Reviewed by Lynn on
Isla and Drew Allaway own and run Foxglove Farm where they live with their young sons. Both are busy with responsibilities and as a consequence has forgotten to devote time for themselves. When it becomes obvious something is wrong, neither seem capable of communicating. With each bad-tempered exchange, the rift widens within their marriage causing their relationship to deteriorate further. Can they find a way to turn things around?
For a change, I enjoyed reading about an already established couple who love each other but somehow have lost the spark which ignited their relationship in the first place. I'm sure many readers will identify with Isla and Drew and the issues they have. While the narrative focuses on problems any couple can face, the turning point wasn't. After a catalogue of errors, luckily, things start to get back on track again-hurray!
The protagonists are both relatable and likeable, so much so, you want to knock their heads together to make them see sense, at least in the beginning. Both have their flaws exposing themselves to potentially life-changing consequences. However, in the end, things turn around and work themselves out leading to a happily-ever-after for them both. Of course, there's plenty of neighbourly help and support from a warm and friendly group of friends and acquaintances. An honourable mention goes to the eccentric and generous Martha Gray...she's a ray of sunshine.
The overall atmosphere of the narrative is positively 'feel good' even though the main plot's centred around a struggling family. I've read a few similar novels to this and Foxglove Farm definitely stands out in the crowd. The author has written a lovely flowing narrative with plenty of things happening but not in an overwhelming way.
4.5 stars
***arc generously received courtesy of HarperImpulse via NetGalley***
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 28 June, 2019: Finished reading
- 28 June, 2019: Reviewed