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Puddleduck Farm #5
Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm
Listening Length: 8 hours and 27 minutes
When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong?
In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong?
In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 30, 2024
About the author
Della Galton
72 books90 followersDella Galton (aka Della Parker) writes novels set in Dorset, featuring quirky characters and very often a dog or two. She's had more than 2000 short stories published and she's run out of fingers to count her books on.
She is a popular speaker at writing conventions and the agony aunt for Writers' Forum Magazine.
When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside and beaches.
She is a popular speaker at writing conventions and the agony aunt for Writers' Forum Magazine.
When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside and beaches.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 12, 2025
*Life is for Living*
**3.5 Stars**
This is book 5 of 5 in the Puddleduck Farm series. This is where we see how Phoebe continues to grow her vet practice. She is based in the New Forest, like a lot of the books by author Della Galton her stories are usually based in and around Dorset.
Phoebe has finally got the man who has loved her all her life. Sam who is dependable, straightforward and highly principled and proud.
For a while she dated someone else after being cheated on in a long time relationship. She just could not see life with Sam as he is one of her childhood best friend’s. This changes when one day everything falls into place. It was one of the worst kept secrets, everyone knew it apart from her.
With her business doing extremely well at 37 she wonders if she will ever have time to have a family. Her younger brother is married with a set of twins and another on the way. All these things she often thinks well one day.
Out of the blue there is a personal shock which leads to tragedy and heartbreak. For her it is a wake up call to not keep planning but living life. Some things you cannot plan but you have to live.
This one was bittersweet and at the end I wanted a little bit more and not just use my imagination. That will come clear if you read it.
Apart from that there were comical animals and pet owners and I love her Gran who will only tolerate being called Maggie lol 😂
**3.5 Stars**
This is book 5 of 5 in the Puddleduck Farm series. This is where we see how Phoebe continues to grow her vet practice. She is based in the New Forest, like a lot of the books by author Della Galton her stories are usually based in and around Dorset.
Phoebe has finally got the man who has loved her all her life. Sam who is dependable, straightforward and highly principled and proud.
For a while she dated someone else after being cheated on in a long time relationship. She just could not see life with Sam as he is one of her childhood best friend’s. This changes when one day everything falls into place. It was one of the worst kept secrets, everyone knew it apart from her.
With her business doing extremely well at 37 she wonders if she will ever have time to have a family. Her younger brother is married with a set of twins and another on the way. All these things she often thinks well one day.
Out of the blue there is a personal shock which leads to tragedy and heartbreak. For her it is a wake up call to not keep planning but living life. Some things you cannot plan but you have to live.
This one was bittersweet and at the end I wanted a little bit more and not just use my imagination. That will come clear if you read it.
Apart from that there were comical animals and pet owners and I love her Gran who will only tolerate being called Maggie lol 😂
December 9, 2025
In this instalment, Galton shows the hard facts of reality where not everything is a bed of roses. Whilst it wasn’t always lovely to see the protagonist struggle in this book, I thought it made the story all the more enjoyable because of how realistic it felt.
On the outside, Phoebe has it all: a successful business, a supportive boyfriend and a life that she enjoys. However, both she and Sam are conscious that they want to take the next step in their relationship, rather than being engaged and not fully living together. Except a trip to a mortgage advisor only highlights what they cannot afford – instead of Galton presenting a fictional world where everything would be affordable for our main characters. And this really resonated with me.
Galton demonstrates the difficulties of money in this book. Despite both being successful in work, Phoebe and Sam are limited with what they can borrow for a mortgage, especially looking at such an expensive area as the New Forest. My heart sunk as did Phoebe’s and I could really relate to that feeling of helplessness: even though she is putting all the work in, there doesn’t seem to be a financial break. And considering I read this around the time of the UK’s Budget, I think this made the story even more relatable to me.
Yet, this isn’t all about what Phoebe cannot afford. I enjoyed seeing the next stages in Tori’s and Rufus’s relationships, although was slightly disappointed that the latter does not feature more often in the story. All the supporting characters felt like they were “growing up” and this just enhanced the pressures that Phoebe and Sam experience.
Real life certainly bites in this book and there were several emotional moments in the story that had my heart in my mouth. I really sympathised with Phoebe as she tries to navigate this instalment in her life and was rooting for a happy ending (which readers are treated to at the end). Thankfully, there are still plenty of entertaining animals encounters and this added a certain balance to the book.
I have nearly caught up with this series. There is currently only one left and I’m a bit trepidatious starting it – what if it is the final one for Puddleduck Farm? I have grown to love these characters and Galton’s writing style so, whilst I am keen to see Phoebe succeed in the next book, I’m also not prepared to have a final goodbye.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
On the outside, Phoebe has it all: a successful business, a supportive boyfriend and a life that she enjoys. However, both she and Sam are conscious that they want to take the next step in their relationship, rather than being engaged and not fully living together. Except a trip to a mortgage advisor only highlights what they cannot afford – instead of Galton presenting a fictional world where everything would be affordable for our main characters. And this really resonated with me.
Galton demonstrates the difficulties of money in this book. Despite both being successful in work, Phoebe and Sam are limited with what they can borrow for a mortgage, especially looking at such an expensive area as the New Forest. My heart sunk as did Phoebe’s and I could really relate to that feeling of helplessness: even though she is putting all the work in, there doesn’t seem to be a financial break. And considering I read this around the time of the UK’s Budget, I think this made the story even more relatable to me.
Yet, this isn’t all about what Phoebe cannot afford. I enjoyed seeing the next stages in Tori’s and Rufus’s relationships, although was slightly disappointed that the latter does not feature more often in the story. All the supporting characters felt like they were “growing up” and this just enhanced the pressures that Phoebe and Sam experience.
Real life certainly bites in this book and there were several emotional moments in the story that had my heart in my mouth. I really sympathised with Phoebe as she tries to navigate this instalment in her life and was rooting for a happy ending (which readers are treated to at the end). Thankfully, there are still plenty of entertaining animals encounters and this added a certain balance to the book.
I have nearly caught up with this series. There is currently only one left and I’m a bit trepidatious starting it – what if it is the final one for Puddleduck Farm? I have grown to love these characters and Galton’s writing style so, whilst I am keen to see Phoebe succeed in the next book, I’m also not prepared to have a final goodbye.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2024
Another brilliant story from this series. It carries on from the last one and it was lovely to catch up on all the characters. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 4, 2024
I have mixed feelings about this book. It's sweet, and I found the characters and their lives relatable and interesting. But...it was more a recounting of events than a book with a plot, so I am conflicted. Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley.
ETA: I hadn't read any other books in the series. Maybe it would have been a different experience if I had.
ETA: I hadn't read any other books in the series. Maybe it would have been a different experience if I had.
January 14, 2025
Wow what a fabulous ending to this series for animal lovers.
I started this book a few mins after finishing the previous one in the series, and then the following day, apparently could barely settle on any work and ended up reading pretty much the whole book over the course of the day, as it was the only thing I could concentrate on!
That and of course because I needed to see how all the possible happy ever afters that were set up in the previous book, how they would turn out.
So we have Phoebe and Sam who are now engaged, Torri and Harrison who are pregnant and due to get married too, Maggie who is now married to Eddie, Rufus is now engaged (and not to Phoebe if you have read the first book of the series and not some of the ones in between!). There are pregnancies, and if musical houses was a game, I think the characters of this book would be experts!
There are some fabulous animals in this book including a parrot who is hilarious, and a houdini-esque goat. We also get to briefly meet the characters who I believe are the central figures in the author's next series, which I am now even more keen to get started on.
This is a book that I couldn't get enough of, and I adored every second of it (give or take the incredibly sad bit that had me slightly despairing). And it left me with a ginormous smile on my face. It's a brilliant way to end a series, all of the characters and storylines (short term and long term) seem to have been concluded, and it al makes sense. And there are even some great animal adoptions too.
All of our recurring cast of characters have been absolutely brilliant, and I have loved getting to know each and every one of them over the course of these five book. Puddleduck Farm is a wonderful place in the New Forest and I for one would love to go and visit it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I started this book a few mins after finishing the previous one in the series, and then the following day, apparently could barely settle on any work and ended up reading pretty much the whole book over the course of the day, as it was the only thing I could concentrate on!
That and of course because I needed to see how all the possible happy ever afters that were set up in the previous book, how they would turn out.
So we have Phoebe and Sam who are now engaged, Torri and Harrison who are pregnant and due to get married too, Maggie who is now married to Eddie, Rufus is now engaged (and not to Phoebe if you have read the first book of the series and not some of the ones in between!). There are pregnancies, and if musical houses was a game, I think the characters of this book would be experts!
There are some fabulous animals in this book including a parrot who is hilarious, and a houdini-esque goat. We also get to briefly meet the characters who I believe are the central figures in the author's next series, which I am now even more keen to get started on.
This is a book that I couldn't get enough of, and I adored every second of it (give or take the incredibly sad bit that had me slightly despairing). And it left me with a ginormous smile on my face. It's a brilliant way to end a series, all of the characters and storylines (short term and long term) seem to have been concluded, and it al makes sense. And there are even some great animal adoptions too.
All of our recurring cast of characters have been absolutely brilliant, and I have loved getting to know each and every one of them over the course of these five book. Puddleduck Farm is a wonderful place in the New Forest and I for one would love to go and visit it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 2, 2024
Della Galton’s Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is a charming, delightful and heartwarming tale readers are going to love.
As a vet in the New Forest with a busy practice, Phoebe Dashwood barely has a moment to herself. The demands of her job and the challenges of juggling the demanding nature of being a vet with the day to day leave her with next to no time for her relationship with her beloved fiancé. As she copes with a goat with a phantom pregnancy and a highly strung parrot, Phoebe is pushed to her limits professionally, however, when a love rival threatens to upend her world, she begins to wonder whether she might be about to lose the man she loves with all of her heart.
When tragedy strikes, Phoebe realises that she cannot take her eye off the ball because she might just end up losing everything she cherishes most. While all her friends are finding their own happy endings, will Phoebe and her beloved Sam ever find theirs? Are there simply too many obstacles standing in their way? Or is Phoebe about to realise that their love is strong enough to see them through whatever life throws their way?
Della Galton’s books are like sunshine after a rainy day! Warm, witty and wonderful, her spellbinding novels never fail to hit the spot and Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is a gorgeous, uplifting and feel-good romantic read that is sure to make readers laugh and cry.
A fun, poignant and entertaining tale that has got winner written all over it, Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is another superb tale from Della Galton readers will thoroughly enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As a vet in the New Forest with a busy practice, Phoebe Dashwood barely has a moment to herself. The demands of her job and the challenges of juggling the demanding nature of being a vet with the day to day leave her with next to no time for her relationship with her beloved fiancé. As she copes with a goat with a phantom pregnancy and a highly strung parrot, Phoebe is pushed to her limits professionally, however, when a love rival threatens to upend her world, she begins to wonder whether she might be about to lose the man she loves with all of her heart.
When tragedy strikes, Phoebe realises that she cannot take her eye off the ball because she might just end up losing everything she cherishes most. While all her friends are finding their own happy endings, will Phoebe and her beloved Sam ever find theirs? Are there simply too many obstacles standing in their way? Or is Phoebe about to realise that their love is strong enough to see them through whatever life throws their way?
Della Galton’s books are like sunshine after a rainy day! Warm, witty and wonderful, her spellbinding novels never fail to hit the spot and Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is a gorgeous, uplifting and feel-good romantic read that is sure to make readers laugh and cry.
A fun, poignant and entertaining tale that has got winner written all over it, Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is another superb tale from Della Galton readers will thoroughly enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 2, 2024
Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm by Della Galton
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong? In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
My Opinion
I have had a few visits to Puddleduck Farm now and each one has simply been delightful, with some lovely characters it is always fun to return. In this book Della Galton takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster - with difficult topics handled delicately. Ultimately this was a wonderful, heart-warming read and I have already lined up my next book by Della.
Each book in this series can be read as a standalone but you would be missing out on some fabulous animals.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When life throws up the unexpected, can Phoebe hold strong? In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
My Opinion
I have had a few visits to Puddleduck Farm now and each one has simply been delightful, with some lovely characters it is always fun to return. In this book Della Galton takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster - with difficult topics handled delicately. Ultimately this was a wonderful, heart-warming read and I have already lined up my next book by Della.
Each book in this series can be read as a standalone but you would be missing out on some fabulous animals.
Rating 4/5
July 5, 2024
3,5 shining stars for this newest entry in the Puddleduck Farm series. The previous book was a bit blaah for me, so I was delighted to find myself enjoying this. It's a perfect feel good escapism book centering around Phoebe, her veterinarian practice, her friends, boyfriend and family. We also follow some of the side characters, as we did the previous books as well. As much as I've enjoyed this series, I do kind of hope that it stops with this book, just because everything was so neatly brought together in the end. (And of course I wish Della Galton will keep writing, and create something new!)
A few things keep me from rating it higher, and they are just small things that I personally don't enjoy;
- a bit too much repetition of previous plot/story line
- a bit repetitive and at times "over explaining" things that don't need to be repeated or explained
- just something missing that keeps the book from standing out from other similar books
This is a perfect book for ...
* Animal lovers
* Those wanting to find a series to enjoy (I would recommend reading these in the correct order, though it's not strictly necessary)
* Just relaxing!
* Fun and feel good, without being pointless and shallow
* Fans of British countryside
Oh! And if you enjoyed this book and author, I strongly recommend checking out Jessica Redland, and especially her "Hedgehog Hollow" series
A few things keep me from rating it higher, and they are just small things that I personally don't enjoy;
- a bit too much repetition of previous plot/story line
- a bit repetitive and at times "over explaining" things that don't need to be repeated or explained
- just something missing that keeps the book from standing out from other similar books
This is a perfect book for ...
* Animal lovers
* Those wanting to find a series to enjoy (I would recommend reading these in the correct order, though it's not strictly necessary)
* Just relaxing!
* Fun and feel good, without being pointless and shallow
* Fans of British countryside
Oh! And if you enjoyed this book and author, I strongly recommend checking out Jessica Redland, and especially her "Hedgehog Hollow" series
July 16, 2024
In the latest installment of the Puddleduck Farm series, readers return to the New Forest where vet Phoebe Dashwood, her family, coworkers, and friends are all living their best life. Excited for her future with her fiance, Phoebe’s professional life is pushed to the limits with some quirky animal patients while her romantic stability is tested by a glamorous new dog trainer and a date at the financial advisor’s office on Valentine’s Day. Planning for the future has never been so difficult, and Phoebe begins to doubt that the love she and Sam share will be enough for their future life together, especially when tragedy strikes and threatens their relationship. An emotional rollercoaster of a novel, Phoebe’s personal and professional complications are realistic and draw the reader in, so readers will fully experience her life in its highs and lows. She is a fascinating character with a complex and realistic life, and readers will sympathize with her. Occasionally shifting perspectives to other characters like her fiance Sam, readers will get a bit of insight into the struggles of other characters. An excellent continuation of the series with new situations for Phoebe to deal with, readers will definitely feel a lot of emotions in the latest Puddleduck Farm novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
March 29, 2026
There’s a feeling of non-fiction personal narrative woven into this book ( I can’t talk of all the books that came before this one). The matter of fact tone and the practicalities of multiple animal related work definitely conveys a very serious commitment to the community at large. I got the feelings of James Herriot written at a different time for a different audience.
I found it easy to understand the situation that I jumped into this book with. We are given enough of the back story and I did not feel like I was unconnected to the several people I encountered, something that doesn’t usually happen this many books into a series.
Phoebe is the main vet at the farm and currently in a living status limbo with her fiancé. Her work has gotten harder, her grandmother is considering making changes in her life and everyone is moving ahead ( or so it seems) except her. This book is about Phoebe challenging her insecurities and dealing with a lot of heavy topics. Some of the issues tackled might have been the reason why I got the more serious feeling from this book.
I was glad things were moving in a positive direction for everyone by the time the book came to a close.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
I found it easy to understand the situation that I jumped into this book with. We are given enough of the back story and I did not feel like I was unconnected to the several people I encountered, something that doesn’t usually happen this many books into a series.
Phoebe is the main vet at the farm and currently in a living status limbo with her fiancé. Her work has gotten harder, her grandmother is considering making changes in her life and everyone is moving ahead ( or so it seems) except her. This book is about Phoebe challenging her insecurities and dealing with a lot of heavy topics. Some of the issues tackled might have been the reason why I got the more serious feeling from this book.
I was glad things were moving in a positive direction for everyone by the time the book came to a close.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
June 30, 2024
I am always so excited to see another installment in the Puddleduck Farm series and I've read them all plus other books by the author. I read some books that have a heavier subject matter, and this is always such a comfort read series. After having read the other books in the series I can confidently say I feel as though the characters could be friends and we'd have a cozy chat and tea together. Having a catch up with the characters is great and I just love how realistic the situations and characters are. And just like all of us the characters go through some rough spots but being surrounded by friends who are empathetic and will help out in any way they can means everything. I love animals and growing up around a lot of them I thought I'd become a vet. Though things didn't turn out that way I enjoy reading about the veterinarians in Puddleduck Farm. The antics the animals get up to, both farm animals and domesticated animals makes me chuckle. This is an automatic read series for me, and I'll be continuing to read it.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Book 5 of the Puddleduck Farm series, Happy Ever After at Puddleduck Farm is Della Galton’s latest masterpiece.
Phoebe and Sam are facing some trials and tribulations as they navigate their relationship. Meanwhile, Phoebe and the team at Puddleduck Vets agree it's time to hire another vet and are taking on lots of new clients.
I would like to extend my apologies to Della, Rachel (from Rachel's Random Resources), and Boldwood Books for this delayed review. I mistakenly thought today was the due date and had it marked on my calendar accordingly. It was only when I set up this review that I realised it was actually scheduled for Saturday!
Anyway, I have loved all the previous books in the series and this was no exception! I was enthralled from the beginning; I picked my iPad up every time I had free over the weekend to lose myself in Hampshire/Dorset. Although reading the other books in the series will give you the back story, you don't need to. I really hope there's more to come from Puddleduck Farm.
Phoebe and Sam are facing some trials and tribulations as they navigate their relationship. Meanwhile, Phoebe and the team at Puddleduck Vets agree it's time to hire another vet and are taking on lots of new clients.
I would like to extend my apologies to Della, Rachel (from Rachel's Random Resources), and Boldwood Books for this delayed review. I mistakenly thought today was the due date and had it marked on my calendar accordingly. It was only when I set up this review that I realised it was actually scheduled for Saturday!
Anyway, I have loved all the previous books in the series and this was no exception! I was enthralled from the beginning; I picked my iPad up every time I had free over the weekend to lose myself in Hampshire/Dorset. Although reading the other books in the series will give you the back story, you don't need to. I really hope there's more to come from Puddleduck Farm.
July 8, 2024
I always enjoy a trip to Puddleduck Farm and this was no exception. Its lovely to catch up with the characters to see what they are up to.
I love the stories involving the animals as there is normally something unusual going on them.
There are so many characters to catch up with, who are all going through their own issues. I really did feel for Pheobe and Sam and wondered if their happy ever after wasn't to be.
A beautifully written book which takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster. Topics covered include weddings, babies, pregnancy, jealousy, agoraphobia and miscarriage. I did feel the latter topics were handled in a sensitive manner.
I would certainly recommend reading this book. It can be read standalone but to get the best experience I would suggest reading the series in order.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the stories involving the animals as there is normally something unusual going on them.
There are so many characters to catch up with, who are all going through their own issues. I really did feel for Pheobe and Sam and wondered if their happy ever after wasn't to be.
A beautifully written book which takes the reader on an emotional rollercoaster. Topics covered include weddings, babies, pregnancy, jealousy, agoraphobia and miscarriage. I did feel the latter topics were handled in a sensitive manner.
I would certainly recommend reading this book. It can be read standalone but to get the best experience I would suggest reading the series in order.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for my gifted copy and spot on the tour. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2024
It’s been lovely getting to know the characters in and around the vicinity of Puddleduck Farm. The New Forest is a part of the country that I haven’t visited, but I always remember a childhood fascination with the tales of the wild ponies in the area. Like many young girls, I was obsessed with ponies and also fancied myself as a vet. Sadly, neither fantasy came true, but Della Galton has brought me close to my childhood dreams with this series.
Firstly, this is a series of books that follow on from each other. Still, they can certainly be enjoyed as standalone instalments as the storytelling beautifully handles the necessary backstory to make them enjoyable.
Phoebe is our leading lady. Her grandmother owns Puddleduck Farm, which provided the converted buildings where Puddleduck Vets was founded. Having returned to her childhood home nursing a broken heart, she is a little bit nervous about romantic trust. Her former partner cheated on her with their boss, and her lack of confidence is really sad to see. However, she’s newly engaged to one of her childhood best friends, and they have just taken the leap and adopted a Dalmatian puppy between them.
Sam, Phoebe's Fiancé, is dependable and proud. His family is everything to him, but he doesn’t want to receive any handouts. He has difficulty accepting that Phoebe is the primary breadwinner, as his upbringing had his father as the family provider. Thankfully, he’s evolved enough to appreciate that love is more important than male pride.
This book is absolutely joyous, but the reader has to work for the happy ending. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster ride, and I would definitely recommend having a box of tissues close by. Yes, I cried -tears of both joy and sorrow - but I was left feeling uplifted and optimistic.
Firstly, this is a series of books that follow on from each other. Still, they can certainly be enjoyed as standalone instalments as the storytelling beautifully handles the necessary backstory to make them enjoyable.
Phoebe is our leading lady. Her grandmother owns Puddleduck Farm, which provided the converted buildings where Puddleduck Vets was founded. Having returned to her childhood home nursing a broken heart, she is a little bit nervous about romantic trust. Her former partner cheated on her with their boss, and her lack of confidence is really sad to see. However, she’s newly engaged to one of her childhood best friends, and they have just taken the leap and adopted a Dalmatian puppy between them.
Sam, Phoebe's Fiancé, is dependable and proud. His family is everything to him, but he doesn’t want to receive any handouts. He has difficulty accepting that Phoebe is the primary breadwinner, as his upbringing had his father as the family provider. Thankfully, he’s evolved enough to appreciate that love is more important than male pride.
This book is absolutely joyous, but the reader has to work for the happy ending. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster ride, and I would definitely recommend having a box of tissues close by. Yes, I cried -tears of both joy and sorrow - but I was left feeling uplifted and optimistic.
June 10, 2024
This was another fabulous instalment of this beautiful and heartwarming series. Was lovely to be back at puddleduck catching up with the characters and animals lives and where the next stages of their lives were taking them. Reading this series always feels like being back with old friends and as always was a great read with plenty of funny moments as well as some heartbreaking ones.
The topic of miscarriage was covered in this instalment and was done so in a very sensitive way and the story also reminded us how sometimes how things appear to others on the outside are not the same as what is going on on the inside and that appearances can be deceptive and sometimes we never know what others are going through.
I am hoping there is going to be further books in this series and that this wasn’t the last one.
The topic of miscarriage was covered in this instalment and was done so in a very sensitive way and the story also reminded us how sometimes how things appear to others on the outside are not the same as what is going on on the inside and that appearances can be deceptive and sometimes we never know what others are going through.
I am hoping there is going to be further books in this series and that this wasn’t the last one.
June 25, 2024
Another brilliant heartwarming addition to the Puddleduck Farm series. It was exciting to catch up with Phoebe and the other characters as they face personal everyday life occurrences. Whilst they battle through hardships the animals always leave you smiling with their crazy antics they are a great medicine. There is also a reminder in the plot that I think we are all guilty of doing and that is you should never judge anything including people by what you see on the surface. It can be hard when the first thing you know about someone is what they look like but that does not mean that you actually know them, you just know what they look like. I think this is by far my favourite of the series as it has so much happening!
June 30, 2024
I have loved the other books I have reviewed in the series, Coming Home to Puddleduck Farm and Living the Dream at Puddleduck Farm. This was another great addition to the series. I loved being back at Puddleduck Farm with quirky characters and cute animals.
As with all the other books I have reviewed, the pacing was relaxing. I loved Phoebe and Sam. Their rented cottage is atmospheric. I enjoyed Phoebe's backstory and information about her love life. I adore horses, and it was great to learn Sam had one.
Love, friendships and good food abound in this book. I really felt like I was inside the story, as I did with the other books from the series I have reviewed.
Roxie was a cute dog.
5 stars
Thanks to Della Galton and Boldwood Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
As with all the other books I have reviewed, the pacing was relaxing. I loved Phoebe and Sam. Their rented cottage is atmospheric. I enjoyed Phoebe's backstory and information about her love life. I adore horses, and it was great to learn Sam had one.
Love, friendships and good food abound in this book. I really felt like I was inside the story, as I did with the other books from the series I have reviewed.
Roxie was a cute dog.
5 stars
Thanks to Della Galton and Boldwood Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
June 30, 2024
I do enjoy series where it is just like meeting up with old friends, especially as the wonderful location is not that far from me in the New Forest. Phoebe's vets practice is going from strength, and her relationship with Sam is going well - with one potential exception. There pregnancies is the air, including a phantom one in a goat, plus weddings in the offing. There are definitely bumps in the road though, with some very bad news along the way. I did think that the previous book in the series was the last one, I was wrong there, but in a good way and there is the prospect of one to follow this?
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
July 5, 2024
Puddleduck Farm is another one of those bookish locations that you wish were real. It sounds such an idyllic place and the residents are absolutely lovely, wouldn't you agree?
I've loved this series from the beginning and I'm always delighted when the next 'episode' is released. It's like going home to catch up with old friends.
Galton takes us on quite the emotional journey with several of the characters. We're delighted with a wedding, the impending birth of a new baby and then the unthinkable happens. This may be a trigger for some, but please note the author did handle it in a sensitive manner.
Is Happy Ever After the last in this series?
I really enjoyed the book, it's lighthearted, easy reading and the perfect escapism, for a few hours at least.
I've loved this series from the beginning and I'm always delighted when the next 'episode' is released. It's like going home to catch up with old friends.
Galton takes us on quite the emotional journey with several of the characters. We're delighted with a wedding, the impending birth of a new baby and then the unthinkable happens. This may be a trigger for some, but please note the author did handle it in a sensitive manner.
Is Happy Ever After the last in this series?
I really enjoyed the book, it's lighthearted, easy reading and the perfect escapism, for a few hours at least.
May 18, 2024
What an amazing instalment to this series. Phoebe and Sam have to work at their relationship and find a balance between work and home. I enjoyed all the happy endings, especially after such sadness for Phoebe and Sam.
The topic of miscarriage is hard, here it was written about sensitively and showed the impact not only of Phoebe but also how devastated Sam was which I think often gets over looked. The love and support that is shown throughout this book is phenomenal and the message of not everything is as it seems was very important. People make assumptions based on what they see but people are good at hiding things.
A really good read and very heart warming.
The topic of miscarriage is hard, here it was written about sensitively and showed the impact not only of Phoebe but also how devastated Sam was which I think often gets over looked. The love and support that is shown throughout this book is phenomenal and the message of not everything is as it seems was very important. People make assumptions based on what they see but people are good at hiding things.
A really good read and very heart warming.
June 29, 2024
A fantastic visit back to the gorgeous setting of Puddleduck Farm.
I really enjoy reading this sweet series of books, filled with brilliant characters and super cute animals!
I work in the veterinary field and appreciate the level of research that has been done, as all the animal information is absolutely spot on. I love the humorous animal stories, they are almost James Herriot like happenings that appear throughout the story, lifting spirits and making me laugh after the more serious moments that also occur during the story.
There are some emotional moments in this story, but are dealt with very sympathetically. Lots of different things are happening too, and it created a sense of tension as I read.
I find Della’s style of writing to be perfect for this genre, a great setting, interesting and varied characters plus a host of adorable animals too. A wonderful story that I couldn’t put down!
I really enjoy reading this sweet series of books, filled with brilliant characters and super cute animals!
I work in the veterinary field and appreciate the level of research that has been done, as all the animal information is absolutely spot on. I love the humorous animal stories, they are almost James Herriot like happenings that appear throughout the story, lifting spirits and making me laugh after the more serious moments that also occur during the story.
There are some emotional moments in this story, but are dealt with very sympathetically. Lots of different things are happening too, and it created a sense of tension as I read.
I find Della’s style of writing to be perfect for this genre, a great setting, interesting and varied characters plus a host of adorable animals too. A wonderful story that I couldn’t put down!
July 5, 2024
It's always a treat to return to Puddleduck Farm, and its lovely characters are great. It only took me moments to be back in Phoebe's life, but if you are new to the series, there is a comprehensive backstory cleverly woven into the early chapters. I like the believable characters, the relatable everyday events and the cast of animals who bring humour and heartache into this uplifting story. Phoebe and Sam face problems in their relationships, but love wins them through. It's an emotional tale with characters you invest in. I enjoyed this heartwarming read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
February 24, 2025
This is the final book in the Puddleduck Farm series and I am so sad that it’s finished 😭
I feel such a huge emotional attachment to these characters and now that I’ve come to the end of the series, I feel like I need to grieve for it slightly, as I really am going to miss reading about Phoebe, Sam, and all the other characters at Puddleduck Farm.
I read all the books in order and absolutely devoured them all! I think reading them in order helps to understand the background and the characters, the personal journeys they’ve been on and helps to appreciate the ending so much more 🥹
I loved this series and I beg that Della Galton writes another installment of Puddleduck Farm ❤️
I feel such a huge emotional attachment to these characters and now that I’ve come to the end of the series, I feel like I need to grieve for it slightly, as I really am going to miss reading about Phoebe, Sam, and all the other characters at Puddleduck Farm.
I read all the books in order and absolutely devoured them all! I think reading them in order helps to understand the background and the characters, the personal journeys they’ve been on and helps to appreciate the ending so much more 🥹
I loved this series and I beg that Della Galton writes another installment of Puddleduck Farm ❤️
July 6, 2024
Tjhis was a fun book with great characters and a lovely story.
Amazon synopsis:
In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
Amazon synopsis:
In the idyllic setting of the New Forest, talented vet Phoebe Dashwood envisions a picturesque life alongside her beloved fiancé. However, the course of true love is fraught with unexpected hurdles.
Career wise, Phoebe encounters a goat who is seemingly experiencing a phantom pregnancy, and a highly-strung talking parrot who pushes her professionalism to the limits.
Things take an unexpected turn for the worse when Phoebe is confronted with a glamorous love rival, and a surprise Valentine's Day ‘date’ to see a financial advisor! Can things get any worse?
When tragedy strikes Phoebe realises that nothing in life should be taken for granted and fears she will lose everything she holds dear.
Whilst her friends find their own happy endings, Phoebe is beset with doubts that she and Sam will never find theirs. Is love enough to carry them into the future they deserve?
June 13, 2024
It was lovely being back in the company of friends at Puddleduck Farm. There are high spirits because of the weddings and pending new baby, difficult times involving unneeded jealousy and agoraphobia, and a really low time when there was an unexpected miscarriage. A very pleasant read!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
#PuddleduckFarmSeriesBk5
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
#PuddleduckFarmSeriesBk5
March 4, 2025
The last installment in the Puddleduck Farm series (although they can be read standalone), and it follows the stories of both Phoebe and Sam and Rufus and his son Archie as they move into the next chapters in their lives. A heartwarming read, with a few years along the way. I loved hearing about the other characters that have featured throughout the series, both human and animal! I loved this series from start to finish.
May 17, 2024
The latest installment at Puddleduck Farm and Vet. A good overall story, though not my favorite in the series. We followup on all the usual folks with weddings and births leading the plot this time. Still good read.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 15, 2024
Another great book in this series, I have loved all of them and this one certainly doesn't disappoint. As always the book is full of great characters.... especially the animals... and is one of those books that you can't put down. It can be read as a standalone by would definitely recommend that you read them all
September 16, 2024
Really enjoyed this series so far and this book was no acception. It's been really grate following Phebey and her friends and watching them find there happy ever after. If this is the end of the series will be sorry to say good bye to these characters although I know the author has just brought out the first book of a new series in a similar theme so going to listne to that one soon.
January 15, 2025
I loved being back at Puddleduck Farm and being back with the characters. Another brilliant book, this is the last book in the Puddleduck Farm series and I've really enjoyed the series. I'm so pleased that everything worked out for Phoebe and she got her Happy After Ever. Definitely recommend reading this series.
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