Full of warmth, heart and plenty of humour, Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage is the irresistible new novel from the fabulous Della Galton.

Not a day goes by when Jade and Finn do not count their blessings. Living in a beautiful rural corner of Wiltshire, Jade and Finn are kept busy by a rescue centre full of animals that constantly keep them on their toes. With Finn’s art going from strength to strength, everything seems to be going their way – until a ruthless property developer begins sniffing around putting their future, their homes and their dreams in serious jeopardy!

Having both had their hearts broken, Jade and Finn have serious trust issues. They promised to always be honest with each other and to never keep secrets from one another, but this promise is becoming harder and harder to keep. Will Jade and Finn manage to keep hold of the dream that means the world to them? Will there be a happy ending at the Duck Pond Rescue Centre for humans and animals alike? Or should they all resign themselves to a future far away from the place they’ve loved calling home?

Reading a Della Galton novel is always such a huge treat. Funny, feel-good and deliciously readable, her books never disappoint and Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage is another gorgeous and uplifting romantic read that made me laugh and cry. With beautifully nuanced characters, assured storytelling and plenty of wit, charm and emotional drama to keep readers turning the pages, Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage is the latest must-read from Della Galton!

Summer Secrets At Duck Pond Cottage by Della Galton follows on in the life of Jade and Finn and their animal rescue farm. Their romance flourishes, the animals become larger in number, and there is an exceptional new addition who adds a lot of humour in certain situations!!
It isn’t all fun and frolics though. There’s a negative situation Jade has to deal with and Finn has situations of his own….
There is a return of previous characters plus some new ones.
A great story that I enjoyed just as much as the last one!!!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this arc copy via Netgalley.. My opinion is my own.
#Netgalley, #The oldBookClub, #DellaGalton.

Simply fantastic. This is a series I try not to miss any of the stories in it and I've read quite a few by this author. I've read quite a few romance books and though this is one, I love that this series focuses on animal rescue as I am a big animal person. I really hope this series inspires others to help animals in some way even if by volunteering, donating goods, time or money, or even adoption or fostering animals.
We have our lovely couple Jade and Finn living in rural Wiltshire. Each are settled in with their own things to keep them busy, he's an artistic painter, she runs the animal rescue with the help of some lovely volunteers and Finn as well.
I do have to say I did find humor in Mr. Spock; the rescue center resident parrot who would say things at the most inconvenient times.
Jade and Finn promised each other no more secrets but things have come up they've found hard to talk to each other about.
As the book progresses, we are introduced to some quirky characters and a turn happened I just didn't see coming. Heartwarming and emotional I greatly look forward to reading more by the author.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

This book has down-to-earth characters that are always battling the ups and downs of life. Finn searches for his mom to learn why she left him while Jade deals with developers to fight for more land for her animal rescue. Finn and Jade often don’t share their plans with each other and it blows up in their faces. Will they ever learn to communicate feelings/secrets with each other? This was the most aggravating part of the story. I did like the fun idea of having a double wedding with her best friend. The book ended rather abruptly, but sets up the next book of the series nicely.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Summer Secrets is the second in Galton's Duck Pond Cottage series.

Revisiting old friends is always a win, so it was an absolute delight to be back in the countryside at Duck Pond Rescue with Jade, Finn and the gang. Mr Spock and Mickey are hands down my favourite characters and always make me smile.

Warm-hearted and uplifting it's an enjoyable story of friendships and family. It's summery, full of super cute animals and wedding planning is underway.

An absolute delight to read.

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'Summer Secrets At Duck Pond Cottage' by Della Galton.

This book is the second book in Della's 'Duck Pond Cottage' series but can be read as a standalone. Although books in a series should typically be read in order there is a silver lining if you have not managed to do so. That is that after you have become addicted to this series and character after reading this book, and you will, you can go back to the first book in the series which is called 'A New Arrival At Duck Pond Cottage' while you are eagerly and impatiently waiting for the next book in this series to come out. The next book in this series can actually be pre-ordered from Amazon now. It will be published on the 3rd of August but had yet to be revealed.

This book has fantastic descriptions that set you straight in the scenes. The cover, title and synopsis suit the storyline perfectly.

Love, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely gorgeous page turner!! An absolute must read!!!

Although this is the second book in Della's 'Duck Pond Cottage' series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without reading the first book prior to this one. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.

I absolutely LOVED my second visit to 'Duck Pond Cottage' with the brilliant Jade and Finn, Sarah and Ben who very quickly came to feel like friends after reading 'A New Arrival At Duck Pond Cottage'. Della and her absolutely brilliant, evocative and emotive descriptions really brings the new setting of Duck Pond Cottage and all the surroundings and characters to life ensuring the reader is really absorbed into the storyline seeing and feeling everything that Jade is seeing and feeling. I just absolutely LOVED this gorgeous page-turner and any books that revolve around animals is a HUGE bonus for me!!! I am a MASSIVE animal lover and all my pets have been rescues to then volunteering in rescues, working in rescues and now running my own little cat rescue (Golden Oldies Cat Rescue And Hospice which you can look up on Facebook if you are interested) so this book was a huge must read for me immediately!!! I really did absolutely love this unique, stunning page turner from the first page to the very last and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in what is guaranteed to be a stunning series!!! Della's amazing writing skills and evocative descriptions drops the reader straight into the middle of Jade's life and Duck Pond Cottage and leaving them smelling the fresh air, feeding the menagerie of animals, relaxing and having a gorgeous holiday in the stunning countryside!!! I absolutely adored the cosy stunning surrounds and it felt like coming back to a well loved holiday destination when I picked this book up! I was absolutely hooked throughout and could not put this down. I told myself time and time again I would just finish the chapter and then go to bed but something happened each and every time meaning I just had to read just one more, and then another until before I knew it I had completely devoured the book in one sitting. I genuinely felt like I had gone on holiday with Jade and was devastated to come to the end of my holiday, returning back to reality and having to 'unpack my suitcase'!! I have never read a series filled with so many different animals before I discovered Della's books which made it unique and just LUSH!!!!! It really is just amazing and I absolutely love it and I really cannot compliment this book and series enough!!! This book is just what the doctor ordered for my own stress and each page I read I could feel myself relaxing more and more!!! This is one of those books that are very easy to read and perfect for any reading situations whether you are laying on a beach or curled up in front of a fire. It is an absolutely ideal read for anyone who is looking for a gorgeous and relaxing read that will have you hooked from beginning to end. I absolutely LOVED the realism of this storyline which made it so easy to picture everything that was going on which had been helped by Della's fantastic evocative writing skills. I cannot wait to get hooked into more of Della's books which will be out on the 3rd of August but available to pre-order now on Amazon.!! This is definitely one of those books that will turn a frown upside down and make life seem a lot brighter. It is packed with fun, laughter, animals, romance, friendships, drama a huge breathe of fresh air and everything you could ask for in a fantastic feel good book. Grab your copy today and fall in love with Duck Pond Cottage yourself!!

Well done Della on yet another absolutely stunning book and a perfect start to what is guaranteed to be an absolutely gorgeous series!!!

The characters were all an eclectic mix and each one of them were realistic and strong. I absolutely loved meeting them all again after I became immediately invested in each and every one of them when I met them the first time. I love the fact that there are some links between this series and the stunning 'Puddle Duck farm' series but I will leave those for you to discover yourselves!! Della also ensures that all of her characters are realistic, believable and made me feel even more for them than I normally would. I absolutely LOVED Jade who really resonated with me, especially with her love of animals and wanting to help them all!!! It was amazing watching her look after the animals at 'Duck Pond Lane Rescue' as well as getting to see her personal life including her relationship/friendships with Sam, her bond with Jade, Finn, Sarah and Ben and many other characters and so much more!!! I loved seeing how she interacted with the animals who all had their own cheeky little personalities!!! Each of the characters and animals are memorable and unique in their own ways and they are a group that I wont be forgetting any time soon! Della's incredible writing skills shows that she has really cared about these characters as she has made them so in depth and ensured the readers can really feel and see everything they are going through from the moment you meet them.

Pick up this book and get lost in this absolutely gorgeous page turner!

Congratulations Della on yet another absolutely stunning read that I just could not put down!!! I cannot wait to read more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is the exact reason you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂

Overall another unputdownable, gorgeous, STUNNING page turning book filled with animals, romance, fun, laughter, friendship and so much more from this epic author!! A perfectly relaxing and stunning unique read!!!!

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A rescue centre, jam-packed with animals - what's not to love?!

Mr Spock the parrot is back! I first remember him from one of Della's previous books, and he's still as naughty and hilarious as he was then, but now he's moved into the rescue centre and there are lots of people available to teach him new words!

Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage is the second in the series about Jade's rescue centre and all the animals that she loves, cares for and rehomes. It's full of cuteness, with puppies, foxes, wedding plans and kids and easily a book that you could devour on a rainy afternoon while you're waiting for the sun to make an appearance (I'm still waiting)!

This can be easily read as a standalone book, but I'd recommend reading the first in the series to begin with, just because it's another great read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage.

This was a really well done romance novel, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed about this type of book. The characters had that feel that I was looking for and enjoyed in this type of story. The concept was everything that I wanted and was glad I got to go on this journey. Della Galton has a strong writing style and am excited for more.

Jade is the owner at Duck Pond Sanctuary, a place where animals are hosted to be rehomed. At the beginning I thought this book was not my cup of tea, but then I've changed my mind! The topics of friendship and what family really means, together with all the animals and beautiful paradise of the sanctuary concur to build a very nice and ease book to read if you feel you just need to relax and receive good vibes.
I would say the target is young adult, mid-school, as descriptions are quite childish, but anyway, I've spent nice and sweet hours in company of the characters at Duck Pond.
Many thanks to Boldwoods books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!

I received an E-ARC with a request for my honest review.

This beautiful romance follows Jade and Finn as they are happily settling into life together at the Duck Pond Cottage and looking after the animals in the rescue centre. Including a very rude parrot.

They are looking to the future, and possibly even setting a date for their wedding thanks to a friend.

With secrets previously uncovered, they still struggle to trust each other and when Finn seems distant, she wonders what he may be hiding from her.

Is Finn hiding anything? Will they continue their happy lives together?

This romance is a beautiful read, there wasn’t a moment I wanted to stop reading I just wanted to keep finding more out about the characters’ lives.

There are many humorous moments, mostly with the animals involved, but it lightens the mood.

I have loved this series so far and look forward to reading more about the future of Jade and Finn.

Overall, a beautiful romance where Jade and Finn try to work through the trust issues they have in their relationship, whilst looking after many animals in the rescue centre.

Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage by Della Galton

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Can love conquer all?

Jade and Finn are idyllically happy in their little corner of rural Wiltshire. A rescue centre jampacked with animals keeps them super busy. With Finn’s art going from strength to strength, Jade can’t believe they’re living the dream until an arrogant property developer with questionable motives jeopardises their perfect lives and the future plans of the rescue centre.

Jade and Finn both have trust issues and they’ve promised there’ll be no more secrets. But keeping promises is harder than either of them imagined, especially where Finn’s past is concerned.

Living with Mr Spock the potty-mouthed parrot and Mickey the dog who barks at TV baddies there's never a dull moment at Duck Pond Rescue. But will the humans get their ‘happy-ever-after’ too?

Can they lay the ghosts of the past to rest and find a bright new future together?

My Opinion

It was lovely to be back at Duck Pond Cottage with Jade, Finn and all of their animals. Della Galton has once again written a delightful story. Whilst this would work as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading both books in the correct order. As the title suggests there are a lot of secrets within these pages. A heart-warming tale.

Rating 4/5

Having met Jade and Finn in the first book, I was eager to see how their relationship had evolved and whether their pact not to keep secrets had coped with the stresses of the early days. Everything seemed to be perfect, and the harmony that they had discovered was definitely evident. It was lovely to catch up with some of the characters that book one introduced us to, along with some new ones who brought some serious twists to their idyllic lives.
Neither Finn nor Jade intended to keep secrets, but they both failed to be wholly honest with each other. There’s nothing sinister about their lack of candour; it’s more an issue with timing. Both are desperate to discuss their experiences with the other, but pressures from their lives are a major contributing factor to their choices to remain quiet.
Once again, there is entertainment in animal form, ranging from a foul-mouthed parrot named Mr Spock to a whole flock of geese. There’s even a litter of gorgeous puppies to find homes for. All in a day’s work for this delightful Wiltshire rescue centre.
Once again, Della Galton has imagined and introduced a glorious selection of characters who add wonderful depth to this delightful story. Each one is perfectly developed, and their traits are becoming more recognisable with each story. I particularly enjoyed the connection between Finn and his newly discovered son. They are a delight to witness, and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
However, the main focus is on Jade and Finn, and I am thoroughly enjoying seeing their romance develop. Their relationship flourishes each visit, and I am very much looking forward to what is yet to come for the pair.
As we are only on book two, there’s plenty of time to catch up and enjoy this lovely series.

Jade and Finn enjoy their time together, although life is busy with the animal rescue centre and family. As they settle into life as a couple, new challenges and secrets rock their romantic idyll. Jade and Finn experience an emotional journey with career successes and family secrets. It's an immersive story, a mix of poignancy and uplifting moments with characters that you invest in. I like the contemporary relevance, the family drama, friendships and romance and, of course, the delightful animal characters, especially the cat and the parrot. If you follow this author, you will recognise some of the old friends.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

This is one of those books that you should really read the first in the series before this latest one to fully appreciate it. Jade and Finn are happily settled at the Duck Pond Rescue Centre until the farm next door is put up for sale and Finn starts looking for his long absent mother.
I enjoyed the first book in this series, A New Arrival at Duck Pond Cottage, and this one has added to it. A book set around an animal rescue centre will always pull at the heart strings. The "evil" developer of the farm next door might be a touch cartoonish, but the search for Finn's mother feels very real. There is the thread that family isn't just blood, but friendship that also rings true. Overall a warm, cozy story of the type that I enjoy and I was pleased to see that the stage has been set for the next book in the series and I'm looking forward to reading that.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I enjoyed reading this book by Della Galton.

It’s the story of Jade and Finn who continue to work together looking after the animals and towards their happy ever after.

There’s some secrets that have been kept and a suspicious property developer who isn’t exactly being honest.

I loved everything about this book, especially Mr Spock with his language, which made me laugh.

The secrets also had their own surprises. I also loved that Phoebe was a part of the story, who was a main character from the previous series, working together to care for animals.

I highly recommend this book.

this is the second book in the series about Jade and Finn who are engaged and run an animal sanctuary. sweet quick read.

I really enjoy Della Galton’s books and this is no exception. The rescue centre and all its residents, human and animal, lives are disrupted when a very arrogant property developer buys the farm next door and proposes to build houses. Jade had originally agreed to purchase the land directly next to the rescue centre but it turns out that that will not be possible. What can they do to stop the development going ahead? This is full of heartwarming moments as well as secrets and challenges, including the trust between the two main characters Jade and Finn being tested. I must say that I do like how characters from her previous books are weaved into the story. As always some of the animals , like parrot Mr Spock and Mickey the dog, centre stage! Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC

Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage follows Jade and Finn as they continue to navigate their happy ever after but with family dramas and property developers sniffing around it isn't a easy ride. I enjoyed everything about this book especially the naughty but cute animals. Mr Spock is a stand out with his cussing language he had me in fits of laughter and I need Mr Spock in my life. Jade and Ben remind me a lot of myself as I would rescue and go beyond for animals too. The family drama plotted had a few surprises that I wasn't expecting at all. I enjoyed the brief appearance of Phoebe from a previous series and I love how the rescues work together. It's a heartwarming story filled with my favourite thing in the world ANIMALS!

This heartwarming novel follows Finn and Jade, an engaged couple juggling wedding planning, their bustling animal sanctuary, and their busy daily lives. Finn, an aspiring artist, gets a chance to make it big, while Jade hopes to acquire neighboring land to expand Duck Pond Cottage. However, both face unexpected challenges—personally and professionally—that could change everything.

This was a charming and quick read, perfect for a vacation or a relaxing afternoon. While the story was fairly low-key, it kept me engaged with just enough twists and turns to hold my interest. Finn and Jade’s relationship was lovely to follow, and I enjoyed seeing how they navigated their daily challenges together. Their interactions with others added warmth and depth, making the book even more enjoyable.

Overall, this is a cozy, feel-good read, perfect for those who enjoy light, low-stakes romance with an established couple working through life together. If you’re looking for an easygoing story with a touch of drama but no heavy tension, this book is a great choice.

This is the second book in this delightful series but could be read as a standalone. Perfect for fans of this authors puddle-duck farm series as this story incorporates some of the characters from there.

This instalment shines a light on the relationship between jade and Finn and compromises of their story.

A heartwarming and uplifting quick read which was perfect escapism and covered a lot of family issues along with .some funny animal antidotes.

Looking forward to seeing where this series takes the reader next