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Old Fools #5

Two Old Fools in Turmoil

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When dark, sinister clouds loom, Victoria and Joe find themselves facing life-changing decisions. Happily, silver linings also abound in this, the fifth Old Fools chronicle.
A fresh new face joins the cast of well-known characters but the return of a bad penny may be more than some can handle. What does the future hold for the Spanish village of El Hoyo and the two old fools?

320 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2020

436 people are currently reading
102 people want to read

About the author

Victoria Twead

39 books190 followers
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.

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5 stars
435 (61%)
4 stars
195 (27%)
3 stars
61 (8%)
2 stars
12 (1%)
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5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Pat Ellis.
222 reviews9 followers
December 22, 2017
I was lucky enough to beta read this wonderful addition to the 'Old Fools' series by Victoria Twead. As always, I couldn't put it down. Victoria and Joe have decisions to make about their life, health and friends in El Hoyo. Not only do we catch-up with familiar villagers, see one of them return to the fold and welcome others into it but we also witness 'tug at the heart' choices that need to be made. Honestly, this book has it all - happiness, laughter, silly antics, love, fear of the unknown - I wish I were better with words to describe it properly - I could award it more than 5*s. It really is a super.
Profile Image for Melanie.
55 reviews4 followers
August 14, 2022
Another great Read

I am loving the Old Fools series and can’t wait to finish one so I can see what happens next in Vicky & Joe’s life … never a dull moment, that’s for sure. I’ll be sad to lose some of the colourful Spanish characters in their book but can’t wait to meet some new ones in the next one.
Profile Image for Rebecca .
624 reviews3 followers
January 1, 2018
I was so looking forward to reading this latest book from Victoria Twead. Once I started I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It was marvellous to be back in El Hoyo and to discover all the things that had been going on. As ever it’s a wonderfully entertaining account of rural Spanish life and it’s very obvious that Victoria and Joe love the life they have made there. She writes with such warmth, humour and affection about her villager friends and it’s clear they also hold her in great esteem.
Unfortunately life isn’t always straightforward and unexpectedly can change the plans that you have made. This is exactly what happens to Victoria and Joe. They had been planning a visit to Australia to visit their daughter, son in law and granddaughter Indy but plans had to be altered and Victoria visited Australia on her own.
Personal issues make them decide to sell their beloved home and move permanently to Australia. However they have on last summer in El Hoyo which was so beautifully described as they were hoarding up memories. It was a heartbreaking decision and it’s certainly a bittersweet chapter in their lives. I laughed and cried and there is much to laugh at and enjoy. As well as that there are some marvellous recipes which I really want to try out. If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would. I’m already looking forward to reading about their life ‘down under’



.
Profile Image for Julie Haigh.
780 reviews1,002 followers
January 7, 2025
A book I couldn't wait to start and didn't want to finish. A superb series!

I'm sure this latest addition to Victoria Twead's Old Fools series of memoirs will be a hit with all her fans who have read other books in the series-and gain some new ones too. It's another lovely warm read, full of fun, and with so many chuckles! They're like a well-known double act to me now I've read all the books: Morecambe and Wise, The Two Ronnies-Victoria and Joe Twead!

Even though they've lived quite a few book's worth in Spain, still they are discovering strange little quirks, different ways things are done here. I love their adventures. The local characters are captured perfectly. The same magic of her other books is there right from the start.

It's a perfectly balanced read. There will be difficult times but we have spells of relief with the humorous sections. Don’t be put off by the ‘Turmoil’ in the title-this is still an incredibly entertaining book with plenty of humour to balance with the difficult times. A nice easy style, it's like catching up with an old friend you haven't seen for a while for a chat, getting to know all the news.

I'm always so eager to read a new Victoria Twead book and this one I downloaded in Sainsbury's car park instead of waiting until I got home! Of course, I didn't want to wait and couldn't resist devouring chapter 1 while my other half nipped in for some milk and a few bits. Then I was reading until very late at night. I've been eagerly awaiting this book and I really couldn't put it down. Such a lovely read, her books just get better and better.

Such perfect timing: she tempts you with a hint of the next happening-and then stuffs a recipe in! This keeps you waiting when you're itching to find out what will happen. Then on with the action again and keeps you turning the pages. As usual, I enjoyed the accompanying recipes and the free photo book was great.

This was a great book and I just couldn't stop! I was totally absorbed and did nothing but read for a couple of days. Written in a warm and friendly style, the exchanges between Victoria and Joe are a delight. Warning: Don't read in doctor's, dentist's or hospital waiting rooms or people will wonder what's wrong with you as you keep randomly chuckling to yourself! Has she gone mad?!!!

Full of warmth, laughter, and some emotion tugs too. I gave five stars before but she just gets better so how can I improve on that rating? 5 stars again but the BIGGEST, twinkliest stars.

A book I couldn't wait to start and didn't want to finish. I hope the next one follows very soon! A superb series!
Profile Image for Lynn Dixon.
Author 27 books17 followers
March 11, 2023
In Two Old Fools in Turmoil by Victoria Twead, her husband Joe is concerned about his shortness of breath, and they decide that the best doctors are in the UK, though they still live in El Hoyo, Spain. They spend time apart while he goes to the UK for medical attention and she travels to Australia to be with her daughter, her husband and granddaughter, Indy. After both return to Spain, Joe and Vicky decide to move to Aus, as they call it, to be closer to family and watch their grandchild grow up.

They realize that they have had eleven precious years in Spain, so they enjoy a few more rooftop terrace sunsets, daily walks and swims and a special wedding of their next-door neighbor's daughter who weds the village millionaire’s grandson. The day after the wedding, a neighbor’s child is missing and found in an old mine which brings the villagers even closer together.

They continue to make painful decisions as they sell their home and say their goodbyes. Vicky is happy to see certain young couples decide to bond before she left Spain for good. Two Old Fools in Turmoil ends with Joe going back to the UK for further medical treatment and Vicky forging ahead to Aus to look for a permanent home and he plans to join her three months later after being cleared.
Profile Image for Joyce Ziebell.
755 reviews5 followers
April 4, 2018
I'm not sure when or how I discovered Victoria Twead's memoir series, Two Old Fools, but super glad I found these books. I've read all in the series and loved each one. The 5th and recent release, Two Old Fools In Turmoil is another 5-star read, and once again reading it made me feel like I was catching up with a friend who lives thousands of miles away.

Again the book takes place in El Hoyo in the Andalusia region of Spain, and in this book so much spells changes for Vicky and Joe in their 11th year as ex-pats in the little village. I smiled, laughed out loud a number of times, especially the sausage-only menu of when Karly was a youngster. Too funny, I lived though a couple years with hot dogs only son, including serving a hot dog for Thanksgiving dinner . I was anxious and empathized on the concerns of health-related worries; yet happy and sad on their decision to relocate to Australia. So much of this story-telling is easily relatable to other's lives and experiences; no matter what part of the globe is called home.

If readers are looking for a good series, I recommend the Two Old Fools books.
Profile Image for Susan.
448 reviews3 followers
January 15, 2018
If you have read all of Veekys other books this is a must. So much happend in the 11th year in El Hoya. They know everyone in town and just like Mrs Bucket having someone after her Vicky has the Mayor pining away. The time is coming for their trip to Australia to see their daughter but Joe isn’t feeling well and says he is going to England to the Dr. Vicky is very stressed but sooo happy to be with her grandaughter. Just as you see on TV she finds the dangerous creatures!! Time passes and she heads back to Spain and Joe does also. Spring has come to Spain so it is beautiful and village life is popping. We have a new love pop up then break up, Lola is back, a new priest in town. A wedding and an engagement also. Decision is made to move to Australia. Much more going on but if you haven’t read the book why should I give away all the secrets. Get the book and read it for yourself.
Profile Image for Valerie Poore.
Author 24 books92 followers
August 18, 2023
This is the last of the Two Old Fools in Spain books as the next once concerns Vicky and Joe’s new life in Australia. I will freely admit to shedding a few tears at the end of this one, however. It seems as if they had only just got settled back into El Hoyo after their year in the Middle East when circumstances force new decisions upon the couple. However, despite the problems and turmoil they deal with, we are still treated to the delights of life in their Spanish village. As always, the local characters absorb and fascinate Vicky. There are fiestas, weddings, love affairs and heartbreak aplenty, all told with the author’s wonderful self deprecating humour. And I loved how the village ‘bozo’ eventually becomes the local hero. I really was very sad to finish this lovely book and found it both poignant and moving, as well as funny and charming.
Profile Image for Laurie.
54 reviews5 followers
December 31, 2017
What a treat!

Victoria Twead has written another 5 star read in the Old Fools series! I think I enjoyed this one as much as the first. Just when you are thinking "what happens next" you turn the page to a mouth watering recipe ( I lost track of how many I highlighted for future reference) or a phone call with her daughter. Brilliant! Written with such grace and humor from such a hard time in she and Joe's life. All the lovely characters from the village are back, with a few new ones to get to know. Tony the packing guy in the boot of the car with the bubble wrap, hilarious! Thanks for writing Two Old Fools in Turmoil and sharing your life with us readers, Ms. Twead!
Profile Image for Judy.
3,363 reviews29 followers
March 26, 2018
I have read all of the previous books in the "Two Old Fools" series, and enjoyed them, beginning before we moved to Spain and continuing to like them after we moved here. This one was sad for me, since they reluctantly decided to abandon Spain due to health issues. On the good side they have moved to Australia where their daughter and her family lives, so I daresay more adventures will ensue. When I saw on the author's Facebook page that they had moved to Australia, I wasn't sure I would like this one, but it is well written, and I came to understand their decision. I hope they have many more happy years in Oz!
10 reviews
August 17, 2018
Tears and Smiles with loads of laughs!!!!

Having recently experienced a life changing event, I can relate to the various emotions in this excellent book. I have read all the books in this series and I thought for sure that Spain was going to be the forever home!! But life , if lucky enough to live long, has ways that keep us moving forward.......... so I quickly dried my tears and cannot wait for the series on Australia. Just great books.......very much enjoyed. This book has it all the laughter and tears.......family fun, gossip and critters....spiders, lizards, birds, cats, chickens, etc.
Profile Image for Jill Robbertze.
722 reviews8 followers
July 8, 2023
I am loving this series and this one was no exception; Victoria's writing just makes me feel like I know all the characters personally and her sense of humour adds a fun touch without seeming contrived. This "episode" really rang true for me as my husband and I are starting to think about what our next chapter in life might look like, as he contemplates retirement. I must add that I got a bit emotional and even shed a few happy tears at one point.......a bit of an emotional roller coaster as I put myself in Vicky's shoes !!!!! It was so refreshing for me to get back into these memoirs after just having read a tough 700+ page library book that I had, had on hold for months !!!
Profile Image for John Searancke.
Author 3 books23 followers
February 26, 2018
Adiós España!
Another memoir in the Old Fools series, this one taking us on a poignant journey as the author and her husband prepare to move from their retreat in Spain to the other side of the planet, to be nearer to family in Australia. Amongst the preparations are a serious medical condition needing trips to London for treatment. I take my hat off to any author who can continue to combine such easy reading with style and pace, involving the reader into the storyline as it gathers momentum. I have enjoyed all this author’s books so far, and this one is as good as all of the others!
Profile Image for Cynthia  Scott.
694 reviews5 followers
January 8, 2019
Life has put some serious bumps in the road for Vicky and Joe Twead. They have been in Andalusia for eleven years, but it is time to move on to have family close. Joe spends a lot,of time in Britain dealing with health issues, Vicky moves to,live with her daughter and family in Sydney Australia.

But before they go, some problem issues between people in the village are worked out and it is a happy ending for them. The Tweads leave having sold their house to a lovely English couple who will love it as much as they have.

Adios, Espana.
Profile Image for Chris.
413 reviews22 followers
October 13, 2021
The continuing saga of the eponymous characters finds the two old fools, Vicky and Joe, enjoying retirement in their Spanish village home. But it soon becomes clear that their life is going to change. I loved meeting all my old friends from previous books. Victoria paints such c!ear word pictures that they spring to life from the page. Saucy Lola, the amorous mayor, the Ufarte family and many more memorable people. From Spain to Australia, where we meet Victoria's family, with the enchanting Indy, this books is a delight, and I look forward to reading the next book.
26 reviews1 follower
January 16, 2023
Yet another wonderful read, leaving me often chuckling and at times laughing out loud. I just love Vicky’s style of writing and even though this one includes some sad news regarding Joe, overall, it is pure entertainment. For those that have not read any of the author’s ‘Two Old Fools’ series, I would recommend they start from the first – Chicken, Mules and Two Old Fools and work their way through all 6 of them. The good news is that the author continues to write, so even more delights follow and long may they continue.
Profile Image for Patti St.
Author 1 book14 followers
January 26, 2018
Best one yet

I loved this latest edition for many reasons. It hit on several personal memories, so in essence, transported me back to my past. A good writer, like Victoria Twead, knows how to connect with her readers. We make new friends, we visit new places, and, if we are lucky, she will trigger a past event in our own lives. This book did that for me and I look forward to her next adventures.
Profile Image for Rose.
34 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2019
Adventure awaits!

I began reading these books just as the idea of an adventure in Southern Spain had begun swirling around in my head several years ago. I found the whole series to be inspiring! I loved reading about the culture, the recipes, the customs and every aspect of daily life in El Hoyo. I most especially loved reading Turmoil while living my own adventure in the Costa del Sol and chucking at our many shared experiences with life in Spain. Bravo!
7 reviews
September 15, 2020
Enjoyable read

I've read all of Victoria's "Old Fools" book except down under.
This is my second time reading this one.
I so enjoy the adventures she and Joe have. I must say I will miss her Spain adventures so much. I feel like I know everyone in El Hoyo, but I know down under will be equally exciting.
I loved the happy endings so many of their neighbors had.
Such a fun read, it makes me want to go to El Hoyo.
Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.
Profile Image for Tammy Horvath.
Author 7 books50 followers
March 7, 2023
I laughed, turned pages, and laughed some more. I jumped out of order because I have a free trial of Kindle Unlimited and read book five before book two. Regardless, it was nice taking a break from my everyday mundane life to step into Victoria Twead’s shoes. Two Old Fools in Turmoil is well-written and delightful. I love the bonus pictures link and recipes. I can’t wait to jump back to book two (since I've already read book one) and read the rest of the series in order—my darn OCD.
Profile Image for Sandy  McKenna.
773 reviews16 followers
December 29, 2017
As soon as I began reading this, it was like sliding my feet into a comfortable pair of old slippers.
It was wonderful to be back in El Hoyo with "Beaky, Joe and their friends and neighbours.
I laughed a lot and also shed tears on several occasions.
Lots of delicious recipes are included as well as quite a few surprises.
Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Susan Pallaye.
14 reviews
February 8, 2018
So absorbed I don't want it to end!

Victoria has such a way with people and with descriptive words! My husband and I have a wanderlust, perhaps not abroad, but we plan to travel the USA after we retire. Victoria and her stories make me want to go out and experience places I have never been. Thank you for such a wonderful, enchanting series of books!!
Profile Image for SEAN BRADY.
39 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2018
Another cracking book

This one really got me. I have really enjoyed reading this series and Vicky seems to get better with each book. I won't spoil the story but being a couple of similar age this memoir really struck a chord. I'll be reading the prequels but I can't wait for two old folks down under to come out...
Profile Image for April.
231 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2018
"Beaky" did it again! I loved this book, even cried at the thought of them leaving El Hoyo. I will miss the village and it's inhabitants. I bought this novel right after finishing Two old Fools and a Camel but waited until vacation to read it. Vicky knows how to tell a story and her friends and family are the right stuff. Thank you for keeping us up to date!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cindy.
1,045 reviews
May 9, 2018
I love these books. I read a lot and sometimes I just need something familiar and comforting as a break from “serious” stuff. I’m a fan of Alexander McCall Smith for that reason. While the Two Old Fools series isn’t quite like those, I find I read them for the same reason. Keep going, Mrs. Twead!! Can’t wait to hear about your relocation to Australia!
63 reviews
June 19, 2018
Vicky does it again!

All the characters you've come to love in Vicky's earlier books are back again. Joe has developed prostate issues and has to travel back to England for treatment. Meanwhile, Joe and Vicky have become grandparents, but the grandchild is in Australia... how do they resolve it all? Check it out and see all the details work themselves out. Good read!
Profile Image for Ruth Dresher-Brown.
116 reviews6 followers
July 15, 2019
As I've recently read through to catch up with Lorna and Joe, I feel I'm in a groove of understanding and riding along on the journey. This episode brought more community sharing. We shared more community time, but while the home and hearth were comforting things became more difficult on the personal level. Joe's health has become a major concern. The Dec-Feb separation brought a lot of information. Lorna's Christmas in Australia a marvelous joyous time, while Joe, in the UK, experiences a whole other extreme. Their emotional reunion opens a new conversation that's really tough on both of them. Decisions must be made. The process almost flows like fate is guiding it. Things move in their allotted time. The conclusion of the book leaves a lot up in the air.
38 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2019
Getting Older Right?

I loved this book it it hit pretty close to home. I love in a nursing home because my Copd makes me need oxygen 24 hours a day and I need some help. I hope that Joe does better than I have done, the sad part is that I have never smoked at all. Sad or funny I really enjoy your books, please write more!
1 review1 follower
January 4, 2018
Excellent, enjoyed from begging to end just like all your previous books. Can't wait for down under., please make it soon.

The Old Fools books have made me laugh so much. Your readers are blessed to have such a writer in their library. Thanks.
Ledialyndsey @gmail.com
8 reviews
January 7, 2018
Lovely

I've read all of the 5 old fool's books and this is just as good. Very moving and sad to think no more Spanish adventures. Best of luck to Vicky and Joe in Australia, it won't be the same!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews

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