Another brilliant book from Philipa Ashley, Bo cafe owner has a heartbreaking Christmas and vows she isn't going to fall in love again, Angel put upon wife of Tommy looking forward to her anniversary and quiet Ran who moved to Cornwall to get away from something. Three lives that seem to change after a visit to a fairground fortune-teller. I love the dancing vibe throughout this book, I love the descriptive way all the costumes and dresses are brought to life and I love the vintage music name dropping. Really, really enjoyable. Definitely one to put on your tbr list.

A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley is an excellent festive contemporary romance that really makes me excited for the Holidays!

I have read several books from Ms. Ashley and I have loved every one of them. This novel has a great mix of excellent characters, Holiday magic, romance, serious and lighter moments, character development, and warm winter foods that made my belly grumble more than once.

I loved the premise of the “fortune teller”. It was so cute and really added a magical and unique aspect to the story.

I also really liked Bo and her character in general. Smart, strong, and has a fiery element to her deep down. I am glad that despite some of the initial happenings, things ended up just perfectly for her.

Another great addition to this wonderful series. I am looking forward to what Ms. Ashley cooks up next. (Another festive or holiday (any holiday)- themed book would be awesome.

5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Avon Books UK for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.

A most enjoyable book. Love in Cornwall with the story set in a cafe and lots of dancing going on. Some characters from previous books feature and although you don’t need to have read any of tho so to enjoy this story, it’s always good to hear about ‘old friends’. Reading this was the perfect way to pass a rainy day.

Another wonderful book by Phillippa Ashley. I love a festive book because I love Christmas so much and this one does not disappoint. Its heartwarming and enticing and I love the characters. Especially Bo and Angel. They're such good friends and I can relate to them as a friendship (like I have with my bestie) but also as independent businesses, I try and support as many independent business throughout the year as I can bit especially at Christmas.

I also make things too so I can relate to Angel wanting to do her own crafty business. I love the crafts and romance aspects of this book and it has Christmas and food as themes throughout, what more could a, romantic foodie who loves crafts, want.

My favourite moment was the situation between Angel and Kelvin, that made me want to shout for joy and punch the air.

Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review..

A Special Cornish Christmas whata delightful read the story had me hooked right from the start. I enjoyed this Christmas book 4 star 🌟 🌟🌟🌟






Happy Reading Lisa 📚

Once again, Phillipa Ashley provides a perfect heartwarming tale. She is the queen of uplifting women’s fiction.

A really lovely, heartwarming book. Fantastic to curl up in your chair with a cup of coffee in front of the fire with and smile, laugh and cry your way through. it will really bring out your Christmas Spirit!

A Special Cornish Christmas

Phillipa Ashley is a wonderful story teller, her books will draw you right in and make you feel as if you are there with the characters she brings to life. Her love of Cornwall is always evident in her stories if you know Cornwall you will visualise the scene if you don’t know Cornwall you will certainly want to visit.

A Special Cornish Christmas is a wonderful book full of joy; it is just what is needed after this pandemic. It is truly inspiring in so many ways. The story is about Bo who owns the boatyard cafe in Falford Cornwall. It is Christmas Eve and Bo and her boy friend Hamish and they had gone to the local bar The Ferryman Inn. Things did not go as she would have hoped spending Christmas with the man she had fallen for, that night he left her and went back to his old life and wife.

So the story begins Bo owns a beachside cafe and has one staff Cade, she also has a friend Angel who works in a country store, is married to a fisherman and love sewing. All 3 belong to a rock and roll dance group called the Flingers there is also Ran who is relatively new to Falford he has taken up the roll of the dj for them he has only just joined the group. Bo loves everything retro. The main story is based around Bo Angel and ran, but other characters from her previous book from Falford (An Endless Cornish summer) are also in the book even if just fleeting by. There are also new characters that play a part in this story.

The story then jumps eight months on. The 3 main characters go to a summer fete and decide to go to see a fortune teller. She tells them all their fortune none of them go in believing in it but each came out a little bit shaken. This is when things start to happen and each time something happens they go back over what was said that day in the tent of the teller.

This is where I say no more about the story. This book is well worth the read and I will encourage you to get it you will not be let down.

I enjoyed this book so much I did not want it to end but I wanted to finish it so I knew how it all ended. Phillipa does this in every book I have read of hers.

Phillipa is a very talented writer and I always know I am in for a great time away from reality in a wonderful story with great characters that come alive in my mind.

Congratulations Phillipa you have done it again. Thank you.

Wow what can I say another brilliant book from this author. This was so much more than a Christmas story and was great to be back in falford again and to find out more about the other characters who live there. This time it was the turn of Bo and Angel to take centre stage along with a few others which I won’t go into for fear of spoilers. This book could also be read as a stand-alone as well.

This story was a perfect escapism read and focused on the importance of having friends especially in times of need and how love can be found when you least expect it or when you have given up hope of finding it and also contained a sprinkle of Christmas magic too.

Can’t wait for another story detailing another chapter in the lives of the falford residents.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a real page turner as the story unfolded of Bo and her topsy turvy love life together with her friend Angela whose business start up was a joy to follow. I loved the way their stories unfolded keeping me guessing until the end. I did however guess the identity of Madame Odette but was fascinated to find out if I was correct. The Boatyard cafe sounded like somewhere to sit and have a coffee while watching the world go by. Excellent read.

A book full of friendship, dancing, food and craft. I loved every page and character. Bo has her heart broken at Christmas but is still a good friend to Angel and Ran as well as a team member of the Falford Flingers. A book I enjoyed from the first to the last page and one I highly recommend

A Cornish Christmas Delight!

I adore Phillipas books and I have to say, catching up with the Morovah brothers was a wonderful treat.

This book will have your feet tapping and your heart thumping, Phillipa certainly put some of her characters through the mill. It's full of friendship, turmoil, Christmas shenanigans and a community that comes together in the form of the Falford Flingers.

Delightful read, im glad a few characters got what they deserved, definitely get this on your Christmas list, you won't be disappointed!

Once again I got to visit Cornwall and enjoy a lovely Christmas story from Phillipa Ashley about one of the characters, Bo, from an earlier book An Endless Cornish Summer. As always, well written, great characters, wonderful descriptions of Cornwall and Falmouth that just make you want to visit. I loved that some characters from the other book were included too. It’s a fun story centered on romance at Christmas. I highly recommend it. Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for honest review.

I did enjoy reading this book - set in the same place and with many of the same characters as the previous novel by this author, but with a few new characters and the book focused on a different person.
This was a light and fun read, set over quite a long time but with leaps, from Christmas to summer to the lead up to Christmas again. If you have any interest in music, clothes, or dancing, you will love this one!
This book could easily be read by someone who hasn't read the previous one, but those of us who have read that will really enjoy this one!

Penny is having to rethink her plans for Christmas after a rather nasty break from her boyfriend. She and her friends Angel and Ran visit a strange fortune teller who seems to know rather too much about them. Her remarks ipinge on so many parts of their lives.
Living in Cornwall I found it irritating that the author couldnt just name Helford (Falford) and the lovely Ferryboat inn (Ferryman). Why change their names?
I normally love Philippa Ashley's boks but didnt find that I was deeply involved in this one.
However, my thanks to NetGalley for a review copy.

Loved returning to Cornwall and reading it from the view of a different character from the previous book, this time we follow Bo and her life at the boatyard cafe, brilliant characters as usual and loved returning to the village once again where previous characters pop up throughout the story.
Was well written and loved the description on the village once again, can't wait for the next instalment
Would highly recommend

I read a previous book set in the same village and really enjoyed reading about the characters who almost cameos in the last book and find out more about them and their lives. It was a gentle read, one to curl up with and willed them all to find their happy!

I am a huge fan of Philippa Ashley‘s books, particularly the ones set in Cornwall as I thoroughly enjoy reading about the places I have visited, as well as getting to know the wonderful characters she describes in her books. In some ways this book is a sequel to a previous book-An endless Cornish summer, although you don’t need to have read them in order to enjoy this book. The story starts with the main character Bo, being let down quite substantially, however like me you may not be too disappointed by that, as it quickly becomes clear that there is a much better candidate waiting in the wings, if both of them could take one more chance. It seems that fate will give them a push in the guise of a mysterious fortune teller who seems to pop up all over the place… As usual the delicious descriptions of places and people which are a hallmark of Philippa Ashley‘s books are there and I was particularly delighted to read the description of Trewellyn house (which I did recognise as Trelissick).I thoroughly recommend this book to anybody Who needs a slice of Cornish life, as well as a push to try again when they have been let down.

A gorgeous and heartwarming ode to the Christmas holidays and finding love. I loved the descriptive settings and the qonser of the Christmas spirit interlaced throughout. A fun and festive read!

Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Bo used to love Christmas. Last year was painful when she and her boyfriend broke up in their small town. Bo wants nothing to due with Christmas. I enjoyed the different characters.

This was a lovely book with a good storyline. The setting was great and the characters were brilliant.

A beautiful story that captures you right in. Having read previous ones in the series, I was a little disappointed not to see more of the known characters however soon realised they weren't needed!!

Lovely to be back in Cornwall. Gosh Bo had it tough in her personal life. Her cafe was amazing and her friendship with Angle was supportive for them both. The Falcons Flingers sounded ace. Lots of brilliant dancing. Ran was a fascinating character . His love of old records. A great ending .. A real feel good book. A perfect Christmas or any time read. Loved it.

A special Cornish Christmas has it all! Delightful characters new and old, the most perfect idyllic coastal location, plenty of tantalising Christmas fare both edible and non edible! Friendship, romance, dancing and a fortune teller! What more could you wish for in the run up to Christmas?Sat by the fire, festive tunes playing, mulled wine and a mince pie to hand as you devour this delectable read!
Bo and Ran run a gauntlet of emotions as they cast off old baggage, embroil themselves in community life particularly dancing,and ultimately learn to love and trust again surrounded by their eclectic circle of friends and family all aided and abetted by a mystery fortune teller!
A lovely heartwarming festive read.
Thank you netgalley for this early read.

A gorgeous and warm festive book, perfect for Christmas. I loved Bo and Ryan’s story and the supporting cast including Angel, Sally and Cade. Plenty of intrigue and mystery along the way including the mysterious Madame Odette’s real identity and the reason that Ran has moved to Cornwall and kept himself to himself for months. This book will definitely get your foot tapping to all the wonderful tunes mentioned within the pages - ideal reading in the run up to the new series of Strictly! Fabulous.

A worthy sequel - I enjoyed this one as much as the first set in a Cornish harbour. Anything Christmassy with romance is a winner in my eyes

Phillipa Ashley has such a skill, she writes such believable, relatable characters that I feel I’ve known them years. I love how people from previous books are part of the story but each book is truly a standalone book.
A special Cornish Christmas made me feel very festive, even though I was reading it in August! Another bestseller in the making, I’d recommend this book to all my friends

I do love a Phillipa Ashley Christmas book. This will not disappoint! Set in Falford Cornwall, Bo Grayson runs & owns the Boatyard Cafe. The book begins at Christmas where everything changes & at the time not for the better. Follow Bo, her friend Angel & their rock & roll dancing through the year of many changes. Loved the descriptions of Falford & surrounding areas making me want to sit at the Boatyard Cafe & watch the world go by. Of course love is in the air but will the predictions made by Madamne Odette at the Falford Show ground come true?

This book is like a mulled wine in the festive season, leaves you feeling all warm and content

The story follows Bo who runs the Boatyard Cafe, and her ups and downs from one Christmas to the next. It includes her friends Angel and Ran, and can the latter be more than just a friend?

I was drawn in from the first page, and wanted to get back to the book asap each time I had to put it down. There were some characters you may recognise if you have also read An Endless Cornish Summer, but it doesn’t matter if you haven’t as this can easily be enjoyed as a standalone book.

This is the second book I’ve read by Phillipa Ashley, and I’m certainly happy to read more.

5 stars

Copy provided by Avon via Netgalley

I though this was a fab festive read. Really enjoyed it & I highly recommend it. Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book.

With grateful thanks to netgalley and Phillipa Ashley for an early copy in return for an honest opinion.
Having read all this ladys books I was delighted with a copy and it certainly did not disapoint Cornwall Christmas and holiday mix together a shake of love and your done.
Can highly recommend this fabulous book.

Bo was left heartbroken just before Christmas, so when a fortune teller predicts that she will be with the one she loves by Christmas the next year she is a bit skeptical.
Ran also gets the same fortune, but will it lead to a new love for him, or back to his old one?

Great read, looking forward to the next book in Falford.

I love Phillipa Ashley's books and am very grateful to have been allowed to read an early copy of this.

Every story is very warm and inviting, and need a good dose of hot chocolate and brownie to read with.

I loved how we found out about record collecting through Ran's character; and the passion for rock and roll and dancing through Bo and Angel, This book shows it's never too late to start something new through Angel's character and what happened to her.

Falford feels like a real place and each book feels like returning to family.

I would highly recommend picking this up and cuddling up by a fire (or listening to some rock n roll).

Another Ashley gem. It was great to get back to Falford and learn more about Bo. I hope Ashley will go back again, but next time a little more interaction with the characters we have grown to love from previous instalments please.

Another wonderful book by Phillipa Ashley, I loved it.
Bo has a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone, but when she thinks she has met the man of her dreams and is looking forward to a loved up Christmas, he goes and spoils it by realising he’s not in love with her at all but his ex, but great sex anyway. So she decides then and there she is off men for good. Luckily she has amazing friends, one of which is Angel who they share a love of music and dancing. Angel has been married for a long time, loves her hubby and has raised two beautiful children. However one night she finds out that her hubby a fisherman is out at sea on a boat, which is in trouble. But this night opens more than one nightmare.

Welcome back to the Village of Falford! Phillipa Ashley's latest edition in the Cornish village series introduces us to Bo, who runs a cafe and who has just been disappointed by her latest romance. Introduce in Angel and Ran, who are also having their share of romantic disappointments, and the mysterious Madame Odette, who makes a prediction that all three will meet the love of their lives by Christmas...A light-hearted easy read full of Christmas charm, and a little bit of mystery - who exactly is Madame Odette? - makes this one you will breeze right through! Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for an advanced copy.

I couldn’t put this down and finished it in an evening, which I was happy about as it proved how good it was, but sad as it was over and I wanted more. It pulled me in right away.
I adored Bo and Ran and the will they/won’t they if their relationship, (which in some books can be tiresome, but not at all here). Phillipa Ashley always creates a very picturesque and detailed backing to her books, and this was the same. A beautiful and close knit, friendly town that you can almost see in front of you and always want to visit.
Add into the mix it’s a Christmas book and the dropping in names of all the Christmas tracks, making me want to go and listen to them. It couldn’t be better.

I absolutely loved this book. As a teenager in the 1980s, I was 'that' girl who had a record collection full of music from the 1960s, so parts of this book totally resonated with me.
As ever, Phillipa has given me a yearning to be in Cornwall. The book was full of romance, a little bit of drama, and a lot of heart. I thoroughly recommend this!

This novel continues to follow the lives of folk who live in the fictional village of Falford on the Fal estuary in Cornwall. This time it's the turn of Bo who runs the cafe and who has a passion for all things vintage, including dance. Her love life has been disastrous but dancing with the Flingers keeps her and her friends going. There are some wonderful descriptions of the joy of dancing in this truly feelgood story.

It was really lovely to go back to Falford and find out about the lovely Bo. I had briefly met her in the summer book but it was lovely to discover her and her love of vintage and rock and roll dancing.
Angel her nifty fingered sewing friend was a joy and delight to meet and Ran the man with dark secrets. These books are a love letter to Cornwall and always a pleasure to read.
Thank you netgalley for this arc which I have reviewed honestly.

It is always nice to settle into a cozy chair and open a new book by Phillipa Ashley! It is a joy to return to the village of Falford and read more about characters from the previous book. While the main focus is on the new soon-to-be couple, the townspeople pop into the story here and there.

This second book in The Falford Series is the love story of Bo (Bonita) and Ran (Ranulph). Both of them are at a place in their lives where they are leery of romance and have decided to focus on themselves and not finding a partner. Sometimes when people decide they are not looking for love, it is then that love finds them.

The plot flows along with “Rock and Roll” dancing. The friendship to love story evolves as a dance does. Slow at first, then the rhythm picks up and comes to a peak, and then the couple dances as a unit and the joy from them overflows to all that is watching.

I have always loved to dance and reading this story with dancing as a major theme, gave me so much joy. I could picture the couples dancing, the beautiful clothes and could hear the music playing while reading. The author did an amazing job of writing this uplifting story while living in the times of the Covid19 virus. I think this book will bring happiness to all that read it.

I will add that I adore the book cover and it fits the story so well!

I recommend this book so highly and want to thank Avon Books UK, Avon and NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC

Phillipa Ashley brings us a charming Christmas tale this festive season, filled with warmth, rock and roll, and a little bit of Christmas magic.

Bo Grayson has always believed Christmas to be the most wonderful time of the year, until she had her heart broken on Christmas Eve.

However, at a summer fete, Bo and her friends meet the mysterious fortune teller Madame Odette, and they are each given the same prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.

With just a few months until the festive season, they dismiss the predictions out of hand. The last thing Bo imagines is that she’ll be ready to open her heart again. But will fate – and perhaps a sprinkle of Christmas magic – change her mind?

A Special Cornish Christmas is an enjoyable read, that I think will win over the hearts of many readers. The writing is strong, the characters are likeable, and I particularly enjoyed seeing the friendship between Bo and Angel, and the support the women gave to each other.

My one disappointment was the romance aspect. Sadly, I didn't feel there was enough development of the relationship between Bo and her significant other. Whilst I did like him, and I was happy with how everything ended up, unfortunately, there were times he seemed very wishy-washy. His decision-making and lack of communication with Bo, as well as his thoughts about his past, were too much for me to truly believe in the relationship with Bo.

That aside, it was a very good book, easy to read, light-hearted, and I imagine many people will absolutely adore it. I would definitely recommend it. A solid 3.5 stars from me.

Many thanks to the publisher, Avon Books UK and NetGalley for an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

A Special Cornish Christmas will be released on November 11th.

Another fantastic read by Phillips Ashley. I love the characters in this novel, great to also revisit some of her older characters from previous books. I would definitely recommend this to all my friends

5 stars from me!!

Another brilliant book. Once again we return to the village of Falford in Cornwall.

Bonita, known to everybody as Bo, runs the successful Boatyard Cafe. In her spare time she lives to dance and is a member of the Falford Flingers, a rock and roll dance group.

After a disastrous end to a relationship, will a fortune teller's prediction come true?

Loved this book from start to finish and now want more! The characters are brilliant and I felt like dancing ( if only my body would allow)! Hoping for a sequel Phillipa, but then ainlo . ve all your books.

I received this book via NetGalley and give it my honest opinion.

This is a must read to get yourself into the Christmas spirit, such a great read and loveable characters. A book you can immerse yourself into and feel like Christmas is just around the corner. I truly adored this book and highly recommend you read it, another smasher from Phillipa Ashley!

I love these types of warm holiday reads set in idyllic places.
Premise
For Bo Grayson, Christmas has always been the most wonderful time of the year. Well, until she had her heart broken last December…

At a local summer fete, Bo and her friends meet the mysterious fortune teller Madame Odette, and they are each given the same prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.
This was a very sweet and charming reading perfect to get in the Christmas spirit of for any time really. I loved reading about Bo and her friends! I def will check out more by this author.

For fans of this genre this book will not disappoint. It has all the right ingredients for a cosy festive read.

Genuinely loved the characters and the setting. Such lovely descriptions, a music and dancing vibe, a mysterious Madame Odette and a feel good storyline with a Christmassy feel.

Bo, Ran and Angel all have their lives shaken up and need to start afresh. The Flingers help all three of them, but so does their growing friendships.

This is a lovely, well-written Christmas story. There is a definite feel of Cornwall about it, from the descriptions of the area to the way the characters speak.

The book begins with café owner Bo packing up for Christmas, and going to the pub with her boyfriend, Scottish vet Hamish, where all her friends from the village dance group, the Falford Flingers, are meeting up. Bo adores the music of the fifties, and is an enthusiastic dancer of the dances of the fifties, which the Flingers do. She also wears a lot of fifties type clothes. Hamish is not terribly impressed, he laughs and makes fun of it all, and Bo assumes he is joking. There is an air of doom in the writing of the first couple of chapters, you are just waiting for Bo’s world to collapse, there is something about Hamish ….

And bang! It happens. Bo tells Hamish she loves him, and he runs away back to Scotland! Never to be seen in Falford again! Bo maintains a stiff upper lip to the world at large, but she is never going to trust a man again. If it wasn’t for the support of her friends Angel and Ran her world would have crumbled. At a local charity fair the three of them visit the fortune teller in turn - it is for charity after all. Even though she gives them all the usual platitudes - “by Christmas you will meet the person of your dreams, etc.”, Madame Odette says something to each of them that rattles them. Ran is a bit of a mystery man, he works as a diving instructor in the village and sorts out the music for the Flingers, nobody knows anything of his background, or where he comes from, so the others are bemused when he stalks off in a temper after his reading. Angel has been married to Tommy for thirty years, but he spends a lot of time at sea as a trawler-man, and a lot of time in the pub when he is at home, the others cannot see what Angel sees in him as he often puts her down.

The year progresses and there are changes to all their lives, some of which have a huge impact. Angel in particular needs the support of her friends and family. Ran and Bo become very close during the year, but as Christmas approaches everything seems to fall apart, is Bo going to have a repeat of last year’s fiasco? We do get a happy ending for each of the friends, as they each realise that Madame Odette spoke the truth - even though the truth is very different to each of their expectations.

A lovely, reasonably gentle story, perfect for a relaxed afternoon before or just after Christmas.

I do love a good Christmas book, and this was a great Christmas book! I loved the previous book set in Falford so it was a delight to come across some familiar characters and places.

I absolutely loved the dancing element, it really added some fun and flair to the story and the characters, and I enjoyed imagining them filling the dance floor with such joy.

As always with Phillipa Ashley's books, the romance is sweet, and the fortune teller added an element of mystery that I appreciated. I will definitely revisit this for future festive reading!
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After finishing this book I want to go out and buy one of Angel's vintage inspired dresses and learn to jive, lindy hop, swing and do all the other rock n roll dances. Although there are some thought provoking and sad moments in the book on the whole this is a very upbeat and joyful read.
The stories of Bo, Ran and Angel all intertwine through their love of rock n roll, and the flingers dance group. After a visit to the fortune teller at the summer fete they become more aware of life around them and identify parts of their lives which need to change. Madam Odette says that they will be with the love of their life by Christmas , this seems truly impossible.
The description of the different places they visit in Cornwall is beautiful and I loved that the story is set in Falford again at the boat yard (where we met Bo before at her café in 'an endless Cornish summer'.) so we can catch up on old friends. .

A lovely Cornish story as a follow up to an Endless Cornish Summer, but this concentrates on new characters, so is a perfect stand-alone. There is heartbreak, romance and hope all combined with rockn’roll , songs from the 60’s and a vintage feel. Such a warm, cosy read to curl up with in the winter months surrounding Christmas. I recommend all of Phillips Ashley’s books, well written, loveable characters and knowing Cornwall well, beautifully described.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.

This was a lovely festive tale that really gave me all the Christmas vibes! I enjoyed the main character Bo and the rock n roll dancing! Think this is the perfect read for a cosy night in 😍

This book is set in the beautiful Cornish, village Falford, the setting of the previous book. We fleetingly meet up with some characters we have previously met, but this is Bo's story. We follow her through the ups and downs that life has thrown her way. This book is a perfect feel good, festive read that will have you tapping your toes to the beat of the tunes picked out for the Flingers dance group that Bo and her lovely friends are part of.

What a gorgeous read- from the warmth of a summer fete to the nights drawing in and the festive season approaching. This was a great story and lovely to see Angel find her feet & change things in a most dramatic way. Bo and Ran were great characters- very likeable and I spent the whole book hoping they would finally get together. The descriptions of rock and roll dancing were fun and there was a lovely community feel to the whole story. Would definitely recommend.

Another return to Falford and the great community there. This time round the focus is on Bo, the cafe owner from the first book. Last Christmas she had her heart broken and swore never to fall in love again. However, a trip to a fortune teller at the local fete gives her (and her two friends) the prediction that they will find love by Christmas. Is it all nonsense or will the predictions come true?
Loved Bo’s story and romance but not as much as Angie’s story. Her journey, supported by Bo, was the real story for me. There was also real intrigue about the identity of the mysterious fortune teller that kept me gripped.
Great story, great characters and I’m so hoping there will be a return to Falford to focus on Orial.

What a wonderful feel good read. Phillipa is my absolute favourite author.
It was a delight to be back in Falford and catching up with all the wonderful characters. This story focuses on Bo who runs the Boatyard Cafe and offers her delightful culinary food to the local and tourists.
Bo is nursing a heart break and decide that men are not worth it. She finds comfort in the Falford Flingers who are a group of locals who love Rock and Roll. WIthin her group they form strong friendships including Ran, who has a mysterious side to him and Bo is drawn to him.
The book leads through all the wonderful characters and how they overcome their emotional baggage and provide support for the group but mainly the importance of friendships. in the community.
A delightful read and can be read as a standalone.

What another cozy and wonderful book from Ashley! Brew yourself a cup of tea and read this book in front of a roaring fire! You will not regret it :)

As a fan of Phillipa Ashley I was looking forward to this book, especially as it was a sequel to An Endless Cornish Summer, which I loved. However I was slightly disappointed as it did not have the same appeal and emotion as the previous book. It seemed to lack the tenderness and depth of feeling that Phillipa is so good at portraying. It started well with Bo’s heartbreak over Hamish but I felt it lost momentum after that. It was an easy read but I didn’t engage with the characters and I got quite frustrated with Ryan’s constant indecision! The pace of the story was rather slow and not helped by the long descriptions of Bo’s dresses, Angel’s designs and the “music “ conversations, which added nothing to the story and seemed irrelevant to the plot. The best part of the book was the developing romance between Bo and Ran, although this was a slow burner. I didn’t really get a Christmas vibe from the book, this was overshadowed by the constant references and descriptions of the clothes and music. I’m sure fans of Phillipa Ashley will enjoy the book, especially if they love the fashion and music of the 50’s and 60’s.
Unfortunately for me it didn’t live up to the previous book An Endless Cornish Summer. Sorry Phillipa.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon books for allowing me to read this book.

When Bo’s boyfriend ends their relationship on Christmas Eve,she feels that Christmas is an unlucky time for her.
The following August, a fortune teller tells her that she is going to be with the love of her life at Christmas.Bo doesn’t believe this and is convinced that her love life is doomed.Growing closer to a newcomer to Falford,will the predictions come true and will she be with the love of her life on Christmas Day?

Phillipa Ashley is on of my ‘go to’ authors and she has pulled it out of the bag again!This book has definetly got me in the mood for Christmas.

If you are needing an escape to a kinder, cosy place; inhabited by friendly, caring people, Falford is definitely a place you need to be. Albeit through the pages of a book.
I read An Endless Cornish Summer, the first in the Falford series by Phillipa Ashley, a few months ago. I loved the pretty shore community, set in the heart of Cornwall, and was thrilled to be heading back there for this book, A Special Cornish Christmas.
In this book, we get to know some of the other residents, while still having passing glimpses in to the lives of the Morvah family. Bo, our central character, runs the Boatyard Cafe, an idyllic spot on the river, in the heart of the quaint town. While her business is thriving, her love life has not been smooth sailing. At the same time, her close friend Angel is also having a very hard time too.
The story is closely based around the members of a local retro dance group, The Falford Flingers. The Rock ‘n’ Roll music, and the vintage clothes give a lovely back drop to the book, which further enhances the lovely, warm feel of the plot.
As with Phillipa’s books I previously read, this a gentle read, where you feel safe in the knowledge that nothing too awful will happen. You will be wrapped in the warmth of these pages, as if you were curled up under a cosy blanket, in your favourite chair.
4* from me.

A welcome return to Falford in this uplifting Christmas tale. Cafe owner Bo and diving instructor Ran

meet while carrying a lot of emotional baggage. . Both are on the rebound and are unsure about their true

feelings for each other. Set in beautiful Cornwall, they are trying to pass betrayal and loneliness with the help of

wonderful friends in the community, and a joint love of music and dancing. A spirited. book full of hope and

compassion. .A gem of a read..

Read this whilst in Cornwall when the sun was shining, but it didn’t detract from the lovely story. Nice to see some of the characters in the village reappear. It’s a recommend from me

A lovely festive read which had me gripped from the beginning and I found it incredibly difficult to put down.

Beautifully written with very likeable characters..

Highly recommended and definitely a 5 star from me.

Bo runs the Boatyard Cafe in the Cornish village of Falford. She, along with her two friends Angel and Ran, visits a fortune teller at a summer fair, who tells all 3 that they will find their true love by Christmas? Will that prediction come true?

A beautifully set book, with great characters that you hope get their happy endings. My first story by the author, I'll definitely be looking out for more - a fantastic Christmassy read.

This is my first festive book for 2021 and it got me in the festive spirit.
Bo and her friends meet the fortune teller Madame Odette, and they are each given a prediction that they all received - - - - - : You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.
The question is will they???

Thanks to#NetGalley for the advance copy in return for an honest review.

Phillipa Ashley never ever fails to deliver! In this book she has everything you need for the perfect Cornish story alongside everything you could desire for your perfect Christmas story and she mixes it all up to create a heartwarming, romantic story. She has wonderful characters, some of whom you'll love and wish the best for and others you'll want to hiss and boo at!

Of course the outcome is obvious but the journey to that conclusion is just magical.

My thanks to Netgalley for my early copy.

What a great feel good book. Love this and really got into the Christmas spirit. Love all Phillips Ashley books about the Cornish people and this book was no different .
Highly recommended

Waht's not to like in a Christmasy novel set in Cornwall and written by Phillipa Ashley. The novel starts with the the central character looking forward to a wonderful Christmas with her new man, Hamish and then we learn about her involvement with the Falford Flingers a team of people who put on demonstration shows of roke and roll dances. She is close to Angel who is married to a fisherman called Tommy who seems to spend his nights in the pub rather than at home and a new member of the group Ran, a quiet man who lives outside the village but enjoys setting up the records for the Team. The story then jumps forward to a summer fete where Bo, Angel and Ran separtly go to consult a mystic, Madam Odette who tells each of the three some disturbing news. It is ironic that a lot of what the woman says has an impact on their lives. I loved the idea of Bo's cafe and the Christmasy magic that Phillipa weaves into her tale as well as how each of the main characters resolve their problems whilst still involved with their beloved group of dancers. Cornwall comes alive in the pages of the novel and makes me long for a trip back in the future. A lovely novel for the Christmas stocking.

Phillippa Ashley never disappoints and this is a lovely, warm and festive book, perfect for the lead up to the Christmas season.
I loved the main characters, Bo and Ran and the setting of the fictional village of Falford.
The addition of a rock and roll dancing club and the many great songs referenced is a bonus.
Did I work out the ending? Of course, but isn't that part of the enjoyment in this genre.

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

A cozy Christmas read! I definitely felt transported to Cornwall and by the end of the book I wanted to research dancing. I should have looked up the various songs mentioned in the book so I could have those playing while I read the book :)

A Special Cornish Christmas is another story in the Falford series and features many of the characters that readers of Phillipa Ashley will be familiar with. This book focuses on Bo, who owns the boatyard cafe and is an avid fan of rock and roll dance! Bo's been unlucky in love so far, but will her future change this Christmas with the arrival of quiet DJ Ran? Bo's best friend Angel also needs a dose of good luck, and we get to follow their escapades in the book.

A Special Cornish Christmas is a great book, at any time of year. The Christmas side of things is not too in your face, and just adds a nice back drop to the main narrative.

It's a comforting easy read, perfect for chilly nights with a hot chocolate and a blanket!

Another fantastic read by Phillipa!

Back in Falford Cornwall we are with Bo owner of the Boatyard Cafe after having her heart broken last Christmas she is hoping this one will be better.

After a fortune teller says that she will be in love by this Chrismas, Bo is not looking for love at all.

What a fab joyful read, great characters I loved Angel and Ran.

This is a lovely Christmas read with a bit of rock and roll thrown in what's not to love.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

A wonderfully feel good story! I couldn’t put it down and read it in one evening. Would most heartily recommend!

Another amazing book by Phillipa Ashley and an amazing festive read that made me feel cosy and christmassy, well written, great characters and a really enjoyable read.

Slow start but stick with it, it's worth it. Different life stages of friends, centered around a dance group. Follow the challenges and changes that occur.
A gentle roller-coaster with friends you care about.
Christmas escapism, curl up and enjoy

I decided to read this book in the end and really enjoyed it. A typical Christmas love story based in a beautiful area of the country

This Christmas everything is about to change…
When Bo Grayson and her friends meet a mysterious fortune teller, she gives each woman the same prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.
But Bo quickly dismisses this as nonsense. And with the festive season in full swing, she has plenty to keep her busy: creating the seasonal menu for her Boatyard Café, getting her rock and roll dance group ready for their Christmas show – and avoiding thinking about last December, when her fortune took a turn for the worse…
Besides, she definitely isn’t ready to open her heart again. But will fate – and perhaps a sprinkle of Christmas magic – change her mind?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read this book.
Another smasher from Phillipa Ashley! Perfect for curling up in a chair with a huge mug of hot chocolate and a 'Do not Disturb' sign. Phillipa weaves a story with style, as part of a series the book touches on previous storylines whilst focusing on an individual characters story. Its quirky, indulgent, heart breaking and fabulous all at the same time. The characters are relatable and realistic. Warning: Do not pick up if you have somewhere to be/something to do because you WILL get lost in this tale of love, friendship and possibilities.

A cozy little Christmas story. Visit the coastal town of Falford to meet Bo and her friends. Bo Grayson loves Christmas and all the old Christmas music, that is until her heart is broken by Hamish, a man who was not whom he seemed to be. Bo is a dancer in a village dance group called the Falford Flingers along with her friend Angel and the quiet newcomeer Ran. Together they attend a summer fair where they visit the mysterious Madame Odette to have their future told and all become visibly shaken as they are told the same thing, that “next Christmas they will be with their true love.” They all dismiss this this as a lark and yet their lives begin to be driven by these predictions. Yet Angel’s life takes a detour as her husband of 30 years disappears. As Bo and Ran begin to develop feelings for each other, Ran’s soon to be ex-wife turns up. So is the mysterious Madame a fake? Will Bo, Angel, and Ran find that magic and have a second chance to be able to trust love again?

Phillpa Ashley writes a delightful tale of mystery, love, holiday magic, and brings you into the Celtic countryside of England with her great descriptions. You can’t but help root for Bo, Angel, and Ran to find love and happiness given what they’ve all personally been through. I found that although this kept me reading on to find out and hoping for a great outcome, it was somewhat predictable. But that was okay with me because it’s what I wanted as a reader of this feel good book. It makes you believe that magic really does happen at Christmas.

Many thanks to #netgalley #aspecialcornishchristmas # phillpaashley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Bo runs the local café, and has been going out with Hamish. Looking forward to spending Christmas with him she is badly let down, leaving her distrustful of everyone.
Madam Odette. a fortune teller foretells the future of the three main characters, Bo, Angel, and Ran, though neither believe a word she says some of her prophecies start to come true.
Written in an easy, light-hearted style, with a friendly tone, the scenes are expertly set with beautiful descriptions of the scenery and boatyard on the Cornish coast where Bo’s café is placed. The plot runs at a steady space, with several characters who have hidden secrets. Ran, in particular, is mysterious and elusive about his hidden past, and all becomes clear as the story unfolds.
I like the Christmas feel to the story, and descriptions of retro dancing Rock n’ Roll and jiving, also the 60s costumes and sense of fun, energy and enjoyment.
There is a real sense of community, with strong, independent women helping each other when needed and determined to succeed when let down in the past. Characters are believable and develop as the story unfolds. However, I thought that the romance between Bo and Ran developed a little too slowly and lacked passion. But would definitely recommend.

There are many Christmas romances published each year, and this stands out above the rest. It is a warm, cuddly hug of a book. The Cornish setting, with Bo’s harbour cafe, is delightful. The unusual addition of rock and roll dancing as a hobby for Bo adds interest. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Bo Grayson is fantastically happy with her man but things stop abruptly just before Christmas leaving her second guessing her decisions and deciding to remain single. She plows all her energy into making her seaside cafe into a success. Her other passion is rock and roll dancing where she can forget her troubles and eye their mysterious DJ, Ran. I loved this book, Phillipa Ashley really makes her characters real making you care about them and cheer them on.

Thank you NetGalley, Phillipa Ashley and Avon Books for the copy od A Special Cornish Christmas. This is my personal review.
The lives of Bo, Ran and Angel are all friends and they all have had ups and downs in their lives. They go together to see Madame Odette, a fortune teller. When they are each given the same prediction – that each of them is going to meet the love of their lives by Christmas. They know that this cannot be something that will really happen to them all.
This is a book you will want to read. The author has done a beautiful job making the readers really care about each person in this book.

An absolutely perfect Christmas read! I loved the cosy Christmassy setting, the storyline was pacy and the ending was very satisfying. I loved how fiery the main character, Bo, was and the developing love story. Thank you so much for this arc!

What a beautiful holiday story to lift my spirits and remind me of what is important in life!
The story centers around the lives of Bo, Ran, and Angel - three friends involved in a dance club, the Flingers. They all have some emotional upheaval in their lives, and with the support of the group, find a way to move forward in the best possible way.
The book has it all - friendship, love, forgiveness, and second chances. The story is predictable, but completely enjoyable and will leave you knowing that while life sometimes takes a different path than you once thought you wanted, you can still find happiness!
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

My heart goes out to Bo! Can her heart be broken during Christmas time two years in roll despite the fortune-teller's predictions?
I loved the small-town vibes and holidays festivities pouring out of the book. I'm not familiar with many of the classical artists mentioned in this novel. However, it was still easy to imagine the dancers preparing for their performances, making this cozy romance a delight.
NetGalley gave an audio version which I thought the narrator was great. These thoughts are my own and I'm not obligated to provide a positive review.

Thanks to netgalley for this free read. I have enjoyed reading this book in the 'Cornish' series as much as I did the last one - it has been great getting to know the different characters living in 'Falford' and following their stories. There were lots of ups and downs and will they get together or won't they. You will have to read the book to find out if there was a good ending!
I look forward to reading the next book in the series - I am hoping there will be another one!
Thanks once again to netgalley.

Another hit from Phillipa Ashley, I always enjoy a storyline set in a seaside town & it’s community. Thoroughly enjoyed this

Another wonderful Christmas book by Philippa Ashley. I thoroughly enjoyed it, it was cosy and festive and easy to read once I got into it.

Back in the bubble of Falmouth and the friends and areas. Love this book. Was great to get someone else love story and great to read a little about a previous character which I always enjoy!

This is a lovely, well-written Christmas story. There is a definite feel of Cornwall about it, from the descriptions of the area to the way the characters speak. I really enjoyed it from start to finish.

I love these books! I enjoy the little refer to other people that have featured in past books and it makes you feel as if you are part of that community and they are your friends also. I was wishing for a happy ending and a Christmas that is the best ever for all Bo and Angel! I also loved how the young and the older people combined to create a joint rock and roll club with dancing and having fun. What a wonderful time they all are having! A truly wonderful read as always in Cornwall.

Having spent most of my Christmas' in Cornwall, and being denied that opportunity last year due to lockdowns, I am looking forward to returning home this year, This was the perfect pre reading to get me in the festive mood. Great characters with Bo and Angel. Just lovely.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a great book. I felt interested in the plot from start to finish. And it was such a cozy, Christmas book!

A lovely feel good Christmas story. I love the chance to be able to escape to Cornwall in Phillipa's books. I would love to try one of the Turkey Pasties that Bo made. A lovely story of hope after a bad let down. A great book to read to get into the Christmas spirit set amongst a lovely friendly community. I would love to visit somewhere like Falford with all the characters created by Phillipa.

Look forward to the next book by Phillipa as they always delivery a great feel good story. Thank you.

Another winner from Phiillipa Ashley.
I do love a Christmas story and this had a great mix of everything.
Bo ends up spending Christmas with her family. Not quite what she had planned. Her boyfriend Hamish runs out on her on Christmas Eve leaving her heartbroken.
Bo is a very strong character who is such a good friend to Angel who needs a listening ear after her own heartbreak.
Ran was a bit of a mystery at first. Not letting anyone get close but that becomes clear as the story develops.
I loved that a few characters from a previous book showed up.
I did guess who Madame Odette was after she told Ran, Bo and Angel their fortunes at the local fete.
Loved all the rock n roll dancing and costumes, sounds fun.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon for the ARC in return for an honest review

Another wonderful book from Phillipa Ashley. Full of Christmas Spirit and the importance of hope at this special time of year. A feel good triumph.

So good to come back to this sweet Cornish town…and at Christmas no less! Like all of Phillipa Ashley’s books, this was a warm, gentle read and perfect for the season. Another great read from a favorite author! She never disappoints!

This was a really good read. Easy story to follow, charming setting and great characters. Really enjoyed it.

I loved this book, it was great to be back in Falford and the boat yard. Bo was a character that interested me in the previous book so I was excited to get her story. I love her style and her generous heart. The descriptions of the dresses she wears are amazing. I loved her friendship with Angel and how she supported her in the break down of her marriage and the start up of her business. Bo’s friendship with Ran is nice too, from the start you can tell they both like each other but have walls up to protect themselves. I like how they navigate the friendship and build a solid friendship. The way it all develops is amazing, the descriptions of the dancing and the castle are amazing.
I loved every minute of this and felt I was really there.

This was such a delightful read that had me hooked right from the start. Whilst, as the title suggests, it’s about a Cornish Christmas, it doesn’t throw the festivities in your face. This wouldn’t normally be a problem for me, as I like full-on festivities, but for some they don’t want Christmas rammed down their throats so this is a genteel introduction.

Whilst I have some of Phillipa’s books, I realised I hadn’t actually read any of them, so this was my first foray into her world and it was a lovely world. There’s some great original characters, all a mixture of light and dark and real human elements. The main character of Bo was very well written; she is feisty but vulnerable, and a great match for Ran and Angel, our other protagonists. There’s a good mix of uplifting holiday magic, but also serious topics such as relationships and marriages ending, and the worry of job security.

Whilst this did follow the happily-ever-after plot I come to expect from Christmas novels, there was the niche introduction of a rock and roll dancing plot point which ran through the whole book which I thoroughly enjoyed. Knowing absolutely nothing about what world, I got the idea that Phillipa had done a lot of research to make it sound believable.

I thoroughly look forward to whatever Phillipa produces next - hopefully another Christmas book!

"A Special Cornish Christmas" is the second of Phillipa Ashley's novels set in the fictional village of Falford. However, it is not necessary to have read the previous novel to enjoy this one. The action covers a year from one Christmas to the next in the life of Bo, proprietor of the Boatyard Café. Be warned that reading this book may encourage you to join a swing/rock and roll dance group as it sounds like they have a lot of fun, as well as being an enjoyable form of exercise. There is a good mix of characters and plenty happening to keep the reader engaged. A great read.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.

Bo had her heart broken at Christmas and swore off men so she didn't get hurt again, instead putting her time into her boatyard cafe and the Falford Flingers dance group
During the summer fete she is persuaded by her friends Angel and Ran against her better judgement to visit the fortune teller who tells them all that they will meet the love of their lives by Christmas Day. None of them believe it but strange things start occuring that start to make them wonder if there is any truth in the predictions.
A fab festive read

Unlucky in love Bo wants a quiet and uneventful Christmas. After visiting a psychic who instructs her that she will meet the love of her life by Christmas, will she really have the quiet Christmas she’s expecting?
A revisit to the coastal village of Falford, I was expecting another community orientated and special story and it really was. Based around Bo’s love of dancing and her close friendships within her community it really was a treat.
It was lovely to see the relationship between Bo and Ran grow into something special, even with the distractions and obstacles thrown in their way.
It was also lovely to follow the story of her lovely friend struggle to get her life back on track after her husband leaves for another woman. It’s a really heart-warming tale of friendship as well as love.
I really enjoyed the mentions of characters from previous books based in the village, it really helped give a brilliant picture of the community as I felt that I was already really familiar with many of the personalities, and the opportunity to get to know Bo was welcomed!
A great Christmas addition to the series, I enjoyed my revisit to Falford immensely.

This is the third book in the Cornish series that I have read from Phillipa Ashley and once again, a really heartwarming read set in beautiful Falmouth.

The story starts with the main character Bo being let down by her boyfriend Hamish on Christmas Eve.

Fast forward to 8 months later and the story picks up towards the end of summer when Bo, her best friend Angel and their friend Ran all visit a fortune teller at a local gala who pretty much tells them all the same thing - they will all discover love by Christmas!

Angel and Tommy have been married for 30 years so Angel is already with her love, or is she? Angel works for grumpy Kelvin, who doesn’t know how lucky he is to have such a knowledgable employee.

Although Bo likes Ran, she is unsure of how he feels and she is content to be ‘ just good friends’. Bo owns the local cafe and is hoping to attract more custom hosting larger events and expand her small business.

Ran likes to keep things close to his chest and doesn’t talk much about his life. He is self employed running a diving tuition business and also DJ’s for the local dance group.

We soon get drawn in to life with the locals and what a great community spirit there is, especially when someone needs help or support. It was also lovely to hear about some of the previous characters from Phillipa’s other books.

If you want a heartwarming Christmas read with your feet up by the fire and a warm drink, this is the book for you.

Many thanks to netgalley, the publishers and the author for an arc. Really enjoyed this.

A. very enjoyable Christmas read set in Cornwall. Bo owns the local cafe by the boatyard and is part of a dancing group - the flingers! Ran provides the music to their dances from his eclectic record collection! Both have been let down in love and when they, together with Bo’s friend Angel, visit a fortune teller, they find out more then they bargained for!
An easy enjoyable read!

I have reviewed A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley for book recommendation site LoveReading.co.uk
I have chosen it to appear as one of my Liz Robinson Picks of the month for December, it will also appear on the monthly newsletter and social media. See LoveReading for review.

Thanks to @netgalley for arc of this book
Loavely heartwarming book to read I sat down with glass of wine and read it over course of evening, follows lives of Bo a woman who runs her own cafe in a small boatyard community and Angel who is married to a fisherman Tommy and she works at the local garden centre /country store
Both are part of rock n roll dance group who perform around the local Cornish area. Their lives seem fine until they go to see a local fortune teller at a summer craft fayre. Do predictions really come true??

A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley
Pub Date 11 Nov 21
For Bo Grayson, Christmas has always been the most wonderful time of the year. Well, until she had her heart broken last December.
At a local summer fete, Bo and her friends meet the mysterious fortune teller Madame Odette. They are each given the exact prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.
With just a few months until the festive season, they dismiss the predictions out of hand. Instead, Bo's attention is focused on creating the best seasonal menu for her Boatyard Café and her rock and roll dance group – the Falford Flingers – who are hard at work getting ready for their Christmas Spectacular show.
The last thing she imagines is that she'll be ready to open her heart again. But will fate – and perhaps a sprinkle of Christmas magic – can change her mind?
Phillipa Ashley does it again; as with all her stories, she creates a genuinely great plot with fabulous characters that ooze appeal whilst being relatable. It's relaxed, emotional and sweet, with friendship, affection, laughter, and, of course, a touch of Christmas magic entwined.
Curl up with this charming cosy, well-written read.
I want to thank NetGalley, Avon Books UK and author Phillipa Ashley for a pre-publication copy to review.

A wonderfully heartwarming Christmas story. Perfect for cosying up by the fire. It had me hooked from the start.

The perfect Christmas book!! Yay!! Loved this latest from Phillipa Ashley, no disappointment here!!!
Bo runs The Boatyard Café in Cornwall, she loves all things vintage including rock n roll 50's music and dancing with the Fulford Flingers!! The book begins and ends at Christmas with a year in between......no more spoilers!!
Fantastic if you have read the previous books set in Fulford but just as amazing if this is your first.
This book will lift your heart and warm your cockles!! Just a joy, reading this I could hear the music playing all the way through. Phillipa weaves her magic and creates such beautiful pictures in her writing. This book is such a pleasure to read.
Hugely enjoyable and heartily recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley for the early read.

Firstly, I will say a huge thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for sending me an eARC of this book to review following my review of An Endless Cornish Summer.

A Special Cornish Christmas is my first Christmas read of the year. Although it is a follow on from An Endless Cornish Summer, it can easily be read as a standalone novel. Although in this book we revisit Falford, the story centres around different characters to those whom An Endless Cornish Summer is centred around.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the relatable characters and I love books set in Cornwall, having spent a lot of time there myself.

This book is definitely what I would call a ‘cosy Christmas read’ or Christmas 24 in book form. It is a book you can curl up with under a blanket with a hot chocolate and lose yourself in.

I look forward to reading more of Phillipa Ashley‘s novels.

Silly, fun and romantic. Perfect to curl up with chocolate biscuits and a cup of tea! Heartwarming stuff..

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy from @netgalley of this wonderful book!! A special Cornish Christmas

This Christmas everything is about to change…
When Bo Grayson and her friends meet a mysterious fortune teller, she gives each woman the same prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.
But Bo quickly dismisses this as nonsense. And with the festive season in full swing, she has plenty to keep her busy: creating the seasonal menu for her Boatyard Café, getting her rock and roll dance group ready for their Christmas show – and avoiding thinking about last December, when her fortune took a turn for the worse…
Besides, she definitely isn’t ready to open her heart again. But will fate – and perhaps a sprinkle of Christmas magic – change her mind?

This is my second Philippa Ashley book, I read an endless Cornish summer a few months ago and I loved it! This latest book includes some of the characters from the summer book, it was so lovely to read, almost as if I was catching up with old friends and definitely got me in the Christmas spirit! I can’t wait to read more books by Philippa Ashley!

Bo has been hurt by her ex and is facing Christmas alone. Her friend Ran comes close to her, but he also has been hurt by his ex; can they make a go of things, or are there too many obstacles? Bo's friend Angel is looking forward to Christmas with her love Tommy, but there are a lot of changes coming up for her. Bo and Angel are best friends and they comfort each other as they go through their trials and tribulations. Bo works in a lovely cafe and dances and Angel is a dressmaker. Ran loves music and being in water. The three of them are very creative and I loved the creative theme through the book, and it was interesting to read about the dancing, dressmaking and music. It was a pleasant change to other books to read about these things. I also loved the connection between Bo and Ran and Bo and Angel. The book is very sweet and cute and perfect to read at this time of the year while it is frosty outside. I really enjoyed it!

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A cute festive story set in an idyllic setting. It does feature characters from previous books but can be happily read as a stand alone story.

Perfect for snuggling up with on a cold winter night!

Welcome to the lives of Ran, Bo and Angel. They are merrily living their lives when a fortune teller upsets the apple cart in more ways than one!!! It makes them question everything!!. When events unfold, the fortune teller comes into their minds again. Was this meant to happen or not?. Who could ignore the dancing group that features in their lives too and bonds them together . There are a large amount of people who are a family for all these characters. Dancing, music.... It makes you want to get the Christmas songs on already!!!
I really enjoyed this happy Christmas tale!! I think that this story is definitely worth looking at if you want to feel christmassy but also need a bit of a love story.!! Who could resist that!!!

This novel is centred around Bo Grayson, she runs 'the Boat Yard Cafe in Falford Village. She has always loved Christmas until her cheat of her partner ruined this for her.

Bo main passion is dancing rock and roll with a dance group. This is where she meets good looking Ran who is the DJ of the dance group.

I enjoyed the small community feel to this novel, especially  the added element of the fortune teller, which left you guessing as to who she really is.

This is a heart warming tale which was interwoven with several  other smaller characters story lines, of which there where quite a few! I also especially loved  Angel who grows in strength and conviction as the novel progresses. 

This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a stand alone novel. There is also a 3rd novel as well.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a digital copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

A Special Cornish Christmas by @phillipa.ashleyauthor This is a NetGalley read and chosen simply because I love this author. A Special Cornish Christmas is about Bo Grayson and her friends Angel and Ran who for a bit of fun visit a fortune teller but who gives the 3 of them the same prediction. For me this book is about so much more than weather these predictions are true, it’s about love, heartbreak, new beginnings, music, community and set at the perfect time of year Christmas. As readers we have visited Falford before however even though some old characters make an brief appearance, we are introduced to some new characters and they don’t disappoint. This book will give you the Xmas feels and you will without a doubt want to start playing some old but classic Christmas songs. It will no doubt have you laughing and have you rooting for the characters when all doesn’t go as it should, because as always the author has this amazing way of making her characters feel real, making them feel like it’s someone you know and ultimately making you feel like you are part of the Falford community. It’s also a great way of getting your Cornish fix if you haven’t visited it for a while and again as always the author has a great way of describing the environment the book is set in. As with all of Phillipa Ashley’s books you kind of know what you are getting, in many ways they are predictable, there’s no on the edge of your seat parts however in this book particularly, there were for me those ‘ooooohhhhh really’ moments and one of them being the fortune teller part, because as always I never read before what the books about and having the fortune teller part felt a little bit different and quirky. If you are going to choose one Christmas themed book this year then I highly recommend this one, its an easy read, perfect for this time of year, great for settling down, under a cozy blanket and switching off from everything else going on around you.
I will definitely be recommending to family and friends 🎄🎄🎄

I didn't realize that there were so many Cornish books in this series when I requested <i>A Special Cornish Christmas</i> but now I'm excited to read the others. This book is like a British Hallmark movie--it's cozy and charming. If you want a light Christmas read this is a very fun one to check out.

Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC of this book.

Heart warming, festive romance. Nice, light easy read.

The second book in the Falford series is just as good as the first. Love the Cornish setting of Phillipa's books.

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

This book is number two in The Falford Series. It’s about Bo(Bonita) and Ran(Ranulph), who both aren’t looking for romance after they’ve been through sad past experiences and want to focus on themselves.

The story from friends to being in love flowed, just like a dance, it’s slow to begin with and then it picks up and comes to a high, with happiness.

Bo’s character was strong, fiery and despite what happened with her at the start of the story, the end was just perfect for her.

I loved the idea of the “fortune teller”. It added a magical aspect to the story.

The theme to this story is dancing, you could imagine the couples as they danced in their lovely clothes to the music of years gone by.

I think this book will bring happiness to all that read it. The cover of this book is gorgeous, I love it.

Highly Recommend This Book.

3.7 Stars

One Liner: Heartwarming (but there were things I didn’t like much)

Bo Grayson loves Christmas. However, her last one wasn’t memorable in any way, no thanks to the guy she was seeing.
While it brought her love life to a halt, Bo is busier than ever. Managing her café and being an active member of the dance group is not easy. Of course, she’s a sweet woman. She supports her friends and takes care of them.
Ran has his own troubled past to deal with and keeps things to himself. Being a diving instructor and a DJ at the dance group doesn’t mean he has to share his past with everyone, right?
But then Bo and Ran unwillingly end up facing Madame Odette to get their future prediction. April, their dear friend is shaken by the experience, and so are Bo and Ran. Turns out, Madame Odette had the same prediction for all three of them- they would be with the love of their lives by Christmas.
With the celebrations being only four months away, can they really believe in her words? Can Bo get over her hurt and take another chance at love? What’s Ran hiding, and how will it affect his future? What turns April’s world upside down? Is a new beginning on the cards for all three of them?
The book leans heavily on rock and roll dancing and music from the yesteryears. Some of it went over my head (not surprising as it’s not my country’s music or my preferred genre). Still, I didn’t miss anything. The connection to music and dance needs little or no explanation.
The story is written in the limited third person, with 60% of the chapters from Bo’s POV and the rest from Ran’s POV.
What I Liked:
• The warmth of small communities with a touch of idiotic people
• Bo’s relationship with her group members and others
• April is a lovely character, and she’s got a meaty role in the book
• Jenna’s presence as a catalyst and her assertive nature
• Madame Odette’s predictions generate subtle undercurrents throughout
• Not much emphasis on romance per se
• Bo- she’s a beautiful mix of kindness, assertiveness, and vulnerability
What Could Have Been Better:
Ran’s character arc- He’s presented as a good guy, which he is. He also believes in communicating with Bo and clearing things up, and it seemed like a great trait. However, towards the end, I found him annoying.
His indecisiveness was stupid rather than endearing. There’s a thin line between wanting to be kind and being a pushover. Boundaries are termed healthy for a reason. I won’t say much because I’ll have to put it all up as a spoiler, and it’s likely to turn into a rant.
The book gets four stars because Bo and a few side characters were a treat to read. My favorite is April, and her character growth is fab. I also love her interpretation of Madame Odette’s prediction.
To sum up, A Special Cornish Christmas is a heartwarming story and a good read on cold afternoons. It’s got some great moments.
Thank you, NetGalley and Avon Books UK, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Bo feels like giving up on love, and then along comes Ran; spectacular both in and out of his wetsuit! But nothing's ever easy as we come back to the author's wonderful creation of Falford. There's heartache, rock 'n' roll, dancing and a cat which steals every scene he's in!
A terrific read, let alone a terrific Christmas story, you'll be as disappointed as I was that this ended! Wonderful stuff!
My thanks to Avon and Netgalley for the ARC.

I love books by Phillipa Ashley. She is such an excellent storyteller that reading this was pure joy and perfects relax in this autumn evening.

So cozy, touchy, and kinda complicated at the same, cause all the characters have difficulties to face. Still, it's compelling from the very first page and has something magical that makes you totally immerse in this written world.

This one is great not only near Christmas time. Some stories are universal and are perfect no matter the time and the circumstances, and this one is really one of these.

Page-turner keeps me awake at night and after this, I ordered some other books of Phillipa what is the best recommendation I would ever give

Who can resist Cornwall for a good novel and this one is no exception. Fantastic Christmas story very well written and a real pleasure to read. Rating this with 5 stars and well worth it.

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this e ARC

A Special Cornish Christmas
by: Phillipa Ashley
Avon Books UK, Avon
This is a perfect book to cozy up with during the Christmas season, or any time of year. It's an entertaining, well-written story of fate, festivity, and finding love, and provides a warm, comforting read.
Thank you to Net Galley and Avon for the advance reader's copy and the opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
#NetGalley #ASpecialCornishChristmas

What's not to love about this book and the next story in the falford collection.
This is just a lovely read and could get you up and dancing ❤❤

Loved this book another success for Philippa Ashley, looking forward to the next one! Took me back many years to Rock and Roll!

If you're familiar with Philippa Ashley you'll know she loves to write wonderful stories set in Cornwall.

Revolving around Bo, a character I really warmed to, the story is about second chances, learning to value yourself and the things that really matter. And there's loads of wonderful Christmas music and dancing.

Highly recommended!

A Special Cornish Christmas is such a fun and enjoyable festive book!

After a pretty crappy Christmas main character Bo just wants to get on with life. She’s not looking for a relationship, especially after the way the last one ended. But, a trip to a fortune teller makes Bo rethink things a little, even if it’s very unexpected.

Having read another of Phillipa Ashley’s books in this series I was happy to be reunited with a familiar setting and some characters I’d already seen before, such as Bo. It was great to read her story in more depth as she was a character I was previously interested in.

I thought this book was a really fun one and different from a lot I’ve read before. This was helped by Bo’s love of rock and roll and dancing as well as Ran’s vinyl collection. It really added something a bit different, especially for a festive book.

What a pleasure to return to Falford and briefly revisit old friends and meet many new ones.
with themes of Rock n Roll dancing, stitching, record collecting and old and new relationships, there is something for everyone in this book.
Bo Grayson is an integral member of the Falford Flingers dancers and has no interest in men since her last boyfriend returned to his fiancée. . Ran is recovering from a broken marriage and Angel needs a confidence boost after her husband walks out and her boss bullies her.
With a fabulous cast of characters this is a book to enjoy.

Pure festive escapism. A magical world of rock and roll music, dance, vintage costumes and joie de vivre! It was such a delight to revisit this glorious Cornish setting and some of the characters from a previous book. This time we focus on Bo, Ran,Angel and the Flingers rock and roll dance group. This charming book has it all, friendship,love and a sense of stepping into a well loved community peopled by warm, delightful character who draw us into their world. Another triumph !

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for a copy of "A Special Cornish Christmas" in exchange for my honest review.

This was a lovely story set in Cornwall during the festive season. Bo Grayson and her friends have gone to the village fete where they encounter the mysterious Madame Odette. While each claims to not believe in fortune tellers, her predictions leave all of them questioning what she told them.

This is a lovely festive read set on the Cornish coast. Detailed, vivid descriptions take the reader on an armchair adventure. Strong female protagonists, believable friendship dynamics and a touch of magic make this engaging.

The cafe setting has original touches and a definite retro flavour that draws the reader into the characters' world. Heartbreak gives way to second chances, but not until mysteries are solved and secrets revealed.

An entertaining festive read with a coastal setting, gentle romance and a little enchantment.

I received a copy of this book from Avon Books UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I liked the characters in the book, the dancing element and the Cornish setting but I just couldn't really get into it. It took me way .longer to read than I normally would and I can't put my finger on why that was.as I thought the book was well written.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK

Bo Grayson isn’t looking forward to Christmas, last Christmas Eve she was left heartbroken and isn't holding out much hope for this year's festivities.
At the end of the summer Bo and her friends Angel and Ran visit a fortune teller who tells both women that they will meet the love of their life by Christmas Day. Bo is too busy to worry about that though, with her Boatyard Cafe doing well and dancing with the Falford Flingers she doesn’t have time to think about romance, but things have a funny way of happening when you least expect them.
Full of fun, ups & downs and the strength of love and friendship.
What a treat to be back in Falford for Christmas, although the story is centered on Bo it's lovely to catch up with old friends from previous books.

This is such a fabulous festive story that just felt really magical. Bo is such a wonderful character and I felt myself really her wanting to succeed. A story filled with food friendship and romance what more do you need? Highly recommend to get you in the festive mood this year!

Back to Falford for Christmas and Bo isn't sure she's ready for it. After getting dumped last year, she isn't in the festive spirit but she was given spiritual advice that she would find her love by Christmas. Growing closer to the quiet Ran, she begins to wonder if maybe she has but life is never that simple,

Having read the previous book I was excited to go back to Falford and see the characters again. I really liked Bo so it was good that she gets her chance now. This was a really good read and perfect for this time of the year. I loved the dancing and of course the tunes, so many classics are mentioned. I also loved Angel's story in this and her strength really shines through. The plot was steady and built to exactly the ending I wanted. You can't go wrong with a story like this. Light, fun and festive.

I'm a fan of Philippa Ashley and always enjoy her story. This one was engrossing and entertaining, with the right festive spirit and a lot going on.
I was happy to catch up with some characters from previous novels and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and the plot.
Good character and plot development, lovely setting.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Another heart warming festive read from Phillipa. It gives you a wonderful and warm Christmasy feeling whilst the story unfolds.

Sweet and endearingly romantic, A Special Cornish Christmas is the tale of two people trying their hardest not to fall in love.

The story is set in the same world as Phillipa's other novel, An Endless Cornish Summer. Its characters inhabit the picturesque coastal village of Falford and this tight-knit community are always willing to pull together and help one another out. Some of the previous book's characters pop up again here, and if you're familiar with them, it's nice to read about a friendly face! However, this book could also be easily read as a standalone without losing any enjoyment from the story.

Main character Bo is a quirky character. An eternal optimist, she offers a ready smile and a listening ear to friends and customers alike. She runs her own business, a waterfront cafe, and loves nothing more than baking, dancing, and her standout vintage style.

Of course, though, as Christmas rolls around, Bo can't help but be reminded of the heartbreak she suffered over the last festive season. But with a friend to support and a business to keep her focused, Bo can't afford to be maudlin. Will she manage to find true love at last this Christmas?

Bo's friends add colour to the story, fleshing out the world and breathing life into her love of dancing and vintage music. Her wardrobe is also vividly detailed - from scarves in her hair to custom dresses to die for, I can't be the only one wishing for just a fraction of Bo's individual style!

This is the perfect book to get you in the mood for the holidays as we approach the festive season. Grab a mince pie and settle in for a Cornish Christmas like no other!

A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley takes us back to Falford, in Cornwall, and to the Boatyard Cafe right before Christmas. Bo is particularly excited about Christmas this year because she had Hamish. She couldn't wait to wake up next to him Christmas morning. But, she made the mistake of saying, "I love you," and he was gone. Back to Scotland. Back to his fiancée. She was done with men. She dog in her heels and worked. Oh, she didn't stop playing. She still had the Falford Flingers, her dance group, and all her friends there. It was a long year. She and some friends put a sail up over her deck, extending the amount of outdoor space; Angel's husband was in a serious jam at sea-but wait, he wasn't. He had left her and was holed up with his new girlfriend. That started a whole new life for her and Bo was able to help. The there was Ran, short for Ranulf, who was the DJ for the group. She helped him select music and they became friends. There was so much going on. Then all of a sudden she saw Ran as more than a friend. That's when things got dangerous. After the fortune-teller at the fair in August, she didn't know what to think when his wife showed up.

This is the most down-home series, even in Cornwall. A Special Cornish Christmas is primarily a slice-of-life plot, full of Bo and her friends and customers. The fishing boats go out, they come in. The customers come in, they leave. People come and go in you life, just as they do in Falford. It is a comfortable book in which, through the author's words, the reader gets to know all of these people: how they think, how they feel, what they see when they look at one another. It is home, even though it's far away. It's a romance, but it is so much more. They have real problems and real solutions, and Ashley helps us see of it, as it happens. It is an absolutely lovely read with a happily-ever-after. Loved it.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Special Cornish Christmas by Harper Collins, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #harpercollins #phillipaashley #aspecialcornishchristmas

Thanks for the opportunity to return to Falford.

This is now my favourite book in the series, it felt a little bit more cosy that the first book.

Loved the storylines - the dancing, the music and the community spirit.

Happy to recommend this festive book.

A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley mixes excellent characters with holiday magic, lovely romance, serious and lighter moments. The characters develop at a slow but steady pace, making them easy to relate to. A Special Cornish Christmas is a sweet and cute read perfect for this time of the year.

I was over the moon to receive this book from netgalley as i am a massage fan of Phillipa Ashley, especially her books set in Cornwall. It was fantastic to be transported back to Falford and the people in it. A beautiful Christmas romance

I loved being back in Cornwall and this time at Christmas. Bo and her friends are such great characters and I loved the community spirit of the village. The Flingers sounded a great group and the music was a wonderful reminder off days gone by. Philippa Ashley writes such great heartwarming stories and this is one to wrap you up in a warm hug.

It was great to return to Falford, a Cornish seaside resort,
And reconnect with the folks there, with plenty to sort.
With unfaithful men and women starting anew
There seemed little hope of their dreams coming true.
However, a fortune teller gave three a surprise
Was she telling the truth or just more lies?

Bo runs the Boatyard Café and dances, too,
Last Christmas was ruined by a love untrue
With the Falford Flingers, friend and more
This story has so much for you to adore.
There's even a mystery person to ID
Can you guess who - read it for yourself and see!

With a sprinkling of Christmas magic this year
Maybe this will prove one for happy tears?
Fresh starts, new inspirations and chances
They're all there along with heartwarming romances.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.

This book is set in Falford, the location of a previous book by Phillipa Ashley. Although it is not a true sequel, previous characters do feature in this book. This book features Bo, the cafe owner from the previous book. This book can be read as a standalone novel.
This is a fun and entertaining read. It is an easy, lighthearted enjoyable festive read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.

Having enjoyed the previous book in the series it was great to be back in the village of Falford again. I enjoyed the occasional nod to characters who featured in that book & squealed in delight at some news for the two main characters of the previous book.
This book is full of interesting characters and follows a good storyline that holds the reader’s interest throughout the book, and a couple of smaller sub-plots including that for Bo’s friend, Angel.
A good read for Christmas, but easily enjoyed any time of the year as although it starts and ends at Christmas times the main unfolding of the story takes place in the summer/autumn months in between the two and as such Christmas isn’t heavily featured.
Phillipa Ashley always writes great stories & believable characters you can easily warm to. I’m hoping there’ll be more books set in Falford in the future.

A Special Cornish Christmas by Phillipa Ashley has Bo, the cafe owner in Falford, who dresses in 1950s style dresses, loves the music, and is a member of Falford Flingers, who dance to rock and roll music, as the main character, who along with two friends, gets a predication at a summer fete that she'll meet the love of her life by Christmas!

There is a lot of Christmas rock and roll music, and other Christmas songs, mentioned, and it really made me feel like Christmas was soon, and that I needed to listen to all of these songs!

The story is also very Christmas based, and there are characters from the previous book who pop up!   I really enjoyed the music references, and all of the food and drink that was being mentioned!  The characters are enjoyable, and the story was good!

This is the second book sent in Falford, so if you've enjoyed this community, then read An Endless Cornish Summer.

A Special Cornish Christmas was published on 11th November 2021, and is available from Amazon, Waterstones and Bookshop.org.

You can follow Phillipa Ashley on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and her website.

I've read some other books by Phillipa Ashley, other than An Endless Cornish Summer above:

A Surprise Christmas Wedding

A Perfect Cornish Christmas

I was given this book in exchange for an unbiased review, so my thanks to NetGalley and to Avon Books UK.

Thank you to @netgalley and @phillipa.ashleyauthor for this ARC.

Out on the 11th November.

We are back in Falford Cornwall with the lovely Bo. She felt that she'd fallen in love with Hamish but is soon told otherwise.
Will Bo find her special person this Christmas?

A beautiful story set amongst characters that you watch develop and grow throughout.

🎄🎄🎄🎄

#netgalley #netgalleyreview #phillipaashley #aspecialcornishchristmas #kindle

I have been looking forward to reading this year’s Christmas book from Phillipa Ashley, one of my favourite writers who never fails to entertain me with her novels. This story is set in the coastal Cornish village of Falford, also the setting for Phillipa’s earlier book this year, An Endless Cornish Summer. Readers of that book will recognise some familiar characters, but most of the players in this festive story are new.

The central female character in this story is Bo Grayson, who owns and runs the Boatyard Cafe, a waterside eatery popular with locals and tourists alike. Having had an unpleasant episode with her then boyfriend last Christmas, she is not looking forward to the festive season this year. However, she enjoys dancing with the local rock and roll dance group, the Flingers, and is very much involved with preparations for their forthcoming Christmas show. A relative newcomer to the village and music enthusiast, Ran Larsen, helps out as DJ for the dancers. When Bo, Ran and Angel, another member of the dance group and special friend of Bo’s, visit the Falford summer fair, they each have their fortunes told by a mysterious woman who foretells the same future for each of them - that they will be with the love of their life by Christmas. They are all sceptical but keep what she has said in mind. With Christmas fast approaching, Bo has plenty to keep her busy, and, not wanting a repeat of last year’s disaster, has no intention of becoming romantically involved with anybody. However, she is becoming closer to the enigmatic Ran, and there is always that prediction from the fortune teller….



I can happily recommend this light and heartwarming festive story, full of interesting and varied characters, with the promise of romance all the way through. It’s perfect for lovers of romance, dance or vintage music and fashion. The reader is treated to two Christmases that promise to be very different for Bo, the interval between being filled with rock and roll music and dancing. With Angel being a skilful dressmaker, there are some stunning costumes mentioned as we follow the fortunes of the dance group. She also makes some amazing craft items which would fit well into many homes. Of course, I should also mention the delicious sounding food produced by Bo at the Boatyard Cafe; I would undoubtedly enjoy sitting by the water being served some of her mouth-watering dishes. Bo and Ran are similar in many ways, each with their reasons for staying away from romance, but it may be that love can find its way in unexpectedly. I loved that way in which these two gradually became closer in a very gentle way. I liked Angel as a character. She had such a lot of stress in her life, but soldiered on regardless and found the strength to follow her dreams. I’m sure that others will enjoy this skilfully written story just as much as I have. The author kept me guessing practically right to the end how things were going to work out - a mark of a good story in my opinion.

A Special Cornish Christmas - Phillipa Ashley

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK I am leaving this review voluntarily

For Bo Grayson, Christmas has always been the most wonderful time of the year. Well, until she had her heart broken last December…

At a local summer fete, Bo and her friends meet the mysterious fortune teller Madame Odette, and they are each given the same prediction: You will meet the love of your life by Christmas Day.

This a nice, light-hearted festive romance. Whilst predictable in places you will be drawn in by the lovely tale. This is a perfect book to read if you want a festive, relaxing afternoon.

This is the second festive book I have read by Phillipa and I have found that she writes; lovely, up-lifting festive escapes.

Rating 4/5

Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.

A good book from Phillipa.

Bo’s favourite time of year was always Christmas until Hamish broke Bo’s heart last December. During a summer fete Bo and her friends visit a fortune teller who tells them all they will meet their love of their life by Christmas Day. Bo’s rock and roll dance group and her Boatyard are the only things on her mind this Christmas and how she can create the best seasonal menu for it. Her heart is closed to love until she starts to have feelings for Ran. Will she open her heart to love again or will she keep it closed.

Attending the village show Bo and her two friends visit a fortune teller. Afterwards, it seems they have all been told they will meet the love of their lives by Christmas.
Bo has finished with men, Angel has been married for years and Ran is seeking a divorce! so it all seems improbable.
Christmas approaches and all of them are busy being festive and working but maybe there is magic in the air.
Love all the references to the Christmas songs of my youth. Soon had me singing away!

I usually start reading Christmas novels at the start of December every year but I read this one before my usual time and I’m glad i did as it has put me so in the Christmassy mood . It follows the story of Bo, having had her heart broken on Christmas Eve she is now very much “off” Christmas and “off” relationships too, so can Ran change that? Can the fortune teller be right in her predictions. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Bo and her friends, and I love the setting this is the first book iv read of Phillipas and I will def be looking at her other novels to read in future. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy of this book to read.

A lovely gentle read, I enjoyed the characters especially getting to know more about Bo, whom we had met in a previous book, she runs the cafe at the centre of this small Cornish village. At the summer fete her and her friends are roped into seeing the fortune teller with unforeseen consequences for the rest of their year. I particularly enjoyed Angel's storyline, her finding her voice in the face of adversity was heartening and the joy she found in sewing was lovely to read. The sense of community and beautiful landscape really shines through and is very enchanting. A delightful story bookended by Christmas.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This gorgeous story was just what I needed. It follows our heroine, Bo, across two Christmas’s. The two special days come close to being similar, but with Phillipa Ashley at the reins, you can pretty much guarantee a happy ending.
We first met Bo as one of the supporting characters in An Endless Cornish Summer, the first book in this series. With an innate sense of style, she operates the Boatyard Café, feeding both residents and visitors alike. Bo’s dress sense is strictly in the Rockabilly style, so it’s no great leap to discover that she’s an avid dancer with the Falford Flingers who follow the Rock and Roll music of the 1950’s and the 60’s.
Whilst this is the second book in the series, you can absolutely enjoy is as a standalone story. We did revisit a couple of characters from the first book, but they are mentioned in a way that doesn’t leave you wondering what’s happened. (I do, however, recommend reading the first book too, it’s excellent).
There are two other major characters, Ran and Angel. Ran is the Flinger’s DJ and Angel is Bo’s best friend. The three friends each receive a clairvoyant’s reading, as mentioned in the synopsis, which leads to a lot of soul searching and a fair amount of cynical disregard.
One of the joys, of Phillipa Ashley’s writing, is the way in which her books flow. I never felt that the story was dragging, and it was anything but predictable. It was lovely to catch up with some already established characters, but equally enjoyable to meet a new group. As always, the characters were well developed, and I felt like they would be friends if I ever met them. Scratch that, there’s a small handful with whom I wouldn’t pass the time of day!
I hope you enjoy escaping to this sleepy Cornish village. I loved every moment, and I’m already looking forward to the next trip.

Another lovely book from Phillipa Ashley. Set in Cornwall during the festive period, this book had all the elements I love in a Christmas read. I could almost taste the mince pies and mulled wine as I was reading it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

Following having her heart broken on Christmas Eve Bo decides to avoid relationships going forward. Ran has also had relationship problems and moved to Cornwall to escape and recover. Can these two form a relationship, brought together by a fortune teller?
I do enjoy a series, especially set in a small community in Cornwall, as it means that you already know the setting and can concentrate on the new characters whilst keeping up to date with the previous ones. Rock and roll dance music features predominantly in the story, to be honest this was before my time but it certainly brought it to life for me. Again this is the type of book to curl up with on a cold, dark evening and escape to a different world, definitely recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.