Penny Parkes' first novel, Out of Practice, won the RNA's Romantic Comedy of the Year Award in 2017 and now she is back with the third book in this delightful series, Best Practice. Penny stopped by the blog earlier this week to share with us how a writing day looks for her (read it here) and today I am sharing my thoughts:

Title: Best Practice

Author: Penny Parkes

Published: June 28th 2018 by Simon & Schuster

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: Love and laughter with the residents of Larkford is exactly what the doctor ordered!

Dr Alice Walker has become accomplished at presenting a façade to the world – to anyone watching, she is the epitome of style, composure and professionalism. But perhaps it was to be expected that the cracks might begin to show at some point. Thankfully Grace is on hand to offer both friendship and support when it’s needed most.

Meanwhile, Dr Holly Graham has her hands full both professionally and personally. Planning a wedding with Taffy Jones is challenging enough, even before some surprising news changes everything. At least beloved Larkford resident, Elsie, still has a few tricks left up her sleeve!

Dr Dan Carter, on the other hand, has decided to throw himself into his career – the best antidote he’s found to unrequited love. When tragedy strikes in the heart of Larkford, Dan makes it his mission to help the community.

Review: And we are back in Larkford with my favourite doctors! I really enjoyed the first two books in this series and was really looking forward to catching up with Holly and all the gang, especially after one of the main character, TV star doctor Julia, left the practice at the end of the previous book. 

As in the previous books, Best Practice, is packed with drama. It starts already with a village fête gone wrong and a little girl fighting for her life and from there, things keep happening non-stop. Penny Parkes definitely have some shocking surprises in store for us! Also, in this story we get to know a lot more about Alice, the newest member of the practice team and she turns out to be a very interesting character. I really enjoyed learning about her past and how it has affected her current life.

As usual though, the star of the show is Elsie. I think I should re-read all the books and note down all her pieces of life advice. She is a very wise woman with a huge heart. I love her bantering with Holly and how she always gets away with everything she wants. 

Another highlight of the story are the more romantic storylines. I was really happy how these turned out and might have shade a tear or two during some of the more emotional scenes. 

Once again, Penny Parkes has created a delightful story. I consider these characters good friends by now and I cannot wait for the next installment to see how they are doing after the latest events. If you haven't discovered Larkford yet, you are missing out!

Rating: 4 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.

Today is my stop on the blog tour for Penny Parkes' new book, the delightful Best Practice. This is the third book in the Larkford Series, which I love, so I am over the moon to welcome Penny for a guest post on her writing day:

My Writing Day – Penny Parkes 

It isn’t really until you sit down to write a feature like this that you realise how much has changed over the course of the last four years in how I approach my writing – no more waiting to be in the ‘right mood’, or the perfect spot, or with just the right amount of bounce in my stride to make the words sing on the page yet keep my bum firmly on my seat…

My first summer as an author was spent largely sitting on the floor between the washing machine and the dishwasher, trying to find an undisturbed spot – my children have an innate aversion to anything dishwasher-related so I knew I would be safe there… And in term time, I would monopolise the dining table with my post-its, plot planning and chapters. It wasn’t until after my second book was published that I finally fulfilled every writer’s dream – a room of my very own.

And so these days I save my desk for the business of writing and the little two-seater sofa for the words – The Ginger Ninja beside me.

I have also made a concerted effort to be more flexible about where I write – trains, hotel rooms, coffee shops and my car are all fair game now. Maybe not for the larger, fleshier scenes – but for notes of inspiration, for my Notes From The Cotswolds column and for posts like this, where a little company is a bonus.

Just these small changes have dramatically changed how I write. But still, somehow, not when I write.

I am not an early bird.

Never have been.

And so, once the kids have left for school, it has become my habit to ‘start the day all over again.’ Fresh coffee, a grazing plate for breakfast, Twitter on my phone and whichever proof I’m reading at the time for company. I probably don’t go near my writing room much before 9.30 – long after other writing friends are finished for the day. In fact, quite often, The Ninja will be one step ahead of me, settling into her spot as a rather pointed nudge that I should follow suit.

And that’s really where all plans are made to be changed: if the words are flowing and the plotlines juicy and plump, I may forget to look up until the alarm on my phone reminds me it's school run time; if it’s like wading through treacle, I will still keep going – often that not-so-simple commitment to persevere can be enough to blow the cobwebs away… And then of course, you always get the best idea moments before you absolutely, positively have to stop…

But it is my firmly held belief that one cannot write, or create, in isolation. Nor constantly staring at a screen.

Mind-in-neutral at times is vital – whether driving, swimming, or walking The Ninja – it’s when those tricky plot points align themselves and your brain delivers them fully formed like a proud toddler.

Likewise, a community of writing and publishing mates is a Godsend. They understand when you drop off the radar for weeks at a time, completely absorbed in your current project, then pop up like a meerkat wanting an outing in between.

Indeed the “writing life” can often give just as much pleasure as the actual writing. Although I have to tell you, I do not miss sitting on the floor with my whites whizzing round at 60°!

Blurb: Love and laughter with the residents of Larkford is exactly what the doctor ordered!

Dr Alice Walker has become accomplished at presenting a façade to the world – to anyone watching, she is the epitome of style, composure and professionalism. But perhaps it was to be expected that the cracks might begin to show at some point. Thankfully Grace is on hand to offer both friendship and support when it’s needed most.

Meanwhile, Dr Holly Graham has her hands full both professionally and personally. Planning a wedding with Taffy Jones is challenging enough, even before some surprising news changes everything. At least beloved Larkford resident, Elsie, still has a few tricks left up her sleeve!

Dr Dan Carter, on the other hand, has decided to throw himself into his career – the best antidote he’s found to unrequited love. When tragedy strikes in the heart of Larkford, Dan makes it his mission to help the community.

May has come and gone way too fast. I was very busy at work and then we had a couple of long weekends away (I completely fell in love with Slovenia), so I didn't have as much time for reading and blogging as I would have liked. But hopefully June will be a more quiet month and I'll have many hours in the sun to read these amazing stories:

Days of Wonder by Keith Stuart - June 7th

Magical, heartbreaking, beautiful - Days of Wonder reminds us that stories have the power to save lives.

Tom, single father to Hannah, is the manager of a tiny local theatre. On the same day each year, he and its colourful cast of part-time actors have staged a fantastical production just for his little girl, a moment of magic to make her childhood unforgettable.

But there is another reason behind these annual shows: the very first production followed Hannah's diagnosis with a heart condition that both of them know will end her life early. And now, with Hannah a funny, tough girl of fifteen on the brink of adulthood, that time is coming.

With the theatre under threat of closure, Hannah and Tom have more than one fight on their hands to stop the stories ending. But maybe, just maybe, one final day of magic might just save them both.

A tale about growing up, the beauty of a special bond between father and daughter, and finding magic in everyday life, Days of Wonder is the most moving novel you'll read all year.

Why so excited: I've already read this one and wow! Days of Wonder is a stunning story. It's an ode to theater and fairytales. To the magic of stories and how they inspire people and change lives, definitely a highly recommended read.

Order it now!

The Man Who Didn't Call by Rosie Welch - June 14th

The "OMG" romance of the year, The Man Who Didn't Call by Rosie Walsh is a heart-wrenching love story with a dark secret at its heart, for anyone who's waited for a phone call that didn't come.

Imagine you meet a man, spend seven glorious days together, and fall in love. And it’s mutual: you’ve never been so certain of anything.

So when he leaves for a long-booked holiday and promises to call from the airport, you have no cause to doubt him.

But he doesn’t call.

Your friends tell you to forget him, but you know they're wrong: something must have happened; there must be a reason for his silence.

What do you do when you finally discover you're right? That there is a reason – and that reason is the one thing you didn't share with each other?

The truth.

Why so excited: A truly stunning story that I am planning to re-read very soon. It broke my heart but it also healed it. This story is going to be huge, and trust me, you don't want to miss it. Read my full review here.

Order it now!

One in a Million by Lindsey Kelk - June 14th

Everyone wants that special someone….

Annie Higgins has given up on love: she’s too busy trying to get her own business off the ground. Infuriated by the advertising agency across the hall making fun of her job, Annie accepts their crazy challenge – to make a random stranger Instagram-famous in just 30 days.

And even when they choose Dr Samuel Page PhD, historian and hater of social media, as her target, Annie’s determined to win the bet – whether Sam likes it or not.

But getting to know Sam means getting to know more about herself. And before the 30 days are out, Annie has to make a decision about what’s really important…

Funny, real and heart-meltingly romantic, Annie and Sam’s story is My Fair Lady for the social media age – and the perfect summer read.

Why so excited: Lindsay Kelk is one of my favorite authors, and after catching up with Angela and the gang in her latest book, I am very excited to meet a brand new cast of characters in this story. It sounds like a lot fun, the perfect antidote to a stressful day!

Order it now!

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by Miranda Dickinson - June 14th

Can you fall in love with someone before you’ve even met?

Seren MacArthur is living a life she never intended. Trying to save the Cornish seaside business her late father built – while grieving for his loss – she has put her own dreams on hold and is struggling. Until she discovers a half-finished seaglass star on her favourite beach during an early morning walk. When she completes the star, she sets into motion a chain of events that will steal her heart and challenge everything she believes.

Jack Dixon is trying to secure a better life for daughter Nessie and himself. Left a widower and homeless when his wife died, he’s just about keeping their heads above water. Finding seaglass stars completed on Gwithian beach is a bright spark that slowly rekindles his hope.

Seren and Jack are searching for their missing pieces. But when they meet in real life, it’s on the opposing sides of a battle. Jack is managing the redevelopment of a local landmark, and Seren is leading the community campaign to save it.

Both have reason to fight – Seren for the cause her father believed in, Jack for his livelihood. But only one can win. With so much at stake, will they ever find what they are really looking for?

Miranda Dickinson's Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a sparkling tale of love, life and finding magic where you least expect it.

Why so excited: Miranda Dickinson is the queen of feel good novels and sparkly stories, and I cannot wait to discover her latest one. She always puts so much heart in her books that they usually steal my heart. I am pretty sure Somewhere Beyond the Sea will be no different

Order it now!

How Do You Like Me Now? by Holly Bourne - June 14th

'Turning thirty is like playing musical chairs. The music stops, and everyone just marries whoever they happen to be sitting on.'

Who the f*ck is Tori Bailey?

There's no doubt that Tori is winning the game of life. She's inspired millions of women to stick two fingers up at convention with her bestselling memoir, and she has the perfect relationship to boot.

But Tori Bailey has been living a lie.

Everyone around her is getting married and having babies, but her long-term boyfriend won't even talk about getting engaged. And when her best friend Dee - her plus one, the only person who understands the madness - falls in love, suddenly Tori's in terrifying danger of being left behind.

When the world tells you to be one thing and turning thirty brings with it a loud ticking clock, it takes courage to walk your own path.

It's time for Tori to practice what she's preached, but the question is: is she brave enough?

The debut adult novel by bestselling author Holly Bourne is a blisteringly funny, honest and moving exploration of love, friendship and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of your thirties.

Why so excited: I only discovered Holly Bourne's YA books earlier this year, but I absolutely love them. I wish I could have read her stories, full of feminism discussions and great friendships, when I was a teenager. And in this story, the main character is turning thirty, just as me! Perfect timing or what?

Order it now!

Missing Pieces by Laura Pearson - June 21st

What if the one thing that kept you together was breaking you apart?

All Linda wants to do is sleep. She won’t look at her husband. She can’t stand her daughter. And she doesn’t want to have this baby. Having this baby means moving on, and she just wants to go back to before. Before their family was torn apart, before the blame was placed.

Alienated by their own guilt and struggling to cope, the Sadler family unravels. They grow up, grow apart, never talking about their terrible secret.

That is until Linda’s daughter finds out she’s pregnant. Before she brings another Sadler into the world, Bea needs to know what happened twenty-five years ago. What did they keep from her? What happened that couldn’t be fixed?

A devastating mistake, a lifetime of consequences. How can you repair something broken if pieces are missing?

Why so excited: I received an advance copy of this story a few weeks ago. It came with a lovely care package that included tissues. I'll admit that while reading this story I did need them! Heart-breaking story. I'll be sharing my review during the Blog Tour later this month.

Order it now!

Best Practice by Penny Parkes - June 28th

Dr Alice Walker has become accomplished at presenting a façade to the world – to anyone watching, she is the epitome of style, composure and professionalism. But perhaps it was to be expected that the cracks might begin to show at some point. Thankfully Grace is on hand to offer both friendship and support when it’s needed most.

Meanwhile, Dr Holly Graham has her hands full both professionally and personally. Planning a wedding with Taffy Jones is challenging enough, even before some surprising news changes everything. At least beloved Larkford resident, Elsie, still has a few tricks left up her sleeve!

Dr Dan Carter, on the other hand, has decided to throw himself into his career – the best antidote he’s found to unrequited love. When tragedy strikes in the heart of Larkford, Dan makes it his mission to help the community.

Why so excited: although this story was published in hardback earlier this year, I haven't had the chance to read it yet. So now that the paperback is coming, I really want to catch up with my favorite fictional medical practice!

Order it now!

Letters to my Daughters by Emma Hannigan - June 28th

Some books are guaranteed to break your heart - and put it back together again. Letters to my Daughters is one of those wonderful books. From the inspirational, beloved Emma Hannigan.

Throughout their lives, the three Brady sisters have always been closer to their nanny May than to their own mother, Martha a busy midwife. May always thought of them as her daughters so when she dies suddenly, the sisters are left devastated -- especially when they learn that letters intended for them from May with final words of advice and love have gone missing.

But what words of advice could the sisters need?

Beatrice, owner of exclusive wedding boutiques, is busy and fulfilled. Rose has a beautiful daughter, a luxurious home and a thriving interiors company. And Jeannie, married to a wealthy plastic surgeon in L.A., wants for nothing.

Except that each of the sisters carries a secret ...

As they gather for the reading of May's will in Dublin, they must face some life-changing decisions. Will they ever learn the words of advice May had for them and discover who took the letters?

Letters to my Daughters is the spellbinding story about the complicated bonds between women -- daughters, mothers, sisters -- and how love and happiness comes in many guises.

Why so excited: Irish author Emma Hannigan sadly lost her battle to cancer earlier this year and it was really touching to see so many authors supporting her latest book. As author Anna McPartlin wrote on Twitter: “Emma can’t promote her work herself so please join us. Buy it. Read it. Promote it”. 

Order it now!

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Spring Blogger Evening, organised by Books and the City. I'd attended a couple of their events so I knew it is always a great opportunity to hear about new books, chat with authors and bloggers and of course, eat all the cupcakes, but what made this event so special was the panel of authors. There were 10 authors invited! It was amazing to hear really well-known authors talk about their new books but also discover new talents and their debuts. 

The first thing that caught my attention when I first arrived at the brand new offices of Simon & Schuster were the beautiful cupcakes. Restoration Cakes had designed a cupcake for each book and they really looked like a work or art. 

The event was chaired by editor Jo Dickinson and she had the most interesting questions for our authors. Here's a little information in each of the 10 books presented:

Random Acts of Kindness - Part 3: Crossroads by Victoria Walters 

Victoria Walkers' new book is a serialised enovel and Crossroads (the third installment) is out on April 2nd. This story is all about kindness and during her turn, Victoria shared with us how she felt when she herself experienced a random act of kindness from a stranger. It sounds like a lovely read and I am looking forward to discover more about this story. If you are curious too, you can get Part 1 for free here. 

Our House by Louise Candlish 

I've already read and reviewed this one and it left me completely speechless. What a clever and unique story (you can read my review here). It was a real treat to hear Louise talking about it. She basically wanted to write a story about a new crime, not what you usually find in books, and was inspired by an article about a house theft involving mafias. According to her, if you follow the book step by step, you can steal a house for yourself! Our House is out on April 5th and I highly recommend you get a copy of it. 

The Sunday Lunch Club by Juliet Asthon

Next, it was the turn of Juliet Ashton. I got an early review copy of her latest, The Sunday Lunch Club, and devoured it immediately. It was such a warm and funny story and I'm over the moon that they are quoting me on the final book. Juliet talked about the Piper family, the stars of the story, and their love for bickering. And the short extract she read had everyone laughing. An extraordinary story about ordinary story, The Sunday Lunch Club is out on April 19th.

You Me Everything by Catherine Isaac

Catherine Isaac might look familiar to rom-com fans, as she is also the best-selling author Jane Costello (a firm favorite of mine). Catherine talked about her new story and how the more serious and deep tone of it called for a brand new name. She also stressed that You Me Everything is not a story about an illness but a story about love, all kinds of love. I've read this one already and I can tell you that this is, indeed, a very special story, out April 19th.

Starry Skies at Castle Court by Holly Hepburn 

Starry Skies is Part 4 of Holly Hepburn's latest serialized enovel. I haven't read this one yet, but I loved Holly's previous books so it was great to learn a bit more about Castle Court. Holly talked about the research she did for this story: the main characters open a biscuit shop so she made, iced and ate biscuits herself (what hard work researching is!). Also, while writing this story Holly had in mind Kingly Court, in Carnaby Street, so I decided to go there to discover this location the following day. Following Holly's recommendation, I had some chicken and waffles in Dirty Bones, delicious! Now I cannot wait to discover Castle Court. Part 4 is out on May 1st. 

Five Years From Now by Paige Toon

I love Paige Toon's stories, so for me, hearing her talk about her new one was a highlight of the night. Five Years From Now was inspired by en event in her own life, when something went quite wrong and her dad told her that five years from then she'd look back and understand why that happened, and she did! The story follows a couple and their encounters every five years and it sounds amazing. It's out on May 17th. 

Sunshine and Sweet Peas in Nightingale Square by Heidi Swain

During her turn, Heidi talked about her inspiring story. She had always wanted to write but had never really gone for it. But when she finally decided to do so, she entered the one day submission Digital Original scheme organized by Books and the City. And 3 years later, here she is about to publish her 6th book! Sunshine and Sweet Peas in Nightingale Square sounds like a delightful story and it is out on May 31st.

Best Practice by Penny Parkes

Best Practice is the third book the Larkford series. I've loved the previous two books set in this lovely village, with the practice in its centre, and I am really looking forward to catching up with these characters and meeting the new ones. So I had so much fun listening to Penny talk about them! She sometimes forgets that they are not real and was shocked to discover that Elsie's house was being sold. Best Practice is out now in Hardback and will be released in paperback on June 28th. 

The Temptation of Gracie by Santa Montefiore 

I haven't read any books by Santa Montefiore yet, but I have heard great things about her stories. The Temptation of Gracie is her first novel after her latest series and it's set in beautiful Tuscany. Hearing her talk about the castle and the stunning area, I could already picture it in my head, so I cannot wait to be transported there! The Temptations of Gracie is out this summer on July 12th.

The Truths and Triumphs of Grace Atherton by Anstey Harris

And last but not least, it was Anstey Harris' turn. Hers was the only name I didn't recognize when I got the invite, so I was curious to find out more about her and her novel. She was actually not allowed to share a lot about her debut but what she shared had me really excited. Her story has music at its core, so imagine her surprise when she first sat to write and through her window she saw her neighbor playing the cello! The Truths and Triumphs of Grace Atherton isn't out until January next year, but I would definitely recommend pre-ordering it! 

What a panel, right? I am looking forward to discover this amazing stories!

Afterwards, we still had time to keep eating some more cupcakes, chat with the authors and get our booklets signed. All in all, it was a lovely bookish evening and as usual, I was left wishing I lived in London to be able to attend more events like this. But, thanks to SJV, I flew back home with a suitcase full of goodies. Thanks so much to Books and the City for yet another amazing event.

February is going to be quite an eventful month for me as we are moving to a new place in the next few days. All my books are in boxes already and I don't know when I will be able to "rescue" them as I'm planning to get bigger bookshelves for the new place. BUT! February is here with lots of new titles I want to read and I wanted to share them with you:

Surprise Me by Sophie Kinsella - February 8th

NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING AUTHOR Sophie Kinsella's emotionally charged, witty new standalone novel about love and long-term relationship survival - and how those we think we know best can sometimes surprise us the most . . .

After being together for ten years, Sylvie and Dan have a comfortable home, fulfilling jobs, beautiful twin girls, and communicate so seamlessly, they finish each other's sentences. They have a happy marriage and believe they know everything there is to know about each other. Until it's casually mentioned to them that they could be together for another sixty-eight years... and panic sets in.

They quickly decide to create little surprises for each other, to keep their relationship fresh and fun. But in their pursuit of Project Surprise Me - anything from unexpected gifts to restaurant dates to photo shoots - mishaps arise with disastrous and comical results. 

Gradually, the surprises turn to shocking discoveries. And when a scandal from the past is uncovered, they begin to wonder if they ever really knew each other after all...

Why so excited: A new Sophie Kinsella book is always a highlight in my bookish world. She is one of my auto-buy authors and I absolutely love her latest, My Not So Perfect Life. So I have great expectations for this one!

Order it now!

Sunflowers in February by Phyllida Shrimpton - February 8th

This funny yet heartbreaking novel movingly explores what happens when Lily dies in a car accident. The trouble is, Lily is really not sure at all if she wants to 'move on' . . . For fans of John Green and The Lovely Bones

Lily wakes up one crisp Sunday morning on the side of the road. 

She has no idea how she got there. It is all very peaceful. And very beautiful. It is only when the police car, and then the ambulance, arrive and she sees her own body that she realises that she is in fact... dead. 

But what is she supposed do now? 

Lily has no option but to follow her body and sees her family - her parents and her twin brother - start falling apart. And then her twin brother Ben gives her a once in a deathtime opportunity - to use his own body for a while. But will Lily give Ben his body back? She is beginning to have a rather good time . . .

A moving, startlingly funny yet achingly sad debut novel from a stunning new talent.

Why so excited: I love discovering new author and this debut sounds like my kind story. I think the concept sounds very intriguing and I'm sure this will touch many hearts. 

Order it now!

Best Practice by Penny Parkes - February 22nd

THE BRAND NEW BESTSELLER FROM THE AUTHOR OF OUT OF PRACTICE

Love and laughter with the residents of Larkford is exactly what the doctor ordered!

Dr Alice Walker has become accomplished at presenting a façade to the world – to anyone watching, she is the epitome of style, composure and professionalism. But perhaps it was to be expected that the cracks might begin to show at some point. Thankfully Grace is on hand to offer both friendship and support when it’s needed most.

Meanwhile, Dr Holly Graham has her hands full both professionally and personally. Planning a wedding with Taffy Jones is challenging enough, even before some surprising news changes everything. At least beloved Larkford resident, Elsie, still has a few tricks left up her sleeve!

Dr Dan Carter, on the other hand, has decided to throw himself into his career – the best antidote he’s found to unrequited love. When tragedy strikes in the heart of Larkford, Dan makes it his mission to help the community.

Why so excited: And we are back in Larkford! I've loved the previous two books set in this lovely village, with the practice in its centre and I am really looking forward to catching up with this characters, especially with a wedding in the horizon! 

Order it now!

Villa of Secrets by Patricia Wilson - February 22nd

If you love The Island and Cartes Postales from Greece by Victoria Hislop, you will love this perfect summer read from the author of Island of Secrets.

Rebecca Neumanner has spent years trying to conceive a child. Her fragile marriage is on the brink of collapse, and her desire to become a mother is becoming an obsession. Then she receives news from her estranged family in Rhodes, and Rebecca's world is turned upside down.

Drawn to the beautiful island of her birth, she finds herself looking at the elderly lady in front of her and realising how little she knows of the grandmother she's eluded for over a decade. A freedom fighter in the Second World War, her Bubba harbours secrets that she has intended to take to the grave. But those secrets affect everyone, and perhaps they are not hers to keep. With Rebecca's arrival, the time has come to tell the truth...

Why so excited: how intriguing does this story sound? I cannot wait to discover all the secrets that await us in the beautiful island of Rhodes. Plus, for my stop in the Blog Tour, Patricia Wilson will stop by and answer all my bookish questions! 

Order it now!

The Perfectly Imperfect Woman by Milly Johnson - February 22nd

The brand new novel from the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Queen of Wishful Thinking - a gorgeous read full of love, life and laughter.

Marnie Salt has made so many mistakes in her life that she fears she will never get on the right track. But when she ‘meets’ an old lady on a baking chatroom and begins confiding in her, little does she know how her life will change.

Arranging to see each other for lunch, Marnie discovers that Lilian is every bit as mad and delightful as she’d hoped – and that she owns a whole village in the Yorkshire Dales, which has been passed down through generations. And when Marnie needs a refuge after a crisis, she ups sticks and heads for Wychwell – a temporary measure, so she thinks.

But soon Marnie finds that Wychwell has claimed her as its own and she is duty bound not to leave. Even if what she has to do makes her as unpopular as a force 12 gale in a confetti factory! But everyone has imperfections, as Marnie comes to realise, and that is not such a bad thing – after all, your flaws are perfect for the heart that is meant to love you.

The Perfectly Imperfect Woman is the heart-warming and hilarious new novel from the queen of feel-good fiction – a novel of family, secrets, love and redemption … and broken hearts mended and made all the stronger for it. 

Why so excited: I haven't read a Milly Johnson book for far too long and it's about time to change that. Her books always make you feel better with yourself and the world and this is exactly what we need now!

Order it now!

The Year that Changed Everything by Cathy Kelly (22/2)

Treat yourself to the wonderfully life-affirming new novel from Number 1 bestselling author Cathy Kelly

Three women celebrate their birthdays... 30. 40. 50. But their milestone birthdays mark the start of a year that will change everything...

Ginger isn't spending her 30th the way she would have planned. Tonight might be the first night of the rest of her life - or a total disaster.

Sam is finally pregnant after years of trying. When her waters break on the morning of her 40th birthday, she panics: forget labour, how is she going to be a mother?

Callie is celebrating her 50th at a big party in her Dublin home. Then a knock at the door mid-party turns her perfect life upside down...

Full of warmth and wisdom, this is a story about finding happiness on your own terms from international bestseller Cathy Kelly.

Why so excited: Surprisingly, I haven't read any books by Cathy Kelly yet but I have heard great things about them. This one caught my attention because this year I am turning 30 myself and I also feel like it could be the year that changes everything.

Order it now!

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish. This feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over there at The Broke and the Bookish. And who doesn't love a good list?

I haven't done a Top Ten Tuesday for a while but I think this week’s topic is really interesting. So I wanted to join again. Do you ever read a book and wish you could step in and enjoy a coffee in the café from the book? I do all the time! So I've picked the ten fictional places or business I would love to step in the most!

The Comfort Food Café - Comfort Food Café Series by Debbie Johnson

I fell completely in love with this cafe and its lively community with the first book and with every new addition to the series, my love for this place only grows. Its lovely if not a bit crazy owner has created a heaven for all its regulars and they all have their own specials. A real sense of community.

The Palace Cinema - The Picture House by the Sea by Holly Hepburn

Polwhipple is this small village in Cornall, where everyone knows about everything going on but also where everybody is ready to help. I had lost a bit of its sparkle, until Gina arrived and revived the old cinema house, The Palace. She organises the most amazing and fun screening, in which people dress up and there are cocktail and ice-creams specially created for the movies showing. Wouldn't you want to go there?

The Practice at Larkford - Out of Practice and Practice Makes Perfect by Penny Parkes

I usually associate going to the doctor with bad news but I think that if I could go to the practice in Larkford, it would definitely make my doctor visits way more interesting. With sexy doctors, lovely pets, a local celebrity and a TV crew, this practice is the best place to socialise! Plus, the doctors are so caring and you can tell that they love their jobs. 

Moonlight Hotel - Summer Nights at the Moonlight Hotel by Jane Costello

The Moonlight Hotel sits on the shore of England’s best-loved lake, Windermere, exuding vintage glamour. How amazing sounds this? I loved the setting for this lovely story and I would definitely love to stay in this hotel. I would also love to learn some Salsa. 

Glamping Site - My Not So Perfect Life by Sophie Kinsella

In this heart-lifting and inspiring story, main character Caz leaves a not so perfect life in London behind to help her dad open a glamping site. The ideas she comes up with are amazing and I would love to be able to disconnect there for a few days and enjoy nature. But maybe not join the courses she creates for her old boss... 

Juniper Island - A Town Called Christmas Series by Holly Martin

This series has the perfect setting. I think I had never wished a fictional place was real so much (except for Hogwarts). Juniper island sounds just magical and I want to move there indefinitely. It's supposed to be part of the Shetland Islands and the northernmost point of the British Isles. It is also a prime location to spot the northern lights or merrie dancers, as the locals call them. And Gabe Whitaker has built an amazing winter resort with cabins, glass igloos and even a glass palace. Oh and reindeer! How cool is that?

Culinary School - The Plumberry School of Comfort Food by Cathy Bramley

I've read quite a lot of foody novels in which the story is set in a bakery or a tea shop and even if I usually enjoy these settings, sometimes I feel like I am reading the same story again and again. So I was greatly surprised to discover a very original setting for this one: a culinary school, with lots of fun course I'd love to attend, competitions and events. 

The Canal Boat Café by Cressida McLaughlin

I loved the setting for this story: a canal boat. I've always been fascinated by these boats and every time I've seen one you can visit (on a tour or because it's a café or a shop) I haven't been able to resist having a look inside. So reading about The Canal Boat Café was a real treat. Especially seeing it flourishing as Summer started taking it more seriously.

Alden toy shop - The Hygge Holiday by Rosie Blake 

Alden toy shop is about to close when Clara Kristensen arrives to save the day. Her creative and detailed ideas make the shop a great success and her window displays sound amazing. I really wish I could go there to see them and then buy a few Christmas presents. 

Book shop - Lost For Words by Stephanie Butland

Who doesn't love a good book shop? But what makes this one so special are its characters. On one had we have owner Archie, he is a people person, easily chatting to everyone and with a certain eccentricity that far from making him arrogant and unapproachable made him endearing and generous. He would be a friend that we would all love to have. In the other hand we have the very special Lovejoy, who has worked in the shop for ten years and who definitely prefers books to people. I would love to just go there and have a bookish chat with them.

Today I'm very excited to welcome Penny Parkes to the blog. She is the author of the warm and lovely read Out of Practice and its sequel Practice Makes Perfect, which was released this summer. 

Hi Penny and welcome to Alba in Bookland again. First of all, congratulations on winning the Romantic Comedy of the Year category of the RNA Awards. What did winning this award mean to you?

Thank you so much for having me, Alba – the RoNAs was a fabulous evening and it was a wonderful surprise to actually win! It was also particularly special to be honoured by the RNA, as I have been lucky enough to meet so many inspirational writers through their events, amongst them now some true friends – holding my hand both literally and metaphorically at times on my path to publication! And of course, we have the inimitable Katie Fforde to blame for me being published at all, after some very spot-on advice at the Cheltenham Festival a few years ago.

Now, could you tell us about your latest release, Practice Makes Perfect?

Well, Practice Makes Perfect gives us an opportunity to sneak even further behind the scenes of The Practice at Larkford – lots more dishy doctors, dogs and devilment. And there’s a whole new partnership structure in place – 4 partners, 2 couples – and the boundaries between personal and professional ever more blurry.

On the surface it might seem like the perfect situation and the powers-that-be certainly think so, because they’ve now nominated Larkford as a Model Practice. But, as we all know, if you shine a spotlight on things, it does rather tend to emphasise the flaws

A few unexpected visitors throw everything out of balance, even as they give us a little more insight into our doctors’ backgrounds. 

I’m hope it will be like visiting old friends for those returning to the series and a wonderfully rural escapade for those new to the Larkford Valley.

What is new in Practice Makes Perfect? Are there new characters, new settings, new pets?

The major new addition to the team comes in the form of Dr Alice Walker, a breath of fresh Scottish air. She brings with her Coco the cocker spaniel – her diabetes medical detection dog – who has completely stolen not only my heart, but also that of Eric the Labradoodle!

If you could switch places for a day with one of the characters in the story, which one would you pick and why?

Oh, it would have to be Dr Holly Graham – I’m not sure how I’d cope with juggling twins, but I’d happily spend some quality time with Taffy Jones!

How does your writing process go? Do you plan everything first or you just start writing and let your characters talk to you? 

It’s a combination of the two, to be honest – rather depending on where I am in the process. I start out with a few themes and concepts, not to mention some milestone events. With the first draft, I prefer to let things flow, as writing to a plan actually stifles the characters’ developments for me. The structure tends to fall into place with the editing.

Could you recommend us a novel that you have read recently and has stayed with you?

The Woman At Number Twenty Four is just wonderful – I dived in one weekend and lived and breathed the goings-on at Number 24 until I came up for air – Juliet Ashton always has such wonderful characterization in her books. Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.

And finally, are you already working on a new project? Will we get more Larkford stories? 

I’m actually back in Larkford right now, pulling together some really special plotlines for the next visit in Summer 2018. It’s rather wonderful spending time with my characters again, and seeing what they’re up to!

I'm so happy to hear this, Penny! Thank you so much for stopping by!

About the Book: 

Click here to read my book review for this lovely read!

Today I am very excited to quick off the Blog Tour for Penny Parkes' second novel Practice Makes Perfect. This lovely story is out this Thursday and if you enjoyed Penny's debut, Out of Practice, you cannot miss this one!

Title: Practice Makes Perfect

Author: Penny Parkes

Published: June 29th 2017 by Simon & Schuster

Amazon | Amazon UK

Blurb: The Practice at Larkford has suddenly been thrust under the spotlight – and its nomination as a ‘NHS Model Surgery’ is causing the team major headaches. Dr Holly Graham should be basking in the glow of her new romance with fellow doctor, Taffy – but she is worried that the team is prioritising plaudits over patients, and her favourite resident, the irreverent and entertaining Elsie, is facing a difficult diagnosis. Add to that the chaos of family life and the strain is starting to show.

Dr Dishy Dan Carter’s obsession with work is masking unhappiness elsewhere – he can’t persuade girlfriend Julia to settle down. It’s only as Julia’s mother comes to stay that he realizes what she has been hiding for so long. Alice Walker joins the team like a breath of fresh air and her assistance dog Coco quickly wins everyone round – which is just as well, because Coco and Alice will soon need some help of their own. Can they pull together and become the Dream Team that the NHS obviously thinks they are?

Out of Practice won the Romantic Comedy of the Year category of the RNA Awards.

Review: Out of Practice, Penny's Parkes debut, was one of the cosiest and most delightful reads I read last year, so I was really looking forward to being back in Larkford and catching up with Holly and all the gang. And I can already tell you that Practice Makes Perfect doesn't disappoint at all.

The story takes off a few months after the first book finished. The practice and their new managing style with no senior partner is a roaring success and satisfaction with patients is better than it has ever been. This leads to a nomination for the practice to become a model for NHS, but this soon turns to be more complications and scrutiny for the four doctors. 

The nomination though is not the only thing going on in the story. A TV team is recording their every move as Julia has become a TV star. Holly and Taffy are juggling too many plates at once with taking care of two overactive kids and a crazy dog, running the practice and actually seeing patients. The new addition to the practice, young Alice, is having problems adjusting, Elsie isn't at her best, and there's also seem to be problems in paradise with Dan and Julia...

As you can see there, this book is packed with drama and soon you find yourself immersed in the story and forgetting about your own reality. I really loved getting to know a new version of Taffy in this story, as he becomes more and more involved in Holly's life and we can see there's more to him than the easy-going guy we met in the first book. Also, every scene with Elsie is a joy to read. Her pearls of wisdom and advice for Holly and the girls are not only useful for them but for all of us. 

Just as Out of Practice, Practice Makes Perfect is not a short book but once again, the pages flew by. There's certainly no time for breathing with so many things happening at once. There are surprises for everyone and Penny Parkes' fun and compelling style make for a very entertaining read. I really hope that she is planning on more Larkford stories as I can't seem to get enough of these lovely characters. 

Rating: 4 stars

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.

Don't miss any stops on the Blog Tour, it's going to be a good one!