In this follow up to the number one bestseller, Pets in a Pickle, Malcolm Welshman, introduces a wealth of new characters—animal and human—while reminding us of some firm favorites, such as the steely-eyed receptionist, Beryl Wagstaff, and the Stockwell sisters who never have time for the “vet in a hurry.” Things haven't calmed down for vet, Paul Mitchell, since we last joined him at Prospect House Veterinary Hospital. Continuing his fun-filled exploits, he's spellbound by a medium with her spooked cat and tricked by a magician with his poor rabbit, not to mention his encounter with trophy hunting cats, a runaway fox and a gored ostrich, who all add to the parade of pets that weave a colorful path through Paul's rollercoaster life. No less a challenge is his turbulent relationship with the vet nurse, Lucy, and how they cope with a cottage full of cats, an adorable Jack Russell called Nelson and an invasion of mice. Sparks fly on the arrival of Jodie, the daughter of the practice partners. But when Paul has to operate on his beloved parrots with the help of Jodie, it's the climax of another heartfelt chapter in this young vet's exploits.  less