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Like Cats and Dogs: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
Laura is drifting through life. Spencer has the next decade perfectly planned. Laura loves her dog Frank. Spencer pampers his cat Mozart. Both humans have nothing in common, but when there's a mix-up with a vacation rental house, they're suddenly stuck together. At first, they fight like cats and dogs. Yet they can't deny that opposites definitely attract. Can they find a way to share a roof without driving each other crazy...or falling in love? This funny, feel-good romance contains a free Hallmark original recipe for S'mores Waffles.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2019
26 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Stanton
7 books36 followersAlexis Stanton is the pen name for an award-winning romance author who lives in Central California with her husband, a fellow romance author, and their two cats. She enjoys spending too much time on the internet, baking, and listening to music from the '80s.
Pseudonym for Eva Leigh
Pseudonym for Eva Leigh
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
April 15, 2018
Fun, light cozy-romance with an opposites attract conflict and humor spread throughout. Laura is an accountant who lives and works with her parents. She takes her part-beagle dog and heads off on a two week vacation in hopes of figuring out who she really is and what she’s meant to do in life. She loves photography, loud pop music, and junk food. Spencer Hodkins is a grad student struggling to write his dissertation in the field of psychology, but his muse is blocked. He’s eating raw food for a month, loves classical music, peace & quiet, and his cat, Mozart.
When the rental contracts seemingly get mixed up and they’re forced to share the same house, Laura and Spencer clash about like Frank and Mozart do! The homeowner, Ellen, who also owns a local art gallery, becomes a mentor to Laura teaching her valuable lessons about photography. Spencer’s muse returns after he spends a few days with Laura, and the words start to flow.
I really enjoyed relaxing and reading this story about two star-crossed people. That their pets played outstanding secondary characters was a huge delight! The ending is sweet and the author includes a sweet recipe for S’mores French Toast.
I read and reviewed a digital arc from NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing.
When the rental contracts seemingly get mixed up and they’re forced to share the same house, Laura and Spencer clash about like Frank and Mozart do! The homeowner, Ellen, who also owns a local art gallery, becomes a mentor to Laura teaching her valuable lessons about photography. Spencer’s muse returns after he spends a few days with Laura, and the words start to flow.
I really enjoyed relaxing and reading this story about two star-crossed people. That their pets played outstanding secondary characters was a huge delight! The ending is sweet and the author includes a sweet recipe for S’mores French Toast.
I read and reviewed a digital arc from NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing.
April 21, 2018
Who can resist true love and everything that comes stringed along with it, from the beautiful strains of Vivaldi to the hip hop peppy beats of Rihanna. The love can travel along the rhythms of music to flow along the rhythms of the hearts, binding them together, forever. Aah... That's the power of true love.
This book based on the Hallmark Channel original movie, just multiplies this love between two characters who live life in diametrically opposite ways.
Spencer loves rules, Laura lives life on the flow. Spencer eats healthy food, Laura loves s'mores and pizza. Spencer loves his cat, Laura loves her dog. But live strikes both of them equally!!
The author Alexis Stanton has written this book in such a refreshing manner that I couldn't help but fall in love with both Spencer and Laura. She has developed the characters so beautifully, that I couldn't help but look at the ways they were so different, yet having their common meeting points where they were so similar. And it is both friendship, liking, and then love which gives both the characters a depth to accept each other and probably take on each other's characteristics at some point to make their life enriching.
After reading intense books, it was so wonderful and uplifting to read this book, where love, fun, humor, and innocence resides. The book says it is heart warming, and boy, does Alexis deliver that in spades.
The story by Alexis Stanton, warmed the cockles of my heart, and her description of the ways of Spencer was hilarious. One such description is Spencer's definition of love
"When we talk about connecting with someone, all we really mean is that their neural biochemistry, in some ways influences our neural biochemistry, resulting in a reaction that people call love."
Well, I can only reiterate these words and say my neural biochemistry matched with the author's and we both fell in love with this book. A cozy way to spend Saturday afternoon!!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher Hallmark Publishing, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This book based on the Hallmark Channel original movie, just multiplies this love between two characters who live life in diametrically opposite ways.
Spencer loves rules, Laura lives life on the flow. Spencer eats healthy food, Laura loves s'mores and pizza. Spencer loves his cat, Laura loves her dog. But live strikes both of them equally!!
The author Alexis Stanton has written this book in such a refreshing manner that I couldn't help but fall in love with both Spencer and Laura. She has developed the characters so beautifully, that I couldn't help but look at the ways they were so different, yet having their common meeting points where they were so similar. And it is both friendship, liking, and then love which gives both the characters a depth to accept each other and probably take on each other's characteristics at some point to make their life enriching.
After reading intense books, it was so wonderful and uplifting to read this book, where love, fun, humor, and innocence resides. The book says it is heart warming, and boy, does Alexis deliver that in spades.
The story by Alexis Stanton, warmed the cockles of my heart, and her description of the ways of Spencer was hilarious. One such description is Spencer's definition of love
"When we talk about connecting with someone, all we really mean is that their neural biochemistry, in some ways influences our neural biochemistry, resulting in a reaction that people call love."
Well, I can only reiterate these words and say my neural biochemistry matched with the author's and we both fell in love with this book. A cozy way to spend Saturday afternoon!!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher Hallmark Publishing, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 15, 2018
Laura Haley and Spencer Hodkins couldn’t more different like Cats and Dogs. Or can they? They both rent this Home in South Haven thinking they will have this time to them selfs but are thrown together for the next 2 weeks.
I like Laura because she is care free, easy going and very optimistic. She had a good attitude in any situation. Even if her doesn’t go as plan she is will to try to make the best of it. She has a dog named Frank.
Spencer drove me nuts he was so stiff at first. He has to have things his way. He even made them a list of rules to follow. I would have been out of there in a heart beat. His girlfriend is just as bad. She keeps calling about his Dissertation and she can’t bother to tell the poor guy she loves him. He has a cat named Motzart.
But as time goes on it is fun to see Laura and Spencer change. I love how Laura learns to change her photography and grow as an artist. I don’t think Spencer would have been able to finish is paper with out having meet Laura. They needed each other more that they know. Also there is a fun little thing about the rental that you find in the end!!! It is a fun clean read.
{ I received a copy from Hallmark through Netgalley and Liz Isaacson. This my honest opinion.}
I like Laura because she is care free, easy going and very optimistic. She had a good attitude in any situation. Even if her doesn’t go as plan she is will to try to make the best of it. She has a dog named Frank.
Spencer drove me nuts he was so stiff at first. He has to have things his way. He even made them a list of rules to follow. I would have been out of there in a heart beat. His girlfriend is just as bad. She keeps calling about his Dissertation and she can’t bother to tell the poor guy she loves him. He has a cat named Motzart.
But as time goes on it is fun to see Laura and Spencer change. I love how Laura learns to change her photography and grow as an artist. I don’t think Spencer would have been able to finish is paper with out having meet Laura. They needed each other more that they know. Also there is a fun little thing about the rental that you find in the end!!! It is a fun clean read.
{ I received a copy from Hallmark through Netgalley and Liz Isaacson. This my honest opinion.}
April 16, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Seriously, how cute is this little book?
As I have said before and I will say it again, I am completely in love with Hallmark Channel. I was a big fan of this movie when it came out and I was very excited to be reading it in book form.
This is an easy and light read. I love how the author shares more into the characters' lives than just what's seen on screen. And she included new material in the novel that wasn't quite in the movie but worked perfectly together.
I highly recommend this book. Like all Hallmark material, this book is clean and sweet. And if you have time, make sure to check out the Hallmark Original Movie "Like Cats And Dogs."
Seriously, how cute is this little book?
As I have said before and I will say it again, I am completely in love with Hallmark Channel. I was a big fan of this movie when it came out and I was very excited to be reading it in book form.
This is an easy and light read. I love how the author shares more into the characters' lives than just what's seen on screen. And she included new material in the novel that wasn't quite in the movie but worked perfectly together.
I highly recommend this book. Like all Hallmark material, this book is clean and sweet. And if you have time, make sure to check out the Hallmark Original Movie "Like Cats And Dogs."
April 28, 2018
This was a fun, heart-warming read abour a woman with her dog and a man with his cat who get stuck in a rental house on the beach that they were both approved to rent for two weeks. When they discover that there are no other available rentals they decide to stay and make the best of it. This turns out to be easier said than done. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 30, 2019
I would like to thank netgalley and Hallmark Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Spencer is desperate to finish his doctoral dissertation and heads to South Haven to get rid of any distractions. Laura is working for her parents and living at home, a trip South Haven may help her figure out her future.
However the house they rented was double booked and their stuck together along with Spencer's car and Laura's dog.
This is really cute and exactly what you would expect from a book from Hallmark.
Spencer is desperate to finish his doctoral dissertation and heads to South Haven to get rid of any distractions. Laura is working for her parents and living at home, a trip South Haven may help her figure out her future.
However the house they rented was double booked and their stuck together along with Spencer's car and Laura's dog.
This is really cute and exactly what you would expect from a book from Hallmark.
April 13, 2024
It was a fun fluffy read but the dog and cat are what made it so much fun to read
May 16, 2018
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
Again, Hallmark authors have raised the bar, and I am thoroughly excited to continue to review these books. When this book first premiered on the Hallmark Channel, at the best, it was a little bit above average, in my opinion. Fun story, good actors, but I wasn't particularly overwhelmed with the story. Picking up this book to read didn't excite me all that much in the beginning.
However, the minute I began reading, this novelization captivated me! I felt as though I understood the motivation behind the characters' actions, and the banter between the main couple was even better on paper than it was in the film. The characters who were sweet in the film but may have only been two-dimensional became three-dimensional with the dynamic descriptions and inner dialogue.
By in large, the absolute best part of the book was the cat and dog! Yes, I adored reading about these pets who truly propelled the story forward and continued to draw their prospective masters together in sometimes unexpected ways. In truth, I can hardly wait to see this movie again and watch it through the author lens and perspective that Alexis Stanton shared.
Again, Hallmark authors have raised the bar, and I am thoroughly excited to continue to review these books. When this book first premiered on the Hallmark Channel, at the best, it was a little bit above average, in my opinion. Fun story, good actors, but I wasn't particularly overwhelmed with the story. Picking up this book to read didn't excite me all that much in the beginning.
However, the minute I began reading, this novelization captivated me! I felt as though I understood the motivation behind the characters' actions, and the banter between the main couple was even better on paper than it was in the film. The characters who were sweet in the film but may have only been two-dimensional became three-dimensional with the dynamic descriptions and inner dialogue.
By in large, the absolute best part of the book was the cat and dog! Yes, I adored reading about these pets who truly propelled the story forward and continued to draw their prospective masters together in sometimes unexpected ways. In truth, I can hardly wait to see this movie again and watch it through the author lens and perspective that Alexis Stanton shared.
July 8, 2018
Disappointed
I expected an expansion of the TV script with lots of characters thoughts and perhaps even some expanded story line, but the expansion was minimal and read seemed to be aimed at adolescents. It was my first Hallmark book and cost was 5.99 and I am not sure it was worth that or my time. Makes me a little gun shy on further Hallmark books that didn’t start out as a book.
I expected an expansion of the TV script with lots of characters thoughts and perhaps even some expanded story line, but the expansion was minimal and read seemed to be aimed at adolescents. It was my first Hallmark book and cost was 5.99 and I am not sure it was worth that or my time. Makes me a little gun shy on further Hallmark books that didn’t start out as a book.
August 13, 2018
Like Cats and Dogs: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
By Alexis Stanton
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
Laura isn’t exactly unhappy with her life, but she isn’t dancing on cloud nine either. With two weeks away from “real” life in an idyllic location with nothing but her camera and little dog, Frank, Laura is hoping to find some clarity, some direction. She’s tired of simply drifting through life and is ready to make some hard choices related to her future. Unfortunately, the rental agency has made an incredible error, and Laura and Frank’s idyllic location is marred by the presence of the single-most uptight human in the history of ever.
Spencer has two weeks to write his dissertation. With his rigidly planned and scheduled life, two weeks is exactly the amount of time he needs, and then he’ll move on to the next step of his life’s plan. With nothing but his laptop, his perfectly written and arranged notecards, and his cat, Mozart, Spencer is ready to check off the next item on his life’s to-do list. Unfortunately, his peace and solitude have been brutally interrupted by the loudest, messiest human God has ever created. And, she has a dog!
Though they have both reached out to the rental agency to correct the egregious error in scheduling, it quickly becomes clear, there isn’t going to be a satisfactory resolution to their shared dilemma. With nothing to do but learn to live with one another, Laura and Spencer, Frank and Mozart embark on the most exciting, frustrating, and surprising two weeks of their collective lives. To be sure, there are some huge obstacles to overcome, not the least of which is the intense attraction Laura and Spencer feel towards one another despite being vastly different people.
Over the course of two weeks, both the longest and shortest of their lives, both Laura and Spencer are forced to face some hard truths about their respective lives. Laura is done drifting, she is done being spontaneous and somewhat reckless 24/7, and she’s ready for a new challenge. Spencer learns the value of not planning, of indulging in a bit of bad from time to time, and of taking the time to really enjoy the moment. For both Spencer and Laura, trying something new, moving beyond their comfort zone is somewhat terrifying, but with the support of one another they find they can soar when they learn to look at things, at life, from the other’s perspective.
The Bottom Line: Seriously, y’all, I requested this book without knowing a thing about it simply because it’s another based on a Hallmark Channel movie book. I so love these books! They are light, fun, entertaining, guaranteed HEAs that just make me smile. Laura and Frank are immediately likeable while Spencer and Mozart, as they were designed to do, were a bit tougher to like. As the story unfolds and Laura and Spencer learn more about one another, through good and bad experiences, I found myself totally crushing on these two and rooting for their HEA. In all, this is an easy breezy read with just enough drama and heat to be totally appropriate for the Hallmark Channel and any reader age 13 and above.
By Alexis Stanton
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
Laura isn’t exactly unhappy with her life, but she isn’t dancing on cloud nine either. With two weeks away from “real” life in an idyllic location with nothing but her camera and little dog, Frank, Laura is hoping to find some clarity, some direction. She’s tired of simply drifting through life and is ready to make some hard choices related to her future. Unfortunately, the rental agency has made an incredible error, and Laura and Frank’s idyllic location is marred by the presence of the single-most uptight human in the history of ever.
Spencer has two weeks to write his dissertation. With his rigidly planned and scheduled life, two weeks is exactly the amount of time he needs, and then he’ll move on to the next step of his life’s plan. With nothing but his laptop, his perfectly written and arranged notecards, and his cat, Mozart, Spencer is ready to check off the next item on his life’s to-do list. Unfortunately, his peace and solitude have been brutally interrupted by the loudest, messiest human God has ever created. And, she has a dog!
Though they have both reached out to the rental agency to correct the egregious error in scheduling, it quickly becomes clear, there isn’t going to be a satisfactory resolution to their shared dilemma. With nothing to do but learn to live with one another, Laura and Spencer, Frank and Mozart embark on the most exciting, frustrating, and surprising two weeks of their collective lives. To be sure, there are some huge obstacles to overcome, not the least of which is the intense attraction Laura and Spencer feel towards one another despite being vastly different people.
Over the course of two weeks, both the longest and shortest of their lives, both Laura and Spencer are forced to face some hard truths about their respective lives. Laura is done drifting, she is done being spontaneous and somewhat reckless 24/7, and she’s ready for a new challenge. Spencer learns the value of not planning, of indulging in a bit of bad from time to time, and of taking the time to really enjoy the moment. For both Spencer and Laura, trying something new, moving beyond their comfort zone is somewhat terrifying, but with the support of one another they find they can soar when they learn to look at things, at life, from the other’s perspective.
The Bottom Line: Seriously, y’all, I requested this book without knowing a thing about it simply because it’s another based on a Hallmark Channel movie book. I so love these books! They are light, fun, entertaining, guaranteed HEAs that just make me smile. Laura and Frank are immediately likeable while Spencer and Mozart, as they were designed to do, were a bit tougher to like. As the story unfolds and Laura and Spencer learn more about one another, through good and bad experiences, I found myself totally crushing on these two and rooting for their HEA. In all, this is an easy breezy read with just enough drama and heat to be totally appropriate for the Hallmark Channel and any reader age 13 and above.
June 17, 2018
Rating: 3.5 stars
Like Cats and Dogs has a very Odd Couple vibe. Laura is the Oscar to Spencer's Felix; she is messy and he's neat, she's a dog person and he's a cat person, she likes loud pop music and pizza and he likes Vivaldi on vinyl and is doing a raw diet. I love the opposites-attract aspect of this book, and I'm tagging it at enemies to lovers even though they're not really ENEMIES, but sort of, but not...?
I love the Laura and Spencer are both on a bit of a personal growth journey, and there's a lot of give and take and learning, both about each other and learning to love oneself. I love that they end up lifting each other up (but it's based on a Hallmark Channel Original Movie, so is that surprising?) It's a little tropey/cliché. They both rent the same vacation house and NONE of the hotels nearby accept pets/have an opening? Really? OK, fine, willing suspension of disbelief engaged... That being said, I really loved the personal growth both Laura and Spencer went through as they realized things about themselves and their pasts that were keeping them trapped, and then they both work to break free of the things that are binding them.
The bad: The last quarter or so of the book gets kind of messy, with him being mad at her and then suddenly fine at the exact second she's suddenly mad at him, and vice versa, which is lame and I didn't appreciate it. It also lost a star for me because they're sharing this house for two weeks and suddenly they're super in love? OK... Except SPENCER YOU HAVE A GIRLFRIEND. I don't care if your relationship is luke warm, I just don't appreciate a hero that lies to his girlfriend and then falls in love with another girl while he's in a relationship. Uncool. Also the epilogue events happened stupidly suddenly, which was a turn off for me.
Added back half a star for this bit of inclusiveness: "People of all genders had been matched together." Love the non-binary inclusive language there. I think there was also mention of a man and his boyfriend/husband buying some art that was super casually thrown in there, which again, I appreciated. It was enough to round my Goodreads rating up to 4 stars instead of down to 3 for the 3.5 star rating on this book. Honestly, if the epilogue hadn't been included, it would have been a solid 4 star read for me.
That being said, it was a fun read and engaging and well-written. This is definitely a fun summer romance for a beach read or a quick read while on vacation. Like Cats and Dogs is fun and light-hearted with main characters I found myself rooting for.
Like Cats and Dogs has a very Odd Couple vibe. Laura is the Oscar to Spencer's Felix; she is messy and he's neat, she's a dog person and he's a cat person, she likes loud pop music and pizza and he likes Vivaldi on vinyl and is doing a raw diet. I love the opposites-attract aspect of this book, and I'm tagging it at enemies to lovers even though they're not really ENEMIES, but sort of, but not...?
I love the Laura and Spencer are both on a bit of a personal growth journey, and there's a lot of give and take and learning, both about each other and learning to love oneself. I love that they end up lifting each other up (but it's based on a Hallmark Channel Original Movie, so is that surprising?) It's a little tropey/cliché. They both rent the same vacation house and NONE of the hotels nearby accept pets/have an opening? Really? OK, fine, willing suspension of disbelief engaged... That being said, I really loved the personal growth both Laura and Spencer went through as they realized things about themselves and their pasts that were keeping them trapped, and then they both work to break free of the things that are binding them.
The bad: The last quarter or so of the book gets kind of messy, with him being mad at her and then suddenly fine at the exact second she's suddenly mad at him, and vice versa, which is lame and I didn't appreciate it. It also lost a star for me because they're sharing this house for two weeks and suddenly they're super in love? OK... Except SPENCER YOU HAVE A GIRLFRIEND. I don't care if your relationship is luke warm, I just don't appreciate a hero that lies to his girlfriend and then falls in love with another girl while he's in a relationship. Uncool. Also the epilogue events happened stupidly suddenly, which was a turn off for me.
Added back half a star for this bit of inclusiveness: "People of all genders had been matched together." Love the non-binary inclusive language there. I think there was also mention of a man and his boyfriend/husband buying some art that was super casually thrown in there, which again, I appreciated. It was enough to round my Goodreads rating up to 4 stars instead of down to 3 for the 3.5 star rating on this book. Honestly, if the epilogue hadn't been included, it would have been a solid 4 star read for me.
That being said, it was a fun read and engaging and well-written. This is definitely a fun summer romance for a beach read or a quick read while on vacation. Like Cats and Dogs is fun and light-hearted with main characters I found myself rooting for.
April 1, 2023
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. You can purchase your copy here:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07KXY...
"Like Cats & Dogs" is a heartwarming novel based on the Hallmark Channel original movie by Alexis Stanton. The story is a perfect depiction a romantic comedy that promises to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside, just like I love!
The story follows Lara and Spencer, who are neighbors that are forced to share custody of their pets, a cat and a dog, after a mix-up at the vet. Despite their initial dislike for each other, they gradually find themselves drawn to one another as they navigate their new situation.
The author does a fantastic job of creating tension and conflict between the two main characters while simultaneously showing the undeniable chemistry between them. The story is full of witty banter, playful teasing, and heart-melting moments that will make readers swoon.
One of the best things about this book is the strong focus on the pets. The author cleverly uses the animals to bring Lara and Spencer together and create a bond that is both heartwarming and adorable. It's refreshing to see a story where the pets are just as important as the human characters.
The pacing of the story is also well-done, with the author keeping the plot moving at a steady pace without rushing anything. The characters are well-developed, and their individual personalities shine through in every interaction they have.
Overall, "Like Cats & Dogs" is a delightful read that is sure to put a smile on anyone's face. It's a perfect book for fans of romantic comedies, pet lovers, and anyone looking for a feel-good story. Highly recommended! After reading the book, I feel likeI need to go back and watch the movie! Thankfully, Hallmark has an app and you can find out exactly when it is on again!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07KXY...
"Like Cats & Dogs" is a heartwarming novel based on the Hallmark Channel original movie by Alexis Stanton. The story is a perfect depiction a romantic comedy that promises to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside, just like I love!
The story follows Lara and Spencer, who are neighbors that are forced to share custody of their pets, a cat and a dog, after a mix-up at the vet. Despite their initial dislike for each other, they gradually find themselves drawn to one another as they navigate their new situation.
The author does a fantastic job of creating tension and conflict between the two main characters while simultaneously showing the undeniable chemistry between them. The story is full of witty banter, playful teasing, and heart-melting moments that will make readers swoon.
One of the best things about this book is the strong focus on the pets. The author cleverly uses the animals to bring Lara and Spencer together and create a bond that is both heartwarming and adorable. It's refreshing to see a story where the pets are just as important as the human characters.
The pacing of the story is also well-done, with the author keeping the plot moving at a steady pace without rushing anything. The characters are well-developed, and their individual personalities shine through in every interaction they have.
Overall, "Like Cats & Dogs" is a delightful read that is sure to put a smile on anyone's face. It's a perfect book for fans of romantic comedies, pet lovers, and anyone looking for a feel-good story. Highly recommended! After reading the book, I feel likeI need to go back and watch the movie! Thankfully, Hallmark has an app and you can find out exactly when it is on again!
April 9, 2018
This is a quick, light romance. I think I saw the beginning of the movie but not the whole thing. When I started reading the book I kept feeling like I'd read the book before but couldn't figure out how that was possible since I'd just recently gotten a copy of it. I finally realized as I was envisioning the scenes that I'd seen the beginning of the movie and that is why it all seemed so familiar. The book reads just like the movie shows. At least at the beginning. I can't swear to the whole thing because I didn't see the whole movie.
The story is typical Hallmark fluff romance and anyone that has watched Hallmark movies could predict how the story would play out but that is what we love about Hallmark movies. We know we will feel good and the conflict will end with a kiss and we can all give a swoony sigh.
These two characters are pretty much complete opposites in the extreme. After they stop fighting like cats and dogs - thus the title of the book- they begin to bring balance to each other. He introduces her to green kale smoothies and early morning exercise while she introduces him to pizza, s'mores and karaoke. When they are able to meet in the middle they find love can blossom.
I don't know how it is depicted in the movie but the six months of cohabitation as the epilogue states is a little edgy for Hallmark.
Sex: a kiss and some sexual tension.
Language: no
Violence: no
The story is typical Hallmark fluff romance and anyone that has watched Hallmark movies could predict how the story would play out but that is what we love about Hallmark movies. We know we will feel good and the conflict will end with a kiss and we can all give a swoony sigh.
These two characters are pretty much complete opposites in the extreme. After they stop fighting like cats and dogs - thus the title of the book- they begin to bring balance to each other. He introduces her to green kale smoothies and early morning exercise while she introduces him to pizza, s'mores and karaoke. When they are able to meet in the middle they find love can blossom.
I don't know how it is depicted in the movie but the six months of cohabitation as the epilogue states is a little edgy for Hallmark.
Sex: a kiss and some sexual tension.
Language: no
Violence: no
June 17, 2018
Publisher's Description:
Laura is drifting through life.
Spencer has the next decade perfectly planned.
Laura loves her dog Frank.
Spencer pampers his cat Mozart.
Both humans have nothing in common, but when there's a mix-up with a vacation rental house, they're suddenly stuck together.
At first, they fight like cats and dogs. Yet they can't deny that opposites definitely attract. Can they find a way to share a roof without driving each other crazy...or falling in love?
This funny, feel-good romance contains a free Hallmark original recipe for S'mores Waffles.
My Thoughts:
I am a huge fan of fan Hallmark movies. Other than sports and dramas it is the only TV I find watchable.
When I recently discovered these books based on some of these movies I made it a point to request a couple of them.
These sweetly written books are nice clean reads that are suitable for a younger audience. Teens and tweens can enjoy these love stories without paternal objection.
This book was an enjoyable romantic comedy.
I loved the story and although predictable it was not so easily put aside.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and no sensual rating. The only thing remotely close to intimacy are the developing feelings between our couple and a few kisses.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Laura is drifting through life.
Spencer has the next decade perfectly planned.
Laura loves her dog Frank.
Spencer pampers his cat Mozart.
Both humans have nothing in common, but when there's a mix-up with a vacation rental house, they're suddenly stuck together.
At first, they fight like cats and dogs. Yet they can't deny that opposites definitely attract. Can they find a way to share a roof without driving each other crazy...or falling in love?
This funny, feel-good romance contains a free Hallmark original recipe for S'mores Waffles.
My Thoughts:
I am a huge fan of fan Hallmark movies. Other than sports and dramas it is the only TV I find watchable.
When I recently discovered these books based on some of these movies I made it a point to request a couple of them.
These sweetly written books are nice clean reads that are suitable for a younger audience. Teens and tweens can enjoy these love stories without paternal objection.
This book was an enjoyable romantic comedy.
I loved the story and although predictable it was not so easily put aside.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and no sensual rating. The only thing remotely close to intimacy are the developing feelings between our couple and a few kisses.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 20, 2018
Like Cats and Dogs is a well written and delightfully clean romance. It has laugh out loud moments and takes the reader on a journey of discovery with the two main characters. Spencer needs quiet and space in which to complete the dissertation for his doctorate and Laura needs time out from her regimented life to discover her purpose in life. They both end up in South Haven in a rental home where they have been double booked. Laura has a rambunctious dog and Spencer has an autocratic cat. Needles to say when Frank the dog meets Mozart the cat, sparks fly but not the good kind. Things don't go any better for their owners. Both Laura and Spencer invent way in which to cope with their situation and neither is successful. However, inevitably they rub off on each other and discover new ways of doing things. The story is lighthearted and thoroughly enjoyable with deeper undertones as Spencer and Laura take a fresh look at themselves and have to decide what is really important in their lives. I loved the transformation that took place and the romance that developed between them even though they weren't free to act on their feelings. It is a pleasure to read a well written book, one that can be read by most age groups. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 24, 2020
This book is all about whether opposites attract and it deals a little bit with a sneaky matchmaking system!
It is based on the Hallmark movie by the same name, but it is more detailed!
Sarah is searching for her purpose and meaning in her life so she decides to take a two week vacation during Spring Break to Southaven, Michigan to visit with her college roommate and her husband! She has a free flowing personality since her idea whenever anything happens is it is meant to be!
Spencer Hodgkins is a very structured doctoral student and is trying to get his PhD in Psychology, but is having a hard time focusing on getting his thesis done! So, he decides to rent this house in Southaven, Michigan for two weeks!
The application process involves them answering a detailed questionnaire, which is weird! However, the whole idea is a sneaky matchmaking plan by the owner to always have the house full of love like her late husband wanted!
When both of them meet and realize they have to share the house for their two week vacation; they were not thrilled!
Eventually, they discover their differences is what makes them complement each other and they both get what they always have wanted!
I loved reading it and it was an easy, funny, captivating book! The recipe in the back you will love to make is S’mores French Toast!
Enjoy reading it and hope I didn’t give too many Spoilers away!
It is based on the Hallmark movie by the same name, but it is more detailed!
Sarah is searching for her purpose and meaning in her life so she decides to take a two week vacation during Spring Break to Southaven, Michigan to visit with her college roommate and her husband! She has a free flowing personality since her idea whenever anything happens is it is meant to be!
Spencer Hodgkins is a very structured doctoral student and is trying to get his PhD in Psychology, but is having a hard time focusing on getting his thesis done! So, he decides to rent this house in Southaven, Michigan for two weeks!
The application process involves them answering a detailed questionnaire, which is weird! However, the whole idea is a sneaky matchmaking plan by the owner to always have the house full of love like her late husband wanted!
When both of them meet and realize they have to share the house for their two week vacation; they were not thrilled!
Eventually, they discover their differences is what makes them complement each other and they both get what they always have wanted!
I loved reading it and it was an easy, funny, captivating book! The recipe in the back you will love to make is S’mores French Toast!
Enjoy reading it and hope I didn’t give too many Spoilers away!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2018
What a fun and entertaining story! I think this may be one of my favorite Hallmark stories so far (or maybe I'm being biased because this one featured a cat and I love cats). I felt pulled into the story from the very first page and wanted to invest in it until the very end. The rental house mix-up was also a very clever trope for bringing two people who are exact opposites together. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between Laura and Spencer because it was relatable, sweet, and quite funny. I won't spoil the full details but just know that you'll be be laughing out loud a couple of times. I also loved the budding friendship between their pets. Cats and dogs can get along sometimes!
I did feel, though, the story seemed to lean more towards Laura even though we got Spencer's perspective on things. Other than that, the character development was well done and I felt invested in the both of them. Also, Laura's best friend, Rose, is hilarious and adds some humor and heart to the story. If you're a cat lover, dog lover, or just love animals in general, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received this book from BookFunnel and Hallmark Publishing for free in exchange for an honest review.
I did feel, though, the story seemed to lean more towards Laura even though we got Spencer's perspective on things. Other than that, the character development was well done and I felt invested in the both of them. Also, Laura's best friend, Rose, is hilarious and adds some humor and heart to the story. If you're a cat lover, dog lover, or just love animals in general, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received this book from BookFunnel and Hallmark Publishing for free in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2018
Like Cats And Dogs by Alexis Stanton is a delightful contemporary romance, just perfect for any time of year.
They say opposites attract, but do they? Do 'cat people' and 'dog people' ever really come together? The novel explores these questions.
I am definitely a 'cat person' but I adore books where animals have a starring role and this is no exception. I loved Mozart the cat and Frank the dog both of whom had their own unique personalities.
Some people are neat and tidy. Others breeze through life without a care in the world. Both types exist in the novel and it is delightful to witness their interactions.
We all have dreams. We should be true to ourselves and follow our dreams and not the desires of our parents. Parents bring pressure. We sometimes feel we cannot live up to their expectations. Alternatively we may feel we are a disappointment.
Like Cats And Dogs was totally charming. I read it with a smile on my face as I bounced along with the narrative.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
They say opposites attract, but do they? Do 'cat people' and 'dog people' ever really come together? The novel explores these questions.
I am definitely a 'cat person' but I adore books where animals have a starring role and this is no exception. I loved Mozart the cat and Frank the dog both of whom had their own unique personalities.
Some people are neat and tidy. Others breeze through life without a care in the world. Both types exist in the novel and it is delightful to witness their interactions.
We all have dreams. We should be true to ourselves and follow our dreams and not the desires of our parents. Parents bring pressure. We sometimes feel we cannot live up to their expectations. Alternatively we may feel we are a disappointment.
Like Cats And Dogs was totally charming. I read it with a smile on my face as I bounced along with the narrative.
I received this book for free from Net Galley. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
April 22, 2018
This is the story of Laura and Spencer. Laura is a bubbly, recent college graduate who is not happy with where she is in life, but doesn’t know where she wants to go. Spencer is a serious, graduate student writing his dissertation on love being only a chemical thing. What happens when they are stuck together in a house for two weeks?
The differences between these two characters are significant and at first I really couldn’t see them ending up together. The timeline is fast, but successful.
The premise is very cute of the rental house owner playing matchmaker.
I also really liked the plot line. It featured some laugh out loud funny moments and many other moments one just wishes to experience with someone special.
This is a very sweet book and anyone who likes an opposites attract book would enjoy it.
Thank you to Hallmark and Netgalley for the the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The differences between these two characters are significant and at first I really couldn’t see them ending up together. The timeline is fast, but successful.
The premise is very cute of the rental house owner playing matchmaker.
I also really liked the plot line. It featured some laugh out loud funny moments and many other moments one just wishes to experience with someone special.
This is a very sweet book and anyone who likes an opposites attract book would enjoy it.
Thank you to Hallmark and Netgalley for the the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2018
My review is 4.5 stars.
There is a big difference when you are writing a fiction book, and when you are writing a fiction book based on a movie. The task of writing a book from a movie is difficult. Really difficult! And the way author pulled it off, I would say this is absolutely awesome & marvellous way to actually do it. I think every romance lover is a fan of "Hallmark Channel" and the movies. And to write a book on a Hallmark Channel movie need guts and brilliance, both qualities are in the author in abundance.
There is nothing I wanna say about the story or how it is because there is no need to do that, I think everyone who watches the channel has seen it. What I like to draw the attention to, is the way Alexis wrote the scenes and written the dialogues. It felt like I'm watching the movie again without a single difference in it. The author just did a very beautiful work.
I must say that I enjoyed the book more rather than the movie. So, Hats off!!!
There is a big difference when you are writing a fiction book, and when you are writing a fiction book based on a movie. The task of writing a book from a movie is difficult. Really difficult! And the way author pulled it off, I would say this is absolutely awesome & marvellous way to actually do it. I think every romance lover is a fan of "Hallmark Channel" and the movies. And to write a book on a Hallmark Channel movie need guts and brilliance, both qualities are in the author in abundance.
There is nothing I wanna say about the story or how it is because there is no need to do that, I think everyone who watches the channel has seen it. What I like to draw the attention to, is the way Alexis wrote the scenes and written the dialogues. It felt like I'm watching the movie again without a single difference in it. The author just did a very beautiful work.
I must say that I enjoyed the book more rather than the movie. So, Hats off!!!
June 25, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me this book to read in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given, offered, or taken to alter the opinion.
Like Cats and Dogs is yet another funny, sweet, and charming story in the Hallmark book line. I just love these Hallmark adaptations and this one definitely did not disappoint! It's a light-hearted read and I completed it in less than one day. It's the perfect read for spring or summer time. I love the opposites attract theme in this book and how both Laura and Spencer changed for the better after meeting each other. I loved the characters in this book, including their pets. I highly recommend this book and all of the other books in the Hallmark line!
Like Cats and Dogs is yet another funny, sweet, and charming story in the Hallmark book line. I just love these Hallmark adaptations and this one definitely did not disappoint! It's a light-hearted read and I completed it in less than one day. It's the perfect read for spring or summer time. I love the opposites attract theme in this book and how both Laura and Spencer changed for the better after meeting each other. I loved the characters in this book, including their pets. I highly recommend this book and all of the other books in the Hallmark line!
December 15, 2018
Like Cats and Dogs is an hilarious sweet romance about two single people who are thrown together in a rental home by a "booking error." Laura, who still lives with her accountant parents, plans to take long hot showers and use lots of towels, play her music loud, and generally just unwind and try to figure out her life. Spencer is a graduate student in psychology planning on using his two week rental to write his dissertation so he can move on with the rest of his well planned out life. Laura has a dog, Spencer has a cat. This Hallmark Publishing book by Alexis Stanton is at time laugh-out-loud funny and a great read. I really enjoyed it!
April 20, 2018
Another sweet romance from Hallmark. Two strangers, a dog loving heroine and a cat owner hero, find themselves double booked at a house rental and their differing personalities cause friction between them.
This is a gentle love story as all Hallmark based books are, and definitely has a feel good factor. The heroine is quirky and fun and the hero is handsome but serious, but as in all odd couple stories a common ground is found. A good read to give that Hallmark feeling when the television is switched off!
This is a gentle love story as all Hallmark based books are, and definitely has a feel good factor. The heroine is quirky and fun and the hero is handsome but serious, but as in all odd couple stories a common ground is found. A good read to give that Hallmark feeling when the television is switched off!
May 15, 2018
3.5 stars
I wanted to like this book a little more than I did. I liked the story but the characters felt two dimensional and just didn't quite come to life for me. I imagine it is a bit different to adapt a movie into a book than it is to adapt a book into a movie but something is just missing in this one. The story is sweet and I actually think I would enjoy the movie. I would just like to see the characters have more fully developed points of view.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I wanted to like this book a little more than I did. I liked the story but the characters felt two dimensional and just didn't quite come to life for me. I imagine it is a bit different to adapt a movie into a book than it is to adapt a book into a movie but something is just missing in this one. The story is sweet and I actually think I would enjoy the movie. I would just like to see the characters have more fully developed points of view.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2019
Opposites attract in this sweet and silly romantic comedy. This was perhaps the oddest odd couple I have ever read. When fate lands free-spirited Laura and her dog in the same vacation rental as meticulous Spencer and his cat, there’s no other choice but to make the best of the mix up. I liked both leading characters, though Spencer was much better once he learned to relax a little. I wasn’t so fond of the presence of the other-woman drama in the book. It felt a little manufactured and like it was only there to create angst.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
April 17, 2018
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
April 22, 2018
This a cute, fun story about two people who rents a house and due to mix-up are there at the same time. Spencer who is there to write is so disciple in his life has a cat and Laura who easy going and trying to figure out her life has a dog. Chaos ensures when the humans and animals meet. The storyline flows along smoothly and is well developed as well as the characters. Received an ARC and am voluntary giving this review
April 22, 2018
What a fun sweet romance! I love
Hallmark movies, but unfortunately my husband does not, so I love that I can read these books and feel like I'm catching up on a movie I missed. I love the idea of being double booked and figuring out how to live together. Laura and Spencer are complete opposites. I enjoyed seeing how they irritated each other, yet bonded and helped each other. They are a cute couple and I loved reading their story.
Hallmark movies, but unfortunately my husband does not, so I love that I can read these books and feel like I'm catching up on a movie I missed. I love the idea of being double booked and figuring out how to live together. Laura and Spencer are complete opposites. I enjoyed seeing how they irritated each other, yet bonded and helped each other. They are a cute couple and I loved reading their story.
May 26, 2018
A sweet story of two people who rent the same house and find out more about themselves than they could ever have imagined. Laura and Spencer find themselves in a peculiar predicament. How do they handle their so called misfortune? These characters are well rounded and each have their own issues they must work through. I found this story to be a heartwarming tale of making new friendships, believing in oneself, and finding one's own soul mate. I would recommend this book to everyone!
June 27, 2018
An adorable opposites attract love story! Such a fun beach read.
When a contract mix up for their vacation rental means they have to share the place for two weeks, Laura and Spencer, along with Laura's dog, Frank, and Spencer's cat, Mozart, decide to make the best of it. What follows is a darling romp with some very cute and sweet dialogue. I loved it!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When a contract mix up for their vacation rental means they have to share the place for two weeks, Laura and Spencer, along with Laura's dog, Frank, and Spencer's cat, Mozart, decide to make the best of it. What follows is a darling romp with some very cute and sweet dialogue. I loved it!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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