Valentine Pets & Kisses: Fourteen Sweet Romances

by Rachelle Ayala

FOURTEEN ALL-NEW, SWEET VALENTINE ROMANCES

Candy and canines. Flowers and felines. Celebrate this Valentine's Day with your sweethearts of the human and fuzzy varieties!

Nothing is more heart-warming than kisses from the pet who adores you and the man who loves you, so snuggle up with VALENTINE PETS & KISSES -- an anthology of fourteen sweet romances from USA Today bestselling and award-winning authors -- and strike the perfect mood for moonlit walks and candlelight dinners with your pet and sweetheart.

Valentine Hound Dog - Rachelle Ayala
A fashion designer and her basset hound puppy convince a burned ex-firefighter that beauty is never skin deep and neither is love.

The Crazy Girl’s Handbook - DelSheree Gladden
Watching her nephews was supposed to be a fun and relaxing weekend for Greenly, not a never ending disaster all witnessed by the best blind date she ever stood up.

The Vet's Valentine Gift - J.L. Campbell
A veterinarian is caught between his job, an ex, a menagerie and love. Can a little Cupid fix things by Valentine’s Day?

Her Perfect Catch - K.L. Brady
Years of faithful dog-sitting pays sweet dividends when a struggling sports writer scores tickets to the Super Bowl and encounters her favorite football player.

Inflamed - Jade Kerrion
A firefighter running from his past convinces a hard-luck single mother to believe in happy endings.

Remember When - Hope Welsh
Laura and Brent really tried to make their marriage work, but in the end, it just wasn't meant to be--or was it?

Your Biggest Fan? - Sydney Aaliyah Michelle
Snowed in with the man of her dreams, a football fan and her dog find love.

The Feline Fix - Caroline Bell Foster
A scientist questions her cat’s loyalty when it comes to love and a hunky policeman.

Trembling Hearts - Suzette Riddick
A daring young woman crashes into the life of a disfigured recluse and his pooch. Can love be far behind?

Valentino, Be Mine - Tina D.C. Hayes
Sparks fly when two people who can't stand each other wind up dog-sitting a rambunctious little Yorkie that needs a new home.

Lost and Found - Jeanne Bannon
Stuck with her ex’s puppy, a young teacher meets a new man after a series of unfortunate events.

Surviving San Francisco - Susan Oloier
A small town girl survives San Francisco after she hits a cat and falls for a handsome veterinarian.

19 Ivy Lane - Aubrey Wynne
A mysterious woman and her cat befriend a postman and set tongues wagging on Ivy Lane. But when he delivers a long-awaited letter, will his heart be “returned to sender?”

Three Plus Three - Cindy Flores Martinez
A grieving widow and her beloved doggie meet a handsome widower the day before Valentine’s Day.

Genres: Romance

Kindle Edition

First published February 2, 2016

About the author

Rachelle Ayala is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She writes emotionally challenging stories but believes in the power of love and hope.

Her book, Knowing Vera, won the 2015 Angie Ovation Award, and A Father for Christmas garnered a 2015 Readers' Favorite Gold Award. Christmas Stray was awarded the 2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Award and A Pet for Christmas had an Honorable Mention. In 2017, her book about a single mother with an autistic son, Playing for the Save, won the 2017 Readers' Favorite Gold Award for Realistic Fiction.

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She is also a writing teacher and founder of the Romance In A Month writing community. She lives in California with her husband and has three children and two birds.

For an updated, printable booklist:
https://www.scribd.com/document/34213...

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Broken Build
Hidden Under Her Heart
Knowing Vera

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Taming Romeo
Claiming Carlos
Whole Latte Love
The Remingtons: Leap, Laugh, Love
The Remingtons: Blush of Love
Bad Boys for Hire: Ryker
Bad Boys for Hire: Ken
Bad Boys for Hire: Nick
Laguna Beach: Lucky in Laguna
Sapphire Falls: Going Haywire
Sapphire Falls: Going Toe to Mistletoe
Sapphire Falls: Going Hearts Over Heels

SPORTS ROMANCE
Played by Love
Playing the Rookie
Playing Without Rules
Roaring Hot!
Intercepted by Love
Playing Catch
Playing for the Save

SWEET ROMANCE
Christmas Stray
A Father for Christmas
A Pet for Christmas
A Wedding for Christmas
Christmas Lovebirds
Valentine Hound Dog
Spring Fling Kitty
Blue Chow Christmas
Valentine Wedding Hound

HOLIDAY ROMANCE
Christmas Flirt
Santa's Pet
Deck the Hearts
Her Christmas Chance
Sapphire Falls: Going Toe to Mistletoe
Bad Boys for Hire: Nick

HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Michal's Window

NON-FICTION
Your Daily Bible Verse
Romance In A Month
366 Ways to Know Your Character
Love Stories: Writing a Romance Novella

Reviews

[Helena]

I was lucky enough to read Lost and Found during development. I absolutely loved this heartwarming story. I always enjoy Jeanne's writing, and she has produced another finely crafted tale. There are some wonderful characters in this story — both human and animal ones. I could really relate to Lexi and felt like she was a kindred spirit. Lost and Found is a terrific Valentine’s Day treat!

[Betty Finch · Rating 5 out of 5]

INFLAMED by Jade Kerrion

I was given this book for a honest review.
After one night of bad judgment, Debra has paid for it for the last eight years. The only bright side was the love of her life, her son Aidan. Being known as "the other woman", she had lost her best friend for eight years and had just been forgiven by her for sleeping with her fiance. Aidan's father is not there for them and is turning into a dead beat dad. Working two jobs to support her son and to keep her family home standing, Debra has little time to think of the dreams she once had.
Sean is the new firefighter in town. He is taken to the coffee shop to get the coffee for the station and meets Debra. When he goes in on Saturday, all hell had broke loose. Aidan had brought his new puppy to the shop and she proceeded to destroy the kitchen. After helping to clean it up, he plots to take the dog but bring it to see Aidan often. A routine begins of man and dog coming to Debra's house to train the pup. Sean is the first man who has shown interest in both her and Aidan and the story blooms from there, but Sean has a secret he is hiding from that may mean the end to their friendship.
Jade Kerrion has written a wonderful HEA filled with love, friendship, and hope. A must read for all.


VALENTINO: BE MINE by Tina D.C. Hayes

I was given this book for a honest review.
Valentino is a spoiled and pampered teacup Yorkshire terrier. His owner, Pamela, is being transferred to the orient and can't take him with her. She decides to have Kaylee and Carter each swap care time to decide who she would give Valentino to.
Kaylee owns a candle shop and has been dog sitting Val for awhile. Carter manages a bar and tends to Val while Pamela meets with contacts at the bar. Neither Kaylee nor Carter thinks much of the other and think they deserve Val.
This book is filled with some laughter, misunderstandings and awakenings. It's a book all can like.

YOUR BIGGEST FAN by Sydney Asliyah Michelle

I was given this book to read for an honest review.
Callie James is a in love with NFL star Noah Patrick, she writes a blog telling about their lives together, the only problem with her life is she has never actually met him. She is such a fan girl, she named her dog Noah.
Noah Patrick is a very talented player but in his off the field life, his talent is to make mistake after mistake.
Callie has settled in a NYC brownstone her family owns getting ready to start back to college in the fall. Noah's manager has rented the other side for him so he can lay low while the false scandal dies down. He doesn't trust easily and Callie has a big secret to keep.
Follow how they grow closer and secrets can be overcome if love is there.
This a very easy to read HEA, that anyone who roots for the underdog will love.

[Leona Harrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Suzette Riddick's novella, Trembling Hearts. It kept me in suspense wondering how Jason and Lezlie would overcome past hurts. I found Trooper to be quite the character! This story definitely was a page turner. I didn't want the story to end. I'm looking forward to part two. Great job Suzette Riddick!

[Ms. Prissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trembling Heart was a very touching and sweet romance. The characters came across very realistictly which made you feel like you was connected to them. I truly enjoyed the novella of Lezlie and Jason story, hopefully there is more to come. Loved it!

[Nina Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of Jeanne Bannon’s latest novella, Lost and Found. I picked it up and couldn’t put it down. It had me laughing and crying. It was what I’d call a complete story in every way. The characters are well fleshed out and even the dogs are special and have
their own personalities. Jeanne managed to tell a big story in a novella length work. She tackles the issues of emotional breakdowns, love lost and love found, along with a tragedy set against the backdrop of a stalker ex-boyfriend. This was a very well told story
and I loved it.

I also read Surviving San Francisco by Susan Oloier. I enjoyed this book and the multidimensional characters. It's the story of a young woman who moves to San Francisco to make it on her own. She runs into many toad blocks along the way. Without spoiling the ending, I just want to say it was well thought out and came full circle. A very satisfying read.

[Tina Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only had a chance to read one of the fourteen from this bundle. "The Vet's Valentine Gift" was a welcomed surprise from JL Campbell that does not disappoint. I fell in love with Jade in "the Vet's Christmas Pet", and if it's humanly possible, I love her even more after this latest installment. Many authors are afraid to allow a child's character to be unique or wise beyond their age rage, but Campbell allowed Jade to display her amazing talents in "The Vet's Christmas Pet" and expand on it in "the Vet's Valentine Gift".
Being able to see Matthias and Toni continue to experience the ups and downs of a couple was great as well. I hope to read more from them in the future because there is more dialogue begging to come to life from these characters. Thanks for continuing to share your God Given talents with others JL...

[SassyMama · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trembling Hearts" by Suzette Riddick

"AWESOME Sauce!" LOL...OMG...what a touching and endearing romantic treat. A short, but OH-SO-SWEET read! I was sucked in from the first page... didn't want to put it down...SADLY I had to 'cause I was at work. Lezlie's emotional tragedy and Jason's physical scarring and the massive blow to his manhood brought on by the deceit and rejection by persons who were supposed to love them unconditionally takes you on a heartwarming journey, that leads them both to a LONG overdue healing of their broken hearts and spirits. Looking forward to a follow-up with this couple and the secondary cast of characters. And Trooper stole the spotlight...had personality galore. A GREAT beginning for a NEW series...hint, hint ;-)

[Rhonda Sermon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of Jeanne Bannon’s latest novella, Lost and Found which is included in this box set in return for an honest reveiw. It is a captivating romance. I've read some of Jeanne's YA novels and her writing was familiar and comfortable. Like coffee with an old friend. Lost and Found fearlessly tackles the concepts of an emotionally fragile women and her journey through a relationship which goes terribly wrong. She must overcome fear, tragedy and the challenge to face a new love. The characters are real and oh so relatable. I especially loved how even the dogs had their own personalities and role in the story. This was a beautifully told story and I very much enjoyed reading it. Jeanne has done a fabulous job. This novella is highly recommended.

[Mspraise50 · Rating 5 out of 5]

****I was given an ARC of this story for a honest review for which I have not not been paid***

The Feline Fix - Caroline Bell Foster - A scientist questions her cat’s loyalty when it comes to love and a hunky policeman.

This is the only story I have read in this Box Series so far. This was a sweet romance set in the United Kingdom. I enjoyed the chemistry between the couple but I did want to slap Cal a few times for trampling over Wendy's heart. Mr Snuggles was a traitor to Wendy (he is the cat) that was a link between the couple.

This story was a sweet read and there is a happy ending to the story.

[Penny Estelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost and Found by Jeanne Bannon

Lexi feels her life take a downward spiral when her boyfriend, Josh, breaks things off with her. Not only does she have to deal with that pain but there's a new puppy in her life that she didn't ask for.

Ms. Bannon does a fabulous job of telling the story of a woman who feels she's losing control and how she climbs out to find her "old" self and starts living life again....until a repentant Josh shows back up!

I have read Jeanne Bannon's work and she certainly didn't disappoint with Lost and Found. I highly recommend this short story!

[Angela Castellano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Lost and Found by Jeanne Bannon is a miraculous love story of a woman's journey to regain independence and a tale of a most unlikely friendship. I found the story to be an inspiring tug of war of the mind and its unyielding ability to keep one prisoner with old hurts and failures. Suddenly a Valentine baby meets soul mate! But not until she welcomes canine counseling!
Up lifting and inspiring! A good sound read!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valentine Hound Dog is an extraordinarily beautiful and tremendously poignant story that serves as a gentle reminder that no one should settle for less than who they are and what they want. Many things in this life may serve to impress on us that we aren’t what we should be and because of that we have no right to pursue our heart’s desire. This is such a huge lie that we really need to stop listening to. Instead, we need to begin to listen more to our heart and let it guide us to where we need to be and allow it to change our way of thinking and living. What is the purpose of living a half empty and dreadfully unfulfilled life?

Jenna has lived the stereotype of being the beautiful daughter that got away with murder because of her outward grace and attractiveness. She used that asset to her advantage throughout her career in the design world. As the glam and glitz slowly begin to lose its overall appeal, she watches as the bitter façade of her world begins to fall away to reveal the ugliness and the emptiness that has left her cold and lonely. She craves something real, something true, and something lasting, and she finds this unexpectedly in her family friend Larry. She never looked at him like this before, and she is caught completely off-guard as he unknowingly captures and steals her heart with his quiet honesty and gentle friendship. Can she prove to Larry and her family that she has changed and she truly wants more for her life, or will they only see the spoiled, carefree girl that only cares for herself and what she can get?

Following the Hart family has been a true gift that has shown me that no matter how misguided or disillusioned you become, you can always find your way back home where your heart can rest and grow in the love freely given by family and friends. To be able to watch Larry find the lady who would unlock his heart and transform his life was an amazing privilege that I have thoroughly enjoyed and savored. Jenna really surprised me by finding herself after being lost for so long and going after what she wanted with an unwavering dedication that Larry had to admire. She is intimately acquainted with fake, and all she wants now is something so real that she will risk devastating heartbreak in order to lay claim to it. Larry is not a new project for her but a symbol of the life she has missed out on, and no matter what happens, she refuses to be denied what could be her one and only opportunity to live a truly fulfilled and happy life.

I can honestly say that with each new story that Rachelle Ayala brings to life, she continues to solidify and prove her literary prowess. While some authors manage to turn my head with some truly breathtaking stories, I always find that my heart will never fail to return to authors like Ayala whose unwavering inspiration and incredible talent always reminds me that anything is truly possible if we want it bad enough and fight for it hard enough. This is one story that will not only warm your heart but embolden your spirit to dare to dream and grow.


The Crazy Girl’s Handbook is a sweetly rewarding and devastatingly real romance that you will feel all the way down to your toes. This is real life in its craziest and harshest of moments that allow people to see us for who we truly are. Sometimes the best intentions of others can get off track, but in the end it’s the heart of the matter that will stick with us for years to come. In the end, no one can make us step out of our comfort zone and lay claim to a life we have always wanted. That decision can only be made by yourself. Don’t let fear take over and dictate the path of your life. Conquer it and prove to yourself and everyone that you deserve every good thing in this life.

Greenly started her day off just like any other except for being able to successfully dodge another blind date attempt by her sister. That in itself was a miracle. A good distraction to her day was attending her oldest nephew’s baseball game. Her peace started and ended at that exact second because everything that followed felt like one disaster after another. The main witness to her beautiful train wreck was one beautiful and kind man named Roman. He was a friend of the family and way too kind during each of her tragic episodes. Has Greenly managed to find and scare off the only man she has ever been interested in due to her lack of grace, or will Roman prove that not everything is as it seems?

Greenly and Roman both took my breath away but for very different reasons. Greenly was so overwhelmed by Roman that she didn’t know how to deal with it. While not used to having good experiences with men, she doesn’t have any good experiences to draw on to help her out. She is left with acting like herself around him which makes her feel truly unworthy the more she gets to know the type of man he is. While the story is told from Greenly’s point of view, we still see how Roman reacts to her and series of accidents. He shows his interest and how far he is willing to go to prove to her that his interest hasn’t wavered no matter what she does or thinks. He seems to be a genuine guy who loves his son and only want to take care of him and shield their hearts. It would seem that the deeper the hole that Greenly digs her into, the more Roman’s interest in her grows.

DelSheree Gladden has weaved a beautifully touching story that will silently and subtly decimate the defenses around your heart. You will find yourself falling in love with her extraordinary characters before you realize what is happening. It’s the gentle spirit and the quiet strength within the beautiful words of this book that will slowly transform the deepest parts of your soul into something you never expected. This journey is an incredible treasure that needs to be shared with everyone who enjoys a deeply fulfilling experience like no other.

A Feline Fix is a wonderfully heartfelt story of learning why life is truly worth living. All of us at one time or another tend to forget the little in life that shine so brought and warm us from the inside out. We need to be reminded of what is most important, and this book helps to serve as that reminder. This is a perfect story to warm you all the way to your toes on a bold, blustery day.
Wendy can’t understand why her boss thinks she needs to work on her life-fun balance. She’s just fine, and she doesn’t need any adjustments in her opinion. However, she can’t argue when he sends her off from work and tells her not to return until all of her built up time has been used. Determined to make the best of it, she pushes forward with a newly created to-list. Callum is ending his shift as he finds Wendy completing item number one on her list. He isn’t looking for another relationship, but the sweet, unassuming Wendy pulls him in a magnet. Will his jaded squelch her growing enthusiasm, or will Wendy take life by the apron strings and pull herself up despite Callum?
I was thoroughly bewitched by Wendy and Callum. These two polar opposite personalities pulled the other out of their slump so easily that it was such a beautiful sight to behold. They were exactly what the doctor ordered, and yet they both fought hard to stop it from happening. I loved how honest they were to each other even if they couldn’t admit that how they acted and what they said were in direct contrast. What beautifully, enchanting characters this story contains! I fell in love with them before I even realized it. That is the mark of a great story!
Caroline Bell Foster is a truly impressive author who knows how to weave beautifully encouraging words straight into your heart. She held my heart in the palm of her hand, and while it may have cracked a couple of times it remolded into something a little better and brighter as a result. I would recommend this story to romance readers everywhere! This is a brilliant author who definitely understands that even an unassuming love can be an incredibly powerful love.

[Angelica Berglund · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got to read Valentine Hound Dog by Rachelle Ayala

This is a very sweet beauty and the beast story. You have the beautiful you vibrante woman who wants to succeed as in the fashion industry and you also have the scared former Firefighter who is ashamed and sad due to the past. Even if they know each other they still are some what strangers but when Harley comes into their lives things chance.

I love this story because it is so real and so sad at the same time. You see the hero who is afraid of himself and are afraid to get hurt by other people so he cuts himself off. I really felt for Larry and how he was as a person. on the outside the big, fire fighter with muscles and the scars but his heart is so different, so soft and so full of love.

I didnt really like Jenna, she is simply not the person I like. She dont think about anything as long as it dont comes to her and her work and her goal of succeeding. But still she makes changes so even I started to like her and she is perfect for this story.

Okay now I will talk about my favorite part of this book Harley. The cute bassett hound puppy I feel in love with. he is so real in this book and its impossible not to love him and he is the important thing. without him nothing would succeed or work out for anyone.

This story is simply awesome in so many ways. I did fell in love with the story and how it is written with the split views and how twists comes into the story. I am so happy I got to beta read it and I think more people than me will fall in love with the story. And I can recommend other people to read it because it is simply beautiful and interesting.

The Crazy Girl's Handbook
I got to read this book in an ARC program. I must say that I loved it from the very first word until the very end. It was so funny and I laughed a lot and it is also a very sweet short romance story. The mix between the humour and the romance is a perfect balance. this is really a book to brighten your day and your valentine.

THe characters is very well developed and felt so real. This could be real people in a real day to day situation. I really really enjoyed reading this short story.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Inflamed by Jade Kerrion of this set so far. This book is about Debra who is 32 and has been living by herself for 8 years with her son. She made a huge mistake and slept with her best friends fiancee and became pregnant. She lost her best friend and her son Adian's father, Peter, turned out to be a real jerk that did not want much to do with his child. Peter l always behind on child support and never comes to see his son when he says he will. Debra is scraping by working two jobs. Her son has no friends and feels his mother never wants him to have anything. Adian mows a women's yard one summer and his pay is is puppy. Of course his mother never knew anything about the mowing or the puppy. The puppy will grow up to be a huge dog and Debra has no idea how she will pay for the dog's food or supplies. Sean is a new fireman in town who is 7 years younger than Debra. He ends up befriending Adian and helping with the dog. In doing this, he ends up spending more time with Debra. She never thought she would be involved with a younger man, but she likes how he makes her and her son feel. Sean has a secret of why he left his last town that Debra does not know about. Since it is a small town, Debra has always been know as "The Other Woman." She does have friends that she doesn't realize until Sean opens her eyes.

I enjoyed the story and loved seeing how Debra began believing in herself and saw how strong she really was. It was also nice seeing that she didn't let Adian and her age difference stop her from having a relationship. As much as Adian felt he was older thinking, he learned a lot about himself too. I encourage you to read the book and see all the obstacles that are overcome and how love blooms. It was a very good book. I was given the book for an honest review.

[Kris Woltzen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the valentine hound dog by Rachelle Very fun romantic story with the fun loving hound dog...another great book in the Hart series but don't have to read the another to be able to understand this book but would give you some insight into the characters... Can't wait to read all the rest
I just finished reading feline fix that is also in this book loved the coming together of callus and Wendy what a fun way to bring this couple together. Loved that the cat didn't belong to either one of them in heart because his heart was given to an old lady and a dog. Liked how the story ended with a new beginning for callus and Wendy with a new kitten and a bike to learn to ride.

[Terri Merkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very sweet Romance which is a must read. Jenna is a fashion designer who is in town for a fashion show. She buys a puppy to bribe her brother Connor. Larry a former firefighter who was burned saving a family finds the puppy and so it begins. Larry is self conscious about his looks from his scars. Jenna who sees past the scars and see the real Larry convinces him to be part of her fashion show.

During their short time together they developed feelings for each other. Is this the real deal can they accept each others lifestyles. Will Jenna get Larry to see himself as she does?

[Sam Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valentine Hound Dog really touched my heart.
We always hear that "beauty is only skin deep" or, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"
It was nice to read a story that both proved and disproved the adages
Throw in that puppy... I was mush.
It had heart, it had soul, it had fashion, a chance at redemption
An endearing puppy.
LOVE

The Crazy Girl’s Handbook was cute and silly.
I personally didn't see any crazy girl signs but accident prone? most definitely.
The pooch didn't really have that many scenes but it was all so sweet I could cry.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Jade Kerrion's "Inflamed"! The lonely boy & large bungling puppy connection was the first heart tug. I was happy the story was not a frivolous Valentine hookup. The plot focused on two hurting souls colliding & all the angst of consequences from past choices in their lives. I liked how in-depth we got to know the characters in this short story. I related to the H as I love to help others to my detriment, occasionally. The ending was both resolved & left me wanting more. I look forward to reading remaining stories if nearly as good as Jade's Inflamed.

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeanne Bannon's Lost and Found had me laughing out loud one moment and crying the next. This is such a sweet story, and is the perfect Valentine's Day read. You will be falling in love with all the characters, both human and of the furry variety. I always enjoy reading Jeanne's stories, her characters are so well thought out and interesting, you feel as though you've known them forever. This romance had me smiling, crying, laughing, and not to mention in love with Tommy! Excellent read!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Suzette Riddick's Trembling Hearts, Mother Nature intervenes and throws two people together who have dealt with their share of pasts hurts but they are exactly what they need for each other. This a sweet romance but you can definitely feel the heat between Jason and Lezlie. Trooper, Jason's dog was a character! I found myself laughing at his antics. He definitely added something special to the story. Hopefully we'll get to visit Jason, Lezlie and Trooper again.

[Cara Laytham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Inflamed by Jade Kerrion. I really enjoyed the characters in the story. I love stories that make you feel like you know the people and make you laugh or cry with them. This was a great story that I felt comfortable reading at work without worrying that someone would be offended by the language or explicit scenes.

[Tiffany Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

How could I not adore a book centered around a woman who loves football??? In typical Brady fashion, there were plenty of chuckles along the way. "Her Perfect Catch" is a quick and entertaining read that left me looking forward to the forthcoming books in the series. A full review will be posted closer to the publication date.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having the opportunity to have advance copies of author's work is a privilege. I have much respect for authors who are creative and have the ability to take you on a journey with their characters. I want to thank JL Campbell, Suzette Riddick and Karla L. Brady for allowing me to preview their work.

Review: The Vets Valentine Gift by JL Campbell
Visiting Matthias and Toni again was sweet but the character that had stolen the show is once again five year old Jade. Jade is truly a child after my own heart. I like her so much because she reminds me of myself at her age. As well as my niece. Jade is a burst of fresh air that one cannot help but to love. She loves people and animals, and has such an adorable personality. She is the type of child you would want, loving, efficient, caring, and talks. But not only talks but expresses herself in away that only youthful innocence can be described. Jade is the clue that bridges the gap between Matthias and Toni's relationship. You have to respect a man that can show and express his love for a child that isn't his own. Matthias is patient and giving. He is dependable and loving. And recognizes when to hold on to a good thing: Toni. Toni, is still finding her way as a newly divorced woman of a year. Having to take care of Jade and work full time, is it possible for her to have it all with Matthias.

You'll love this sweet Valentine's gem, as it shows the evolution of a couple that has roadblocks to overcome. Yet through love, commitment, communication and the encouragement of a precocious five year find their way.

Review: Her Perfect Catch by Karla L. Brady
Melanie Vincent is like many women, she is smart, sweet, compassionate, and is considered everyone's friend. She is the girl next door, who is simply more than meets the eye, it just takes a special person to recognize it. You have Dylan Starke, who is gorgeous and Melanie's best friend. He is the pitch hitter to Melanie. You want to dislike him, but yet you realize even a pretty boy can have insecurities. Then we have Jet Jamison, the baby boy of football. Who is more than meets the eye, but no one knows it because of all of his antics off the field. The protector and do gooder is Chris Jamison, CJ, who is the Jet's older brother. His intentions are good but the actions have consequences. One of my favorite says is, "You can choose the sin, but you cannot choose the consequence". In this story you see several elements. You have integrity. Friendship. Loyalty. Ambition. And with everything a love story that is anything but simple. You want to ask how could two people who have been in each other's lives not know. How could such crazy things that place? Well, thank goodness for Mack and what turned out to be exactly what was needed to put the evitable in place. If nothing else from the story you understand that their truly is more to the cover of a person. I look forward to the follow up stories as I am sure they will be gems.

Review: Trembling Hearts by Suzette Riddick.
The opening prologue had me. What took place between Jason and his family is something that many can relate too. When expectations are had and one wanting to stand on their own, you see how certain actions have drastic consequences. How does one recover? Three years have lapsed and we have Lezlie. A woman who has had battles her entire life with weight management. In current day, we see that American's are leading in obesity, so you definitely see a person connect for anyone who has ever had to deal with weigh loss and self acceptance. Lezlie, having received one of the worst blows, from her fiancé Earl, you wonder how she would ever bounce back. Jason and Lezlie are both dealing with the facts of life and the hands that were dealt to them in different ways. I tell you one thing, if you ever want your mind to play tricks on you, isolate yourself from those who you love. You will wind up convincing yourself of things that are not true. Thank goodness for Trooper, he is a wonderful dog who helps to bridge the gap between two strangers, who thought that neither wanted or needed the other. You get to see how just being able to open up and admit to what one feels helps to bridge the gap of a beautiful romance.

[Julie Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

19 Ivy Lane by Aubrey Wynne takes place in the 1950's. Eloise Kolby hops on a bus headed for Hollywood. She ischasing her dreams. After spending two years basically being unsuccessful her dreams start to change. Her dream starts to become more about a man instead of a career. Only problem is this man isn't thinking about her. Ross tells her he has a surprise for her and she thinks he is going to propose. To her surprise he says he has a new project on location in Italy for at least six months. Ross sends Eloise to deal with a house he has inherited. He wants to sell the house once he returns. He explains once he returns they will discuss marriage which make Eloise happy. In this small town she meets postman Victor Burnham. He is every girls dream come true. He shows Eloise a love that she never new existed. Although she fights the attraction true love conquers all. This story is the right amount of drama and suspense of wondering what will happen.

Surviving San Fransico is a story of a young girls journey to finding her happiness. Leah leaves her small town in Illinois to escape a broken heart. She travels across country for a job that is taken away from her before she makes it to San Fransisco. Broken hearted and jobless she tries to start a life in San Fransico. Leah seems to have nothing but bad luck surrounding her. Yet she keeps pushing forward. Leah almost gives up. She pushes away one of the best things that has happened to her because she is afraid he will hurt her like her ex did. Leah runs away. Thankfully, she realizes her mistake before she has made it too late. This story is about finding your way and finding your true happiness.

Lost and Found by Jeanne Bannon is a well written story. Lexi loses herself to heartbreak. She is when her ex leaves. Josh abandons Lexi and to make matters worse he leaves her with a dog she doesn't even want. This story takes you on Lexi's journey to make herself whole again. Lexi is able to pick up the pieces with the help of her furry friend. She is able to find the love she truly deserves. This story celebrates the idea of everyone having a soulmate.

Three Plus Three by Cindy Flores Martinez takes you on a journey of two widowers who find each other even though they are still grieving the loss of their partners. It is a reminder that life is short and that even though life can be cruel you still need to live. Tomorrow is a gift. Violet and Tom are able to support each other because they truly have walked in each other's shoes. A well written and emotional story.

[Rebecca Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for Valentine Hound Dog by Rachelle Ayala

Jenna Hart is in town to organize a Valentine's Day Benefit Fashion show in order to show off her fashion designs. The money raised will help the San Francisco Fire Department so she knows she can get her brother, the Chief, to help her out. The only problem is that she has lost her new little model Little Treat.

Larry Davison is the custodian at the elementary school that Melissa Hart works at. He is a former firefighter who was burned in a fire and now hides away, trying to forget that day, when he comes upon a puppy.

Will Larry learn to trust Jenna and her feelings towards him or is she just feeling sorry for him?

This was a great book about love, trust and outward appearances. Larry was once known as once of the most eligible bachelors but that all changed in an instant and he no longer believes he is capable of attracting a beautiful woman. It's about the love that we have for people and that if we don't love ourselves and where we are in life, we can't expect that from others. Both Larry and Jenna have things in their past they wish to forget about but they need trust in the other that these can be overcome!

I loved the messages in this book and can't wait to read more on the Hart family!!

[D · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Vet's Valentine Gift

Jade is a heart stealer, she is the queen of this story. Whereas things are complicated for Matt and Toni, jade uses her child like wisdom to get them to see that things are not so complicated. In a sweet way Jade shows by her action that loving someone can be easy if we are honest, truthful and remove the barriers. I'm so vested in the lives of Matt, Toni and Jade that I will be eagerly awaiting the next book. We definitely need a wedding and possibly a baby, Doc would be
ecstatic.

Trembling Hearts
This is one of those story that will leave you smiling, it's a Saturday/Sunday,rainy day Starbucks coffee type of read.You know that type of story that makes you feel good that the male and female characters have met each other and your excited to see what is going to happen between them. Yes, Trembling Hearts is that type of story and Trooper is the kind of dog I want.

[Jordana Smith]

I had the honor of reading Valentine Hound Dog by Rachelle Ayala for an honest review. I really enjoyed getting to know Jenna and Larry. Jenna is a fashion designer and model trying to prove to her boss, her family, and herself that she has what it takes to put on a valentine benefit fashion show. Larry is a former firefighter who was severely burned trying to rescue a family trapped in a fire. Jenna persuades her brother to let the firefighters be in an auction to help with the benefit. She also buys a hound dog to surprise him to replace the firehouse dog that passed away. Before she can give him the dog, she loses it a Larry finds it. Neither expected to fall in love along the way. Larry doesn't believe he's worthy of such beauty, and Jenna is used to the high life. But each will do what is necessary to prove to the other that they are worthy of loving each other.

[Jos-Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed "Her Perfect Catch" by K.L. Brady, it was a quick and engaging read. The characters were well developed and very relatable. Mel is like a lot us women who love the game of football and could probably talk circles around many a man about the game but aren't always taking seriously. She's smart, cute and pretty confident except when it comes to love. Jet is an awesome football player on the field but can't seem to get his life together off the field and love seems unattainable in his near future. Jet and Mel are perfect for each other but drama seems to be lurking at every turn and then the unexpected happens......Take a chance on "Her Perfect Match" you will be utterly surprised at the outcome!!!!

[Ruby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trembling Hearts by Suzette Riddick
The first time I read this book, I couldn't put it down. The feelings of the characters were totally believable. Jason and Lezlie both experienced traumatic events in their lives and Me. Riddick was able to accurately portray their feelings just like anyone going through what they did would feel. I also enjoyed the fact that the secondary characters were highlighted and hope they will get their own books. I can't wait to see what happens to Jason and Lezlie.

[Sydney Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

14 of the most amazing sweet romances from some great authors.