REVIEW
This was my first visit to Tuppeny Bridge but I have since purchased the first novel so I will catch up with this delightful series. It was not difficult to fall into the second book without indulging in the first but I could see it would have been an asset. At times it was like eavesdropping on another’s conversation learning about past events but the author faithfully fills us in to help with any lack of knowledge of the previous where needed. I must say I did not know what to expect when I started but I immediately plunged headlong into the action and wonderful cast of characters quite quickly.
Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge is well named as this definitely is about a couple who truly get another opportunity in life to start over and experience real love, and to utilise their talents for new business ventures. You might say they have been soul-mates since they were little but did not realise it until they experienced some dramatic life challenges and came together after years of being apart.
This novel has delicious bursts of humour, particularly from the Lavender Ladies and a cosy hearth-like warmth about it (hard to explain) that is like curling up with a comforting blanket by a fire or watching your favourite classic movie. The feeling of pleasant familiarity made it easy to care about the characters and their life issues—and there are many emotions to process and relationships to sort out. My curiosity (and frustration, sometimes!) was constantly sparked during Kat’s and Jonah’s journey together and apart. Watching their back and forth dance was often moving, messy and mesmerising. The story is told from their two perspectives which was a great approach as we get to see first-hand what is inside their heads and hearts as they deal with their dilemmas.
Kat Pennyfeather has had her share of troubles, heartbreak and loss. She is a single mother of adorable baby Hattie. Supported by her two aunts, she lives above (and works in) Pennyweather’s Wool Shop. But her aunts must sell the building and pay off their debts which leaves her without a home and a job. But as grim as this is, there is something new and positive on the horizon for this woman and her child.
Jonah Brewster, a farrier (horseshoer), is another single parent who finds it tough managing his job while parenting alone. His story, though, different in some ways from Kat’s, has been a sad one, too. He has had some horrific heartaches, betrayal and loss. But there are positive threads in his life, too. He has a wonderful home where he lives with his adopted son. Trust is a big problem for him (due to his ex-wife’s behaviour) and once you hear his story it is understandable. But he bumps into Kat, his childhood friend, and before long their lives become reconnected. He has a solution that will solve both their problems: he needs help with his son and home and she needs a residence and income. Once the decision is made, and they move forward with the plan, things begin to change. They start seeing each other in a different light. Will they become more than ‘just Kat’ or ‘just Jonah’ to each other?
Second Chances in Tuppenny Bridge is a well-composed novel that flows beautifully. There is quite a bit of emotional baggage to sort through in Kat’s and Jonah’s lives and the author unfolds each of their stories separate and together gradually. This gives the reader enough time to digest it all. I really enjoyed this novel and found it to be a pleasant surprise. It has a fair bit of depth and deals with some heavier topics and offers viable solutions. I will definitely read the first one of the series and the next one(s) to follow. I could not put this down until I finished reading it— so without hesitation highly recommend it. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
