Clover Cottage is the third book in this series but can totally be read as a standalone. Rory and Allie's future is almost written for them. In a relationship for some time, it looks like a life together seems inevitable. Marriage, kids, the dream cottage that has been left to Rory. Though, its in a bit of decrepit state but it could be made into the perfect marital home. But, Rory has wanderlust. He dreams of adventure and those dreams will ultimately impact on Allie. When an opportunity to work in Africa presents itself, both Rory and Allie must make some difficult decisions. 

Written from the perspectives of both characters,we gain some insight into how each is feeling and what is driving their decisions.  However, I did find myself falling more into camp Allie than completely understanding Rory. Then I kept changing my mind and had some idea of the characters inner turmoil. Very cleverly written! The message I got from the book was do we play things safe and do what is expected and lose ourselves completely to the control of others? Or do we follow our dreams, risks and all? Sometimes we need to step outside our comfort zones. This is such an amazing character driven novel that I fell in love with every single one of them.

I'm so proud of how far Christie Barlow has come in her writing. I first become aware of this wonderful writer when I organised a tour for her first book, A Year in the Life of a Playground Mother way back in 2014. Her writing has gone from strength to strength and Clover Cottage was what was needed, particularly during this very stressful time in everyone's lives. It was a welcome distraction and Love Heart Lane felt like a safe place to be. It's a book all about community and love which lets face it, we all need a bit of that. It's about coming home, whether that be a physical place or somewhere within ourselves.