As a big fan of Phillipa Ashley books, I was so excited when I got an early preview copy through Netgalley.
As expected, this is true Phillipa, Cornwall, friendships, beaches, romance, and a fork in the road, which leads to heartache and realisation before the big happy ending.
Tammy, Ruan, and Davey are loveable main characters who you can not help but feel for, as they share their ups and downs of their lives with tears and smiles, this is a must read book for 2025... my only issue... it had to end!
Reviewed on Goodreads.com

This was a simple, fun, easy and quick read. The perfect type of book for your holiday, beach, pool kind of read. This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and I would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

Tammy is a sand artist. She lives in a flat owned by her friend in the town she grew up in. Ruan is a solicitor, new to town.
Romance between them is a slow starter. But Ruan has a secret. Can Tammy forgive him? Or is this the end of this romance?
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for this ARC in return for my honest review.

When a new Philippa Ashley book is released, you know you can expect a real treat filled with a heartwarming storyline, set against the backdrop of a stunning location.

One Cornish Summer With You is set in the beautiful, charming and picturesque town of Porthmellow in Cornwall - you can sense the sea breeze and picture yourself strolling along the beach –a stunning area of beauty. Phillipa Ashley is a master in making you feel you are part of the story and being able to vividly imagine yourself in the locations themselves. Her descriptions of Porthmellow are just wonderful and I felt like I was actually there. The book was inspired by Philippa Ashley’s visit to the beautiful hidden gem of St Loy Cove in Cornwall. Porthmellow is featured in some of Philippa Ashley’s other novels too.

The two main characters in the book are Tammy, an artist who creates the most amazing sand art in Cornwall, which capture the essence of her surroundings and express her feelings and emotions. I absolutely loved hearing all about sand art. When Tammy was younger, her life was upended when her father went bankrupt and her mother abandoned the family. Her father sadly passed away. Understandably this has all had a huge impact on Tammy, not only when she was younger but also growing up. As an adult, Tammy now feels the need to rebuild her life and concentrate on creating a bright future - by dedicating herself to her sand art and grasping any new opportunities that may come her way.

Then we meet Ruan, a solicitor who has moved to Cornwall for a fresh start in life, leaving behind his past and looking to rebuild his life again. He wants to move forward, free from the shadows of his past.

During one of Tammy’s incredible sand art creations, her path crosses with Ruan’s. Tammy is very cautious about meeting new people and finds it hard to let her guard down. Her relationship with her ex-boyfriend was complicated and ultimately resulted in significant heartbreak. Tammy and Ruan enjoy each other's company, but Tammy's past has meant that she has so many barriers up that Ruan finds it challenging to break through them. Ruan recognizes how hard it is for Tammy and gives her all the space she needs, which means so much to her and allows their relationship to grow slowly and develop naturally.

Tammy discovers an old letter belonging to her late father, which reveals a connection between Ruan and her family. His secret played a significant role in her past, leaving a devastating impact on her life.

Ruan did not know who Tammy was at first. When he found out about his link to Tammy, he didn't tell her because he was afraid it would ruin their relationship. But how could they both move forward together now that the truth was revealed? Tammy had trusted Ruan, but now this secret left her feeling betrayed and confused. Could love shine through? Could their relationship continue? You will need to read the book to find out!

Another incredible novel – thank you Phillipa! I love the storyline, the incredible setting, the characters and I was so pleased with the ending – new beginnings are exactly what we all deserve. When the past has been so difficult, moving forward is never easy but if you can find it in your heart to forgive and move on, the future can be so much brighter. It shows us that hope and healing may be within reach. Even through challenging times, there’s always the possibility of something wonderful emerging.

An enormous 5 stars from me!

Thank you very much Random House UK, Cornerstone, Penguin UK, and NetGalley for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.

I wonder if Philippa Ashley lives in Cornwall, as do I. She couldnt describe it more beautifully without at least visiting, which I'm sure she does. Frequently.
Such a lovely gentle romance this is. Tammy, scarred from family problems, missing her father and feeling alone, lives in a flat overlooking the beautiful water views. She is a sand artist, something I had not really heard of. I can imagine the lovely patterns she creates to honour people, especially her Dad. Ruan comes on scene and is soon entranced by her. Their romance goes through some difficult times, but there is a sense of everything working together for good.
Thanks to netGalley for the chance to read this book which I so enjoyed.

Book Review: One Cornish Summer With You by Phillipa Ashley

Phillipa Ashley's One Cornish Summer With You is a heartwarming and evocative novel that sweeps readers away to the charming harbor town of Porthmellow. Known for her beautifully crafted romances, Ashley once again delivers an enchanting tale filled with love, secrets, and the healing power of new beginnings.

The story centers around Tammy, a talented sand artist who has built a safe and quiet life for herself on the Cornish coast. After a tumultuous childhood marked by her father's financial ruin and her mother's abandonment, Tammy has learned to guard her heart. Her days are spent creating fleeting masterpieces on the golden sands, but her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble when Ruan, a handsome and enigmatic solicitor, arrives in town seeking his own fresh start.

The chemistry between Tammy and Ruan is palpable from the start, but their romance is not without its hurdles. Just as Tammy starts to believe in the possibility of love, Ruan’s hidden past surfaces, challenging everything she thought she knew. The novel delves into themes of trust, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to open up to love despite past wounds.

Ashley’s writing is wonderfully descriptive, transporting readers to the stunning Cornish coast with its sparkling seas and quaint village life. Porthmellow is brought to life through its vibrant community, adding depth and charm to the story. The sand art element is particularly unique, offering a refreshing and creative backdrop to Tammy’s journey of self-discovery.

The novel masterfully balances lighthearted romance with deeper emotional undertones. Tammy’s backstory is handled with sensitivity, and her growth throughout the novel feels authentic and rewarding. Ruan is not just a romantic lead but a complex character in his own right, bringing a layered and realistic dynamic to their relationship.

Readers who love immersive settings, well-rounded characters, and a storyline that offers both escapism and emotional resonance will find One Cornish Summer With You an absolute delight. Phillipa Ashley’s ability to blend warmth, humor, and heartfelt moments makes this book a perfect summer read, ideal for fans of Katie Fforde, Heidi Swain, and Jill Mansell.

In the end, this is a story about letting go of the past, embracing change, and finding the courage to let love in. Whether you are looking for a cozy escape or an uplifting story of hope and renewal, One Cornish Summer With You is sure to leave you with a smile and a longing for the Cornish seaside.

This is a lovely and quite gentle romance set in the amazingly well described Cornwall area. Tammy is an artist who works with sand creating masterpieces that are ephemeral in nature just waiting for the tide to sweep them away. She’s only just living within her means and carrying emotional baggage from her childhood and her parents separation. A buttoned up beautifully suited.Ruan arrives into her world and disturbs it hopefully for the better. The descriptions of the coastline and of the work that Tammy does on the beaches is beautifully told and really makes a character of the landscape..

#OneCornishSummerWithYou #NetGalley
Another fantastic read from Phillipa Ashley, full of twists & turns that keep you wanting to read on for more. The ending was a bit predictable from about half way through but still lovely to read. The way the old house was described by Tammy from her childhood was stunning. The perfect summer read!!!

Another beautiful read from Phillipa Ashley. Tammy lives in the beautiful Cornish town of Porthmellow but is having a hard time in life after losing her father and being abandoned by her mother. After a chance encounter with the lovely Ruan things start to look up.

Tammy is a complex character who struggles to trust after her difficult life but I loved how as the story played out she blossomed.

The setting was wonderful and just made me want to get in the car and drive to Cornwall.

A brilliant summer read that won’t disappoint

Thanks to NetGalley, Phillipa Ashley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

What is there to be unhappy about with this story?! Full of sand, sea, romance, a bit of mystery. It has it all. A really feel good book. I couldn’t wait to read it and it didn’t disappoint. I don’t hesitate to recommend it. Problem is I couldn’t put it down! Everything got forgotten as I enjoyed the Cornish seaside.

Free courtesy of Netgalley

I really liked this book, it is going to be a great holiday/summer read, full of love, mysteries and a community looking after each other.

Tammy is a sand artist, who lost her dad to the sea. Living in an apartment owned by her dad's best friend, she is living from day to day. One day she meets a stranger, in a suit, watching her create the tribute to her dad on the anniversary of his death. Will Ruan be the person to break the barriers she has put around herself and encourage her to live her life to her fullest. But Ruan has his own secrets and will his inheritance create a barrier between them as their histories intertwine.

I would recommend this book as it was a lovely read that took your soul to Cornwall for a little while

Tammy and Ruan seem like a good match when he moves into her village.
However he is hiding a secret which could derail the relationship before it starts.
Nice, easy read

Well this has to be the best book Pillipa Ashley has written. I was hooked from the very first page. There is so much I would like to tell you but I would give too much away. Tammy is a sand artist she met Ruan "who is a solicitor" just after she had finished a piece of art in the sand. She lives in a flat above a pottery shop owned by a man called Davey who was a friend of her late father. Then there was Walter a rather nasty, grumpy, miserable old man. Tammy did not have the best life growing up but she did have a dad who loved her. Fate certainly brought Tammy and Ruan together. Tammy's ex boyfriend does not want to accept they are no longer together and begins to make a nuisance of himself. The past and the present entwine which causes some insecurities for Tammy. This story is so captivating you will find it hard to put down. Phillipa has such a wonderful way of writing which draws you right into the story. If you have not read one of her books read this one. You will not be disappointed. If you are already a fan you are in for a great read.
Thank you Phillipa I really enjoyed this book.

I love a summer Cornish book, full of sun, sea and pasty crumbs. Tammy is an artist specialising in sand art, she draws beautiful designs and watches the ride wash it away. Her designs are sought after and used as advertisements. She lives with another artist who looks after her and provides her a home and acts as a parent. Ruan has come to Cornwall to make a new life, he’s inherited a ramshackle house. They meet on the beach, sparks fly and then history comes to light.
This is a great beach read. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

It was so good to imagine myself being in Cornwall, down by the beach, watching the waves flow in and out. Phillipa Ashley is well known for writing about this area, throwing in romance or two for good measure. It’s a great summer read.

I have read many of Phillipa’s books so I was looking forward to this one in exchange for a review. As soon as I started reading it just grabbed me and I knew I was going to love it. Ruan has moved to Cornwall from Bristol to start a new job as a lawyer in a smaller office in Penzance. Tammy is a sand artist and works in a gallery. Ruan is sitting at the harbour as he is early for a meeting so he is watching Tammy work on the beach. Once she finishes they get chatting and decide to get an ice cream but disaster strikes when Ruan gets ice cream on his shirt. Tammy offers him one of her dad’s shirts. There is a definite attraction between the 2 of them,they agree to meet up. Tammy is on her own since her died when he went out fishing and didn’t come home. Her mum stays in Scotland with her second husband,she left Tammys dad when she was young so Tammy has trust issues. Davey owns the gallery Tammy helps at,he was a friend of her Dads so likes to look out for her. Ruan, at the moment is staying in a caravan but doesn’t tell Tammy the whole story of how he has come to her area. He has been left a house by his great uncle Walter who he only met once when he was six years old. As it turns out,Walter was a nasty man who hurt a lot of people. You must read the book and follow the ups and downs with Ruan and Tammy. I couldn’t put it down,I loved it.

The perfect summer read that I definitely needed really made me feel like it was summer
Loved the characters they were sweet fun loving and very well written.
This book really made me use my imagination to picture the beautifully written setting.
A must read this summer it gives all the feels

I was asked to review by NetGalley and the publishers

Reading this in February I have to close my eyes and think of those long balmy summer days during the long holidays.

The author paints such a wonderful picture of Cornwall and I am there- this is friendship, romance a bit of intrigue and personal history all thrown into the mix.
The author creates such wonderful characters- a story that you may think is predictable but with lots of twists and tuens along the way.

A perfect sun bed read whether in a cottage in the South West or lying under a palm tree this will be up there in the top ten this summer. Due for publication on the 5th June 2025.

I loved this story.

I loved this book. I am a big fan of Phillipa Ashley, and this book did not disappoint.
The Cornwall setting was the perfect backdrop to the story, and I enjoyed reading about the main characters, Tammy and Ruan. This book is a great summer read and I highly recommend it.

The beautiful setting in Cornwall is what makes this book so readable. You get completely swept up by the descriptions of the coastline. I enjoyed the story and always think Philippa Ashley is great at escapist romance! Thank you.