Two Old Fools in Spain Again

Old Fools #4

by Victoria Twead

When Victoria and Joe return to their Spanish mountain village, they are still reeling from their year in the Middle East. Sighing with relief, they prepare to settle down to a peaceful life with the familiar characters of the village.

But life refuses to stand still, even in tiny El Hoyo. When a millionaire becomes a neighbour, the village turns into a battleground. Can Victoria and Joe help restore peace to the village?

“charming” Telegraph, UK
“laugh-out-loud funny” HarperCollins
“funny, honest and impossible to put down” -- EyeonSpain.com
“Andalucía as it’s never been done before” -- Karen Wheeler, Tout Sweet
“A real pleasure to read” -- George Mahood, Free Country

Genres: Memoir, Travel, Spain, Nonfiction, Biography, Autobiography, Humor

428 pages, Paperback

First published July 23, 2014

About the author

Victoria Twead is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Amazon bestselling author. Eleven years living in a tiny, remote, mountain village in Spain and owning probably the most dangerous cockerel in Europe, inspired Victoria to write “Chickens, Mules and Two Old Fools”. Subsequent books in the Old Fools’ series continue to pop up.

So far, her husband has utterly failed to wrestle the laptop from Victoria’s vice-like grip and she continues to write and publish other authors' books in Australia. Another joyous life-chapter has begun for the pair.

Reviews

[Beth Haslam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading one of Victoria Twead’s books is something I look forward to with a warm sense of happy anticipation in the way that one would a special treat. So it was with eager anticipation that I fired up my kindle, and started to read Two Old Fools in Spain Again, Victoria’s fourth book in the ‘Old Fools’ series. And I was not disappointed.

This book can be read as a stand-alone memoir, or as part of the series, but I would strongly recommend that the reader starts with book one. Part of the great charm of this beautifully written series is to be able to follow the lives of Victoria, and her husband Joe, and the inhabitants (both human and animal) of their mountain village in Spain. So to miss out on their evolution would be a shame.

Two Old Fools in Spain Again begins with Victoria and Joe returning home after an incredibly eventful twelve months spent in Bahrain. The house is not quite as they left it, but Victoria sets-to with her usual enthusiasm, and deals with various beasties and mouldy outcrops which had existed quite happily during their absence. But the same cannot be said about some of the villagers. There are some surprise developments, several of which can’t be fixed so easily.

One of the things I particularly love about Victoria’s style of writing is the way she draws the reader into the lives of her family, and those of her neighbours. And this book is no exception. It’s an engrossing read that played through most of my emotions, and why not? One minute I had my sleeves rolled up as we did battle with cabinet critters, then I was laughing my socks off at the irreverent behaviour of a clergyman, and next I was saying “ahh” as an unexpected romance unfolded. Once again the colours and music of the fiesta were described with a flair that made me feel as though I were there, as were the disturbing neighbourhood shenanigans which later darkened the village scene. As we learnt more about these, I found myself feeling downright outraged, forcing myself not to take sides. And I can’t leave out the issue with the grape vines. How dare a woman attempt a pruning job? This was another situation that made me smile and chuckle, and marvel at Victoria’s patience. Added to all these were the extremely sad moments which Victoria wrote with great poignancy and tenderness.

I found that, as with her other books, the story-line was fluid, highly entertaining and eventful. And combined with her unique ability to provide a cliff-hanger at the end of each chapter, the book was another winner for me. I have no hesitation in highly recommending Two Old Fools in Spain Again, and rating it with 5 stars.

[Julie Haigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally amazing read! FIVE STARS!

I've loved all of Victoria Twead's books about life in Spain, my favourite up to now had been her second book-Two Old Fools Olé-this fourth book in the series is on a par with this-if not even better, I LOVED IT! Just moments into it and I was thinking: there's going to be some fun with Joe-and there it was, soon after-Hilarious! The calamities they get into! I got a really good feeling about this book right from the early stages, a good vibe, it was very warm and amusing. There are many funny moments, Victoria has now got it off to a fine art and has such a different and amusing way of putting things. I read it hungrily, couldn't put it down, yet I wanted to make it last as this was the last in the series so far-was it? On the strength of this, I do hope she writes more. I was worried if she could keep the same momentum up-but she just gets BETTER! It was fantastic. I love Victoria's format-as before-including some mouth-watering recipes and some delightful pictures-they really add to the wonderful presentation. It was lovely 'coming home again' to El Hoyo, all the familiar village characters you've come to expect, it was lovely to see and hear Judith here again-her expressions!-they make me chuckle so much. It's not all comedy-there are some highs and lows, some intriguing moments regarding some family secrets. There are so many laughs in the book though-it would cheer up the biggest misery there is! Side-splitting. I have three questions/observations after reading this book: Will I ever eat muesli again? Why do hens eat such rubbish?! And who else only Victoria Twead could make Bacon Sandwiches entertaining?! Priceless!

[Valerie Poore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m gradually reading my way through Victoria Twead’s books and have just finished this one, which I loved as much as the last. Happy to be home in Spain again after their difficult year in Bahrain, Vicky and Joe slot quickly back into village life, enjoying the seasons as they pass. Most of the characters in the previous books figure equally large in this one and I was highly entertained by the stories about Judith’s mother and the unexpected influence she manages to wield over village conflicts. There are also some funny incidents that give great insights into dealing with Spanish life and bureaucracy, and I laughed my socks off at Vicky’s attempts at wine tasting, although some of the relationship developments among their neighbours were a poignant reminder that not everything is always idyllic.

Victoria Twead writes with so much affection and humour about the villagers, her chickens, the feral cats and even Felix’s mule. However, her descriptions of the beautiful scenery around them are both vivid and lyrical; a lovely counterpoint to the fun. It was delightful to feel part of their lives as I read, but I can already feel that changes are afoot and am looking forward to reading the next in the series to find out what happens next. As always, there are some luscious recipes for foodies as chapter separators. Anyone who enjoys books about Spanish rural life will love this book. I did!

[Dlmrose · Rating 3 out of 5]

3+

[Susan Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Flavors of Spain

As an author who has spent considerable time in Spanish villages, I was delighted to be able to Beta read Victoria Twead's fourth book in her Two Old Fools series. Watching Victoria and her husband Joe step back into everyday life in their adopted home in a small southern Spanish village (after spending time teaching in Bahrain) I appreciated the way they adjusted to living life one day at a time. While they busy themselves cleaning mold off walls, pruning vines, buying chickens, and watching the antics of the local tomcat they nickname Black Balls, they enjoy taking time out to sample local wines with their colorful neighbors and watch glorious sunsets. When they learn about a major disagreement dividing the town, they step in and play peacemakers. Victoria cleverly shares her thoughts on collecting eggs, entertaining guests (some invited, some not) and her personal joy on learning she will become a new grandmother. Each chapter is accompanied with a tempting recipe or a fun photo from daily life in tiny El Hoyo. A great read! Beautifully written. Reminding me of why I returned to enjoy the flavors of Spain—again and again.

[Charlotte Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Victoria's books is like sitting down on a comfortable sofa with an old friend and having a large glass of wine and a good natter. I absolutely love this Old Fools series and the adventures of Joe and Vicky in Two Old Fools in Spain again certainly didn't disappoint. The characters are brought to life within minutes by Victoria's unique writing style - Pancho the mayor is still at his odious best while Paco, Geronimo, Uncle Felix and various other Spanish neighbours continue to entertain the reader. I shared Victoria's excitement of the birth of her first grandchild, laughed out loud on numerous occasions and shed a few tears over some surprisingly touching moments. I sincerely hope there will be many more books from this exceptionally talented author. Thank you for yet another wonderful read Victoria!

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels like I'd been waiting forever for Victoria Twead's fouth memoir to be published, and then once I got my sticky little mitts on a copy of "Two Old Fools in Spain Again" it was gone!! Yes, I know that I should have paced myself, read it slower, eked every last sentence out... But Victoria's new book is so good - that I just couldn't put it down. I now here I am, all bereft and "out of breath" - I think that I might go back and read all four of her books again - but more slowly this time.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another winner from Victoria. Written as usual with humour and compassion her love for the village and its inhabitants shines through. It was great to be back again in El Hoyo. However during their time away in Bahrain the house had developed mould which had to be dealt with - next came an infestation of cockroaches but just when the cockroaches had been eliminated came the moths!! Pancho the mayor is still determined to get 'Beaky' on her own and hits on the idea of private English lessons which she has to avoid at all costs. There is so much to amuse - like the 'massacre' of the vine! much to the horror of Paco! Sadly, soon after that incident there was the loss of old Felix but it was wonderful that the old mule found a new frienship with Alejandros horse. I loved reading that Sofia finally found 'the one' and that the family trouble of the Ufartes seems to be resolved. Old friends like Judith and 'mother' make appearances as do several cats and new chickens. Joe and Vicky had personal sadness and major surprises as well. However at the end we leave them looking forward to visiting their daughter in Australia. Read this series - I can highly recommend it

[Jo-anne Himmelman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I waited and waited for this book. I needed to know that Vicky and Joe really returned to El Hoyo; I needed an update on their new adventures; the residents; the chickens; the cats; the gossip. I got it all and more. I have read all of the Old Fools series and am never disappointed. I learn many new things like that chickens have personalities and pecking order, how to avoid teaching someone English, new and tasty recipes, what Joe is up to, how to get rid of mould and especially Vicky and Joe's love for their new beautiful addition. I laughed, puzzled and became part of El Hoyo again. This is a wonderful read. I would recommend it to everyone but, of course, you have to start at Book 1 of the series.

[Susan Navas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book of Victoria Twead’s highly successful Old Fools series, Two Old Fools in Spain Again, picks up Vicky and Joe’s life on their return to Spain from a long spell of teaching in Bahrain. Along the way she shares with the reader the ups and downs of village life, personal joys and sadness and the revelation of an incredible family secret. Her light and easy writing style, injected with humour, carries you along in a book that is hard to put down. It is a perfect antidote to the daily grind - a wonderful way to lift your spirits. If you’re worried that a sequel might be a let-down, fear not; her writing just gets better and better!

[Simon Yeats · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first read of any book from Victoria Twead’s Old Fool series and if I was to be hit by a truck tomorrow and die, I hope that I have sufficient time left in my existence to take pleasure from another. Maybe if I just ended up in a coma, the ICU nurses would be kind enough to read passages to me from other books in the series while putting the glycerna in my feeding tube. Laughter is good for my health, after all.

Returning from a year abroad teaching in Bahrain, Victoria and her husband, Joe, are back in their adopted home in El Hoyo, an idyllic village nestled in the mellowing hills of Andalucia. Had I ever thought about living in Spain before reading this book? Not at all. And I was married to a Spaniard for 5 years. By Chapter 6, I am giddily scribbling down the name of her realtor when he is mentioned.

I like these people. I enjoy their attitude. I appreciate the unhurried bliss of their lifestyle.

But life wouldn’t be interesting if there were not challenges in it, and for these two old fogies hunkered down in the Iberian Peninsula a return to their boarded-up house after a year starts with a couple of infestations of biblical proportions. These matters are tackled with the aplomb and humor that are mustered by the English in greater abundance than Spain has oranges. Think a plague of moths is a problem? Remember, these Anglophiles are descendants of the Empire that had the gusto and chivalry to conquer 80% of the known world while still finding the time to invent gin and tonic.

From there on out, we are treated to a salivating charcuterie board of appetizing anecdotes about the complex interpersonal relationships driving the heartbeat of this small town. Victoria’s neighbors, the gay couple a few doors down, and the infidelitous family across town are all recognizable as the vaguely familiar people that you and I pass by every day in our lives but we would probably never get to know when not living in a small Spanish hamlet. But everyone’s quirks and individual story in this town only adds welcome flavor to the highly palatable recipe of El Hoyo’s paella.

There are electricity blackouts and water issues. The economy of the country is not doing well. At every town celebration, the Mayor is propositioning another female resident to see if he can throw his leg over. These are the real struggles of a small Spanish village.

But there are also plenty of comfortable Anglo-Saxon laughs.

Joe’s golf afternoon with the local millionaire had me giggling that I am so glad I never took up that stupid sport to have to suffer the frustration of where to hide the clubs so that he would never play a round again. The Twead’s visit to said millionaire’s wine cellar, resulting in them getting stonked during a tasting as Victoria struggles to come up with new and varied distinguishing vino descriptions to satisfy her host. Feeling like I know how these people set their jib, after exhausting every known wine reference on this occasion, on her next wine tasting excursion Victoria would undoubtedly drunkenly resort to using automobile analogies.
This particular drop of Chardonnay feels like it could reach its top speed in under six seconds and would be equally at home in a rugged outdoor setting or while handling city conditions.
That is a very peculiar take on the flavor, senorita?
Yesch, it is.

I loved the visiting Vicar and his hidden secret life, kept from his indomitable wife Mavis, but gleefully brought out and exposed by the relaxed and friendly nature of Victoria and Joe, and their engaging little town. I marveled at the stupefying description of Joe making the greatest BLT sandwich that not only Andalucia, but probably the entire western hemisphere has ever seen.

The whole experience is just what I wished my life could be right now. Simple, but affably pleasant, with a chance of developing into humorously serene by the late afternoon. Victoria’s classic line, perfectly delivered, ‘more tea, vicar?’ reminds me that life is too short to waste any opportunity to not live it to the fullest. It is a treat that there are several more books to look forward to see me through a month of glycerna.

[Ann Göth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended for Lovers of Spain and Armchair Travelers

Having returned from a year working abroad, Vicky and her husband Joe reconquer their Spanish house from the various animals that have since taken over ownership. They immerse themselves in the slow-paced life in their small El Hoyo village, where everyday happenings never leave a dull moment in their days.
Victoria’s writing style is so lively and easy to read that she made me feel as if I was there with her, and I enjoyed every moment of it. Her humorous insights into the various dealings with creepy crawlies in her house are highly entertaining, as is the way the couple embraces other unexpected visitors of the feral animal and human sort. The articulate and fluent writing, combined with the clever cliffhangers at the end of chapters, kept me hooked from beginning to end.
Apart from being highly entertained while reading, I was left with a much better idea of what a move to countryside Spain would encompass – don’t go there if you want to stay anonymous or expect your luggage to travel on the straightest route and arrive within a reasonable time. Be prepared to try out the delicious Spanish recipes that Victoria has kindly provided at the end of each chapter. And as a plus, you find out what to do with an excess of oranges – which is always a good thing to know! I highly recommend this book to both Spain lovers and armchair travelers, e.g. most of you.

[Cristina B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Two Old Fools in Spain Again" by Victoria Twead is a delightful and heartwarming continuation of the author's charming memoir series. Twead's engaging writing style takes readers on a captivating journey alongside her and her husband as they embrace the Spanish countryside and culture once more.

In this installment, Twead's humor and keen observations shine as she navigates the ups and downs of expat life. The book offers a colorful tapestry of anecdotes, interactions with locals, and personal growth, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Spanish landscape. (But the chickens!!!) Twead's ability to evoke the sights, sounds, and tastes of Spain transports readers right into her world.

What makes "Two Old Fools in Spain Again" particularly engaging is the relatable nature of the author's experiences. Overall, the book is a heartening testament to the joys of embracing new adventures later in life and the enduring spirit of exploration. Victoria Twead's continued storytelling prowess makes this memoir (#4 in the series) a charming and enjoyable read.

[Ruth Dresher-Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great follow up read after just finishing "... Ole'"! life is never dull in El Hoyo. Having returned from the unsettling year in Bahrain Vicky and Joe retake their home from the cobwebs and mold and enjoy, again, the progression of seasons. That is about all that is constant, and even the seasons include record variances. It's hard to begin this review for fear of being a spoiler for those who haven't gotten to this, #4, in the series. Vicky's writing is so smooth and easy to read I breezed through in a day. That indicates how much I enjoyed it. There are some hilarious portions, thinking of Judith's mother. There is extreme drama, think cemetery addition. There is betrayal, separation, reunifications. There is sorrow in two spots that broke my heart and I'm just a reader. There is the ultimate joy and there is anticipation of what's to come in book #5. This is probably my favorite in the series so far, and I loved #1.

[Lynn Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Book 4 of the Two Old Fools series, Joe and Vicky return to their beloved El Hoyo, Spain after spending a year teaching in Bahrain. They see their neighbors, the Ufartes' marriage come apart after his transgressions, death of an elder villager, birth of their first grandchild in Australia, a newly- minted love on the horizon for a young couple along with a host of fun events such as visits from friends and family from afar. A surprise letter reveals deep family secrets but helps Vicky see that she received her writer skills from her formerly published grandmother. As in life, there are several ups and downs but as told from Victoria Tweed's light perspective, all's well that ends well.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb Sequel
After reading the rather harrowing Two Old Fools on a Camel, it was a relief to get stuck into life back in El Hoyo and catch up with village shenanigans. Woven into this book is a more personal layer of family joys and sorrows which gives the memoir an added dimension. The reader can sense the miles that separate this international family might be leading somewhere....
Meanwhile, village life has its own ups and downs on several levels. And the indomitable Judith and Mother are a delight, I love them - and Mother becomes the secret star of the book with her winning ways.
Thoroughly enjoyed this instalment. Now onto the next - I have an inkling already what the turmoil is that Vicky and Joe are facing!

[Terri Inskip · Rating 5 out of 5]

More tales from El Hoyo

This is the third book of this series that I have read and once again I am not disappointed. It was lovely being brought up to date with new and old residents of El Hoyo. The author provides so much detail you can very clearly picture each and every one of them and she does it with lots of humour. I particularly enjoyed reading all about the vicar and his wife. What a contrast! I just love Victoria’s style of writing and look forward to reading the rest of her books in this series. It’s another 5 star from me. Well done!

[Kathleen Van Lierop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books about Spain always interest me very much, especially memoirs.
This book certainly did not let me down! I enjoyed reading about Vicky
and Joe and about the events they have experienced in Spain. With
some of them I was shocked others made me laugh.

I also enjoyed the recipes, Victoria Twead add to each chapter. The food
brought back nice memories to Spain.

I really liked this amazing read and I want to recommend this book to
all who loved to read fantastic travel memoirs.

Without no doubt, I want to give a 5 star rating to "Two Old Fools in Spain
Again".

[Kaye Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely

You write such wonderful books! This series is informative,funny,sad,it's about life . No matter where you are,mostly it makes you laugh.
Just BTW never apologise for what you name your. Chickens as you did in your last book.not all American women would ever consider criticism to be called for ,or acceptable behavior. They're names made most of. Of us laugh. Don't change!

[Arlys Veen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved!

I’m on book # 4 in this series and love them. The author is an animal lover and so am I! I love the author’s humor in describing her neighbors in this little Spanish village, you can almost see them. Again there are Spanish recipes at the end of each chapter. I have been reading these books on Kindle and you can go to corresponding pictures. I don’t know if these are in the book but you can get them on her website.

[SEAN BRADY · Rating 5 out of 5]

another great read

Back in sunny Spain the Tweads settle back into life in el Hoyo. Continuing this great series of books that I have thoroughly enjoyed. Will be picking the next one up straight away.

[T A R Way · Rating 5 out of 5]

So enjoyable!

My fourth Victoria Tweed read and once again thoroughly enjoyable. She brings the characters of El Hoya to life so well that you feel you know them yourself. Ideal for those who enjoy travel but especially all who have dreamed of living in Spain.

[Phil Morrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book from Vicky very funny but also last few chapters are very sad but in the end thats just the way life is and is very heartfelt. Straight on the next book to see how things turn out :)

[Myra L Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back to Spain

I really enjoyed all of the "Old Fools" books! Vicky and Joe have a good time (except in Bahrain)! I hope Vicky keeps writing!

[kenbaldwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy reading

With plenty of humour based on the disagreement between youth and experiences gained though life's episodes and challenges and opportunities

[Cynthia Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

See earlier reviews

[Christy Olesen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Two Old Fools always have great adventures, even if they're just everyday happenings. Victoria Twead is a great story teller and her descriptions put the reader in the scene.

[Kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Fun!

[Carrie L. Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun read...

Safely back in the Village and their remarkable lives. Full of humorous situations and unforeseen obstacles the Tweaks live on in blissful Spain.