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Chalk Hill #4
The Vet's Country Holiday
One irrepressible city girl plus a by-the-numbers accountant = a tricky equation...
For city vet Isabella Passmore, the opportunity to pet-sit in the country knocks at the perfect time. Bring on that fresh air! But after three days of holiday bliss, Izzy is bored silly. If the air gets any cleaner, she'll start slinging mud. Then she gets offered work in the second-hand shop. Saved!
Maybe.
It's been years since Elliot Field's parents rolled out the red carpet, but Elliot only needs one day to learn that this welcome mat comes with strings. His parents' new business is sinking, and they expect him to fix their financial problems.
To prepare for the week from hell, he'll need a mug that's not steeped in bad memories, but nothing could prepare him for the employee he encounters at the second-hand shop.
For Izzy, pursuing Elliot is a most welcome diversion from walking another lap of town with the dog. For Elliot, their random encounters add up to the sum of much bigger things.
He's always been a numbers man and he's kept his heart locked away, but in irrepressible Izzy, is Elliot's number finally up?
For city vet Isabella Passmore, the opportunity to pet-sit in the country knocks at the perfect time. Bring on that fresh air! But after three days of holiday bliss, Izzy is bored silly. If the air gets any cleaner, she'll start slinging mud. Then she gets offered work in the second-hand shop. Saved!
Maybe.
It's been years since Elliot Field's parents rolled out the red carpet, but Elliot only needs one day to learn that this welcome mat comes with strings. His parents' new business is sinking, and they expect him to fix their financial problems.
To prepare for the week from hell, he'll need a mug that's not steeped in bad memories, but nothing could prepare him for the employee he encounters at the second-hand shop.
For Izzy, pursuing Elliot is a most welcome diversion from walking another lap of town with the dog. For Elliot, their random encounters add up to the sum of much bigger things.
He's always been a numbers man and he's kept his heart locked away, but in irrepressible Izzy, is Elliot's number finally up?
Audio CD
About the author
Lily Malone
26 books184 followersLily Malone is a journalist and freelance writer who discovered after years of writing facts for a living, writing romance was much more fun.
Lily juggles writing with the needs of a young family, and when she isn’t writing, she likes gardening, walking, wine, and walking in gardens (sometimes with wine).
She loves to hear from readers and you can visit Lily at www.lilymalone.wordpress.com; email her at lilymalone@mail.com or connect with her here on Goodreads or find and like her page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/lily.lilymalone
Lily juggles writing with the needs of a young family, and when she isn’t writing, she likes gardening, walking, wine, and walking in gardens (sometimes with wine).
She loves to hear from readers and you can visit Lily at www.lilymalone.wordpress.com; email her at lilymalone@mail.com or connect with her here on Goodreads or find and like her page on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/lily.lilymalone
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 5, 2022
Isabella (Izzy) Passmore had her own veterinary practice in Perth and was more than happy to house and dog (Bruno) sit for a month while her good friend Taylor was away. Chalk Hill was a lovely spot, beautifully located, quiet and peaceful, with normal country folk who were kind and caring, helping one another if it was needed. But within three days, Izzy was bored. She knew the town already, having walked Bruno through the streets every day. Her arrival at the secondhand shop, which she had done daily, tempted her to go inside once again, never expecting Irene to rope her into looking after the shop while she saw a friend.
Accountant Elliot Field had arrived in Chalk Hill from Brisbane, there to look at his parent’s financials. They owned and ran a ski park on the outskirts of Chalk Hill, which they’d built and set up on the farm, but it wasn’t making money. His mum, Wendy and dad, Dylan were kindly folk and treated their staff as family. Which, Elliot could see, might be the problem. The day he walked into the secondhand shop to pick up a mug for coffee at his mum’s, and met Izzy, was when his, and Izzy’s lives changed. Elliot’s past was filled with regret and guilt – coming home was hard for him. Izzy’s irrepressible nature found Elliot smiling for the first time in a long time…
The Vet’s Country Holiday is the 4th in the Chalk Hill series by Aussie author Lily Malone and I loved it! Heartwarming, with many laugh out loud moments, Izzy was a laugh a minute – she cracked me up! There are many animals in this one too – Bruno, Bertie (another dog), the chicken, the duck, and of course the little girl next door, Charlotte. I always enjoy this author’s work, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Accountant Elliot Field had arrived in Chalk Hill from Brisbane, there to look at his parent’s financials. They owned and ran a ski park on the outskirts of Chalk Hill, which they’d built and set up on the farm, but it wasn’t making money. His mum, Wendy and dad, Dylan were kindly folk and treated their staff as family. Which, Elliot could see, might be the problem. The day he walked into the secondhand shop to pick up a mug for coffee at his mum’s, and met Izzy, was when his, and Izzy’s lives changed. Elliot’s past was filled with regret and guilt – coming home was hard for him. Izzy’s irrepressible nature found Elliot smiling for the first time in a long time…
The Vet’s Country Holiday is the 4th in the Chalk Hill series by Aussie author Lily Malone and I loved it! Heartwarming, with many laugh out loud moments, Izzy was a laugh a minute – she cracked me up! There are many animals in this one too – Bruno, Bertie (another dog), the chicken, the duck, and of course the little girl next door, Charlotte. I always enjoy this author’s work, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2022
I always look forward to a Lily Malone story, her characters are so easy to make friends with they have fabulous personalities and this author is sure to make you smile with her witty banter and this one was a beauty of a story, we are back in Chalk Hill a fabulous part of Western Australia even if it is make believe to meet Vet, Isabella (Izzy) Passmore and forensic accountant Elliot Fields and don’t believe all you hear about accounts, come along and meet them.
Izzy loves her job as a vet in Perth but she hasn’t had a holiday for a long time and when her best friend asks her to come to Chalk Hill and babysit her dog Bruno and her house Izzy jumps at the chance but after a few days things are not going to plan there have been no hunky farmers come along and Izzy is getting a tad bored. When a visit to the second hand shop in town changes things for Izzy in lots of ways, she is asked to help out and her first task goes terribly wrong lucky for Izzy Elliot walks into the shop and saves the day will he save Izzy?
Elliot Fields has been asked by his parents to return home and help them with their finances in running the Ski-Park they run on their old farm just outside of town, it has been a long time since Elliot has come home from Brisbane, Chalk Hill and home holds way too many memories. One thing that he knows is that he will need a new mug to use one that holds no memories, hence this brings him into the second hand shop and a rather messy meeting with the beautiful Izzy.
Izzy and Elliot connect instantly there are sparks and it is not long before these two are having coffee and lunch and counting the non- dates, add to that a chicken an injured duck and a lost man and his dog and the problems at the ski park that Elliot is doing his best to work out and Izzy constantly asking questions and helping Elliot even if he doesn’t realise it this book had me turning the pages.
This is a fabulous fun, witty and heartwarming story, beautifully written it brings out many emotions as well as some very funny laugh out loud moments, Izzy is realizing that she wants more in the future and she is not getting any younger and she is falling hard and fast for Elliot, but he maybe not the man for her, Elliot because of his past is good with numbers but loving he is not so sure of, but Izzy gets to him in so many ways, is it time to re-think his future? I loved Izzy and Elliot, I laughed and cheered them on through this story and I would highly recommend this one to all readers who love a great story.
My thanks to Harlequin for my copy to read and review
Izzy loves her job as a vet in Perth but she hasn’t had a holiday for a long time and when her best friend asks her to come to Chalk Hill and babysit her dog Bruno and her house Izzy jumps at the chance but after a few days things are not going to plan there have been no hunky farmers come along and Izzy is getting a tad bored. When a visit to the second hand shop in town changes things for Izzy in lots of ways, she is asked to help out and her first task goes terribly wrong lucky for Izzy Elliot walks into the shop and saves the day will he save Izzy?
Elliot Fields has been asked by his parents to return home and help them with their finances in running the Ski-Park they run on their old farm just outside of town, it has been a long time since Elliot has come home from Brisbane, Chalk Hill and home holds way too many memories. One thing that he knows is that he will need a new mug to use one that holds no memories, hence this brings him into the second hand shop and a rather messy meeting with the beautiful Izzy.
Izzy and Elliot connect instantly there are sparks and it is not long before these two are having coffee and lunch and counting the non- dates, add to that a chicken an injured duck and a lost man and his dog and the problems at the ski park that Elliot is doing his best to work out and Izzy constantly asking questions and helping Elliot even if he doesn’t realise it this book had me turning the pages.
This is a fabulous fun, witty and heartwarming story, beautifully written it brings out many emotions as well as some very funny laugh out loud moments, Izzy is realizing that she wants more in the future and she is not getting any younger and she is falling hard and fast for Elliot, but he maybe not the man for her, Elliot because of his past is good with numbers but loving he is not so sure of, but Izzy gets to him in so many ways, is it time to re-think his future? I loved Izzy and Elliot, I laughed and cheered them on through this story and I would highly recommend this one to all readers who love a great story.
My thanks to Harlequin for my copy to read and review
November 22, 2022
https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
Lily Malone's The Vet's Country Holiday was just the book I needed to get me out of a reading slump.
I raced through the story and loved everything about it. The small town of Chalk Hill in country Western Australia is instantly appealing with its beautifully described scenery and friendly townsfolk.
Isabella Passmore is house sitting, and dog sitting, for Taylor and Abe while the have a much deserved holiday.
Isabella (Izzy) would have to be my most favourite character ever. She's a bit awkward and is always getting herself into sticky situations which was quite humorous, but mostly I loved her kind outspokenness. She gently forces people to open up and she's not afraid to speak her feelings.
Accountant Elliot Fields is back in Chalk Hill to help his parents with the financial side of their new cafe and water ski business. A years old tragedy has caused Elliot to close himself off from everyone, including his family but Izzy is not going to let him get away from expressing his most feared thoughts.
Izzy and Elliot were perfect together! Their relationship started out as fun as they were both only in Chalk Hill for a short time and knew they had a life and job to go back to.
The Vet's Country Holiday is a story about openness, forgiveness and moving on. It is full of fun and laugh out loud moments but it also brought a tear to my eye on occasions.
Lily's ability to take a real life event and expand on it with the 'what ifs', to show how different life may have been, highlights her exceptional story telling ability.
The Vet's Country Holiday is funny, engaging and heartwarming. A story bursting with country charm.
If you are after a story to captivate and delight, you can't go past The Vet's Country Holiday.
Lily Malone's The Vet's Country Holiday was just the book I needed to get me out of a reading slump.
I raced through the story and loved everything about it. The small town of Chalk Hill in country Western Australia is instantly appealing with its beautifully described scenery and friendly townsfolk.
Isabella Passmore is house sitting, and dog sitting, for Taylor and Abe while the have a much deserved holiday.
Isabella (Izzy) would have to be my most favourite character ever. She's a bit awkward and is always getting herself into sticky situations which was quite humorous, but mostly I loved her kind outspokenness. She gently forces people to open up and she's not afraid to speak her feelings.
Accountant Elliot Fields is back in Chalk Hill to help his parents with the financial side of their new cafe and water ski business. A years old tragedy has caused Elliot to close himself off from everyone, including his family but Izzy is not going to let him get away from expressing his most feared thoughts.
Izzy and Elliot were perfect together! Their relationship started out as fun as they were both only in Chalk Hill for a short time and knew they had a life and job to go back to.
The Vet's Country Holiday is a story about openness, forgiveness and moving on. It is full of fun and laugh out loud moments but it also brought a tear to my eye on occasions.
Lily's ability to take a real life event and expand on it with the 'what ifs', to show how different life may have been, highlights her exceptional story telling ability.
The Vet's Country Holiday is funny, engaging and heartwarming. A story bursting with country charm.
If you are after a story to captivate and delight, you can't go past The Vet's Country Holiday.
May 11, 2022
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The Vet's Country Holiday by Lily Malone. (2022).
(Chalk Hill ; #4).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 March 2022**
City vet Isabella is having a holiday while pet-sitting in the country, but she's bored after 3 days and ends up working in the second-hand shop. Elliot has been invited home after some time but with strings attached - his parents' new business is sinking and they expect him to fix their financial problems. He needs a solid mug but is surprised by the new employee at the second-hand shop. For Izzy, pursuing Elliot is a welcome diversion. For Elliot, their random encounters add up to bigger things. He's always been a numbers man and kept his heart locked away but is his number finally up with the irrepressible Izzy?
I was very happy to discover that this book took the reader back to Chalk Hill; if you haven't read the others, that's absolutely fine but I would highly recommend them! In this one we have the lovely sassy veterinarian Izzy and the handsome kind accountant Elliot. Elliot is a bit emotionally broken after a traumatic experience in his youth which has contributed to him staying away from home. When he arrives home he is immediately drawn to Izzy who is visiting town. Izzy is up-front with her attention to Elliot and I enjoyed their banter. The storyline is a sweet rural romance that has some drama elements in relation to Elliott's family history as well as him working out the issues with his family's business. For Izzy, she has some revelations on what she wants to happen in her future and it's a matter of whether Elliot can fit into that or not... Both lead characters are likeable and readers will be hoping it will work out for the two of them.
Overall: happily recommend for any fans of Australian rural romance.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Vet's Country Holiday by Lily Malone. (2022).
(Chalk Hill ; #4).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 30 March 2022**
City vet Isabella is having a holiday while pet-sitting in the country, but she's bored after 3 days and ends up working in the second-hand shop. Elliot has been invited home after some time but with strings attached - his parents' new business is sinking and they expect him to fix their financial problems. He needs a solid mug but is surprised by the new employee at the second-hand shop. For Izzy, pursuing Elliot is a welcome diversion. For Elliot, their random encounters add up to bigger things. He's always been a numbers man and kept his heart locked away but is his number finally up with the irrepressible Izzy?
I was very happy to discover that this book took the reader back to Chalk Hill; if you haven't read the others, that's absolutely fine but I would highly recommend them! In this one we have the lovely sassy veterinarian Izzy and the handsome kind accountant Elliot. Elliot is a bit emotionally broken after a traumatic experience in his youth which has contributed to him staying away from home. When he arrives home he is immediately drawn to Izzy who is visiting town. Izzy is up-front with her attention to Elliot and I enjoyed their banter. The storyline is a sweet rural romance that has some drama elements in relation to Elliott's family history as well as him working out the issues with his family's business. For Izzy, she has some revelations on what she wants to happen in her future and it's a matter of whether Elliot can fit into that or not... Both lead characters are likeable and readers will be hoping it will work out for the two of them.
Overall: happily recommend for any fans of Australian rural romance.
June 28, 2022
Thank you Harper Collins Australia, Harlequin Aus and Mira Australia for sending me a copy of this book to review.
I adored this book. Even though its number 4 in the series I read it as a standalone and I have already checked out her backlist and have them on order. I cant wait to read the other books.
I loved the flirting between Izzy and and Elliot and felt a huge connection with all the characters. I loved the country setting in Chalk Town WA with the down to earth country characters. This book was full of wit and had me smiling and laughing all the way through. I am thrilled to add another fantastic author to my bookshelf. It makes me feel warm and fuzzy when I read books like this.
I adored this book. Even though its number 4 in the series I read it as a standalone and I have already checked out her backlist and have them on order. I cant wait to read the other books.
I loved the flirting between Izzy and and Elliot and felt a huge connection with all the characters. I loved the country setting in Chalk Town WA with the down to earth country characters. This book was full of wit and had me smiling and laughing all the way through. I am thrilled to add another fantastic author to my bookshelf. It makes me feel warm and fuzzy when I read books like this.
July 18, 2022
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
‘People were so nice in the country.’
In a series that has spanned four great quintessential rural romance adventures, The Vet’s Country Holiday is the latest title from West Australian author Lily Malone. A genial, open and highly entertaining novel from cover to cover, The Vet’s Country Holiday is a story that I would happily recommend to all readers.
The Vet’s Country Holiday invites the audience to follow a city vet named Isabella Passmore as she makes a tree change from the city to the country. Despite the tranquil and serene atmosphere of Chalk Hill, Izzy soon finds that she is bored. When a local second-hand shop offers her some work, Izzy laps up the opportunity. When Izzy crosses paths with a local man named Elliot sparks soon fly. But Elliot is keen to stay closely guarded, he cannot open his heart up to a new romance. Will Elliott be able to resist Izzy’s charms?
It’s always a genuinely pleasurable experience to read a Lily Malone novel, it’s like catching up with a dear friend. The Vet’s Country Holiday was a warm, inviting and easy-going story. I loved the chance to return to familiar soil after my previous positive reading experiences in Chalk Hill.
I loved getting acquainted with Izzy and Elliot, the leads of this new tale from Lily Malone. They are quite different personality wise, but they seemed to click together well as this love story progressed. Elliot is definitely a kind but guarded man. The past history involving a traumatic incident from his childhood that has shaped Elliot’s world view and frame of mind was intriguing. I really appreciated this area of the novel and I think Malone handled the serious tones of the novel well. On a lighter note Izzy is full of life, she had a great sense of energy and buzz that I found quite infectious. Pairing a city vet and an accountant together was a great narrative device. The romance aspect of The Vet’s Country Holiday was very satisfying.
Alongside the engaging love story there is a strong focus on community relations and life in general in the country which always appeals to this suburban dweller! I get to daydream about life in a small rural township like Chalk Hill thanks to Lily Malone’s immersive writing. The various community members of Chalk Hill are represented well by Malone and it is always so enjoyable to be able be a integral part of their colourful adventures! The animal folk in this novel are truly fantastic and I thought that they really contributed to a sense of fun and frivolity in this tale. It’s never a dull moment when you pick up a Lily Malone novel!
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
‘People were so nice in the country.’
In a series that has spanned four great quintessential rural romance adventures, The Vet’s Country Holiday is the latest title from West Australian author Lily Malone. A genial, open and highly entertaining novel from cover to cover, The Vet’s Country Holiday is a story that I would happily recommend to all readers.
The Vet’s Country Holiday invites the audience to follow a city vet named Isabella Passmore as she makes a tree change from the city to the country. Despite the tranquil and serene atmosphere of Chalk Hill, Izzy soon finds that she is bored. When a local second-hand shop offers her some work, Izzy laps up the opportunity. When Izzy crosses paths with a local man named Elliot sparks soon fly. But Elliot is keen to stay closely guarded, he cannot open his heart up to a new romance. Will Elliott be able to resist Izzy’s charms?
It’s always a genuinely pleasurable experience to read a Lily Malone novel, it’s like catching up with a dear friend. The Vet’s Country Holiday was a warm, inviting and easy-going story. I loved the chance to return to familiar soil after my previous positive reading experiences in Chalk Hill.
I loved getting acquainted with Izzy and Elliot, the leads of this new tale from Lily Malone. They are quite different personality wise, but they seemed to click together well as this love story progressed. Elliot is definitely a kind but guarded man. The past history involving a traumatic incident from his childhood that has shaped Elliot’s world view and frame of mind was intriguing. I really appreciated this area of the novel and I think Malone handled the serious tones of the novel well. On a lighter note Izzy is full of life, she had a great sense of energy and buzz that I found quite infectious. Pairing a city vet and an accountant together was a great narrative device. The romance aspect of The Vet’s Country Holiday was very satisfying.
Alongside the engaging love story there is a strong focus on community relations and life in general in the country which always appeals to this suburban dweller! I get to daydream about life in a small rural township like Chalk Hill thanks to Lily Malone’s immersive writing. The various community members of Chalk Hill are represented well by Malone and it is always so enjoyable to be able be a integral part of their colourful adventures! The animal folk in this novel are truly fantastic and I thought that they really contributed to a sense of fun and frivolity in this tale. It’s never a dull moment when you pick up a Lily Malone novel!
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
October 22, 2022
The Vet’s Country Holiday is the fourth book in the Chalk Hill series by Aussie author Lily Malone. I knew this would be a five-star rating book before I even finished reading the first chapter. Yes, you could say this author is a favorite of mine and I love reading her books.
Relatable and likeable characters with so many laugh-out-loud moments all the things I love in a book. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital ARC copy to read and review.
Relatable and likeable characters with so many laugh-out-loud moments all the things I love in a book. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital ARC copy to read and review.
April 10, 2022
Copy received for an honest review
I can't lie, having done the tree change myself, I am a sucker for a city girl/guy goes country story.
Add in an adorable pupper, and you have me, hook line and sinker.
Izzy and Elliot's story yes, is a cute rural romance, but it does tackle some darker, deeper subjects, and it does it well
I did dislike his parents for the most part, but they did redeem themselves eventually lol
This was my first Lily Malone story, and i will read more in the future
I can't lie, having done the tree change myself, I am a sucker for a city girl/guy goes country story.
Add in an adorable pupper, and you have me, hook line and sinker.
Izzy and Elliot's story yes, is a cute rural romance, but it does tackle some darker, deeper subjects, and it does it well
I did dislike his parents for the most part, but they did redeem themselves eventually lol
This was my first Lily Malone story, and i will read more in the future
October 14, 2022
The Vet's Country Holiday is the fourth book in The Chalk Hill series, and it's such a brilliant, funny and wholesome read!
I've been looking forward to this since beginning the series. After meeting and getting to know the Honeychurch brothers, it was really nice to spend some time with the Field family. We first met Pickles in the first book and have been following the progress of his water ski park since then. Now as he runs into money problems, it's time for his accountant son Elliot to return home after many years away.
Also in town is vet Izzy Passmore, who've we've also met briefly before. Whilst her best friend Taylor and her partner are overseas, Izzy is house and pet sitting. Sick of the repetitiveness of daily life in Chalk Hill, Izzy manages to procure a volunteer job in Irene Lovedale's op shop.
It's the perfect meetcute- Elliot enters the opshop to find a mug, only to be struck by how cute the employee is... Even if she's made a huge mess with an ink mishap! They get chatting (flirting) which turns into coffee... that turns into lunch... A week later there's certainly some love hearts hovering over their heads!
But this must stay as a holiday fling. Their lives are in different parts of the country, and Elliot has some fearsome commitment issues. Despite his reasonings (which are really sad), Elliot is really acting stupidly for someone who's obviously met the one!
For me, a highlight was all the animals we meet in this book! From hamsters to hens, to ducks and dogs there's plenty charges for Izzy (and little girl Charlotte) to take care of!
Hope there's more to come in this wonderful series!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
I've been looking forward to this since beginning the series. After meeting and getting to know the Honeychurch brothers, it was really nice to spend some time with the Field family. We first met Pickles in the first book and have been following the progress of his water ski park since then. Now as he runs into money problems, it's time for his accountant son Elliot to return home after many years away.
Also in town is vet Izzy Passmore, who've we've also met briefly before. Whilst her best friend Taylor and her partner are overseas, Izzy is house and pet sitting. Sick of the repetitiveness of daily life in Chalk Hill, Izzy manages to procure a volunteer job in Irene Lovedale's op shop.
It's the perfect meetcute- Elliot enters the opshop to find a mug, only to be struck by how cute the employee is... Even if she's made a huge mess with an ink mishap! They get chatting (flirting) which turns into coffee... that turns into lunch... A week later there's certainly some love hearts hovering over their heads!
But this must stay as a holiday fling. Their lives are in different parts of the country, and Elliot has some fearsome commitment issues. Despite his reasonings (which are really sad), Elliot is really acting stupidly for someone who's obviously met the one!
For me, a highlight was all the animals we meet in this book! From hamsters to hens, to ducks and dogs there's plenty charges for Izzy (and little girl Charlotte) to take care of!
Hope there's more to come in this wonderful series!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
April 6, 2022
When Izzy agrees to help her friend out by dog sitting, she doesn't realize that the small town she will be staying in is so small that she's already bored by day three. Thankfully she finds a job at the second hand shop, where she meets Elliot. Maybe Elliot will be the distraction she needs to make her short visit a bit of fun!
I'm loving all the Aussie rural romances of late! This one was no exception. It was cute, tackled some serious issues and had many laugh out loud moments. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I'm loving all the Aussie rural romances of late! This one was no exception. It was cute, tackled some serious issues and had many laugh out loud moments. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2023
Ahhh this book was so much fun!!! 😆 It had everything that I love in Aus rural fiction - love, interesting characters, a memorable town and landscape, and some mystery that kept me guessing till the end. I’ve also realised that this book is apart of a series so I’ll be definitely giving the other books a go soon! But in my opinion this book can definitely be read as a stand alone too ☺️Highly recommend if you’re wanting a fun, enjoyable read to get you out of a slump.
March 21, 2022
The Vet’s Country Holiday by Lily Malone centres on the characters of Izzy and Elliott in the charming backdrop of Chalk Hill. Both characters are a commanding presence from the start and I loved Izzy’s depicted effervescent personality! She was a bright shining star from the get go. Elliott’s character stood tall on his own and played well alongside Izzy’s as they are polar opposites in demeanour, yet are so incredibly well matched throughout the read.
Elliott’s broken heart is tough to witness as reader’s are drawn to his plight in witnessing his misfortune, observing first hand how the situation is handled badly by all and sundry. Well, except for Izzy who is perceptive, honest and thankfully, filter-less. Bruno is a sweetheart and the chicken scene was jarring because I wasn’t expecting it, and the duck just brilliant!
Though the story held serious moments, Izzy had me laughing so many times. The stamp was relatable and a hoot to read, and I don’t know of many people who haven’t had that same dilemma! Another nice moment is the glimpse of past characters from the series and the local folk who carried the story further.
The Vet’s Country Holiday by author Lily Malone is a read that is a breath of fresh air, filled with unmissable moments from characters who pull at your heartstrings from the story’s beginning. Purely unmissable reading.
Review copy received from Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley
Elliott’s broken heart is tough to witness as reader’s are drawn to his plight in witnessing his misfortune, observing first hand how the situation is handled badly by all and sundry. Well, except for Izzy who is perceptive, honest and thankfully, filter-less. Bruno is a sweetheart and the chicken scene was jarring because I wasn’t expecting it, and the duck just brilliant!
Though the story held serious moments, Izzy had me laughing so many times. The stamp was relatable and a hoot to read, and I don’t know of many people who haven’t had that same dilemma! Another nice moment is the glimpse of past characters from the series and the local folk who carried the story further.
The Vet’s Country Holiday by author Lily Malone is a read that is a breath of fresh air, filled with unmissable moments from characters who pull at your heartstrings from the story’s beginning. Purely unmissable reading.
Review copy received from Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley
April 12, 2022
Set in the small West Australian town of Chalk Hill, The Vet’s Country Holiday is a rural romance packed with light humour that is sure to bring plenty of smiles. I loved watching Isabella struggle to overcome boredom, loneliness and her cigarette cravings as the story unfolded. Clearly she is used to her days being filled with work and struggles at first with the slower pace of Chalk Hill, where she’s house-sitting and minding her friend’s dog Bruno. I also liked watching her slowly immerse herself in the town through her volunteer work at the second-hand shop. Elliott was also an endearing character, driven by guilt, desperate to leave the town as quickly as possible, yet committed to sorting out the mess his parents have gotten themselves into. This was such an easy story to read. While it is on the light side, there are angsty moments too, which made me care about Isabella and Elliott even more. Really though, for a book to relax into you’ll be sure to enjoy this one.
May 17, 2022
I always love a Lily Malone title and heading back to Chalk Hill is like checking up on old friends.
The population of Chalk Hill increases a little with every book as the visitor to town falls in love with the place, the people and a special someone.
Izzy is the big city bet in town to housesit, petsit and do a little veterinary work but it doesn't take long for boredom to set in. That's how she finds herself roped into volunteering at the local charity store where she meets Elliott.
Elliott is the prodigal son, returned temporarily to help sort the financials of the family farm.
An engaging tale that takes us deep into the heart of Chalk Hill and its residents that I really enjoyed.
The population of Chalk Hill increases a little with every book as the visitor to town falls in love with the place, the people and a special someone.
Izzy is the big city bet in town to housesit, petsit and do a little veterinary work but it doesn't take long for boredom to set in. That's how she finds herself roped into volunteering at the local charity store where she meets Elliott.
Elliott is the prodigal son, returned temporarily to help sort the financials of the family farm.
An engaging tale that takes us deep into the heart of Chalk Hill and its residents that I really enjoyed.
August 6, 2022
What a wonderful , enjoyable book about Izzy who goes to pet -sit her friends house ,,,,,,then there is Elliott who has been asked to come home to help his parents with their financial problems .......but there was a lot of heartbreak and loss many years ago will this coming home bring them closer so many things happening in this book really enjoyed it ............
February 19, 2022
There are spoilers in the review below.
What a story to revisit Chalk Hill again.
Izzy is on a holiday to Chalk Hill. Being a city girl, (even though she is a vet) is dog and house sitting for her friend Taylor. Izzy finds the quiet country area totally different to her usual busy and loud life.
Elliott is home visiting his family, who he feels don’t want him as part of their lives.
The two main characters met, when Izzy finds herself needing help after being thrust into country life without her realising it happened.
Add in family drama, dogs, chickens and a duck, and you have a story that allows the characters to find new ways to set the past free and help others without needing the attention.
What a story to revisit Chalk Hill again.
Izzy is on a holiday to Chalk Hill. Being a city girl, (even though she is a vet) is dog and house sitting for her friend Taylor. Izzy finds the quiet country area totally different to her usual busy and loud life.
Elliott is home visiting his family, who he feels don’t want him as part of their lives.
The two main characters met, when Izzy finds herself needing help after being thrust into country life without her realising it happened.
Add in family drama, dogs, chickens and a duck, and you have a story that allows the characters to find new ways to set the past free and help others without needing the attention.
March 16, 2022
Thank you Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Welcome back to Chalk Hill.
After a two year break we return to the small town where love blossoms, community spirit is tight and stories are ripe for the picking.
Vet Isabella Passmore, or Izzy to her friends arrives in town to house sit a close friend’s property and look after her beloved dog.
She is excited for fresh air and a chance to relax but after three days Izzy is bored.
After a chance encounter she is offered a part time volunteer job in the local second hand shop, she decides why not and goes for it.
Elliot Field is a strict by the rules accountant who returns to town after his parents ask for his help with the family business.
But coming home comes with past hurt and bad memories and his parents are on edge.
When a silly misunderstanding takes him to the shop where Izzy works, sparks fly and soon the two are in the middle of a steamy affair.
What begins as fun turns to serious and not without problems and issues along the way.
Lily returns to her fictitious town to bring the reader her next volume of a contemporary romance that will make the heart flutter.
This time with a brand new couple to embrace in the spotlight.
A storyline that will make you laugh and smile with witty and engaging words, a loveable cast, personality plus animals and a togetherness ambience.
Lily continues to impress audiences with her combination of solid character development, breathtaking backdrop descriptions and an touching plot.
A rural treat that will have fans wanting more.
I’ve very much enjoyed my return trip to Chalk Hill and fingers crossed we return.
Welcome back to Chalk Hill.
After a two year break we return to the small town where love blossoms, community spirit is tight and stories are ripe for the picking.
Vet Isabella Passmore, or Izzy to her friends arrives in town to house sit a close friend’s property and look after her beloved dog.
She is excited for fresh air and a chance to relax but after three days Izzy is bored.
After a chance encounter she is offered a part time volunteer job in the local second hand shop, she decides why not and goes for it.
Elliot Field is a strict by the rules accountant who returns to town after his parents ask for his help with the family business.
But coming home comes with past hurt and bad memories and his parents are on edge.
When a silly misunderstanding takes him to the shop where Izzy works, sparks fly and soon the two are in the middle of a steamy affair.
What begins as fun turns to serious and not without problems and issues along the way.
Lily returns to her fictitious town to bring the reader her next volume of a contemporary romance that will make the heart flutter.
This time with a brand new couple to embrace in the spotlight.
A storyline that will make you laugh and smile with witty and engaging words, a loveable cast, personality plus animals and a togetherness ambience.
Lily continues to impress audiences with her combination of solid character development, breathtaking backdrop descriptions and an touching plot.
A rural treat that will have fans wanting more.
I’ve very much enjoyed my return trip to Chalk Hill and fingers crossed we return.
November 19, 2022
The Vet's Country Holiday is book four by Lily Malone in the Chalk Hill series. Isabella Passmore was excited about having a break in Chalk Hill, looking after friends' pets from her busy vet business. After three days, Isabella became bored until the local second-hand shop offered her work. However, on her first day, Elliot Fields walked in when she was in the middle of a disaster. The readers of The Vet's Country Holiday will continue to follow Isabella Passmore and Elliot Fields to discover what happens.
I have read the previous three books in this series and was excited to open and read this book. I am pleased that The Vet's Country Holiday kept up my love affair with this series, and I had no problem engaging with the story and the characters from the first page. I enjoy that Lily Malone incorporates characters from the other three books in this series, so I felt at home. I love Lily Malone's portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other throughout this book. The Vet's Country Holiday is well-written and researched by Lily Malone.
The readers of The Vet's Country Holiday will learn about safety when you go bush walking in wilderness areas. Also, the readers will learn about the problems you have in running a small business in small communities in Western Australia.
I recommend this book.
I have read the previous three books in this series and was excited to open and read this book. I am pleased that The Vet's Country Holiday kept up my love affair with this series, and I had no problem engaging with the story and the characters from the first page. I enjoy that Lily Malone incorporates characters from the other three books in this series, so I felt at home. I love Lily Malone's portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other throughout this book. The Vet's Country Holiday is well-written and researched by Lily Malone.
The readers of The Vet's Country Holiday will learn about safety when you go bush walking in wilderness areas. Also, the readers will learn about the problems you have in running a small business in small communities in Western Australia.
I recommend this book.
April 29, 2022
“The Vet’s Country Holiday” is a good humored romance with a solid emotional punch. I enjoyed it far more than most romances I read. It’s funny and moving and just a little different from many novels in the same genre.
If you’ve been reading my reviews for a while, you’ve probably got a sense that rural romances aren’t my favorite genre. I’m a city girl through and through, and have little interest in many of the things that feature in such romances. But even so, give me one with appealing characters, a strand of humor, and an emotionally engaging plot that goes beyond boy meets girl, and you’ll likely find me enjoying myself.
And that’s what Malone offers here. I found this surprisingly engaging, to the point where I was looking forward to getting back to it after a break for other duties. Not all that many romances achieve that.
Isabella – Izzy – is a city vet. She’s combining house sitting and pet sitting for a friend with a country holiday. The only trouble is that after three days, she’s bored silly. So she doesn’t resist very hard when she’s bulldozed into helping in the local second hand shop.
Here she meets Elliot. All Elliot needs is one mug. A simple mission that will help him get through a hellish week trying to solve the financial problems of his parents’ new business – a job that comes with much emotional guilting and bad memories.
But Izzy’s not capable of just calmly selling one mug. Their first encounter is vivid and gloriously funny, and it’s absolutely no surprise to the reader when they pursue each other.
One of the things I enjoyed about this novel was its’ honesty about forming relationships. Izzy is 35, ready not just for a relationship, but for a baby. She’s blunt about the fact that she doesn’t want to find herself wasting time in a relationship that may not go in that direction. Romance novels rarely address this kind of issue head on – it perhaps dissolves a few too many romantic hazes – but I found it refreshing to see an acknowledgement that what you want from a relationship will often change as you get older.
Malone has shown an ability to keep her novels firmly in the arena of romances, while still stretching just enough to offer something that doesn’t quite cross genre lines, but engages the parts of readers that other genres engage. Her most recent novel “Last Bridge Before Home” took a hard and effective look at domestic abuse. This novel is a little more solidly romantic, but uses a rural setting without many of the props I’ve come to expect of the genre. For example, neither main character has anything to do with farming.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and recommend it highly not just to romance fans, but also to readers who’d enjoy a lively contemporary novel. It’s strongly character based, has a believable plot that brings emotional engagement, and is well written. The various aspects are well balanced, and I really can’t point to anything wrong with this novel. Maybe there was a typo somewhere.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more, including reviews of other novels by Lily Malone.
If you’ve been reading my reviews for a while, you’ve probably got a sense that rural romances aren’t my favorite genre. I’m a city girl through and through, and have little interest in many of the things that feature in such romances. But even so, give me one with appealing characters, a strand of humor, and an emotionally engaging plot that goes beyond boy meets girl, and you’ll likely find me enjoying myself.
And that’s what Malone offers here. I found this surprisingly engaging, to the point where I was looking forward to getting back to it after a break for other duties. Not all that many romances achieve that.
Isabella – Izzy – is a city vet. She’s combining house sitting and pet sitting for a friend with a country holiday. The only trouble is that after three days, she’s bored silly. So she doesn’t resist very hard when she’s bulldozed into helping in the local second hand shop.
Here she meets Elliot. All Elliot needs is one mug. A simple mission that will help him get through a hellish week trying to solve the financial problems of his parents’ new business – a job that comes with much emotional guilting and bad memories.
But Izzy’s not capable of just calmly selling one mug. Their first encounter is vivid and gloriously funny, and it’s absolutely no surprise to the reader when they pursue each other.
One of the things I enjoyed about this novel was its’ honesty about forming relationships. Izzy is 35, ready not just for a relationship, but for a baby. She’s blunt about the fact that she doesn’t want to find herself wasting time in a relationship that may not go in that direction. Romance novels rarely address this kind of issue head on – it perhaps dissolves a few too many romantic hazes – but I found it refreshing to see an acknowledgement that what you want from a relationship will often change as you get older.
Malone has shown an ability to keep her novels firmly in the arena of romances, while still stretching just enough to offer something that doesn’t quite cross genre lines, but engages the parts of readers that other genres engage. Her most recent novel “Last Bridge Before Home” took a hard and effective look at domestic abuse. This novel is a little more solidly romantic, but uses a rural setting without many of the props I’ve come to expect of the genre. For example, neither main character has anything to do with farming.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and recommend it highly not just to romance fans, but also to readers who’d enjoy a lively contemporary novel. It’s strongly character based, has a believable plot that brings emotional engagement, and is well written. The various aspects are well balanced, and I really can’t point to anything wrong with this novel. Maybe there was a typo somewhere.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more, including reviews of other novels by Lily Malone.
June 15, 2022
The Vet's Country Holiday is the fourth book in the Chalk Hill series by Australian author Lily Malone. It is a modern-day country romance fiction, rich in self-exploration.
Isabella Passmore, Izzy to her friends was run off her feet with her veterinary practice in Perth, when her friend Taylor asks if she would like to house sit and look after Bruno his beloved dog for a month in the country town of Chalk Hill she grabs the opportunity for a well-deserved break.
Elliot Field, an accountant living is Brisbane has been asked to return home to Chalk Hill by his parents Wendy and Dylan. They own a ski park on the outskirts of town and are having financial difficulties, with Elliot’s background in finance they are hoping he will be able to sort out their books and save their business.
Izzy settles nicely into the quiet country town but after 3 days she becomes restless, walking Bruno through the streets every day she sees the same sights and people. She is drawn to the quaint second-hand bookshop visiting often, when asked by the owner Irene to help out whilst she is away visiting a friend Izzy takes up the challenge.
From the day Elliot walks into the second-hand bookshop to buy a mug there was a spark between him and Izzy from the moment they met. Even though their lives and personalities are so different they challenge each other, and a budding romance beautifully grows.
The characters are full of life and well developed, with distinct personalities that win you over instantly. Izzy is a likable protagonist who is dynamic, cheeky, and easy to root for. Elliot at first seems serious and straight to the point but his warmth comes though. I thoroughly enjoy animals in stories and this one had a nice mixture of Bruno and Bertie the dogs, and the mischievous ducks, and chickens.
The Vet's Country Holiday Is a joy to read, the story is engaging with plenty of humour, and you'll be egging the characters on to get together. The dialog is simple, easy to follow and hits every aspect of a true romance story. Lily Malone is an acclaimed author of sweet, heart-warming stories that are full of romance and drama, with an abundance of inspiration mixed in. She is known for her charming small towns, following your dreams, and love blooming when strangers become friends and friends grow into family.
While this is a stand-alone book, readers will want to read the earlier novels of this series. I highly recommend.
Thank you, beauty and Lace and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
Isabella Passmore, Izzy to her friends was run off her feet with her veterinary practice in Perth, when her friend Taylor asks if she would like to house sit and look after Bruno his beloved dog for a month in the country town of Chalk Hill she grabs the opportunity for a well-deserved break.
Elliot Field, an accountant living is Brisbane has been asked to return home to Chalk Hill by his parents Wendy and Dylan. They own a ski park on the outskirts of town and are having financial difficulties, with Elliot’s background in finance they are hoping he will be able to sort out their books and save their business.
Izzy settles nicely into the quiet country town but after 3 days she becomes restless, walking Bruno through the streets every day she sees the same sights and people. She is drawn to the quaint second-hand bookshop visiting often, when asked by the owner Irene to help out whilst she is away visiting a friend Izzy takes up the challenge.
From the day Elliot walks into the second-hand bookshop to buy a mug there was a spark between him and Izzy from the moment they met. Even though their lives and personalities are so different they challenge each other, and a budding romance beautifully grows.
The characters are full of life and well developed, with distinct personalities that win you over instantly. Izzy is a likable protagonist who is dynamic, cheeky, and easy to root for. Elliot at first seems serious and straight to the point but his warmth comes though. I thoroughly enjoy animals in stories and this one had a nice mixture of Bruno and Bertie the dogs, and the mischievous ducks, and chickens.
The Vet's Country Holiday Is a joy to read, the story is engaging with plenty of humour, and you'll be egging the characters on to get together. The dialog is simple, easy to follow and hits every aspect of a true romance story. Lily Malone is an acclaimed author of sweet, heart-warming stories that are full of romance and drama, with an abundance of inspiration mixed in. She is known for her charming small towns, following your dreams, and love blooming when strangers become friends and friends grow into family.
While this is a stand-alone book, readers will want to read the earlier novels of this series. I highly recommend.
Thank you, beauty and Lace and HarperCollins Publishers for the opportunity to read and review.
June 12, 2022
I loved taking another trip back to Chalk Hill, the characters are so much fun in this book. Isabella (Izzy) Passmore had her own Vet clinic in Perth when she ask by her friend Taylor to house sit and look after her dog Bruno for her while she and partner Abe visit his family out of town from Chalk Hill. Izzy finds herself bored after two days doing the same thing over and over. Irene an elderly lady that runs the towns second hand shop asks Izzy to help by voulenteering to work. But things don't go well on her first day with the ink stamper this had me in laughter it was of the many things that happens in the book to Izzy.
Elliot Field an Forensic Accountant from Brisbane returns home to help his parents Wendy and Dylan with the ski park then run on the family farm by looking at the fiannces as they think the park is not doing as well as should be since pademic hit and park re-opening. They treat their workers like family too. Elliot is also carrying guilt and regret over an accident that occured on a family holiday.
Izzy and Elliot slowly build up a relationship but find it at times as Elliot thinks she is irresponsible and his fears of her getting hurt too are an issue. There is also the fact that Izzy wants to be a mother one day and Elliot doesn't think he will be a dad due to his feelings of what he thought he was responsible for his brother been hurt years early and also taking matters further by making sure he never became a father by having a vasectomy.
Izzy's relationship also with the young family nextdoor brings to ligght her love for caring for animals and children by helping little Charlotte with a bird, Bertie Irene's dog and then the whole town once it became know she was a vet.
The Vet’s Country Holiday is the 4th in the Chalk Hill series by Aussie author Lily Malone and I loved this one just as much as the others. If want to read about Chalk Hill I suggest you add this series to your read pile you wont be disappointed.
Elliot Field an Forensic Accountant from Brisbane returns home to help his parents Wendy and Dylan with the ski park then run on the family farm by looking at the fiannces as they think the park is not doing as well as should be since pademic hit and park re-opening. They treat their workers like family too. Elliot is also carrying guilt and regret over an accident that occured on a family holiday.
Izzy and Elliot slowly build up a relationship but find it at times as Elliot thinks she is irresponsible and his fears of her getting hurt too are an issue. There is also the fact that Izzy wants to be a mother one day and Elliot doesn't think he will be a dad due to his feelings of what he thought he was responsible for his brother been hurt years early and also taking matters further by making sure he never became a father by having a vasectomy.
Izzy's relationship also with the young family nextdoor brings to ligght her love for caring for animals and children by helping little Charlotte with a bird, Bertie Irene's dog and then the whole town once it became know she was a vet.
The Vet’s Country Holiday is the 4th in the Chalk Hill series by Aussie author Lily Malone and I loved this one just as much as the others. If want to read about Chalk Hill I suggest you add this series to your read pile you wont be disappointed.
April 4, 2022
A delightful story, that had me feeling good.
Izzy is a vet who has taken time off to house and pet sit for her friend in the country town of Chalk Hill. Elliott, a forensic accountant is returning to help his family with looking over the finances of their Ski Park business as money is not as good as expected.
But Elliott’s up bringing has been overshadowed by the life changing accident of this elder brother when they where young and Elliott has always felt the blame has been on him.
From Izzy and Elliott’s first meeting, I felt a lovely connection and healthy respect which is something I value in a story. With Elliott’s mother and father it was another story, I generally didn’t warm to them but eventually that was rectified. Just goes to show that communication is the key to everything!
Loved the secondary characters, they were fleeting but still played a part. Just an all round entertaining, feel good story with no great angst moment, which is always a plus for me…well maybe just a little one but by that stage we all know how it was going to go.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Izzy is a vet who has taken time off to house and pet sit for her friend in the country town of Chalk Hill. Elliott, a forensic accountant is returning to help his family with looking over the finances of their Ski Park business as money is not as good as expected.
But Elliott’s up bringing has been overshadowed by the life changing accident of this elder brother when they where young and Elliott has always felt the blame has been on him.
From Izzy and Elliott’s first meeting, I felt a lovely connection and healthy respect which is something I value in a story. With Elliott’s mother and father it was another story, I generally didn’t warm to them but eventually that was rectified. Just goes to show that communication is the key to everything!
Loved the secondary characters, they were fleeting but still played a part. Just an all round entertaining, feel good story with no great angst moment, which is always a plus for me…well maybe just a little one but by that stage we all know how it was going to go.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
May 22, 2022
Ah, I wish I liked this book a little more! I love small-town books set in Australia but this one just didn't hit the mark for me.
Izzy and Elliot are very different people - Izzy is a vet who is petsitting and who is very, very bored after a couple of days of leisure. Elliot is an accountant who has come back to Chalk Hill to sort out his parent's business for them, but there is a family secret which is still making itself felt, even years after the event.
This should have had all the ingredients for a fun, romantic novel. I didn't quite believe the romance between the two main characters though and there were certain parts of Elliot's parents story which didn't really get explained properly.
Sorry, I do want to support Australian authors as much as I can but this was an ok book, not a great one.
3 stars from me.
Izzy and Elliot are very different people - Izzy is a vet who is petsitting and who is very, very bored after a couple of days of leisure. Elliot is an accountant who has come back to Chalk Hill to sort out his parent's business for them, but there is a family secret which is still making itself felt, even years after the event.
This should have had all the ingredients for a fun, romantic novel. I didn't quite believe the romance between the two main characters though and there were certain parts of Elliot's parents story which didn't really get explained properly.
Sorry, I do want to support Australian authors as much as I can but this was an ok book, not a great one.
3 stars from me.
March 30, 2022
I believed that I wouldn’t be returning to Chalk Hill, a fantastic reunion, thanks to Lily Malone!
The main characters are flawed but relatable, warm and appealing, Izzy and Elliott are both someone we know!
An attraction of opposites, Izzy bright and bubbly, Elliott is more serious but I felt the deep connection that they shared!
I simply loved this book and would highly recommend you don’t miss the experience!
Thanks so much to Harlequin Aust, Netgalley and a truly remarkable author Lily Malone for the opportunity to read this wonderful book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The main characters are flawed but relatable, warm and appealing, Izzy and Elliott are both someone we know!
An attraction of opposites, Izzy bright and bubbly, Elliott is more serious but I felt the deep connection that they shared!
I simply loved this book and would highly recommend you don’t miss the experience!
Thanks so much to Harlequin Aust, Netgalley and a truly remarkable author Lily Malone for the opportunity to read this wonderful book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2022
This was a really enjoyable read. Izzy, a Vet, is taking time off work and housesitting/dog minding for her best friend in the quiet country own of Chalk Hill. Worried she will lose her mind in the quiet town, she starts helping out in the op shop and this is where she meets Elliot, who is in town to visit his parents and help figure out what is causing their business to run at a loss. Neither wants to stay in the town for long, Izzy is determined to get back to work and start a family and Elliot is trying to hide from the ghosts of his childhood after the loss of his brother. What starts as a casual holiday fling quickly becomes more, but will Izzy's determination to be a mother be an issue for them?
November 20, 2022
The fourth book in the Chalk Hill series, easy to read as a stand-alone; I haven’t read the other three. Set in the southwest of Western Australia it is filled with country life, community and small town living, delightful pets, romance and flirting between the two main characters, Izzy (Isabella) Passmore, a city vet who’s house sitting for her friend Taylor, and Elliot Fields, an accountant from Brisbane helping out his parents and their water ski park, dysfunctional families, a tragic accident involving Elliot’s late brother, business fraud as well as humour and witty banter. Enjoyable.
March 30, 2022
Another great edition to the Chalk Hill family. I loved the story of Izzy and Elliot - they truly seemed like people I would want to know, add in some animals, farm life, small aussie town and we have a beautiful story just waiting to be read and enjoyed. I loved every bit of this book and all of Lily's others. The ending was.....well, grab some tissues, they will be needed ! But at the end I took a deep breath and wished I could read it for the first time again, truly beautiful.
June 19, 2022
I enjoyed this story - a fun, easy read.
June 29, 2022
This was a surprise package. I started off tentatively after two previous reading disappointments, wondering why every thing was so detailed and if it would be another disappointment, when I realised how authentic the characters were, particularly the main characters, Elliott and Izzy. I was hooked. I loved how they were so realistic, not perfect but real people. Looking forward to reading more from Lily Malone. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 23, 2022
I didn’t realise that this book was a return to Chalk Hill, the country town setting of three of Lily Malone’s previous novels (and this reminds me, I’ve still only read two of them). In this book, our main character Izzy is friends with Taylor from book 2 and she’s come to Chalk Hill to housesit for Taylor and Abe whilst they take an overseas holiday. Izzy could do with a holiday too although so far, she’s not exactly having the best time between early morning wake ups and taking Taylor’s dog on walks through the sleepy main street. But the Izzy meets Elliot Field.
Chalk Hill is the last place Elliot wants to be too but he’s promised his parents that he’ll return home and take a look at the books of their struggling business. Elliot is a forensic accountant, used to examining numbers to find inconsistencies and irregularities and it doesn’t take him long to establish that something is wrong but convincing his parents of the measures they need to take will be difficult, especially give their fractious relationship. Izzy pulls him up short with her frankness and her banter providing a somewhat welcome distraction from the tension in his family home – and the memories and guilt that are everywhere he looks.
Izzy and Elliot tapped into one of my favourite dynamics – Izzy is quite fun and forward and Elliot definitely more reserved and I think at first, he’s quite surprised by Izzy’s remarks. She’s the sort that burrows right in and asks the big questions straight up and when she gets a bit of a clue about Elliot’s tragic past, she prefers to ask him about it quite frankly. And sees that Elliot never talking about it has left him with deep scars. And she doesn’t just see the scars it’s left on Elliot but also on the whole family and their troubled relationships.
I absolutely loved Izzy and Elliot together, from their first meeting when he stumbles across her after she’s had something go incredibly wrong. A lot of their early interactions are hilarious and they have great banter and I thought the chemistry was established really well. It was great to return to Chalk Hill, which is such a fun setting. I do remember mentions of Elliot’s father from previous novels as well and we get to dive into the water skiing business and experience Elliot’s frustration at them asking for his help but also being resentful of his inquiries and reluctant to implement the measures he suggests that will help them save money and cut costs. And when he starts looking at their staff movements and potential actions, the tension escalates. But Elliot knows what he’s doing and he’s good at his job and even though there’s always the guilt, the distance between them he has to try and make them see. Izzy kind of helps with that when she delivers a few home truths (things that needed to be said I think but Izzy had some serious courage, saying them!) that force the family to actually talk about the events of years ago and the decisions that were made and the misconceptions that had been allowed to fester for years.
This was balanced really well between humour and exploring serious family issues. I enjoyed Izzy’s exploits with the local community, especially once word got out that she was a vet. I also thought the conflict between Izzy and Elliot that was separate to the family issues was done quite well and why that would be an issue for each of them. All in all I enjoyed this immensely and would definitely say it’s a must read for those who have read the previous Chalk Hill books and even if you haven’t, because you definitely don’t need to have read the previous ones to enjoy this.
***A copy of this book was received from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
Chalk Hill is the last place Elliot wants to be too but he’s promised his parents that he’ll return home and take a look at the books of their struggling business. Elliot is a forensic accountant, used to examining numbers to find inconsistencies and irregularities and it doesn’t take him long to establish that something is wrong but convincing his parents of the measures they need to take will be difficult, especially give their fractious relationship. Izzy pulls him up short with her frankness and her banter providing a somewhat welcome distraction from the tension in his family home – and the memories and guilt that are everywhere he looks.
Izzy and Elliot tapped into one of my favourite dynamics – Izzy is quite fun and forward and Elliot definitely more reserved and I think at first, he’s quite surprised by Izzy’s remarks. She’s the sort that burrows right in and asks the big questions straight up and when she gets a bit of a clue about Elliot’s tragic past, she prefers to ask him about it quite frankly. And sees that Elliot never talking about it has left him with deep scars. And she doesn’t just see the scars it’s left on Elliot but also on the whole family and their troubled relationships.
I absolutely loved Izzy and Elliot together, from their first meeting when he stumbles across her after she’s had something go incredibly wrong. A lot of their early interactions are hilarious and they have great banter and I thought the chemistry was established really well. It was great to return to Chalk Hill, which is such a fun setting. I do remember mentions of Elliot’s father from previous novels as well and we get to dive into the water skiing business and experience Elliot’s frustration at them asking for his help but also being resentful of his inquiries and reluctant to implement the measures he suggests that will help them save money and cut costs. And when he starts looking at their staff movements and potential actions, the tension escalates. But Elliot knows what he’s doing and he’s good at his job and even though there’s always the guilt, the distance between them he has to try and make them see. Izzy kind of helps with that when she delivers a few home truths (things that needed to be said I think but Izzy had some serious courage, saying them!) that force the family to actually talk about the events of years ago and the decisions that were made and the misconceptions that had been allowed to fester for years.
This was balanced really well between humour and exploring serious family issues. I enjoyed Izzy’s exploits with the local community, especially once word got out that she was a vet. I also thought the conflict between Izzy and Elliot that was separate to the family issues was done quite well and why that would be an issue for each of them. All in all I enjoyed this immensely and would definitely say it’s a must read for those who have read the previous Chalk Hill books and even if you haven’t, because you definitely don’t need to have read the previous ones to enjoy this.
***A copy of this book was received from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
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