Heartcross Castle is the latest book in the Love Heart Lane series by Christie Barlow. Having read all of the books in the series, I’m happy to report that this latest installment does not disappoint.

The book centers around Grace and her three boys, returning to the small town she once called home. Is the saying true? Can one always return home?

I think part of why I like this series so much is the focus on one character. Sometimes they’re new to the area and if we’re lucky, we catch a glimpse of them from a previous book. Whichever it may be, we are able to witness the growth, happiness, and sometimes heartache from a personal level. It is evident that the author writes the stories from the heart, putting depth into the characters I’ve grown to love.

For those that love a feel good story, Heartcross Castle is not to be missed. While I recommend reading the other books first, you could read this one as a stand-alone. Either way, you will sure be left smiling.

I have read a few of this lovely heartwarming series and I have to say that I think this is my favourite! As mentioned it is part of a series but I feel like it can be read as as a standalone as they author does mention characters from previous books.

Grace is the main character in this story and we learn early on that she leaves home at a young age. She was brought up by her grandfather Marley following the death of her mother and as she grows into her teen years, clashes with him which in turn sees her leaving home and Scotland. When we fast forward a number of years we find Grace a single mum of 3 boys and in a loveless and violent relationship. When she unexpectedly finds out that her grandfather has passed away, she takes the opportunity to escape her life and return home. Her real home.

I really liked Grace and rejoiced when she was finally able to make the break. Things definitely don’t run smoothly though as the home she once knew is now crumbling and in dire need of repair and money. It was really heartwarming to read just how loved and missed Grace was and that her friends don’t hesitate to help her which just shows the wonderful community for what is really is – a family. The castle itself and indeed Scotland sound absolutely wonderful and are described in such lovely vivid detail by the author that you can picture if clearly as you are reading.

This isn’t just your typical romance story though, it has some added plot twists featuring her family and secrets from the past that kept me reading and rooting for Grace and her lovely boys as they adapt to a completely new way of life.

A wonderful addition to the series that I couldn’t put down!

Single mum Grace has just discovered that she has been left Heartcross Castle upon the death of her grandfather. This is her chance to escape from her abusive partner and make a home for herself and her three boys.

However, Heartcross Castle is not the magestic castle of Grace’s memory. There are lots of secrets to be revealed within its crumbling walls.

This is the seventh book in the Love Heart Lane series, but can definitely be read as a standalone. This is another beautiful story full of warmth.

4.25⭐️

I really really enjoyed this story! It is kind of sad near the beginning as you’re getting the background information (TW: physical and emotional abuse), but things sure turn around!

I think this family is so wonderful to spend time with and it is so hard not to continuously root for them and want all the happy things for them! The little twin they end up in is so cute and has such a wonderful community presence. It shows what it is really like to come out and support your neighbours and your friends.

Even though there were some very lucky events that took place, it was refreshing to see a family that really has to think about where their money has to go, where the next meal is going to come from, and has to figure out how to make do.

This story is a part of a series so do give it a shot, but also know that there are more that involve some of the characters!!!!

Thank you to Christie Barlow, One More Chapter, Harper Collins UK, and Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!

I liked the character Grace and her struggle. Plenty of atmosphere and sense of family and hope which I think is really important. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review this book.

I understand this book is part of a series but I didn’t feel that I was lost without reading the others so this works well as a stand alone book too. I found this an enjoyable book and felt that it was good to have a character who had a lifeline to escape the domestic abuse she was suffering and how this book showed the impact this had on the children and how it takes time for the scars to heal. The setting was lovely with the description of the Scottish mountains and the characters were well written showing life isn’t always perfect even with a lot of money. It was heart warming how Grace’s old friends welcomed her back, ready to help get herself on the road to making a new home for herself and her boys.
I found I warmed to Grace as the story unfolded but my only reservation on reading this book was the fact that there are camera crews and photographers around and Grace is not trying to hide away from them despite surely realising that her ex could then probably find where her and the boys are so I wondered why she would not want to protect them more from being found but perhaps she felt safe enough being back in Scotland with old and new friends around her to ensure she was protected.
I look forward to reading more of Christie’s books.

Protagonist Grace is struggling in an abusive relationship but when her Grandfather’s death provides an unexpected escape, she takes it. Heartcross Castle was once where she called home and it’s about to be that way again.

I really enjoyed the set up for the whole story, and having read another book in this series, I was looking forward to going back to a semi-familiar setting. It was nice to hear of a few characters I already recognised pop up throughout the story although you really don’t have to have read any previous books in the series to read this one.

Grace was a great character and someone I enjoyed getting to know. I’ll be honest, I don’t usually like reading books where children are quite as big of a story but in this case they really helped to make it. Grace’s boys were just delightful and a perfect addition to the story.

Sadly, there was some things missing for me. I enjoyed the story, I enjoyed how things moved along however, I just wasn’t convinced by the end. Grace had run away from an abusive partner with their 3 children to a castle in Scotland. It didn’t sit right with me that the father, especially considering how he was described, wouldn’t have gone after her at some point. The happy ever after felt like there was something bad waiting around the corner and I just couldn’t quite believe in it.

Overall though, Heartcross Castle was a lovely read but it lacked a bit of what I wanted for the ending.

I am always pleased when Christie Barlow releases another Love Heart Lane story, they are always full of family, friendship and love, and I am pleased to confirm that Heartcross Castle is no exception!

Grace Power is a mother to 3 boys, with a very difficult home life. She has spent years struggling after running away from home, but when she finds out that her Grandfather has passed away and left her Heartcross Castle, she finally sees a way to improve the future for herself and her beloved sons.

Upon arrival, she discovers that the Heartcross Castle she remembered is now unloved and crumbling. With celebrity chef Andrew Glossop living next door and clearly with his eyes on the castle, Grace will need to decide whether to work to retain the legacy of the Grandfather or take the money and secure her future.

Heartcross Castle is one of my favourite novels in the Love Heart Lane series. I loved Grace and her wonderful boys - Christie Barlow really highlights the difficulties of single motherhood, whilst showing how hard mothers work to give their children the best life possible. She really shows what you can achieve with very little money. Andrew Glossop is an equally great character, someone from an incredibly privileged background but with a less than ideal family life, proving that money isn't always everything.

I am more than happy to recommend this novel, its an excellent addition to what is already a fab series!

This book has everything, great characters, a wonderful feel good factor and a happy ending. I could not put it down and enjoyed every page.

This is the 7th book in the Love Heart Lane series and although I own the first 6 already, this is the first one I am actually reading. I have been assured that it can be read as a stand-alone story and that is exactly what I did and trust me, it can be read as a stand-alone. There wasn’t a single part of the story that made me feel like I had missed anything vital to this story by reading it as a stand-alone. My guess is that the other books focus on some of the supporting cast featured in this book and I look forward to reading all about them in the other books in this series

I think Christie Barlow’s personality as I have experienced it on Social Media is clearly visible in her writing. Her love for kids, good friends, small town life, a warm village community and the outdoors are all visible in her writing. Her characters are just as lovely and with hearts of gold as the author comes across. Having now read one of her books I can’t wait to read more, especially some of her earlier work really appeals to me so watch this space!

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

This was such a cozy, heartwarming book. I really enjoyed it. It's part of a series, but I was able to enjoy it even though I haven't read the rest of the series.

Heartcross Castle is an engaging read. Grace is a likeable, strong character who puts her children first. The chance to escape from an abusive relationship takes her back to her hometown, and she soon finds support from friends despite her absence.

Believable characters and a vibrant setting immerse the reader in this story. The mix of humour and poignancy is perfect. Family secrets, renewal of old friendships and the chance of romance make this one of my favourite books in the Love Heart Lane series.

I received a copy of this book from One More Chapter via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

It’s a pleasure to be back in Heartcross with its lovely scenery and charming characters. I was first introduced to Christie Barlow over a year ago with the delightful Starcross Manor and couldn’t wait to immerse myself in the beautiful Scottish countryside again. Who wouldn’t want to live in a castle?

Grace Power is making a fresh start with her three boys, but is she in over her head taking on the upkeep of a castle that has been neglected for years? Don’t underestimate Grace. She is so strong as she leaves an abusive relationship and moves back home to start over and mend fences with the friends she abandoned so many years ago. Her love for her boys is what captured my heart. She makes the simplest things special and her boys are rambunctious but smart and kind like their mother.

Add to that her gorgeous Michelin-starred chef and multi-millionaire neighbor Andrew Glossop who is renting the servant’s quarters on the property. But what can a man who is waited on hand and foot by a personal assistant, a housekeeper, and a butler have in common with a single mother of three? Watch a loving family woo this lonely man who has no idea what unconditional love is.

The moments with Andrew and the boys are precious. Hector, the Castle’s gardener and best friend to Grace’s late grandfather, is also a wonderful addition to the boys’ lives. I guarantee the boys will steal your heart as they help Andrew understand how to live on a budget and teach a grown man how to let loose and be himself outside of the limelight he is used to.

Don’t forget Grace’s fantastic long-lost friends who come to her rescue when she needs them the most.

I am pleased to recommend this heartwarming and funny read with emotional moments and warm supportive friends. Give this book and the series a try, it won’t disappoint.

Thank you to Ms. Barlow for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

Seventh in the series but well able to stand on its own, Heartcross Castle is a welcome return to Heartcross, where the future is bright and love conquers all.

I'd give a quick warning for past spousal abuse, but from start to finish this grows into such a positive story about coming home and starting again. It's a joy to see Heartcross through the eyes of prodigal Grace as she brings her three sons to the village from which she ran away and reconnects with the people she left behind. The boys are such wonderful characters and their excitement and mischief are infectious, and in fact all of the characters (many of them from past books) are likeable good sorts. My favourite character might be Delia the chicken, but Hector comes a close second!

The hurts and mistakes of the past can't be erased, but the future is still up for grabs. If you're looking for a pick-me-up about things going right, curl up with this book and a glass of your favourite cheap wine!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley; all opinions are my own

I’ve read a couple of books by this author in the past and was in the mood for something that wasn’t crime fiction when I saw the notification for this tour. Being set in Scotland, and in a castle no less, made it something I couldn’t refuse. I really enjoyed this book, it’s got the right mixture of serious and fun running through it and it was exactly what I needed especially on these cold January days.

We meet Grace and her sons when life isn’t treating her well at all. She needs an escape from it and this comes in the form of the castle which she inherits unexpectedly. Leaving her old life behind the family of four move to Scotland and start over, with the warmth and support of the local community, and the fresh air and open space of the Scottish countryside. Unsurprisingly things aren’t simple and straightforward and Grace has to contend not only with deciding what is best for their future but also dealing with the celebrity chef Andrew Glossop next door, who is interesting but has had quite a different experience of life so far.

There clearly were characters in here that are in the other books in the Love Heart Lane series, but there is enough explanation of how they fit in that it doesn’t matter if you haven’t read the other books first. I hadn’t and didn’t find that affected my enjoyment of this book at all. There were also some other characters that added something special to the story, namely Delia (no spoilers) and Hector, who was just lovely and made the story, and Grace’s family, complete. This would be a lesser book without the lovely, grounding presence of Hector.

This is a lovely story, it transported me to another part of Scotland, complete with heather covered hills and a welcoming community. While it’s not a community that Grace is a stranger too, having lived there before, it welcomes her back without any questions and is supportive as she rebuilds her life and decides what the future holds. It’s one of those places that makes you wish it really existed. If you’re looking for a story that is uplifting and optimistic and full of warmth then this is an ideal read. Perfect for a cosy read, even better with a blanket and a warming drink.

If you love heartwarming happy reading material, the this is for you and so much more. I love these books and i was so happy to go back to the love heart series and will always be happy to read them, Christie is an amazing author and will never let you down,
This is book 7, is can work as a standalone one just as much as part of a series. Some of the characters re appear in previous books but its not hard to follow. In this story we have a single parent, Grace, who moves back to Heratcross due to the death fo a family member. Grace needs a helping hand in having to start afresh new life but it is what is it and she tries and tries to make it work sadly, Grace will never ever be able to build the bridges between her and her Grandfather, Marley and the Great grandparents too. You feel Grace's presence in how she has grown from being such a young girl to who she is today but she did leave and here she is now, will everyone be happy in her return with her three sons.
Her new landlord Andrew Glossop is star of the show in this book just as much as Grace and he gets on great with her three boys. Grace and Andrew have alot of chemistry between them but can it previal?
I will not add anymore to this review because i could end up giving it away, and i want readers to open this book and love this book as much as i did. Christie has a great style of opening up all the characters so we can understand them in such a real life way and make us feel like were in the village with them all. If you like romantic fiction from most popoualr authors, this will not dissapoint you at all. I loved this book,

I am a huge fan of Christie’s Love Heart Lane series and I think this might be my favourite book in the series so far. It has the perfect combination of escapist setting, romantic tension, relatable characters and touching, emotional moments that make the ideal romantic read.

From the minute the book starts, Grace was a character that captured my heart and my sympathy, and I was with her on her journey throughout the book. As the mother of three young boys struggling with relationship issues, she feels so alone and I could relate to the sense of responsibility she felt for her kids, getting them out of the terrible situation they are in and building a better life for all of them. Christie really captures the agonies of being a single parent of young children, the heartbreak of not being able to give them everything you want them to have and having to deal with every crisis and problem by yourself, often not knowing how you are going to get through. You can really feel Grace’s pain through the pages.

Fans of the series will know that this is where the amazing community that Christie has built in Heartcross will come to the rescue. Honestly, it has now got to the stage that I have to remind myself that these are fictional characters and not a real set of people I am catching up with. I am so invested in this series and all the goings on in Heartcross that reading one of the books is like sitting down for a coy catch up with those old pals you having seen in a while but you know so well. The community welcomes Grace back with open arms and starts to help her rebuild, and it is nothing less than we expect.

The relationships in this book are what make it, and they are all beautiful. Grace and her boys, her old friends, and particularly that between Grace and Hector. Their interactions brought me to the verge of tears several times because the way they interacted was just so lovely. I love a book which explores relationships of all kinds, not just romantic ones, and this is where the people who are dismissive of romance novels are mistaken. There is always so much more going on in these books than a love story, and this book is a prime example of the complexity of issues that can be explored.

That’s not to say that the romance isn’t important. Andrew is a great love interest for Grace, but the romance is secondary to the other bonds Grace rediscovers in this book, and that is the way it should be. Romantic relationships are not the be all and end all of life, all our relationships support and nurture us in different and equally important ways.

Of course the setting is always a big draw in the Love Heart Lane books and, getting to explore inside the walls of Heartcross Castle was great fun. Christie has let her imagination run wild in the novel and has added all the fun quirks and secrets you would wish for in a Scottish castle. When I read things like this, it reminds me of the aspect of writing which most appeals to me, being able to create the world as you wish it existed, just because it makes you and your readers happy. This is what true escapism is, and escapist reading is sometimes just what we all need.

Heartcross Castle is the seventh installment of the Love Heart Lane series by Christie Barlow. This book can be read as a standalone but I love this series so much that I urge you to read them all.

This latest edition is like you would expect from the series, it is full of lovable characters and a heartwarming, feel-good story.

Grace Power returns to the Highlands village of Heartcross after discovering she has inherited Heartcross Castle from her grandfather. Returning to the castle after running away years before, Grace is now a single mother of three young children and they are escaping an unstable and unhappy relationship and ‘home’. On her return to the castle though things aren’t as she left them and now the celebrity chef, Andrew Glossop, is living in the servant quarters and is after the castle itself.

We are introduced to Grace as the lead character of this book, and her three young sons. The boys are completely adorable and mischievous, whilst Grace is a strong woman who is trying to her best by her boys in difficult circumstances. We also get to know Andrew Glossop more after he has appeared in previous books from the series, whilst we catch up with some of our favorites such as Isla, Felicity and Allie, who were Grace’s best friends before she ran away.

As you would expect from the residents of Heartcross, they all come together to welcome Grace and her family back home.

I loved Heartcross Castle, in fact it might be my favourite but don’t tell the others, and I can’t wait to read the next book later this year.

Grace Power is married to Cole, a violent waste of space, and living in a miserable flat in Devon. They have three young sons together - Freddie, Joey and Billy. One night, after being hit again, Grace throws Cole out. So when she hears she has inherited Heartcross Castle in Scotland after her grandfather has died, she realises they have to move there to get away from Cole and make a new start.
Grace had originally left her home in the Scottish Highlands at the age of sixteen, after an argument with her grandfather and hasn’t returned since. She has no idea if she will be welcomed back by her old friends – Isla, Felicity and Allie - or how things will be for her, but she has to give it a try for the sake of her sons.
Moving into the castle, she meets celebrity chef Andrew Glossop who rents the servants’ quarters. She can’t help noticing he is both rich and gorgeous, though obviously way out of her league.
Grace is a brilliant character and I liked her straight away and wanted to keep reading, to find out how her story developed. The three boys are beautifully written too and I loved how their relationships with their mum and each other are described.
Living in a castle is a great idea for a story and another reason to pick up the book. I enjoyed seeing the castle through the characters’ eyes and wondering how they were going to make it their home.
Grace’s friends are also lovely and I enjoyed the camaraderie between them.
The book is a real feel-good, heart-warming story which will make you smile whilst reading it and afterwards.

This is a series which is showing no signs of getting stale. It retains all the warmth and sense of community of its predecessors, whilst at the same time, introducing new characters and fresh locations. Each one of the series has its own particular flavour and this one is no exception. The romance of the setting, depicting the stunning castle nestled on the hillside, captures the tone of the series so well.
Grace's story shows her to be a down to earth and kind character whose impetuousness in her youth has led to her time away from Heartcross. I enjoyed the humour which comes from her three sons and their escapades and their impact on the celebrity chef, Andrew, who is Grace's unexpected tenant. The community as ever comes to the fore and shows what makes it a place you would love to visit. Close friendship and family ties bind the story together.
In short: A warm, endearing tale with characters you would love to meet.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book