Book Review: A Good Year For the Roses by Gil McNeil

a good year for the rosesReviewer: Emma

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

Molly Tanner is a single mother of three living in London, feeling as if her life might crumble around her at any moment. She is recently divorced, has no idea where she is going to live, and is struggling to take care of her three, very rambunctious boys.

When she attends her Aunt Helena’s funeral, she is shocked to find out that she has been left Harrington Hall, located outside of London where she grew up. 300 years old, the house is remarkable in history and details, but it needs a lot of work.

This is a very charming story about a woman starting over and taking on new challenges that will change her for the better. There is a mix of everything: history, love, friendship, romance and comedy. As a reader, I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters: Molly, her boys, Ivy (the housekeeper), and crazy Uncle Bertie and his talking parrot. I was also highly entertained by the London dialect in the novel. Bloody hell, mum, and knob were some of my favorites.

My favorite part of the book was the description of the house. I love going to bed and breakfasts, and this house sounds absolutely fabulous. Located on the water, surrounded by a beautiful rose garden, visitors are lucky to find such a quaint place to stay. I also enjoy home renovation, which is described throughout this book. You see Molly not only redo her new house, but her life. Two transformations in one!

This book was full of English charm, and has so much to offer. I would highly recommend this book to anyone!

4 stars