Welcome back to Puddleduck Farm and a wonderfully warm, festive and uplifting read from Della Galton
Uplifting, poignant, feel-good fiction at its best. Perfect for the fans of Alison Sherlock, Sarah Hope and Lisa Hobman
Are there enough hours in the day for everyone to find their happy place?
Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie welcome their beautiful baby daughter into their already busy lives. With motherhood now top of Phoebe’s to-do list alongside being a vet, and running an animal sanctuary there’s no time for daydreaming.
As Phoebe battles sleepless nights, extra challenges arise in the shape of abandoned African pygmy hedgehogs, stolen cats, and a worrying trend to keep wildlife as pets.
Meanwhile, Sam is selflessly left holding the baby and when a familiar face from the past returns old feelings are tested. With so many plates spinning Sam worries something may get broken – he just hopes it won’t be their relationship.
Can parenthood, a relationship, and a professional life be successfully juggled and is it really ever possible to have it all?
Praise for Della
'A delightful story, in what promises to be a wonderful new series, full of fun and animal drama!' - Jo Bartlett
'A beautifully written, gentle story about self-acceptance, family and friendship.' - Sarah Bennett
'Puddleduck Farm will find its way into your heart - a wonderfully cosy read!' - Fay Keenan
'A warm, delightful read full of friendship and family with a touch of love on the horizon ... I can't wait to see what happens next at Puddleduck Farm!' - Helen Rolfe
'A gorgeous start to a heart-warming new series, filled with engaging characters and a delightful cast of animals. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Puddleduck Farm!’ - Jill Steeples
Della 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.
This book is all about re-adjustment. For Sam, it’s his new role as a stay-at-home dad whilst juggling trying to support his fiancé and parents. Phoebe, on the other hand, is keen to return to her veterinary practice and see Puddleduck Vets go from strength to strength. It’s a big change for both main characters and I found I sympathised more with Sam and didn’t always agree with Phoebe’s decisions.
Personally, I wanted to see Phoebe embrace motherhood more than she does. Instead, she leaves Lily to her family and Sam in order to fulfil her desires of returning to work. I don’t think this presents Phoebe as a maternal character and struggled to accept her behaviours. Whilst it made sense in terms of Phoebe being the main breadwinner, I do think it added a more detached angle to her character because she always seemed rather keen to leave Lily with Sam. I guess this is a reflection that so many families face in terms of financial pressures, but it just made me sympathise more with Sam, especially as he himself is struggling to get his foot back in the working world.
Whilst we see how Sam and Phoebe adjust to parenthood, the book also explored the world of illegal breeders. It’s not something I’ve particularly given thought to, so Galton’s subplot showed just how underhand these breeders can be, stealing animals in order to use them for their own financial gain. I really enjoyed seeing how this part of the story unfolded, especially the closing chapters where Puddleduck Vets are victorious. It definitely made this book feel equally different to the other books in the series, and for that I was grateful.
Yet, despite the snowy cover, this book does not take place predominantly over the Christmas period. It is more like a six-month span with Christmas being in the middle. Whilst it did tickle my tinsel, I think I was expecting more of a festive read from Galton. On the other hand, I did start this book with a bit of sadness, believing it might be the last one of the series. However, considering there are still some open-ended elements to the plot, I am hopeful Phoebe and Sam will return next year.
Although some of the more favourite characters from earlier books – Rufus and Emilia – feature a little bit more, this book continues to be rooted firmly in Sam and Phoebe’s journey. Indeed, the references to hedgehogs reminded me of a series by another author and I fictionally connected the two separate stories! Not only that, but I believe Galton brings in characters from another series of hers – books that are safely on my reading pile in the future.
Another great read in this series, even if it wasn’t overly festive, I enjoyed seeing how Phoebe and Sam adjusted in this next chapter of their lives.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Another wonderful addition to the series. Sam and Phoebe have their hands full with baby Lily and it starts to put strain on their partnership, especially on Sam's part. But after some heart to heart communication and being willing to compromise and accept help, all's well. Plenty of action on the animal front too with exotic pets and unscrupulous breeders. I really love the characters, both human and animals. Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Della Galton for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
It was great to be back at Puddleduck farm and vets. Catching up with Phoebe and Sam again and their new baby Lily.
I found it refreshing to see that it was Sam who was unravelling at becoming a parent and finding it hard to adapt, new fathers suffer just as much a new mothers, especially those that are going to be the full time parent. His feelings, no matter his gender were relatable and very human. Parenthood isn’t always pretty, and it’s only in hindsight with rose tinted glasses you think it flew by and miss it.
The whole cat storyline was interesting and I loved how Maggie came up with a plan, a plan that had Maggie written all over it, I had a little chuckle at all the wide eyed innocent faces as Phoebe was kept in the dark while the rescue happened.
It was nice to catch up with everyone and fingers crossed the next book will be the wedding.
Thank you to Bolwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
I haven't read any other books in this series, but I feel this book works beautifully as a stand alone. I loved that it showed the hard side of being first time parents and the emotions and hardships people can and do suffer with. The book wasn't rushed and covered it's story lines beautifully over the chapters, I laughed quite a few times reading it. It has definitely has been written by someone who has done their research. I am now going to look for other books by this author to read!
It was such a pleasure to return to Puddleduck Farm again. This time with a new baby. Lots of heartfelt moments, trying to juggle the vet's practice, look after the baby plus still keep the relationship going. I do hope they will be another one in this series.
I want to say thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book. I really appreciate it!
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series, but as it turns out this author was fantastic at catching me up! In the most flawless way possible I was introduced to the world of Puddleduck Farm, Pets, and Vets without feeling like the outsider I was worried I would be. The characters were sweet, and wholesome and very likeable. Except for Judy (I loved when Sam stood up for himself!) and Mr. Bad guy I'm glad he got what he deserved. I loved Maggie so much, I wish I could be like her when I'm older! The settings were described so well, I felt like I could picture it all.
I don't know if it occurs in the other books or not, but I loved that so much happens in this book. It's not rushed it's very well spread out and It keeps you on your toes! Well not a center focus I did really love the support this books also gives to new moms for the characters and as a wonderful support and reminder to the moms who might read this book as well. It also does a great job of reminding everyone that grief and still remembering and loving is okay too. I also really loved getting to learn more about animals well reading this book I love learning new things and it made it fun for me. My only small issue with this book would be things than "Lily can do" usually in regards to food that aren't exactly on par with typical babies, but that's about it. This book and probably the whole series has so many attributes to it that works so well, making it a really fun real feel experience I truly loved every minute of it!
Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book I loved it!
Although this book is part of a series its not essential to have read the earlier novels, but you're in for a treat if you start from the beginning. Life for Phoebe and Sam has changed since the birth of daughter Lily, both of them second guessing if they're doing things right. It was lovely to see how all the other familiar characters have been faring as well Although a light hearted novel there was a serious undertone highlighting the concerns around animal breeding, neglect and the care of wildlife and unusual breeds. A cause that is needed in real life A lovely heartwarming read
Phoebe has a thriving rural veterinary practice/animal sanctuary, a thriving personal relationship with caring dad Sam, some brand-new motherless puppies, a fussy baby six-week-old Lily, and some difficulties with the breastfeeding. A gentle heartwarming feelgood story to comfort new mothers and remind grandmas of those days in a good way. I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof copy from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Pub Date Aug 28, 2025 #ANewFamilyatPuddleduckFarm by @dellagalton #PuddleduckFarmBk6 @theboldbookclub #NetGalley #friendship #relationships #romantic #rural #veterinarian #overwhelmed #newmother #England #babyAfricanhedgehogs #newbaby #animalsanctuary #exoticpets
This was such a lovely heartwarming festive read. Even though I hadn't read the other books in the series I still enjoyed it and I will definitely go back and read them. I loved the author's writing style and there was a great mix of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author. 💖 Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This marked my first encounter with the work of Della Galton, and I must say, the title immediately grabbed my interest. The story unfolds in a whimsical yet heartfelt manner, capturing the essence of family life at Puddleduck Farm. From the very first page, I was drawn into a world that felt both inviting and genuine.
The story delves into a rich tapestry of emotions. I appreciate how it portrays Sam, the father, alongside Phoebe and the others as he navigates the complexities of parenthood. Unlike many novels that focus on maternal struggles, this story offers a refreshing perspective on the father's journey, revealing his moments of doubt, joy, and personal growth. Sam’s character is well-developed, showcasing his vulnerabilities while emphasising the unconditional love he has for his family..
While the novel carries a light-hearted tone, it does not shy away from addressing serious issues such as animal breeding, neglect, and the responsibility that comes with caring for wildlife and rare breeds. The author weaves these themes into the storyline seamlessly, providing food for thought without overshadowing the heartwarming aspects of the family’s life.
The dynamic between Sam and Phoebe is beautifully depicted, capturing both the challenges and joys of new parenthood. Their chemistry is palpable, despite the occasional strains brought on by sleepless nights and the demands of raising a child while managing a vet and animal sanctuary.
The setting of Puddleduck Farm is charming and vividly described, from the quaint cottage surrounded by lush greenery to the delightful array of animals that inhabit the farm. Each character, whether human or animal, is crafted with depth and nuance, allowing readers to form connections and feel invested in their stories. The attention to detail in both the environment and character development truly immerses the reader, making it easy to lose oneself in the narrative.
In summary, Della Galton’s *A New Family at Puddleduck Farm* is a delightful read that balances warmth and seriousness, offering a genuine portrayal of family life and the responsibilities that come with it.
Welcome back to Puddleduck Farm and a wonderfully warm, festive and uplifting read from Della Galton
Uplifting, poignant, feel-good fiction at its best. Perfect for the fans of Alison Sherlock, Sarah Hope and Lisa Hobman
Are there enough hours in the day for everyone to find their happy place?
Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie welcome their beautiful baby daughter into their already busy lives. With motherhood now top of Phoebe’s to-do list alongside being a vet, and running an animal sanctuary there’s no time for daydreaming.
As Phoebe battles sleepless nights, extra challenges arise in the shape of abandoned African pygmy hedgehogs, stolen cats, and a worrying trend to keep wildlife as pets.
Meanwhile, Sam is selflessly left holding the baby and when a familiar face from the past returns old feelings are tested. With so many plates spinning Sam worries something may get broken – he just hopes it won’t be their relationship.
Can parenthood, a relationship, and a professional life be successfully juggled and is it really ever possible to have it all?
My comments:
When the last book in this series finished it tied things off really well so was not sure if their would be another however I was very excited when I found their was. I love Phebie and Sam as Characters and have from the start and their story unfolding as they juggle running Puddleduck farm with having a baby and other jobs it's amazing how they grow as characters. This book was good because I like the fact in every book they have to solve a mystry regarding animals and this time it was stolen cats. Another great book in this series and it was also good to see Jade feature from the Duck pond rescue in this book and I hope their will be more cross over between the two sancturies. Looking forward to the next book this author has to offer from either this series or duck pond rescue or something else.
A New Family at Puddleduck Farm is the latest charming, delightful and absorbing novel from much-loved author Della Galton.
Phoebe and Sam have just welcomed a baby daughter into their lives and they couldn’t be happier – or busier! While being a mother is her most fulfilling job yet, Phoebe also has to juggle being a vet and running an animal sanctuary, so she has certainly got more than enough on her plate. As if Phoebe isn’t in a losing race against the clock already, she battles sleepless nights, missing cats, African pygmy hedgehogs and a disturbing penchant of people wanting to keep wildlife as pets! Will Phoebe ever get a moment’s peace? Or is she just daydreaming?
Sam has been left holding the baby – and he’s loving it. However, he cannot shake off this feeling that him and Phoebe are drifting apart. When a familiar face returns, old feelings are tested and with so many plates spinning in the air, Sam wonders, whether his relationship with Phoebe is going to end up a casualty of their very busy lives.
Can Phoebe and Sam find a way to overcome the plethora of challenges in their way and realise what is truly important? Or are they about to lose the best thing that’s ever happened to both of them?
Della Galton’s magical tales of community, friendship and romance never fail to enchant and delight and she’s on top form yet again with her latest novel. An uplifting read that will touch the heart and make readers laugh out loud, A New Family at Puddleduck Farm is a moving tale about taking time to smell the roses, figuring out your priorities and the power of love in all its forms readers are going to love.
Della Galton never disappoints and she comes up trumps yet again with her latest novel, A New Family at Puddleduck Farm.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was totally convinced that the previous book in this series was in fact the last one, so when this appeared on the release schedules I was shocked, but it is definitely a happy surprise.
A feeling that continued as I read the book, by which I mean I devoured it. I am loving the new dynamic of Phoebe as a mother, and of her and Sam trying to get to grips with parenthood, as well as still trying to be people in their own rights.
So something I'm sure it relatable to most parents that might read this. There is naturally a large animal base to this story, and once again Della manages to highlight an issue relating to animals within the story totally naturally to bring awareness.
This time it's to do with keeping wildlife as pets, although I will say those African Pygmy hedgehogs do sound incredibly cute, they definitely shouldn't be pets. There is also mystery going on to do with missing cats, and that was probably my favourite storyline of the book, but to tell you why, may give away spoilers, but rest assured it brings together everyone at Puddleduck Pets and Vets with a common cause, and that Maggie is at the heart of a genius plan, which took even this reader by surprise!
This was another fabulous addition to this series, and I loved seeing a continued link between this and the Duck Pond Cottage series, as both animal rescues help each other out.
So long as there are animals and kind humans in the books, then you know this is a winning combination for this talented author who clearly loves her animals. Please let there be more of this series to come, it is so good.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
A New Family at Puddleduck Farm by Della Galton A heartwarming, uplifting, romantic read Book 6 of 6: Puddleduck Farm A heartwarming, uplifting, romantic read Welcome back to Puddleduck Farm and a wonderfully warm, festive and uplifting read from Della Galton Uplifting, poignant, feel-good fiction at its best. Perfect for the fans of Alison Sherlock, Sarah Hope and Lisa Hobman Are there enough hours in the day for everyone to find their happy place? Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie welcome their beautiful baby daughter into their already busy lives. With motherhood now top of Phoebe’s to-do list alongside being a vet, and running an animal sanctuary there’s no time for daydreaming.
As Phoebe battles sleepless nights, extra challenges arise in the shape of abandoned African pygmy hedgehogs, stolen cats, and a worrying trend to keep wildlife as pets.
Meanwhile, Sam is selflessly left holding the baby and when a familiar face from the past returns old feelings are tested. With so many plates spinning Sam worries something may get broken – he just hopes it won’t be their relationship.
Can parenthood, a relationship, and a professional life be successfully juggled and is it really ever possible to have it all? This is Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie and baby daughter Lily's story. If you like books with animals in the story. You will love this book. I recommend this book. A New Family at Puddleduck Farm by Della Galton is a 4 star book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Della Galton. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
This is one series I could never get tired of. I've read all of the books in it and always eagerly look forward to the next. The characters are so easily relatable, realistic but not overbearing. You can see yourself in the circumstances. With a new baby sleepless nights are inevitable. I can so relate to this, most often this stage doesn't last all too long before they are onto the next fun stage. The challenge of motherhood, keeping up with her animal sanctuary and so many other things that have fallen into her lap has Phoebe Dashwood feeling tired and more than a little vulnerable. Phoebe's partner, Sam Hendrie is such a help to Phoebe spending a lot of time with their little one while Phobe tries to do it all including taking back her professional life. Sam is happy to do it, but it has come at a cost to him as he's had to give up some things that are near and dear to him. With the harried parents doing their best we also throw into the mix trying to solve the case of stolen cats, backyard breeders and those who think taming wildlife as pets are okay. The writer really touches on a lot of tough animal related topics that I totally agree with and I'm so happy to see them included in this book to bring about more awareness to others. I love this series, the relatable characters, the gorgeous setting and the inclusion of the animals. Write on, I'll be reading!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Are there enough hours in the day for everyone to find their happy place?
Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie welcome their beautiful baby daughter into their already busy lives. With motherhood now top of Phoebe’s to-do list alongside being a vet, and running an animal sanctuary there’s no time for daydreaming.
As Phoebe battles sleepless nights, extra challenges arise in the shape of abandoned African pygmy hedgehogs, stolen cats, and a worrying trend to keep wildlife as pets.
Meanwhile, Sam is selflessly left holding the baby and when a familiar face from the past returns old feelings are tested. With so many plates spinning Sam worries something may get broken – he just hopes it won’t be their relationship.
Can parenthood, a relationship, and a professional life be successfully juggled and is it really ever possible to have it all?
My Opinion
It was lovely to be back at Puddleduck Farm and to catch up with some familiar characters – this is a great addition to the series. A heart-warming read. There is so much going on within the book that it was difficult to put down.
In the latest Puddleduck Farm novel, readers follow Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie as they adjust to new parenthood and how their lives will change. Phoebe juggles motherhood, her job as a veterinarian, and the work at the animal sanctuary, and Sam starts taking up parenting while Phoebe gets back to work. However, a familiar face returning to town tests old feelings, and the Dashwood-Hendrie family has too many spinning plates, so something will have to give as long as it isn’t Phoebe and Sam’s relationship. Bringing in relatable questions about parenting, happiness, and relationships, this book is powerful, emotional, and heartwarming. Readers will love the characters’ changing relationship and their relatable struggles, while the characters’ backstories are detailed and well-written. Their dynamic is well-written, and their chemistry, despite the strains of new parenthood, is undeniable. The setting is charming, cozy, and detailed, and the depth of detail in every character and the setting really pull readers into the story. Fans of Della Galton’s other books and the rest of the Puddleduck Farm series will love this new instalment in the series, and Phoebe and Sam’s relationship, shared character arc, and separate character development really immerse readers in this heartwarming setting.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
This has been such an enjoyable series with the focus on life around Puddleduck Farm which has so many different strands to life there. At its heart is animal rescue and storylines arise out of the characters' lives there. Phoebe and Sam are now new parents and are finding that life is much more complicated than they had expected. At first, they keep their struggles and doubts to themselves as they come to terms with the realization that they feel so different obce the baby has been born.
Sam has agreed to become the primary carer so that Phoebe ca return to full time work but realises that he misses his life as a riding instructor. Phoebe is caught in a panic at what she perceives as her shortcomings as a mother and has compared herself unfavourably to others. It takes time for them to admit how they are feeling. Running alongside this is a cat stealing scam which gives a platform for some of the other characters to get involved. Phoebe's grandmother offers her usual common sense and humour and as ever is a huge support to Phoebe. There is a lot to like in this sixth in the series and if this is the final book, it provides a fitting story as the characters move on into their future.
In short: all change at the farm Thanks to the publisher
Phoebe and Sam have been blessed with baby Lily. They are amazed how one little creature could turn their entire world upside down and each has self doubt about how well they are adapting to parenthood. There are offers of help that Phoebe refuses at first but accepts when she realizes she will be overwhelmed when she returns to her practice after her maternity leave. Phoebe falls right back into being vet and entrepreneur but Sam struggles with his sense of identity. Both learn that their strongest ally is each other but not without many a stumble and misstep.
They will need each other and their family and friends. A Maine Coon arrives at the practice, the worse for wear, but he is chipped and when he arrives, he proves there is someone very nefarious stealing valuable cats and then subjecting them to a kitty mill. Even when they know who is the bad guy they still have to proceed with caution but they have some incredible bench strength on their team. All the way through my paws were crossed that all of the kitties would be saved and returned to their humans.
This is a feel good story that even when they go awry, you know things will work out. Five purrs and two paws up.
I am really enjoying this series. And this was the perfect book to take you away from all the troubles in the world today and to go and spend some time at Puddleduck Farm (which I wish was a real place because I would go there in a heartbeat!).
This is the story of Sam and Phoebe and their new baby daughter, Lily. New parenthood can be tough, and reading how the two of them were coping with the early days took me back to mine (and how my daughter struggled with her new parenthood as well).
Sam finds himself doing the lions share of the childcare, which isn't ideal and open communication is the key to getting through - although someone from his past is set to muck with the dynamics between himself and Phoebe.
Inbetween the relation stuff are some animal related issues as well. Even though Phoebe's grandmother, Maggie, has retired, she is still emotionally involved with the rescue animals that reside at Puddleduck Farm.
A sweet tale and I enjoyed the continuation of various threads in the Puddleduck story.
First off, I didn't realized this is a sidebar/vignette of an existing series. I just thought family and Xmas on a farm? Yes! Sign me up.
That said, new mom Phoebe is on maternity leave but also still dealing with various animals emergencies. Meanwhile Sam is trying to be the awesome guy that he is and be supportive trying to do nights with the babies while working during the day. Sweet guy, but burning himself on both ends of the candles.
Trust me, I know being a new mom, you want to do it all, because as girls we're taught we can do it all. But what they left out is that sometimes, self-care is important, and you can do it all - just not all at the same time. You can, many successful women do, but they have help. And this is where Phoebe and Sam have to break down and have those conversations, allowing outside help to keep them sane, rested and grow. It's sweet. I feel this is something you must read the series for it all to gel.
I always look forward to stepping back into the world of Puddleduck Farm with all tbr characters and the animals and this was no exception. Phoebe and Sam have their hands full with baby Lily as well as trying to run the veterinarian practice and the animal sanctuary and all the other parts to life, especially when they find out there is a local illegal cat breeding program that they go undercover to find. What was also unique was that both the MC struggled adapting to the new baby. Typically it is only shown as the mother struggling, if anyone at all, so it was refreshing and realistic to see that Sam struggled to because it’s a big adjustment for dads too! Is it really possible to have it all? I hope the next book bring us their wedding :) If you like books about animals, with real characters that you can relate to, jump into this one. It’s part of a series, which you would benefit from reading to get the whole story, but I think you can still read this as a standalone. Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
A New Family at Puddleduck Farm is the sixth book in the Puddleduck Farm series. There's a new bundle of joy at Puddleduck Farm keeping Phoebe and Sam up all night. Their new daughter is keeping them on their toes, exhausted and adjusting to this new chapter. Phoebe and Sam are happy, but life is not without challenges. They both are so busy that finding enough time to spend together is tough. Parenthood, jobs, exotic animals, and other challenges pull Phoebe and Sam in so many different directions, threatening everything they've built together.
A New Family at Puddleduck Farm is another great book in the wonderful Puddleduck Farm series by Della Galton. I love how the author created this world, set it up, and developed the characters. There are realistically written stressful situations, hard decisions, and upsetting goings-on, but also ones filled with love, support, and fun. I loved being back on Puddleduck Farm.
What a delight it was to return to Puddleduck Farm and Vets with Phoebe and the gang.
Phoebe and Sam are both struggling with being new parents and how their roles in life are changing. I think it is something every new parent goes through, and I liked the way the author dealt with this. I hoped things would work out for them despite some of the challenges they faced.
I loved reading about the animals, and I have gained so much knowledge about different ones just by reading this series. The book also sends out a great message on animal welfare.
There is a wonderful range of characters and I love finding out what they are all up to and what challenges they face.
The author's writing is full of warmth, focusing on family, friendship and relationships. Another great book in the series and I'm already looking forward to the next one.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and the author for my gifted copy and spot on the tour.
Whilst Phoebe and Sam are happily settled into Puddleduck Farm with their newly arrived daughter Lily, both are struggling with the scary reality that is parenthood. Both feel that they’re failing but put on brave faces to the outside world.
Outside of parenthood there’s lots going on in their lives. Whilst on maternity leave Phoebe is trying to keep in contact with her veterinary practice and the pet sanctuary, whilst Sam worries that he’s not giving his horse the care it needs and wonders if he should sell it.
A thoroughly enjoyable read – all about family, friendships, parenthood and maintaining their relationship together with concerns over wild animals being kept as pets, missing cats and kittens, an ex-girlfriend trying to stir up trouble and planning a wedding. Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
Despite all their plans, the birth of their baby Changes life in ways they hadn’t thought maybe. Worries about doing things wrongly, lack of sleep Have both Phoebe and Sam hiding fears down deep.
Returning to work adds to the strain As new challenges add to the old ones that remain. Life has changed for both of this pair They need to talk, make each other aware.
Add in several mysteries and exotic pets, too, New innovations and so much to do! With assumptions proving wrong and surprises, too, There are family and friends to help them get through.
A delightful read with characters who seem so real, Written so well, their emotions you feel. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it to you And hope you enjoy it when you read it, too!
For my copy of this book I say a huge thank you As I share with you this my honest review.
Such a lovely read. Adjusting to life as new parents, can Sam and Phoebe juggle being parents to Lily, not neglect their relationship, plus throw in their jobs. Phoebe is a vet, the clinic is on puddleduck land, along with an animal sanctuary, Sam teaches horse riding. And to top it off several local cats go missing, can they play deceive and save these cats? This book hits on the reality of having a newborn while trying to run business. And animal welfare especially illegal breeding. This is the first book I have read from the puddleduck series. Definitely a book you can read as a standalone. Altho I now want to read the others to find more out about the other characters in the book.
Thank you to net galley, the publisher and author for an ARC of this book, in return for my honest review
This being the 6th book in this series, I spent the whole past week reading books 1-5 at Puddleduck Farm, Vets, Pets before finally being able to start on this book. (It was a very comfortable stay.)
From experiencing Phoebe's heartache and the reason she returned to New Forest, and following her path of finding herself, her experiences finding love, and how she got back on her feet and helped the community (and the wildlife)... of course it was great to see she finally got her baby & getting all the full older mother suite of mum guilt and partner issues in Sam.
No spoilers, but I am very much looking forward to the next instalment of her life (a very exciting phase because the terrible twos are coming and the difficulties of the new mum phase is slowly passing!)
Phoebe and Sam are the proud new parents of baby Lily and while juggling caring for their baby girl they also have some personal and career issues to deal with. I am a big lover of animals and I get quite angry about people who don't treat them right so this story was right up my alley on that score. I especially liked being introduced to animals that I have never heard of and I have probably never heard of them because like it says they are not great pets unless you have knowledge and experience. I liked how Sam and Phoebe overcome most of their hurdles by realising that they needed to communicate with each other. I am a big fan of this series and I fly through the books and I think I finished this one in record time because it is truly brilliant!
A New Family at Puddleduck Farm by Della Galton ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A great addition to the Puddleduck Farm series. It can stand alone but they all follow the residents and visitors in this small town. You'll feel apart of the community as you read them in order.
This is Phoebe and Sam's story. Along with their new born daughter Lily. You get a bird eyes few of the hardships of being first time parents and daily life. I laughed and cried and my heart broke as I'm sure you're will too.
Read along as they try to do it all. From sleepless nights, careers, keeping house as well as an adult relationship. I hope they can find a way to conquer it all and continue to grow.
This book is releasing on August 28th
Thank you Netgallery and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy of this book.