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I’m so happy to be back with the Primrose Woods series, this is the third book, but this one can be read as a stand-alone book, although I always think you get a better experience reading all the books and why would you deprive yourself of some fantastic reading. I love Primrose Woods so much , I wish I could have a little cottage at the edge, go visit the cafe and take a walk in the woods, it would be heaven.
I loved the familiar faces from the previous two books, but they don’t take prominence so if you haven’t read them it won’t affect your understanding at all. Pia and Jackson I just loved so much, the childhood beginnings , changed man and second chances, it was all definitely my kind of story. They have such fantastic chemistry and I loved their story. It’s got independent animals full of character, since I have a house full myself I particularly enjoy reading about them and the humour they bring to life.
This has some very emotional scenes and important issues, you might need a tissue or two, but I am very easy to be emotional, but it’s also laugh out loud funny. It’s a book full of great friendships and lovely strong community ties, Jill Steeple’s experienced hand crafts perfect and engaging stories, well rounded characters and wonderful romance. I can wholeheartedly recommend any of Jill’s books to make you smile and feel a little warmer inside than when you began.
Thanks to Jill Steeples , Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for a free e-book in return for an honest and voluntary review, all opinions are my own and freely given.
This was a sweet, cozy read and I loved it as I have with Jill’s books in the past. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
This is a lovely book. I loved the characters and how she is trying to get her life together after taking time out to look after her parents before they died. Just very strange for her finding her ex boyfriend after about 10 years and realising she still has very strong feelings for Jackson.
And as for the dog he is just gorgeous and you would feel like something was missing if he had to return to his previous owner. I hope to have more from this series.
I loved this east to follow return to Primrose. Jill has done a great job keeping the vibe alive and interesting. I am totally in love with Bertie the Dalmatian. The story follows Pia Temple who has sold her home and in need of a new job and home, She answers an ad in the window of Treetops Cafe and applies for a potential girl/man Friday job.
She takes care of her neighbour Wendy's dog Bertie and loves animals.
As Fate would have it she stumbles back into her boyfriend Jackson Moody from 10 years ago, when she was a fresh 18 year old. Little Star and Twinkie are two cute four legged residents of the Primrose Hall animal residents.
We meet a number of other interesting characters, including Daniel, Ronnie, Pia's brother and bride to be.
It's feel good and inspiring and totally recommended as a standalone as well as part of a series.
This is my first book in this series, but it will definitely not be the last. The cute narrative completely stole my heart, the well written, relatable characters and family connections. The chemistry and romance is pitched perfectly too meaning that as soon as I finished I was desperate for more Pia and Jackson adventures.
The characters have jumped off the pages and become friends. I'm about to pop in and have tea with them. Primrose Hall sounds marvelous. I can see how anyone would feel comfortable living there. And the spacious grounds sound ideal as well.
I am getting ahead of myself though.
Pia continues to live in her home after her parents' death and her mother's best friend, Wendy lives next door. Pia has known Wendy her whole life and she sees her as a grandmotherly figure. With Wendy's increasing mobility issues Pia pops in and takes her dog Betrice for a walk daily while checking on and having a visit with Wendy. This comes to an end when Wendy has a bad fall and she has to go the hospital and then will have a long recovery. Pia has to move out of her house, and she doesn't want to leave Wendy's dog.
An ex is looking for a help mate at Primrose Hall and it looks like the perfect solution for Pia, a home and a place for Betrice.
This book follows Pia as she adjusts to living at Primrose Hall while having her own flat there. Seeing her ex and him being her boss can get rather awkward. Jackson Moody seems to be everywhere Pia looks and it just brings to the forefront their long-ago romance. If only he wasn't so nice, and she wasn't falling for him all over again. After meeting Daniel and going on several dates with him, she isn't sure who to choose for a boyfriend and it becomes a bit of a love triangle. I know who I chose before she chose, and I think she made the right choice.
I enjoyed this book so much. Meeting Wendy the grandmotherly woman, the wonderful Bertie that everyone loved and did not want to see go to her old owner and I loved the sweet romance this book had. This feel-good make you happy book is perfect for sipping your tea and totally relaxing after a stressful day.
Pub Date 22 Feb 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Pia has recently lost her parents where she has stayed caring for them in the family house. Now it’s time to sell the home. She hasn’t got a job or anywhere to live when she’s offered the perfect job with accommodation at Primrose Hall, there’s just one problem, the owner and her new boss, Jackson, is an ex-boyfriend.
Pia accepts the job and loves it organising events, weddings and craft fairs. Can she put aside her feelings for Jackson and continue to work for him?
This is the third book in The Primrose Woods series of books. This can be read as a standalone novel, but it is a lovely series, so I recommend reading them all.
This book focuses on Pia and Jackson who both had brief roles in the previous book. Jackson is the new owner of Primrose Hall, Pia is an ex-girlfriend from when they were teenagers. Pia is trying to start afresh after the death of her Mother who she cared for.
Abbie, Lizzie and Sam from the first two books do feature in this book, but do not have prominent roles. The focus has moved from Primrose Woods to Primrose Hall. It was nice to hear about them again.
Both Jackson and Pia had difficult childhoods and although they were friends then lovers they had drifted apart. There are some difficult themes in this book and some very emotional scenes.
There is also a lot of fun, especially involving Bertie the dog. This is a heartwarming and enjoyable read I really love this series of books and hope that there will be more visits to Primrose Woods.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my ARC.
Another gorgeous read set near the Primrose Wood,
This time a second chance romance, coming good!
After giving up her dreams for her parents to care
Their deaths mean she now needs a new home somewhere.
Not only that, but she needs a job, too,
But Pia is unsure just what she should do.
A postcard advert catches Pia's eye
A job with accommodation, she decides to give it a try.
She's shocked to discover the employer she knows
He's her teen boyfriend before he disappeared, apparently for good.
It seems he's back now, living at Primrose Hall,
The jobs a dream as long as for his charms she doesn't fall!
There's also a Dalmatian who steals everyone's heart
And in the story plays a very significant part!
A heartwarming story of starting life anew
Learning new skills and making new friends, too.
A fabulous read with dramas and romances all the way through
Making you hope that dreams really will come true.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
Dreams Come True at Primrose Hall by Jill Steeples
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Pia Temple has always had a soft spot for Jackson Moody following a passionate teenage love affair that burnt out over one long summer, more than ten years ago. First loves can be hard to forget, and the devastatingly gorgeous Jackson, is harder to forget than most.
After putting aside her ambitions while she cared for her parents, it is finally time for Pia to think about herself. So, when she’s offered the perfect job running the social calendar at Primrose Hall, with a dreamy flat included, how can she refuse? There’s only one problem… The new owner of the refurbished seventeenth-century manor house set in the idyllic Primrose Woods, is none other than Jackson, the man she’s thought about every day for years.
In a whirl of weddings and craft fairs, literary festivals and tea parties, Pia blossoms in her new role. But with the delectable Jackson a daily distraction, maybe this isn’t the dream job after all – especially when Jackson’s unfeasibly beautiful ex-girlfriend Tara, comes back to visit the hall…
My Opinion
Pia is in desperate need of a home and a job - can a job advert really help solve all of her problems? This was such a lovely, heart-warming read. It was so well-written and so entertaining that I had read over half of the book before I realised. Whilst this is part of a series, there is more than enough information for this to work as a standalone.
It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away for a few hours. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.
Rating: 4/5
Another stunning book by Jill, expertly written. Lovely range of characters and plot, penned in Jill's expert way. Loved it!
A lovely read. It was great to visit Primrose Hall again and to get Jackson’s story. Pia and Jackson are a great match, they have history together but the spark is still there. I enjoyed how they built a friendship before taking anything further. They cleared the misunderstandings and moved forward.
The descriptions of Primrose Hall were beautiful and the wedding had a fantastic setting.
I really hope we get to see everyone again soon.
Pia has just found her dream job in the village where she lives as a pa at Primrose Hall until she goes to the interview and finds out that her boss is her ex boyfriend Jackson and his girlfriend. She wants to turn the job down but discovers it includes accomodation as well as a good salary. As she is having to move out of her childhood home as it's been sold she has no choice but to accept
A fab read
When dreaming of her future, Pia couldn't imagine the path her life would take upon finishing school. After one perfect summer with bad boy Jackson Moody, he left town without a word and it broke her heart.
Now, many years later, she is recovering from the loss of both of her parents, whom she was the primary carer for. But as her family home is sold, Pia is left to worry about her future. Where will she live? And who will hire her?
The answer seems to come in the form of a job advert from Primrose Hall, a beautiful home that has been recently renovated and whose owner is looking for a new Personal Assistant. It's a live in position and the pay is great but there's just one problem... her new boss is none other than her first love.
Will Pia find a true home at Primrose Hall or will being around Jackson be too much for her to handle?
I honestly loved this story so much. It was written so well and I gained an immediate affinity for Pia and how strong and resilient she is. The way Jackson is described is just drool worthy and his attitude is searing. Who doesn't want a Jackson in their life!
As much as it is a clean, closed door romance, I felt that I could see the main relationship progress in a very natural way. Pia's other relationships with several of the characters are so fresh and endearing that it's impossible not to root for her happiness!
Thank you to author Jill Steeples, publisher Boldwood books and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. The book will be published on 22nd February 2023 🥳
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
I really enjoyed this book, just as much as the previous books.
The book is set in Primrose Hall, and the story is about Pia and Jackson, although it does include characters from the last books..
Pia finds a job at the Hall which is now owned by Jackson, her ex-boyfriend, and you read about how they met and then suddenly lost touch. It also explains how they know their characters in the story.
This has the will they, won’t they moments as well covering some other issues, like grief, which was sensitively covered.
I highly recommend this book.
I found this just as enjoyable as the previous book by Jill Steeples set in and around Primrose Woods. This time the setting is Primrose Hall and although there are nods to characters from previous books, this can very much be read as a standalone. I loved the main characters Pia and Jackson. Their backstory was easily explained as was their connection to all the other characters. This is a real romantic read with some will they won’t they moments along with some other topics like grief sensitively covered. I got so engaged in this I read it in one sitting! Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.