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Love at the Chocolate Shop #2
A Thankful Heart
Chocolate is better than men, and so are dogs. At least, that’s what Dakota Parker tells herself as she mends her broken heart and finds forever homes for rescue animals. So far, so good. She can indulge her love of chocolate where she works while her foster dogs provide her with the unconditional love she craves. What more does she need?
Seattle architect Bryce Grayson is counting the days until he can return home to the big city with his father in tow. That is if he can convince his dad to leave Montana. Bryce’s escape plan, however, goes astray when he meets Dakota. Her sweet kisses put the chocolate she sells to shame. Maybe he should be the one to move to Marietta, but could he be happy living in such a small town?
He has until Thanksgiving to decide.
Seattle architect Bryce Grayson is counting the days until he can return home to the big city with his father in tow. That is if he can convince his dad to leave Montana. Bryce’s escape plan, however, goes astray when he meets Dakota. Her sweet kisses put the chocolate she sells to shame. Maybe he should be the one to move to Marietta, but could he be happy living in such a small town?
He has until Thanksgiving to decide.
198 pages, ebook
First published November 3, 2016
345 people are currently reading
563 people want to read
About the author
Melissa McClone
287 books2,479 followersI live in the Pacific Northwest with my husband, two daughters, son, dog and too many cats! I write "sweeter" contemporary romance novels for Harlequin and Tule Publishing.
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November 3, 2016
A Thankful Heart is book two in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series by Melissa McClone. This is a multi author series in which six authors are participating. One comes out each month. I have not read the first book in the series but was fine starting in on the second book.
Dakota Parker works at Copper Mountain Chocolates in Marietta, Montana and also volunteers for the town’s pet rescue center. She fosters pets whenever needed. Currently she has one large nine month old puppy that needs some calming, one small sweet dog and a pet rat that has bonded with the small dog. They are so adorable together.
Even though it’s been some time since it happened, Dakota still hasn’t bounced back from being jilted at the alter by her now ex-fiance. It severely effected her confidence and she hasn’t dated since. She just throws herself in to all her projects. Currently she is trying to work on a proposal for the pet rescue to get all the pets adopted by Christmas which is two months away. But her proposal is rejected.
Bryce Grayson is an architect from Seattle who is currently in Marietta to help his father while he recuperates from an accident. Bryce feels guilty about not spending enough time with his father and is determined to convince him to return to Seattle with him. He is in Marietta for one month. He returns right after Thanksgiving. Growing up his father was always a workaholic and Bryce is just like him. But he is having trouble recognizing this new Dad he is seeing now. This man is relaxed, has friends, works some but volunteers a lot.
With a little conniving from Bryce’s Dad, he meets Dakota and is smitten. He is determined to ignore it but the sweet, always optimistic woman who always puts other’s needs before her own, gets under his skin.
This is such a sweet, both literally and figuratively, book. Bryce had to finally evaluate his life and his priorities. And Dakota had to decide if she was ready to give her heart again. So, if you enjoy a book with lots of chocolate and lots of fur babies involved, then you will most definitely enjoy this one.
August 9, 2017
3 Chocolate & Animals for the Win Stars
* * * Spoiler Free
It has been my observation that Stubborn does not equal Strong...and this entry of the Love at the Chocolate Shop series, seems to reinforce that notion for me. This is the second entry where characters we met in Melt My Heart, Cowboy are getting their story told. Tule Publishing has had success where different authors all contribute to one series. Our bonus is all of these books take place in Marietta, Montana... meaning many of the past characters we have grown to care for... make appearances.
The overall theme of this particular book is the need for a grown son to make up for lost time with his father. The son went away to college and then stayed in Seattle to start his own firm. Over the years he did not visit as much as he now wishes he had...His mother passed and now the realities of his father being far away in Marietta has hit home.
The dad fell while doing a construction project, breaking both legs. It took a long plane ride for Bryce to get to him and now he has decided his dad needs to move to Seattle so they can be closer. Bryce is determined to force the dad to move because he has decided the father must be lonely without his mom in this sleepy town, Marietta. He has given himself a month to make all the arrangements and convince his dad this is for the best.
What Bryce didn't plan on was meeting Dakota Parker. She is a woman who has found her way. Over her lifetime, she had to move countless times as an Army Brat. The one place she felt like home was with her Aunt who lived in Marietta. After college, Dakota came to live here with her Aunt and ended up taking on the same passions... Animal Rescue. Dakota was left an inheritance and with it she has created a life which works. She has her own home from her Aunt, she works part time at the chocolate shop and she devotes the rest of her time to the local animal shelter. She is also a foster caretaker for animals until she can find them "Forever Homes."
Now these two cross paths through the chocolate shop and Bryce's dad....and unfortunately it wasn't the best start. Bryce is skeptical as to why his dad has been volunteering at the shelter and when he sees how friendly Dakota is with him, he jumps to the wrong conclusions. He even says as much during a time when he is frustrated with his dad... and it does not go well.
Dakota was recently jilted at the altar so her trust of men and what they say is not high. It doesn't matter that the man may be easy on the eyes...Both of these people may have interest... but both are wary....Because they know Bryce is leaving in a month...
Circumstances do happen which force them to spend time together... and each begins to have feelings for each other...but they also try to keep them at bay. During all of this, the shelter plays a be part and all of the animals contribute to the feel of the tale.
We also had a continual arc of secondary characters we met earlier and we know their book will be coming soon. This felt similar to many of the Marietta books, however, Bryce was a difficult fellow to like. He had tunnel vision about what he thought was to happen with his dad...extremely stubborn until the end. His dawning came very late...and almost was too little to late for me.
I do like the series and it has 12 books scheduled to give us Chocolate and Love.
Melt My Heart, Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Thankful Heart (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Montana Secret Santa (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Cure (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Valentine Quest (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Charmed by Chocolate (Love at the Chocolate Shop #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Comeback (Love at the Chocolate Shop #7) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Touch (Love at the Chocolate Shop #8)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Home Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop #9)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Summer's Kiss (Love at the Chocolate Shop #10)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free
It has been my observation that Stubborn does not equal Strong...and this entry of the Love at the Chocolate Shop series, seems to reinforce that notion for me. This is the second entry where characters we met in Melt My Heart, Cowboy are getting their story told. Tule Publishing has had success where different authors all contribute to one series. Our bonus is all of these books take place in Marietta, Montana... meaning many of the past characters we have grown to care for... make appearances.
The overall theme of this particular book is the need for a grown son to make up for lost time with his father. The son went away to college and then stayed in Seattle to start his own firm. Over the years he did not visit as much as he now wishes he had...His mother passed and now the realities of his father being far away in Marietta has hit home.
The dad fell while doing a construction project, breaking both legs. It took a long plane ride for Bryce to get to him and now he has decided his dad needs to move to Seattle so they can be closer. Bryce is determined to force the dad to move because he has decided the father must be lonely without his mom in this sleepy town, Marietta. He has given himself a month to make all the arrangements and convince his dad this is for the best.
What Bryce didn't plan on was meeting Dakota Parker. She is a woman who has found her way. Over her lifetime, she had to move countless times as an Army Brat. The one place she felt like home was with her Aunt who lived in Marietta. After college, Dakota came to live here with her Aunt and ended up taking on the same passions... Animal Rescue. Dakota was left an inheritance and with it she has created a life which works. She has her own home from her Aunt, she works part time at the chocolate shop and she devotes the rest of her time to the local animal shelter. She is also a foster caretaker for animals until she can find them "Forever Homes."
Now these two cross paths through the chocolate shop and Bryce's dad....and unfortunately it wasn't the best start. Bryce is skeptical as to why his dad has been volunteering at the shelter and when he sees how friendly Dakota is with him, he jumps to the wrong conclusions. He even says as much during a time when he is frustrated with his dad... and it does not go well.
Dakota was recently jilted at the altar so her trust of men and what they say is not high. It doesn't matter that the man may be easy on the eyes...Both of these people may have interest... but both are wary....Because they know Bryce is leaving in a month...
Circumstances do happen which force them to spend time together... and each begins to have feelings for each other...but they also try to keep them at bay. During all of this, the shelter plays a be part and all of the animals contribute to the feel of the tale.
We also had a continual arc of secondary characters we met earlier and we know their book will be coming soon. This felt similar to many of the Marietta books, however, Bryce was a difficult fellow to like. He had tunnel vision about what he thought was to happen with his dad...extremely stubborn until the end. His dawning came very late...and almost was too little to late for me.
I do like the series and it has 12 books scheduled to give us Chocolate and Love.
Melt My Heart, Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Thankful Heart (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Montana Secret Santa (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Cure (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Valentine Quest (Love at the Chocolate Shop, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Charmed by Chocolate (Love at the Chocolate Shop #6)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Chocolate Comeback (Love at the Chocolate Shop #7) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... The Chocolate Touch (Love at the Chocolate Shop #8)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Home Cowboy (Love at the Chocolate Shop #9)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sweet Summer's Kiss (Love at the Chocolate Shop #10)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 29, 2025
3.5 stars for this freebie from "Stuff your Kindle Day". Sweet & clean small town romance that also centers on a local animal rescue adopting all their animals out by Thanksgiving ("Home for the Holidays") A nice and easy read during the holiday!
November 10, 2016
A Thankful Heart
Melissa McClone
Received from Netgalley.
A THANKFUL HEART by Melissa McClone is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. Dakota Parker has just come out of a bad relationship and fills the hole in her heart with chocolate and animals. She works at the chocolate shop and also at the Whiskers and Paws rescue center. All she wants to do is find forever homes for all the animals in the rescue center. That is how she met Bryce Grayson. His dad, Walt, volunteers at the center, well, before he broke both of his legs. At first, Bryce thinks Dakota is only Walt's friend so she can have a free handy man at the center. He couldn't be more wrong!
Bryce lives in Seattle and his dad lives in Marietta Montana. Bryce is there to help his Dad but also to convince him to move to Seattle. Walt isn't buying any of it. He made a life for himself in Marietta and he is not going anywhere. A THANKFUL HEART is going to teach Bryce what he has and could have if he just opened his heart and stopped being so selfish. Bryce doesn't want to hear it and gives himself one month to change his father's mind.
Things keep happening that throw Bryce and Dakota together, but both hold back on their feelings because Bryce is going to be heading back to Seattle at the end of the month. A THANKFUL HEART is a wonderful addition to the Chocolate Shop series where ten different authors will be writing about love and chocolate. The animals in this story are going to steal your heart. I found myself cheering for Dakota and hoping she would be able to trust someone with her heart again. At the same time, I was wishing that Bryce could let go of his guilt and leave it in the past. I really enjoyed reading this sweet tale and found all of the characters very relatable as well as their situations that they found themselves in. I'm excited to continue this series.
Melissa McClone
Received from Netgalley.
A THANKFUL HEART by Melissa McClone is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. Dakota Parker has just come out of a bad relationship and fills the hole in her heart with chocolate and animals. She works at the chocolate shop and also at the Whiskers and Paws rescue center. All she wants to do is find forever homes for all the animals in the rescue center. That is how she met Bryce Grayson. His dad, Walt, volunteers at the center, well, before he broke both of his legs. At first, Bryce thinks Dakota is only Walt's friend so she can have a free handy man at the center. He couldn't be more wrong!
Bryce lives in Seattle and his dad lives in Marietta Montana. Bryce is there to help his Dad but also to convince him to move to Seattle. Walt isn't buying any of it. He made a life for himself in Marietta and he is not going anywhere. A THANKFUL HEART is going to teach Bryce what he has and could have if he just opened his heart and stopped being so selfish. Bryce doesn't want to hear it and gives himself one month to change his father's mind.
Things keep happening that throw Bryce and Dakota together, but both hold back on their feelings because Bryce is going to be heading back to Seattle at the end of the month. A THANKFUL HEART is a wonderful addition to the Chocolate Shop series where ten different authors will be writing about love and chocolate. The animals in this story are going to steal your heart. I found myself cheering for Dakota and hoping she would be able to trust someone with her heart again. At the same time, I was wishing that Bryce could let go of his guilt and leave it in the past. I really enjoyed reading this sweet tale and found all of the characters very relatable as well as their situations that they found themselves in. I'm excited to continue this series.
November 2, 2016
After coming out of a bad relationship Dakota Parker's new motto is chocolate and animals are much better than men. So now Dakota works part time in the at the local chocolate shop and volunteers at the animal shelter. Her mission, to find forever homes for all of her fur buddies that are up for adoption.
Bryce Grayson has come to Marietta to help out his father after a construction accident caused him to break both of his legs. During his time in town Bryce has decided it's time for his father to pack up and move to Seattle with Bryce but Bryce's father has other ideas and plans a few chance meetings with Dakota to try to set up the pair.
A Thankful Heart is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series taking place in the lovely town of Marietta, Montana. Anyone following my reviews knows I'm a huge fan of any of the series taking place in this lovely small town, especially during the holiday season so it's no surprise that I did enjoy this one too.
Dakota is working in the chocolate shop part time but the story mainly focuses on her rescue work and trying to adopt out the animals so while we get a few mentions of the previous chocolate shop characters the story expands the small town even more bringing in the shelter which is nice, I love a read with some cute critters involved.
For me the one complaint I could think of with this book was it took so long for Dakota and Bryce to come together in this story. While I'm glad it's not an instant relationship in this type of read Bryce stayed stubborn for most of the story to the point I was beginning to dislike him.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Bryce Grayson has come to Marietta to help out his father after a construction accident caused him to break both of his legs. During his time in town Bryce has decided it's time for his father to pack up and move to Seattle with Bryce but Bryce's father has other ideas and plans a few chance meetings with Dakota to try to set up the pair.
A Thankful Heart is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series taking place in the lovely town of Marietta, Montana. Anyone following my reviews knows I'm a huge fan of any of the series taking place in this lovely small town, especially during the holiday season so it's no surprise that I did enjoy this one too.
Dakota is working in the chocolate shop part time but the story mainly focuses on her rescue work and trying to adopt out the animals so while we get a few mentions of the previous chocolate shop characters the story expands the small town even more bringing in the shelter which is nice, I love a read with some cute critters involved.
For me the one complaint I could think of with this book was it took so long for Dakota and Bryce to come together in this story. While I'm glad it's not an instant relationship in this type of read Bryce stayed stubborn for most of the story to the point I was beginning to dislike him.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
March 28, 2021
Sweet contemporary romance. I loved the heroine’s involvement with rescue pet adoptions. This is book two in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series of twelve books written by several different authors.
October 19, 2025
Dakota Parker was left at the altar and has given up on men. Chocolate and animals are all she needs, thank you very much. She works part time at the Copper Mountain Chocolate Shop and volunteers ar the local rescue finding forever homes for the animals there. She also fosters, and gets unconditional love from those animals. The day that Seattle architect Bryce Grayson walked into the chocolate shop, she is intrigued. Bryce's father, Walt, was injured when he fell off a ladder, so he has come to Marietta to help him. He has an ulterior motive though, he wants his father to move to Seattle where he will be close by. He will stay in Marietta until Thanksgiving, at which time he needs to return for his business, planning on taking his father with him. Walt has no desire to leave Marietta. He has lots of friends, his business and his volunteering and has never been as happy. His plan is to get his friend, Dakota, and Bryce together. As they end up spending time together they begin to develop feelings for one another, but they only have until Thanksgiving when Bryce is scheduled to leave.
Bryce was not easy to like at the beginning of this story. He was judgmental, spoke without thinking and didn't listen to others. He was sure he knew best, even if it wasn't what his father wanted. Dakota was such a sweet, kind and caring young woman. She had some baggage, so I understood why she was cautious of falling for Bryce. The animals were the stars of this book. Rascal, the rambunctious puppy stole my heart and I wanted to adopt him. When the rescue was told they would get a 6 figure donation if they could get all the animals adopted by Thanksgiving, all of the volunteers, Dakota's friends and even Bryce helped to find forever homes for all the animals. I wish it was that easy in real life. As Bryce spends more time in Marietta, he changes his attitude and just maybe there will be a chance for Bryce and Dakota to be more than just friends. This was a lovely Thanksgiving story.
Bryce was not easy to like at the beginning of this story. He was judgmental, spoke without thinking and didn't listen to others. He was sure he knew best, even if it wasn't what his father wanted. Dakota was such a sweet, kind and caring young woman. She had some baggage, so I understood why she was cautious of falling for Bryce. The animals were the stars of this book. Rascal, the rambunctious puppy stole my heart and I wanted to adopt him. When the rescue was told they would get a 6 figure donation if they could get all the animals adopted by Thanksgiving, all of the volunteers, Dakota's friends and even Bryce helped to find forever homes for all the animals. I wish it was that easy in real life. As Bryce spends more time in Marietta, he changes his attitude and just maybe there will be a chance for Bryce and Dakota to be more than just friends. This was a lovely Thanksgiving story.
November 6, 2016
This is a thanksgiving romance based in Marietta and featuring Dakota Parker who works part time in the Chocolate shop and also volunteers at the Whiskers and Paws rescue centre. She's a kind hearted young lady who was abandoned at the altar by her groom to be. She no longer trusts her judgement of men and has decided to focus on dogs and chocolate to keep her happy. It is whilst she is serving in the shop that she meets Bryce Grayson, son of her friend and fellow rescue centre volunteer, Walt. Walt had an accident, breaking both his legs, whilst working at the centre and Bryce has come to stay for a month, leaving his Seattle home, but planning on moving his father back to the city with him. His only problem seems to be convincing his father to leave the friends and connections he has made whilst living in the close knit Marietta community!
This is a great story, highlighting how sometimes it really is important to step back and listen to the opinions, thoughts and needs of others, rather than trying to impose our own views and attitudes on them. Only by being open to others can we sometimes discover the truth of situations for ourselves and so, hopefully have the opportunity to make things better for them and for ourselves. This story has great characters, laugh out loud incidents and a heartwarming romance. It is a great addition to the series and I have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
I received an ARC of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
This is a great story, highlighting how sometimes it really is important to step back and listen to the opinions, thoughts and needs of others, rather than trying to impose our own views and attitudes on them. Only by being open to others can we sometimes discover the truth of situations for ourselves and so, hopefully have the opportunity to make things better for them and for ourselves. This story has great characters, laugh out loud incidents and a heartwarming romance. It is a great addition to the series and I have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
I received an ARC of this via NetGalley. This is my honest review.
December 18, 2016
For manga recommendation, scroll to the very end.
It's a 3 for 3~3.75. In the end I still settled with a 3 cuz I "like" it, but not on the level of "really liking" it. I feel like there's something really good going on, but it didn't reach its full potential, but maybe that's just me.
A digitized ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have to write certain parts of my review in Chinese; don't worry, it's nothing bad; just that my first reaction can't really be fully described in English lol.
So, the lovely book cover and the promising blurb led me clicking the request button on NetGalley without further thoughts. I've not joined the website for long, and I didn't know what the chances are for me to be approved, so I figured hitting the button wouldn't hurt. When I got approved, that's when I headed to Goodreads and proceed to shelve it, only to find that there wasn't a page for it at the time. It was then I took a look at the other works by Author Melissa McClone, and to my horror, at the time, I could only form the following thoughts: "我的媽呀！？這難到就是傳說中的海外言小嗎！！！？？？xD" 好吧, 說是"言小"可能有些言重了, 畢竟就這一本來說, 是沒有什麼重口味的煽腥畫面; 但我的重點是我還真的沒有讀過明顯就是愛情小說的英文書啦xD
Anyways, once I got over my initial shock, with the fact that I've already been approved for the ARC, I figured there's always a first time for everything, might as well just take a leap of faith. My hopes of for the proportion of the following elements were quickly dashed, however:
Chocolate 33%, Dogs 33%, Romance 34%.
Not even: Chocolate 30%, Dogs 30%, Romance 40%.
To me, the book is more like:
Chocolate 6%, Dogs 47%, Romance 47%.
Or
Chocolate 6%, Dogs 52%, Romance 42%.
(Looking at it this way makes me feel better lol)
And well, despite not being a chocolate fan myself, what attracted me to this book was in fact the false impression that our main gal Dakota is fully surrounded by both chocolate and dogs... While that remains true, the chocolate aspect was basically brushed aside and the sole focus was her volunteering job, which is in no way bad and is honestly quite refreshing, though just wasn't what I expected to read.
At first, nothing really stood out; everything felt very generic, not even the chocolate description was particularly memorable; to me, it felt like the author was trying to build an atmosphere, but I wasn't sold. I scoffed when our main girl Dakota was mentally drooling over our main guy Bryce, but that was when the author made the first save (thank Gawd), for this dude apparently doesn't like chocolate, so at least that was some sort of twist. xP
Just like the chocolate shop, Bryce's work as an architect (initially) felt ungrounded, like some background info that we had to know but not exactly detailed enough to be believable. At that point I basically decided everything else was secondary and I should probably be prepared to just be wowed by how their relationship folds out, which wasn't looking good cuz Bryce was downright a dick in the beginning. Thankfully, around that time, the author made her second save, this time, personally, I think it makes the book worth checking out. Walt, Bryce's father, is a likable character, him and descriptions on volunteering at the rescue all but made this book enjoyable.
I'm not some expert with animals, but as an illustrator, I had the foresight to know it's probably beneficial for me to know how to properly draw animals, so I'd taken an animal anatomy class where we'd draw live animals that were brought in or we'd go to zoos and horse stables. During that semester, some of the guests who brought in animals would talk about what being at animal shelters and volunteering was like. Like I said, I may not be exactly familiar with the situation, nor do I have a personal experience of it, but I commend McClone's effort, for what Dakota does, really felt just like what I've heard.
I felt Dakota's passion and love; to me it was convincing. As for Bryce, he came to life during chapter 6. Dakota's "Victorian-only-on-the-outside" house was great, it was darn interesting! Unfortunately, it also became what made me feel this book "didn't reach its full potential."
Honestly, after focusing on Dakota's participation with volunteer work, I was actually enjoying the book and looking forward to what I'd be reading..... but it sort of felt rushed towards the end? Like seriously, while Bryce realized he said some truly horrible stuff and immediately worked on making up for his actions, it takes time for the damage to be healed, you know? And we didn't get that; we kind of just get, "well, at least he said sorry". Well, SORRY, that's NOT GOOD ENOGUH for what's supposed to be a romance novel! Again, that's just my opinion. I mean, what Bryce did to apologize was great, don't get me wrong; but hurt was done, and I just didn't feel we had a full closure. Bryce seems like a person with anger management issue, and he lashed out his frustration on Dakota a few times in the book; to me, he's more like someone on probation you know? Nowhere near a full on boyfriend if he's just gonna be unreasonably rude every time he was upset.
Sighs. All in all, this book isn't bad, but I really feel it could have been even better. Not sure if anything got changed in the actual published edition, and if I wasn't clear, I do enjoy enough for not minding reading a few more times!
Manga recommendation:
While reading this book, it brought back memories of reading
(original Japanese title: 路地裏しっぽ診療所); animal lovers, I'd say this series is worth checking out! =D
It's a 3 for 3~3.75. In the end I still settled with a 3 cuz I "like" it, but not on the level of "really liking" it. I feel like there's something really good going on, but it didn't reach its full potential, but maybe that's just me.
A digitized ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have to write certain parts of my review in Chinese; don't worry, it's nothing bad; just that my first reaction can't really be fully described in English lol.
So, the lovely book cover and the promising blurb led me clicking the request button on NetGalley without further thoughts. I've not joined the website for long, and I didn't know what the chances are for me to be approved, so I figured hitting the button wouldn't hurt. When I got approved, that's when I headed to Goodreads and proceed to shelve it, only to find that there wasn't a page for it at the time. It was then I took a look at the other works by Author Melissa McClone, and to my horror, at the time, I could only form the following thoughts: "我的媽呀！？這難到就是傳說中的海外言小嗎！！！？？？xD" 好吧, 說是"言小"可能有些言重了, 畢竟就這一本來說, 是沒有什麼重口味的煽腥畫面; 但我的重點是我還真的沒有讀過明顯就是愛情小說的英文書啦xD
Anyways, once I got over my initial shock, with the fact that I've already been approved for the ARC, I figured there's always a first time for everything, might as well just take a leap of faith. My hopes of for the proportion of the following elements were quickly dashed, however:
Chocolate 33%, Dogs 33%, Romance 34%.
Not even: Chocolate 30%, Dogs 30%, Romance 40%.
To me, the book is more like:
Chocolate 6%, Dogs 47%, Romance 47%.
Or
Chocolate 6%, Dogs 52%, Romance 42%.
(Looking at it this way makes me feel better lol)
And well, despite not being a chocolate fan myself, what attracted me to this book was in fact the false impression that our main gal Dakota is fully surrounded by both chocolate and dogs... While that remains true, the chocolate aspect was basically brushed aside and the sole focus was her volunteering job, which is in no way bad and is honestly quite refreshing, though just wasn't what I expected to read.
At first, nothing really stood out; everything felt very generic, not even the chocolate description was particularly memorable; to me, it felt like the author was trying to build an atmosphere, but I wasn't sold. I scoffed when our main girl Dakota was mentally drooling over our main guy Bryce, but that was when the author made the first save (thank Gawd), for this dude apparently doesn't like chocolate, so at least that was some sort of twist. xP
Just like the chocolate shop, Bryce's work as an architect (initially) felt ungrounded, like some background info that we had to know but not exactly detailed enough to be believable. At that point I basically decided everything else was secondary and I should probably be prepared to just be wowed by how their relationship folds out, which wasn't looking good cuz Bryce was downright a dick in the beginning. Thankfully, around that time, the author made her second save, this time, personally, I think it makes the book worth checking out. Walt, Bryce's father, is a likable character, him and descriptions on volunteering at the rescue all but made this book enjoyable.
I'm not some expert with animals, but as an illustrator, I had the foresight to know it's probably beneficial for me to know how to properly draw animals, so I'd taken an animal anatomy class where we'd draw live animals that were brought in or we'd go to zoos and horse stables. During that semester, some of the guests who brought in animals would talk about what being at animal shelters and volunteering was like. Like I said, I may not be exactly familiar with the situation, nor do I have a personal experience of it, but I commend McClone's effort, for what Dakota does, really felt just like what I've heard.
I felt Dakota's passion and love; to me it was convincing. As for Bryce, he came to life during chapter 6. Dakota's "Victorian-only-on-the-outside" house was great, it was darn interesting! Unfortunately, it also became what made me feel this book "didn't reach its full potential."
Honestly, after focusing on Dakota's participation with volunteer work, I was actually enjoying the book and looking forward to what I'd be reading..... but it sort of felt rushed towards the end? Like seriously, while Bryce realized he said some truly horrible stuff and immediately worked on making up for his actions, it takes time for the damage to be healed, you know? And we didn't get that; we kind of just get, "well, at least he said sorry". Well, SORRY, that's NOT GOOD ENOGUH for what's supposed to be a romance novel! Again, that's just my opinion. I mean, what Bryce did to apologize was great, don't get me wrong; but hurt was done, and I just didn't feel we had a full closure. Bryce seems like a person with anger management issue, and he lashed out his frustration on Dakota a few times in the book; to me, he's more like someone on probation you know? Nowhere near a full on boyfriend if he's just gonna be unreasonably rude every time he was upset.
Sighs. All in all, this book isn't bad, but I really feel it could have been even better. Not sure if anything got changed in the actual published edition, and if I wasn't clear, I do enjoy enough for not minding reading a few more times!
Manga recommendation:
While reading this book, it brought back memories of reading
(original Japanese title: 路地裏しっぽ診療所); animal lovers, I'd say this series is worth checking out! =DNovember 11, 2016
I loved everything about this book. Melissa McClone has become one of my favorite authors. In this story we revisit Marietta, Montana, and, more specifically, the chocolate shop. Dakota Parker works there and also volunteers at Whiskers and Paws Pals, rescuing animals and finding them good homes (a cause near and dear to my own heart, I might add). Poor Dakota is recovering from a broken heart. Her fiance dumped her the day of their wedding, leaving Dakota to inform their invited guests as well as return all the wedding gifts. Now she's sworn off men. Or so she thinks until devastatingly handsome Bryce Cranston walks into the chocolate shop.
Bryce is in town to help his father, Walt, who broke both legs in a construction accident. A successful Seattle architect, Bryce is currently working on a proposal that, if accepted, would take his firm to the next level. He's only planning on staying in Marietta for a month, just enough time to convince his dad to move to Seattle so the two of them will be closer together and so Bryce won't have to take time off in order to be available for Walt. However, Walt loves the small town and the people he's met there. He has no intention of going anywhere. So he decides to play matchmaker for Dakota and Bryce, giving his son an incentive to remain in Marietta and running his business from there.
I loved the way the relationship slowly builds between Dakota and Bryce. Nothing felt rushed about it. Bryce had a goal when he arrived in town. He didn't count on meeting someone like Dakota. She's nothing like his former girlfriend who broke things off with Bryce when he decided to come to Marietta. Dakota works in the chocolate shop. Bryce hates chocolate. Dakota works with animals. Bryce is halfway scared of dogs and has no desire to be covered in animal hair or be licked in the face by some four legged creature. Still, there's something about Dakota, herself, that appeals to him. So when a pipe bursts at the shelter, he literally wades right into the fray, helping with the animals, passing out pizza, and giving solid advice to those responsible for the clean up.
While it takes some time for Bryce to finally ask Dakota out, they do spend time together before that, However, both are leery given Dakota's recent heartache and the fact Bryce will be leaving the moment Walt is back on his feet. And on that subject, Dakota thinks Bryce is wrong in trying to convince his dad to leave. His reason seems more about what he wants and not what's best for his dad.
The characters are people you can easily connect with. The setting is warm and inviting with the appeal of small town living. And the love story is sweet and nicely written. An all around fun read.
Bryce is in town to help his father, Walt, who broke both legs in a construction accident. A successful Seattle architect, Bryce is currently working on a proposal that, if accepted, would take his firm to the next level. He's only planning on staying in Marietta for a month, just enough time to convince his dad to move to Seattle so the two of them will be closer together and so Bryce won't have to take time off in order to be available for Walt. However, Walt loves the small town and the people he's met there. He has no intention of going anywhere. So he decides to play matchmaker for Dakota and Bryce, giving his son an incentive to remain in Marietta and running his business from there.
I loved the way the relationship slowly builds between Dakota and Bryce. Nothing felt rushed about it. Bryce had a goal when he arrived in town. He didn't count on meeting someone like Dakota. She's nothing like his former girlfriend who broke things off with Bryce when he decided to come to Marietta. Dakota works in the chocolate shop. Bryce hates chocolate. Dakota works with animals. Bryce is halfway scared of dogs and has no desire to be covered in animal hair or be licked in the face by some four legged creature. Still, there's something about Dakota, herself, that appeals to him. So when a pipe bursts at the shelter, he literally wades right into the fray, helping with the animals, passing out pizza, and giving solid advice to those responsible for the clean up.
While it takes some time for Bryce to finally ask Dakota out, they do spend time together before that, However, both are leery given Dakota's recent heartache and the fact Bryce will be leaving the moment Walt is back on his feet. And on that subject, Dakota thinks Bryce is wrong in trying to convince his dad to leave. His reason seems more about what he wants and not what's best for his dad.
The characters are people you can easily connect with. The setting is warm and inviting with the appeal of small town living. And the love story is sweet and nicely written. An all around fun read.
November 27, 2025
She loves chocolate and her dogs and her small town is paradise to her so why is she struggling to resist a city man who doesn’t like chocolate and hides a fear of dogs? This is not my first venture into Melissa McClone’s sweet holiday romance stories and I was in just the mood for a sample of her delicious Thanksgiving holiday romance.
A Thankful Heart is a standalone holiday romance from the multi-author Love at the Chocolate Shop series that is part of the Copper Mountain and Marietta, MT world of stories.
Dakota Parker got jilted at the altar and she got a late diagnosis of dyslexia making her feel inferior to other people and her talented brother and sister, in particular, so she is completely against any romantic entanglements. She puts all her time and energy into her job at the chocolate shop and her volunteer work at the animal shelter. She is content and even happy right up until Bryce Grayson comes in as a rude customer at the chocolate shop.
Their small town is tight and she soon learns he’s there to look after his dad who broke his legs in a fall. Bryce’s dad is one of her favorite people so no surprise they encounter one another again- and, he’s rude… again. Yet one of her shelter dogs is keen on him and her own heart can’t stay calm around him especially when he’s helpful when the shelter has a water line break and must be evacuated and he helps with the shelter events to adopt out the cats and dogs and raise the money needed by Thanksgiving.
Bryce knows he was out of line the way he treated his dad’s kind, sweet friend, Dakota, but he’s focused on making his stubborn dad join him in Seattle where they can be together. His dad insists he loves his town and isn’t lonely and that if Bryce wants to be together, he can do the uprooting and moving. Then, there’s Dakota who he can’t seem to stop thinking about and wanting to be with her. He even knows her secret about her learning disability and gives her full respect for writing up that shelter proposal and working tirelessly for the animals to find good homes and the smile she beams on everyone who comes into the chocolate shop even when she’s exhausted or sad. Too bad, he’s headed back to Seattle after Thanksgiving.
A Thankful Heart is quintessential holiday romance. The setting, activities, characters and romance development all come together with warmth and tenderness with holiday cheer. Even the conflict to the romance and the conflict they face together have a cozy edge to them. This was a charmer that is perfect for a free afternoon or to get one in the mood for the holidays.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer on 11.19.25.
A Thankful Heart is a standalone holiday romance from the multi-author Love at the Chocolate Shop series that is part of the Copper Mountain and Marietta, MT world of stories.
Dakota Parker got jilted at the altar and she got a late diagnosis of dyslexia making her feel inferior to other people and her talented brother and sister, in particular, so she is completely against any romantic entanglements. She puts all her time and energy into her job at the chocolate shop and her volunteer work at the animal shelter. She is content and even happy right up until Bryce Grayson comes in as a rude customer at the chocolate shop.
Their small town is tight and she soon learns he’s there to look after his dad who broke his legs in a fall. Bryce’s dad is one of her favorite people so no surprise they encounter one another again- and, he’s rude… again. Yet one of her shelter dogs is keen on him and her own heart can’t stay calm around him especially when he’s helpful when the shelter has a water line break and must be evacuated and he helps with the shelter events to adopt out the cats and dogs and raise the money needed by Thanksgiving.
Bryce knows he was out of line the way he treated his dad’s kind, sweet friend, Dakota, but he’s focused on making his stubborn dad join him in Seattle where they can be together. His dad insists he loves his town and isn’t lonely and that if Bryce wants to be together, he can do the uprooting and moving. Then, there’s Dakota who he can’t seem to stop thinking about and wanting to be with her. He even knows her secret about her learning disability and gives her full respect for writing up that shelter proposal and working tirelessly for the animals to find good homes and the smile she beams on everyone who comes into the chocolate shop even when she’s exhausted or sad. Too bad, he’s headed back to Seattle after Thanksgiving.
A Thankful Heart is quintessential holiday romance. The setting, activities, characters and romance development all come together with warmth and tenderness with holiday cheer. Even the conflict to the romance and the conflict they face together have a cozy edge to them. This was a charmer that is perfect for a free afternoon or to get one in the mood for the holidays.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer on 11.19.25.
October 31, 2016
The multi-author Love at the Chocolate Shop series continues with a tale of a giving woman and the closed-off man who doesn’t know a good thing when her rescue dog jumps all over him. It’s a lovely read that combines many things that I enjoy – Marietta, dogs, chocolate – and ends up with a sweet tale that I savoured.
Bryce isn’t always a great hero. His love for his father is the best thing about him, but his wish for his dad to move with him to Seattle is partly selfish and mostly driven by guilt. He’s a man who works hard but has almost forgotten to live a life beyond that. It was great to see him change during his stay in Marietta, even if his continued stubbornness on many points almost made me give up on him.
Unlike Dakota. She’s lovely. Friendly, generous, caring, she is everything that Bryce isn’t – especially at first. Her volunteer work with the rescue centre was great and I loved her foster pets – particularly young Rascal. I also liked that she wasn’t blown away by Bryce and did a good job of holding her own against him, especially when he’s so keen on leaving. She’s no pushover, even if she does have a marshmallow heart.
Alongside the romance we also see a few familiar Marietta faces and get a further glimpse of what may or may not be happening in Portia’s troubled life. There’s also the issue of the mysterious possible benefactor for the rescue centre, which left me very curious about what’s going on there.
In all, this was a lovely continuation of the series, perfect for fans of Marietta, chocolate and cute dogs, even if you’re new to the series. It was easy and sweet and enjoyable and I can’t wait to see where this series heads next, especially with Christmas just around the Marietta-calendar corner.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
Bryce isn’t always a great hero. His love for his father is the best thing about him, but his wish for his dad to move with him to Seattle is partly selfish and mostly driven by guilt. He’s a man who works hard but has almost forgotten to live a life beyond that. It was great to see him change during his stay in Marietta, even if his continued stubbornness on many points almost made me give up on him.
Unlike Dakota. She’s lovely. Friendly, generous, caring, she is everything that Bryce isn’t – especially at first. Her volunteer work with the rescue centre was great and I loved her foster pets – particularly young Rascal. I also liked that she wasn’t blown away by Bryce and did a good job of holding her own against him, especially when he’s so keen on leaving. She’s no pushover, even if she does have a marshmallow heart.
Alongside the romance we also see a few familiar Marietta faces and get a further glimpse of what may or may not be happening in Portia’s troubled life. There’s also the issue of the mysterious possible benefactor for the rescue centre, which left me very curious about what’s going on there.
In all, this was a lovely continuation of the series, perfect for fans of Marietta, chocolate and cute dogs, even if you’re new to the series. It was easy and sweet and enjoyable and I can’t wait to see where this series heads next, especially with Christmas just around the Marietta-calendar corner.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
November 4, 2016
Dakota Parker had two passions, chocolate and animals. When she wasn't working at Copper Mountain Chocolates, she could be found at Whiskers and Paw Pals. Volunteering filled her heart with joy and the animals gave her the love she craved. She didn't think she needed a man in her life until she met the son of one of her volunteers.
Bryce Grayson had rushed to His father's aid when he heard he had fallen off a ladder and had broken both legs. His goal was to convince his father to move back to Seattle with him where he could be closer if he needs help again. But Walt had created a life that he loved in Marietta and refuses to leave. He has friends that he sees often and volunteers at a local animal rescue.
When the animal shelter gets flooded and Walt can't help out, he sends Bryce in his place. Bryce figures it will give him something to do while he is in town. Bryce and Dakota soon find themselves drawn to each other and eventually start dating. They both no it can’t last as Bryce lives in another state. But who says they can’t enjoy themselves even if it is for a short time?
I really enjoyed this book. The animal rescue story was a nice addition to the romance. I also liked seeing how Bryce and Dakota overcame their hesitations about new relationships after they both had bad experiences in the past. The appearance of characters from past books also makes this book fun to read. If you are looking for a nice clean romance and love animals, this book is definitely for you.
Bryce Grayson had rushed to His father's aid when he heard he had fallen off a ladder and had broken both legs. His goal was to convince his father to move back to Seattle with him where he could be closer if he needs help again. But Walt had created a life that he loved in Marietta and refuses to leave. He has friends that he sees often and volunteers at a local animal rescue.
When the animal shelter gets flooded and Walt can't help out, he sends Bryce in his place. Bryce figures it will give him something to do while he is in town. Bryce and Dakota soon find themselves drawn to each other and eventually start dating. They both no it can’t last as Bryce lives in another state. But who says they can’t enjoy themselves even if it is for a short time?
I really enjoyed this book. The animal rescue story was a nice addition to the romance. I also liked seeing how Bryce and Dakota overcame their hesitations about new relationships after they both had bad experiences in the past. The appearance of characters from past books also makes this book fun to read. If you are looking for a nice clean romance and love animals, this book is definitely for you.
July 28, 2022
This story reads like a rough draft that needs a lot of work and it makes me angry on the author’s behalf that an editor didn’t take the time to make it the gem it could have been. Yes, Dakota loves working at the chocolate shop and her volunteering with rescue animals but other than learning she is dyslexic there is little discussion about her wishes, desires and dreams because they are never explored. Dakota was left at the altar on her wedding day but that happened in the past and her emotional pain is never explored. Bryce is a totally rigid man who lacks a background story and he gets angry when he doesn’t get what he wants. Oh, and he doesn’t like chocolate or dogs. Seriously? He’s in town as a caretaker for his father who has suffered two broken legs but Walt’s pain and suffering are never explored and Bryce never helps his father dress or bathe and fairies apparently help him to bed every night for a month. This father and son are estranged and have little to talk about except Walt moving to Seattle because it would be convenient for Bryce. There’s talk of a big architectural proposal Bryce is working on and he owns a company but he never actually calls or checks in at work. Huh? And don’t get me started on a month long friendship and non stop discussions about chocolate, pets and dog walks that suddenly turns to undying love when the magical happy ending should occur. Love is our most precious human emotion and that’s why I love romance books but the author never explores them so what is the point?
November 2, 2016
I love the Tule crew. They always deliver great books. I have read Melissa's book and fell into the story. This one was a breath holding story. Bryce's Dad Walt moved to Marietta, had a major accident and terrified his son. Bryce meets Dakota at her job in the chocolate shop. He is rude. Sage owns the shop and worries over Portia. Dakota volunteers at the Town's pet rescue. She finds out Bryce is scared of big dogs. The rescue is going broke and then their water pipes break. Now Dakota has to write a proposal and if all pets get forever homes they will get a major donation. Bryce wants Walt to come to come to his home to be closer and not be lonely. Bryce gets mad when Dakoa is on Walt's side. There are lots of side spoilers in this book. You will gasp in places and laugh in others. This story is for anyone to read. Give this book a chance and enjoy your reading! I have volunteered to read and review this book.
October 31, 2016
I found this to be a very sweet book. That pun was totally unintended. Bryce and Dakota are pushed together when Bryce comes to town to take care of his injured father and try to convince him to move to Seattle to be closer to him. Dakota loves the town of Marietta and the small community, friends and animals alike. She works at the chocolate shop and an animal rescue program. During his time in Marietta, Bryce's Dad pushes him to spend time with Dakota. He has every intention of returning to Seattle and taking his father with him, and nothing will stop him. Will his feelings for Dakota change that? Read this sweet romance, no cussing at all and only very little kissing. Kind of nice to have just a cute story for a change.
October 30, 2016
I alway love visiting my imaginary friends in Marietta, Montana and this story did not disappoint!! Bryce is a city boy who has comes to Marietta to take care of his father and try to covince him to move to the city so they could be closer but, he finds his head being turned by the beautiful girl who works in the chocolate shop and rescues animal to find them forever homes. Dakota is a small town girl dedicated to rescuing animals and being there for her friends and neighbors. Dakota and Bryce's story is sweet, fun and heartwarming and even sad at times. I LOVED it!! This is a well written, clean romance. I would recommend it to anyone who likes small town romances and chocolate!
June 20, 2017
I really really enjoyed this book. Melissa just knows how to write a good book in every book of hers that I read. This book will pull at your heart strings with a big tug in so many ways and that is what I like about her story lines! Melissa hit a grand slam with this book!
March 11, 2018
I enjoy Melissa McClone's writing and stories and most of her characters, but Bryce did get on my nerves. However, Dakota was wonderful and a delight to read about. I enjoy the Marietta stories and this was an interesting addition to the series.
October 3, 2024
Nice and easy read
I enjoyed this, a light, easy read with likable characters. Didn't realise it was book 2 until I'd almost finished it though.
I enjoyed this, a light, easy read with likable characters. Didn't realise it was book 2 until I'd almost finished it though.
November 8, 2016
Who doesn't love a story about chocolate an romance. Well I for one love it. Make sure you have some chocolate to hand while reading this book as it will have you craving it. My chocolate of choice is either Nutella or cadburys dairy milk cookies and cream. Yummy!!
What a lovely front cover. It made me want to read the book even before I knew what it was about.
No I know this book says it is part of a series but you really don't have to worry about that. Because even thou it is part of a series about a chocolate cafe seriously these books are pretty much all about chocolate. You don't need to read them in order. Because with every book in the series there is a different author. It is always the same characters plus a few extra. Which is nice as you get to catch up with what everyone has been doing. But the author changes every time. Which is also good because one of the ones I read I didn't like but I really enjoyed this one. So don't be deterred give another one a go.
Every time is read the title of this book A thankful heart it made me think of the song in the Muppets Christmas Carole that talks about having a thankful heart.
So the theme of this book is about a son needing to make up lost time with his father. Bryce's mother has passed away. Bryce moved away to go to college then started up his own business and didn't really ever return home. Now he is wishing that he did.
Byrce's dad has fallen and broken both of his legs. With no one else to depend on it is up to Bryce to look after him.
Bryce is a little bit annoying as he is so blinded by he own beliefs he doesn't stop and think what is best for his dad.
Bryce is determined his dad will move to Seattle so that he is closer for Bryce to keep an eye on him. Bryce knows his dad must be Lonly without his wife around anymore and has made up his mind.
What Bryce doesn't realise that living in the same town and house actually makes his dad feel closer to his mum and helps fill some of that gaping hole.
Enter Dakota Parker. Dakota knows about struggles she has been struggling to find a place she fits into since she was a child. As an kid of a veterans life wasn't easy for Dakota constantly moving all the time and never putting down any roots.
Dakota moved to Marietta when she was a teenager to live with her aunt and learned the same passions as her aunt. Taking care of rescuing animals. When Dakotas aunt passed away Dakota is left her aunts house and an inheritance which she has set up an animal shelter with which finds abandoned animals new homes.
Byrce's dad is involved in the animal shelter but Bryce doesn't like this one bit. Because of how close Bryce's dad and Dakota is Bryce gets intently the wrong end of the stick. Putting two and two together doesn't always come up with the right answer, and let's just say Bryce and Dakota don't exactly hit it off. Is there a budding romance waiting to bloom with these two?
I loved all the information about the animal shelter and the chocolate shop. I felt for Bryce's dad and liked Dakota. But at times I wanted to shake some sense into Bryce as he was just so blind sighted.
Overall I enjoyed this book the plot was good if predictable but that's ok it's sometimes nice to read a book that is straight down the middle where you don't need to consentrate too hard. I think this is good addition to the series.
Thank you to Netgalley, publishers and Melissa McClone for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
What a lovely front cover. It made me want to read the book even before I knew what it was about.
No I know this book says it is part of a series but you really don't have to worry about that. Because even thou it is part of a series about a chocolate cafe seriously these books are pretty much all about chocolate. You don't need to read them in order. Because with every book in the series there is a different author. It is always the same characters plus a few extra. Which is nice as you get to catch up with what everyone has been doing. But the author changes every time. Which is also good because one of the ones I read I didn't like but I really enjoyed this one. So don't be deterred give another one a go.
Every time is read the title of this book A thankful heart it made me think of the song in the Muppets Christmas Carole that talks about having a thankful heart.
So the theme of this book is about a son needing to make up lost time with his father. Bryce's mother has passed away. Bryce moved away to go to college then started up his own business and didn't really ever return home. Now he is wishing that he did.
Byrce's dad has fallen and broken both of his legs. With no one else to depend on it is up to Bryce to look after him.
Bryce is a little bit annoying as he is so blinded by he own beliefs he doesn't stop and think what is best for his dad.
Bryce is determined his dad will move to Seattle so that he is closer for Bryce to keep an eye on him. Bryce knows his dad must be Lonly without his wife around anymore and has made up his mind.
What Bryce doesn't realise that living in the same town and house actually makes his dad feel closer to his mum and helps fill some of that gaping hole.
Enter Dakota Parker. Dakota knows about struggles she has been struggling to find a place she fits into since she was a child. As an kid of a veterans life wasn't easy for Dakota constantly moving all the time and never putting down any roots.
Dakota moved to Marietta when she was a teenager to live with her aunt and learned the same passions as her aunt. Taking care of rescuing animals. When Dakotas aunt passed away Dakota is left her aunts house and an inheritance which she has set up an animal shelter with which finds abandoned animals new homes.
Byrce's dad is involved in the animal shelter but Bryce doesn't like this one bit. Because of how close Bryce's dad and Dakota is Bryce gets intently the wrong end of the stick. Putting two and two together doesn't always come up with the right answer, and let's just say Bryce and Dakota don't exactly hit it off. Is there a budding romance waiting to bloom with these two?
I loved all the information about the animal shelter and the chocolate shop. I felt for Bryce's dad and liked Dakota. But at times I wanted to shake some sense into Bryce as he was just so blind sighted.
Overall I enjoyed this book the plot was good if predictable but that's ok it's sometimes nice to read a book that is straight down the middle where you don't need to consentrate too hard. I think this is good addition to the series.
Thank you to Netgalley, publishers and Melissa McClone for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review
Happy reading everyone
October 30, 2016
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR & 1/2-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Watercolor effect illustration is super cute. Colors are vibrant and very reflective of the fall season. Blurb sounds enjoyable and sweet.
> > Looking Deeper < <
Third-person POV.
Bryce arrived in small-town Marietta, Montana to help his dad recover from a fall that resulted in him breaking both legs. Meanwhile, he planned on convincing his dad to move to Seattle to live closer to him.
Walt had no intentions of ever moving from Marietta, so he set into motion a plan to make his son want to leave the city-slicker life for something more charming, particularly a certain generous-hearted girl named Dakota.
After literally being left at the alter on her wedding day, Dakota swore all she needed was chocolates and the animals she fosters. Working at Copper Mountain Chocolates and volunteering at the shelter occupy most of her time, but she slowly learned that that may not be enough.
Bryce had some truly swoon-worthy moments, but boy... he suffered foot-in-mouth syndrome in a bad way when emotions and tempers were elevated. Dakota was a total sweetheart, willing to put everyone and everything above her own wants and needs continuously. Their relationship developed slowly. There were instant sparks of interest, yes... but they took their time getting to know each other & fearing they'd forever be placed in the other's "friend zone". The secondary characters were a wonderful addition to the cast, varying in personalities, but most were so very likeable. The interaction between cast was believable and the dialogue seemed natural.
The plot was not very dynamic, but it was full of content and flowed smoothly. There was little conflict other that what was self-imposed. Resolution was finally found and amends were made leaving no real loose ends for the main couple. Other areas were left open, but I imagine those will be touched on by the other authors in this collaboration (ie: Portia's situation, the mysterious benefactor, and the implied HEA for Bryce and Dakota - not to mention the continued recovery for Walt). There was a little bit of predictability, but it was done in a way that made you happy to be right. This story made me smile, laugh, and even cry. As the owner of a small mammal rescue, I can sympathize with the attachment Dakota felt to her fosters. Overall, this was a clean and charming small-town romance with endearing characters and enjoyable plot. I hope to have the opportunity to read more from this lovely little town.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.3 ~ Stars: 4 (4.5, if I could!)
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Watercolor effect illustration is super cute. Colors are vibrant and very reflective of the fall season. Blurb sounds enjoyable and sweet.
> > Looking Deeper < <
Third-person POV.
Bryce arrived in small-town Marietta, Montana to help his dad recover from a fall that resulted in him breaking both legs. Meanwhile, he planned on convincing his dad to move to Seattle to live closer to him.
Walt had no intentions of ever moving from Marietta, so he set into motion a plan to make his son want to leave the city-slicker life for something more charming, particularly a certain generous-hearted girl named Dakota.
After literally being left at the alter on her wedding day, Dakota swore all she needed was chocolates and the animals she fosters. Working at Copper Mountain Chocolates and volunteering at the shelter occupy most of her time, but she slowly learned that that may not be enough.
Bryce had some truly swoon-worthy moments, but boy... he suffered foot-in-mouth syndrome in a bad way when emotions and tempers were elevated. Dakota was a total sweetheart, willing to put everyone and everything above her own wants and needs continuously. Their relationship developed slowly. There were instant sparks of interest, yes... but they took their time getting to know each other & fearing they'd forever be placed in the other's "friend zone". The secondary characters were a wonderful addition to the cast, varying in personalities, but most were so very likeable. The interaction between cast was believable and the dialogue seemed natural.
The plot was not very dynamic, but it was full of content and flowed smoothly. There was little conflict other that what was self-imposed. Resolution was finally found and amends were made leaving no real loose ends for the main couple. Other areas were left open, but I imagine those will be touched on by the other authors in this collaboration (ie: Portia's situation, the mysterious benefactor, and the implied HEA for Bryce and Dakota - not to mention the continued recovery for Walt). There was a little bit of predictability, but it was done in a way that made you happy to be right. This story made me smile, laugh, and even cry. As the owner of a small mammal rescue, I can sympathize with the attachment Dakota felt to her fosters. Overall, this was a clean and charming small-town romance with endearing characters and enjoyable plot. I hope to have the opportunity to read more from this lovely little town.
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Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.3 ~ Stars: 4 (4.5, if I could!)
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I will leave my Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
November 3, 2016
A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone
Chocolate is better than men, and so are dogs. At least, that’s what Dakota Parker tells herself as she mends her broken heart and finds forever homes for rescue animals. So far, so good. She can indulge her love of chocolate where she works while her foster dogs provide her with the unconditional love she craves. What more does she need?
Seattle architect Bryce Grayson is counting the days until he can return home to the big city with his father in tow. That is if he can convince his dad to leave Montana. Bryce’s escape plan, however, goes astray when he meets Dakota. Her sweet kisses put the chocolate she sells to shame. Maybe he should be the one to move to Marietta, but could he be happy living in such a small town?
He has until Thanksgiving to decide.
this is Dakota Parker and Bryce Grayson's story.
A chocolate lover’s ambrosia. That was what Dakota Parker called the hot chocolate on the Copper Mountain Chocolates’ menu.
“Hot chocolate.” “That’s not so bad, but I don’t have time. I have a list of what I’d like to buy.” He thumbed the screen on his phone. “Two fudge truffles, two milk chocolate salted caramels, and a piece of the dark chocolate cherry hazelnut bark.”
will Dakota and Bryce be more than friends? read this book to find out.
A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone is a 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Melissa's Books with Tule:
Home for Christmas
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
Mistletoe Magic
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
The Honeymoon Prize
Ever After
Honeymoon
Kiss Me, Cowboy
Bar V5 Ranch
The 76th Copper Mountain Rodeo
The Copper Mountain Rodeo
Mistletoe Wedding
A Marietta Christmas
Bar V5 Ranch
Writing the Bestseller: Romantic and Commercial Fiction
Non-Fiction
The Cinderella Princess
Ever After
Royal Holiday
A Christmas Homecoming
Bar V5 Ranch
Christmas at the Castle
A Thankful Heart
Love at the Chocolate Shop
Love at the Chocolate Shop series
Book 1: Melt My Heart, Cowboy by C.J. Carmichael
Book 2: A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone
Book 3: Montana Secret Santa by Debra Salonen
Book 4: The Chocolate Cure by Roxanne Snopek
Book 5: The Valentine Quest by Melissa McClone
Chocolate is better than men, and so are dogs. At least, that’s what Dakota Parker tells herself as she mends her broken heart and finds forever homes for rescue animals. So far, so good. She can indulge her love of chocolate where she works while her foster dogs provide her with the unconditional love she craves. What more does she need?
Seattle architect Bryce Grayson is counting the days until he can return home to the big city with his father in tow. That is if he can convince his dad to leave Montana. Bryce’s escape plan, however, goes astray when he meets Dakota. Her sweet kisses put the chocolate she sells to shame. Maybe he should be the one to move to Marietta, but could he be happy living in such a small town?
He has until Thanksgiving to decide.
this is Dakota Parker and Bryce Grayson's story.
A chocolate lover’s ambrosia. That was what Dakota Parker called the hot chocolate on the Copper Mountain Chocolates’ menu.
“Hot chocolate.” “That’s not so bad, but I don’t have time. I have a list of what I’d like to buy.” He thumbed the screen on his phone. “Two fudge truffles, two milk chocolate salted caramels, and a piece of the dark chocolate cherry hazelnut bark.”
will Dakota and Bryce be more than friends? read this book to find out.
A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone is a 4 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Melissa's Books with Tule:
Home for Christmas
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
Mistletoe Magic
Bar V5 Ranch
Copper Mountain Christmas
The Honeymoon Prize
Ever After
Honeymoon
Kiss Me, Cowboy
Bar V5 Ranch
The 76th Copper Mountain Rodeo
The Copper Mountain Rodeo
Mistletoe Wedding
A Marietta Christmas
Bar V5 Ranch
Writing the Bestseller: Romantic and Commercial Fiction
Non-Fiction
The Cinderella Princess
Ever After
Royal Holiday
A Christmas Homecoming
Bar V5 Ranch
Christmas at the Castle
A Thankful Heart
Love at the Chocolate Shop
Love at the Chocolate Shop series
Book 1: Melt My Heart, Cowboy by C.J. Carmichael
Book 2: A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone
Book 3: Montana Secret Santa by Debra Salonen
Book 4: The Chocolate Cure by Roxanne Snopek
Book 5: The Valentine Quest by Melissa McClone
April 13, 2017
Review written: February 8, 2017
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☼☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
A Thankful Heart is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. It is a serious step up from the first book which I struggled with. Dakota and Bryce are characters I could mostly get into and the strong relationships really made this book.
Dakota is mostly happy with her job at the chocolate shop and with her volunteering. Sure, she's been hurt before but it's not front and center for her. She's doing what she loves and that's what really matters.
Enter Bryce. He's got more emotional baggage than Dakota but not in a romantic sense. His baggage comes in the form of family. He's a city boy, just trying to get his Dad to move to Seattle. He doesn't have time for romance or dogs.
But in the end, the magic of Marietta (and love) win the day. This is not an angsty book, nor is it fraught with struggles. It's a book about everyday love - the kind with ups and downs and making things work. It doesn't have or need a lot of emotional drama as Dakota and Bryce slip into each others' lives and hearts with a simple grace.
This review is ©February 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☼☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
A Thankful Heart is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. It is a serious step up from the first book which I struggled with. Dakota and Bryce are characters I could mostly get into and the strong relationships really made this book.
Dakota is mostly happy with her job at the chocolate shop and with her volunteering. Sure, she's been hurt before but it's not front and center for her. She's doing what she loves and that's what really matters.
Enter Bryce. He's got more emotional baggage than Dakota but not in a romantic sense. His baggage comes in the form of family. He's a city boy, just trying to get his Dad to move to Seattle. He doesn't have time for romance or dogs.
But in the end, the magic of Marietta (and love) win the day. This is not an angsty book, nor is it fraught with struggles. It's a book about everyday love - the kind with ups and downs and making things work. It doesn't have or need a lot of emotional drama as Dakota and Bryce slip into each others' lives and hearts with a simple grace.
This review is ©February 2017 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
November 2, 2016
A Thankful Heart by Melissa McClone is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series. I love this series and the manner in which the authors worked together to make this a seamless transition from book to book.
Mending a broken heart can be difficult as Dakota Parker has learned over the past year. Between her job at the chocolate shop and finding forever homes for rescue animals, Dakota has little time to dwell on finding a man. This way she can indulge her love of chocolate and receive the unconditional love she craves from her foster dogs.
Bryce Grayson came to Marietta to help his dad recover from falling off a ladder and breaking his two legs. This Seattle architect doesn’t understand the appeal of a small town and is counting the days until he return home with his father in tow. That’s the plan until Bryce meets Dakota. The more time the two spend together the more he wonders if he should abandon his plan and move to Marietta. Yet he doubts he could be happy living in a small town.
This was a sweet, fun and entertaining story with very likeable and authentic characters that you want to cheer on, hoping for that happy ending. The characters were well written with complex characteristics. The story line was riveting and kept my attention to the very end. I enjoyed reading this book and had trouble putting this book down, reading it in one day. I appreciate reading books by Ms. McClone as she is a wonderful story teller. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Mending a broken heart can be difficult as Dakota Parker has learned over the past year. Between her job at the chocolate shop and finding forever homes for rescue animals, Dakota has little time to dwell on finding a man. This way she can indulge her love of chocolate and receive the unconditional love she craves from her foster dogs.
Bryce Grayson came to Marietta to help his dad recover from falling off a ladder and breaking his two legs. This Seattle architect doesn’t understand the appeal of a small town and is counting the days until he return home with his father in tow. That’s the plan until Bryce meets Dakota. The more time the two spend together the more he wonders if he should abandon his plan and move to Marietta. Yet he doubts he could be happy living in a small town.
This was a sweet, fun and entertaining story with very likeable and authentic characters that you want to cheer on, hoping for that happy ending. The characters were well written with complex characteristics. The story line was riveting and kept my attention to the very end. I enjoyed reading this book and had trouble putting this book down, reading it in one day. I appreciate reading books by Ms. McClone as she is a wonderful story teller. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 26, 2016
After being left at the alter, Dakota Parker is finished with men. Her part time work at Copper Mountain Chocolates and volunteering at the animal rescue center is all she needs in her life. When her friend, Walt, had an accident, breaking both legs, his son, Bryce Grayson came to take care of him. Bryce lived in Seattle and wanted is dad to come back with him. But Walt was happy in Marietta, Montana and didn't want to move. He wanted Bryce to move to Montana. Once he saw the attraction between Dakota and Bryce, he started to play matchmaker.
I really liked the characters in this story. Dakota is such a caring person and is always thinking of others before herself. But the way she worked so hard to find forever homes for the animals proved what a wonderful person she was. Bryce was pretty self centered at first with his mind made up that his father had to move. As he relaxed in the small town he realized that his father was happy there. That made Bryce rethink his decision to get his father to move to Seattle with him.
This is a sweet small town romance that leaves you with a smile on your face.
Please note that I received a complementary copy of this book but I'm reviewing it on my own as I do with everything I read.
I really liked the characters in this story. Dakota is such a caring person and is always thinking of others before herself. But the way she worked so hard to find forever homes for the animals proved what a wonderful person she was. Bryce was pretty self centered at first with his mind made up that his father had to move. As he relaxed in the small town he realized that his father was happy there. That made Bryce rethink his decision to get his father to move to Seattle with him.
This is a sweet small town romance that leaves you with a smile on your face.
Please note that I received a complementary copy of this book but I'm reviewing it on my own as I do with everything I read.
December 18, 2016
A man who wanted nothing more than move his father to Seattle and leave Marietta behind… A woman who loved animals and chocolates more than any man… An attraction that cannot be denied, yet their connection was doomed right from the start.
Ahh, I love a great story that involves dogs and chocolates and city men wearing cowboy suits. A Thankful Heart is a very nice and heartwarming story about two people who do not want the same things in life but are bound to fall in love and break each other's heart. Dakota is my muse, I love her relationship with the people of Marietta and the animals she help protect and shelter. Plus, she works in a chocolate shop! I'd gladly trade places with her anytime. Bryce, on the other hand, isn't a book-boyfriend material to me, coz boy, he could be stubborn and selfish and annoying. But I am thankful to Melissa McClone for this another beautiful story that made me crave for my happy foods and made my heart grin like a dog's. This is a highly recommended afternoon read!
Ahh, I love a great story that involves dogs and chocolates and city men wearing cowboy suits. A Thankful Heart is a very nice and heartwarming story about two people who do not want the same things in life but are bound to fall in love and break each other's heart. Dakota is my muse, I love her relationship with the people of Marietta and the animals she help protect and shelter. Plus, she works in a chocolate shop! I'd gladly trade places with her anytime. Bryce, on the other hand, isn't a book-boyfriend material to me, coz boy, he could be stubborn and selfish and annoying. But I am thankful to Melissa McClone for this another beautiful story that made me crave for my happy foods and made my heart grin like a dog's. This is a highly recommended afternoon read!
November 3, 2016
*I voluntarily read a Review Copy via Net Galley. All opinion stated are solely my own and no one else's*
I enjoyed Bryce and Dakota's story, it was sweet, heartwarming with realistic characters.
Bryce came across quite snobby in the beginning but as the story progressed, he became more laid back, caring and helpful.
Dakota was an extraordinary woman: she had a big heart and goes above and beyond to help animals. I couldn't stop laughing at her reaction when she first saw Bryce - poor girl had to make sure she wasn't "drooling" or "open mouthed" lol.
Dakota and Bryce had a slow burn romance but it develops steadily. Their emotions, feelings and insecurities are captured beautifully throughout. The dogs were adorable and were integrated really well into the story. I liked how the small community of Marietta came together to support, help and adopt animals.
I enjoyed Bryce and Dakota's story, it was sweet, heartwarming with realistic characters.
Bryce came across quite snobby in the beginning but as the story progressed, he became more laid back, caring and helpful.
Dakota was an extraordinary woman: she had a big heart and goes above and beyond to help animals. I couldn't stop laughing at her reaction when she first saw Bryce - poor girl had to make sure she wasn't "drooling" or "open mouthed" lol.
Dakota and Bryce had a slow burn romance but it develops steadily. Their emotions, feelings and insecurities are captured beautifully throughout. The dogs were adorable and were integrated really well into the story. I liked how the small community of Marietta came together to support, help and adopt animals.
November 11, 2016
A Thankful Heart is the second book in the Love at the Chocolate Shop series by Tule Publishing. This book is written by Melissa McClone. I have read McClone's books before and have always enjoyed them.
Dakota Parker is a very likeable character who rescues animals as well as working in Sage's chocolate shop. Bryce Grayson is a Seattle architect whose father lives in Marietta. Bryce's dad has had an accident and Bryce has come to help for a month. He fully intends to take his father back to Seattle with him. He is a stubborn guy and not very likeable for the most part.
Bryce is interested in Dakota but has not intention of sticking around town. She knows this and continues to be drawn to him. One of them is going to have to budge if their relationship has any chance of succeeding.
Well written and an enjoyable read. Good addition to the Love at the Chocolate Shop series.
Dakota Parker is a very likeable character who rescues animals as well as working in Sage's chocolate shop. Bryce Grayson is a Seattle architect whose father lives in Marietta. Bryce's dad has had an accident and Bryce has come to help for a month. He fully intends to take his father back to Seattle with him. He is a stubborn guy and not very likeable for the most part.
Bryce is interested in Dakota but has not intention of sticking around town. She knows this and continues to be drawn to him. One of them is going to have to budge if their relationship has any chance of succeeding.
Well written and an enjoyable read. Good addition to the Love at the Chocolate Shop series.
November 3, 2016
Loved reading about Sage's Copper Mountain Chocolate shop and the people that work there and the ones that drop in for some decadent chocolates and hot chocolate.And this book has a bonus, an animal shelter and you get to meet and care about some of the homeless animals.
And this is Dekota and Bryce's story, they are both just out of serious relationships and not wanting to get involved again but they are both instantly attracted to the other.
So I recommend this book, especially to Marietta fans, but I must warn you things between Dekota and Bryce just seems to not run smooth, but you will be rooting for them and of course for the animals to find just the right homes.
And this is Dekota and Bryce's story, they are both just out of serious relationships and not wanting to get involved again but they are both instantly attracted to the other.
So I recommend this book, especially to Marietta fans, but I must warn you things between Dekota and Bryce just seems to not run smooth, but you will be rooting for them and of course for the animals to find just the right homes.
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