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Adopt-A-Dad
Luke Duncan has never been able to turn away when he was needed. That's why he became a veterinarian, and now cares for three dogs, two cats, a raccoon, snakes, ducks...but children? Luke hadn't considered parenthood before, but when he finds three orphaned kids, he can't just walk away. Now all he has to do is convince Social Services that a single man would make a great foster parent....
Social worker Kealey Fitzpatrick firmly believes that taking in a child�not to mention three�shouldn't be undertaken as lightly as picking up milk at the store. Raised in foster homes herself, she knows the importance of belonging to a stable and loving family. And yet the more time Kealey spends with the kids, she realizes they've already adopted Luke as their dad. The only thing missing...is a mommy.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2001
11 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie K. Winn
46 books38 followersBonnie K. Winn is the author of 34 published novels, most of which have been translated into over twenty languages. Fourteen-million copies of her books are in print. Currently, Bonnie is one of the top ten bestselling authors in Harlequin’s highly successful Steeple Hill/Love Inspired inspirational fiction program.
Named as one of the top ten romance authors in America by Affaire de Coeur, Bonnie K. Winn began her career with the launch of her Wildflower series in the early 1990s. Her first novel, Summer Rose, climbed to the top of three national bestseller lists. Her historical novel, Forbidden Fire, won Affaire De Coeur's Best Overall Historical Romance of 1994. That same year, she was named Utah Writer of the Year. Newlywed Game, lauded by Romantic Times as "a great talent making a smashing contemporary debut," was her first Harlequin American romance book. The Accidental Mrs. MacKenzie, which hit number one on the Walden Books and B. Dalton romance bestsellers lists, was nominated by Romantic Times for best contemporary romance of 1999. Her first Silhouette Intimate Moments release, The Hijacked Wife, appeared on numerous bestseller lists as well.
Besides writing novels, Bonnie also lends her talents to screenwriting, and her screenplay Heroes placed as a finalist at the Sundance U.S. Film Festival. Formerly a public relations executive, Bonnie devotes her time exclusively to writing. She resides in the foothills of the Rockies with her husband and dogs, and with her grown son nearby.
Named as one of the top ten romance authors in America by Affaire de Coeur, Bonnie K. Winn began her career with the launch of her Wildflower series in the early 1990s. Her first novel, Summer Rose, climbed to the top of three national bestseller lists. Her historical novel, Forbidden Fire, won Affaire De Coeur's Best Overall Historical Romance of 1994. That same year, she was named Utah Writer of the Year. Newlywed Game, lauded by Romantic Times as "a great talent making a smashing contemporary debut," was her first Harlequin American romance book. The Accidental Mrs. MacKenzie, which hit number one on the Walden Books and B. Dalton romance bestsellers lists, was nominated by Romantic Times for best contemporary romance of 1999. Her first Silhouette Intimate Moments release, The Hijacked Wife, appeared on numerous bestseller lists as well.
Besides writing novels, Bonnie also lends her talents to screenwriting, and her screenplay Heroes placed as a finalist at the Sundance U.S. Film Festival. Formerly a public relations executive, Bonnie devotes her time exclusively to writing. She resides in the foothills of the Rockies with her husband and dogs, and with her grown son nearby.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 27 reviews
October 6, 2018
This is a simple and touching story. I love romance stories when kids play a part in the story. These kids are great, maybe a little too perfect, but what's wrong with that?
Luke is also a little too perfect, as is his huge family, and again that's OK. He is great with kids. He starts off poorly with Kealey even before the book starts. He had a blind date with her and judged that she was rigid and without emotion. It seems a little out of character how rude he is to her. She surprises him when, although rigid in her rules, she is great with the kids face to face. Kealey has reasons in her past for hiding her emotions and after a while the book reveals them. As we get to know her deep down, we come to love Kealey.
The first half is great and uplifting. Kealey's resistance starts to wear thin in the second half, and despite her deep hurts, you just want to shake her. This leads to an ending which is a little melodramatic and contrived, but if you ignore that it is even more touching.
Social services, and Kealey in particular, take a hit for being so inflexible that the reader wonders how they can be so mean, but then DCFS is a popular target in books and movies.
There are no mature themes, neither sex nor violence.
Luke is also a little too perfect, as is his huge family, and again that's OK. He is great with kids. He starts off poorly with Kealey even before the book starts. He had a blind date with her and judged that she was rigid and without emotion. It seems a little out of character how rude he is to her. She surprises him when, although rigid in her rules, she is great with the kids face to face. Kealey has reasons in her past for hiding her emotions and after a while the book reveals them. As we get to know her deep down, we come to love Kealey.
The first half is great and uplifting. Kealey's resistance starts to wear thin in the second half, and despite her deep hurts, you just want to shake her. This leads to an ending which is a little melodramatic and contrived, but if you ignore that it is even more touching.
Social services, and Kealey in particular, take a hit for being so inflexible that the reader wonders how they can be so mean, but then DCFS is a popular target in books and movies.
There are no mature themes, neither sex nor violence.
February 28, 2018
Loved this book!!! Will likely read it again! Three young children are homeless after the death of their mother. They attempt to steal a cart of groceries from inside a grocery store. The are chased and caught by the owner, veterinarian Luke Duncan. He discovers them in an abandoned building and decides to take them home. This is just the start of their story and it just gets better.
May 26, 2020
It was hard to put down.
May 14, 2023
It was certainly a very heartwarming storyline!! I loved the ending! It was very sweet and romantic!
October 3, 2012
I read this in 2nd print and it was titled Adopt-a-Dad
I was waiting for this book because it looked so good! I've started to read it and so far, I'm a little ticked off! The impression that EVERY child must live in a two-parent home is really really closed minded. I know for a fact that the system has categories when placing a child in a foster home. SOME are placed with single parents. I'm just really disgusted at this woman's point of view that all kids must be placed in a two-parent home. YES, ideally this is what we all know and strive for, but in reality, this isn't always the case. Hey I'm a single parent and okay I have one kid but she does great! I'm going to continue reading it and edit my review later...but this is the only thing bothering me so far. I was part of the system. My only thought was finding anyone who would want to care for me and my siblings. I may have got split from a sibling and went with the other. BUT that was due to our circumstances. Foster kids constantly hope for stability and a lasting loving home. I'm just floored by this immediate thought of this social worker. I had to be placed in a two parent, but some aren't. I did get my forever family and I'm hoping beyond hope I read something good in this book! I can't stress enough that I think for certain circumstances there is a must for two parent homes, but single parents CAN foster and adopt. It's not impossible! So far in this case it appears Luke is doing a fabulous job on his own.
Bracing myself so I don't get agitated by the single-mindedness of this. I hated it when I was torn from a foster mom because they felt we needed more structure with two parents. They rip you from that brief moment of "wow we are really okay" then bam your split apart and bracing yourself for the next slice through your heart. Yeah the system sucks and I hope beyond hope that I enjoy the rest of this book.
I promise, for now, there is 3 star rating, and a comment. I shall update!
10/3/12 UPDATE:
I still stand by what I said earlier, but I can understand to a degree why Kealey is the way she is. However, she should have never had that cloud her judgement. She did. I won't say what. I get why she's the way she is. Words of temporary were flung around, but anyone could clearly see that when it came down to it, Luke and kids would be attached. It's so unbelievably sad that the system works this way pulling kids from a good environment just because they can. This was frustrating to read. I commend Kealey for doing what she was doing, but I felt she was going about it all wrong. I absolutely loved Jane and Mary for everything they said to Kealey. It makes you wonder ... if protecting yourself is more harmful or better than plunging a head and experiencing change. Something to think about. I will give Kealey some credit, she did think about doing just that. I still think she went about it in a closed minded way. Yeah it sucks what happened, it will happen again. However, it doesn't mean it will happen all the time. Each case is different with different circumstances. She's a Social Worker and it pained me that she let personal feelings cloud her judgement. Except...I'm somewhat glad she did! I know strange, but very true! There's a nice surprise and in the end everything falls together. I loved it! I totally recommend, but those who have an inkling of the system might get a bit opinionated. Keep reading! You will fall in love with these kids, the Duncan family, Kealey, and definitely Luke Duncan. Amazing guy! Amazing writing it flowed really well! Tears, frustration, laughter and well worth every cent! I thought about just 4 stars, but I changed my mind because I could let my frustration go regarding Kealey. She surprised me as I am sure she will surprise most! A reprint. Loved the new cover/edition better!
I was waiting for this book because it looked so good! I've started to read it and so far, I'm a little ticked off! The impression that EVERY child must live in a two-parent home is really really closed minded. I know for a fact that the system has categories when placing a child in a foster home. SOME are placed with single parents. I'm just really disgusted at this woman's point of view that all kids must be placed in a two-parent home. YES, ideally this is what we all know and strive for, but in reality, this isn't always the case. Hey I'm a single parent and okay I have one kid but she does great! I'm going to continue reading it and edit my review later...but this is the only thing bothering me so far. I was part of the system. My only thought was finding anyone who would want to care for me and my siblings. I may have got split from a sibling and went with the other. BUT that was due to our circumstances. Foster kids constantly hope for stability and a lasting loving home. I'm just floored by this immediate thought of this social worker. I had to be placed in a two parent, but some aren't. I did get my forever family and I'm hoping beyond hope I read something good in this book! I can't stress enough that I think for certain circumstances there is a must for two parent homes, but single parents CAN foster and adopt. It's not impossible! So far in this case it appears Luke is doing a fabulous job on his own.
Bracing myself so I don't get agitated by the single-mindedness of this. I hated it when I was torn from a foster mom because they felt we needed more structure with two parents. They rip you from that brief moment of "wow we are really okay" then bam your split apart and bracing yourself for the next slice through your heart. Yeah the system sucks and I hope beyond hope that I enjoy the rest of this book.
I promise, for now, there is 3 star rating, and a comment. I shall update!
10/3/12 UPDATE:
I still stand by what I said earlier, but I can understand to a degree why Kealey is the way she is. However, she should have never had that cloud her judgement. She did. I won't say what. I get why she's the way she is. Words of temporary were flung around, but anyone could clearly see that when it came down to it, Luke and kids would be attached. It's so unbelievably sad that the system works this way pulling kids from a good environment just because they can. This was frustrating to read. I commend Kealey for doing what she was doing, but I felt she was going about it all wrong. I absolutely loved Jane and Mary for everything they said to Kealey. It makes you wonder ... if protecting yourself is more harmful or better than plunging a head and experiencing change. Something to think about. I will give Kealey some credit, she did think about doing just that. I still think she went about it in a closed minded way. Yeah it sucks what happened, it will happen again. However, it doesn't mean it will happen all the time. Each case is different with different circumstances. She's a Social Worker and it pained me that she let personal feelings cloud her judgement. Except...I'm somewhat glad she did! I know strange, but very true! There's a nice surprise and in the end everything falls together. I loved it! I totally recommend, but those who have an inkling of the system might get a bit opinionated. Keep reading! You will fall in love with these kids, the Duncan family, Kealey, and definitely Luke Duncan. Amazing guy! Amazing writing it flowed really well! Tears, frustration, laughter and well worth every cent! I thought about just 4 stars, but I changed my mind because I could let my frustration go regarding Kealey. She surprised me as I am sure she will surprise most! A reprint. Loved the new cover/edition better!
November 2, 2012
First of all, I could not find a print edition listed on Goodreads so? I'm going to write up my review on the Kindle version.
This was perhaps one of the most special romances that I've read. Yes, Romances have a consistent formula and I must admit that I like the traditional ones best. That being said, 'Adopt-A-Dad' was new, refreshing, and made me smile throughout the entire novel. It was contemporary, yet timeless.
Luke Duncan, a veterinarian, and one of many children, does what we all do everyday, goes grocery shopping. Along with his groceries, he manages to pick up three orphaned children, hiding from being separated as a family. Luke is saddened by their circumstances but is not at a loss...I mean what is the issue of adding three more members to his own family consisting of three dogs, two cats, racoons, snakes and ducks?
Can you imagine how those scared and hungry children must have felt...finding themselves suddenly safe from hunger and taken to a huge Victorian home filled with animal orphans? I tried to place myself in their shoes and what I felt was overwhelmed, scared, and thrilled at the same time.
The social services person just might not agree to Luke's foster parenting though. Everyone agrees (in her working and life experience,) that children do better in double parent homes. Luke is single. then there is the small fact that they, Luke and Social Worker, Kealey had experienced the worst blind date ever.
I loved this book and was tickled at the solution that Kealey, herself came up with. As I said, I smiled all the way through reading this great book.
If you enjoy traditional family romances...do not miss reading this one.
This was perhaps one of the most special romances that I've read. Yes, Romances have a consistent formula and I must admit that I like the traditional ones best. That being said, 'Adopt-A-Dad' was new, refreshing, and made me smile throughout the entire novel. It was contemporary, yet timeless.
Luke Duncan, a veterinarian, and one of many children, does what we all do everyday, goes grocery shopping. Along with his groceries, he manages to pick up three orphaned children, hiding from being separated as a family. Luke is saddened by their circumstances but is not at a loss...I mean what is the issue of adding three more members to his own family consisting of three dogs, two cats, racoons, snakes and ducks?
Can you imagine how those scared and hungry children must have felt...finding themselves suddenly safe from hunger and taken to a huge Victorian home filled with animal orphans? I tried to place myself in their shoes and what I felt was overwhelmed, scared, and thrilled at the same time.
The social services person just might not agree to Luke's foster parenting though. Everyone agrees (in her working and life experience,) that children do better in double parent homes. Luke is single. then there is the small fact that they, Luke and Social Worker, Kealey had experienced the worst blind date ever.
I loved this book and was tickled at the solution that Kealey, herself came up with. As I said, I smiled all the way through reading this great book.
If you enjoy traditional family romances...do not miss reading this one.
March 24, 2013
I overall enjoyed this book for what it was, a sweet, heart tugging read that i finished in one sitting!!!! I loved Luke and his big heart and his bigger family! I loved how the story played out with him and the three kids he took in. Kealey, on the other hand, was a character that I grew to like(on the last few pages!) She was a pain to me for all her whiny, cry baby, whoa is me nobody loved me attitude!!!!! I get it, not everyone grew up in happy stable well adjusted homes, but as a grow woman she was chosing to harp on her past and not focus on having a better future!!! Sorry, but characters that feel sorry for themselves where other folks can't be let in drive me nuts and Kealey was definitely that type. I couldn't warm to her at all. Having said that, this was still a sweet book and a quick read, thanks to Luke and the kids, they were the stars of this book, Kealey was a thorn in my side!!!! If you want to enjoy an ez tender hearted story featuring an amazing man and 3 adorable kids, this is it!!!!!
December 31, 2012
Bonnie K. Winn`s novel is the first book I downloaded and read on my new Kindle that my husband gave me for Christmas.
I fell in love with each of the characters, got caught up in the plot and story, and learned more about adoption and how children are placed in foster homes. My favorite passages featured Luke Duncan`s large extended family and how they rallied around each other in good times and bad.
This HEARTWARMING novel will appeal to readers who enjoy stories that revolve around family with just enough romance to keep readers turning the pages. Also animal lovers will feel right at home, too,
The author did an excellent job with the setting, and I could picture the rambling Victorian house that took in all kinds of strays, both the four-legged and two legged variety.
I'm so delighted and honored to write this review for an author who truly cares about her characters and her readers.
Kathleen M. Rodgers
(author of the novel "The Final Salute")
I fell in love with each of the characters, got caught up in the plot and story, and learned more about adoption and how children are placed in foster homes. My favorite passages featured Luke Duncan`s large extended family and how they rallied around each other in good times and bad.
This HEARTWARMING novel will appeal to readers who enjoy stories that revolve around family with just enough romance to keep readers turning the pages. Also animal lovers will feel right at home, too,
The author did an excellent job with the setting, and I could picture the rambling Victorian house that took in all kinds of strays, both the four-legged and two legged variety.
I'm so delighted and honored to write this review for an author who truly cares about her characters and her readers.
Kathleen M. Rodgers
(author of the novel "The Final Salute")
July 22, 2013
Definitely fits the Heartwarming line perfectly.
Luke Duncan stumbles across three orphans and being a collector of strays, takes them in without a second thought. Kealey Fitzpatrick's been on the other side of the fence and feels those kids need a loving, two-parent family.
Although you can see the ending coming from a million miles away, Ms. Winn pens a very enjoyable read with likable characters, including a huge extended family. Bravo!
Luke Duncan stumbles across three orphans and being a collector of strays, takes them in without a second thought. Kealey Fitzpatrick's been on the other side of the fence and feels those kids need a loving, two-parent family.
Although you can see the ending coming from a million miles away, Ms. Winn pens a very enjoyable read with likable characters, including a huge extended family. Bravo!
July 13, 2025
An easy read.
I have a soft spot for orphans lost in the world and the people who come to their rescue. This story is just lovely, a little drama, a few giggles and a family that pulls together to care for these children. The veterinarian who houses animals and a social worker who draws from her own experiences with foster care bump heads about what's best for the children.
Enjoy!
I have a soft spot for orphans lost in the world and the people who come to their rescue. This story is just lovely, a little drama, a few giggles and a family that pulls together to care for these children. The veterinarian who houses animals and a social worker who draws from her own experiences with foster care bump heads about what's best for the children.
Enjoy!
May 19, 2013
First the bad news. No real character development-just basic, one step after another book. Very poorly written, I felt I was reading a story written by an amateur. Now the good news-this was one sweet, happily ever after book. No sex, either. And although I don't cry at books, it was so wonderfully sappy, that I found myself crying at the ending. Overall, I'm glad I read it.
November 8, 2013
I really loved this book. The hero was always a guy who helped people in need, and when he found three orphaned children, he didn't hesitate to help them. The heroine was a good one, as someone who truly understood children and their conflict made the story a great one. A sweet romance. I would definitely read more from this author.
March 27, 2014
Quick, fun read although I wasnt sure there would be a HEA. There were some sad elements when the foster system was discussed and when Luke tried to save a stray do that had been left lying by the road after a hit and run. I really liked the idea of Luke's huge extended family and made me wish for one just like it
November 16, 2012
Super sweet romance. Don't think they actually make men like Luke (but that may just be my pessimism talking). Anyway Luke takes in strays and as a vet this can make for a crowded home. But he manages to take in a few more. One social worker and three orphans who truly seem to adopt one another.
February 17, 2013
This is, as advertised, a "heart-warming" book--a "tender romance". I really enjoyed Luke's determination to prove his ability to creat a home for three orphaned kids, and Keeley's realization that a stable and loving family can be made up of varying elements. A really satisfying story.
January 24, 2016
Winn is one of my favorite love inspired authors which is why I ended up reading this book although I was put off by the far-fetched premise. I am glad I did, it was a cute book but the epilogue was way too sappy in my opinion.
June 2, 2019
This was a sweet and heartfelt book. It definitely tugs at the emotions. There are plenty of emotions, great dialog, fun, reflection, understanding, strength and courage, and the perfect HEA. Great fir the lazy-day read or something to snuggle up with for the night. Enjoy.
Want to read
December 6, 2012I'm trying. So flat and surface level. Come on, Harlequin!
February 4, 2013
Cute, quick read.
July 24, 2013
Very touching story. I enjoyed this a lot.
August 26, 2013
Adopt a Dad is a heartwarming story of love for family Kids and animals. It was an enjoyable fast read although quite predictable. It wouldn't have been right if the outcome was any different.
November 3, 2013
Sweet story , kids, pets and romance.
December 24, 2013
I was impressed that a series romance would address the issues of inferiority, introversion, low self image etc of a thrown away child now an adult. It was handled rather deftly.
May 18, 2018
Touching, sweet romance.
Well written, moving story. You get wrapped up in the family and cannot wait to see what happens to all the orphans, human and animal.
Well written, moving story. You get wrapped up in the family and cannot wait to see what happens to all the orphans, human and animal.
April 17, 2013
Review coming soon...
Read
July 5, 2013So heart-warming, I couldn't help but tear up!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 27 reviews