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The Larkford Series #2
Practice Makes Perfect
THE HILARIOUS AND HEARTFELT NEW NOVEL FROM THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF OUT OF PRACTICE!
The Practice at Larkford has suddenly been thrust under the spotlight – and its nomination as a ‘NHS Model Surgery’ is causing the team major headaches. Dr Holly Graham should be basking in the glow of her new romance with fellow doctor, Taffy – but she is worried that the team is prioritising plaudits over patients, and her favourite resident, the irreverent and entertaining Elsie, is facing a difficult diagnosis. Add to that the chaos of family life and the strain is starting to show.
Dr Dishy Dan Carter’s obsession with work is masking unhappiness elsewhere – he can’t persuade girlfriend Julia to settle down. It’s only as Julia’s mother comes to stay that he realizes what she has been hiding for so long. Alice Walker joins the team like a breath of fresh air and her assistance dog Coco quickly wins everyone round – which is just as well, because Coco and Alice will soon need some help of their own. Can they pull together and become the Dream Team that the NHS obviously thinks they are?
Out of Practice won the Romantic Comedy of the Year category of the RNA Awards.
The Practice at Larkford has suddenly been thrust under the spotlight – and its nomination as a ‘NHS Model Surgery’ is causing the team major headaches. Dr Holly Graham should be basking in the glow of her new romance with fellow doctor, Taffy – but she is worried that the team is prioritising plaudits over patients, and her favourite resident, the irreverent and entertaining Elsie, is facing a difficult diagnosis. Add to that the chaos of family life and the strain is starting to show.
Dr Dishy Dan Carter’s obsession with work is masking unhappiness elsewhere – he can’t persuade girlfriend Julia to settle down. It’s only as Julia’s mother comes to stay that he realizes what she has been hiding for so long. Alice Walker joins the team like a breath of fresh air and her assistance dog Coco quickly wins everyone round – which is just as well, because Coco and Alice will soon need some help of their own. Can they pull together and become the Dream Team that the NHS obviously thinks they are?
Out of Practice won the Romantic Comedy of the Year category of the RNA Awards.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2017
68 people are currently reading
363 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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July 19, 2017
4☆ A Compelling, Heart Warming Read, mixed with humour and Drama.
Practice Makes Perfect is the second book in the series, but can be read as a standalone book. I wasn't lucky enough to have read the first book, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the story.
When Larkford Practice is about to become a new 'NHS Model Surgery ' things are about to become alot more stressful for the Drs and their team.
There are so many wonderful characters and storylines within the story, it really sums up how hectic life as a Dr really is and the huge demands on their personal and family life.
The main characters all work at the Larkford Practice. Holly, Taffy,Dan and Julia.
Holly (Dr Graham) is currently in a relationship with her colleague Taffy.
She is a Mum to twins and finds juggling motherhood, an exciting new relationship and work really tough.
But her twins have taken a shine to Taffy and she's determined to make it work.
Dan (Dr Carter) is obsessed with work and is finding it very hard to slow down and invest time into he's relationship with Julia. He loves her very much but is he at risk of throwing it all away because of work!
Oh and I forgot to mention the adorable Assistance Dog Coco. Any book that features animals is always going to be a winner for me.
Coco is adorable and captures the heart of those he meet.
It's hard enough juggling the workload and family life.... but when a film crew come into the equation things are about to get a lot more stressful. The film crew are going to be filming a brand new reality TV Series 'Doctor in the House' and will be following the Drs every move...what could possibly go wrong!?
This book is jam packed full of Drama, fab characters, relatable storylines, humour, some poignant moments, it's heart warming, Feel good, and gives the reader an insightful look at the huge stresses Drs face on a daily bases.
This book is a little on the lengthy side for those readers who enjoy the shorter book. This might not be for you. However it didn't really feel like 576 pages as the story was engaging enough not to notice.
Overall a fab read. Perfect read for lovers of Doctor books.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
Practice Makes Perfect is the second book in the series, but can be read as a standalone book. I wasn't lucky enough to have read the first book, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the story.
When Larkford Practice is about to become a new 'NHS Model Surgery ' things are about to become alot more stressful for the Drs and their team.
There are so many wonderful characters and storylines within the story, it really sums up how hectic life as a Dr really is and the huge demands on their personal and family life.
The main characters all work at the Larkford Practice. Holly, Taffy,Dan and Julia.
Holly (Dr Graham) is currently in a relationship with her colleague Taffy.
She is a Mum to twins and finds juggling motherhood, an exciting new relationship and work really tough.
But her twins have taken a shine to Taffy and she's determined to make it work.
Dan (Dr Carter) is obsessed with work and is finding it very hard to slow down and invest time into he's relationship with Julia. He loves her very much but is he at risk of throwing it all away because of work!
Oh and I forgot to mention the adorable Assistance Dog Coco. Any book that features animals is always going to be a winner for me.
Coco is adorable and captures the heart of those he meet.
It's hard enough juggling the workload and family life.... but when a film crew come into the equation things are about to get a lot more stressful. The film crew are going to be filming a brand new reality TV Series 'Doctor in the House' and will be following the Drs every move...what could possibly go wrong!?
This book is jam packed full of Drama, fab characters, relatable storylines, humour, some poignant moments, it's heart warming, Feel good, and gives the reader an insightful look at the huge stresses Drs face on a daily bases.
This book is a little on the lengthy side for those readers who enjoy the shorter book. This might not be for you. However it didn't really feel like 576 pages as the story was engaging enough not to notice.
Overall a fab read. Perfect read for lovers of Doctor books.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
August 14, 2017
Review to come.
August 29, 2017
Having read Practice Makes Perfect I’m not utterly convinced that the setting of Larkford and The Practice would be a perfect setting for a soap opera or sitcom. There is so much drama and so many different storylines and characters all of which are really interesting that it keeps you reading page after page.
Not only do we see a return of the four main doctors, but we also see the introduction of a new young doctor Alice to the surgery in addition to her assistance dog Coco. It was from the moments they were first introduced that I could tell that they would be rather integral characters and rather special too.
It is great to see the continuing stories of Julia, Dan, Taffy and Holly and wow do they manage to fit a lot into tot his book between them. Julia’s continual media ambitions, while struggling to contain her family demons. Dan is caught up in a turbulent relationship, but is another woman just starting to catch this eye, he is also big on championing the Practice in the Community project, and I loved hearing about some of the fundraising. While Holly and Taffy are adjusting to living together and the twins, Ben and Tom are a handful while being thoroughly entertaining.
Of course it’s not just the doctors lives the book focuses on, there is also Grace the admin woman who seems to be great at firmly keeping the doctors in line. And then there are the people in the community, including some recurring characters that I was eager to see the return of like Major and Elsie.
This is a story about realistic characters facing the everyday challenges that normal working people face, including their bosses entering them into a high profile bet for their unique management style, the tug between mother and daughter relationships, sibling rivalries, and loads of other examples of things that are easy to relate to.
Yes this is quite a long book, but I really didn’t feel like a slog, in fact it was a delight to read, with Dan and Taffy providing a fair amount of comic relief, in a story that has many facets to it. I believe Practice Makes Perfect could be read as a standalone, as prior intimate knowledge of the previous books isn’t required. As a returning reader to the series, I was incredibly pleased to discover it really didn’t take long to feel like part of the community in Larkford again.
I am already incredibly eager to read the next book in the series, and can’t wait to see what the charismatic residents of Larkford will get up to next!
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 29, 2017
Practice Makes Perfect is Penny Parkes's second book, and also second in the Larkford series about a medical practice in a small town. I haven't read the previous book, I admit, so of course I was this little bit afraid if I can read it as a stand - alone or if I thought I missed too much. However, after finishing this book I can assure that you can read it as a stand alone. There were, in fact, so many cameos and throwbacks and recollections that right now I have a feeling as if I had read "Out of Practice"! I, of course, have heard many, many lovely things about Penny's books so there is no need to say that I started reading this one with great expectations, right? It was actually one of my most anticipated reads this summer and I couldn't wait to start reading it.
Even without reading the first book I didn't have any problems to get into the story and had a feeling that I already know the characters - four doctors, their lives and their work at the busy practice in Larkford. Holly seems to be coming to terms with her divorce and she's settled in her new life with her two twin boys and Taffy, who's also working as a doctor at the practice. Dan and Julia are the other couple and other two doctors and their lives are little bit more complicated and relationship is not so straightforward and easy, and honestly, I was asking myself more than once if they are really destined to be together. The practice has just been nominated to become a model for NHS, which means more money and more patients but also more responsibility and more scrutiny. There is also the TV team recording their program in the practice with Julia being its star - a lot of things happening at once, don't you think?
Now guys, I think there is "something" in books about doctors, well, about doctors generally, let's think about George Clooney in "ER", I think that we all picture the male bookish characters as Doctor Ross, no? I personally like such books and the Penny Parkes has proved that she really knows what she's writing about, with all the talks, the medical terms, the treatments - and this is actually my only "but", guys. The book is rather on the long side, with more than 500 pages, and for me it could be much shorter, as I personally could miss on at least half of the medical stuff. I think it would make the story quicker and gave it a feeling of it being quick - paced, because there were moments that it dragged too much for me, and it made me feel desperate because I wanted the story to go on, for something to happen.
But other than that, it was great. The characters were just brilliant! They were believable, they all had their own stories and background, they had life - experience. Holly and Taffy's new relationship, balancing work, demanding and very active twins, dog, etc and I adored to see the couple both at work and at home, as you could really see that they are made to measure and it was so visible that Taffy loves Holly and her family above all.
Also the background characters were incredibly well described, and I think it's not going to be a surprise when I say that Coco, the new doctor Alice's companion and assistance dog, has absolutely stolen my heart. The characters' stories mixed effortlessly and run seamlessly alongside one another.
Practice Makes Perfect was light - hearted and warm and I've finished reading it with a big smile on my face. I adored the writing style and characters. It was full to the brims with drama, troubles and twists and turns on the way and it was so easy to forget about everything when reading it. It was gentle and it dealt with some important issues and some taboos in great, comfortable ways. It was romantic, it was down - to - earth and realistic, with some laugh out loud moments, as well as some poignant ones and I really enjoyed this book - it really had it all that I'm looking for in a good, engaging story. Highly recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
June 23, 2017
I read the Larkford novella 'Swept Away' prior to requesting this book from Netgalley, so it seemed like coming home when I started reading 'Practice Makes Perfect'.
I haven't read the 1st Larkford novel 'Out of Practice' but I don't feel that hindered the story in any way. There are small snippets of back stories with certain characters that I presume were in the first book. These were enough for new readers like me or I imagine little reminders for return readers. This is a delightful gentle story of a struggling medical practice in a country town, with some lively characters, as they come to terms with coping with a small film crew that are filming the reality show 'Doctor In the House' and their nomination for the Model Surgery Program, which allows them extra funding.
I think I would have loved this book a few years ago and just revelled in curling up with it on a wintry day but I believe my tastes have been changing over time. On the whole I did enjoy it but at over 500 pages it went on a little too long for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read and review.
I haven't read the 1st Larkford novel 'Out of Practice' but I don't feel that hindered the story in any way. There are small snippets of back stories with certain characters that I presume were in the first book. These were enough for new readers like me or I imagine little reminders for return readers. This is a delightful gentle story of a struggling medical practice in a country town, with some lively characters, as they come to terms with coping with a small film crew that are filming the reality show 'Doctor In the House' and their nomination for the Model Surgery Program, which allows them extra funding.
I think I would have loved this book a few years ago and just revelled in curling up with it on a wintry day but I believe my tastes have been changing over time. On the whole I did enjoy it but at over 500 pages it went on a little too long for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read and review.
June 27, 2017
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
'Practice Makes Perfect' is the second book from Peeny Parkes and it's part of a series based around a large medical practice. Last year Penny published her debut and the first part in the series, 'Out of Practice' which was winner of the RoNA for a Romantic Comedy of the year. Naturally, I had high hopes for this book too and it was high up on my summer TBR list. Now that I've read it, I can say I definitely enjoyed it and once again, Penny didn't disappoint.
As I said, 'Practice Makes Perfect' is the follow up of 'Out of Practice' and I believe you'll get into the story easier and enjoy it more if you've read the first part. It picks up where the first book left, following the lives of 4 doctors and the busy practice at Larkford. Holly's life is finally looking better now she's in a relationship with her colleague, Taffy who's such a sweet and caring guy. After the hard divorce, she and her twins seem to finally feel what life is all about. Dan and Julia are the other two doctors who're also in a relationship but are facing some difficulties which are mostly because of the change of lifestyle and the practice becoming so popular. After their practice has been nominated as a NHS Model Surgery and a film crew steps into their lives to film the reality show 'Doctor in the House' things get very complicated and loads of drama starts happening.
As you see, this is a really fun and easy book. Even if you're not fans of shows or books about Doctors I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. It features some amazing, believable characters and after reading it you'll have the biggest smile on your face. I absolutely love Holly and could connect to her so easy. One of my favourite characters is Elsie, who also appears in the first part of the series, and who's one of the most loved and wisest member of the Larkford community. While Taffy and Holly's relationship seems to blossom, Dan and Julia's changes and becomes more stressful.
What I enjoyed most about this book is the easy writing style and the characters. While there were some parts (scenes) which I don't think added much to the plot, and could easily be left out, I still enjoyed the book. That's my only complaint, the book could've been shorter which would undoubtedly add a bit to the the pace.
Still, I'm absolutely thrilled I got the chance to read this book and I wonder what Penny has in store for us next. This is a gorgeous summer book and if you're off on a holiday soon, I advise you to pack a copy of it. If you're looking for a warm story with a strong feel good factor, this is the book for you! Perfect for some chillaxing at the beach (or by the pool) and forgetting all about your every day problems.
'Practice Makes Perfect' is the second book from Peeny Parkes and it's part of a series based around a large medical practice. Last year Penny published her debut and the first part in the series, 'Out of Practice' which was winner of the RoNA for a Romantic Comedy of the year. Naturally, I had high hopes for this book too and it was high up on my summer TBR list. Now that I've read it, I can say I definitely enjoyed it and once again, Penny didn't disappoint.
As I said, 'Practice Makes Perfect' is the follow up of 'Out of Practice' and I believe you'll get into the story easier and enjoy it more if you've read the first part. It picks up where the first book left, following the lives of 4 doctors and the busy practice at Larkford. Holly's life is finally looking better now she's in a relationship with her colleague, Taffy who's such a sweet and caring guy. After the hard divorce, she and her twins seem to finally feel what life is all about. Dan and Julia are the other two doctors who're also in a relationship but are facing some difficulties which are mostly because of the change of lifestyle and the practice becoming so popular. After their practice has been nominated as a NHS Model Surgery and a film crew steps into their lives to film the reality show 'Doctor in the House' things get very complicated and loads of drama starts happening.
As you see, this is a really fun and easy book. Even if you're not fans of shows or books about Doctors I'm sure you're going to enjoy it. It features some amazing, believable characters and after reading it you'll have the biggest smile on your face. I absolutely love Holly and could connect to her so easy. One of my favourite characters is Elsie, who also appears in the first part of the series, and who's one of the most loved and wisest member of the Larkford community. While Taffy and Holly's relationship seems to blossom, Dan and Julia's changes and becomes more stressful.
What I enjoyed most about this book is the easy writing style and the characters. While there were some parts (scenes) which I don't think added much to the plot, and could easily be left out, I still enjoyed the book. That's my only complaint, the book could've been shorter which would undoubtedly add a bit to the the pace.
Still, I'm absolutely thrilled I got the chance to read this book and I wonder what Penny has in store for us next. This is a gorgeous summer book and if you're off on a holiday soon, I advise you to pack a copy of it. If you're looking for a warm story with a strong feel good factor, this is the book for you! Perfect for some chillaxing at the beach (or by the pool) and forgetting all about your every day problems.
November 20, 2017
Practice Makes Perfect is the second novel in the Larkford Series - the first book Out of Practice won the Romantic Comedy of the Year category of the RNA Awards.
I really liked the first book and wondered whether the second could be as good, well it's not as good - it's even better!
Holly's twins are just as boisterous and funny, Dan and Taffy are still having silly bets with each other, I chuckled at the teasing between them, Larkford's resident celebrity Elsie is still as ascerbic but funny as ever, even though her health is not good, though that doesn't stop her from enjoying life!
There is also a new doctor, Alice, who has fitted in nicely, along with her lovely medical assistance dog, which I thought was a great idea, and taught me so much about these fabulous animals who can save lives.
Add to this scene, a TV reality crew who are following Julia around creating problems for her and the lovely Dan, plus the fact that the Practice have been nominated for a Model Surgery award, which comes with its own problems for the staff ...... and you have a story that's full of warmth, humour, never a dull moment, plenty of laughs, but also deals with the more serious side of life. A great achievement all in one book!
I really liked the first book and wondered whether the second could be as good, well it's not as good - it's even better!
Holly's twins are just as boisterous and funny, Dan and Taffy are still having silly bets with each other, I chuckled at the teasing between them, Larkford's resident celebrity Elsie is still as ascerbic but funny as ever, even though her health is not good, though that doesn't stop her from enjoying life!
There is also a new doctor, Alice, who has fitted in nicely, along with her lovely medical assistance dog, which I thought was a great idea, and taught me so much about these fabulous animals who can save lives.
Add to this scene, a TV reality crew who are following Julia around creating problems for her and the lovely Dan, plus the fact that the Practice have been nominated for a Model Surgery award, which comes with its own problems for the staff ...... and you have a story that's full of warmth, humour, never a dull moment, plenty of laughs, but also deals with the more serious side of life. A great achievement all in one book!
July 5, 2017
Was really looking forward this second book in the series it's heartwarming and makes you laugh out loud as so funny. Really easy read and shows what life can be like. The practice is now under pressure as becomes a NHS model surgery and Dr Holly is trying to settle into her romance with Dr Taffy can they settle into family life with the twins. Dr Dan is so obsessed with work it's effecting so many things including his relationship can they work through it or does Julia move on. This is a joy to read and hope there will be more to these books.
July 6, 2017
I found Practice Makes Perfect a pleasant enough read if somewhat rather long. The premise was good and I think it had it the right number of main characters whose stories and interactions worked well with each other.
I found this book ok to read but in all honesty it didn't blow me away. I would give it 3 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Barnes & Noble and the author for the chance to review.
I found this book ok to read but in all honesty it didn't blow me away. I would give it 3 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Barnes & Noble and the author for the chance to review.
September 7, 2017
A light hearted read with great characters and a good feel about it. I did begin to wonder half way through if life really could be as perfect as it appeared in 'Larkford', but as the book continued to drip feed little bits of back story to the characters I became more and more intrigued. A nice, curl up on the sofa with a cuppa type of book.
April 25, 2019
I so enjoy Penny Parkes' turn of phrase! A truly enjoyable read. As the jacket says, this book has warmth, humour, drama, laughter and tears. It's even teaching me a few things via one of the characters in the book: such as reach out and grab the things that matter to you, and whilst still being supportive of those who need you, don't put your life on hold unnecessarily. Life's too short.
September 26, 2019
I am so pleased to get to the end of this book, I don't give up, but I seriously considered it throughout this book.
I'm not saying that this is in any way a bad read, just not my cup of tea. In a way it just confirmed to me that with a few exceptions 'my genre' is historical fiction.
I'm not saying that this is in any way a bad read, just not my cup of tea. In a way it just confirmed to me that with a few exceptions 'my genre' is historical fiction.
November 23, 2018
Loving this series
December 19, 2024
Larkford does sound like a slightly ridiculous place to live but this book is heartwarming. Love the eccentricity of Elsie
June 16, 2017
It was so good to catch up with all the lovable characters from the first instalment Out of Practice. In this second round, Practice makes Perfect things heat up, so it is no wonder the books gets even better. More thrilling and more captivating and more heartfelt.
The Practice at Larkford has suddenly been thrust into the spotlight – and its nomination as an ‘NHS Model Surgery’ is causing the team major headaches. Dr Holly Graham should be basking in the glow of her new romance with a fellow doctor, Taffy – but she is worried that the team is prioritising plaudits over patients, and her favourite resident, the irreverent and entertaining Elsie, is facing a difficult diagnosis. Add to that the chaos of family life and the strain is starting to show.
Dr Dishy Dan Carter’s obsession with work is masking unhappiness elsewhere – he can’t persuade girlfriend Julia to settle down. It’s only as Julia’s mother comes to stay that he realises what she has been hiding for so long. Alice Walker joins the team like a breath of fresh air and her assistance dog Coco quickly wins everyone round – which is just as well, because Coco and Alice will soon need some help of their own. Can they pull together and become the Dream Team that the NHS obviously thinks they are?
Practice makes Perfect has several leading characters each with their story to tell. There are Holly and Taffy and their new relationship that they have to constantly balance with their demanding work and a very energetic twin boys. Holly's boys love Taffy as their new father figure, and Taffy loves Holly's little family more than anything else in this life. Holly is finding her new relationship very liberating and enjoyable. There is real love, support and the affection between the couple and their personalities are beautifully complementing each other.
Julia's TV show is taken a toll on everyone around The Surgery then Julia's mother appearance on the scene adds another strain on both Julia and Dan. The couple has a lot to overcome if they want their relationship to survive.
When it comes to the supporting cast of characters, there is a mix of new and the old ones. It was so lovely to see who everyone else's lives moved on from the previous book. And it felt like I went on holidays and came back home after a few weeks to catch up on gossip with the surgery nurses and the charming residents of Larkford, especially the self-appointed Dame of Larkford Elsie.
But I also got to meet a brand new set of characters that added yet another layer to this enormous story. Alice joins The Surgery after her heartwarming interview with "people person" Holly, and I was absolutely smitten with Alice's companion and assistance dog, Coco. More than once I wished I could reach into the pages and give her a cuddle!
There are more characters that you can count, but their stories seem to seamlessly and so effortlessly run alongside one another creating one fabulous book that will warm your heart and make you see things or perhaps understand some sensitive subject and modern days taboos a little bit more after you finished the last page.
It wouldn't be Practice makes Perfect without a healthy dose of drama, a handful of gorgeous doctors and a life-affirming believe in love and positive attitude.
Practice makes Perfect will without a doubt feature on my list of Best Books in 2017!
The Practice at Larkford has suddenly been thrust into the spotlight – and its nomination as an ‘NHS Model Surgery’ is causing the team major headaches. Dr Holly Graham should be basking in the glow of her new romance with a fellow doctor, Taffy – but she is worried that the team is prioritising plaudits over patients, and her favourite resident, the irreverent and entertaining Elsie, is facing a difficult diagnosis. Add to that the chaos of family life and the strain is starting to show.
Dr Dishy Dan Carter’s obsession with work is masking unhappiness elsewhere – he can’t persuade girlfriend Julia to settle down. It’s only as Julia’s mother comes to stay that he realises what she has been hiding for so long. Alice Walker joins the team like a breath of fresh air and her assistance dog Coco quickly wins everyone round – which is just as well, because Coco and Alice will soon need some help of their own. Can they pull together and become the Dream Team that the NHS obviously thinks they are?
Practice makes Perfect has several leading characters each with their story to tell. There are Holly and Taffy and their new relationship that they have to constantly balance with their demanding work and a very energetic twin boys. Holly's boys love Taffy as their new father figure, and Taffy loves Holly's little family more than anything else in this life. Holly is finding her new relationship very liberating and enjoyable. There is real love, support and the affection between the couple and their personalities are beautifully complementing each other.
Julia's TV show is taken a toll on everyone around The Surgery then Julia's mother appearance on the scene adds another strain on both Julia and Dan. The couple has a lot to overcome if they want their relationship to survive.
When it comes to the supporting cast of characters, there is a mix of new and the old ones. It was so lovely to see who everyone else's lives moved on from the previous book. And it felt like I went on holidays and came back home after a few weeks to catch up on gossip with the surgery nurses and the charming residents of Larkford, especially the self-appointed Dame of Larkford Elsie.
But I also got to meet a brand new set of characters that added yet another layer to this enormous story. Alice joins The Surgery after her heartwarming interview with "people person" Holly, and I was absolutely smitten with Alice's companion and assistance dog, Coco. More than once I wished I could reach into the pages and give her a cuddle!
There are more characters that you can count, but their stories seem to seamlessly and so effortlessly run alongside one another creating one fabulous book that will warm your heart and make you see things or perhaps understand some sensitive subject and modern days taboos a little bit more after you finished the last page.
It wouldn't be Practice makes Perfect without a healthy dose of drama, a handful of gorgeous doctors and a life-affirming believe in love and positive attitude.
Practice makes Perfect will without a doubt feature on my list of Best Books in 2017!
November 17, 2018
Whilst it was nice to be back in Larkford with a cast of characters that I have become familiar with, there was something missing in this second novel about Holly and her fellow GPs. Maybe it was the lack of Elsie because, make no mistake about it, Elsie is the humour in the book; the indomitable spirit that charges all around her to be better, to be selfish. She does appear but in muted form and we spend far more time with Holly and Julia and for a laugh-fest this does not make.
Both women are flawed, quite seriously flawed in all honesty and whilst I don't mind this it did all become a bit unrelentingly grim at times. From Julia's alcoholic mother making an appearance to Holly second guessing absolutely everything it all became a tiny bit depressing. This may have been less apparent if I hadn't re-read the first of the Larkford series prior to starting this second offering, but I did so it is what it is.
The author is good at getting under the skin of her characters so the different degrees of response to visiting Taffy's childhood home are well described. From the way Taffy responds to the family dynamic to Holly's more removed appraisal of the situation, it is one we can relate to if we have ever met our significant other's family. Unfortunately, this only 2 chapters or so of the whole book and yet they are probably the best (and most realistic) section of the whole book.
The main plot this time seems to centre firmly around The Practice and all the personal "stuff" takes second place to it. Maybe this is why I liked it less. The whole things around the model practice just takes up too much page space with the same brow beating from various characters as they come to terms with what this designation means. Frankly I got sick of hearing about it; almost as fed up as I was with the plotline centering around Julia and the TV crew. So much so I started skimming those bits rather than actually reading them.
Things are saved a little by the various daft bets Taffy and Dan set up and the glimpses of Elsie. Lizzie is very quiet in this book and she rarely makes an appearance, this is dealt with as she is struggling to "find herself" after quitting her Editorial job. Holly is worried she is being a bad friend to Lizzie and I have to say from my judgmental stool she is.
I was left feeling a little disappointed by this book, mainly because the stuff I loved so much from the original is in short supply here - the people.
Both women are flawed, quite seriously flawed in all honesty and whilst I don't mind this it did all become a bit unrelentingly grim at times. From Julia's alcoholic mother making an appearance to Holly second guessing absolutely everything it all became a tiny bit depressing. This may have been less apparent if I hadn't re-read the first of the Larkford series prior to starting this second offering, but I did so it is what it is.
The author is good at getting under the skin of her characters so the different degrees of response to visiting Taffy's childhood home are well described. From the way Taffy responds to the family dynamic to Holly's more removed appraisal of the situation, it is one we can relate to if we have ever met our significant other's family. Unfortunately, this only 2 chapters or so of the whole book and yet they are probably the best (and most realistic) section of the whole book.
The main plot this time seems to centre firmly around The Practice and all the personal "stuff" takes second place to it. Maybe this is why I liked it less. The whole things around the model practice just takes up too much page space with the same brow beating from various characters as they come to terms with what this designation means. Frankly I got sick of hearing about it; almost as fed up as I was with the plotline centering around Julia and the TV crew. So much so I started skimming those bits rather than actually reading them.
Things are saved a little by the various daft bets Taffy and Dan set up and the glimpses of Elsie. Lizzie is very quiet in this book and she rarely makes an appearance, this is dealt with as she is struggling to "find herself" after quitting her Editorial job. Holly is worried she is being a bad friend to Lizzie and I have to say from my judgmental stool she is.
I was left feeling a little disappointed by this book, mainly because the stuff I loved so much from the original is in short supply here - the people.
June 26, 2017
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2017/06...
Out of Practice, Penny's Parkes debut, was one of the cosiest and most delightful reads I read last year, so I was really looking forward to being back in Larkford and catching up with Holly and all the gang. And I can already tell you that Practice Makes Perfect doesn't disappoint at all.
The story takes off a few months after the first book finished. The practice and their new managing style with no senior partner is a roaring success and satisfaction with patients is better than it has ever been. This leads to a nomination for the practice to become a model for NHS, but this soon turns to be more complications and scrutiny for the four doctors.
The nomination though is not the only thing going on in the story. A TV team is recording their every move as Julia has become a TV star. Holly and Taffy are juggling too many plates at once with taking care of two overactive kids and a crazy dog, running the practice and actually seeing patients. The new addition to the practice, young Alice, is having problems adjusting, Elsie isn't at her best, and there's also seem to be problems in paradise with Dan and Julia...
As you can see there, this book is packed with drama and soon you find yourself immersed in the story and forgetting about your own reality. I really loved getting to know a new version of Taffy in this story, as he becomes more and more involved in Holly's life and we can see there's more to him than the easy-going guy we met in the first book. Also, every scene with Elsie is a joy to read. Her pearls of wisdom and advice for Holly and the girls are not only useful for them but for all of us.
Just as Out of Practice, Practice Makes Perfect is not a short book but once again, the pages flew by. There's certainly no time for breathing with so many things happening at once. There are surprises for everyone and Penny Parkes' fun and compelling style make for a very entertaining read. I really hope that she is planning on more Larkford stories as I can't seem to get enough of these lovely characters.
Rating: 4 stars
Out of Practice, Penny's Parkes debut, was one of the cosiest and most delightful reads I read last year, so I was really looking forward to being back in Larkford and catching up with Holly and all the gang. And I can already tell you that Practice Makes Perfect doesn't disappoint at all.
The story takes off a few months after the first book finished. The practice and their new managing style with no senior partner is a roaring success and satisfaction with patients is better than it has ever been. This leads to a nomination for the practice to become a model for NHS, but this soon turns to be more complications and scrutiny for the four doctors.
The nomination though is not the only thing going on in the story. A TV team is recording their every move as Julia has become a TV star. Holly and Taffy are juggling too many plates at once with taking care of two overactive kids and a crazy dog, running the practice and actually seeing patients. The new addition to the practice, young Alice, is having problems adjusting, Elsie isn't at her best, and there's also seem to be problems in paradise with Dan and Julia...
As you can see there, this book is packed with drama and soon you find yourself immersed in the story and forgetting about your own reality. I really loved getting to know a new version of Taffy in this story, as he becomes more and more involved in Holly's life and we can see there's more to him than the easy-going guy we met in the first book. Also, every scene with Elsie is a joy to read. Her pearls of wisdom and advice for Holly and the girls are not only useful for them but for all of us.
Just as Out of Practice, Practice Makes Perfect is not a short book but once again, the pages flew by. There's certainly no time for breathing with so many things happening at once. There are surprises for everyone and Penny Parkes' fun and compelling style make for a very entertaining read. I really hope that she is planning on more Larkford stories as I can't seem to get enough of these lovely characters.
Rating: 4 stars
August 7, 2017
I could not put this book down. I had read the first book in this series, about a GP Practice in Larkford, run by 4 GP's Holly, Taffy, Dan & Julia, together with their administrator Gracie and their wonderful team of nursing staff.
Holly has Twins, Ben and Tom from her marriage to Milo, which unfortunately failed. She's fallen in love with Taffy and between them they look after the twins, and have a 'dog share' called Eric, with Holly's best friend Lizzie (Dan's Cousin). Dan lives with Julia. Then there is Elsie, an octegenerian film star who became Holly's mentor and friend in the first book.
Lots of happenings in this book kept me glued to the pages, I just could not put it down.
There's the offer by the local PCT coming on the back of their success at running a GP Surgery with no hierarchy; the constant filming of Julia by Quentin following the everyday goings on in the practice; why has Elsie come home from her cruise early?; trouble with the twins at pre-school abd meeting Taffy's family.
We find out what's going on in Larkford, but it's not just about that. It's about social media, how it intrudes in everyone's life. It's about what goes on behind closed doors, you think everything is OK, when in fact it's not.
This book made me think alot about life, how modern day impacts on our lives and often not in a good way. Do we give ourselves time for ourselves and the people we love?
An absolutely fantastic book and highly recommended. You don't need to have read the first book, Out of Practice but it does help to set the scene. Each character, scene and storyline is well written and thought out.
I really hope there is at least another book in the series, to tie up the loose ends. ..
Holly has Twins, Ben and Tom from her marriage to Milo, which unfortunately failed. She's fallen in love with Taffy and between them they look after the twins, and have a 'dog share' called Eric, with Holly's best friend Lizzie (Dan's Cousin). Dan lives with Julia. Then there is Elsie, an octegenerian film star who became Holly's mentor and friend in the first book.
Lots of happenings in this book kept me glued to the pages, I just could not put it down.
There's the offer by the local PCT coming on the back of their success at running a GP Surgery with no hierarchy; the constant filming of Julia by Quentin following the everyday goings on in the practice; why has Elsie come home from her cruise early?; trouble with the twins at pre-school abd meeting Taffy's family.
We find out what's going on in Larkford, but it's not just about that. It's about social media, how it intrudes in everyone's life. It's about what goes on behind closed doors, you think everything is OK, when in fact it's not.
This book made me think alot about life, how modern day impacts on our lives and often not in a good way. Do we give ourselves time for ourselves and the people we love?
An absolutely fantastic book and highly recommended. You don't need to have read the first book, Out of Practice but it does help to set the scene. Each character, scene and storyline is well written and thought out.
I really hope there is at least another book in the series, to tie up the loose ends. ..
July 13, 2017
I was eagerly anticipating a return to Larkford, the Cotswold village where the action in this series of books takes place, following the first novel in the series, Out of Practice, which I thoroughly enjoyed last year. This book catches up with Holly, who has left her failing marriage behind, found new love with fellow GP and is working as a partner in the medical practice she joined in the first book. We're reunited with the many Larkford characters, from Holly's lovely twin boys through Elsie, Lizzie, the Major and many others.
This book was a little slow starting for me. I don't know if it's because I was looking forward to it so much but I found it difficult to become engrossed in it. After around a third of the story I found that I was captivated once more by Larkford and it's inhabitants though. There are several new additions which really add to the plot, not least of which Alice (the new GP) and her assistance dog Coco and the mother of Holly's fellow GP, Julia, who makes that character much more human than the spotless ice queen found in the first book.
I'd really recommend reading the first book, and the free novella 'Swept Away' prior to reading Practice Makes Perfect, if you can. It really explains why many of the characters act in the way they do in this book and will give the enjoyment of this one greater depth.
In the end I really loved this return to Larkford, despite my slow start with it. I've already pre-ordered the third in the series due next year.
This book was a little slow starting for me. I don't know if it's because I was looking forward to it so much but I found it difficult to become engrossed in it. After around a third of the story I found that I was captivated once more by Larkford and it's inhabitants though. There are several new additions which really add to the plot, not least of which Alice (the new GP) and her assistance dog Coco and the mother of Holly's fellow GP, Julia, who makes that character much more human than the spotless ice queen found in the first book.
I'd really recommend reading the first book, and the free novella 'Swept Away' prior to reading Practice Makes Perfect, if you can. It really explains why many of the characters act in the way they do in this book and will give the enjoyment of this one greater depth.
In the end I really loved this return to Larkford, despite my slow start with it. I've already pre-ordered the third in the series due next year.
May 16, 2017
Practice makes Perfect continues seamlessly from the previous Out of Practice, the characters good and bad remain with a few new additions who add a new dimension to this story.
Dr Holly Graham is now living with fellow GP Taffy and their relationship is happy and passionate, although Holly is still afraid of commitment after her awful marriage to Milo who treated her dreadfully. Her twin boys are thriving and have a close relationship to Taffy.
The surgery continues to be the hub of the community and is nominated as an NHS model surgery which starts to cause headaches for the surgery staff with all the extra work and scrutiny.
A great romantic tale with laugh out loud moments, and not without some moments of pathos. Extremely readable and thoroughly enjoyable.
Thanks to net galley and publisher for opportunity to review this book honestly.
Dr Holly Graham is now living with fellow GP Taffy and their relationship is happy and passionate, although Holly is still afraid of commitment after her awful marriage to Milo who treated her dreadfully. Her twin boys are thriving and have a close relationship to Taffy.
The surgery continues to be the hub of the community and is nominated as an NHS model surgery which starts to cause headaches for the surgery staff with all the extra work and scrutiny.
A great romantic tale with laugh out loud moments, and not without some moments of pathos. Extremely readable and thoroughly enjoyable.
Thanks to net galley and publisher for opportunity to review this book honestly.
August 13, 2017
A fairly hefty book this one, both in size and in content covering as it does a lot of ground. Centred round the GP practice of the idyllic-sounding town of Larkford (overtones of ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’ maybe deliberately?) run by four equal partners, Dan, Julia, Holly and Taffy and their too-good-to-be-true back-up staff. But all is not as perfect as it seems because Dan’s home life with Julia is far from satisfactory and Holly is struggling to cope with the demands of a love affair with Taffy, four-year old twins, and her work. As if these pressures aren’t enough, the practice has been nominated as a ‘Model Practice’ which, although it brings in extra funding, creates problems of its own. With a whole host of colourful characters and enchanting dogs, this is full of humour, compassion, pathos, love and loyalty. A rewarding read. Now to track down its predecessor, Out of Practice.
October 6, 2018
Practice makes Perfect- Penny Parkes
So, as i like to be brutally honest about the books I read but don’t like to upset people I will do this as nice as possible. I found this very hard to read, I kind of lost interest a few chapters in, then I thought that my favourite character was getting killed off so that made me not want to read it lol but I powered threw and I’m pleased to say she doesn’t get killed off in this book 😀. However it did manage to reel me back in at the very end making me want to read the next book to see what happens next. I do love how the whole village is like one big family and always have each other’s backs that’s probably why I do want to power on threw to the last book in the series to see how it turns out for them all. #MrsCsHonestBookReviews #TheLarkfordSeries #PracticemakesPerfect #PennyParkes #books #reviews #bookstagram
So, as i like to be brutally honest about the books I read but don’t like to upset people I will do this as nice as possible. I found this very hard to read, I kind of lost interest a few chapters in, then I thought that my favourite character was getting killed off so that made me not want to read it lol but I powered threw and I’m pleased to say she doesn’t get killed off in this book 😀. However it did manage to reel me back in at the very end making me want to read the next book to see what happens next. I do love how the whole village is like one big family and always have each other’s backs that’s probably why I do want to power on threw to the last book in the series to see how it turns out for them all. #MrsCsHonestBookReviews #TheLarkfordSeries #PracticemakesPerfect #PennyParkes #books #reviews #bookstagram
November 10, 2019
Heartwarming, compelling and sweet, full of drama, I read this book as a standalone but I believe it to be part of a series. It was very light hearted and sweet, with characters that were well written and came across as good but, and yes, there's a but, I struggled with it, sometimes things can be a bit too perfect, no matter how hard you practice.
That said, I didn't not finish this book, I got to the end, it just left me feeling a bit "eh". Sometimes there are stories to tell and sometimes I feel there are "non stories", with little to share. That doesn't mean that this is a bad book, it's just not my kind of book. I could have left it or picked it up, I wasn't eager to finish it, it wasn't a page turner, it didn't grip me and I wasn't carrying it round wanting to know what happens and not wanting to read it either.
You win some, you lose some.
That said, I didn't not finish this book, I got to the end, it just left me feeling a bit "eh". Sometimes there are stories to tell and sometimes I feel there are "non stories", with little to share. That doesn't mean that this is a bad book, it's just not my kind of book. I could have left it or picked it up, I wasn't eager to finish it, it wasn't a page turner, it didn't grip me and I wasn't carrying it round wanting to know what happens and not wanting to read it either.
You win some, you lose some.
December 22, 2020
This book consumed me for 6 days as I read it, what a massive book to get my teeth into.
I loved being back in Larkford again and catching up with everyone. So much was happening, it was almost like watching a soap opera. The cleverly woven storylines, multiple characters and such real, every day problems.
Holly and Taffy may be the main focus couple of the story, the ups and downs of their growing romance and moving forward to become a family, but Dan, Julia, Grace, Alice and Elsie all play huge parts, not only in advancing their relationship but adding so much more realism to the story, real people trying to get through the week one day at a time.
I can’t wait to continue the saga.
I loved being back in Larkford again and catching up with everyone. So much was happening, it was almost like watching a soap opera. The cleverly woven storylines, multiple characters and such real, every day problems.
Holly and Taffy may be the main focus couple of the story, the ups and downs of their growing romance and moving forward to become a family, but Dan, Julia, Grace, Alice and Elsie all play huge parts, not only in advancing their relationship but adding so much more realism to the story, real people trying to get through the week one day at a time.
I can’t wait to continue the saga.
March 2, 2025
I'm just hooked on this cozy late 2010s series that is not at all easy to find in the US. Why aren't there more series like this ~ small town, friendships and love lives, but not romances? Just everyday life, with so much detail about the dogs and townspeople and big chunky books that just lay it all out in such a comforting way. This book has a glaring problem with fatphobia and diet culture that I detested, but given that giving it publicity won't assist with book sales since it's old and hard to find, I feel okay about still giving it four stars. Sometimes we love flawed things.
Source: purchased used copy via ThriftBooks
Source: purchased used copy via ThriftBooks
April 9, 2018
Practice Makes Perfect is the second book in the Larkford Series, which follows the trials and tribulations of a group of doctors running a village GP practice. I hadn't read any of the others books in the series, but still found this an enjoyable story; the author does a very good job of ensuring any relevant happenings in previous books are referenced inconspicuously. There were many characters to follow but each was layered and felt complete because multiple POVs meant you could understand their motives and sympathise with their actions. Overall, a warm, funny, read.
June 2, 2017
I received an electronic copy of this book for free from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I read the first book in the series, Out of Practice, and loved it so I was very excited when I saw that there was a sequel to that book available for review. I enjoyed this book as much as the first if not more. I loved hearing what Holly and all the other characters were up to now that the first book had ended. Hoping for a third book in the series!
October 2, 2021
Listened to this via audio and loved it!
A fantastic second book in this series as we head back to Larkford with our favourite villagers - Holly, Taffy, Dan, Julia, Grace, Elsie and new doctor Alice.
I enjoyed the interwoven stories, the day to day running of a busy rural doctors practice and the family dramas. Some emotional parts, lots of laughs and a real heartfelt story.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A fantastic second book in this series as we head back to Larkford with our favourite villagers - Holly, Taffy, Dan, Julia, Grace, Elsie and new doctor Alice.
I enjoyed the interwoven stories, the day to day running of a busy rural doctors practice and the family dramas. Some emotional parts, lots of laughs and a real heartfelt story.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 21, 2017
After being rather critical of the first book in this series I was a bit wary about reading this book straight afterwards , however I found this was a far better and more interesting storyline with all the main characters stepping up to the mark. Definitely more enjoyable however I'm glad I read book one first for all the relevant background . 100% mark for the narrator again
February 12, 2019
What a fabulously written book! All the characters from out if practice are back and explored in so much depth but never in a boring way. A few unheard of topics explored eg assistance dogs, toxic relationships poor health and divorce but all very delicately done so that the reader learns more opening up their eyes to a new world whilst emotionally helping each character through their stories
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