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The Little Duck Pond Cafe #2
Summer at The Little Duck Pond Cafe
Jaz Winters stuck a pin in a map and fled to the village of Sunnybrook, looking for a brand new life - and after a rocky start, it's beginning to look as if she made the right decision. Her blossoming friendship with Ellie and Fen has seen her through some dark times, and she's managed to land two jobs - waitressing at The Little Duck Pond Café and working as a weekend tour guide at Brambleberry Manor, the country house that's been in Fen's family for generations.
Sure, life isn't totally perfect. There's the irritating know-it-all guy who keeps popping up on her manor tours, for a start. He seems determined to get under Jaz's skin whether she likes it or not. But she supposes he's a small price to pay for the relative peace she's found, living in Sunnybrook.
But just as Jaz is beginning to think rosier times are on the horizon, a shock encounter looks set to shatter her fragile happiness.
Will she be forced to flee from Sunnybrook and everyone she's grown so fond of? Or will she find the strength to stand her ground and finally face up to the nightmares of the past?
Sure, life isn't totally perfect. There's the irritating know-it-all guy who keeps popping up on her manor tours, for a start. He seems determined to get under Jaz's skin whether she likes it or not. But she supposes he's a small price to pay for the relative peace she's found, living in Sunnybrook.
But just as Jaz is beginning to think rosier times are on the horizon, a shock encounter looks set to shatter her fragile happiness.
Will she be forced to flee from Sunnybrook and everyone she's grown so fond of? Or will she find the strength to stand her ground and finally face up to the nightmares of the past?
138 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2018
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194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 23, 2018
5☆ A Wonderful Short Summer Read
Summer at The Little Duck Pond Café is the second book in this gorgeous series, but this time the story focuses on Jaz.
There is no problems reading this one as a standalone but you do revisit previous characters so it's nice to read them in order.
So this time round we get to know Jaz better. It's Christmas and Jaz lives with Grant and his daughter Titch.
However they are going through a bit of a rough patch. Grant is drinking and Gambling and after a fairly big argument, Jaz comes home to realise Grant has changed the locks and her belongings left outside.
Jaz is absolutely devastated. Despite the relationship having problems she adores Titch. Titch's mother passed away and Jaz has becoming really close to Titch.
Jaz finds herself homeless and on her best friend Jules doorstep.
After a few days Jules and Jaz devise a plan to find a way to get Jaz to see Titch as Grant isn't answering Her calls.
Jaz thinks if she leaves the area Grant will let Jules see Titch as their daughters are best friends.
So Jaz sets off to Sunnybrook.
Jaz settles into Sunnybrook just perfectly.
What I loved was how Sylvia came to the rescue, when Jaz was drawn to the The Little Duck Pond Café.
Sylvia ends up inviting Jaz to stay above the Café whilst she sorts out her life.
Will Jaz get to see Titch again?
Will she find love again?
What does the future hold for Jaz?
You need to give this a read to find out more.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series. It's a wonderfully short Novella that warms your heart. The characters are quirky and loveable, the book cover is gorgeous. This is a book about new beginnings, friendship and moving on.
I'm really enjoying Rosie's writing style and can't wait to read the next instalment.
If your looking for a summer fun short read then give Summer at The Little Duck Pond Café a read.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Summer at The Little Duck Pond Café is the second book in this gorgeous series, but this time the story focuses on Jaz.
There is no problems reading this one as a standalone but you do revisit previous characters so it's nice to read them in order.
So this time round we get to know Jaz better. It's Christmas and Jaz lives with Grant and his daughter Titch.
However they are going through a bit of a rough patch. Grant is drinking and Gambling and after a fairly big argument, Jaz comes home to realise Grant has changed the locks and her belongings left outside.
Jaz is absolutely devastated. Despite the relationship having problems she adores Titch. Titch's mother passed away and Jaz has becoming really close to Titch.
Jaz finds herself homeless and on her best friend Jules doorstep.
After a few days Jules and Jaz devise a plan to find a way to get Jaz to see Titch as Grant isn't answering Her calls.
Jaz thinks if she leaves the area Grant will let Jules see Titch as their daughters are best friends.
So Jaz sets off to Sunnybrook.
Jaz settles into Sunnybrook just perfectly.
What I loved was how Sylvia came to the rescue, when Jaz was drawn to the The Little Duck Pond Café.
Sylvia ends up inviting Jaz to stay above the Café whilst she sorts out her life.
Will Jaz get to see Titch again?
Will she find love again?
What does the future hold for Jaz?
You need to give this a read to find out more.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series. It's a wonderfully short Novella that warms your heart. The characters are quirky and loveable, the book cover is gorgeous. This is a book about new beginnings, friendship and moving on.
I'm really enjoying Rosie's writing style and can't wait to read the next instalment.
If your looking for a summer fun short read then give Summer at The Little Duck Pond Café a read.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
July 5, 2018
4 Fabulously Fluffy Stars🦆 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Absolutely adored this little gem of a book... this is the second book in the series, but I did not read the first book and I had absolutely no problem following.... however I am going to go back and read the first book and I am eagerly awaiting the Christmas book!
Jaz is more than happy to leave her tool of a boyfriend Grant, however she does not want to leave his little girl Titch.... so she sticks a pin in the map and finds herself in lovely Sunnybrook.... far enough to not run into anyone that would tell Grant that she has not gone far, yet close enough to see the little girl she loves and worries about.... I really liked Jaz and her devotion to Titch... I loved her friendship with Fen and Ellie.... these are three girls I would love to have lunch with especially if it was at the Little Duck Pond Café....
This book was filled with friendship, food, laughs, and a touch of romance... The romance in this book was sweet and settle.... really the perfect balance in a short novella.... I have to say the author did a fabulous job packing a lot into such a small package.... the character development was spectacular the plot was well paced and well developed.... The perfect book to pick up one afternoon when you want to escape reality and visit Sunnybrook....
Strongly recommend... this is a fabulous summer read that you will enjoy in the sun or in the air conditioning....
*** many thanks to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
Absolutely adored this little gem of a book... this is the second book in the series, but I did not read the first book and I had absolutely no problem following.... however I am going to go back and read the first book and I am eagerly awaiting the Christmas book!
Jaz is more than happy to leave her tool of a boyfriend Grant, however she does not want to leave his little girl Titch.... so she sticks a pin in the map and finds herself in lovely Sunnybrook.... far enough to not run into anyone that would tell Grant that she has not gone far, yet close enough to see the little girl she loves and worries about.... I really liked Jaz and her devotion to Titch... I loved her friendship with Fen and Ellie.... these are three girls I would love to have lunch with especially if it was at the Little Duck Pond Café....
This book was filled with friendship, food, laughs, and a touch of romance... The romance in this book was sweet and settle.... really the perfect balance in a short novella.... I have to say the author did a fabulous job packing a lot into such a small package.... the character development was spectacular the plot was well paced and well developed.... The perfect book to pick up one afternoon when you want to escape reality and visit Sunnybrook....
Strongly recommend... this is a fabulous summer read that you will enjoy in the sun or in the air conditioning....
*** many thanks to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
July 6, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey at www.whisperingstories.com
Arriving home on Christmas Eve Jaz Winters finds herself locked out of her home and ignored by her boyfriend Grant who has obviously decided he wants to end their relationship. She isn’t that bothered about him though but is about his young daughter Titch who she loves and cares for dearly.
Upon the advice of her friend, she finds somewhere to live far enough away that no one will know her, but close enough that she can still see Titch at her weekly horse riding lessons that she goes to with her friend. Jaz opts for a little place called Sunnybrook and soon finds that the locals are lovely people, although one is a little too in her face for her liking.
However, not everything is going smoothly with Grant and Titch and soon Jaz is having to make a heart-wrenching decision on hers and their futures.
This is the second book in the series, the first being ‘Spring at the Little Duck Pond Cafe‘ that I read and reviewed in April this year. The book features all the characters from the first with the added bonus of some new ones, including Jaz who is such a lovely young woman who is going through a really tough time. She is also incredibly private and keeps herself to herself as best she can.
As well as the goings on in Jaz’s life, we also meet Fen’s mum and Dad who owns a rather large estate. They are so funny and ‘Mr. Darcy eat your heart out’!! You’ll have to read it to see what I mean. 🙂
The book is only short at just 117 pages but there is lots going on, on every page. The book is also fast-paced and never gives you time to get bored, not that you would with the great plot. I’m now looking forward to the third book, Christmas at the Little Duck Pond Cafe’ which will be recently in September.
Arriving home on Christmas Eve Jaz Winters finds herself locked out of her home and ignored by her boyfriend Grant who has obviously decided he wants to end their relationship. She isn’t that bothered about him though but is about his young daughter Titch who she loves and cares for dearly.
Upon the advice of her friend, she finds somewhere to live far enough away that no one will know her, but close enough that she can still see Titch at her weekly horse riding lessons that she goes to with her friend. Jaz opts for a little place called Sunnybrook and soon finds that the locals are lovely people, although one is a little too in her face for her liking.
However, not everything is going smoothly with Grant and Titch and soon Jaz is having to make a heart-wrenching decision on hers and their futures.
This is the second book in the series, the first being ‘Spring at the Little Duck Pond Cafe‘ that I read and reviewed in April this year. The book features all the characters from the first with the added bonus of some new ones, including Jaz who is such a lovely young woman who is going through a really tough time. She is also incredibly private and keeps herself to herself as best she can.
As well as the goings on in Jaz’s life, we also meet Fen’s mum and Dad who owns a rather large estate. They are so funny and ‘Mr. Darcy eat your heart out’!! You’ll have to read it to see what I mean. 🙂
The book is only short at just 117 pages but there is lots going on, on every page. The book is also fast-paced and never gives you time to get bored, not that you would with the great plot. I’m now looking forward to the third book, Christmas at the Little Duck Pond Cafe’ which will be recently in September.
July 10, 2018
My Rating:
3.75
Favorite Quotes:
I could probably see the funny side of this - if I wasn’t feeling as tense as Donald Trump on a windy day.
Even his T-shirt has a joke on it. Give Blood. Play Rugby.
My Review:
I’m feeling more than a bit conflicted with this installment. The character of Jaz was the annoyingly weak and waffly type of woman who I impatiently want to give a kick in the posterior region so as to provide them assistance in loosening their misplaced cranium. However, the premise was entertaining and the writing was comfortable and easy to follow, and I enjoyed the sweet elements of the village, catching up with previously introduced characters, and the brisk pace of several of the storylines as well as the welcome hits of levity. Yet I struggled to appreciate the lead character, which is a rather crucial factor in my reading enjoyment.
3.75
Favorite Quotes:
I could probably see the funny side of this - if I wasn’t feeling as tense as Donald Trump on a windy day.
Even his T-shirt has a joke on it. Give Blood. Play Rugby.
My Review:
I’m feeling more than a bit conflicted with this installment. The character of Jaz was the annoyingly weak and waffly type of woman who I impatiently want to give a kick in the posterior region so as to provide them assistance in loosening their misplaced cranium. However, the premise was entertaining and the writing was comfortable and easy to follow, and I enjoyed the sweet elements of the village, catching up with previously introduced characters, and the brisk pace of several of the storylines as well as the welcome hits of levity. Yet I struggled to appreciate the lead character, which is a rather crucial factor in my reading enjoyment.
June 18, 2018
Fast paced novella, that focuses on Jaz and her need to make a new life for herself after a relationship ended but who is determined that she doesn't lose touch with her ex's daughter Titch.
I really felt for Jaz as its clear she is missing Titch but can't do anything about it, and she just wants to do whats best for the girl she loves.
Jaz is attempting to sort out a new life in Sunnybrook and there are familiar faces from the previous book in the series, but equally this works wonderfully well as a standalone novella. I love all the assorted characters that are present and was amused at the lengths Jaz was going to to avoid being photographed, or even near the gorgeous local photographer!
This was a lovely story to while away an hour or two with, with a storylines running through it, and I'm already eager to return to Sunnybrook in the Christmas book.
Thank you to Rosie Green for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I really felt for Jaz as its clear she is missing Titch but can't do anything about it, and she just wants to do whats best for the girl she loves.
Jaz is attempting to sort out a new life in Sunnybrook and there are familiar faces from the previous book in the series, but equally this works wonderfully well as a standalone novella. I love all the assorted characters that are present and was amused at the lengths Jaz was going to to avoid being photographed, or even near the gorgeous local photographer!
This was a lovely story to while away an hour or two with, with a storylines running through it, and I'm already eager to return to Sunnybrook in the Christmas book.
Thank you to Rosie Green for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 25, 2018
The 2nd book in the series of the Little Duck Pond Cafe. Loved reconnecting with all the characters from the first book. A lovely easy read. Can't wait for the next instalment.
July 6, 2018
First of all, I have to say that somehow I missed the blog tour for part one in the series, Spring at the Little Duck Pond Cafe and I would definitely recommend that you read the books in order just to get to know the characters backstories.
Jaz feels settled in the lovely village of Sunnybrook. She has two jobs and some really kind friends who make her feel right at home. Little do they know that Jaz is secretly going through pain and heartache all by herself. Fortunately, old friend Jules knows the secret that Jaz is fleeing from and helps her keep contact with a person who is extremely close to Jaz's heart.
One of her jobs is a tour guide at nearby Brambleberry Manor, where friend Fen lives with her mother. Lady R comes over as a very cold and prickly character but Jaz soon recognises that she has problems of her own. The main one is to keep the wonderful country manor afloat, and she will do everything in her power to stay in her family home. I loved how there were two sides to Lady R's character and the motivated businesswoman turned out to have a huge heart.
Meanwhile, there may be a love interest for Jaz. Photographer Harry keeps 'accidentally' bumping into Jaz and they have flirty banter. Harry is another one trying to hide heartache, will Jaz be the one to help him move on?
There is so much packed into this novella, it literally is a whirlwind from start to finish. The pace is constant throughout and the storyline keeps you gripped.
Beautifully written and jam-packed with warm and likeable characters, I loved every page!
I really look forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend Summer at the Little Duck Pond Cafe
Thank you to the author and Rachel's Random Resources for supplying a copy of the book, which I have reviewed honestly.
Jaz feels settled in the lovely village of Sunnybrook. She has two jobs and some really kind friends who make her feel right at home. Little do they know that Jaz is secretly going through pain and heartache all by herself. Fortunately, old friend Jules knows the secret that Jaz is fleeing from and helps her keep contact with a person who is extremely close to Jaz's heart.
One of her jobs is a tour guide at nearby Brambleberry Manor, where friend Fen lives with her mother. Lady R comes over as a very cold and prickly character but Jaz soon recognises that she has problems of her own. The main one is to keep the wonderful country manor afloat, and she will do everything in her power to stay in her family home. I loved how there were two sides to Lady R's character and the motivated businesswoman turned out to have a huge heart.
Meanwhile, there may be a love interest for Jaz. Photographer Harry keeps 'accidentally' bumping into Jaz and they have flirty banter. Harry is another one trying to hide heartache, will Jaz be the one to help him move on?
There is so much packed into this novella, it literally is a whirlwind from start to finish. The pace is constant throughout and the storyline keeps you gripped.
Beautifully written and jam-packed with warm and likeable characters, I loved every page!
I really look forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend Summer at the Little Duck Pond Cafe
Thank you to the author and Rachel's Random Resources for supplying a copy of the book, which I have reviewed honestly.
June 29, 2018
Jaz has been thrown out by Grant going so far as to leave her a packed suitcase on the lawn when she returned home from shopping on Christmas eve all because she said she was falling out of love with hi the day before having discovered he is back gambling. She now has to find not only somewhere to live but a way of staying in contact with Titch, Grant’s daughter whom she got on with so well. She has some savings and starts to do exercise classes to boost her finances but needs something more. One thing leads to another and Jaz is not only waitressing a the cafe but also as a tour guide around a local stately home and being called Georginia as part of the bargain. This is one of those nice summer reads that you smile at without knowing it and hence you feel good. This is part two of a series of three but happily stands alone. Larger than life characters such as “Mr Darcy” entering the lake which you can’t help but smile at (whilst imaging it- or at least trying to!) , a little romance, cake and animals- you can’t really go wrong! An uplifting, highly enjoyable read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
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For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
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September 11, 2019
I read the first book in this series at the end of last year and, as I'm way too nosey not to find out what happens to everyone else when there is a series, I had to get the other books.
In this one, we get to know Jaz when, after her crazy boyfriend throws her out of their house, she ends up starting a life in Sunnybrook.
Jaz's life is crazy, what with running her zumba classes, starting her new job as a tour guide in a manor house and sneaking off every Tuesday to secretly meet with her ex-boyfriends daughter, who she can't bare to no longer have in her life.
I really enjoyed this book and reading Jaz's story. It was nice to also catch up with Ellie and Fen to see where they were at in the next chapter of their lives.
I look forward to reading book three.
In this one, we get to know Jaz when, after her crazy boyfriend throws her out of their house, she ends up starting a life in Sunnybrook.
Jaz's life is crazy, what with running her zumba classes, starting her new job as a tour guide in a manor house and sneaking off every Tuesday to secretly meet with her ex-boyfriends daughter, who she can't bare to no longer have in her life.
I really enjoyed this book and reading Jaz's story. It was nice to also catch up with Ellie and Fen to see where they were at in the next chapter of their lives.
I look forward to reading book three.
July 5, 2022
So, I liked this book. It was a pleasant little story and nice reading for my summer holidays. It didn’t grip me as much as the first story but that’s to be expected because the first Little Duck Pond Cafe book was exceptionally good.
There seems to be a step-mother theme going through both books. They paint really rosy fluffy pictures of being a step mother where the kid just LOVES you. Not quite realistic. So that’s a little annoying. And there really aren’t that many single dads with no mother around in real life. Yet there are two in a friendship group of three women? Hmm.
I’ll continue with the next book in the series but if it’s exactly the same themes again that will put me off.
There seems to be a step-mother theme going through both books. They paint really rosy fluffy pictures of being a step mother where the kid just LOVES you. Not quite realistic. So that’s a little annoying. And there really aren’t that many single dads with no mother around in real life. Yet there are two in a friendship group of three women? Hmm.
I’ll continue with the next book in the series but if it’s exactly the same themes again that will put me off.
July 12, 2018
Summer at the Little Duck Pond Café is a novella sized book which is Part 2 of the Duck Pond Café series. In the first book of the series, Spring at the Little Duck Pond Café, we briefly met Jaz as a fitness instructor teaching the residents of the village Zumba and other such things. She was also helping out in the Duck Pond Café. This book tells Jaz’s tale of how she come to be in the village of Sunnybrook.
I have to admit I couldn’t remember Jaz much from the first book. I know she was in it, but I think I focussed more on Ellie as she was the main character. Jaz has quite a sad background story and I really felt for her. She ends up in Sunnybrook following the breakdown of her relationship with Grant. By the end it obviously wasn’t a good relationship with Grant having gambling and alcohol addictions. The bad thing to come out of the breakup was that Grant didn’t want Jaz to have anything to do with his daughter, Titch, who Jaz absolutely adored. I have to admit I loved Jaz’s character. She is such a strong woman and I loved the way she absolutely adored Titch and would do anything to keep the contact with her.
It was lovely to see some of the characters from the previous book back in this one, and I was so glad to see Ellie’s mum back, albeit briefly, as I did like her storyline in the first book. The story was a fast paced read, and as it was only a short book I managed to get through it in a couple of hours. It had its serious side with Jaz’s and Grant’s relationship troubles but was also full of fun and romance! It ended nicely, leaving the route to the Christmas book (I assume?!) wide open!
This is a perfect summer read, ideal for a couple of hours lounging in the sun!
I have to admit I couldn’t remember Jaz much from the first book. I know she was in it, but I think I focussed more on Ellie as she was the main character. Jaz has quite a sad background story and I really felt for her. She ends up in Sunnybrook following the breakdown of her relationship with Grant. By the end it obviously wasn’t a good relationship with Grant having gambling and alcohol addictions. The bad thing to come out of the breakup was that Grant didn’t want Jaz to have anything to do with his daughter, Titch, who Jaz absolutely adored. I have to admit I loved Jaz’s character. She is such a strong woman and I loved the way she absolutely adored Titch and would do anything to keep the contact with her.
It was lovely to see some of the characters from the previous book back in this one, and I was so glad to see Ellie’s mum back, albeit briefly, as I did like her storyline in the first book. The story was a fast paced read, and as it was only a short book I managed to get through it in a couple of hours. It had its serious side with Jaz’s and Grant’s relationship troubles but was also full of fun and romance! It ended nicely, leaving the route to the Christmas book (I assume?!) wide open!
This is a perfect summer read, ideal for a couple of hours lounging in the sun!
July 6, 2018
Another packed story in a novella - I don't know how Rosie Green does it. I was happy to find out that this story was about Jaz, as I needed to know her background since she was intriguing in Spring at The Little Duck Pond Cafe. Super quick read for the holiday break that had me turning the pages.
June 27, 2018
This is the 2nd in the series of 3 short stories that centres around the lives of those around the Little Duck Pond Cafe - if you haven't read the first Spring at the Little Duck Pond Cafe - then worry not as this can be read as a standalone, but I have to say my enjoyment of this was increased by having read the first as it was just so wonderful to reconnect with the characters we were introduced to in that book.
This story features Jaz and her story of how she came to work at the cafe, and it isn't a pleasant story as she's had to leave those she loved behind so it's very easy to connect with her as a character as she's so torn about her decision. She knows it was the right thing to do, but the past won't let her go so she's looking for a way to make things right on that front too.
Her life with Grant and his 8 year old daughter was far from perfect, but she'd built up a huge bond with Titch so it was such a wrench when she had to leave especially as Grant was not in a great state of mind due to his addictions. But Jaz knew she made the right decision and is doing her best to make a new life for herself in Sunnybrook.
It was so nice to see the story of the cafe from another perspective and she is embraced into the community really quickly and that helps her settle in, despite missing Titch terribly. She also begins to form a very cute friendship with Harry, a local photographer, who is such a cheeky chappy and is always around to tease Jaz when she keeps refusing to have her photo taken at various community events.
I really enjoyed the mix of the funny and more serious issues that this book features. It is difficult to get that mix right, but the author managed it in a clever way and added a touch of realism by trying to deal with issues that face many people each day. In Jaz she has a great character who isn't afraid of hard work and of making tough decisions.
Really loved my time in Sunnybrook and I can't wait for the next installment!!
This story features Jaz and her story of how she came to work at the cafe, and it isn't a pleasant story as she's had to leave those she loved behind so it's very easy to connect with her as a character as she's so torn about her decision. She knows it was the right thing to do, but the past won't let her go so she's looking for a way to make things right on that front too.
Her life with Grant and his 8 year old daughter was far from perfect, but she'd built up a huge bond with Titch so it was such a wrench when she had to leave especially as Grant was not in a great state of mind due to his addictions. But Jaz knew she made the right decision and is doing her best to make a new life for herself in Sunnybrook.
It was so nice to see the story of the cafe from another perspective and she is embraced into the community really quickly and that helps her settle in, despite missing Titch terribly. She also begins to form a very cute friendship with Harry, a local photographer, who is such a cheeky chappy and is always around to tease Jaz when she keeps refusing to have her photo taken at various community events.
I really enjoyed the mix of the funny and more serious issues that this book features. It is difficult to get that mix right, but the author managed it in a clever way and added a touch of realism by trying to deal with issues that face many people each day. In Jaz she has a great character who isn't afraid of hard work and of making tough decisions.
Really loved my time in Sunnybrook and I can't wait for the next installment!!
July 7, 2018
This is the second in a trilogy of short stories based around the Little Duck Pond Café in Sunnybrook. Jaz Winters has ended up here after her partner Grant locked her out of the family home on Christmas Eve and went to his mother's house for the festive period, leaving Jaz to fend for herself. Once Jaz has drowned her sorrows with best friend Jules - who happens to be mum to Grant's daughter Titch's best friend - she decides on a plan of action which will allow her to make a fresh start whilst not losing contact with Titch.
I liked the way the author didn't dwell too heavily on the gloom and doom side of the break up of the relationship between Jaz and Grant and kept the storyline optimistic without being unbelievable. The group of girl friends which becomes established at the Little Duck Pond Café is very down to earth and it is good to see a story where the girls stick together and support each other without becoming man haters. It could have been very easy for the characters to become very bitter in their outlook where relationships are concerned but the author has steered well clear of this and kept things extremely civil despite the way Grant treats and speaks to Jaz.
Ellie's mum Rose is a fabulous character who despite having been diagnosed with Alzheimers is still very happy with her lot and has some great humorous lines in the book. There are a nice quantity of characters in the cast of this book and their personal circumstances are all quite different which adds nice subtle back stories which tick along in the background.
This is another good example of how a short story can still deliver great entertainment. The more short stories I read the more I am being convinced that a full length novel is not the only way to present a tale.
I liked the way the author didn't dwell too heavily on the gloom and doom side of the break up of the relationship between Jaz and Grant and kept the storyline optimistic without being unbelievable. The group of girl friends which becomes established at the Little Duck Pond Café is very down to earth and it is good to see a story where the girls stick together and support each other without becoming man haters. It could have been very easy for the characters to become very bitter in their outlook where relationships are concerned but the author has steered well clear of this and kept things extremely civil despite the way Grant treats and speaks to Jaz.
Ellie's mum Rose is a fabulous character who despite having been diagnosed with Alzheimers is still very happy with her lot and has some great humorous lines in the book. There are a nice quantity of characters in the cast of this book and their personal circumstances are all quite different which adds nice subtle back stories which tick along in the background.
This is another good example of how a short story can still deliver great entertainment. The more short stories I read the more I am being convinced that a full length novel is not the only way to present a tale.
July 9, 2018
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This was a lovely little book to read in the sunshine and I felt as though I had been transported at times to the lovely settings in this book!
I love the characters and the storyline is brilliant – this is a great part two and it as built on what was set out by the author already in the first book, for me it was the perfect summer read and it has such a lovely cover to complement this gorgeous book – I am loving this series and cannot wait to read part three – the final instalment of the trilogy!!
Five stars from me for this one – I’m very much looking forward to spending Christmas at The Little Duck Pond Café!
This was a lovely little book to read in the sunshine and I felt as though I had been transported at times to the lovely settings in this book!
I love the characters and the storyline is brilliant – this is a great part two and it as built on what was set out by the author already in the first book, for me it was the perfect summer read and it has such a lovely cover to complement this gorgeous book – I am loving this series and cannot wait to read part three – the final instalment of the trilogy!!
Five stars from me for this one – I’m very much looking forward to spending Christmas at The Little Duck Pond Café!
July 9, 2018
We’re back in Sunnybrook today for the second part of Rosie Green’s trilogy set in the village, and the focus has moved on to Jaz Winters as the central character of this book. If you have read part one, you will remember Jaz as the slightly prickly girl who ran the local Zumba class, and she wasn’t one of my favourite characters in the first book so I was intrigued to see how the author was going to persuade me to warm to her enough for her to carry the success of book two on her shoulders.
Well, she managed it by taking us back to the beginning of Jaz’s story and a terrible event that befalls her in Christmas Eve. I don’t want to give away any of the plot but I was rendered speechless by the way in which she was treated by someone very close to her, and from that point on I was firmly on her side and very willing to overlook her sometimes defensive behaviour as completely understandable in the circumstances.
Again, Rosie has managed to cram a lot of action into a compact novella and I warmed to this one even more than the first. This may be partly due to some familiar characters making a welcome reappearance, namely Ellie and Fen from book one, who have become firm friends with Jaz now, despite the fact they know she is holding back from them. There were a number of new characters to enjoy as well, my favourite being Fen’s mother, the formidable Lady Redpath, who I firmly believe I would turn into if I were given a stately home to run. I absolutely loved her and had such a clear mental picture of her – I could actually hear her voice in my head when she was speaking (rather booming, if you’d like to know!)
I particularly enjoyed the scenes set in Brambleberry Manor and again without giving anything away, if you are a fan of Jane Austen you will enjoy this book and the author’s homage to the great lady. There are some real laugh out loud moments in this book, as well as some very serious ones – it was a good balance that took my emotions on an appealing ride and kept me interested until the end.
There is also another hunky love interest to swoon over, although I found him less compelling as a leading man than Zak in book one. However, I personally felt the romance was more of a secondary issue in this book, rather than being the central theme. For me, what stood out was the exploration of family relationships, and whether blood really matters when it comes to forming strong bonds, the importance of friendship and finding where you really belong. On these points, it packed a big punch for a short book and was another winner. I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens in book three (I have my fingers crossed for Fen!)
Well, she managed it by taking us back to the beginning of Jaz’s story and a terrible event that befalls her in Christmas Eve. I don’t want to give away any of the plot but I was rendered speechless by the way in which she was treated by someone very close to her, and from that point on I was firmly on her side and very willing to overlook her sometimes defensive behaviour as completely understandable in the circumstances.
Again, Rosie has managed to cram a lot of action into a compact novella and I warmed to this one even more than the first. This may be partly due to some familiar characters making a welcome reappearance, namely Ellie and Fen from book one, who have become firm friends with Jaz now, despite the fact they know she is holding back from them. There were a number of new characters to enjoy as well, my favourite being Fen’s mother, the formidable Lady Redpath, who I firmly believe I would turn into if I were given a stately home to run. I absolutely loved her and had such a clear mental picture of her – I could actually hear her voice in my head when she was speaking (rather booming, if you’d like to know!)
I particularly enjoyed the scenes set in Brambleberry Manor and again without giving anything away, if you are a fan of Jane Austen you will enjoy this book and the author’s homage to the great lady. There are some real laugh out loud moments in this book, as well as some very serious ones – it was a good balance that took my emotions on an appealing ride and kept me interested until the end.
There is also another hunky love interest to swoon over, although I found him less compelling as a leading man than Zak in book one. However, I personally felt the romance was more of a secondary issue in this book, rather than being the central theme. For me, what stood out was the exploration of family relationships, and whether blood really matters when it comes to forming strong bonds, the importance of friendship and finding where you really belong. On these points, it packed a big punch for a short book and was another winner. I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens in book three (I have my fingers crossed for Fen!)
July 11, 2018
This book reminds me of a couple of books recently (Dating rules and Crazy in love at the lonely hearts bookshop) in that that a second in the series but you really don’t have to have read the first book in the series. It is the same setting but different characters. But if you are like me, you will want to read the first in the series!
Book one in this series is based on Ellie, and I have a feeling the next book will be Fen. This book it was about Jaz! Lovely Jaz, getting locked out by her douche of a boyfriend Grant on Christmas Eve! Just left her suitcase in the snow with her boots, ignoring the door and shutting the curtains so she can’t get Titch’s attention, his daughter who Jaz adores.
Jaz goes to her best friend Jules, who daughter is Titch’s best friend and spend Xmas there. They then plan a way for Jaz to still see Titch but it means leaving the village, especially as Grant twists everything!
Jaz, whilst dressed in line dancing outfit, travels to another village and discovers the coffee shop from the first book, where Sylvia takes her in and lets her stay in the flat above the shop. Whilst on her journey, she meets Harry, washboard ab Harry whose a photographer. And so it begins. We jump 6 months and find Jaz is flourishing in her new village, making friends and seeing Titch on the down-low.
This book is such a cute little read. I got it finished on my lunch break in the sunshine. You can guess the ending of the story but not the journey. That is what I love is the journey. In this one, we get to briefly see her friend Fen and her mother's story, and Ellie and her mother Rose who has Alzheimer's and the support Jaz gives them both. The friendship the three of them have, Jaz, Ellie and Fen, is so lovely and when Jaz finally confesses her story to them they are supportive and help her in ways she didn’t know of at first.
I hope in the next book it really is about Fen because the ending of her story in this book is not what I thought it would be! So I can’t wait to explore it!
This novella is fast-paced filled with some giggles, romance and one woman finding her feet and rebuilding her life again after the awful relationship she has been in. There is so much packed in here, but I don’t feel like anything that been lost from it.
I will be returning for the Christmas one!! And going back to say hello to the old friends in the first book.
Book one in this series is based on Ellie, and I have a feeling the next book will be Fen. This book it was about Jaz! Lovely Jaz, getting locked out by her douche of a boyfriend Grant on Christmas Eve! Just left her suitcase in the snow with her boots, ignoring the door and shutting the curtains so she can’t get Titch’s attention, his daughter who Jaz adores.
Jaz goes to her best friend Jules, who daughter is Titch’s best friend and spend Xmas there. They then plan a way for Jaz to still see Titch but it means leaving the village, especially as Grant twists everything!
Jaz, whilst dressed in line dancing outfit, travels to another village and discovers the coffee shop from the first book, where Sylvia takes her in and lets her stay in the flat above the shop. Whilst on her journey, she meets Harry, washboard ab Harry whose a photographer. And so it begins. We jump 6 months and find Jaz is flourishing in her new village, making friends and seeing Titch on the down-low.
This book is such a cute little read. I got it finished on my lunch break in the sunshine. You can guess the ending of the story but not the journey. That is what I love is the journey. In this one, we get to briefly see her friend Fen and her mother's story, and Ellie and her mother Rose who has Alzheimer's and the support Jaz gives them both. The friendship the three of them have, Jaz, Ellie and Fen, is so lovely and when Jaz finally confesses her story to them they are supportive and help her in ways she didn’t know of at first.
I hope in the next book it really is about Fen because the ending of her story in this book is not what I thought it would be! So I can’t wait to explore it!
This novella is fast-paced filled with some giggles, romance and one woman finding her feet and rebuilding her life again after the awful relationship she has been in. There is so much packed in here, but I don’t feel like anything that been lost from it.
I will be returning for the Christmas one!! And going back to say hello to the old friends in the first book.
July 13, 2018
I was delighted to return to Sunnybrook and meet new resident, Jaz Winters. She has come to the quaint village to start over again. She literally put a pin on a map, and Sunnybrook was where it landed.
Jaz is fleeing a bad relationship with just one regret….Titch, her ex’s daughter. She has to leave her behind. All the villagers welcome Jaz with open arms. Love is the last thing on her mind, but Harry Bentham, a photographer, seems to continually get under her skin. As much as she tries to fight it, Harry does something to her. I am glad that Green didn’t rush their romance. Jaz definitely has trust issues, but Harry is patient and is intent on earning her trust. In fact, that was what I loved most about him.
I enjoyed the friendships she developed with Ellie and Fen. These two ladies help Jaz discover who she really is and help her find her strength again. Without spoiling anything, she will need their support to help her get through some trying time she will face in the future. It is the townspeople who really make this such a delightful series. Great characters with a fantastic setting really draw me into the book.
My favorite part of the book was the epilogue. I loved how she weaves all the characters together in the end which ties up the story quite nicely. I hated to tell them good-bye, but I can’t wait to see them again.
Jaz is fleeing a bad relationship with just one regret….Titch, her ex’s daughter. She has to leave her behind. All the villagers welcome Jaz with open arms. Love is the last thing on her mind, but Harry Bentham, a photographer, seems to continually get under her skin. As much as she tries to fight it, Harry does something to her. I am glad that Green didn’t rush their romance. Jaz definitely has trust issues, but Harry is patient and is intent on earning her trust. In fact, that was what I loved most about him.
I enjoyed the friendships she developed with Ellie and Fen. These two ladies help Jaz discover who she really is and help her find her strength again. Without spoiling anything, she will need their support to help her get through some trying time she will face in the future. It is the townspeople who really make this such a delightful series. Great characters with a fantastic setting really draw me into the book.
My favorite part of the book was the epilogue. I loved how she weaves all the characters together in the end which ties up the story quite nicely. I hated to tell them good-bye, but I can’t wait to see them again.
July 6, 2019
Jaz
Jaz came to Sunnybrook after running away from a failed love affair and with the help of Ellie and Fen she overcame obstacles .and loved living in Sunnybrook and working with Ellie in the the little duck pond cafe but was really missing titch who is called summer a special little girl who has stolen her heart .but with the support of her friends and Harry she survives .5 stars
Jaz came to Sunnybrook after running away from a failed love affair and with the help of Ellie and Fen she overcame obstacles .and loved living in Sunnybrook and working with Ellie in the the little duck pond cafe but was really missing titch who is called summer a special little girl who has stolen her heart .but with the support of her friends and Harry she survives .5 stars
May 31, 2023
Fabulous
Summer at The Little Duck Pond Cafe is another fabulous read in The Duck Pond Cafe series. I'm not going to lie but I'm actually relieved that I'm loving this series as I've bought EVERY book before I even started reading any😂😂😂😂. Anyway, back to the book. The characters are all fabulous, the stories are amazing and I'm really looking forward to Fen's story so I'm off to read it right now!!
Summer at The Little Duck Pond Cafe is another fabulous read in The Duck Pond Cafe series. I'm not going to lie but I'm actually relieved that I'm loving this series as I've bought EVERY book before I even started reading any😂😂😂😂. Anyway, back to the book. The characters are all fabulous, the stories are amazing and I'm really looking forward to Fen's story so I'm off to read it right now!!
December 15, 2023
Jaz and Harry. Jaz literally gets picked out and thrown out of her house that she shared with her boyfriend. It is Christmas Eve. Her boyfriend has drinking and gambling problems and they have been fighting by his daughter Titch is who Jaz writing about never seeing affair. So she moved to nearby city and with her friends help she meets the young girl during riding lessons. In Sunnybrook she meets Harry, a photographer. Not really much to this book to make it exciting..
October 11, 2018
Having lived the first book in the series I just had to read the second and wasn't disappointed. To be honest Jaz didn't appear to be a likeable character in the first book, however the back story explained the reason for this and it all made sense.
Again there is that feeling of community which draws me into the story - now onto the third book.
Again there is that feeling of community which draws me into the story - now onto the third book.
January 27, 2020
I came across the first book in this series while feeling a bit under the weather. It was a very quick read and I couldn’t wait to read the second one. I would think these would be ideal for a journey. Although each book is a stand alone story the characters continue, a different one taking the lead in each. Thoroughly enjoyable light reading.
October 26, 2019
This is a lovely book.A little girl known as Titch's real name is Summer!!
I'm more than ready to read the next episode in these books about the Duck Pond Cafe. Summer will enjoy being part of her grandmother's new life.
I'm more than ready to read the next episode in these books about the Duck Pond Cafe. Summer will enjoy being part of her grandmother's new life.
February 18, 2020
As good as the first book
I really liked the 2 nd book and lovely to read about Jaz. The books are each a complete story but lovely to have a series to look forward to. Just about to start no 3. Can’t wait
I really liked the 2 nd book and lovely to read about Jaz. The books are each a complete story but lovely to have a series to look forward to. Just about to start no 3. Can’t wait
March 10, 2020
This is the second book in this lighthearted series and I shall certainly be reading more.
We meet characters from the first book, so revisit Ellie's story although this book is mostly about Jaz. We find out why she is a little remote and what brought her to the cafe.
We meet characters from the first book, so revisit Ellie's story although this book is mostly about Jaz. We find out why she is a little remote and what brought her to the cafe.
June 17, 2021
Easy reading
Book two of the little duck pond cafe series and I am really enjoying getting to know the characters, very charming books that are quick and easy to read; all about the village of suunybrook and it’s residents.
Book two of the little duck pond cafe series and I am really enjoying getting to know the characters, very charming books that are quick and easy to read; all about the village of suunybrook and it’s residents.
October 15, 2021
The duck pond cafe
This is book two and just as enjoyable as the first book. I have been rooted to the chair reading this book and the characters are all gradually coming to life one by one jazz, Ellie etc. Im now about to read book 3.
This is book two and just as enjoyable as the first book. I have been rooted to the chair reading this book and the characters are all gradually coming to life one by one jazz, Ellie etc. Im now about to read book 3.
June 29, 2018
4.5 out of 5
July 8, 2018
Lovely summer read
Really enjoyed this second episode
Great to catch up with some of the characters from previous book and meet new ones
Looking forward to the next instalment
Really enjoyed this second episode
Great to catch up with some of the characters from previous book and meet new ones
Looking forward to the next instalment
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