Every book in the Lower Leaping series can be read as a standalone.

🌿 It's never too late to follow your heart... 🌿

Tess Alexander lives an enviable life with her husband Charles, at Hollyhocks Cottage in the idyllic Cotswold village of Lower Leaping. Dreaming of their early retirement, Tess’s plans are dashed when Charles shares some devastating news and suddenly she’s left alone with only Barney, her adorable Beagle dog, for company.

Facing an uncertain future, Tess tries to reconnect with her old self. She begins to transform the neglected garden office into a beautiful retreat, the perfect spot for her to indulge in her long-forgotten creative passions.

However, a chance encounter with charming but down on his luck, Rob Templeton, soon puts pay to her plans, when she offers him the place to stay, sensing a kindred spirit.

With the support of old friends, Gina and Suzy, Tess must now step out of her comfort zone and embrace a different way of life, one that is filled with secrets, possibilities and second chances, if only Tess is prepared to take them.

With so many demands on her attention, will Tess find a way to follow her heart and discover her own happy ending?

Discover a wonderfully warm story of hope, friendship and second chances from bestselling author Jill Steeples.

Praise for Jill Steeples:

'I love a fresh start story and this was a fabulous one with a stunning setting and a lovely supporting cast of friends and family. Left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling' - Jessica Redland

'A warm hearted novel about starting over, friendship and family set in the beautiful Cotswolds. A great start to a new series.' - Della Galton

'Loved the relatable characters, picture postcard setting and the feel-good vibe - what's not to love' - Jo Bartlett

'I knew I was in safe hands from the very first page. Jill has such a fluid, easy way with words that I was drawn straight into the story.' Bestselling author Sarah Bennett

'I loved everything about The Forever Cottage; the setting, the characters, and especially the dog! It was a truly uplifting and heartwarming read, of friendship and second chances, that showed that whatever the situation, there is always hope for the future' - Kim Nash

‘I have read every one in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them all. This was my favourite I think, totally recommend these feel good books.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Loved being back at Primrose Woods/Hall and to another story in the series although this could be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the full series for full enjoyment… This was another lovely read from this author within the beautiful setting of Primrose Hall and with an element of festive magic.'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This is a delightful, warm and cosy read. Jill always writes such heart-warming books and never fails to disappoint.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Jill has been one of my favourite rom-com authors since I discovered her Dog and Duck series. She continues her excellent output her with a wonderfully warm and charming story.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This is one of those series which leave you feeling uplifted, looking on the bright side.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘This is a lovely book and I really enjoyed reading it. It is a heartwarming read. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in the series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐