What do you think?
The Vets at Hope Green #3
Too Close to Home
PART THREE of a serialised novel - a heartwarming and inspiring story about living the simple life and the joy of animals.
Things are finally starting to look up for Sam – a chance at her dream job as a vet, and a new friend (who is a huge animal lover himself – a very important detail!) What more could she ask for?
But something is eating away at her: her boss Joe is acting strangely around her - he's definitely hiding something. And having dreamed of being a vet for so long, she cannot afford to put a foot wrong.
When a call to tend to a sick pony comes into the practice, it all strikes too close to home for Sam and Joe. The odds are stacked against her, and she risks losing everything…
Note: this is part three of a four-part serialised novel. The full length paperback will be available in June.
Things are finally starting to look up for Sam – a chance at her dream job as a vet, and a new friend (who is a huge animal lover himself – a very important detail!) What more could she ask for?
But something is eating away at her: her boss Joe is acting strangely around her - he's definitely hiding something. And having dreamed of being a vet for so long, she cannot afford to put a foot wrong.
When a call to tend to a sick pony comes into the practice, it all strikes too close to home for Sam and Joe. The odds are stacked against her, and she risks losing everything…
Note: this is part three of a four-part serialised novel. The full length paperback will be available in June.
ebook
First published March 16, 2017
About the author
Sheila Norton
55 books175 followersWinner of the RoNAs 'Christmas and Winter Seasonal Award' novel, 2022, with 'Winter at Cliff's End Cottage'.
I live in Chelmsford, UK, with my husband Alan. We have three married daughters and six grandchildren. I've been writing ever since I was a little girl, and finally achieved my lifelong ambition to have a novel published, with the acceptance in 2002 of 'The Trouble With Ally'. Prior to this, I'd been having short stories published in women's magazines for about ten years.
My most recent books are stories set in the English county of Devon, and most include pets in the story! They are feel-good contemporary fiction.
I worked for most of my life as a medical secretary. I now write full-time. I like to relax by reading, walking,swimming, and seeing my family and friends.
I am passionate about my writing and love to hear from my readers. I am also happy to give talks to writers' groups and others, and book signings, in my local area.
I live in Chelmsford, UK, with my husband Alan. We have three married daughters and six grandchildren. I've been writing ever since I was a little girl, and finally achieved my lifelong ambition to have a novel published, with the acceptance in 2002 of 'The Trouble With Ally'. Prior to this, I'd been having short stories published in women's magazines for about ten years.
My most recent books are stories set in the English county of Devon, and most include pets in the story! They are feel-good contemporary fiction.
I worked for most of my life as a medical secretary. I now write full-time. I like to relax by reading, walking,swimming, and seeing my family and friends.
I am passionate about my writing and love to hear from my readers. I am also happy to give talks to writers' groups and others, and book signings, in my local area.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 11, 2017
This is the third little book in the Vets at Hope Green Series, and I started reading this book with high expectations. We get to see how Sam is managing with the pregnancy, learn more about the mysterious and moody Joe, and all of the other residents in the village.
The only slight niggle for me is - and I'm probably an exception to the rule, seeing as everyone else appears to love the series - is Sam's reaction and feelings towards things. I mean, she's pregnant and newly single, so you think she'd be quite content just to get on with things. Yet she seems to be intent on jumping into another relationship. I think we can all see where the book is heading, and I didn't really care much for the incident in the pub with Joe, particularly when she's just found out about his wife. What kind of woman would seriously think it's ok to attempt anything with a man who's married, and even worse with his wife in that way?!
I really like the premise of the book, but unfortunately I'm beginning to dislike Sam. At times she doesn't come across as a particularly nice character. Sorry. I enjoy everything else about the series, apart from the main protagonist.
However, saying all of that, this book does end on another knife edge, which entices readers to grab the next book to discover what happens.
Thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House UK, Ebury Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The only slight niggle for me is - and I'm probably an exception to the rule, seeing as everyone else appears to love the series - is Sam's reaction and feelings towards things. I mean, she's pregnant and newly single, so you think she'd be quite content just to get on with things. Yet she seems to be intent on jumping into another relationship. I think we can all see where the book is heading, and I didn't really care much for the incident in the pub with Joe, particularly when she's just found out about his wife. What kind of woman would seriously think it's ok to attempt anything with a man who's married, and even worse with his wife in that way?!
I really like the premise of the book, but unfortunately I'm beginning to dislike Sam. At times she doesn't come across as a particularly nice character. Sorry. I enjoy everything else about the series, apart from the main protagonist.
However, saying all of that, this book does end on another knife edge, which entices readers to grab the next book to discover what happens.
Thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House UK, Ebury Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book, in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 27, 2017
The serialisation of this book, which is due to be published as a full length paperback in June 2017, means this is the third of four parts and continues on from the emotive cliffhanger ending of the second part - then ends on another cliffhanger! Reviewing this without revealing events from the earlier parts is difficult, but I’ll endeavour to do so! Sam is now living with her Gran and working for Joe, the local vet. There are huge revelations about Joe and his family in this part and I admit to not liking some of Sam’s reactions to those revelations - she came over more selfish and less considerate in this respect IMHO.
The village and villagers are brought to life in the story - it feels like you could just pop out to visit them, like old friends. David, the dog-walker, is still being attentive and supportive whilst her so-called ‘friend’ from London, Claire, comes to visit (read it to find out why I defined her like that!). There’s plenty of angst and turmoil packed into this relatively short story and that ending has me waiting with eager anticipation for the final, fourth, part of this novel!
Many thanks to the publishers for gifting me a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review.
The village and villagers are brought to life in the story - it feels like you could just pop out to visit them, like old friends. David, the dog-walker, is still being attentive and supportive whilst her so-called ‘friend’ from London, Claire, comes to visit (read it to find out why I defined her like that!). There’s plenty of angst and turmoil packed into this relatively short story and that ending has me waiting with eager anticipation for the final, fourth, part of this novel!
Many thanks to the publishers for gifting me a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review.
April 2, 2017
"Too Close to Home" is the third and last but one part in "The Vets at Green Hope" series. It starts exactly where we left, seeing Sam at hospital with a miscarriage scare. This part feels and seems much shorter to the previous two ones, the chapters are shorter and there are only six of them, as far as I can remember, so it is really a very, very quick read - but sometimes it's just what you need.
So this time there is a lot happening on the pages, guys, really. There was not a single minute without something happening, let it be with Sam, or Joe or even with Joe's sweet daughter, with friends visiting and falling out, with parents visiting and missed cats bringing surprises. It was packed to the brims but it was written in such a way that I've never felt overwhelmed or tired, and those events were realistic and relatable. We also learn much more about the very moody Joe in this part and I must admit that as much as I sympathize with him, this man is bringing me to my limits - he's exceptionally rude, and if all of us were so rude when having problems than our lives would be really miserable. Also Sam annoyed me a little this time with her occasionally childish behaviour and with everything bringing tears to her eyes - I know, hormones, but still, give us a break, girl. But again, the villagers and the village are brought to life, and there is more about the vet practice itself, and I enjoyed it very much.
This short story ends - of course - with a cliffhanger and I am already looking forward to the last part of the series. I am only afraid that it's going to end not in the way I'd like it to end re: the romance but let's wait and see.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 15, 2017
I received a free eARC from the author and publishers, via Netgalley, but my opinion is not swayed.
Woah. This series is amazing so far. The cliff hanger from book two was rounded up really realistically early on (which I appreciated and was grateful for) but of course, that wasn't it for the nasty surprises for our poor Little Sam.
As each story unfolds she becomes ever more the endearing main character. She's just so down to earth and realistic, which just makes her relatable. She isn't perfect by any means but that's just being human.
Her relationships with the people of the village increase in this segment and we got to learn a bit more from characters that were more on the side lines previously.
I liked where the story was going with Joe Bradley, but I'm super curious (and a little anxious) to see how things will play out with Sam, Adam and Claire. What is going on?!
The last few pages left us with another cliffhanger! But Sheila Norton knows a good place to cut off. It was quite shocking, especially after the embarrassment Sam just faced; now she has to deal with something that could be possibly heart breaking!
I need the next (and sadly last) part pronto! The is an awesome series so far!
Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
Woah. This series is amazing so far. The cliff hanger from book two was rounded up really realistically early on (which I appreciated and was grateful for) but of course, that wasn't it for the nasty surprises for our poor Little Sam.
As each story unfolds she becomes ever more the endearing main character. She's just so down to earth and realistic, which just makes her relatable. She isn't perfect by any means but that's just being human.
Her relationships with the people of the village increase in this segment and we got to learn a bit more from characters that were more on the side lines previously.
I liked where the story was going with Joe Bradley, but I'm super curious (and a little anxious) to see how things will play out with Sam, Adam and Claire. What is going on?!
The last few pages left us with another cliffhanger! But Sheila Norton knows a good place to cut off. It was quite shocking, especially after the embarrassment Sam just faced; now she has to deal with something that could be possibly heart breaking!
I need the next (and sadly last) part pronto! The is an awesome series so far!
Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
March 17, 2017
I've really loved this series and the latest instalment was a really welcome read. We get a more detailed look into Joe the vets life and understand why he comes across as so terse and grumpy. Sam is getting used to impending motherhood and loving living with her nan. I absolutely adore feeling like part of the village life and getting to know the characters more. Although when reading books in parts like this one I am desperate to read on at the end- we don't have long to wait and in some ways I think it helps you imagine the time scale in your mind and the developing storyline. I am really keen to see where this books heads in the concluding part and I will be sad to say goodbye to them! I will definately look out for more by Sheila Norton until we get a new series to look forward to.
March 16, 2017
This is the third 'Hope Green' book. I've read and the comments I made for the first two are still relevant. I do not like the episodic publishing of this type of story even though it works well for things like Game of Thrones & Lord of the Rings!
It is difficult to review as it just seems to be getting started when it's over,although I must admit that, having heard Book 2 ended on a cliff hanger, I read Two & Three together which was a more rewarding read.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read it
It is difficult to review as it just seems to be getting started when it's over,although I must admit that, having heard Book 2 ended on a cliff hanger, I read Two & Three together which was a more rewarding read.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read it
March 3, 2017
Well little Sam may have believed that she was an experienced veterinary receptionist that could confidently give an hand when needed but giving an hand in a warm surgery and being full blown up to your elbows in it on a farm are two quite different things and Sam is loving every minute. The more involved she is the more she is determined to take control of her own destiny. That includes facing the demons from her own past if she is to survive country life, and keep the job she loves.
Part three is definitely a book of secrets and betrayal for both Sam and Joe. With one thing for sure, relationships, both old and new will never be the same again. Sheila Norton has breathed life into the characters of Hope Green, making a fun filled cosy read that tackles some very delicate subjects. It all fits together beautifully to make an exciting and at times emotional journey.
There are some really hard times ahead for the people of Hope Green but also new life too.
Part three is definitely a book of secrets and betrayal for both Sam and Joe. With one thing for sure, relationships, both old and new will never be the same again. Sheila Norton has breathed life into the characters of Hope Green, making a fun filled cosy read that tackles some very delicate subjects. It all fits together beautifully to make an exciting and at times emotional journey.
There are some really hard times ahead for the people of Hope Green but also new life too.
March 1, 2017
I was very excited for part 3 as part 2 had ended on a massive cliffhanger, so I needed to find out what happened next, and boy does part 3 live up to expectations.
In part 3 we see what happens with Sam and the baby, and we also find out a lot more about mysterious Joe the vet and get an insight into his life.
Again part 3 ends with another cliffhanger and I am dieing to get my hands on part 4.
Another 5 stars for this fantastic series.
In part 3 we see what happens with Sam and the baby, and we also find out a lot more about mysterious Joe the vet and get an insight into his life.
Again part 3 ends with another cliffhanger and I am dieing to get my hands on part 4.
Another 5 stars for this fantastic series.
March 5, 2017
The Vets At Hope Green part three by Sheila Norton continues the story and is so delightful. I am hanging on to every word.
Life in the country is idyllic compared with the hustle and bustle of London. The village has its own set of unique personalities. It all makes for delightful reading.
The setting and animals are a huge part of the story. I really 'felt' immersed in village life.
Part three ended with a cliff hanger. I am clinging on by my nails to hear what happens next.
So delightful.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Life in the country is idyllic compared with the hustle and bustle of London. The village has its own set of unique personalities. It all makes for delightful reading.
The setting and animals are a huge part of the story. I really 'felt' immersed in village life.
Part three ended with a cliff hanger. I am clinging on by my nails to hear what happens next.
So delightful.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 22, 2017
I got a free copy of this book via NetGalley.
After having a terrible scare with her health Sam invites her friend from London for a visit, but things don't work out as well as she'd hoped, and there are some revelations.
This is the third part to 'The Vets at Hope Green', a four part series of books which is really one book split into four parts. This time Sam is coping with her health scare and her friend Claire comes for a visit which leads to more problems than Sam expected. It's hard to say more about the plot as I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't read parts one and two but 'Part three: Too Close to Home' is really setting up the stage for a big finale.
I do enjoy this series of books and while not every incident is predictable, the majority of the story is and I'm not sure if I am enjoying it so much due to it being broken up into parts instead of reading it all in one go.
There are some revelations about some of the characters and it leaves you with more questions than answers. The relationship, particularly with Sam and Joe is by now quite predictable and the revelation regarding something in Joe's life is one I did guess at the start of the series, however it's still a fun read and I'm very much looking forward to the last part.
There is nothing offensive in this story and it could be read by everyone. So far I'd recommend this book series but I still haven't read the final part so can't comment on the overall ending.
After having a terrible scare with her health Sam invites her friend from London for a visit, but things don't work out as well as she'd hoped, and there are some revelations.
This is the third part to 'The Vets at Hope Green', a four part series of books which is really one book split into four parts. This time Sam is coping with her health scare and her friend Claire comes for a visit which leads to more problems than Sam expected. It's hard to say more about the plot as I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't read parts one and two but 'Part three: Too Close to Home' is really setting up the stage for a big finale.
I do enjoy this series of books and while not every incident is predictable, the majority of the story is and I'm not sure if I am enjoying it so much due to it being broken up into parts instead of reading it all in one go.
There are some revelations about some of the characters and it leaves you with more questions than answers. The relationship, particularly with Sam and Joe is by now quite predictable and the revelation regarding something in Joe's life is one I did guess at the start of the series, however it's still a fun read and I'm very much looking forward to the last part.
There is nothing offensive in this story and it could be read by everyone. So far I'd recommend this book series but I still haven't read the final part so can't comment on the overall ending.
March 18, 2017
Another fabulous short read from Sheila Norton .. I'm now desperate for the final book to be available!
This third book advances the story quite a bit - and not always where I expected it to go. Plenty to think about in this one, and plenty of laughs .. especially at the snobbery of Rachel's mother!
I'm really enjoying visiting Hope Green, and very much looking forward to finding out how it all wraps up.
Happy to recommend this to anyone who enjoys a lighthearted read with a bit of heartache hiding in the pages.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
This third book advances the story quite a bit - and not always where I expected it to go. Plenty to think about in this one, and plenty of laughs .. especially at the snobbery of Rachel's mother!
I'm really enjoying visiting Hope Green, and very much looking forward to finding out how it all wraps up.
Happy to recommend this to anyone who enjoys a lighthearted read with a bit of heartache hiding in the pages.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
March 24, 2017
I enjoyed reading part three of this four part story, can't wait to read the fourth!
Sam is back and her boss, Joe, is even more confusing than ever before. Just when she thinks she has him figured out, she realises that he is still a complete mystery. These two need to work on their communication skills, haha, and there were times when I found myself shouting at my Kindle for the two of them to please just spit out what was on their minds!
Sam is really settling into village life and enjoys going for walks with her friend David and their respective dogs, as well as her job at the vets. She also likes living with her nan, which her parents just don't seem to understand.
Highly recommended read from me!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Ebury Digital.
Sam is back and her boss, Joe, is even more confusing than ever before. Just when she thinks she has him figured out, she realises that he is still a complete mystery. These two need to work on their communication skills, haha, and there were times when I found myself shouting at my Kindle for the two of them to please just spit out what was on their minds!
Sam is really settling into village life and enjoys going for walks with her friend David and their respective dogs, as well as her job at the vets. She also likes living with her nan, which her parents just don't seem to understand.
Highly recommended read from me!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Ebury Digital.
March 5, 2017
I loved the third instalment of the Vets at Hope Green. This follows Sam as her pregnancy progresses and the relationships with her friend David and boss Joe develop.
Like the previous two parts, part three is very enjoyable and well written and it was a lovely Sunday afternoon read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House UK Ebury Publishing and Sheila Norton for the chance to review.
Like the previous two parts, part three is very enjoyable and well written and it was a lovely Sunday afternoon read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House UK Ebury Publishing and Sheila Norton for the chance to review.
February 1, 2019
Thrilling
Another great few chapters of a thrilling and captivating story. What will happen next? Are her ex boyfriend and ex friend having an affair? Will nana be ok? Will she still have a job? Ooo exciting stuff.
Another great few chapters of a thrilling and captivating story. What will happen next? Are her ex boyfriend and ex friend having an affair? Will nana be ok? Will she still have a job? Ooo exciting stuff.
May 4, 2017
Loving these books
Great read keeps me stuck reading no complaints here looking forward to reading the next one
Off to download now
Great read keeps me stuck reading no complaints here looking forward to reading the next one
Off to download now
March 17, 2018
Brilliant
Brilliant instalment , can't to find out what happens next, just wish the instalments were a little longer. Would definitely recommend this to a friend.
Brilliant instalment , can't to find out what happens next, just wish the instalments were a little longer. Would definitely recommend this to a friend.
March 19, 2017
Having read parts one and two I was eager to find out what had happened to Sam as last time we were left on a cliff hanger on wether or not she was going to loose the baby. This part delves deeper into Joes life and why his moods are up and down but more down!
This series just gets better and better the more you read and can't wait to find out what happens in the last part as again you are left on a cliff hanger.
I am really liking this part as all the characters are developing into good likeable people ( well the majority ) and I could picture myself living there myself!
I would like to thank netgalley, penguin random house and bury press for this ARC I received in return for an honest review.
This series just gets better and better the more you read and can't wait to find out what happens in the last part as again you are left on a cliff hanger.
I am really liking this part as all the characters are developing into good likeable people ( well the majority ) and I could picture myself living there myself!
I would like to thank netgalley, penguin random house and bury press for this ARC I received in return for an honest review.
March 9, 2017
This is part three of the story about Sam, who is expecting her first child, having split from her boyfriend. And she has moved to Dorset, to her Nan's house, to take on a job at the local vets. Nan lives in a little village, where the locals all know each other and soon it will be difficult to keep her pregnancy hidden from the locals and her boss, Joe.
Sam made a friend on one of her previous visits to her Nan's and David has started to look out for her. Probably a bit too much for Sam's liking, so she needs to let him know that he is just a friend.
Sam has her girl friend, from where she used to work in London, come and visit, which causes a few ripples. And makes Sam feel the need to get back in touch with her ex-boyfriend.
Then her job starts to get more complex as her boss starts taking her on client visits when the veterinary nurses are not available. This is where she meets Hugo, her boss's, daughter's pony. And Hugo makes a big contribution to the next stage of the working situation at the vets for Sam.
At the end of the book, Sam has a crisis to deal with that supersedes even her working issues with her boss!
And I cannot wait to find out what happens next. It is probably as well this book is serialised, else I would get nothing else done while I was reading it! Part 4 should be out soon I hope and the whole book will be released in June, if you cannot bear to read it in instalments. I read this one in one sitting.
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
Sam made a friend on one of her previous visits to her Nan's and David has started to look out for her. Probably a bit too much for Sam's liking, so she needs to let him know that he is just a friend.
Sam has her girl friend, from where she used to work in London, come and visit, which causes a few ripples. And makes Sam feel the need to get back in touch with her ex-boyfriend.
Then her job starts to get more complex as her boss starts taking her on client visits when the veterinary nurses are not available. This is where she meets Hugo, her boss's, daughter's pony. And Hugo makes a big contribution to the next stage of the working situation at the vets for Sam.
At the end of the book, Sam has a crisis to deal with that supersedes even her working issues with her boss!
And I cannot wait to find out what happens next. It is probably as well this book is serialised, else I would get nothing else done while I was reading it! Part 4 should be out soon I hope and the whole book will be released in June, if you cannot bear to read it in instalments. I read this one in one sitting.
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. NetGalley does not allow for paid reviews.
March 10, 2017
I have loved every installment of this series so far and this third part was no exception. I really love the story and it does strike a personal chord with me too and that makes it even more enjoyable. I can't wait for the final part. I think I might have guessed where the story is going but could be completely wrong too! A really nice feel good short story.
March 7, 2017
Having enjoyed the first two parts of this book which I was sent in ebook format courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley, I was eager to revisit Hope Green as well as the cast of characters including Sam and her grandmother who I feel are like family to me now. This part of the book was as riveting as the others were and it was lovely to see the growth and changes within the characters. A heartwarming read with emotional and gripping twists and turns which I did not want to end. I am wondering how things will turn out for Sam and friends in part 4.
March 8, 2017
These books really know how to do a cliffhanger! I absolutely love this series and find myself really wanting everything to work out for Sam.
In this book we get to know a bit more about Joe and his back story and to be honest i'm not sure I like where it's going but..... I've been surprised by this series before so i'm holding out on judgement just yet!
Hurry up part 4!
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this book we get to know a bit more about Joe and his back story and to be honest i'm not sure I like where it's going but..... I've been surprised by this series before so i'm holding out on judgement just yet!
Hurry up part 4!
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2017
The story continues, and in this episode we learn more about Joe Bradley, and why he is such a prickly character. Sam's pregnancy progresses, and she at last tells her boss about needing to take maternity leave. And like in the first two parts of the novel, the story ends on a cliffhanger. Well worth reading, but these parts are a bit short.
March 2, 2017
Reading part three of this story as provided by Netgalley was like meeting up with an old friend. Sheila Norton writes with such a relaxed easy to read format that it is always with dismay that I come to the end of each installment. Village life is a bit cliched, then who doesn't like a bit of escapism, but the characters are well defined and recognisable. I cannot wait for part four.
March 2, 2017
I love this series. I can't wait for the next part. Such a lovely story with great characters. Don't like Claire at all. But love the village and the description of it Poor joe the vet with his troubles at home. This last part has left me hanging and impatient for the rest
February 28, 2017
Been enjoying this adorable series. The village seems like a lovely place to live and the stories are quick fun reads.
March 22, 2017
Sam is now living with her Nan in Hope Green and loving it - she makes friends with a lovely dog loving man, David, although she is starting to feel that he might want a bit more from the friendship than she does - and she is working for the grumpy vet Joe - can she fulfil her ambitions and get more into the vet side than receptionist - and is there more to Joe than he lets on?
A lovely story with great characters but again left on a cliffhanger and cant wait for the final installment
A lovely story with great characters but again left on a cliffhanger and cant wait for the final installment
March 5, 2017
After the enormous cliff-hanger at the end of book two I was desperate to read this one and discover what happened. I certainly wasn't disappointed. This story is really pulling together now and the characters are well and truly ensconced in my head, it feels as though they are part of my family and I was waiting for a 'gossip' update.
Little Sam is still working with grumpy Joe the Vet, but there is an insight now as to why he is acting the way he is. She is also introduced to his young daughter who has a pony. This seems to give Sam flashbacks but she is the adult and has to behave accordingly.
David the dog-walker is still as chatty and obsessed with Sam, they have fun and bond over window boxes! Sam is beginning to feel a sense of belonging in the village and resents anyone who thinks she should leave Nana and head back to London to her former boyfriend, her friend Claire pays her a visit, with friends like her I would stay where I was if I were Sam!
Lots of emotion in this segment and it is ramping up nicely for a mega finale. I can't wait to read the conclusion especially as this one has ended at a crucial spot as well .. the publishers/author are really teasing us.
Highly entertaining for a short novella and ideal to escape into the country for a while. Thanks to Netgalley/Ebury etc for the opportunity to read and review voluntarily.
Little Sam is still working with grumpy Joe the Vet, but there is an insight now as to why he is acting the way he is. She is also introduced to his young daughter who has a pony. This seems to give Sam flashbacks but she is the adult and has to behave accordingly.
David the dog-walker is still as chatty and obsessed with Sam, they have fun and bond over window boxes! Sam is beginning to feel a sense of belonging in the village and resents anyone who thinks she should leave Nana and head back to London to her former boyfriend, her friend Claire pays her a visit, with friends like her I would stay where I was if I were Sam!
Lots of emotion in this segment and it is ramping up nicely for a mega finale. I can't wait to read the conclusion especially as this one has ended at a crucial spot as well .. the publishers/author are really teasing us.
Highly entertaining for a short novella and ideal to escape into the country for a while. Thanks to Netgalley/Ebury etc for the opportunity to read and review voluntarily.
March 10, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this review copy.
Part 3 of a 4 part story (all 4 parts come in one book later in the year). Part 2 left us with a big cliff-hanger so was keen to get going on this one to find out what has happened!
Sam is settling into her new job and home, but she is still having to put up with grumpy Joe the Vet at work. She gets to meet his daughter, but manages to put her foot in it whilst talking to her about Joe’s wife. Getting more involved in her job, Sam has started to think about her future and if there is any way she could fulfil her dream in becoming a vet. As the story goes on though, it becomes clear that Sam has suffered a traumatic incident in the past involving horses, and it’s obvious that she still hasn’t got over this. Can she cope with everything?
I loved this one (although still don’t like the short story version and would much rather read it all in one go), but I won’t say too much about what happens as it’s difficult to do that without spoiling it! The characters are starting to grow, and there’s lots of emotion. I just wanted to carry on reading when I got to the end, but I couldn’t as Part 4 isn’t out yet!! The ending was another cliff-hanger, and to be honest I’m not sure I can wait!!
Part 3 of a 4 part story (all 4 parts come in one book later in the year). Part 2 left us with a big cliff-hanger so was keen to get going on this one to find out what has happened!
Sam is settling into her new job and home, but she is still having to put up with grumpy Joe the Vet at work. She gets to meet his daughter, but manages to put her foot in it whilst talking to her about Joe’s wife. Getting more involved in her job, Sam has started to think about her future and if there is any way she could fulfil her dream in becoming a vet. As the story goes on though, it becomes clear that Sam has suffered a traumatic incident in the past involving horses, and it’s obvious that she still hasn’t got over this. Can she cope with everything?
I loved this one (although still don’t like the short story version and would much rather read it all in one go), but I won’t say too much about what happens as it’s difficult to do that without spoiling it! The characters are starting to grow, and there’s lots of emotion. I just wanted to carry on reading when I got to the end, but I couldn’t as Part 4 isn’t out yet!! The ending was another cliff-hanger, and to be honest I’m not sure I can wait!!
May 28, 2017
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews Thank you to Ebury publishing for my copy of this book via Netgalley. This is the third book in the series which carries on straight where the 2nd book left off. For only 80 pages there is a lot that happens in this little book.
Sam is settling in to life in Hope Green. She has a job at the vets not just as a receptionist but a chance to learn how to be an actual vet which is of course her dream job. We also learn a little more about Joe and why he acts like he does.
With visits from friends and family there is a lot happening in this book but it keeps true to itself with its theme of animals and their ability to help us humans to not only heal but to live again when life gets tough. Sheila packs a punch wit this book that is short and sweet read that will leave you craving more.
The story ends on a massive cliffhanger so make sure you have part 4 ready.
Sam is settling in to life in Hope Green. She has a job at the vets not just as a receptionist but a chance to learn how to be an actual vet which is of course her dream job. We also learn a little more about Joe and why he acts like he does.
With visits from friends and family there is a lot happening in this book but it keeps true to itself with its theme of animals and their ability to help us humans to not only heal but to live again when life gets tough. Sheila packs a punch wit this book that is short and sweet read that will leave you craving more.
The story ends on a massive cliffhanger so make sure you have part 4 ready.
March 30, 2017
Loving it shame I have to wait until end of April to read the next instalment.
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