Book Review: Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall by Lottie Cardew
Book Review: Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall by Lottie Cardew

Book Review: Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall by Lottie Cardew

An enchanting, standalone, modern rom-com inspired by Jane Austen’s EMMA, about a matchmaking young woman whose heart may be in the right place… some of the time.

Emmeline – Em to her friends – has very little to vex her, except that she hasn’t left her beloved home, Midwynter Hall, in over two years. 

But her isolation doesn’t stop her interfering in the lives of others, particularly when it comes to love. As a romance writer, Emmeline obviously knows what she’s doing, increasingly plotting real-life matches rather than fictional ones.

When best friend Polly gets mixed up with the wrong sort of man, Emmeline has no choice but to swoop to the rescue. And when old family friend Jordi seeks solace after women and work troubles, Emmeline has the perfect solution. You see, everything she’s written lately – pairing up lovelorn locals – has somehow (maybe magically) come true. So, if she pens a tale about Polly and Jordi despite their many protests, they’ll thank her eventually, once they’re blissfully happy together.

But no one is more surprised than Emmeline when she finds she wants to write herself into the story, especially if someone she cares about may get hurt in the process. 

Because as it turns out, believing you’ve never been in love, doesn’t mean you’ve never (unknowingly) given your heart away…

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/MidsummerMagic

Author Bio

Lottie Cardew writes uplifting, contemporary romcoms set around the picturesque village of Pebblestow, and is an advocate for diversity in fiction.

Regarded as the bossy one at Novelistas Ink, Lottie often subdues the other members if they misbehave (they don’t really) including the popular authors Trisha Ashley and Sophie Claire. She is a longstanding member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, scooping their New Writer’s Award in her twenties under a different pen-name. More recently, Lottie also joined the Society of Authors where as an active participant in the ADCI group (Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses) she interviewed bestselling author Holly Smale in 2021 for the first ever Disability Issue of The Bookseller.

Lottie is diagnosed autistic with suspected ADHD. Her home in North Wales is overrun by husband, not-very-small children, and a ball of fluff masquerading as a Pomeranian, so Lottie frequently takes refuge at her desk.

Social Media Links

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsLottieCardew

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossynovelista

Newsletter sign up form: Subscribe to my Newsletter

Website: www.lottiecardew.co.uk/

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/LottieCardew.Books

Why Should You Read This?


“Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall” by Lottie Cardew is a delightful and enchanting modern romantic comedy that pays homage to Jane Austen’s “Emma.” This standalone novel weaves a captivating tale of meddling matchmakers, unanticipated love, and the journey of self-discovery.

Emmeline, affectionately known as Em, leads a seemingly content life at her cherished home, Midwynter Hall, where she’s been nestled away for years. Her isolation doesn’t deter her from involving herself in the love lives of others, particularly as she has a knack for romance writing and an uncanny ability to make her fictional matchmaking scenarios come true in real life.

The story takes flight when Em’s best friend, Polly, finds herself entangled with the wrong type of man, and Em steps in to save the day. Additionally, when Jordi, an old family friend, faces his own struggles, Em concocts another matchmaking plot to bring solace into his life. Despite their protests, Em’s interventions seem to work their magic, inspiring happiness in the couples she pairs.

Lottie Cardew’s storytelling is both charming and engaging, drawing readers into a world where love is orchestrated with a touch of whimsy. The characters are well-crafted, each with their unique quirks and vulnerabilities. Em, in particular, stands out as a multi-faceted protagonist whose intentions, while sometimes misguided, stem from a place of genuine concern and affection.

The novel artfully explores the consequences of meddling, the complexities of human relationships, and the unforeseen pathways that love can take. As Em endeavors to write the love stories of those around her, she unexpectedly finds herself yearning to be part of her own romantic narrative. This twist adds depth to the story, as Em grapples with her feelings and confronts her own heart.

Lottie Cardew’s writing style is engaging, and the pacing of the story keeps the reader intrigued throughout. The nods to Jane Austen’s “Emma” are both clever and endearing, adding a layer of nostalgia for fans of Austen’s work while providing a fresh and modern take on the classic themes.

“Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall” is a feel-good romantic comedy that reminds us of the power of love, friendship, and personal growth. It captures the essence of summer with its whimsical atmosphere and heartwarming moments. Readers will be swept away by the delightful characters and the enchanting journey of self-discovery and romance.

In conclusion, “Midsummer Magic at Midwynter Hall” is a charming and beautifully written novel that showcases Lottie Cardew’s talent for storytelling. With its engaging characters, clever plot twists, and delightful romance, this book is a must-read for fans of modern rom-coms and those who appreciate a touch of Jane Austen-inspired magic. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or seeking an escape from the everyday, this book is the perfect summer companion.