Title: A Fine Romance: Falling in Love with the English Countryside
Author: Susan Branch
First published January 1, 2013
260 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780984913664 (ISBN10: 0984913661)
Rating: 4.5
Overview
Embark on a delightful journey with Susan Branch as she sets sail on the Queen Mary 2 from New York City to Southampton before embarking on a whimsical two-month adventure through the picturesque English countryside. With her signature hand-lettering and watercolor illustrations, Susan takes us along as she discovers the historical homes and gardens of art and literary heroes, wanders through wildflower meadows and fields of frolicking lambs, and indulges in afternoon tea, cozy pubs, and antique shops.
This enchanting hardcover book, complete with a sewn-in red ribbon bookmark and hundreds of photographs, is a masterpiece that combines a love story, a travel guide, and a dream come true.
About the Author
Hello there! I’m the proud author of the Heart of the Home series. I’m excited to share my latest creation with you – a three-part illustrated memoir that’s sure to delight.
The series begins with The Fairy Tale Girl, a lovely appetizer that sets the stage for the rest of the journey. From there, we travel to Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams, the main course that will satisfy your hunger for adventure.
Finally, for dessert, we have A Fine Romance, Falling in Love with the English Countryside. As they say, you can take the girl out of the cookbook, but you can never take the cookbook out of the girl! I’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to tell this story, and I’m thrilled that the time has finally come.
If you’re eager to follow my journey, I invite you to check out my blog, follow me on Facebook, or connect with me on Twitter. And if you’d like to meet me in person, be sure to catch me on my book tour from May to July 2016.
I hope you’ll enjoy reading my memoir as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you for your support!
Editoral Review
Susan Branch’s ‘A Fine Romance: Falling in Love with the English Countryside’ is a captivating memoir that transports readers on a charming journey to England. The book was first published on January 1, 2013, and it quickly became a favorite among travel enthusiasts and romantics alike.
Branch, an accomplished artist and author, is known for her beautifully illustrated books that explore her love of nature, gardening, and cooking. In this book, Branch shares her experience of falling in love with the English countryside during a romantic getaway with her husband.
She takes readers on a delightful journey through the quaint villages, charming cottages, and stunning landscapes that dotted their itinerary. Her vivid descriptions of the English countryside are punctuated with charming illustrations and photographs that bring the scenery to life.
The heart of the book lies in Branch’s enchanting storytelling and her remarkable talent for capturing the essence of the places she visited. Readers will be swept away by her heartfelt descriptions of the people, places, and experiences that shaped her journey through England.
From the lively markets of London to the peaceful gardens of the countryside, Branch’s memoir captures every moment of her magical journey. One of the strengths of this book is the author’s ability to weave historical and cultural references into her narrative, giving readers a greater appreciation for the places she visited.
Branch masterfully intertwines her personal experiences with the rich history and traditions of England, making the book a valuable resource for travelers interested in exploring the country’s culture and heritage. Another notable feature of ‘A Fine Romance’ is the author’s stunning illustrations and photographs, which add depth and texture to the narrative.
Branch’s illustrations are whimsical, and they capture the essence of the places she visited with their charming details and vibrant colors. Her photographs are equally captivating, offering readers a glimpse into the beauty of the English countryside.
Despite its many strengths, ‘A Fine Romance’ does have some limitations. The book’s narrative can feel a bit slow-paced at times, which may deter readers who prefer a more action-packed travel memoir.
Additionally, some readers may find that the book focuses too heavily on Branch’s personal experiences, with less attention paid to the broader cultural context of England. Overall, ‘A Fine Romance: Falling in Love with the English Countryside’ is a delightful memoir that captures the magic and beauty of England.
Branch’s enchanting storytelling and stunning illustrations make the book a pleasure to read, and her insights into the country’s history and culture make it a valuable resource for travelers. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, readers who love England, travel, and romance will surely fall under the spell of this charming book.
Rating: 4/5 stars.
