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Unleashed Holiday
“Reading Unleased Holiday was sheer joy. I chewed up the pages.” —#1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber
When an old rival reappears right before the holidays, a professional dog trainer must decide if the melting frost between them can make up for their ruff past, from the USA Today bestselling author of Dog Friendly .
Chelsea Higgins is doing just fine. She’s heading into the holidays at the helm of a thriving dog training business, and she’s got a mellow senior dog at home to keep her warm at the end of the day. What more could she need? Enter certified gym bro Andrew Chelsea’s former nemesis, and now the newest neighbor in her business complex, who also wants to expand into the vacant space Chelsea’s been eyeing for months. Who cares if it’s the season of joy? Let the turf war begin.
When an unfortunate (and literal) run-in with Andrew’s lawless dog leaves Chelsea with a bum wrist, the two strike a Andrew will help Chelsea rehab the injury if she’ll work with him to train his adorably uncivilized boxer.
Their typical bickering soon turns to bantering, and Chelsea finds herself inexplicably drawn to the man she thought she had nothing in common with. As she gets to know Andrew and his parents, she realizes she needs to refocus on her own family, especially with a milestone Christmas speeding toward them. But Chelsea can't help wondering if she and Andrew are training for keeps, or if this unexpected Christmas gift is just too good to be true.
When an old rival reappears right before the holidays, a professional dog trainer must decide if the melting frost between them can make up for their ruff past, from the USA Today bestselling author of Dog Friendly .
Chelsea Higgins is doing just fine. She’s heading into the holidays at the helm of a thriving dog training business, and she’s got a mellow senior dog at home to keep her warm at the end of the day. What more could she need? Enter certified gym bro Andrew Chelsea’s former nemesis, and now the newest neighbor in her business complex, who also wants to expand into the vacant space Chelsea’s been eyeing for months. Who cares if it’s the season of joy? Let the turf war begin.
When an unfortunate (and literal) run-in with Andrew’s lawless dog leaves Chelsea with a bum wrist, the two strike a Andrew will help Chelsea rehab the injury if she’ll work with him to train his adorably uncivilized boxer.
Their typical bickering soon turns to bantering, and Chelsea finds herself inexplicably drawn to the man she thought she had nothing in common with. As she gets to know Andrew and his parents, she realizes she needs to refocus on her own family, especially with a milestone Christmas speeding toward them. But Chelsea can't help wondering if she and Andrew are training for keeps, or if this unexpected Christmas gift is just too good to be true.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2023
47 people are currently reading
11328 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Schade
15 books414 followersVictoria Schade has been a dog trainer and writer for over seventeen years. During that time her dog duties have included working behind the scenes on Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl as the lead animal wrangler, appearing on two seasons of the Animal Planet show Faithful Friends, writing dog training content and appearing in educational videos for NBC/Universal, Pet360, PawCulture and petMD, and writing two dog training books, Bonding With Your Dog and Secrets of a Dog Trainer.
Victoria shares her 1850’s always-in- need-of- renovations home with Millie the Smooth Brussels Griffon (who wants you to know that she is not a skinny pug), Olive the mixed breed dog, the occasional foster pup, and her incredibly tolerant husband, Tom.
Victoria shares her 1850’s always-in- need-of- renovations home with Millie the Smooth Brussels Griffon (who wants you to know that she is not a skinny pug), Olive the mixed breed dog, the occasional foster pup, and her incredibly tolerant husband, Tom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
December 20, 2025
I ordered this book originally from my local library last November, but the book didn’t come in for me to read until February of this year (2024). So, I returned it with a note to myself to check it out again closer to the holidays. Which I have done. I’m glad I did. What a delightful distraction, with 2 mains that are interesting, annoying and cute!
If anyone is looking for “opposites, to enemies, to neighbors, to clients, to friends, to where we were always meant to be” with dogs and “mean girl” goats and festive holiday spirit, this is your book.
This is a pleasurable sweet story reading experience with characters readers will root for, and adorable dogs you will want to cuddle…and goats that will make you laugh out loud!
If anyone is looking for “opposites, to enemies, to neighbors, to clients, to friends, to where we were always meant to be” with dogs and “mean girl” goats and festive holiday spirit, this is your book.
This is a pleasurable sweet story reading experience with characters readers will root for, and adorable dogs you will want to cuddle…and goats that will make you laugh out loud!
September 25, 2023
Review coming soon.
December 23, 2023
Can a book gaslight the reader? Cause I kinda feel like that’s what happened here. There were a lot of non-apologies, they’re both judgemental and belittling and then somehow shocked that the other doesn’t know their true feelings of lurve. Andrew made nitpicky digs at her body in the past and then is angered that she attacks his intelligence, saying, “it’s not the same.” And Chelsea thinks, “well, I guess all the comments he said were true and he’s right.” Da fuk? And the reader is supposed to think it’s all great cause they “talked” it out?
There’s also non-problems with non-solutions. NO actual sense of business doom, the selling of their building by the landlord, because the answer is there from the start. We just have to drag along until what you know is going to happen happens.
I initially thought Chelsea was worse because she comes across as an anal bitch but really, as a dog lover and trainer and general adult, is it ridiculous to ask a dog be leashed (especially in parking lots) and to properly dispose of trash (especially because of raccoons)? To worry about parking for your business? No! Andrew was horrible. And it only got worse once Chelsea’s insecurities flared late in the game. I was over it.
This was a huge nope for me. The only good parts were the animals and the way Chelsea interacted with them. Let’s cut out the romance entirely. I’d read that book.
There’s also non-problems with non-solutions. NO actual sense of business doom, the selling of their building by the landlord, because the answer is there from the start. We just have to drag along until what you know is going to happen happens.
I initially thought Chelsea was worse because she comes across as an anal bitch but really, as a dog lover and trainer and general adult, is it ridiculous to ask a dog be leashed (especially in parking lots) and to properly dispose of trash (especially because of raccoons)? To worry about parking for your business? No! Andrew was horrible. And it only got worse once Chelsea’s insecurities flared late in the game. I was over it.
This was a huge nope for me. The only good parts were the animals and the way Chelsea interacted with them. Let’s cut out the romance entirely. I’d read that book.
August 13, 2023
So cute! I love romances that include not only the pups but the hotties too. YUMMM
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This story has a good blend of content that will make you feel right at home. It’s a combination of different tropes – Christmas romance, enemies to lovers, dealing with grief, family dynamics, second chance romance, and more.
Unleashed Holiday was a fun story to read because of all the components the author treated us to, but especially because of the dogs. After all, we do have a dog trainer in the house with two cute pups and an athlete with a darling boxer. What could go wrong?
The author crafts the story with great visualization and detail. She loads it up with heart and delight. But also adds in a bit of hate and discontent, strife, old loves, a past hot hookup, and a wonderful HEA.
I love the fact that it was not all roses and sunshine. These two had to go through a lot to get to their happy place. They both are business owners and deal with issues there. Family drama and past issues had them working to get through it together.
One thing was bugging me a bit in this story and that is the female lead did have a bit of bite with some of her words and that was never really addressed well enough for me with Andrew. Her hurt was showing through but in turn, she was degrading him.
Unleashed Holiday is a pleasure to read. Schade pulls out the stops with tenderness, warmth, and a slow burn romance. A yummy hot Andrew and cute secondary characters in the pups make this a delightful, sweetheart of a read!
* copy received for review - all opinions are my own
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/unleashed-ho...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This story has a good blend of content that will make you feel right at home. It’s a combination of different tropes – Christmas romance, enemies to lovers, dealing with grief, family dynamics, second chance romance, and more.
Unleashed Holiday was a fun story to read because of all the components the author treated us to, but especially because of the dogs. After all, we do have a dog trainer in the house with two cute pups and an athlete with a darling boxer. What could go wrong?
The author crafts the story with great visualization and detail. She loads it up with heart and delight. But also adds in a bit of hate and discontent, strife, old loves, a past hot hookup, and a wonderful HEA.
I love the fact that it was not all roses and sunshine. These two had to go through a lot to get to their happy place. They both are business owners and deal with issues there. Family drama and past issues had them working to get through it together.
One thing was bugging me a bit in this story and that is the female lead did have a bit of bite with some of her words and that was never really addressed well enough for me with Andrew. Her hurt was showing through but in turn, she was degrading him.
Unleashed Holiday is a pleasure to read. Schade pulls out the stops with tenderness, warmth, and a slow burn romance. A yummy hot Andrew and cute secondary characters in the pups make this a delightful, sweetheart of a read!
* copy received for review - all opinions are my own
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/unleashed-ho...
September 25, 2023
Unleashed Holiday
By Victoria Schade
Pub Date: 26 Sep 2023
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Romance
Spice🌶
Rating: 4/5
Victoria Schade's Unleashed Holiday is a hilarious read, captivating readers with its unique narrative style and heartfelt storytelling. Can you think of anyone who does not love a romantic story featuring adorable dogs? It had me on a leash!
In the years since Chelsea Higgins founded School of Frolic, she has grown the business significantly. It is the start of the holidays and she deserves extra attention and love for all her dedication and work. It's pleasant to know that her senior dog Birdie is there at the end of the day to provide comfort and companionship she needs. What else could she possibly need?
Andrew Gibson, her old nemesis, suddenly moves into the business compound and is now her neighbor. They are separated by only one vacant space, and Chelsea finds that to be too close. This adds yet another layer of complexity to an already complicated situation, making Chelsea's holiday season even more challenging. Joyful season or not, who cares? This is the beginning of a Higgins/Gibson war.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this cozy romance with me. For those looking for holiday spice without graphic imagery, I highly recommend this book.
#UnleashedHoliday #VictoriaSchade
@advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
By Victoria Schade
Pub Date: 26 Sep 2023
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Romance
Spice🌶
Rating: 4/5
Victoria Schade's Unleashed Holiday is a hilarious read, captivating readers with its unique narrative style and heartfelt storytelling. Can you think of anyone who does not love a romantic story featuring adorable dogs? It had me on a leash!
In the years since Chelsea Higgins founded School of Frolic, she has grown the business significantly. It is the start of the holidays and she deserves extra attention and love for all her dedication and work. It's pleasant to know that her senior dog Birdie is there at the end of the day to provide comfort and companionship she needs. What else could she possibly need?
Andrew Gibson, her old nemesis, suddenly moves into the business compound and is now her neighbor. They are separated by only one vacant space, and Chelsea finds that to be too close. This adds yet another layer of complexity to an already complicated situation, making Chelsea's holiday season even more challenging. Joyful season or not, who cares? This is the beginning of a Higgins/Gibson war.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for sharing this cozy romance with me. For those looking for holiday spice without graphic imagery, I highly recommend this book.
#UnleashedHoliday #VictoriaSchade
@advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
December 3, 2023
Dogs. Holiday. Romance. Cute MCs. What more could you ask for?
September 26, 2023
Unleashed Holiday by Victoria Schade 🐶🌲
Chelsea doesn't think she needs anything more than her thriving dog training business and her sweet, mellow senior pup. That is until the business next door goes up for sale and in moves her old nemesis Andrew. Even worse, he wants to expand into the empty space between their two units even though she was planning to. Despite trying to avoid each other, they get put in each others orbit often. Their bickering becomes teasing banter and Chelsea realizes she was wrong about Andrew.
Give me a romance book that includes a dog and I will read it in a heartbeat. The fact that one of the dogs is a white, deaf Boxer just like my dog in real life? My heart. This book was so much fun. It gives hallmark vibes with the small town and funny moments but also sprinkles in a little bit of spice. The story is told only from Chelsea's POV but I felt like I knew Andrew enough that his POV wasn't missing. The re-meet cute (more of a disaster) introducing us to Andrew and his dog Dude made me laugh cause it felt like something that could happen to any dog owner.
The story isn't just about the romance between Chelsea and Andrew, trying to figure out what exactly happened those years ago and why they aren't happy to be new business neighbors. There's also Chelsea learning how to deal with her father's death and reconnecting with friends and family after distancing herself. Andrew coming back into her life in a way helps motivate her to reconnect with those she used to be close with. I did feel like Chelsea was a bit harsh with how she spoke to Andrew, but then again they both thought the other person disliked the other for the longest time and would do just about anything to get a rise out of them.
I loved how the dogs played a role throughout the whole book rather than be put to the side after initial introductions. Birdie, Edith, and Dude were all so cute and I wish I could give them cuddles. If you're a dog lover, I think you'll enjoy this one.
Tropes:
😠 dislike to lovers
🧲 opposites attract
🐶 includes dogs
🌲 holiday romance
👥 forced proximity
single POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
1/5 spice level 🌶️
Chelsea doesn't think she needs anything more than her thriving dog training business and her sweet, mellow senior pup. That is until the business next door goes up for sale and in moves her old nemesis Andrew. Even worse, he wants to expand into the empty space between their two units even though she was planning to. Despite trying to avoid each other, they get put in each others orbit often. Their bickering becomes teasing banter and Chelsea realizes she was wrong about Andrew.
Give me a romance book that includes a dog and I will read it in a heartbeat. The fact that one of the dogs is a white, deaf Boxer just like my dog in real life? My heart. This book was so much fun. It gives hallmark vibes with the small town and funny moments but also sprinkles in a little bit of spice. The story is told only from Chelsea's POV but I felt like I knew Andrew enough that his POV wasn't missing. The re-meet cute (more of a disaster) introducing us to Andrew and his dog Dude made me laugh cause it felt like something that could happen to any dog owner.
The story isn't just about the romance between Chelsea and Andrew, trying to figure out what exactly happened those years ago and why they aren't happy to be new business neighbors. There's also Chelsea learning how to deal with her father's death and reconnecting with friends and family after distancing herself. Andrew coming back into her life in a way helps motivate her to reconnect with those she used to be close with. I did feel like Chelsea was a bit harsh with how she spoke to Andrew, but then again they both thought the other person disliked the other for the longest time and would do just about anything to get a rise out of them.
I loved how the dogs played a role throughout the whole book rather than be put to the side after initial introductions. Birdie, Edith, and Dude were all so cute and I wish I could give them cuddles. If you're a dog lover, I think you'll enjoy this one.
Tropes:
😠 dislike to lovers
🧲 opposites attract
🐶 includes dogs
🌲 holiday romance
👥 forced proximity
single POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
1/5 spice level 🌶️
November 4, 2023
Shake your tinsel and get ready for a great story. Victoria Schade has woven a tale that has romance, grief recovery, and plenty of family drama. Is it enemies to lovers or second chance love? I’m not even sure myself.
Chels is a dog trainer an Andrew is an athlete…actually an athletic hunk. And she’s already “been there,” so the idea keeps popping up to visit again. They both have dogs that play roles in the relationship, too.
The author crafts a great story with opposite feelings, of joy and sorrow, tenderness and bitterness, of disappointment and victory. Up and down and around and around so that the reader just keeps turning the pages and hanging on to the end. Unleashed Holiday is a winner. You will not put this one down!
There’s a giveaway on my IG Feed to win this book. @readingpastdark.Marcia
Chels is a dog trainer an Andrew is an athlete…actually an athletic hunk. And she’s already “been there,” so the idea keeps popping up to visit again. They both have dogs that play roles in the relationship, too.
The author crafts a great story with opposite feelings, of joy and sorrow, tenderness and bitterness, of disappointment and victory. Up and down and around and around so that the reader just keeps turning the pages and hanging on to the end. Unleashed Holiday is a winner. You will not put this one down!
There’s a giveaway on my IG Feed to win this book. @readingpastdark.Marcia
October 18, 2023
*second chance romance
*enemies to lovers
*holiday themed
*dog lovers
Cozy holiday romance books will always hold a special place in my heart.
*enemies to lovers
*holiday themed
*dog lovers
Cozy holiday romance books will always hold a special place in my heart.
December 29, 2023
Everything I love about a feel-good read in one book. Cozy, heartwarming, page turning.
December 27, 2025
This was so cute and comical. I loved the banter between the FMC and MMC. Just what I needed for some giggles and sweet moments around the holidays. It did get me teary eyed during a few moments as well, I was feeling all of the emotions.
August 30, 2023
Have you ever laughed so hard you leaked some bodily fluids ? No? Me either , never .
LIES .
I found a book that made my little squirrel brain jump up and down like an old lady at bingo .
Unleashed Holiday
I love love love holiday books! Now throw in some comedy, romance AND fur babies? Gosh dang it, you have me swooning!
I fell in love with Chelsea over and over again . By the time I concluded this book I felt like I knew both Chelsea and Andrew, personally and my goodness! Those pooches! They caused me irreparable bladder damage from laughing so hard.
Victoria Schade has talent, that part is clear! I am excited to see what comes next!
This book is filled with love, laughter, family and at times a tear or two .
Check out this teaser :
When an old rival reappears right before the holidays, a professional dog trainer must decide if the melting frost between them can make up for their ruff past, from the USA Today bestselling author of Dog Friendly.
Chelsea Higgins is doing just fine. She’s heading into the holidays at the helm of a thriving dog training business, and she’s got a mellow senior dog at home to keep her warm at the end of the day. What more could she need? Enter certified gym bro Andrew Gibson: Chelsea’s former nemesis, and now the newest neighbor in her business complex, who also wants to expand into the vacant space Chelsea’s been eyeing for months. Who cares if it’s the season of joy? Let the turf war begin.
When an unfortunate (and literal) run-in with Andrew’s lawless dog leaves Chelsea with a bum wrist, the two strike a deal: Andrew will help Chelsea rehab the injury if she’ll work with him to train his adorably uncivilized boxer.
Their typical bickering soon turns to bantering, and Chelsea finds herself inexplicably drawn to the man she thought she had nothing in common with. As she gets to know Andrew and his parents, she realizes she needs to refocus on her own family, especially with a milestone Christmas speeding toward them. But Chelsea can't help wondering if she and Andrew are training for keeps, or if this unexpected Christmas gift is just too good to be true.
LIES .
I found a book that made my little squirrel brain jump up and down like an old lady at bingo .
Unleashed Holiday
I love love love holiday books! Now throw in some comedy, romance AND fur babies? Gosh dang it, you have me swooning!
I fell in love with Chelsea over and over again . By the time I concluded this book I felt like I knew both Chelsea and Andrew, personally and my goodness! Those pooches! They caused me irreparable bladder damage from laughing so hard.
Victoria Schade has talent, that part is clear! I am excited to see what comes next!
This book is filled with love, laughter, family and at times a tear or two .
Check out this teaser :
When an old rival reappears right before the holidays, a professional dog trainer must decide if the melting frost between them can make up for their ruff past, from the USA Today bestselling author of Dog Friendly.
Chelsea Higgins is doing just fine. She’s heading into the holidays at the helm of a thriving dog training business, and she’s got a mellow senior dog at home to keep her warm at the end of the day. What more could she need? Enter certified gym bro Andrew Gibson: Chelsea’s former nemesis, and now the newest neighbor in her business complex, who also wants to expand into the vacant space Chelsea’s been eyeing for months. Who cares if it’s the season of joy? Let the turf war begin.
When an unfortunate (and literal) run-in with Andrew’s lawless dog leaves Chelsea with a bum wrist, the two strike a deal: Andrew will help Chelsea rehab the injury if she’ll work with him to train his adorably uncivilized boxer.
Their typical bickering soon turns to bantering, and Chelsea finds herself inexplicably drawn to the man she thought she had nothing in common with. As she gets to know Andrew and his parents, she realizes she needs to refocus on her own family, especially with a milestone Christmas speeding toward them. But Chelsea can't help wondering if she and Andrew are training for keeps, or if this unexpected Christmas gift is just too good to be true.
September 27, 2023
Loved the inclusion of dogs in the book, but the story just wasn't for me. It was a bit too serious for my liking, but it wasn't a super-emotionally deep book; it felt like it tried to be funny but it just wasn't (at least for me).
I felt it was taking a long time to get to the heart of the conflict between Andrew and Chelsea; it was obvious that something had happened in their past, but what? It took maaaannnnyyyy chapters to understand Chelsea's animosity to Andrew and then at the end, the explanation on his side, along with hers made me go "really? THAT'S what kept them apart?"
I skipped a number of chapters to go to the end to see how Chelsea and Andrew got together and the ending wasn't compelling enough for me to go back and read the skipped chapters.
The dogs and goats were great, though!
Thanks to Berkley Romance for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
I felt it was taking a long time to get to the heart of the conflict between Andrew and Chelsea; it was obvious that something had happened in their past, but what? It took maaaannnnyyyy chapters to understand Chelsea's animosity to Andrew and then at the end, the explanation on his side, along with hers made me go "really? THAT'S what kept them apart?"
I skipped a number of chapters to go to the end to see how Chelsea and Andrew got together and the ending wasn't compelling enough for me to go back and read the skipped chapters.
The dogs and goats were great, though!
Thanks to Berkley Romance for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
November 23, 2023
3.25 stars
UNLEASHED HOLIDAY
● Chelsea & Andrew
● dog trainer / workout trainer
● Andrew has a deaf white boxer named Dude
● Andrew moves his business into the same business complex that Chelsea’s is at
● Chelsea helps Andrew’s mom train her goats (“the mean girls”)
● second chance romance
● enemies to lovers
Fun fact the author is a dog trainer.
UNLEASHED HOLIDAY
● Chelsea & Andrew
● dog trainer / workout trainer
● Andrew has a deaf white boxer named Dude
● Andrew moves his business into the same business complex that Chelsea’s is at
● Chelsea helps Andrew’s mom train her goats (“the mean girls”)
● second chance romance
● enemies to lovers
Fun fact the author is a dog trainer.
Audiobook source: Libby
Narrator: Mara Wilson
Length: 9H 21M
December 5, 2023
Finished in one night. Goes through all the holidays (Halloween, thanksgiving, Christmas, new years).
Loved the festive feel and all the different components. The author is a dog trainer from animal planet and assists the annual puppy bowl production on tv. She knows her stuff.
With my love of petsitting and for animals - this was a great fit for me!
What more could a girl want in a book that has romance, steam, holidays, goats, dogs, and a cat?!
Loved the couples vocations and how their family dynamics worked together to formalize their Union as partners.
Loved the festive feel and all the different components. The author is a dog trainer from animal planet and assists the annual puppy bowl production on tv. She knows her stuff.
With my love of petsitting and for animals - this was a great fit for me!
What more could a girl want in a book that has romance, steam, holidays, goats, dogs, and a cat?!
Loved the couples vocations and how their family dynamics worked together to formalize their Union as partners.
December 4, 2023
I found this to be a very cute and quick read! The story was solid enough, and I just loved the dogs! I felt like they played an important enough role, and I loved it when they appeared in the story. Unfortunately, it brought nothing new for me, which is the main reason why I'm giving it 3 stars. It was a lovely book though!
December 10, 2023
This book was sooooo cute! A perfect read for the holiday season. Dogs and a love story? I don’t know how it could get any better!
October 5, 2023
In this rivals to lovers story, Chelsea runs a thriving dog business when her former love interest Andrew moves into her business complex and starts a gym. When an unexpected run in with Andrew's ill-manered dog causes an injury to her wrist, Chelsea and Andrew strike a deal. She will give obedience lessons to his dog and he will rehab her wrist. Close proximity forces them to confront and redefine their angsty relationship.
While the banter, the reconnection with a former love interest is fun, and the dogs are adorable, the miscommunication that set their relationship in jeopardy is weak. It's my least favorite plot device as well.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers, irresistible dogs, witty banter, a seasonal read, and moderate steam, you will enjoy Unleashed Holiday.
Content Consideration: Steam Level 3+
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary eARC of #UnleasedHoliday upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com.
While the banter, the reconnection with a former love interest is fun, and the dogs are adorable, the miscommunication that set their relationship in jeopardy is weak. It's my least favorite plot device as well.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers, irresistible dogs, witty banter, a seasonal read, and moderate steam, you will enjoy Unleashed Holiday.
Content Consideration: Steam Level 3+
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary eARC of #UnleasedHoliday upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com.
November 1, 2023
3.5 rounded up
This was a cute enemies to lovers, slowburn, second chance romance with lots of pet antics and tons of Fall and Holiday season vibes. I didn't love just how much the MCs underestimated one another and that miscommunication was a HUGE problem in the story but overall it was entertaining and fun to read. Good on audio too. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
This was a cute enemies to lovers, slowburn, second chance romance with lots of pet antics and tons of Fall and Holiday season vibes. I didn't love just how much the MCs underestimated one another and that miscommunication was a HUGE problem in the story but overall it was entertaining and fun to read. Good on audio too. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
September 29, 2023
When the new tenant in her business complex turns out the be an unwelcome blast from the past, professional dog trainer Chelsea Higgins is not amused. She does not have fond memories of attending college with Andrew, the teasing barbs they used to trade, or his “Gibson Glare” that always seemed to land on her. So, why of all places, does he have to move to her town and start up his gym business in the same building as her dog training school???
In Chelsea’s mind, they’ve been locked in “a decade-long grudge match” but have thankfully been out of contact for years. She doesn’t want him back in her life, especially after that thing that happened between them years ago.
As time passes and the story progresses through Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, the two grow closer. Is this thing happening between them just for fun, or is it something more?
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t a hit for me. The premise is cute; there are anecdotes with dogs and goats that up the entertainment value; and there are some moments between Chelsea and Andrew that made me grin.
The pacing of the reveal behind their conflict is a little slow, and some of Chelsea’s inner commentary feels repetitive. Plus there are multiple issues that could have been avoided or resolved by characters having a conversation.
I had a tough time with how Chelsea misjudges and underestimates Andrew, even with the understanding that she does it as a defense mechanism and that her reactions to him are shaped by her self esteem (in college) and some by her grief (in the present). Many of the comments she makes about or to him are not really in jest; they are meant to belittle.
There are serious topics broached in this one—from grief to strained familial relationships to the stress of small business ownership to tangential mentions of overwhelm in motherhood and fertility issues—but I didn’t always feel the emotional depth I would expect to see associated with those on the page. However, I did appreciate that the author chose to depict Chelsea’s grief as being tinged with anger.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an advance copy. All review opinions are my own.
In Chelsea’s mind, they’ve been locked in “a decade-long grudge match” but have thankfully been out of contact for years. She doesn’t want him back in her life, especially after that thing that happened between them years ago.
As time passes and the story progresses through Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, the two grow closer. Is this thing happening between them just for fun, or is it something more?
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t a hit for me. The premise is cute; there are anecdotes with dogs and goats that up the entertainment value; and there are some moments between Chelsea and Andrew that made me grin.
The pacing of the reveal behind their conflict is a little slow, and some of Chelsea’s inner commentary feels repetitive. Plus there are multiple issues that could have been avoided or resolved by characters having a conversation.
I had a tough time with how Chelsea misjudges and underestimates Andrew, even with the understanding that she does it as a defense mechanism and that her reactions to him are shaped by her self esteem (in college) and some by her grief (in the present). Many of the comments she makes about or to him are not really in jest; they are meant to belittle.
There are serious topics broached in this one—from grief to strained familial relationships to the stress of small business ownership to tangential mentions of overwhelm in motherhood and fertility issues—but I didn’t always feel the emotional depth I would expect to see associated with those on the page. However, I did appreciate that the author chose to depict Chelsea’s grief as being tinged with anger.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an advance copy. All review opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2023
Thank you so much to Berkley Romance for an advance copy of this book!
Thank you so much to PRH Audio for the complimentary audio!
This book will be published on September 26th.
This is my second Victoria Schade book and it will not be my last. I absolutely loved the first one I read by her and this one I love even more. If life would have allowed, I would have devoured this in a day's time because I was that into it! And I read this at the perfect time as this book includes Halloween, Thanksgiving and of course Christmas.
"If it's that easy to make you happy then I've got nothing to worry about."
In my opinion this was such a great holiday book - it gave me heart, a little spice, banter & animals! I am going to try to explain how much I love this book so as you may know from prior reviews, when I am excited about a book it becomes a very chaotic review. I will do my best though.
I absolutely loved Chelsea and Andrew as a couple. The dynamic of them to knowing each other years prior and then both just leaving each other lives for reason I am not spoiling. I thought the pacing of their relationship felt right and not too rushed or too slowed. This is a slow burn but I didn't feel like I was being dragged on for too long where I was getting angry. There was enough tension as well as other moments to keep me engaged. The two of them together just made me so happy and Andrew just made me swoon. There was. moment when the couple were arguing and he just held her - "Something's wrong. Tell me why you're upset." *faints*
Compared to the other book that I read by Schade the clinical animal talk was not too much and even more minimal compared to that one (granted the FMC was in a different position). There wasn't anything said that I was confused about. I also thought the addition of the goats was a fun element! That was also a great bridge between Andrew's family and Chelsea. I love how neither family was perfect because hey that's life. And I thought each storyline was given enough space without being too much. Despite the cartoon cover, this book does dive into some deeper topics such as parental death & grief.
I paired my reading with the audio and Mara Wilson will be the next hottest narrator. I just love the tone of her voice and how she treated the characters.
This book just really made me happy & I am so excited to see what Victoria has coming up next! I also really need to start working on her backlist.
You'll love this if you love a slow burn, second chance romance, enemies to lovers & a love for animals all set around the holiday time!
Swoon Meter: 10/10
Karaoke Meter: Sadly no
Thank you so much to PRH Audio for the complimentary audio!
This book will be published on September 26th.
This is my second Victoria Schade book and it will not be my last. I absolutely loved the first one I read by her and this one I love even more. If life would have allowed, I would have devoured this in a day's time because I was that into it! And I read this at the perfect time as this book includes Halloween, Thanksgiving and of course Christmas.
"If it's that easy to make you happy then I've got nothing to worry about."
In my opinion this was such a great holiday book - it gave me heart, a little spice, banter & animals! I am going to try to explain how much I love this book so as you may know from prior reviews, when I am excited about a book it becomes a very chaotic review. I will do my best though.
I absolutely loved Chelsea and Andrew as a couple. The dynamic of them to knowing each other years prior and then both just leaving each other lives for reason I am not spoiling. I thought the pacing of their relationship felt right and not too rushed or too slowed. This is a slow burn but I didn't feel like I was being dragged on for too long where I was getting angry. There was enough tension as well as other moments to keep me engaged. The two of them together just made me so happy and Andrew just made me swoon. There was. moment when the couple were arguing and he just held her - "Something's wrong. Tell me why you're upset." *faints*
Compared to the other book that I read by Schade the clinical animal talk was not too much and even more minimal compared to that one (granted the FMC was in a different position). There wasn't anything said that I was confused about. I also thought the addition of the goats was a fun element! That was also a great bridge between Andrew's family and Chelsea. I love how neither family was perfect because hey that's life. And I thought each storyline was given enough space without being too much. Despite the cartoon cover, this book does dive into some deeper topics such as parental death & grief.
I paired my reading with the audio and Mara Wilson will be the next hottest narrator. I just love the tone of her voice and how she treated the characters.
This book just really made me happy & I am so excited to see what Victoria has coming up next! I also really need to start working on her backlist.
You'll love this if you love a slow burn, second chance romance, enemies to lovers & a love for animals all set around the holiday time!
Swoon Meter: 10/10
Karaoke Meter: Sadly no
September 22, 2023
I've shared this before, but Victoria Schade is an auto-buy author for me. As a dog mom, I can always find a bit of myself within the pages of her novels. With the animal expertise that I have come to know and love (Victoria is a dog trainer), UNLEASHED HOLIDAY offers widespread appeal thanks to the pawsitively fun take on the quintessential elements that make up the perfect small-town holiday romance.
The difference between my two dogs was striking. Bird was the quintessential good girl, a sweet and loving companion who after a lifetime of big ball-fetching energy had mellowed into the perfect couch potato. Edith was clever to a fault, catlike with her affections, and way too big for her black and white britches. Things were stable between the two opposites, but I was still bummed that they weren’t besties yet.
The above quotation means a lot to me. I rarely see the portrayal of pet disappointment in stories. Due to her reactivity to other dogs, I've experienced this with my dog, and even though I feel bummed at times, it doesn't mean that I love her any less.
I absolutely loved that the book took place between September and December. It's never too soon to get into the holiday spirit, but it was so much fun getting to experience Halloween and Thanksgiving considering most holiday romances focus only on Christmas. UNLEASHED HOLIDAY has the perfect mix of silly antics and more serious topics, such as navigating grief during the holidays and the struggles to maintain long-distance friendships.
I took a deep breath and wished I could bottle the moment. That familiar, comforting scent of fall leaves, a breeze that was cool enough to make you wish you'd worn a hoodie even though it was still warm in the sunshine, and two dogs reveling in the freedom of sniffing whatever they wanted to.
The feelings/sensations described truly encapsulate fall, making it the perfect read to pick up on its publication day on 9/26. Many thanks to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I can't recommend this one enough!
The difference between my two dogs was striking. Bird was the quintessential good girl, a sweet and loving companion who after a lifetime of big ball-fetching energy had mellowed into the perfect couch potato. Edith was clever to a fault, catlike with her affections, and way too big for her black and white britches. Things were stable between the two opposites, but I was still bummed that they weren’t besties yet.
The above quotation means a lot to me. I rarely see the portrayal of pet disappointment in stories. Due to her reactivity to other dogs, I've experienced this with my dog, and even though I feel bummed at times, it doesn't mean that I love her any less.
I absolutely loved that the book took place between September and December. It's never too soon to get into the holiday spirit, but it was so much fun getting to experience Halloween and Thanksgiving considering most holiday romances focus only on Christmas. UNLEASHED HOLIDAY has the perfect mix of silly antics and more serious topics, such as navigating grief during the holidays and the struggles to maintain long-distance friendships.
I took a deep breath and wished I could bottle the moment. That familiar, comforting scent of fall leaves, a breeze that was cool enough to make you wish you'd worn a hoodie even though it was still warm in the sunshine, and two dogs reveling in the freedom of sniffing whatever they wanted to.
The feelings/sensations described truly encapsulate fall, making it the perfect read to pick up on its publication day on 9/26. Many thanks to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I can't recommend this one enough!
December 13, 2023
This was a cute romance holiday read. It was fast and enjoyable. Was it my favorite no.. honestly if there wouldn't have been all the dogs and the goats I might have not finished this one.
The characters were good, I felt lacked a bit of development for me, I also wasn't a big believer in their romance. I felt what happened in the past was ridiculous and should've been resolved way quicker. For me the spark was missing between these 2 characters.
I just feel like this is a storyline we've seen and it didn't bring anything special to me. Was it still fun and enjoyable definitely and especially the dogs. I felt they truly made the story.
I I listened to this one and the narrator was really good, I liked her voice and how she expressed herself. I do believe she made me enjoy this book more than if I would've read it.
✨️Thank you to #partner @prhaudio for my free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were good, I felt lacked a bit of development for me, I also wasn't a big believer in their romance. I felt what happened in the past was ridiculous and should've been resolved way quicker. For me the spark was missing between these 2 characters.
I just feel like this is a storyline we've seen and it didn't bring anything special to me. Was it still fun and enjoyable definitely and especially the dogs. I felt they truly made the story.
I I listened to this one and the narrator was really good, I liked her voice and how she expressed herself. I do believe she made me enjoy this book more than if I would've read it.
✨️Thank you to #partner @prhaudio for my free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2023
Unleashed Holiday has a cute premise. However, I struggled to get invested or care about these characters. I know others will enjoy this book. It just wasn't for me.
Thank you, Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and PRHAudio, for my complimentary copies.
Thank you, Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and PRHAudio, for my complimentary copies.
December 16, 2023
I love a good holiday romance and this one has the added benefit of also have dogs and forced proximity.
I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this book via Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
December 22, 2023
3.5. Very cute and quick read.
December 30, 2023
1. This isn’t a Christmas book
2. It took 315/330 pages for everyone to get their shit together
3. The dogs and goats were the only things keeping me going
2. It took 315/330 pages for everyone to get their shit together
3. The dogs and goats were the only things keeping me going
November 15, 2024
the cute dogos and the crazy goats were my favorites parts of the story 🤪
December 19, 2024
Soooo I loved it it was good!! But both of the characters needed to grow the fuck up. Don’t even get me started on the MMC baby he could’ve been 16 years old with the way he be so sensitive
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