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Healing Harts #2
Taking Heart
T. J. Kline's Healing Harts series continues as a soldier suffering from PTSD and a therapy dog trainer find that some scars can only be healed by love...
Julia Hart knows how much good she does training therapy dogs—it's what helped her overcome her own trials after a relationship turned unexpectedly violent. But moving beyond her mistakes meant trusting only her family with her heart.
Dylan, a former soldier, has run out of hope for recovery. Plagued by nightmares and flashbacks, he doubts anything will help him overcome his PTSD. When his brother convinces him to try one last time, he agrees to get a therapy dog.
Dylan didn't expect to find Julia or a chance for a "normal" future again. But when Julia's attacker is released from prison, Dylan and Julia will have to face the past together.
Julia Hart knows how much good she does training therapy dogs—it's what helped her overcome her own trials after a relationship turned unexpectedly violent. But moving beyond her mistakes meant trusting only her family with her heart.
Dylan, a former soldier, has run out of hope for recovery. Plagued by nightmares and flashbacks, he doubts anything will help him overcome his PTSD. When his brother convinces him to try one last time, he agrees to get a therapy dog.
Dylan didn't expect to find Julia or a chance for a "normal" future again. But when Julia's attacker is released from prison, Dylan and Julia will have to face the past together.
384 pages, ebook
First published June 2, 2015
31 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Kline
26 books437 followersT.J. Kline has been making up stories since she was old enough to talk and put her first into book form when she was ten.
Since then, she has always loved a HEA and a good thriller. When life introduced her to horses and rodeos, she knew she'd found her calling writing contemporary small-town romances filled with love, drama and, of course, cowboys.
She currently lives in the foothills outside Yosemite National Park with the love of her life, adoring her three grown children from afar and enjoying her three horses, four dogs, five cats and a noisy bunch of hens.
Since then, she has always loved a HEA and a good thriller. When life introduced her to horses and rodeos, she knew she'd found her calling writing contemporary small-town romances filled with love, drama and, of course, cowboys.
She currently lives in the foothills outside Yosemite National Park with the love of her life, adoring her three grown children from afar and enjoying her three horses, four dogs, five cats and a noisy bunch of hens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 24, 2015
4.5 Stars ♡
Totally not what I was expecting...in a good way!
Loved the characters, the romance and the suspense!
Overall it was a great read!
Highly recommended for this of you who love a good military romance!
Totally not what I was expecting...in a good way!
Loved the characters, the romance and the suspense!
Overall it was a great read!
Highly recommended for this of you who love a good military romance!
July 15, 2015
3.5 RATING- A "new to me" author, the blurb on this one pulled me in. Wounded warrior, a dog trainer, and a crazy ex? Yep, this had my name all over it! Overall, I liked it. It would have made a solid Hallmark movie. Sweet, sappy, a bit unrealistic. Definitely instant attraction/love, so if that's not your thing, that may be an issue. I didn't mind that even though it was really fast. What drove me a little batty was the way the heroine acted, several TSTL moments. She's dealing with a dangerous stalker but repeatedly doesn't call the police or tell others when something threatening happens. Can't stand that. Still, the writing was good and I plan on reading other books by this author eventually.
This book is part of a series and although I didn't read the first book and had no problems jumping into this one, expect some spoilers on book one.
NOTE: At the time this review was posted, Taking Heart was available to borrow through Oyster Subscription Service.
June 4, 2015
When I read a romance book, it is for many reasons. To escape into another world, place, or time. I have read them cause I am a romantic and love seeing love win out over all. I have even read them to write reviews and ended up not being able to put the book down. Taking Heart was one of my top reads because I NEEDED to read it, I was invested in the world T.J. had created and I couldn’t not read it. I had read teasers, blurbs and excerpts, all making it a dire thing that not another day go by before I read this book. Suffice it to say I couldn’t put it done, I started it at 11pm Tuesday night, put my girls down for naps and kept reading today. After diner and bed I sat to finish, it was an emotional book that had my full attention.
Julia Heart thinks she is broken after surviving a horrible incident in her past. He has invested all her time and energy into making her dog-training portion of the ranch a success. She trains dogs for all types of people including people suffering from PTSD. This leads to her meeting the Gage and Dylan. Gage wants his Brother Dylan to heal and be his old self or at least leave sleep through the night. He contacts Julia and she tells him to come check her ranch out, see if she can help. Dylan out main tough guy wants to end his life, he is the only one to survive his team in Afghanistan and can’t figure out why. His life is hell and nothing he does has made it better. To appease his brother he goes to meet Julia and try to see if a dog will help.
With both lead characters having emotional pasts, this book is full of the heartstrings being pulled. You want them together so bad but honestly don’t know if they can move forward and leave the baggage behind. In a lot of T.J.’s books you have a lighter note mixed with emotion, this one was emotion with some well-earned laughs. You know the kind when you wait for the hearts to heal enough to allow the things we take for granted to seep in. Laughter, smiling, love, kindness without an ulterior motive. Dylan suffers from survivor’s guilt and doesn’t think he deserves to have anything good. Please don’t misunderstand my review, there are light and happy moments, heat between Dylan and Julia, protectiveness from Julia’s brother and a lot more. I hope you love this book as much as I did!
Julia Heart thinks she is broken after surviving a horrible incident in her past. He has invested all her time and energy into making her dog-training portion of the ranch a success. She trains dogs for all types of people including people suffering from PTSD. This leads to her meeting the Gage and Dylan. Gage wants his Brother Dylan to heal and be his old self or at least leave sleep through the night. He contacts Julia and she tells him to come check her ranch out, see if she can help. Dylan out main tough guy wants to end his life, he is the only one to survive his team in Afghanistan and can’t figure out why. His life is hell and nothing he does has made it better. To appease his brother he goes to meet Julia and try to see if a dog will help.
With both lead characters having emotional pasts, this book is full of the heartstrings being pulled. You want them together so bad but honestly don’t know if they can move forward and leave the baggage behind. In a lot of T.J.’s books you have a lighter note mixed with emotion, this one was emotion with some well-earned laughs. You know the kind when you wait for the hearts to heal enough to allow the things we take for granted to seep in. Laughter, smiling, love, kindness without an ulterior motive. Dylan suffers from survivor’s guilt and doesn’t think he deserves to have anything good. Please don’t misunderstand my review, there are light and happy moments, heat between Dylan and Julia, protectiveness from Julia’s brother and a lot more. I hope you love this book as much as I did!
June 21, 2015
I adore the concept of this series: animals used in therapeutic settings to help others regain pieces of the lives they once had, and T.J. Kline builds this world with stories that call to readers with heart and hope.
This is my first encounter with this series, and I was captured from the first moment. Julia Hart has realized first-hand just what a difference a therapy dog can make. A bad and dangerous end to a relationship nearly stole her life, and the constant reassurance of a dog by her side has restored her freedom and confidence in facing the outside world. When a new and unknown client arrives, everyone is on alert: the threat to Julia has them all a bit more protective than normal, but Dylan’s arrival instantly signaled a man who needed her help.
Dylan is at the end of his hope: nightmares and flashbacks from PTSD, with no real relief in the multiple therapies he has sought bring him, reluctantly and near pessimistically to Julia, his brother’s influence pushing him on. He’s difficult to not empathize with, his issues are clearly evident, and the depression they have caused have us meeting a man close to broken.
But not only does Julia see her ability to help him, but an attraction that won’t be denied. In fact, Julia is the first thing to brighten Dylan’s days in a long time. Palpable sparks bounce between them, strengthened by the work they do together with the dog, and the sharing of stories that happens. Julia freely shares her own personal experiences of the effects of her dog by her side, and when her ex is released from jail, the tension and danger bring Dylan and the man he used to be to the front as he is determined to protect her.
Complex and well-developed characters, a solid trajectory on their relationship, wonderful family interactions and plenty of secondary characters to enjoy, not to mention animals and this story just breezes by, leaving the reader feeling as if they know a bit more about PTSD, animal-centric therapies and the power of love. I couldn’t put this book down, and can’t wait for more.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This is my first encounter with this series, and I was captured from the first moment. Julia Hart has realized first-hand just what a difference a therapy dog can make. A bad and dangerous end to a relationship nearly stole her life, and the constant reassurance of a dog by her side has restored her freedom and confidence in facing the outside world. When a new and unknown client arrives, everyone is on alert: the threat to Julia has them all a bit more protective than normal, but Dylan’s arrival instantly signaled a man who needed her help.
Dylan is at the end of his hope: nightmares and flashbacks from PTSD, with no real relief in the multiple therapies he has sought bring him, reluctantly and near pessimistically to Julia, his brother’s influence pushing him on. He’s difficult to not empathize with, his issues are clearly evident, and the depression they have caused have us meeting a man close to broken.
But not only does Julia see her ability to help him, but an attraction that won’t be denied. In fact, Julia is the first thing to brighten Dylan’s days in a long time. Palpable sparks bounce between them, strengthened by the work they do together with the dog, and the sharing of stories that happens. Julia freely shares her own personal experiences of the effects of her dog by her side, and when her ex is released from jail, the tension and danger bring Dylan and the man he used to be to the front as he is determined to protect her.
Complex and well-developed characters, a solid trajectory on their relationship, wonderful family interactions and plenty of secondary characters to enjoy, not to mention animals and this story just breezes by, leaving the reader feeling as if they know a bit more about PTSD, animal-centric therapies and the power of love. I couldn’t put this book down, and can’t wait for more.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
June 24, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars
Received a review copy in exchange for an honest review -- original tour posting can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I love military romances and I love working dogs. Put 'em together, and I had a feeling that this book was going to do it for me.
It did.
We start out in a scene that makes you appreciate the man Dylan is... Or rather, was. As a special forces medic, he put his brothers in arms before himself and fought to keep them on their feet and their minds intact. Just that brief prologue and you knew without a doubt that this man was going to suffer survivor's guilt. In his seven years on the forces, not once had he lost a man -- and the day that he does, somehow he's the only one who walks away.
Since a young age, Dylan has been the care taker, and now that he suffers PTSD and is living with his younger brother, Gage, he feels that he has failed. He suffers from headaches, PTSD, can only sleep with sleeping pills, has medications up the wazoo, and sleeps with a gun under his mattress just in case he can't deal with it all anymore. The two men he lost in Afghanistan had families to come home to and all he has is his room with four walls. Gage tries to help his brother, but when Dylan's medication routine is no longer helping, he decides to look into therapy dogs --
--to which Dylan puts a firm foot down with a resounding 'No'. While he states he doesn't even like animals, a lingering reason is that he fears that if a therapy dog doesn't work, he will lose all hope in getting better.
Just days after telling Gage 'no' though, he finds himself stepping out of a car with his brother on a ranch with a pretty blonde waiting for them, with a beast of a dog beside her.
What I appreciated most about Julia was that she truly understood what Dylan was going through. No, not the war aspect, but the PTSD and the fears that come with it. When Dylan calls her out on her inability to understand what he experiences, she gives him bits and pieces of her story, not wanting to give the full deal. However, her past shows up and she has no choice but to tell Dylan the whole morbid tale. Part of her was afraid that by her telling, he'd feel guilt-ed into telling his own story, but she assures him that he can keep his secrets to himself for as long as he needed.
When it came time to working with a few dogs to find out his match, I just loved when (after Julia pulled out three dogs already) Dylan crouched by the kennels and quietly whispered that he wanted Roscoe to come out. It was as if while he didn't necessarily trust the process, some part of him wanted to and another part was simply drawn to the dog. Roscoe was an amazing fit for Dylan and picked up on his cues immediately.
Speaking of amazing therapy dogs -- Julia's beast. Her Great Dane, Tango, had such a personality. I absolutely loved him. Beyond that, though, I loved how he accepted Dylan right away. Tango was trained to alert Julia of oncoming people, but after just days of being there, Dylan was able to come up behind Julia without Tango alerting her. On one hand, you may think that Tango was slacking, but truthfully, Tango recognized Dylan as another soul to help out Julia.
I loved that we had two broken people who only saw the best in the other. I'm not sure why, but this is one of my favorite themes to read about -- so long as it's written well (and TAKING HEART is written well). Until Dylan can live without meds and guilt, he will only see himself as broken. Heck, he has the scars to prove it. Julia fears her past and what it will do to Dylan; she feels that without her dogs, she would be nothing more than broken pieces on the ground -- but Dylan sees her as 'perfect and beautiful and flawless'. While Julia has worked hard on the broken pieces and scars on her inside, she wants to help Dylan overcome his inner scars -- but one that will be difficult for Dylan to overcome is his fear of not being able to protect Julia.
I enjoyed the suspense aspect that TAKING HEART has. I felt that some of the (err, most of the) 'surprise' parts were rather predictable -- like a corny horror movie, yelling, "Don't go in the store alone!" but that was ok -- because the parts leading up to the 'predictable part', and the parts following the 'predictable part', were really good. Beyond the predictability though, I suppose my only other issue with the story would be it's a quick-love. Seven days and "I love yous" are exchanged. Heck, one day and hot and heavy kissing happens (eh, but that happens in real life, so I'll let that slide).
However....
It was easy to forget that the time frame was so quick, with everything else going on.
Little brother Gage seeing that Dylan has fallen for Julia so quickly? Not sure how real-life that is -- guys tend to be immune to seeing other guys' feelings and... I don't know. While I liked it, and loved Gage pointing it out, the whole seven-days-you've-fallen-hard bit just doesn't quite jive for me.
Speaking of Gage... here was yet another book this week that had a supporting cast that I... well... supported. Again, like I stated in my review of SPARK, I don't typically care for side stories, but I loved reading about Gage, Bailey, Chase, and Justin (well, and Jessie and Nathan; I will have to go back and read their story). I'm so glad that after Justin's book is Bailey's (hmm, I wonder who cousin Bailey ends up with...? I have my hopes) and that T.J. Kline wants to write Gage's story too. I really liked Gage.
Received a review copy in exchange for an honest review -- original tour posting can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I love military romances and I love working dogs. Put 'em together, and I had a feeling that this book was going to do it for me.
It did.
We start out in a scene that makes you appreciate the man Dylan is... Or rather, was. As a special forces medic, he put his brothers in arms before himself and fought to keep them on their feet and their minds intact. Just that brief prologue and you knew without a doubt that this man was going to suffer survivor's guilt. In his seven years on the forces, not once had he lost a man -- and the day that he does, somehow he's the only one who walks away.
Since a young age, Dylan has been the care taker, and now that he suffers PTSD and is living with his younger brother, Gage, he feels that he has failed. He suffers from headaches, PTSD, can only sleep with sleeping pills, has medications up the wazoo, and sleeps with a gun under his mattress just in case he can't deal with it all anymore. The two men he lost in Afghanistan had families to come home to and all he has is his room with four walls. Gage tries to help his brother, but when Dylan's medication routine is no longer helping, he decides to look into therapy dogs --
--to which Dylan puts a firm foot down with a resounding 'No'. While he states he doesn't even like animals, a lingering reason is that he fears that if a therapy dog doesn't work, he will lose all hope in getting better.
Just days after telling Gage 'no' though, he finds himself stepping out of a car with his brother on a ranch with a pretty blonde waiting for them, with a beast of a dog beside her.
What I appreciated most about Julia was that she truly understood what Dylan was going through. No, not the war aspect, but the PTSD and the fears that come with it. When Dylan calls her out on her inability to understand what he experiences, she gives him bits and pieces of her story, not wanting to give the full deal. However, her past shows up and she has no choice but to tell Dylan the whole morbid tale. Part of her was afraid that by her telling, he'd feel guilt-ed into telling his own story, but she assures him that he can keep his secrets to himself for as long as he needed.
When it came time to working with a few dogs to find out his match, I just loved when (after Julia pulled out three dogs already) Dylan crouched by the kennels and quietly whispered that he wanted Roscoe to come out. It was as if while he didn't necessarily trust the process, some part of him wanted to and another part was simply drawn to the dog. Roscoe was an amazing fit for Dylan and picked up on his cues immediately.
Speaking of amazing therapy dogs -- Julia's beast. Her Great Dane, Tango, had such a personality. I absolutely loved him. Beyond that, though, I loved how he accepted Dylan right away. Tango was trained to alert Julia of oncoming people, but after just days of being there, Dylan was able to come up behind Julia without Tango alerting her. On one hand, you may think that Tango was slacking, but truthfully, Tango recognized Dylan as another soul to help out Julia.
I loved that we had two broken people who only saw the best in the other. I'm not sure why, but this is one of my favorite themes to read about -- so long as it's written well (and TAKING HEART is written well). Until Dylan can live without meds and guilt, he will only see himself as broken. Heck, he has the scars to prove it. Julia fears her past and what it will do to Dylan; she feels that without her dogs, she would be nothing more than broken pieces on the ground -- but Dylan sees her as 'perfect and beautiful and flawless'. While Julia has worked hard on the broken pieces and scars on her inside, she wants to help Dylan overcome his inner scars -- but one that will be difficult for Dylan to overcome is his fear of not being able to protect Julia.
I enjoyed the suspense aspect that TAKING HEART has. I felt that some of the (err, most of the) 'surprise' parts were rather predictable -- like a corny horror movie, yelling, "Don't go in the store alone!" but that was ok -- because the parts leading up to the 'predictable part', and the parts following the 'predictable part', were really good. Beyond the predictability though, I suppose my only other issue with the story would be it's a quick-love. Seven days and "I love yous" are exchanged. Heck, one day and hot and heavy kissing happens (eh, but that happens in real life, so I'll let that slide).
However....
It was easy to forget that the time frame was so quick, with everything else going on.
Little brother Gage seeing that Dylan has fallen for Julia so quickly? Not sure how real-life that is -- guys tend to be immune to seeing other guys' feelings and... I don't know. While I liked it, and loved Gage pointing it out, the whole seven-days-you've-fallen-hard bit just doesn't quite jive for me.
Speaking of Gage... here was yet another book this week that had a supporting cast that I... well... supported. Again, like I stated in my review of SPARK, I don't typically care for side stories, but I loved reading about Gage, Bailey, Chase, and Justin (well, and Jessie and Nathan; I will have to go back and read their story). I'm so glad that after Justin's book is Bailey's (hmm, I wonder who cousin Bailey ends up with...? I have my hopes) and that T.J. Kline wants to write Gage's story too. I really liked Gage.
June 22, 2015
Taking Heart works wonderfully as a standalone and it appears each book focuses on a Hart sibling. Julia Hart trains therapy dogs a career that is helping her overcome her own issues. Dylan is a former solider, who suffers from PTSD, and has been living with his younger brother since his discharge. Between recovering from his scars, overcoming a pain medication addiction, and dealing with his flashbacks, Dylan is in a bad place. For his brother’s sake, he agrees to give dog therapy a chance, and what he finds may give him the life he thought he had lost.
While at times this was a little insta-lovey, Kline had me connecting to both Julia and Dylan. You could feel the sparks between them, and I loved the way they opened up and shared about their past. I felt the author did a fine job of highlighting the effects of PTSD and the helplessness iof the victim and those around them. I am glad the author drew attention to the use of animals for therapy and the impact they have on the patient. Kline weaves humor, banter and delicious heat into their story and I quickly became caught up in wanting them to get their happily-ever-after.
Taking Heart also delivers some suspense as Julia’s past brings danger making Taking Heart a romantic suspense. It accomplished a few things such as driving the two together and forcing both of them to face their issues head on. All of which pulled at my heartstrings. The last one-third of the book had me flipping the pages at a maddening rate as the outside world melted away.
The dogs in the story had a strong presence and added tender moments and humor from hogging the bed to alerting them to danger. Kline did such a great job of sharing how these dogs aid PTSD victims, assist in finding missing persons and why everyone should own a furry friend. I love that they made me laugh. Kline obviously has pets because she nailed the humor of daily life with animals.
We meet other Hart siblings in Taking Heart, and I love the family interaction. After meeting the couple from Heart's Desire, I know I will need to go back and read their story, just as I know I will pick up Close to Heart, next book in the Healing Harts series.
Copy provided publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
While at times this was a little insta-lovey, Kline had me connecting to both Julia and Dylan. You could feel the sparks between them, and I loved the way they opened up and shared about their past. I felt the author did a fine job of highlighting the effects of PTSD and the helplessness iof the victim and those around them. I am glad the author drew attention to the use of animals for therapy and the impact they have on the patient. Kline weaves humor, banter and delicious heat into their story and I quickly became caught up in wanting them to get their happily-ever-after.
Taking Heart also delivers some suspense as Julia’s past brings danger making Taking Heart a romantic suspense. It accomplished a few things such as driving the two together and forcing both of them to face their issues head on. All of which pulled at my heartstrings. The last one-third of the book had me flipping the pages at a maddening rate as the outside world melted away.
The dogs in the story had a strong presence and added tender moments and humor from hogging the bed to alerting them to danger. Kline did such a great job of sharing how these dogs aid PTSD victims, assist in finding missing persons and why everyone should own a furry friend. I love that they made me laugh. Kline obviously has pets because she nailed the humor of daily life with animals.
We meet other Hart siblings in Taking Heart, and I love the family interaction. After meeting the couple from Heart's Desire, I know I will need to go back and read their story, just as I know I will pick up Close to Heart, next book in the Healing Harts series.
Copy provided publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
January 21, 2016
4½ Stars
All the previous books I have read by T.J. Kline are beautifully written and Taking Hearts is no exception. It is a heartwarming book filled with hope whilst tackling a difficult topic with such sensitivity and compassion.
I instantly grew attached to Dylan Granger's character as his story begins to unfold. Struggling with PTSD, he's just about given up hope...not able to see any future as he battles with nightmares and flashbacks. However, it is admirable that he finds the strength to try out his younger brother Gage's suggestion, even though he has no faith at all in his idea. The positive decision taken grudgingly alters the course of his life, offering a future he never dreamed would be within his reach again.
Julia Hart takes great pleasure in knowing that the therapy dogs she trains really make a difference to their new owners. Something she's learned from personal experience too, when a relationship ended badly resulting in her fighting for her life. Now with her constant four-legged friend by her side, Julia relishes her re-found freedom, knowing her protective family are always close. Everyone is on high alert when her new client and his brother arrive to find a therapy dog, only Julia sees beyond the prickly facade of the veteran soldier.
The attraction between Dylan and Julia is instant, although never felt forced or rushed. Both protagonists have a common, traumatic link that acts as a positive trait as both are able to understand each other and the struggles they both face on a daily basis. This becomes most apparent as they deal with a stalker from Julia's past that resurfaces and puts them both in danger. Their close connection and understanding of each others likely reactions, helps to keep them one step ahead of the perpetrator.
Like all the authors' other books I have read, Taking Hearts has a well researched plot offering something extra to the readers. This attention to detail adds that extra sparkle to what is already a fabulous read. This a touching, enlightening, sexy story, with some added angst. Not forgetting Julia and Dylan's story is built on trust, hope and of course love. Highly recommend!
All the previous books I have read by T.J. Kline are beautifully written and Taking Hearts is no exception. It is a heartwarming book filled with hope whilst tackling a difficult topic with such sensitivity and compassion.
I instantly grew attached to Dylan Granger's character as his story begins to unfold. Struggling with PTSD, he's just about given up hope...not able to see any future as he battles with nightmares and flashbacks. However, it is admirable that he finds the strength to try out his younger brother Gage's suggestion, even though he has no faith at all in his idea. The positive decision taken grudgingly alters the course of his life, offering a future he never dreamed would be within his reach again.
Julia Hart takes great pleasure in knowing that the therapy dogs she trains really make a difference to their new owners. Something she's learned from personal experience too, when a relationship ended badly resulting in her fighting for her life. Now with her constant four-legged friend by her side, Julia relishes her re-found freedom, knowing her protective family are always close. Everyone is on high alert when her new client and his brother arrive to find a therapy dog, only Julia sees beyond the prickly facade of the veteran soldier.
The attraction between Dylan and Julia is instant, although never felt forced or rushed. Both protagonists have a common, traumatic link that acts as a positive trait as both are able to understand each other and the struggles they both face on a daily basis. This becomes most apparent as they deal with a stalker from Julia's past that resurfaces and puts them both in danger. Their close connection and understanding of each others likely reactions, helps to keep them one step ahead of the perpetrator.
Like all the authors' other books I have read, Taking Hearts has a well researched plot offering something extra to the readers. This attention to detail adds that extra sparkle to what is already a fabulous read. This a touching, enlightening, sexy story, with some added angst. Not forgetting Julia and Dylan's story is built on trust, hope and of course love. Highly recommend!
April 19, 2016
It had a promising start -- I liked the idea of Julia working with therapy dogs and Dylan was a soldier with PTSD. I was imagining a lot of interaction -- cute, adorable ones -- between Dylan, who was at first dead set against having a dog, with a dog that Julia had chosen for him
But then, this story TOOK A NOSEDIVE with TSTL heroine, instant love , two-dimensional villain, and over-the-top push and pull drama that just drove me batty. I wanted to wring Julia's neck for being too stupid and ignorant about her own life, and giving the lamest excuse ever! And Dylan, the whole transformation from having PTSD to someone else when he was around Julia just wasn't believable.
Man, even the dogs could not save this for me. And they were the only good things I could think of from the book.
Now I am not sure if I want to continue the series. Book one also has instant love. Sort of. At least the couple have history before, so I could somehow deal with it. I am still feeling annoyed with this one to even think about starting the next books.
But then, this story TOOK A NOSEDIVE with TSTL heroine, instant love , two-dimensional villain, and over-the-top push and pull drama that just drove me batty. I wanted to wring Julia's neck for being too stupid and ignorant about her own life, and giving the lamest excuse ever! And Dylan, the whole transformation from having PTSD to someone else when he was around Julia just wasn't believable.
Man, even the dogs could not save this for me. And they were the only good things I could think of from the book.
Now I am not sure if I want to continue the series. Book one also has instant love. Sort of. At least the couple have history before, so I could somehow deal with it. I am still feeling annoyed with this one to even think about starting the next books.
May 12, 2017
Great read. The story of two damaged people (Dylan an ex special ops war hero and Julia Hart therapy dog trainer) both struggling with PTSD who come together to fill in the missing pieces. The love story was great, the suspense story kept you riveted even knowing there'd be a HEA. I guess my only complaint is that Chase came across as nearly incompetent. Well everyone but Dylan did when the dogs were going crazy and he was the only one that had a clue. But if you love romance, if you love suspense and if you love dogs, you're going to love this book.
Note to Ms. Kline-you put in a statement here from Justin about Chase in regard to Bailey which surprised me because in the excerpt provided on Goodreads, from Chase and Bailey's story Healing Harts #4, Chase thinks Justin doesn't know about his feelings for Bailey.
Note to Ms. Kline-you put in a statement here from Justin about Chase in regard to Bailey which surprised me because in the excerpt provided on Goodreads, from Chase and Bailey's story Healing Harts #4, Chase thinks Justin doesn't know about his feelings for Bailey.
October 5, 2019
This book was... fine. It was cute. The story was a winning enough formula that it would've been hard for the author to get it wrong--another reviewer compared it to a Hallmark movie, which I think is a pretty apt description. It's just that it felt so, well, formulaic--it's like the author had her, well, winning formula and just breezed her way through it, worrying more about getting from Point A to Point B quickly, rather than bothering to really flesh out the story along the way. This book is a prime example of too much telling, not enough showing. It drove me crazy. It kept making me think of one of my favorite writing quotes--
"Don't tell me the moon is shining--show me the glint of light on broken glass." (Anton Chekhov)
I'm not sure I've ever read a book that lacked so much description. We only get the barest descriptions of the two main character's appearances--I think I vaguely know their hair colors and eye colors, that the hero's muscular and tall and has a "tribal tattoo" (have no idea what that tattoo looks like, though, mind you--it's literally only ever described as "tribal"... I don't even know what color(s) it is) covering his scars, and that the heroine is curvy... And that's about it. I couldn't tell you what any of the side characters look like, even though a lot of them play important parts in the story. And it's not just physical appearances that lacked for description--it was everything. We're not really shown any character's personality--we're just told, over and over and over, what their main qualities are. Even the dogs didn't have much personality--and that would have been so easy! They're dogs! It's not hard to make them lovable! And outside of the characters (if one could call them that--really, they were more caricatures), I have next to no idea what any of the settings look like, never mind what anything smells like, sounds like, etc. I'd love to force this author to take a basic writing class.
If you're the kind of person who prefers books that are light on description, and more dialogue-driven, you'll probably enjoy this book. I'm not that kind of person. I'd rather be bogged down by too much description and be forced to skim some of it than be desperately grasping at little sentences the author deigns to drop here and there to get a sense of what anything even looks like.
Also, the fact that I was actually skipping the sex scenes tells you how bad it was. They were just so repetitive and boring. How was it even possible to make it that boring? I've read countless romance novels that had sex scenes that were so terrible, I read them just to laugh at the awful writing. There was no such entertainment to be found here, sadly. Both the hero and the heroine compare themselves to horny teenagers, because they can't keep their hands off each other--and it's true. It's true to the point that I shudder to think that
Outside of the writing style (or lack thereof), I was also a bit skeptical of how quickly the two leads opened up to each other, how fast they fell into bed (after neither one being in any sort of relationship for years, because of their traumas and PTSD), and how quickly the hero overcame his PTSD (and stopped relying on his medications after a matter of days, even though he's been reliant on them for years), because of the heroine and the dog. At least it was established later on that this will be a lifelong problem for him, and nothing is ever really going to cure it, but it was all still a little too easy/unrealistic for me.
Also, I could've done without the stalker/suspense plotline, and I'm saying that as a fan of romantic suspense. It just made the story more annoying and contrived, not to mention convoluted. And the way the stalker was written just annoyed me--we're supposed to believe that the heroine dated him and trusted him, to the point that she couldn't see his sudden snap into creeper mode coming. We're also told that he's charming, and good at fooling people/making people trust him, which is how he got out of prison early on parole--and yet, when we finally meet him (when ), he's physically repulsive--his breath stinks, his teeth are yellow, etc. It just wasn't believable that the heroine would've ever fallen for him, and besides that, it was clumsy writing--it would've been much more disturbing to have him be handsome and charming, but also insane, a la Ted Bundy, instead of just making him cartoonishly gross.
Anyway, this wasn't the worst book ever, but it definitely didn't work for me, and I won't be reading anything else from this author.
I'm not sure I've ever read a book that lacked so much description. We only get the barest descriptions of the two main character's appearances--I think I vaguely know their hair colors and eye colors, that the hero's muscular and tall and has a "tribal tattoo" (have no idea what that tattoo looks like, though, mind you--it's literally only ever described as "tribal"... I don't even know what color(s) it is) covering his scars, and that the heroine is curvy... And that's about it. I couldn't tell you what any of the side characters look like, even though a lot of them play important parts in the story. And it's not just physical appearances that lacked for description--it was everything. We're not really shown any character's personality--we're just told, over and over and over, what their main qualities are. Even the dogs didn't have much personality--and that would have been so easy! They're dogs! It's not hard to make them lovable! And outside of the characters (if one could call them that--really, they were more caricatures), I have next to no idea what any of the settings look like, never mind what anything smells like, sounds like, etc. I'd love to force this author to take a basic writing class.
If you're the kind of person who prefers books that are light on description, and more dialogue-driven, you'll probably enjoy this book. I'm not that kind of person. I'd rather be bogged down by too much description and be forced to skim some of it than be desperately grasping at little sentences the author deigns to drop here and there to get a sense of what anything even looks like.
Also, the fact that I was actually skipping the sex scenes tells you how bad it was. They were just so repetitive and boring. How was it even possible to make it that boring? I've read countless romance novels that had sex scenes that were so terrible, I read them just to laugh at the awful writing. There was no such entertainment to be found here, sadly. Both the hero and the heroine compare themselves to horny teenagers, because they can't keep their hands off each other--and it's true. It's true to the point that I shudder to think that
Outside of the writing style (or lack thereof), I was also a bit skeptical of how quickly the two leads opened up to each other, how fast they fell into bed (after neither one being in any sort of relationship for years, because of their traumas and PTSD), and how quickly the hero overcame his PTSD (and stopped relying on his medications after a matter of days, even though he's been reliant on them for years), because of the heroine and the dog. At least it was established later on that this will be a lifelong problem for him, and nothing is ever really going to cure it, but it was all still a little too easy/unrealistic for me.
Also, I could've done without the stalker/suspense plotline, and I'm saying that as a fan of romantic suspense. It just made the story more annoying and contrived, not to mention convoluted. And the way the stalker was written just annoyed me--we're supposed to believe that the heroine dated him and trusted him, to the point that she couldn't see his sudden snap into creeper mode coming. We're also told that he's charming, and good at fooling people/making people trust him, which is how he got out of prison early on parole--and yet, when we finally meet him (when ), he's physically repulsive--his breath stinks, his teeth are yellow, etc. It just wasn't believable that the heroine would've ever fallen for him, and besides that, it was clumsy writing--it would've been much more disturbing to have him be handsome and charming, but also insane, a la Ted Bundy, instead of just making him cartoonishly gross.
Anyway, this wasn't the worst book ever, but it definitely didn't work for me, and I won't be reading anything else from this author.
August 28, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
June 23, 2015
I'm already a big fan of T.J. Kline and TAKING HEART is just as amazing as her previous novels. You get so drawn in by the spark between Julia and Dylan, two wounded souls struggling with the enduring effects of PTSD. Though they both suffered very different traumas, they have a unique bond and an understanding of what it means to be pulled back into a pit of fear and anger at the drop of a hat. The attraction between Dylan and Julia seems to leap off the page from their very first encounter and is only strengthened as they work to heal each other with the help of some trusty canine companions.
I think TAKING HEART was even better than the first book in the series, HEART'S DESIRE. There's a suspenseful, psychological element to the story which was really intriguing, but I also really enjoyed learning more about the struggles of PTSD and how animals can help alleviate negative emotions and keep someone centered. It was so interesting to learn how service dogs are trained for different purposes and that fascination I felt made me much more invested in the characters and their story.
One of the amazing things about this series is the way in which T.J. Kline creates complex, developed personalities for the animals in the books, giving them the same attention most authors give human characters. Not only does this really allow you to connect with their emotions and the love and devotion they feel for their owners, but it gives you a greater understanding of the connection which Julia shares with the dogs she trains. Tango is almost an extension of Julia that helps her remain grounded and calm when fear and anxiety threaten to swallow her whole. Some of the strongest emotions I felt were caused by the actions of the dogs in the story. When Julia relives the moment in which Misty is killed protecting her from Evan's vicious attack, and later when Tango is shot in an attempt to protect her, I couldn't help but tear up. Those moments were just gut-wrenching.
Julia and Dylan's romance developed quickly but their love felt genuine. They shared a great balance of sweet and sultry moments, with some laughs thrown in along the way. I loved the running joke of Dylan's brother, Gage, constantly walking in at inopportune moments, catching them in a heated embrace. I also laughed out loud when Julia and Bailey had to orchestrate a covert operation just to get a condom. I really appreciated the addition of Chase as a secondary character and hope to see him finally get the girl in a future novel.
Go read this book. It's touching, funny, sexy and romantic, with a good dose of suspense thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. The characters (both human and canine) are well-developed and really pull you in. Plus, who doesn't love watching two scarred, wonderful people find love despite thinking it would never happen for them? I know I do!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
I think TAKING HEART was even better than the first book in the series, HEART'S DESIRE. There's a suspenseful, psychological element to the story which was really intriguing, but I also really enjoyed learning more about the struggles of PTSD and how animals can help alleviate negative emotions and keep someone centered. It was so interesting to learn how service dogs are trained for different purposes and that fascination I felt made me much more invested in the characters and their story.
One of the amazing things about this series is the way in which T.J. Kline creates complex, developed personalities for the animals in the books, giving them the same attention most authors give human characters. Not only does this really allow you to connect with their emotions and the love and devotion they feel for their owners, but it gives you a greater understanding of the connection which Julia shares with the dogs she trains. Tango is almost an extension of Julia that helps her remain grounded and calm when fear and anxiety threaten to swallow her whole. Some of the strongest emotions I felt were caused by the actions of the dogs in the story. When Julia relives the moment in which Misty is killed protecting her from Evan's vicious attack, and later when Tango is shot in an attempt to protect her, I couldn't help but tear up. Those moments were just gut-wrenching.
Julia and Dylan's romance developed quickly but their love felt genuine. They shared a great balance of sweet and sultry moments, with some laughs thrown in along the way. I loved the running joke of Dylan's brother, Gage, constantly walking in at inopportune moments, catching them in a heated embrace. I also laughed out loud when Julia and Bailey had to orchestrate a covert operation just to get a condom. I really appreciated the addition of Chase as a secondary character and hope to see him finally get the girl in a future novel.
Go read this book. It's touching, funny, sexy and romantic, with a good dose of suspense thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. The characters (both human and canine) are well-developed and really pull you in. Plus, who doesn't love watching two scarred, wonderful people find love despite thinking it would never happen for them? I know I do!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
July 28, 2015
I'm already a big fan of T.J. Kline and TAKING HEART is just as amazing as her previous novels. You get so drawn in by the spark between Julia and Dylan, two wounded souls struggling with the enduring effects of PTSD. Though they both suffered very different traumas, they have a unique bond and an understanding of what it means to be pulled back into a pit of fear and anger at the drop of a hat. The attraction between Dylan and Julia seems to leap off the page from their very first encounter and is only strengthened as they work to heal each other with the help of some trusty canine companions.
I think TAKING HEART was even better than the first book in the series, HEART'S DESIRE. There's a suspenseful, psychological element to the story which was really intriguing, but I also really enjoyed learning more about the struggles of PTSD and how animals can help alleviate negative emotions and keep someone centered. It was so interesting to learn how service dogs are trained for different purposes and that fascination I felt made me much more invested in the characters and their story.
One of the amazing things about this series is the way in which T.J. Kline creates complex, developed personalities for the animals in the books, giving them the same attention most authors give human characters. Not only does this really allow you to connect with their emotions and the love and devotion they feel for their owners, but it gives you a greater understanding of the connection which Julia shares with the dogs she trains. Tango is almost an extension of Julia that helps her remain grounded and calm when fear and anxiety threaten to swallow her whole. Some of the strongest emotions I felt were caused by the actions of the dogs in the story. When Julia relives the moment in which Misty is killed protecting her from Evan's vicious attack, and later when Tango is shot in an attempt to protect her, I couldn't help but tear up. Those moments were just gut-wrenching.
Julia and Dylan's romance developed quickly but their love felt genuine. They shared a great balance of sweet and sultry moments, with some laughs thrown in along the way. I loved the running joke of Dylan's brother, Gage, constantly walking in at inopportune moments, catching them in a heated embrace. I also laughed out loud when Julia and Bailey had to orchestrate a covert operation just to get a condom. I really appreciated the addition of Chase as a secondary character and hope to see him finally get the girl in a future novel.
Go read this book. It's touching, funny, sexy and romantic, with a good dose of suspense thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. The characters (both human and canine) are well-developed and really pull you in. Plus, who doesn't love watching two scarred, wonderful people find love despite thinking it would never happen for them? I know I do!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
I think TAKING HEART was even better than the first book in the series, HEART'S DESIRE. There's a suspenseful, psychological element to the story which was really intriguing, but I also really enjoyed learning more about the struggles of PTSD and how animals can help alleviate negative emotions and keep someone centered. It was so interesting to learn how service dogs are trained for different purposes and that fascination I felt made me much more invested in the characters and their story.
One of the amazing things about this series is the way in which T.J. Kline creates complex, developed personalities for the animals in the books, giving them the same attention most authors give human characters. Not only does this really allow you to connect with their emotions and the love and devotion they feel for their owners, but it gives you a greater understanding of the connection which Julia shares with the dogs she trains. Tango is almost an extension of Julia that helps her remain grounded and calm when fear and anxiety threaten to swallow her whole. Some of the strongest emotions I felt were caused by the actions of the dogs in the story. When Julia relives the moment in which Misty is killed protecting her from Evan's vicious attack, and later when Tango is shot in an attempt to protect her, I couldn't help but tear up. Those moments were just gut-wrenching.
Julia and Dylan's romance developed quickly but their love felt genuine. They shared a great balance of sweet and sultry moments, with some laughs thrown in along the way. I loved the running joke of Dylan's brother, Gage, constantly walking in at inopportune moments, catching them in a heated embrace. I also laughed out loud when Julia and Bailey had to orchestrate a covert operation just to get a condom. I really appreciated the addition of Chase as a secondary character and hope to see him finally get the girl in a future novel.
Go read this book. It's touching, funny, sexy and romantic, with a good dose of suspense thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. The characters (both human and canine) are well-developed and really pull you in. Plus, who doesn't love watching two scarred, wonderful people find love despite thinking it would never happen for them? I know I do!
Disclaimer: I received this book free in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.
June 29, 2015
A heartfelt, emotional and suspenseful story, that captured my mind.
What Dylan has experienced, and lost, is devastating and overwhelming. The love and devotion between Dylan and his brother is admirable, and what Gage has given up to take care of Dylan, just mind blowing. The PTSD Dylan has, and the description of the hell he lives with, is very vivid.
I am a big believer of the therapy dogs, and love reading stories about them. The bond between Dylan and Roscoe forms fast and deep. The connection between them is nearly supernatural, and Dylan's improvement with Roscoe by his side, is absolutely adorable.
Julia and Dylan have chemistry and charisma. They are drawn to each other from the first moment, like the two broken pieces that together forms a whole. They both have their issues, wounds, and past, they have to recover from, and accept. The road to recovery is not easy, and will never be full, but together they are able to take bigger steps towards more 'normal' existence, that Dylan has known, since he came back from the war.
But the inner demons, nightmares, and flashbacks are not the only thing Julia and Dylan has to fight, soon Julia's ex, Evan, who was recently released from prison, comes for a visit, despite the restriction order, stalking and harassing Julia. The tension builds on the farm, the suspense, bringing a strain and stress on Dylan and Julia, whom already both have PTSD.
The story is well built from all the sides of the tale. The suspense is intense, the mystery of Evan's whereabouts is straining the small town's police force, and the cat and mouse type teasing from Evan is nerve racking.
This poignant and touching tale has many elements, that bring even more depth, feelings, and perception to the story. It makes an impact, makes you think, appreciate even more all that the military personnel have to experience when in battle, the love and romance between Dylan and Julie is tender, fragile, and sweet, that gives hope and optimism for a better tomorrow, and the many lovely, sweet service dogs in the story, and the work they do, just melts the heart, thrilling tale indeed!
~ Five Spoons!
What Dylan has experienced, and lost, is devastating and overwhelming. The love and devotion between Dylan and his brother is admirable, and what Gage has given up to take care of Dylan, just mind blowing. The PTSD Dylan has, and the description of the hell he lives with, is very vivid.
I am a big believer of the therapy dogs, and love reading stories about them. The bond between Dylan and Roscoe forms fast and deep. The connection between them is nearly supernatural, and Dylan's improvement with Roscoe by his side, is absolutely adorable.
Julia and Dylan have chemistry and charisma. They are drawn to each other from the first moment, like the two broken pieces that together forms a whole. They both have their issues, wounds, and past, they have to recover from, and accept. The road to recovery is not easy, and will never be full, but together they are able to take bigger steps towards more 'normal' existence, that Dylan has known, since he came back from the war.
But the inner demons, nightmares, and flashbacks are not the only thing Julia and Dylan has to fight, soon Julia's ex, Evan, who was recently released from prison, comes for a visit, despite the restriction order, stalking and harassing Julia. The tension builds on the farm, the suspense, bringing a strain and stress on Dylan and Julia, whom already both have PTSD.
The story is well built from all the sides of the tale. The suspense is intense, the mystery of Evan's whereabouts is straining the small town's police force, and the cat and mouse type teasing from Evan is nerve racking.
This poignant and touching tale has many elements, that bring even more depth, feelings, and perception to the story. It makes an impact, makes you think, appreciate even more all that the military personnel have to experience when in battle, the love and romance between Dylan and Julie is tender, fragile, and sweet, that gives hope and optimism for a better tomorrow, and the many lovely, sweet service dogs in the story, and the work they do, just melts the heart, thrilling tale indeed!
~ Five Spoons!
June 11, 2015
Okay, so when I first choose this book to read I thought it would be kinda light hearted. Even though it is dealing with PTSD, I didn’t think that it would go into too much detail… But I was wrong! Taking Heart is a book that will grab your insides, squeeze them till you can take no more and then makes it all better…but you are left, never to be the same again.
This is the story of Dylan, He was in special op’s for 7 years, prided himself on being able to control a situation and never losing one of his fellow soldiers…that is until his world was blown up and nothing would ever be the same again. Now back home and living with his brother Gabe, Dylan is struggling to deal with everyday life and feeling like he would be whole again. Until one day, Gabe has had enough and guilt’s Dylan in to finding a PTSD dog, which is the first step to becoming whole.
Julia Hart knows about PTSD! Not only though her work training dogs, but after a previous client assaulted her, she has been suffering with it too. Then Dylan walks into her life and suddenly it seems much brighter than before. But then both of their pasts rears its ugly head and by the end of its destruction, are they both still alive!
This book truly blew my mind! I have never read a book that literally has left me speechless. The author has written this book with such detail, she has clearly thoroughly researched the subject before including it in her book! I could only wish that other authors were as detailed with their writing. The writing was smooth and the story sucked me in from the first page, be prepared to give hours to this book as you will not want to put this book down.
So overall this book is a mind-blowing story that left me emotionally devastated. I give Taking Heart 10 out of 10!
This is the story of Dylan, He was in special op’s for 7 years, prided himself on being able to control a situation and never losing one of his fellow soldiers…that is until his world was blown up and nothing would ever be the same again. Now back home and living with his brother Gabe, Dylan is struggling to deal with everyday life and feeling like he would be whole again. Until one day, Gabe has had enough and guilt’s Dylan in to finding a PTSD dog, which is the first step to becoming whole.
Julia Hart knows about PTSD! Not only though her work training dogs, but after a previous client assaulted her, she has been suffering with it too. Then Dylan walks into her life and suddenly it seems much brighter than before. But then both of their pasts rears its ugly head and by the end of its destruction, are they both still alive!
This book truly blew my mind! I have never read a book that literally has left me speechless. The author has written this book with such detail, she has clearly thoroughly researched the subject before including it in her book! I could only wish that other authors were as detailed with their writing. The writing was smooth and the story sucked me in from the first page, be prepared to give hours to this book as you will not want to put this book down.
So overall this book is a mind-blowing story that left me emotionally devastated. I give Taking Heart 10 out of 10!
May 24, 2015
Dylan is a broken man because of what happened to him in Afghanistan; he suffers from PTSD; animal therapy is the last resort. He sees no hope for his future, and even though he is attracted to Julia, he is convinced no one will ever want him. Julia feels for the first time in four years but Dylan is not exactly easy to know, and she is afraid to get close to anyone because of a horrific experience.
How wonderful it was to see Dylan and Julia get closer to each other while he is training his dog, it feels seamless and natural, and we get to know them as well. Ms. Kline knows how to set the mood and describe settings in such a way that they become real to the reader, and the characters are even more compelling than in the first book, Heart’s Desire. Details of how animal therapy works are woven in the narrative and the dogs are secondary characters, but realistically so; they’re not there for the “cute” factor.
PTSD and animal therapy are the basis for this romance, and they are what make TAKING HEART such a powerful book and extraordinary book, as well as watching Dylan and Julia interact, with each other and their families. And when Julia’s stalker re-enters her life, be prepared to read uninterrupted: the suspense is almost crushing.
TAKING HEART is a frightening, beautiful, difficult, wonderful, romantic and emotional book that will fill your heart with hope. T. J. Kline demonstrates again what an extraordinary writer she is. Not to be missed!
How wonderful it was to see Dylan and Julia get closer to each other while he is training his dog, it feels seamless and natural, and we get to know them as well. Ms. Kline knows how to set the mood and describe settings in such a way that they become real to the reader, and the characters are even more compelling than in the first book, Heart’s Desire. Details of how animal therapy works are woven in the narrative and the dogs are secondary characters, but realistically so; they’re not there for the “cute” factor.
PTSD and animal therapy are the basis for this romance, and they are what make TAKING HEART such a powerful book and extraordinary book, as well as watching Dylan and Julia interact, with each other and their families. And when Julia’s stalker re-enters her life, be prepared to read uninterrupted: the suspense is almost crushing.
TAKING HEART is a frightening, beautiful, difficult, wonderful, romantic and emotional book that will fill your heart with hope. T. J. Kline demonstrates again what an extraordinary writer she is. Not to be missed!
May 29, 2015
I have to say I love books with animals!
Dylan has ptsd and the last resort is animal therapy. Although his brother sets it up they head off to meet Julia and her trained dogs. Dylan doesn't see hope in his future but when he meets Julia he is attracted to her but he is convinced not only she won't want him but that maybe this animal therapy won't help him. Even though they both have a past you can see a bright future ahead of them.
It was great to see both Dylan and Julia start to get closer to one another while Julia is helping Dylan train his new fury friend. The bond between him and his dog just becomes so sweet I melted right along with Julia.
This book was so well written and the way Kline describes the scenery and the characters it just makes you feel like you are their and are watching everything unfold before your eyes. It also had the right amount of drama and it wasn't overly done. I enjoyed when the ex can back. It made for a good wow factor.
I enjoyed every moment of this book and I couldn't put it down. It's not only romantic but it takes you on a emotional ride with Dylan and Julia. I can't wait for the next book in the series and not because it's Julia's brother but to see where Dylan and Julia are up too.
If you love animals and a alpha man that needs some love and tlc this is the book for you because Dylan is to die for.
Dylan has ptsd and the last resort is animal therapy. Although his brother sets it up they head off to meet Julia and her trained dogs. Dylan doesn't see hope in his future but when he meets Julia he is attracted to her but he is convinced not only she won't want him but that maybe this animal therapy won't help him. Even though they both have a past you can see a bright future ahead of them.
It was great to see both Dylan and Julia start to get closer to one another while Julia is helping Dylan train his new fury friend. The bond between him and his dog just becomes so sweet I melted right along with Julia.
This book was so well written and the way Kline describes the scenery and the characters it just makes you feel like you are their and are watching everything unfold before your eyes. It also had the right amount of drama and it wasn't overly done. I enjoyed when the ex can back. It made for a good wow factor.
I enjoyed every moment of this book and I couldn't put it down. It's not only romantic but it takes you on a emotional ride with Dylan and Julia. I can't wait for the next book in the series and not because it's Julia's brother but to see where Dylan and Julia are up too.
If you love animals and a alpha man that needs some love and tlc this is the book for you because Dylan is to die for.
July 23, 2015
This was a beautifully written story that captured my attention from the first page, it was a very thought provoking story for me, and really opened my eyes to the struggles associated with PTSD. It was very evident to me that Ms. Kline really put a lot of time and care into developing the characters and the story line. I felt as though she really did her research in order to produce an accurate portrayal of what life is like for soldiers returning home from war.
It was also refreshing to read a story where the characters were utilizing the animals abilities in their healing process, and see the dogs help someone who is struggling with easy day to day tasks reclaim some semblance to a normal life again. It is known that animals have the power to reach the unreachable, and for me it was beautiful thing to see firsthand how the powerful bond between the dogs and their owners helped them heal and rediscover their lost lives.
T.J. Kline has truly hit the mark with this one! Taking Heart is a poignant story, that will capture your heart, make you think, smile, and possibly shed a few tears. Highly recommend this book, definitely a can't miss addition to the Healing Hearts series!
ARC copy requested through Edelweiss, and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest review.
It was also refreshing to read a story where the characters were utilizing the animals abilities in their healing process, and see the dogs help someone who is struggling with easy day to day tasks reclaim some semblance to a normal life again. It is known that animals have the power to reach the unreachable, and for me it was beautiful thing to see firsthand how the powerful bond between the dogs and their owners helped them heal and rediscover their lost lives.
T.J. Kline has truly hit the mark with this one! Taking Heart is a poignant story, that will capture your heart, make you think, smile, and possibly shed a few tears. Highly recommend this book, definitely a can't miss addition to the Healing Hearts series!
ARC copy requested through Edelweiss, and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest review.
June 22, 2015
T.J. Kline continues her Healing Harts series with her latest book, TAKING HEART, in which two people overcome their traumatic pasts with the help of their dogs and each other. It's an emotional book, full of anxiety, danger and love.
The story centers mainly on our heroine Julia's work, training dogs to help people suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. Enter Dylan, a recent returnee from the war, injured in body and soul. Dylan doesn't want a dog but in last ditch effort to heal his troubled mind, he consents to try Julia's therapy. He finds much more than he thought he'd find in her program.
Based upon real-life therapy programs that help PTSD victims from all walks of life, TAKING HEART is uplifting and delightful. The characters are richly drawn and believable.
The stars of the story are the dogs themselves, described accurately and with such detail that you can see them as you read. No mean fete to accomplish. As a PTSD sufferer myself, I cannot begin to tell anyone of the comfort my own dog gave me as I dealt with feelings of fear and anxiety that threatened to take over my life in the aftermath of a serious accident. I'm writing this today because of the devotion of my dog, now gone from my life forever.
I can't recommend TAKING HEART enough. It's on my best of 2015 list and it's more than worth your time.
The story centers mainly on our heroine Julia's work, training dogs to help people suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. Enter Dylan, a recent returnee from the war, injured in body and soul. Dylan doesn't want a dog but in last ditch effort to heal his troubled mind, he consents to try Julia's therapy. He finds much more than he thought he'd find in her program.
Based upon real-life therapy programs that help PTSD victims from all walks of life, TAKING HEART is uplifting and delightful. The characters are richly drawn and believable.
The stars of the story are the dogs themselves, described accurately and with such detail that you can see them as you read. No mean fete to accomplish. As a PTSD sufferer myself, I cannot begin to tell anyone of the comfort my own dog gave me as I dealt with feelings of fear and anxiety that threatened to take over my life in the aftermath of a serious accident. I'm writing this today because of the devotion of my dog, now gone from my life forever.
I can't recommend TAKING HEART enough. It's on my best of 2015 list and it's more than worth your time.
August 14, 2015
I think I liked this one better than the first book in the series. I think I liked Julia more than I had liked Jessie. And the fact that Julia's and Dylan's troubles came from dealing with trauma and things beyond they're control, it was easier for me to handle their emotional turmoil than it was Jessie's and Nathan's (which I consider of their own making and was very frustrating to me). Bailey still made me smile, and Justin irritated me less than he had. I really liked the dogs too, it was heartmelting to see how they helped and made their own relationships with the two. And as much as I liked the fact that though their respective ptsd trouble was an obstacle for them building their relationship that it wasn't the sole obstacle in the book, man did that whole danger of deranged Evan have me on edge. Super creep, and actually kept me awake reading late night through a stressful episode. I was confident that they'd come through it, but I was still on the edge of my seat (literally) and worried about how much hurt would be caused in the process. Thank goodness for those dogs, all around heros in my book. Not a bad detour from my planned reading, but I think I'm done with the Hart's now (I don't think I'm up for the Justin installment of a heart-wrenching tear jerking rollercoaster- but if there's one about Bailey in the future, I may return to the ranch).
August 4, 2015
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, betrayal, lies, secrets, second chances, kidnapping, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Heart's Desire (Healing Harts #1)
This is Julia and Dylan’s story. Julia knows a little about PTSD and has a training center for people to bond and connect with a dog to help them with their PTSD. Dylan a former soldier with PTSD does not like dogs and does not believe Julia can help him. He agrees to come and get a dog but thinks there is no way it will work. Julia knows Dylan does not think her methods will work but she is not only the owner but has a dog that helps her. Can she prove to Dylan it will work? When Julia’s past comes back for her can Dylan push aside his misgivings and listen to what the animals are telling him? Will Julia come out of the ordeal worst off? Or will Dylan be able to help her while she helps him? Or will he leave Julia unprotected and lose her forever?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, betrayal, lies, secrets, second chances, kidnapping, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Heart's Desire (Healing Harts #1)
This is Julia and Dylan’s story. Julia knows a little about PTSD and has a training center for people to bond and connect with a dog to help them with their PTSD. Dylan a former soldier with PTSD does not like dogs and does not believe Julia can help him. He agrees to come and get a dog but thinks there is no way it will work. Julia knows Dylan does not think her methods will work but she is not only the owner but has a dog that helps her. Can she prove to Dylan it will work? When Julia’s past comes back for her can Dylan push aside his misgivings and listen to what the animals are telling him? Will Julia come out of the ordeal worst off? Or will Dylan be able to help her while she helps him? Or will he leave Julia unprotected and lose her forever?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
June 10, 2015
MY REVIEW
Loved the concept of this book and the characters were great, this story really captured my attention from the first page.
Dylan was such a fantastic character and im a sucker for a tortured solider. The bond between Dylan and his brother was so lovely, Gage really cared for Dylan and went above ad beyond to get him the help he needed.
Julia wasnt without her struggles either but she was a fantastic character also, showing Dylan that he could overcome his problems and live as normal a life as anyone.
This book really opened my eyes to the struggles associated with PTSD, and how much animals can help.
To sum this book up, its a well written emotional love story with some angsty moments, a great read.
Loved the concept of this book and the characters were great, this story really captured my attention from the first page.
Dylan was such a fantastic character and im a sucker for a tortured solider. The bond between Dylan and his brother was so lovely, Gage really cared for Dylan and went above ad beyond to get him the help he needed.
Julia wasnt without her struggles either but she was a fantastic character also, showing Dylan that he could overcome his problems and live as normal a life as anyone.
This book really opened my eyes to the struggles associated with PTSD, and how much animals can help.
To sum this book up, its a well written emotional love story with some angsty moments, a great read.
August 14, 2015
Pleasantly surprised. I was thinking this was going to be a stereotypical bodice ripping, body ravishing romance novel and I wasn't! T.J. Kline may have single handedly changed my opinion on the romance genre. This book was amazing; I couldn't put it down! Full of action and fear enough to rival some action movies! All with those steamy little moments we all read romance novels for, tucked quietly in-between. Needless to say I am hooked and plan to read the rest of the series.
September 14, 2015
Up to 70% this book was going to end in my meh/it's ok shelf (2 stars). It's superficial in its insta lust/insta healing from PTSD due to love, but hey it's not reason enough to kick anyone to the curb. :)
Unfortunately at 70% the story took a nosedive, the heroine became a utter deficient TSTL woman, unable think. A victim of herself more than the bad guy. The resolution to the melodrama was realistically absurd. The end beyond sappy.
Pity.
Unfortunately at 70% the story took a nosedive, the heroine became a utter deficient TSTL woman, unable think. A victim of herself more than the bad guy. The resolution to the melodrama was realistically absurd. The end beyond sappy.
Pity.
June 27, 2015
This story has it all. A sexy soldier ...beautiful heroine...amazing dogs.. what can go wrong? Just when Julia feels she's finally let go of the past she gets a anonymous text and the walls start closing in on her. Can a sexy soldier suffering with PSTD look past his own demons and help her fight hers?
January 5, 2016
Loved this one!! I'm a sucker for any book with animals involved and Julia's dogs are definitely special. It was wonderful to read how working with the dogs helped Dylan deal with his PTSD and to watch the relationship but Dylan and Julia evolve. Very well written with great characters. I highly recommend this one.
June 14, 2015
Loved it! Beautifully written with so much emotion, I was in tears in a few places. Both Dylan and Julia struggle with PTSD and are using dogs to help them cope. The dogs were such an important part to their story, and really put a spotlight on service dogs. Highly recommend this book and the series, can't wait for Julia's brother Justin's story!
ARC via Edelweiss
ARC via Edelweiss
November 28, 2015
It started out ok--I was thinking three stars. Then my enjoyment rapidly withered and died... I guess it's typical of this subgenre that people make mistakes so that there can be high-stakes action, but everybody here (with the possible exception of the dogs) is really TSTL. Competence porn this is not!
Read
June 1, 2016WOW!
This book was FANTASTIC!! I loved Julia and Dylan story! I was sitting on the edge of my seat with this on. I also loved that the author wrote her heroine Julia with PTSD that was just as devastating as Dylan's was from being in war. I thought this was a unique twist to the story. Can't wait to read Justin's book next!!
This book was FANTASTIC!! I loved Julia and Dylan story! I was sitting on the edge of my seat with this on. I also loved that the author wrote her heroine Julia with PTSD that was just as devastating as Dylan's was from being in war. I thought this was a unique twist to the story. Can't wait to read Justin's book next!!
December 25, 2015
The insta-love between Julia and Dylan threw me off a bit but overall this is one of my favorite contemporary romances I have read in a long time. Any part with Evan kept me on the edge of my seat. The romance is sweet. And there's dogs!
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