This is a wonderful non-fiction, account of the ultimate fixer upper. Joye Cottage is a wonderful old mansion in Aiken, South Carolina. Because once in my jaded past (some 10 years before the tale in the book), I lived next door to Joye Cottage, I grabbed the book. But I cringe when I think if I hadn't lived there, I might not have even found this great story. It's like the most clever, long, happy letter from a dear friend. ( )

House restoration in South Carolina. Been there, done that, but in Charleston and in a 20 room Queen Ann Victorian, not a 60 room mansion built by a robber baron. Still, fun to see Aiken again, from the coziness of my own living room.

At least two people have recommended this book to me, plus I heard the authors on an interview once.

Totally enjoyable! A delightful combination of restoration tips, history, and humor. A very FUN read! ( )