I felt that this book started a little slow but I think it was to try and introduce various characters and set the scene.

Once it got going, it was a sweet book which mainly focused on a few women who became firm friends and perfectly showcased the impact of a good friendship group.

The book featured love, heartbreak and had a happy ending, which I did find easy to predict, but it didn’t matter.

Really enjoyed it in the end so thanks for allowing me the opportunity to read it.

This was quite a different writing style to other books I've read by this author and I wasn't sure I liked it at first. There seemed to be a lot of characters to remember and it all seemed a bit disjointed. However, the further I read the more it made sense and I ended up really enjoying this book. It was quite refreshing to read a book full of characters who are just upfront and honest. No dragging storyline out, all storylines had an ending. It was fun to read although there was one storyline that touches on domestic abuse.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I enjoyed reading this book, which I read in one sitting.

It’s the story of six people, some who have lived there all their lives, some that are new and others that have come back.

The story had so much happening throughout. It was lovely to see the people of the village come together when others needed help.

I loved the setting.

I recommend this book.

I received a free copy of, The Honeystone Village Diaries, by Kate Forster, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a book about six main characters, in a wonderful village. There is a lot going on in this village, I really enjoyed meeting the characters in this story, its a very enjoyable read.

A sweet and funny read which I enjoyed. The characters were so entertaining and the whole story really flowed and worked well. I read this in one day. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

4.5⭐️
This story covers the lives of six main characters living in the quiet village of Honeystone. Some have been there all their lives, some have left and returned while others are new to the village.
With loveable characters this is a heartwarming and enjoyable summer read.
Clover was probably my favourite character (possibly because my mum is called Clover and I never see her name mentioned in anything)
I can see this becoming a series and I would definitely read the continuation of the lives of these people who I have grown to love.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in return for an honest review.

I absolutely loved everything about this book. Fantastic characters with a beautiful location. This is one of the easiest books I have read as I was unable to put it down till I reached the end.
I will definitely be recommending this book.

I read this book in one sitting, I loved it! It's the perfect book for me, a small village and an 'outsider' comes to live there and it's how they fit into village life. This is all.about community life, relationships and life - not afraid to tackle difficult issues but still a great read.

Delightful! A story of family, friendship, love and finding your way in life. Everyone in Honeystone Village faces challenges but they all have a special gift. An enchanting tale, I loved it!

I enjoyed this book tremendously and it was a perfect book to get lost in although it felt a bit rushed in places and would have been more satisfying had it been more complete and longer.
My main criticism is the inconsistencies of the characters - both descriptive and in the narrative.
We're told at the beginning that Connor drinks tea and cider, then later he doesn't like cider. Anthea is described as having dark hair with a light streak (very Daphne Guinness) then later when she's with Rob he's moving a strand of grey hair away from her face.... these are minor but annoying.
In the narrative I felt that the characters changed to fit the story and, in particular, Anthea's complete about turn from solitude to the centre of everything happened so quickly she must have suffered from whiplash.
The timeline also felt a bit muddles, how long did the hall take to renovate etc. was it all done before Anthea moved in?
I did love the setting and the characters, reading this was like a return to the heyday of the early Heidi Swain books. I also loved the names of the dogs
Overall, a really good book that could be a really great one

When I started this book I didn't think it was going to be for me, there seemed to be a lot of people and back stories to remember, however I was very wrong, they intertwined beautifully and after the first few chapters I could see where they were going, the characters are very likable and it was very easy to read and I found myself thinking about the story and wanting to pick up the book.

The story was finished, but i can easily see a series of books following these characters and I look forward to reading more if there is a series.

A really loveable book that I couldn't put down. Such a mix of characters, you are bound to find one you identify, at least a little bit, and a village that we all warm too. Be prepared to keep reading, it's not one the let you go!

What an utterly charming and heartwarming story. I loved this book from the first chapter.
The setting of Honeystone was just perfect and had such lovely likeable characters minus one.(no spoilers) I think Clover was my favourite.
The book had plenty going on and I loved how the villagers pulled together to help each other out.
This book was a joy to read and I hope there is a sequel so we can see what happens with the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley, Orion Publishing Group and Kate Forster for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

EARC Book Review: *The Honeystone Village Diaries* by Kate Forster**

Rating: 5/5 🌟

Kate Forster’s *The Honeystone Village Diaries* is an utterly charming and heartwarming novel that perfectly captures the essence of village life and the magic of community. Set in the picturesque village of Honeystone, just outside the Cotswolds, this book is a delightful escape into a world where everyone knows everyone, and the bonds of friendship and family run deep.

The story weaves together the lives of three women, each facing their own struggles and searching for a sense of belonging and purpose. Anthea, a renowned perfumer who has lost her sense of smell, has recently become the owner of Spindle Hall. Her initial reluctance to make new friends is soon challenged by the warm and welcoming villagers of Honeystone. Anthea’s journey of healing and rediscovery is beautifully portrayed, making her a compelling and relatable character.

Peony’s return to Honeystone after years away brings her face to face with old wounds and new challenges. Her father, Robert, is struggling to keep the family pub, the Hare and Thistle, afloat. The dynamic between Peony and Robert is touching, and their efforts to support each other through difficult times add depth to the narrative. Peony’s journey of reconciliation and growth is both poignant and inspiring.

Izzy’s story is equally engaging. Her love for Raspberry Hill Farm and her dedication to caring for her niece, Clover, are heartwarming. The arrival of a new doctor in town sparks a new chapter in Izzy’s life, filled with possibilities and hope. Izzy’s character is wonderfully developed, and her interactions with the new doctor add a sweet and romantic element to the story.

What makes *The Honeystone Village Diaries* truly special is Kate Forster’s ability to create a vivid and enchanting setting. The village of Honeystone, with its quaint cottages, friendly locals, and sense of community, feels like a character in itself. Forster’s descriptive writing brings the village to life, making readers feel as though they are right there, experiencing the beauty and charm of Honeystone firsthand.

The themes of friendship, healing, and the importance of community are beautifully interwoven throughout the novel. Forster’s writing is warm, engaging, and full of heart. The characters’ journeys are realistic and relatable, and their growth over the course of the book is both satisfying and uplifting.

*The Honeystone Village Diaries* is a testament to the power of ordinary people and the extraordinary impact they can have on each other’s lives. Kate Forster has crafted a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for fans of cozy village tales and character-driven narratives.

If you’re looking for a book that will leave you feeling uplifted and filled with warmth, *The Honeystone Village Diaries* is the perfect choice. Welcome to Honeystone—you’ll find a place to rest and so much more.

#TheHoneystoneVillageDiaries #KateForster #NetGalley #BookReview #HeartwarmingFiction #MustRead

I was not sure at first but wow. This book drew me in and in the end could not put it down. So many wonderful characters . Told in chapters by different people, you had horrid marriages, controlling husbands, devoted fathers , a clever little girl, a beautiful old house, an ace village and a quaint pub. . It also had a perfect neat ending. Loved it

Struggled to connect or care about any of the characters with the exception of Clover and Baggins. Unsure if the author was trying to write unlikeable people who get redeemed by being in the same village but I put it down before I could find out.

It’s a no from me