In From the Cold by Sarah Bennett

*** Review ***

In the enchanting world of Sarah Bennett’s In From the Cold, a tale of unexpected family ties, secrets, and the transformative power of love unfolds against the backdrop of the picturesque Cotswolds countryside. As I embarked on this literary journey, I found myself captivated by the intricate web of relationships and the heartwarming message at its core.

The novel opens on a somber note as we meet Ben Lawson on the day of his father’s funeral. Little does he know that this event will forever alter the course of his life. The introduction of a mysterious woman claiming to be his sister sends shockwaves through Ben’s world, revealing layers of deception and secrets that had been carefully concealed by his late father. With a thirst for truth and closure, Ben decides to venture into the unknown, accepting an invitation to Juniper Meadows, the ancestral estate of the Travers family.

Upon his arrival in the Cotswolds countryside, Ben encounters Amelia Riley, a woman with her own complex ties to the Travers clan. Their connection is immediate, and as they navigate the labyrinthine secrets of their pasts, they find solace and warmth in each other’s presence. Yet, life’s twists and turns are never simple, and just as Ben contemplates embracing his newfound family, Amelia is on the brink of departure.

What struck me most about In From the Cold is the poignant exploration of the theme that adversity and loss have the unique power to bring people together. In this case, it is a funeral that reunites estranged siblings, Ben and Hope, who had long been kept apart by a web of lies and secrecy. Through their journey, the novel emphasizes that hope and love can bridge even the deepest chasms of family discord. Juniper Meadows, with its cozy charm and welcoming atmosphere, serves as the perfect backdrop for this heartwarming tale of reconciliation.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its depiction of the seasonal transition from autumn to winter, particularly during Halloween. Although I had not read the first book in the series, I found that the story stood strong on its own. Sarah Bennett skillfully provides enough background information to ensure that readers new to the series can fully engage with the narrative.

Amelia and Ben’s characters are beautifully crafted and relatable. Amelia, determined to rebuild her life in the wake of her father’s criminal activities and reckless gambling, resonates with anyone who has faced adversity head-on. Ben, grieving the loss of his father, suddenly finds himself welcomed into a previously unknown family with open arms. Their connection, born out of shared experiences and a yearning for closure, is both heartwarming and authentic.

The balance between family drama and romance is expertly maintained in In From the Cold. The family dynamics are depicted with remarkable realism, drawing parallels to situations that many readers can relate to. While the romance between Amelia and Ben unfolds a tad swiftly, it adds an extra layer of charm to the story. However, I would have appreciated more development in the relationships between Ben and his newfound family members.

Despite being the second installment in a series, In From the Cold functions splendidly as a standalone novel. Sarah Bennett’s storytelling prowess shines through, leaving me eager to explore more of her work in the future.

In conclusion, In From the Cold by Sarah Bennett is a heartwarming and wholesome romance that explores the complexities of family, the power of love, and the beauty of redemption. With its captivating characters and engaging storyline, this novel is a delightful addition to the genre. If you are a fan of authors like Jenny Colgan and Pamela Kelley, you will undoubtedly find solace and joy in this Cotswolds-inspired tale. I wholeheartedly recommend In From the Cold and award it a well-deserved four stars.