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Talyton St. George #1
Trust Me, I'm a Vet
Emily Giffin meets James Herriott in this charming and original tale of adventure, mishap, and romance centered around a vet's practice in the English countryside.
London veterinarian Maz Harwood has learned the hard way that love and work don't mix. So when Emma, her best friend from vet school, asks her to look after her practice in the English countryside for six months, Maz decides that is just the change of scenery she needs. But country life is trickier than she thought it would be.
It was one thing to trade her smart heels for wellies; it's another to deal with unwelcoming locals, an intense rivalry with another local vet practice, and worse yet, the realization that her friend's practice needs as much healing as Maz's own broken heart. Things get even more complicated when she meets her rival's dashing son, who is totally unsuitable as a prospect....or is he? Can Maz win over the locals, save the lives of her patients, keep Emma's practice from going under....and find love again? Cathy Woodman, a fresh new voice in women's fiction, has written a warm, breezy romantic comedy that makes for the perfect relaxing cozy read.
London veterinarian Maz Harwood has learned the hard way that love and work don't mix. So when Emma, her best friend from vet school, asks her to look after her practice in the English countryside for six months, Maz decides that is just the change of scenery she needs. But country life is trickier than she thought it would be.
It was one thing to trade her smart heels for wellies; it's another to deal with unwelcoming locals, an intense rivalry with another local vet practice, and worse yet, the realization that her friend's practice needs as much healing as Maz's own broken heart. Things get even more complicated when she meets her rival's dashing son, who is totally unsuitable as a prospect....or is he? Can Maz win over the locals, save the lives of her patients, keep Emma's practice from going under....and find love again? Cathy Woodman, a fresh new voice in women's fiction, has written a warm, breezy romantic comedy that makes for the perfect relaxing cozy read.
385 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
69 people are currently reading
1872 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Woodman
28 books183 followersI began my working life as a small-animal vet. Like turning the pages in a book, I was never quite sure what was going to happen at the surgery next. From the sausage dog who swallowed a sewing needle to the telly addict of a rabbit who lost an eye to infection, there was never a dull moment.
I have always loved to read, escaping into all kinds of novels during those long nights on call, but I didn’t have much time to pursue writing until after my children were born and I gave up full-time work to look after them. I joined a creative writing group and entered all the writing competitions I could find.
My break into becoming a published author came in 2002 when I was joint winner of the Harry Bowling First Novel Award. At the award ceremony, I met Laura Longrigg of MBA Literary Agents who signed me up on delivery of a finished manuscript.
In April 2003, Laura rang to say that Headline were offering me a two book deal. I had to dial 1471 to check she really had called me and I wasn’t dreaming.
My first novel, Under The Bonnet, was published in November 2004. My second, Our House, was published in 2005, the third, Family Matters in 2006, and the fourth, The Boy Next Door in 2007.
Since then, I’ve been working on an exciting new project, a series of novels about The Otter House Vets, a fictional practice set in a quiet Devonshire market town. Trust Me, I’m a Vet, which will be published in paperback by Arrow Books in April 2010, closely followed by the second book in September 2010.
Since I last updated my website, my menagerie of animals has grown, much to my family’s delight. We now share our lives with two cats, three mad Border Terriers, two ponies and two pet rats which we found abandoned to starve in a cage in the woods nearby. You should have heard my husband’s sigh of resignation when I told him we were bringing them home!
I have always loved to read, escaping into all kinds of novels during those long nights on call, but I didn’t have much time to pursue writing until after my children were born and I gave up full-time work to look after them. I joined a creative writing group and entered all the writing competitions I could find.
My break into becoming a published author came in 2002 when I was joint winner of the Harry Bowling First Novel Award. At the award ceremony, I met Laura Longrigg of MBA Literary Agents who signed me up on delivery of a finished manuscript.
In April 2003, Laura rang to say that Headline were offering me a two book deal. I had to dial 1471 to check she really had called me and I wasn’t dreaming.
My first novel, Under The Bonnet, was published in November 2004. My second, Our House, was published in 2005, the third, Family Matters in 2006, and the fourth, The Boy Next Door in 2007.
Since then, I’ve been working on an exciting new project, a series of novels about The Otter House Vets, a fictional practice set in a quiet Devonshire market town. Trust Me, I’m a Vet, which will be published in paperback by Arrow Books in April 2010, closely followed by the second book in September 2010.
Since I last updated my website, my menagerie of animals has grown, much to my family’s delight. We now share our lives with two cats, three mad Border Terriers, two ponies and two pet rats which we found abandoned to starve in a cage in the woods nearby. You should have heard my husband’s sigh of resignation when I told him we were bringing them home!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
October 12, 2015
Maz Harwood decides to accept the post of locum at Otter House Small Animal Veterinary Clinic in the Devon market town of Talyton St George to help out college friend Emma Kendall.
First let's make one thing clear despite the blurb on the front cover by Katie Fforde "I absolutely loved this - it made me laugh and cry! Such a treat to read." This is not a funny book unless you find the idea of animals being put down funny nor does it stir emotions so deep that you cry except in frustration and annoyance nor is it a treat. Who needs enemies with friends like Emma Kendall not only did she leave Maz in charge of a knowingly financially crippled vet practice but also she inherited Frances the bitchy disloyal receptionist, non-paying clients and a rival vet practice intent on making her life hell.
It is full of trite dialogue not worthy of Barbara Cartland "If my father had caught you, he'd have had you shot - you and the dog." Maz lacks basic common sense I thought essential in a vet's skill set there she is having rescued numerous cats who are all in cages but she releases them into open fields saying we can come back and pick them up later! On at least two occasions animals are almost put in the freezer who aren't dead! The book is full of exaggerated and over the top moments the usual townie not knowing she needs wellies, etc. Our hero Alex is okay but just non-descript and non-memorable. A woman who treats her animals appallingly in life suddenly in death everyone gathers at her funeral and alls forgiven.
I think I expect too much from romance books a story that doesn't annoy, characters that aren't so over the top and some funny moments but all of the opposite is the case. I certainly won't be visiting Talyton St George again any time soon.
First let's make one thing clear despite the blurb on the front cover by Katie Fforde "I absolutely loved this - it made me laugh and cry! Such a treat to read." This is not a funny book unless you find the idea of animals being put down funny nor does it stir emotions so deep that you cry except in frustration and annoyance nor is it a treat. Who needs enemies with friends like Emma Kendall not only did she leave Maz in charge of a knowingly financially crippled vet practice but also she inherited Frances the bitchy disloyal receptionist, non-paying clients and a rival vet practice intent on making her life hell.
It is full of trite dialogue not worthy of Barbara Cartland "If my father had caught you, he'd have had you shot - you and the dog." Maz lacks basic common sense I thought essential in a vet's skill set there she is having rescued numerous cats who are all in cages but she releases them into open fields saying we can come back and pick them up later! On at least two occasions animals are almost put in the freezer who aren't dead! The book is full of exaggerated and over the top moments the usual townie not knowing she needs wellies, etc. Our hero Alex is okay but just non-descript and non-memorable. A woman who treats her animals appallingly in life suddenly in death everyone gathers at her funeral and alls forgiven.
I think I expect too much from romance books a story that doesn't annoy, characters that aren't so over the top and some funny moments but all of the opposite is the case. I certainly won't be visiting Talyton St George again any time soon.
October 19, 2015
I was looking forward to reading this novel because what could be better than a book combining the English countryside with animals and a story line about a country veterinary practice? Unfortunately, I was to be disappointed by this one. The main character was not very likeable and didn't seem to be a very good veterinarian at all! The love story was so one dimensional and undeveloped it was pathetic. In fact, not one of the characters were developed to any degree of depth. I found myself with more questions than answers and the book was over! I would not recommend this book to anyone.
March 3, 2019
Einfach nur herrlich ❤️ ein wohlfühlbuch perfekt für einen Sonntag auf dem Sofa
April 21, 2010
I am a huge animal fan – particularly after we adopted our two dogs after moving into their house – so when I was browsing on the Bookseller website one night and I came across an article saying Cathy Woodman was going to be writing a new vets series, I knew I had to keep track of when the book was coming out as it sounded like a fantastic read. I was thrilled when it finally came up on Amazon for release and I was even happier when I was offered it to review.
I’ve never read any of Cathy’s books before so I wasn’t sure what to expect so it came as a nice surprise to be able to slip into the book so easily. The book starts just before Maz takes over as the locum at Otter House and sets the scene really well for Maz to come in and take over from Emma. We’re then introduced to the residents of Talyton St George including Izzy, Nigel and Frances who also work at Otter House as well as the Fox-Giffords who are rivals of Otter House and have their own veterinary clinic Talyton Manor Vets and any residents who bring in their pets to Otter House. It creates quite the atmosphere within Talyton St George and the village is really brought to life with it’s wonderful characters.
As I say, the characters of Talyton St George are all wonderful and all bring their personalities to life whenever they appear. With so many residents I did get a little confused at the beginning of the book, I must admit but as I got to know them all, it became easier to differentiate between who was who. Maz is the main character throughout the book and is also our narrator and I warmed to her immediately. It’s clear from the off she had a difficult time before leaving London and I enjoyed seeing her overcome her heartbreak. I also thought the reasoning for why Maz became a vet hugely believeable and also really heartwarming. I suppose the other main characters were Izzy, Frances and Nigel who worked alongside Maz at Otter House and I must admit that although I found all three prickly in the beginning, I also soon warmed to them. There was a big deal made of the rivalry between Otter House and Talyton Manor Vets but I found myself really liking Alex Fox-Gifford, the son of Old Fox-Gifford and owner of Talyton Manor Vets. He easily dispelled any myths I may have had about him being the bad guy of the piece and I enjoyed his rapport between himself and Maz.
Cathy Woodman really manages to bring the village of Talyton St George to life, as I’ve previously mentioned and although the way in which everyone knew everyone elses business, I fell in love with the village alongside Maz. If you’re going to write a series then creating a fantastic setting is a must and Woodman has managed that with relative ease. Of course there was also lots of drama – as I said, everyone is in everyone elses pocket – but it was all handled within time and there was never too much at any given point. Since the book is about a vet’s practice it’s to be expected that not every animal treated will survive and there were a few cases that had me in tears, I must say. Woodman handled those scenes sensitively though and although the scenes did make me sad, I also understood why they had to happen. There’s a huge plot twist three quarters of the way through the book that really shook everything up, too, and which I did not see coming – making my shock all the worse! I much mention the ending which really set the scene for the second book in the series which I’m eagerly anticipating!
Overall I really enjoyed reading Trust Me, I’m A Vet. It’s rare for a chick lit book to feature animals – and definitely not as many as Trust Me, I’m A Vet features – which made my enjoyment all the better as I am a huge animal lover. This is a must-read for animal lovers and the cute cover should tell you all you need to know. October – and the second book in the series – cannot come soon enough for me, I really can’t wait to read it!
I’ve never read any of Cathy’s books before so I wasn’t sure what to expect so it came as a nice surprise to be able to slip into the book so easily. The book starts just before Maz takes over as the locum at Otter House and sets the scene really well for Maz to come in and take over from Emma. We’re then introduced to the residents of Talyton St George including Izzy, Nigel and Frances who also work at Otter House as well as the Fox-Giffords who are rivals of Otter House and have their own veterinary clinic Talyton Manor Vets and any residents who bring in their pets to Otter House. It creates quite the atmosphere within Talyton St George and the village is really brought to life with it’s wonderful characters.
As I say, the characters of Talyton St George are all wonderful and all bring their personalities to life whenever they appear. With so many residents I did get a little confused at the beginning of the book, I must admit but as I got to know them all, it became easier to differentiate between who was who. Maz is the main character throughout the book and is also our narrator and I warmed to her immediately. It’s clear from the off she had a difficult time before leaving London and I enjoyed seeing her overcome her heartbreak. I also thought the reasoning for why Maz became a vet hugely believeable and also really heartwarming. I suppose the other main characters were Izzy, Frances and Nigel who worked alongside Maz at Otter House and I must admit that although I found all three prickly in the beginning, I also soon warmed to them. There was a big deal made of the rivalry between Otter House and Talyton Manor Vets but I found myself really liking Alex Fox-Gifford, the son of Old Fox-Gifford and owner of Talyton Manor Vets. He easily dispelled any myths I may have had about him being the bad guy of the piece and I enjoyed his rapport between himself and Maz.
Cathy Woodman really manages to bring the village of Talyton St George to life, as I’ve previously mentioned and although the way in which everyone knew everyone elses business, I fell in love with the village alongside Maz. If you’re going to write a series then creating a fantastic setting is a must and Woodman has managed that with relative ease. Of course there was also lots of drama – as I said, everyone is in everyone elses pocket – but it was all handled within time and there was never too much at any given point. Since the book is about a vet’s practice it’s to be expected that not every animal treated will survive and there were a few cases that had me in tears, I must say. Woodman handled those scenes sensitively though and although the scenes did make me sad, I also understood why they had to happen. There’s a huge plot twist three quarters of the way through the book that really shook everything up, too, and which I did not see coming – making my shock all the worse! I much mention the ending which really set the scene for the second book in the series which I’m eagerly anticipating!
Overall I really enjoyed reading Trust Me, I’m A Vet. It’s rare for a chick lit book to feature animals – and definitely not as many as Trust Me, I’m A Vet features – which made my enjoyment all the better as I am a huge animal lover. This is a must-read for animal lovers and the cute cover should tell you all you need to know. October – and the second book in the series – cannot come soon enough for me, I really can’t wait to read it!
November 3, 2017
Enjoyed the vet story. Not my cup of tea I want more Herriott and less romance.
August 29, 2025
A nice amusing tale with tetchy villagers, unruly animals and some romance too
November 18, 2012
Comfort fiction. Sometimes, I have to escape from what I spend most of my reading time on and comfort fiction is what I want. City Girl, Country Vet fills the bill in a lot of ways with just a few very minor quibbles.
I’m inordinately attached to stories about veterinarians in rural areas, usually preferring real vets’ tales about their own experiences (thank you, James Herriot!), but fiction is OK, too, and I imagine some of this story might be based on real life since Ms. Woodman started out as a small animal vet. There’s something about the rural atmosphere and the animals and the people who, let’s face it, are just not the same as urban folk, and visiting with them is always a pleasure. This particular book threw me a curve by featuring a protagonist who, for most of the story, reminds me of Joe Btfsplk, the comic strip character who’s followed everywhere by a rain cloud and is a terrible jinx. Poor Maz, she can’t seem to do anything right and antagonizes or disappoints practically everyone in the small village during her temporary job as a relief vet. That was actually kind of refreshing and certainly took away the threat of sappiness that some vet-related books fall prey to. On the other hand, this black cloud seemed to go on too long and I sometimes found myself wondering if Maz would ever find at least one or two bright spots to relieve the angst.
Luckily, a hint of impending romance serves to lighten the mood and it’s the kind of romance I like—understated, no sex (not that I have anything against sex, mind you, but I prefer it in the background), a good deal of will-he-won’t-she, and an ending that’s only moderately predictable. I also found the village denizens thoroughly entertaining even if a teeny bit stereotypical.
Then there are the animals. The village of Talyton St. George has two vet practices, one that does small animals only and one that does small and large. The large animals make several appearances but it’s the small animals that steal the show and life and death are both present. Being a rational human being, I suspect anyone that reads a book like this is already an animal lover and the author does not disappoint us—a hamster named Harriet/Harry, a dog named Robbie, a cat named Tripod, a dog named Petra, a pony named Skye, a cat named Ginge, and so many others are all utterly charming and bring a smile to the reader’s face along with occasional tears.
A shocking tragedy that endangers animals and humans alike brings the story to a turning point and I found the denouement most satisfying. The author could have easily ended things there but, happily, she didn’t, and several sequels are already out in the UK with the fifth coming out in December 2012. I hope the US publisher will put these on a fast track because I’m eager to read them all.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, November 2012.
I’m inordinately attached to stories about veterinarians in rural areas, usually preferring real vets’ tales about their own experiences (thank you, James Herriot!), but fiction is OK, too, and I imagine some of this story might be based on real life since Ms. Woodman started out as a small animal vet. There’s something about the rural atmosphere and the animals and the people who, let’s face it, are just not the same as urban folk, and visiting with them is always a pleasure. This particular book threw me a curve by featuring a protagonist who, for most of the story, reminds me of Joe Btfsplk, the comic strip character who’s followed everywhere by a rain cloud and is a terrible jinx. Poor Maz, she can’t seem to do anything right and antagonizes or disappoints practically everyone in the small village during her temporary job as a relief vet. That was actually kind of refreshing and certainly took away the threat of sappiness that some vet-related books fall prey to. On the other hand, this black cloud seemed to go on too long and I sometimes found myself wondering if Maz would ever find at least one or two bright spots to relieve the angst.
Luckily, a hint of impending romance serves to lighten the mood and it’s the kind of romance I like—understated, no sex (not that I have anything against sex, mind you, but I prefer it in the background), a good deal of will-he-won’t-she, and an ending that’s only moderately predictable. I also found the village denizens thoroughly entertaining even if a teeny bit stereotypical.
Then there are the animals. The village of Talyton St. George has two vet practices, one that does small animals only and one that does small and large. The large animals make several appearances but it’s the small animals that steal the show and life and death are both present. Being a rational human being, I suspect anyone that reads a book like this is already an animal lover and the author does not disappoint us—a hamster named Harriet/Harry, a dog named Robbie, a cat named Tripod, a dog named Petra, a pony named Skye, a cat named Ginge, and so many others are all utterly charming and bring a smile to the reader’s face along with occasional tears.
A shocking tragedy that endangers animals and humans alike brings the story to a turning point and I found the denouement most satisfying. The author could have easily ended things there but, happily, she didn’t, and several sequels are already out in the UK with the fifth coming out in December 2012. I hope the US publisher will put these on a fast track because I’m eager to read them all.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, November 2012.
January 10, 2014
This book reminded me of the James Herriott true stories from his books in the 1970s. However, this is a novel, not true stories, but it is a charming and original tale of adventure, mishap, and romance centered around a vet's practice in the English countryside.
London veterinarian Maz Harwood has learned the hard way that love and work don't mix. So when Emma, her best friend from vet school, asks her to look after her practice in the English countryside for six months, Maz decides that is just the change of scenery she needs. But country life is trickier than she thought it would be.
It was one thing to trade her smart heels for wellies; it's another to deal with unwelcoming locals, an intense rivalry with another local vet practice, and worse yet, the realization that her friend's practice needs as much healing as Maz's own broken heart. Things get even more complicated when she meets her rival's dashing son, who is totally unsuitable as a prospect....or is he? Can Maz win over the locals, save the lives of her patients, keep Emma's practice from going under....and find love again? Cathy Woodman, a fresh new voice in women's fiction, has written a warm, breezy romantic comedy that makes for the perfect relaxing cozy read.
My Thoughts...
Being an animal lover I truly enjoyed this book. I'm sure it may not be a book for all readers, but for me it was a nice 'treat.' It was fast paced, so when I started to read it I just didn't want to put it down.
This week with the "Polar Vortex" moving through this area with temps -30, it was a good week to curl up with a nice cozy book under the blankets and read away. The "Polar Vortex" didn't bother me a bit. I traveled to England in my easy chair, where the weather was warmer, being the story took place in Spring and Summer.
This book is a part of my personal library...I guess you figured out by now that I loved this book and I awarded it 5 liver favored star treats.
April 20, 2013
Bor-ing...except for the animals!
I wanted to like this book because 1) it was a new author for me and that's always a potentially good thing and 2) a book about a vet and animals -- I love animals! So I thought I'd give it a shot. Unfortunately, it was boring. I finished it only because I usually always finish books that I start but I found myself skimming vs. actually reading the text. None of the characters were really ones you wanted to root for...except for some of the cats and dogs! Sadly, unless you truly have nothing else to read and don't mind just filling in time, skip this book.
I wanted to like this book because 1) it was a new author for me and that's always a potentially good thing and 2) a book about a vet and animals -- I love animals! So I thought I'd give it a shot. Unfortunately, it was boring. I finished it only because I usually always finish books that I start but I found myself skimming vs. actually reading the text. None of the characters were really ones you wanted to root for...except for some of the cats and dogs! Sadly, unless you truly have nothing else to read and don't mind just filling in time, skip this book.
September 21, 2018
I didn't know this book was written in present tense, which I despise. A good book doesn't need a gimmick like that. Though this wasn't a good book. The MC isn't very bright or competent, the hero's actions make no sense and the best friend is totally irresponsible. With friends like that...
It wasn't worth finishing so I didn't.
It wasn't worth finishing so I didn't.
March 14, 2018
Aside from the fun British humor and the interesting veterinary angle, the characters were flat and the storyline predictable. A good mindless, rainy-day read.
January 12, 2025
It's absolutely brilliant. i loved every second of this book. It's such a fantastic storyline. I definitely recommend reading this book if you love vet fiction
June 21, 2024
This... wasn’t great. Unlikeable characters really ruin books for me and this book was chock-a-block.
I hope I never encounter a vet like Maz. She’s too busy either hating or mooning over men (or feeling sorry for herself) to even do her job properly. She’s distracted, irrational, and foolish. All she seems to do is put animals down. There are so many animals deaths and unnecessary euthanasia in this book. It’s pretty bleak at times.
Not to mention, there’s a huge cash flow problem at the vet office but by all means, install a cat door and keep a cat in the office. She just fired her receptionist because she doesn’t have money and she’s bailing out her friend’s practice left and right on her own credit card but, yes, take on office cat. That makes bloody sense.
I also didn’t understand the nonsense with Cheryl and the cat. Why did she take it to a vet for a haircut? Take it to a groomer? But in fairness, if bloody Maz hadn’t been spending so much time talking nonsense and gossiping and instead had been paying attention, perhaps it wouldn’t have gone so badly. It’s really hard to feel sympathy with a “professional with ten years of experience” who is such an amateur!
Emma is a user. What kind of friend dumps their collapsing business on someone else so that she can escape/shift the fallout onto someone else and go MIA without handling any of it. Your business is collapsing and you want to run off on a SIX MONTH HOLIDAY? WTF.
And then, to turn around and put Maz on the spot to have a joint partnership in the practice. Emma and the husband both gang up on her like it’s Maz’s fault Emma needs bailing out again. That practice is held together with duct tape and dreams. Only a fool would die on that hill... oh... right...
Also, what is wrong with these Emma and Max that they keep champagne in the cadaver freezer?! That's so insensitive and horrible.
I have trouble hating on the Fox-Giffords like I’m supposed to because honestly, the old man isn’t entirely wrong.
The animals hoarding subplot was interesting. I wish that had been the focus or the conflict instead of the bloody romance.
The romance component is beyond ridiculous. I might have enjoyed this book more if it had focused the quirky townspeople and their pets (more in the vein of Nick Trout’s books) but the focus was way too heavy on the stupid romance and not enough on the animals. The author was clearly trying to make it emotional with all the animal death tied in with a melodramatic romance and that’s just not my bag.
What did I like? Well, the cover is cute. I liked the animals that weren’t killed off for the sake of melodrama.
Recommend? No.
I hope I never encounter a vet like Maz. She’s too busy either hating or mooning over men (or feeling sorry for herself) to even do her job properly. She’s distracted, irrational, and foolish. All she seems to do is put animals down. There are so many animals deaths and unnecessary euthanasia in this book. It’s pretty bleak at times.
Not to mention, there’s a huge cash flow problem at the vet office but by all means, install a cat door and keep a cat in the office. She just fired her receptionist because she doesn’t have money and she’s bailing out her friend’s practice left and right on her own credit card but, yes, take on office cat. That makes bloody sense.
I also didn’t understand the nonsense with Cheryl and the cat. Why did she take it to a vet for a haircut? Take it to a groomer? But in fairness, if bloody Maz hadn’t been spending so much time talking nonsense and gossiping and instead had been paying attention, perhaps it wouldn’t have gone so badly. It’s really hard to feel sympathy with a “professional with ten years of experience” who is such an amateur!
Emma is a user. What kind of friend dumps their collapsing business on someone else so that she can escape/shift the fallout onto someone else and go MIA without handling any of it. Your business is collapsing and you want to run off on a SIX MONTH HOLIDAY? WTF.
And then, to turn around and put Maz on the spot to have a joint partnership in the practice. Emma and the husband both gang up on her like it’s Maz’s fault Emma needs bailing out again. That practice is held together with duct tape and dreams. Only a fool would die on that hill... oh... right...
Also, what is wrong with these Emma and Max that they keep champagne in the cadaver freezer?! That's so insensitive and horrible.
I have trouble hating on the Fox-Giffords like I’m supposed to because honestly, the old man isn’t entirely wrong.
The animals hoarding subplot was interesting. I wish that had been the focus or the conflict instead of the bloody romance.
The romance component is beyond ridiculous. I might have enjoyed this book more if it had focused the quirky townspeople and their pets (more in the vein of Nick Trout’s books) but the focus was way too heavy on the stupid romance and not enough on the animals. The author was clearly trying to make it emotional with all the animal death tied in with a melodramatic romance and that’s just not my bag.
What did I like? Well, the cover is cute. I liked the animals that weren’t killed off for the sake of melodrama.
Recommend? No.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2011
Trust Me, I'm a Vet is most definitely a novel of two parts. I say that because the vet aspects and the animal stories were handled beautifully and practically brought me to tears on some occasions, whereas the "chick lit" part of the novel - the contrived way of bringing Maz to Otter House Veterinary Clinic, the romance, the larger-than-life characters - were clunky and cliched.
I do think that Cathy Woodman has talent as a novelist, and I have no doubt that the other novels in this series will pick up in terms of quality, but I think that she needs to find some way of sitting the vet story within the chick lit story more naturally.
I did like Maz as a central narrator - she was warm and lovely, with an incredibly realistic voice. Self deprecating and sad by turn, she gave a great anchor to the novel. Of course, I found Alex Fox-Gifford attractive, in the same manner as Hugo Beauchamp (Fiona Walker) and Rupert Campbell-Black (Jilly Cooper) are two of my favourite male protagonists. I do like a bad boy that you think might be tamed by the right woman!
However, the various personalities from the sleepy village got lost in amongst each other. I kept having to flick back and forth, to tell my Fifi's from my Cheryl's, which I thought was a weakness of the novel. And, frankly, I couldn't stand Emma - the vet who asks Maz to take over while she flits off on a six month trip round the world. Who on earth would leave their best friend to deal with the situation she has managed to put her vet's practice into?
Also, I found Trust Me, I'm a Vet to be both too realistic and not realistic enough! I say this because I like my chick lit to be escapist, and so having financial troubles as one of the central issues was a little too close to read life. And yet I found it ridiculous that Maz was so against living in Talyton, because we weren't given realistic reasons for her not wanting to stay.
So, definitely a mixed bag. However, the animal stories were *so* good that I am more than prepared to pick up the second book in the series to see if Woodman can find a way to reconcile both aspects into one awesome story. Therefore recommended tentatively - at the worst, it's a light read that goes well with Pimm's on a summer's afternoon.
I do think that Cathy Woodman has talent as a novelist, and I have no doubt that the other novels in this series will pick up in terms of quality, but I think that she needs to find some way of sitting the vet story within the chick lit story more naturally.
I did like Maz as a central narrator - she was warm and lovely, with an incredibly realistic voice. Self deprecating and sad by turn, she gave a great anchor to the novel. Of course, I found Alex Fox-Gifford attractive, in the same manner as Hugo Beauchamp (Fiona Walker) and Rupert Campbell-Black (Jilly Cooper) are two of my favourite male protagonists. I do like a bad boy that you think might be tamed by the right woman!
However, the various personalities from the sleepy village got lost in amongst each other. I kept having to flick back and forth, to tell my Fifi's from my Cheryl's, which I thought was a weakness of the novel. And, frankly, I couldn't stand Emma - the vet who asks Maz to take over while she flits off on a six month trip round the world. Who on earth would leave their best friend to deal with the situation she has managed to put her vet's practice into?
Also, I found Trust Me, I'm a Vet to be both too realistic and not realistic enough! I say this because I like my chick lit to be escapist, and so having financial troubles as one of the central issues was a little too close to read life. And yet I found it ridiculous that Maz was so against living in Talyton, because we weren't given realistic reasons for her not wanting to stay.
So, definitely a mixed bag. However, the animal stories were *so* good that I am more than prepared to pick up the second book in the series to see if Woodman can find a way to reconcile both aspects into one awesome story. Therefore recommended tentatively - at the worst, it's a light read that goes well with Pimm's on a summer's afternoon.
September 27, 2014
Well, I finished this book quickly. I've been mired down in Game of Thrones as audiobooks (to/from work), which I enjoy, but seriously, what a way to start and end your day. I get home and Husband is like, "How was your day?", and I'm like, "The night is long and full of terrors." And by long, I mean 180 HOURS of audiobook stabbings and faces getting chewed off. This is why "City Girl, Country Vet" was such a delight. The biggest threats to our protagonist (city-girl-turned-country-vet) are the town grumpy-pants, who like to throw animal dung at her vet practice, the crazy cat ladies, who, let's face it, are just crazy, and the hunky vet next door, who's out to STEAL HER HEART. It's a little bit of Gray's Anatomy meets All Creatures Great and Small, produced by Disney. All in all, a refreshing change.
September 22, 2012
I really wanted to like this book more then I did. I thought it was a great concept and I couldn't wait to read it when I picked it up on a whim the other day. I'm not a bit fan of books that are all drama and have nothing really good in them. They tend to make me a bit anxious. Nothing seemed to go right in this book, even at the end when things were starting to wind down. It just kind of made me depressed seeing bad thing after bad thing happen to Maz and nothing really good ever happening. Even when she started seeing Alex it wasn't a good thing because she thought he has a girlfriend at the time. I just wish that the author would have thrown in a couple lighter, happier moments and I probably would have loved this book as much as I was hoping to.
February 3, 2023
this book was HORRID. and i mean HORRID.
the story follows a city vet from london as she moves to the country to over take a failing vet practice.
here are my issues:
1-she kills just about every single animal that comes to the clinic. dog, cat, hamster. everything.
2-she is RUDE. like a terrible human.
3-she falls in love with the other town vet, who is an a-hole.
4-theres so many characters and so many animals she kills that you can't even keep them all straight.
don't read this book. if you find it at your local book sale (cause that's where my copy is going) absolutely do NOT pick it up.
the story follows a city vet from london as she moves to the country to over take a failing vet practice.
here are my issues:
1-she kills just about every single animal that comes to the clinic. dog, cat, hamster. everything.
2-she is RUDE. like a terrible human.
3-she falls in love with the other town vet, who is an a-hole.
4-theres so many characters and so many animals she kills that you can't even keep them all straight.
don't read this book. if you find it at your local book sale (cause that's where my copy is going) absolutely do NOT pick it up.
April 18, 2018
If you like romantic drivel this book is for you! I made a mistake when I picked this up at a used book store, thinking it was non-fiction. Not so. I should have given up on it early on, but I'm stubborn that way, and usually finish a book once I have started it. If this is the first in a series, I will not be reading future books, or anything by this author. It appears she quit being a veterinarian to write bad books...I can't imagine anyone doing that. Would not recommend this book to any of my friends.
June 28, 2018
Trust me this was hard work!! I don't think I have read anything with so much saccharine in it for a while. I just couldn't care less about any of the characters who lurch from one disaster into another. a real mills and boon of a book girl meets boy, girl hates boy, boy is a brute but oh so sexy with it girl decides she loves boy, boy is out of reach. Oh good girl and boy get it all together in the end
October 26, 2012
I expected a chick-lit book and I got one with slightly more depth than normal chick-lit. I found the vet details interesting, due to my love of animals. The antagonists were predictable as was the romance. But, that's just what I was looking for and exactly what I expected. Very enjoyable quick read!
February 16, 2016
This was far and away from my typical genres but I enjoyed the story quite a bit. It's a bit personal I guess, I am able to relate to a city girl getting stuck in a small town. It's a happy little book despite all the little dramas, and probably any animal lover would be fond enough of it.
March 31, 2016
Cute, super easy reading. Not high lit by any stretch but a good way to spend the time.
February 8, 2023
I was hoping for James Herriot but got Mills and Boon. Harmless and predictable.
May 18, 2020
If you’ve read All Creatures Great and Small this book will get your tail a waggin. This is a small animal clinic so no cows and horses though great danes are no pushover. The receptionist is a bit of a pill, though. The author is a vet. My classmate who fainted if the word blood was even mentioned would not appreciate this book.
As the title suggests this is a city mouse meets the country kind of story. The gossipy nature of small town country life takes some getting used to. The staidness of traditions something else. Calling the old duffer a fossil is rather appropriate. Rather class conscious too. And the book appears to be sinking into a mushy romance.
The book gets too deeply into the practice’s financial troubles and the struggles to avoid bankruptcy. Sooner or later you’ll discover this is just the first in a protracted series documenting our MC’s affair with the younger Mr. Fox. Hopefully we get to kill off the old Fox if we can get that far. All the extra clap trap detracts from the animal stories.
Romances seem to require crisis points and this time round it’s the male who ends up on life support.
As the title suggests this is a city mouse meets the country kind of story. The gossipy nature of small town country life takes some getting used to. The staidness of traditions something else. Calling the old duffer a fossil is rather appropriate. Rather class conscious too. And the book appears to be sinking into a mushy romance.
The book gets too deeply into the practice’s financial troubles and the struggles to avoid bankruptcy. Sooner or later you’ll discover this is just the first in a protracted series documenting our MC’s affair with the younger Mr. Fox. Hopefully we get to kill off the old Fox if we can get that far. All the extra clap trap detracts from the animal stories.
Romances seem to require crisis points and this time round it’s the male who ends up on life support.
May 30, 2017
I finally get to read this one, after waiting years for any of the various libraries I've visited to have a copy- and now I find it's a whole series, and, of course, my current library has none of the other books! What am I going to do?!
This one was really great! A real page-turner; I enjoyed it very much. Reminds me of my favorites by Lucy Dillon.
Amanda (Maz) relocates to the Dover countryside from London, auspiciously to help out an old friend who needs someone to handle her veterinary practice for a few weeks-
which turns into a few months-
with all sorts of disasters ensuing, including the practice (and now Maz) being disliked by the townsfolk, and all sorts of events that threaten the survival of the business.
A really warm, clever and brilliant book. I'm so glad to know there are several others!
This one was really great! A real page-turner; I enjoyed it very much. Reminds me of my favorites by Lucy Dillon.
Amanda (Maz) relocates to the Dover countryside from London, auspiciously to help out an old friend who needs someone to handle her veterinary practice for a few weeks-
which turns into a few months-
with all sorts of disasters ensuing, including the practice (and now Maz) being disliked by the townsfolk, and all sorts of events that threaten the survival of the business.
A really warm, clever and brilliant book. I'm so glad to know there are several others!
October 6, 2019
rating it a 4 not as 'top literature' but a fun take on a rom-com, a great laze-about-Saturday read.
And actually, it is not as 'comedic' as could have been written, which is a good thing IMHO, although as a movie that could run it that way. too many serious situations.
I groaned when our city girl has an interaction with a local who is a rude snob - "oh no, this will be the romantic interest". but an apology issues forth at least...
the aspect of her girlfriend's lack of forthcoming regarding business issues was a weak point to me - borders on duplicitous behavior, not someone I would consider a friend. pretty selfish
Plenty of action and drama, animals in trauma, crazy characters (maybe a tad cliche at times), a little soul searching. A little of everything!
but overall, a fun read when I needed to be lazy.
And actually, it is not as 'comedic' as could have been written, which is a good thing IMHO, although as a movie that could run it that way. too many serious situations.
I groaned when our city girl has an interaction with a local who is a rude snob - "oh no, this will be the romantic interest". but an apology issues forth at least...
the aspect of her girlfriend's lack of forthcoming regarding business issues was a weak point to me - borders on duplicitous behavior, not someone I would consider a friend. pretty selfish
Plenty of action and drama, animals in trauma, crazy characters (maybe a tad cliche at times), a little soul searching. A little of everything!
but overall, a fun read when I needed to be lazy.
September 2, 2017
Picked up on a whim to read at the beach, it was fun and quick but predictable. The vet aspect of the story was wonderful with great attention to detail that reminded me of James Herriot's All Creatures series (which others mentioned in their reviews and attracted me in the first place.) However the romance I could have done without as I guessed the general idea pretty quickly on. Though it was pretty mild as far as romance goes, I'm guessing.
There were a lot of characters that were a little troublesome to keep straight at times.
Overall, not bad but not my favorite. I'm kind of interested in seeing where this series goes, but I won't go out of my way to find out.
There were a lot of characters that were a little troublesome to keep straight at times.
Overall, not bad but not my favorite. I'm kind of interested in seeing where this series goes, but I won't go out of my way to find out.
November 3, 2018
Trust Me I'm a Vet, by Cathy Woodman, is an animal lover's delight! Fast paced and jammed full with drama (both animal and human); it's interspersed with the very best of British humour. Trust Me I'm a Vet, immerses the reader in the merciless gossip of country life, in a small town in Devonshire. Everyone knows your business here (sometimes before you do). Poor Maz Harwood has been coerced into standing in, at her best friend's practice, while Emma takes a badly needed break. But is this the right fit for a broken-hearted London girl? If you need a lift, try this one. Gwendolyn Broadmore, author of Life Came to a Standstill
June 23, 2019
Well it's nice. And it is an easy read. But from the first chapter you can guess the rest of the book. OK so she is a city girl and she moves to a sleepy market town with all these country bumpkins, you've told me once why do you then need to tell me again 1000 times? It's fine I get it, loud and clear! And all the character have the same personality. So similar in fact that I'm desperately trying to memorise their names because that is the only thing that differentiates them. They are all straight talkers who are gentle when you get to know them but you have to remember they are straight talkers. Seriously? All of them?
January 31, 2020
I really loved this book. I guess I didn’t really have any expectations so I enjoyed it for the simple story it was. It’s not a deep romance or anything but a great story. The city girl, who’s struggling after a failed relationship with her boss, agrees to help her friend by running her struggling country vet practice. She moves to the country, has a hard time adjusting, almost gives up and then decides to really give it her all. There’s struggles, sad moments, happy moments, strange encounters. All and all a good story
I have wanted to pick up and read the series but haven’t gotten around to it.
I have wanted to pick up and read the series but haven’t gotten around to it.
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