Member Reviews
This is the sequel to Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow by the same author. Jessica Redland has kindly begun by presenting the reader with a ‘story so far’ summary, so that they may enjoy the present story even if they have not read the first part. As with the previous book, the action here takes place predominantly in the picturesque Yorkshire Wolds. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, and was looking forward to this sequel. It did not let me down; I found it a quick read as it kept me engrossed from beginning to end.
Once again, the central character is Samantha Wishaw, although her boyfriend, Josh, plays a major role in this story as well. Samantha’s hedgehog rescue centre is well established at Hedgehog Hollow farm, but she is finding it hard going with steady numbers of adult and baby hogs being brought in for her to look after as well as working full time and dealing with her troublesome family. Busy vet Josh is on hand to help when he can, but the strain is still telling on Samantha and she may be forced to make a decision to give something up. Samantha’s mother is still upsetting her with her strange attitude which Is so difficult for her to understand. Josh also has a troubled family history which is coming to a head. With all that’s going on in their lives, can they find time for each other and let their relationship progress?
This was another lovely story from Jessica Redland, filled with friendship, love and emotion. The author deals sensitively with some difficult topics. I can highly recommend the book to other readers, especially if, like me, you like hedgehogs and are concerned for their survival. There is a great deal of detail about the dangers for these little animals and how much care they require from rescue centres such as Samantha has set up in the book. I liked the way in which the narrative is presented, individual chapters telling the story from either Samantha’s or Josh’s perspective. As in the first book of the series, the characters are likeable in the main, although there is a group of nasty individuals lurking. I don’t know if there will be any more stories in this series, but I would love to follow Samantha and Josh and see how their relationships with each other and their families develop.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.
The cover was fabulous, just like the book.
This series just gets better with each book.
In this book Samantha has the Hedgehog rescue centre up and running, along with juggling a full time job. But there’s someone still out to destroy Hedgehog Hollow.
She and Josh are in love, and as the story progresses we find out more about Josh's family, the estranged relationship with his father Paul and why they’re not on speaking terms.
I love the way the chapters continued between Samantha and Josh and not forgetting the cute Hedgehogs.
A book that was so full of everything, drama, love, family and friendships.
I give it 🦔 🦔🦔🦔🦔
This was my first trip to Hedgehog Hollow but not my first Jessica Redland read. I enjoy her writing style and the way she packs so much into her stories. This was no exception.
The main focus is, of course, on Samantha and Josh. They have both been scarred by previous relationships, both familial as well as romantic.
The Hedgehog rescue supplies a whole host of supporting characters as new patients are brought for care and treatment. It was difficult to read the parts where not all rescued Hedgehogs survive, it’s true that not all rescues have a happy- ending but it was heart-breaking to read about.
At the heart of this story is the powerful connection between Josh and Samantha, their love for each other is unfaltering.
I enjoyed the strength of character shown by Josh’s Mum. Her ability to go from deep grief to then rise-up and forgive was inspirational. As her past became clearer, her fractured relationship and the sense of betrayal became understandable. Her ability to help Josh make his peace was quite joyous.
Samantha’s own complex relationship with her mother brought additional layers of heartache to the story and it was painful to read as she wrestled with the conflicts brought by her toxic relationship with her unloving mother.
Don’t let the above lead you to believe that this isn’t an enjoyable read, the truth is that the gritty elements added substance to what may otherwise have been sickly sweet. I hope that you follow my recommendation and see how love can overcome even the deepest of despair. Jessica Redland is quickly becoming one of my preferred authors.
This was a lovely follow on book to read. It picked up where the last one finished which was great and it looks like there will be another one after this, can’t wait!!!! I really enjoyed this “feels good” book, it had its ups and downs as with life in general and at times I felt the main character Sam had so much going wrong for her if made me sad. But, whether it turns out alright for her we will have to wait for book three. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Samantha has overcome much to survive and now she flourishes at Hedgerow Hollow.
She gives devoted care to hedgehogs and the baby hoglets with all of her heart. It's a new beginning,, however
family rifts and old friendships are hovering in the background.. The story shows the
complexities of contemporary relationships. Samantha is able to rise up and continue, showing remarkable
optimism and warmth. A feel-good tale to enjoy..
Yet another Jessica book that I loved. This is the second book in Hedgehog Hollow series but I dont feel like I missed out on anything thanks to the catch up chapter at the beginning.
The storyline was wonderful. The chapters are split between the two main characters Samantha and Josh and whilst both have painful pasts they are both committed to working together to build their future.
I loved learning about hedgehogs and their behaviours. It's a gorgeous story of forgiveness and family and is another loved Redland book under my belt.
If you have already read the first book in this series, then you know that Samantha is going to run a Hedgehog Sanctuary, and continue the dream of Gwendolen and Thomas. This second book begins on the official opening day of the sanctuary, although there are already a few prickly residents being looked after.
Samantha is not alone in this venture, she has the lovely Josh by her side. These two work well together and while this book sees them taking a step forward together in their relationship. But stepping forward is difficult when there are things that make you uncertain, that make you doubt yourself.
I adored the first book, it had a wonderful warmth to it, this second book continues that heartwarming theme, that also has some very anxious moments and definitely throws up more than a surp[rise or two. Things that have happened in the past for Josh and Samantha individually is still around, things do need sorting properly but they have to find the time, patience and courage. Everything happens in its own time.
I really enjoyed the way the backstories of these two characters still had more to share. It added a sense of intrigue to the story as well as filling in pieces that help to give more of an understanding to the characters.
As this is not just about people but also hedgehogs, there are some gorgeous little stories about some of those that need help. There are also some moments that make you frown and also get sad. I do like how the author has kept things realistic with the rescues, not every rescue is going to have a happy ending, but I have to say the way the book finished left me with a lump in my throat.
The author has once again given me a gorgeous book to read, filled with wonderful characters and has developed them further. I know there is still more to come and there are some other characters that have more to tell. I know I have focused on Samantha and Josh, and in some ways, this is very much their story, but there are also many other brilliant characters. After all, you can't run a sanctuary by yourself, can you?
A gorgeous story that if you really must read as a stand-alone would work, but you would be missing out on such a wonderful start to a series that should be read to get the full picture. Once again I came away from this book learning more about hedgehogs.
A stunning story, with fabulous characters and, is just a gorgeous book to settle down with. I adore this series and can't wait for the next book. I would definitely recommend it.
Although this is a sequel, a synopsis of the story so far and a list of characters and their relationships are given at the beginning of the book. This is a very easy story to fall into and follow. The characters are well presented with faults, determination and love in equal measures.
it was very interesting to learn more about hedgehogs as we are frequently visited by them and they are very inquisitive, sometimes getting into sticky situations.
A lovely read.
I am so delighted to have found a new favourite series.
Samantha was left the hedgehog sanctuary to set up in memory of her new found friend Thomas and his late wife. She's worked so hard and met some little characters. Her romance with Josh, after an initial frosty start is flourishing but there are some disturbing events at the rescue centre.
The difficult relationships between various characters is explored more with surprising developments. I love Sam's dad- he's such a loving dependable man, who tries to explain why her mum is so frosty.
The little hedgehogs are stars in their own right and lead to new characters being introduced , who will hopefully feature in new books in the series. I am eagerly awaiting the next book .
In the previous book, Samantha inherited the farm at Hedgehog Hollow, along with funds to establish it as a hedgehog rescue center. Her veterinarian boyfriend, Josh, is a major support, and although not officially moved in yet, is in fact spending most nights at Hedgehog Hollow. Samantha is enjoying her new work, and in many ways, things are going very well.
Unfortunately, the rescue center also has enemies, and Samantha is, at the start of this book, just recovered from serious injuries received when she was rescuing some of her first hedgehog patients when those enemies torched the barn they were housed in. Also, while the rescue center is quickly becoming a full-time job, she's also still working full-time as a teacher and tutor at the local college. Even if she were completely recovered from her previous injuries, two full-time jobs would be too much.
The story is told in Samantha's voice and Josh's, in alternating chapters, giving us insight into both main characters, and the past traumas and current strains of their personal and familial pasts.
Josh's previously very close relationship with his father, Paul, also a veterinarian, has been devastated by Paul having a secret affair with Beth, whom Josh thought was his girlfriend, due to Beth acting very much like his girlfriend. This happened while Paul was still married to Josh's mom, Connie, and the whole deception only came crashing down when Beth became pregnant by Paul. Josh is now not speaking to, or accepting any contact at all with, Beth and Paul, and completely supportive of his mother.
Samantha has a good relationship with her father, Jonathan--who is also divorced from her mother, who has been emotionally abusive to Samantha all her life. Samantha assumes the problem is herself, which is not an uncommon reaction.
In the alternating chapters, we follow the ongoing struggles of the two main characters with their respective broken families, and more of the underlying background as Josh and Samantha learn it. This of course affects their understanding, and response to, what they knew, and what they thought they knew, before. These are complicated and painful family relationships, realistically portrayed.
What's a little unusual about Samantha and Josh is that they have good communication skills with each other, and don't stop communicating no matter how stressed they get.
Both our main characters have lessons to learn and difficult decisions to make, but they have solid values and a solid relationship, and the adorable hedgehogs, whether injured, ill, or little hoglets whose momma has been killed, are always there, offering delightful leavening.
It's a good, interesting, satisfying story.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher via NetGalley, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
The second instalment in the Hedgehog Hollow series and it was wonderful being back on the farm with Samantha and Josh and the hedgehogs. The storyline flows effortlessly between the two POVs of Samantha and Josh as we learn more about the two of them and their families. Drama, family relationships and love are intertwined with the hedgehog rescue in this brilliant, charming story. I can’t wait to read the next instalment to find out what happens next.
I enjoyed this book, but it was a bit confusing at times because I didn’t read the first book in the series. I like Jessica Redland’s writing style a lot and have read 7 other books by her. I am going to give this book a 5 star rating because it isn’t the author’s fault that I didn’t read the first book.
New Arrivals at Hedgehog Hollow - Jessica Redland
This is the second instalment in the series and unfortunately I feel that this effects my review as I have not read the first one, you can definitely read it as a one off - but for me I would have liked to have had the back story first (my own fault). I enjoy the authors writing style and will look for more from her in the future. I also enjoyed how the story is told alternatively from Sam and Josh's perspectives, as this gave it a faster reading approach.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Publishers for the chance to read and review this book
I'd already read the first book about Hedgehog Hollow and loved it. The rescue centre is now open and Samantha is delighted but finding it hard with all the new arrivals that keep coming and a full time job as well. She has the love of her life Josh who has his own problems to sort out.
Aww it is wonderful to be back with Sam and her wonderful Hedgehog Sanctuary!
We follow her as she struggles to juggle her career and caring for the lost and injured hedgehogs whilst also trying to be supportive over her boyfriend and his estranged father.
I really immersed myself in this wonderfully written book, both heartwarming and emotional as we live through the highs and lows. I found myself with a tear in my eye on more than one occasion.
This is turning out to be a lovely series with some unexpected twists that really add to the storyline.
Really pleased to hear that book 3 is being written!
Really enjoyed this installment. The setting is lovely and the author didn’t focus so much on the nasty Chloe. Though the ending here isn’t boding well for me to read the next book as Chloe annoys me too much. It’s nice to have some sort of explanation as to why Sams mother is so nasty but I’m not sure as a whole that it’s forgivable.
Connie is a better woman than me. I am now striving to be more like Connie and Fizz in my daily life. Where I live there aren’t really hedgehogs, and now I wish there were.
TW: rape, animal cruelty, parent with cancer, discussion of miscarriage , mention & discussions of emotional abuse, mention of cheating, attempt of suicide,
After loving the first book within the series - I was beyond excited when I found this was due to be released! I loved it as much as I did the first one & cannot wait to see if we get another instalment within the series.
I thought enjoyed everything about the book, the writing, characters & the dynamics between them (especially Sam & Josh). I especially loved the fact Sams mother & her cousin barley make appearances as they make my blood boil!. But the whole aspect of the hedgehog rehabilitation warmed my heart it was so cute and I really nice concept as a story.
I highly recommend this book but definitely read the first book first as this carries on with the relationship issues between Sam’s mum and cousin and wouldn’t make sense without the backstory & also the story of Sam & Josh’s relationship is also continued. A word of warning with the topics discussed within the book to as it can be dark within places - don’t let the gorgeous cover fool you.
Thank you #NetGalley #BoldWoodBooks @BoldWoodBooks for my complimentary copy of #NewArrivalsAtHedgehogHollow by Jessica Redland at my request. All opinions are my own.
New Arrivals at Hedgehog Hollow is book #2 in the Hedgehog Hollow series. It can be read as a stand-alone but will be a richer reading experience if you’ve read Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow first.
Samantha is the founder and owner of the Hedgehog Hollow Rescue Center. Although she has the support of her boyfriend, Josh, and her father, Samantha is overwhelmed with hedgehog arrivals, working full time, vandalism, and family issues. Samantha and Josh work hard at figuring it all out and growing their new relationship.
I love having a series to look forward to! This is book #2 and it’s fun to return to a setting you love and characters you know. New Arrivals can be read as a stand-alone, however, it will be richer having read Finding Love first. Book #3 will be published in 2021!
What I love about the series:
* Lovely small, rural community setting
* Likable main characters
* Women’s fiction with some substantial themes
* Romance is an element but doesn’t overshadow Samantha’s journey of self-discovery
* Learning about hedgehog rescue
* Family drama
What I especially loved about New Arrivals:
* Hedgehog rescue education
* Substantial themes of friendship, reconciliation, kindness, and forgiveness
* Samantha and Josh have good communication skills (refreshing!)
* Caring and supportive community
* The author held a hedgehog naming contest for fans and used the winning hedgehog name in the story
Despite some heavy themes and family drama, the enjoyable and engaging Hedgehog series is heartwarming in tone. I recommend the series for those looking for lighter women’s fiction that doesn’t sacrifice thoughtful themes; for readers desiring a page-turning vacation read; for fans interested in animal rescue themes; and for book clubs.
After reading and loving Finding Love at Hedgehog Hollow, I couldn't wait to revisit. Samantha is the owner of Hedgehog Hollow where she rescues hedgehogs, I never knew until reading these books how much work goes into owning a rescue centre and keeping on top of everything, I really admire Samantha and all that she does for the hedgehogs. Samantha has alot going on not only running the place but also she has a full time job, a boyfriend and somebody seems out to make her life a misery. Can she find out who it is and also can she find out a way to make things work? I loved reading about the hoglets, so cute, I was willing for them to survive. A handy tip is that at the back of this book is also tips on how to look after hedgehogs if they are in your garden. I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one.
I really enjoyed this story!
It was a cute story that had lots of feelings and truths in it and some really well developed, and likeable characters. Their mission was commendable and I loved following them.
The plot was a little slow in places but it was still a really enjoyable, and heartwarming story. I loved the setting and that author really brought the book to life - she has a lovely natural writing style.
It is 4 stars from me for this one - highly recommended!