Zoe Padbury is a big believer in second chances. She’s been so happy since she started over in the village of Thimblebury. Especially now she’s moved into Hilltop Farm with her boyfriend Alex and can be on hand to help his daughter when her baby arrives.
All that changes when Zoe’s father arrives, arm in arm with his newly pregnant fiancée Chantal. Chantal is bowled over by Thimblebury’s picture-perfect charm, and before Zoe’s had a chance to draw breath, they’ve made plans to get married in the old stone church, make Zoe their future baby’s midwife and move into the cottage next door.
Worried about her mum’s broken heart and how Alex feels about having her family so close by, at first Zoe doesn’t notice that Chantal’s brother has also moved in and is determined to make trouble, ruining the lives of the people who have made her feel so welcome. With the villagers up in arms about his behaviour Zoe is torn in two. Can she protect her new life and love without losing her family?
About The Author
My Review
This book is about Zoe Padbury, a dedicated midwife who has built a peaceful life in the charming village of Thimblebury. The quiet rhythms of village life provide the perfect backdrop for Zoe as she focuses on her work, her growing family, and the community she loves. However, the calm she cherishes is soon disrupted when her father arrives with his new fiancée, Chantal who is expecting a baby.
Zoe finds herself struggling to adjust to these unexpected developments. Used to having a clear sense of order in her life, the sudden expansion of her family and the emotional adjustments it requires leave her feeling unsettled. Matters become even more complicated when Chantal’s brother secretly moves into the village, bringing with him new tensions and unexpected challenges.
As Zoe navigates these shifting family dynamics, she must balance her responsibilities as a midwife with her role as a daughter, partner, and mother. Through moments of warmth, uncertainty, and resilience, she learns that change though often daunting can also strengthen the bonds between those who care for one another.
Tilly Tennant delivers a heartfelt and engaging story filled with community spirit, family complexities, and the comforting charm of village life.
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