How to Start Reading Alison Sherlock's Novels
Alison Sherlock is celebrated for her cozy, community-driven contemporary romance novels set in picturesque English villages. While almost all of her books are written so they can be enjoyed as standalone stories, reading them in order within their respective series is highly recommended. By reading in sequence, you can watch the villages transform, track recurring characters as they make cameo appearances, and fully enjoy the overarching community growth.
For the best starting experience, readers usually choose one of two entry points:
- Option 1: The Riverside Lane Series (Recommended): Starting with The Village Shop for Lonely Hearts (2020) is the most popular way to dive into Sherlock's work. The series is set in the fictional village of Cranbridge and perfectly showcases her blend of rebuilding lives, tight-knit community spirit, and slow-burn romance.
- Option 2: The Willow Tree Hall Series: If you want to start with her earlier connected series, start with Love Begins at Willow Tree Hall (2017). This series follows the revitalization of a grand but rundown country estate.
Publication Order of the Desperate Series
Alison Sherlock's debut series features relatable heroines taking control of their lives with humor and determination. These books established her signature style of warm, uplifting romance.
- The Desperate Bride's Diet Club (2012) - Introducing a group of friends who form a support group that ends up serving far more than just weight loss. This debut topped the charts in Italy.
- The Desperate Wife's Survival Plan (2013) - Inspired by the author's real-life experience working as a cleaner, this story follows a wife navigating unexpected life shifts and finding her own strength.
Publication Order of the Willow Tree Hall Series
This series centers around the restoration of Willow Tree Hall, featuring characters who find healing, family secrets, and new beginnings. Note that several books in this series were published under alternate titles depending on the publisher and market.
- Love Begins At Willow Tree Hall (2017) (Also published as A House to Mend a Broken Heart) - The story of building inspector Amber and the run-down hall she is tasked to evaluate.
- Escape to the Country (2018) (Also published as Summer Secrets at Willow Tree Hall) - Focuses on city-weary characters finding peace and romance in the countryside.
- A Winter Wedding at Willow Tree Hall (2018) (Also published under the title A Way Back Home) - A festive, emotional story bringing characters together for a heartwarming winter event.
- Moonlight Kisses at Willow Tree Hall (2019) - The final chapter in the main hall sequence, highlighting second chances under the stars.
Publication Order of the Riverside Lane Series
Set in the village of Cranbridge, the Riverside Lane series details the regeneration of local landmarks and businesses, as well as the lonely hearts who bring them back to life.
- The Village Shop for Lonely Hearts (2020) - Amber Green arrives in Cranbridge to help save her uncle's failing village shop, establishing the heart of the community.
- The Village of Lost and Found (2021) - Lucy Conway seeks refuge from a city scandal, discovering new purpose and connection.
- The Village Inn of Secret Dreams (2021) - Follows the transformation of the local pub and the healing journey of its new custodian.
- The Village of Happy Ever Afters (2022) - Wraps up key community threads as the village prepares for new celebrations.
Publication Order of the Railway Lane Series
This series moves the cozy setting to a quaint but neglected railway village, where new arrivals work alongside locals to restore dilapidated properties and build new futures.
- Heading Home to Lavender Cottage (2023) - A heartwarming return to the countryside focused on healing old wounds.
- New Beginnings on Railway Lane (2023) - Characters rally together to rebuild local structures and find love in the process.
- Sunrise Over Strawberry Hill Farm (2024) - Centers on the restoration of a local farm and the rustic romance that follows.
- Winter Magic on Railway Lane (2024) - A festive installment that brings warmth and community spirit during the coldest months.
Publication Order of the Maple Tree Lodge Hotel Series
Sherlock's newest series shifts focus to the stunning Cotswolds, centering on a family-owned lakeside hotel and the renovation efforts that bring new people together.
- Coming Home to Maple Tree Lodge (2025) - Interior designer Lily Watson clashes with hotel owner Ben Jackson as they attempt to renovate the property.
- Daydreaming at the Boathouse Cafe (2026) - Ben's sister Hannah Jackson attempts to open a cafe in a renovated boathouse, with the help of Ben's friend Alex.
- Starry Nights over Dragonfly Lake (2026) - Follows astronomer Beth Jones and carpenter Noah Jackson in a lakeside romance.
Standalone Novels
Between her village series, Alison Sherlock wrote a standalone novel that offers a similar feel-good escape without any series ties.
- Over The Rainbow (2014) - A standalone story exploring life changes, family, and unexpected love.