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Heal My Fractious Heart: A Vet Med Novella
A romantic comedy novella dedicated to the animal lovers, animal rescuers, and animal healers.
Lila Fox’s life is all about the animals. Her childhood dreams of getting paid to cuddle healthy pets may not have come to fruition, but her role as an emergency vet tech still brings her joy. The challenges that come with her work have always been an exciting feat for Lila, but she could never say the same about her tumultuous love life. Juggling a full hospital of sick patients is difficult enough, but she also works alongside her hunk of an ex-boyfriend, Dr. Arthur Hale. Just when Lila finally gets over the breakup and begins to stand on her own two feet, a mysterious technician from Seattle crashes into her life. Emory Griffin is a vet tech starting fresh after her life back in Seattle went up in flames. When a family friend in Texas offered her a position at their emergency animal hospital, she saw this as a perfect opportunity for a new start. However, her transition into the new clinic has not been as seamless as she had hoped. Emory cannot stop butting heads with her complicated colleague, Lila. Their first impressions of each other were an absolute disaster, and that’s putting it lightly. Still, she can’t help but feel the familiar butterflies in her stomach each time Lila is around. Are the two destined to grin and bear each other’s presence forever, or is there something underneath the surface they are trying to ignore?
Lila Fox’s life is all about the animals. Her childhood dreams of getting paid to cuddle healthy pets may not have come to fruition, but her role as an emergency vet tech still brings her joy. The challenges that come with her work have always been an exciting feat for Lila, but she could never say the same about her tumultuous love life. Juggling a full hospital of sick patients is difficult enough, but she also works alongside her hunk of an ex-boyfriend, Dr. Arthur Hale. Just when Lila finally gets over the breakup and begins to stand on her own two feet, a mysterious technician from Seattle crashes into her life. Emory Griffin is a vet tech starting fresh after her life back in Seattle went up in flames. When a family friend in Texas offered her a position at their emergency animal hospital, she saw this as a perfect opportunity for a new start. However, her transition into the new clinic has not been as seamless as she had hoped. Emory cannot stop butting heads with her complicated colleague, Lila. Their first impressions of each other were an absolute disaster, and that’s putting it lightly. Still, she can’t help but feel the familiar butterflies in her stomach each time Lila is around. Are the two destined to grin and bear each other’s presence forever, or is there something underneath the surface they are trying to ignore?
- GenresLGBT
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 30, 2024
Hiiii. I wrote this. I promised my friends and family that I would actually give myself 5 stars, so here I am 🙃
December 2, 2023
"Sometimes when we're having a bad day, it feels like the only thing we can do right is care for our patients”.
•••
Let me start off by saying I am not a romance reading girlie.
With that said, I feel like this book would’ve been better if it had more time to grow; another ARC reader said it felt rushed, & I’d have to agree. I felt as if one second Lila, & Emory were meeting, and the next thing I knew they were in full blown love; as Zoey would say. I found Lila to be a bit obnoxious towards the end when she was upset about their fight. I definitely rolled my eyes to be honest.
On the other hand, I absolutely loved the vet med aspect, & found myself relating to each woman in a different way! It was “fun” to play the ‘what’s wrong with this patient’ game as I often do at work. I loved imagining where in the clinic Lila, or the girls were and then thinking about the layout of mine. I also tried to match her coworkers to my team as well, and was able to come up with some matches.
I loved how Amber brought true life vet med to the reader, and hope that our jobs can be taken a bit more appreciatively. THANK YOU for giving me the chance to read this ARC, & I promise to pass it around for more reviews.
•••
Let me start off by saying I am not a romance reading girlie.
With that said, I feel like this book would’ve been better if it had more time to grow; another ARC reader said it felt rushed, & I’d have to agree. I felt as if one second Lila, & Emory were meeting, and the next thing I knew they were in full blown love; as Zoey would say. I found Lila to be a bit obnoxious towards the end when she was upset about their fight. I definitely rolled my eyes to be honest.
On the other hand, I absolutely loved the vet med aspect, & found myself relating to each woman in a different way! It was “fun” to play the ‘what’s wrong with this patient’ game as I often do at work. I loved imagining where in the clinic Lila, or the girls were and then thinking about the layout of mine. I also tried to match her coworkers to my team as well, and was able to come up with some matches.
I loved how Amber brought true life vet med to the reader, and hope that our jobs can be taken a bit more appreciatively. THANK YOU for giving me the chance to read this ARC, & I promise to pass it around for more reviews.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2023
I want to start off by saying a big thank you for the ARC! I think it's awesome that Amber was able to get a book published.
I think this book had a ton of potential. It fell a little short for me. I mean that literally. It was too short. I felt like it was rushed and would have benefited from an extra 100 pages. I feel like there could have been some more angst or something. I'm not a fan of insta-love, I need more. The conflict was basically non-existent. I also dont think Arthur was a necessary character. He didn't really add anything to the book.
I loved the setting! I would have loved to see more from the hospital. The best part was the vet med stuff. I think more could have been done with that
I look forward to seeing more from Amber!
I think this book had a ton of potential. It fell a little short for me. I mean that literally. It was too short. I felt like it was rushed and would have benefited from an extra 100 pages. I feel like there could have been some more angst or something. I'm not a fan of insta-love, I need more. The conflict was basically non-existent. I also dont think Arthur was a necessary character. He didn't really add anything to the book.
I loved the setting! I would have loved to see more from the hospital. The best part was the vet med stuff. I think more could have been done with that
I look forward to seeing more from Amber!
November 3, 2023
I'm so grateful to have been given an advanced copy! Thank you to Amber!!
I really enjoyed this book! As an ex vet med professional, this was such a delight to read going through the references (PENnies = VEGgies XD) But it was an accurate take on how the people of vet med are and feel in their day to day life.
I found this to overall be a fun quick read for the all romance girlies living in vet med. I 100% think it's worth taking a look through!
I really enjoyed this book! As an ex vet med professional, this was such a delight to read going through the references (PENnies = VEGgies XD) But it was an accurate take on how the people of vet med are and feel in their day to day life.
I found this to overall be a fun quick read for the all romance girlies living in vet med. I 100% think it's worth taking a look through!
October 26, 2023
LOVED this book. So happy I had an advance read copy! Was a fun easy read that only took an hour or so. The characters were very vivid. I could picture all of them! I have family that work in vet med and loved getting an insight to this world.
November 2, 2023
Wow!! My first vet med RomCom and it was amazing! I loved being able to relate to the content. Thank you Amber for creating something special for us crazy animal people 😂
November 18, 2023
This book was really cute!! I loved the characters, writing, and storyline. I wish it could have been longer. I can’t wait for more from Amber.
November 10, 2023
A cute book with a sweet ending. A wholesome, very mildly spiced, queer romance novella that finally breaks into the veterinary medicine world.
*MILD SPOILERS* There isn’t much of a love triangle like the synopsis implies, mostly the FMC struggling to get over the pains of previous relationships to open herself to the possibilities of something new. This is a good first novel for the author, but I can’t wait to watch her grow. The short length doesn’t allow for much character growth or interesting plot points. It reads like a Hallmark movie, but it’s a cozy read and perfect for the chilly weather heading our way.
*MILD SPOILERS* There isn’t much of a love triangle like the synopsis implies, mostly the FMC struggling to get over the pains of previous relationships to open herself to the possibilities of something new. This is a good first novel for the author, but I can’t wait to watch her grow. The short length doesn’t allow for much character growth or interesting plot points. It reads like a Hallmark movie, but it’s a cozy read and perfect for the chilly weather heading our way.
January 7, 2024
This definitely wasn’t the worst book I’ve read. It really could’ve used more editing. It moved way too fast and the repetitive nature of the wording wasn’t pleasant. Tbh I was going to give it a 3 stars until the phrase “coming undone beneath her” was used three times during the smut scene, two of those instances being just a few lines from each other.
Regardless, it was fun to read about a romance in the vetmed field and it’s a really good concept. I just think it could’ve benefited from a little extra love before being released.
Regardless, it was fun to read about a romance in the vetmed field and it’s a really good concept. I just think it could’ve benefited from a little extra love before being released.
November 6, 2023
This was such a great read! I finished it in just two days as it was such an easy, fun book. As someone who doesn’t work in the vet med space, it was so fun to read about it and see all the crazy things they have to deal with on a daily basis. The character development was also great and I fell in love with all of the characters, especially Oliver 🐈⬛
Really impressed considering this is the authors first ever book! Highly recommend ✨
Really impressed considering this is the authors first ever book! Highly recommend ✨
January 30, 2024
Heal My Fractious Heart by Amber LaRock is a delightful journey into the chaotic yet rewarding world of veterinary medicine. Lila Fox's life as an emergency vet tech, coupled with the challenges of working alongside her ex-boyfriend, Dr. Arthur Hale, sets the stage for a compelling story. The arrival of the mysterious vet tech, Emory Griffin, adds a layer of intrigue and conflict, making for an engaging read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially as someone working in veterinary medicine. It was refreshing to find a novel that accurately captures the essence of our profession. The author skillfully weaves together the complexities of both the veterinary clinic and the characters' love lives, creating a story that resonates with authenticity.
As a first-time reader of a vet med-themed book, I found Heal My Fractious Heart to be a fun and easy read. The relatable scenarios and genuine portrayal of the veterinary field made it a unique and enjoyable experience. I appreciate the representation of our work, which is often overlooked in literature.
I will certainly be recommending this book to my vet med friends, as it not only entertained but also celebrated the challenges and joys we face in our profession. Amber LaRock has crafted a novel that not only tugs at the heartstrings but also brings a smile to the faces of those who understand the world of veterinary medicine.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially as someone working in veterinary medicine. It was refreshing to find a novel that accurately captures the essence of our profession. The author skillfully weaves together the complexities of both the veterinary clinic and the characters' love lives, creating a story that resonates with authenticity.
As a first-time reader of a vet med-themed book, I found Heal My Fractious Heart to be a fun and easy read. The relatable scenarios and genuine portrayal of the veterinary field made it a unique and enjoyable experience. I appreciate the representation of our work, which is often overlooked in literature.
I will certainly be recommending this book to my vet med friends, as it not only entertained but also celebrated the challenges and joys we face in our profession. Amber LaRock has crafted a novel that not only tugs at the heartstrings but also brings a smile to the faces of those who understand the world of veterinary medicine.
November 15, 2023
I’ve never read anything like Heal My Fractious Heart and I don’t think I will ever again because it is so unique. I figured that someone who reads as many romance novels as Amber would inevitably fall victim to the cliches so often littered throughout them but this book is a stand out amongst the rest. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the comparisons she used and the language was the perfect level of cool-casual. I felt for the characters and could connect with all of them on some level; except Arthur screw that guy 😂 I can’t wait for the next book from Amber. Maybe set in Thailand next!?
January 30, 2024
As many of the other reviews said, it was too short. I am a fan of enemies-to-lovers and thought I would be getting a little more of that based on Emory and Lilas initial interaction. I would have loved to see more of the relationship in the hospital, some more Dr. Hale, and overall development of Lila and Emorys relationship.
As someone who works in vet med, I appreciated the highlight of Dr. Hales struggle with anxiety, especially related to a difficult case.
Overall a nice, quick read that I would recommend to those looking for a short romance with insta-love/lust, bi representation, and vet med!
As someone who works in vet med, I appreciated the highlight of Dr. Hales struggle with anxiety, especially related to a difficult case.
Overall a nice, quick read that I would recommend to those looking for a short romance with insta-love/lust, bi representation, and vet med!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2024
I’m torn about this book. I love that it is a story about vet med and it’s actually realistic! It’s a good representation of the field and what we do every day. The losses and successes and how they are felt truly deeply. The actual story and relationships fell a bit flat for me though. I felt there could have been more development between Lila and Emory, more of that enemies to lovers vibe rather than almost instant solving of the drama between them. On the other hand, I appreciate that the toxic situation in the beginning of the book did not set a toxic vibe for the clinic overall. Alas, I guess it’s positive vibes with a slightly less interesting story.
October 4, 2024
As a fellow queer vet tech, I thought this was a cute and fast read. I felt like the veterinary medicine things were accurate and I enjoyed the characters. My only complaint is that I wish it would’ve dived deeper into some of the other characters and not just the main ones, but I understand that it’s meant to be a short novella. I appreciate the author for highlighting how hard this profession is, but yet how rewarding it is at the same time. I honestly would give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars if Goodreads allowed it. 🌈🐈🐕
October 29, 2023
So honored to have been given an ARC of this book.
A romance book I didn’t know I needed. This book was so cute. Great descriptions of the characters and situations so you felt like you were in the book. The fact that it was set in a veterinary setting with all the veterinary cliches and superstitions, was amazing. I laughed at moments (the PENnies), I was mad (at clients in the book) and frustrated (at Lila’s obliviousness) at moments. A fun read! So proud of Amber!
A romance book I didn’t know I needed. This book was so cute. Great descriptions of the characters and situations so you felt like you were in the book. The fact that it was set in a veterinary setting with all the veterinary cliches and superstitions, was amazing. I laughed at moments (the PENnies), I was mad (at clients in the book) and frustrated (at Lila’s obliviousness) at moments. A fun read! So proud of Amber!
April 3, 2024
Absolutely Loved This Book!!
As a registered vet tech, finding a book that involves our profession that has accurate details and doesn’t make me want to pull my hair out is rare! I absolutely loved this book! I haven’t finished a book in a day in a while and this was just what I needed!! The plot and storyline were perfect! The perfect amount of spice with a realistic story. I will absolutely recommend this to my vet tech friends!!
As a registered vet tech, finding a book that involves our profession that has accurate details and doesn’t make me want to pull my hair out is rare! I absolutely loved this book! I haven’t finished a book in a day in a while and this was just what I needed!! The plot and storyline were perfect! The perfect amount of spice with a realistic story. I will absolutely recommend this to my vet tech friends!!
November 20, 2023
Such a cute fun story! Perfect for a cosy weekend read or for taking a breather in between more intense reads. Love the funny use of language, the cute descriptions of animals, and the relatable characters. It’s a short book so if you’re looking for a quick fix to get that warm fuzzy feeling then definitely give it a go!
November 21, 2023
I was sooo excited for this book to come out and it definitely delivered!! Just the right amount of spice and incredibly relatable to our vet med field. The bit about the little white dog named “Bella” with a bladder stone had me laughing out loud! (We totally did a cystotomy on a Maltese named “Bella” a couple years ago). Overall a fun and easy read—just wish it was longer!!
December 2, 2023
vet med book!
As a fellow Vet tech, I was super excited to read a book that feels like my daily life. It was such a cute HILARIOUS read.
Chaos of vet med world with hilarious characters and some spicy romance. Lila stole my heart instantly and I thinkkkkkk I have a girl crush on Emory.
The ending was perfect! 💜
As a fellow Vet tech, I was super excited to read a book that feels like my daily life. It was such a cute HILARIOUS read.
Chaos of vet med world with hilarious characters and some spicy romance. Lila stole my heart instantly and I thinkkkkkk I have a girl crush on Emory.
The ending was perfect! 💜
October 29, 2023
This book was great. Such a quick and easy read. The characters were very easy to like. Loved that this book was relatable in the veterinary medicine aspect. It was great to read a book set in the field. Im so happy to have gotten an ARC.
October 31, 2023
Honestly - such a cute book. Loved the unique setting in the veterinary ER, so out of the daily life of veterinary technicians! Had all the ups and downs a nice romance novel needs! Had a good time reading it- 5 stars :)
November 10, 2023
This was such a fun, quick read! I read it directly after reading an intense thriller, so it was perfect for cleaning the palate haha. If you're a fan of light hearted romances, then this is the book for you! Bonus points if you are in vet med and love queer romances.
November 12, 2023
Thanks so much to Amber for the ARC!! As a queer person in vet med, I was a huge fan! My only complaint is that I wish it was longer. I would have loved more backstory of the characters and more details about their lives! Overall though a very fun, quick read :) I look forward to Amber’s next book!
November 23, 2023
I enjoyed HMFH! I definitely wish it was longer and a little more of a slow burn but that’s just my preference. Characters were fairly well developed in a short amount of time. I’d be down for spin offs of Zoey, Arthur and Tanya! A whole little vetmed romance world!
November 25, 2023
This was such a cute and fun book to read! Despite being so short, I thought the characters were well-developed and had good arcs. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes heartwarming romance stories, especially if you're an animal lover.
January 7, 2024
Originally was going to give this 4 stars because I really was enjoying this lil cutesy novella that is job related and a tad spicy.
But the argument at the end that caused the tension...Lila, really??? Sigh
But the argument at the end that caused the tension...Lila, really??? Sigh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2024
vetmed bi romcom
Was a decent book. f/f books just aren’t my thing. It was a quick read, only 160 pages. It was cool it was based on a veterinarian ER. As a vet tech myself of 8yrs I enjoyed that concept of it. Not that spicy, only had 1 semi spicy scene
Was a decent book. f/f books just aren’t my thing. It was a quick read, only 160 pages. It was cool it was based on a veterinarian ER. As a vet tech myself of 8yrs I enjoyed that concept of it. Not that spicy, only had 1 semi spicy scene
March 5, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐️ out of 5. It was so cute adorable and love this novella short book. I hope this author write more books.
After 100 pages I jump and hype exciting reaction when I read this between Emory and Lila. ❤️❤️
After 100 pages I jump and hype exciting reaction when I read this between Emory and Lila. ❤️❤️
March 29, 2024
I wanted sooooo bad to love this. But I couldn't. It all felt very rushed like I was reading case notes on the fly. I wanted to feel for everybody involved but no one had any meat. I hope that Amber keeps writing and keeps building on her craft.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews