Member Reviews
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I was able to find the audio version through my local library.
I enjoyed the story enough. I felt like it just focused way too much in if the couple was going to sleep with each other since his love interest was raped and didn't know if she could ever slept with another guy again. We are told this pretty much over and over and over. Then her love interest talks about it too. The author even talks about his erection through out the book and I am not sure if that was supposed to be funny but I think it was just cringe. We heard over and over how he just needs to take a cold shower. Just after a while it got old. The story itself was easy reading/listening to and is part of a series. It was just okay in the end. I usually like these series but this one was just all right.
Fenella J. Miller’s fabulous wartime saga series continues with the latest poignant, captivating and emotional installment, Wedding Bells at Goodwill House.
January 1941 and although the residents of Goodwill House are all bracing themselves for a spell of freezing cold weather, land girl Charlie Somiton has blossomed in the warm embrace of the friendships she has made there. Her fellow land girls Daphne and Sal have become very good friends of hers – and so has the dashing Doctor James Willoughby, who had looked after Charlie when she had been injured at work. What started out as an innocent friendship had quickly given way to something far deeper than either one of them was expecting, however, Charlie cannot help but worry about the secret which she has been carrying around with her for so long that could put paid to any hope she might have had of a future with James.
Well aware that she is keeping something from him, James wishes with all of his heart that Charlie would find the strength and courage to confide in him. With the world at war making each day so precious and life so fragile, James wonders whether Charlie will ever be brave enough to unburden herself to him and tell him the truth about her past – or whether her fears will end up costing them dear and ruin any chance they might have had of being together.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is a terrific wartime saga by Fenella J Miller full of atmosphere, drama, intensity and emotion guaranteed to hold readers spellbound. With a fantastic cast of characters, skillfully evoked period setting, touching romance and heart-wrenching pathos, Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is an enjoyable tale saga fans will thoroughly enjoy.
Another wonderful book in the Goodwill House series. I have really enjoyed this war time drama and it's like rejoining friends when you step into the pages of a new book. It describes war time life very well in all classes of life. Land girls were an essential part of the war and though a hard job, it must have been nice to be somewhere like Goodwill House.
I’ve read all books in this series and each one is as enjoyable as the last. Even though they are sort of stand-alones it is good to read in order, as you get to see bits from other characters in past books. Really enjoyed
This was another great and entertaining read in this wonderful series. I loved going back to the same characters and seeing how they’ve developed since the last book. Such a happy story. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Another in this series and it really is as good as the others have been. Lovely to follow the Land Girls and the family who live in the big house, and how their lives progress. Well worth 5 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this ARC
I love Historical Fiction, WWII is one of my favorite time periods, there is an overwhelming amount of books these past few years on this subject, so it's important to get something unusual into the storyline. I realize Charlie's past is that hook for the reader, I found the story sweet, and interesting, the deprivations are staggering, especially with the shortages we have been facing due to Covid, and we haven't recovered yet! I found myself comparing the Greatest Generation to our present shortages, and find it depressing, that generation was willing to put up with deprivation, do work they were never intended for, ladies mucking out on farms, working all hours, doing without food, to our present generations who refuse to work 5 days a week much less 7, who refuse to understand that it's going to require us all to work above and beyond what is needed to get us back to normal. I love reading these stories, I love the strength of these ladies, the men who sacrificed so much. I appreciate your allowing me to read the Arc.
I highly recommend it for WWII enthusiast. Thank you #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks
carolintallahassee
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House by Fenella J Miller opens with the war still in progress. It seems now almost the norm. There’s plenty going on in and around Goodwill House, as always. Lady Joanna Harcourt us busy, as always in this case negotiating fees to house and feed some American officers who are coming to do an inspection of nearby bases to assist the American government in assessing the advisability of investing money and possibly, men into the effort. Joe and Liza, her adopted war orphans are just about adults and functioning on their own. Dr James Willoughby was functioning, not only as the GP for the surrounding area, but as general surgeon several days a week in Ramsgate, a nearby larger town with a real hospital. He is still seeing Charlie and knew he wanted her as his wife, but she needed time. Someone had hurt her in the past. He was willing to wait. Vera’s, the cook, son had had turned up out of nowhere and had proven to be very helpful in maintaining the manor.
Terrific saga, full of wonderful personalities, and story of life as it happens. There are deaths, marriages, and so much more contained within these pages. The reader comes to feel as if he/she knows the characters like they know their own neighbors. It is a different era and that makes it wonderful: to feel some of what these folks felt while their country was plunged into war. The best part is that most of the problems are worked out and people mainly life happy lives. Not strictly reality, but it is for some. I love this series. Thanks Fenella J. Miller!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Wedding Bells at Goodwill House by Boldwood Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #FennellaJMiller #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse
Even though each installment in the Goodwill House series can be read as a stand-alone I would recommend reading them in order, starting with the first book, The War Girls of Goodwill House. This will allow the reader to gain some understanding of the characters and setting, as they all tie in together. Wedding Bells at Goodwill House takes place after the previous installment, A Wartime Reunion at the Goodwill House...
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is detailed medium paced story that unveils its plot at a decent pace.
Miller has researched the role the land girls plays in the war and some of the medical and surgical practices quite well. The mention of fuel shortage, raids and rationing adds more authenticity to the feel of the plot. The writing style is easy to understand and follow, with a mixture of description as well as dialogue. There was some points that were quite repetitive, especially having read all the previous books beforehand.
The character development of Wedding Bells at Goodwill House gives the reader background information about the characters to help them form a connection. It also, acts as a recap for those who have followed the story from the beginning of the Goodwill House series. There are links to the previous books...the characters are interesting, relatable and realistic, each having their own personalities, adding depth as the reader uncovers the story.
Joanna shows her emotions more, without fear.... When asked by a major general to accommodate visiting foreign dignitaries and an accompanying British officer she is left with little choice. Only for it to end badly, as they are found out as German sympathisers. Joanna is more open minded about her romantic relationship with John and decides to write to him to see if he still recuperates her feelings.
Charlie prefers to be active, instead of idling around. She has a continuing and strong friendship with her fellow land girls, Daphne and Sal. Her fear of intimacy leaves her feeling uncomfortable at the prospect of it. Leaving her questioning her new found relationship with Dr Willoughby.
James is trained as a general surgeon, as well as being the local GP for Stodham village and the surrounding area. He operates a weekly surgery at his home as well as performing home visits and rounds at the local hospital. He leads a busy life but always takes times for the woman who owns his heart...
The chemistry between Charlie and James is slow built, leading to some sweet moments. The attraction and feelings they for each other are very apparent, but due to Charlie's past experiences, she has avoided all contact with men. James takes things at a steady pace and tries not to rush her into making any choices she isn't ready for..
Overall I feel that Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is good, but there are some things that made me sad... The only revelation about the previous WAAF characters being widows now and that the romance between Charlie and James is at times overshadowed by Joanna's longing for John.... I really enjoyed catching up the inhabitants of Goodwill House and seeing how they have been doing since the last time I saw them....
I would suggest reading Wedding Bells at Goodwill House to people who enjoy reading historical fiction, sagas and wartime fiction based around WW2, as it is a character driven story about frienship, relationships as the characters try to survive through the war...
‘Wedding Bells at Goodwill House’ by Fenella J. Miller is set during the Second World War, and is the story of the land girls who have taken on physically demanding jobs on the farms to aid the war effort. Charlie Somiton had made good friends at Goodwill House, where she is billeted. She has also become fond of the local G.P. James Willoughby. But a secret from her past threatens to ruin their blossoming romance. Can Charlie overcome her fears and confide in James? And can they find happiness in a world where tomorrow is never guaranteed?
I love historical novels, and especially ones featuring strong women. Charlie is one of those determined and resourceful women. I enjoyed reading about the Second World War from a woman’s perspective. The women were faced with the stark realities of war, be it in a different way from the soldiers in combat.
I liked that there were several strands to the story, and we got to see how conflict affected people in different ways. There was a great understanding of the realities of day to day life for those left at home.
The characters became like friends and family to each other. They were far away from home and had to carve out new lives, away from the familiarity of pre-war living. ‘Wedding Bells at Goodwill House’ was the perfect escapism and pulled me into a historical era that I want to now more about.
I was given this ARC for review.
We are back at Goodwill House, with 2 weddings for the land girls. The war continues, however the village are quite safe despite Manston and the coast nearby. Joanna still pines for her lover, they had decided to part in the previous book because of the age difference. The twins, who Joanna has adopted are doing well with there studies. Her son is counting the days to when he can join the RAF. It has become obvious to Joanna, that Goodwill House is now too big for her and is looking to downsize. This is another great read and I have no hesitation in giving 5*
If you have read previous instalments in this series, you will be pleased to know that the story continues. Christmas has passed and in January 1941, the villagers are looking forward to another year of deprivations on the Home Front. However, the 'make do and mend' mentality is alive and kicking and there is plenty of period detail on how they go about doing that. The Land Girls are settled in to life in the village and have formed some strong friendships.
Charlie's story is the principal focus as she comes to terms with events in her past and has to work out if she can trust Dr Willoughby. All this is done under the scrutiny if the locals, who observe the comings and goings of each other and are at times, judgemental. However, Charlie has many friends and allies, as does the well respected doctor. Charlie is not the only character who is considering her future and making decisions which may put her under the spotlight. However, you sense how the war has brought about subtle changes in how society operates, regarding class and women's roles. This is an entertaining read . Even the moments when the war comes starkly into relief, there is a kindness and humanity about how people are dealt with.
In short: Life on the home front brings people together
#blogtour
The sixth book in this series and Wedding Bells at Goodwill House takes us, once more back in time. 1941 is the year and World War Two is full steam ahead. We are back with the familiar characters and I was so glad to be able to catch up with them.
Fenella J. Miller writes the most authentic historical fiction. The amount of research must be immense, as every single book in the series is so vivid and believable. She brings every emotion to her writing and even though we return in the war, there is still laughter to be found. I was laughing myself as I read and it was sorely needed.
It may be a hard time for all, but there are good times to be had, as we witness two order weddings and romance along the way. It does delve into sensitive issues but the author deals with them very well and in a fitting manner too.
Wedding Bells At Goodwill House can be read as a standalone. But, I will say that once you have read one book in this series, I can guarantee you will want to read them all!
Thanks to Rachel Gilbey, Boldwood Books and NetGalley.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is #6 in the Goodwill House series but can be read as a stand alone (I have not read others in the series).
In the winter of 1941, Charlie works as a Land Girl and appreciates her growing friendship with handsome Dr. Willoughby. The doctor would like to take their friendship to the next level, but Charlie has a painful secret that holds her back. Will Charlie share her secret with Willoughby and how will he react?
I love historical fiction because there’s always something new to learn. In this story, I googled to learn more about the Land Girls. and how hard they worked on farms while the men were away at war.
Stories of everyday life on the home front during WWII are intriguing and cause me to wonder what I would do. Would I be a Land Girl? Would I open my home to others? How would I cope with occasional bombings, black out curtains, rationing, and loved ones going to war? Their courage to carry on and make do is inspiring.
Even though the story includes a slow-burn romance, there’s more substance as well. Thoughtful content includes enduring through hardships, PTSD and healing from past trauma, sexual assault (referenced from the past), an ongoing war, friendship, found family, and community.
I warmly recommend Wedding Bells at Goodwill House for fans of a historical fiction/women’s fiction mashup. It’s gently told and heartfelt. If you enjoy this one, there are five more in the series.
Content Consideration: rape (off the page and in the past).
Thanks #NetGalley @BoldwoodBooks @rararesources for a complimentary e ARC of #WeddingBellsAtGoodwillHouse upon my request. All opinions are my own.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is my favourite book of this series. It can easily be read as a standalone but too really get to know each of the characters I would recommend reading the whole series. I was overjoyed that this book focuses on Charlie as she is my favourite. I loved the development of a relationship between Charlie and Dr James. There are other romances developing too. There is also family dramas and dangers raging as the war continues. I would have liked a epilogue at the end of the book just to sum it all up as I feel it ended slightly abruptly. It was a absolutely joy of a book to read and I relished reading about the characters who feel like great friends.
I enjoyed my time at Goodwill House. The author has a good cast of characters here and while setting the book during the second world war, doesn’t focus on that but instead uses it as a background to the main story.
The characters were likeable and genuine, and I became invested in their stories so much so I will be returning to the first book in the series to see how things started out for everyone.
Wedding Bells at Goodwill House is the sixth book in the Goodwill House series. You don't have to read the other books first because this could be read as a stand-alone but to thoroughly enjoy all of the characters and see how they develop, I advise you to read the other books first.
Despite being set in wartime this book still had some lovely lighthearted moments. There was romance, of course, and not just between the main couple in the book; Doctor Willoughby and landgirl, Charlie. There were dark moments, and not just because of the war. It's just one of those books that make you run the whole gamut of emotions.
The ending was wonderful, but it was quite abrupt. An epilogue would have been great, but as there wasn't one I am hoping that the story will continue in another book in the series! Fingers crossed.
When I requested this book to read I didn’t realise it was book six in a series! Although I didn’t completely understand the full story I did really enjoy what I read. So much so I’ve downloaded the other books in the series to be able to read book 6 again and understand completely what the story is about.
This was an enjoyable read concerning well loved characters. I liked the way Lady Harcourt, Joanna, has evolved during this series to become the confident lady she is now. I liked the way she grasped the joy she wanted and took a leading role in achieving it. There is such a warm feeling when reading this series, how most people just got on with things, made the best of what they had and worked together for all their benefit. There was also the present danger and heartache that war brought. On the lighter side there was a romance or two and to balance it out, some dangerous people. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is book six in the Goodwill House series and I’ve loved every one of them. The war is still going but Lady Hardcourt and her land girl residents are soldiering on and dealing with each situation as it arises. This book has quite a feel good feeling to it as two of the girls get married and we see how things move on for each of the characters we’ve grown to love. I highly recommend this series and I look forward to seeing what Fenella has in store for us readers next.