Lessons in Life is a warm, witty, and wonderfully uplifting read. Julie Houston delivers a story full of heart, humor, and relatable characters navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and unexpected surprises. With laugh-out-loud moments and plenty of emotional depth, this book strikes the perfect balance between fun and meaningful. A delightful escape that feels like catching up with old friends—you won’t want to put it down!

Loved it!! I thought the book would start with the events of the Yorkshire Christmas TopChef competition. Not much is mentioned about it, just who wins. The whole competition is glossed over. Did the people even win anything? At the end of the first book, I thought Fabian and Jess would combine their cooking skills and eventually open up a restaurant together. Not much changed with the Allen family. Robyn still overreacts. Did she not think Fabian had previous girlfriends? How can she get mad at Fabian when she had a relationship with Mason. A relationship that was beyond just being friends and she still works with him. Sorrel is still bratty. She comes and goes as she pleases. Her mom and sisters allow her to do whatever she wants, even though Sorrel is only fifteen. I wasn't surprised about Sorrel's condition. sorrel living in London without her family is scary. I can't imagine what she will get up to without any supervision (although she's hardly supervised while living at home.) Lisa has made a 180 change. The medicine for her illness has made a big difference in her life. She at least came to her senses about Jayden. How did Jess and Robyn turn out so well? Lisa wasn't always present as a parent, especially when she was feeling ill. I wasn't shocked when the truth about Lisa's birth mother was finally revealed. I knew who it was going to be. After Jess and Robyn visit Karen, it's easy to see why Lisa ran away with Jayden. Adrian and Karen Foley were awful parents. They were not fit to be parents. I might have enjoyed that Karen got cats, just to annoy her husband. Although, Karen probably isn't even fit to own cats. She was such a horrible woman.

Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, story and writing style. I really enjoyed reading about Eloise's younger years. Loved Roger Rabbit. He's such a well behaved bunny. Beddingfield sounds like a beautiful place to live. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Will Robyn actually get the production of Grease to even happen? Look forward to reading more books by the author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I chose this book to review because the blurb talked about mill girls in the 1960s, so I was rather disappointed when I was a third of the way in before we travelled to that era. But it was the only thing about the book which did disappoint!
Julie Houston’s gift as a writer is making you care about her characters. Within pages I was really rooting for Robyn and her relationship with the rather wonderful Fabian, despite the fact she seems intent on sabotaging their second chance at happiness. I adored her mother, Lisa, determined to forge a new life for herself. And Eloise, but in the present and the wonderfully recreated world of the 1960s tugged at my heartstrings.
Not only this, but Houston is brave enough to weave the stories around racial and class prejudice – not just sixty years ago, but in the present day. A timely reminder through fiction that although we have moved on, there are still battles which need to be won.

I would have appreciated a mention that the story is part of a series. Otherwise, the book is just Joe for me , it is one of these situations were it is totally my fault for expecting a completely different tone and vibe.

I do love a Julie Houston book. Great stories & characters & this book was excellent. I am now waiting patiently for the next in this series. Hurry Up Julie!

Lessons in Life by Julie Houston is a heartwarming and humorous story that explores the ups and downs of life, love, and friendship. Set in a charming village, the book follows a cast of relatable characters navigating challenges and finding joy amidst chaos. Houston’s wit and warmth shine through her engaging writing, making this a delightful read for those who enjoy feel-good novels with depth and humor.

A really fabulous read. Kept you griped .You follow 3 siblings and their complicated lives . I loved the old peoples home . The twists are lovely and the love of food through the book. Some sad bits. I can’t spoil it but you won’t be able to put it down. I loved how you went back in time to make sense of the present . Just read it. Julie Houston is a fab writer . Great ending .

Full disclosure, I am already a huge fan of Julie Houston's books. She is a master in the art of writing relateable family's, the humour and heartache and no one does sisters better than she does.

Robyn, Jess and Sorrel are complex characters, as too is their mother Lisa. This new story in the series is another rollercoaster ride through every emotion and the end did not disappoint.

Lessons in Life is a cracking read.

Highly recommend.

Filled with lots of love, family and friendships, this book is truly a delight to read.
I read this in an evening, perfect light entertainment which left me wanting more……. Such a delightful read, which I absolutely loved!

This book, the next in the series by Julie Houston is an excellent read. It is well written and continues the tale of not so ordinary families and their lives and is filled with drama, fun, romance but also looks at issues such as Alzheimer’s disease and teen problems in a good way. It ends with the reader keen to read the next part of the series. Well worth reading, particularly if you’ve previously read the first part of the series.