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Stepdog
From the author of The Fool’s Tale and I, Iago comes a disarmingly charming and warm-hearted “romcom” about a woman, her dog, and the man who has to prove that he is good enough for both of them. Sara Renault fired Rory O’Connor from his part-time job at a Boston art museum, and in response, Rory—an Irish actor secretly nursing a crush on his beautiful boss—threw caution to the wind, leaned over, and kissed her. Now Sara and Rory are madly in love. When Rory’s visa runs out on the cusp of his big Hollywood break, Sara insists that he marry her to get a green card. In a matter of weeks they’ve gone from being friendly work colleagues to a live-in couple, and it’s all grand . . . except for Sara’s dog, Cody, who had been a gift from Sara’s sociopath ex-boyfriend. Sara’s over-attachment to her dog is the only thing she and Rory fight about. When Rory scores both his green card and the lead role in an upcoming TV pilot, he and Sara (and Cody) prepare to move to Los Angeles. But just before their departure, Cody is kidnapped by Sara’s ex—and it is entirely Rory’s fault. Sara is furious and broken-hearted. Desperate to get back into Sara’s good graces, Rory takes off and tracks Cody and the dog-napper to North Carolina. Can Rory rescue Cody and convince Sara that they belong together—with Cody—as a family? First they’ll need to survive a madcap adventure that takes them all across the heartland of America. Stepdog is a refreshing and hilarious romantic comedy that How far would you go for the one you love?
416 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2015
173 people are currently reading
1348 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Galland
16 books457 followersNicole Galland writes critically-acclaimed novels in several different genres. She is mostly know for historical fiction, but recently teamed up with Neal Stephenson to write the New York Times bestselling, time-travel-themed The Rise And Fall of D.O.D.O. (HarperCollins, 2017). She'll be releasing its sequel, Master of the Revels, in February of 2021.
Her historical novels (all published by HarperCollins or imprints) include: The Fool's Tale; I, Iago; Revenge of the Rose; Godiva; and Crossed: A Tale of the Fourth Crusade. Her debut, The Fool's Tale, was a "Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers" selection.
Nicole has written two contemporary comic novels, Stepdog, and On The Same Page.
With a collective of six other authors (including Neal Stephenson and Greg Bear) Nicole co-authored the Mongoliad Trilogy (published by 47N), and under the pen name E. D. deBirmingham, also wrote the Siege Perilous, a Mongoliad sequel.
Galland is a "Shakespeare nerd" at heart. With actress/director Chelsea McCarthy she is the co-creator of Shakespeare for the Masses at the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse, and writes a tongue-in-cheek column for the Martha's Vineyard Times.
Her historical novels (all published by HarperCollins or imprints) include: The Fool's Tale; I, Iago; Revenge of the Rose; Godiva; and Crossed: A Tale of the Fourth Crusade. Her debut, The Fool's Tale, was a "Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers" selection.
Nicole has written two contemporary comic novels, Stepdog, and On The Same Page.
With a collective of six other authors (including Neal Stephenson and Greg Bear) Nicole co-authored the Mongoliad Trilogy (published by 47N), and under the pen name E. D. deBirmingham, also wrote the Siege Perilous, a Mongoliad sequel.
Galland is a "Shakespeare nerd" at heart. With actress/director Chelsea McCarthy she is the co-creator of Shakespeare for the Masses at the Martha's Vineyard Playhouse, and writes a tongue-in-cheek column for the Martha's Vineyard Times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
May 14, 2015
With a change from her usual genre, Nicole Galland has written the most delightful rollicking comedy of a book that will have you laughing...and, at the end, your heart pounding as her feckless, yet charming, protagonist redeems himself in the wildest of cross country chases ever written.
November 18, 2016
Blech. He was selfish, she was awful, the ex-boyfriend was worse. Liked the dog.
August 10, 2015
Well now, I wish I had taken notes to be a more detailed reviewer but I didn't because I flew through Nicole Galland's new release, Stepdog.
There are a few things that made it a little gem of a novel and the most impressive is, Nicole Galland writes Rory O' Connor's POV...an Irish male, and for that I give her huge kudos, she got me. I was cheering Rory all the way.
I'm from Dublin so I found all the other reviews who didn't love Rory, like I did, irritating. I think he should run for President. Nicole captures Rory perfectly, I was fine with him not loving the dog the minute after he married his Mrs, it all happened very quickly, and let's face it, we don't all love our affectionate rivals. So that's why the cross-country adventure worked so well, an exciting chase, a villain in pursuit and a whole lot to lose, including his newly minted wife, and soon to have job-of-a lifetime, made their bonding of top priority.
The first half of the book was funny, clever and all things Boston. The second half was an amazing cross-country trip, well-paced and so well described you felt like you were actually driving the MINI with Rory and Cody. I'm still thinking of the some of the scenery and sound tracks, (LOVED the music choices to each character)
The ending was excellent and my only wish is that my favorite new character, Rory O' Connor, didn't do what he did, sooner. But he is a more patient man than I and I understand he had a lot to lose, so I give him a big shout out for keeping the head together.
Well done Nicole and team, Rory's playlist and Tikka Masala Recipe were like little gifts at the end. Nice way to stage left.
If you have any interest in Irish/american relationships, dogs, and adventure/humor of life, well, this novel is for you.
There are a few things that made it a little gem of a novel and the most impressive is, Nicole Galland writes Rory O' Connor's POV...an Irish male, and for that I give her huge kudos, she got me. I was cheering Rory all the way.
I'm from Dublin so I found all the other reviews who didn't love Rory, like I did, irritating. I think he should run for President. Nicole captures Rory perfectly, I was fine with him not loving the dog the minute after he married his Mrs, it all happened very quickly, and let's face it, we don't all love our affectionate rivals. So that's why the cross-country adventure worked so well, an exciting chase, a villain in pursuit and a whole lot to lose, including his newly minted wife, and soon to have job-of-a lifetime, made their bonding of top priority.
The first half of the book was funny, clever and all things Boston. The second half was an amazing cross-country trip, well-paced and so well described you felt like you were actually driving the MINI with Rory and Cody. I'm still thinking of the some of the scenery and sound tracks, (LOVED the music choices to each character)
The ending was excellent and my only wish is that my favorite new character, Rory O' Connor, didn't do what he did, sooner. But he is a more patient man than I and I understand he had a lot to lose, so I give him a big shout out for keeping the head together.
Well done Nicole and team, Rory's playlist and Tikka Masala Recipe were like little gifts at the end. Nice way to stage left.
If you have any interest in Irish/american relationships, dogs, and adventure/humor of life, well, this novel is for you.
August 3, 2018
I like Galland's writing: not too showy, a light touch, a zippy plotline. And a romance with a dog is appealing. But this book made me work for my pleasure. The narrator, Rory, is charming as hell, but also disorganized, and impulsive. So he's too much like me to let me like him, despite his charm. Seriously, he has all my worst traits. But, here's the thing: he doesn't like his wife's dog. I don't have a dog, just several cats, but I love petting other people's dogs, and in fact, cannot drive down the street without saying "good dog" whenever I see one. My lack of self-control is so embarrassing, and no doubt annoying as hell if you're in the car with me anywhere except an interstate. It's not that I distrusted the character, or thought he was a bad guy, but he was just so wrong. I loved Cody, and couldn't help but feel that there was something fundamentally wrong with Rory that he didn't instantly love Cody too. I mean everyone else falls in love immediately. My dislike was deep-seated and strangely physical for an imaginary character.
Otherwise the book is a mash-up of Green Card and Basic Instinct and Galland makes it work. There was no way I was putting this puppy down until I was done: road trip, NC, characters with some deep and ugly issues, actors, and a really good dog. Next up from Galland for me will be I, Iago, because I really feel like she could make me sympathetic to one of the most purely evil characters in western literature.
Library copy
Otherwise the book is a mash-up of Green Card and Basic Instinct and Galland makes it work. There was no way I was putting this puppy down until I was done: road trip, NC, characters with some deep and ugly issues, actors, and a really good dog. Next up from Galland for me will be I, Iago, because I really feel like she could make me sympathetic to one of the most purely evil characters in western literature.
Library copy
March 7, 2019
This is one of those stories that I really wanted to like, but it rarely grabbed me and the few times it did, it would turn and I would be sort of bored and disliking the characters.
July 28, 2015
I couldn't wait to dive into Stepdog by Nicole Galland because I love a good pet story. Especially when it is woven into a good contemporary setting. Overall Stepdog did not disappoint even though I found a few aspects of the book irritating.
There were many things I loved about the book. First of all, the cover is great. The dog on the front seems pretty spot-on for how Cody is described so one of my main pet peeves didn't rear its ugly head (I hate it when dogs on covers do not resemble at all the dogs in the book, or worse yet, there are cute dogs on the cover who are never even mentioned in the book). Secondly, the plot of the books is a pretty fresh concept and not one I have seen overly done lately. The last 1/2 of the book flew by and the conclusion was satisfying, even if the first part was a tad slow. The action takes off right from the beginning, but I fear it overshadows the readers ability to form strong connections to some of the players. In addition, Galland has a unique writing style which took some getting used to in the beginning, but eventually came naturally.
Now for some of the irritants. Rory is the narrator of the book and he is desperately in need of a green card. He and Sara, after working together for a while, go one one date and when she learns he plans on marrying a family friend to get a green card, decides they should just get married themselves rather than her having to date a married man. Talk about impulsive...and ill planned...and did I mention, probably stupid? However, they do and the novel proceeds from there.
Some might say Sara is overly attached to her dog Cody, but as an animal lover - I get it. Unfortunately Rory doesn't. He becomes irritated, jealous and throughout a lot of the book, criticizes Sara for her love for Cody. In my opinion, he should probably never be a pet owner, but it's a contemporary romance so it happens overnight. I never really liked Rory throughout the book. His character develops as the novel goes on, but for me, Rory never hits the mark. I certainly never liked him enough to impulsive marry him so he could get a green card. I did eventually like him enough that I would probably stay in touch with him once he was deported back to Ireland. I had some difficulty understanding why someone who clearly loves her dog, didn't see from the beginning that the situation with Rory was doomed, or at least seriously challenged.
I do have to mention there are some great side characters in the books. Alto is a wonderful transgender addition and many of Sara's friends come from diverse backgrounds which really added to the texture of the book.
Overall I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys animals, romance, or contemporary novels. There are also some humorous aspects, but you kind of have to like Rory more than I did to appreciate them. I feel this book is a strong 4 star book and it reminds me of the works of Lucy Dillon, who is one of my favorite authors.
I received this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
There were many things I loved about the book. First of all, the cover is great. The dog on the front seems pretty spot-on for how Cody is described so one of my main pet peeves didn't rear its ugly head (I hate it when dogs on covers do not resemble at all the dogs in the book, or worse yet, there are cute dogs on the cover who are never even mentioned in the book). Secondly, the plot of the books is a pretty fresh concept and not one I have seen overly done lately. The last 1/2 of the book flew by and the conclusion was satisfying, even if the first part was a tad slow. The action takes off right from the beginning, but I fear it overshadows the readers ability to form strong connections to some of the players. In addition, Galland has a unique writing style which took some getting used to in the beginning, but eventually came naturally.
Now for some of the irritants. Rory is the narrator of the book and he is desperately in need of a green card. He and Sara, after working together for a while, go one one date and when she learns he plans on marrying a family friend to get a green card, decides they should just get married themselves rather than her having to date a married man. Talk about impulsive...and ill planned...and did I mention, probably stupid? However, they do and the novel proceeds from there.
Some might say Sara is overly attached to her dog Cody, but as an animal lover - I get it. Unfortunately Rory doesn't. He becomes irritated, jealous and throughout a lot of the book, criticizes Sara for her love for Cody. In my opinion, he should probably never be a pet owner, but it's a contemporary romance so it happens overnight. I never really liked Rory throughout the book. His character develops as the novel goes on, but for me, Rory never hits the mark. I certainly never liked him enough to impulsive marry him so he could get a green card. I did eventually like him enough that I would probably stay in touch with him once he was deported back to Ireland. I had some difficulty understanding why someone who clearly loves her dog, didn't see from the beginning that the situation with Rory was doomed, or at least seriously challenged.
I do have to mention there are some great side characters in the books. Alto is a wonderful transgender addition and many of Sara's friends come from diverse backgrounds which really added to the texture of the book.
Overall I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys animals, romance, or contemporary novels. There are also some humorous aspects, but you kind of have to like Rory more than I did to appreciate them. I feel this book is a strong 4 star book and it reminds me of the works of Lucy Dillon, who is one of my favorite authors.
I received this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2015
When Rory gets fired, it should be a bad thing. But instead it turns out to be quite a pleasant ordeal. It is, after all, the reason he gets to kiss Sara, his boss. And it's also the reason they start dating. But when Rory is offered a shot at a series lead, his immigration status presents some problematic issues. In other words: no green card, no job!
Rory has a marriage offer already on the table courtesy of his cousin's widow. It would be a paper marriage, but it would definitely hinder his burgeoning relationship with Sara. So Sara offers to marry him instead. And Rory finds that being married to Sara isn't all that bad except for the fact that a relationship with Sara comes with one big, hairy, attention-hogging dog. It's not that Rory doesn't get along with Cody, but living life around the dog grates on the former bachelor. And when Cody is kidnapped, thanks to Rory, it's all he can do to get her back and save his relationship with Sara.
Sooo, first off this is a very cute book and, I might add, a successful change of pace for Galland. I should actually point out that it's a change in setting only, though. Rory, Sara, and Cody might all be in the here and now but Galland's wit, charm, and poetic prose are all present regardless of the fact that this isn't an historical novel. Rory even has a penchant for picking Shakespearean roles, as a little nod to Galland's backlist!
I felt for Rory. I've never quite experienced the feeling of being second to my husband's dog (yes, I have a stepdog and she did treat me as such for the first few years! We get along perfectly now.) but I've certainly known people who seemed just a bit... hm... Sara like. I've also been accused of loving my cats more than a boyfriend (I didn't, until he said it. Being with a person who's jealous of your pet is not pleasant.) So you can see, I sympathize with Sara, too!
There's a bit more to the story but Stepdog is basically about a new couple trying to figure out their relationship under atypical circumstances. And of course every new relationship comes with hurdles, which is why Rory and Sara are so relatable and likable. It probably helps to some degree that this was a bit of a personal story for Galland as she herself did go through SOME of the same things Rory and Sara did.
Stepdog is great fun, readers. Seriously, great fun! Galland, as always, is a pro and I think Cody and her humans are going to win over even the most anti dog readers out there!
Rory has a marriage offer already on the table courtesy of his cousin's widow. It would be a paper marriage, but it would definitely hinder his burgeoning relationship with Sara. So Sara offers to marry him instead. And Rory finds that being married to Sara isn't all that bad except for the fact that a relationship with Sara comes with one big, hairy, attention-hogging dog. It's not that Rory doesn't get along with Cody, but living life around the dog grates on the former bachelor. And when Cody is kidnapped, thanks to Rory, it's all he can do to get her back and save his relationship with Sara.
Sooo, first off this is a very cute book and, I might add, a successful change of pace for Galland. I should actually point out that it's a change in setting only, though. Rory, Sara, and Cody might all be in the here and now but Galland's wit, charm, and poetic prose are all present regardless of the fact that this isn't an historical novel. Rory even has a penchant for picking Shakespearean roles, as a little nod to Galland's backlist!
I felt for Rory. I've never quite experienced the feeling of being second to my husband's dog (yes, I have a stepdog and she did treat me as such for the first few years! We get along perfectly now.) but I've certainly known people who seemed just a bit... hm... Sara like. I've also been accused of loving my cats more than a boyfriend (I didn't, until he said it. Being with a person who's jealous of your pet is not pleasant.) So you can see, I sympathize with Sara, too!
There's a bit more to the story but Stepdog is basically about a new couple trying to figure out their relationship under atypical circumstances. And of course every new relationship comes with hurdles, which is why Rory and Sara are so relatable and likable. It probably helps to some degree that this was a bit of a personal story for Galland as she herself did go through SOME of the same things Rory and Sara did.
Stepdog is great fun, readers. Seriously, great fun! Galland, as always, is a pro and I think Cody and her humans are going to win over even the most anti dog readers out there!
July 30, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy of this book from William Morrow Paperbacks via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
Before I say anything there is something important that you need to know about me. I am a HUGE dog lover and I happen to be owned by a retriever similar in looks to the one on the cover but cuter. She is a member of my family and loved deeply. Did this impact how I felt about this book? Of course it did! I love dogs.
This story blends a contemporary romance with humour and an adorable four legged friend in a unique and attention grabbing way. I was pulled into the story immediately and enjoyed the ride from beginning to end. I won't deny that there were a few things that bugged me but it was still a most pleasurable read.
I could really relate to the way Sara was with Cody. I saw a lot of myself and other family members in the way she was with the dog. However, offering to get married after one night together was pretty dumb so that is where the similarities ended. It did make for some page turning moments with some laugh out loud moments. Rory was a different story all together. I had a hard time liking him and I really think it was because of my love for dogs. He did grow on me as the story went on but I never managed to fully like him.
In the end this was a solid read that lovers of animals and romance will be sure to enjoy. This was the first book by Galland for me but it won't be the last.
** I received an advanced readers copy of this book from William Morrow Paperbacks via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
Before I say anything there is something important that you need to know about me. I am a HUGE dog lover and I happen to be owned by a retriever similar in looks to the one on the cover but cuter. She is a member of my family and loved deeply. Did this impact how I felt about this book? Of course it did! I love dogs.
This story blends a contemporary romance with humour and an adorable four legged friend in a unique and attention grabbing way. I was pulled into the story immediately and enjoyed the ride from beginning to end. I won't deny that there were a few things that bugged me but it was still a most pleasurable read.
I could really relate to the way Sara was with Cody. I saw a lot of myself and other family members in the way she was with the dog. However, offering to get married after one night together was pretty dumb so that is where the similarities ended. It did make for some page turning moments with some laugh out loud moments. Rory was a different story all together. I had a hard time liking him and I really think it was because of my love for dogs. He did grow on me as the story went on but I never managed to fully like him.
In the end this was a solid read that lovers of animals and romance will be sure to enjoy. This was the first book by Galland for me but it won't be the last.
April 6, 2017
this was fucking wild and not at all the campy book i expected to be full of dog and dude hijinks. FRANKLY IT GOT A LITTLE SCARY AND IM MAD HOW UNSETTLING IT GOT FOR A HOT SEC SOMETIMES.
also: maybe it's just because i'm an american woman also named sara and i am obsessed with my dogs, but this fuckin dude was the biggest asshole about the dog. even after all the time he invested in rescuing her and returning her to her owner (who she's been with for over a year, while he's been with her like, three months) and he bitches about the dog getting some attention. take a fuckin chill pill, bro.
also: maybe it's just because i'm an american woman also named sara and i am obsessed with my dogs, but this fuckin dude was the biggest asshole about the dog. even after all the time he invested in rescuing her and returning her to her owner (who she's been with for over a year, while he's been with her like, three months) and he bitches about the dog getting some attention. take a fuckin chill pill, bro.
February 15, 2019
book 2 of 2019 I’ve started, got about half way through & just had a really hard time getting into ���
June 9, 2022
Honestly this was my go to book for when I didn't have anything else to read, so quite a bit of time passed between when I started and when I finished the book. I think my main problem with the story was that the protagonist never (in my opinion) fell in love with the dog. Right up till the end he was still considering how much better his life would be without her. I just don't understand how this dog wouldn't grow on even the grumpiest of animal haters! I found the dog to be the only redeeming character in the book and while Sara could be a little over the top with her pet, Rory's neediness and "look at me! look at me!" attitude was very off putting.
All in all I just thought it to be a very strange book. Was it a romance that started with a green card marriage? was it about immigrating and breaking into the entertainment industry? was it about crazy ex boyfriends? was it a Marley and Me-esque feel good story where the dog brings the family together and shows us how to be our best selves? No, I don't think I can pinpoint exactly what it was about. I just know that I didn't care for the main character or his lack of any affection toward what is essentially a member of a family that he has joined and all he does is seem to resent it. Not endearing at all. And the last part just didn't even seem to fit with the rest of the book and kind of went a little crazy.
All in all I just thought it to be a very strange book. Was it a romance that started with a green card marriage? was it about immigrating and breaking into the entertainment industry? was it about crazy ex boyfriends? was it a Marley and Me-esque feel good story where the dog brings the family together and shows us how to be our best selves? No, I don't think I can pinpoint exactly what it was about. I just know that I didn't care for the main character or his lack of any affection toward what is essentially a member of a family that he has joined and all he does is seem to resent it. Not endearing at all. And the last part just didn't even seem to fit with the rest of the book and kind of went a little crazy.
February 15, 2020
This was my first book by this author. When I first started reading this book, I thought the book had great possibilities. I liked the idea that the main character Rory O’Connor a trying to be actor from Ireland needs a green card to get the job of a lifetime. He gets laid off from a job which has kept him employed for the pass year. He gets coffee with her and ends up in her bed which was a great triumph for him except for her dog......Conversation leads to a green card and she offers to marry him. He takes her offer and to find out their are minuses to wedded bliss meaning the dog. Rory get a possible TV role must move to LA. Sara decides to move too. She heads west first by flying and Rory drives with the dog. In my opinion, the book goes downhill from there. It is like a comedy act where one thing leads to another disaster. Rory can do nothing right. The dog gets kidnapped by Sara’s ex boyfriend. Sara is to meet Rory at the Grand Canyon. The rest of the book tells of Rory’s misadventure with Jay and all the bumbling mistakes he makes. Some might like this kind of humor but not me. I skimmed the rest of the book just to see how it would end.Yes, the book was easy reading and it might keep someone’s interest to want to find out what happens next to Rory.
October 1, 2016
This book gets 2.5 stars; one for it being about a dog, two because there's an Irish guy in it, and the other half star is for me taking the time to read it. By the end I wondered how much more similar Jay could get to Patrick Bergin's character in Sleeping with the Enemy. The second half of the book is ludicrous, and the author is too full of herself throughout the entire book. The only believable part is that no matter how much a dog can drive you crazy, it is almost impossible to not fall in love with them!
June 13, 2018
I generally try to give a synopsis but Goodreads has given such a long one that I recommend reading it.
It is my understanding that this story is somewhat autobiographical so apologies in advance for not being a fan of Stepdog. As always though while this story did not appeal to me it may very well appeal to another reader.
There is a television called It’s me or the Dog which is about a woman trying to work with couples n disagreement over a dog and what the dog gets to do. Some of the behavior on the human’s part is a bit over the top and this show was sort of fun to watch. We have a similar sort of situation with Stepdog except for the fact that I don’t think Sara is overly attached to her dog nor is her behavior in any way outrageous.
Rory O’Connor is the narrator of this story and he is supposed to come off as charming and funny. Unfortunately he was neither of those things for me. Rather he comes across as very self-absorbed. He continually complains that Sara spends much more time an attention on her dog than she does on him. Why wouldn’t she? She has had a longer relationship with the dog and Rory makes no concerted effort to bond with the dog. He does things with the dog because he is mildly interested in making Sara happy but then whines about the effort he puts in. I never felt, even at the end, that he had come to love and accept the dog and some of Sara’s fears in regards to the dog seemed quite reasonable. For example there is no way any of my animals are flying in baggage. As far as I am concerned Rory should have bene grateful that she married him so that his dreams could come true and been a little kinder to Cody. Had I been in Sara’s place I would have made sure he understood that the dog was as important and that her happiness mattered just as much. I wanted to kick Rory to the curb. I hope this fictional couple never has children because if he thinks the dog gets a lot of attention just wait for the reality that is a child.
It is my understanding that this story is somewhat autobiographical so apologies in advance for not being a fan of Stepdog. As always though while this story did not appeal to me it may very well appeal to another reader.
There is a television called It’s me or the Dog which is about a woman trying to work with couples n disagreement over a dog and what the dog gets to do. Some of the behavior on the human’s part is a bit over the top and this show was sort of fun to watch. We have a similar sort of situation with Stepdog except for the fact that I don’t think Sara is overly attached to her dog nor is her behavior in any way outrageous.
Rory O’Connor is the narrator of this story and he is supposed to come off as charming and funny. Unfortunately he was neither of those things for me. Rather he comes across as very self-absorbed. He continually complains that Sara spends much more time an attention on her dog than she does on him. Why wouldn’t she? She has had a longer relationship with the dog and Rory makes no concerted effort to bond with the dog. He does things with the dog because he is mildly interested in making Sara happy but then whines about the effort he puts in. I never felt, even at the end, that he had come to love and accept the dog and some of Sara’s fears in regards to the dog seemed quite reasonable. For example there is no way any of my animals are flying in baggage. As far as I am concerned Rory should have bene grateful that she married him so that his dreams could come true and been a little kinder to Cody. Had I been in Sara’s place I would have made sure he understood that the dog was as important and that her happiness mattered just as much. I wanted to kick Rory to the curb. I hope this fictional couple never has children because if he thinks the dog gets a lot of attention just wait for the reality that is a child.
December 4, 2018
Five stars on this one in part because it is so out-of-genre for me, and yet I loved it completely. In general I read pretty broadly, but I don't often find myself in pert domestic comedies, with or without green card issues and prior-pet complications. And yet Stepdog.
I went to college with Nicole Galland, so there's that; I'm not a disinterested reader, then, and we're still friends. Overall I'm behind in her books, which I enjoy. I was very surprised by this current-age story, which basically catches hold right at the start with a sudden sultry exuberant meet-hot fall-hard mutual seduction, and then hangs on for the rest of the ride.
It all unfolds so easily and naturally that I don't really want to talk plot, except to say that the conflict, when it comes, arrives unexpectedly and caught me completely off guard; the adventure it drives is completely nutty and compelling. This was a real pleasure.
I went to college with Nicole Galland, so there's that; I'm not a disinterested reader, then, and we're still friends. Overall I'm behind in her books, which I enjoy. I was very surprised by this current-age story, which basically catches hold right at the start with a sudden sultry exuberant meet-hot fall-hard mutual seduction, and then hangs on for the rest of the ride.
It all unfolds so easily and naturally that I don't really want to talk plot, except to say that the conflict, when it comes, arrives unexpectedly and caught me completely off guard; the adventure it drives is completely nutty and compelling. This was a real pleasure.
May 11, 2019
My kids bought me this because of my love for furry creatures. And it wasn't terrible! I suspect they got it off the $5 shelf at Chapters, but whatever... Sarah fires Rory from his art job at the museum, but somehow they kiss and ta-da....they loooooove each other. He gets his big break on an acting job in California, and as luck would have it, Sarah is the person who will get him his green card if they marry. The only problem - Sarah's awesome golden retriever, who everyone but Rory loves. He's always there, requiring things like food, exercise, and love. Poor Rory having to walk Cody. A series of mishaps, the kidnapping of the dog, a psychotic ex-boyfriend, and moonshine-drinking relative...hijinks ensue until Rory realizes that he actually does love Cody the dog. All ends well...wait, was Sarah even a character in this book?
January 26, 2020
Dogs are my life so that had me biased from the beginning. While already knowing there would be some reason to track this dog across country, I did not foresee the reason and it was an interesting trick. It is well-written, a huge plus for me. bBut I really consider it a 3.5 rating for a couple of reasons. First, I suspect a few readers leave early because this book is at least 50 pages too long. I found myself repeatedly looking to see how many pages remained in a quest to just get on with it. Second, I really, really did not like Sara. (Hername is Sara, right, I can't remember. Certainly, though, I remember Rory and Cody!) She is a control freak who is very good to her dog but does she really love her? How much time did she spend dictating to Rory while she could have met him at any number if places alo g the route? Nope, not a person I liked at sll.
November 16, 2021
Stepdog is a novel that almost reads like a memoir. I picked it off the top of my TBR pile. And once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. I could identify with the totally dog-centric Sara, Cody (the dog's) owner, but I could also realize what Rory O'Connor had to contend with.And then there was the breathless part of the book where everything hung in the balance....not giving away any spoilers here, but I absolutely could not put the book down. I had to keep reading. In fact, I read the book in one sitting. Kudos to Nicole Galland for getting out of her historical novel comfort zone and taking the reader on a dog-centric journey, on which we not only learn about dogs, but the people that love - and come to love - them.
June 13, 2018
I enjoyed this book!
The first half held my interest a bit better than the latter half. Once Alex was introduced, I really had to suspend disbelief and the story went of the rails a bit.
I really liked Rory (I totally pictured him as Roy from The IT Crowd). I adored Cody. Sara was a bit dog-loopy for me and her character never felt totally developed.
At times, as much as I like dogs, I felt rather sorry for Rory. Sara was unreasonable and extremist with the dog, usually at the expense of Rory. After all he’d been through, she needed to cut him some slack. Between the two extremes of Rory and Sara, I reckon there’s a very reasonable middle ground if both of them grow up a bit.
The first half held my interest a bit better than the latter half. Once Alex was introduced, I really had to suspend disbelief and the story went of the rails a bit.
I really liked Rory (I totally pictured him as Roy from The IT Crowd). I adored Cody. Sara was a bit dog-loopy for me and her character never felt totally developed.
At times, as much as I like dogs, I felt rather sorry for Rory. Sara was unreasonable and extremist with the dog, usually at the expense of Rory. After all he’d been through, she needed to cut him some slack. Between the two extremes of Rory and Sara, I reckon there’s a very reasonable middle ground if both of them grow up a bit.
September 12, 2018
I am one that finishes a book once started but I have to say...this was hard to do. I am not sure why all the boring descriptions of various parts of this book were necessary. The last hundred pages and were the most exciting...the lead up to the main event was overwhelming in detail and provided characters that were not necessary to the plot of the story. The detail of the scenery traveling across the country were not compelling at all nor necessary to the plot. Quite frankly, the cover, which includes a Golden Retriever and the narrative on the back cover enticed me to read the book but what was in between...would not cause me to recommend.
July 15, 2020
Rory is a brat about Sara’s dog, Cody. Rory needs a green card in order to stay in the US. He falls in “love” with his friend and co-worker, Sara. She offers to marry Rory so he can stay in the country, but Rory complains so much about Cody that it makes me dislike him a lot...then he goes and gets Cody DOGNAPPED by i hope the other books by this author are as good. Took off a star because well, Rory was a jerk about Cody and being a dog mom, I couldn’t let that slide :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2024
I loved this storyline. I felt a real connection to all of the characters. The only reason I did not rate this as a 5 star is because I was really getting irritated with the main character. After every next hugh obstacle he had to go through with the dog, he always still was jealous of the way Sara loved the dog. I had thought by about halfway through the book, he would realize that he loved the dog as well, or at least thought that Sara of course needed and wanted to give the dog all the attention. He did come to realize this, at least I think he did, by the end of the book. But still, my opinion of the character diminished some because of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2020
This could have been a great romance read but something big is missing.
Listened to audiobook performed by Kevin Marron
The first and the last 45 mins of the book were fun - the rest of it was outright foolishness.
Cut that crazy car chase down by 90%
Did it have to take Rory nearly falling to his death trying to rescue a step dog for Sara to finally open her dumb eyes?!
Rory too was a bit irritating for most of the book but so was Sara. While the ex boyfriend was unreal
Also the cousin Alex loves to hear himself talk - my God!!!
Listened to audiobook performed by Kevin Marron
The first and the last 45 mins of the book were fun - the rest of it was outright foolishness.
Cut that crazy car chase down by 90%
Did it have to take Rory nearly falling to his death trying to rescue a step dog for Sara to finally open her dumb eyes?!
Rory too was a bit irritating for most of the book but so was Sara. While the ex boyfriend was unreal
Also the cousin Alex loves to hear himself talk - my God!!!
September 29, 2020
Absolutely loved it! A fictional but more than true story about how we treat our dogs -- talking to them, giving them treats, allowing them into our beds and making sure they are well taken care of. And that's the key to the story as a man enters a relationship with this dog's owner and finds that he often takes second place to the dog. He's clever and his love grows for the dog after a crazy cross-country trip to save the dog. Funny but the dog parts might bring a tear to your eye. (It did for me.) I know several people I would recommend this book to...
September 7, 2020
How could my interest in this book change so dramatically? My feelings initially were 'are you kidding..this plot?' But somewhere I was snagged and couldn't put the story down.
Nicole Galland has a very realistic writing style. I felt the emotion all along. But just couldn't believe the tenacity of Jay.
I did learn some Irish swear words. But they just splashed more color into the story. Thank you for this fun and exciting novel. I watch for another of your books.
Nicole Galland has a very realistic writing style. I felt the emotion all along. But just couldn't believe the tenacity of Jay.
I did learn some Irish swear words. But they just splashed more color into the story. Thank you for this fun and exciting novel. I watch for another of your books.
June 8, 2022
I found a code at the back of this book to listen to Spotify when I couldn’t be reading the book ! It confirms my respect for this author she’s really good her story was exciting and unique I loved the characters honestly portrayed without a lot of unrealistic perfection I will be looking for more books by her.
It’s an adventure. It isn’t often that I make comments out loud to a book , or flip out! …but this was one of those! really well done.
It’s an adventure. It isn’t often that I make comments out loud to a book , or flip out! …but this was one of those! really well done.
February 22, 2019
I love Ireland and I love dogs. But for most of the book, the protagonist, an Irishman named Rory, didn't like the dog. Yet the dog was adorable. There are some very funny lines and situations, but this book had the slowest moving plot in creation.
I listened to it, and the narrator spoke with feverish intensity for most of the book, which made it tiring to listen to.
I listened to it, and the narrator spoke with feverish intensity for most of the book, which made it tiring to listen to.
August 14, 2019
Oh my goodness!! I didn’t like the main male character in the beginning. He wasn’t a dog person and I feel like if Sara had kicked him to the curb she could’ve avoided the mess she and her dog got into. But then we wouldn’t have had a story! I couldn’t put this book down. It got really intense at moments and I just HAD to know what happened!! I highly recommend this book if you’re a dog lover!
February 28, 2021
Main character , Rory, was quite unlikeable. Not sure why. Most likely because he is not a dog lover and I'm a dog fanatic. The story line seemed lame at first and behavior of the men in the story seemed very juvenile. However as the story unfolded, I found myself liking the book more. An easy read.
March 18, 2023
This was pretty funny (if you aren't offended by off-color language).
Every single time Rory said, "tarty dog pose," I laughed out loud. I was definitely rooting for an outcome that was a little bit different, but for the most part, it was just a light-hearted read.
I think I will have to look for some other titles by this author.
Every single time Rory said, "tarty dog pose," I laughed out loud. I was definitely rooting for an outcome that was a little bit different, but for the most part, it was just a light-hearted read.
I think I will have to look for some other titles by this author.
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