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Blindsided
Guide dog trainer Lenae McIntyre left the high-speed world of television news writing behind, and now she helps other visually impaired people adjust to life with their canine companions. She teaches her students and their dogs to trust each other, but a past betrayal and the determination to be self-sufficient and independent keep her from trusting her heart to see love.
Cara Bradley compensates for her family’s shallow celebrity lifestyle by devoting her life to helping others, while keeping to the background. She reluctantly commits to a year of puppy walking a four-legged whirlwind named Pickwick so she can film regular segments for a local news program while helping promote the McIntyre Training Center, but she is unprepared for the changes that the driven and aloof Lenae will bring to her life.
Blindsided by love, can Lenae and Cara learn to trust and guide each other toward a new vision for their future?
Cara Bradley compensates for her family’s shallow celebrity lifestyle by devoting her life to helping others, while keeping to the background. She reluctantly commits to a year of puppy walking a four-legged whirlwind named Pickwick so she can film regular segments for a local news program while helping promote the McIntyre Training Center, but she is unprepared for the changes that the driven and aloof Lenae will bring to her life.
Blindsided by love, can Lenae and Cara learn to trust and guide each other toward a new vision for their future?
Audiobook
First published August 17, 2014
18 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Karis Walsh
33 books152 followersKaris Walsh is a native of the Pacific Northwest and an adopted citizen of Texas. When she isn’t wrapped up in a book—either reading or writing one—she spends her time with her animals, playing music on her viola or violin, or hiking among the prickly pears.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 18, 2020
Both the protagonists were well-developed and very likable. The slow development of Lenae and Cara's emotional connection and the way their feelings were described over every little touch between them was really impressive. The book very skilfully describes the experiences of a visually impaired person (like the blindfold scene). Cute puppies was definitely a big plus.
November 25, 2018
Hmm I don't know why I'm still trying Karis Walsh books. Maybe because they are mostly easy to read I guess. The writing is fluid and engaging.
I felt a bit sad and totally annoyed when the two main meets and yep here it goes again insta lust. Even if it was a slow romance in the end, at the moment I was pissed.
But the issues are also similar.
Really ? Are all her books like that ? Gorgeous befautiful people with trust issues, isolated and masked ?
The only somewhat ok part is that this book adresses some questions on disability and validism. It could have more depth but it's better than most.
I felt a bit sad and totally annoyed when the two main meets and yep here it goes again insta lust. Even if it was a slow romance in the end, at the moment I was pissed.
But the issues are also similar.
Really ? Are all her books like that ? Gorgeous befautiful people with trust issues, isolated and masked ?
The only somewhat ok part is that this book adresses some questions on disability and validism. It could have more depth but it's better than most.
July 6, 2014
If you’re a “show, don’t tell” kind of person, Blindsided is not for you. This story leaves little to the imagination. I lost count of how many times the author explained why Lenae and Cara are the way they are. Judging only by the characters, I’m sure that this book would make a better impression under the "new adult" category, with different situations and, of course, younger MCs.
Media personality Cara, with that need to please her parents, sometimes sounds like an emo teenager. She’s so full of self-doubt; I had a hard time picturing her as a journalist and/or a teacher. Not to mention that her insecurities are cliché and annoying. Oh, the burden of being gorgeous!
As a visually impaired woman who cherishes her independence, guide dog trainer Lenae is slightly more interesting than Cara, but I expected more from her: more depth, maybe a bit of angst or attitudes that evoke mixed emotions... She doesn’t want to be seen as weak or helpless, but her supposed stubbornness gets old really fast. I liked her kind of humor, but it was not enough to keep me interested. Unfortunately, her relationship with Cara walked in circles for much longer than I was willing to wait.
*ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.*
Media personality Cara, with that need to please her parents, sometimes sounds like an emo teenager. She’s so full of self-doubt; I had a hard time picturing her as a journalist and/or a teacher. Not to mention that her insecurities are cliché and annoying. Oh, the burden of being gorgeous!
“I don’t have any special abilities like you do. I spend my life sharing stories about people who use their time and talent to help others, but I don’t do anything of my own.” – Cara
As a visually impaired woman who cherishes her independence, guide dog trainer Lenae is slightly more interesting than Cara, but I expected more from her: more depth, maybe a bit of angst or attitudes that evoke mixed emotions... She doesn’t want to be seen as weak or helpless, but her supposed stubbornness gets old really fast. I liked her kind of humor, but it was not enough to keep me interested. Unfortunately, her relationship with Cara walked in circles for much longer than I was willing to wait.
*ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley.*
August 18, 2014
I was entranced, startled, and had my heart stolen, all by the puppies and the guide dogs! Most of the story takes place in Washington State’s Puget Sound region and I rather fell in love with that part of world, too, along with the puppies. Additionally, the women are pretty amazing, but the animals unequivocally stole the show when they were front and center. Furthermore, I was thrilled to learn so much about what it takes to bring an initially suitable puppy right up to guide dog status...it is a multi-year operation and commitment by the training facility and a host of volunteers. Impressive!
Lenae McIntyre has been vision impaired since birth. That is a very different scenario than for someone who loses their eyesight later in life, but either way it is an on-going and never to be forgotten element in the life of someone who doesn't have their eyes to assist them in all the things that life throws at anyone. Her relationship to her guide dog, Baxter, is just a miracle to behold. She, herself, is pretty darn special, too, but with all manner of curious personality adaptations along with some very impressive skills. She made a major life decision that turned her work world completely upside down and eventually required her to seek additional assistance pretty much counter to her core lifestyle. The world really needs to bring itself up to speed about how many assumptions and miscues it makes when dealing with vision impaired individuals. Along with a fascinating story and growing love affair, I hope that message makes it out to world too. Incredible!
Cara Bradley is the youngest child from a very talented, fairly famous acting family. This life situation has molded and formed her style, desires, and rebellions from very early on. She battles with a sense of inadequacy, a desire to make a difference, and a bottomless need for her parents to just love and support her. If only there were a parallel training facility for her like the guide dog operation that could smooth away her sense of inadequacy, let her feel loved, and see that some folks are honest, true, and caring. I rooted for Cara although she looked as though she had been pretty thoroughly convinced herself there were no silver linings in this world. She really doesn't know what hits her when she interviews Lenae McIntyre for her “Around the Sound” public television show. Astounding!
This was simply a thoroughly enjoyable and eye-opening book. Although I truly enjoyed the hot goings-on in the bedroom scenes, they were icing on the cake. The trials and tribulations that face our leading ladies were definitely delightful side jaunts, while the wondrous elements associated with the fabulous puppies, guide dogs, and all the elements of the training facility swept me off my feet. I hope everybody on the planet reads this book and enjoys the incredible journey of all the characters, but especially the ones the animals take. Superlative!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Lenae McIntyre has been vision impaired since birth. That is a very different scenario than for someone who loses their eyesight later in life, but either way it is an on-going and never to be forgotten element in the life of someone who doesn't have their eyes to assist them in all the things that life throws at anyone. Her relationship to her guide dog, Baxter, is just a miracle to behold. She, herself, is pretty darn special, too, but with all manner of curious personality adaptations along with some very impressive skills. She made a major life decision that turned her work world completely upside down and eventually required her to seek additional assistance pretty much counter to her core lifestyle. The world really needs to bring itself up to speed about how many assumptions and miscues it makes when dealing with vision impaired individuals. Along with a fascinating story and growing love affair, I hope that message makes it out to world too. Incredible!
Cara Bradley is the youngest child from a very talented, fairly famous acting family. This life situation has molded and formed her style, desires, and rebellions from very early on. She battles with a sense of inadequacy, a desire to make a difference, and a bottomless need for her parents to just love and support her. If only there were a parallel training facility for her like the guide dog operation that could smooth away her sense of inadequacy, let her feel loved, and see that some folks are honest, true, and caring. I rooted for Cara although she looked as though she had been pretty thoroughly convinced herself there were no silver linings in this world. She really doesn't know what hits her when she interviews Lenae McIntyre for her “Around the Sound” public television show. Astounding!
This was simply a thoroughly enjoyable and eye-opening book. Although I truly enjoyed the hot goings-on in the bedroom scenes, they were icing on the cake. The trials and tribulations that face our leading ladies were definitely delightful side jaunts, while the wondrous elements associated with the fabulous puppies, guide dogs, and all the elements of the training facility swept me off my feet. I hope everybody on the planet reads this book and enjoys the incredible journey of all the characters, but especially the ones the animals take. Superlative!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 10, 2017
3.5 Stars A "re-read" this time the audiobook. Rounded up to 4 stars.
I think I liked the audio version slightly more than when I read it. Added 0.5 stars for Narrator Betsy Zajko who does a fine job. She chose not to give the two main characters vastly different voices. Which worked pretty well.
If you love dogs, you'll love this book. If you love when the MCs assume what the other wants instead of having a discussion, you'll love this book. The requisite angst before the HEA.
I think I liked the audio version slightly more than when I read it. Added 0.5 stars for Narrator Betsy Zajko who does a fine job. She chose not to give the two main characters vastly different voices. Which worked pretty well.
If you love dogs, you'll love this book. If you love when the MCs assume what the other wants instead of having a discussion, you'll love this book. The requisite angst before the HEA.
October 13, 2019
The story was amazing - the description of the the life of the blind Lenae had me totally hooked, as did her preferred life choices. A heart-warming and uplifting book. Superb. And you can quote me on that!
August 14, 2015
The mixture of initial antagonism, then deeper understanding of each other's personality, and guide dog stuff made for an entertaining read. Although, I would have loved it more if Cara's parents got a talking to or got slapped with something... :)
August 16, 2014
Walking a character through real personal growth is a real achievement. Cara starts the book in a bad place, disrespecting the very skills that make her good at her job. She can't value her contribution and she can't stop doing the work. I admire the way Walsh wrote her coming to a more adult and stronger self-image.
Lenae struggles with something I'm more familiar with - such a strong and independent presentation that it can get in the way of engaging with people and allowing vulnerability. I like that she was able to resolve this without having to be weakened in any way, just opened up.
I like more detailed, lavish sex scenes, but these did the job of letting you know that they were physically into each other.
The emotional high point for me, though, wasn't part of the love story.
In the end, a good read, emotionally satisfying, with a believable HEA.
Lenae struggles with something I'm more familiar with - such a strong and independent presentation that it can get in the way of engaging with people and allowing vulnerability. I like that she was able to resolve this without having to be weakened in any way, just opened up.
I like more detailed, lavish sex scenes, but these did the job of letting you know that they were physically into each other.
The emotional high point for me, though, wasn't part of the love story.
In the end, a good read, emotionally satisfying, with a believable HEA.
August 27, 2014
Karis Walsh always comes up with charming Traditional Romances with interesting characters who have slightly unusual quirks.
In this one Lenae is cut off, after being used by her last girlfriend, and Walsh uses the characters blindness as a great tool to reflect her fierce independence and determination to literally “walk alone” - dependent only on the faithful seeing-eye companion dog Baxter.
Cara, on the other hand, ‘has it all’ beautiful, talented, rich, famous - and hollow. Cara is is blind to the gifts she has to offer and sees only the beauty which is skin deep and the failure to match up to her parents expectations. Between them the make a charming whole, reflecting and reinforcing each other, supporting each others weakness.
The plot is straightforward but well done. The supporting cast, mainly made up of dogs, add fun and colour. The subject seems well researched as always and the plot, themes and characters have a cohesion which makes their lives and tales believable without becoming mundane.
I always enjoy Karis Walsh’s books. This one is a light, easy read, enjoyable and entertaining.
Cara, on the other hand, ‘has it all’ beautiful, talented, rich, famous - and hollow. Cara is is blind to the gifts she has to offer and sees only the beauty which is skin deep and the failure to match up to her parents expectations. Between them the make a charming whole, reflecting and reinforcing each other, supporting each others weakness.
The plot is straightforward but well done. The supporting cast, mainly made up of dogs, add fun and colour. The subject seems well researched as always and the plot, themes and characters have a cohesion which makes their lives and tales believable without becoming mundane.
I always enjoy Karis Walsh’s books. This one is a light, easy read, enjoyable and entertaining.
August 31, 2014
I really liked this story. It takes you into the world of training dogs for the blind. It was a great well-developed plot and great character development. The connection between Cara and Lenae is nicely developed with their mutual trust issues and independence. There is always more than meets the eye (visual), and the book goes on a journey using all 5 senses (touch, sound, smell, taste). Good job ;) I'd say 4,5 stars ;)
January 4, 2016
I was a little nervous going into this one because I didn't really like the author's last book. I really enjoyed this one, although not as much as Harmony or Improvisation. I liked seeing each of the main characters work through their personal issues, and the dogs were great characters too. Sweet, satisfying ending. I'll be sure to check out her next book.
August 27, 2016
My first book by this author. Let me see if I can do the math this time: fourth book that involved a blind main character, third that was a romance, second that involved lesbians.
This book, like the one I read the night before, follows two point of views. One involving a sighted person, one involving a blind person, though unlike the previous book, this blind person had been blind since birth.
Lenae McIntyre had been a news writer back in New York, but several events pushed her away from that lifestyle. And toward one where she felt she could help others in a different way - by putting together a guide dog training center.
Cara Bradley is from a long line of performers. She was thrust into acting before she could even act. The only time her parents seem to direct affection in her direction seems to be when cameras are rolling and filming them. She also feels the need to help others, and uses her background to be a host of her own show on public television. Interviewing people doing things like Lenae does - training guide dogs for the blind.
One thing leads to another, and Cara ends up with a puppy from the center. She'll be a puppy-walker, someone who helps train dogs for their guide life by familiarizing puppies with the world around them, and getting them ready for the next step wherein they would begin to train. So, despite the idea she would meet Lenae once and then be out of her life for good, taking on the responsibility of being a puppy-walker will force Cara and Lenae to interact for a year or more. Which helps both overcome their individual barriers they had built up over the years.
I liked the book. I seem to end up saying things like "good solid book" and leaving it at that, but I'm not really sure what else to say. The scene on the plane with the puppy was interesting. The sighted person wearing a blindfold and being guided by a dog out in actual streets with live traffic was neat. The main conflict point seemed to be, yet again, deeply connected to communication, or lack of communication. Well, in this case, assumptions made and then not adequately communicating when those wrong assumptions were made.
This book, like the one I read the night before, follows two point of views. One involving a sighted person, one involving a blind person, though unlike the previous book, this blind person had been blind since birth.
Lenae McIntyre had been a news writer back in New York, but several events pushed her away from that lifestyle. And toward one where she felt she could help others in a different way - by putting together a guide dog training center.
Cara Bradley is from a long line of performers. She was thrust into acting before she could even act. The only time her parents seem to direct affection in her direction seems to be when cameras are rolling and filming them. She also feels the need to help others, and uses her background to be a host of her own show on public television. Interviewing people doing things like Lenae does - training guide dogs for the blind.
One thing leads to another, and Cara ends up with a puppy from the center. She'll be a puppy-walker, someone who helps train dogs for their guide life by familiarizing puppies with the world around them, and getting them ready for the next step wherein they would begin to train. So, despite the idea she would meet Lenae once and then be out of her life for good, taking on the responsibility of being a puppy-walker will force Cara and Lenae to interact for a year or more. Which helps both overcome their individual barriers they had built up over the years.
I liked the book. I seem to end up saying things like "good solid book" and leaving it at that, but I'm not really sure what else to say. The scene on the plane with the puppy was interesting. The sighted person wearing a blindfold and being guided by a dog out in actual streets with live traffic was neat. The main conflict point seemed to be, yet again, deeply connected to communication, or lack of communication. Well, in this case, assumptions made and then not adequately communicating when those wrong assumptions were made.
September 2, 2015
I enjoyed it more than Karis Walsh's other book that I read recently but something about it didn't connect with me. I liked the characters and their interaction, especially about the blindness. But the transitions in their relationship were not very well developed. There was no real buildup of their interest in one another, it happened fairly organically without much discussion. Which is fine in real life but felt underdeveloped in a story. Still worth a read for the dog training parts.
January 23, 2015
Another great read from Karis Walsh. Actually a great listen. I bought this one in audiobook. Good narration, and a great story involving a blind-from-birth character and a sighted character whose career was all about appearances. Very interesting combination and great contrasting points of view.
November 13, 2016
https://inkmarksonemptydreams.com/201...
Lenae McIntyre is a visually impaired woman who happens to love women and she is a dog trainer now, running her Dog training center in a small town trying to help other visually impaired people to find a companion for life after she was in such a program and found Baxter, her labrador. She used to work as a feature writer for the Nation’s News Network, but she left the media world full of betrails and back stabbs, especially coming from her former lover Traci. She’s bold, strong, beautiful, intelligent, yet not reading people quite well. She just wants to run her center, helped by Des, but she needs some funding to maker her five years plan for the center work, so she needs a local tv show for some publicity, more clients, puppy walkers and perhaps a sponsor, yet still she secretly searches for love or at least she has to face the attraction she can’t deny nor forget.
Cara Bradley is a local reporter of a beautiful charity show that promotes special cases of people which make this world a better place, called „Around the sound” and teaches a great course at the University about how much family roots influences one’s character.. She wants to stay in the background and to promote these wonderful people, because she wants to make a difference. She’s a beautiful woman and has everything her heart desires as a member of the Bradley family with a shallow celebrity lifestyle, her mother is a famous actress, her father a national known reporter and her brother Richard a famous script writer and actor. He seemed to have escaped easily his parents’ expectations of fame and followed his talent, somehow siding Cara, who was never as good enough as him and although, she played in commercials before she could walk and tried to pleased her parents by searching fame, yet they never understood Cara nor her real talent, being beautiful yet bringing other gifted and philantropists in front of the camera. She was betrayed by a number of women who only dated her for her family’s fame and favors. She wanted to please her public, but she didn’t wanted to be like her fame hungry parents, nor use people in the search of it.
They met when Cara wants to make a tv show about Lenae’s dog center and their characters collide at first, yet afterwards they manage to know each other and understand characters, talents and flaws. They fall for each other without knowing when filming Lenae’s center, Cara’s blindfolded puppy walking Toby and knowing Baxter, Lenae’s dog. Cara finds Lenae sophisticated and very much attractive through her boldness and straightforwardness, yet Lenae belives Cara is using this local show to find a national job, especially when Cara’s father calls Lenae and says he will support through a grant and a nationwide show her center all at Cara’s suggestion. Of course, it’s not true, it’s all his idea for his daughter to find fame at the national network he works for in NY, yet he manages to make Cara become a puppy walker for a year with puppy labrador Pickwick at Lenae’s side and perform a show at his network.
Lenae is dissapointed , yet she slowly falls for Cara’s hear, soul, voice and heart. She doesn’t want to be an obstacle in Cara’s on air personna’s rise, yet she’s hurt that Cara may have used her for fame especially after their passionate, heartfelt lovemaking in New Yoor after the show and karaoke’s night out.
„Cara’s touch was different. Respectful and minimal, although it generated a sensation of heat along Lenae’s collarbone and against her belly when Cara clipped the equipment in place. Cara was dangerous. She seemed to know how to use her voice to seduce and charm. She left a trail of electricity everywhere her skimming fingers touched. She even had Baxter enamored of her. But she was still dangerous. She could lead Lenae to believe everything she said. She had already stirred up Lenae’s arousal until she compliantly let Cara take charge of the mic even though Lenae had used one before and could have wired herself up in less time. Every place where Lenae had the potential to be weak, Cara was strong.”
Cara knows she’s in love with Lenae from the moment she asked her students to help in cleaning Lenae’s center, paint the fence and making an aromatic plants’ basket for Lenae, she loves Pickwick and training him and having him in her life and Lenae is sophisticated and attractive in the most beautiful way Cara has ever know, she loves the way Lenae understood her intimate thoughts, her real self and her on air personna and her Channel is intoxicating. Their lovemaking is wonderful after the show in New York and Cara’s karaoke night out.
They are transfixed by love and charity and somehow loves finds a way to sidetrack Cara’s bad family’s values and life happily ever after.
„“I’ve wanted to kiss you for a long time, but I expected it to be kind of wild. Like the surface of the ocean during a storm. Not…”
“Not a deep, strong current.” Lenae finished her sentence.”
Lenae McIntyre is a visually impaired woman who happens to love women and she is a dog trainer now, running her Dog training center in a small town trying to help other visually impaired people to find a companion for life after she was in such a program and found Baxter, her labrador. She used to work as a feature writer for the Nation’s News Network, but she left the media world full of betrails and back stabbs, especially coming from her former lover Traci. She’s bold, strong, beautiful, intelligent, yet not reading people quite well. She just wants to run her center, helped by Des, but she needs some funding to maker her five years plan for the center work, so she needs a local tv show for some publicity, more clients, puppy walkers and perhaps a sponsor, yet still she secretly searches for love or at least she has to face the attraction she can’t deny nor forget.
Cara Bradley is a local reporter of a beautiful charity show that promotes special cases of people which make this world a better place, called „Around the sound” and teaches a great course at the University about how much family roots influences one’s character.. She wants to stay in the background and to promote these wonderful people, because she wants to make a difference. She’s a beautiful woman and has everything her heart desires as a member of the Bradley family with a shallow celebrity lifestyle, her mother is a famous actress, her father a national known reporter and her brother Richard a famous script writer and actor. He seemed to have escaped easily his parents’ expectations of fame and followed his talent, somehow siding Cara, who was never as good enough as him and although, she played in commercials before she could walk and tried to pleased her parents by searching fame, yet they never understood Cara nor her real talent, being beautiful yet bringing other gifted and philantropists in front of the camera. She was betrayed by a number of women who only dated her for her family’s fame and favors. She wanted to please her public, but she didn’t wanted to be like her fame hungry parents, nor use people in the search of it.
They met when Cara wants to make a tv show about Lenae’s dog center and their characters collide at first, yet afterwards they manage to know each other and understand characters, talents and flaws. They fall for each other without knowing when filming Lenae’s center, Cara’s blindfolded puppy walking Toby and knowing Baxter, Lenae’s dog. Cara finds Lenae sophisticated and very much attractive through her boldness and straightforwardness, yet Lenae belives Cara is using this local show to find a national job, especially when Cara’s father calls Lenae and says he will support through a grant and a nationwide show her center all at Cara’s suggestion. Of course, it’s not true, it’s all his idea for his daughter to find fame at the national network he works for in NY, yet he manages to make Cara become a puppy walker for a year with puppy labrador Pickwick at Lenae’s side and perform a show at his network.
Lenae is dissapointed , yet she slowly falls for Cara’s hear, soul, voice and heart. She doesn’t want to be an obstacle in Cara’s on air personna’s rise, yet she’s hurt that Cara may have used her for fame especially after their passionate, heartfelt lovemaking in New Yoor after the show and karaoke’s night out.
„Cara’s touch was different. Respectful and minimal, although it generated a sensation of heat along Lenae’s collarbone and against her belly when Cara clipped the equipment in place. Cara was dangerous. She seemed to know how to use her voice to seduce and charm. She left a trail of electricity everywhere her skimming fingers touched. She even had Baxter enamored of her. But she was still dangerous. She could lead Lenae to believe everything she said. She had already stirred up Lenae’s arousal until she compliantly let Cara take charge of the mic even though Lenae had used one before and could have wired herself up in less time. Every place where Lenae had the potential to be weak, Cara was strong.”
Cara knows she’s in love with Lenae from the moment she asked her students to help in cleaning Lenae’s center, paint the fence and making an aromatic plants’ basket for Lenae, she loves Pickwick and training him and having him in her life and Lenae is sophisticated and attractive in the most beautiful way Cara has ever know, she loves the way Lenae understood her intimate thoughts, her real self and her on air personna and her Channel is intoxicating. Their lovemaking is wonderful after the show in New York and Cara’s karaoke night out.
They are transfixed by love and charity and somehow loves finds a way to sidetrack Cara’s bad family’s values and life happily ever after.
„“I’ve wanted to kiss you for a long time, but I expected it to be kind of wild. Like the surface of the ocean during a storm. Not…”
“Not a deep, strong current.” Lenae finished her sentence.”
November 15, 2014
Got an advance copy from netgalley for an honest review.
I loved reading this book, the dogs were just amazing and so were the two main characters. It takes a lot to train a dog, it takes even more to train a dog to lead the blind. Finding a right fit takes skill and it’s that kind of skill that Lenae has. Being betrayed before has made her a little skittish when Cara comes into her life. She doesn't trust her and thinks that Cara is just trying to use her to get ahead in her career. It takes a while for Lenae to see the person underneath and realizes that Cara loves her job but is not willing to use people like the rest of her family does.
Cara’s connection with Pickwick made me laugh. She could have easily given up and returned him but she stuck through and gave him to his permanent owner. It was a sad graduation day but it was also happy and fulfilling. In the end Cara still has Lenae and Baxter to keep her life fulfilled and entertained. I have no problem recommending this book, if you love dogs and a whirlwind romance then this is the book for you.
I loved reading this book, the dogs were just amazing and so were the two main characters. It takes a lot to train a dog, it takes even more to train a dog to lead the blind. Finding a right fit takes skill and it’s that kind of skill that Lenae has. Being betrayed before has made her a little skittish when Cara comes into her life. She doesn't trust her and thinks that Cara is just trying to use her to get ahead in her career. It takes a while for Lenae to see the person underneath and realizes that Cara loves her job but is not willing to use people like the rest of her family does.
Cara’s connection with Pickwick made me laugh. She could have easily given up and returned him but she stuck through and gave him to his permanent owner. It was a sad graduation day but it was also happy and fulfilling. In the end Cara still has Lenae and Baxter to keep her life fulfilled and entertained. I have no problem recommending this book, if you love dogs and a whirlwind romance then this is the book for you.
December 16, 2020
Big fan of Karis Walsh. I absolutely love Blindsided. Cara, Lenae, Baxter, and Pickwick stole my heart. I wish I could be a puppy walker. To help someone achieve that connection that Baxter and Lenae have found would be amazing. Like Cara though I’d be a mess when it was time to say goodbye. I’m not a fan of Cara’s parents. Cara’s astray story breaks my heart. I’m so happy she’s found Lenae to love her completely. I hate how Lenae’s ex used her and she closed her heart off from the hurt. It’s beautiful how Cara makes her open up again and how Cara see’s her and doesn’t let her disappear in a crowd. I love them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2017
Great book
Love story yes. Sassy moments yes. Dogs... oh yes! But this book, is more than that, the message the author convey is important. Wether to teach you not to belittle individuals to connecting with your surroundings to give a chance and not judge. This was a beautiful story and a nice surprise! I didn't expect this powerful of a story. Great book, well done and I look forward to your next book Karis Walsh.
Love story yes. Sassy moments yes. Dogs... oh yes! But this book, is more than that, the message the author convey is important. Wether to teach you not to belittle individuals to connecting with your surroundings to give a chance and not judge. This was a beautiful story and a nice surprise! I didn't expect this powerful of a story. Great book, well done and I look forward to your next book Karis Walsh.
May 10, 2020
Classic Love story
I figured I'd like this book because of the dogs, and I was in the mood for a little romance. turns out I loved this book because of the people (not characters, people). the romance was so smoothly intertwined with the plot that I felt like I was taking part in their lives. I figure I might read this book again, and again.
I figured I'd like this book because of the dogs, and I was in the mood for a little romance. turns out I loved this book because of the people (not characters, people). the romance was so smoothly intertwined with the plot that I felt like I was taking part in their lives. I figure I might read this book again, and again.
October 15, 2017
i loved this book . my expectations weren't that high particularly bcoz i wasn't sure the theme would click with my interests but it was written so well and the whole training aspect was written in enough quantity to make the reader understand what that is about & at the same time not extending it to a boring level . worth the time , truly.
September 9, 2017
What's not to love about lesbians and their furry companions?
March 28, 2020
I debated between 2 and 3 stars with this book because, while it’s not exactly poorly written, it never quite grabbed me in a meaningful way. I liked the the protagonists and understood their fear and motivations, but I always felt they were too much at a distance for me to really feel what the words on the page told me I should be feeling. And it wasn’t just the characters—the whole story always felt incomplete, like if only there was more space to tell the story, that feeling of connection could have been achieved. I did settle on 3 stars, which is probably entirely too generous, but there were cute dogs. So that’s deserving of a rounding up on its own.
**Okay, so tangent about Bold Stroke Books since I’m new to ff romance. I’m noticing that BSB books usually end around page 230. This one was 231 pages, e.g. This can’t be a coincidence, right? It also explains why for the vast majority of BSB books I read, I wish the story went just a little bit longer. And the stories would be better with another 30-75 pages, including Blindsided. And it’s heartbreaking because BSB publishes some of the best ff romance and authors I’ve come across. So I’m glad writers like Jae and EJ Noyes and Rachel Spangler are publishing with other publishers who don’t seem to be limiting their authors to a ridiculously small page limit. Of course, maybe it’s a coincidence?**
**Okay, so tangent about Bold Stroke Books since I’m new to ff romance. I’m noticing that BSB books usually end around page 230. This one was 231 pages, e.g. This can’t be a coincidence, right? It also explains why for the vast majority of BSB books I read, I wish the story went just a little bit longer. And the stories would be better with another 30-75 pages, including Blindsided. And it’s heartbreaking because BSB publishes some of the best ff romance and authors I’ve come across. So I’m glad writers like Jae and EJ Noyes and Rachel Spangler are publishing with other publishers who don’t seem to be limiting their authors to a ridiculously small page limit. Of course, maybe it’s a coincidence?**
August 27, 2014
*I received a copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Cara Bradley is the host of a local TV show, where she covers human interest stories and local charities and non-profits. Cara grew up in a famous family, the daughter of a sitcom actress and a sportscaster, and sister of one of the area's best Shakespearean actors. Her family doesn't take her "little show" seriously and is constantly pressuring her to move on to something bigger, and in their option better, but that has never been Cara's dream. Growing up in a family that is all about performing for the public, even when it came to family matters, made Cara very cynical about the other's intentions. While she loves making her show, she often feels as though she is just a pretty face with no real subsistence, and wonders if the people she interviews really care, or are just putting on a show for the camera.
Lenae has been blind her entire life and recently started a center that provides seeing eye dogs for other visually impaired people. Having been a news writer for one of the nations largest TV news networks, Lenae is familiar with just how shallow and cut throat those in the journalism field can be. So when her training center is set to be feature on Cara's show "Around the Sound" Lenae has her doubts about who would really benefit from it. But if she's honest with herself,she has to admit that her center needs the exposure Cara's show would bring.
While Cara and Lenae are immediately attracted to each other, neither think that they would ever work out as a couple. But when a one time interview turns into a year long project with Cara caring for one of Lenae's puppies named Pickwick, Lenae and Cara find themselves thrown together often. Soon they realize that there are other sides to each of them that they hadn't seen before, and maybe they are actually just right for each other.
I enjoyed reading this book, but there were a few issues that bothered me. I thought that both Lenae and Cara, with their trust and self confidence issues, were interesting contradictions. They were both strong characters, but also both very vulnerable about specific things. Cara always wondered if people were really interested in her, or if they were looking for connections with her famous family. Lenae feared showing weakness or seeming incompetent to anyone. I really liked how both Cara and Lenae were able to help each other address their issues and fears. I liked that they built up a friendship first, and really got to know each other through out the book. I really loved the way that they communicated with each other. Some of my favorite scenes are when Cara describes the artwork, and the scenery at the beach to Lenae, and Lenae shows Cara how to experience New York from her sightless point of view. I though those scenes, and others, were beautifully written and gave me new insight on how visually impaired people conceptualize the things that we see everyday. I also really loved the humor brought to the story by puppy Pickwick, and the extra emotion and insight into visually impaired people's process of obtaining a guide dog, especially in the case of Gene and Toby. I think the love scenes were very well written, although they weren't what I'd consider steamy, they were definitely entertaining. I especially liked the realization that getting to touch and feel Cara, was Lenae's only way of "seeing" her. I think that really increased the intimacy factor and made it all the more romantic.
I am a sucker for a grand gesture, so I loved how Lenae declares her love in the end, it was really sweet. I was really happy that we got an epilogue (although it isn't labeled that, but it's about a year after the main story ends)because I really wanted to see how the characters reacted to Pickwick's graduation from puppy to guide dog because this was the very first bone of contention between Cara and Lenae and I think the author did a great job of portraying Cara's emotions without either trivializing them or making it overly dramatic.
Blindsided didn't read like a typical romance, it was more like chick lit with a HEA, which is still good. Reading on Kindle, I got to a little past 70% before either main character admitted that they had romantic feelings for each other. And while I enjoyed the story, I kept wishing they would get to it already.
I liked both Cara and Lenae, but they both had some very serious trust issues, which held back the relationship through out the entire book, especially on Lenae's part. Everytime she would doubt Cara, and Cara would come through, Lenae would admit she was wrong, and I though "yay, issue resolved," only to have her go back to those same doubts over and over again. It also seemed as though the author repeated things a bit in the writing, like the character's internal dialogue (which makes sense since they are worried about the same issues over and over, but it was repeated almost word for word in some spots). And while Cara did somewhat stand up to her parents, I wish that there had been some kind of breakthrough with her family, I would have liked to see her talk to them about her emotions and how their actions during her childhood still affected her. I just kind of held on to hope that they actually did care and that they would somehow show that to her, or if not, at least know so that they could feel guilt, or remorse, or something but it never happened.
This was the first book that I've read by Karis Walsh, and I think she is a very talented writer and I think I'd enjoy reading more from her in the future.
Cara Bradley is the host of a local TV show, where she covers human interest stories and local charities and non-profits. Cara grew up in a famous family, the daughter of a sitcom actress and a sportscaster, and sister of one of the area's best Shakespearean actors. Her family doesn't take her "little show" seriously and is constantly pressuring her to move on to something bigger, and in their option better, but that has never been Cara's dream. Growing up in a family that is all about performing for the public, even when it came to family matters, made Cara very cynical about the other's intentions. While she loves making her show, she often feels as though she is just a pretty face with no real subsistence, and wonders if the people she interviews really care, or are just putting on a show for the camera.
Lenae has been blind her entire life and recently started a center that provides seeing eye dogs for other visually impaired people. Having been a news writer for one of the nations largest TV news networks, Lenae is familiar with just how shallow and cut throat those in the journalism field can be. So when her training center is set to be feature on Cara's show "Around the Sound" Lenae has her doubts about who would really benefit from it. But if she's honest with herself,she has to admit that her center needs the exposure Cara's show would bring.
While Cara and Lenae are immediately attracted to each other, neither think that they would ever work out as a couple. But when a one time interview turns into a year long project with Cara caring for one of Lenae's puppies named Pickwick, Lenae and Cara find themselves thrown together often. Soon they realize that there are other sides to each of them that they hadn't seen before, and maybe they are actually just right for each other.
I enjoyed reading this book, but there were a few issues that bothered me. I thought that both Lenae and Cara, with their trust and self confidence issues, were interesting contradictions. They were both strong characters, but also both very vulnerable about specific things. Cara always wondered if people were really interested in her, or if they were looking for connections with her famous family. Lenae feared showing weakness or seeming incompetent to anyone. I really liked how both Cara and Lenae were able to help each other address their issues and fears. I liked that they built up a friendship first, and really got to know each other through out the book. I really loved the way that they communicated with each other. Some of my favorite scenes are when Cara describes the artwork, and the scenery at the beach to Lenae, and Lenae shows Cara how to experience New York from her sightless point of view. I though those scenes, and others, were beautifully written and gave me new insight on how visually impaired people conceptualize the things that we see everyday. I also really loved the humor brought to the story by puppy Pickwick, and the extra emotion and insight into visually impaired people's process of obtaining a guide dog, especially in the case of Gene and Toby. I think the love scenes were very well written, although they weren't what I'd consider steamy, they were definitely entertaining. I especially liked the realization that getting to touch and feel Cara, was Lenae's only way of "seeing" her. I think that really increased the intimacy factor and made it all the more romantic.
I am a sucker for a grand gesture, so I loved how Lenae declares her love in the end, it was really sweet. I was really happy that we got an epilogue (although it isn't labeled that, but it's about a year after the main story ends)because I really wanted to see how the characters reacted to Pickwick's graduation from puppy to guide dog because this was the very first bone of contention between Cara and Lenae and I think the author did a great job of portraying Cara's emotions without either trivializing them or making it overly dramatic.
Blindsided didn't read like a typical romance, it was more like chick lit with a HEA, which is still good. Reading on Kindle, I got to a little past 70% before either main character admitted that they had romantic feelings for each other. And while I enjoyed the story, I kept wishing they would get to it already.
I liked both Cara and Lenae, but they both had some very serious trust issues, which held back the relationship through out the entire book, especially on Lenae's part. Everytime she would doubt Cara, and Cara would come through, Lenae would admit she was wrong, and I though "yay, issue resolved," only to have her go back to those same doubts over and over again. It also seemed as though the author repeated things a bit in the writing, like the character's internal dialogue (which makes sense since they are worried about the same issues over and over, but it was repeated almost word for word in some spots). And while Cara did somewhat stand up to her parents, I wish that there had been some kind of breakthrough with her family, I would have liked to see her talk to them about her emotions and how their actions during her childhood still affected her. I just kind of held on to hope that they actually did care and that they would somehow show that to her, or if not, at least know so that they could feel guilt, or remorse, or something but it never happened.
This was the first book that I've read by Karis Walsh, and I think she is a very talented writer and I think I'd enjoy reading more from her in the future.
December 14, 2019
All in all: cute romance with lots of dogs.
I can't shake the feeling that a visually impaired person wouldn't like this book very much, though. Don't get me wrong - I think it's very well-intentioned and tries to treat the topic with respect, but it's clearly written from a seeing perspective and shares very very basic information about the community. If I were the blind main character, I'd have been constantly annoyed for at least half the book (inappropriate touching, insensitive comments about blindness, "fun" surprises, inaccessible picture presentations that are supposed to be romantic etc).
I can't shake the feeling that a visually impaired person wouldn't like this book very much, though. Don't get me wrong - I think it's very well-intentioned and tries to treat the topic with respect, but it's clearly written from a seeing perspective and shares very very basic information about the community. If I were the blind main character, I'd have been constantly annoyed for at least half the book (inappropriate touching, insensitive comments about blindness, "fun" surprises, inaccessible picture presentations that are supposed to be romantic etc).
May 15, 2022
There's nothing strictly wrong about it, but nothing is particularly right either. It's just about as generic as it gets: 0 surprises, very little to even write about. It's about 95% pure fluff with very little plot, the characters are super generic cookie cutter interpretations of exactly one overplayed insecurity/flaw each (a. the previously betrayed one who pushes people away b. the unappreciated beautiful person c. the cartoon villain evil parents who like money and fame and nothing else).
Dogs are cute and all, but they can't hold up a novel. There has to be some plot beyond "cute dog go woof woof"
Dogs are cute and all, but they can't hold up a novel. There has to be some plot beyond "cute dog go woof woof"
March 2, 2022
I liked both main characters and of course loved the dogs but I couldn’t connect fully with the story and I think it was because of the pacing and the continuous change of POV’s. I think it’s have worked better if we stayed with one character and the change of POV was signaled some way but it happened suddenly and left me “lost” as to whom was talking until I got the whole scene again and that stopped me from feeling the story rather than trying to know whose voice I was listening to. Other than that, as I said, a very pleasant book.
July 7, 2017
I didn't enjoy this one much at all. I liked the idea of the book and I love the guide dog/puppy training aspect. Unfortunately, I didn't feel any chemistry at all between the couple and their constant doubts were just too much for me to get past. I probably would have gone 1.5 but am rounding up because of the dogs.
Unless I hear differently from a friend I trust, this will very likely be my last book by the author.
Unless I hear differently from a friend I trust, this will very likely be my last book by the author.
March 29, 2018
This book is slow moving and could be over look for the tender story this is. It a story of self discovery and inner judgement. It is about learning to love yourself while learning to love another and it is about trust. Great book. It is a sweet story of a deep soul love connection that took 2 woman from being to living.
June 24, 2020
First book by this author and it won't be my last. Wonderful read. Lenae was hesitant and cautious for good reason and Carac wasn't as shallow as she seemed. Each brought something into their friendship and more. Really enjoyed getting a sense of guide dogs and a world I don't know. Fantastic read
October 30, 2025
Karis Walsh does an incredible job helping readers understand an industry. It's very well written
Also, it makes me look at these books that are rated below 4.
In my opinion this book totally deserves a 4.3
Also, it makes me look at these books that are rated below 4.
In my opinion this book totally deserves a 4.3
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