What do you think?
Rate this book
Love Heart Lane #8
The New Doctor at Peony Practice
Preorder the next book in the heartwarming and bestselling Love Heart Lane series
Love Heart Lane – where friends are there for you no matter what
All’s fair in love and…medicine?
Dr Katie O’Neil has only been in Heartcross a few hours when she finds herself already ruffling feathers – not least with medical school nemesis and new colleague Ben Sanders.
Katie’s the woman Ben loves to hate and until now he’d hoped he’d never set eyes on her again but now she’s back – and living next door!
When a charity boat race down the River Heart puts the two in direct competition, sparks fly. The winner takes it all, but who will it be? And will their prize be far more than they were expecting…
Love Heart Lane – where friends are there for you no matter what
All’s fair in love and…medicine?
Dr Katie O’Neil has only been in Heartcross a few hours when she finds herself already ruffling feathers – not least with medical school nemesis and new colleague Ben Sanders.
Katie’s the woman Ben loves to hate and until now he’d hoped he’d never set eyes on her again but now she’s back – and living next door!
When a charity boat race down the River Heart puts the two in direct competition, sparks fly. The winner takes it all, but who will it be? And will their prize be far more than they were expecting…
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2022
215 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
About the author
Christie Barlow
41 books442 followersAuthor Girl - published by One More Chapter @HarperCollinsUK
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 19, 2022
I felt welcomed back into Heartcross with a great big hug and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces crop up.
At the heart of this book though is Katie and Ben's story, and at times it really put me through the emotional wringer.
It also had me captivated from start to finish and I devoured in a few short hours while on holiday. I loved every second of it, from the initial rivalry between Ben and Katie, to the learning about their backgrounds and specifically their families.
I also loved the fundraising idea of a boat race, and the illness it highlighted as a result.
Once again I thin Christie Barlow will have a hit on her hands with this book, it is everything you want it be and more. Already looking forward to my next hit of the Love Heart Lane cast!
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 1, 2022
Definitely not my favorite in the Heartcross series. Katie was a terrible character. Who moves in and kicks the existing doctor out of their office then changes everything around? Why didn’t she just take the empty office without a view? Not cool. Very bossy and overbearing. Ben was sort of a wet dishrag that just let Katie walk all over him in many ways. I felt sorry for him and that just is not cosy. I expected a romantic cosy read but this was not it.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review
March 13, 2024
I absolutely adore the Love Heart Lane Series with its characters and its picturesque setting. Each book can be read as a standalone but honestly reading the WHOLE series will be a joy. Another reason I love this series is the fact Christie Barlow addresses real life issues with a great deal empathy, so who books are much more than a ‘fluffy’ read. It’s the characters that draw me back each time, I finish one book and immediately miss the characters so pick up the next book in the series.
When Dr Ben Saunders meets the new doctor Dr Katie O’Neil he can’t believe she is going to be working with him in Peony Practice because they were rivals at medical school. In Heartcross retired vet Stuart Scott’s wife Alana who has been diagnosed with dementia finds her condition worsening and decides on a fundraiser for the charity. Katie comes up with the idea of a boat race. I found this book such an emotional read as Christie Barlow has shown insight and empathy to this devastating disease. But there are lighter moments that make this book a delight to read, there’s laughter, tears, and humour that ultimately make this series a must read.
When Dr Ben Saunders meets the new doctor Dr Katie O’Neil he can’t believe she is going to be working with him in Peony Practice because they were rivals at medical school. In Heartcross retired vet Stuart Scott’s wife Alana who has been diagnosed with dementia finds her condition worsening and decides on a fundraiser for the charity. Katie comes up with the idea of a boat race. I found this book such an emotional read as Christie Barlow has shown insight and empathy to this devastating disease. But there are lighter moments that make this book a delight to read, there’s laughter, tears, and humour that ultimately make this series a must read.
June 2, 2022
It was so good to return to Heartcross once more
This time the focus is on two doctors to adore!
They were rivals at Uni in all that they did then
Can they be more now they meet again?
A patient with dementia causes a stir
What can the locals do to show how they care?
Katie suggest they have a charity boat race
The River Heart is where it could take place.
With Drs Katie O'Neil and Ben Sanders as opposing team captains
They need to get prepared, raise money and all that portends.
Get ready for rivalry between these two
Along with shared secrets and the start of something new.
Whilst the next in a series, it will also work alone too
Though reading this may make the earlier ones attractive to you.
The small community, working together again
Helping each other in times of fun and of pain.
I really enjoyed escaping into this book
And hope my review encourages you to give it a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
A heartwarming read and this is my honest review.
This time the focus is on two doctors to adore!
They were rivals at Uni in all that they did then
Can they be more now they meet again?
A patient with dementia causes a stir
What can the locals do to show how they care?
Katie suggest they have a charity boat race
The River Heart is where it could take place.
With Drs Katie O'Neil and Ben Sanders as opposing team captains
They need to get prepared, raise money and all that portends.
Get ready for rivalry between these two
Along with shared secrets and the start of something new.
Whilst the next in a series, it will also work alone too
Though reading this may make the earlier ones attractive to you.
The small community, working together again
Helping each other in times of fun and of pain.
I really enjoyed escaping into this book
And hope my review encourages you to give it a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
A heartwarming read and this is my honest review.
July 14, 2022
I love this author so much and she clearly hasn't let me down with this book it was brilliant from the first page and it such a heartwarming reas. It was hard in places as hit home to what I'm dealing with but full of romance fun and dementia and families.
Ben is a Dr in the village and its his birthday and he goes to the pub after the day's work and when he's there he sees a face he's not seen in years and hoped not to see but there she is and he learns she's the new Dr to help hom and he's really not sure hoe to take thos as he learns she is also loving next to him. When one of the people in the village has dementia they decide to raise awareness and have a charity boat race and Katie is full of it. Problem is Ben can see himself falling for Katie again and when he sees her with another man he's worried he has lost her. He also wants to see if he can find his real parents and will he manage thos and be happy and will he win Katie or not and how will the boat race go and will both of them be happy.
Ben is a Dr in the village and its his birthday and he goes to the pub after the day's work and when he's there he sees a face he's not seen in years and hoped not to see but there she is and he learns she's the new Dr to help hom and he's really not sure hoe to take thos as he learns she is also loving next to him. When one of the people in the village has dementia they decide to raise awareness and have a charity boat race and Katie is full of it. Problem is Ben can see himself falling for Katie again and when he sees her with another man he's worried he has lost her. He also wants to see if he can find his real parents and will he manage thos and be happy and will he win Katie or not and how will the boat race go and will both of them be happy.
March 27, 2022
Thanks to Harper Collins, One More Chapter and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I have only recently been introduced to the Love Heart Lane series by a friend and have read the first 7 books in the series in the last couple of weeks so was absolutely delighted to be approved for this one.
This is the story of Ben who is a fairly new resident to Heartcross and is the under pressure GP following the previous incumbent's retiral. He takes on another doctor to the practice for a trial of 6 months only to discover that the new GP is his arch nemesis from university days, Katie. I've got to be honest, at the start I wasn't all that keen on Katie but she grew on me over the period of the book.
I have one complaint though - now the book is finished there is a long wait until my next trip to Heartcross.
I have only recently been introduced to the Love Heart Lane series by a friend and have read the first 7 books in the series in the last couple of weeks so was absolutely delighted to be approved for this one.
This is the story of Ben who is a fairly new resident to Heartcross and is the under pressure GP following the previous incumbent's retiral. He takes on another doctor to the practice for a trial of 6 months only to discover that the new GP is his arch nemesis from university days, Katie. I've got to be honest, at the start I wasn't all that keen on Katie but she grew on me over the period of the book.
I have one complaint though - now the book is finished there is a long wait until my next trip to Heartcross.
August 18, 2023
I absolutely loved this book and I couldn’t put it down. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the love heart lane series and this book didn’t disappoint. It was like catching up with old friends.
I love the writing style of Christie Barlow, her books are just pure escapism.
I loved the story of Dr Katie O’Neil and Dr Ben Saunders, such well written characters. I love how characters from other books appear in the book, it’s like catching up with old friends.
I also thought the story of Stuart and Alana was very heartwarming as well. Dementia is very close to my heart and I thought how Christie brought was lovely.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
I love the writing style of Christie Barlow, her books are just pure escapism.
I loved the story of Dr Katie O’Neil and Dr Ben Saunders, such well written characters. I love how characters from other books appear in the book, it’s like catching up with old friends.
I also thought the story of Stuart and Alana was very heartwarming as well. Dementia is very close to my heart and I thought how Christie brought was lovely.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series.
March 4, 2024
Took a while to get into this one. Another one with a bit of sadness running through bit all comes good in the end.
May 10, 2024
Lindo livro. 🥰
June 3, 2022
It's always a pleasure to travel to Hartcross as the book in Love Hart Lane are enjoyable and highly entertaining.
This one was no exception: I had a lot of fun, rooted for the characters, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This one was no exception: I had a lot of fun, rooted for the characters, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
April 20, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #thenewdoctoratpeonypractice #netgalley
Dr Ben Sanders is the new doctor at Peony Practice after the previous doctor retired. He is settling in to Heartcross life well until he requests the help of an agency doctor due to workload. In walks Dr Katie O'Neil. The one and only from his university days. Will they be able to work in harmony or is life as he knows it about to erupt?
After reading book 2 in the series "Foxglove Farm." I have been following the author. Knowing I wanted to read all the books in the Love heart Lane series. So far I have read all the books after and including book 2.
This is book 8 however you would not know this when reading and this book makes a great stand alone, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art. Although I can guarantee you'll soon be reading the rest of the series.
Once opening the book it is a page turner. I read it in just over 24 hours. From the start until the last page you can't put jt down. Christie's writing has gone from strength to strength in the heartcross series and it is one that has catapulted her into the realms of number one authors I would recommend to other rom-com readers.
The heart cross community are loving characters, each with their own secrets and hardships, who you totally feel yourself taking into your heart. They show you their emotions and allow you to become invested into their lives. More and more with each passing book. It's is always reat to meet your old friends again in thr next book and watch how their lives become what they wanted from it throughput their own book. The community spirit in Heartcross at many of the events speaks right to your soul.
This book is a great romance read. Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as adoption, death, fires and dementia amongst other things. I do not feel this takes away from the romantic feel of the book but has you heart growing fonder of the struggles each character has faces and rooting for them to overcome it and use it to shape their future.
Rarely can I write that I had actual tears rolling down my cheeks but in this book I can. So get the tissues ready for the ugly crying and hide them away for the laughing out loud. All contained within this book.
I Cannot wait to read the next book as always.
I would also say that I much prefer the titles like the other books of "Peony practice." I feel changing jt to the long title it now is 1, doesn't roll pf the tongue so easy and 2, isn't in keeping with the love heart Lane brand. This doesn't effect the book hence my review is no different but just a though for the publishers.
Dr Ben Sanders is the new doctor at Peony Practice after the previous doctor retired. He is settling in to Heartcross life well until he requests the help of an agency doctor due to workload. In walks Dr Katie O'Neil. The one and only from his university days. Will they be able to work in harmony or is life as he knows it about to erupt?
After reading book 2 in the series "Foxglove Farm." I have been following the author. Knowing I wanted to read all the books in the Love heart Lane series. So far I have read all the books after and including book 2.
This is book 8 however you would not know this when reading and this book makes a great stand alone, Something I think this author has got down to a fine art. Although I can guarantee you'll soon be reading the rest of the series.
Once opening the book it is a page turner. I read it in just over 24 hours. From the start until the last page you can't put jt down. Christie's writing has gone from strength to strength in the heartcross series and it is one that has catapulted her into the realms of number one authors I would recommend to other rom-com readers.
The heart cross community are loving characters, each with their own secrets and hardships, who you totally feel yourself taking into your heart. They show you their emotions and allow you to become invested into their lives. More and more with each passing book. It's is always reat to meet your old friends again in thr next book and watch how their lives become what they wanted from it throughput their own book. The community spirit in Heartcross at many of the events speaks right to your soul.
This book is a great romance read. Although their are some emotional subjects included in this book such as adoption, death, fires and dementia amongst other things. I do not feel this takes away from the romantic feel of the book but has you heart growing fonder of the struggles each character has faces and rooting for them to overcome it and use it to shape their future.
Rarely can I write that I had actual tears rolling down my cheeks but in this book I can. So get the tissues ready for the ugly crying and hide them away for the laughing out loud. All contained within this book.
I Cannot wait to read the next book as always.
I would also say that I much prefer the titles like the other books of "Peony practice." I feel changing jt to the long title it now is 1, doesn't roll pf the tongue so easy and 2, isn't in keeping with the love heart Lane brand. This doesn't effect the book hence my review is no different but just a though for the publishers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2022
This is the 8th book in the Loveheart Lane series, and I have read and loved every single one of them. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, and the series is set in the wonderful village of Heartcross.
The story is based at the Peony Practice surgery, taken over and is run by Dr Ben Saunders and receptionist, Helly. Since the retirement of Dr Taylor Ben has been working at full tilt, not any time for time off. He and Helly decide they need another doctor at the practice.
Dr Katie O'Neill was Ben's nemesis at Uni, she was always top of the class, best of the best, and all-rounder achiever and he always played second best to her. He isn't best pleased when it turns out that she is going to be the new Doc in the village and it doesn't take her long to make herself at home.
If you have read any of the books in this series you will realise what an amazing community the author has created. Having read all the books I definitely look forward to returning, it is almost like returning to your favourite holiday spot and catching up with the people. Only thing is, they are all characters!
This story is one that has its share of serious topics, this time it is for family secrets and dementia that have a seat at the table along with the characters. The author has chosen and researched her subject well, as she always does. This one for me felt more personal as I work with the elderly, some of whom have different stages of dementia. The explanations and details the author includes are basic but important and it does give an insight into the different sorts of dementia. I liked how the author highlighted this disease but also mixed it with a storyline that works so well.
There are, as I mentioned family secrets, these were not ones I expected, but my goodness does the author work them so well into this story.
The highlight, or rather the focus of the story is the camaraderie and competitiveness between Katie and Ben, but since their time at Uni, they have changed. They manage a good working relationship, but will it last. How competitive are they really?
This is one for readers who love a heartwarming story, with a fabulous cast of characters and some serious topics. The community spirit is warm and welcoming and I adored this one a lot. I would definitely recommend it.
The story is based at the Peony Practice surgery, taken over and is run by Dr Ben Saunders and receptionist, Helly. Since the retirement of Dr Taylor Ben has been working at full tilt, not any time for time off. He and Helly decide they need another doctor at the practice.
Dr Katie O'Neill was Ben's nemesis at Uni, she was always top of the class, best of the best, and all-rounder achiever and he always played second best to her. He isn't best pleased when it turns out that she is going to be the new Doc in the village and it doesn't take her long to make herself at home.
If you have read any of the books in this series you will realise what an amazing community the author has created. Having read all the books I definitely look forward to returning, it is almost like returning to your favourite holiday spot and catching up with the people. Only thing is, they are all characters!
This story is one that has its share of serious topics, this time it is for family secrets and dementia that have a seat at the table along with the characters. The author has chosen and researched her subject well, as she always does. This one for me felt more personal as I work with the elderly, some of whom have different stages of dementia. The explanations and details the author includes are basic but important and it does give an insight into the different sorts of dementia. I liked how the author highlighted this disease but also mixed it with a storyline that works so well.
There are, as I mentioned family secrets, these were not ones I expected, but my goodness does the author work them so well into this story.
The highlight, or rather the focus of the story is the camaraderie and competitiveness between Katie and Ben, but since their time at Uni, they have changed. They manage a good working relationship, but will it last. How competitive are they really?
This is one for readers who love a heartwarming story, with a fabulous cast of characters and some serious topics. The community spirit is warm and welcoming and I adored this one a lot. I would definitely recommend it.
April 11, 2022
This is book #8 in the Love Heart Lane series. Whilst part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone book, although I would recommend reading in series order! We are back in the little Scottish village of Heartcross. This is a lovely location for this series, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed visiting it in every book. This book focuses on the village’s GP Ben Sanders who has recently taken over from the previous GP who has retired. It’s a busy little surgery, and Dr Sanders could use more help with his patient list. When his medical school nemesis arrives as his new GP, it seems likes it’s Ben worst nightmare!
This, like the rest of the books in the series, is such a lovely read! You can’t help but be captivated by the lovely little village, and we get to see some of the picturesque landmarks that we’ve already visited! Dr Ben Sanders is a lovely character and I liked him straight away. He’s single, but there’s not a lot of time for romance with all the work at the surgery. The new GP who arrives is Dr Katie O’Neil. I must admit that I took a little longer to warm up to Katie. She initially comes across as quite demanding and forthright, but as the book moves on, she redeems herself and is actually a really nice character! We, of course, get to see some of the other residents of Heartcross who we have already met, and I thought the storyline involving Stuart and Alana was particularly heart-warming and emotional.
I know when I start one of this author’s books that it won’t take me long to finish it as the stories capture me right from the beginning! This one was no different, and I was hooked within a couple of chapters. There were a few storylines running alongside each other, all of which worked well and connected into each other. I loved the story of Ben’s adoption and found myself moved to tears by this. The charity boat race was fun and the competition between Katie and Ben was exciting and humorous with plenty of water based “accidents”! And, of course, there’s the relationship between the two doctors – do they continue their rivalry or could there be romance in the air?!
This was a delightful trip back to Heartcross, and was full of fun, love and laughter between all the family and friends of the village! The author does a fabulous job of taking you to the heart of the village, making you feel like you want to live there also! The storyline is well paced, taking you from chapter to chapter effortlessly and holding your attention throughout! I love the characters and the location, and I love the author’s writing that makes me feel like I’m back visiting old friends! A wonderful read! Would recommend!
This, like the rest of the books in the series, is such a lovely read! You can’t help but be captivated by the lovely little village, and we get to see some of the picturesque landmarks that we’ve already visited! Dr Ben Sanders is a lovely character and I liked him straight away. He’s single, but there’s not a lot of time for romance with all the work at the surgery. The new GP who arrives is Dr Katie O’Neil. I must admit that I took a little longer to warm up to Katie. She initially comes across as quite demanding and forthright, but as the book moves on, she redeems herself and is actually a really nice character! We, of course, get to see some of the other residents of Heartcross who we have already met, and I thought the storyline involving Stuart and Alana was particularly heart-warming and emotional.
I know when I start one of this author’s books that it won’t take me long to finish it as the stories capture me right from the beginning! This one was no different, and I was hooked within a couple of chapters. There were a few storylines running alongside each other, all of which worked well and connected into each other. I loved the story of Ben’s adoption and found myself moved to tears by this. The charity boat race was fun and the competition between Katie and Ben was exciting and humorous with plenty of water based “accidents”! And, of course, there’s the relationship between the two doctors – do they continue their rivalry or could there be romance in the air?!
This was a delightful trip back to Heartcross, and was full of fun, love and laughter between all the family and friends of the village! The author does a fabulous job of taking you to the heart of the village, making you feel like you want to live there also! The storyline is well paced, taking you from chapter to chapter effortlessly and holding your attention throughout! I love the characters and the location, and I love the author’s writing that makes me feel like I’m back visiting old friends! A wonderful read! Would recommend!
May 27, 2022
The New Doctor at Peony Practice is the eighth book in the Love Heart Lane series and long-time followers of the blog will know that I have adored this series by Christie Barlow right from book one. I’ve definitely not stuck with a series in this genre for this long so it’s a sign of just how brilliant it is. I really can’t get enough of it and am delighted that Christie keeps writing these books so quickly as I am always gutted when my visit to Heartcross ends. Thankfully we aren’t kept waiting too long for the next instalment and at this stage we are even getting two books a year which is great. Once again, the cover for this new story is stunning. Whoever is designing these covers is doing a fantastic job. They instantly make you want to dive in and meet the new characters and of course the old familiar faces which have captured a place in my heart from the previous books.
Of course, The New Doctor at Peony Practice can be read as a stand alone and if you do so it will only make you want to go back and start at the very beginning. There is a reason why people get so excited when they see a new upcoming addition to this series and that’s because they are highly readable books with a fantastic setting that you wish was real and the characters feel like friends. Not to mention the unbelievable community spirit and sense of friendship that echoes down through every book. I can picture so vividly in my head all the various settings such as Primrose Park, Heartcross Castle, Rory’s surgery, Clover Cottage, The Grouse and Haggis pub and so many more.
This time around we are introduced to Ben Sanders who has been living in the village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands for the last six months. He has embraced all the challenges that his job as a doctor at Peony Practice has to offer and he relishes and enjoys each and every day. He loves the slower pace of life in the village and he has been made to feel so welcome. All the characters who featured before are once again present and they dip in and out when needed but this book focuses on Ben and his story. I love how old characters are not forgotten and we get glimpses of how they are doing after their story had ended. And how refreshing was it to have a women’s fiction book told from the male perspective. It was such a change and one I very much enjoyed. We really got inside Ben’s head and yes we got the female viewpoint as well but Ben is the one whose journey we follow closely.
Although Ben is enjoying his new life, the stream of patients to the practice is endless and he is in danger of being overworked and the practice itself is under pressure. An unexpected arrival sets the cat among the pigeons when Ben’s old nemesis from university Katie O’Neill is hired as the new doctor. Right from their first meeting after so many years you could sense the tension and unease between the pair but I wondered was it more on Ben’s part than Katie’s? Katie is so full of confidence and is a definite overachiever and perfectionist. She had the perfectly family life growing up and knew who she was. She is the complete opposite to Ben who felt like he never fitted into his family life because he had been adopted.
Ben and Katie have a shared history apart from the rivalry they found themselves in university and this competition doesn’t seem to have faded. Soon Katie has changed things at the practice without consulting Ben and he is horrified to discover that she is living in the flat next to him above the practice. I got the feeling Ben’s idyllic time in Heartcross was going to come to an abrupt end as Katie ‘ had started to scratch an itch that Ben hadn’t even known needed scratching and he couldn’t get her out of his mind’. That is meant in both a professional and romantic manner.
To be honest I didn’t like Katie at the start. I found her to be so pushy and forthright and that she didn’t understand the way Ben or indeed Heartcross operated. It was like she wanted all these changes implemented and it was her way or no way. But then over time you realise you should never judge someone on first appearances and I think I judged her based on Ben’s history with her and what he thought of her. Deep down, she too struggles with things but it takes time to express this and she has had a rocky past. She does have a good heart beneath it all which is highlight when she decides to organise the first Heartcross boat race to organise funds for a dementia charity. This has been a storyline ongoing throughout the series and it has been handled so well. It’s been realistic, thoughtful and written in a sensitive and tactful way. Also, when something arises near the conclusion of the book again I was glad to see these issues and themes being explored and it really helped me understand Ben an awful lot more.
Ben is a complex character who knows deep down that he is a struggling with a number of issues in his life particularly his family unit and how he feels he never had a place in it. He brushes things under the carpet instead of confronting them and I think he had preconceptions of Katie. Maybe sharing things and getting things off both their chests would help them. After all they did now have to work alongside each other and were team captains in the boat race. As the story progresses you can see that this pair definitely have feelings for each other but they are both stubborn and can’t express how they feel. There are a number of funny mishaps, most notably at the medical school reunion, that occur alongside the more serious issues being explored and they all blend together so well. Christie Barlow has that knack of mixing humour, romance, friendship and community spirit alongside real life issues that affect us all.
I expected there to be more about the run up to the boat race and coming towards the end I was worried there wouldn’t be much mention of it all but nearing the end the race did feature and helped the story as a whole come full circle. One thing I would mention is that the book was previously titled Peony Practice and I think it fits in better with the titles in the series overall. The new title is a bit of a mouthful and doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily. The title won’t affect your reading of the book but I just think the old title worked better.
I really did enjoy The New Doctor at Peony Practice. The fact that I started it more or less as soon as it landed on my Kindle weeks in advance of publication day is testament to how good this series really is. As much as I enjoyed it and I don’t think Christie Barlow could ever write a bad book, I don’t think this has been my favourite in the series so far. But I definitely wouldn’t have missed out on reading it. New Beginnings at the Old Bakehouse is the next in the series coming in just a few short months and it’s one I have been waiting for ever since the characters first appeared back in book six Primrose Park. Long may Christie continue writing about these wonderful characters and the very special village of Heartcross because they make you feel warm inside and uplifted.
Of course, The New Doctor at Peony Practice can be read as a stand alone and if you do so it will only make you want to go back and start at the very beginning. There is a reason why people get so excited when they see a new upcoming addition to this series and that’s because they are highly readable books with a fantastic setting that you wish was real and the characters feel like friends. Not to mention the unbelievable community spirit and sense of friendship that echoes down through every book. I can picture so vividly in my head all the various settings such as Primrose Park, Heartcross Castle, Rory’s surgery, Clover Cottage, The Grouse and Haggis pub and so many more.
This time around we are introduced to Ben Sanders who has been living in the village of Heartcross in the Scottish Highlands for the last six months. He has embraced all the challenges that his job as a doctor at Peony Practice has to offer and he relishes and enjoys each and every day. He loves the slower pace of life in the village and he has been made to feel so welcome. All the characters who featured before are once again present and they dip in and out when needed but this book focuses on Ben and his story. I love how old characters are not forgotten and we get glimpses of how they are doing after their story had ended. And how refreshing was it to have a women’s fiction book told from the male perspective. It was such a change and one I very much enjoyed. We really got inside Ben’s head and yes we got the female viewpoint as well but Ben is the one whose journey we follow closely.
Although Ben is enjoying his new life, the stream of patients to the practice is endless and he is in danger of being overworked and the practice itself is under pressure. An unexpected arrival sets the cat among the pigeons when Ben’s old nemesis from university Katie O’Neill is hired as the new doctor. Right from their first meeting after so many years you could sense the tension and unease between the pair but I wondered was it more on Ben’s part than Katie’s? Katie is so full of confidence and is a definite overachiever and perfectionist. She had the perfectly family life growing up and knew who she was. She is the complete opposite to Ben who felt like he never fitted into his family life because he had been adopted.
Ben and Katie have a shared history apart from the rivalry they found themselves in university and this competition doesn’t seem to have faded. Soon Katie has changed things at the practice without consulting Ben and he is horrified to discover that she is living in the flat next to him above the practice. I got the feeling Ben’s idyllic time in Heartcross was going to come to an abrupt end as Katie ‘ had started to scratch an itch that Ben hadn’t even known needed scratching and he couldn’t get her out of his mind’. That is meant in both a professional and romantic manner.
To be honest I didn’t like Katie at the start. I found her to be so pushy and forthright and that she didn’t understand the way Ben or indeed Heartcross operated. It was like she wanted all these changes implemented and it was her way or no way. But then over time you realise you should never judge someone on first appearances and I think I judged her based on Ben’s history with her and what he thought of her. Deep down, she too struggles with things but it takes time to express this and she has had a rocky past. She does have a good heart beneath it all which is highlight when she decides to organise the first Heartcross boat race to organise funds for a dementia charity. This has been a storyline ongoing throughout the series and it has been handled so well. It’s been realistic, thoughtful and written in a sensitive and tactful way. Also, when something arises near the conclusion of the book again I was glad to see these issues and themes being explored and it really helped me understand Ben an awful lot more.
Ben is a complex character who knows deep down that he is a struggling with a number of issues in his life particularly his family unit and how he feels he never had a place in it. He brushes things under the carpet instead of confronting them and I think he had preconceptions of Katie. Maybe sharing things and getting things off both their chests would help them. After all they did now have to work alongside each other and were team captains in the boat race. As the story progresses you can see that this pair definitely have feelings for each other but they are both stubborn and can’t express how they feel. There are a number of funny mishaps, most notably at the medical school reunion, that occur alongside the more serious issues being explored and they all blend together so well. Christie Barlow has that knack of mixing humour, romance, friendship and community spirit alongside real life issues that affect us all.
I expected there to be more about the run up to the boat race and coming towards the end I was worried there wouldn’t be much mention of it all but nearing the end the race did feature and helped the story as a whole come full circle. One thing I would mention is that the book was previously titled Peony Practice and I think it fits in better with the titles in the series overall. The new title is a bit of a mouthful and doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily. The title won’t affect your reading of the book but I just think the old title worked better.
I really did enjoy The New Doctor at Peony Practice. The fact that I started it more or less as soon as it landed on my Kindle weeks in advance of publication day is testament to how good this series really is. As much as I enjoyed it and I don’t think Christie Barlow could ever write a bad book, I don’t think this has been my favourite in the series so far. But I definitely wouldn’t have missed out on reading it. New Beginnings at the Old Bakehouse is the next in the series coming in just a few short months and it’s one I have been waiting for ever since the characters first appeared back in book six Primrose Park. Long may Christie continue writing about these wonderful characters and the very special village of Heartcross because they make you feel warm inside and uplifted.
April 18, 2022
Ben has not long been living in Heartcross himself but already feels at home and like one of the locals. His life is looking on the up until Katie, someone from his university days, turns up and his heart literally sinks.
I actually took to Katie straight away. She is a really likeable character and it isn’t long before Ben is wondering if he has got it wrong where she is concerned as even though still competitive, she appears to have softened. I so enjoyed getting to know these two characters better and finding out more about their pasts. If anything it was rather emotional in parts although the chemistry between Katie and Ben was really lovely to read and I couldn’t get enough of the pair of them.
Heartcross is the perfect name for this village as it really has a lot of heart. Following on from the previous book in the series, the thread to do with dementia put my heart through so much turmoil seeing how it affects not just the person suffering with it but for those close to them. The community feeling in these stories is especially heart-warming and I seriously can’t get enough of these books.
The New Doctor at Peony Practice is a fabulously gorgeous read that stole a piece of my heart. As soon as I finish one of this author’s books I am already on the lookout for her next novel. This is one of my favourite small town communities in this genre and it’s like catching back up with old friends. Christie Barlow creates the most wonderful characters that touches on issues that many of us can relate to yet manages to turn them round to leaving you feeling uplifted. A wonderful gem of a book!
My thanks to One More Chapter and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I actually took to Katie straight away. She is a really likeable character and it isn’t long before Ben is wondering if he has got it wrong where she is concerned as even though still competitive, she appears to have softened. I so enjoyed getting to know these two characters better and finding out more about their pasts. If anything it was rather emotional in parts although the chemistry between Katie and Ben was really lovely to read and I couldn’t get enough of the pair of them.
Heartcross is the perfect name for this village as it really has a lot of heart. Following on from the previous book in the series, the thread to do with dementia put my heart through so much turmoil seeing how it affects not just the person suffering with it but for those close to them. The community feeling in these stories is especially heart-warming and I seriously can’t get enough of these books.
The New Doctor at Peony Practice is a fabulously gorgeous read that stole a piece of my heart. As soon as I finish one of this author’s books I am already on the lookout for her next novel. This is one of my favourite small town communities in this genre and it’s like catching back up with old friends. Christie Barlow creates the most wonderful characters that touches on issues that many of us can relate to yet manages to turn them round to leaving you feeling uplifted. A wonderful gem of a book!
My thanks to One More Chapter and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
June 5, 2022
Hi-ho hi-ho, it’s back to Heartcross I go and this time I’m heading to the doctor’s surgery as old rivals re-emerge across the waiting room. Ben Sanders has been looking after the folk of Heartcross for 6 months and now his fellow GP is retiring, fresh blood has arrived. Fresh blood from Ben’s past, Katie O’Neill who he studied with and there is no love lost between them.
But this rivalry benefits the community as Katie organises a boat race for charity with Ben the opposition captain. As the story went on, I started to warm to Katie and her competitiveness. The banter between her and Ben warms up from frosty to friendly…
I love my trips to Heartcross. The community feel is so realistic, I’d love to live there. It’s a credit to Barlow’s writing. But there is one small complaint – Christie Barlow made me cry AGAIN!!! I don’t think I’ve made it through one of the author’s books without shedding a tear or two. The emotion for me springs off the page and throttles me into submission and The New Doctor At Peony Practice is no different.
I hold my hands up, I am addicted to this series. I can’t get enough of the feel good vibes that I leave with. The characters I met at the beginning of the series are my firm fictional friends and with each book, I make new ones who I want to get to know better. The New Doctor At Peony Practice is a fab addition to the series and I’m relieved that I don’t have to wait long for my next fix!
But this rivalry benefits the community as Katie organises a boat race for charity with Ben the opposition captain. As the story went on, I started to warm to Katie and her competitiveness. The banter between her and Ben warms up from frosty to friendly…
I love my trips to Heartcross. The community feel is so realistic, I’d love to live there. It’s a credit to Barlow’s writing. But there is one small complaint – Christie Barlow made me cry AGAIN!!! I don’t think I’ve made it through one of the author’s books without shedding a tear or two. The emotion for me springs off the page and throttles me into submission and The New Doctor At Peony Practice is no different.
I hold my hands up, I am addicted to this series. I can’t get enough of the feel good vibes that I leave with. The characters I met at the beginning of the series are my firm fictional friends and with each book, I make new ones who I want to get to know better. The New Doctor At Peony Practice is a fab addition to the series and I’m relieved that I don’t have to wait long for my next fix!
December 14, 2022
It always pleases me when when Christie Barlow releases another novel in the wonderful Love Heart Lane series. Heartcross is full of a wonderful community of characters, so it is certainly no hardship to revisit them all!
The New Doctor at Peony Practice focuses on Dr Katie O'Neil and Dr Ben Sanders, and it quickly becomes apparent that they have met before! Having gone to medical school together, Ben is more than a little dismayed when he discovers that his new colleague at Peony Practice is none other than his nemesis, Katie!
It immediately becomes clear that there are sparks flying between the two of them, and that there really is a fine line between love and hate. With Katie integrating herself in the Heartcross community by immediately arranging a charity boat race, Ben can do very little but get swept up along with her plans. With both Ben and Katie having complicated pasts, maybe they need each, along with their vibrant community, to help them both move on.
The New Doctor at Peony Practice gives us the opportunity to revisit many beloved characters, whilst also introducing Ben and Katie into the Heartcross fold. This is a love story of course; but it's also emotional, witty and fun. It is most definitely a worthy addition to the Love Heart Lane series! So I am more than happy to recommend this to you all, and if you haven't already, I suggest you make a start on the rest of this series!
The New Doctor at Peony Practice focuses on Dr Katie O'Neil and Dr Ben Sanders, and it quickly becomes apparent that they have met before! Having gone to medical school together, Ben is more than a little dismayed when he discovers that his new colleague at Peony Practice is none other than his nemesis, Katie!
It immediately becomes clear that there are sparks flying between the two of them, and that there really is a fine line between love and hate. With Katie integrating herself in the Heartcross community by immediately arranging a charity boat race, Ben can do very little but get swept up along with her plans. With both Ben and Katie having complicated pasts, maybe they need each, along with their vibrant community, to help them both move on.
The New Doctor at Peony Practice gives us the opportunity to revisit many beloved characters, whilst also introducing Ben and Katie into the Heartcross fold. This is a love story of course; but it's also emotional, witty and fun. It is most definitely a worthy addition to the Love Heart Lane series! So I am more than happy to recommend this to you all, and if you haven't already, I suggest you make a start on the rest of this series!
May 29, 2022
I was so happy to be back in the village of Heartcross, this 8th book in the series (can also be read as a standalone) centres around Ben, the new Doctor at Peony Practice. As always the heartwarming community of Heartcross feature across the book. When Ben is struggling to cope with the large number of patients on his own, he decides he needs a locum to help him out. Enter Katie, I really didn't like Katie's character at first which is testament to Christies writing in wanting us to do exactly that, she comes in and takes over and it's not the first time...Ben and Katie were friends but also arch rivals at med school with Katie usually the winner, and she's not about to let him forget it. Katie is soon winning the villagers over much to Ben's frustration, the community just love her. But there's more to Katie's past than Ben knows, and when she hits on a community fundraiser, he sees it as another way she wants to take over and show him up, little does he know it's closer to home than he thinks for Katie and her family. Thinking of his own family, after being adopted, Ben has always wondered about his biological parents and an unusual birthday present brings him closer to knowing his past.
A lovely book and one you won't want to out down, I totally recommend it, another absolute winner from Christie.
Thank you Net Galley for an early copy to review.
A lovely book and one you won't want to out down, I totally recommend it, another absolute winner from Christie.
Thank you Net Galley for an early copy to review.
May 3, 2022
Thank you One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.
When the old doctor retired in Heartcross, Dr Ben Saunders took over the community medical practice and six months later he's well settled and enjoying life. Ben is vastly overworked and requests a second doctor to lessen his workload, he's shocked when Dr Katie O’Neil arrives, she was his rival throughout university, always so competitive, needing to be first, the woman he loved to hate.
For the sake of the community they must learn to work together.
A fun book but I found Katie bossy to the extreme, her behaviour often demeaning Ben. On her first day at the surgery, before Ben arrived, Katie took over his office, moving his personal belongings to the smaller second office. Unbelievable, who would do this? Ben is 'miffed' but keeps quiet. One evening Ben is stood up by a first-time date, Katie is at the restaurant by herself so they decide to eat together. She suggests they order a bottle of champagne to celebrate her arrival at Heartcross, when the bottle arrives she proceeds to open the bottle herself. Rude, such bad manners.
Even with my objections, I enjoyed the book, it's light, fluffy and fun.
When the old doctor retired in Heartcross, Dr Ben Saunders took over the community medical practice and six months later he's well settled and enjoying life. Ben is vastly overworked and requests a second doctor to lessen his workload, he's shocked when Dr Katie O’Neil arrives, she was his rival throughout university, always so competitive, needing to be first, the woman he loved to hate.
For the sake of the community they must learn to work together.
A fun book but I found Katie bossy to the extreme, her behaviour often demeaning Ben. On her first day at the surgery, before Ben arrived, Katie took over his office, moving his personal belongings to the smaller second office. Unbelievable, who would do this? Ben is 'miffed' but keeps quiet. One evening Ben is stood up by a first-time date, Katie is at the restaurant by herself so they decide to eat together. She suggests they order a bottle of champagne to celebrate her arrival at Heartcross, when the bottle arrives she proceeds to open the bottle herself. Rude, such bad manners.
Even with my objections, I enjoyed the book, it's light, fluffy and fun.
May 23, 2022
This is book number eight in the Love Heart Lane series, although part of a series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone book.
I haven’t read any of the others and still enjoyed it.
Set in the idyllic little Scottish village of Heartcross, yhis book focuses on the village’s GP Ben Sanders who has recently taken over from the longstanding GP who has recently retired.
It’s a busy little surgery, and Dr Sanders could use more help with his patient list and is looking forward to the locum Dr providing some much-needed support.
But when his medical school nemesis arrives it feels like it’s far from the cavalry that’s been called in!
The Dr Katie O’Neil Ben knew at St Andrew’s was always so competitive, needing to be first, the woman he loved to hate, but the woman he sees now seems softer – could it be that she’s mellowed and matured?
For the sake of the community they must learn to work together.
There’s some emotive subjects tackled within this book – dementia and the impact it has on the person and their loved ones, family fall-outs, and adoption especially in Ireland which we all now know to have been problematic to say the least.
Ben not only discovers he is part of a wonderful community in this picturesque village, but a blossoming friendship and romance with the woman he thought hated him as well as discovering the truth about his adopted family.
I really enjoyed the build up to the big boat race.
Ben discovering the truth about his adoption was so emotive, no spoilers here.
I enjoyed this instalment of the series and would like to read more!
With thanks to Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I haven’t read any of the others and still enjoyed it.
Set in the idyllic little Scottish village of Heartcross, yhis book focuses on the village’s GP Ben Sanders who has recently taken over from the longstanding GP who has recently retired.
It’s a busy little surgery, and Dr Sanders could use more help with his patient list and is looking forward to the locum Dr providing some much-needed support.
But when his medical school nemesis arrives it feels like it’s far from the cavalry that’s been called in!
The Dr Katie O’Neil Ben knew at St Andrew’s was always so competitive, needing to be first, the woman he loved to hate, but the woman he sees now seems softer – could it be that she’s mellowed and matured?
For the sake of the community they must learn to work together.
There’s some emotive subjects tackled within this book – dementia and the impact it has on the person and their loved ones, family fall-outs, and adoption especially in Ireland which we all now know to have been problematic to say the least.
Ben not only discovers he is part of a wonderful community in this picturesque village, but a blossoming friendship and romance with the woman he thought hated him as well as discovering the truth about his adopted family.
I really enjoyed the build up to the big boat race.
Ben discovering the truth about his adoption was so emotive, no spoilers here.
I enjoyed this instalment of the series and would like to read more!
With thanks to Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2022
Each of the Love Heart Lane series can be read as standalone and if you come to the place via this book then you have ultimate joy of reading all previous seven novels to further fall in love with the place.
Here we are with Dr Ben Sanders, who has found his place working at Peiony Practice serving the villagers of Heartcross. But he cannot do it all himself and when they advertise for another Doctor to share the load he really doesn’t expect it to be someone he knows.
Someone who turns up when he is celebrating his birthday in the local and someone who was determined to beat him at medical school and to also beat his heart into submission as well
That someone is Dr Kate O’Neil, who firmly settles into village life and is taken into the villagers hearts as she throws herself into village life.
What better way that setting up a charity boat race with her and Ben as team captains, fuelling that rivalry started long ago in medical school.
But what are Ben and Kate hiding? Are they hiding the past from each other or are they simply hiding from each other?
Will the boat race be the final challenge for the pair?
Yet again, Christie Barlow delivers a heartfelt warm novel, featuring familiar faces but new ones as well. Of course there is an undercurrent of some serious subjects which she manages so beautifully that it brings a tear to your eyes. Reinforcing that anything can happen to anyone at any age.
A lovely novel, with the inevitable ending but boy the journey on the way was exciting! I look forward to returning to Heartcross soon with book nine.
Here we are with Dr Ben Sanders, who has found his place working at Peiony Practice serving the villagers of Heartcross. But he cannot do it all himself and when they advertise for another Doctor to share the load he really doesn’t expect it to be someone he knows.
Someone who turns up when he is celebrating his birthday in the local and someone who was determined to beat him at medical school and to also beat his heart into submission as well
That someone is Dr Kate O’Neil, who firmly settles into village life and is taken into the villagers hearts as she throws herself into village life.
What better way that setting up a charity boat race with her and Ben as team captains, fuelling that rivalry started long ago in medical school.
But what are Ben and Kate hiding? Are they hiding the past from each other or are they simply hiding from each other?
Will the boat race be the final challenge for the pair?
Yet again, Christie Barlow delivers a heartfelt warm novel, featuring familiar faces but new ones as well. Of course there is an undercurrent of some serious subjects which she manages so beautifully that it brings a tear to your eyes. Reinforcing that anything can happen to anyone at any age.
A lovely novel, with the inevitable ending but boy the journey on the way was exciting! I look forward to returning to Heartcross soon with book nine.
May 28, 2022
In this the latest book in the Love Heart Lane series the central character is Ben, the new Doctor. He brings in a new Doctor to help with the practice who turns out to be Kate, his arch nemesis from university. Needless to say sparks fly between these two highly competitive people, who have back stories of their own. For me a 5* story is one that draws me in, which this does in spades. I could sympathise with Ben and found Katie really annoying, but warmed to her as the story developed and some of the reasons for her ways came out. As usual the setting sounds breathtaking and it was great to be in the heart of the community again. There were upbeat moments to counterbalance the darker touches: I can relate to the problems with dementia, losing someone to this terrible disease, but overall I really loved this story and can't wait for the next one in the series. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
June 27, 2022
The New Doctor at Peony Practice by Christie Barlow
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Dr Katie O’Neil has only been in Heartcross a few hours when she finds herself already ruffling feathers – not least with medical school nemesis and new colleague Ben Sanders.
Katie’s the woman Ben loves to hate and until now he’d hoped he’d never set eyes on her again but now she’s back – and living next door!
When a charity boat race down the River Heart puts the two in direct competition, sparks fly. The winner takes it all, but who will it be? And will their prize be far more than they were expecting…
I have read this as a standalone. Set in a wonderful little village this was an enjoyable, quick read. A heart-warming story with great characters. Drawn in from the start I was impressed at the way that Christie handled the sensitive topics of adoption and dementia.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Dr Katie O’Neil has only been in Heartcross a few hours when she finds herself already ruffling feathers – not least with medical school nemesis and new colleague Ben Sanders.
Katie’s the woman Ben loves to hate and until now he’d hoped he’d never set eyes on her again but now she’s back – and living next door!
When a charity boat race down the River Heart puts the two in direct competition, sparks fly. The winner takes it all, but who will it be? And will their prize be far more than they were expecting…
I have read this as a standalone. Set in a wonderful little village this was an enjoyable, quick read. A heart-warming story with great characters. Drawn in from the start I was impressed at the way that Christie handled the sensitive topics of adoption and dementia.
Rating 4/5
June 21, 2025
Sorry but this isn’t my cup of tea. Katie was a horrible character - she walks in takes over his office and packs his stuff? How unprofessional, discourteous and insensitive. The way she spoke to him was deplorable and I wanted him to put her in her place. The constant competetivess might be understandable while they were students but as professionals, doctors in the same surgery it came across as juvenile.
I liked Ben although I wished he was more assertive. His adoption story and DNA search was interesting.
I wondered if the author had actually been to Scotland. Ben is able to get a taxi from his cottage on the west coast of Scotland to fly to Ireland. But, to which airport? Both Glasgow and Inverness would be miles away and a taxi would cost an absolute fortune and take a long time.
As for St Andrews - well that gain seemed not quite the ST Andrew’s I know. Sorry but I couldn’t engage with the heroine ant spoiled my enjoyment of the book.
I liked Ben although I wished he was more assertive. His adoption story and DNA search was interesting.
I wondered if the author had actually been to Scotland. Ben is able to get a taxi from his cottage on the west coast of Scotland to fly to Ireland. But, to which airport? Both Glasgow and Inverness would be miles away and a taxi would cost an absolute fortune and take a long time.
As for St Andrews - well that gain seemed not quite the ST Andrew’s I know. Sorry but I couldn’t engage with the heroine ant spoiled my enjoyment of the book.
April 2, 2022
Christie Barlow books always fill me with joy. With each novel you’re introduced to a new character, a newcomer to the picturesque village of Heartcross and it’s always a pleasure to see their lives become interspersed with the characters we know and love of old.
In this novel we meet Dr Katie O’Neil, she’s already ruffled a few feathers on arrival including those of Dr Ben Sanders, her nemesis from medical school. He hoped he’d never see her again but they’re now colleagues so can they put their old rivalries aside? With a winner takes all charity boat race on the horizon the competition between them once again steps up. I loved this novel and quickly found I was losing myself in the chapters totally invested in how the story would progress. Can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter and the author for the chance to review.
In this novel we meet Dr Katie O’Neil, she’s already ruffled a few feathers on arrival including those of Dr Ben Sanders, her nemesis from medical school. He hoped he’d never see her again but they’re now colleagues so can they put their old rivalries aside? With a winner takes all charity boat race on the horizon the competition between them once again steps up. I loved this novel and quickly found I was losing myself in the chapters totally invested in how the story would progress. Can’t wait for the next book in the series. Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter and the author for the chance to review.
April 10, 2022
I love this series, the only problem is that I know it’ll be coming to an end! Christie Barlow writes such gorgeous stories based in this local community. I’ve grown to love the setting, the people, the general atmosphere created – I would pack my bags and move there tomorrow if I could. As always, a new novel set in Heartcross sees us meeting a new character (as well as catching up with all our old pals!)
This time we focus on Dr Ben Sanders and newcomer Dr Katie O’Neal. ‘Friends’ from medical school, she definitely gets under Ben’s skin pretty quickly. She is direct and to the point, doesn’t mess about and seems to take delight in winding him up. Ben isn’t particularly happy to see her, although difficult to really understand why and there are quite a few moments where his heart betrays his head.
Old rivalries surface once again, this time in the form of a charity boat race. Who will come out on top and who will be left with a sinking feeling? Will competing against each other make working and living alongside each other even more difficult than it was already going to be?
A story of discovery and facing old adversaries, learning who you truly are and moving on from the past as well as seeing the best in those around you. I loved every moment, it took me a while to warm to Katie but I did and her relationship with Ben is brilliant, she brings out the best in him too.
As always I was engrossed from start to finish, I never want to put these books down! Brilliant – I highly recommend this book, well the series, to everyone. Perfect, enjoyable read.
April 18, 2022
It’s always a treat to return to Heartcross and revisit the characters to see what they’ve been up to since the last instalment, usually we have an introduction to some new residents… this time we meet Ben, the new village doctor.
Ben is celebrating his birthday when his nemesis from medical school turns up.. Katie O’Neill, beautiful, witty and smart, so ensues some lighthearted rivalry.
This touches on adoption which is an emotive subject for me personally, being an adoptive parent it was a very familiar situation which I guess was handled as appropriately as it could be in the context of this book.
I am a fan of the Heartcross series, this wasn’t my favourite however I still thoroughly enjoyed it and devoured the book over 2 days.
Thanks to OMC and NetGalley for an advanced digital ARC of this book!
Ben is celebrating his birthday when his nemesis from medical school turns up.. Katie O’Neill, beautiful, witty and smart, so ensues some lighthearted rivalry.
This touches on adoption which is an emotive subject for me personally, being an adoptive parent it was a very familiar situation which I guess was handled as appropriately as it could be in the context of this book.
I am a fan of the Heartcross series, this wasn’t my favourite however I still thoroughly enjoyed it and devoured the book over 2 days.
Thanks to OMC and NetGalley for an advanced digital ARC of this book!
May 10, 2023
This is book 8 in the series but, to be honest it can be read as a stand alone story. This book revolves around Ben Sanders the new local doctor who has taken over Peony Practice about six months ago. The surgery is very busy due to the ever growing village and he is struggling to keep on top of things. He has requested help from the health authority and is eagerly awaiting his new work mate. When they arrive he is in shock as it is his rival from medical school. By day one she has established herself in his office and he only guessing how bad things will turn out due to her competitive nature.
However, when the whole village come together to raise money and awareness for dementia they start to work well as a team (even if they will be competing against each other again). The question is will the friendly rivalry spark a different kind of relationship??
However, when the whole village come together to raise money and awareness for dementia they start to work well as a team (even if they will be competing against each other again). The question is will the friendly rivalry spark a different kind of relationship??
April 8, 2022
The new doctor at peony practice is a total joy from start to finish, lovely to be back in Heartcross with familiar characters and the new doctors! A real feel good read that highlights dementia and how it can affect both old and young, community spirit and second chances!
Dr Ben has recently taken over the surgery but is struggling with the workload so a new Dr has been appointed to help out, the new Dr Katie makes a dramatic entrance at Bens birthday party and much to Bens surprise he knows Katie from their university days when they had a love hate relationship and history! Will they be able to reconcile their differences and work together amicably?
A great read that draws you in from the start would love to see what happens next!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Dr Ben has recently taken over the surgery but is struggling with the workload so a new Dr has been appointed to help out, the new Dr Katie makes a dramatic entrance at Bens birthday party and much to Bens surprise he knows Katie from their university days when they had a love hate relationship and history! Will they be able to reconcile their differences and work together amicably?
A great read that draws you in from the start would love to see what happens next!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
April 24, 2022
The New Doctor at Peony Practice
We follow the tumultuous journey of old university rivals. When the locum doctor Katie O’Neill arrives to assist the new overworked doctor Ben Sanders. Sparks fly between Ben and his old nemesis from the moment she arrives but all is not quite as it seems for either of them.
Another fantastic book in the Love Heart Lane series. I absolutely loved it. Although you can read as a stand alone book or as part of the series it makes no difference.
Fantastic characters and humour but Christie touches some very sensitive and difficult subjects beautifully and sensitively as always.
I read it in one sitting from beginning to end. I loved it well done Christie!
We follow the tumultuous journey of old university rivals. When the locum doctor Katie O’Neill arrives to assist the new overworked doctor Ben Sanders. Sparks fly between Ben and his old nemesis from the moment she arrives but all is not quite as it seems for either of them.
Another fantastic book in the Love Heart Lane series. I absolutely loved it. Although you can read as a stand alone book or as part of the series it makes no difference.
Fantastic characters and humour but Christie touches some very sensitive and difficult subjects beautifully and sensitively as always.
I read it in one sitting from beginning to end. I loved it well done Christie!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews