Title: Return to Lilacwell
Publisher: 23rd February 2022 by Canelo
Pages: 300 pages
Genre: romance, contemporary
My Rating: 4 cups
Synopsis:
Will Lilacwell work its magic once more?
Times are changing in Lilacwell. Not only have Jasper and Adira settled into The Laurels manor, newly engaged and firmly casting off the shackles of their respective city lives, but Adira’s friend and ex-colleague, Rory, is now also looking to leave London for the quiet beauty of the Forest of Bowland.
Sparks flew when he and Lilacwell’s innkeeper, Cassie, met at the summer party a few months ago, but Cassie has been loved and left before and is reluctant to put all her trust in Rory, who might return to his promising law career for the right offer.
With Jasper and Adira’s wedding just around the corner, love is in the air for Lilacwell, and some big changes are coming to the sleepy village…
My Thoughts
‘… without any hesitation proceeded to book himself a room. Sorted. He was returning to Lilacwell.’
In this second book in the Lilacwell series Sasha once more provides her readers with delightful escapism. Having read the first book I was excited to return to the village of Lilacwell to familiar friends with all the banter and camaraderie. Similar to Adira from book one, on this occasion, it is Rory who has had enough of city living, corporate pressures and makes the bold move to leave.
It might be read as a standalone, however, the understanding and satisfaction is definitely enhanced from having read Adira and Jasper’s story in book one. They are very much present with Fletcher but this is Rory and Cassie’s story. Once more Sasha has provided a multidimensional story - this is not just a romantic chick lit - far from it. Sasha’s inclusion of topics such as the cost of maintaining an English manor, setting up a new business, the problems of aging and caring for the aged, workplace issues - truly, it is an impressively written book that touches on some highly relevant issues. I love it when a book such as this offers the reader that little bit extra.
Additionally, this time around Sasha shines the spotlight on the topic of sustainability and explains such in her Authors Note at the conclusion. Taking a strong stance on climate issues through Rory’s character of the ‘Eco Warrior’ and his desire to live off grid was most inspiring. This book was an excellent follow up to reunite with the charming characters and quaint village of Lilacwell.
‘When Adira had tried to explain how she desired time, space and freedom, they’d just looked blankly at her. Yet, for Adira, it had been the best decision of her life and she didn’t regret it.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
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