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Love Unleashed #1
Sit, Stay, Love
A Novel for Dog Lovers
Take one abrasive professional athlete, a quirky out-of-work schoolteacher, and an overweight geriatric dog, and you're ready for a lesson in love...Tippy style.
Pro baseball pitcher Cal Crawford is not a dog guy. When he inherits his deceased mother's elderly dog, Tippy, he's quick to call on a pet-sitting service.
Gina isn't thrilled to be a dog sitter when her aspirations lie in the classroom. Furthermore, she can't abide the unfriendly Cal, a man with all the charm of a wet towel. But with no other prospects and a deep love for all things canine, she takes the job caring for Tippy.
As Gina travels through Cal's world with Tippy in tow, she begins to see Cal in a different light. Gina longs to show Cal the God-given blessings in his life that have nothing to do with baseball or fame. When her longing blooms into attraction, Gina does her best to suppress it. But Cal is falling in love with her too...
Discover the charming story of Tippy, the dog who brought a family together.
Take one abrasive professional athlete, a quirky out-of-work schoolteacher, and an overweight geriatric dog, and you're ready for a lesson in love...Tippy style.
Pro baseball pitcher Cal Crawford is not a dog guy. When he inherits his deceased mother's elderly dog, Tippy, he's quick to call on a pet-sitting service.
Gina isn't thrilled to be a dog sitter when her aspirations lie in the classroom. Furthermore, she can't abide the unfriendly Cal, a man with all the charm of a wet towel. But with no other prospects and a deep love for all things canine, she takes the job caring for Tippy.
As Gina travels through Cal's world with Tippy in tow, she begins to see Cal in a different light. Gina longs to show Cal the God-given blessings in his life that have nothing to do with baseball or fame. When her longing blooms into attraction, Gina does her best to suppress it. But Cal is falling in love with her too...
Discover the charming story of Tippy, the dog who brought a family together.
217 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2016
63 people are currently reading
1153 people want to read
About the author
Dana Mentink
206 books2,222 followersUSA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.
Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.
Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com. and be sure to follow her on Bookbub!
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dana-...
Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.
Dana loves feedback from her readers. Contact her via her website at www.danamentink.com. and be sure to follow her on Bookbub!
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dana-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
July 24, 2016
Such a fun little story! It's a lighthearted romance, squeaky clean and a joy to read. If you need a quick, slightly quirky book to relax with, this one is a perfect beach read. Baseball, Tippy the dog, and some issues about home, forgiveness, and belonging fill the bill for this book. Do yourself a favor and add it to your summer reading list.
Four stars because there were a few plot points that didn't quite make sense/add up. Otherwise, a good cozy romance.
Four stars because there were a few plot points that didn't quite make sense/add up. Otherwise, a good cozy romance.
September 5, 2016
Sit Stay Love is an absolutely precious book. Tippy's owner dies and leaves the dog to her grandson, Cal Crawford, a pro baseball player. He doesn't have time for this dog, so he hires a dog sitter. Gina Palmer is a kindergarten teacher. At least she hopes to get a job soon, so she fills in as a dog sitter for her friend. A job that is nothing like she expected it to be.
I loved every part of this book. Tippy is part dachshund, which is the kind of dog I have. She is full of herself and just adorable. As are Cal and Gina. This was a wonderful story and a story full of the grace and mercy and forgiveness of God. I highly recommend it.
*I was provided with a copy of this book by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
I loved every part of this book. Tippy is part dachshund, which is the kind of dog I have. She is full of herself and just adorable. As are Cal and Gina. This was a wonderful story and a story full of the grace and mercy and forgiveness of God. I highly recommend it.
*I was provided with a copy of this book by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
February 4, 2016
I really enjoyed the quirky flavour of this warm and funny tale!
Mentink has a natural flair with language and dialogue and made me feel immediately at home with Cal, Gina and, of course, Tippy!
I am a HUGE baseball fan so that slant was really welcome for me..
I think that Mentink has hit a home run with a yarn at turns longing and sweet. This is just the kind of feel good lazy-Sunday read to wile away a few precious hours.
Mentink continues to prove such range in her writing choices and I loved being introduced to this side of her "voice"
Mentink has a natural flair with language and dialogue and made me feel immediately at home with Cal, Gina and, of course, Tippy!
I am a HUGE baseball fan so that slant was really welcome for me..
I think that Mentink has hit a home run with a yarn at turns longing and sweet. This is just the kind of feel good lazy-Sunday read to wile away a few precious hours.
Mentink continues to prove such range in her writing choices and I loved being introduced to this side of her "voice"
June 24, 2016
This was a sweet and short novel about how a geriatric dog with a few quirks can teach humans how to love.
While Tippy was the star of the novel, other players included Cal Crawford a professional baseball pitcher with a rather high opinion of himself and Gina Palmer a fill-in pet sitter.
My appreciation to the author for sharing a complimentary copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
While Tippy was the star of the novel, other players included Cal Crawford a professional baseball pitcher with a rather high opinion of himself and Gina Palmer a fill-in pet sitter.
My appreciation to the author for sharing a complimentary copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 3, 2016
Sit, Stay, Love was a sweet journey for two emotionally wounded characters. Cal and Gina weren’t wounded in the same way, but both were trying to overcome loss (whether it was the loss of a relationship or the loss of a loved one). The way both Cal and Gina approached life was significantly different and it was a pleasure to watch as Gina (and Tippy) were able to reach into Cal and help him grow into a better man.
This book left me feeling happy and uplifted. Tippy was such a funny dog and I loved the way the author described her various personality quirks! There was an abundance of interesting characters, such as Cal’s aunt and uncle, who added even more depth to the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This book left me feeling happy and uplifted. Tippy was such a funny dog and I loved the way the author described her various personality quirks! There was an abundance of interesting characters, such as Cal’s aunt and uncle, who added even more depth to the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
February 25, 2017
Sit, Stay, Love is a great book to read if you want the happy, happies and the glad,glads! :-) I just fell in love with Tippy and all of the characters of this book. Stories like this just put you in a good mood!
April 21, 2016
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/1rpQPez
Refreshingly different, funny, touching, romantic, heartwarming . . . Sit, Stay, Love resulted in one of the most pleasant reading experiences I’ve ever had, contrary to what I might have feared when choosing to review it. For one thing, I love dogs – other people’s dogs, that is. And I’m not particularly fond of baseball. But none of that mattered because I was entranced with characters and storyline from the first page – and Tippy, of course, for “There’s just something about Tippy.”
Cal and Gina are so easy to relate to, and I was drawn to them from the beginning. Cal’s emotional and spiritual growth from one chapter to another make this story especially enjoyable. I loved the slowly-growing relationship and sweet chemistry between these two. And strong secondary characters in Cal’s uncle, aunt and dad – Oscar, Sweets, and Mitch – add so much richness.
Enter Gina. Sometimes I come across characters that I wish were real so I could actually meet them, and one of those would be Gina. She radiates a faith in God, humor, genuineness, and is a natural with people. To Cal, “It was like she had the sun inside her, energy which pulled him closer and warmed him.”
Gina’s faith is real and I loved the influence she had on Cal, helping him to realize that pitching was just his job, and that family was his world. Themes of forgiveness and second chances are also explored through the relationship between Cal and his dad.
I love Dana’s passion for senior pets and how she brings awareness to all they have to offer. Please note that part of the proceeds from this book will be donated to senior dog rescue.
I give Sit, Stay, Love 5 stars based on my personal enjoyment factor and highly recommend it – for, after all . . .
“There’s just something about Tippy.”
Refreshingly different, funny, touching, romantic, heartwarming . . . Sit, Stay, Love resulted in one of the most pleasant reading experiences I’ve ever had, contrary to what I might have feared when choosing to review it. For one thing, I love dogs – other people’s dogs, that is. And I’m not particularly fond of baseball. But none of that mattered because I was entranced with characters and storyline from the first page – and Tippy, of course, for “There’s just something about Tippy.”
Cal and Gina are so easy to relate to, and I was drawn to them from the beginning. Cal’s emotional and spiritual growth from one chapter to another make this story especially enjoyable. I loved the slowly-growing relationship and sweet chemistry between these two. And strong secondary characters in Cal’s uncle, aunt and dad – Oscar, Sweets, and Mitch – add so much richness.
Enter Gina. Sometimes I come across characters that I wish were real so I could actually meet them, and one of those would be Gina. She radiates a faith in God, humor, genuineness, and is a natural with people. To Cal, “It was like she had the sun inside her, energy which pulled him closer and warmed him.”
Gina’s faith is real and I loved the influence she had on Cal, helping him to realize that pitching was just his job, and that family was his world. Themes of forgiveness and second chances are also explored through the relationship between Cal and his dad.
I love Dana’s passion for senior pets and how she brings awareness to all they have to offer. Please note that part of the proceeds from this book will be donated to senior dog rescue.
I give Sit, Stay, Love 5 stars based on my personal enjoyment factor and highly recommend it – for, after all . . .
“There’s just something about Tippy.”
April 5, 2016
Sit, Stay, Love by Dana Mentink is a totally charming and delightful contemporary Christian novel. The story concerns famous pitcher Cal Crawford, dog sitter Gina Palmer and small elderly dog Tippy. It was a wonderful novel and I could not put it down.
Dana Mentink masterfully drew her three main characters. All are unique and all are likeable. Tippy was delightful. For me, the whole novel seemed to revolve around her.
One of the themes was of unconditional love. Tippy possessed this quality. Although only a dog, she loved with loyalty and her whole heart. This reminded me of God who loves us unconditionally, no matter what. Whatever we do, whatever others think of us and whatever we think of ourselves, God loves us.
Another theme contained within the novel was that of grief and loss. Cal inherited Tippy after his Mom died. For all his fame, Cal had a "mom-sized hole" inside him. Tippy, inspite of being a dog felt the loss of her owner. "She (Tippy) let out a soft whine. The sound was filled with yearning and loss. It spoke of a void that would not be filled this side of heaven." When our loved ones die, we feel a huge sense of loss, but as Christians we have the hope of heaven.
Cal felt a sense of loss when his father walked out when he was young. This loss has never left him but it made him determined to be great at something. His ambition fulfilled but his sense of loss never left him. "Cal Crawford was a lonely man for all his fame."
The novel deals with the topic of identity. For Cal his identity is in his job. "And what would Cal Crawford be if he wasn't a Major League pitcher? A dark thrill of fear crawled through him." Cal needs to find out who he really is. Gina finds her identity in who God created her to be. As a premature baby Gina was always told what she could not do. Her Nana encouraged her to be just who God created her to be. "My Nana...tried to see what I could instead of what I couldn't."
Gina has a good grounding in God. She sees Cal through God's eyes as she says "God made you Cal Crawford. The world made a pitcher." Gina recognises God's handiwork in those around her.
The novel also has the theme of searching. There are literal searches and there are searches for love. Cal has had the love of his mother but although he was in denial, he was also searching for his absent father's love. He receives adoration from the fans and loves his job, but he fears failure as a pitcher. "What if I fail?... if God's going to take that away, what do I have left?" Cal needs to realises that God will not take away good things from us, and there is so much more to life than being a pitcher.
The novel deals with forgiveness and reconciliation. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting but it does mean giving second chances.
The character of Gina was delightful, good, kind and loveable. She had a heart of gold and always saw the best in others. She had a wonderful bond with Tippy.
Dana Mentink wrote a wonderful story that seemed so real that I now feel like I am missing friends and a dog! A wonderful feel good novel. Give yourself a treat and read Sit, Stay, Love today.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
Dana Mentink masterfully drew her three main characters. All are unique and all are likeable. Tippy was delightful. For me, the whole novel seemed to revolve around her.
One of the themes was of unconditional love. Tippy possessed this quality. Although only a dog, she loved with loyalty and her whole heart. This reminded me of God who loves us unconditionally, no matter what. Whatever we do, whatever others think of us and whatever we think of ourselves, God loves us.
Another theme contained within the novel was that of grief and loss. Cal inherited Tippy after his Mom died. For all his fame, Cal had a "mom-sized hole" inside him. Tippy, inspite of being a dog felt the loss of her owner. "She (Tippy) let out a soft whine. The sound was filled with yearning and loss. It spoke of a void that would not be filled this side of heaven." When our loved ones die, we feel a huge sense of loss, but as Christians we have the hope of heaven.
Cal felt a sense of loss when his father walked out when he was young. This loss has never left him but it made him determined to be great at something. His ambition fulfilled but his sense of loss never left him. "Cal Crawford was a lonely man for all his fame."
The novel deals with the topic of identity. For Cal his identity is in his job. "And what would Cal Crawford be if he wasn't a Major League pitcher? A dark thrill of fear crawled through him." Cal needs to find out who he really is. Gina finds her identity in who God created her to be. As a premature baby Gina was always told what she could not do. Her Nana encouraged her to be just who God created her to be. "My Nana...tried to see what I could instead of what I couldn't."
Gina has a good grounding in God. She sees Cal through God's eyes as she says "God made you Cal Crawford. The world made a pitcher." Gina recognises God's handiwork in those around her.
The novel also has the theme of searching. There are literal searches and there are searches for love. Cal has had the love of his mother but although he was in denial, he was also searching for his absent father's love. He receives adoration from the fans and loves his job, but he fears failure as a pitcher. "What if I fail?... if God's going to take that away, what do I have left?" Cal needs to realises that God will not take away good things from us, and there is so much more to life than being a pitcher.
The novel deals with forgiveness and reconciliation. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting but it does mean giving second chances.
The character of Gina was delightful, good, kind and loveable. She had a heart of gold and always saw the best in others. She had a wonderful bond with Tippy.
Dana Mentink wrote a wonderful story that seemed so real that I now feel like I am missing friends and a dog! A wonderful feel good novel. Give yourself a treat and read Sit, Stay, Love today.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
April 18, 2016
Sit Stay Love by Dana Mentink is at its heart a love story. A love story between a man and a woman. A love story between a man and God. A love story between America and baseball. And a love story between a quirky elderly dog and the humans she acquires. I adored all of the above!
The mood is the right mix of humor and emotion as well as hold-your-breath romance. I delighted in each character, except perhaps for the ones I was supposed to dislike. I even – dare I say it – enjoyed the baseball aspects of this novel. (Full disclosure: I am so not a sports person.) So, if you are also not a sports fan, never fear! This novel will delight you anyway!
I can’t recommend this book highly enough! It’s fun. It’s quirky. It’s delightfully entertaining! It’s uplifting and emotional and full of cute humor and sweet romance and great characters. Whether you love baseball or you just show up for the food, Sit Stay Love and Dana Mentink may make fans of you by the end of the book. Dog lovers, this one needs to be on your wish list for sure!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review ... including my dog's thoughts ;) ... at Reading Is My SuperPower
The mood is the right mix of humor and emotion as well as hold-your-breath romance. I delighted in each character, except perhaps for the ones I was supposed to dislike. I even – dare I say it – enjoyed the baseball aspects of this novel. (Full disclosure: I am so not a sports person.) So, if you are also not a sports fan, never fear! This novel will delight you anyway!
I can’t recommend this book highly enough! It’s fun. It’s quirky. It’s delightfully entertaining! It’s uplifting and emotional and full of cute humor and sweet romance and great characters. Whether you love baseball or you just show up for the food, Sit Stay Love and Dana Mentink may make fans of you by the end of the book. Dog lovers, this one needs to be on your wish list for sure!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review ... including my dog's thoughts ;) ... at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 5, 2016
Cal is a pro baseball player who is struggling after the death of his mother. So he's less than thrilled to find that he's inherited an obese, geriatric dog, named Tippy who has some serious quirks. He doesn't have time for a dog, especially one this weird. So he hires Gina, a dog sitter. Except Gina isn't really a dog sitter. She's biding her time until she can return to her first love - teaching. The three make the unlikeliest group and yet they seem be able to help each other in ways none of them thought possible.
This book was not at all what I expected, but I really enjoyed it. The dog, while a crazy addition, made the book. The characters had dimension and added life to the book as well. I thought the concept of mixing three completely random characters together made the book interesting and helped to bring out the good in all of them. The author did a great job of adding fun and humor to some serious subjects. The touches of faith woven throughout the story were subtle, but well done. It was a nice surprise to see that this might be book one in a series. I would recommend this book if you enjoy animals, romance, or clean fiction.
I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
This book was not at all what I expected, but I really enjoyed it. The dog, while a crazy addition, made the book. The characters had dimension and added life to the book as well. I thought the concept of mixing three completely random characters together made the book interesting and helped to bring out the good in all of them. The author did a great job of adding fun and humor to some serious subjects. The touches of faith woven throughout the story were subtle, but well done. It was a nice surprise to see that this might be book one in a series. I would recommend this book if you enjoy animals, romance, or clean fiction.
I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
Read
May 6, 2016I'm a cat person, through and through. Dogs and I just don't gel. Well, Tippy has altered my feelings about dogs! Sit, Stay, Love is a sweet, tender, and lovable story of a dog who brings a whole community together.
An estranged and broken family is held together by an old dog. Tippy provided love and devotion to a dying woman suffering the ravages of cancer. Upon her death young pro baseball player, Cal Crawford does everything he can think of to keep the dog out of his reach, even hiring an adorable dog sitter to take care of Tippy. The story of Tippy, Cal and dog sitter Gina, is absolutely heartwarming.
The events in this story could be real. The personalities depicted in this book are authentic and relatable, captivating my heart throughout an unpredictable and entertaining fashion. It's lighthearted, compassionate, and forgiving all rolled up in one warm and cozy read.
I highly recommend this highly enjoyable book about a very special dog and his humans! I loved it!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
April 3, 2016
Sit Stay Love : A Novel
By: Dana Mentink
When I first saw the cover of Sit Stay Love , I thought now what kind of a story is this going to be ? Boy did it have me fooled. The cover drew me in because when my daughter was small we got her a Dachshund. I have always been fond of Dachshunds . I am a fan of Mentink and have read lots of her books , but this one is different. I loved the story and the characters. When I started read I did not want to put it down, Mentink had me hooked. Mentink weaves us a very delightful story that will have you laughing and even crying at times. You cannot help but like and laugh at these characters, they seem so real. Cal Crawford is not a Tippy ,dog lover. He inherited Tippy from his mother that passed away. With his job he could not take care of an old dog. He calls for a dog sitter. Gina is down on her luck now and she goes for the job. Tippy is not your everyday dog. She can be a handful at times. This is one delightful story you do not want to miss. I am still laughing at Tippy and Gina.
I was given a copy of this book by Harvest House Publishers and the author for my honest review.
By: Dana Mentink
When I first saw the cover of Sit Stay Love , I thought now what kind of a story is this going to be ? Boy did it have me fooled. The cover drew me in because when my daughter was small we got her a Dachshund. I have always been fond of Dachshunds . I am a fan of Mentink and have read lots of her books , but this one is different. I loved the story and the characters. When I started read I did not want to put it down, Mentink had me hooked. Mentink weaves us a very delightful story that will have you laughing and even crying at times. You cannot help but like and laugh at these characters, they seem so real. Cal Crawford is not a Tippy ,dog lover. He inherited Tippy from his mother that passed away. With his job he could not take care of an old dog. He calls for a dog sitter. Gina is down on her luck now and she goes for the job. Tippy is not your everyday dog. She can be a handful at times. This is one delightful story you do not want to miss. I am still laughing at Tippy and Gina.
I was given a copy of this book by Harvest House Publishers and the author for my honest review.
April 16, 2017
I love dogs. I love baseball. And I absolutely loved this book! I laughed, I cried, and I rejoiced in the outcome of this very heartwarming story. The characters were believable and lovable and the dog was adorable! I'm a fan, Dana Mentink.
July 22, 2019
Just what I needed! After reading a few psychological killer/police procedures- I needed a different kind of book and this fit that bill. Cute book, for dog lovers or any kind of animal lover!
April 6, 2016
Oh my goodness! This is such a great, great story!
Gina take a job dog-sitting to help out her cousin. It’s not a problem, since Gina has just lost her job. But a dog sitter? For a celebrity?
Cal Crawford is the celebrity. Stuck with an old dog. Who belonged to his mother — until she died. Now Tippy belongs to Cal.
What happens when Cal takes Tippy to the shelter?
Find out when you read Sit, Stay, Love.
Dana Mentink does a superb job creating a wonderful story about Cal, Gina, Tippy and many other colorful characters in a heart-warming story that you will never forget.
I am not the dog lover that Dana is — but once I began reading this story, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Yep, I fell in love with Tippy.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic new book . . . and new series!
Happy Reading!
June 13, 2016
This book was so sweet, a fun lighthearted, easy to read, very enjoyable, I found myself sitting there with a smile on my face for most of it. There were some intense parts and parts where you wanted to shake the characters to make them realize things. I loved the characters and loved especially Gina's childlike innocence which was so sweet in all of its quirkiness. I loved this book and loved Tippy! A perfect summer read!
March 27, 2016
What a delightful book! It was so sweet and funny, but not just fluff. It has deeper moments. Whether you love romance books or just dogs, you will thoroughly enjoy this sweet tail (misspell on purpose ;))
June 24, 2016
Really sweet book. I loved it.
February 1, 2021
Cute and well written but not my flavor.
Content: one replacement expletive, two replacement profanities
Content: one replacement expletive, two replacement profanities
April 11, 2016
Quirky and fun with lots of sweet and savoury bits. Anyone who has been owned by an eccentric dog will adore Tippy! And empathize with Gina! And eventually Cal -- though he was a bit of a hard sell at the beginning. :-) And because I love dogs so much I actually cried in two places so be forewarned if you have a tender canine loving heart like mine! Mentink knows how to turn on the emotional angst.
Cal is a bit of a lost soul in the beginning. It isn't so much that he's egotistical, but he is cynical about his fame and what people want from him. As a result he's lost his bearings, confusing self-worth with worldly labels instead of in God's glory. The enticing thing about Gina is that she sees Cal for who he really is. She couldn't care less for all the trappings that comes with being a star pitcher. When Cal starts to see himself through her lens, he begins to sort out who he really is and what he wants his future to look like.
Be prepared for a few curve balls as the story progesses -- especially since stubborn Cal has a penchant for playing hardball. Through all the mayhem and mirth, Mentink manages to hit a home run with Sit, Stay, Love. (sorry, couldn't resist using some baseball idioms!)
My thanks to Harvest House and Litfuse Publicity Group for providing me with a copy of this book.
Cal is a bit of a lost soul in the beginning. It isn't so much that he's egotistical, but he is cynical about his fame and what people want from him. As a result he's lost his bearings, confusing self-worth with worldly labels instead of in God's glory. The enticing thing about Gina is that she sees Cal for who he really is. She couldn't care less for all the trappings that comes with being a star pitcher. When Cal starts to see himself through her lens, he begins to sort out who he really is and what he wants his future to look like.
Be prepared for a few curve balls as the story progesses -- especially since stubborn Cal has a penchant for playing hardball. Through all the mayhem and mirth, Mentink manages to hit a home run with Sit, Stay, Love. (sorry, couldn't resist using some baseball idioms!)
My thanks to Harvest House and Litfuse Publicity Group for providing me with a copy of this book.
May 1, 2016
This was just super cute! I love animals, especially dogs, I'm a fan of baseball, and as I've read and enjoyed another of Ms. Mentink's books before, I was pretty sure I'd like this one. I was right! It's a fluffy bit of sweetness that made me grin, what more can a reader ask for? :)
What this story looks like is exactly what the reader gets. A quirky old dog named Tippy, who you can't help but love for all her funny little idiosyncrasies (like her refusal to eat except when Cal is sitting on the floor beside her), and also an adorable romance between two people who sure didn't plan on falling in love and who both have some growing and learning to do. Cal and Gina are simply very sweet together. Cal is a little grumpy at first, but that's not who he really is inside, so it's not too long before Gina brings out his nicer side. For all they frustrate each other in the beginning, once they become friends, they truly understand each other. When they start realizing their attraction, Tippy is happy to do what she can to help it along, and the story just gets more fun.
If you're looking for a quick read that's sure to make you smile with all the cute and finish the last page with a happy sigh, this one is definitely for you. Tippy just makes it all the more enjoyable! :)
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
What this story looks like is exactly what the reader gets. A quirky old dog named Tippy, who you can't help but love for all her funny little idiosyncrasies (like her refusal to eat except when Cal is sitting on the floor beside her), and also an adorable romance between two people who sure didn't plan on falling in love and who both have some growing and learning to do. Cal and Gina are simply very sweet together. Cal is a little grumpy at first, but that's not who he really is inside, so it's not too long before Gina brings out his nicer side. For all they frustrate each other in the beginning, once they become friends, they truly understand each other. When they start realizing their attraction, Tippy is happy to do what she can to help it along, and the story just gets more fun.
If you're looking for a quick read that's sure to make you smile with all the cute and finish the last page with a happy sigh, this one is definitely for you. Tippy just makes it all the more enjoyable! :)
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2016
SIT, STAY, LOVE was such an adorable, heartfelt, and fun read! There was emotion, humor, inspiration, sweet romance, one lovable dog, and plenty of family, character, and romantic tension to keep things interesting. Would recommend to dog lovers, romantics, and inspirational romance readers.
The characters were so much fun in this story! Cal was a talented pro pitcher with a troubled past and recent heartbreak. Underneath all his grouchiness and arrogance was a man with a big heart and a boy who never got over past hurts. I loved seeing the changes that he made and how his heart grew and opened up as the story unfolded. Gina was such an interesting counter to Cal. She is so positive and loving and wears her heart on her sleeve for all to see. I loved how talented she was in her own right and how she really sees Cal and not his celebrity status. Then there was Tippy, the dog, that had her own superb and entertaining role, and other characters that added to this story who were all well done.
I'm so glad I got to review this one! A great read to lighten the heart, bring a smile to the reader's face, and add some laughs and sighs. I'm looking forward to reading the next one, which I recently spied on NetGalley up for review and also available for pre-order on Amazon, FETCHING SWEETNESS. Can't wait!
The characters were so much fun in this story! Cal was a talented pro pitcher with a troubled past and recent heartbreak. Underneath all his grouchiness and arrogance was a man with a big heart and a boy who never got over past hurts. I loved seeing the changes that he made and how his heart grew and opened up as the story unfolded. Gina was such an interesting counter to Cal. She is so positive and loving and wears her heart on her sleeve for all to see. I loved how talented she was in her own right and how she really sees Cal and not his celebrity status. Then there was Tippy, the dog, that had her own superb and entertaining role, and other characters that added to this story who were all well done.
I'm so glad I got to review this one! A great read to lighten the heart, bring a smile to the reader's face, and add some laughs and sighs. I'm looking forward to reading the next one, which I recently spied on NetGalley up for review and also available for pre-order on Amazon, FETCHING SWEETNESS. Can't wait!
March 24, 2016
As you open the first pages of this book your about to see how the unconditional love of a dog is about to change many lives, some for the good, and others, well may they get what they deserve?
When famous Falcon’s pitcher Cal Crawford’s mom passes away he inherits a dog, and he instantly finds a dog sitter. Tippy is all of a sudden devoted to Cal, wants him by her side when she eats. He complains, but is it really the dog that is bothering him?
You will get a great mind picture of Tippy with socks on, loved it and could hear those little nails get quiet. Of course the dog sitter, and out of work schoolteacher, and coming off a relationship, Gina, falls head over heals in love with Tippy. I think that she quickly had a spark with Cal too, but he is so grumpy.
There are deep feelings here, and God is working in their lives, and the lesson of forgiveness, a really hard thing to do, is rearing it head here towards Cal.
This is a really enjoyable quick read, and once that first page is turned you won’t want to put it down. I loved it!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
When famous Falcon’s pitcher Cal Crawford’s mom passes away he inherits a dog, and he instantly finds a dog sitter. Tippy is all of a sudden devoted to Cal, wants him by her side when she eats. He complains, but is it really the dog that is bothering him?
You will get a great mind picture of Tippy with socks on, loved it and could hear those little nails get quiet. Of course the dog sitter, and out of work schoolteacher, and coming off a relationship, Gina, falls head over heals in love with Tippy. I think that she quickly had a spark with Cal too, but he is so grumpy.
There are deep feelings here, and God is working in their lives, and the lesson of forgiveness, a really hard thing to do, is rearing it head here towards Cal.
This is a really enjoyable quick read, and once that first page is turned you won’t want to put it down. I loved it!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
April 4, 2016
A star baseball player. A down on her luck woman. A cantankerous and somewhat out of control dog. What a combination these three were to read about! Sit, Stay, Love is a sweet story of patience, love, and second chances.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance from Dana Mentink. Her writing pulled me into the story from the very beginning and kept me interested until the end. She created down-to-earth characters and a dog that had me smiling and laughing at her antics.
The story progresses at a natural and steady pace. Baseball being my favorite sport to watch I loved the "inside look" at spring training and how baseball players must feel with all the pressure to perform to the standards of fans and coaches. This really lent an authenticity to the story. I also liked the way the author wrote about more serious subjects without making the book too heavy of a read.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that isn't too light or too heavy, Sit, Stay, Love is the perfect read. In fact, I highly recommend you purchase this book then Sit, Stay, Read!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance from Dana Mentink. Her writing pulled me into the story from the very beginning and kept me interested until the end. She created down-to-earth characters and a dog that had me smiling and laughing at her antics.
The story progresses at a natural and steady pace. Baseball being my favorite sport to watch I loved the "inside look" at spring training and how baseball players must feel with all the pressure to perform to the standards of fans and coaches. This really lent an authenticity to the story. I also liked the way the author wrote about more serious subjects without making the book too heavy of a read.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that isn't too light or too heavy, Sit, Stay, Love is the perfect read. In fact, I highly recommend you purchase this book then Sit, Stay, Read!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 14, 2016
"There's just something about Tippy", the overweight, sluggish, key snatching, geriatric dog."
Gina is a heart-warming, funny, sincere character. She was friendly to everyone. Cal, I wasn't sure about. I didn't like him, really. He was rough, abrasive, and hated dogs. But he was willing to use Tippy for the value she gave to his career. On the other hand, he was hurt, feeling he was only valued because he's a pro-athlete. That kind of made me sad. However, he did grow on me in bits and pieces.
SIT, STAY, LOVE is a really slow read, it doesn't really grab the reader, suck them in, and make them read through in one sitting, it is a type of personal-development story for both Cal and Gina.
This is a different sort of story than Ms. Mentick's usual, and she did it in her usual impeccable style. Fans of Ms. Mentick, animal stories, and "finding yourself" stories might be interested in reading SIT, STAY, LOVE. Non-athletic people who are afraid of sports related stories need not worry. It is very lightly done and in an agreeable, very readable way.
Gina is a heart-warming, funny, sincere character. She was friendly to everyone. Cal, I wasn't sure about. I didn't like him, really. He was rough, abrasive, and hated dogs. But he was willing to use Tippy for the value she gave to his career. On the other hand, he was hurt, feeling he was only valued because he's a pro-athlete. That kind of made me sad. However, he did grow on me in bits and pieces.
SIT, STAY, LOVE is a really slow read, it doesn't really grab the reader, suck them in, and make them read through in one sitting, it is a type of personal-development story for both Cal and Gina.
This is a different sort of story than Ms. Mentick's usual, and she did it in her usual impeccable style. Fans of Ms. Mentick, animal stories, and "finding yourself" stories might be interested in reading SIT, STAY, LOVE. Non-athletic people who are afraid of sports related stories need not worry. It is very lightly done and in an agreeable, very readable way.
May 10, 2016
What an endearing story!!
We meet Cal Crawford who is a successful professional baseball player who has recently lost his mom and inherited her elderly pet, Tippy. Tippy is a special little dog who has problems with arthritis, but is loved by everyone who meets her. With spring training around the corner what he needs is to hire a pet sitter for Tippy. Gina Palmer has just lost her job teaching. She doesn't want to turn to her parents for help so she will work at anything, including pet sitting. Gina has a big heart and a beautiful face. This is a story full of humor, love and a little mystery. This is a good, clean read and I would recommend it to anyone.
We meet Cal Crawford who is a successful professional baseball player who has recently lost his mom and inherited her elderly pet, Tippy. Tippy is a special little dog who has problems with arthritis, but is loved by everyone who meets her. With spring training around the corner what he needs is to hire a pet sitter for Tippy. Gina Palmer has just lost her job teaching. She doesn't want to turn to her parents for help so she will work at anything, including pet sitting. Gina has a big heart and a beautiful face. This is a story full of humor, love and a little mystery. This is a good, clean read and I would recommend it to anyone.
February 17, 2016
Sit, Stay, Love
Cal inherits Tippy, his mother's dog. He is a baseball player and says does not have time for a dog. He hires a pet sitter, Gina, to help take care of the dog. But the dog won't eat without Cal around. He tries to get rid of Tippy but changes his mind. A lot of adventure in the story. Cal learns a lot. I received a advanced copy of this book from netgalley for a honest review. Enjoyed the book and I just wanted to tell Gina a thing or two about eating more healthy. Had to remember she was a character in a book.
Cal inherits Tippy, his mother's dog. He is a baseball player and says does not have time for a dog. He hires a pet sitter, Gina, to help take care of the dog. But the dog won't eat without Cal around. He tries to get rid of Tippy but changes his mind. A lot of adventure in the story. Cal learns a lot. I received a advanced copy of this book from netgalley for a honest review. Enjoyed the book and I just wanted to tell Gina a thing or two about eating more healthy. Had to remember she was a character in a book.
June 15, 2016
Never in a million years would I pick up a book with a dog on the cover as I am so not a dog person. I can't relate to the dog and cat lovers in the world. But a friends of mine sent me this book so I gave it a chance. It was a really cute read! I really did like it! Baseball is another thing I am so not into, nor know anything about, but it was well written and I was engrossed into the story! Baseball and dogs, who knew I could find a good read in that? :)
May 2, 2016
Sit, Stay, Love shot straight to the #1 spot of my all-time favorite list, and for good reason! Not only was the story engaging, it moved me to laughter and tears several time. Little Tippy was placed in some frightening circumstances that even added an element of suspense to this outstanding romance.
I dearly loved this book and will likely read it again! Highly recommended!
I dearly loved this book and will likely read it again! Highly recommended!
April 10, 2016
Such a fun book. I fell in love with Tippy, and these characters. A refreshing change to the typical love story we read so many times. *I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. *
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