Confetti at The Little Duck Pond Cafe

The Little Duck Pond Cafe #6

by Rosie Green

Wedding fever is in the air in the village of Sunnybrook. With Ellie and Zak's Big Day on the horizon, the sun is shining brightly on the Little Duck Pond Cafe community. But when dark clouds begin to roll in from more than one direction, several close relationships look to be under threat. Will the wedding of the year actually take place at all?

Genres: Romance

142 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2019

Reviews

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

Practically the only bonus of getting older is that you don’t give a flying fart about what other people think of you.

Now, what can I get you from the drinks machine to get your strength up? Coffee that’s bitter enough to hold a grudge for years? Or hot chocolate that’s so pale and uninteresting, it could do with a week on a beach in Benidorm?


My Review:

This was a busy, eventful, and rather tumultuous installment with a variety of stressful events and health issues for several different characters. The devious Ms. Green cunningly provides enough charm and interesting new storylines to feed and maintain our addiction to the series while also dangling several loose ends to keep us craving more. She has also added to my Brit Word List with oxters – an Old English and Scottish word for armpit. I adore obscure words.

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow there was a lot packed into this little gem of a book. This is the sixth book in the Little Duckpond Café series. I think all the books can be read as Standalones, each story concentrates on different characters, and there is not a continual storyline. However it is always fun revisiting old characters and each of these books is so charming why would you want to miss out on the fun? The last two stories have had a bit of a more serious tone to them. But they were still full of wit, warmth, and whimsy.

This book focuses on Ellie and Zack and their pending wedding. Ellies mom is suffering from early onset Alzheimer’s and Ellie wants to get married in August. The wedding month her mom and she have always discussed. Also so her mom will still be able to be mentally present. Ellie is not only rushing to plan her wedding, but also dealing with her mothers illness and all that it implies. That was not the only tragedy or setback in this book. Looking back there was a lot going on: infertility, adoption, cows on the loose. The book sure did not start or end how I was anticipating, but I sure did enjoy the journey! Another wonderful installment in this delightful series!

*** many thanks to the author for my copy of this book ***

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opening for the story was so not what I was expecting. If like me you are a fan of this series of books, they are usually quite light reads with a lot of heart. Whilst those elements are still there, this one in part, is quite a sombre read that I found quite emotional due to the nature of the story line.

Fear not if you haven’t had the good fortune to read the other books yet as each one can easily be read as a stand alone as they focus on different characters in the village. Obviously if you have read the others, it’s good to meet new and old characters.

The parts to do with Ellie and her mum were really quite emotional. I don’t want to say to much about it but it really makes you treasure your nearest and dearest and spend as much quality time with them as you can. It’s definitely a bitter sweet story line which still put a smile on my face by the end.

Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Cafe was a heart felt and endearing read where the setting and characters really do capture your heart. I can’t get enough of this authors books and as soon as they land on my kindle, everything else gets pushed to one side. A real gem of a read.

My thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, it’s is so nice to be back in Sunnybrook! With a name like that you might think the sun is out there every single day and there are only happy faces to be found. Sadly it’s not always like that. Of course a lot of wonderful things are going on but devastating events occur as well.

Everybody wants to share happy times, but it’s even more important to have friend you can count on when you are feeling down. As the saying goes : a problem shared is a problem halved. It’s as good to be able to unburden yourself as it is to celebrate together.

Sunnybrook has a close knit community where friends stay with you through thick and thin, where the saying a problem shared is a problem halved is like a mantra and where you are never alone or left out even if you only just arrived.

This is another heartwarming and heartbreaking story that makes you want to pack your cases and become a member of that loving ‘family’. 5 stars.

Thank you, Rosie Green and Rachel’s Random Resources.

https;//bforbookreview.wordpress.com

[Jena Henry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Time to visit the delightful village of Sunnybrook again. Novella number 6 in this happy series filled with a puppy, a cow and delightful humans will entertain you and make you smile. Ellie, Zak and all the other regulars are back and this time the newcomer is Primrose, a young woman in need of the friendly vibes of Sunnybrook. (I like how a new character comes along in each new story in the series.)

According to the title of this book, we are promised “confetti”, and what better place to celebrate than Sunnybrook? Ellie, the owner of the Little Duck Pond Café, is in a whirl of wedding planning- venue, and dress all need to be sorted. Weddings are always fun to read about. Ellie also has her hands full with daily life- taking care of the little cutie Maisie and her puppy, keeping a loving eye on her mother, and tending to her friend’s concerns. She has plenty to juggle, along with the occasional wandering cow!

But, as the book blurb warns, dark clouds are rolling in. Some of these dark clouds bring problems that may be triggers for some readers- endometriosis, and adoption questions- but they are presented with loving concern. Personally, I’m not keen on seeing these types of issues in a feel-good romance novella, I’d prefer to languish in wedding plans and tea cakes.

However, the book concludes with a delightful celebration that may surprise you and will certainly make you smile. All in all, Author Rosie Green continues to entertain us with warm and appealing characters, sunny descriptions mixed with caring and thoughtful dialogue, in a village we would all like to live in. And since we can’t live there, visiting Sunnybrook in this charming series suits me just fine!

Thanks to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth in the series and the fourth one that I have read. Its a lovely series of quick reads and they don’t really have to be read in order because Rosie Green is an expert at filling in the gaps.

I don’t know how Rosie does it but each book just gets better and for a novella she doesn’t half pack some drama between the pages. I like to read these books in one sitting so I waited until I had a few hours free, switched off my phone and settled down for a really enjoyable read.

We get to meet all the usual residents of Lily Pond Lane as well as animal loving Primrose, and Aggie the escape artist cow. There are all the usual comedy capers with an array of much-loved characters, like Ellie’s mum Rose who provides some heartwarmingly bittersweet moments. Ellie’s daughter Maisie melted my heart not to mention her puppy sidekick Maisie Moo. It’s not your usual wedding romance but a fast-paced drama when things don’t go to plan and there’s a surprise for everyone at the conclusion. Rosie Green doesn’t shy away from some serious subjects either, all of which are dealt with sympathetically and I can guarantee there won’t be a dry eye in the house!

[Zoé-Lee O'Farrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series, I love the characters and I love being back with old friends. Do I have a gripe with this novella? Hell yes, I do…it ended a lot quicker than I expected. I was expecting the next chapter and it was the end!!!!!! Aaaaahhhhh I need to know what happens and now! Please?

Confetti starts with some sort of accident and we are in the hospital not knowing what has happened and to who. Whirled back 3 weeks and we watch the events unfurl. There are two storylines running through this novella. The main focus is Ellie and her upcoming nuptials to Zak, all planned for the 13th, is it unlucky for some? We are introduced to another newcomer, Primrose, she is looking for her birth family, will she be successful?

We still see all the girls, with Jaz being more at the forefront than the others but it will nice to see how everyone was getting on these days. I love seeing how the bakery and cafe are still so prominent in little ole Sunnybrook. I am also loving that Rose, Ellie’s mum, got a bit more of the limelight. All showing how Ellie is just spinning too many plates by herself.

A few chuckles are thrown in, especially when “Cow” is mouthed by Maisie at an opportune time! Primrose is a lovely edition, and it was also great to see Madison and Katja too. Madison has not changed!

To me, you really do need to read these from the beginning as it is like a tv soap, each novella is the next episode. I would find myself tuning in every night!

It is another cute novella and a wonderful little addition to the series. It really does make me smile (until I get to the end!) and you really do believe in all things fairytale and that dreams do come true. I am really excited for the next one, can I have it yet?

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no idea how Rosie Green keeps doing it, but what a roller coaster I've just been on with this book. Everything took me completely by surprise and I am just flabbergasted at how everything turned out.

Word's can't describe how a series that started off incredibly well, seems to have kicked up to a new gear with the books added to it this year. If I thought A Bakery at the Little Duck Pond Cafe was previously the best in the series, then I think this tops it completely.

But oh, Rosie Green, do you have to keep putting your characters through the wringer... I mean I know it makes for captivating storytelling, but your poor poor characters.... they feel like family to me by now, and when they hurt, I hurt!

With Confetti in the title you may be expecting a laugh a minute book about a wedding... and well there are laughs, there is certainly weddingy things happening... but amongst that well there is all sorts of drama that keep you reading. From about 40% onwards I read in one sitting as I had no desire to put the book down at all.

There is so much I'd like to say but the book is only a novella and with the action coming thick and fast with no let up, I don't want to spoil anyone's enjoyment of what really is a wonderful addition to the series.

It is clear this is an author growing with confidence with every story, and has a fabulous imagination to keep each instalment so fresh and addictive. Bring on book 7!!

[Deborah J Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having recently enjoyed Book 5, A Bakery at the Little Duck Pond Cafe, in this series, I jumped at the chance to read Book 6, Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Cafe.

Confetti at the Little Duck Pond Cafe can be read as a stand alone novel, as there is sufficient background given on both the main and supporting characters, that the reader does not feel left behind.

The story is told in the first person, but this time from the perspective of Ellie Farmer, the proprietor of the Little Duck Pond Cafe. Most of the action takes place away from the cafe in this story, and we are introduced to some new and intriguing characters.

I was looking forward to a light, uplifting read, especially as I was expecting a wedding. However, the Prologue cast an ominous shadow on the shape of things to come.

Ellie is planning her wedding to Zak, whilst juggling being mummy to Zak's daughter Maisie, worrying about her own mother's health, running the cafe, and keeping a weather eye on her friends and their problems.

It rather seemed that, if it could go wrong for her, it would go wrong! Poor Ellie lurches from one crisis to an even bigger one each time! Thankfully she has very supportive friends, ready to rally around to help her in whatever way they can.

Rose Farmer, Ellie's mother, is suffering from the early stages of dementia. Naturally, Rose thinks she is just a little forgetful and refuses to take her prescribed medication. The scenes with Ellie and Rose were, in part, quite emotional, and will ring true to anyone with an understanding of caring for somebody with dementia.

I loved the newcomer, Primrose Wilkins. She arrives in Sunnybrook with a number of her own problems, which are not entirely solved in this story. Perhaps her biggest problem cannot be solved? On a happier note, I have a feeling that there will be love on the horizon for her in the next book in this series. I do believe she has caught the eye of a local.

My laugh-out-loud moment was when little Maisie pointed at Madison and shouted 'Cow!'. (I've been calling Madison much worse since reading Book 5!) However, it wasn't what it seemed, although following the conversation that was taking place, it was said in the right context, and I could only imagine Ellie's discomfort at having to get Maisie to apologise.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It is a humorous and engaging story, touching on some sensitive and stressful issues which left me wanting more!

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back in the village of Sunnybrook at the Little Duck Pond Café with what is the 6th book in this series. Wedding fever is on everyone’s mind as Zak and Ellie plan their big day. The book, however, begins three weeks before the main story after what appears to be some sort of accident. You don’t know until later in the book what this is about, but it obviously gives a big clue that planning weddings is not as easy as it looks.

I love this series of books and always eagerly await a new instalment. We was left at the end of book #5 with a proposal and a future wedding to be planned, and this book picks up and continues the story nicely. As it is a series, you will need to have read the previous books to understand all the characters and where they fit into everything, but if you haven’t read them yet I would imagine you’ll pick up the story quite easily! I love the village of Sunnybrook and all its residents and by now it does feel like I’m returning to a long lost family each time I start a new part of the series. With each book I swap and change my mind as to who my favourite character is and for this book I have to say it is newcomer Primrose! She obviously has a back story and as the book moves on you get to find out some of this.

All the usual characters are back and all have an equal share of the story! There are some more tender moments in this book than what there has been in the others, coming not just from the unknown accident you are told about at the beginning, but also from the ongoing storyline of Ellie’s mum who is suffering from dementia. I found this storyline to be particularly sad and did feel the tears welling up at these moments.

The story flows well and grabs your attention from the very beginning. It does have the added advantage of being a relatively short book, so you are able to whizz through it in more or less one sitting (well, I did anyway!!). The book’s ending leaves it nicely open for the next instalment, which I shall look forward to reading! It was a fabulous little read from a fabulous little series!! There are plenty of laugh out loud moments and a few moments that make you stop and think about how when life gives you lemons….make lemonade (or buy it as Robyn does! – read the book….you’ll understand it!) Fab, would definitely recommend!!

[Karen Mace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much! And with this latest installment - number 6 in the series but can easily be read as a standalone - I'm in love with it and the inhabitants of Sunnybrook even more!

With a wedding to be planned - for Ellie and Zak - there should be lots of happy times ahead for these characters, but there's always something to throw a spanner in the works and in 'Confetti' there seems to be a massive cloud hanging over some of them that makes you wonder if maybe the marriage is not meant to be, especially as the book opens with what seems like a tragic event having taken place.

The story then jumps back 3 weeks so you can see what has led up to this moment and a lot can happen in 21 days!! Ellie has had her heart set on an August wedding forever, and with her mum having Alzheimer's then the quicker the wedding goes ahead the better, so her mum can share in a joyous day. But disaster strikes on the venue front, and with a stubborn mum refusing to do what's best for her, then poor Ellie is really put to the test with what she has to deal with.

And there's a new character to add to the mix in this part, Primrose, who seems to be searching for a few answers of her own, but is struggling to know where to turn. At least she hits it off straight away with the animal population of Sunnybrook and her farming skills are put to the test!

There is lots of humour and warmth throughout this story, and that mixes well alongside the more serious subjects that are faced by certain characters. It sums up life - it's not all cups of tea and cakes! There's reality in there and that helps you bond quickly with the characters - seeing them face up to real life issues.

Rosie has another hit on her hand with this one and I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment!! More please!!

[Gmr · Rating 3 out of 5]

The moment I started this one, I was falling for it fast. The characters were endearing, the worries real life enough, and the dream of happiness on the horizon within reach. Freda was a godsend, their friends were nice, and though the wedding seemed a bit rushed, it was understandably so given her mother's current condition and her desire to have her be a part of it all. As the story progressed, we got to know everyone a bit better, accepting the newcomer who's talent with people AND animals is only matched by the kindness of her heart, learned that the eccentricities of her mom were part her current state of mind, part her own secret plan that eventually comes to light, and that paternal love for someone doesn't have to involve actual bloodlines.

At book's end, I was ecstatic that Maisie and Maisie-Moo were both okay, tipped off my rocker by Ellie's grandmother's news though happy nonetheless, and glad that her friend's secret (and revelation) worked out for the most part. I admit to being a bit confused though regarding Ellie and Zak, both their status (or rather how it came full circle) and the way he came down on her after the accident. I mean, I get it...she's his one and only, but it wasn't carelessness that caused it, but childhood stubbornness and determination (even from the child's own mouth!). A blow up, I understand....a freeze out, not so much. I suppose all that matters is that hearts are set to right, and rest assured, they are all where they intend to be in the end.


**ebook received for review; opinions are my own

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another terrific addition to this wonderfully enjoyable series!

With Ellie and Zak trying to plan their wedding, and business continuing as usual this couple - and in particular Ellie - have a lot on their plate. Suddenly, what should be one of the happiest times of their lives has a big dark cloud descending on them . . .

This is another super book by Rosie Green. Continuing on from the previous read, we are reacquainted with all the people involved in The Little Duck Cafe, plus friends and family. But, as with each story in this series, there is a problem in the way and this time it's a great big one with possible serious consequences. Will things work out? Beautifully written, as always, there are plenty of opportunities to smile along with this, and it's definitely a feel-good read. With some unexpected events, it definitely kept me on my toes and I loved being back in Sunnybrook. There are always room for more in this tight-knit community, and I have been thrilled to continue observing and enjoying life in the village. Terrific as always, and completely worthy of five stars!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I think you will get more impact from this quick read if you have already been introduced to the characters in previous books, you can follow along if this is the first book you have read in the series.
Ellie is dealing with her mother's dementia issues, to an extent I can relate, but the focus is on Ellie and Zak as they try to figure out the details for an August wedding.
I should mention June is nearly over and July is flying by.
Six year old precocious Maisie is head over heels in love with her new puppy, and a cow will make a special appearance. One thing about this series that I enjoy is the way new characters are introduced and welcomed.

If you enjoy small town romance and family drama. you will quickly fall in love with this clean, gentle series. While there is romance and relationship difficulties aplenty in this particular book, it opens with DRAMA. We understand quickly it could be life or death but we have no idea for what or whom.

I am not giving away any secrets here. Grab yourself a beverage and settle in.
You will enjoy your next visit to Sunnybrook.

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful uplifting read that we all need every now and then. Ellie and Zac are planning their wedding however with Ellie’s mother having Alzheimer's she wants to make the big day sooner rather than later so her mother can enjoy it more. Everywhere appears booked out for the foreseeable future but Ellie isn’t giving up.When her Mother keeps disappearing on day trips, Ellie wonders if her condition is deteriorating rather quicker than expected especially as she is loathe to take any medication. Will Ellie get both her big day and her mother sorted? This is a lovely novella to sit and devour. Of friendships and relationships and their ups and downs in life and how we get through them. A perfect read on a summer’s day to make you smile with a cow called Agatha and Millie-moo the puppy. I love the Little Duck Pond Series- there is just that special something about them. A plot, a little romance (nothing slushy), humour, animals and characters who bring the book to life. A heartwarming, touching story.

[Between The Pages (Gemma M) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s good to be back in this beautiful little town. Yet again another brilliant read and insight into what the town has been doing while we were away. All the familiar characters and places are still there, greeting us back. It’s such a warm, friendly community and story that you don’t want to leave. Beautifully written.
It is a short story at just 142 pages, so can easily be devoured in one sitting. In this story we have a newcomer called Primrose who settles in perfectly hope to see more of her in the next book. There was a few chapters of doom and gloom, my heart nearly broke at several parts. But we see another beautiful ending, which made it all better.
I think I know where the next book is heading especially after that last chapter, so I have my fingers crossed. A well deserved four stars. Brilliant series. Highly recommend.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was great catching up with the inhabitants of Sunnybrook again. After the introduction of Kasia and her arch nemesis in the last book though, they were always going to be a hard act to follow. This book starts off on a serious note as an injury to Zak’s daughter puts the whole wedding of Ellie and Zak at risk. I liked this book but it felt a bit rushed and I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as the last one. A quick and easy read that is perfect for a bit of escapism.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

It just gets better and better

I absolutely love these books. I love Rosie's characters the situations that blow up, and how new characters pop up with believable regularity.

A wedding in the 13th, adoption, endometriosis, dementia, lots of coffee, and cakes, tears, giggles and laugh out loud moments and Ingrid Bergman married a prince? (I thought it was Grace Kelly)!

Love these books, off to read another one now!

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm really enjoying this fabulous little series & will be so disappointed when I've finished them!

This beauty of a book was a whirlwind of wedding planning, touched on sensitive subjects like adoption, dementia & endometriosis whilst still managing to be a heartwarming, humerous & a when life gives you lemons kinda feel 🦆 💒

[Debbieafranklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of surprises

Just loved this book the story of yet another new character. Primrose is shy like her name and has arrived to look for her grandparents. Her mother was adopted as a baby and has subsequently died and primrose is now looking for maternal grandparents. We will hopefully follow her story and see how it unfolds.

[Angela Sloan · Rating 5 out of 5]

She did it again!

Another beautifully written trip to the little duck pond cafe. I only wish I could visit in person, thanks to the beautiful description of both the surroundings, and the people who live there.

[Mrs Pearl Elston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunnybrook is a lovely place! I can't wait for the new book to be here!!!

Ellie, Zak, and Maisie are a wonderful family. Together with Fen and co. They make a a really great bunch of people to learn all about and enjoy life with. Read on and experience it all!

[Delia Telling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Really enjoying this series of books & love the descriptions of the characters. The way the author leads the story through from the main character in one book to leaving you looking forward to the next where another person becomes centre stage.

[Lorraine Joad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great instalment

It’s always a pleasure to catch up with Ellie and the gang at The Little Duck Pond Cafe. So much goes on in the lives of everyone with some surprises along the way. Looking forward to reading the next instalment.

[Lyndsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

love this series just seen theres another one coming soon

[Sheerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5

[mrs sue harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great easy read

Ideal book for sitting in the sun and losing yourself. Can’ wait for the next book in the series to come out

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was lovely to be reunited with the Duck Pond Cafe characters. I loved it and look forward to the next one in the series

[Pat Langhelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed getting back into Duck Pond series another good one Rosie x