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The Larkford Series #1
Out of Practice
Out of Practice is based around a large country medical practice, which proves to be a hotbed of rivalry, resentment and romance - and that's just the doctors. Think James Herriot meets House. Meet married mum of two and successful GP Holly Graham as she relocates her family to join the team at The Practice at Beckerford, hoping to find the peaceful life she craves, despite the chaos that comes with her two year old twins and the troublesome state of her marriage. It will certainly be a challenge to keep her private and professional lives separate in such a tight-knit community. Her colleagues have their own issues to contend with. The gorgeous Dr Dan Carter is struggling with to focus on work and the last thing he needs is any more stress; having his ambitious ex-girlfriend Dr Julia Channing working alongside him isn't really helping. Thankfully, the rather delectable Dr Taffy Jones is on hand to distract Holly from the escalating situation at home. Feisty octogenarian and resident celebrity, Elsie Townsend, is Holly's favourite patient and saving grace. Elsie's inspirational Life Lessons come at the perfect moment, as The Practice is suddenly under threat of imminent closure and Holly rediscovers her voice and her priorities just in time …
421 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2016
115 people are currently reading
730 people want to read
About the author
Penny Parkes
7 books122 followersPenny Parkes survived a Convent education largely thanks to a ready supply of inappropriate novels and her passion for writing and languages.
She studied International Management in Bath and Germany, before gaining experience with the BBC. She then set up an independent Film Location Agency and spent many happy years organising shoots for film, television and advertising - thereby ensuring that she was never short of travel opportunities, freelance writing projects or entertaining anecdotes.
Penny now lives in the Cotswolds with her husband, two children and a geriatric spaniel. She will often be found plotting epic train journeys through the Alps, baking gluten-free goodies or attempting to prove that you can, in fact, teach an old dog new tricks.
OUT OF PRACTICE is her first novel and the first in the Larkford Series
She studied International Management in Bath and Germany, before gaining experience with the BBC. She then set up an independent Film Location Agency and spent many happy years organising shoots for film, television and advertising - thereby ensuring that she was never short of travel opportunities, freelance writing projects or entertaining anecdotes.
Penny now lives in the Cotswolds with her husband, two children and a geriatric spaniel. She will often be found plotting epic train journeys through the Alps, baking gluten-free goodies or attempting to prove that you can, in fact, teach an old dog new tricks.
OUT OF PRACTICE is her first novel and the first in the Larkford Series
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
June 17, 2017
Reading this book was like watching Everwood or some similar tv show - you don't particularly like it but you still come back to it every time it's on even though you don't even know why.
January 14, 2018
I really enjoyed this cosy drama/romcom set in a GP surgery in an English village.
It's a bit cheesey and predictable but I didn't care and was thoroughly absorbed in the story.
I can recommend the audio version, it was brilliantly performed.
It's a bit cheesey and predictable but I didn't care and was thoroughly absorbed in the story.
I can recommend the audio version, it was brilliantly performed.
September 16, 2020
I read a review that said this book read like the series Doctors and do you know what it really does but throw in a bit of Virgin River too! I picked up my audiobook copy of this book from the library, awhile ago I requested book 3 of the series without realising it was book 3 – doh! So as I do not like to read books out of sync, I requested the audiobook from the library. I have to admit…I am in love with Larkford and its residents.
Holly, a downtrodden wife, who is an awesome Doctor, up sticks and moves her obnoxious husband Milo, urgh, and her two gorgeous twin boys to Larkford. The husband has been put on administrative leave by the university he works at. Every time he came up in the book, I wanted to literally jump through the pages and punch him. He was vile and horrible and all things negative.
Moving on!!! We have some of the best doctors in this book, you have Delicious Dan, the Cold Julia, the hot Welsh Taffy (well he’s my favourite as I have a HUGE weakness for men with a welsh accent). Plus you have the administrative staff and Elsie, she, however, is an eccentric patient and she is a complete hoot. The camaraderie with the village, doctors, friends was a delight in this book. So much light in this story, just such heartwarming and feel-good book!
Elsie also has many “teachings” in this book, it made me, Holly and Julia take a look at themselves. Life is not about what you ‘should’ do but what do you want to do. What do you want from life? How can you make you happy? Definitely some food for thought!
Watching Holly throughout the book has been a journey. She has had an epic journey. She learned how to stand on her own two feet and fight for what she wants. When we meet everyone we don’t know their story (obviously) we don’t know the practice story and what is going to happen, we don’t know the villagers, well you get the picture. By the end though, I felt liking getting in my car and moving to the Quaint Larkford and spending my days there.
Obviously not every day would be sweetness and light, but the majority of the book had me smiling like a loon. Can someone please tell me where I can get my own Taffy Jones, I mean sorry men but he puts you all to shame! He is the type of bloke that walks into a room, and a light shines. I was getting excited by the Orange clubs just as much as Holly.
There is so much going on, with all the storylines interlinking. Yes, this is Holly’s story predominately, but we do get insights to Dan, Taffy and Julia. I hope it stays the same in the next one because they have become like family to me as they kept me company on my working days. Providing me with little anecdotes and jokes. I mean where else will you sit there playing Marry, Snog and Avoid with characters from a book!! I really did love the behind the scenes of the Docs unwinding in the staff room chatting away. But I did love watching them having to do their rounds and some of the things the residents came in for…shocking!
Not going to lie, this book is quite long! Normally that would put me off, but once I was in that Practice I didn’t want to leave and actually got annoyed once I had listened to all 16 hours of the audiobook!!
Penny is a new author to me, all thanks to NetGalley, and she is an author that I will be keeping an eye out for even once I finish the other books in this series. I need to get back to my community and see how they are doing. It is just a must!
I enjoyed this so much I even checked out the novella, Swept Away which is currently free on Amazon, looking forward to that and I am waiting patiently for the audiobook for book 2.
Holly, a downtrodden wife, who is an awesome Doctor, up sticks and moves her obnoxious husband Milo, urgh, and her two gorgeous twin boys to Larkford. The husband has been put on administrative leave by the university he works at. Every time he came up in the book, I wanted to literally jump through the pages and punch him. He was vile and horrible and all things negative.
Moving on!!! We have some of the best doctors in this book, you have Delicious Dan, the Cold Julia, the hot Welsh Taffy (well he’s my favourite as I have a HUGE weakness for men with a welsh accent). Plus you have the administrative staff and Elsie, she, however, is an eccentric patient and she is a complete hoot. The camaraderie with the village, doctors, friends was a delight in this book. So much light in this story, just such heartwarming and feel-good book!
Elsie also has many “teachings” in this book, it made me, Holly and Julia take a look at themselves. Life is not about what you ‘should’ do but what do you want to do. What do you want from life? How can you make you happy? Definitely some food for thought!
Watching Holly throughout the book has been a journey. She has had an epic journey. She learned how to stand on her own two feet and fight for what she wants. When we meet everyone we don’t know their story (obviously) we don’t know the practice story and what is going to happen, we don’t know the villagers, well you get the picture. By the end though, I felt liking getting in my car and moving to the Quaint Larkford and spending my days there.
Obviously not every day would be sweetness and light, but the majority of the book had me smiling like a loon. Can someone please tell me where I can get my own Taffy Jones, I mean sorry men but he puts you all to shame! He is the type of bloke that walks into a room, and a light shines. I was getting excited by the Orange clubs just as much as Holly.
There is so much going on, with all the storylines interlinking. Yes, this is Holly’s story predominately, but we do get insights to Dan, Taffy and Julia. I hope it stays the same in the next one because they have become like family to me as they kept me company on my working days. Providing me with little anecdotes and jokes. I mean where else will you sit there playing Marry, Snog and Avoid with characters from a book!! I really did love the behind the scenes of the Docs unwinding in the staff room chatting away. But I did love watching them having to do their rounds and some of the things the residents came in for…shocking!
Not going to lie, this book is quite long! Normally that would put me off, but once I was in that Practice I didn’t want to leave and actually got annoyed once I had listened to all 16 hours of the audiobook!!
Penny is a new author to me, all thanks to NetGalley, and she is an author that I will be keeping an eye out for even once I finish the other books in this series. I need to get back to my community and see how they are doing. It is just a must!
I enjoyed this so much I even checked out the novella, Swept Away which is currently free on Amazon, looking forward to that and I am waiting patiently for the audiobook for book 2.
June 11, 2016
Out of Practice is Penny Parkes debut novel and if dishy doctors make you go weak at the knees then this book will be right up your street.
Holly Graham has relocated to Larkford with her adorable little twin boys and husband Milo. Hoping for a fresh start Holly is thrilled to be close to her best friend Lizzie and is looking forward to starting her new job as a GP at The Practice but the new life that Holly envisioned soon starts to show signs of trouble.
The book gets off to a welcoming start with a touch of humour and it soon becomes clear that the author has a wonderful writing style that manages to pull you into the storyline from the first chapter and hold your attention the whole way through.
There is such a likeable group of characters in this book alongside our main character and the community spirit is buzzing through the pages. Elsie Townsend was a wise and wonderful character who has lived a fulfilled life and she takes an instant shine to Holly and I constantly found myself looking forward to her popping up during the book. We watch Elsie encourage Holly to find her true self rather than being a people pleaser and this is where Holly’s character really develops as she learns that it is ok to say no and put yourself first and do what you want to do rather than what you feel you should do.
I was really hoping all the way through that Holly would walk away from her husband Milo, he was such a controlling and egotistical character who I could not stand and I didn’t want someone as vibrant and loving as Holly to waste her life with a man like that. I was hoping she would fall in to the arms of one of the dishy doctors but one minute I wanted her to fall for Dan and the next moment I wanted her to fall for Taffy but ever way I was happy to take whoever didn’t tickle her fancy!
There were some predictable parts of the book but equally the author also managed to conceal some little snippets too that came as a surprise. This was a terrific debut and I wouldn’t be surprised if we find ourselves revisiting Larkford and its loveable characters in a future book by Penny Parkes but either way I will definitely look forward to more books from this author.
Holly Graham has relocated to Larkford with her adorable little twin boys and husband Milo. Hoping for a fresh start Holly is thrilled to be close to her best friend Lizzie and is looking forward to starting her new job as a GP at The Practice but the new life that Holly envisioned soon starts to show signs of trouble.
The book gets off to a welcoming start with a touch of humour and it soon becomes clear that the author has a wonderful writing style that manages to pull you into the storyline from the first chapter and hold your attention the whole way through.
There is such a likeable group of characters in this book alongside our main character and the community spirit is buzzing through the pages. Elsie Townsend was a wise and wonderful character who has lived a fulfilled life and she takes an instant shine to Holly and I constantly found myself looking forward to her popping up during the book. We watch Elsie encourage Holly to find her true self rather than being a people pleaser and this is where Holly’s character really develops as she learns that it is ok to say no and put yourself first and do what you want to do rather than what you feel you should do.
I was really hoping all the way through that Holly would walk away from her husband Milo, he was such a controlling and egotistical character who I could not stand and I didn’t want someone as vibrant and loving as Holly to waste her life with a man like that. I was hoping she would fall in to the arms of one of the dishy doctors but one minute I wanted her to fall for Dan and the next moment I wanted her to fall for Taffy but ever way I was happy to take whoever didn’t tickle her fancy!
There were some predictable parts of the book but equally the author also managed to conceal some little snippets too that came as a surprise. This was a terrific debut and I wouldn’t be surprised if we find ourselves revisiting Larkford and its loveable characters in a future book by Penny Parkes but either way I will definitely look forward to more books from this author.
September 23, 2016
I really enjoyed this book had an excellent story line with great characters and had me wanting to read more to find out what was going to happen next. Highly recommend this book as such an easy read and so enjoyable. Holly is a GP and moves to a lovely little village with her twin boys and husband but is her marriage all its lead to be or does she find more once she moves to the village. The Drs she works at is in trouble but she was unaware of that and can she safe them and her job and does she really learn what her husband is like before she looses all her confidence. Well worth reading.
Read
March 24, 2016Delightful from start to finish. Pure escapist fun in a lovely village with likeable doctors.
June 5, 2016
Other than seeing the cover on twitter, I hadn’t heard anything about this book before the Books and The City spring blogger event. However once learning more, this book quickly rose to be one of my most anticipated releases this year. It sounded just my type of book, and I love discovering new authors.
Larkford was a wonderful setting with tones of familiarity (especially as the area it’s described as being in is just down the road from me) with regards to the community and general setting. However my imagination sets a certain gloss over Lankford than it does my own town.
The writing really makes you connect with both Larkford as the beautiful idillic setting and the people that reside there. Each character is unique, but they all have qualities and habits in people we all come across and know. We all know someone who reminds them of Dan, Lizzie, Elsie or god forbid, Milo.
While Holly is the main character, we are treated to the odd chapter from other people’s perspectives, such as Dan, Taffy and Julia. It helps you understand them better, had they been omitted from the book it would have been far too easy to judge some of the characters, but it goes to show that you never really know what’s going on in a persons life to make them behave that way.
Holly has left her job in a hospital for Larkford’s doctors surgery as a GP, and it is clear she is well suited for the job, as she is friendly and warm, and able to put you at ease. While she is the picture of calm and collected at work, her personal life is in a bit of trouble, hence the move to Lankford in hope of a fresh start for her family, spending more time with the twins, and also working on her marriage to Milo.
I could write a whole essay on precisely how detestable Milo is. From the moment he is introduced and steals Holly’s toast (though that particular incident is the smallest of all the issues I have with him we see him commit), he becomes a character that is simply unlikeable.
He is unbearably selfish with the biggest superiority complex humanly possible, especially when he’s writing his damn precious book that he clearly thinks is going to be the most important book to grace this earth since Stephen Hawking’s ‘A Brief History of Time’. Always bossy, and uninterested in anyone but himself, unless he see’s something he dislikes and feels the need to make spiteful comments, or the whim takes him to make sure everyone understands how hard done by he is. I don’t think I’ve hated a fictional character more, and I’ve read some wonderfully villainous behaviour before.
It’s really hard to see why Holly is with him. I realise she wants to try because of the twins, but she must have the patience of a saint because within about 2 pages of meeting him i felt the need to punch him in the face. I think Holly’s journey to become the ‘old’ Holly from pre-Milo days was great. This was obviously helped a lot by Elsie. I think you can learn a lot from this character, like ignoring the word ‘should’ and striving for what you want rather than ‘making do’ just to please other people. Despite her eccentricity, Elsie is very wise indeed.
Elsie is without a doubt the funnest character in the book, if there’s a scene that makes you smile, Elsie will be there for minimum 98% of them. While her age may not be my typical friend age, she has such the character that you will want to know her in real life.
Now onto the men I don’t have any violent feelings towards, Dan and Taffy. From initial expectations, I was thinking that I would be championing Dan as my favourite doctor, but it was Taffy that won my heart. Not that Dan was average, far from it, a great friend, funny and caring, but it was the lovable cheekiness of Taffy that won me round.
This book was an absolute joy to read from beginning to end. It was so easy to start reading and lose complete track of time. A fantastic debut novel that leaves you wanting more from the Lankford bunch.
Larkford was a wonderful setting with tones of familiarity (especially as the area it’s described as being in is just down the road from me) with regards to the community and general setting. However my imagination sets a certain gloss over Lankford than it does my own town.
The writing really makes you connect with both Larkford as the beautiful idillic setting and the people that reside there. Each character is unique, but they all have qualities and habits in people we all come across and know. We all know someone who reminds them of Dan, Lizzie, Elsie or god forbid, Milo.
While Holly is the main character, we are treated to the odd chapter from other people’s perspectives, such as Dan, Taffy and Julia. It helps you understand them better, had they been omitted from the book it would have been far too easy to judge some of the characters, but it goes to show that you never really know what’s going on in a persons life to make them behave that way.
Holly has left her job in a hospital for Larkford’s doctors surgery as a GP, and it is clear she is well suited for the job, as she is friendly and warm, and able to put you at ease. While she is the picture of calm and collected at work, her personal life is in a bit of trouble, hence the move to Lankford in hope of a fresh start for her family, spending more time with the twins, and also working on her marriage to Milo.
I could write a whole essay on precisely how detestable Milo is. From the moment he is introduced and steals Holly’s toast (though that particular incident is the smallest of all the issues I have with him we see him commit), he becomes a character that is simply unlikeable.
He is unbearably selfish with the biggest superiority complex humanly possible, especially when he’s writing his damn precious book that he clearly thinks is going to be the most important book to grace this earth since Stephen Hawking’s ‘A Brief History of Time’. Always bossy, and uninterested in anyone but himself, unless he see’s something he dislikes and feels the need to make spiteful comments, or the whim takes him to make sure everyone understands how hard done by he is. I don’t think I’ve hated a fictional character more, and I’ve read some wonderfully villainous behaviour before.
It’s really hard to see why Holly is with him. I realise she wants to try because of the twins, but she must have the patience of a saint because within about 2 pages of meeting him i felt the need to punch him in the face. I think Holly’s journey to become the ‘old’ Holly from pre-Milo days was great. This was obviously helped a lot by Elsie. I think you can learn a lot from this character, like ignoring the word ‘should’ and striving for what you want rather than ‘making do’ just to please other people. Despite her eccentricity, Elsie is very wise indeed.
Elsie is without a doubt the funnest character in the book, if there’s a scene that makes you smile, Elsie will be there for minimum 98% of them. While her age may not be my typical friend age, she has such the character that you will want to know her in real life.
Now onto the men I don’t have any violent feelings towards, Dan and Taffy. From initial expectations, I was thinking that I would be championing Dan as my favourite doctor, but it was Taffy that won my heart. Not that Dan was average, far from it, a great friend, funny and caring, but it was the lovable cheekiness of Taffy that won me round.
This book was an absolute joy to read from beginning to end. It was so easy to start reading and lose complete track of time. A fantastic debut novel that leaves you wanting more from the Lankford bunch.
May 29, 2016
I was lucky enough to be given a special proof edition by the publishers Simon & Schuster in exchange for an honest review.
Holly Graham is mother to adorable twins, wife to Magnificent *snigger* Milo and has the weight of the word on her shoulders when she takes on a new role as GP in the lovely village of Larksford.
Poor Holly's self-esteem is at an all time low. Her husband, Milo, constantly puts her down, and is confusing her with his erratic behaviour. One moment he is horrible and condescending; the next he blindsides her with his charm, and she wonders if she is going mad. She is determined to ride through the rough patch because she doesn't want to deny her two boys their father. But as time goes on, she wonders if they would all be better off without him.
Her friendship with Lizzie isn't much help. Lizzie is always badmouthing Milo, hating the way he treats Holly, but she is oblivious to the way she herself manipulates Holly. She is constantly putting her friend down, belittling her and eroding Holly's self-esteem. Between Milo and Lizzie, it's surprising that Holly isn't a shivering wreck.
But then Holly makes such an impact at the doctor's surgery she works at. She makes so many new friends, including Doctors Dan and Taffy, and the irrepressible Elsie, always on hand to hand out her life lessons and advice – and the odd cocktail.
Out of Practice is a brilliant funny read, and very touching in parts. One of the twins, Ben, is quite sensitive, and seeing how he develops as Holly has some choices to make is lovely.
A great story of community and village life – just what the doctor ordered!
Holly Graham is mother to adorable twins, wife to Magnificent *snigger* Milo and has the weight of the word on her shoulders when she takes on a new role as GP in the lovely village of Larksford.
Poor Holly's self-esteem is at an all time low. Her husband, Milo, constantly puts her down, and is confusing her with his erratic behaviour. One moment he is horrible and condescending; the next he blindsides her with his charm, and she wonders if she is going mad. She is determined to ride through the rough patch because she doesn't want to deny her two boys their father. But as time goes on, she wonders if they would all be better off without him.
Her friendship with Lizzie isn't much help. Lizzie is always badmouthing Milo, hating the way he treats Holly, but she is oblivious to the way she herself manipulates Holly. She is constantly putting her friend down, belittling her and eroding Holly's self-esteem. Between Milo and Lizzie, it's surprising that Holly isn't a shivering wreck.
But then Holly makes such an impact at the doctor's surgery she works at. She makes so many new friends, including Doctors Dan and Taffy, and the irrepressible Elsie, always on hand to hand out her life lessons and advice – and the odd cocktail.
Out of Practice is a brilliant funny read, and very touching in parts. One of the twins, Ben, is quite sensitive, and seeing how he develops as Holly has some choices to make is lovely.
A great story of community and village life – just what the doctor ordered!
July 5, 2017
Holly has just started a new job in GP land having worked in a hospital previously. She hopes this will give the family the new start that they need especially as things haven't been so good with her husband Milo.
Meeting the characters both at The Practice and in the village open her eyes to her new vocation. This is a well written entertaining read where characters come to life and are the mainstay of the book. Taffy, Dan, Elsie and Holly are ones to take to (or at least I did) with their sense of humour and fun that comes across the pages. A story in some ways of how to live life- “should” not being a part of it- I must remember this! That friends are the ones that count and to laugh at life is the very best medicine.
Meeting the characters both at The Practice and in the village open her eyes to her new vocation. This is a well written entertaining read where characters come to life and are the mainstay of the book. Taffy, Dan, Elsie and Holly are ones to take to (or at least I did) with their sense of humour and fun that comes across the pages. A story in some ways of how to live life- “should” not being a part of it- I must remember this! That friends are the ones that count and to laugh at life is the very best medicine.
March 12, 2017
I enjoyed it, read Swept Away, a novella by the same author and enjoyed the book so much wanted to read more about the characters
June 15, 2017
Found it to be quite boring and not much really happening in each characters story
May 6, 2018
loved it
December 1, 2019
An enjoyable read with likeable characters. The narration on audible was very good.
August 22, 2020
Really enjoyed this series, I wanted it to keep going, I loved the characters and their stories.
November 20, 2017
Full review on www.fueltheblog.wordpress.com
An uplifting read which teaches you self worth and how it’s ok to put yourself first and think about what you want out of life.
Based around the life at a local country medical practice. This story mainly follows Holly, a successful GP who has recently moved to town to start her new job at the practice. Holly gets stuck in with life at the medical centre, with her colleagues Henry, Julia, Dan and Taffy. As well as getting stuck into small town living, with some brilliant and guiding community characters. The practice becomes under threat of closure and this is the true test for Holly and her colleagues.
I got this book for free thanks to Heat Magazine. They give away a free e-book every month and so I decided to give this one a whirl as I had started to hear good things about it and the most recent sequel.Like I say the only downside with having it on IBooks is that you couldn’t tell how long it would take to read. Maybe I wasn’t reading it frequently enough.
So the story, as shown above mainly follows Holly, who has just started her new job in a local practice in Larkford. Holly has recently moved there with her husband and two sons and is keen to settle in and find her way around the practice and the local village.
However life’s not that easy and there are a few curveballs thrown to Holly, and all those at Larkford practice including the other GPS, Dan, Taffy, Julia and Henry. Let alone all the residents of Larkford.
I liked that although this was Holly’s story, it wasn’t solely about Holly, there were a few chapters where we got to see the thought process behind other team members at the practice. It gave you a wider insight on how they ticked and it was nice that it was fleeting. It also allowed you to see the bigger picture and taught you how you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Which was a recurring theme.
If your looking for a heartwarming read, this is it. I liked seeing Holly tackle the challenges which were thrown at her and it was nice to see her develop into her character and become someone she recognised again.
It gave a great sense of community reading this book, as though you were part of the community. Overall they were very likeable characters and very easy to read, I say overall as with any book, there were a few I was not too fond off. If you have read the book you will understand why I am sure!
Penny Parkes has also released a sequel to this book, practice makes perfect so it will be good to give that a read to see how Holly progresses as a character and what life can throw at her next.
Oh and for confirmation I would reccomend this book if your looking for an uplifting piece with great community spirit.
An uplifting read which teaches you self worth and how it’s ok to put yourself first and think about what you want out of life.
Based around the life at a local country medical practice. This story mainly follows Holly, a successful GP who has recently moved to town to start her new job at the practice. Holly gets stuck in with life at the medical centre, with her colleagues Henry, Julia, Dan and Taffy. As well as getting stuck into small town living, with some brilliant and guiding community characters. The practice becomes under threat of closure and this is the true test for Holly and her colleagues.
I got this book for free thanks to Heat Magazine. They give away a free e-book every month and so I decided to give this one a whirl as I had started to hear good things about it and the most recent sequel.Like I say the only downside with having it on IBooks is that you couldn’t tell how long it would take to read. Maybe I wasn’t reading it frequently enough.
So the story, as shown above mainly follows Holly, who has just started her new job in a local practice in Larkford. Holly has recently moved there with her husband and two sons and is keen to settle in and find her way around the practice and the local village.
However life’s not that easy and there are a few curveballs thrown to Holly, and all those at Larkford practice including the other GPS, Dan, Taffy, Julia and Henry. Let alone all the residents of Larkford.
I liked that although this was Holly’s story, it wasn’t solely about Holly, there were a few chapters where we got to see the thought process behind other team members at the practice. It gave you a wider insight on how they ticked and it was nice that it was fleeting. It also allowed you to see the bigger picture and taught you how you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Which was a recurring theme.
If your looking for a heartwarming read, this is it. I liked seeing Holly tackle the challenges which were thrown at her and it was nice to see her develop into her character and become someone she recognised again.
It gave a great sense of community reading this book, as though you were part of the community. Overall they were very likeable characters and very easy to read, I say overall as with any book, there were a few I was not too fond off. If you have read the book you will understand why I am sure!
Penny Parkes has also released a sequel to this book, practice makes perfect so it will be good to give that a read to see how Holly progresses as a character and what life can throw at her next.
Oh and for confirmation I would reccomend this book if your looking for an uplifting piece with great community spirit.
May 30, 2016
Out of Practice is the debut novel from author, Penny Parkes, and centres around the GP surgery in the village of Larkford.
Dr Holly Graham’s self-esteem is at rock bottom. After deciding to give her husband, ‘magnificent’ Milo, a second chance, she has uprooted her family in order to start afresh in Larkford. However, life in Larkford proves very different to Holly’s expectations…
It is only as Holly forges some new (and unexpected) friendships and is told some home truths by her straight-speaking new friends, that she realises how out-of-kilter her life is and how much of a shell of her former-self she has become.
As if her own personal problems are not proving stressful enough, Holly finds herself quickly draws into the foibles and problems of the local residents/patients. She finds that being a local GP is a 24-7 job, even when supposedly off duty. Holly also finds working in a country practice to be eye-opening, with rivalries and dramas simmering under the surface at the surgery.
I can’t really say much more about the plot line without risking giving too much away, however I am happy to say that the plot is interesting and well-paced. I enjoyed Parkes’ easy style of writing and found myself quickly absorbed into life in Larkford.
The characters are a real strength in this story. Holly is a hugely endearing protagonist, with her clumsy ways, perky outlook and her innate kindness. I could not help but warm to her immediately. The supporting characters are equally as well-written including dishy Dr Dan Carter, laid back Welsh locum Taffy Jones, icy Dr Julia, smarmy Dr Henry Bruce, OCD-suffering pharmacist Maggie and an entertaining mix of local residents. Feisty film star Elsie Townsend is undoubtedly my favourite character and a real scene stealer – with her eccentric ways, memory lapses and her words of wisdom, she is always there to provide a cocktail and some worldly advice when needed (whether requested or not)!
In the setting of Larkford, Parkes has created a wonderfully idyllic village with a great sense of community spirit, centering around the main staples of a village – the café, the village shop and the GP surgery. Yes, it’s one of those maddening places where everyone knows everyone else’s business, yet it’s also one of those places where when faced with a problem you have an entire community on hand ready to help out.
Out of Practice is a great debut novel and a truly delightful read, both laugh-out-loud funny and very touching. A warm and uplifting story of village life, full of lively characters and more than a splash of romance, this is a great book to curl up with on a quiet afternoon - a real page-turner!
Dr Holly Graham’s self-esteem is at rock bottom. After deciding to give her husband, ‘magnificent’ Milo, a second chance, she has uprooted her family in order to start afresh in Larkford. However, life in Larkford proves very different to Holly’s expectations…
It is only as Holly forges some new (and unexpected) friendships and is told some home truths by her straight-speaking new friends, that she realises how out-of-kilter her life is and how much of a shell of her former-self she has become.
As if her own personal problems are not proving stressful enough, Holly finds herself quickly draws into the foibles and problems of the local residents/patients. She finds that being a local GP is a 24-7 job, even when supposedly off duty. Holly also finds working in a country practice to be eye-opening, with rivalries and dramas simmering under the surface at the surgery.
I can’t really say much more about the plot line without risking giving too much away, however I am happy to say that the plot is interesting and well-paced. I enjoyed Parkes’ easy style of writing and found myself quickly absorbed into life in Larkford.
The characters are a real strength in this story. Holly is a hugely endearing protagonist, with her clumsy ways, perky outlook and her innate kindness. I could not help but warm to her immediately. The supporting characters are equally as well-written including dishy Dr Dan Carter, laid back Welsh locum Taffy Jones, icy Dr Julia, smarmy Dr Henry Bruce, OCD-suffering pharmacist Maggie and an entertaining mix of local residents. Feisty film star Elsie Townsend is undoubtedly my favourite character and a real scene stealer – with her eccentric ways, memory lapses and her words of wisdom, she is always there to provide a cocktail and some worldly advice when needed (whether requested or not)!
In the setting of Larkford, Parkes has created a wonderfully idyllic village with a great sense of community spirit, centering around the main staples of a village – the café, the village shop and the GP surgery. Yes, it’s one of those maddening places where everyone knows everyone else’s business, yet it’s also one of those places where when faced with a problem you have an entire community on hand ready to help out.
Out of Practice is a great debut novel and a truly delightful read, both laugh-out-loud funny and very touching. A warm and uplifting story of village life, full of lively characters and more than a splash of romance, this is a great book to curl up with on a quiet afternoon - a real page-turner!
November 10, 2018
This is my second time reading this book and I enjoyed it just as much the second time around as I did the first. I figured that seeing as 2 more books have already been released in the series and a fourth one is on the way that it may make sense to refresh my memory on the one that started it all before jumping in on the others. I am glad that I did.
There is a lot to enjoy here, a wonderful rural setting in Larkford Village (that seems to have as many residents as a small town), a place that has a wonderful sense of community and is very accepting of outsiders settling there. Local characters that really live up to that description. Then you have the trials and tribulations of Holly Graham - Doctor and mum of twins who moves to Larkford to try and repair her marriage to the ghastly Milo, reconnect with her best friend Lizzie and basically "have it all".
There is a good dollop of real life in the book, without the author bashing the drum about how hard working mother's have it. Let's face it, it would have been all too easy to make Holly either a martyr or a superwoman. Instead she has the same rather bewildered attitude that many of us have to life and somehow just blunders on through it all, making mistakes along the way but just about holding it all together. She is not always entirely likeable, even if other people seem to regard with a strange sort of adoration, but her internal monologues and crises of confidence are well written and feel "real".
Despite giving this a 5 Star review there are things that bother me about the book. Milo is a classic narcissist and his role in the book is limited to that one dimension - there is no redeeming quality to the man and it made my blood boil that Holly stuck with him; from what we learn about Holly you really do doubt this relationship from the outset. The other character that is more of a caricature is Holly's friend Lizzie, another toxic person you couldn't really imagine Holly keeping around her.
There is such warmth in this book and a good dollop of humour (at times a tad black). The plot moves along at a nice, gentle pace and although it holds no surprises for the reader it is a lovely read for those cold winter evenings. To be honest you know from the early chapters more or less how things are going to end up but it is fun getting there!
There is a lot to enjoy here, a wonderful rural setting in Larkford Village (that seems to have as many residents as a small town), a place that has a wonderful sense of community and is very accepting of outsiders settling there. Local characters that really live up to that description. Then you have the trials and tribulations of Holly Graham - Doctor and mum of twins who moves to Larkford to try and repair her marriage to the ghastly Milo, reconnect with her best friend Lizzie and basically "have it all".
There is a good dollop of real life in the book, without the author bashing the drum about how hard working mother's have it. Let's face it, it would have been all too easy to make Holly either a martyr or a superwoman. Instead she has the same rather bewildered attitude that many of us have to life and somehow just blunders on through it all, making mistakes along the way but just about holding it all together. She is not always entirely likeable, even if other people seem to regard with a strange sort of adoration, but her internal monologues and crises of confidence are well written and feel "real".
Despite giving this a 5 Star review there are things that bother me about the book. Milo is a classic narcissist and his role in the book is limited to that one dimension - there is no redeeming quality to the man and it made my blood boil that Holly stuck with him; from what we learn about Holly you really do doubt this relationship from the outset. The other character that is more of a caricature is Holly's friend Lizzie, another toxic person you couldn't really imagine Holly keeping around her.
There is such warmth in this book and a good dollop of humour (at times a tad black). The plot moves along at a nice, gentle pace and although it holds no surprises for the reader it is a lovely read for those cold winter evenings. To be honest you know from the early chapters more or less how things are going to end up but it is fun getting there!
August 26, 2016
I must admit that firstly I was so smitten with the cover design of this book and then when I read more about the story I was intrigued to find out more not only about the book but also about the author Penny Parkes.
And I was blown away by the captivating storyline of Out of Practice as well as the fabulous and well-rounded characters (there is quite a few ). One is for sure I will be eagerly awaiting another book by this wonderfully skilled author.
The epicentre of this book is The Practice, a doctor sugery in an idyllic town of Larkford. The Practice is a hot hub of fantastic doctors, gossip and plotting. When a new and a very successful doctor, Holly Graham joins the Larkford team things pick up speed.
Holly relocated for a few reasons but the main one was to give her rapidly disintegrating marriage second chance and the second reason was to be close to her bestie Lizzie. What Holly didn't know was that her whole life is about tho change, hopefully for the better but then you will have to read the whole book to find out if Holly gets her happy ever after.
While I bonded with Holly the second, I read the first page I intensely dislike her egoistic husband, Milo. I could not understand while Holly even put up with his ever so tiring character and his lack of father skills.
There are a couple of other characters that I must mention. First, the hunky doctor Taffy Jones who rapidly changes his wayward ways when he meets Holly and her adorable twins and Holly could not take her eyes of our Taffy and his friendly, warm and just lovely attitude.
Then there is Lizzie, Holly's best friend. Lizzie needs Holly more then she shows and after a few shocking discoveries, Holly is starting to wonder if their life long friendship will survive after all.
Every character in this page turner had its place in the tight-knit community of Larkford, and every character had a story to be told. There were some complicated health issues, personal demons to fight off and some hard decisions to make. I could not peel my eyes of this fast flowing, intriguing and truly fabulous book.
I highly recommend Out of Practice for anyone who after a book with a few twists and turns, a story that sizzles with emotion, passion and driving need to love and be loved. A remarkable debut.
And I was blown away by the captivating storyline of Out of Practice as well as the fabulous and well-rounded characters (there is quite a few ). One is for sure I will be eagerly awaiting another book by this wonderfully skilled author.
The epicentre of this book is The Practice, a doctor sugery in an idyllic town of Larkford. The Practice is a hot hub of fantastic doctors, gossip and plotting. When a new and a very successful doctor, Holly Graham joins the Larkford team things pick up speed.
Holly relocated for a few reasons but the main one was to give her rapidly disintegrating marriage second chance and the second reason was to be close to her bestie Lizzie. What Holly didn't know was that her whole life is about tho change, hopefully for the better but then you will have to read the whole book to find out if Holly gets her happy ever after.
While I bonded with Holly the second, I read the first page I intensely dislike her egoistic husband, Milo. I could not understand while Holly even put up with his ever so tiring character and his lack of father skills.
There are a couple of other characters that I must mention. First, the hunky doctor Taffy Jones who rapidly changes his wayward ways when he meets Holly and her adorable twins and Holly could not take her eyes of our Taffy and his friendly, warm and just lovely attitude.
Then there is Lizzie, Holly's best friend. Lizzie needs Holly more then she shows and after a few shocking discoveries, Holly is starting to wonder if their life long friendship will survive after all.
Every character in this page turner had its place in the tight-knit community of Larkford, and every character had a story to be told. There were some complicated health issues, personal demons to fight off and some hard decisions to make. I could not peel my eyes of this fast flowing, intriguing and truly fabulous book.
I highly recommend Out of Practice for anyone who after a book with a few twists and turns, a story that sizzles with emotion, passion and driving need to love and be loved. A remarkable debut.
August 5, 2016
If you have ever watched BBC medical soap opera Doctors, then you will have a good idea of the sort of place Larkford is, and more specifically The Practice. It is a GP surgery that forms the heart of the community, and I loved reading about the various ailments the patients came in with and the way the doctors dealt with them.
Holly is in a miserable marriage and has two year old twin boys, they make the move to Larkford so she can have a new job and better quality of life, than when she was working in a hospital, and it isn't before long she makes her mark on the surgery and the community.
Her best friend Lizzie already lived in the town, as did Lizzie's cousin, the dishy Dr Dan, who is an instant ally for Holly. The other Drs and members of staff in the surgery are a complete mix of personalities, from the money grabbing doctor, to the stand offish, to the pretty much germphobic pharmacist!
Elsie Townsend was definitely the best character, she is in her 80s and keeps the doctors on their toes as they try to work out if she is acting, just being herself or if old age is starting to creep in. She is a breath of fresh air to the whole book, and is makes a very dear friend in Holly, while imparting her words of wisdom.
There is a theme in the story, about whether you should always bow down to the word "should" rather than even occasionally listening to your inner voice about doing what you want to do. This is one of Elsie's teachings, and one that really affects Julia and Holly's lives.
My overwhelming feeling about Out of Practice was that although the writing was really good, and the I was really getting a great sense of Larkford, and the Practice, as well as the various characteristics of the people, is that the book felt far too long. It seemed as though no matter how much I was reading, the percentage bar wasn't filling, and there was a lot of story.
That being said, I truly think that this is a promising debut novel, and that I would love to see a return to Larkford, and The Practice, as the author definitely knows her medical writing.
July 7, 2016
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2016/07...
What a delightful read Out of Practice turned out to be! The story centers around Holly Graham, a GP who has just taken a new job and has relocated all her family to the idyllic village of Larkford. She hopes to be able to spend more time with her twins and rekindle her marriage there. But things don't exactly go according to plan. The GP surgery where she has started working is not the quiet setting she was expecting, with rivalries, envies and lies at every corner and soon she finds herself fighting for her job. Luckily for Holly, not everyone is hostile in her new work place and she soon forges great friendship both in the surgery and the village.
For me, the story has two strong points: the charming characters and the cute setting with this community feeling only small villages provide. As the main character, Holly is really easy to like and as the story progresses and we start seeing a happier Holly, even more so. I was rooting for her since the first page and I found her character well developed and interesting. The star of the story though has to be local celebrity Elsi Townsend. She certainly was the most quirky, charming and wise of all the characters, always ready to help even if her health is not what it used to be. She instantly takes a shine to Holly and they develop a deep friendship that will help both of them. And obviously, there are also a couple of sexy doctors in the book too, with their own stories and problems.
Out of Practice is not a short book (I think it's around 500 pages) but I was surprised at how quickly I read it. The main plot is perfectly entwined with several subplots that hold your attention from cover to cover and soon your start feeling like one more in this lively community. The book has a lot of surprises, a good dash of romance and plenty of hilarious moments, but above all it is a charming and uplifting story about finding oneself again. Definitely a book not to miss this summer.
(review copy)
What a delightful read Out of Practice turned out to be! The story centers around Holly Graham, a GP who has just taken a new job and has relocated all her family to the idyllic village of Larkford. She hopes to be able to spend more time with her twins and rekindle her marriage there. But things don't exactly go according to plan. The GP surgery where she has started working is not the quiet setting she was expecting, with rivalries, envies and lies at every corner and soon she finds herself fighting for her job. Luckily for Holly, not everyone is hostile in her new work place and she soon forges great friendship both in the surgery and the village.
For me, the story has two strong points: the charming characters and the cute setting with this community feeling only small villages provide. As the main character, Holly is really easy to like and as the story progresses and we start seeing a happier Holly, even more so. I was rooting for her since the first page and I found her character well developed and interesting. The star of the story though has to be local celebrity Elsi Townsend. She certainly was the most quirky, charming and wise of all the characters, always ready to help even if her health is not what it used to be. She instantly takes a shine to Holly and they develop a deep friendship that will help both of them. And obviously, there are also a couple of sexy doctors in the book too, with their own stories and problems.
Out of Practice is not a short book (I think it's around 500 pages) but I was surprised at how quickly I read it. The main plot is perfectly entwined with several subplots that hold your attention from cover to cover and soon your start feeling like one more in this lively community. The book has a lot of surprises, a good dash of romance and plenty of hilarious moments, but above all it is a charming and uplifting story about finding oneself again. Definitely a book not to miss this summer.
(review copy)
July 28, 2020
A fun light read. I love reading multiple books set in the same town with a lot of characters.
November 3, 2019
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I have had this book on my TBR for a really long time. I kept meaning to read it but things kept coming up. With the fourth book coming out soon I cleared some time and sat down with Holly Graham and the rest of the Larkford gang.
Holly Graham moves to Larkford to be a village GP. I instantly liked Holly. The first paragraph tells you everything you need to know about Holly. She is funny and loyal but she also a people pleaser. Holly does what she should do and quite frankly it's making her miserable.
Holly's husband Milo. OMG I can't stand him. There is so many things wrong with that man! He is controlling, lazy and so far up his own backside! What Holly ever sees in him is beyond me.
Holly does find some solace at The Practice. I love that place, from Dr Dan to Dr Taffy that place is full of so many hotties! It's not all fun and games though because The Practice is soon in jeopardy with budget cuts on the horizon.
I really loved my trip to Larkford! The characters are so likeable and the village is gorgeous. I, of course, can't review this book without mentioning the ever famous Elsie. Elsie is the person we all need in our lives. She is funny, straight-talking and more than a little mischevious.
Penny has a beautiful writing style and I know I will be returning to Larkford!
Holly Graham moves to Larkford to be a village GP. I instantly liked Holly. The first paragraph tells you everything you need to know about Holly. She is funny and loyal but she also a people pleaser. Holly does what she should do and quite frankly it's making her miserable.
Holly's husband Milo. OMG I can't stand him. There is so many things wrong with that man! He is controlling, lazy and so far up his own backside! What Holly ever sees in him is beyond me.
Holly does find some solace at The Practice. I love that place, from Dr Dan to Dr Taffy that place is full of so many hotties! It's not all fun and games though because The Practice is soon in jeopardy with budget cuts on the horizon.
I really loved my trip to Larkford! The characters are so likeable and the village is gorgeous. I, of course, can't review this book without mentioning the ever famous Elsie. Elsie is the person we all need in our lives. She is funny, straight-talking and more than a little mischevious.
Penny has a beautiful writing style and I know I will be returning to Larkford!
September 11, 2017
Having read the follow-up to this, I was looking forward to reading this one and I wasn’t disappointed. GP Holly Graham has moved to the delightful sounding town of Larkford with her twin sons. She soon feels a part of the practice and the community but is struggling with a growing attraction to Taffy Jones, one of the partners, and attempting to mend her marriage to the self-absorbed Milo. Then the practice is told that they are to be integrated into a medical centre which would leave Larkford without any local medical services. Despite her own job being under threat and a heart-breaking betrayal, Holly rallies her troops, in the form of the other partners and staff in an attempt to thwart the proposed move. The character of Holly dominates this book as her character develops from being ‘pliable, people-pleasing and just a bit needy’ (as one of the less ‘nice’ characters describes her) to a strong, determined woman who takes her fate into her own hands. The cast of characters is, by and large, colourful and warm-hearted especially the delightful eccentric Elsie and there are some truly humorous moments. Loved it.
September 21, 2016
I was glued to this endearing story of a woman who tries to do right by everyone else and completely forgets herself in the process.
Holly Graham has just landed herself the dream job of a local town GP. A new start for her family; questionable husband Milo and gorgeous twins Tom and Ben. She's a hit from her first morning at the practice. And she soon starts to find there's more to her friends and colleagues than first thought. Some for the better and some for the worse.
There were some really fun moments in this book, especially with the irrepressible and eccentric Elsie. And there were a few unexpected plot twists too, one that wasn't explained until the very end of the story and came as a total shock.
Ultimately this is a story of strength, and about finding the courage to make a change and be yourself. With just a little light romance thrown in for good measure. A thoroughly enjoyable, easy read.
Holly Graham has just landed herself the dream job of a local town GP. A new start for her family; questionable husband Milo and gorgeous twins Tom and Ben. She's a hit from her first morning at the practice. And she soon starts to find there's more to her friends and colleagues than first thought. Some for the better and some for the worse.
There were some really fun moments in this book, especially with the irrepressible and eccentric Elsie. And there were a few unexpected plot twists too, one that wasn't explained until the very end of the story and came as a total shock.
Ultimately this is a story of strength, and about finding the courage to make a change and be yourself. With just a little light romance thrown in for good measure. A thoroughly enjoyable, easy read.
July 20, 2019
The plot is a familiar one; a woman in a failing marriage, uproots her family to become a gp in a small doctors surgery, only to discover that she may soon be out of a job. The hope of reviving her marriage is also left in question when she meets her new and very handsome colleagues. She falls in love with the town and its people and tries to save the Practice, all while juggling work, friends and her family commitments.
This story has all the ingredients of a great holiday read and it is executed to it's full potential. You have the downtrodden main character, Holly, who is on a journey of self discovery. You have the eccentric characters in Elsie and Major, the good looking potential love interests in Dan and Taffy, the bitchy rival Julia and a whole heap of other characters to pull you into Larkford life.
It was exactly what I was looking for; a nice, easy, yet absorbing read. I will definitely look out for the second book in the series. A very good 3.5 stars
This story has all the ingredients of a great holiday read and it is executed to it's full potential. You have the downtrodden main character, Holly, who is on a journey of self discovery. You have the eccentric characters in Elsie and Major, the good looking potential love interests in Dan and Taffy, the bitchy rival Julia and a whole heap of other characters to pull you into Larkford life.
It was exactly what I was looking for; a nice, easy, yet absorbing read. I will definitely look out for the second book in the series. A very good 3.5 stars
November 22, 2016
Out of Practice is probably one of the books that has most surprised me this year with how much i fell in love with it. So much so that i ended up so engrossed in the story that i actually called one of my own residents at work by the characters name one morning!! I was drawn to the book originally because it was based around a little Doctors practice in Larkford and I love anything medical on TV so thought it may be right up my street. The book has everything you need - friendship, romance, humour (mostly from the fabulous Elsie!) and a great sense of community spirit. Oh, and if you need anymore of a reason to read it - The dishy doctors, Dan Carter and Taffy, are it! A delight to read, a fantastic first novel, and i'm very much looking forward to Penny's next book and seeing how the character's are getting on.
December 5, 2019
Great debut novel. For lovers of Katie Fforde or perhaps Trisha Ashley this will be right up your street. Having worked in a GP practice it is well researched from the point of view of how they work. There are several fairly complex relationships and the way they evolve is really well written. Our heroine Holly is in a toxic relationship with her husband, she’s great at dealing with everyone else’s problems but not so much her own. The character of Elsie the local senior celebrity is a total delight. Ok I suppose this has to come under the heading of chicklit but it’s a really well written book that was a pleasure to read. I will definitely look out for more by this author
Read
June 6, 2016Out of Practice has everything you could want for a fun summer read: a colourful cast of characters, a sympathetic protagonist, a pretty village setting and a page-turning plot.
Not to mention, if you are a fan of rugby players (who also happen to be doctors), and find yourself imagining what it would be like to massage their arm muscles, this is the book for you.
This would be a good book to pop into your weekend bag to read while you sit by the pool. It's a fun read.
I was lucky enough to receive a review copy of this book from Simon & Schuster in exchange for an honest review.
Not to mention, if you are a fan of rugby players (who also happen to be doctors), and find yourself imagining what it would be like to massage their arm muscles, this is the book for you.
This would be a good book to pop into your weekend bag to read while you sit by the pool. It's a fun read.
I was lucky enough to receive a review copy of this book from Simon & Schuster in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2017
What a brilliant book, I was hooked from the 1st chapter.
Well written and wonderfully crafted characters, Penny Parke's writing made me feel as if I was there in Larkford worth Holly, Holly's husband Milo, best friend Lizzie and Will, best friend Dan, Julia, Taffy, Elsie and of course Holly's adorable twins Tom and Ben.
I am hoping there may be a sequel as other characters may be brought into the story and other characters mentored in this book could be expanded upon.
This is well worth a read.
Well written and wonderfully crafted characters, Penny Parke's writing made me feel as if I was there in Larkford worth Holly, Holly's husband Milo, best friend Lizzie and Will, best friend Dan, Julia, Taffy, Elsie and of course Holly's adorable twins Tom and Ben.
I am hoping there may be a sequel as other characters may be brought into the story and other characters mentored in this book could be expanded upon.
This is well worth a read.
September 18, 2017
What a lovely story! The book is ostensibly about GP Dr Holly Graham, who is new to the village of Larkford and loving it there. But there's a whole cast of characters who come in and out of the story, all of whom are lovable. My favourite is ice-maiden Dr Julia Channing. What a fabulous character.
It's a heartwarming small town romance. It touches lightly on social issues so that they are highlighted without the story getting mired in it. The characters are all realistic and compelling. I really enjoyed it.
It's a heartwarming small town romance. It touches lightly on social issues so that they are highlighted without the story getting mired in it. The characters are all realistic and compelling. I really enjoyed it.
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