Really good debut novel for adults. Haven’t read any before and this was a good one. Loved the story line and got involved with the characters, had to finish it, which I did in one sitting! Looking forward to getting back when the next book is out

I absolutely loved reading this book as it meant that I got to return to the wonderful village of Hope Meadows. If you haven't read the first book Summer at Hope Meadows by this wonderful author, then don't delay anymore, as you are missing out.

It was truly great to be reacquainted with all of the characters and the animals/pets from the first book again, loved them all. I kept thinking and hoping throughout the book, will Mandy and Jimmy overcome all of the hurdles that are thrown at them and finally get together, well I now know the answer but I'm not telling you.

Christmas at Mistletoe Cottage was a truly wonderful and captivating read, loved meeting all of the new animals, and seeing all of the antics that they get up to. What I really loved about this story, is that there were a few surprising elements/events within the book that brought a little action to the story, which I thought was great and certainly unexpected.

There was also a few emotional scenes, involving the adorable Jack, my heart was beating pretty fast during that scene. Also with Emily, whether she would be ok or not. Then near the end of the book with Dancer and Mary, definitely didn't see that scene coming. I'm not going to go into anymore detail than that as don't want to give anything away. You'll just have to read this book yourself.

I'm now ready for the 3rd book to this series, want to read it now, but I must be patient and wait for it to released.    Well at least I know that it'll be worth the wait.

This was without doubt NOT my usual reading........it felt more like a childrens book than an adult book and really did not enjoy it,quite patronising at times ( for adults ie the way animals and their care were talked about,like you would to a child)
I read with interest that the author is a collective name for a team who have written very successful childrens books.
There was a gay character whose partner had died of cancer and this was handled very well and sensitively.
I loved the cooking and baking that everyone seemed to do,no pre packed meals in this village!!!
It did evoke a feeling of Crimbo but sadly probably realistically Christmas from the 1970’s,as say not for me although can appreciate how some readers will absolutely love it

A lovely easy to read and heartwarming book - This is the 2nd book in the Hope Meadow series , I haven't read the first one so it can be a stand alone read however I think you would learn more about some of the characters having read the first book. The main character Mandy Hope is a vet and happy with her rescue centre and looking forward to Christmas - throughout the book she helps lots of different animals at her rescue centre.but one local resident starts to cause a bit of trouble and the village rally round. The book is all about kindness and is a lovely escapism for the festive season.

Combining Christmas with cute animals is always a winning combination for me and Christmas at Mistletoe Cottage contained both those things and so much more.

Firstly the finale was memorable, never had scenes like that before and I was enchanted by what was happening. I won't give you any clues but just hope if you read it, like me your eyes will be popping out at the scene.

In fact for a book that has a rather cute cover, has a little robin at the start of each chapter, its not just a warm and cosy story. There are times where I felt truly emotional, especially when referencing something from the first book in the series, some absolutely great action, plenty of moments that will have you saying awww, especially with Holly and Robin amongst some of the amazing animals, there are a hint of romance, and the mystery as to who seems to have it in for Hope Meadows.

I'm glad to say that the person I thought was causing most of the trouble throughout, really wasn't, and I hadn't really predicted who it was either, nor the reasoning although it did all make perfect sense once revealed.

This can easily be read as a standalone book, but is almost certainly more pleasurable to be read as the second book in the series. From the first few pages, I felt completely at home again at Animal Ark and Hope Meadows, and loved reading about the various animals in the rescue centre.

It may not be a book that screams Christmas at you from every single page, but what it is is a wonderful story, that is well written, had be reluctant to tear myself away from at any point, and generally one that I completely loved. I'm already looking forward to getting my hands on a copy of book 3 in this series, and at the same time wonder why on earth I never read Animal Ark as a child.

There was nothing predictable about this book, it kept me guessing and thinking, with plenty of action and its many assorted storylines.

Thank you so much to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Easy to read story, centred round a small village.
A love story and cute animals, what more does a book need!