A Perfect Cornish Escape
by Phillipa Ashley
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date 11 Jun 2020 | Archive Date 14 Jun 2020
Avon Books UK | Avon
Description
Escape to Cornwall this summer… The new book in the Porthmellow Harbour series, following A Perfect Cornish Summer and A Perfect Cornish Christmas, is available to pre-order now!
‘Wonderful. A love story with a mystery at its heart, it will make you laugh, cry and yearn for Cornwall. I loved it!’ Miranda Dickinson
Summer in Cornwall is the perfect time for a fresh start…Seven years ago, Marina Hudson’s husband was lost at sea. She vowed to love him for the rest of her life – but when kind-hearted Lachlan arrives in Porthmellow, should she deny herself another chance at happiness?
Tiff Trescott was living life to the full as a journalist in London – until her boyfriend’s betrayal brought it all crashing down. Fleeing to her cousin Marina’s cottage, Tiff feels like a fish-out-of-water. And when brooding local Dirk wins a day with her in a charity auction, she’s thrown headfirst into Cornish life.
This summer promises new beginnings for both Tiff and Marina. But are they too good to be true?
Escape to Cornwall with this emotional, uplifting read. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan and Trisha Ashley.
‘A slice of Cornish sunshine. Gorgeously romantic, with plenty of twists to keep me turning the pages. Absolutely loved it’ Holly Martin
Available Editions
EDITION | Ebook |
ISBN | 9780008371586 |
PRICE | US$12.99 (USD) |
PAGES | 400 |
Featured Reviews
Two women have a summer in Cornwall that will change everything. Tiff has left her London life behind after the betrayal of her boyfriend. Retreating to Cornwall to her cousin Marina’s home, she hope to regroup and recover. But then, as a result of a charity auction, she ends up spending a day with the darkly brooding local, Dirk. Marina, meanwhile has spent the last seven years mourning the death of her husband, swearing she will never love again. But Lachlan may change all that, if Marina can open her heart. This is a charming story with the wild beauty of Cornwall as a backdrop
Another brilliant book from Phillipa Ashley set in Porthmellow, Cornwall. Marina was born in the town, her husband vanished when out on a fishing trip seven years ago and she started the lookout point in his memory. He left behind a lot of debt and problems that Marina had to sort out. Her cousin Tiff arrives to stay with her whenr she has to leave her job as a journalist in London after being set up by her boyfriend.
Dirk, who works on the lifeboat, came back to Porthmellow after his marriage broke down. Lachlan has moved into the town after an accident and is keen not to mingle with people.. Four main characters, all with a past whose stories makeup a brilliant tale of courage, forgiveness and love.
This is a must read book for anyone who likes a book they can lose themselves in
With thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Having read all of Trisha's books I was in no way surprised as to how good her new book is she has such a fabulous way of describing situations that you feel as if your actually there can highly recommend this book
I was soooooo excited to get my hands on Book.
I loved this book from page one! Marina has lost a husband, a husband who was lost at sea. Marina has helped open a Beach watching centre in his memory. Tiff Marinas cousin comes to stay after her life in London goes a tad wrong. Community spirit, love and a massive twist. Follow Marina & Tiffs journey!
Hooked, you won’t want to put it down!
Praise for Phillipa Ashley.
Lovely to be back in porthmellow again! I do love the Cornish based series and was delighted to get this book to read and review! Usually I would have read this in a day or two but life has been exceedingly hectic this last week so has taken me longer than usual but that is no reflection on the book!
A real summery feel good read full of love, mystery and intrigue perfect for spring or summer!
Marina lost her husband Nate at sea seven years ago and is still coming to terms with her loss, whilst tiff has lost her job, reputation and boyfriend but together in the tranquil seaside location of porthmellow they are given a second chance at love and happiness, a great read that demonstrates the power of friendship and community and happy ever afters!
Thank you net galley for this early read.
OMG
A fabulous book.
The story of Marina. She lost her husband seven years ago and is slowly getting her life back on track. Her cousin Tiff comes to stay, also having had some bad luck.
Marina volunteers at the local Wave Watchers - overseeing the tourists out on the beach and at sea. She meets Lachlan and starts to get to know him.
Tiff stays with her for a while and does freelance work for the local paper. She meets Dirk and spends time with him.
After a while Lachlan hits Marina with some shocking news. A twist I didn’t see coming.
This book will definitely keep you hooked, it did me.
Phillipa Ashley has done it again! The third instalment of her Porthmellow series did not disappoint, it was lovely to return to Porthmellow, meet some new characters and catch up with familiar ones. Ashley’s books are like a hug, it made me want to be in Cornwall, next to the sea eating an ice cream. I can’t wait for the next one!
A guaranteed page turner.
Marina and Tiff’s stories will keep you curled up in your armchair wanting more. It has a just the right amount of sadness, happiness, friendships and romance.
Marina lost her husband nearly 7 years ago and her cousin Tiff has just lost her job. Together they start to realise there is life after heartbreak as they live in the best place to conquer their fears and worries and perhaps find a chance of being happy again. You will be enchanted by the special community relationships and the little town of Porthmellow.
I love books set in seaside locations and Porthmellow was no exception. Usually, this novel has two central characters: Tiff, a disgraced journalist from London; and Marina, a widow whose husband drowned at sea. Both of their love interests are flawed and troubled but deeply fascinating. I loved both couples and was engaged by their really unusual back stories. I loved that all of the main characters were not presented as too-good-to-be-true types that are difficult to identify with and that the nature of the relationships in the two different couples was very different to show different aspects of love. I did spot the main twist in the story very early on but that didn't matter at all - the focus was more on how the characters dealt with that situation rather than the actual event itself. The focus on friendship, community and the way back from traumatic events really brings this story to life and makes it a perfect read for these troubled times.
Porthmellow was presented as a wonderful location and I will now seek out the other books that Phillipa Ashley set in this location and look forward to this series continuing further.
Overall, a fabulous fast paced read and i'd like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy.
Another brilliant Cornish Coast love story from the talented Phillipa Ashley. This wonderful book is about four people, three of which have come to the Cornish town of Porthmellow to run away from their problems, and one who has always lived there, but has run away in her mind. All of them not trusting and not willing to get hurt again in love. This book has mystery, love, human kindness, humor and a belief in that no matter what you have gone through love has a way of healing the soul. This book makes the town of Porthmellow come alive, with the quirkiness of a small town, over-crowded in season and just the local folks off-season where everyone knows everyone business. This is all within the beautiful Cornish coastline, you can smell the salt air, make your way along the craggy cliffs covered in gorse bushes. This a wonderful read with ups and downs that leave the reader want to turn the page and another and another. I couldn't recommend this book more.
This book was so good! The characters were so well rounded, you felt like you actually knew them! The plot was so good you didn't want the book to end!
I have just finished "A Perfect Cornish Escape". well what a read, edge of the seat excitement. wonderful book a very good story line. A few funny bits, lots of warm bits romance in reality and a true to the core feel good. A book you do not want to put down but also a book you do not want to end. I would like to say this is the best Phillipa Ashley book I have read but I can not as i love all her books equally. This book captures your heart in so many ways the characters are so real you really get to know them and they become part of your life for the short time you are with them. I already miss them. I do hope at some time we can return to this place and meet more characters who turn up. Thank you Phillipa for yet another wonderful read and the perfect escape from the problems that are facing us all at this moment. The 2 main characters Marina and Tiff are cousins and are so different but complement each other. This book is a story of 2 cousins 2 men who come into their lives they all have seperate issues but each helps the other over come them. It is a story of great depth friends family and neighbours all coming together when needed. The end of the book is not predictable. I found this has left me wanting more from these characters in a follow up book. Well written as always by Phillipa Ashley
Loved this book, the third in the series, and it is just as good as the first two. You will be transported to Porthmellow on the seaside and be totally engaged in the love story. Another great read by Phillipa Ashley.
A lovey read a perfect book to take me out of the real world & have me return to Porthmellow to the wonderful characters beautiful scenery.Highly recommend this booK this series.A book that will have you cuddling up enjoying every moment. #net galley#avonboksuk
Marina's husband Nate went missing at sea years ago and after rebuilding her life and setting up Wave Watchers to help save other lives maybe her heart can finally move on after losing the love of her life and she finds Lachlan.
Dirk is a stormy character however when Marina's cousin Tiff arrives the two have an instant connection despite an odd meeting encounter and Tiff escaping her journalist lifestyle she had in London to start over again.
As things happen and Lachlan uncovers a huge secret, Marina gets a huge shock which is followed by Tiff also getting a huge shock following on from Lachlan's news and soon enough both women are facing huge decisions in love and work but are their hearts happiest where they are right now?
Tiff and Dirk were a fabulous couple the way opposites attract works so well here and Marina and Lachlan were both such soft caring characters it was beautiful the way they came to be together. The drama in the last hundred pages was immense and especially the ending wrapping it all up was thrilling i loved this next Cornish read!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
I have read all of the A perfect Cornish series and love them all. This one does not disappoint and is romantic funny and also sad at times, with a few twists along the way. Hope there will be another book in the series that interacts with all the characters from the other books.
4.5 stars
Thank you to Avon Books for gifting a digital advanced review copy of this book to me via NetGalley - my thoughts are my own. This was an Easter 2020 read for me and I enjoyed my first ever visit to Porthmellow - this was the perfect way to visit Cornwall during Lockdown.
I have seen great reviews for Phillipa's books and I will now be adding her previous books to my wish list.
This book follows Marina and Tiff, cousins who have led very different lives since they used to spend summer holidays together in Cornwall. Both have to deal with the baggage from their past and to move forward with their lives.
The stories evolved well as we joined Marina and Tiff on their year of making new friendships - I loved how kindness and community were central to the story, as was the local lifeboat and volunteers.
Hopefully by the time this book is published in June 2020, the Lockdown will have eased, but I would recommend this book for a relaxing read anytime of the year - maybe with a glass of Pimms and a plate of seafood or a Cornish pasty.
How wonderful to be back in Porthmellow once again!
A two-pronged story of cousins Tiff, a journalist from London, and Marina, local teacher & creator of Wave Watchers, a provision she set up after the devastating death of her husband seven years earlier. Tiff, broken-hearted & jobless, comes to love with Marina to get away from pressures in London. Marina too is having an emotional time as the seven-year anniversary of her husband’s accident at sea means he will be officially classed as dead, whereas she feels she has been lost in limbo for so long despite having come to terms, as much as she can, with the fact he is dead.
Tiff meets Dirk, moody RNLI mechanic and sparks fly as they run each other up the wrong way and have disagreement after disagreement. Whereas Marina meets kindhearted but hermit-like Lachlan who has a sad story of his own, both support each other to cope with what life has thrown at them but a big misunderstanding puts an end to their budding romance.
Some incredibly poignant moments in this book and it has been written with much care that they are handled sympathetically and sensitively.
I enjoyed this book, especially as it focussed on two stories which is somewhat unusual for this genre. It was good to hear of other familiar characters from previous Porthmellow books too, although I would have perhaps liked them to featured a little more than a basic name-check. I was also waiting for the inevitable plot-twist to happen from the first chapter, and that kind of spoilt it a little as I kept wondering if it would happen at the start of each chapter and was surprised that it took so long to come out - I also don’t think it particularly added to the story other than to give two characters a reason to fall out & reconnect, I felt the story would have been good enough without it, but maybe that’s because the anticipation of it happening spoilt my enjoyment somewhat.
Not as good as the other Porthmellow books, which are 5 stars, but still an enjoyable read.
A perfect feel good book. Loved the life boat discriptions and it made you want to go to Cornwall. I read it in lock down and it just took you some where nice. I did guess the turn in the book but it did not spoil it . I loved the two love elements and we all know how intrussive the press can be and Phillipa covered it well.
Thanks to Avon books for this copy of the book. This is the third in the Porthmellow series and what a delight to be back in that part of the world. I'm sure you could enjoy this as a standalone book but for me I enjoyed catching up with characters I'd left behind when I finished reading the last book - I always want to know what happens to the folk once I've finished my time in their company.
Thoroughly enjoyed this and I'm going to search out some more of Phillipa Ashley's books!
My first Phillipa Ashley book and definitely not my last. The book starts 7yrs ago when Marina’s husband Nate vanished whilst fishing in his kayak of the cove of Porthmellow in Cornwall. The lookout station had been abandoned for many years and Marina wondered if Nate would have been saved if it had been manned.
Their marriage hadn’t been perfect, Nate had debts, he was thoughtless, wasted too much money on crazy schemes and wasn’t always considerate but she loved him. On the morning of his disappearance they’d had yet another argument, he’d turned down a job and was convinced he’d be able to make a mink supplying fish to local restaurants.
Fast forward 7years and Marina has got the lookout station back up and running. Assisting the coastguard and keeping the coast safe for all its users.
You follow Marina on the next chapter of her life waiting for the 7 year anniversary of Nate’s death where he can officially be declared dead and she can move on with the rest of her life.
Sweet story that brightened my mood during these dark times. Well written and heartwarming. I enjoyed every page. .
This is the third book in the Portmellow series.
It is another brilliant Cornish coast love story.
The book is bout three people who have run away from their problems to Portmellow and one who lives there.
This is a brilliant read with ups and downs that makes you want to keep on reading to the end in one sitting.
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for allowing me to read this.
Two women, two love stories, but can there be two happy endings? Marina's husband went missing 7 years ago, and is presumed dead. Her cousin Tiff has fled London to escape the humiliation of betrayal. Set on the beautiful Cornish coast, this is a perfect summer read. Although this is part of a series, this book can be read as a stand alone entry.
The latest in this series set in the fishing village of Porthmellow, this time the story concentrates on two cousins, Marina, a resident of the village who is still grieving after her husband was lost at sea nearly 7 years before, and Tiff who is hiding after a newspaper article that she wrote went disastrously wrong.
Two men come into their lives, Lachlan has his own demons and Dirk is the mechanic on the local lifeboat.
The story kept me hooked all the way through, with characters from the previous stories giving continuity and the new ones keeping it fresh. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy feel good stories with additional drama.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley from the publisher during the lockdown in April and it helped with my Cornish withdrawal symptoms, I could almost hear the seagulls and smell the sea.
Perfect escapism for a lockdown situation! I haven’t come across any of Phillipa’s previous books which is a shame as I really enjoyed this one.
Great characters and such a beautiful setting that it makes me want to go there immediately.
Perfect reading material to sit and chill out with.
Thanks #netgalley for allowing me to read this!
Tiff Trescott has been let down badly by her boyfriend, Warner, and as a result has lost her job as a journalist in London. She decides to escape to Porthmellow in Cornwall and stay with her cousin, Marina. Sure that she won’t enjoy it, she’s taken a job with a local publication. To her own surprise she begins to enjoy herself
Marina is still trying to get her life back together after losing her husband, Nate, in a sailing accident 7 years ago. This is made harder for her as Nates body has never been recovered. She throws herself into her volunteer work with the Wave Watchers, a charity she instigated in Nates name.
Dirk is a lifeboat mechanic, dark, brooding and handsome, but Tiff seems to have got off on the wrong foot with him. Lachlan has fled from his home in Scotland after a horrendous accident that left him scarred both mentally and physically. He moves into the cottage two doors down from Marina, who finds herself attracted to him, even though he is making a determined effort not to join in with any of the locals.
This is a lovely, readable love story, set in the gorgeous sounding village of Porthmellow. The characters are engaging, and you find yourself rooting for them. The descriptions of the location are excellent, making you want to get straight in your car and go off for a break down there. There are unexpected and intriguing turns that make you want to keep reading. This is a really good book that I would highly recommend as it’s at the top of this genre.
Thanks to netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in return for an honest opinion.
I always love ready Phillipa’s books, they are perfect escapism. Set in Porthmellow in Cornwall, Marina is a volunteer at Wave Watchers - a volunteer unit which watches over the coastline of the town for anyone in distress. She formed the group after her husband Nate went missing seven years ago while kayaking, and wanting to make sure that no one else has to go through that again. She is joined in Porthmellow by her cousin Tiff who has had a rough time in London and needs to escape for a while.
The book has everything you need for a good book- romance, gorgeous descriptions of Cornwall and a little bit of action. Recommended.
This is the third book in the Porthmellow Series by Phillipa Ashley. I have read the other two books, but I believe you could enjoy this book on it's own if you have not read the previous books in this series. Of course reading a series in order gives the reader a much deeper understanding of the stories.
In this book we meet four people at a crossroad in their lives. All have a different situation they are dealing with, but with the help of each other they are strong and face the challenges head on. I loved the optimistic plot that actually gave me some strength to push forward myself. (I read this while the world is fighting COVID19, and any positive message at this time is appreciated.)
I enjoyed this book for an "escape" to the wonderful area of Cornwall with its beautiful cliffs and beaches. I can feel myself actually there in the author's fantastic descriptive words. She has great character development and I have come to love each of the unique characters of the town of Porthmellow Harbor. I look forward to the next book in the series (I hope there is one).
I want to thank Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the pleasure of reading the advanced reader copy. My review is my own opinion not influenced by reading the ARC.
I love Phillips Ashley’s book as they always bring Cornwall to life. You can almost imagine being there when you are at home! Lovely read, lots of fun and a great plot. Definitely one for the reading pile. Thanks for letting me review this book.
I thoroughly enjoy Phillioa Ashley's books and was delighted to have the chance to read this advance copy. Set in Cornwall this is the story of two cousins, both hurt and both with something in their pasts which makes them want to hide away.
Marina whose husband disappeared at sea almost seven years ago and her cousin Tiff, who runs to her when her life as a successful reporter in London goes wrong.
It's a feel good story and the descriptions of life in a sleepy Cornish seaside village help us to understand the healing which takes place there for both of them.
A good read.
FTC disclosure: I would like to thank Avon Books UK for providing me with an advance reader copy via access to the galley for free through the NetGalley program.
The stories in this book were excellent! It read as bright and cheery with unexpected deep sentiment as subjects of loss, grief, PTSD, betrayal, desire, belonging, and ambivalence in navigating life’s way were charted.
As far as writing, I really liked the way the characters were shaped. Guiding me to be drawn in rather quickly and profoundly, embracing and opposing certain characteristics of both the protagonistic and antagonistic qualities of the other, well done.
The incorporation of an inner monologue to help form/validate their actions and ideas was a little bumpy for me at first. It was the ease of reading, something about how much of the dialogue was followed by an underlying explanation for saying/feeling that way much of the time at the beginning. It just felt a little interruptive where instead I wanted the dialogue to be more genuine and more easily identifiable/distinguishable to each voice, to have a better understanding of the characters so it would come as a natural understanding without having it be pointed out in the inner workings of their head as much as it was. But I warmed up to it about 1/3 of the way in. Maybe it was more of a stylistic choice and was less pervasive and bothersome to me as the stories went on.
I also would have liked to have seen a little more involvement from the other friends and families of the characters to confirm character qualities and certain circumstances they found themselves in.
Loved the setting! Beachfront, Cornwall, England, the lifestyle of characters, jobs/businesses, leisure time, homes, all to go with it. It made so much logical sense and added a drawn in, dreamy, escapism-type attribute that complimented the overall themes of the stories and brought magnetic value to the succinct title of the book.
It was such a lovely read as far as plot was concerned. The connectedness and portrayal of relatability and realistic life circumstances, not cheesy, not overdone, nor over simplified. And the similes and metaphors, the pop culture references, I love it when writers take risks and just dive into such stuff.
I will definitely look forward to reading more stories from this author.
Marina lives in Porthmellow and then her husband is lost at sea. 7 years later she's still living to the vow that she'll always love him. Her cousin Tiff who is a journalist in London until her boyfriend betray her flees to stay with Marina
Brilliant. I got totally caught up in this story. I liked that it followed more than one character through the rough and the smooth. There was a great sense of community and snippets of characters that I remember from reading her other books.
A lovely summery story, beautifully set, warm characters and engaging story. Great beach read = thank you!
Thanks Netgalley, Publisher and of course the author, who is one of my favourites. Great read, great characters, great location and enjoyed every page.
This is the third book in the Porthmellow series. The setting has moved slightly and athough many of the characters from the other two books are featured, the backdrop is the sea and all its dangers.
Marina is a sea widow, having lost her husband seven years ago to the water and she works for the Wave Watchers aiding the lifeboat rescue service. Her cousin Tiff arrives to stay with her and the story starts to unfold.
I found it as enjoyable as the previous two books and loved the new characters, especially Dirk and Lachlan!
Also I liked the way it was set among the backdrop of the beach and the whole seafaring community, a sort of Cornish Baywatch!
A very enjoyable Summer read I recommend to all, and thank you Netgalley, the publishers and author for allowing me an early read and review.
Charming and delightful. Will please fans of Jenny Colgan and Heidi Swain. Recommended buy for collections where escapist women's fiction is popular.
I enjoyed this book, especially since it really brought Cornwall and the village atmosphere to life. I did guess the twist very quickly, so it was a little predictable, but part of the fun was how to get there!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A beautiful love/ mysetery story, that will want you yearning to go to cornwall when lockdown is over. It is the third book in the series so i would advise you to read all three. Can e read as a standalone just as equally as a series book.
There are Four characters in this book who are all at a crossroads in their lives, but the two main characters that both have two very different stories. Marina lost her husband out to sea a few years ago and her cousin, Tiff has recently beeen made redundant and both women decide their is life after heartbreak and this fiction story has you smiling throughout and keepsa those pages turning quicker than you think, this is what we need right now. They conquer their fears and simply move on with the best location ever.
If you ever need a light chic lit book t make you smile but also to offer a few tears too, this is the book, but do not put it down.
simply brilliant.. I was kept entertained all the way through it.
I would like to thank netgalley and Avon books for a copy for a review.
A Perfect Cornish Escape
By Phillipa Ashley
Pub Date: 11 June 2020
Review by: Sky, H Reviewer
Firstly a big thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
.
This book follows the story of Marina Hudson who is trying to rebuild her life after losing her Husband Nate who was lost at sea 7 years ago. Along the way we get to meet her cousin Tiff Trescott who’s life has taken a turn for the worst falling in love with a man who betrays her and see’s her losing her career and her reputation. Tiff leaves her life in London and joins her cousin Marina and together we follow them as they both embark on getting their lives back on track, finding themselves and falling in love.
A Perfect Cornish Escape is a fantastic read jammed packed full of heartache, happiness, new beginnings, love and friendship. A perfect light-hearted read to make your heart sing!
Absolutely wonderful! This is the first of Phillipa Ashley's books I have read but most certainly won't be the last. Warm and cosy, with just the right amount of sadness and suspense. The description of the setting and the characters certainly brought this book to life. I highly recommend escaping into the world of Porthmellow. Thank you Avon and NetGalley.
This is the third book in the Porthmellow series by Phillipa Ashley. Like the preceding two books in the series, A Perfect Cornish Summer and A Perfect Cornish Christmas, this story is set in the small, and sadly fictional, Cornish seaside village of Porthmellow. Although they have a common setting, and several recurring characters, the books can all be read as stand-alones. As with the other two books in the series, I found this one compelling reading; I was quickly drawn into the lives of the characters and all too quickly reached the end.
The main female characters in the story are Marina, a local teacher whose husband was lost at sea some years previously, and her journalist cousin, Tiff. Following some disastrous events affecting her personal and professional life in London, Tiff is staying temporarily with her cousin in Porthmellow. She soon meets up with local man, Dirk, known to be a moody character. Initially, the two clash, but a friendship gradually forms as time passes. Meanwhile, Marina meets Lachlan, a rather taciturn newcomer to the village; although she is drawn to him, can she get him to open up to her and learn what lies beneath the surface? It looks as if both girls may have the chance of a new start, but will it work out for one or both of them?
I can highly recommend this book for fans of Phillipa Ashley like myself, lovers of Cornwall or readers who just enjoy a heart-warming tale. I found this an easy read, but not lacking in depth and detail. There is also a nice feeling of friendship and community throughout. For readers of the other books in the series, there are old friends to meet up with - always a pleasure for me. The four principal characters all have interesting and perfectly believable back stories of their own; the individual issues they are dealing with are heartbreaking at times. I enjoyed the way that although the four formed into two couples, they each had very different sorts of relationships. There is an interesting twist towards the latter part of the story, which led to a very dramatic incident; the twist I could see coming, but the drama I could not. In my opinion this is another hit by Phillipa Ashley, and I shall be looking out for her next book.
Perfect holiday reading..even if you're holidaying at home! Set in a charming Cornish setting, this book has it all; mystery, romance, humour and pathos. I became totally invested in the characters and the clever way their back stories were revealed, layer upon layer . I consider this book a Jane Austen for the 21st century featuring strong female heroines and brooding , mysterious and aloof heroes . Plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader hooked from start to finish. More please!
An enjoyable visit to beautiful Cornwall with a story that was exciting and entertaining.
I liked having the duel stories of the two cousins Marina and Tiff, both of whom have struggled with love and relationships in the past.
The introduction of Dirk and Lachlan certainly caught my attention, it was fascinating to see the relationships build as the walls came down on these sensitive men, who also have had their issues before moving to Cornwall.
I love the backdrop of the beach and the Wave Watchers , it added lots of drama from time to time.
Overall it was a fabulous book that kept me reading avidly.
This has been the perfect escape and has been just what I have needed to escape the current reality. I have loved the characters and the setting of this book.
Definitely one I recommend.
This is an honest review for an advanced copy of the book.
Absolutely loved this latest book set in Porthmellow and it certainly didn't disappoint. It transports you to Cornwall and you can imagine yourself there.
It starts off 7 years previous and has allsorts off twists and turns along the way. Sad I've finished it and can't wait for the next book. Thank you Phillipa Ashley for another fantastic book.
This is a family drama and romance set in the imagined Cornish fishing village of Porthmellow. The main female characters are cousins, one who lives there and one who is visiting her whilst licking her wounds from being fired from her job as a journalist in London. There are plenty of interesting characters and, of course, love interest for both women. One of the main twists towards the end of the book is rather predictable but this is a great escapist read.
This is the third book in the Porthmellow series. It features some familiar characters from the first two books, but also has some new characters. It could easily be read as a standalone novel though.
One of the main female characters is Marina, who is trying to get through the next few weeks, when her Husband who was lost at sea 7 years ago will be marked officially dead.
She is joined by her cousin Tiff, who is trying to hide in Cornwall after losing her partner, job and home when she was disgraced.
This book was fairly predictable in places, but it was a lovely easygoing read. I could imagine the costal village perfectly, as the descriptions were so realistic. It made for the perfect escapist read at a time when we were on Lockdown. I could imagine that I was actually there.
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I would love to read more books by Phillipa Ashley.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.
Welcome back to Porthmellow, Cornwall.
I don't know what Ms. Ashley's series of books set in Cornwall are, or rather were, doing for tourism to the area, but they have made this reviewer very keen to go back as soon as possible. Her ability to describe her locations are vibrant, vivid and vital. You simply feel like you're walking up the hill in the village and passing the row of cottages where Marina and Tiff live, the two female leads of this story.
This is a very well written story of how people get through life-changing events, recover and find new purposes, reasons to live. All are very believable and stir and move the heart.
I read this book over a couple of sittings as I simply could not put it down. Roll on Christmas in Porthmellow!
My thanks to Avon and Netgalley for providing the reading copy.
A wonderful feel good romance story set in amazing location of Cornwall. It made me laugh and cry such a lovely emotional read.
Simply beautiful. This was my first by Phillipa Ashley, and although this book is part of a series it can be read as a complete stand alone, I certainly didn’t feel like I was missing anything. The stories main characters are the main focus of the story, and what a story!
This book flowed beautifully right from the start, I was so engrossed in it that I was 30% in before I realised. Every single character o met fascinated me and each one perfectly added to the story line. I was drawn to the Dirk and Tiff story line, it was an almost given that they were going to have a relationship with plenty ups and downs. Marina was a different story, then Lachlan was added, they both had extreme heartache and wasn’t sure they could fix each other, or even if that was the main goal of the plot line, a solid friendship can be just as sweet to read with out the romantic attachment. My thoughts swirled around Nate at numerous times through out. At first I thought maybe he wasn’t dead and was going to turn up and be a plot twist and he and Marina would be the true love story. Then I thought, no, he’s really dead and the main focus is Marina and Lachlan overcoming their tragic backstory. I was perfectly content with this and then BOOM plot twist! I was reeling just as much as Marina when Lachlan tells her the truth and from that moment on I couldn’t read fast enough to know what was going to happen.
Needless to say I throughly enjoyed this book and will certainly be on the look out for more books by Phillipa.
I loved returning to Porthmellow. It sounds such a lovely place to live, all the residents seem very welcoming too. I love the description of the place you can almost feel as though you are there. Reading about the lookout tower and the wave watchers was interesting as I always wondered what they did in the huts. A nice story with a interesting second half of the story.
Back in the Cornish town of Porthmellow from Ashley's earlier books but you need no prior knowledge of the regular inhabitants of the place, you just need a love of Cornwall and cracking good story.
Marina's husband was lost at sea almost seven years ago and time is a healer and when it comes to when she can finally let go and move on. Can she really move on to another love though?
Tiff is Marina's cousin and comes down to Porthmellow to stay with her to let the dust settle on her journalism career after causing a bit of a stir with a well known politician.
Lachlan is in Cornwall to escape, he clearly has a story to tell. His scars go deeper than those on his face, there is a story to tell but who is the best person he can tell it to.
Dirk, a resident and local of Portmellow who has been on the receiving end of being well known by association is a bit stormy. He is used to storms, his manner creates them buthe is also quite used to the ones out at sea as well, working on the lifeboat.
All of them are escaping from one thing or another and it seems that maybe by doing so they can start to heal and move on with their lives. Because you can never really escape love.
Plenty is packed into this novel as well as the relationships that are forged, along with a few complications just to make it difficult. Life is not easy and it is great to read a book where the happy ending is perhaps not inevitable and that changes have to be made on a all sides to find a new way, a new life.
The book is full of everything that you might love about a seaside harbour town. I was taken away to where you can see the lifeboat launch dealing with everyday occurrences when tourists and sometimes locals don't listen to those that know best. It was if the clear blue water, was washing over my feet as I walked whilst the sunset along the shore and I could be swept away with the warmth of the sun as well as the love. I wanted to sit and eat chips and devour them and the story. Utter bliss.
Another great visit to Porthmellow and I hope we get to go back soon.
I loved this book. A great read with a mystery at its heart. A lovely read which helped me get through lockdown. Not able to go on holiday at the moment but this book gave me a trip to Cornwall. This is the third book I have read and love to revisit Porthmellow. A perfect slice of Cornish life with some twists that made me keep turning the pages. A nice feel good book and would love to read what happens next for Marina. Look forward to the next one.
I love Cornwall, don’t you? It’s so full of contrasts, wild rugged coastline, beautiful beaches with azure-blue seas which turn stormy grey in an instant when the rain lashes down. Stuck here at home, it’s one of the places I yearn for, and Philippa Ashley does such a fantastic job of conjuring it up for me, I could almost be there. And at a time when reading is about the only way to escape real life, this couldn’t be a better book to take you away from it all.
This is a lovely, lilting story about a woman who has lived through loss and rebuilt her life, about the importance of female friendship, and the serendipity of new beginnings. Marina’s husband drowned seven years ago and the village of Porthmello has surrounded her with love ever since. Her friend Tiff (and if you ever listen to BBC Radio Cornwall, that name will be a familiar one!) tips up fleeing the double-whammy of heartbreak and job loss, and together Marina and Tiff make their way through the summer months. This is a book full of laughter and sadness, about women finding new ways to live and love, but it’s also a love-letter to beautiful Cornwall.
Reading this book is like that shaft of sunshine cutting through the clouds on a miserable day, it puts a smile on your face and gives you a bit of hope for the future. Just what’s needed at the moment.
I do love Phillipa Ashley's feel-good Cornwall-based novels. I always have a strong urge to visit these type of places when I read them! The cover is cute and pretty. I like the bright colours and the simplicity of it. It doesn't give much away but it's good on the eye and draws you in - well it certainly drew me in anyway!
This novel focuses on two main characters. Cousins Tiff and Marina. Marina is more reserved than Tiff and I found myself warming to her more than I did for Tiff. She had been through so much with her late-husband Nate and I just really wanted her to have a happy ending with Lachlan, who had also been through a horrible time. I was hoping from the start that the small community events would push them together and they would both lose their heartache and enjoy their lives.
Tiff had also had a heartbreaking time recently but less so than Marina. She had found out that her ex, Warner, was using her in a plot to discredit her, and the newspaper she worked for, public image. So, with her tail between her legs she decided to move in with Marina for a while until she had her confidence back. However, she soon meets Dirk and even though she finds him absolutely infuriating, she also finds him incredibly attractive and sparks soon fly between them.
Both women have had a horrible time of it recently, but it appears the little harbour town of Porthmellow soon helps to heal their heartache and puts them in a happier place. The setting is absolutely idyllic and will have you wishing to live in Cornwall. The characters, which have been in previous Phillipa Ashley novels, are all lovely, friendly and caring.
Overall, a happy, heartwarming novel by the lovely Phillipa Ashley. I loved every page, every character and every storyline and setting. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read an advance copy of this novel via Netgalley, which I have reviewed honestly.
This is my first review of a Phillipa Ashley book, and although it is part of a series, I was able to enjoy the story.
Every character intrigued me, each one added to the storyline.
Marina, whose husband was lost at sea 7 years ago, and her journalist cousin Tiff, are the primary female characters of the story. Events in Tiff's personal and professional life in London see her staying with her cousin in Porthmellow, Cornwall.
She soon meets a local man Dirk who wins a day out with her, initially the pair clash, but a friendship gradually forms.
Marina meets Lachlan, a newcomer to the village.
A feel-good story, delightfully written.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Avon Books UK and Author Phillipa Ashley.
I have always loved Phillipa Ashley's books, and this one certainly did not disappoint!.
The story follows the lives of cousins Marina and Tiff, Marina has rebuilt her life after her husband Nate went missing at sea 7 years ago, and Tiff finds herself escaping to Cornwall when her London life implodes around her.
Filled with love, laughter and a huge bombshell thrown in..... this book was perfection!.
Thank you Phillipa Ashley, Netgalley and Avon books for my ARC of this book... it was an absolute pleasure to read it.
Wow! What a compelling read. Such a well written book and fabulous story. I loved all of the main character Marina, Tess, Lachlan and Dirk. A heart-wrenching story with tears of sadness and joy along the way. Some really shocking twists and turns along the way, which made it a real page-turner, I couldn't put it down. I have loved all of the stories set in the community of Porthmellow in Cornwall, and this was no exception. It was great that some previous characters made a brief appearance too, especially lovable Troy and Evie.
My thanks to Netgalley for my copy of A Perfect Cornish Escape which provided perfect escapism during this lockdown. I have not read any of Phillipa Ashley's other works so I was pleased when the story panned out to be more than a romantic plot based in Cornwall.
Although the whole premise of the book was predictable from the first chapter I soon became caught up in the character's lives at times to a very emotional point.
In other times this would make the perfect beach or poolside read being uplifting, heartwarming and interesting.
In the third installment of the Porthmellow Harbour series, two engaging characters, Marina and Tiff are both struggling to move forward with their lives. This book covers a lot of ground; loss, grief, PTSD, and does it all in a chick-lit style that is very enjoyable. I really liked that the book addressed deeper subjects but never made me feel depressed or weighed down by the story.
In the third in the Porthmellow series we meet Marina and Tiff who are cousins. Marina is a resident of Porthmellow but Tiff who is a journalist turned up there hoping to stay with Marina after a tough time in London recently. Both ladies have their life dilemmas, I would say Marina is definitely going through a very tough time after a tragedy of years previous. She is still trying to deal with her thoughts and feelings and I don’t blame her but I also totally wanted what was best for her, Tiff too. Marina meets the lovely Lachlan but she obviously has her reservations. Tiff on arriving she meets the mysterious Dirk. I was really hoping both ladies get what they so very much deserve but you will have to read the story to find out!
I loved being back in Porthmellow with the quirky residents and meeting new characters. It felt like being back in the lovely company of very close friends. This is a gem of a series and if you want to curl up and escape for a few hours then these are the books for you. Phillipa has a way of drawing you into a community and not letting you go until the very last page. I give ‘A Perfect Cornish Escape’ a sparkly 5*/5* 😊
Thank you to Avon Books UK for an advanced copy of this book via Netgalley.
This was my first visit to Porthmellow and my first Philipa Ashley read.
It was like was like drinking hot chocolate on a cold day, it warm and comforting. I must admit I did guess how the story was going but then there is nothing wrong with this sometimes in confusing times we need comfort in a story that feels it ends in the most statisying way,
I enojyed the book enough that I want to adventure back to Porthmellow and hear the other stories.
A really enjoyable book with unexpected twists along the way, really enjoyed visiting porthmellow again and seeing where previous characters are and what they are up to if only brief.
Really enjoy visiting porthmellow in this series and hope there are more so we can have have a deeper look at certain characters a few years after there first appearance.
This was a lovely read about a small town on the coast in Cornwall. THe heroine, Marina, has had to rebuild her life after her somewhat unsatisfactory husband died while fishing. She dedicated herself to building up a local watch system to make sure that there will be more of a chance to save those who go out into the dangerous currents there. She’s lonely, but she has friends and a purpose. Into this village comes her cousin, Tiff, who lost her journalism career because she trusted a slimey boyfriend.
There are two reserved men who are attracted to these two cousins. One, Dirk, nicknamed “Dirk and Stormy,” has fled personal disasters in London to come to this Cornish village. And he and Tiff are fighting their attraction to each other. And Marina is attracted to Lachlan, a mysterious loner from Scotland. He has his own personal demons that he needs to overcome in order to build something with Marina.
I really enjoyed getting to know these characters. There was a little bit of a twist near the end that wasn’t all that surprising. But I still really enjoyed it. It made me want to visit the Cornish coast and meet these lovely people.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Marina’s husband Nate disappeared 7 years ago after going out in the sea on a Kayak, he is missing presumed dead. Tiff (Marina’s cousin) is a newspaper reporter from London who escapes to the village of Porthmellow following her boyfriends betrayal bring her life crashing down. Marina mets Lachlan and Tiff meets Dirk can they put their pasts behind them and move on with their lives or will the past hinder their futures.
Had to keep reading to find out what happened to them both.
A Perfect Cornish Escape is the third book in a series, but it reads as a stand alone. We follow Marina and Tiff in Cornwall as their summer is being played out. I wanted a light and fun book and this hit the spot. I too want to go visit Cornwall and met all the townspeople.
Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you're looking for a gentle read during lockdown then look no further. The setting - the Cornish town of Portmellow - is lovely. Ashley's writing transports you there. I thought what happened regarding Marina's ex a tad predictable. I won't say anymore for fear of spoilers. Lachlan's character was interesting. I also liked Marina's cousin, Tiff, but I never took to Dirk. For a start, the name, but he was too abrupt, although he did try to make up for it. I liked the sense of community. There could have been a bit more in the way of emotion. It was all handled lightly, but all-in-all, this was an enjoyable read. With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A fabulous feel good book. Delightful characters, though the ‘heroine’ was so blinkered she was infuriating at times. Romance, family, friendships all entwined into a wonderfully funny story. The setting was marvellous too. Makes me want to visit Cornwall.
A really enjoyable Summer read. You are instantly transported to a beautiful Coastal town in Cornwall. You feel the sun, smell the sea, and feel the warmth of the locals. You also feel the small town sense of everyone knowing your business, and all that comes with it, good and bad.
There are some heavier themes touched on, such as grief and PTSD, and how these can weave through all aspects of your life.
A Perfect Cornish Escape is an idyllic escape during lockdown, to the memories of Summer holidays from childhood. Porthmellow represents somewhere so many of us would love to be right now.
It was such a pleasure to return to Porthmellow, a beautiful fishing community. I first visited when I read A Perfect Cornish Christmas. I am still yet to read the first book in the series, but these novels all work as standalone stories with no need to have read any previous ones. There are mentions of the characters featured from these books, but they don't affect the story in any way.
This story features cousins Tiff and Marina. Both are recovering from broken hearts, and neither are looking for romance, but naturally, it finds them regardless. Tiff is a journalist and because she gave her heart to the wrong person, not only is her heartbroken, but her career and reputation are on the line. So she heads to stay in Porthmellow with her cousin Marina. She crosses paths with next-door neighbour Dirk who has a deep-seated distrust and dislike for journalists thanks to his previous marriage to someone in the public eye and the media causing them trouble. As they get to know each other, Tiff and Dirk are drawn to each other, but both know their relationship is only destined to be a short term fling.
Marina lost her husband at sea seven years ago, and his body has never been found. She spends her free time volunteering for Wave Watchers, set up in her missing husband's name to watch the sea and beaches for anyone in trouble, to alert the coastguards quickly and save lives. As it approaches the date that she can finally list him as deceased, her emotions are all in turmoil, especially when she meets the newcomer to the village, Lachlan. He used to be in the forces, the RAF and also part of Mountain Rescue. He seems to have PTSD (although not explicitly mentioned) following a helicopter crash that rescued him but killed a co-worker while on a shout. Marina helps him to work through his problems but grows closer to him, trying to move on from losing her husband.
The only downside to this story was the 'twist' at the end was predictable, and I saw it coming from virtually the beginning of the story. However, it didn't stop me from enjoying the book, and I will be eager to return to visit the residents of this cosy community again.
This is the second of the Porthmellow books that I have read and I have fallen in love with the area and the people that live there.
Phillipa Ashley writes warmly of the area and you can't help but be absorbed by everything that is going on in the story.
This is a book of two halves as Marina has to process a life without her husband after he disappeared 7 years ago and is finally getting her life back on track.. the second half took me partially by surprise but ended up so much better than predicted.
What a fab read!
Another fantastic novel from Phillipa Ashley. I have already reviewed the previous novel to this one, A Perfect Cornish Christmas. Although this novel is set in the same town of Porthmellow, you do not need to read them in order to understand the story. The main characters from the first novel only become very minor characters in this one.
So where do I begin? A beautifully set romance novel. Ashley does not just give us one romance story. Oh no. That would be too easy. Instead we are given two romances stories perfectly intertwined with one another to really give us the feels. The stories couldn’t be further apart from each other yet Ashley effortlessly spins her tale without confusion.
We begin with a snippet of the past. Marina Hudson, one of our protagonists, lost her husband to the sea seven years ago. The pain and the hurt that this must have caused is described incredibly clearly and Marina has been on a rollercoaster of emotions. Her late husband Nate isn’t the perfect man, by no means and it seems to be a very unusual and mismatched marriage, if a very happy one at all. It’s heart wrenching to see how distraught Marina is, even though Nate didn’t treat her very well at all. I was desperate for her to want to move on. Enter Lachlan. A stranger to Porthmellow, the Scottish Lachlan moves into a cottage a stones throw from Marina and she is seemingly hooked from the get go. Although she battles with her emotions regarding Nate. Both have a hard history to live with and end up using the support of one another to fight those battles. It’s a lingering romance which takes a while for both of them to jump into. A one point I wanted to yell at Marina and just say ‘Go for it woman’. After all the pain she had been through and now seven years down the line she was allowed to declare Nate legally dead, she had her freedom and I think any reader would be routing for her to follow her heart and not to feel guilty.
Our other protagonist is Tiff Trescott, Marina’s cousin, come from London to escape a life that has let her down. Feeling very vulnerable after being used by her ex-boyfriend Warner, our journalist, Tiff escapes to Marina’s cottage to forgot love and try and rebuild her life. However, on her very first day in the harbour Tiff bumps into Dirk, or as the locals call him, Dirk and Stormy. A sexy, mountain of a man he gets Tiff’s blood boiling straight away. It’s an instant attraction for both of them but funnily they are both so stubborn that it takes them a while to admit to their raw, sexual feelings and jump each other. When it finally happened I was sighing with relief! A completely different relationship to Marina and Lachlan, Ashley manages to juxtapose them well throughout and show that different people are suited to different types of love. Tiff and Dirk have this raw animal magnetism about them, whereas Marina and Lachlan have a maturer, gentler kind of love.
I love the way that Tiff is thrown headfirst into Cornish life. She starts hating the place, just longing for an escape but ends up loving everyone, finding friends everywhere she goes. A lot of the novel focuses around the RNLI which is brilliant as its a fantastic cause to be highlighted that is really important in every day Cornish life.
Every time I read about Porthmellow I want to go there and I am looking forward to more stories based in this brilliantly colourful harbour town.
A must read book-lovers.
Thank you to Avon books via Netgalley for allowing me to read this novel before the publication date of the 11th June 2020. I implore you all to buy yourselves a copy.
The things I love the most: relationships and romance. Good descriptions from “Wave Watchers” reminded me why I have a fear of the sea.
A well put together novel that describes you of Cornwall at its best
Another wonderful story from Phillipa Ashley, the third in this series. The beautiful setting of Porthmellow is the backdrop to romance and love. The story includes the well loved characters from the previous books, I love that Troy calls ladies ‘maid’. I really enjoyed a few hours of escape to Cornwall. Looking forward to the next instalment.
How lovely it was to be back in Porthmellow, Cornwall, with a whole new cast of characters with cameos from familiar faces.
I'll admit that i had an inkling as to a certain direction that book may go from within the first couple of chapters , which means the big OMG moment that there was, didn't have quite the same impact for me, but from that point on regardless I found the book to be really addictive for the last part.
That didn't though detract from my enjoyment of the rest of the story, and I loved seeing how Marina and Tiff were trying to rebuild their lives and hearts. And their new male companions are fabulous.
Dirk and Lachlan both have their own stories which have made them the way they are, and I really loved getting to know them.
I found I was taken on a real emotional journey with this story, and there really is something for everyone in this, from charity auctions, to daring rescues, and from the stunning Cornish location to a Londoner coming to stay in Cornwall and trying to adjust.
This was another very enjoyable addition to this series, and another well written book from one of the queens of Cornish fiction!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
4 star review of A Perfect Cornish Christmas (Porthmellow Harbour #2) by Phillipa Ashley
I was drawn to the cover and the blurb and since I love any story that is centered around my favourite holiday of the year, Christmas, I couldn’t wait to read this story. Phillipa Ashley is a new author to me and I have no idea why I have not come across her before.
I found myself easily picturing myself in Porthmellow, Cornwall and the surrounding area as I read this story. It was an entertaining and well written story which I really enjoyed. I really liked Scarlett and Jude and I felt for Scarlett as she searched for answers.
A Perfect Cornish Christmas was full of quirky characters that were entertaining to read about. It was heart warming and enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book, through the publisher via Netgalley.
After being betrayed by her lover causing her to lose her job and her home Tiff goes to stay with her cousin Marina in the small Cornish village of Porthmellow.
Marina has rebuilt her life after her husband Nate disappeared almost 7 years ago, assumed drowned at sea.
Tiff thinks that Porthmellow will be the perfect place to get over her heartbreak and has no intention of getting close to anyone but she hadn't bargained on meeting hunky lifeboat mechanic Dirk.
Marina is also not in the market for romance but newcomer Lachlan takes her by surprise and makes her think she could be ready to move on from Nate finally.
Over a Cornish summer the four get to know each other and secrets from the past are revealed but will they push them apart or bring them closer together. Very well written with strong characters.
Dive back into Porthmellow Harbour and it's residents!
This time focusing on Marina and her cousin. Marina still grieves over her husband who she lost seven years ago. Her grief has given her focus to set up 'The Wave Watchers' a voluntary lookout post over the sea to try to prevent other deaths.
Her cousin, journalist Tiff comes to stay after leaving London under a black cloud of heart break and losing her job. She escapes to Cornwall and the begins to instill herself in the tight knit community. She always thought her heart was in the big smoke, but Porthmellow has seeped into her core...along with Dirk.
Both women begin to finally heal and move on from their past. Marina is shocked and wary of her growing fondness for Lachlan who has a tough past of his own. They help each other move forward until a secret is found out which rocks Marina.
Are both romances too good to be true?
Gorgeous setting! Pure escapism.
Absolutely brilliant read.
Full of twists and turns. I love the seaside but this book also reminds us how dangerous it can be.
There was a twist the end that I was not expecting at all. Great writing and story making.
I love how things are described and there appear to be two relationships blossoming throughout the novel which entices you to want to read it.
Wonderful book and I will be sharing this with my Facebook book club and recommending it highly to them.
Tiff has escaped London for Porthmallow after her life imploded. She's staying with her cousin Marina, whose husband went missing at sea seven years ago. Marina's rebuilt her life and now is about to be able to declare him dead. Dirk, Marina's neighbor, doesn't like journalists but he does like Tiff. Marina develops a nice relationship with Lachlan's, who is struggling a bit after his military service. That's the easy synopsis of the couples but it doesn't describe how likable and realistic they are. I'm a sucker for a setting in Cornwall and this one was wonderful, especially because of Marina's work with the Wave Watchers, which hopes to help those in trouble in the sea. This is the third in a series but it's perfectly fine as a standalone (although readers of the last two might, like me, be delighted to visit again with a few friends in minor roles this time out). Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A perfect pandemic read but also for any time.
A story set in a beautiful Cornish village and revolves round Mariana who lost her husband at sea almost 7 years ago
She has re opened the hut and recruited volunteers so that no one dies again
She never thought she could forgive herself for his death
Then her cousin from London Tiff descends on her as she lost her job due to her boyfriend being the editor and dumping her
Two lonely women will they ever resolve their issues or fall in love again??
This is one of those books which leave you with a happy, positive feeling.
Cousins Marina and Tiff are licking their wounds after Marina lost her husband to a boating accident and Tiff was professionally ruined by her boyfriend.
Set in the lovely Porthmellow, a fictional town on the Cornish coast, this story gently unfolds to examine the devastation that a heart can recover from.
The love interests couldn’t be much different with Lachlan’s PTSD and Dirk’s determination to avoid another broken heart.
I really enjoyed the pace of this book and the gentle storytelling which left me believing, once again, in happy endings.
I’ve not visited Cornwall but, it is now on my staycation list.
A lovely romantic outing, set in the gorgeous village of Porthmellow; great characters, a wonderful setting and just enough grit to give depth. This is the third Cornish novel and I'm really enjoying the familiarity, it's like visiting with friends.
What could be better in these times of lockdown than a virtual trip to Cornwall, one of the most visited counties?
Marina hasn't had her troubles to seek; seven years ago her husband set out fishing in his kayak and never returned. The wrecked kayak was found, but never Nate. She has been faithful to his memory, but seven years is a long time - and Lachlan has appeared in the town. Cousin Tiff was a London journalist but, thanks to her ex-boyfriend, her life has crashed and burned in the city so she swears off men and heads to Porthmellow to stay with Marina and get her life back. But she didn't bargain for meeting dark and brooding Dirk . . .
Oh, how lovely it is to be back in Porthmellow again. With some new characters in a different area of the town to concentrate on, it's rewarding to come across those from the previous two novels popping up. There is a real community feel to these novels, and Phillipa Ashley deserves all the credit for conjuring up such a fantastic place and transferring it all to the page so successfully. A wonderful tale with lots of different elements which is both entertaining and enjoyable and, whilst this is a stand-alone read, I would recommend reading the whole series - they're too good to miss! Absolutely a five star read.
My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.
Oh isn't this just the perfect read for our troubled times? I'd love to leap in the car to go to Cornwall however as we are all confined to our houses this is exactly the book to read to make you feel your are already there. There's a love story, a mystery ( quite easy to work out and is no surprise when the mystery resolves itself), it's emotional in places and has a few interesting things to learn about.
The ladies in the story both need to rebuild their lives, learn to trust again and move forward from their difficult histories. Not a complex story but beautifully written, easy to get involved in, you find yourself routing for the characters and wanting the very best for them...well, most of them! There's always a rogue isn't there?
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank Avon Book UK for asking me to review this book and to be apart of the blog tour.
A Perfect Cornish Escape is the third in a wonderful series by Phillipa Ashley, the Porthmellow series. Having read the previous books I could not wait to get my hands on the next. The characters are so wonderful that by the end of the book they are like friends, so it is lovely to return in a new story set in the same area.
In this instalment of the Porthmellow series we follow Marina and Tiff, cousins who are supporting each other get over heart break. Marina has lived in Porthmellow for her whole life but tragedy has made live hard. Loosing her husband Nate at sea was only the start of it but perhaps there is some hope for her when Lachlan arrives. Meanwhile, her cousin Tiff arrives in Porthmellow to nurse a broken heart and to escape her past and finds that the magic of Porthmellow might provide more than just an escape.
Phillipa Ashley has a wonderful writing style that wraps you up in a warm hug every time you open the pages of one of her books. A Perfect Cornish Escape provide the perfect escape from reality, I love the setting and for me its my favourite part of the world. The characters that she creates all have brilliant backstories that bring excitement to the plot, which in this story is amazing.
A perfect addition to this wonderful series.
Wow what a book! I’ve recently lost my reading mojo and needed something to help bring it back. This book did that and more. For the first time in a long time I read a book in a day.
I couldn’t help but want to know what was going to happen. None of it felt predictable and I was rooting for all the characters to find their happy ending.
A new beginning can happen where you live or in a new location as cousins Tiff and Marina discover. Both of them need to move on from different circumstances and do so in a pretty little Cornish village. A romantic story with a mysterious twist and lots of characters to get to know and love. I think this is a great summer read to enjoy as you relax. I wanted to visit Cornwall before reading but now I know I must!
I love Phillipa’s writing and stories this one again didn’t disappoint. Proper girlie feel good book mood enhancer
Another in the series from Porthmellow and what a fantastic novel Phillipa has excelled herself once again. These are really lovely books and well worth a good read. There are plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns but it makes for a good time in Porthmellow. I am hoping that it wont be too long before we have another book in this series. I wish I could give this book far more than 5 stars as it is well worth it. Thank you Phillipa for a great read.
-- Read this review, and others, on my blog www.hookedbythatbook.com –
This book started with a very emotional recount of Marina’s husband Nate’s disappearance. Almost at the 7th year anniversary of the event, and Marina has moved on and used the tragedy as the catalyst to bring the lookout station back to life. She is quite content with her life and the contribution she and her team of volunteers make to keep everyone safe on the coast.
Marina is joined by her cousin, Tiff, who is escaping a failed relationship and getting fired from her job as a journalist at a paper in London. Tiff is a lot more outgoing than Marina, but hurt, and she came to Porthmellow to lick her wounds and to regroup. She meets Dirk, the local lifeboat mechanic, who has a reputation for being moody. Tiff and Dirk soon can’t deny the attraction between them anymore. Dirk is leery of Tiff’s career as a journalist, as he has been burned in the past. And Tiff is certain she is going to return to London and build a career there. Then Lachlan, with his own reasons for needing an escape, turns up and slowly pulls Marina out of her shell.
I really enjoyed the interactions between all the characters, and the descriptions of their daily lives. The two romances progressed very well and just right. The characters felt like real people with real issues and they reacted like real people would. And everyone was very mature and handled misunderstandings and problems with grace.
I can definitely recommend this for the character development, and if you like romances that develop slowly. It’s not steamy at all, but very sweet.
Thank you to Avon Books and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. Any thoughts and opinions are my own.
Four people are facing changes, growth, grief and new hope in the tiny coastal village of Porthmellow Harbor. For Marina, the seventh anniversary of her husband’s death is approaching, since there was no body, she’s been waiting in limbo. After clearing his debts and re-building the coastal watch station, she’s well on the way to moving forward. Tiff lost her job in journalism after a scandal, and she’s really hoping to just hide away at a favorite spot with her cousin until the scandal blows over. Dirk moved from London after the dissolution of his marriage and is the mechanic for the lifeboat station, doing his best to keep everyone at arm’s length. Lachlan has been ‘recruited’ to work for a local’s security business after leaving the military after being injured.
These four will interact, along with the welcome of the locals and the peace and danger of the sea, to find new steps and ways forward. From friendships to potential love interests, everyone has growth and change to go through, moving through grief and past issues to redefine where they are, and where they want to be.
I love this series and devour every book when I’ve got it in my hands. Philippa Ashley gives us real people, flawed and searching, in a location that combines the beauty of nature and its dangers. This title managed to highlight those who work to save lives endangered on the water, showing their courage, determination and struggles living in a coastal, former fishing, community with people that could mean the difference between a lovely seaside holiday and tragedy, all while highlighting the beauty and resilience of the human spirit and the power of love. A wonderful series, one that can be read alone or in sequence, and one that will provide a great escape, keeping you glued to the pages and leave you with a smile.
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: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-aJl /” > <a> I am, Indeed </a>
Marina’s husband vanished off the coast of Porthmellow seven years ago. She is reluctant to dishonour his memory by moving on romantically, but a new man has arrived in the village and he may just be someone to make her heart beat again.
Tiff, Marina’s cousin has arrived in Porthmellow to escape the eyes of judgement in London after a betrayal by her boyfriend left her journalism career in tatters. However, Cornish life isn’t at all what she expected. Especially after meeting the broody Dirk.
I love returning to Porthmellow and hope there will be more in this series.
A new novel by best-selling author Phillipa Ashley never fails to brighten up my day and this talented writer is back with another gorgeous tale set in Cornwall that will steal readers’ hearts: A Perfect Cornish Escape.
The bottom had fallen out of Marina Hudson’s world when her husband had been lost at sea. Her marriage to Nate was not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but she still regrets the fact that the last words she spoke to him were angry ones. After his death, Marina had found out that her husband had secrets. Secrets that meant she was up to her eyeballs in debt, but lecturer Marina had worked hard and paid off every single penny her husband owed. Seven years later and Marina still loves her husband. In almost a decade, she hasn’t once looked at another man and spends all of her free time volunteering with the Wave Watchers, a foundation she set up that seeks to ensure that Nate’s death wasn’t in vain and that nobody else has to suffer in the same way Marina suffered when she lost her husband. Life in Porthmellow, Cornwall might not be particularly exciting or eventful for Marina, but she is perfectly content with her lot – until a stranger comes to town leading her to wonder whether she should step out of the shadows and give romance another try.
Marina’s cousin Tiff Trescott thought that she had her life figured out. With a thriving career in London and a gorgeous boyfriend, Tiff was living a life most people would envy – until it all came crashing down around her ears. Needing some time out from her life to figure out what she is going to do next, Tiff decides to visit her cousin in Porthmellow for a couple of weeks. Hopefully, by the time she gets back to London, the scandal will die down and she can pick up the shattered pieces of her career, however, when she meets brooding and handsome local Dirk, Tiff cannot help but wonder whether she has found a reason to stick around a little bit longer in Porthmellow…
Fresh starts and new beginnings are in the air for Marina and Tiff, but are the two cousins ready to let go of the past and take a leap of faith into the future? Or will they continue to let their fears and insecurities hold them back?
It’s such a joy to go back to Porthmellow and catch up with our old friends and get to know new people as they find a place they can belong in in Phillipa Ashley’s addictive, feel-good and captivating series set in Cornwall. A Perfect Cornish Escape is a witty, charming and heart-warming tale that drew me in from the very beginning and keep me entertained and engrossed until the end.
As brilliantly written as ever and full of humour, magic and heart, A Perfect Cornish Escape is a spellbinding romantic read that is the literary equivalent of a delicious ice cream on a warm and sunny day.
As always Phillipa Ashley writes lovely feel-good heartwarming books. Once again this one didn't disappoint.
Lovely to carry on reading about being in Cornwall. Especially in these times as we're not able to visit.
Fantastic you have done it again. Thank you Phillipa and Netgalley.
I absolutely love Phillipa Ashley's writing. This book was no different. A wonderful escape and a perfect summer read
This was the perfect Cornish escape!! Loved this book! The book follows 2 ladies Marina and Tiff, who are both living in challenging times within their lives, brought together as supporting cousins in the seaside town of Porthmello. Marina lost her husband at sea 7 years ago and the anniversary is coming up. Tiff has lost her job and her man in London under a scandal, and has come to stay with her cousin.
The characters are brilliant, the story has unexpected twists and turns.
A highly enjoyable book and would be perfect holiday summer reading. Although it is in a set of books based in Porthmello, you don't need to read them in order as they are stand alone.
Another fabulous book from Philippa Ashley, loved it!!
A wonderful escapist read. This is the third book by the author in the Porthmellow Harbour series, but I have not read any of the others and it was fine. The books all take place in the same area but have different characters, so you don’t need to have read any of the others. This is one of those cute wanderlust reads I love where I can just except to the Cornish village as I read. You know how it’s going to end but that’s ok. It’s great to read a love story. I recommend for anyone that loves contemporary romance/women’s fiction in a cute British setting.
A Perfect Cornish Escape by Phillipa Ashley is the 3rd book in the Porthmellow Harbour series, and my first book by this author. Marina Hudson lost her husband seven years ago, when he went out to sea and never came back. After meeting Lachlan, she wonders if she can ever love again. Tiff Trescott travels to see her cousin Marina after having trouble with her job and boyfriend in London. Tiff meets Dirk and sparks fly. I really enjoyed this book, it is the perfect escape to the beach, when travel is not possible. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy romances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If like me, over these past weeks you need to escape from Covid 19 and the restrictions we are all facing, then this is the book for you. Don't hesitate to buy! This is the third book in the Series, but can be read stand alone and enjoyed just as much. It's such a lovely and enjoyable light hearted read, transporting my mind to a much needed break in Cornwall. And there is nothing I love more than a harbour - Seagulls, sea and romance! A Perfect Cornish Escape, takes us to Porthmellow Harbour. Marina and Tiff are lead characters and cousins. Marina resides in a cottage in Porthmellow, and his still recovering and grieving for the loss of her husband seven years ago at sea.Lachlan arrives in Cornwall, and although Marina becomes fond of him she has reservations as the pain from her loss is still so very raw. Tiff, who has faced a traumatic break up from her partner, has arrived from London hoping to stay with her for a much needed escape and relaxation. She meet Dirk in arriving, but escaping a break up where her she was cheated on, Tiffis uncertain of him. Phillipa's style of writing makes for page turning reading, it's so easy to become absorbed, it's a true escapism and the title is perfect. You get to know the Cornish community, the area and lead characters. It feels as though, when reading, you are part of that community.It's an emotional read at times, learning of all four characters stories and how their loves take shape from meeting in Porthmellow. Four characters, Cornish air, a loveable community - Perfect lockdown reading. This is a series to be devoured. Five stars here. Thank you for our copy and blog tour invite.
This was the first novel by Phillipa Ashley that I'd read, and now I've finished it I'm clamouring for more! For me, a good romantic novel is a comfort; it doesn't make you feel too uncomfortable or give you bad dreams, it's something to look forward to at the end of a stressful day. A Perfect Cornish Escape had all of that in buckets and more. Yes, it deals with some tricky topics, but the underlying them is about acknowledging the hardships in life and moving on, at your own pace.
I loved this book. I love the way i could visualise the little Cornish village and the characters so easily. The story truly takes you on a journey of emotions and there are most definitely a couple of moments that will have your heart in your mouth and twists you may not see coming. A wonderful story.
A Perfect Cornish escape is another book in series from the harbour village of Porthmellow in Cornwall. Each novel can be read as a standalone and you can read them in any order.
This story focuses on cousins Marina and Tiff who are reunited for the summer.
Marina lives in Porthmellow and was widowed almost 7 years ago after her husband disappeared at sea. Tiff is a journalist from London who comes to stay in Cornwall to try and rebuild her life after losing her job and her boyfriend.
The pair work on a charity event to raise funds for the local search and rescue which includes the watchtower that Marina runs in her husband's memory.
The ladies both have possible new love interests and we follow how those new relationships develop.
A pleasant read when you need something that's not too taxing.
Fantastic, a completely heartwarming and uplifting read. This was a perfect summer read, you find yourself smiling as you read and the characters are just so gorgeous and likeable, you want to move down there with them. I mean it’s Cornwall so I want to do that anyway, Phillipa makes you feel you are in Cornwall with the characters and it’s exactly what we need this summer.
Another fantastic book from Ms. Ashley
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
What a great title for the book - "A perfect Cornish Escape" made me feel like I was actually in Porthmellow. I hadn't read anything from this author before but have now added her to my wants list. Beautifully written and a perfect book for a summer read by the beach (or imagine you're by the beach)!
The main character, Marina, lost her Husband to the sea 7 years ago. As with a lot of stories, should she try to find happiness again? Her cousin Tiff comes to stay after suffering her own problems back in London. There are 2 male characters who make up the main story. It's not just a discovery of new relationships and love. It's emotional and not always predictable.
Highly recommend to anyone who wants a well written story with believable characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an advance copy. I'm so glad I had the opportunity.
Having read the first book recently, I was really excited to continue the series. However, my suspicions were confirmed that Ashley does not really feature characters we have already grown to love. Set in Porthmellow, Cornwall, readers are introduced to a new group of people who, naturally, have their own dilemmas and troubles to face.
This was remarkably different from the first book which I really appreciated. Whilst there was the theme of love and past demons, it was executed differently. I found I did not have the same love towards the key characters here, unlike before, but I relished in the difference in stories. With the backdrop of the ‘Wave Watchers’ working with the Lifeguards, it was interesting to see how much this element filled Marina’s life. (As as aside, how I did chuckle about Marina’s name – the irony considering she lives by the sea and helps with beach safety!)
Both Marina and Tiff are metaphorically ‘lost at sea’. Tiff is running away from career damages in London; Marina is trying to rebuild her life after losing her husband at sea. For Marina, the seven year anniversary is approaching and, with no body ever being found, would mean he would be officially declared dead. It’s a massive piece of closure that Marina, understandably, feels very emotional towards. Tiff escapes to Cornwall to be with her cousin but, what both women do not anticipate, is falling deeply in love. This romance shapes the stories and I relished in the unexpected developments in the last quarter of the story.
I did enjoy this book but I don’t think it was as strong as the first novel. You definitely do not need to read the other books in the series. The detachment from other characters means that you do not need to have an understanding of previous stories. I found it a shame that Ashley did not incorporate earlier personalities and, although there were familiar faces, feel that this would have added to the community spirit that is portrayed at Porthmellow.
I continue to love stories set by the seaside so it is without a doubt that I could only give this the highest rating! I could vividly picture the scenes at Portmellow and I would be interested to see if Ashley continues stories set at this fictional coastal town. All I would request is a bit more “air time” from these central characters in later stories.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Readers who liked this book also liked:
Alexander Pushkin, Lucy Bozzi
Children's Fiction, Literary Fiction, Teens & YA