The author, Helen Simonson, does a good job developing the characters-
you immediately like some of them and take a dislike to others. Major Pettigrew ( who always uses his full title) is a distinguished, retired
gentlemen...old school manner and courtly charm.
Mrs Jasmina Ali, a widow, is a shopkeeper in the village; she is Pakistani and
strives to blend her ancient culture with modern times in England.
The setting is a small village, picturesque- and filled with quintessential charm:
thatched cottages and gently- rolling hills. The characters also fit the small
town picture: some busybody ladies, a country vicar, women planning socials and
a community involved in each other's lives.

Mrs Ali and Major Pettigrew, both widowed, share a love of literature, and gradually plan outings to get together and discuss the classics. Their unlikely friendship and mutual
respect blossom into love. Imagine the reaction of the villagers- one of their own courting
a foreign woman with foreign ways.
We are introduced to some facets of Pakistani culture : respecting the ancient traditions
and regarding the whole family ( and family name) over personal preferences. This is a story of loss and love; prejudices and acceptance; old ways making room
for new ones. And, a few twists and turns along the way.

This a good book to curl up with - "cuppa tea" in hand!