After a difficult break-up, Poppy is keen to put the past behind her and what’s better than some relaxing time with her aunt in the picturesque Cornish village of West Par. Life at her aunt Flora’s Dogs’ Home is anything but relaxing. When a poor little pup is stranded at the gates, Poppy takes them for a check up at the local vet, hoping against hope they'll be fine. And there she meets the vet who is so charming and experienced with the dogs, but selfish and – dare she say it – money-grabbing with his clients. But underneath that cold exterior, she's sure there's more to the story. If only she could convince him to open up. Because without him, the future of Wagging Tails isn't so assured...
3.25⭐ Genre ~ animal fiction Series ~ The Wagging Tails Dogs' Home #2 Others in the series ~ The Wagging Tails Dogs' Home Setting ~ UK Publication date ~ October 25, 2023 Est page Count ~ 274 (39 chapters +e) Audio length ~6 hours 58 minutes Narrator ~ Sophie Dora Hall POV ~ single 3rd Featuring ~ dogs, no steamage
Poppy & Mack Poppy is back in the town she grew up in visiting her Aunt Flora at The Wagging Tails Dog Home. As soon as she arrives there's a puppy that needs immediate attention, so she brings him to Mack's veterinarian practice. Mack is the new owner and not eager to abide by the previous arrangement the rescue had with the last owner to provide discounts.
As with the previous book this is heavier on the dog rescue side of things and less on the romance, which didn’t bother me one bit. I didn’t really feel a connection between Poppy and Mack quite honestly. Mack’s backstory is a sad one and I can kind of see why he didn’t want to give discounts.
Overall, I liked it okay enough, but Poppy was assuming too much for me, and you know what happens when you assume!
Series note I would say this is fine as a standalone. Ginny from book 1 is involved because she works at the dog rescue, but she wasn't a big part of this installment.
Narration notes: Sophie did a fine job once I got used to her accent.
My thanks to Boldwood Books for a review copy of the book via NetGalley.
Chasing Dreams at the Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home (2023) is a light hearted and feel-good romance which is not a genre I usually pick up but I made an exception for this one because of the setting—a dogs’ home (and really, with 'Wagging Tails' in the title, how could I resist?)—and was glad I did. Only when starting to write this review did I realise that this was a second in series, and not once when reading it did it feel so nor did I ever feel that I wasn’t following along, so this very much works as a standalone.
The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home is run by Flora and various volunteers in a small Cornish town and to this arrives Poppy Hargraves, Flora’s niece who has just gone through a tough breakup and needs time out until things settle. Poppy used to visit the place every holiday quite regularly and often found comfort here when her parents went through a separation but she hasn’t been here in the last few years. However, she fits in immediately pitching in at the Dogs’ Home, manning the phone and looking after the dogs. When a small dog Dougal is left at the doorstep in not very good health, Poppy must take him to the vet, but it turns out that their regular vet had sold the practice and the new one, Mack, while very caring about the animals, doesn’t offer any discounts. Meanwhile there also seems something the matter with Aunt Flora which the reader can guess the reason for but Poppy doesn’t very soon.
Poppy’s friendship with and interest in Mack grows as they interact, but she also continues to fret over her broken relationship and hope for a reconciliation. There are the usual misunderstandings as well, but of course all turns out right in the end.
Chasing Dreams at the Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home was a pleasant read which I quite enjoyed. The romance aspect of the plot was fairly typical, with two people carrying their own baggage from previous relationships and reluctant to start anything new. But at the same time, I thought Poppy sometimes rather silly in either overreacting to things or even attaching so much to a relationship which she herself acknowledges was over for years. She also seems to lack faith in herself to an extent.
The story is set at Christmas time and this was as aspect of the book that certainly appealed. There’s plenty of Christmassy atmosphere throughout, with Secret Santa events at the home, a Christmas market, shopping for presents, caroling, ice skating, hot chocolate and mince pies and out course a Christmas meal. For the characters this brings out different reactions with Poppy disliking Christmas having forgotten her love for the festival in the past, while Mack enjoys every aspect of it including every single song.
My favourite part and the reason I picked up the book in the first place was the Dogs’ Home and that was very well done. We meet the various residents, some like Ralph, a staffie, who’s a permanent resident, Dougal, a cockapoo, who arrives when Poppy has just come in, Eden and Fluffles who are adopted, and many others. There's also a pet 'hoarder' unable to care for his dogs and cats due to his own ill health whom the home must convince to give up the animals. Highlighted in the book is the issue of vet bills which are a constant concern for dog homes and shelters with some veterinarians offering only small discounts and having to rely on donations alone to cover bills. An issue that definitely needs talking about and I’m glad the author raised it.
Overall a nice read, with the dogs/dogs’ home and Christmassy-ness adding to its charm, especially the former.
"Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tails Dogs' Home" by Sarah Hope. What can I say other than I enjoyed it and read in one day. Who doesn’t want to escape to a small Cornish village by the sea and a dog rescue…
The Cornish sea air, old friends, and cuddles with a cute pup...
Sometimes you're just where you need to be...
The setting of a tiny village called West Par sounded breathtaking, I could picture it especially as I have visited small villages along the coast of England. It had everything you could want in a story love, family, community and second chances.
I found the characters to be well developed, and multi-dimensional. There were multiple sub-plots like the Mr Thomas’ dogs and the fate of the rescue to keep you engaged and interested in the outcome.
I will definitely read other books by this author.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Boldwood Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review for 'Chasing Dreams At Wagging Tails Dog Home' by Sarah Hope.
Read and reviewed for Sarah Hope, NetGalley, Boldwood, Book & Tonic and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 25th October 2023.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the second book in The Wagging Tails Dogs' Home Series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read book one in this series The Wagging Tails Dog Home and would highly recommend it!!!
This novel consists of 39 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
Love, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely gorgeous page turner!! An absolute must read!!! An absolutely stunning addition to this amazing series and I'm counting the seconds until the third book is ready for me to get lost in so I really hope your busy writing it Sarah!!!!!
OMG!!! I absolutely LOVED this gorgeous page turner and I cannot WAIT for the next book in this series to come out!! It is just guaranteed to be stunning!! Any books that revolve around animals is a HUGE bonus for me!!! I am a MASSIVE animal lover and after all my pets being rescues to then volunteering in rescues, working in rescues and now running my own little cat rescue (Golden Oldies Cat Rescue And Hospice which you can look up on Facebook if you are interested) I know exactly how Poppy, Flora and the rest of the amazing characters feels and have the same passion running through me for the animals so I was 100000% invested in this beautiful storyline all about Wagging Tails Dog Home. I fell in love with the dogs home in the first book in this series and fell even deeper in love with this festive addition to this absolutely stunning series!!! Sarah even goes one step further than just writing a stunning fictional story about a dog rescue and that is the fact that she has not only based her beautiful story on a genuine no kill shelter called Wellidogs based in Grendon Northamptonshire and even helps to promote it in her notes so I want to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU AND WELL DONE Sarah for promoting what seems to be an amazing rescue but to also for your kind notes in your acknowledgements thanking volunteers and workers at dog rescues, such an amazing thing to do!!! I absolutely adore the fact that you based many of the rescue dogs in the books on the dogs at Wellidogs such as basing Ralph on Wellidogs resident dogs. Just amazing and I absolutely love it and I really cannot compliment this book enough!!! Even if you are a reader who has no experience with rescue or animals at all Sarah's stunning and evocative writing skills will drop you straight into the middle of Wagging Tails Dogs Home as well as Trestow, Cornwall where she ensures you can hear the dogs' happy barks, feel the snow on your face and absolutely fall in love with this beautiful series. This book is extremely well written with vivid and evocative descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline. It is one of those books that are very easy to read and perfect for any reading situations whether you are laying on a beach or curled up in front of a fire. It is an absolutely ideal read for anyone who is looking for a fantastic read that will have you hooked from beginning to end. I absolutely LOVED the realism of this storyline which made it so easy to picture everything that was going on which had been helped by Sally's fantastic evocative writing skills. I cannot wait to get hooked into more of Sally's books so I hope she is busy writing her next one!! This is definitely one of those books that will turn a frown upside down and make life seem a lot brighter. It is packed with fun, dogs, romance, heartbreak, friendship, anger, laughter and everything you could ask for in a fantastic feel good book. I can promise you it will be a fun rollercoaster ride of drama, romance, dogs, festivity and absolutely everything you could want in an absolutely unforgettable and stunning page turner!!!! Sarah's evocative writing skills drew me deep into the book bringing the atmosphere and characters to life all around me. It is one of those books that I could not put down. I ended up walking around the house looking at my kindle reading away and absolutely devoured it in one sitting. Roll on the next book in this beautiful series!!! This is one of those amazing series that can go on and on for hundreds of books about all the amazing rescue dogs and I will never get bored!!!
Well done Sarah on an absolutely stunning and perfect addition to an absolutely stunning series!!!
Although this is the second book in the series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without the first book. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all an eclectic mix and each one of them were realistic and strong. I was completely invested in them all. It also makes them more realistic, believable and made me feel even more for them than I normally would. I was landed to return to the Wagging Tail dog home and meet some of my favourite characters again from the first book and I was not disappointed. I fell in love with all the new characters as well as back in love with all the previous ones. My heart completely went out to Poppy who was going through hell with her life after breaking up with her boyfriend, losing her home and needing a new job!!! She is also another animal lover so got bonus points immediately but the more I got to know her the more I rooted for her and needed her to have the happy ending she deserves!!! I wasn't sure what I thought about the new vet Mack and at times I wanted to scream at him yet at others my heart went out to him. The more I learned about him the more I softened towards him. I absolutely LOVE Ginny in regards to her love for the dogs at the rescue. I was so pleased to meet her again!!! She is such a kind hearted person and a MASSIVE animal lover and she is definitely the type of person I would love to have in my life!!! The passion she has for the dogs sparks out of the pages and you really can feel the emotions running through your fingertips!!! Poppy's Aunt Flora is just one in a million and the world needs more people like her. Flora owns and runs the rescue and would give her last penny to the dogs. That is a true rescue and a true hero!!! I cannot wait to meet her again and again in this series. The other characters were also just as amazing and intriguing and I loved getting to know each of them and looking forward to getting to know them more as well as (hopefully) seeing some relationships grow between certain characters!!! I really cannot wait to meet Gus, Spencer, Darryl, Elsie, Sally, Alex, Susan and Percy as well as all the dogs including Dougal, Eden, Ralph and the many more characters and dogs soon!!!!!! Each of the characters and dogs are memorable and unique in their own ways and they are a group of people that I wont be forgetting any time soon!
Pick up this book and get lost in this absolutely STUNNING page turner! Regardless of whether you have read the first book or not you won't regret reading this absolute beauty!!!!
Congratulations Sarah on an yet another absolutely stunning read that I just could not put down!!! I absolutely loved the first book in this series and thought there was no chance you could make the second book as good or better but you absolutely blew it out of the water!!! Absolutely LOVED IT!!! I cannot wait to read more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is the EXACT reason you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Sarah's 'The Seaside Ice-Cream Parlour', which promises to be just as stunning as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!!
Overall another unputdownable, gorgeous, STUNNING page turning book filled with dog, tears, drama, romance, fun, laughter, friendship and so much more by the amazing Sarah!!
286 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon, at time of review which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
Review for 'Chasing Dreams At Wagging Tails Dog Home' by Sarah Hope.
Read and reviewed for Sarah Hope, NetGalley, Boldwood, Book & Tonic and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 25th October 2023.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the second book in The Wagging Tails Dogs' Home Series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read book one in this series The Wagging Tails Dog Home and would highly recommend it!!!
This novel consists of 39 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
Love, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely gorgeous page turner!! An absolute must read!!! An absolutely stunning addition to this amazing series and I'm counting the seconds until the third book is ready for me to get lost in so I really hope your busy writing it Sarah!!!!!
OMG!!! I absolutely LOVED this gorgeous page turner and I cannot WAIT for the next book in this series to come out!! It is just guaranteed to be stunning!! Any books that revolve around animals is a HUGE bonus for me!!! I am a MASSIVE animal lover and after all my pets being rescues to then volunteering in rescues, working in rescues and now running my own little cat rescue (Golden Oldies Cat Rescue And Hospice which you can look up on Facebook if you are interested) I know exactly how Poppy, Flora and the rest of the amazing characters feels and have the same passion running through me for the animals so I was 100000% invested in this beautiful storyline all about Wagging Tails Dog Home. I fell in love with the dogs home in the first book in this series and fell even deeper in love with this festive addition to this absolutely stunning series!!! Sarah even goes one step further than just writing a stunning fictional story about a dog rescue and that is the fact that she has not only based her beautiful story on a genuine no kill shelter called Wellidogs based in Grendon Northamptonshire and even helps to promote it in her notes so I want to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU AND WELL DONE Sarah for promoting what seems to be an amazing rescue but to also for your kind notes in your acknowledgements thanking volunteers and workers at dog rescues, such an amazing thing to do!!! I absolutely adore the fact that you based many of the rescue dogs in the books on the dogs at Wellidogs such as basing Ralph on Wellidogs resident dogs. Just amazing and I absolutely love it and I really cannot compliment this book enough!!! Even if you are a reader who has no experience with rescue or animals at all Sarah's stunning and evocative writing skills will drop you straight into the middle of Wagging Tails Dogs Home as well as Trestow, Cornwall where she ensures you can hear the dogs' happy barks, feel the snow on your face and absolutely fall in love with this beautiful series. This book is extremely well written with vivid and evocative descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline. It is one of those books that are very easy to read and perfect for any reading situations whether you are laying on a beach or curled up in front of a fire. It is an absolutely ideal read for anyone who is looking for a fantastic read that will have you hooked from beginning to end. I absolutely LOVED the realism of this storyline which made it so easy to picture everything that was going on which had been helped by Sally's fantastic evocative writing skills. I cannot wait to get hooked into more of Sally's books so I hope she is busy writing her next one!! This is definitely one of those books that will turn a frown upside down and make life seem a lot brighter. It is packed with fun, dogs, romance, heartbreak, friendship, anger, laughter and everything you could ask for in a fantastic feel good book. I can promise you it will be a fun rollercoaster ride of drama, romance, dogs, festivity and absolutely everything you could want in an absolutely unforgettable and stunning page turner!!!! Sarah's evocative writing skills drew me deep into the book bringing the atmosphere and characters to life all around me. It is one of those books that I could not put down. I ended up walking around the house looking at my kindle reading away and absolutely devoured it in one sitting. Roll on the next book in this beautiful series!!! This is one of those amazing series that can go on and on for hundreds of books about all the amazing rescue dogs and I will never get bored!!!
Well done Sarah on an absolutely stunning and perfect addition to an absolutely stunning series!!!
Although this is the second book in the series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without the first book. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all an eclectic mix and each one of them were realistic and strong. I was completely invested in them all. It also makes them more realistic, believable and made me feel even more for them than I normally would. I was landed to return to the Wagging Tail dog home and meet some of my favourite characters again from the first book and I was not disappointed. I fell in love with all the new characters as well as back in love with all the previous ones. My heart completely went out to Poppy who was going through hell with her life after breaking up with her boyfriend, losing her home and needing a new job!!! She is also another animal lover so got bonus points immediately but the more I got to know her the more I rooted for her and needed her to have the happy ending she deserves!!! I wasn't sure what I thought about the new vet Mack and at times I wanted to scream at him yet at others my heart went out to him. The more I learned about him the more I softened towards him. I absolutely LOVE Ginny in regards to her love for the dogs at the rescue. I was so pleased to meet her again!!! She is such a kind hearted person and a MASSIVE animal lover and she is definitely the type of person I would love to have in my life!!! The passion she has for the dogs sparks out of the pages and you really can feel the emotions running through your fingertips!!! Poppy's Aunt Flora is just one in a million and the world needs more people like her. Flora owns and runs the rescue and would give her last penny to the dogs. That is a true rescue and a true hero!!! I cannot wait to meet her again and again in this series. The other characters were also just as amazing and intriguing and I loved getting to know each of them and looking forward to getting to know them more as well as (hopefully) seeing some relationships grow between certain characters!!! I really cannot wait to meet Gus, Spencer, Darryl, Elsie, Sally, Alex, Susan and Percy as well as all the dogs including Dougal, Eden, Ralph and the many more characters and dogs soon!!!!!! Each of the characters and dogs are memorable and unique in their own ways and they are a group of people that I wont be forgetting any time soon!
Pick up this book and get lost in this absolutely STUNNING page turner! Regardless of whether you have read the first book or not you won't regret reading this absolute beauty!!!!
Congratulations Sarah on an yet another absolutely stunning read that I just could not put down!!! I absolutely loved the first book in this series and thought there was no chance you could make the second book as good or better but you absolutely blew it out of the water!!! Absolutely LOVED IT!!! I cannot wait to read more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is the EXACT reason you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Sarah's 'The Seaside Ice-Cream Parlour', which promises to be just as stunning as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!!
Overall another unputdownable, gorgeous, STUNNING page turning book filled with dog, tears, drama, romance, fun, laughter, friendship and so much more by the amazing Sarah!!
286 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon, at time of review which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this advanced copy.
The original title Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tails Dog’s Home is what originally drew me to this novel. I didn’t even care what else it was about as long as it involved a dog recuse — and it does!
I jumped in without really doing much research, so I didn’t realize this novel is part of a series and it’s not even the first book in said series. That said, it did not impact the level of my enjoyment.
But these were my favorite surprises of all: - The found family aspect - The accuracy in which the rescue world is portrayed - It’s a Christmas themed story!!
If you are looking for a cozy, found-family, animal rescue, Christmas story, this is definitely the book for you!
Poppy hasn't had luck in her past romantic relationship, so she heads to Cornwall to soend some time with her aunt Flora. Can she help save the dogs' home?
I have reviewed a lot of these kinds of books, but always search for new authors. Sarah Hope has captured the atmosphere of the dogs' home so well and I was wondering what would happen with Poppy and her love life.
I'm looking forward to the other books in the series. This is the first book in the series I have reviewed and Sarah Hope is a new-to-me author.
Thanks to Sarah Hope and Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This author seems to specialize in romances set in Cornwall. Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home is a sweet, clean romance. If you like dogs in general or rescue animals in particular, you will be attracted to this book. Poppy had bought a city home with Ben, but they are ending the relationship, and Poppy’s job as a supply teacher is on a holiday break. So, she packs a bag and heads to West Par where her beloved Aunt Flora has a dog shelter.
Poppy eventually realizes she has just been existing in her life with Ben. She has even gotten grouchy over the very idea of the Christmas spirit. She soon meets Mack, the new veterinarian in town. He is very nice to both people and animals. He buys expensive things, but says he is unable to keep up the former vet’s policy of only charging for medicines. Of course shelter animals often require medical assistance, and the shelter depends on donations and volunteers for its existence. Mack and Poppy are attracted to each other, but they both have childhood and more recent baggage to overcome.
There are lots of likable characters, and the community spirit is outstanding from sing-a-longs at the town center to visits to the local Christmas Market. There are lots of fundraisers for the shelter that are also fun for the community. Percy is a special friend of Flora’s who helps at the shelter and repairs various things as breakdowns arise and Flora is too frugal to hire the work out. The money needs to go to the dogs. Included in the story is a dog hoarder: Mr. Thomas has taken in many animals over the years, but he is too old now to take care of them or clean up after them. Flora spends a lot of time trying to convince him to put them in her shelter. Mack has two younger siblings that he has raised. The younger one, Spencer, is convinced that Percy, who has a white beard, is Santa Claus. It’s easy to see why—he looks like Santa and is always helping someone. Spencer is an enthusiastic Christmas lover and cute too. The story behind Mack and his brothers helps Poppy and the reader understand his attitude towards money.
The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home is in serious trouble. Read this gentle romance to see if the shelter can survive and what happens to certain special dogs. Also, you’ll want to see what develops between Mack and Poppy and how Poppy manages her house sale. The shelter’s future as well as Poppy’s and Flora’s are all tied up in the finances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love the Wagging Tails series! Having read the first book, The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home (reviewed here), I was excited to learn more about another character who is connected to this rescue. Poppy is Flora’s niece and can recall good times spent with her aunt, moments and memories that really helped to give Poppy a solid foundation in life when she felt she needed it the most. It’s what propels her to return to the Dogs’ Home, in order to in some ways, find herself again. I thought it was interesting that we learn more about the close relationship she shares with her aunt, a motherly figure who has always provided and taken care of her, yet now, it’s Poppy who comes to her aunt’s rescue, a change in familial responsibility.
Along the way Poppy familiarizes herself with the other members of the Dogs’ Home, many of which she remembers as fixtures of her childhood. I thought that was a nice touch, aiding in Poppy’s need to find a place to grow roots. The Dogs' Home has always had arrangements with local vet clinics in order to provide for the animals, by way of reduced medical treatments and medicine. Yet the head vet at one clinic in particular has moved on, with the new vet (Mack) refusing to budge on offering any additional assistance or price breaks for the Dogs' Home. I could completely relate with how frustrated Poppy feels towards Mack. The reasons behind Mack’s choices are easily explained, but I sided with Poppy on this one.
When Flora finds herself in dire straits, it only adds to the tension between Poppy and Mack. Despite how wonderful he could potentially seem beneath the surface, it’s hard to overlook the steps that have led to Flora’s predicament. Poppy is often torn between pummeling Mack, and kissing him, an interesting juxtaposition. The budding romance between the two of them was simplistically sweet and adorable, and it was fun to see where it might lead, all things considered. I enjoyed the romantic angle, but the one I was more drawn to was the tight bond between Poppy and Flora. The role reversal between the two of them, with Flora needing to learn to accept help, and Poppy stepping in and doing what she feels she needs to do for her loved one, was pure magic.
I liked this book just as much as I enjoyed the first one–I’m a huge animal lover, and this really hit the spot with fulfilling my need to see sweet animals loved and provided for, while also getting a taste of romance as well as familial bonds. It was a worthy five-star addition!
After a bad breakup leaves Poppy wishing it was more on than off, she knows just the thing to do. She'll help her aunt at the Wagging Tails Dogs Home her aunt runs and funds herself with very little financial outside help. Poppy has been there before multiple times helping her aunt at her pet rescue but not recently. The Cornish village of West Par should be the perfect relaxation spot with the dogs and her aunt for Poppy, but it's not. When a new vet comes to the practice her aunt has used for many years and won't give her the same discounts the old vet had it causes problems. When you're running a dog rescue you need breaks, and lot of breaks. No one can do it on their own. I really loved Poppy's aunts' character, she has a heart of gold for animals and people alike. She tries to hide her financial problems from Poppy but a new pup, one abandoned at the pet rescue needs multiple surgeries and care. When her sweet aunt has an accident Poppy finds out how bad they are financially and becomes angry with the vet blaming him for not compromising with vet care and discounts. We see Poppy having a bit of a difficult time getting over her ex-boyfriend and carrying baggage. The vet is also hiding a secret that he is ashamed to have known. Very few people know his background and why he can't offer discounts for pet service even though his veterinarian office is now thriving. Will Poppy and the vet come to an agreement with vet service? I absolutely loved this book and the series. So many charming elements in here. The characters are realistic and likable. The plot is well throughout out and I could picture what was happening in the book as I read it. This book is a warm hug wrapped around me as I read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Chasing Dreams At The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home by Sarah Hope is a perfectly charming contemporary novel that I loved. The novel is set in December in Cornwall. The dogs’ home is a place for homeless dogs, with loving people who are determined to make a difference. The dogs’ home is the dream of the owner who established it thirty five years ago. She will always go the extra mile for the dogs, putting them above her own welfare. She has a huge philanthropic heart who just wants to do the best for the dogs. A character returns to the dogs’ home of her childhood after a relationship breakdown. Here, she receives a warm welcome from both humans and dogs. As she puts the dogs first, her heart begins to heal. The dogs know when they are loved. It is beautiful to see a bond develop between an abandoned puppy and an abandoned heart. Family is important. Sometimes family is blood related and at other times it is people who love us. The dogs’ home functions as a family with the dogs at the heart. The landscape of Christmas in Cornwall comes alive with mince pies, snow, trees and caroling. Old fashioned Christmases of my childhood are evoked. We see that Christmas may be a time for miracles. All the characters – human and dogs – were well drawn, likable and realistic. I adored Chasing Dreams At The Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home. It was such a delightful tale. I am sorry that it has ended. I received a free copy via Rachels Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tails Dogs' Home by Sarah Hope
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
After a difficult break-up, Poppy is keen to put the past behind her and what’s better than some relaxing time with her aunt in the picturesque Cornish village of West Par. Life at her aunt Flora’s Dogs’ Home is anything but relaxing. When a poor little pup is stranded at the gates, Poppy takes them for a check up at the local vet, hoping against hope they'll be fine. And there she meets the vet who is so charming and experienced with the dogs, but selfish and – dare she say it – money-grabbing with his clients. But underneath that cold exterior, she's sure there's more to the story. If only she could convince him to open up. Because without him, the future of Wagging Tails isn't so assured...
My Opinion
This is the second book in the series and whilst it can be read as a standalone I would recommend reading the series in order. With returning characters and a lot of dogs there is a lot to appeal to the reader, especially the animal lovers out there. With short chapters it is easy to read 'just one more chapter' before putting the book down.
Whilst Sarah Hope has written a heart-warming tale about how community will come together to help a charity, she has also touched on very important real-life topics. With all that is going on Sarah has still managed to write a festive book that will leave you ready for the upcoming festivities.
What can I say any book that features animals is always going to be a win with me and as a massive dog lover this was a win win for me, but then it was even better because it has a puppy (albeit a poorly pup but we know the wagging tails dogs home will sort the puppy) I read the first book and really loved it , but you can definitely read this as a stand-alone, it won’t affect your enjoyment (but personally I would read the first because you’ll miss out on a great read there too) I really enjoyed the relationship between Poppy and Mack, the fact that Poppy is hesitant at first and Mack doesn’t seem tobe perfect, but we know there will be reasons. (Which is the unraveling of Mack’s history that I love)
I liked the touch that Sarah includes focus on the problems charities face post-pandemic and cost of living crisis, whilst still highlighting how generous people still can be. It’s a Christmassy read too, I love that it made me ready to get into a seasonal mood and ready to throw on my Christmas playlist and get the decs out. I wholeheartedly recommend this (and it’s predecessor The Wagging Tails Dogs Home) for a thoroughly heartwarming and entertaining read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the first book in this series, it was so special, so I couldn’t wait to get back to Wagging Tails Dogs Home and its lovely characters.
This story is about Poppy, she’s Flora’s niece ( Flora is the owner of the Dogs Home) and she’s just come out of a bad break up, she’s heartbroken so she’s come to her Aunts for a fresh start and some breathing space.
Poppy is finding her feet and getting into the swing of things at the Dogs Home after being away for 5 years and the dogs and work are a welcome distraction from her worries, she soon meets the Mack the new local vet, he seems to be somewhat of a mystery and has his own problems too.
I was entranced by this story and this lovely corner of the world yet again, the characters are so joyful and down to earth.
The Dogs Home is dealing with problems I know all of us will relate to which is the Cost of Living Crisis and real life animal charities up and down the country will be having the same problems unfortunately.
Once again the lovely dogs are the star of show, especially Dougal, he’s also the one who introduced Poppy to Mack for the first time.
I absolutely adore this series, from the furry four legged friends to the great community of volunteers at the Wagging Tails' Dogs Home, this is just gorgeous read perfection.
And when you add in a rather sexy vet, even if he is presenting as a slight Scrooge - well a Christmas loving Scrooge to be precise.
I loved getting to know Poppy who has come to stay with Flora for the holidays, while she tries to get her life back on track, and she seems to a special affinity to one or two of the dogs in particularly.
She's less keen on a vet who won't give the charity a discount, especially as the dogs' home relies on donations to keep going.
From Christmas shopping, to Christmas lights, music, to trying to persuade an animal hoarder that they should give up some of their dogs, there is a lot of festive spirit in this book.
I loved every second of it and once again surprised at how fast I was able to read this, which is a sign of how much I was enjoying this story.
Dogs and Christmas, plus some romance, what an amazing combination.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Poppy returns to the Wagging Tails Dogs Home and her Aunt Flora after she splits with her partner. She had many happy memories of spending summers there when she was younger, but hasn't been able to visit for a few years. She arrives to find that things aren't going smoothly. This is yet again a book in a series where I haven't had a chance to read the first book, even though it's languishing in my TBR list, but this didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. It does reflect the difficulties of trying to run a charity in these times, but it also shows how many people are generous when it comes to helping out with time and money. There is the simmering relationship between Poppy and Mack, the "money grabbing" vet, supported by the dogs home staff and all set against the lovely setting of Cornwall in the run up to Christmas. Definitely worth reading to get you into the festive mood, or just to remind you of it at other times of the year. I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
The story continues with Book 2 and the setting is as lovely as ever. This time, we meet Poppy and the vet, Mack. You get to see hoe Poppy settles in, nursing her heartbreak and trying to move on. I thought it was refreshing how Mack appeared to be less than perfect and at first, Poppy actively dislikes his decision to charge the Dogs' Charity full rate for his work with them. His reasons for being so have to be unpicked carefully. The Dogs' Charity seems to be under threat due to financial difficulties and this causes Poppy's aunt to take some drastic measures. I enjoyed the characters who all work for the charity and there is humour to be found in them, but most of all, the animals who they are caring for. In the background is the festive season so this makes for an entertaining and appropriate read for this time of year. In short: Likeable characters and some lovely dogs
After her long term relationship faded and passed, Poppy and Ben separated at last. Poppy has gone to spend time with her Aunt Flora Feeling sad, Poppy hopes being there will cure her!
Flora runs the Wagging Tails Dog Home where Poppy enjoys giving time and doing her share. Reconnecting with others who spend time there, too, She'll never be short of things to do!
An abandoned, ill dog needs taking to the vet But Poppy hadn't met him yet. When she does she's shocked to discover He's new and not as charitable as the other.
The team of helpers are like a family who Are there to support each other in all that they do. Get ready for Christmas, celebrations and secrets, too, Which could change what Poppy is going to do!
A heartwarming read, a festive escape and romance So delightful I hope you'll give it more than a chance! For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you - As I share with you my honest review.
After a bad break up Poppy goes to stay with her Aunt Flora at Wagging Tails Dogs Home. While she is there someone dumps a dog at the door, the dogs name is Dougal and he is in desperate need of veterinary attention. Poppy takes him to the vet who is caring and compassionate but doesn't do any discounts on his treatments. What is it about this new vet who I instantly fell in love with even though he charges a arm and a leg? I love dogs more than life so this series has been so exciting and has my heart to the end. I particularly have a passion for rescue dogs who go through so much but still have plenty of love to give. The characters who work at Wagging Tails are a eclectic mix but they all have the same goal of caring for the dogs and work so well together. Once again I am deeply in love with this story. It is also set around Christmas time which made me feel festive. I am very eager to read the next book in this memorable series and I will be doing a happy dance when it's released!
I really loved book 1 in this series, which focused on Ginny. Ginny reappears in this book, so in that sense it is good to read book 1 first, but it is not a must as this story focuses Poppy and her aunt Flora, the owner of Wagging Tails Dogs' Home.
Just like book 1, there are lots of dogs in this story, some that we get to know better than others. I loved the dogs! The characters were also brilliant. Poppy was so sweet and a kind heart but didn't love Christmas. How is that possible. The new vet in town, Mack, came across as grumpy and not the friendliest, but a Christmas lover. How confusing?! Needless to say, there were reasons for both Poppy and Mack feeling and behaving as they did and things change throughout the story as these two characters grow closer.
A lot of this story was also Flora's, but it's not mentioned in the synopsis so I will not give anything away, but it will definitely touch you!
This was my first Sarah Hope book, and it completely delivered on cosy vibes and heart. It’s a true page-turner that felt like a warm hug, and I flew through it in just two days because I didn’t want to put it down. Poppy, escaping a bad breakup to help her aunt at the Wagging Tails Dogs’ Home, made for such a comforting setup, and the Cornish village setting is full of charm, dogs, and community spirit. The tension with the new vet, the financial struggles of the rescue, and the secrets both Poppy and the vet are carrying add just enough emotional weight to balance the sweetness. The characters feel real and likable, and the story is written in a way that makes it easy to picture every scene. Overall, a heartwarming, well-written read that makes me excited to pick up more from this author.
Poppy has recently split up with someone she has lived with for a long time. Her job is toast and she still has to pay her half of the mortgage. So she ups and moves back to her aunt and the Home for Rescue dogs. She is mourning for her childhood with argumentative parents, her lackluster relationship, and lack of future dreams. But it's Christmastide, she has a sick puppy, and the new veterinarian turns out to be nicer than he first seemed. It's a great feelgood story and written so well that the characters really come alive. Can't be a true unbiased review because I love rescue dogs and the people who love them. I requested and received a free e-book copy from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Poppy returns to the Wagging Tails Dogs' home and her Aunt Flora after her relationship breakdown. She receives the love and support she needs from her Aunt and friendship from the other workers. She also forms a charming connection with a lovable abandoned dog. A new vet seems unwilling to help the dogs' home, which disappoints Poppy and makes her determined to find out why. The Cornish wintery location is lovely, as is the dogs' home setting. There is an immersive balance of heartwarming, humour and poignancy. Poppy is a likeable character that the reader invests in and wants to find happiness. I like the dynamic between the different characters, the dogs and the gentle romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I loved it! I am very much looking forward to trying out more of her books. Though this is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone. I loved this book -- especially for the aspect of the dogs and rescue centre aspect as I have an acquaintance who runs a rescue centre in Japan. I liked the hate-to-love trope but it happened a bit fast for my liking -- I like slower builds in relationships which mirror realism a bit more. The characters were loveable and easy to invest in and the storyline otherwise was a good one and was definitely a fast read. Great dynamics between all the characters and I love, love, love all the doggies!
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for this ARC. This is my honest review.
This book was a slow starter for me, actually almost dnf, but kept going.
After a breakup and divorce, Poppy temporarily moves in with her Aunt Flora, who runs a dog rescue. Poppy spent a lot of time there growing up, so it’s her happy place. When she meets the new vet, she discovers that not everyone has the small town, support each other spirit.
I really didn’t care much for Poppy, and only a bit more for Mack. The cast of volunteers at the rescue were confusing and unnecessary, no one seemed to have defined roles.
I’m sure there are many people who will love this story, but it just wasn’t for me. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
This is such an easy read and is a wonderful story.
The characters are well formed and gel well with each other within the story. They all fit within the area too and do justice to the local way of living. The dogs also have prominent roles within the story and they all have wonderful characteristics woven into their part of the whole. Now that I've read the book I understand why the name was changed to 'Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tree Dogs Home'!
I fully recommend this book to anyone who likes a cozy read!
Thank you NetGalley, Sarah Hope and Boldwood Books for ARC of the book Chasing Dreams at Wagging Tails Dogs' Home. This is my personal review. Poppy has gone to help her aunt at her dog rescue. The interaction Poppy has with the dog is adorable. Any dog lover reading this book will feel the heart tugs as she spends time with the dogs. She is needing this in her life when her long-time relationship ends. The vet in town has caught her eye and things are after a bit of a rocky start when she thought the vet’s office gave them a break on the care a dog may need, they have to bring in from the rescue. I liked the interaction of the characters. The storyline was simple and easy to follow but for me it was missing that wanting a connection with the characters in the book.
Chasing Dreams in the Cornish Village (The Cornish Village Book 2)
I really enjoyed this book, read it in 3 sittings, just couldn’t put it down. It was heartwarming, happy, sad and downright very silly in parts. It made my heart feel good and lightened my mood. I escaped the reality of a day alone. No one is alone reading!! You get transported into happy, sad or thought provoking places. I recommend this lovely little book for anyone to read and be lifted. 💕
I short quick read about Poppy who returns to her aunt's dog sanctuary after breaking with her long term, live in boyfriend. Here she begins to heal and start over, when she meets Mack. I enjoyed the quick read.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
This is a delightful story about new beginnings and starting over again. Poppy has come to stay with her Aunt Flora who owns Wagging Tails Dogs Home and finds love and friendships.