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Second Chance #2
Good Guys Love Dogs
Desperate father Ian McKinley moves his delinquent teenage son to the small Virginia town of Keeling Creek, a place very unlike the New York City life he has been leading. Love takes him by surprise when he falls for Colby Williams, a woman unlike anyone he has ever been drawn to, a small town vet with a heart for animals and a fierce love for a teenage daughter she is also struggling to raise.
But Colby has a secret in her past, a secret she's not sure her daughter will ever forgive her for. And as for Ian McKinley, he seems too good to be true. If she had learned anything from the one time she had thrown her heart fully into love, it was that it didn't last.
But Colby has a secret in her past, a secret she's not sure her daughter will ever forgive her for. And as for Ian McKinley, he seems too good to be true. If she had learned anything from the one time she had thrown her heart fully into love, it was that it didn't last.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2012
5992 people are currently reading
1479 people want to read
About the author
Inglath Cooper
63 books935 followersVirginia author Inglath Cooper fell in love with reading as a little girl, devouring most of the books in her elementary school library. At some point, she decided she wanted to pursue a writing career, creating romance fiction that did for others what her favorite books have done for her. “I love character-driven books that leave me feeling as if I’ve really known these people and make me wish I didn’t have to turn the last page.”
“Romance fiction has always appealed to me because it deals with so many of the relationships in a woman’s life. Not only the love of her life, but often her relationship with her mother, sister or best friend. Romance authors have so much room to explore many of the meaningful moments and transitions in women’s lives. And who doesn’t love a good love story?”
Inglath most often writes stories about love and life that are set in small Virginia towns like the one where she grew up. “I like to think the flavor of my hometown shows up in my books both in their setting and through the characters who people it.”
When aspiring writers ask her how to be an author, she says, “Everything I know about writing books I learned from reading books.”
Inglath has been chosen as a RITA® Award winner for best long contemporary romance novel given out each year by Romance Writers of America. Her books are available through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, itunes.com, and Kobobooks.com.
Outside of writing, Inglath is actively involved in dog rescue, working with The Franklin County Humane Society to place dogs and cats in need of rehoming. She volunteers her time in every capacity possible: serving on the Board of Directors, fundraising, photographing dogs and cats available for adoption and serving as a foster home. “Helping an abused or neglected dog go on to have a wonderful life with a family who loves them is more rewarding than I can possibly say.”
“Romance fiction has always appealed to me because it deals with so many of the relationships in a woman’s life. Not only the love of her life, but often her relationship with her mother, sister or best friend. Romance authors have so much room to explore many of the meaningful moments and transitions in women’s lives. And who doesn’t love a good love story?”
Inglath most often writes stories about love and life that are set in small Virginia towns like the one where she grew up. “I like to think the flavor of my hometown shows up in my books both in their setting and through the characters who people it.”
When aspiring writers ask her how to be an author, she says, “Everything I know about writing books I learned from reading books.”
Inglath has been chosen as a RITA® Award winner for best long contemporary romance novel given out each year by Romance Writers of America. Her books are available through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, itunes.com, and Kobobooks.com.
Outside of writing, Inglath is actively involved in dog rescue, working with The Franklin County Humane Society to place dogs and cats in need of rehoming. She volunteers her time in every capacity possible: serving on the Board of Directors, fundraising, photographing dogs and cats available for adoption and serving as a foster home. “Helping an abused or neglected dog go on to have a wonderful life with a family who loves them is more rewarding than I can possibly say.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 315 reviews
May 14, 2013
Ms. Cooper's writing reminds me of someone else's... but I can't put my finger on who. It might be Fern Michaels. I am an animal lover. Dogs are near and dear to my heart. There's a bit in the book about puppies being abandoned along the road. I cried. People who abandon animals deserve their own special torture. I loved Colby, she was an amazing, strong woman. And Ian. Who wouldn't adore Ian? Very good story, well written. I pictured the imaginary setting of Keeling Creek in my mind's eye while reading the book. Having grown up in small town, Iowa, I can relate! I recommend you read this book if you're looking for a light love story with a good ending!
March 8, 2018
Who can resist a book with this title? Well my curiosity was surely piqued, as a dog lover and a fan of feel-good romance. I wasn’t disappointed, although I wished for a bit more consistency. Don’t get me wrong; on the whole the story did what it promised, but the author should have delivered on some aspects of the story she threw in there, but never developed any further. Here, I’m referring to the budding and possible romance between both Colby Williams’ daughter, Lena, and Ian McKinley’s son Luke. Isn’t it a bit weird to have the adult couple fall in love with each other, and their respective teenagers possibly too? That was a bit counter-intuitive for me.
Despite those reservations and a bit too many fluttering stomachs on the part of the female lead, I did enjoy the book for its feel-good qualities; the beautiful backdrop of a small town in Virginia, friendly neighbors, a female vet who cares for animals, and most of all both parents who reevaluate their life for the well-being of their kids. And the dogs, of course – what’s not to like about that?
Despite those reservations and a bit too many fluttering stomachs on the part of the female lead, I did enjoy the book for its feel-good qualities; the beautiful backdrop of a small town in Virginia, friendly neighbors, a female vet who cares for animals, and most of all both parents who reevaluate their life for the well-being of their kids. And the dogs, of course – what’s not to like about that?
November 20, 2012
What a cute book! This is the perfect book for a lazy, cold day on the couch!
This book revolves around two different families that are both struggling with issues of hurt, disappointment and struggling to raise their children the best way they can.
Colby Williams lives in a small town in Virginia and is the mother of a teenage daughter Lena, and has a very busy career. As a dog lover, she has always wanted to buy a large farm near her and start a no-kill animal shelter – but could never come up with the amount of money needed to do it.
Ian McKinley, a big city financier from New York and single father of a teenage boy, Luke, is moving to the same small town to slow life down and hopefully keep his son out of trouble. He is in the process of trying to connect with his son who has been in trouble with the law – primarily due to the relationship (or lack there of) with his father. He just so happens to buy that farm that Colby always wanted – starting them out on a difficult note.
Colbys friend Phoebe is trying to be a matchmaker for her and she is probably one of my favorite characters as she is hilarious! Between the McKinley family coming to town (with a dog in tow), Phoebe trying to play matchmaker and Lena having an interest in the troublesome Luke, this book has a little bit everything.
If you are looking for a simple, sweet book about relationships – without a ton of steamy romance – this is it. I loved it!
This book revolves around two different families that are both struggling with issues of hurt, disappointment and struggling to raise their children the best way they can.
Colby Williams lives in a small town in Virginia and is the mother of a teenage daughter Lena, and has a very busy career. As a dog lover, she has always wanted to buy a large farm near her and start a no-kill animal shelter – but could never come up with the amount of money needed to do it.
Ian McKinley, a big city financier from New York and single father of a teenage boy, Luke, is moving to the same small town to slow life down and hopefully keep his son out of trouble. He is in the process of trying to connect with his son who has been in trouble with the law – primarily due to the relationship (or lack there of) with his father. He just so happens to buy that farm that Colby always wanted – starting them out on a difficult note.
Colbys friend Phoebe is trying to be a matchmaker for her and she is probably one of my favorite characters as she is hilarious! Between the McKinley family coming to town (with a dog in tow), Phoebe trying to play matchmaker and Lena having an interest in the troublesome Luke, this book has a little bit everything.
If you are looking for a simple, sweet book about relationships – without a ton of steamy romance – this is it. I loved it!
May 13, 2018
This did not for me. I loved the premise and I love small town love stories that involve vets, but I was unable to connect to this one.
The hero has a fiancee. His son gets busted for drugs so the hero decides to move to a small town so his son is taken out that environment. The hero does not break up from his fiancee, they just decide to put the wedding plans on hold for a year. They did not break up. The hero seemed like an idiot when it came to the fiancee.
The whole thing with the hero having a girlfriend and then the way the story progressed, it did not work for me. I was annoyed and then bored. I did not connect. This is my opinion. You may love the story. I loved the premise, but I did not know about the girlfriend and that turned me away from the story.
If you love Hallmark type stories, you will probably like this one.
The hero has a fiancee. His son gets busted for drugs so the hero decides to move to a small town so his son is taken out that environment. The hero does not break up from his fiancee, they just decide to put the wedding plans on hold for a year. They did not break up. The hero seemed like an idiot when it came to the fiancee.
The whole thing with the hero having a girlfriend and then the way the story progressed, it did not work for me. I was annoyed and then bored. I did not connect. This is my opinion. You may love the story. I loved the premise, but I did not know about the girlfriend and that turned me away from the story.
If you love Hallmark type stories, you will probably like this one.
January 8, 2015
I don't think I've read anything by this author before; I will read her again after finishing Good Guys Love Dogs . This was a delightful story of a NYC successful male stockbroker and a small town female vet. They both have teenagers who throw some curves into their lives. I thoroughly enjoyed this read...it was perfect for a cold, windy day inside!
October 18, 2020
I loved this story....as I couldn’t put it down, it did have a love interest in it but their was definitely more to it. It was a little predictable but the characters were easy to like & if you like dogs/animals you will enjoy the read!
February 28, 2014
Why I liked this story–this four POV tale doesn’t just follow the leading lady and her leading male–it also encompasses their teen children, who themselves have a bit of a fling…
Here’s what happens:
Ian McKinley has worked hard to reach the top. He’s a major player in an NYC stockbrokerage and he’s newly engaged. Sure, the relationship is more a merger than a romance, but hey, he lost his heart when his first wife died of a stroke days after delivering their only child, Luke. Ian’s perfect little world bottoms out when he’s called to pick Luke up from the police precinct on a drug possession charge. Desperate to reconnect with Luke, and keep him out of trouble, Ian takes a year of paid leave and moves them to a small Virginia town to complete Luke’s senior year of high school.
Colby Williams got pregnant her freshman year of college. Baby Lena didn’t stop the dynamo from completing her BS, and DVM, however. Colby has prided herself on the strong relationship she has with her precious girl, but things are suddenly strained –and she’s pretty sure that new boy Luke McKinley is to blame–particularly when she finds birth control pills in her 15 y/o daughter’s backpack. Bigger problem? Ian McKinley, Luke’s father, is the first man Colby’s felt even a tingle of attraction for in the time since Lena’s father walked away without a second glance. Biggest problem? Rachel, Ian’s fiance.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the points of view. There’s some good misdirection going on with the input of Luke–a boy who totally wants his absentee father’s love and approval, yet can’t talk to him at all. Not to mention he’s at a loss to understand why they now live on a farm. And Lena, who thought her father had died, is acting out NOT because she twitterpated (though she is) but because…well…how would you behave if the one person you could trust most turned out to be a big fat liar, huh?
Colby’s desperate to keep her matchmaking friends at bay–she’s not a home wrecker, for goodness sake! Meanwhile, engaged Ian is losing his city slicking mind. Buying farms and sterile calves (of the bovine kind) and rescuing dogs from the shelter. It’s enough to drive one lonely veterinarian over the edge.
Through the first month following the McKinley’s arrival, there’s a lot of drama, and a lot of personal connection, and pretty soon Ian’s not so sure about settling for a marital merger. Not when there’s a heady attraction that could so easily blossom into the kind of love he once knew. And Luke’s taking a shine to a slower paced life–when there’s a quirky girl like Lena to smooth the path.
It’s a not-too-smexy tale of hearts connecting. Both man-to-woman and parent-to-child. Colby learns to step back from mothering Lena, just enough to let her see that it’s okay if one parent didn’t want you–especially when the other so absolutely did. And Ian’s hands-on parenting gives Luke the satisfaction of having a Dad, not a wallet. I really enjoyed this one.
Here’s what happens:
Ian McKinley has worked hard to reach the top. He’s a major player in an NYC stockbrokerage and he’s newly engaged. Sure, the relationship is more a merger than a romance, but hey, he lost his heart when his first wife died of a stroke days after delivering their only child, Luke. Ian’s perfect little world bottoms out when he’s called to pick Luke up from the police precinct on a drug possession charge. Desperate to reconnect with Luke, and keep him out of trouble, Ian takes a year of paid leave and moves them to a small Virginia town to complete Luke’s senior year of high school.
Colby Williams got pregnant her freshman year of college. Baby Lena didn’t stop the dynamo from completing her BS, and DVM, however. Colby has prided herself on the strong relationship she has with her precious girl, but things are suddenly strained –and she’s pretty sure that new boy Luke McKinley is to blame–particularly when she finds birth control pills in her 15 y/o daughter’s backpack. Bigger problem? Ian McKinley, Luke’s father, is the first man Colby’s felt even a tingle of attraction for in the time since Lena’s father walked away without a second glance. Biggest problem? Rachel, Ian’s fiance.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the points of view. There’s some good misdirection going on with the input of Luke–a boy who totally wants his absentee father’s love and approval, yet can’t talk to him at all. Not to mention he’s at a loss to understand why they now live on a farm. And Lena, who thought her father had died, is acting out NOT because she twitterpated (though she is) but because…well…how would you behave if the one person you could trust most turned out to be a big fat liar, huh?
Colby’s desperate to keep her matchmaking friends at bay–she’s not a home wrecker, for goodness sake! Meanwhile, engaged Ian is losing his city slicking mind. Buying farms and sterile calves (of the bovine kind) and rescuing dogs from the shelter. It’s enough to drive one lonely veterinarian over the edge.
Through the first month following the McKinley’s arrival, there’s a lot of drama, and a lot of personal connection, and pretty soon Ian’s not so sure about settling for a marital merger. Not when there’s a heady attraction that could so easily blossom into the kind of love he once knew. And Luke’s taking a shine to a slower paced life–when there’s a quirky girl like Lena to smooth the path.
It’s a not-too-smexy tale of hearts connecting. Both man-to-woman and parent-to-child. Colby learns to step back from mothering Lena, just enough to let her see that it’s okay if one parent didn’t want you–especially when the other so absolutely did. And Ian’s hands-on parenting gives Luke the satisfaction of having a Dad, not a wallet. I really enjoyed this one.
August 16, 2017
This story is about finding love when you least expect it. It was a wonderful and easy read with an uncomplicated plot. The pace was just right, not too fast and not too slow. It's a great story to read on a lazy Sunday morning or while relaxing at any time.
From the minute I read the prologue, the story grabbed my attention. I needed to know how Ian McKinley was going to fix the huge rift that was in between him and his son, Luke.
The emotions the story invoked in me were topsy turvy. I laughed and felt sad several times while reading this story. It was also exciting. At one point Colby says she felt like a teenager. I felt like that right along with her as I followed her experience.
The main characters were well developed. You were able to understand what their story was and how they came to be where they are in their lives. The story not only revolves around the lives of the adults but also that of the teenage children. You feel the anguish they experience through out the story. While reading, you can't help but root for these broken families to repair themselves. Each of the characters in the story played a vital role, even if they were mentioned once or twice. They contributed to the story whether it was just by making Ian feel welcome or psychologically pushing him to do things he never thought he would. Even the non-human characters are vital to the story. A great book for animal lovers.
The story ended exactly how I wanted to end. There was closure and it's great to read a story that has resolved the conflicts within the characters.
I do recommend this story if you want something easy to read. Something enjoyable. Something that will leave you feeling happy and in love.
www.samedinamics.blogspot.com
From the minute I read the prologue, the story grabbed my attention. I needed to know how Ian McKinley was going to fix the huge rift that was in between him and his son, Luke.
The emotions the story invoked in me were topsy turvy. I laughed and felt sad several times while reading this story. It was also exciting. At one point Colby says she felt like a teenager. I felt like that right along with her as I followed her experience.
The main characters were well developed. You were able to understand what their story was and how they came to be where they are in their lives. The story not only revolves around the lives of the adults but also that of the teenage children. You feel the anguish they experience through out the story. While reading, you can't help but root for these broken families to repair themselves. Each of the characters in the story played a vital role, even if they were mentioned once or twice. They contributed to the story whether it was just by making Ian feel welcome or psychologically pushing him to do things he never thought he would. Even the non-human characters are vital to the story. A great book for animal lovers.
The story ended exactly how I wanted to end. There was closure and it's great to read a story that has resolved the conflicts within the characters.
I do recommend this story if you want something easy to read. Something enjoyable. Something that will leave you feeling happy and in love.
www.samedinamics.blogspot.com
May 30, 2013
Who doesn't love a good romance, especially when there are adorable dogs included? Sometimes that storyline can get a little cheesy, but definitely not in this case! Ian is a widowed guy from the city trying to write the wrongs he feels he has done to his teenage son and moves to a small town for his last year of high school. Colby is a single mom of a 14 year old girl and the only vet in town. These 2 have sparks between them from the first moment. I think we forgot to mention the finacee that Ian has back in NY, oh, and that Colby's daughter has the hots for Ian's son. Things just get complicated and it makes for a great read. Besides the romantic aspect, the story between these 2 parents and their teens is very honest and pretty realistic. I could not put this down once I started and read it start to finish in a few hours. It was very enjoyable and entertaining. I laughed, I teared up and I fell in love with Colby, Lena, Ian and Luke. I've already added another book by Inglath Cooper to my list of books I want to read, I really enjoyed the story she told and the way she told it.
November 2, 2013
Very sweet, romantic and touching story. Colby is a tough as nails, loves her daughter more than life veterinarian who doesn't date or want love (or does she?) . Ian thinks he has it all, the trophy fiancé, money and prestige but what he doesn't have is the trust and love of his son. I loved Ian's decision to move away and make it up to his son and be there for him. I loved their on and off relationship, I learned alot about Luke and Ian's Lives. Both Lena and Luke have had issues and there are things their parents try and save them from. I loved Luke and Lena's friendship, they share worries and lean on each other. Misunderstandings aside these two families learn to trust and love and realize they don't know everything but maybe each other. Ian and Colby are sexy as hell together...wow.. Loved the story..I couldn't put it down once I started reading, very sweet, romantic and sexy read. Great characters. 5 stars review by upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
March 26, 2013
Good Guys Love Dogs, is a "Hallmark" kind of story involving people and animals.
It's a funny, cute, poignant, romance. You'll find yourself laughing one moment and grabbing tissues the next. It was refreshing to read a book with love scenes that weren't leaning towards the pornographic side. It left those things up to one's imagination.
I became immediately invested in the characters and read it straight through. There were plenty of surprises and I never felt the need to skip any pages. I LOVED the ending! Even if you're thinking the main characters will get together at the end, there are still surprises you won't guess.
It wasn't nearly long enough, I could have read on and on and ON.
Maybe a sequel is in the works????? Hope, hope. . . .
It's a MUST read for, cozy, romance, readers. I also think it would make a really great movie!
It's a funny, cute, poignant, romance. You'll find yourself laughing one moment and grabbing tissues the next. It was refreshing to read a book with love scenes that weren't leaning towards the pornographic side. It left those things up to one's imagination.
I became immediately invested in the characters and read it straight through. There were plenty of surprises and I never felt the need to skip any pages. I LOVED the ending! Even if you're thinking the main characters will get together at the end, there are still surprises you won't guess.
It wasn't nearly long enough, I could have read on and on and ON.
Maybe a sequel is in the works????? Hope, hope. . . .
It's a MUST read for, cozy, romance, readers. I also think it would make a really great movie!
November 12, 2012
This touching story of a rich businessman who has a strained relationship with his son and the heroine Colby who has a similar problem of her own with her teenage daughter was sweet, relatable and enjoyable. Being an animal lover and a sucker for romance at times, I was charmed by Good Guys Love Dogs. To add to that, I always wanted to be a vet as a child so I instantly fell in love with Colby. The characters are realistic and the story is humorous and interesting. I would recommend this sweet story to any one out there who enjoys romance and is an animal lover.
January 4, 2018
This sweet story deserves at least 3.5 stars and a thank you to the author for creating such strong, relateable characters. It is very well written.
January 4, 2018
Predictable and boring
I kept waiting for the plot twist but it didn't come. Its a sweet enough story, but not for readers liking for depth or something less predictable.
I kept waiting for the plot twist but it didn't come. Its a sweet enough story, but not for readers liking for depth or something less predictable.
April 24, 2020
Veterinarian Dr. Colby Williams has been happily single since her college boyfriend dumped her when he found out she was pregnant, but that doesn't stop her friends and family from trying to fix her up. High powered, workaholic, financial wizard Ian McKinley has moved his teenage son to the tiny Virginia town of Keeling Creek to get him away from bad influences after he was arrested for possession of marijuana. Ian's housekeeper and Colby's friends try to fix them up together -- but Ian's still got a fiance back in the city, and she's not willing to let him go.
This romance is definitely one for animal lovers, with vet Colby wanting to open an animal shelter and Ian adopting dogs (and even a baby cow) to save them. The romance gets a little complicated since Ian's son and Colby's daughter are also interested in each other, but both couples have very sweet romances. Ian breaks up with his fiancee as soon as he realizes what he feels for Colby (and their relationship is more partnership than true love anyway). I want Ian as my new book boyfriend -- anyone who gives his wife an animal shelter as a present is perfect in my book.
This romance is definitely one for animal lovers, with vet Colby wanting to open an animal shelter and Ian adopting dogs (and even a baby cow) to save them. The romance gets a little complicated since Ian's son and Colby's daughter are also interested in each other, but both couples have very sweet romances. Ian breaks up with his fiancee as soon as he realizes what he feels for Colby (and their relationship is more partnership than true love anyway). I want Ian as my new book boyfriend -- anyone who gives his wife an animal shelter as a present is perfect in my book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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October 29, 2020A fun read love story that reminds us of the importance of communication.
September 5, 2018
This is a delightful book. Of course any book with dogs in it catches my eye immediately. Easy to read, city versus the country type of story. Throw in a couple of teenagers and you have it all.
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June 21, 2023yes i did read it in a few hours. i love this serie it's just pure fluff and i'm here for it, no third act breakup just cuteness
May 6, 2013
Ian McKinley feels like he finally has a handle on his life. His son has become a responsible young man, his career is flourishing, and he is engaged to a woman who he feels comfortable with and has the same ambitions. When the rug is pulled from underneath him, he realizes that his role as a father has been on the back burner for too long and now he needs a chance to try and fix the mistakes he has made with his son, moving them from New York to Virginia is just the first step.
Vet Colby Williams has always prided herself with being able to carve out a happy life for her and her daughter who has reached the teen years. Colby kept a secret regarding her daughter’s father, but with her daughter discovering what she did they are hitting a rocky path that Colby doesn’t know how to fix. When she meets Ian there is an instant easiness between them, they share their feelings about parenthood and quickly lean on one another for advice. Colby is afraid to lose her heart again, but everything about Ian feels so right.
There is a lot to be said about a book that you can relate to. I thought Colby and Ian were a wonderful couple and embraced that they were not perfect and trying to come to terms with their feelings. The reactions of the teenagers was spot on, I thought this story was written with an emotional flare that brought a very realistic approach to everyone within the story. Wonderful read.
Vet Colby Williams has always prided herself with being able to carve out a happy life for her and her daughter who has reached the teen years. Colby kept a secret regarding her daughter’s father, but with her daughter discovering what she did they are hitting a rocky path that Colby doesn’t know how to fix. When she meets Ian there is an instant easiness between them, they share their feelings about parenthood and quickly lean on one another for advice. Colby is afraid to lose her heart again, but everything about Ian feels so right.
There is a lot to be said about a book that you can relate to. I thought Colby and Ian were a wonderful couple and embraced that they were not perfect and trying to come to terms with their feelings. The reactions of the teenagers was spot on, I thought this story was written with an emotional flare that brought a very realistic approach to everyone within the story. Wonderful read.
September 30, 2018
I thought I was in the mood for a cheesy romance. But this just made me wanna gag.
The parts crafted to make the reader swoon were uncomfortable and nauseating, knowing our hunky male lead was engaged to another woman at the time. And honestly, how flawed is a man to actually profess his love and propose to a woman, within days of breaking up with his fiancee? Run, Colby, run! You're not THAT desperate, are you?
Are we supposed to conclude that Colby became pregnant the one and only time she had sex, and is now a celibate 35 year old woman? And what year was this supposed to take place? We've got an Emo teen girl character, but we also refer to the newspaper for TV show listings, and we don't seem to have cellphones.
I stuck this book out, only to see badly it concluded. The writing was amateur (I think Ms. Cooper must have just learned the word "chagrin") but the story was even worse. I think our gross couple and their children are supposed to be likable. But, I did not like any of them.
The parts crafted to make the reader swoon were uncomfortable and nauseating, knowing our hunky male lead was engaged to another woman at the time. And honestly, how flawed is a man to actually profess his love and propose to a woman, within days of breaking up with his fiancee? Run, Colby, run! You're not THAT desperate, are you?
Are we supposed to conclude that Colby became pregnant the one and only time she had sex, and is now a celibate 35 year old woman? And what year was this supposed to take place? We've got an Emo teen girl character, but we also refer to the newspaper for TV show listings, and we don't seem to have cellphones.
I stuck this book out, only to see badly it concluded. The writing was amateur (I think Ms. Cooper must have just learned the word "chagrin") but the story was even worse. I think our gross couple and their children are supposed to be likable. But, I did not like any of them.
February 17, 2014
I don't read romances much anymore, but I'm a sucker for stories involving pets. I really really enjoyed reading this book.
November 25, 2017
very predictable
December 20, 2017
Couldn't put it down!!
Mesmerizing, couldn't put the book down till I finished it. Superb "me" time!! Love the animal stories too. Thank you!
Mesmerizing, couldn't put the book down till I finished it. Superb "me" time!! Love the animal stories too. Thank you!
January 14, 2018
Too predictable.
November 26, 2021
This has officially become my new favorite book by this author! It’s about a single mom living in a small town who loves dogs (well all animals, really) and she’s raising a precocious teenage daughter by herself ( with helpful support from her best friend and her parent); both of whom have relationships she greatly admires and secretly wishes to emulate. She became pregnant by her college sweetheart and he insists that she end the pregnancy. He abandons her when she refuses, and he never acknowledges the baby’s personhood nor does he offer any form of support. When she could have made an easier choice to become dependent on her parents, instead she works hard to pursue her ambition to support her daughter while putting herself through school to become a veterinarian. This woman is made of strong stuff!
It’s also about a single dad living in NYC and the equally precocious teenage son he’s raising by himself. Dad’s a serious workaholic who lives to work because it’s helped him achieve great success and to survive his young wife’s death shortly after his son was born. His son gets arrested for possession of a controlled substance and is threatened by a felony charge which would completely disrupt his future.
Skip to present day and dad convinces the judge to allow him to move, along with his troubled son, to the small town in VA where he remembers going to a football camp that knocked some sense into him when he was growing up and headed down a path leading to a busted future. Dad moves into a fixer upper with the intention of staying only a year to bond with his son and to graduate high school in a simpler environment than his school in Manhattan.
Both parents have enjoyed reasonably healthy relationships with their kids up until recently. Lots of us know what joy teenagers can bring to your home-am I right???
Word spreads quickly in a small town about the two new “city slicker” bachelors that have swelled their ranks and the gossip and match-making efforts begin in full swing. Colby ( mom) and Ian ( dad) meet when he brings his son’s injured dog to the vet for a minor injury. Ian later sees a full demonstration of her abilities and the regard in which her community esteems Colby when she attends a difficult but successful calving at a nearby farm. From that point on they come in constant contact while going about their business in town.
Lots of drama ensues and both parents eventually recognize their souls’ counterpoint in each other, and the story ends healthily and happily. There’s hope out there for every soul patient enough to wait for and recognize the person they’ve waited for to share their life and their love.
It’s also about a single dad living in NYC and the equally precocious teenage son he’s raising by himself. Dad’s a serious workaholic who lives to work because it’s helped him achieve great success and to survive his young wife’s death shortly after his son was born. His son gets arrested for possession of a controlled substance and is threatened by a felony charge which would completely disrupt his future.
Skip to present day and dad convinces the judge to allow him to move, along with his troubled son, to the small town in VA where he remembers going to a football camp that knocked some sense into him when he was growing up and headed down a path leading to a busted future. Dad moves into a fixer upper with the intention of staying only a year to bond with his son and to graduate high school in a simpler environment than his school in Manhattan.
Both parents have enjoyed reasonably healthy relationships with their kids up until recently. Lots of us know what joy teenagers can bring to your home-am I right???
Word spreads quickly in a small town about the two new “city slicker” bachelors that have swelled their ranks and the gossip and match-making efforts begin in full swing. Colby ( mom) and Ian ( dad) meet when he brings his son’s injured dog to the vet for a minor injury. Ian later sees a full demonstration of her abilities and the regard in which her community esteems Colby when she attends a difficult but successful calving at a nearby farm. From that point on they come in constant contact while going about their business in town.
Lots of drama ensues and both parents eventually recognize their souls’ counterpoint in each other, and the story ends healthily and happily. There’s hope out there for every soul patient enough to wait for and recognize the person they’ve waited for to share their life and their love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2020
Love the writers style. A book that hooked me in the first chapter. I had to make myself stop to sleep the evening I started the book. No regrets. A story that anyone who has ever raised a teen as a single parent knows that challenge of work or a career that It can be a tough. Every single parent has some guilt to contend with. Single parents are doubly challenged if they for some reason have the total responsibility as the only committed parent. Dating can be a challenge too. Adults are human after all. Thank goodness if the parent and children are fortunate enough to have loving grandparents. Grandparents can be a blessing. I agree that it takes a village to raise children no matter their age. The small Virginia village was a good example of people caring for one another. Modern life does gets hectic however to stop and smell the roses and just changing your perspective can keep you appreciative of your many blessings. Good things can come to those who wait or at least in this story.
I must say that I certainly agree that good guys do like dogs. I’m happy someone finally said so in an adult romance title. Dogs are like family if you open your heart and just let them step in. This book will stay with you after you finish. It was heart warming on how the animals connected the humans throughout the book. From start to finish. No spoilers on when, why or where. You must read it to find out. It won’t disappoint.
My first book by this author however it will not be my last. I have found a new author to add to my list of favorites.
I must say that I certainly agree that good guys do like dogs. I’m happy someone finally said so in an adult romance title. Dogs are like family if you open your heart and just let them step in. This book will stay with you after you finish. It was heart warming on how the animals connected the humans throughout the book. From start to finish. No spoilers on when, why or where. You must read it to find out. It won’t disappoint.
My first book by this author however it will not be my last. I have found a new author to add to my list of favorites.
May 27, 2017
While more of a cat person than a dog person, this reader found this to be a wonderfully romantic story. A contemporary romance that brings together two wounded-by-losses people, who have guarded their hearts for too long.
Colby Williams, single mother to her daughter Lena, has shielded her heart for years when Lena's father dumped her when she became pregnant. She's the town veterinarian, and loves all animals particularly dogs.
Ian McKinley, single father to his son Luke, has shielded his heart since his wife died shortly after Luke's birth. When Luke gets in trouble, Ian moves them from New York City to rural Keeling Creek, and culture shock ensues.
But each parent, individually, is dealing with issues with their children when they first meet. Ian is engaged, though, and for Colby, there are certain lines that shouldn't be crossed despite growing attraction.
Will Ian and Colby have their happily ever after? What about Luke and Lena? And even some of the other couples in the story?
A clean cut romance about families who care...and it doesn't matter if you prefer cats to dogs or vice versa because how you treat animals of any sort is the measure of a person as the title reminds us...the story is just one to bring a smile (and a few tears) to one's face.
Colby Williams, single mother to her daughter Lena, has shielded her heart for years when Lena's father dumped her when she became pregnant. She's the town veterinarian, and loves all animals particularly dogs.
Ian McKinley, single father to his son Luke, has shielded his heart since his wife died shortly after Luke's birth. When Luke gets in trouble, Ian moves them from New York City to rural Keeling Creek, and culture shock ensues.
But each parent, individually, is dealing with issues with their children when they first meet. Ian is engaged, though, and for Colby, there are certain lines that shouldn't be crossed despite growing attraction.
Will Ian and Colby have their happily ever after? What about Luke and Lena? And even some of the other couples in the story?
A clean cut romance about families who care...and it doesn't matter if you prefer cats to dogs or vice versa because how you treat animals of any sort is the measure of a person as the title reminds us...the story is just one to bring a smile (and a few tears) to one's face.
Read
February 28, 2021Amazon's Kindle Unlimited book here....this is an example of a book where they dusted it off, put a more modern cover on it and sold it again. I was reading it and thought "how old is this book?" because they were talking about answering machines, landline phones, and renting movies from the video store! I think the author could go in and make some edits, perhaps, if she wanted to modernize the book a bit. It was still a sweet and easy ready.
Guy takes a sabbatical from running his investments business to give more attention to his teen son (mother died when he was a baby) and temporarily moves to a small town. Boy meets girl - she owns a vet clinic in this small town with her matchmaking best friend and a bunch of nosy townspeople. I am sure you know how the ending goes.
Quote I can totally feel? The vet's daughter was going through a difficult time and she says:
“Thanks, Mom, but this is something I need to handle on my own.” “I understand, and you’re probably right. But you know it’s a mother’s nature to want to fix whatever’s wrong in her daughter’s life.”
Nailed it.
Guy takes a sabbatical from running his investments business to give more attention to his teen son (mother died when he was a baby) and temporarily moves to a small town. Boy meets girl - she owns a vet clinic in this small town with her matchmaking best friend and a bunch of nosy townspeople. I am sure you know how the ending goes.
Quote I can totally feel? The vet's daughter was going through a difficult time and she says:
“Thanks, Mom, but this is something I need to handle on my own.” “I understand, and you’re probably right. But you know it’s a mother’s nature to want to fix whatever’s wrong in her daughter’s life.”
Nailed it.
February 4, 2020
1.25 stars.
I liked the storytelling style and the idea of putting in the work to fix relationships, but the actual plot of this story was terrible.
I liked the storytelling style and the idea of putting in the work to fix relationships, but the actual plot of this story was terrible.
November 5, 2018
I loved this book. I have read four books so far, and three of them were by Inglath Cooper. I just finished "Fences", which I enjoyed, and I read "And Then You Loved Me". I think it was my favorite, but each book has touched my heart. I read the first chapter of , I believe, titled "A Touch of Grace"..about a man whose wife died and he gave up their new baby. I have to wait until next month to get to finish it. I have read my monthly quota...two books. I wish I could read many books. I am 81, and have not read much since I retired from teaching junior high many years ago. I bought the tablet and found I could read for free, and I decided to try it. Now I am "hooked", and I get involved in a book, and then I find I can not read any more, of course, unless I pay. That is my story about the joy I have found now, especially since it is fall and spending time outside had come to an end..until next spring. V. B.
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