This book is second in the Barleybridge series, but was fine as a stand-alone read, although probably some things would have been clearer had I read the first book beforehand. There seemed to be rather a large cast - several vets, nurses and receptionists - although there was a helpful list at the front.

I found the plot and many subplots interesting, but rather too fast for my liking: in only a little over 250 pages there was a vast amount of action which could easily have filled a novel twice as long.

But as well as feeling that a lot was missing, I found the writing style a bit irritating at times. There was a lot of informal English, and some rather careless editing. I realise this does happen in a lot of modern books, but it's usually the 'chick-lit' variety, and this story had the potential to be something more. James Herriot it's not - by a long chalk - but it could still have been a well-characterised, well-written insight into life in a large country vet practice. Unfortunately, it wasn't.
( )

3.5 stars. ( )

This is the 2nd in the Barleybridge series and I liked it just as much as the first. Different to the Turnham Malpas series (of course).

Back Cover Blurb:
There's trouble afoot in Barleybridge. The vet's practice, which normally runs so smoothly, is disrupted by the new locum, Dan, who seems to be annoying just about everyone with his abrupt manner and unreasonable demands. And when he succeeds in losing an important client through his arrogant attitude, the wives connected to the practice are determined that something has to be done.
But Kate, who works at the practice, finds she rather likes Dan's no-nonsense approach, despite what everyone thinks of him.
Kate is determined to go to veterinary college and has already made some difficult decisions to fulfil her dream. Then, when she is suddenly confronted by a devastating tragedy at home, it is Dan, with a sad secret of his own, who helps her come to terms with her new situation..... ( )