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Deck the Halles: Next Christmas at the Little French Llama Farm
It’s nearly Christmas at the little French llama farm. Nick and Noelle are looking forward to a quiet, romantic Christmas together, but at the last moment Noelle is asked to book the local agricultural 'halles' for the imminent national llama show. The original venue went up in smoke. Noelle does as asked, thinking that’s all she’ll have to do. She couldn’t be more wrong! On top of all the extra work this good deed makes for her, various friends and relatives start turning up on the doorstep as the result of assorted crises. The farmhouse is about to burst at the seams! Add in a few other events, such as playing the part of a pixie at a Christmas fête, Nick’s book launch, training a non-cooperative llama for the agility class in the show and catering for more and more mouths, and Noelle is pushed ever closer to the end of her tether. Can she hold it together and stay as calm as a llama? Or will she be the next member of her family to make a bolt for it? This festive, feel-good and fun novel is the sequel to ‘ Christmas at the Little French Llama Farm’ but can be read as a standalone.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 12, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Deck the Halles is the second book in a series, the first being Fa-La-Llama-La. Whilst this book does work as a standalone and there were plenty of mentions about what happened in the first book, I still believe it would be best to read the first book before starting this one.
Noelle Green and her partner Nick run a kind of farm, they take in waifs and strays of all kinds of animals, including Llamas. Noelle is asked by the committee for Llamas to book her local Halle to host the upcoming Llama show after the one they normally use burnt down.
Noelle agrees though there are a few conditions. She wants her Llama’s, which have never entered the competitions due to wrong paperwork, to be allowed to enter. Author Nick would also like to show off his new book, not that he has written it yet.
Will everything run smoothly for the pair? – Doubtful!
I can honestly say this is the first time that I have read a book with Llamas in it. I’ve heard of Llama farms but never thought of them being big in France. Anyhow, back to the book. The first thing that I noticed was how the writing just flowed and how much humour there was within the pages.
Noelle is a woman with a sarcastic side. She is also a woman with a passion and dedication for animals and especially her Llama’s. She is also being pushed to her limits with the whole organising and training her Llama’s. Her character came across strong and it was pure joy to spend time with her.
I read the book in just two sittings and enjoyed it immensely. The setting was superbly written and I could imagine being stood in rural France and surrounded by animals and enthusiasts. The plot sounds a little ‘out there’ but it was truly enjoyable and gave me a good giggle. It is also very festive and definitely one to add to your Christmas reading list.
Deck the Halles is the second book in a series, the first being Fa-La-Llama-La. Whilst this book does work as a standalone and there were plenty of mentions about what happened in the first book, I still believe it would be best to read the first book before starting this one.
Noelle Green and her partner Nick run a kind of farm, they take in waifs and strays of all kinds of animals, including Llamas. Noelle is asked by the committee for Llamas to book her local Halle to host the upcoming Llama show after the one they normally use burnt down.
Noelle agrees though there are a few conditions. She wants her Llama’s, which have never entered the competitions due to wrong paperwork, to be allowed to enter. Author Nick would also like to show off his new book, not that he has written it yet.
Will everything run smoothly for the pair? – Doubtful!
I can honestly say this is the first time that I have read a book with Llamas in it. I’ve heard of Llama farms but never thought of them being big in France. Anyhow, back to the book. The first thing that I noticed was how the writing just flowed and how much humour there was within the pages.
Noelle is a woman with a sarcastic side. She is also a woman with a passion and dedication for animals and especially her Llama’s. She is also being pushed to her limits with the whole organising and training her Llama’s. Her character came across strong and it was pure joy to spend time with her.
I read the book in just two sittings and enjoyed it immensely. The setting was superbly written and I could imagine being stood in rural France and surrounded by animals and enthusiasts. The plot sounds a little ‘out there’ but it was truly enjoyable and gave me a good giggle. It is also very festive and definitely one to add to your Christmas reading list.
December 14, 2018
5☆ A Unique Christmas Story, filled with Quirky Fun Loveable Characters and Oodles of Christmas charm!
First of all I want to start by saying how much I adore the cover.... it's sooo cute!
As soon as I see the cover and then read the blurb I was so excited to read this gorgeous book.
If you love llamas then you will Love this book. I find them fascinating and they certainly seem cheeky, but what animal isn't.
I must admit I learnt a few things about llamas that I didn't know,
for example...
I know they have shows and when grooming them you have to be firm but careful as they kick, but I didn't know they done agility.... lol I have enough trouble trying to get my dog to do agility, can you imagine how much fun and chaos a llama would be!!
This is the second book in the series, but my first book. But I didn't have any problems connecting or following the story as Stephanie hasn't left anything out.
I don't want to give anything away as it's such a fantastic read, I wouldn't want to spoil it.
I absolutely adored reading Deck the Halles, it had me laughing out loud, with all the crazy fun antics and drama.
Stephanie's witty writing style, instantly drew me in, it's seamlessly written, the pace flows along beautifully which made for a compulsive read that I couldn't put down.
For me the llamas stole my heart, Noelle and Nick complimented them so well, their loveable, warm characters simply sprung to life.
Deck the Halles is certainly a unique Christmas Story, filled with Quirky fun loveable characters, oodles of Christmas charm and crazy antics.
The Perfect Read for lifting your spirits and leaving you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
If you love animals and looking for a Festive Read that really is very different, then I highly recommend this adorable, uplifting, feel good book.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
First of all I want to start by saying how much I adore the cover.... it's sooo cute!
As soon as I see the cover and then read the blurb I was so excited to read this gorgeous book.
If you love llamas then you will Love this book. I find them fascinating and they certainly seem cheeky, but what animal isn't.
I must admit I learnt a few things about llamas that I didn't know,
for example...
I know they have shows and when grooming them you have to be firm but careful as they kick, but I didn't know they done agility.... lol I have enough trouble trying to get my dog to do agility, can you imagine how much fun and chaos a llama would be!!
This is the second book in the series, but my first book. But I didn't have any problems connecting or following the story as Stephanie hasn't left anything out.
I don't want to give anything away as it's such a fantastic read, I wouldn't want to spoil it.
I absolutely adored reading Deck the Halles, it had me laughing out loud, with all the crazy fun antics and drama.
Stephanie's witty writing style, instantly drew me in, it's seamlessly written, the pace flows along beautifully which made for a compulsive read that I couldn't put down.
For me the llamas stole my heart, Noelle and Nick complimented them so well, their loveable, warm characters simply sprung to life.
Deck the Halles is certainly a unique Christmas Story, filled with Quirky fun loveable characters, oodles of Christmas charm and crazy antics.
The Perfect Read for lifting your spirits and leaving you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
If you love animals and looking for a Festive Read that really is very different, then I highly recommend this adorable, uplifting, feel good book.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
December 7, 2018
nothing puts you in the holiday mood quite like a fa la la la llama 🦙
What a fun feel good festive story full of holiday cheer and llamas! I had no idea llamas were such fascinating and lively animals.... and funny! I was laughing so hard at these crazy llamas trying to master these agility obstacles.... yes there are Lama shows with agility and fancy dress, just like a dog show, well at least they do in France.... so you might be thinking what do llamas have to do with Christmas? Well plenty especially with an owner named Noelle...
Noelle was a delightful character about to spend her very first Christmas with her amour Nick.... they are excited for quiet romantic nights by the fire, but faith has a different plan... before they know it they’re in charge of a llama show, with a house full of company with assorted issues and quirks... Noelle and Nick handled this like champs, they rose to the challenge and ended up having a very Merry Christmas indeed!
This was a unique and enchanting story that I would strongly encourage you to add to your holiday reading list!🎄🦙
*** Big thanks to the author and Rachelle for my copy of this book ***
What a fun feel good festive story full of holiday cheer and llamas! I had no idea llamas were such fascinating and lively animals.... and funny! I was laughing so hard at these crazy llamas trying to master these agility obstacles.... yes there are Lama shows with agility and fancy dress, just like a dog show, well at least they do in France.... so you might be thinking what do llamas have to do with Christmas? Well plenty especially with an owner named Noelle...
Noelle was a delightful character about to spend her very first Christmas with her amour Nick.... they are excited for quiet romantic nights by the fire, but faith has a different plan... before they know it they’re in charge of a llama show, with a house full of company with assorted issues and quirks... Noelle and Nick handled this like champs, they rose to the challenge and ended up having a very Merry Christmas indeed!
This was a unique and enchanting story that I would strongly encourage you to add to your holiday reading list!🎄🦙
*** Big thanks to the author and Rachelle for my copy of this book ***
December 9, 2018
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
There were just two very elderly women in the café with us, both of whom looked totally terrifying with their heavy makeup and over-coiffed, thin hair. Each clutched a quivering toy dog of the same remarkably ugly breed. But fair dos to them, they weren’t growing old gracefully. There were fighting it, crowned tooth and lacquered nail.
The word ‘mademoiselle’ may have been banned from all official documents in 2012, but here in rural France any woman who appeared too young or too ugly to be married was automatically one. I hoped I came into the former category.
… so when the dust has settled in a day or so, why not reopen negotiations and say something like you appreciate the financial help they want to give you, but you’d rather they put some money into a trust fund for Charlie so that when he’s eighteen, he can use the money to pay for university, or set up a hamster sanctuary, or a betting shop, or finance a Guinness World Record attempt to hop round the world backwards, or whatever else he wants to do.
The dog had a rakish, attractive air about him with his wiry grey hair at all angles. He was the size of a spaniel but that was as far as the resemblance went. He was 100% mongrel, possibly a badger crossed with a toilet brush, plus a dollop of genetic input from a hay bale.
My Review:
I have thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie Dagg’s French Llama series as well as her delightfully crisp, cleverly amusing and unique writing style. Her characters throughout both books were endearingly quirky and knowable, while her prose was agile and engaging and conjured vivid and comical visuals with her vibrant and clever word choices. The storylines were lively, engaging, and observantly detailed and laced with nimble wit and cunning levity.
This was my third time picking up one of her books and I daresay she has collected a rabid fangirl to add to her menagerie of exotic pets. And an added bonus for me was picking up a trio of fun new words and phrases for my Brit Word List with sarnies – sandwiches, get some kip – sleep, and my favorite with send away with a flea in their ear – angrily banish and forbid to return.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
There were just two very elderly women in the café with us, both of whom looked totally terrifying with their heavy makeup and over-coiffed, thin hair. Each clutched a quivering toy dog of the same remarkably ugly breed. But fair dos to them, they weren’t growing old gracefully. There were fighting it, crowned tooth and lacquered nail.
The word ‘mademoiselle’ may have been banned from all official documents in 2012, but here in rural France any woman who appeared too young or too ugly to be married was automatically one. I hoped I came into the former category.
… so when the dust has settled in a day or so, why not reopen negotiations and say something like you appreciate the financial help they want to give you, but you’d rather they put some money into a trust fund for Charlie so that when he’s eighteen, he can use the money to pay for university, or set up a hamster sanctuary, or a betting shop, or finance a Guinness World Record attempt to hop round the world backwards, or whatever else he wants to do.
The dog had a rakish, attractive air about him with his wiry grey hair at all angles. He was the size of a spaniel but that was as far as the resemblance went. He was 100% mongrel, possibly a badger crossed with a toilet brush, plus a dollop of genetic input from a hay bale.
My Review:
I have thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie Dagg’s French Llama series as well as her delightfully crisp, cleverly amusing and unique writing style. Her characters throughout both books were endearingly quirky and knowable, while her prose was agile and engaging and conjured vivid and comical visuals with her vibrant and clever word choices. The storylines were lively, engaging, and observantly detailed and laced with nimble wit and cunning levity.
This was my third time picking up one of her books and I daresay she has collected a rabid fangirl to add to her menagerie of exotic pets. And an added bonus for me was picking up a trio of fun new words and phrases for my Brit Word List with sarnies – sandwiches, get some kip – sleep, and my favorite with send away with a flea in their ear – angrily banish and forbid to return.
December 6, 2018
This story felt like sitting with a much loved friend listening to everything that was happening to them, cringing at some events and laughing out loud with them at others. I learned so much about llamas as I read this story - I never knew there were llama shows with different types of llama, fancy dress competitions and even agility trials until I read this book! The story relates the family dramas, unexpected visitors and tasks to be undertaken as Christmas rapidly approaches in such a fun, friendly way it is an enchanting read. I definitely won't be trying to hug a llama any time soon but even some of them are characters in their own right as part of this story.
It all apparently started in ‘Fa-La-Llama-La: Christmas at the Little French Llama Farm’ but I admit to not having read that and still thoroughly enjoying this one.This is told from the point of view of Noelle and continues the story of her and Nick, an Australian author, as they approach their first proper Christmas together as a couple. They'd anticipated it being a quiet, romantic time with just them and their menagerie of animals - but friends, family and fate have different ideas in store for them. They also end up having to organise the French annual National Llama Show after its original venue was burnt down. Can they help sort everyone and everything out? Can they keep calm in the face of all the calamities? I have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone looking for a unique story set around Christmas that is a quirky, original, fun, festive and heartwarming read that'll definitely have you laughing out loud.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book without obligation. I chose to read it and this is my honest review after doing so.
It all apparently started in ‘Fa-La-Llama-La: Christmas at the Little French Llama Farm’ but I admit to not having read that and still thoroughly enjoying this one.This is told from the point of view of Noelle and continues the story of her and Nick, an Australian author, as they approach their first proper Christmas together as a couple. They'd anticipated it being a quiet, romantic time with just them and their menagerie of animals - but friends, family and fate have different ideas in store for them. They also end up having to organise the French annual National Llama Show after its original venue was burnt down. Can they help sort everyone and everything out? Can they keep calm in the face of all the calamities? I have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone looking for a unique story set around Christmas that is a quirky, original, fun, festive and heartwarming read that'll definitely have you laughing out loud.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book without obligation. I chose to read it and this is my honest review after doing so.
November 22, 2018
Did you know that llama shows exist, similar to dog shows? Different classes of llama, plus some fun categories. Neither did I until I read this book, but seeing Noelle determined to enter her llamas into two categories of the upcoming show just before Christmas,
And which categories is she trying to enter? Well those would be fancy dress and agility. Yes I never knew llamas could do agility courses either, and all of Noelle's attempts to get any of her llamas ready and amenable to taking part are utterly hilarious.
This book picks up a year later than Fa-La-Llama-La and if you haven't read it then don't worry this can definitely be read as a standalone. We get to see what Noelle and Nick are up to a year on. I am delighted to say the house is far more of a home than it was, but life is anything but simple.
Over the course of the book, all of Noelle and Nicks best laid plans for the Christmas season go completely awry, with a series of unexpected visitors and their accompanying issues.
Deck the Halles has many characters but the focus at all times is with Noelle, so it doesn't get confusing with what could have easily been many perspectives.
There is so much humour thrown into this quirky festive tale, I loved every moment of it. If you are looking for a slightly different Christmas book, filled with all sorts of animals, charismatic characters and just a lot of fun, then this is definitely a book to look out for.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And which categories is she trying to enter? Well those would be fancy dress and agility. Yes I never knew llamas could do agility courses either, and all of Noelle's attempts to get any of her llamas ready and amenable to taking part are utterly hilarious.
This book picks up a year later than Fa-La-Llama-La and if you haven't read it then don't worry this can definitely be read as a standalone. We get to see what Noelle and Nick are up to a year on. I am delighted to say the house is far more of a home than it was, but life is anything but simple.
Over the course of the book, all of Noelle and Nicks best laid plans for the Christmas season go completely awry, with a series of unexpected visitors and their accompanying issues.
Deck the Halles has many characters but the focus at all times is with Noelle, so it doesn't get confusing with what could have easily been many perspectives.
There is so much humour thrown into this quirky festive tale, I loved every moment of it. If you are looking for a slightly different Christmas book, filled with all sorts of animals, charismatic characters and just a lot of fun, then this is definitely a book to look out for.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 12, 2018
This is the second book in a series and it can be read as a standalone. Normally I don't read the previous books for the simple reason that you cannot read everything (a shame, isn't it?) but for this one I will gladly make an exception.
There are stories that make you smile but there are others that make you laugh out loud. This one can be put in the latter category. Making people laugh is not easy and who does not want some humour in his life?
If you are feeling a bit down and you need a pick me up or if you don't feel down and want a fun story, this book will certainly do the trick. It's hilarious, romantic and christmassy. Honestly, this story is so well written and engaging that you won't be able to put it down before the final full stop. Of course you don't have to take my word for it. You can simple find out for yourself that I am right.
Thank you, Stephanie Dagg and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
There are stories that make you smile but there are others that make you laugh out loud. This one can be put in the latter category. Making people laugh is not easy and who does not want some humour in his life?
If you are feeling a bit down and you need a pick me up or if you don't feel down and want a fun story, this book will certainly do the trick. It's hilarious, romantic and christmassy. Honestly, this story is so well written and engaging that you won't be able to put it down before the final full stop. Of course you don't have to take my word for it. You can simple find out for yourself that I am right.
Thank you, Stephanie Dagg and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
December 9, 2018
Many readers are thrilled to read about llamas. Or expats living in rural France. Or Christmas. Readers- get very excited. Deck the Halles features all three! And the cherry on top of the pain au chocolat is that this book is the second in the “Little French Llama Farm series”. Plenty of delightful tales (and tails!) await you, whether you start with this book or the first!
Noelle is the first-person narrator of this fun farm frolic. In the first book in the series, she and her partner, a rich author, accidentally became the owners of a llama farm in the French countryside. Noelle’s partner, suitably named Nick, describes her, “You’re a nutcase. A creative, Christmas-crazy nutcase.” Their first Christmas was rocky, so they are looking forward to an enchanted holiday this year.
As this December rolls along, Noelle will need all her creative Christmas vibes as it turns out that she is not the only nutcase in her family. Various family members turn up at all hours, and with all kinds of traumas. Mom and Dad are on the outs, sister has left husband because of a row with his parents. Cousins and friends stop by- all drawn by the enchanting llama farm. Even additional animals stop by. And the creme de la creme is that Noelle must put on the national llama competition. (Hence the clever title. Noelle must secure a venue at the local halles.)
This is a fun story with a different look at Christmas. The book gets off to a slow start with all the backstory from the first book. But once Noelle hits her stride, readers will enjoy all the merry mayhem and Christmas chaos. And Noelle may even make it to a happily ever after Christmas Eve.
Thanks to Rachels Random Resources and the author for a review copy. This is my honest review.
Noelle is the first-person narrator of this fun farm frolic. In the first book in the series, she and her partner, a rich author, accidentally became the owners of a llama farm in the French countryside. Noelle’s partner, suitably named Nick, describes her, “You’re a nutcase. A creative, Christmas-crazy nutcase.” Their first Christmas was rocky, so they are looking forward to an enchanted holiday this year.
As this December rolls along, Noelle will need all her creative Christmas vibes as it turns out that she is not the only nutcase in her family. Various family members turn up at all hours, and with all kinds of traumas. Mom and Dad are on the outs, sister has left husband because of a row with his parents. Cousins and friends stop by- all drawn by the enchanting llama farm. Even additional animals stop by. And the creme de la creme is that Noelle must put on the national llama competition. (Hence the clever title. Noelle must secure a venue at the local halles.)
This is a fun story with a different look at Christmas. The book gets off to a slow start with all the backstory from the first book. But once Noelle hits her stride, readers will enjoy all the merry mayhem and Christmas chaos. And Noelle may even make it to a happily ever after Christmas Eve.
Thanks to Rachels Random Resources and the author for a review copy. This is my honest review.
December 11, 2018
Festive escapism, Deck the Halles is a sequel novel to Fa-La-Llama-La and can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Eleven months since Noelle and Nick ended up together, they've settled into life and routine as there menagerie of stray animals increases. With a Llama Show scheduled for December (who knew they existed!), it's decided they would combine it with the unwritten novel Nick was going to write and launch; on the release day of a rival writer. With a plan in place, they spring into action, but life in rural France with its rules and red-tape isn't going to make the theory become a reality without an uphill battle or two.
I was unfamiliar with the author's writing style before reading Deck the Halles but instantly fell for the charm and humour of her writing. Littered with English and Australian colloquialisms, the light-hearted hilarity is captivating as I devoured the pages filled with rural French life and Llamas. Noelle and Nick make a cute couple and enjoyed the banter flowing between them. With a friendly bunch of secondary characters in place, the narrative kept my interest as I absorbed the amusing seasonal tales against the lovely French backdrop.
Some of the most intriguing sections of the novel are about the llamas and the author's own experience with this fascinating creatures shines through with her descriptions. I appreciated how she explains the nuances of their nature and behaviour and how to interact with them.
Who knew Llamas, Christmas and France could be so fun together? If you're looking for a laugh-out-loud, and entertaining novel with a delightful plot and a happy ever after, this romantic comedy should hit the spot!
***review copy received courtesy of the publisher***
Eleven months since Noelle and Nick ended up together, they've settled into life and routine as there menagerie of stray animals increases. With a Llama Show scheduled for December (who knew they existed!), it's decided they would combine it with the unwritten novel Nick was going to write and launch; on the release day of a rival writer. With a plan in place, they spring into action, but life in rural France with its rules and red-tape isn't going to make the theory become a reality without an uphill battle or two.
I was unfamiliar with the author's writing style before reading Deck the Halles but instantly fell for the charm and humour of her writing. Littered with English and Australian colloquialisms, the light-hearted hilarity is captivating as I devoured the pages filled with rural French life and Llamas. Noelle and Nick make a cute couple and enjoyed the banter flowing between them. With a friendly bunch of secondary characters in place, the narrative kept my interest as I absorbed the amusing seasonal tales against the lovely French backdrop.
Some of the most intriguing sections of the novel are about the llamas and the author's own experience with this fascinating creatures shines through with her descriptions. I appreciated how she explains the nuances of their nature and behaviour and how to interact with them.
Who knew Llamas, Christmas and France could be so fun together? If you're looking for a laugh-out-loud, and entertaining novel with a delightful plot and a happy ever after, this romantic comedy should hit the spot!
***review copy received courtesy of the publisher***
May 25, 2019
Having thoroughly enjoyed Fa-La-Llama-La, I was delighted to be back with Nick and Noelle and couldn’t wait to see how their relationship was going. Happily for me, (I do love a good romance) they have settled in nicely to rural French living and things between them seem to be going from strength to strength.
While their first Christmas was chaos, they are looking forward to a quiet one together this year, with just their animals for company. Their plans soon seem to spiral out of control, thanks to a last-minute Llama show to organise and a seemingly never-ending stream of uninvited guests, all of whom come with catastrophes, disasters and excellent appetites. While we are talking of disasters, anything that could go wrong, does so, but at least Noelle has a back-up team she can put to good use and with Nick beside her, anything seems possible, even the impossible.
This book is great fun; full of energy, humour and romance all sprinkled with quirky rural French magic and lots of festive jingle. It's another great read from Stephanie. If you have read any of her previous novels, you will recognise her writing style and enjoy being back within her pages, if you haven’t yet read any of her books – what are you waiting for!
While their first Christmas was chaos, they are looking forward to a quiet one together this year, with just their animals for company. Their plans soon seem to spiral out of control, thanks to a last-minute Llama show to organise and a seemingly never-ending stream of uninvited guests, all of whom come with catastrophes, disasters and excellent appetites. While we are talking of disasters, anything that could go wrong, does so, but at least Noelle has a back-up team she can put to good use and with Nick beside her, anything seems possible, even the impossible.
This book is great fun; full of energy, humour and romance all sprinkled with quirky rural French magic and lots of festive jingle. It's another great read from Stephanie. If you have read any of her previous novels, you will recognise her writing style and enjoy being back within her pages, if you haven’t yet read any of her books – what are you waiting for!
November 22, 2018
My third and final Christmas novel and I have enjoyed reading all of them. This one
especially. Noelle lives with Nick- a well known author in France. She met him as she
was at the time Llama sitting. She is now his editor and has immersed both her and
him into the French countryside living. Part of this is a forthcoming Llama show.
Noelle is determined that she is going to enter two classes- one fancy dress-
minor point that said Llama won’t have anything on its back, and a Llama agility.
As you do! This book had “me” written all over it- animals- their foibles, and a
smile along the way. When Noelles mother arrives for more than a few days,
life is turned upside down. I hadn’t read the first one - and now wish I had
(*heads over to get it*) That said this happily stands alone. This is one of
those books where the writing flows so easily and you take to the characters
quickly. Excellent descriptions put you in the scene whilst the plot flows
merrily along. A real feelgood novel easily digested by a nice warm fire.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
especially. Noelle lives with Nick- a well known author in France. She met him as she
was at the time Llama sitting. She is now his editor and has immersed both her and
him into the French countryside living. Part of this is a forthcoming Llama show.
Noelle is determined that she is going to enter two classes- one fancy dress-
minor point that said Llama won’t have anything on its back, and a Llama agility.
As you do! This book had “me” written all over it- animals- their foibles, and a
smile along the way. When Noelles mother arrives for more than a few days,
life is turned upside down. I hadn’t read the first one - and now wish I had
(*heads over to get it*) That said this happily stands alone. This is one of
those books where the writing flows so easily and you take to the characters
quickly. Excellent descriptions put you in the scene whilst the plot flows
merrily along. A real feelgood novel easily digested by a nice warm fire.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
December 9, 2018
Deck The Halles was an entertaining, easy read and despite not having read it's predecessor Fa-La-Llama-La, I did not have any trouble reading this instalment set the following year. There was just enough information woven into Deck The Halles to make the story an easy, pleasing read, with nothing feeling absent.
This story had the perfect mixture of festive, funny, romance and Llamas. Witty and brimming with a fest of wonderful characters. Deck The Halles was a Festive treat that is unlike any I have ever read but I would gladly read again.
One of the things that endeared me to this tale was that despite Nick being an author and them having wealth, he and Noelle were normal, quirky and likeable.
I actually laughed out loud many times throughout reading Deck The Halles. This was probably the first story that I have ever read where Llamas played a pivotal role and it worked so well.
Thank you to Stephanie Dagg and Rachel’s Random Resources, for gifting me a review copy of Christmas at Deck The Halles. The gifting of this book did not influence this review.
This story had the perfect mixture of festive, funny, romance and Llamas. Witty and brimming with a fest of wonderful characters. Deck The Halles was a Festive treat that is unlike any I have ever read but I would gladly read again.
One of the things that endeared me to this tale was that despite Nick being an author and them having wealth, he and Noelle were normal, quirky and likeable.
I actually laughed out loud many times throughout reading Deck The Halles. This was probably the first story that I have ever read where Llamas played a pivotal role and it worked so well.
Thank you to Stephanie Dagg and Rachel’s Random Resources, for gifting me a review copy of Christmas at Deck The Halles. The gifting of this book did not influence this review.
December 8, 2018
Have no fear if this is the first book in this series you pick up. You will follow along just fine and have a wonderful time enjoying the holiday season with Noelle and Nick... and as it turns out, family and more. You will laugh and be educated and intrigued and appreciate your own family all the more by the time you are through.
This is a tale of a Christmas that just keeps on giving! Or that never ends, depending on your outlook on life. Everyone has ``plans`` this season. We all know things never go according to plan. For Noelle, and ever patient and understanding Nick, the events leading up to the main holiday test all of their skills and creativity. While the focus is on France, this is truly an international holiday tale.
From llamas to babies and elderly relationships and everything between, this is a remarkable holiday love story of unexpected proportions.
This is a tale of a Christmas that just keeps on giving! Or that never ends, depending on your outlook on life. Everyone has ``plans`` this season. We all know things never go according to plan. For Noelle, and ever patient and understanding Nick, the events leading up to the main holiday test all of their skills and creativity. While the focus is on France, this is truly an international holiday tale.
From llamas to babies and elderly relationships and everything between, this is a remarkable holiday love story of unexpected proportions.
December 10, 2018
My Review
The Good
I loved the cover and couldn't wait to dive into this book. I guessed it was a romantic comedy, which is my favorite genre... but this one was more. I was not just smiling or giggling - I was laughing!
The Bad
As a dog lover, I never knew that llamas might compete - but they do now! As an expat myself, I adore literature that is out of the UK. This French farm was delightful but the issues and problems that women have at Christmas - are universal. I could relate to this story but was glad that I could laugh too.
The Ugly
OK. I thought Noelle and Nick (the names) were a bit cheesy for the time of year. But after I finished the book, bah humbug... it worked. I really enjoyed it!
The Good
I loved the cover and couldn't wait to dive into this book. I guessed it was a romantic comedy, which is my favorite genre... but this one was more. I was not just smiling or giggling - I was laughing!
The Bad
As a dog lover, I never knew that llamas might compete - but they do now! As an expat myself, I adore literature that is out of the UK. This French farm was delightful but the issues and problems that women have at Christmas - are universal. I could relate to this story but was glad that I could laugh too.
The Ugly
OK. I thought Noelle and Nick (the names) were a bit cheesy for the time of year. But after I finished the book, bah humbug... it worked. I really enjoyed it!
December 11, 2018
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I really enjoyed this story and I loved the llamas!
The story is well written, I loved the characters and it was an easy story to read. The setting was great and was really immersed in the story.
It is a festive treat and has a lot of things going on in the book to keep you fully entertained too!
This is the second in the series but it can be read as a stand alone, in fact I read this one before I read book one and I didn’t feel as though I missed out on anything.
Four stars from me, I really enjoyed it – highly recommended!
I really enjoyed this story and I loved the llamas!
The story is well written, I loved the characters and it was an easy story to read. The setting was great and was really immersed in the story.
It is a festive treat and has a lot of things going on in the book to keep you fully entertained too!
This is the second in the series but it can be read as a stand alone, in fact I read this one before I read book one and I didn’t feel as though I missed out on anything.
Four stars from me, I really enjoyed it – highly recommended!
March 25, 2019
Another brilliantly funny story from Stephanie Dagg, Deck the Halles is the sequel to Fa-La-Llama-La, which I have just finished and thoroughly enjoyed. This is one of those few occasions when I've managed to read all the books in a series in the right order, but I would say Deck the Halles could easily be read as a standalone. References to events in Fa-La-Llama-La and given sufficient detail so the reader does not feel they've missed anything.
In this book, Noelle and Nick have been living toegther for almost a year and are very happily looking forward to a quiet Christmas together. 'Quiet' it will not be, as members of Noelle's family arrive one-by-one for different reasons, as well as Ivy, the mother-in-law of Mr King who sold Nick the farm last year, and her new gentleman friend. All of them arrive needing accommodation, and it looks less likely that Noelle and Nick will have that quiet Christmas they hoped for.
To compound matters, Sylvie Frossard of AssCam (Association des Camélidés en France), asks Noelle to be the local contact on her behalf, and deal with the paperwork for arranging a llama and alpaca show, scheduled for two days before Christmas Day. Noelle naively agrees, assuming it will all be very straightforward, only to find that Sylvie abdicates her responsibilities as soon as her daughter has a baby three weeks ahead of schedule. It is now down to Noelle to pull everything together for the show. When Sylvie's arrangements for manpower to set up the halles fail to materialise, Noelle drafts in friends and family to help.
This is another lovely, funny, happy-ending story which I thoroughly enjoyed reading, and would wholeheartedly recommend.
My thanks to author Stephanie Dagg for a free digital copy of this book to review.
In this book, Noelle and Nick have been living toegther for almost a year and are very happily looking forward to a quiet Christmas together. 'Quiet' it will not be, as members of Noelle's family arrive one-by-one for different reasons, as well as Ivy, the mother-in-law of Mr King who sold Nick the farm last year, and her new gentleman friend. All of them arrive needing accommodation, and it looks less likely that Noelle and Nick will have that quiet Christmas they hoped for.
To compound matters, Sylvie Frossard of AssCam (Association des Camélidés en France), asks Noelle to be the local contact on her behalf, and deal with the paperwork for arranging a llama and alpaca show, scheduled for two days before Christmas Day. Noelle naively agrees, assuming it will all be very straightforward, only to find that Sylvie abdicates her responsibilities as soon as her daughter has a baby three weeks ahead of schedule. It is now down to Noelle to pull everything together for the show. When Sylvie's arrangements for manpower to set up the halles fail to materialise, Noelle drafts in friends and family to help.
This is another lovely, funny, happy-ending story which I thoroughly enjoyed reading, and would wholeheartedly recommend.
My thanks to author Stephanie Dagg for a free digital copy of this book to review.
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