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Frogmorton Farm #2.6
Storm Christopher
A brand new Frogmorton Farm short story, from the bestselling author of the Chronicles of St Mary's.
With their children off on a school trip Russell and Jenny are contemplating their first peaceful weekend for many years.
SPOILER That doesn't happen.
The telephone lines are down.
The lights have gone out.
The weather is closing in.
And that's not the only thing . . .
With their children off on a school trip Russell and Jenny are contemplating their first peaceful weekend for many years.
SPOILER That doesn't happen.
The telephone lines are down.
The lights have gone out.
The weather is closing in.
And that's not the only thing . . .
102 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2024
140 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Taylor
85 books5,426 followersJodi Taylor is the internationally bestselling author of the Chronicles of St Mary's series, the story of a bunch of disaster prone individuals who investigate major historical events in contemporary time. Do NOT call it time travel! She is also the author of the Time Police series - a St Mary's spinoff and gateway into the world of an all-powerful, international organisation who are NOTHING like St Mary's. Except, when they are.
Alongside these, Jodi is known for her gripping supernatural thrillers featuring Elizabeth Cage together with the enchanting Frogmorton Farm series - a fairy story for adults.
Born in Bristol and now living in Gloucester (facts both cities vigorously deny), she spent many years with her head somewhere else, much to the dismay of family, teachers and employers, before finally deciding to put all that daydreaming to good use and write a novel. Over twenty books later, she still has no idea what she wants to do when she grows up.
Alongside these, Jodi is known for her gripping supernatural thrillers featuring Elizabeth Cage together with the enchanting Frogmorton Farm series - a fairy story for adults.
Born in Bristol and now living in Gloucester (facts both cities vigorously deny), she spent many years with her head somewhere else, much to the dismay of family, teachers and employers, before finally deciding to put all that daydreaming to good use and write a novel. Over twenty books later, she still has no idea what she wants to do when she grows up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 11, 2024
Another short story from Frogmorton Farm, following Jenny, Thomas, Russell and Co. In this one there's, surprise surprise, a terrible storm and somehow Francesca still manages to turn up at the door claiming she's murdered Christopher. Cue ensuing capers across the moors and multiple police calls. It's never a quiet day at the farm, and as always this was silly and fun and frivolous. I am beginning to wonder however if this series has run it's course. Jenny and her family are stable and happy, Thomas repeatedly goes off to pastures new... It's all getting a bit repetitive and although Im having a good time, I can see my patience wearing thin.
April 25, 2024
Back to Frogmorton Farm
The kids are away for the weekend, Russell and Jenny plan a blissfully quiet few days. Cue a major storm, series of unlikely events, Patagonian Attack Chickens, a purple dog, gentle humor, and another heart-warming conclusion. Ahhhh....
The kids are away for the weekend, Russell and Jenny plan a blissfully quiet few days. Cue a major storm, series of unlikely events, Patagonian Attack Chickens, a purple dog, gentle humor, and another heart-warming conclusion. Ahhhh....
May 2, 2024
Best one yet in series which is saying a lot given The Nothing Girl and Joy to the World. I love stories about redemption - when it makes sense given the personalities, which it does here.
Why this is great:
Humor. Jodi Taylor builds in humor into every line, even into the darkest times. She doesn't write those obnoxious hey-look-at-me-I'm-funny books, but writes about situations and people that could be real (other than the giant golden horse) and lets the dialogue flow. The endless 300 pounds sterling bottle of wine is a running joke.
Characters. Jenny and crew are among my favorites of Taylor's characters and it's wonderful to visit with them. Thomas is in a class by himself. (He reminds me a little of Leon in the St. Mary's books since he's practical, determined, a little devious if needed.)
Redemption. Who would have thought Christopher of all people would end up adopting a cat and turning his life around? Or that Julia would tell off Richard?
Spoilers:
Jenny and Russ send kids off to school overnight, settle down for adult time together warm and cozy with a fire and a terrible storm outside. Oops, phone. Of course it is Francesca. She is frantic because she was alone when her nasty brother Christopher came over and inadvertently tripped, hit his head on the very expensive (300 pounds sterling) wine bottle and knocked himself out. She was taking the corpse to the moor near Frogmorton when she ran into the ditch, revved the car into the mud, felt a bit woozy herself, got out and found the back door open and Christopher gone. Can Russ please help?
Thomas shows up. Russ tries to tell Franny to call the police but she's like a dentist drill when she wants something and he ends up going to help, along with designated driver Jenny. (Thomas thinks this is the best show he's seen in ages.)
They don't find Christopher (or his body) in the woods. Andrew sees the cars and stops to help, and is sober so Jenny goes back home. She's got Thomas but it's still scary when someone bangs on the back door. Is it Christopher? No, Daniel. They both realize there's someone upstairs when Russ, Franny and Andrew come back, Daniel tries to get a word in edgewise - difficult with Ross and Franny alone, not to mention together - when Sgt Bates and the cavalry arrive.
Sgt. Bates asks for one person to talk, concisely and cogently, but Russ jumps in ahead of Jenny and we're off. Then they all realize there's someone upstairs. The wind blew the window in and the very heavy oak dresser fell on the intruder. It's Christopher. They all go downstairs. The cat jumps on Christopher's lap and he starts to pet her, the first time he's ever shown affection to anyone.
Sgt Bates wants Christopher to tell them what he is doing there and explain the bloody bump on his head. Jenny realizes he might be in trouble for coming thee and jumps in to apologize that she didn't realize he was there a to call an ambulance. He starts to say something. Aunt Julia arrives, she's there for Christopher, as Thomas says, to rescue him from his life and his evil father Richard.
Thomas gently tells Jenny that Christopher has come for help; everyone deserves a second, and a third, fourth and more, chances. His fellow guardian horse angel, Rin, appears to Jenny. She is there for Christopher.
Christopher is on the verge of saying he'll go with Julia when Richard arrives and tries to talk him into coming back. Julia says NO. Jenny and Franny and Julia and now Christopher have all escaped Richard. Christopher says NO. He doesn't want to do that any more.
Jenny and Russ kick Richard out (complete with bloody nose), Julia takes Christopher with her, Daniel takes Franny, Andrew leaves and now it's Russell and Jenny time. Finally.
Why this is great:
Humor. Jodi Taylor builds in humor into every line, even into the darkest times. She doesn't write those obnoxious hey-look-at-me-I'm-funny books, but writes about situations and people that could be real (other than the giant golden horse) and lets the dialogue flow. The endless 300 pounds sterling bottle of wine is a running joke.
Characters. Jenny and crew are among my favorites of Taylor's characters and it's wonderful to visit with them. Thomas is in a class by himself. (He reminds me a little of Leon in the St. Mary's books since he's practical, determined, a little devious if needed.)
Redemption. Who would have thought Christopher of all people would end up adopting a cat and turning his life around? Or that Julia would tell off Richard?
Spoilers:
Jenny and Russ send kids off to school overnight, settle down for adult time together warm and cozy with a fire and a terrible storm outside. Oops, phone. Of course it is Francesca. She is frantic because she was alone when her nasty brother Christopher came over and inadvertently tripped, hit his head on the very expensive (300 pounds sterling) wine bottle and knocked himself out. She was taking the corpse to the moor near Frogmorton when she ran into the ditch, revved the car into the mud, felt a bit woozy herself, got out and found the back door open and Christopher gone. Can Russ please help?
Thomas shows up. Russ tries to tell Franny to call the police but she's like a dentist drill when she wants something and he ends up going to help, along with designated driver Jenny. (Thomas thinks this is the best show he's seen in ages.)
They don't find Christopher (or his body) in the woods. Andrew sees the cars and stops to help, and is sober so Jenny goes back home. She's got Thomas but it's still scary when someone bangs on the back door. Is it Christopher? No, Daniel. They both realize there's someone upstairs when Russ, Franny and Andrew come back, Daniel tries to get a word in edgewise - difficult with Ross and Franny alone, not to mention together - when Sgt Bates and the cavalry arrive.
Sgt. Bates asks for one person to talk, concisely and cogently, but Russ jumps in ahead of Jenny and we're off. Then they all realize there's someone upstairs. The wind blew the window in and the very heavy oak dresser fell on the intruder. It's Christopher. They all go downstairs. The cat jumps on Christopher's lap and he starts to pet her, the first time he's ever shown affection to anyone.
Sgt Bates wants Christopher to tell them what he is doing there and explain the bloody bump on his head. Jenny realizes he might be in trouble for coming thee and jumps in to apologize that she didn't realize he was there a to call an ambulance. He starts to say something. Aunt Julia arrives, she's there for Christopher, as Thomas says, to rescue him from his life and his evil father Richard.
Thomas gently tells Jenny that Christopher has come for help; everyone deserves a second, and a third, fourth and more, chances. His fellow guardian horse angel, Rin, appears to Jenny. She is there for Christopher.
Christopher is on the verge of saying he'll go with Julia when Richard arrives and tries to talk him into coming back. Julia says NO. Jenny and Franny and Julia and now Christopher have all escaped Richard. Christopher says NO. He doesn't want to do that any more.
Jenny and Russ kick Richard out (complete with bloody nose), Julia takes Christopher with her, Daniel takes Franny, Andrew leaves and now it's Russell and Jenny time. Finally.
July 17, 2024
A Frogmorton Farm short story featuring Jenny and Russell Checkland and an invisible golden horse called Thomas, who smells of warm ginger biscuits, and who helped Jenny over a rough period in her growing-up years. The Checkland kids are off on a school trip, so Jenny and Russell are looking forward to some couple-time. Unfortunately a storm front is moving in and the power is out. When Jenny's dangerous cousin Christopher shows up, things aren't looking good for Jenny. Her aunt is in trouble and fear (as well as rain) is in the air.
April 27, 2024
Returning to Frogmorton is a lot like receiving a huge hug from your favourite author. I love these characters and their always entertaining shenanigans. A return to their stories was unexpected but so enjoyable. The introduction of a new character is perhaps the most exciting part of this story, but not the most intriguing. Frogmorton is as wonderful and magical as ever.
July 9, 2024
Sweet addition to the Frogmorton books. All the Jodi Taylor trademark laugh out loud moments (or chuckles) included. Would love more in this world!
May 22, 2024
The Nothing Girl is a favorite of mine, so I'm always happy to have these continuations of the characters' lives. I love them and care about their fictional lives, and am always happy for an update.
Seriously, you all, Jodi Taylor is super. I hope you try at least one of her books somewhere sometime. She has several different series. So depending on what you like, there are options.
Seriously, you all, Jodi Taylor is super. I hope you try at least one of her books somewhere sometime. She has several different series. So depending on what you like, there are options.
April 27, 2024
Jodi Taylor writes with humor and love. You can feel it in every book she writes. This is the 5th book in the Frogmorton Farm series. By now Russell and Jenny’s two children are 13 and 9 and are going to an overnight camp for the first time. Mom and Dad are ecstatic. They will have private time without the children. But a big storm is blowing up named Christopher. And, Christopher is getting out of prison on parole. What could go wrong? Lots apparently. Thomas, the golden horse who helped Jenny survive her traumatic childhood has arrived. Jenny first smelled the ginger cookies and then sees Thomas. He is invisible to others. But, turns out he is there with another horse, Rani, because Christopher needs help to survive the same trauma that Jenny survived. It is a delightful read just like the earlier books. You really should start with Books 1 and 2 which set the stage for the three short stories that include this one. I love all of Jodi Taylor’s books but this series is my favorite.
June 9, 2024
Delightful, as are ALL Jodi Taylor books
When I want true escapism, I turn to Jodi Taylor, her stories are like no other author I have read except the imagination of J.K. Rowling. You enter a world they have created, but with a sense of “realism” that you know it MUST exist somewhere! I have read all of her books & short stories and look forward to reading ANYTHING she writes in the future!
This book is a continuation of the Frogmorton series and is no less filled with action than the others. I never try to retell the story as other reviewers do as I feel I am in no way qualified to retell the author’s work but I will say if you are a Jodi Taylor fan she does not disappoint on this one either! Highly recommend.
When I want true escapism, I turn to Jodi Taylor, her stories are like no other author I have read except the imagination of J.K. Rowling. You enter a world they have created, but with a sense of “realism” that you know it MUST exist somewhere! I have read all of her books & short stories and look forward to reading ANYTHING she writes in the future!
This book is a continuation of the Frogmorton series and is no less filled with action than the others. I never try to retell the story as other reviewers do as I feel I am in no way qualified to retell the author’s work but I will say if you are a Jodi Taylor fan she does not disappoint on this one either! Highly recommend.
July 20, 2024
Another fun instalment, this one longer than the previous. I have to say, it didn't go as I thought it would and I'm glad Jodi decided on this route.
Russell and Jenny are "all alone" in their house. Finally. Both kids are over night at camp which means they have time for themselves, something they hadn't for.. well.. a LONG while. They were just settling down when... Frani calls.. I give it to Russell - he knew once SHE calls they won't have their alone time anymore and he was right!
Everyone was there (well, except one person I actually missed!) and they all made a mess of things in the best and LOL way.
I don't think I can have enough of these characters! I hope Jodi keeps giving us more glimpses into their world (It also means I need to sample MORE of her!)
Russell and Jenny are "all alone" in their house. Finally. Both kids are over night at camp which means they have time for themselves, something they hadn't for.. well.. a LONG while. They were just settling down when... Frani calls.. I give it to Russell - he knew once SHE calls they won't have their alone time anymore and he was right!
Everyone was there (well, except one person I actually missed!) and they all made a mess of things in the best and LOL way.
I don't think I can have enough of these characters! I hope Jodi keeps giving us more glimpses into their world (It also means I need to sample MORE of her!)
October 15, 2024
A short visit with old friends
I routinely listen to audiobooks at x 1.2 playback speed. When I am struggling to get through a book I have even brought the speed up to x 1.5. I always listen to Jodi Taylor at 1.0, because I want to savor every second and every word of the story.
Storm Christopher is a return to Frogmorton Farm, following Jenny, Thomas, Russell, and the quirky relatives. Honestly, I was not sure that Jodi Taylor would come back to Jenny but I am glad she did.
I am continually amazed by how much love and humor Ms. Taylor brings to her writing. Storm Christopher is a short story about redemption and courage. Whether it is a full-length novel or a novella, Jodi Taylor's books are always over way too fast. Don't miss this one.
I routinely listen to audiobooks at x 1.2 playback speed. When I am struggling to get through a book I have even brought the speed up to x 1.5. I always listen to Jodi Taylor at 1.0, because I want to savor every second and every word of the story.
Storm Christopher is a return to Frogmorton Farm, following Jenny, Thomas, Russell, and the quirky relatives. Honestly, I was not sure that Jodi Taylor would come back to Jenny but I am glad she did.
I am continually amazed by how much love and humor Ms. Taylor brings to her writing. Storm Christopher is a short story about redemption and courage. Whether it is a full-length novel or a novella, Jodi Taylor's books are always over way too fast. Don't miss this one.
May 18, 2024
Magical. Great fun. More, please.
What a wonderful snapshot update of Jenny and Russell, with all the usual hijinks and all the previous characters. Thomas, is of course, the horse I would marry were he only human. (Probably good for me that he is not. I can only imagine the toilet seat battles that would ensue in that pairing). Thomas exemplifies my Higher Power, full of perfect love and understanding, with healthy boundaries and recognition of free will. Delicious read, both fun and my soul.
What a wonderful snapshot update of Jenny and Russell, with all the usual hijinks and all the previous characters. Thomas, is of course, the horse I would marry were he only human. (Probably good for me that he is not. I can only imagine the toilet seat battles that would ensue in that pairing). Thomas exemplifies my Higher Power, full of perfect love and understanding, with healthy boundaries and recognition of free will. Delicious read, both fun and my soul.
December 13, 2024
Haven’t read or indeed seen any of the this series of stories.
Saw this short story/novella on my kindle, forgot I had it and must have been a 99p deal at some time.
Surprised me tbh . Really enjoyed it. Liked the well drawn characters. Found the descriptions of the storm to be quite atmospheric for me.
The story was enjoyable, moved along at a fair pace. Obviously didn’t know the characters but I don’t feel that reduced the reading pleasure or entertainment value for me.
Will probably look out for the other titles next year.
Overall definite recommendation.
Saw this short story/novella on my kindle, forgot I had it and must have been a 99p deal at some time.
Surprised me tbh . Really enjoyed it. Liked the well drawn characters. Found the descriptions of the storm to be quite atmospheric for me.
The story was enjoyable, moved along at a fair pace. Obviously didn’t know the characters but I don’t feel that reduced the reading pleasure or entertainment value for me.
Will probably look out for the other titles next year.
Overall definite recommendation.
May 30, 2025
I love visiting Jenny and the invisible horse Thomas at Frogmorton farm.
The children Joy and Jamie have gone off on a school trip, leaving Russell and Jenny alone for a while 2 days, what could possibly go wrong. Well just about everything because these are the Checklands, disaster magnets of epic proportions. Storm Christopher has just blown in, so it’s chaos all round.
This is a very funny and charming short story. I love visiting Russell and Jenny at Frogmorton farm it’s always a delight, more soon please.
The children Joy and Jamie have gone off on a school trip, leaving Russell and Jenny alone for a while 2 days, what could possibly go wrong. Well just about everything because these are the Checklands, disaster magnets of epic proportions. Storm Christopher has just blown in, so it’s chaos all round.
This is a very funny and charming short story. I love visiting Russell and Jenny at Frogmorton farm it’s always a delight, more soon please.
April 29, 2024
Jenny and Russell are settling in for a cosy night alone, while Storm Christopher rages outside, as their children have both gone away with the school for the weekend when Russell gets a call from his high-maintenance ex-girlfriend claiming she's killed her brother and the body has disappeared!
What follows is the usual mixture of drama and high jinks, invisible golden horses, sceptical police officers, and a purple dog!
Loved it and I wish it was longer.
What follows is the usual mixture of drama and high jinks, invisible golden horses, sceptical police officers, and a purple dog!
Loved it and I wish it was longer.
May 5, 2024
Lots of feels in a small package
Whiplash inducing dialogue which absolutely fits these characters. I had a visceral reaction when Thomas came on scene. Who doesn’t love a golden horse that smells like cookies? So many emotions in so few pages, this author truly has a gift with words. Thank you Ms Taylor for revisiting my friends from Frogmorton
Whiplash inducing dialogue which absolutely fits these characters. I had a visceral reaction when Thomas came on scene. Who doesn’t love a golden horse that smells like cookies? So many emotions in so few pages, this author truly has a gift with words. Thank you Ms Taylor for revisiting my friends from Frogmorton
May 30, 2024
Jodi Taylor is a Favorite Author!
I love her writing and character development! I was delighted to see a new Frogmorton Farm book, and enjoyed it immensely! Great cast of characters (human and not so much), and a good story to work from. Good to see familiar characters and places again!
I love her writing and character development! I was delighted to see a new Frogmorton Farm book, and enjoyed it immensely! Great cast of characters (human and not so much), and a good story to work from. Good to see familiar characters and places again!
July 19, 2024
As always, I seem to love everything that Jodi Taylor writes. This one sure packs a lot into a short story, or perhaps a novella. Great to revisit all the Frogmorton Farm characters again. Really do recommend reading the series in order, otherwise giant invisible horses might be a bit of a confusing element.
September 10, 2024
Jodi Taylor is hilarious! I find myself bursting out in laughter no matter which book of hers I’m reading. She is a priceless author. I felt like I needed a refresher primer to remind me of all that has happened at Frogmorton Farm. However, I did get caught up with the storyline. Great characters, witty dialogue, some lovely moments, and a quick, fun read.
February 3, 2025
Another frogmouth classic
Another great story from Jodi Taylor, you never know where the story will take you next. You lose all sense of time when reading which is always sign of a good book. Jenny and Russell are thrown into chaos again and the past alwise bites them on the bum. What more xould you need from a good book.
Another great story from Jodi Taylor, you never know where the story will take you next. You lose all sense of time when reading which is always sign of a good book. Jenny and Russell are thrown into chaos again and the past alwise bites them on the bum. What more xould you need from a good book.
April 28, 2024
Sad, funny, laugh out loud, wonder about. Love the family, wel!, somel of tnem.
Another great short. Love the characters. This time the Kingdoms are straightened out, sort of.
Look forward to what's next.
Another great short. Love the characters. This time the Kingdoms are straightened out, sort of.
Look forward to what's next.
May 6, 2024
Another great Frogmorton Farm novella. I loved this theme of forgiveness that flows through this book but with laughter, suspense and creative license. Jodi Taylor is still a definite go to author for me.
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May 8, 2024Another superb tale from Frogmorton Farm
An absolute delight, Jodi Taylor never puts a foot wrong, hilarious, touching, frightening and comforting all at once. If you haven't read any of these stories you're missing something great.
An absolute delight, Jodi Taylor never puts a foot wrong, hilarious, touching, frightening and comforting all at once. If you haven't read any of these stories you're missing something great.
May 12, 2024
I've loved all the St. Mary's and Time Police books. I tried another of the Frogmorton Farm stories and didn't like that one either. Invisible, full sized, magic talking horses are too outrageous. Not my cup of tea.
May 18, 2024
Lovely story
Short and incredibly sweet, brilliant with quite a few laugh out loud moments, hubby thought I was having some sort of episode. But a nice interlude in till the next book comes out
Short and incredibly sweet, brilliant with quite a few laugh out loud moments, hubby thought I was having some sort of episode. But a nice interlude in till the next book comes out
May 27, 2024
The usual Frogmorton Farm magic. Best read in series sequence. Personally. I would welcome a world where my guardian angel was a beautiful horse. If that appeals to you, start with Nothing Girl and enjoy the enchantment.
June 3, 2024
wonderful as always
No one has a better imagination than Jodi Taylor. Or better sense of humor.. Her Frogmorton Farm series is amazing. So well written and delightfully imagined. Love all of her books but there is something special about these.
No one has a better imagination than Jodi Taylor. Or better sense of humor.. Her Frogmorton Farm series is amazing. So well written and delightfully imagined. Love all of her books but there is something special about these.
September 24, 2024
This latest to the Frogmorton Farm series is just as lovely as the others with standout characters and humour. I loved it and read it in an afternoon it was so good. More please of this lovely series!
April 25, 2024
Lovely as ever. I enjoy the world of Frogmorten Farm, although there’s not quite as much of it as I’d like. A nice short story which continues the previously established narratives.
April 25, 2024
Old friends
Laughed throughout, like visiting old friends.
Another wonderful Frogmorton adventure, my only wish is that it was longer. Fantastic read, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Laughed throughout, like visiting old friends.
Another wonderful Frogmorton adventure, my only wish is that it was longer. Fantastic read, thoroughly enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews