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The Larkford Series #4
Snowed in at the Practice
Welcome to the Larkford Surgery in the Cotswolds, the heart of a tightknit community as well as a hotbed of drama, rivalry, resentment and romance - and that's just the doctors …
Dr Holly Graham is finding life with two sets of twins exhausting. Even with husband Dr Taffy Jones and devoted friend Elsie by her side, she is completely outnumbered. Making the transition back to work will be no easy feat but a regular slot on Radio Larkford as their on-air doctor might be the perfect stepping stone, until an unexpected job offer changes everything.
Dr Alice Walker’s new canine clinic at Larkford Surgery with Coco, her assistance dog, has been a storming success. If only shipping her best friend, Dr Tilly Grainger, in from South America to cover for Holly had been such a smooth transition. It seems that Tilly isn’t finding life in the peaceful Cotswolds valley as rewarding as she’d hoped, and she is causing chaos ...
Join the residents of Larkford as secrets, drama and romance are revealed, in the new novel from the bestselling author of Out of Practice and winner of the RNA Romantic Comedy Award 2017.
Dr Holly Graham is finding life with two sets of twins exhausting. Even with husband Dr Taffy Jones and devoted friend Elsie by her side, she is completely outnumbered. Making the transition back to work will be no easy feat but a regular slot on Radio Larkford as their on-air doctor might be the perfect stepping stone, until an unexpected job offer changes everything.
Dr Alice Walker’s new canine clinic at Larkford Surgery with Coco, her assistance dog, has been a storming success. If only shipping her best friend, Dr Tilly Grainger, in from South America to cover for Holly had been such a smooth transition. It seems that Tilly isn’t finding life in the peaceful Cotswolds valley as rewarding as she’d hoped, and she is causing chaos ...
Join the residents of Larkford as secrets, drama and romance are revealed, in the new novel from the bestselling author of Out of Practice and winner of the RNA Romantic Comedy Award 2017.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2019
73 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Penny Parkes
7 books120 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 59 reviews
September 16, 2019
I discovered The Larkford Series about a year ago and read the three books back to back in quick succession. I've thoroughly enjoyed following the stories of Dr Holly Graham from book to book and couldn't wait to get my hands on the next instalment.
Rest assured fellow fans of Larkford this next instalment is ace. I loved going back to the village and the doctors surgery we have all come to love. At the start of the book Holly is on maternity leave dealing with the second set of twins and trying to work out how to balance being a mother of four alongside wanting to return to work so she can be more than just mum again. Seeing her adapt to her new life and work out how to manage it all made for a very interesting read indeed.
As usual the rest of the gang featured too. Lovely Elsie was back on full form being her wonderful quirky self and as with the previous books I loved every scene she appeared in. The story looked at new doctor Tilly and her struggles fitting into life in the Cotswolds as well as spending time with Dr Dan Carter and his new relationship. I can't say an awful lot about where that thread goes for fear of straying into spoiler territory but suffice to say I loved it.
All in all a brilliant new instalment of a series I adore. I loved being back in Larkford and am already desperate for more.
Rest assured fellow fans of Larkford this next instalment is ace. I loved going back to the village and the doctors surgery we have all come to love. At the start of the book Holly is on maternity leave dealing with the second set of twins and trying to work out how to balance being a mother of four alongside wanting to return to work so she can be more than just mum again. Seeing her adapt to her new life and work out how to manage it all made for a very interesting read indeed.
As usual the rest of the gang featured too. Lovely Elsie was back on full form being her wonderful quirky self and as with the previous books I loved every scene she appeared in. The story looked at new doctor Tilly and her struggles fitting into life in the Cotswolds as well as spending time with Dr Dan Carter and his new relationship. I can't say an awful lot about where that thread goes for fear of straying into spoiler territory but suffice to say I loved it.
All in all a brilliant new instalment of a series I adore. I loved being back in Larkford and am already desperate for more.
September 9, 2019
A lovely edition to this wonderful series. Filled with love, romance, joy, happiness, Christmas joy? Spirit, sparkle and magic.
December 7, 2019
This is a fantastic series and was so looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint me at all brilliant read with many twist and turns and has you hooked straight away. The characters are brilliant and love the setting of the village as well and full of romance, Christmas spirit with a sparkle of magic and plenty about the village Drs and the dew dr that arrives. Wonderful Christmas read.
Holly is still on maternity leave and settling with her new twins but she is contemplating a return to work but needs to think hard. She finds a nanny who will look after her children as realises it's the cheapest option and will she cope with going back but then an unexpected offer comes her way what will she do. Alice the dr with coco her assistant dog is being a big success at diagnosing patients who come in. She brings her friend Tilly in to help cover Holly's maternity leave but it doesn't prove to be as straight forward. She isn't use to a small village and finds it hard to adjust and starts causing havoc in the process.
Will the villagers be happy and settle in to the village and back at work well and will any romance start or not.
Holly is still on maternity leave and settling with her new twins but she is contemplating a return to work but needs to think hard. She finds a nanny who will look after her children as realises it's the cheapest option and will she cope with going back but then an unexpected offer comes her way what will she do. Alice the dr with coco her assistant dog is being a big success at diagnosing patients who come in. She brings her friend Tilly in to help cover Holly's maternity leave but it doesn't prove to be as straight forward. She isn't use to a small village and finds it hard to adjust and starts causing havoc in the process.
Will the villagers be happy and settle in to the village and back at work well and will any romance start or not.
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November 11, 2019In "Snowed in at the Practice" we are back with old, good characters and introduced to some of the new ones. Holly is on maternity leave and in her place we have the feisty Tilly, and while Holly is dealing with her second set of twins, Tilly starts to find what it is she'd love to do - but will she be able to stay at the Practice? Especially as Holly is trying to work out how to return to work - she so wants to be more than just mum again, she needs this thrill of being able to help. But will the others support her in her decisions?
This book is a brilliant catch up with Holly, Taffy and their two sets of twins but it also introduces us to a new nanny, feisty and quirky and full of life and surprises, and Tilly, Alice's friend, but also Connor, who has moved to Larkford, a former rock star trying to get to terms with his wife's death, wanting to lead a quiet life far away from London and taking every stray animal that he sets his eyes on. But we also see Dan and Grace's relationship developing and there are some most poignant moments including those two. And let's not forget Elsie - the Grande Dame with head full of ideas.
I think that every new book in the series is better than the previous ones, and I think it is because of a few factors. Penny Parkes's writing is getting better and better, firstly, it feels like a warm hug, is so inviting, warm and vivid. Then it is always great to be back with characters that you've already got to know, know what makes them tick and it is always nice to simply pick up with them where we left them in the previous book, without the necessity of great introductions. And, of course, the story itself, the plot but most of all it being full of emotions and feelings, turns and twists and the most poignant but also heart - warming moments.
It was really nice to be back in Larkford, and in the Practice. This book had, I don't know how to call it, a feeling? It had this "something" that made it outstanding, brilliant read. No matter when you read the last book in the series, you will immediately feel at home, as if you've never been away from the characters and their lives. Lives that felt incredibly real and realistic, with problems that are so familiar, so it was so easy to fell for them all, knowing what they're experiencing and what they're feeling. And this time there was a lot in store for the doctors and people surrounding them. There was not a single flat moment, and even though the author again dedicated a lot of the pages to the Practice and its patients, describing their problems, this time those problems were incredibly relatable - at least, to me - and Penny Parkes treated them with tons of understanding, care and love. So yes, there were many storylines to follow, but they were so skilfully written and so engaging that I haven't feel confused for a single moment.
It was a lovely, charming and warm book about families, showing how they come in different shapes and sizes, and that being a family doesn't mean you must be born in it. It also touched upon such difficult issues like being a mother and trying to hush your guilty conscience when thinking about coming back to work but also how hard it is to be only a mum sitting at home, and how complex and complicated it may be trying to bring those two facts together. About how important it is to be understood and to have a support of your closest ones, and finally about the strength of friendship. And I love the fact that the author emphasised the importance of the assistance animals, and I loved the scenes including the dogs and also Banana - a wonderful idea! Highly recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
December 6, 2019
As lovely as ever but not necessarily Christmassy.
December 10, 2020
I didn't realise this was book number four in a series. I think you really need to have read the others to understand the background story. But I did enjoy this book set in a Cotswold village and it centres around a medical practice with the main character Dr Holly Graham about to return to work again just before Christmas, after maternity leave. A lovely warm feeling kind of story with a few dramas along the way with a bit of humour and romance.
October 12, 2019
How good it was to be back in Larkford and at the Practice.
Although it feels like it was ages since I read the previous book in the series within a page or two I felt as though I had never been away.
Such is the memorability of these characters that the book feels like coming home almost instantly and I couldn't wait to see what was in store for all the doctors this time around.
And wow what a lot is packed into this latest episode of what could easily be my favourite doctors drama series on TV.
There are so many story lines to follow that even if you aren't keen on one, then give it a few pages and you will have something else to follow.
This is all about families, and how they come in different shapes and sizes. About how mothers may feel as they contemplate going back to work, and all manner of other issues.
I loved how the ideas of assistance animals has been expanded and Banana is a welcome addition to the role, and an utterly adorable one at that.
Then there is Connor who has moved to Larkford, a former rock star, he just wants to be a farmer and lead a quieter life, but is there more to his taking on every waif and stray animal than meets the eye
Of course it was wonderful to catch up with Holly and Taffy and their two sets of twins, the introduction of a new nanny to help them out. And seeing how Dan and grace are getting on in their new relationship too.
Plus getting to know Tilly, Alice's friend who is working at the Practice while Holly is on maternity leave.
Not to mention everyone's favourite Grand Dame of Larkford, Elsie - I'll leave it to you to discover what she is up to this time!
I read this while I was recovering from dental surgery and it proved to be a wonderful distraction from me feeling sorry for myself and generally being in pain.
I loved every second of this latest addition to this wonderful series, and just asked that Penny Parkes doesn't leave it as long between books next time.
I need more from Larkford and I would love it now! Such a wonderful series, and I do think this could be read as a standalone, but why deprive yourself of other fabulous books?!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Although it feels like it was ages since I read the previous book in the series within a page or two I felt as though I had never been away.
Such is the memorability of these characters that the book feels like coming home almost instantly and I couldn't wait to see what was in store for all the doctors this time around.
And wow what a lot is packed into this latest episode of what could easily be my favourite doctors drama series on TV.
There are so many story lines to follow that even if you aren't keen on one, then give it a few pages and you will have something else to follow.
This is all about families, and how they come in different shapes and sizes. About how mothers may feel as they contemplate going back to work, and all manner of other issues.
I loved how the ideas of assistance animals has been expanded and Banana is a welcome addition to the role, and an utterly adorable one at that.
Then there is Connor who has moved to Larkford, a former rock star, he just wants to be a farmer and lead a quieter life, but is there more to his taking on every waif and stray animal than meets the eye
Of course it was wonderful to catch up with Holly and Taffy and their two sets of twins, the introduction of a new nanny to help them out. And seeing how Dan and grace are getting on in their new relationship too.
Plus getting to know Tilly, Alice's friend who is working at the Practice while Holly is on maternity leave.
Not to mention everyone's favourite Grand Dame of Larkford, Elsie - I'll leave it to you to discover what she is up to this time!
I read this while I was recovering from dental surgery and it proved to be a wonderful distraction from me feeling sorry for myself and generally being in pain.
I loved every second of this latest addition to this wonderful series, and just asked that Penny Parkes doesn't leave it as long between books next time.
I need more from Larkford and I would love it now! Such a wonderful series, and I do think this could be read as a standalone, but why deprive yourself of other fabulous books?!!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 15, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser.
Oh, it is such a joy to return to the wonderful community of Larkford and SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is another brilliant story from start to finish.
Dr. Holly Graham's life is hectic. With two sets of twins to look after, being a stay-at-home mum is harder than she ever imagined it would be. Holly adores being there for her babies but she misses being a doctor and when she gets a job opportunity, could she change the direction of her career without it impacting her family? And will her husband support it? But at least she has the unique and fabulous Elsie to confide in even if she does seem to be keeping secrets. Meanwhile, the surgery is as busy as ever and Holly is definitely missed by Grace and the patients. Tilly, who is standing in for Holly, is a wonderful doctor but something is stopping her from really connecting to life in the village, and as she leaves a trail of broken hearts in her wake, her friends cannot help but wonder why it feels like she will pack up and leave soon. With Alice missing her boyfriend and worrying about her friends, and Connor trying to embrace his new life, there are plenty of mishaps, misunderstandings, and drama floating around this beautiful place. But will everything change as this special group of people make new choices and open up about what they really want from their future?
Engaging, compelling, and just the perfect read to settle down with in the cold evenings, SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is everything I hoped it would be and more. It is part of a series but it can be read as a standalone - although trust me, this series is superb and well worth reading. The characters feel like family and there were times when I laughed, times when I cried, and times when my heart raced alongside them as their lives came to life on the page. The setting of Larkford is stunning as always and reading Penny Parkes' books is like getting a huge hug when you need it the most.
SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is one of the best books to read this winter and I highly recommend it (and the series) to all fiction fans.
Oh, it is such a joy to return to the wonderful community of Larkford and SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is another brilliant story from start to finish.
Dr. Holly Graham's life is hectic. With two sets of twins to look after, being a stay-at-home mum is harder than she ever imagined it would be. Holly adores being there for her babies but she misses being a doctor and when she gets a job opportunity, could she change the direction of her career without it impacting her family? And will her husband support it? But at least she has the unique and fabulous Elsie to confide in even if she does seem to be keeping secrets. Meanwhile, the surgery is as busy as ever and Holly is definitely missed by Grace and the patients. Tilly, who is standing in for Holly, is a wonderful doctor but something is stopping her from really connecting to life in the village, and as she leaves a trail of broken hearts in her wake, her friends cannot help but wonder why it feels like she will pack up and leave soon. With Alice missing her boyfriend and worrying about her friends, and Connor trying to embrace his new life, there are plenty of mishaps, misunderstandings, and drama floating around this beautiful place. But will everything change as this special group of people make new choices and open up about what they really want from their future?
Engaging, compelling, and just the perfect read to settle down with in the cold evenings, SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is everything I hoped it would be and more. It is part of a series but it can be read as a standalone - although trust me, this series is superb and well worth reading. The characters feel like family and there were times when I laughed, times when I cried, and times when my heart raced alongside them as their lives came to life on the page. The setting of Larkford is stunning as always and reading Penny Parkes' books is like getting a huge hug when you need it the most.
SNOWED IN AT THE PRACTICE by Penny Parkes is one of the best books to read this winter and I highly recommend it (and the series) to all fiction fans.
November 5, 2020
The Larkford Series is one of my favourite series. And this 4th book in the series is just another gem. I loved visiting the fictional market town of Larkford in the Cotswolds, catching up with Holly and her family,her friends and colleagues at The Practice. Hopefully this is not the last book; I would love to read more books in the series.
April 20, 2020
In one line... The most boring book I’ve ever read.
May 27, 2024
Easy chick lit at its best; I love it because the central characters are GPs in the most fantastical practice in an idyllic community. Pure escapism!
November 3, 2019
This is my first visit to Larkford and it's residents but when I read the synopsis of Penny Parkes fourth instalment in The Larkford series I just knew I'd feel welcomed.
Penny Parkes has managed to captivate her audience with an endearing story set around the medical practice in a Cotswold village. There is plenty of wonderful light and shade to the storyline as it weaves itself around the lives of the doctors, it's extended staff, family and friends.
Larkford is such a close-knit community and when Dr Holly Graham goes off on maternity leave the residents embrace the arrival of her twin baby girls but they soon miss her presence at the practice. After a few months at home Holly too is missing her work and her patients, she is feeling a little lost in her new role and is desperate to feel like her old self again. But as she goes through the emotions of motherhood again she starts to realise that her old self isn't what she wants anymore and that she needs to find a new balance, not just for herself but for her team at the practice who are all going through personal and professional changes.
As this was my first introduction to the work of Penny Parkes I didn't know any of the history surrounding the characters so I totally read this story with open eyes and heart and soon got trapped, in such a wonderful way, into the goings on of Dr Holly and her team at work and home. I've had twins myself so know how crazy life becomes when you've got double trouble but Holly had this times two!
The storyline sways happily towards the festive season but as in reality life has a habit of throwing hurdles in people's paths. These hurdles were very emotive to read about and for the wider network of colleagues and residents of Larkford I felt my heartache for the cruelty. The darkness in the storyline does lead onto some of the most tender and endearing moments I've ever read about and your emotions will get the better of you.
Snowed in at The Practice is wonderfully heart-warming full of life, laughter, love and tears. I adored it and Penny Parkes has a new fan in me.
Penny Parkes has managed to captivate her audience with an endearing story set around the medical practice in a Cotswold village. There is plenty of wonderful light and shade to the storyline as it weaves itself around the lives of the doctors, it's extended staff, family and friends.
Larkford is such a close-knit community and when Dr Holly Graham goes off on maternity leave the residents embrace the arrival of her twin baby girls but they soon miss her presence at the practice. After a few months at home Holly too is missing her work and her patients, she is feeling a little lost in her new role and is desperate to feel like her old self again. But as she goes through the emotions of motherhood again she starts to realise that her old self isn't what she wants anymore and that she needs to find a new balance, not just for herself but for her team at the practice who are all going through personal and professional changes.
As this was my first introduction to the work of Penny Parkes I didn't know any of the history surrounding the characters so I totally read this story with open eyes and heart and soon got trapped, in such a wonderful way, into the goings on of Dr Holly and her team at work and home. I've had twins myself so know how crazy life becomes when you've got double trouble but Holly had this times two!
The storyline sways happily towards the festive season but as in reality life has a habit of throwing hurdles in people's paths. These hurdles were very emotive to read about and for the wider network of colleagues and residents of Larkford I felt my heartache for the cruelty. The darkness in the storyline does lead onto some of the most tender and endearing moments I've ever read about and your emotions will get the better of you.
Snowed in at The Practice is wonderfully heart-warming full of life, laughter, love and tears. I adored it and Penny Parkes has a new fan in me.
November 12, 2019
This is book #4 of the Larkford series. It’s the first book I’ve read in the series, but it can be read as a standalone novel as I picked up the characters storylines quite easily. The story returns to the village and Dr Holly Graham who is balancing motherhood and work. Covering Holly whilst she is on maternity leave is the new doctor, Tilly. All the characters are wonderful and so likeable!! Whilst it was the first time I’ve met any of them, within a few chapters I felt like I’d known them for ages! My favourite character though had to be Dr Holly! You certainly have to admire her, being a mother to two sets of twins and wanting to return to work as well!!
The story began well and quickly drew me into the storyline. Set around Christmas time, it certainly was festive enough to get you into the Christmas spirit. The story was heart-warming with plenty of light hearted humour and fun, alongside some more emotional parts. The topic of families is a strong thread which firmly runs through this book, and it was lovely to see how the whole village supports each other. I also loved the inclusion of an assistance dog, as my husband has a dual-purpose Guide/Medical Alert dog. It’s amazing the work they do and it’s nice to see it recognised in stories such as these.
I loved this book and will definitely be going back to read the previous three books to catch up on the characters histories (I can’t honestly believe that I haven’t already read them!!). This book is absolutely perfect, not just for the festive period, but for any time of the year!! Great characters, lovely location and a heart-warming storyline which left me with a big smile on my face – what more could you ask for!!
The story began well and quickly drew me into the storyline. Set around Christmas time, it certainly was festive enough to get you into the Christmas spirit. The story was heart-warming with plenty of light hearted humour and fun, alongside some more emotional parts. The topic of families is a strong thread which firmly runs through this book, and it was lovely to see how the whole village supports each other. I also loved the inclusion of an assistance dog, as my husband has a dual-purpose Guide/Medical Alert dog. It’s amazing the work they do and it’s nice to see it recognised in stories such as these.
I loved this book and will definitely be going back to read the previous three books to catch up on the characters histories (I can’t honestly believe that I haven’t already read them!!). This book is absolutely perfect, not just for the festive period, but for any time of the year!! Great characters, lovely location and a heart-warming storyline which left me with a big smile on my face – what more could you ask for!!
November 13, 2019
This book is the 4th in the series of books set in Larkford, a small Cotswold village. The series evolves around the GP surgery and the Doctors who work there. I have read and enjoyed each of the books in this series. Although this book can be read as a standalone novel, I think that it is much more enjoyable when read as part of the series.
In this book Holly is on maternity leave after the birth of her and Taffy's twin daughters. She can't help but feel that she wants to return to work. Her husband Taffy seems reluctant for her to do so, and cracks soon start to appear in their relationship.
In the meantime Dan and Grace also face a problem with their romance which could be make or break for their
relationship.
The other two GPs Alice and Tilly are also feeling out of place, and unsure as to whether they have a future in Larkford or not.
There is also the rest of Larkfords eclectic community who have their on problems or opinions for the Doctors to deal with.
The storyline has a real focus on family and community lives. How a family might take a different form, and not just blood relatives. There is also a large dose of community spirit.
There is a strong emphasis on getting the work/home balance right which a lot of people can probably relate to.
Penny's writing has a warmth to it, and she also brings her characters to life. There are a lot of uplifting, romantic and humorous moments, but there is also a more serious side, with medical problems, difficult decisions and tragedy.
Overall this book is very readable, heartwarming and enjoyable. Perfect for curling up with.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.
In this book Holly is on maternity leave after the birth of her and Taffy's twin daughters. She can't help but feel that she wants to return to work. Her husband Taffy seems reluctant for her to do so, and cracks soon start to appear in their relationship.
In the meantime Dan and Grace also face a problem with their romance which could be make or break for their
relationship.
The other two GPs Alice and Tilly are also feeling out of place, and unsure as to whether they have a future in Larkford or not.
There is also the rest of Larkfords eclectic community who have their on problems or opinions for the Doctors to deal with.
The storyline has a real focus on family and community lives. How a family might take a different form, and not just blood relatives. There is also a large dose of community spirit.
There is a strong emphasis on getting the work/home balance right which a lot of people can probably relate to.
Penny's writing has a warmth to it, and she also brings her characters to life. There are a lot of uplifting, romantic and humorous moments, but there is also a more serious side, with medical problems, difficult decisions and tragedy.
Overall this book is very readable, heartwarming and enjoyable. Perfect for curling up with.
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for my ARC.
January 22, 2020
I’ve heard good things about Liane Moriarty’s books and was excited when I got accepted for this on Netgalley.
I’ve absolutely adored the first 3 books in the “practice” series by Penny Parkes, they are so cosy and inviting, it doesn’t take long for you to feel welcome when you start the next one in the series.
The writing is easy to get on with an or sink hours into reading it, barely stopping to eat and sleep (oh and work, don’t tell my boss). The characters are relatable or recognisable in people you may know, especially if you live in a similar sized community.
Once again we follow a few different characters viewpoints, which worked really nicely to keep the flow, never a chance for you to get bored as you pick up each character’s story thread.
Holly is obviously centre stage for most of it, and it’s nice to see her out of the surgery as she is towards the end of her maternity leave, though she is certainly keen to return, but understandably feels torn. Her practical mind is still at the forefront trying to make everything run more smoothly.
I Loved Taffy as ever, though it was nice to see him as flawed and not the perfect partner he was on the first three books.
Dan and his partner Grace had a really nice side plot that was very touching in a heart-warming and heart-breaking way. I adored new character Plum, she was amazing, and loved how she fitted into life in Larkford.
Simply put, everything about this book was enticing and once more I found myself reluctant to leave Larkford.
I’ve absolutely adored the first 3 books in the “practice” series by Penny Parkes, they are so cosy and inviting, it doesn’t take long for you to feel welcome when you start the next one in the series.
The writing is easy to get on with an or sink hours into reading it, barely stopping to eat and sleep (oh and work, don’t tell my boss). The characters are relatable or recognisable in people you may know, especially if you live in a similar sized community.
Once again we follow a few different characters viewpoints, which worked really nicely to keep the flow, never a chance for you to get bored as you pick up each character’s story thread.
Holly is obviously centre stage for most of it, and it’s nice to see her out of the surgery as she is towards the end of her maternity leave, though she is certainly keen to return, but understandably feels torn. Her practical mind is still at the forefront trying to make everything run more smoothly.
I Loved Taffy as ever, though it was nice to see him as flawed and not the perfect partner he was on the first three books.
Dan and his partner Grace had a really nice side plot that was very touching in a heart-warming and heart-breaking way. I adored new character Plum, she was amazing, and loved how she fitted into life in Larkford.
Simply put, everything about this book was enticing and once more I found myself reluctant to leave Larkford.
May 9, 2020
I finished this one at 4am (it was an insomnia kinda night).
I’ve listened to this whole series on audible. The narrator has changed three times, if i remember rightly. Helen Keeley read this one, and was by far the best. I wish she had read them all.
This was definately the best of the four books in the series.
Dr Holly Graham ploughs on through her hectic life, balancing work and family. She seemed to come to life more in this book, and had a wonderful sense of humour, that hasn’t been as evident in previous books.
I loved the friendship between Taffy and Dan. Both capable doctors, but out of work, have the maturity of a pair of ten year olds. Their friendship was warm and funny, with moments of real closeness that shone through.
Elsie Townsend, the more senior member of the gang, continues to cause havoc, but keeps everyone in check.
It was nice to revisit Larkford, a cosy Cotswold town, we’d all like to live in.
This is by far the best in the series. It focuses very much on family and the different guises it comes in.
It deals with some serious topics, but was equally brimming with humour and did make me laugh aswell as touching my heart with some of the sadness of the characters.
Its not always the case that books get stronger as a series goes on, but, book 4 in the Larkford series, shines out. It was a funny, and touching read.
There’s definately more mileage in this little town, with some characters stories having barely scratched the surface. I hope we’ll hear more from Larkford.
Credit to Penny Parkes, for bringing this little town, so vividly to life.
I’ve listened to this whole series on audible. The narrator has changed three times, if i remember rightly. Helen Keeley read this one, and was by far the best. I wish she had read them all.
This was definately the best of the four books in the series.
Dr Holly Graham ploughs on through her hectic life, balancing work and family. She seemed to come to life more in this book, and had a wonderful sense of humour, that hasn’t been as evident in previous books.
I loved the friendship between Taffy and Dan. Both capable doctors, but out of work, have the maturity of a pair of ten year olds. Their friendship was warm and funny, with moments of real closeness that shone through.
Elsie Townsend, the more senior member of the gang, continues to cause havoc, but keeps everyone in check.
It was nice to revisit Larkford, a cosy Cotswold town, we’d all like to live in.
This is by far the best in the series. It focuses very much on family and the different guises it comes in.
It deals with some serious topics, but was equally brimming with humour and did make me laugh aswell as touching my heart with some of the sadness of the characters.
Its not always the case that books get stronger as a series goes on, but, book 4 in the Larkford series, shines out. It was a funny, and touching read.
There’s definately more mileage in this little town, with some characters stories having barely scratched the surface. I hope we’ll hear more from Larkford.
Credit to Penny Parkes, for bringing this little town, so vividly to life.
December 22, 2021
This was my first trip to Larkford, even though I've since discovered it is book 4 of a series. On the whole it stands alone, but there are a lot of references to previous storylines, more than I'd usually expect as it assumed every reader knew what had happened to characters before. As such that scored the book down slightly for me - I'd suggest reading the others first so you're not left a bit disappointed like I was.
That said, it's a sweet story - Holly is a GP, on maternity leave and we follow her attempts to get back to work, and to achieve a happy work life balance. I liked the main set of characters, the friendships and bonds between very different people were well explored and they were relatable. I also loved the vast array of animals in the book, from the practice dog Coco to the herd of goats named after the local matriarchs!
As a final note, I do think the title is misleading - I was expected a wintery wonderland, people snowed in together, but nothing like that really happens!
That said, it's a sweet story - Holly is a GP, on maternity leave and we follow her attempts to get back to work, and to achieve a happy work life balance. I liked the main set of characters, the friendships and bonds between very different people were well explored and they were relatable. I also loved the vast array of animals in the book, from the practice dog Coco to the herd of goats named after the local matriarchs!
As a final note, I do think the title is misleading - I was expected a wintery wonderland, people snowed in together, but nothing like that really happens!
November 21, 2024
The book is well written, it’s the fourth in a series and having purchased it from a charity shop, ( 4 for £2) I wasn’t allowed to just pick three! So it was a quick let’s grab this book as it looks Christmassy! I didn’t know you really need to read the three books prior as there are far too many references to characters lives and adventures in the previous books, yet not fully explained in this one. The book is way too long, so much detail of things that aren’t relevant to the story line. I got bored and did end up skimming parts of the story. I haven’t a clue why the book is called Snowed in at the practice as they aren’t snowed in! The cover looks Christmassy and yet the story isn’t what you would describe as a Christmas story. I felt it would be better if the story focused more on a couple of the characters instead of so trying to tell each characters story but without much detail. I couldn’t say I knew any of the characters well and therefore had little empathy for any of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2019
This is the first book in the Larkford series that I’ve read, but I was tempted by it being a Christmas novel. I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’ll be going back to read the previous three books!
Even though it’s part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone, and I didn’t feel that I’d missed anything important by coming into the series at book four.
The story is mainly focussed on Holly, a doctor on maternity leave after the birth of her second set of twins, but there are other important characters to keep up the interest.
This is a lovely, feel-good Christmas read and I’d highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Even though it’s part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone, and I didn’t feel that I’d missed anything important by coming into the series at book four.
The story is mainly focussed on Holly, a doctor on maternity leave after the birth of her second set of twins, but there are other important characters to keep up the interest.
This is a lovely, feel-good Christmas read and I’d highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
November 15, 2019
This is the first book in the Larkford series that I’ve read, but I was tempted by it being a Christmas novel. I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’ll be going back to read the previous three books!
Even though it’s part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone, and I didn’t feel that I’d missed anything important by coming into the series at book four.
The story is mainly focussed on Holly, a doctor on maternity leave after the birth of her second set of twins, but there are other important characters to keep up the interest.
This is a lovely, feel-good Christmas read and I’d highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Even though it’s part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone, and I didn’t feel that I’d missed anything important by coming into the series at book four.
The story is mainly focussed on Holly, a doctor on maternity leave after the birth of her second set of twins, but there are other important characters to keep up the interest.
This is a lovely, feel-good Christmas read and I’d highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
November 27, 2019
This is a series which gets better with every book, it is one of those that you will want to binge read in one session and yet at the same time want to savour. PP is one of my most favourite authors and like virtually all of them, publishes a new book only 10-12 moths apart. Yes it is a long wait but it is certainly worth it, quality not quantity.
Penny Parkes creates the kind of community you wish you were part of, with all the ups and downs of daily life, its responsibilities and demands on our time and emotions. It is warm without being saccharine, real without being gritty, articulate and intelligent. You don't need to have read the preceding stories but you will probably enjoy this one all the more if you do.
Penny Parkes creates the kind of community you wish you were part of, with all the ups and downs of daily life, its responsibilities and demands on our time and emotions. It is warm without being saccharine, real without being gritty, articulate and intelligent. You don't need to have read the preceding stories but you will probably enjoy this one all the more if you do.
September 8, 2019
I absolutely love penny parkes books so was so excited to receive the fourth book in the larkford series and it certainly didn’t disappoint!
Returning to larkford is like coming home and reacquainting yourself with old friends a real feel good comfort read full of humour, love,and realistic family living! The characters are so likeable and it’s great to see the relationships between them developing and how new characters are absorbed so seamlessly into the tight knit community a perfect read to get you into the festive spirit or to read at anytime and catch up with all your favourite characters.
Thank you net galley for this early read that was enjoyed.
Returning to larkford is like coming home and reacquainting yourself with old friends a real feel good comfort read full of humour, love,and realistic family living! The characters are so likeable and it’s great to see the relationships between them developing and how new characters are absorbed so seamlessly into the tight knit community a perfect read to get you into the festive spirit or to read at anytime and catch up with all your favourite characters.
Thank you net galley for this early read that was enjoyed.
September 8, 2019
I absolutely love penny parkes books so was so excited to receive the fourth book in the larkford series and it certainly didn’t disappoint!
Returning to larkford is like coming home and reacquainting yourself with old friends a real feel good comfort read full of humour, love,and realistic family living! The characters are so likeable and it’s great to see the relationships between them developing and how new characters are absorbed so seamlessly into the tight knit community a perfect read to get you into the festive spirit or to read at anytime and catch up with all your favourite characters.
Thank you net galley for this early read that was enjoyed.
Returning to larkford is like coming home and reacquainting yourself with old friends a real feel good comfort read full of humour, love,and realistic family living! The characters are so likeable and it’s great to see the relationships between them developing and how new characters are absorbed so seamlessly into the tight knit community a perfect read to get you into the festive spirit or to read at anytime and catch up with all your favourite characters.
Thank you net galley for this early read that was enjoyed.
December 31, 2019
A really heartwarming book set in Larkford , around the gp surgery. The characters are all so well drawn that you quickly fall in love with them and feel their frustrations. Holly is missing her working life, whilst she is on maternity leave, but feels she is meeting opposition making a return.
There are problems at the surgery and Holly has great plans for making some changes.
You get a real sense of the village community and the struggles of modern family life, trying to juggle everything. I am keen to look out further books in this series
There are problems at the surgery and Holly has great plans for making some changes.
You get a real sense of the village community and the struggles of modern family life, trying to juggle everything. I am keen to look out further books in this series
January 2, 2020
I loved this read. Although it is the first in the series which I have read, I became totally engrossed in the stories of the friends especially Holly and had no difficulty getting to know their stories.They are full of love and friendship and it was a real heartwarming experience. Although there are several characters to follow, their stories are distinct. Holly seems to be the central figure between them and she is the bedrock of village life. Highly recommended, it is well written and engaging.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of the book.
November 29, 2019
LOVED IT !!!
Another brilliant addition to the Larkford saga. The whole village is coming alive with more great characters getting more involved. Lots of the usual laugh out loud moments and also quite a few sad plot lines too and I also cried buckets at one point!!
I do hope we get to hear more tales of Larkford as there are lots of story lines from this one that need pursuing and I am still completely besotted with Taffy 💘
Another brilliant addition to the Larkford saga. The whole village is coming alive with more great characters getting more involved. Lots of the usual laugh out loud moments and also quite a few sad plot lines too and I also cried buckets at one point!!
I do hope we get to hear more tales of Larkford as there are lots of story lines from this one that need pursuing and I am still completely besotted with Taffy 💘
January 8, 2020
A slight miss understanding of the Title
A very enjoyable light hearted seasonal read & a very relaxed start to my 2020 Reading challenge , of Books alone ! I miss interpreted the Title I kept imagining some of the Characters being Snowed in at the Practice ( Dr's Surgery ) by the soft fluffy white stuff that falls from t he heavens at this time of year ! Otherwise I enjoyed it .
A very enjoyable light hearted seasonal read & a very relaxed start to my 2020 Reading challenge , of Books alone ! I miss interpreted the Title I kept imagining some of the Characters being Snowed in at the Practice ( Dr's Surgery ) by the soft fluffy white stuff that falls from t he heavens at this time of year ! Otherwise I enjoyed it .
February 10, 2020
It took me a little while to get into this book as it was the first of the series that I had read so it felt like I was jumping about a bit from character to character. Once I got into the book I was pleasantly drawn in by the issues occurring at the practice and the way that the various storylines developed.
I'd happily read more by this author and recommend her to others.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book
I'd happily read more by this author and recommend her to others.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book
September 21, 2020
I found this a bit hard to follow because I haven’t read the previous books but after a while I managed to get the characters sorted in my head and worked out the backstories. There were several subplots working at once and many ups and downs for the characters which kept me reading but I do feel like I walked in in the middle of it all and missed some vital information. Things were alluded to but not explained further. I enjoyed it though.
December 13, 2021
It took me a little while to get into this book as it was the first of the series that I had read so it felt like I was jumping about a bit from character to character. Once I got into the book I was pleasantly drawn in by the issues occurring at the practice and the way that the various storylines developed.
I'd happily read more by this author and recommend her to others.
I'd happily read more by this author and recommend her to others.
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