Deborah M. Hathaway pens a beautiful second-chance love story in her captivating tale, From the Fields of Porthlenn. This book stars Poppy Honeysett and Lt. Edmund Harris as they meet again two years after their relationship ended in heartbreak. The characters are well-drawn, colorful, and engaging, and I enjoyed seeing their interactions change to friendship and more again while they work together to solve the problems of the community.

With lovely and intriguing descriptions of Cornwall and the small communities striving to thrive there, this series has captured my heart and stirred a desire to visit this area. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy well-written, clean and wholesome historical fiction. While it can be read as a stand-alone book, the previous books in the series introduce some of the recurring characters. ( )

I’ve long been anticipating Poppy’s & Edmund’s story! Deborah M. Hathaway delivers a powerful second chance love story with so much emotion, depth, and well written longing. It’s one of those stories that will stay with you long after finishing. There’s some weighty subject matter in this story which the author presents in a thoughtful, insightful way. There’s also a dash of humor and lightness sprinkled throughout that balances everything beautifully. If you haven’t read one of her Cornish Regency romances, grab this one, then go back and read the others.

When Poppy was 16 years old, she fell in love with Lt. Edmund Harris. Several years later, she was old enough for Edmund to ask her to marry him, but leaving her beloved Cornwall where her family is and her dear father is buried was too much. She was hoping Edmund would come back, but year after year goes by with no sign of him. Then suddenly he’s back in Cornwall recuperating from an old injury.

Instead of the welcoming embrace she imagined, she’s met with cool formality. Poppy’s changed as well though and isn’t the carefree girl she once was. Edmund broke her heart, plunging her into a dark place she’s not wanting to revisit. But as they’re forced into each other’s presence, the familiar teasing and feelings return. What happens though when he leaves for the sea? Will he break her heart again?

Edmund’s heart was torn to pieces when Poppy chose Cornwall over him. He’s not wiling to risk his heart again. Since he was a little boy, his trust has been broken especially by his mother. Her abusive treatment of him deeply scarred him. Will he have the courage to heal from the past and make a future with Poppy, or will he return to the only safe place he’s known, the sea?

I loved Poppy & Edmund. There was so much depth and growth in their relationship. It was hard to see them so at odds at first. Both are hurting and can’t seem to let down their guard. Their relationship grows very organically with two steps forward and one step back. When they finally share their feelings, it’s powerful. The slow build up to their first kiss is well worth the wait.

Edmund’s past was absolutely tragic. His mother is awful and I felt so sorry for him and the pain he carries. Poppy’s such a sunny personality, yet her believable experience with depression reveals the depth of her character. Her fear of returning to that painful bleakness strikes a familiar chord with anyone who has experienced depression or has a loved one who’s experienced it.

The historical detail, vivid descriptions of Cornwall, heartfelt romance, the angst, longing, and endearing characters make this a must read! It can be read as a standalone, but those familiar with the series will welcome seeing familiar characters again. Poldark fans will love this! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. ( )