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Primrose Terrace Series #1-4
A Christmas Tail
This book was first published as an e-serial Primrose Terrace Parts 1-4. Perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Lucy Dillon and Debbie Johnson.
A Christmas Tail was first published as a four-part serial set in Primrose Terrace.
Catherine ‘Cat’ Palmer realizes that bringing an adorable puppy into work is a bad idea, especially when it gets her the sack. Deciding it’s the perfect opportunity to launch her dog-walking business, Cat enlists the help of flatmates Polly and Joe. After all Primrose Terrace, the street where they live, is full of home-alone hounds.
Getting to know the owners and their precious pooches isn’t all plain sailing, but soon Cat is making friends, particularly with sexy Mark and his Collie, Chips. But is he the right man for her?
With her talent for misadventure, Cat’s new life starts to show some cracks, and when one of the street’s loveable schnauzers gets ill, it looks like this Christmas could be turning into a dog’s dinner. But Cat has never given up on anything in her life – and this is one Christmas that’s definitely worth saving…
A Christmas Tail was first published as a four-part serial set in Primrose Terrace.
Catherine ‘Cat’ Palmer realizes that bringing an adorable puppy into work is a bad idea, especially when it gets her the sack. Deciding it’s the perfect opportunity to launch her dog-walking business, Cat enlists the help of flatmates Polly and Joe. After all Primrose Terrace, the street where they live, is full of home-alone hounds.
Getting to know the owners and their precious pooches isn’t all plain sailing, but soon Cat is making friends, particularly with sexy Mark and his Collie, Chips. But is he the right man for her?
With her talent for misadventure, Cat’s new life starts to show some cracks, and when one of the street’s loveable schnauzers gets ill, it looks like this Christmas could be turning into a dog’s dinner. But Cat has never given up on anything in her life – and this is one Christmas that’s definitely worth saving…
449 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2015
54 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
About the author
Cressida McLaughlin
61 books703 followersI grew up in London surrounded by books and with a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. I studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia and live in Norwich with my husband David.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
I'm a total book nerd and my TBR pile is out of control. I would quite like to be a ghost hunter, and I'm a huge fan of a fictional hero.
When I'm not writing, I spend my spare time reading, returning to London or exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline.
I love hearing from readers, so please get in touch if you have a question or if you just want to say hello.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 20, 2021
It has such a lovely community ambience, I loved the personality of the MC. i.e. Cat, who is a dog walker. I like how she is so kind and goes out of her way to help people. Did I predict the romance from the very first instance? Yes, but the second lead was nearly perfect too if the author hadn't written the second half deliberately painting him in a bad light. I had feeling that this man is too perfect, how will the author turn it around, and well I kinda predicted the 'how' too cuz that was the only way. An enjoyable read overall, cute and pining romance. Loved the Christmas aspect!
January 4, 2018
This is a perfect read for Christmas and especially if you love dogs. It's funny and romantic at the same time and a perfect read. Cat needs to find herself a new job after taking a dog to work with her in a nursery and they find out and she gets the sack she knew it was wrong but needs to find a job. She loves dogs so decides to start her own job walking them and in the process she puts her nose into everyone's business and some aren't keen. In the process does she find love or is it with the wrong person can be happy ever after. A very enjoyable read.
December 2, 2015
If you love a good "world" the way I do, and you want to discover a talented debut author, your first stop should be at Primrose Terrace in the book A Christmas Tail.
I read Tinsel and Terriers, the last installment, first. it didn't do a thing to dampen my enjoyment of the whole book, however. McLaughlin does an excellent job of filling in the gaps so each section can be it's own story.
Originally published as four standalone novellas, the book has been released in one big compendium. I, myself, love a good, long book. And true to my history, I was despondent when this one came to an end.
The four sections are as follows:
Part 1) Wellies and Westies Part 2) Sunshine and Spaniels Part 3) Raincoats and Retrievers, and ends with a BIG Christmassy finale Part 4) Tinsel and Terriers.
Cat Palmer and Primrose Terrace are our anchors throughout. Primrose Terrace is situated in Fairview, not far from Brighton, along the sea coast, and sounds like an idyllic place to live. Anyone who knows me knows I'm an Angophile, and as I've had the pleasure of staying in Brighton countless times, this setting had special appeal to me. But even if I hadn't, the author paints a picture of the setting so well, that I would have been transported.
Cat's life is always filled with upset and uncertainty, even though she has a good heart and strong character, and like a real cat, always lands on her feet. After losing her job, she relies on her best friend Polly's kindness, and moves in with her and her brother Joe. Polly is studying and interning in order to become a Veterinary Nurse, and this has a great influence on our heroine Cat, as she's an animal lover. Cat is determined to make a go of her new business, Pooch Promenade, and prove she's a reliable dog-walker and a responsible adult.
Cat is relatable and lovable in a very Bridget Jones way, which I adored. The author does a wonderful job of the secondary characters as well, and I never had a moment's trouble keeping them straight or fully picturing them the way I have in lesser-written books. There's Jessica with her gaggle of Westies, Frankie and her kids, and the adversarial Mr. Jasper, the neighborhood curmudgeon who tries to thwart Cat's efforts toward community improvement.
And, in addition to the secondary human characters, there is a whole host of dog characters to get to know and love.
My favorite of the bunch is Disco, the puppy who Cat unwisely takes to work with her. Believe me when I tell you that the author is not afraid to put her characters in hot water. Another fave is Olaf, a Spaniel who steals Kate's heart and is the story catalyst for a good share of the screwball, laugh-out loud moments.
I'm glad I read the Christmas section first, and at Christmas time because it got me so in the mood for the season. But, if you can, I suggest buying the whole set in the paperback form. The sparkly cover is really charming, and this is a book you'll want to re-read. Recommended!
I read Tinsel and Terriers, the last installment, first. it didn't do a thing to dampen my enjoyment of the whole book, however. McLaughlin does an excellent job of filling in the gaps so each section can be it's own story.
Originally published as four standalone novellas, the book has been released in one big compendium. I, myself, love a good, long book. And true to my history, I was despondent when this one came to an end.
The four sections are as follows:
Part 1) Wellies and Westies Part 2) Sunshine and Spaniels Part 3) Raincoats and Retrievers, and ends with a BIG Christmassy finale Part 4) Tinsel and Terriers.
Cat Palmer and Primrose Terrace are our anchors throughout. Primrose Terrace is situated in Fairview, not far from Brighton, along the sea coast, and sounds like an idyllic place to live. Anyone who knows me knows I'm an Angophile, and as I've had the pleasure of staying in Brighton countless times, this setting had special appeal to me. But even if I hadn't, the author paints a picture of the setting so well, that I would have been transported.
Cat's life is always filled with upset and uncertainty, even though she has a good heart and strong character, and like a real cat, always lands on her feet. After losing her job, she relies on her best friend Polly's kindness, and moves in with her and her brother Joe. Polly is studying and interning in order to become a Veterinary Nurse, and this has a great influence on our heroine Cat, as she's an animal lover. Cat is determined to make a go of her new business, Pooch Promenade, and prove she's a reliable dog-walker and a responsible adult.
Cat is relatable and lovable in a very Bridget Jones way, which I adored. The author does a wonderful job of the secondary characters as well, and I never had a moment's trouble keeping them straight or fully picturing them the way I have in lesser-written books. There's Jessica with her gaggle of Westies, Frankie and her kids, and the adversarial Mr. Jasper, the neighborhood curmudgeon who tries to thwart Cat's efforts toward community improvement.
And, in addition to the secondary human characters, there is a whole host of dog characters to get to know and love.
My favorite of the bunch is Disco, the puppy who Cat unwisely takes to work with her. Believe me when I tell you that the author is not afraid to put her characters in hot water. Another fave is Olaf, a Spaniel who steals Kate's heart and is the story catalyst for a good share of the screwball, laugh-out loud moments.
I'm glad I read the Christmas section first, and at Christmas time because it got me so in the mood for the season. But, if you can, I suggest buying the whole set in the paperback form. The sparkly cover is really charming, and this is a book you'll want to re-read. Recommended!
November 18, 2018
Christmas and dogs. The perfect pairing for me.
I loved this book so much, and have never smiled through all the pages as much as I did with this.
Gives you all the Christmas feels ❤️
I loved this book so much, and have never smiled through all the pages as much as I did with this.
Gives you all the Christmas feels ❤️
December 7, 2015
Firstly a word about the gorgeous cover. The sparkly glittery textured cover makes it a perfect book to pick up for that Christmas read. In fact, you could read it at any time of the year as because it covers all four seasons, with the Christmas part at the very end.
I had already bought Part 1 (Wellies and Westies) as a single when it was released earlier and was delighted when I was offered the chance to read all four stories in one book. Part 2 is Sunshine and Spaniels, Part 3 is Raincoats and Retrievers with Part 4 being Tinsel and Terriers.
When Cat Palmer gets the sack from her nursery job, she decides to set up a dog walking business. She loves dogs and being outside and so 'Pooch Promenade' seemed the ideal choice. With some of her busy neighbours in the idyllic sounding Primrose Terrace being her first customers it doesn't take long for word to spread and for Cat to have a successful launch. Cat doesn't only love dogs, she has a huge heart and always wants to help people. However sometimes that help can be seen as interference and can backfire leading to some uncomfortable moments.
There are dogs aplenty in these stories, each with their own characters and I fell in love with all of them. Even Shed, the grumpy ginger cat belonging to Cat's flatmate Joe, had a certain charm.
Cat's life isn't all plain sailing. She lodges with her best friend Polly and Polly's brother Joe. Joe is dealing with issues of his own and although he is supportive in other ways of Cat's new business, he refuses to let her have a dog in the flat, even one belonging to a client. He gives Shed's presence as an excuse but is there another reason? There are people who want to close her business down and her love life has its complications.
This is a lovely warm read with some fabulous characters to get to know. Cat is determined but caring, with her flatmates Polly and Joe sometimes having to bring Cat down to earth. Even the neighbours, including glamorous food writer Jessica with her three Westies, Elsie with her miniature schnauzers Chalky and Disco and single mother Frankie with her two young daughters and puppy Olaf will draw you into their world. Through Cat and Pooch Promenade, some great friendships were formed and there was a wonderful sense of camaraderie, particularly in the Christmas section.
This is an easy and very enjoyable read and whether or not you are a dog lover (I am) there is enough story here to appeal to everybody . Cat was someone that would make a wonderful friend and I was rooting for her all the way through.
My thanks to the Twitter folk at Harper Fiction for the paperback copy to review.
I had already bought Part 1 (Wellies and Westies) as a single when it was released earlier and was delighted when I was offered the chance to read all four stories in one book. Part 2 is Sunshine and Spaniels, Part 3 is Raincoats and Retrievers with Part 4 being Tinsel and Terriers.
When Cat Palmer gets the sack from her nursery job, she decides to set up a dog walking business. She loves dogs and being outside and so 'Pooch Promenade' seemed the ideal choice. With some of her busy neighbours in the idyllic sounding Primrose Terrace being her first customers it doesn't take long for word to spread and for Cat to have a successful launch. Cat doesn't only love dogs, she has a huge heart and always wants to help people. However sometimes that help can be seen as interference and can backfire leading to some uncomfortable moments.
There are dogs aplenty in these stories, each with their own characters and I fell in love with all of them. Even Shed, the grumpy ginger cat belonging to Cat's flatmate Joe, had a certain charm.
Cat's life isn't all plain sailing. She lodges with her best friend Polly and Polly's brother Joe. Joe is dealing with issues of his own and although he is supportive in other ways of Cat's new business, he refuses to let her have a dog in the flat, even one belonging to a client. He gives Shed's presence as an excuse but is there another reason? There are people who want to close her business down and her love life has its complications.
This is a lovely warm read with some fabulous characters to get to know. Cat is determined but caring, with her flatmates Polly and Joe sometimes having to bring Cat down to earth. Even the neighbours, including glamorous food writer Jessica with her three Westies, Elsie with her miniature schnauzers Chalky and Disco and single mother Frankie with her two young daughters and puppy Olaf will draw you into their world. Through Cat and Pooch Promenade, some great friendships were formed and there was a wonderful sense of camaraderie, particularly in the Christmas section.
This is an easy and very enjoyable read and whether or not you are a dog lover (I am) there is enough story here to appeal to everybody . Cat was someone that would make a wonderful friend and I was rooting for her all the way through.
My thanks to the Twitter folk at Harper Fiction for the paperback copy to review.
January 6, 2016
A perfect read for Christmas and dog lovers,we follow Cat whom, after a hilarious incident needs to find a new job and fast and what better way than to become a dog walker. Dogs are her passion in life, through doing this Cat makes lots of new friends and a love interest and we follow Cat (who is rather curious)through the year as she makes some good and bad choices. Throughout this there is an underlying love interest going on from somewhere you don't expect and this keeps you hoping and guessing throughout the book. Absolute pleasure to read, although at times I wanted to reach in and shake Cat and say, "open your bloody eyes!!!" This shows how lost in the book i was and finished it in 2 days, a real page Turner I couldn't put it down, really hoping for a sequel.
November 5, 2015
I am so full of enthusiasm for this book, and its fabulous array of characters, lovely plot, some romance and of course the dogs, that I'm not sure what I should say in what order!
This book had previously been released in four parts, so if you haven't read any of them yet, do get the combined book, definitely worth while, and you can absorb the whole story easily that way. If you have a part or two already, having seen how they all a separated, I can assure you all four are lovely novellas, my favourite being Tinsel and Terriers (Part 4), due to it working as a great Christmas story, full of the Christmas spirit, as well as being a fitting finale to this fine book.
I'm just going to take a second to exclaim just how pretty the cover of this book is in paperback. It has subtle sparkly glittery snow all over it, but not in an over bearing way, just in a I know its there and its gorgeous way!
Despite the name A Christmas Tail, it really is a book you can read all year around. It does have a fab festive finale, but the rest is set throughout the year,, so easily works when ever you want to read it.
That being said, there is so much to love in this book, that I don't know why you would want to wait. As a dog lover (but not owner), I have fallen in love many times over in A Christmas Tail, with all the dogs that Cat has to walk.
My favourites are easily Disco, the puppy that Cat takes into her nursery job with her, and that ultimately loses her that job. But as a result Disco is the catalyst for Cat to take up her new career as a dog walker to all those on Primrose Terrace, who may need her services. My other favourite dog is Olaf, the Spaniel who just seems gorgeous, and belongs to a lovely family, that Cat tries her hardest to help out. Olaf's fancy dress costume, could be considered predictable, but it still had me laughing out loud when revealed!
I think the fact that Cressida McLaughlin names her main character Cat, but has her walking dogs, is the first hint into her sense of humour, and the fun that is present in A Christmas Tail.
Along with the dogs, there is of course a host of human characters to get to know, from Cat's flatmates, Polly (who is also her best friend), and Polly's brother Joe. I didn't really get a feel for Polly at all, mainly as she spent a lot of the book studying for a veterinary nurse exams, so she was present, but I didn't really see much of her personality shine through. Joe on the other hand, I loved. He is am ace illustrator, who at the start is a bit surly as he is getting over his ex girlfriend. As the story progresses he becomes more and more likeable, and seeing his personal growth and change was lovely to see.
There are also the various dog owners, most notable the Captain with his Papillon Paris, Jessica and her three Westies, and Jessica turns out to be a real help to Cat, Frankie, and her children, and Spaniel, Olaf, Elsie the lady next door, who has Disco the loveable pup, and the eldest dog on Primrose Terrace, Chalky, who is seen as the wise dog.
Primrose Terrace is a great place to live, along the coast, not far from Brighton, and has a real neighbourly and loving feel to the place. Everyone starts to come together has Cat runs various events for the residents and their furry friends, and new friendships are formed, and a real community spirit prevails.
A Christmas Tail, is an uplifting story, that I didn't want to put down. I spent my day at work, wishing I was done, just so I would be able to continue reading. The writing style is easy to follow, and draws you into the heart of the story.
A Christmas Tail is a wonderful debut novel, from a very talented upcoming writer. I can't wait to read more books by her.
This book had previously been released in four parts, so if you haven't read any of them yet, do get the combined book, definitely worth while, and you can absorb the whole story easily that way. If you have a part or two already, having seen how they all a separated, I can assure you all four are lovely novellas, my favourite being Tinsel and Terriers (Part 4), due to it working as a great Christmas story, full of the Christmas spirit, as well as being a fitting finale to this fine book.
I'm just going to take a second to exclaim just how pretty the cover of this book is in paperback. It has subtle sparkly glittery snow all over it, but not in an over bearing way, just in a I know its there and its gorgeous way!
Despite the name A Christmas Tail, it really is a book you can read all year around. It does have a fab festive finale, but the rest is set throughout the year,, so easily works when ever you want to read it.
That being said, there is so much to love in this book, that I don't know why you would want to wait. As a dog lover (but not owner), I have fallen in love many times over in A Christmas Tail, with all the dogs that Cat has to walk.
My favourites are easily Disco, the puppy that Cat takes into her nursery job with her, and that ultimately loses her that job. But as a result Disco is the catalyst for Cat to take up her new career as a dog walker to all those on Primrose Terrace, who may need her services. My other favourite dog is Olaf, the Spaniel who just seems gorgeous, and belongs to a lovely family, that Cat tries her hardest to help out. Olaf's fancy dress costume, could be considered predictable, but it still had me laughing out loud when revealed!
I think the fact that Cressida McLaughlin names her main character Cat, but has her walking dogs, is the first hint into her sense of humour, and the fun that is present in A Christmas Tail.
Along with the dogs, there is of course a host of human characters to get to know, from Cat's flatmates, Polly (who is also her best friend), and Polly's brother Joe. I didn't really get a feel for Polly at all, mainly as she spent a lot of the book studying for a veterinary nurse exams, so she was present, but I didn't really see much of her personality shine through. Joe on the other hand, I loved. He is am ace illustrator, who at the start is a bit surly as he is getting over his ex girlfriend. As the story progresses he becomes more and more likeable, and seeing his personal growth and change was lovely to see.
There are also the various dog owners, most notable the Captain with his Papillon Paris, Jessica and her three Westies, and Jessica turns out to be a real help to Cat, Frankie, and her children, and Spaniel, Olaf, Elsie the lady next door, who has Disco the loveable pup, and the eldest dog on Primrose Terrace, Chalky, who is seen as the wise dog.
Primrose Terrace is a great place to live, along the coast, not far from Brighton, and has a real neighbourly and loving feel to the place. Everyone starts to come together has Cat runs various events for the residents and their furry friends, and new friendships are formed, and a real community spirit prevails.
A Christmas Tail, is an uplifting story, that I didn't want to put down. I spent my day at work, wishing I was done, just so I would be able to continue reading. The writing style is easy to follow, and draws you into the heart of the story.
A Christmas Tail is a wonderful debut novel, from a very talented upcoming writer. I can't wait to read more books by her.
December 23, 2015
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2015/12...
A Christmas Tail was first published as a serialised enovel earlier this year. I read the first part and enjoyed it a lot but, when it was announced that it was going to be published as a whole in paperback, I decided to wait and enjoy it all at once. I am glad that I did because, first, the paperback is gorgeous with its glittery cover and, second, because the story is just great.
The idea behind the book is really original. Cat, our heroine, after losing her job decides to build her own business as a dog walker. Soon she starts meeting all the dogs and their owners in the beautiful neighbourhood around Primrose Terrace. I really enjoyed reading about all the dogs, they were fantastic characters on their own and each one of them had its own treats and unique personality. And then, there were their owners, who all had their own problems and complications and made for a really fun and varied story.
The story takes place during almost a whole year and as the seasons pass, Cat keeps gaining confidence on her new business. However, her curiousity makes her be a tiny bit too interested in her clients' lives. This creates some problems in the community but soon we realise that Cat always acts from her heart and just wants to help whenever she can. She really is a fantastic character.
Also very interesting is the love triangle between Cat, her sexy but mysterious neighbour and dog owner, and her new roommate. I had a favourite from the beginning and I was glad to read how the triangle ended how I hoped!
As I said, the story takes place during the year but as Christmas approaches, the story builds up for a great ending. The last part of the book, that cover the festive period, was definitely my favourite one. The whole community work together to make this time special and it left me in the perfect festive mood.
A Christmas Tail is a fantastic that I can only recommend. It's perfect for the holidays but also for any time of the year as the story is full of surprises and great characters. All dog lovers will absolutely love it and I'm sure that anyone else will also enjoy it greatly.
A Christmas Tail was first published as a serialised enovel earlier this year. I read the first part and enjoyed it a lot but, when it was announced that it was going to be published as a whole in paperback, I decided to wait and enjoy it all at once. I am glad that I did because, first, the paperback is gorgeous with its glittery cover and, second, because the story is just great.
The idea behind the book is really original. Cat, our heroine, after losing her job decides to build her own business as a dog walker. Soon she starts meeting all the dogs and their owners in the beautiful neighbourhood around Primrose Terrace. I really enjoyed reading about all the dogs, they were fantastic characters on their own and each one of them had its own treats and unique personality. And then, there were their owners, who all had their own problems and complications and made for a really fun and varied story.
The story takes place during almost a whole year and as the seasons pass, Cat keeps gaining confidence on her new business. However, her curiousity makes her be a tiny bit too interested in her clients' lives. This creates some problems in the community but soon we realise that Cat always acts from her heart and just wants to help whenever she can. She really is a fantastic character.
Also very interesting is the love triangle between Cat, her sexy but mysterious neighbour and dog owner, and her new roommate. I had a favourite from the beginning and I was glad to read how the triangle ended how I hoped!
As I said, the story takes place during the year but as Christmas approaches, the story builds up for a great ending. The last part of the book, that cover the festive period, was definitely my favourite one. The whole community work together to make this time special and it left me in the perfect festive mood.
A Christmas Tail is a fantastic that I can only recommend. It's perfect for the holidays but also for any time of the year as the story is full of surprises and great characters. All dog lovers will absolutely love it and I'm sure that anyone else will also enjoy it greatly.
December 14, 2022
This was such a heartwarming story. Filled with our favourite four legged friends and some amazing characters to get behind. Cat was immediately a character you rooted for and I loved reading about her foray into making her own dog walking business. With Joe, adamant he doesn’t want a dog and Cat a lover of all things that go woof, she redirects her love for canines into her business. But is there a reason Joe is to aversive to getting a dog?
I loved the travel through the seasons in this book, to arrive at Christmas at the end which made it a perfect festive read. I read this in December so it was great and the ending to the book had me all fuzzy and warm inside!
Cressida McLaughlin is a fab romance writer and her books never fall short. I listened to the audiobook of this which was great, my own fault for occasionally slipping out of consciousness whilst listening to this so it broke up a bit of the flow for me but it was a great book. I’ve been making my way through all of her books and this was one of the earlier ones I wanted to get round to. Can’t wait to read more!
I loved the travel through the seasons in this book, to arrive at Christmas at the end which made it a perfect festive read. I read this in December so it was great and the ending to the book had me all fuzzy and warm inside!
Cressida McLaughlin is a fab romance writer and her books never fall short. I listened to the audiobook of this which was great, my own fault for occasionally slipping out of consciousness whilst listening to this so it broke up a bit of the flow for me but it was a great book. I’ve been making my way through all of her books and this was one of the earlier ones I wanted to get round to. Can’t wait to read more!
January 14, 2019
I really loved this book, and not just because there were two miniature schnauzers in it, one of which was on the front cover! As the owner of two miniature schnauzers I was certainly intrigued by the book.
The book follows the story of Cat, who moves in with her best friend Polly, and Polly’s heartbroken brother Joe. After Cat takes a neighbour’s miniature schnauzer puppy to the preschool where she works, with disastrous results, Cat finds herself out of work. With encouragement from her friends, she sets up a dog walking business called Pooch Promenade, and talks to her dog-owning neighbours to gain business. On her first trial walk, with too many dogs, she is rescued by sexy (but smug) Mark, and his Collie Chips. As she becomes involved with Mark, and settles in to the local area, she tries to solve people’s problems, and prepares the street for a Christmas decorations competition.
I laughed so much throughout the book, but ended up sobbing when one of the miniature schnauzers was taken ill (coinciding with real life and a month where both of my schnauzers had been ill with the same condition). Cressida has created such lovely characters, and I enjoyed every minute of the book. A well deserved five stars from me.
The book follows the story of Cat, who moves in with her best friend Polly, and Polly’s heartbroken brother Joe. After Cat takes a neighbour’s miniature schnauzer puppy to the preschool where she works, with disastrous results, Cat finds herself out of work. With encouragement from her friends, she sets up a dog walking business called Pooch Promenade, and talks to her dog-owning neighbours to gain business. On her first trial walk, with too many dogs, she is rescued by sexy (but smug) Mark, and his Collie Chips. As she becomes involved with Mark, and settles in to the local area, she tries to solve people’s problems, and prepares the street for a Christmas decorations competition.
I laughed so much throughout the book, but ended up sobbing when one of the miniature schnauzers was taken ill (coinciding with real life and a month where both of my schnauzers had been ill with the same condition). Cressida has created such lovely characters, and I enjoyed every minute of the book. A well deserved five stars from me.
September 10, 2017
I was in dire need of a book that would give me a metaphorical hug and this book did the perfect job! McLaughlin's writing is a cut above; clever and fun and confident. I was hooked on the tale of spirited Cat as she builds her dog walking business in a village full of wonderfully interesting characters (including the dogs themselves!). I tore through this book in a couple of days and would recommend to anyone looking for a romantic, feel good read with lots of heart, warmth and laughter!
November 29, 2023
Cressida's books always make me smile and A Christmas Tail was no exception. It's the first published book of Cressida's but it is an amazing read.
A Christmas Tail follows the story of Cat, a young woman who moves to Primrose Terrace to live with her friend Polly and Polly's brother, Joe. Cat begins having a job at a nursery but things take a turn and she finds herself unemployed. From there, Cat begins a dog-walking company and is her own CEO. Throughout the novel, Cat has obstacles to overcome both professionally and personally.
I loved the plot of this book and having spoken to Cressida about the inspiration for it, it made me appreciate it so much more. All the dogs throughout are so cute, especially Disco - I loved Disco and Chalky as well.
There is a plethora of characters in this book from charismatic Mark to grumpy Mr Jasper to elegant and luxurious Jessica. Cat herself is very curious, generous, and kind-hearted. She wants to help everyone she can and always has the best intentions despite things not always going the right way. But she learns over time how to adapt and embrace being herself.
Joe begins the novel by being rather grumpy, kind of distant and I have to admit I didn't like him at first. But you very quickly learn to love Joe and can see how he feels about Cat. I was overjoyed when the two of them finally got together, at Christmas no less.
A Christmas Tail is four parts, one for each season really, and ends on a Christmassy note. It is a lovely, heart-warming read.
A Christmas Tail follows the story of Cat, a young woman who moves to Primrose Terrace to live with her friend Polly and Polly's brother, Joe. Cat begins having a job at a nursery but things take a turn and she finds herself unemployed. From there, Cat begins a dog-walking company and is her own CEO. Throughout the novel, Cat has obstacles to overcome both professionally and personally.
I loved the plot of this book and having spoken to Cressida about the inspiration for it, it made me appreciate it so much more. All the dogs throughout are so cute, especially Disco - I loved Disco and Chalky as well.
There is a plethora of characters in this book from charismatic Mark to grumpy Mr Jasper to elegant and luxurious Jessica. Cat herself is very curious, generous, and kind-hearted. She wants to help everyone she can and always has the best intentions despite things not always going the right way. But she learns over time how to adapt and embrace being herself.
Joe begins the novel by being rather grumpy, kind of distant and I have to admit I didn't like him at first. But you very quickly learn to love Joe and can see how he feels about Cat. I was overjoyed when the two of them finally got together, at Christmas no less.
A Christmas Tail is four parts, one for each season really, and ends on a Christmassy note. It is a lovely, heart-warming read.
January 15, 2024
This was originally published as four separate novellas, and is now a single book. While it features 'Christmas" in the title, only the last quarter of the book is actually set at Christmas. So if you're looking for a holiday story, this won't work.
Our heroine Cat lives with her best friend Polly and Polly's brother Joe in a house on a charming street in small town about an hour from Brighton. As the story begins Cat is working at a nursery, but is quickly fired by her awful boss for bringing a neighbor's tiny dog to the nursery. This is just the first of countless incidents where Cat leaps in to help one of her neighbors with often disastrous results.
Almost immediately Cat begins a dog walking service (she loves dogs) and is soon a hit walking all of her neighbors' dogs.
Along the way Cat becomes involved with Mark, a very handsome neighbor, who seems too good to be true, and meddles in the potential or endangered romances of many neighbors.
I found the early going very slow, and wasn't enamored with many of Cat's romantic decisions. The various dogs in the book all had real personalities, and were quite fun. The last quarter of the book was definitely my favorite. I think I would've liked this more if parts 2 and 3 had been cut a great deal.
Our heroine Cat lives with her best friend Polly and Polly's brother Joe in a house on a charming street in small town about an hour from Brighton. As the story begins Cat is working at a nursery, but is quickly fired by her awful boss for bringing a neighbor's tiny dog to the nursery. This is just the first of countless incidents where Cat leaps in to help one of her neighbors with often disastrous results.
Almost immediately Cat begins a dog walking service (she loves dogs) and is soon a hit walking all of her neighbors' dogs.
Along the way Cat becomes involved with Mark, a very handsome neighbor, who seems too good to be true, and meddles in the potential or endangered romances of many neighbors.
I found the early going very slow, and wasn't enamored with many of Cat's romantic decisions. The various dogs in the book all had real personalities, and were quite fun. The last quarter of the book was definitely my favorite. I think I would've liked this more if parts 2 and 3 had been cut a great deal.
December 9, 2015
Oh guys, it was such a joy to read those four short stories as one book! I've read the parts when they were published as a serialized instalments, all but the last one, and even though it was not long time ago, I happily got back with all the characters that I've already grown so found of, and of course I couldn't wait to see how the story is going to end! And I can't not mention the cover - it's wonderful! beautiful and sparkly, and I love with all my girly heart.
One of the best thing is that the book introduces us not only to human characters, but also to animal ones, dogs especially, and as you can usually spot me in my own muddy wellies, with a smelly pockets full of treats for my dog, I was sure this book is so going to be so up to my street.
Taking a puppy to the nursery where she works was not Cat's best idea ever, as - of course! - chaos ensues, and Cat is fired on the spot. But Cat is not crying over the spilled milk, oh no, very quickly a new plan is conceived - Cat is going to be a dog - walker. Fortunately, there are many residents in Primrose Terrace who have dogs and little time. Cat is going to get to know not only the four - legged clients, but also the two - legged, and a celebrity among them.
At the beginning, I was not so sure about Cat. I mean, taking a puppy with her into the nursery where she works, even though she knows her boss is a sticking to the rules, very precise woman and who had let Cat know her thoughts on dogs already - would you do this? I don't think so. And Cat stroke me as a little hot - headed, who first says and does and only then thinks about the consequences, and she's big enough already to know better, right? Not respecting what other people tell her, and doing things at any cost. On the other hand, she's funny and she may have her head in the clouds, but at least she's not wallowing in self - pity but trying! And with the story progressing and developing, I was falling in love with Cat, just like that. Her need to know everything about other people, ekhm, I guess we are also as nosey as Cat, no? Maybe not to such an extend, Cat is extreme in this matter, but as long as she doesn't hurt anybody, why not? She was just a girl after my own heart and I kept my fingers crossed for her all the time. She was bubbly, sparkly and full of optimism through the whole book. And overly curious! But she has a heart made of gold and she wants to help not only animals, but all people - I only hope that carrying problems of the whole world on her shoulders is not going to break her.
There were always lot of troubles in store for our lovely Cat. Well, Cat often is herself a reason for the troubles to appear, as she can't help her nosiness and willingness to help, no matter if people involved wanted it or not. And it's truly amazing how many sub - plots and action the author has managed to squeeze between the pages of this novel - it is a real page - turner, because you've no idea what's going to happen and what Cat is going to do. And she is lovely, our Cat, no matter if she's too drunk after a dinner with her parents, if she's confused about Mark or angry with Joe - Cat is one of the greatest characters, she's such relatable and likeable, with her flaws, hot - headed spontaneous and with heart made of gold.
From all the other characters I think that the dogs are those that we know most :) I loved Disco, and all the other dogs, and they are really great written - I mean, they are like real dogs, not too exaggerated. Polly is a really brilliant great friend, and when we eventually got to know why Joe is like he is, I have warmed to him as well. I've never warmed to Mark, I was expecting that there is more to Mark than meets the eye, I don't know but he was... strange, as if he had a secret or two, he was too at bay for my liking and I really think he's hiding something - and I was right! Really didn't know what to do with him, with him being so cold and non - committal, and the more I got to know him, the more I was falling in love with Joe, who was just perfect and who appreciated Cat just like she was.
"A Christmas Tail" was a lovely read, and I really adored how the lives of the characters intertwined, how there was this nice, warm feeling of the community, how the people got together. There were some funny scenes, and it had a feel - good factor to it. I felt comfortable and in the right place already after reading the first sentence of this novel. Of course the story was full of dogs (and some very bad cats) and I loved the way Cressida writes about them, with a lot of humour but also understanding, and it is a real joy for me, such a dog - admirer and owner of altogether more than 20 dogs in my life, to have a book mostly about the dogs and their antics, which are so greatly captured - even though Cressida herself has never had a dog! I loved how this story wrapped up - I can't have enough of happy ends, especially such happy ends! I truly can't wait to see what Cressida has in store for us next year with her new series "The Canal Boat Cafe". Highly recommended!
Copy provided by the author.
December 20, 2019
A jolly story of community and dogs.
December 16, 2023
A quaint Christmas tale, if a little predictable. An easy festive read
November 26, 2024
Lovely little holiday read! Light hearted!
October 18, 2023
Predictable but cute, full of happy endings, most at the hands of interfering but caring dog lover Cat. Four stories based on the seasons. Good for cozy afternoon reading.
January 5, 2020
Another wonderful book by Cressida. I enjoyed it immensely despite not being an animal lover! It had me reaching for a multitude of tissues towards the end.
November 4, 2015
A Christmas Tail is gorgeous, both inside and out!
From the glittery sprinkles on the cover to the chirpy story just waiting to sing to you, just about everything sparkles about this book, and I mean EVERYTHING.
Originally published in four parts, these tales of the residents of Primrose Terrace are now combined in one beautifully presented edition. Despite the Christmassy cover, it pretty much spans the seasons of a year in all their wonderful glory. There’s:
Part 1) Wellies and Westies Part 2) Sunshine and Spaniels Part 3) Raincoats and Retrievers, and ends with a BIG Christmassy finale Part 4) Tinsel and Terriers.
Our main heroine is Catherine Palmer whose turbulent fictional life can be pretty unpredictable. After morphing from bad to worse as she’s already been fired from her job, she is currently living with her best friend and trainee veterinary nurse, Polly and Polly’s brother, Joe. While Cat’s suffering from the woes of employment issues, she’s trying to ignore a potential romance on the horizon and her antics are often worse that the cliental of her new dog walking business she’s decided to open. But given her track record, not everyone is convinced she has everything under control and will go out of their way to put a stop to her new livelihood. Cat’s mission is to prove them wrong and she is desperate to make an impression with 'Pooch Promenade'.
With her heart of gold and infinite determination, you’ll soon find that Cat will attempt to turn anyone’s frown upside down. Yet she lives up to her name, as curiosity undoubtedly gets the better of her on occasion. Her natural ability for jumping in offers the most surprising results!
There’s a whole host of colourful characters just bursting to greet you behind the doors of Primrose Terrace, and of course there’s Cat’s cute canine pals to coo over too – and that’s before we get started on the self-assured ‘Mr smug chin’ and the serious illustrator with more to him than meets the eye…
Through their highs and lows and rallying for a common cause a unique camaraderie is created, not only as neighbours but as friends. And the ‘will they / won’t they’ moments are a real treat.
I usually plough through my books but I simply had to savour this one, as it was such a delightful diversion. It’s charming, it’s entertaining and it’s got the’ feel-goods’ written all over it – you’d be barking mad not to read it!
(My sincere thanks to the publisher for sending a positively glistening paperback copy of this wonderful read for review.)
From the glittery sprinkles on the cover to the chirpy story just waiting to sing to you, just about everything sparkles about this book, and I mean EVERYTHING.
Originally published in four parts, these tales of the residents of Primrose Terrace are now combined in one beautifully presented edition. Despite the Christmassy cover, it pretty much spans the seasons of a year in all their wonderful glory. There’s:
Part 1) Wellies and Westies Part 2) Sunshine and Spaniels Part 3) Raincoats and Retrievers, and ends with a BIG Christmassy finale Part 4) Tinsel and Terriers.
Our main heroine is Catherine Palmer whose turbulent fictional life can be pretty unpredictable. After morphing from bad to worse as she’s already been fired from her job, she is currently living with her best friend and trainee veterinary nurse, Polly and Polly’s brother, Joe. While Cat’s suffering from the woes of employment issues, she’s trying to ignore a potential romance on the horizon and her antics are often worse that the cliental of her new dog walking business she’s decided to open. But given her track record, not everyone is convinced she has everything under control and will go out of their way to put a stop to her new livelihood. Cat’s mission is to prove them wrong and she is desperate to make an impression with 'Pooch Promenade'.
With her heart of gold and infinite determination, you’ll soon find that Cat will attempt to turn anyone’s frown upside down. Yet she lives up to her name, as curiosity undoubtedly gets the better of her on occasion. Her natural ability for jumping in offers the most surprising results!
There’s a whole host of colourful characters just bursting to greet you behind the doors of Primrose Terrace, and of course there’s Cat’s cute canine pals to coo over too – and that’s before we get started on the self-assured ‘Mr smug chin’ and the serious illustrator with more to him than meets the eye…
Through their highs and lows and rallying for a common cause a unique camaraderie is created, not only as neighbours but as friends. And the ‘will they / won’t they’ moments are a real treat.
I usually plough through my books but I simply had to savour this one, as it was such a delightful diversion. It’s charming, it’s entertaining and it’s got the’ feel-goods’ written all over it – you’d be barking mad not to read it!
(My sincere thanks to the publisher for sending a positively glistening paperback copy of this wonderful read for review.)
December 6, 2020
Sweet Christmas Lovestory for doglovers.
Who ends up with whom is a little predictable, but I did really enjoy a lot of wagging dails, cold noses and Christmas Spirit anyway!
The main character is a really sweet woman, who wants to help everybody, and by doing that often creates new problems.
Definitely worth a look if you are looking for holiday chic lit.
Who ends up with whom is a little predictable, but I did really enjoy a lot of wagging dails, cold noses and Christmas Spirit anyway!
The main character is a really sweet woman, who wants to help everybody, and by doing that often creates new problems.
Definitely worth a look if you are looking for holiday chic lit.
December 3, 2020
Not really a Christmas book as the cover suggests (the story takes you through the year and ends on Christmas day); nevertheless a nice light, happy read about well meaning, but meddlesome, Cat who brings her street together when she sets up a dog walking business.
February 16, 2019
A Christmas Tail follows the story of Cat, an overly eager, excitable and curious young woman with an absolute passion for dogs. Having just moved in to the gorgeous and picturesque town of Fairview with her best friend Polly, and Polly’s grumpy brother Joe, she is struggling to find her place. Until, spurred on by her elderly neighbour Elsie, she realises there seems to be a need for a dog walker in town. Determined to succeed, and surround herself with dogs in anyway she can considering Joe’s no dogs rule, she sets about creating her own business and meeting some colourful characters along the way.
From a glamorous cooking author, to a single mum with 3 kids and a playful puppy, to the mysteriously handsome border collie owner, Primrose Terrace seems to be the dog capital of the world, and Cat gets to know all her neighbours and their pooches. But, ever eager to please and help out a friend in need, she can sometimes let curiosity get the better of her and feel compelled to fix rifts or problems which aren’t hers to solve. Coping with the ups and downs of win some, lose some, she must also learn to take the same care and consideration with her own life, particularly when it comes to mysterious neighbours and grumpy roommates.
Primrose Terrace sounds like absolute heaven – I would happily move in tomorrow if I could! I’m lucky enough to live very close to Brighton, which Fairview is set close to, so I have a good picture in my head of the style the area must be going for. From the classic terraced homes to the gorgeous park, and the beautiful beaches and coves – it just sounds so picturesque. Fairview is now up there with Hogwarts and Rivendell of the places I wish were real!
One of Cressy’s best skills as a writer is the ability to create so many loveable, wonderful characters. There is always a real sense of community and comradeship as everyone manages to pull together for the cause, or to pull off some grand event. Adding to this a wonderful knack for writing about gorgeous dogs, with as much personality as the main characters themselves, you are surely on to a winner. I’m not (forgive me!) an animal person myself, but just reading these books has made me want my own!
The romance aspect of the book is so lovely as well – the will they, won’t they, do they, don’t they is exactly what you want in a heartwarming book such as this. But what I love is that there is never any major pain or anguish – no drama for drama’s sake, it is unashamedly a lovely, happy, snuggly read that just leaves you smiling from ear to ear the whole way through. Except the bit which nearly brought me to tears reading on the train into work the other day! I also loved the ‘Which dog are you?’ quiz at the end of my kindle edition – I’m a Westie in case you’re interested 😉
From a glamorous cooking author, to a single mum with 3 kids and a playful puppy, to the mysteriously handsome border collie owner, Primrose Terrace seems to be the dog capital of the world, and Cat gets to know all her neighbours and their pooches. But, ever eager to please and help out a friend in need, she can sometimes let curiosity get the better of her and feel compelled to fix rifts or problems which aren’t hers to solve. Coping with the ups and downs of win some, lose some, she must also learn to take the same care and consideration with her own life, particularly when it comes to mysterious neighbours and grumpy roommates.
Primrose Terrace sounds like absolute heaven – I would happily move in tomorrow if I could! I’m lucky enough to live very close to Brighton, which Fairview is set close to, so I have a good picture in my head of the style the area must be going for. From the classic terraced homes to the gorgeous park, and the beautiful beaches and coves – it just sounds so picturesque. Fairview is now up there with Hogwarts and Rivendell of the places I wish were real!
One of Cressy’s best skills as a writer is the ability to create so many loveable, wonderful characters. There is always a real sense of community and comradeship as everyone manages to pull together for the cause, or to pull off some grand event. Adding to this a wonderful knack for writing about gorgeous dogs, with as much personality as the main characters themselves, you are surely on to a winner. I’m not (forgive me!) an animal person myself, but just reading these books has made me want my own!
The romance aspect of the book is so lovely as well – the will they, won’t they, do they, don’t they is exactly what you want in a heartwarming book such as this. But what I love is that there is never any major pain or anguish – no drama for drama’s sake, it is unashamedly a lovely, happy, snuggly read that just leaves you smiling from ear to ear the whole way through. Except the bit which nearly brought me to tears reading on the train into work the other day! I also loved the ‘Which dog are you?’ quiz at the end of my kindle edition – I’m a Westie in case you’re interested 😉
December 30, 2023
A Christmas Tail by Cressida McLaughlin is an absolutely delightful contemporary novel that will make you smile. The title is misleading – although Christmas is celebrated at the end of the book, the novel covers the whole year.
We follow the lead character, Cat, who is an enthusiastic, novice dog-walker as the book opens. Life is chaotic and never dull with Cat around. The dogs all have their unique personalities and endear themselves to the reader.
Cat is a very charming leading lady. She has a huge heart and is a ‘fixer’ but sometimes this lands her in hot water.
There is the pantomime villain in the story who turns out to be misguided and not so bad after all.
Within the tale there is conflict between those who love dogs and a few who don’t – but are determined to spoil life for others.
We also have a love interest. There appears to be a love triangle. I know who I was rooting for!
The leading characters love the series Grey’s Anatomy which is my favourite series too. This meant I got all the references to Meredith and McDreamy!
I absolutely adored A Christmas Tail and cannot wait for more from Cressida McLaughlin.
We follow the lead character, Cat, who is an enthusiastic, novice dog-walker as the book opens. Life is chaotic and never dull with Cat around. The dogs all have their unique personalities and endear themselves to the reader.
Cat is a very charming leading lady. She has a huge heart and is a ‘fixer’ but sometimes this lands her in hot water.
There is the pantomime villain in the story who turns out to be misguided and not so bad after all.
Within the tale there is conflict between those who love dogs and a few who don’t – but are determined to spoil life for others.
We also have a love interest. There appears to be a love triangle. I know who I was rooting for!
The leading characters love the series Grey’s Anatomy which is my favourite series too. This meant I got all the references to Meredith and McDreamy!
I absolutely adored A Christmas Tail and cannot wait for more from Cressida McLaughlin.
December 23, 2019
(3.5 stars)
> This is a four-part serialized novel, and only the fourth part is about Christmas. But the other parts/seasons were also fun – I just happened to like the Christmas part the best! There was a fun lights competition on Primrose Terrace, and Cat finally realized who the right guy was for her. Hallelujah.
> The dogs all had such great personalities, and I really enjoyed Cat’s adventures with them. The Westies and Disco were my favourite pooches. The accounts of what Cat got up to with the dogs were funny and heartwarming.
> A lot of the book follows Cat as she gets to know her fellow residents at Primrose Terrace. She is very curious and loves to help those around her, so she spends much of her time finding solutions to her friends’ problems. The supporting characters were great, making Cat’s story quite entertaining. I just wish there would have been more time spent with the winning love interest.
> This is a four-part serialized novel, and only the fourth part is about Christmas. But the other parts/seasons were also fun – I just happened to like the Christmas part the best! There was a fun lights competition on Primrose Terrace, and Cat finally realized who the right guy was for her. Hallelujah.
> The dogs all had such great personalities, and I really enjoyed Cat’s adventures with them. The Westies and Disco were my favourite pooches. The accounts of what Cat got up to with the dogs were funny and heartwarming.
> A lot of the book follows Cat as she gets to know her fellow residents at Primrose Terrace. She is very curious and loves to help those around her, so she spends much of her time finding solutions to her friends’ problems. The supporting characters were great, making Cat’s story quite entertaining. I just wish there would have been more time spent with the winning love interest.
April 3, 2022
A Christmas Tail by Cressida McLaughlin
This book was first published as an e-serial Primrose Terrace Parts 1-4. Perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Lucy Dillon and Debbie Johnson.
A Christmas Tail was first published as a four-part serial set in Primrose Terrace.
Catherine ‘Cat’ Palmer realizes that bringing an adorable puppy into work is a bad idea, especially when it gets her the sack. Deciding it’s the perfect opportunity to launch her dog-walking business, Cat enlists the help of flatmates Polly and Joe. After all Primrose Terrace, the street where they live, is full of home-alone hounds.
Dogs, Christmas and Cressida McLaughlin - what not to like? A very enjoyable read. Despite the title suggesting this is a Christmas book, it can be read at any time of year as Christmas does not feature that heavily. Some interesting characters make this a delightful read for any dog lovers.
Rating 4/5
This book was first published as an e-serial Primrose Terrace Parts 1-4. Perfect for fans of Cathy Bramley, Lucy Dillon and Debbie Johnson.
A Christmas Tail was first published as a four-part serial set in Primrose Terrace.
Catherine ‘Cat’ Palmer realizes that bringing an adorable puppy into work is a bad idea, especially when it gets her the sack. Deciding it’s the perfect opportunity to launch her dog-walking business, Cat enlists the help of flatmates Polly and Joe. After all Primrose Terrace, the street where they live, is full of home-alone hounds.
Dogs, Christmas and Cressida McLaughlin - what not to like? A very enjoyable read. Despite the title suggesting this is a Christmas book, it can be read at any time of year as Christmas does not feature that heavily. Some interesting characters make this a delightful read for any dog lovers.
Rating 4/5
December 15, 2019
Sadly, the book was a disappointment.
Things I did not like:
- it is not (solely) a Christmas book but a collection of 4 stories, one for each season. So only 1/4 is actually set at Christmas. This is false advertising!
- the busines side of the story is extremely unbelievable. Sure, these "litte shop" stories always end in success, but here our heroine decides on starting a dog walking service and she gets clients without any problems and financial problems are never discussed once. I cannot believe that she can switch from being employed at a nursery to being a dog walker (walking a maximum of 8 dogs by 5 different clients per day) can financially sustain her.
Things I liked:
- the cover (but see above)
- the love story was pretty believeable (the bar being those Christmas romances where they meet and fall in love within 1 week).
Things I did not like:
- it is not (solely) a Christmas book but a collection of 4 stories, one for each season. So only 1/4 is actually set at Christmas. This is false advertising!
- the busines side of the story is extremely unbelievable. Sure, these "litte shop" stories always end in success, but here our heroine decides on starting a dog walking service and she gets clients without any problems and financial problems are never discussed once. I cannot believe that she can switch from being employed at a nursery to being a dog walker (walking a maximum of 8 dogs by 5 different clients per day) can financially sustain her.
Things I liked:
- the cover (but see above)
- the love story was pretty believeable (the bar being those Christmas romances where they meet and fall in love within 1 week).
March 19, 2017
I liked the character of Cat Palmer, her dogwalking business and how she fits into the community she has made her own. All Cat wants is to help, and sometimes it causes her a little more trouble than she’d anticipated.
What I didn’t realise until I began reading is that this is not a Christmas book – it is a compilation of four separate novellas released at intervals to match the seasons – and I’m not sure I am keen on this latest fad which many authors seem to have done recently, and having downloaded Raincoats and Retrievers earlier, felt a little miffed. Is this how Charles Dickens’ readers might have felt, I wonder?
As I picked it up in December, I only read the Christmas segment but flicked back to gen up on some of the background and the characters – particularly that of the first love interest. What an absolute ratbag!
It was interesting how Cat found what she wanted right under her feet, and the way that she came to realise that, through the support and kindness and total solidarity of friends and neighbours.
The fabulous festive cover with the cute dogs and the seasonal glitter make the book look so special, however. The cover is worth half a star, at least!
3.5
What I didn’t realise until I began reading is that this is not a Christmas book – it is a compilation of four separate novellas released at intervals to match the seasons – and I’m not sure I am keen on this latest fad which many authors seem to have done recently, and having downloaded Raincoats and Retrievers earlier, felt a little miffed. Is this how Charles Dickens’ readers might have felt, I wonder?
As I picked it up in December, I only read the Christmas segment but flicked back to gen up on some of the background and the characters – particularly that of the first love interest. What an absolute ratbag!
It was interesting how Cat found what she wanted right under her feet, and the way that she came to realise that, through the support and kindness and total solidarity of friends and neighbours.
The fabulous festive cover with the cute dogs and the seasonal glitter make the book look so special, however. The cover is worth half a star, at least!
3.5
December 13, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! I loved the storyline and the relationship between Cat and Joe! From the blurb on the back of the book, I thought Cat would end up with Mark, so I was secretly pleased to discover that she actually ends up with Joe. They are perfect for each other and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It’s the perfect feel-good read! If only I could continue to find out more about the characters’ lives, such as Frankie and whether she finds Lizzie’s dad again...
The only thing is that it is classed as a Christmas book, hence the title, but the first 3 parts are not about Christmas. But I think I’d only want to read the Christmassy part at this time of year. However, I still loved the story and think it might be my new favourite!
The only thing is that it is classed as a Christmas book, hence the title, but the first 3 parts are not about Christmas. But I think I’d only want to read the Christmassy part at this time of year. However, I still loved the story and think it might be my new favourite!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2022
I do understand why this book has gotten so many good reviews it's main character is very likeable this story is about cat who works at a nursery and after bringing a dog into work she is fired by boss alison and then decides to start a dog walking business most of the characters in this novel were nice it did get a bit confusing for me all the names of the dogs the main plotline in this novel was cat liking a guy called mark we later find out he's not as nice as we think.
and flatmate joe brother of her best friend Polly who likes cat their friendships builds over the novel and they begin to fancy each other the only criticism of this novel was it was very long.
and I do think if a few chapters had been cut would have been even better would defintely read another book by this author.
and flatmate joe brother of her best friend Polly who likes cat their friendships builds over the novel and they begin to fancy each other the only criticism of this novel was it was very long.
and I do think if a few chapters had been cut would have been even better would defintely read another book by this author.
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