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Dog & Duck #1
Winter at the Dog & Duck
Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.
Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie's looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.
But Little Leyton's landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie's ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie's heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life's looking a whole lot more complicated.... Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?
A perfect feel-good romantic novel to curl up with. This story of new beginnings, love and friendship is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan and Lucy Diamond.
What readers say about Jill:
‘Lovely romantic story. Well worth reading, couldn’t put it down once I’d started it.’
‘It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.’
‘Jill Steeples' experienced hand crafts perfect and engaging stories, well rounded characters and wonderful romance. I can wholeheartedly recommend any of Jill’s books to make you smile and feel a little warmer inside than when you began.’
'It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away for a few hours. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.'
'I’m so delighted to have discovered Jill Steeples’ writing – the beautiful setting of Primrose Woods (I’d rather like to walk the Wildflower Trail with Pia and Bertie too), the well developed characters and community, the gentle storytelling and the warmth that permeates every page.'
Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie's looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.
But Little Leyton's landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie's ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie's heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life's looking a whole lot more complicated.... Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?
A perfect feel-good romantic novel to curl up with. This story of new beginnings, love and friendship is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan and Lucy Diamond.
What readers say about Jill:
‘Lovely romantic story. Well worth reading, couldn’t put it down once I’d started it.’
‘It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.’
‘Jill Steeples' experienced hand crafts perfect and engaging stories, well rounded characters and wonderful romance. I can wholeheartedly recommend any of Jill’s books to make you smile and feel a little warmer inside than when you began.’
'It is always nice to escape with a good book and this book will whisk you away for a few hours. A great, uplifting read that is sure to put a smile on your face.'
'I’m so delighted to have discovered Jill Steeples’ writing – the beautiful setting of Primrose Woods (I’d rather like to walk the Wildflower Trail with Pia and Bertie too), the well developed characters and community, the gentle storytelling and the warmth that permeates every page.'
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2016
432 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Jill Steeples
34 books231 followersAuthor also writes as J.E. Steeples
Jill Steeples lives in a small market town in Bedfordshire with her husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, crocheting, musical theatre, baking cakes, eating them and the occasional tipple.
From an early age she fell in love with the fabulously funny romances of Jilly Cooper, and vowed, one day, she would have a go at writing one of her own.
Jill started her career writing short stories, particularly those with a twist in the tail, and her work has appeared in popular women’s magazines around the world and in a number of charity anthologies.
Now she writes feel-good, uplifting fiction for Boldwood Books and her works include The Dog & Duck series and The Primrose Woods series.
Jill Steeples lives in a small market town in Bedfordshire with her husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, crocheting, musical theatre, baking cakes, eating them and the occasional tipple.
From an early age she fell in love with the fabulously funny romances of Jilly Cooper, and vowed, one day, she would have a go at writing one of her own.
Jill started her career writing short stories, particularly those with a twist in the tail, and her work has appeared in popular women’s magazines around the world and in a number of charity anthologies.
Now she writes feel-good, uplifting fiction for Boldwood Books and her works include The Dog & Duck series and The Primrose Woods series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
September 20, 2016
When Ellie is made redundant from her high flying accountancy job in London she goes back to her home town of Little Leyton. Her parents are in Dubai for 9 months so she moves into their house and gets a job working in the Dog & Duck. She also starts her own dog day care business. Ellie is also looking forward to a good old fashioned Christmas.
After a disastrous dog walk which leaves her soaking wet and covered in mud, she sees a good looking man standing watching her. She later discovers that his name is Max Goulding, a property developer and the locals have mixed feeling about him. He has his sights on the pub. Will the pub that Ellie has a soft spot for be sold?
A wonderful feel good read about villagers and the local pub. How the villagers will pull together to help one another.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Aria and the author Jill Steeples for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
After a disastrous dog walk which leaves her soaking wet and covered in mud, she sees a good looking man standing watching her. She later discovers that his name is Max Goulding, a property developer and the locals have mixed feeling about him. He has his sights on the pub. Will the pub that Ellie has a soft spot for be sold?
A wonderful feel good read about villagers and the local pub. How the villagers will pull together to help one another.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Aria and the author Jill Steeples for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2017
I don't think I have read anything before by Jill Steeples (I really must check) but bought Winter at the Dog & Duck, as I love Christmas reads. It took me a few pages to get into the story but I have to say I enjoyed this book. Ellie has returned home from London after being made redundant from her high powered job in the city. Working at the Dog & Duck and walking dogs for a living she realises that there is more to life. Throw in a gorgeous property developer called Max and you have a romance brewing!
Not as much Christmas in the book, as I would like. Most of the novel is set throughout the year and ends at Christmas. An enjoyable read and I have just looked and there is a sequel to this book called Summer at the Dog & Duck, which I am now going to order.
Not as much Christmas in the book, as I would like. Most of the novel is set throughout the year and ends at Christmas. An enjoyable read and I have just looked and there is a sequel to this book called Summer at the Dog & Duck, which I am now going to order.
December 29, 2016
The first thing I feel the need to say is that while this really was the perfect time to read this novel, with it being winter in my neck of the woods and the Christmas season, a whole lot of this book DOES NOT revolve around Christmas. So if you are like me, and only like to read Christmas tales around the holidays, you can pretty much still pick this book up and enjoy it.
Ellie has returned home from London after losing her job due to downsizing. Her parents are currently working in Dubai, so while housesitting, she has plenty of time to decide if she wants to return to London, or perhaps settle in her home town of Little Leyton. Ellie is dating her ex, has met a new dashing man, and not only is she working at her favorite pub, The Dog and Duck, but she has also started her own dog walking business. During the book, Ellie's life unfolds and by the end, she has made some pretty important decisions about her future.
The best parts about this book in my opinion are the characters and the setting. It's a nice small town in Buckinghamshire and everyone basically knows everyone else. The pub is the center of the town as well as the community and pretty much reminds me of Luke's Diner in Stars Hollow (yep, still stuck on Gilmore Girls references). Another plus is Ellie has her own dog walking business so the reader gets to meet some of the town's more zanier characters through their beloved pets.
I really enjoyed this book and in refection, can't really pinpoint anything about it that really bothered me. Ellie was independent yet quirky. While there is some romance in the book, it doesn't overtake the plot and there is no insta-love so it gets bonus points. Maybe some authors are finally figuring it out that it doesn't really happen that often in real life. I fell in love with Lucy Dillon's books several years ago and Steeples novels provided the same feeling. I'm interested in checking out more of her books and will definitely be picking up the next book in The Dog & Duck series when it's released.
Ellie has returned home from London after losing her job due to downsizing. Her parents are currently working in Dubai, so while housesitting, she has plenty of time to decide if she wants to return to London, or perhaps settle in her home town of Little Leyton. Ellie is dating her ex, has met a new dashing man, and not only is she working at her favorite pub, The Dog and Duck, but she has also started her own dog walking business. During the book, Ellie's life unfolds and by the end, she has made some pretty important decisions about her future.
The best parts about this book in my opinion are the characters and the setting. It's a nice small town in Buckinghamshire and everyone basically knows everyone else. The pub is the center of the town as well as the community and pretty much reminds me of Luke's Diner in Stars Hollow (yep, still stuck on Gilmore Girls references). Another plus is Ellie has her own dog walking business so the reader gets to meet some of the town's more zanier characters through their beloved pets.
I really enjoyed this book and in refection, can't really pinpoint anything about it that really bothered me. Ellie was independent yet quirky. While there is some romance in the book, it doesn't overtake the plot and there is no insta-love so it gets bonus points. Maybe some authors are finally figuring it out that it doesn't really happen that often in real life. I fell in love with Lucy Dillon's books several years ago and Steeples novels provided the same feeling. I'm interested in checking out more of her books and will definitely be picking up the next book in The Dog & Duck series when it's released.
September 29, 2016
Since the moment I started reading one thing stood out: Mrs. Steeples' way with words is out of this world. Her style shines beyond the plot and characters, who are quite bright themselves.
I loved the fluffy story, and the colorful characters, however, I feel like the book wasn't as Christmas-y as I'd want it. Overall, it's a great read, a wonderful story, amazing characters, and ever better writing. However, it doesn't feel like Christmas.
I loved the fluffy story, and the colorful characters, however, I feel like the book wasn't as Christmas-y as I'd want it. Overall, it's a great read, a wonderful story, amazing characters, and ever better writing. However, it doesn't feel like Christmas.
December 18, 2016
4.5 stars
December 4, 2023
I recently read Wedding Bells at The Dog & Duck, the 3rd book in this series and decided that I needed to read the first two so I knew what happened before Ellie and Max got together. Winter at the Dog & Duck is the story of their meeting and the beginning of their romance and journey together. Ellie Browne has left her high stress job in London and returned to the village of Little Leyton to determine what she wants out of life. She immediately begins to feel that she is home and returns to working at the Dog & Duck pub as well as opening her own dog walking business. Not only does she return home and to a job she has loved over the years, but she bumps into her old beau, Johnny Tay, and they try again. It doesn't take Ellie long to realize that her and Johnny are not a good mix, but what about the new resident, sultry property developer Max Golding. As they get to know each other, their chemistry is evident, but can secrets keep them apart.
This was a fun romance that dealt with honesty, finding balance, friendship, love of animals and community. I really like Ellie's character. She is trying to find her place, dealing with being alone for the first time as her parents have moved to Dubai. She returns to the place where she knows people and they have known her since she was little. It grounds her and helps her make decisions about her life. Max is a self-made man, one who is not used to sharing with others and making decisions alone, which is not a good trait for a relationship. The secondary characters are all wonderful and add so much to this story. It is as much about the village and the community as it is about Ellie and Max. There is a storyline about refugees in France and the village has a drive to get clothes, food and other products they can send to the refugee camps. Ellie and Max take them and we meet one mother who is living there. It isn't a huge part of the story, but it touched me and made me think. Overall, this is an enjoyable story and I am glad I went back to listen to it. I was fortunate to find the new audiobook release (originally published in 2019) narrated by Beth Lily. She does a great job with the story, using her expression and voice to make it an enjoyable listening experience. I will read the next one as well. If you are interested in reading these books, I recommend you read them in order if you can.
This was a fun romance that dealt with honesty, finding balance, friendship, love of animals and community. I really like Ellie's character. She is trying to find her place, dealing with being alone for the first time as her parents have moved to Dubai. She returns to the place where she knows people and they have known her since she was little. It grounds her and helps her make decisions about her life. Max is a self-made man, one who is not used to sharing with others and making decisions alone, which is not a good trait for a relationship. The secondary characters are all wonderful and add so much to this story. It is as much about the village and the community as it is about Ellie and Max. There is a storyline about refugees in France and the village has a drive to get clothes, food and other products they can send to the refugee camps. Ellie and Max take them and we meet one mother who is living there. It isn't a huge part of the story, but it touched me and made me think. Overall, this is an enjoyable story and I am glad I went back to listen to it. I was fortunate to find the new audiobook release (originally published in 2019) narrated by Beth Lily. She does a great job with the story, using her expression and voice to make it an enjoyable listening experience. I will read the next one as well. If you are interested in reading these books, I recommend you read them in order if you can.
December 4, 2023
This was a sweet story with Little Leyton’s village pub at the heart of it all. Ellie, recently returned from London, works shifts at the pub whilst running her own dog-walking business. Yet, a run-in with Max Golding turns Ellie’s world upside down. Suddenly, home feels more appealing in Little Leyton; London is a distant dream, along with her less-than-satisfying accounting career. But, things become complicated when Ellie learns the pub might be sold to a property developer and she may no longer have a reason to stay in the village.
I liked this story and the romantic sub-plot. The community of Little Leyton are portrayed as very welcoming and understanding; there is no negative character in the entire story. Therefore, if you are after something that is light to read and full of optimism, this is definitely a book to choose. However, I did find the plot to be rather formulaic and predictable. I believe that in a few books’ time, I am unlikely to remember the finer points to the plot.
As a result, whilst I found the story entertaining, I did get a bit frustrated by the plot direction because it felt so similar to other stories. Maybe this is because I have read quite a few of this genre recently, I still thought that Steeples has created a warm and inviting series with the pub as the backdrop. Furthermore, even though the novel’s title focuses on winter, the book actually spans the entire year and it is only the last few chapters where it starts to move into Christmas. In this way, I think this makes it great as a “warm up” read to the festive season.
Ellie’s dog walks were entertaining and I wished that the writer had expanded on this element of the story. Some of the dog personalities start to shine through in this novel and I thought Steeples could have extended this further so there isn’t so much of a focus on the village pub. After all, this is the other element that ties Ellie to Little Leyton and I enjoyed watching her interact with her different clients as she gets to know their canine buddies.
This book whisks you off to the quaint English countryside with a warming community. It is a charming narrative that you can easily lose yourself in over an afternoon and doesn’t become too Christmassy until the end.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this story and the romantic sub-plot. The community of Little Leyton are portrayed as very welcoming and understanding; there is no negative character in the entire story. Therefore, if you are after something that is light to read and full of optimism, this is definitely a book to choose. However, I did find the plot to be rather formulaic and predictable. I believe that in a few books’ time, I am unlikely to remember the finer points to the plot.
As a result, whilst I found the story entertaining, I did get a bit frustrated by the plot direction because it felt so similar to other stories. Maybe this is because I have read quite a few of this genre recently, I still thought that Steeples has created a warm and inviting series with the pub as the backdrop. Furthermore, even though the novel’s title focuses on winter, the book actually spans the entire year and it is only the last few chapters where it starts to move into Christmas. In this way, I think this makes it great as a “warm up” read to the festive season.
Ellie’s dog walks were entertaining and I wished that the writer had expanded on this element of the story. Some of the dog personalities start to shine through in this novel and I thought Steeples could have extended this further so there isn’t so much of a focus on the village pub. After all, this is the other element that ties Ellie to Little Leyton and I enjoyed watching her interact with her different clients as she gets to know their canine buddies.
This book whisks you off to the quaint English countryside with a warming community. It is a charming narrative that you can easily lose yourself in over an afternoon and doesn’t become too Christmassy until the end.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2018
This is my first book by this author and will not be my last by any means as loved it so much a great book to curl up and read on a cold day and full of romance, friendship and starting over. Excellent characters with great story and can't wait to read the next one in the series now.
Ellie has been working in London but she leaves her high flying role and moves back to her small village of little Leyton which is such a beautiful village. She moves into her parents home while he are away and starts walking other people's dogs along as working in the dog and duck pub and she loves these two jobs so much. She is hoping this will be a simpler way of live but she doesn't realise that some of her friends will have moved on although a past boyfriend wants to pick up where they left up and is it what she wants or does she have her eyes on someone else. She meets max who is a property developer has moved in to the village and there is rumours that the pub has been sold but it holds a special place in Ellie's heart so will she be happy or will she decide to move on or stay. She has many challenges to face and can she decide which is best for her to stay or leave.
Ellie has been working in London but she leaves her high flying role and moves back to her small village of little Leyton which is such a beautiful village. She moves into her parents home while he are away and starts walking other people's dogs along as working in the dog and duck pub and she loves these two jobs so much. She is hoping this will be a simpler way of live but she doesn't realise that some of her friends will have moved on although a past boyfriend wants to pick up where they left up and is it what she wants or does she have her eyes on someone else. She meets max who is a property developer has moved in to the village and there is rumours that the pub has been sold but it holds a special place in Ellie's heart so will she be happy or will she decide to move on or stay. She has many challenges to face and can she decide which is best for her to stay or leave.
September 13, 2023
An uplifting romantic tale about Ellie who returns home from London and starts her own dog walking business whilist working in the local pub.she meets Max one day and so begins the battle of head or heart.
I loved the descriptiveness in the emotion and how there was a wider plot in place . All the side characters were given a good arc and werent just for show. The story for me was written a bit too much on Elsie's perspective i would have liked more on max.
Hiwever this was a first in a series and is made me want to read bookc2.
Thank you net gallery and publisher for a solid 4 star read.
I loved the descriptiveness in the emotion and how there was a wider plot in place . All the side characters were given a good arc and werent just for show. The story for me was written a bit too much on Elsie's perspective i would have liked more on max.
Hiwever this was a first in a series and is made me want to read bookc2.
Thank you net gallery and publisher for a solid 4 star read.
September 19, 2016
When Ellie gets made redundant from her high flying accountancy job in London she decides to take a break in her home town of Little Leyton. As her parents are working in Dubai for 9 months she moves into their house and to make ends meet works some shifts in the local pub the Dog and Duck and sets up her own business walking dogs.
With the dog walking not everything always goes to plan however and when she has to follow one of her charges into to the river to save it from drowning you can guarantee that the best looking bloke she has seen in a long time is standing watching her look like a drowned rat covered in mud!
Back in the pub she discovers that his name is Max Golding and his is owner of the beautiful Georgian manor house that he has renovated - there definitely seem to be mixed feelings about him from the locals however - so why is she overcome with verbal diarrhoea every time she sees him!
This is a lovely book about village life and coming from a small village myself I can just picture the pub at the centre of all activity, the gossip that flies round and record speed and the way people will always pull together to help each other out - a great lighthearted read and I looking forward to the next instalment!
With the dog walking not everything always goes to plan however and when she has to follow one of her charges into to the river to save it from drowning you can guarantee that the best looking bloke she has seen in a long time is standing watching her look like a drowned rat covered in mud!
Back in the pub she discovers that his name is Max Golding and his is owner of the beautiful Georgian manor house that he has renovated - there definitely seem to be mixed feelings about him from the locals however - so why is she overcome with verbal diarrhoea every time she sees him!
This is a lovely book about village life and coming from a small village myself I can just picture the pub at the centre of all activity, the gossip that flies round and record speed and the way people will always pull together to help each other out - a great lighthearted read and I looking forward to the next instalment!
October 25, 2019
Thanks so much to the publishers and netgalley for giving me the opportunity to review this book xx
I loved the cover of this book as soon as I saw it, its not very often one sees a black cover that looks nice and Christmassy too.
This was a comfortable read with a nice little village pub. The characters were a good bunch and the story had a feel good vibe to it. There was nothing in this book that could upset anyone whatsoever. I found it to be a quick read and enjoyable throughout
I loved the cover of this book as soon as I saw it, its not very often one sees a black cover that looks nice and Christmassy too.
This was a comfortable read with a nice little village pub. The characters were a good bunch and the story had a feel good vibe to it. There was nothing in this book that could upset anyone whatsoever. I found it to be a quick read and enjoyable throughout
August 17, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I absolutely loved this book! I loved the plot, the characters and the way it was written! I don’t think I’d ever read anything else by the author but her writing style was right up my alley and I just loved the way she described things! I loved it so much that before I had even finished it, I was recommending it to other people, telling them they could borrow my copy once I was done with it(all of them enjoyed it as much as I did).
Super easy to read, very feel good and a beautifully written story, what more could you want.
I absolutely loved this book! I loved the plot, the characters and the way it was written! I don’t think I’d ever read anything else by the author but her writing style was right up my alley and I just loved the way she described things! I loved it so much that before I had even finished it, I was recommending it to other people, telling them they could borrow my copy once I was done with it(all of them enjoyed it as much as I did).
Super easy to read, very feel good and a beautifully written story, what more could you want.
December 5, 2023
I feel like I was a bit mis-sold on this book. The byline being “a cosy, feel-good festive romance. I felt like I was being lectured a bit when the main characters took a van full of donations across the Chanel to a refugee camp. I know it is a problem that needs addressing, but romances are supposed to be escapism.
And why is it called Winter at the Dog and Duck when I was 70% of the way through before it had even got to autumn? I wasn’t even that keen on the main character, Ellie. She annoyed me. Not the best romance I have ever read.
And why is it called Winter at the Dog and Duck when I was 70% of the way through before it had even got to autumn? I wasn’t even that keen on the main character, Ellie. She annoyed me. Not the best romance I have ever read.
September 30, 2016
I haven't read any Jill Steeples's books before so I was really happy to start "Christmas at the dog and Duck" - the synopsis sounds so promising, and the gorgeous Christmassy cover caught my eye immediately. However, it is this kind of book that in fact only ends at Christmas, and it felt everything but Christmassy to be honest, which for me personally was not a problem.
So the story follows Ellie, who's just opened her dog - walking business, and it also centres around The Dog and Duck pub where she also works her shifts. Quickly, I started to have a feeling that I've read it before, there was nothing fresh or new that took me by surprise. It was a very predictable read - and the business with the dog walking was done before by Cressida McLaughlin, and dealt with in a much better way in my opinion. Also, there was one thing that bothered me incredibly and I was so short of putting the book away and never picking it up again, and it is the refugees problem. There are so many mixed emotions around this subject and I just think that a chick - lit fiction is not a place to deal with it, and I just had a feeling that the author wanted to score something with it putting it in the book. Moreover, it was mentioned, there was one or two scenes in Calais and what? And nothing. No changes done, nothing significant happened, nobody was saved so why put it in the book at all? I'm sorry if it sounds harsh or if I am offending somebody's feeling but those are my feelings.
Each character mentioned in the book, even the most background ones, those that entered the scenes for a moment, needed a very long and very detailed introduction including how they look like, what they wear and what they do, and I was asking myself, why? Do we need it? For me it also seemed that the author didn't really know what she wanted to write about. There are some ideas and some sub - plots and they started and then ended abruptly and a new idea was introduced to us, so we have the charity thing, then suddenly there comes the situation with the pub, then Ellie wants to give up her dog business...
There was also something in this story that annoys me personally so much - when the characters interact, I need them to really talk, to reply to each other immediately. I don't like it when there is a page or two of inner monologue or weighing up the answers between a question asked and a reply as it really makes me to forget the question, and it was the case here. So many words - and yes, I DO know it is a book and that books consist of words, hello - but words that I could do without.
I'd really love to give this book more stars, as the writing style was really lovely, but taking into consideration that I mostly skim - read it, I just can't. We just didn't rub together, me and the book, however I would love to try other books by Ms Steeples.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
November 8, 2016
Do you have your favourite blanket?
Your favourite mug and hot drink?
Are you sitting comfortably in your favourite chair or reading position?
Is your diary clear for a few hours?
Good. You are now ready to begin reading this gorgeously festive read. It is sure to warm your cockles on a cold autumnal evening.
I really loved reading Christmas at the Dog and duck. Yes this book is completely predictable. Yes I managed to work out what was going to happen before it did. But do you know what. That's ok. I was just very happy to be whisked away to the country side.
This is the first book I have read of Jill Steeples and I can promise that it certainly will not be the last.
With characters that all had their own personalities and problems but I wanted to be friends with all of them. A great if very predictable plot. A lovely inviting front cover and bio and a story that lives up to it all.
Do you love Christmas?
Rom coms?
Then this book is defiantly for you.
Ellie has left behind her high flying job in London and moved back into her parents house in a charming little town called Little Leyton in Buckinghamshire. while her parents are living in Dubai.
Ellie is working at the local pub The Dog and Duck. Re-dating her old flame Johnny (although this fizzles out quite quickly when she realises she only likes him as a friend) and is running a dog sitting and walking business
Eric the owner of the pubs daughter is going to have a baby. Eric's lease is ending on the pub and with no money to reinvest another business which is a chain restaurant wants to own the pub there is also another private buyer in the line up for buying the pub too. With everything up in the air what is the best thing for this wonderfully quaint British pub that has been at the heart of the villiage for so long.
Max Golding a property tycoon has just moved to the villiage of Little Leyton shaking the ground that Ellie walks on. Could there be more than friendship in store for these two?
One of the things that I loved most about this book was that is was so currant and up to date. With the crisis of Syrian people fleeing their country. Little Leyton set out to their bit to help these poor people who have had to risk their lives and the lives of their children to flee their war torn country just to try to survive.
This is such a lovely Christmas book. Filled with great characters a warming story. This book is perfect for the Christmas season. I can't wait to visit The Dog and duck again and have already preordered Summer at the Dog and duck even thou it isn't out for months yet. Feels like a long way off to wait for another installmant of the series.
A massive thank you to Netgalley, publisher Aria and Jill Steeples for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review. I have been wanting to read this book for ages and it was well worth the wait.
Happy reading everyone
Your favourite mug and hot drink?
Are you sitting comfortably in your favourite chair or reading position?
Is your diary clear for a few hours?
Good. You are now ready to begin reading this gorgeously festive read. It is sure to warm your cockles on a cold autumnal evening.
I really loved reading Christmas at the Dog and duck. Yes this book is completely predictable. Yes I managed to work out what was going to happen before it did. But do you know what. That's ok. I was just very happy to be whisked away to the country side.
This is the first book I have read of Jill Steeples and I can promise that it certainly will not be the last.
With characters that all had their own personalities and problems but I wanted to be friends with all of them. A great if very predictable plot. A lovely inviting front cover and bio and a story that lives up to it all.
Do you love Christmas?
Rom coms?
Then this book is defiantly for you.
Ellie has left behind her high flying job in London and moved back into her parents house in a charming little town called Little Leyton in Buckinghamshire. while her parents are living in Dubai.
Ellie is working at the local pub The Dog and Duck. Re-dating her old flame Johnny (although this fizzles out quite quickly when she realises she only likes him as a friend) and is running a dog sitting and walking business
Eric the owner of the pubs daughter is going to have a baby. Eric's lease is ending on the pub and with no money to reinvest another business which is a chain restaurant wants to own the pub there is also another private buyer in the line up for buying the pub too. With everything up in the air what is the best thing for this wonderfully quaint British pub that has been at the heart of the villiage for so long.
Max Golding a property tycoon has just moved to the villiage of Little Leyton shaking the ground that Ellie walks on. Could there be more than friendship in store for these two?
One of the things that I loved most about this book was that is was so currant and up to date. With the crisis of Syrian people fleeing their country. Little Leyton set out to their bit to help these poor people who have had to risk their lives and the lives of their children to flee their war torn country just to try to survive.
This is such a lovely Christmas book. Filled with great characters a warming story. This book is perfect for the Christmas season. I can't wait to visit The Dog and duck again and have already preordered Summer at the Dog and duck even thou it isn't out for months yet. Feels like a long way off to wait for another installmant of the series.
A massive thank you to Netgalley, publisher Aria and Jill Steeples for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review. I have been wanting to read this book for ages and it was well worth the wait.
Happy reading everyone
October 8, 2016
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Absolutely thrilled to be taking part in Jill Steeples’ blog tour! -does happy dance- I LOVE her books. Not only is today TWG’s stop on the tour, it is also the last day of it! -sniff-. Don’t worry, all is not lost though, if you buy the book you’ll be able to see the beautiful cover whenever you like! Win win really! I have the joy of bringing you not one, but TWO Jill Steeples delights today in the form of a review and an extract. Hope you enjoy!
Sometimes when life gets a bit too hectic and crowded, all we need to do is take a step back, breathe and focus on our next step. Sounds simple doesn’t it? Ellie seemed to find it simpler than she thought it would thanks to a few four legged friends. Ellie’s life seemed to do a U-turn as she found herself back in her hometown and back working in her local, but she doesn’t quite seem to mind. After all, a random man has seen her looking like a drowned rat with a dog, and was ever so easy on the eye! Could Ellie find her reason for staying in her hometown permanently? Or will the random man turn out to be a wolf in sheep clothing?
When it comes to Ellie and her life, the phrase ‘home is where the heart is’ seems to ring rather true. She strikes me as the type of person that seems to hide behind a mask and tries to keep her emotions bottled up. Because of that, I warmed to her straight away as I am exactly the same. Plus it made for ace reading as I tried to work out whether any decisions she made would be done via her head, or her heart.
I thought that the harrowing topic a lot of the book was based around, was rather humbling. It opened my eyes to the devastating truth which in turn made the storyline stand out. Honestly? I thought Jill was rather brave to incorporate it into her story, as it is a topic that people do have a rather harsh opinion about, especially in the media. During the shift in the storyline, I got to see another side to a few of the characters, some of which have been holding their cards rather close to their chests until then. Lovely to see.
Jill Steeples has written such a refreshing and humbling read that will grab the hearts of the readers in more way than one. A story about staying true to yourself and what you believe in, as well as never giving up without a fight. Such a cosy, inspiring read that can be read time and time again, whatever the time of year.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in return for my honest views.
Absolutely thrilled to be taking part in Jill Steeples’ blog tour! -does happy dance- I LOVE her books. Not only is today TWG’s stop on the tour, it is also the last day of it! -sniff-. Don’t worry, all is not lost though, if you buy the book you’ll be able to see the beautiful cover whenever you like! Win win really! I have the joy of bringing you not one, but TWO Jill Steeples delights today in the form of a review and an extract. Hope you enjoy!
Sometimes when life gets a bit too hectic and crowded, all we need to do is take a step back, breathe and focus on our next step. Sounds simple doesn’t it? Ellie seemed to find it simpler than she thought it would thanks to a few four legged friends. Ellie’s life seemed to do a U-turn as she found herself back in her hometown and back working in her local, but she doesn’t quite seem to mind. After all, a random man has seen her looking like a drowned rat with a dog, and was ever so easy on the eye! Could Ellie find her reason for staying in her hometown permanently? Or will the random man turn out to be a wolf in sheep clothing?
When it comes to Ellie and her life, the phrase ‘home is where the heart is’ seems to ring rather true. She strikes me as the type of person that seems to hide behind a mask and tries to keep her emotions bottled up. Because of that, I warmed to her straight away as I am exactly the same. Plus it made for ace reading as I tried to work out whether any decisions she made would be done via her head, or her heart.
I thought that the harrowing topic a lot of the book was based around, was rather humbling. It opened my eyes to the devastating truth which in turn made the storyline stand out. Honestly? I thought Jill was rather brave to incorporate it into her story, as it is a topic that people do have a rather harsh opinion about, especially in the media. During the shift in the storyline, I got to see another side to a few of the characters, some of which have been holding their cards rather close to their chests until then. Lovely to see.
Jill Steeples has written such a refreshing and humbling read that will grab the hearts of the readers in more way than one. A story about staying true to yourself and what you believe in, as well as never giving up without a fight. Such a cosy, inspiring read that can be read time and time again, whatever the time of year.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in return for my honest views.
October 22, 2016
This is a bit of a 'risotto' story in a way - you know the sort of thing - you have the basic ingredients, the rice and the stock and something like mushrooms or chicken but then you open the fridge and there is the little bit of left-over ham and the sliced chorizo and some dried up cheese and the peas from the other night and a half-eaten sausage and ooh look - some smoked salmon! An it all goes in. And the end result is .... - well, make up your own mind!
This story is a little like that. It's suppose to be a Christmas novel, but it isn't. In fact the Christmas aspect only rears its head in the last couple of chapters and the time line throughout the story is ropey to say the least in a few places.
The story begins in spring which is okay but this is meant to be a CHRISTMAS story. I want to read about December and snow and cold nights - not spring!
Then there is the 'charity' event to collect clothes for the homeless in Calais. For some reason this made me feel profoundly uncomfortable, as if the author was trying to cash in on the situation, particularly when later on we read about someone whose house is going to be repossessed (and thereby made homeless) and no one seems to give a damn. The poor woman and her family are reduced to an unsympathetic: 'I glanced at my watch ,wondering how Gemma and her family were getting on. Today was their moving day, and they would be in their new, rented home by now.' And that is all Gemma gets -a quick afterthought - no offers of help to move, no bouquet of flowers to ease the trauma? Not even a Best Wishes card?
There were several 'Chekov's gun' moments -e.g: the look that Max gave her which she hoped 'hadn't been one of complete and utter disdain' - It made no sense and didn't seem to be explained later. There was a ?? moment towards the end of the book when Digby (a dog) reappears on the scene as if the author had looked in her fridge for more ingredients for this risotto and found him cowering at the back, forgotten.
The story was pretty much predictable. but it was a mess, really. Too many subplots, too many unimportant scenes that gave nothing to the story, too many moment where Ellie changed her mind and then changed it back again until I wanted to tell her to grow up. The characters were thin and inconsistent, the story too bland and lacking in any real depth and the lack of any real Christmas element until the end made this a definite 'no'.
This story is a little like that. It's suppose to be a Christmas novel, but it isn't. In fact the Christmas aspect only rears its head in the last couple of chapters and the time line throughout the story is ropey to say the least in a few places.
The story begins in spring which is okay but this is meant to be a CHRISTMAS story. I want to read about December and snow and cold nights - not spring!
Then there is the 'charity' event to collect clothes for the homeless in Calais. For some reason this made me feel profoundly uncomfortable, as if the author was trying to cash in on the situation, particularly when later on we read about someone whose house is going to be repossessed (and thereby made homeless) and no one seems to give a damn. The poor woman and her family are reduced to an unsympathetic: 'I glanced at my watch ,wondering how Gemma and her family were getting on. Today was their moving day, and they would be in their new, rented home by now.' And that is all Gemma gets -a quick afterthought - no offers of help to move, no bouquet of flowers to ease the trauma? Not even a Best Wishes card?
There were several 'Chekov's gun' moments -e.g: the look that Max gave her which she hoped 'hadn't been one of complete and utter disdain' - It made no sense and didn't seem to be explained later. There was a ?? moment towards the end of the book when Digby (a dog) reappears on the scene as if the author had looked in her fridge for more ingredients for this risotto and found him cowering at the back, forgotten.
The story was pretty much predictable. but it was a mess, really. Too many subplots, too many unimportant scenes that gave nothing to the story, too many moment where Ellie changed her mind and then changed it back again until I wanted to tell her to grow up. The characters were thin and inconsistent, the story too bland and lacking in any real depth and the lack of any real Christmas element until the end made this a definite 'no'.
October 28, 2016
Jill Steeples has written a new Christmas novel, Christmas at the Dog and Duck, filled with a large dose of friendship, love, and new beginnings. Ellie Browne has been let go from her highflying accountant job in London. Unsure of what she wants to do next in life, she returns to her childhood home of Little Leyton for a few months while she reassess her options and to enjoy an old fashioned Christmas. Since her father and mother have taken a temporary position in Dubai, she moves back into her childhood home. Opening her dog-walking business and working shifts at the local pub, gives Ellie time to reestablish old friendships and make some new especially among her dog friends. But she quickly finds out you can’t go back. Her childhood boyfriend wants to pick-up where they left off, there are rumors that the old pub will be sold and Ellie meets a handsome and disturbing new man in town. Max Golding is a new developer who has restored the old manor house and has plans for more development nearby. Ellie just can’t figure him out.
This is a story about trying to hold onto the past and of letting go. It’s the story of how important friendships and family are, and it’s the story of taking the job that you enjoy.
Although the story line was rather predictable, the characters were well developed. The description of the pub and how important it was as the center of the town’s activities was well done. I also loved the humorous stories of Elli and her dog friends. I didn’t care for the introduction of the refugee situation in Calais, it didn’t seem to add to the story and only seemed to lengthen the story. And, there was very little story that concerned Christmas. It was an enjoyable book to read but even with a beautiful wintery cover, I’m not sure that I would consider it a Christmas book rather than just a novel that happens to conclude at Christmas.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Aria Romance, Women’s Fiction.
This is a story about trying to hold onto the past and of letting go. It’s the story of how important friendships and family are, and it’s the story of taking the job that you enjoy.
Although the story line was rather predictable, the characters were well developed. The description of the pub and how important it was as the center of the town’s activities was well done. I also loved the humorous stories of Elli and her dog friends. I didn’t care for the introduction of the refugee situation in Calais, it didn’t seem to add to the story and only seemed to lengthen the story. And, there was very little story that concerned Christmas. It was an enjoyable book to read but even with a beautiful wintery cover, I’m not sure that I would consider it a Christmas book rather than just a novel that happens to conclude at Christmas.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Aria Romance, Women’s Fiction.
October 16, 2016
After being made redundant Ellie has returned to her home village, Little Leyton and is house sitting whilst her parents are abroad. To keep herself occupied she works behind the bar at The Dog and Duck and has taken up dog walking and sitting to help out fellow villagers and is looking forward to a peaceful and quiet time at Christmas.
However, fate has other ideas for Ellie. Her ex Jonny assumes that now she has returned from the bright lights of London they can pick up where they left off. Stumbling across a new villager Max when out walking sets her heart racing and that is not just because she has to chase the dog which escapes onto his land. And it seems that The Dog and Duck is going to be taken over by someone unknown. Then a perfect job offer comes in from London.
Ellie is in a complete muddle emotionally and she does not know where her true roots lay. Christmas as a way of making it all seem so much raw.
This is a cosy read, not completely given over to Christmas, but one which shows how communities work, especially small village ones. With a roaring fire, a pint in your hand and some romance in the offing it is a perfect curl up on the sofa read.
Jill Steeples is a new author to me and if you like your stories based round a central place, character and with romance then this is the book for you.
We get to revisit The Dog and Duck in the summer and I am looking forward to seeing what happens in Little Leyton.
However, fate has other ideas for Ellie. Her ex Jonny assumes that now she has returned from the bright lights of London they can pick up where they left off. Stumbling across a new villager Max when out walking sets her heart racing and that is not just because she has to chase the dog which escapes onto his land. And it seems that The Dog and Duck is going to be taken over by someone unknown. Then a perfect job offer comes in from London.
Ellie is in a complete muddle emotionally and she does not know where her true roots lay. Christmas as a way of making it all seem so much raw.
This is a cosy read, not completely given over to Christmas, but one which shows how communities work, especially small village ones. With a roaring fire, a pint in your hand and some romance in the offing it is a perfect curl up on the sofa read.
Jill Steeples is a new author to me and if you like your stories based round a central place, character and with romance then this is the book for you.
We get to revisit The Dog and Duck in the summer and I am looking forward to seeing what happens in Little Leyton.
August 4, 2023
Cosy, comforting, full of drama and dogs! I couldn’t have asked for more. I loved the vibes of Little Leyton and getting to know the whole cast of the Dog and Duck was lovely.
After Ellie loses her high flying London accountancy job, she moves back to Little Leyton to house sit for her parents whilst they’re in Dubai. Picking up the odd shift at the dog and duck whilst launching her fledgling dog walking business, there’s plenty to keep Ellie occupied and distracted. And distraction is most certainly needed as the fate of the Dog and Duck is in jeopardy and a certain handsome man in the form of Max begins to provide the distractions she doesn’t need…
It was a great, easy to read story and one that was easy to get invested in and keep turning the pages. There’s more than one in the series so off to spend Summer in the Dog and Duck next!!
After Ellie loses her high flying London accountancy job, she moves back to Little Leyton to house sit for her parents whilst they’re in Dubai. Picking up the odd shift at the dog and duck whilst launching her fledgling dog walking business, there’s plenty to keep Ellie occupied and distracted. And distraction is most certainly needed as the fate of the Dog and Duck is in jeopardy and a certain handsome man in the form of Max begins to provide the distractions she doesn’t need…
It was a great, easy to read story and one that was easy to get invested in and keep turning the pages. There’s more than one in the series so off to spend Summer in the Dog and Duck next!!
September 29, 2016
This was a lovely cosy read ideal for the run up to Christmas. I always love a Jill Steeples book and this one was a delight. She has such a lovely, easy writing style. I notice that there is a summer book to come and I can’t wait! It gives you a lovely village community glow and you feel like you know the villagers and the pub. Ellie returns to her childhood home after losing her job, whilst her parents are away and gets a job in the pub- which gives us the chance to meet everyone.
The romance in the book isn’t without its challenges- Max is a property developer who could threaten the village happiness.
With many thanks to Net Galley and Aria for the chance to read this one.
The romance in the book isn’t without its challenges- Max is a property developer who could threaten the village happiness.
With many thanks to Net Galley and Aria for the chance to read this one.
July 17, 2024
A ROMANCE TO GET LOST IN …
Ellie Browne has been wanting to scale back. Scale back from her job (check), from the pressure (check), and from what’s not important vs. what is (check check check). And with the initial assessment over, now all she needs do is take that leap of faith. (multiple checks in rapid succession!) After taking a deep breath, she does just that, leaving behind her high-powered job in London for the quaint village of Little Leyton. It’s where her parents still live, and where she’ll run her own doggie-day-care business until she gets things sorted out. But it’s here where things get complicated again. No, not because of the doggies she has to deal with. It’s more attributable to the intrusion of a scrumptious dreamboat of a man stumbling into her life and playing havoc with her heartstrings.
The above is a small taste of what you’ll be served up in WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK by Jill Steeples. If you’re into romance, comedies and believing that dreams really can come true, she’s the author for you. There’s a sincerity in the words, and it gives life to characters that only exist on pages. If I had to describe it, I’d say she possesses some strange magical writing power that transports you from your world to one that’s kinder, gentler, warmer, and where love always wins.
This 1st in the Dog & Duck Series keeps true to its genre. It is a feel-good romance with “cozy” heaped on thick. It will keep you curled up for hours … and loving every second of it. Will Ellie succumb to this modern day Mr. Darcy? Will the inn go under the way it’s rumored to be? Will the inn run itself? All questions are answered as clever writing keeps our interest percolating and humor is dispensed along the way.
I had an awesome time reading WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK and hope you do, too. There’s a seriousness embedded in Ms. Steeples’ stories … in the promises made and the exchanging of hearts. The overcoming of odds using integrity, honesty, and compassion is common in all her books. And it’s this clarity of vision that changes circumstances for the betterment of all and why I whole-heartedly cheer her characters on. So if you love romance … the meeting of a stranger by chance … the birthing of a love that grows wings you’ll love this! I highly recommend WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK and am giving it 5 stars! Enjoy!
Ellie Browne has been wanting to scale back. Scale back from her job (check), from the pressure (check), and from what’s not important vs. what is (check check check). And with the initial assessment over, now all she needs do is take that leap of faith. (multiple checks in rapid succession!) After taking a deep breath, she does just that, leaving behind her high-powered job in London for the quaint village of Little Leyton. It’s where her parents still live, and where she’ll run her own doggie-day-care business until she gets things sorted out. But it’s here where things get complicated again. No, not because of the doggies she has to deal with. It’s more attributable to the intrusion of a scrumptious dreamboat of a man stumbling into her life and playing havoc with her heartstrings.
The above is a small taste of what you’ll be served up in WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK by Jill Steeples. If you’re into romance, comedies and believing that dreams really can come true, she’s the author for you. There’s a sincerity in the words, and it gives life to characters that only exist on pages. If I had to describe it, I’d say she possesses some strange magical writing power that transports you from your world to one that’s kinder, gentler, warmer, and where love always wins.
This 1st in the Dog & Duck Series keeps true to its genre. It is a feel-good romance with “cozy” heaped on thick. It will keep you curled up for hours … and loving every second of it. Will Ellie succumb to this modern day Mr. Darcy? Will the inn go under the way it’s rumored to be? Will the inn run itself? All questions are answered as clever writing keeps our interest percolating and humor is dispensed along the way.
I had an awesome time reading WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK and hope you do, too. There’s a seriousness embedded in Ms. Steeples’ stories … in the promises made and the exchanging of hearts. The overcoming of odds using integrity, honesty, and compassion is common in all her books. And it’s this clarity of vision that changes circumstances for the betterment of all and why I whole-heartedly cheer her characters on. So if you love romance … the meeting of a stranger by chance … the birthing of a love that grows wings you’ll love this! I highly recommend WINTER AT THE DOG & DUCK and am giving it 5 stars! Enjoy!
August 24, 2023
When I saw the cover of this book and read the title, I knew it would be right up my street.
This is a lovely book centred around the village pub "The Dog and Duck'. As the title suggests the book takes place in Winter, only the last 10% of the book is centred around Christmas. At reading the synopsis, I had thought the whole book revolved around the Christmas period. I love a Christmas book whatever the season. In fact I seem to enjoy them more in the warmer months, as I can imagine what is to come. This book was still enjoyable as the weather here in the UK is already changing and feeling very autumnal.
Ellie is looking for simpler life and is tired of the hustle and bustle of London. She decided to come back home to the village of Little Leyton in Buckinghamshire, to stay at her parents house whilst they are currently based in Dubai where her Dad job is. To make ends meet Ellie starts her own business offering a dog walking service and goes to work in the local pub. She has been brought up in this village and has a lovely relationship to with the pub landlord (her best friends Dad) and the locals alike. She meets local business man and property developer Max Golding who has big plans for the pub when he becomes the new owner.
This is one of those books you can curl up with and just be transported away. The characters and village are lovingly written and it makes me want to move to the area to be a local. The book is filled with friendship, love and lots of laughs. It is the first book I have read by Jill Steeples but I will look forwards to reading the upcoming books in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a lovely book centred around the village pub "The Dog and Duck'. As the title suggests the book takes place in Winter, only the last 10% of the book is centred around Christmas. At reading the synopsis, I had thought the whole book revolved around the Christmas period. I love a Christmas book whatever the season. In fact I seem to enjoy them more in the warmer months, as I can imagine what is to come. This book was still enjoyable as the weather here in the UK is already changing and feeling very autumnal.
Ellie is looking for simpler life and is tired of the hustle and bustle of London. She decided to come back home to the village of Little Leyton in Buckinghamshire, to stay at her parents house whilst they are currently based in Dubai where her Dad job is. To make ends meet Ellie starts her own business offering a dog walking service and goes to work in the local pub. She has been brought up in this village and has a lovely relationship to with the pub landlord (her best friends Dad) and the locals alike. She meets local business man and property developer Max Golding who has big plans for the pub when he becomes the new owner.
This is one of those books you can curl up with and just be transported away. The characters and village are lovingly written and it makes me want to move to the area to be a local. The book is filled with friendship, love and lots of laughs. It is the first book I have read by Jill Steeples but I will look forwards to reading the upcoming books in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2023
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I have read a lot of books from this author and I usually really like them. Her novels are very cozy and easy reading. But this one was a little bit of a miss for me. The main female character was just annoying. She didn't communicate and she jumped to conclusions and refused to sit down and talk to people what she was thinking and would falsely accuse them of something was wasn't true.
The romance part was just kind of blah. I didn't fell like they had that much connection...the relationship felt rushed. I loved how everyone around her was moving on with their lives but the main female character (who is in her mid 20's) refused to accept change and wanted to keep everything the way it was when everyone told her to move on and enjoy life. She would also put everyone on a guilt trip.
Also the cover of the book.. yes it is really pretty. I always love her covers. But it was very misleading. I looks like it takes place during Christmas with christmas lights hanging in the background and the figure on the cover is hauling a Christmas tree. But the entire book does not take place during christmas at all. It just takes place during Christmas towards the very end of the novel. So that to me was misleading.
I don't remember her novels have sex scenes in them...so that was just not needed in my opinion. They just met like first date and she slept with him so it was just not needed in my opinion.
I just feel like all the books this author has written that I have read, this one just read so much different than her other books. I will continue to read from this author. I love her other books but this was just meh.
The romance part was just kind of blah. I didn't fell like they had that much connection...the relationship felt rushed. I loved how everyone around her was moving on with their lives but the main female character (who is in her mid 20's) refused to accept change and wanted to keep everything the way it was when everyone told her to move on and enjoy life. She would also put everyone on a guilt trip.
Also the cover of the book.. yes it is really pretty. I always love her covers. But it was very misleading. I looks like it takes place during Christmas with christmas lights hanging in the background and the figure on the cover is hauling a Christmas tree. But the entire book does not take place during christmas at all. It just takes place during Christmas towards the very end of the novel. So that to me was misleading.
I don't remember her novels have sex scenes in them...so that was just not needed in my opinion. They just met like first date and she slept with him so it was just not needed in my opinion.
I just feel like all the books this author has written that I have read, this one just read so much different than her other books. I will continue to read from this author. I love her other books but this was just meh.
December 29, 2016
This is my first read from Jill Steeples and I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I thought that it was going to be a little off for me, but it turned out to be just what I needed for a great Christmas time read. I will not be a stranger to any of Jill Steeples books again either that is for sure.
This was a light-hearted read that I quickly fell in love with. I was looking for some great Christmas reads and this one got me in the mood for sure. Ellie is a young lady that has decided to move back into her parent's house while they are away on vacation to Dubai. Ellie decides to get a job and fills in with dog walking and a part-time job at the Dog & Duck.
While out walking one day, Ellie has to rescue on of the pets she is in charge of from the pond and is soaking wet when she runs into who else but the local sexy town crush!! What luck. Soaking wet and covered in mus and she finally gets to meet Max. What are the odds. Ellie has gotten mixed feelings from the locals about Max but every time she gets around him, she gets all flustered and can't even talk right. What is he going to think of her if she can't get herself together?
As things progress int he story, Ellie and Max start seeing more and more of each other. I can only imagine how this small town spreads gossip like we all know small towns to do. I can only imagine how things spread like wildfire.
This was overall a great read that I really enjoyed and I know you will too if you just give it a chance. I am excited to have found a new Author that I enjoy and can't wait to see what is next from Jill Steeples for us as readers!
This was a light-hearted read that I quickly fell in love with. I was looking for some great Christmas reads and this one got me in the mood for sure. Ellie is a young lady that has decided to move back into her parent's house while they are away on vacation to Dubai. Ellie decides to get a job and fills in with dog walking and a part-time job at the Dog & Duck.
While out walking one day, Ellie has to rescue on of the pets she is in charge of from the pond and is soaking wet when she runs into who else but the local sexy town crush!! What luck. Soaking wet and covered in mus and she finally gets to meet Max. What are the odds. Ellie has gotten mixed feelings from the locals about Max but every time she gets around him, she gets all flustered and can't even talk right. What is he going to think of her if she can't get herself together?
As things progress int he story, Ellie and Max start seeing more and more of each other. I can only imagine how this small town spreads gossip like we all know small towns to do. I can only imagine how things spread like wildfire.
This was overall a great read that I really enjoyed and I know you will too if you just give it a chance. I am excited to have found a new Author that I enjoy and can't wait to see what is next from Jill Steeples for us as readers!
September 9, 2023
My first book by this author. Ellie has returned to the village where she grew up having been made redundant. She moves into her parents' house (they are away for several months), starts a dog-walking business and gets a job at the pub that's been a sort of home-from-home to her in the past. But the pub, despite being the centre is village life, is threatened as the lease is up and the brewery has sold it.
Inevitably, Ellie's meeting with local landowner Max goes badly from the outset - she's covered in mud, he's mocking. So you know that the course of the book will be their series of misunderstandings and miscommunications - it's a familiar pattern, but not the easiest to handle. Some authors do it wonderfully (think Lizzie Bennett and Mr Darcy, mother and father to the whole trope). Here, it's no more than okay - Max charges headlong into things without asking, Ellie is wilfully obstructive a lot of the time. You want to shake them both. Neither really has a satisfactory excuse for their behaviour, but I suppose that's actually fairly typical of people in general.
Overall, it's a feel-good novel that serves its purpose of being comfortable and unchallenging, despite the visit to the refugee camp that's a pressing issue and deserving of more serious handling. But I still enjoyed it, and may well read further instalments (seems to be first of a series of four).
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Boldwood Books, for a review copy.
Inevitably, Ellie's meeting with local landowner Max goes badly from the outset - she's covered in mud, he's mocking. So you know that the course of the book will be their series of misunderstandings and miscommunications - it's a familiar pattern, but not the easiest to handle. Some authors do it wonderfully (think Lizzie Bennett and Mr Darcy, mother and father to the whole trope). Here, it's no more than okay - Max charges headlong into things without asking, Ellie is wilfully obstructive a lot of the time. You want to shake them both. Neither really has a satisfactory excuse for their behaviour, but I suppose that's actually fairly typical of people in general.
Overall, it's a feel-good novel that serves its purpose of being comfortable and unchallenging, despite the visit to the refugee camp that's a pressing issue and deserving of more serious handling. But I still enjoyed it, and may well read further instalments (seems to be first of a series of four).
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Boldwood Books, for a review copy.
September 1, 2023
BLURB:
Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.
Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie's looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.
But Little Leyton's landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie's ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie's heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life's looking a whole lot more complicated.... Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?
OPINION:
Ellie is so enjoyable right away. She is horrible at assuming without talking, but she is a very likable character. Max is aloof to those who don't know him and isn't really the type to put himself out there for people to meet.
The character build was good. Supporting characters made this book great. I loved picturing the town of Little Leyton. My main issue was the miscommunication that Ellie kept putting herself in. The first time, like ok, but she just assumes too much in life!
I would recommend this book. It was well written and enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and all partners for a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
Ellie Browne has left behind her high-flying job in London to return to the charming Buckinghamshire village of Little Leyton.
Working shifts at the Dog and Duck pub and running her own doggy-daycare business, Ellie's looking for a simpler way of life in this idyllic English setting.
But Little Leyton's landscape is changing: Johnny Tay, Ellie's ex, wants to pick up where they left off; sultry property developer Max Golding has moved into the village and is ruffling feathers; and rumour has it that the pub, which holds a special place in Ellie's heart, might be sold. Suddenly, life's looking a whole lot more complicated.... Can Ellie overcome all the challenges to finally find her one true love?
OPINION:
Ellie is so enjoyable right away. She is horrible at assuming without talking, but she is a very likable character. Max is aloof to those who don't know him and isn't really the type to put himself out there for people to meet.
The character build was good. Supporting characters made this book great. I loved picturing the town of Little Leyton. My main issue was the miscommunication that Ellie kept putting herself in. The first time, like ok, but she just assumes too much in life!
I would recommend this book. It was well written and enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and all partners for a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 18, 2016
I had never read any thing by Jill Steeples previous to reading Christmas at the Dog and Duck but as I am a sucker for a good Christmas book I decided to give this one a go. The blurb sounded promising but I'll readily admit I wasn't overly impressed with the cover. It's festive in some ways but it's the dark background which really detracts from the overall look the designers were trying to achieve. I know it's meant to be the night sky but for me it doesn't work at all making it not the most eye catching of the all the Christmas books published this year. It may seem silly to focus too much on a cover but I feel the cover for the book is the first thing a reader looks at and it plays a crucial role in whether people would want to buy the book or not. I think this book needs much more colour to make it stand out on the bookshelves and not be forgotten amongst the hundreds of Christmas books published every year.
In between the covers of this book there is a fairly decent story waiting to be read. I say fairly decent because it had plenty of promise but there were a few parts which didn't have any place in the book and I know several other people have felt the same having read their reviews. There was great potential here but it didn't 100% come to fruition but still come the end I was glad I had tried this book even just to satisfy my curiosity.
Our main character Ellie Browne has returned to her home village of Little Leyton after being made redundant from her high powered job in London working as an accountant. So her pace of life and long hours has drastically changed and she is now at a crossroads in her life and must decide what avenue she wishes to venture down next. Now back in the village this is her thinking time, a time to re-evaluate and reassess. Her parents are away in Dubai for a number of months so she is living in the family home rent free.'Coming home was meant to give me some clarity to offer me the opportunity to live a simpler less stressful life, but with each passing day spent in Little Leyton it looked as though life was getting more complicated by the moment'. Ellie has set up a dog walking business 'A Dog's Best Friend' and spends her days walking the villagers dogs and thinking over everything. Here is where she first encounters, in what was a funny incident, Max Goulding who turns out to be a property developer and who has restored the local hall. It's clear from the outset there is a spark between the pair but throughout the book there are misunderstandings and a complete lack of communication which provide twists and turns aplenty.
Firstly I thought the dog walking business and also coming back home to start over again had been done before in other books I had read and maybe even a bit better. I would have loved to have seen something new and fresh. My second major problem with the book was there was absolutely no mention of Christmas until 75%, I kept an eye out for this as it was supposed to be a Christmas book, even then Christmas only really featured at the very end. So readers expecting a delightful festive read won't get this in Christmas at the Dog and Duck., it really shouldn't be marketed as a Christmas book at all and it's misleading. Putting all this aside and forgetting the fact storylines start and never fully develop there is the bones of a good story here it just needed more refinement.
As well as running the dog walking business Ellie works shifts in the local pub 'The Dog and Duck' run by landlord Eric and his daughter Josie. Josie is Ellie's best friend and they spent many a time together as they grew up enjoying fun and frolics in the pub. Josie was a character who I felt could have been utilised more, she had a storyline then it abruptly ended and there was barely any mention of her after that. In fact I think that's probably what the problem was with this book too many storylines were introduced and then tapered out without proper development. Sticking to two or three might have been better. Ellie, as well as facing challenges in her personal life, now also has to worry about her job in the pub as the tenancy is up and new owners are stepping in. What changes will they bring? Will Eric stay? Will the community loose the pub they hold so dear to their hearts and where countless memories have been created over the year? I would have loved a bit more of a fight regarding this issue. Everything was shrouded in secrecy and they all seemed to give in to the inevitable without really getting to the bottom of things without a good fight. But a few twists and turns made me see this was necessary but that only came towards the end. In the middle of what is essentially a love story with some side stories were the refugees in Calais. This appeared out of nowhere and felt totally wrong and out of place for a book in this genre. It wasn't the place for it and again if you are going to tackle such a prominent issue tackle it full pelt not half heartedly. It was brought up, there was a trip and then forgotten about as with several things in this story. It felt like the author wanted to highlight this problem we see on the news everyday but like others who have read this book it just didn't feel right within the overall context of the story.
Christmas at the Dog and Duck could have been a really good story instead it only felt average for me but through the issues I had with the story I could see the really good parts that were waiting to come through and shine but never got the opportunity to do so.I think that's what made me keep reading on as Ellie and Max were likeable characters even if they had their faults too but all characters need that no one wants to read of perfect people the entire way through a story. Ellie had strong character traits at times yet there were others where I just wanted to shake her and say come on just find out the truth and don't be taking things you happen to see as word .Ask the people involved and stand up for what you feel is right. There will be more from Ellie and co with Summer at the Dog and Duck published next year and there was just enough that kept me interested in this story that would make me want to pay a return visit just to see how Ellie and co are getting on now.
In between the covers of this book there is a fairly decent story waiting to be read. I say fairly decent because it had plenty of promise but there were a few parts which didn't have any place in the book and I know several other people have felt the same having read their reviews. There was great potential here but it didn't 100% come to fruition but still come the end I was glad I had tried this book even just to satisfy my curiosity.
Our main character Ellie Browne has returned to her home village of Little Leyton after being made redundant from her high powered job in London working as an accountant. So her pace of life and long hours has drastically changed and she is now at a crossroads in her life and must decide what avenue she wishes to venture down next. Now back in the village this is her thinking time, a time to re-evaluate and reassess. Her parents are away in Dubai for a number of months so she is living in the family home rent free.'Coming home was meant to give me some clarity to offer me the opportunity to live a simpler less stressful life, but with each passing day spent in Little Leyton it looked as though life was getting more complicated by the moment'. Ellie has set up a dog walking business 'A Dog's Best Friend' and spends her days walking the villagers dogs and thinking over everything. Here is where she first encounters, in what was a funny incident, Max Goulding who turns out to be a property developer and who has restored the local hall. It's clear from the outset there is a spark between the pair but throughout the book there are misunderstandings and a complete lack of communication which provide twists and turns aplenty.
Firstly I thought the dog walking business and also coming back home to start over again had been done before in other books I had read and maybe even a bit better. I would have loved to have seen something new and fresh. My second major problem with the book was there was absolutely no mention of Christmas until 75%, I kept an eye out for this as it was supposed to be a Christmas book, even then Christmas only really featured at the very end. So readers expecting a delightful festive read won't get this in Christmas at the Dog and Duck., it really shouldn't be marketed as a Christmas book at all and it's misleading. Putting all this aside and forgetting the fact storylines start and never fully develop there is the bones of a good story here it just needed more refinement.
As well as running the dog walking business Ellie works shifts in the local pub 'The Dog and Duck' run by landlord Eric and his daughter Josie. Josie is Ellie's best friend and they spent many a time together as they grew up enjoying fun and frolics in the pub. Josie was a character who I felt could have been utilised more, she had a storyline then it abruptly ended and there was barely any mention of her after that. In fact I think that's probably what the problem was with this book too many storylines were introduced and then tapered out without proper development. Sticking to two or three might have been better. Ellie, as well as facing challenges in her personal life, now also has to worry about her job in the pub as the tenancy is up and new owners are stepping in. What changes will they bring? Will Eric stay? Will the community loose the pub they hold so dear to their hearts and where countless memories have been created over the year? I would have loved a bit more of a fight regarding this issue. Everything was shrouded in secrecy and they all seemed to give in to the inevitable without really getting to the bottom of things without a good fight. But a few twists and turns made me see this was necessary but that only came towards the end. In the middle of what is essentially a love story with some side stories were the refugees in Calais. This appeared out of nowhere and felt totally wrong and out of place for a book in this genre. It wasn't the place for it and again if you are going to tackle such a prominent issue tackle it full pelt not half heartedly. It was brought up, there was a trip and then forgotten about as with several things in this story. It felt like the author wanted to highlight this problem we see on the news everyday but like others who have read this book it just didn't feel right within the overall context of the story.
Christmas at the Dog and Duck could have been a really good story instead it only felt average for me but through the issues I had with the story I could see the really good parts that were waiting to come through and shine but never got the opportunity to do so.I think that's what made me keep reading on as Ellie and Max were likeable characters even if they had their faults too but all characters need that no one wants to read of perfect people the entire way through a story. Ellie had strong character traits at times yet there were others where I just wanted to shake her and say come on just find out the truth and don't be taking things you happen to see as word .Ask the people involved and stand up for what you feel is right. There will be more from Ellie and co with Summer at the Dog and Duck published next year and there was just enough that kept me interested in this story that would make me want to pay a return visit just to see how Ellie and co are getting on now.
November 22, 2018
Yeah so I didn't like this, I was getting quite frustrated by it at the end.
So first thing I need to get out, the book is called WINTER at the dog and duck but winter doesn't show up until the very end of the book! If you promise me a cosy winter read then I except to get some winter.
Secondly, Ellie is an incredibly annoying person and I really did not like being stuck with her. She jumps to conclusions and is rude to people and is a terrible communicator, she loves getting angry at someone and then 10 pages later wonders if she was unfair, well duh.
The relationship between her and Max was very blah too, I don't really go in for romances but these two were just so stiff and I didn't see any kind of connection between them. They both also need to learn how to communicate.
Also Ellie's friend/ex-boyfriend Johnny needs to go away, like now.
The setting was fine, I liked the dogs whenever they showed up but that's it. I don't recommend this to anyone, go and read something better instead.
**ALSO I just noticed in some other reviews that they call this book CHRISTMAS at the dog and duck, I knew I didn't imagine that! When did they change the title I wonder? Sometime after they realised that Christmas shows up at the end of book perhaps?**
So first thing I need to get out, the book is called WINTER at the dog and duck but winter doesn't show up until the very end of the book! If you promise me a cosy winter read then I except to get some winter.
Secondly, Ellie is an incredibly annoying person and I really did not like being stuck with her. She jumps to conclusions and is rude to people and is a terrible communicator, she loves getting angry at someone and then 10 pages later wonders if she was unfair, well duh.
The relationship between her and Max was very blah too, I don't really go in for romances but these two were just so stiff and I didn't see any kind of connection between them. They both also need to learn how to communicate.
Also Ellie's friend/ex-boyfriend Johnny needs to go away, like now.
The setting was fine, I liked the dogs whenever they showed up but that's it. I don't recommend this to anyone, go and read something better instead.
**ALSO I just noticed in some other reviews that they call this book CHRISTMAS at the dog and duck, I knew I didn't imagine that! When did they change the title I wonder? Sometime after they realised that Christmas shows up at the end of book perhaps?**
August 20, 2023
Ellie grew up in Little Leyton but she has been away at Uni and then London working in finance so being back in a small village and working at the pub and as a dogwalker is very different, indeed. She is enjoying the change of pace but she knows that she will have to make a decision in a couple of months. In the meantime, she is catching up with old friends and meeting new ones. Including Max.
Max is the handsome, brooding stranger in town that Ellie feels an instant connection with. Does he feel the same way? And could there be any kind of future for the two of them?
I really liked this book. Ellie is gorgeous, inside and out, and I loved that even when things don't go to plan for her, she doesn't fall down in a heap. I also love her enthusiasm for all things Christmas, that was rather sweet.
The Dog & Duck sounds like the kind of pub that every village should have. The descriptions of the various groups that used it for their social interactions made me smile.
This book was a lovely, positive breath of fresh air, without being sickly sweet. There were some thinkers in here as well e.g. when Ellie met Ima, the young refugee woman.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Max is the handsome, brooding stranger in town that Ellie feels an instant connection with. Does he feel the same way? And could there be any kind of future for the two of them?
I really liked this book. Ellie is gorgeous, inside and out, and I loved that even when things don't go to plan for her, she doesn't fall down in a heap. I also love her enthusiasm for all things Christmas, that was rather sweet.
The Dog & Duck sounds like the kind of pub that every village should have. The descriptions of the various groups that used it for their social interactions made me smile.
This book was a lovely, positive breath of fresh air, without being sickly sweet. There were some thinkers in here as well e.g. when Ellie met Ima, the young refugee woman.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
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