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Forever Home #2
Puppy Christmas
These adorable service puppies
are matchmakers in the making...
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise—the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters—but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.
If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted—but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
Service Puppies Series:
Puppy Love (Book 1)
Puppy Christmas (Book 2)
Puppy Kisses (Book 3)
are matchmakers in the making...
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise—the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters—but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.
If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted—but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
Service Puppies Series:
Puppy Love (Book 1)
Puppy Christmas (Book 2)
Puppy Kisses (Book 3)
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
215 people are currently reading
550 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Gilmore
13 books912 followersLucy Gilmore is a celebrated novelist in a wide range of genres, including literary fiction, contemporary romance, and cozy mystery. She began her reading (and writing) career as an English literature major and ended as a book lover without all those pesky academic papers attached.
She lives in Spokane, WA with her family.
She lives in Spokane, WA with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
September 27, 2019
What a sweet romantic read that gently nudged me into the holiday spirit, lol! I had such a fun time reading this book and getting to know Lila and Ford and of course, cute as a button Emily and Jeeves too.
Lila, who is considered the stern, too perfect older Vasquez sister is ready to tackle her newest obstacle. Training a service puppy for a little kid. Never having dealt with children, this job sounds more for her younger, more approachable sisters. And her fears are confirmed when she’s introduced to flirty, always-ready-with-a-smile Ford and his little girl,Emily.
If you like down to earth, every day characters, slow burn, tons of humor and low drama definitely check this book out. It’s a feel good story that will leave you smiling.
In the spirit of Lila's love of lists:
10 REASONS TO LOVE PUPPY CHRISTMAS
1. It has puppies, so many adorable puppies!
2. It has funny moments that will make you smile if not outright laugh
3. It’s a cute (light) holiday read
4. It has a sweet (if misunderstood) heroine that you’ll quickly be rooting for!
5. A flirty, too-silly-for-his-own-good Hero that will melt your heart
6. Emily and Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third (Just try to resist these two!)
7. Meddling family and friends who can drive one crazy but always with the best of
intentions
8. Slow burn romance (in the best way!)
9. Down to earth characters that are easy to relate too
10. And a HEA that will leave you with all the warmhappy vibes of a sweet romance
MemorableMoments: Ford and Lila’s meet-cute was so sweet. I loved that there was an instant attraction between them but that Lila also bonded with Emily. I loved the dynamic between all three of them. The first meeting between Emily and her trusty friend Jeeves was also a favorite moment that sticks out for me.
The Princess Tea Party was another heartmelting moment. I was definitely partial to the snippets of Sophie and her "bodyguard" (couple from book #1) haha! This story was non-stop fun, sweet, a tad angsty but in the end a lovely romance story with heart and just the right amount of teasing heat!
Would I recommend?Yes. I loved it! It was a great read that I know I'll be re-reading again :)
* * * ARC provided foran honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copyof this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETYINFO:
Lila, who is considered the stern, too perfect older Vasquez sister is ready to tackle her newest obstacle. Training a service puppy for a little kid. Never having dealt with children, this job sounds more for her younger, more approachable sisters. And her fears are confirmed when she’s introduced to flirty, always-ready-with-a-smile Ford and his little girl,Emily.
If you like down to earth, every day characters, slow burn, tons of humor and low drama definitely check this book out. It’s a feel good story that will leave you smiling.
In the spirit of Lila's love of lists:
10 REASONS TO LOVE PUPPY CHRISTMAS
1. It has puppies, so many adorable puppies!
2. It has funny moments that will make you smile if not outright laugh
3. It’s a cute (light) holiday read
4. It has a sweet (if misunderstood) heroine that you’ll quickly be rooting for!
5. A flirty, too-silly-for-his-own-good Hero that will melt your heart
6. Emily and Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third (Just try to resist these two!)
7. Meddling family and friends who can drive one crazy but always with the best of
intentions
8. Slow burn romance (in the best way!)
9. Down to earth characters that are easy to relate too
10. And a HEA that will leave you with all the warmhappy vibes of a sweet romance
MemorableMoments: Ford and Lila’s meet-cute was so sweet. I loved that there was an instant attraction between them but that Lila also bonded with Emily. I loved the dynamic between all three of them. The first meeting between Emily and her trusty friend Jeeves was also a favorite moment that sticks out for me.
The Princess Tea Party was another heartmelting moment. I was definitely partial to the snippets of Sophie and her "bodyguard" (couple from book #1) haha! This story was non-stop fun, sweet, a tad angsty but in the end a lovely romance story with heart and just the right amount of teasing heat!
Would I recommend?Yes. I loved it! It was a great read that I know I'll be re-reading again :)
* * * ARC provided foran honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copyof this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETYINFO:
December 18, 2019
This book had so much going for it; a sweet, wise beyond her years little girl who is shunned by her peers because of a hearing impairment, the precious pup who gets trained to be her service dog, and the trainer who gets along better with canines than people. And a gorgeous cover to boot! Thoroughly enjoying reading until I hit Chapter 12 which contained graphic phone sex. I just don’t enjoy reading about that sort of thing. If I hadn’t liked the dog-training parts so much, this probably would have gotten two stars.
September 9, 2019
Thank you to the author and Sourcebook Publications for the opportunity to read this book!
Puppy Christmas was an adorable read solely for the dogs! And Emily, the heroes daughter who suffers from medium to high deafness requires a service dog and that is where our story begins. The meeting between Lila and Emily was a great way to start the book and introduces us to the hero, Ford Ford yes his full name is Ford Ford.
Individually I loved Ford and Lila. I love that under all the flirtiness Ford is a vulnerable guy and Lila recognizes that and Ford helps Lila feel more confident in her skin after she is told by an ex of hers that she is cold. I just wished we got to see them interact more as a couple because I felt that there was a lot of characters introduced and I wanted more time with them as an actual couple or maybe a longer epilogue?.
I did like Emily and Lila's relationship and loved Ford and Emily's relationship, he is a great Dad! She is his number one priority which should be more common in the real world :)
It's a great read and you do not have to read the first book in the series but I would highly recommend it!
4.5/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Puppy Christmas was an adorable read solely for the dogs! And Emily, the heroes daughter who suffers from medium to high deafness requires a service dog and that is where our story begins. The meeting between Lila and Emily was a great way to start the book and introduces us to the hero, Ford Ford yes his full name is Ford Ford.
Individually I loved Ford and Lila. I love that under all the flirtiness Ford is a vulnerable guy and Lila recognizes that and Ford helps Lila feel more confident in her skin after she is told by an ex of hers that she is cold. I just wished we got to see them interact more as a couple because I felt that there was a lot of characters introduced and I wanted more time with them as an actual couple or maybe a longer epilogue?.
I did like Emily and Lila's relationship and loved Ford and Emily's relationship, he is a great Dad! She is his number one priority which should be more common in the real world :)
It's a great read and you do not have to read the first book in the series but I would highly recommend it!
4.5/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2023
Quirky and cute, full of puppy kisses, princesses, and valiant service doggos. The best kinds of books.
January 30, 2025
Lila Vasquez and her two sisters own Puppy Promises, a service puppy training school. She's the oldest, the serious and responsible one, the thinker. But not perfect nor the cold one her ex-boyfriend pretended she was.
At a fundraiser for hearing impaired children where she and her siblings will give a service dog and training lessons to one of the kids, Lila meet little Emily and dance a waltz with her dad; a man she's sure she'll never see again. But as only fate can arrange, Emily win the prize and Lila will have to spend time with the adorable but lonely little girl and his father.
Flirting and sarcasm is second nature for Ford Ford (that's not a fault, that's really his name 😏). A habit he developed to keep his distance with women so they don't take him too seriously. He might play the funny guy with Lila too but it's soon obvious for him that she means more to him than he would want to.
I was surprised there was not much Christmas in the book, except for being near the Holiday season and I'll admit that Ford's never-ending goofy attitude get old at some point, but I still had a great time reading this book. I like that Ford doesn't see Lila like all the others do. They see a serious and introvert woman but he see a fun and warm one. I like the hero's optimism too. And I like Lila's sensibility. Love how it's easy to feel sympathy for the secondary characters that at first you think will get on your nerves and that you think will only be there to cause trouble for the MC. In other words: I like that Helen was not the competitive bitch cliché.
Can't wait to read Dawn's story!
At a fundraiser for hearing impaired children where she and her siblings will give a service dog and training lessons to one of the kids, Lila meet little Emily and dance a waltz with her dad; a man she's sure she'll never see again. But as only fate can arrange, Emily win the prize and Lila will have to spend time with the adorable but lonely little girl and his father.
Flirting and sarcasm is second nature for Ford Ford (that's not a fault, that's really his name 😏). A habit he developed to keep his distance with women so they don't take him too seriously. He might play the funny guy with Lila too but it's soon obvious for him that she means more to him than he would want to.
I was surprised there was not much Christmas in the book, except for being near the Holiday season and I'll admit that Ford's never-ending goofy attitude get old at some point, but I still had a great time reading this book. I like that Ford doesn't see Lila like all the others do. They see a serious and introvert woman but he see a fun and warm one. I like the hero's optimism too. And I like Lila's sensibility. Love how it's easy to feel sympathy for the secondary characters that at first you think will get on your nerves and that you think will only be there to cause trouble for the MC. In other words: I like that Helen was not the competitive bitch cliché.
Can't wait to read Dawn's story!
December 4, 2020
I am a sucker for a single dad romance and this was a good one, coupled with a heroine who thinks she is prickly but really isn't. Excellent slump buster of a book.
**Read for #SnowInLoveBingo square Happy Holidays**
**Read for #SnowInLoveBingo square Happy Holidays**
September 22, 2019
Dogs and hot men...what more could a book need?! And why am I reading a holiday book in September?!
This is the second in a series about 3 sisters that run a dog training facility. In this one, we meet Lila who is a bit hard around the edges but has a good heart. Enter Ford Ford (honestly that is his name, what were his parents thinking?!) and his daughter Emily that has been granted a service dog for her hearing disability. Emily thinks that Lila is a princess in her pink dress and sometimes with 6 year olds it is best to engage a little fantasy. The story winds its way around this little group with strong supporting characters that round out the story nicely.
This story had me laughing throughout at the witty banter between Ford and Leila, the fact that he spelled dirty words so Emily wouldn't know what he was saying, and the way that they both learned how to be more open and honest helped bring them closer together. And of course, Jeeves, the service dog Emily chooses from Lila's company.
This book also teaches the reader a little bit about a hearing disorder and I liked how Emily still had to lip read and use sign language to communicate despite cochlear implants.
I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the last one about the last sister.
This is the second in a series about 3 sisters that run a dog training facility. In this one, we meet Lila who is a bit hard around the edges but has a good heart. Enter Ford Ford (honestly that is his name, what were his parents thinking?!) and his daughter Emily that has been granted a service dog for her hearing disability. Emily thinks that Lila is a princess in her pink dress and sometimes with 6 year olds it is best to engage a little fantasy. The story winds its way around this little group with strong supporting characters that round out the story nicely.
This story had me laughing throughout at the witty banter between Ford and Leila, the fact that he spelled dirty words so Emily wouldn't know what he was saying, and the way that they both learned how to be more open and honest helped bring them closer together. And of course, Jeeves, the service dog Emily chooses from Lila's company.
This book also teaches the reader a little bit about a hearing disorder and I liked how Emily still had to lip read and use sign language to communicate despite cochlear implants.
I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the last one about the last sister.
October 21, 2019
Enjoyable read.
Unfortunately rife with unnecessary profanity imho which is a negative for me.
“Princess” Lila is a wonderful character and we really get to know her .. nice depth.
Ford Ford (funny name) is the single dad of 6 yr old Emily who has a hearing problem and can use a service dog .. who turns out to be Jeeves.
Family, friendship and lots of love are main themes.
[wish the phone bit would disappear too]
Unfortunately rife with unnecessary profanity imho which is a negative for me.
“Princess” Lila is a wonderful character and we really get to know her .. nice depth.
Ford Ford (funny name) is the single dad of 6 yr old Emily who has a hearing problem and can use a service dog .. who turns out to be Jeeves.
Family, friendship and lots of love are main themes.
[wish the phone bit would disappear too]
September 26, 2019
What an adorable book, with the hero a single-dad trying to do the best by his daughter. He is a normal man, no man-whore, who puts his daughter first. I loved how adorable and sweet he was. The heroine is the oldest sister, a rock but the hero and his daughter Emily roar into her life and make her start seeing parts of herself she didn't know existed. The book was so sweet, heart-felt and sexy.
November 9, 2019
✦Review, Excerpt & Giveaway: PUPPY CHRISTMAS by Lucy Gilmore https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bgW
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this light contemporary romance. Sometimes quirky, sometimes solemn, it ticked all my boxes and kept me reading. To Lila, she evolved throughout the story, but to the readers and those around her, she became the loving and fun person she was at the beginning. I liked her from the start and enjoyed her journey. Ford was a likeable single father raising a hearing impaired daughter. His flirting was an emotional shield that crumbled when he met Lila. The immediate attraction between them was believable and a joy watching it grow into a smoking romance. Christmas and the puppies only added to the charm. I now have a new author added to my “must read” list.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/2M54UKa
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this light contemporary romance. Sometimes quirky, sometimes solemn, it ticked all my boxes and kept me reading. To Lila, she evolved throughout the story, but to the readers and those around her, she became the loving and fun person she was at the beginning. I liked her from the start and enjoyed her journey. Ford was a likeable single father raising a hearing impaired daughter. His flirting was an emotional shield that crumbled when he met Lila. The immediate attraction between them was believable and a joy watching it grow into a smoking romance. Christmas and the puppies only added to the charm. I now have a new author added to my “must read” list.
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/2M54UKa
March 4, 2020
I anticipated Lucy Gilmore’s second Forever Home romance, Puppy Christmas, from the moment I turned the last page on the first, Puppy Love. I’m sorry it took me this long to read the former. Equally laugh-out-loud funny, heart-wrenching, and rawr-sexy, it would have made a hellacious work month so much better. Lesson learned: I’ve settled into my romance reading (thirteen years since I picked up a copy of Garwood’s Shadow Music at the local Costco and reignited my love for the genre) with the knowledge that romance is the best respite from daily stress, an oasis of happy in a desert of demands. Gilmore’s series, including this latest (as I anticipate the third, Puppy Kisses!), deserves a spot in the happy-reader Hall of Fame. Continuing with her initial premise, three sisters running a service-dog non-profit, “Puppy Promise,” Puppy Christmas focusses on the eldest, 31-year-old Lila Vasquez, as she works to build the confidence of six-year-old, hearing-impaired Emily Ford with the help of cockapoo Jeeves, while falling in love with Emily’s father, ridiculously-named Ford Ford. Gilmore’s second Forever Home romance is plot-light, but character-deep and chock full of lovely anecdotes, including a funny meet-cute, first date set in a snow maze, Elsa-allusions, cocked-puppy-head adorableness, and hot phone sex.
Gilmore does here what romance does best: starts the narrative with diminished protagonists and builds them up to self-actualization, love, and commitment. I loved Lila’s and Ford’s personalities, potential, and their initial place of less-thans. Lila is emerging from a break-up (I’m glad Gilmore, with several ex cameos, makes him a decent guy in the end) where her ex accused her of being a cold fish, or as Ford calls himself in regards to his daughter, a “fun sponge”. Lila is the organizer, the keeper of spreadsheets, the driving force of Puppy Promise, but she isn’t the cute and cuddly. She takes on the task of training Emily and Jeeves with the hang-dog notion that she’s not good with children, with people, definitely not as good as her sisters with puppies. In Ford’s eyes, she is everything caring (dressing as a princess for weeks to ensure Emily is comfortable, safe, and happy) and beautiful. Ford, in turn, is a harried, devoted, minivan-bucket-driving single dad with a work-from-home job as an instruction-manual illustrator who hasn’t had s-e-x in years (it was a hoot how Ford and Lila constantly spell out inappropriate language in Emily’s presence). Ford is charming, funny, good-looking, and exhausted, but keeps everyone at bay with his humour and don’t-take-me-seriously ‘tude. Except Lila can see what a wonderful man he is, a dedicated, loving father and neighbour, caring, affectionate. He’s the real deal, true-blue.
At first, Gilmore plays on the opposites-attract trope, as Lila thinks she ” … was the cold one. Ford was everything attractive and happy and warm.” And, given her writing talent, and humor-skills, she could have gone with this for the duration. Instead, we have a more engaging, complex narrative than the cutesy cover implies. Gilmore shows us how Ford’s and Lila’s flaws are sometimes ways with which they can hide their vulnerabilities. She also shows us how “opposites-attract”, if there is friendship, affection and, in time, love, will make for a compatible, complementary couple. Never once, however, does she take her foot off the light-hearted, but no less heart-felt pedal.
Lastly, I loved Gilmore’s gender-stereotype role reversal and her desire to make a feminist point about single parents and how social gender expectations can weigh people down. Again, nothing is heavy-handed; all is funny and poignant. To start, there’s a wonderful scene of Ford falling asleep when he sits on his living-room floor with Lila. Usually, the exhausted single mum finds peaceful, secure slumber with capable alpha-man. In this case, exhausted single-dad finds rest with alpha-woman. It’s endearing and fun. There’s also Ford’s celibacy to Lila’s sexual experience; Lila asking and organizing their first date; Ford’s request for flex-time from his employer to care for this daughter; Lila’s aspirations to Ford’s lackadaisical approach to work, his contentment with being a dad and homebody. Ford suffers, wondering if he has enough to offer Lila and Lila, in turn, yearns to be a part of Ford and Emily’s modest home and life. While the surface of Gilmore’s sure hand is feather-light and comedic, her deeper purposes strike touching notes. I adored Puppy Christmas with equal affection to Puppy Love. With Miss Austen, we say in it, you’ll find “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Lucy Gilmore’s Puppy Christmas is published by Sourcebooks Casablanca. It was released in September 2019 and may be found at your preferred vendor. I receive an e-galley from Sourcebooks Casablanca, via Netgalley.
Gilmore does here what romance does best: starts the narrative with diminished protagonists and builds them up to self-actualization, love, and commitment. I loved Lila’s and Ford’s personalities, potential, and their initial place of less-thans. Lila is emerging from a break-up (I’m glad Gilmore, with several ex cameos, makes him a decent guy in the end) where her ex accused her of being a cold fish, or as Ford calls himself in regards to his daughter, a “fun sponge”. Lila is the organizer, the keeper of spreadsheets, the driving force of Puppy Promise, but she isn’t the cute and cuddly. She takes on the task of training Emily and Jeeves with the hang-dog notion that she’s not good with children, with people, definitely not as good as her sisters with puppies. In Ford’s eyes, she is everything caring (dressing as a princess for weeks to ensure Emily is comfortable, safe, and happy) and beautiful. Ford, in turn, is a harried, devoted, minivan-bucket-driving single dad with a work-from-home job as an instruction-manual illustrator who hasn’t had s-e-x in years (it was a hoot how Ford and Lila constantly spell out inappropriate language in Emily’s presence). Ford is charming, funny, good-looking, and exhausted, but keeps everyone at bay with his humour and don’t-take-me-seriously ‘tude. Except Lila can see what a wonderful man he is, a dedicated, loving father and neighbour, caring, affectionate. He’s the real deal, true-blue.
At first, Gilmore plays on the opposites-attract trope, as Lila thinks she ” … was the cold one. Ford was everything attractive and happy and warm.” And, given her writing talent, and humor-skills, she could have gone with this for the duration. Instead, we have a more engaging, complex narrative than the cutesy cover implies. Gilmore shows us how Ford’s and Lila’s flaws are sometimes ways with which they can hide their vulnerabilities. She also shows us how “opposites-attract”, if there is friendship, affection and, in time, love, will make for a compatible, complementary couple. Never once, however, does she take her foot off the light-hearted, but no less heart-felt pedal.
Lastly, I loved Gilmore’s gender-stereotype role reversal and her desire to make a feminist point about single parents and how social gender expectations can weigh people down. Again, nothing is heavy-handed; all is funny and poignant. To start, there’s a wonderful scene of Ford falling asleep when he sits on his living-room floor with Lila. Usually, the exhausted single mum finds peaceful, secure slumber with capable alpha-man. In this case, exhausted single-dad finds rest with alpha-woman. It’s endearing and fun. There’s also Ford’s celibacy to Lila’s sexual experience; Lila asking and organizing their first date; Ford’s request for flex-time from his employer to care for this daughter; Lila’s aspirations to Ford’s lackadaisical approach to work, his contentment with being a dad and homebody. Ford suffers, wondering if he has enough to offer Lila and Lila, in turn, yearns to be a part of Ford and Emily’s modest home and life. While the surface of Gilmore’s sure hand is feather-light and comedic, her deeper purposes strike touching notes. I adored Puppy Christmas with equal affection to Puppy Love. With Miss Austen, we say in it, you’ll find “a mind lively and at ease,” Emma.
Lucy Gilmore’s Puppy Christmas is published by Sourcebooks Casablanca. It was released in September 2019 and may be found at your preferred vendor. I receive an e-galley from Sourcebooks Casablanca, via Netgalley.
June 30, 2020
Lily, Ford, Emily, and Jeeves are a quartet that make for one h-e-l-l of a happy ending.
In this second volume of Lucy Gilmore's puppy powered Forever Home series.
As it turns out...
The aptly titled Puppy Christmas really is the holiday themed dose of romantic sweetness that serves as the gift that keeps on giving.
Whether it be as the story of the misunderstood loner who finally finds her tribe.
Lila...
Or the fun loving, self deprecating, flirty, single father. Who uses charm and wit to keep women at bay. While secretly longing for that one woman who will care enough to look for the depth of the lonely soul within.
Ford...
Or the sweet and intelligent six year old girl. Who loves fairy tales, longs for real friends, and is struggling to make her way in a world that hearing loss has made both difficult to both hear and understand.
Or finally.
Jeeves...
The sweet, loyal, and utterly irresistible cock-a-poo that enters the lives of all interested parties. When Lila's company, Puppy Promise, gifts him and his training to Ford and Emily as part of a partnership with the Auditory Guild. A nonprofit organization specifically geared to assist the hearing impaired with training, funding, and assistance of various sorts. Designed to improve the lives of the hearing impaired and their families.
This is truly the story of 1-2-3 and fur makes a family and so much more.
Readers of this story will be very clearly surprised to find that the balance between Lila's learning that she is worthy of love and understanding in a relationship.
Ford's finding the love of both his and his daughter's lives in Lila.
And Emily's journey of self discovery. As her bond with both Lila and Jeeves grows.
Is well maintained throughout the story's progression. It's natural transition from both character to character and emotional depth to emotional depth.
Flawless!
And let's not forget that hallmark does of Lucy Gilmore cute quirk that each of her stories is loaded with.
This one being no exception.
Although it must be said...
That the trademark cuteness that is lauded here resides much more frequently within the context of Lila and Ford's interactions. Than the customarily assumed child and puppy placement.
This is also a very romantic story. Which uses humor and true bonding to establish a secure footing for the eventual physical relationship.
Causing the reader to become much more invested in the totality of the success of Lila and Ford's relationship as a whole. Long before they are even a couple.
The holiday theme of this read is also handled in such an unobtrusive manner. That it remains a setting. And does not become central to the plot in any other way.
There are in fact, very few detractors to this story as.a.whole. Aside from the very meager amount of time given to the issue of Emily's mother.
And the over use of the spelling of provocative or suggestive words.
Which goes from being cute when first introduced. To "oh no...here we go again." By book 's end.
Overall however. Puppy Christmas truly does offer reader a story whose romantic bark is definitely as big as its emotional tug at one's heartstrings.
And although it is the second book in a series and holiday themed. It may be enjoyed anytime of year. As a standalone or as part of its intended series.
In this second volume of Lucy Gilmore's puppy powered Forever Home series.
As it turns out...
The aptly titled Puppy Christmas really is the holiday themed dose of romantic sweetness that serves as the gift that keeps on giving.
Whether it be as the story of the misunderstood loner who finally finds her tribe.
Lila...
Or the fun loving, self deprecating, flirty, single father. Who uses charm and wit to keep women at bay. While secretly longing for that one woman who will care enough to look for the depth of the lonely soul within.
Ford...
Or the sweet and intelligent six year old girl. Who loves fairy tales, longs for real friends, and is struggling to make her way in a world that hearing loss has made both difficult to both hear and understand.
Or finally.
Jeeves...
The sweet, loyal, and utterly irresistible cock-a-poo that enters the lives of all interested parties. When Lila's company, Puppy Promise, gifts him and his training to Ford and Emily as part of a partnership with the Auditory Guild. A nonprofit organization specifically geared to assist the hearing impaired with training, funding, and assistance of various sorts. Designed to improve the lives of the hearing impaired and their families.
This is truly the story of 1-2-3 and fur makes a family and so much more.
Readers of this story will be very clearly surprised to find that the balance between Lila's learning that she is worthy of love and understanding in a relationship.
Ford's finding the love of both his and his daughter's lives in Lila.
And Emily's journey of self discovery. As her bond with both Lila and Jeeves grows.
Is well maintained throughout the story's progression. It's natural transition from both character to character and emotional depth to emotional depth.
Flawless!
And let's not forget that hallmark does of Lucy Gilmore cute quirk that each of her stories is loaded with.
This one being no exception.
Although it must be said...
That the trademark cuteness that is lauded here resides much more frequently within the context of Lila and Ford's interactions. Than the customarily assumed child and puppy placement.
This is also a very romantic story. Which uses humor and true bonding to establish a secure footing for the eventual physical relationship.
Causing the reader to become much more invested in the totality of the success of Lila and Ford's relationship as a whole. Long before they are even a couple.
The holiday theme of this read is also handled in such an unobtrusive manner. That it remains a setting. And does not become central to the plot in any other way.
There are in fact, very few detractors to this story as.a.whole. Aside from the very meager amount of time given to the issue of Emily's mother.
And the over use of the spelling of provocative or suggestive words.
Which goes from being cute when first introduced. To "oh no...here we go again." By book 's end.
Overall however. Puppy Christmas truly does offer reader a story whose romantic bark is definitely as big as its emotional tug at one's heartstrings.
And although it is the second book in a series and holiday themed. It may be enjoyed anytime of year. As a standalone or as part of its intended series.
July 14, 2019
This single parent romance was a super fun read for many reasons, but I’ll start with Lila and Ford. Lila runs Puppy Promise with her siblings. In the first book, I would have said she was really uptight and serious. However, getting to know and explore what made Lila tick gave me a much better appreciation for why she was who she was. I don’t think she was emotionally closed off. Lila just hadn’t found the right person to unlock what made her tick. Then Ford in all his glory popped on the scene!
Ford may have had physical appeal, but he wasn’t a typical male lead. He’s a single dad who lives in a modest home, drives a minivan, and eeks out a decent living illustrating coffee machines. And he’s okay with that. His daughter is his world and he wants to make sure he can put her first. He’s also great at deflecting personal questions with jokes of all kinds and can put anyone at ease with a snap of his fingers. Yet there’s something about Lila that thaws his heart in places he didn’t know still had room for someone else, besides his daughter, Emily. But is it worth risking another broken heart to reach for someone who appears to be much better off without him?
I loved Puppy Christmas sooooo much! From the zany supporting characters (to live on a street with that many single moms speaks highly of Ford’s ability to stay single and still be supportive friends with them all) to Ford’s adorably cheeky humor, Emily and her princess obsession, her service dog, Jeeves the cockapoo, and the wonderfully charged romance between Lila and Ford... there isn’t any part of the story I disliked...well, maybe a longer epilogue. Like a few years down the road or something:)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ford may have had physical appeal, but he wasn’t a typical male lead. He’s a single dad who lives in a modest home, drives a minivan, and eeks out a decent living illustrating coffee machines. And he’s okay with that. His daughter is his world and he wants to make sure he can put her first. He’s also great at deflecting personal questions with jokes of all kinds and can put anyone at ease with a snap of his fingers. Yet there’s something about Lila that thaws his heart in places he didn’t know still had room for someone else, besides his daughter, Emily. But is it worth risking another broken heart to reach for someone who appears to be much better off without him?
I loved Puppy Christmas sooooo much! From the zany supporting characters (to live on a street with that many single moms speaks highly of Ford’s ability to stay single and still be supportive friends with them all) to Ford’s adorably cheeky humor, Emily and her princess obsession, her service dog, Jeeves the cockapoo, and the wonderfully charged romance between Lila and Ford... there isn’t any part of the story I disliked...well, maybe a longer epilogue. Like a few years down the road or something:)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2021
Initial thoughts:
I loved this so, so much. It was so much more than I was expecting especially in the feels department. I thought this was going to be a sweet, cute Christmas romance, though there were those moments like that (many in fact) it went so much deeper and sexier than from what the title suggested. When it got to that phone scene, I realized was going to be a spicy read. I wasn’t mad about it either. It was fun and entertaining to read. At times it was so touching and heartbreaking that I was tearing up. It was just amazing. It hit so many boxes for me.
Review:
There were just so many moments to gush about that I probably couldn’t name them all. Just every moment was utter perfection with different elements in the story. A story that was very complex and deep yet light and fun at the same time. It was balance of the heavy stuff and the lighter stuff. The lighter stuff made me happy, made me smile, and made me laugh while he heavier stuff broke me, touched me and just made me feel all the feels, making it quite a ride to go on.
The tropes in here were utterly fantastic. My favorite was the single dad trope so, so much. The way he loved and cared for his daughter just warmed my heart and made me swoon especially after those adorable moments with Emily. They had a great father daughter relationship.
I loved the interactions between Emily and Lila. It started off from the very beginning when Emily mistook Lila for a princess because Lila was dressed in a hot pink gown. The bond really started then even though Lila was unsure at first. It was great to see their relationship develop and grow and really see them fall in love with each other, which was so sweet. They got to spend time together due to the fact that Lila was helping Emily with her new service dog Jeeves that would help Emily due to the fact she was hearing impaired. The moment that Emily told Lila that she loved her just broke me and tear up so much. It was gut wrenching moment yet a happy one because finally Lila believed they she could have the love of both father and daughter after feeling so unwanted for so long based on her being her.
The relationship between Ford and Lila was just out of the park good. Pretty much from the start he loved her. It was very clear that he adored her especially seeing Lila’s interactions with his daughter, however he didn’t want to scare her away with his feelings so he came off as more casual, which caused a problem later. The way he flirted with her was so funny and entertaining, and she flirted back. The chemistry between these two were incredible. The bouncing back and forth was so good. I loved that their flirting was spelling curse words to each other just in case Emily heard them while the spoke. It really became a game to them. That phone scene was something else. It was hot. Their first date was both cute and adorable and hot and spicy. What followed was just as scorching and it was so good after the build up.
Also, I loved he loved her quirks and put that in the drawings that he made of her. It showed really saw the woman underneath all the layers that she kept hidden. It was quite the gesture of epic proportions of spelling out his feelings for her. It was wonderful. I loved it so much.
The other relationships in this story were great too. I was surprised of the friendship that developed between Lila and Helen. It wasn’t a rivalry between the women for Ford’s affection. They formed a nice support system between them. I loved that so much. It made Lila’s life even more richer. It was what Lila needed her life. She got that from Helen, which was awesome.
The moments with puppy Jeeves was another win. He was so stinking cute and adorable. I loved his relationship with Emily. I loved how became a protector and a true to a friend to her. It was just so sweet.
Overall I just loved this story and for so many different reasons. It had a lot of depth. It had a lot of fun. There were sweet moments. There were some raw emotional moments. There were a lot of feels going on. It was just greatness. Loved it.
*used this book for the prompt of letters in the title of being either C.H.A.I.R for the Hello 2022 Quarterly Reading Challenge from the Romance Readers Reading Challenge group on GoodReads. There a C in Christmas for the title.
I loved this so, so much. It was so much more than I was expecting especially in the feels department. I thought this was going to be a sweet, cute Christmas romance, though there were those moments like that (many in fact) it went so much deeper and sexier than from what the title suggested. When it got to that phone scene, I realized was going to be a spicy read. I wasn’t mad about it either. It was fun and entertaining to read. At times it was so touching and heartbreaking that I was tearing up. It was just amazing. It hit so many boxes for me.
Review:
There were just so many moments to gush about that I probably couldn’t name them all. Just every moment was utter perfection with different elements in the story. A story that was very complex and deep yet light and fun at the same time. It was balance of the heavy stuff and the lighter stuff. The lighter stuff made me happy, made me smile, and made me laugh while he heavier stuff broke me, touched me and just made me feel all the feels, making it quite a ride to go on.
The tropes in here were utterly fantastic. My favorite was the single dad trope so, so much. The way he loved and cared for his daughter just warmed my heart and made me swoon especially after those adorable moments with Emily. They had a great father daughter relationship.
I loved the interactions between Emily and Lila. It started off from the very beginning when Emily mistook Lila for a princess because Lila was dressed in a hot pink gown. The bond really started then even though Lila was unsure at first. It was great to see their relationship develop and grow and really see them fall in love with each other, which was so sweet. They got to spend time together due to the fact that Lila was helping Emily with her new service dog Jeeves that would help Emily due to the fact she was hearing impaired. The moment that Emily told Lila that she loved her just broke me and tear up so much. It was gut wrenching moment yet a happy one because finally Lila believed they she could have the love of both father and daughter after feeling so unwanted for so long based on her being her.
The relationship between Ford and Lila was just out of the park good. Pretty much from the start he loved her. It was very clear that he adored her especially seeing Lila’s interactions with his daughter, however he didn’t want to scare her away with his feelings so he came off as more casual, which caused a problem later. The way he flirted with her was so funny and entertaining, and she flirted back. The chemistry between these two were incredible. The bouncing back and forth was so good. I loved that their flirting was spelling curse words to each other just in case Emily heard them while the spoke. It really became a game to them. That phone scene was something else. It was hot. Their first date was both cute and adorable and hot and spicy. What followed was just as scorching and it was so good after the build up.
Also, I loved he loved her quirks and put that in the drawings that he made of her. It showed really saw the woman underneath all the layers that she kept hidden. It was quite the gesture of epic proportions of spelling out his feelings for her. It was wonderful. I loved it so much.
The other relationships in this story were great too. I was surprised of the friendship that developed between Lila and Helen. It wasn’t a rivalry between the women for Ford’s affection. They formed a nice support system between them. I loved that so much. It made Lila’s life even more richer. It was what Lila needed her life. She got that from Helen, which was awesome.
The moments with puppy Jeeves was another win. He was so stinking cute and adorable. I loved his relationship with Emily. I loved how became a protector and a true to a friend to her. It was just so sweet.
Overall I just loved this story and for so many different reasons. It had a lot of depth. It had a lot of fun. There were sweet moments. There were some raw emotional moments. There were a lot of feels going on. It was just greatness. Loved it.
*used this book for the prompt of letters in the title of being either C.H.A.I.R for the Hello 2022 Quarterly Reading Challenge from the Romance Readers Reading Challenge group on GoodReads. There a C in Christmas for the title.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2021
https://celebrityreaders.com/2021/01/...
4.5 stars — Oh ho! No sophomore slump for this series, I loved it just as much as the first book! And Lila and Ford were NOTHING like Sophie and Harrison, but they were equally delightful, loveable, and hilarious. And that’s not even factoring in Emily and Jeeves! Yup, this is definitely going up into my favourite series pile, and I still have one left!
I loved how unique Lila was, and that we got to see how she came to be the way she was, and how the way people perceive her can be hurtful. And how easily it is for us as humans to absorb those cruel things and start to believe them of ourselves. I loved her transformation. I loved that she didn’t actually change a lot, she just embraced who she was and learned that there is nothing wrong with the way she sees and approaches the world. I especially loved that she could see a parallel with Emily, and understand some of what she was going through.
Ford Ford was unbelievable. He was absolutely incorrigible, hilarious, and if it were a historical romance, he would have been a bit of a rake. But there were so many layers hiding beneath all that. I mean, yeah, he did have a wicked sense of humour. But he has sooooo much vulnerability, sensitivity, and such a low sense of self worth. It was hard watching him almost sabotage himself in some ways. His story really goes to show that you can’t know what’s going on with someone, and even those who look to be carefree can be struggling with things.
I adored Lila and Ford together. I mean, don’t get me wrong, they frustrated the s-h-i-t out of me as well, with their evasions and pride and misunderstandings (though not so bad that it bothered me a LOT). But the connection between them — the heat, the banter, the ease…I just fell in love with them together. Their romance gave me all sorts of happy tummy tingles and goofy smiles.
And this story wouldn’t be the story it is without Emily and Jeeves. Yet again, I adored learning about training a service puppy, and some of what is involved. It’s fascinating to learn all the different ways they can help humans, and it makes me immensely happy that their role is becoming more accepted. And Emily both broke my heart and mended it. I loved how sweet, serious, and genuine she was for a little girl. I also appreciated that she wasn’t perfect and pushed boundaries as any 6 year old would.
One of the strange surprises for me in this book was Helen Griswold. I was totally anticipating her role to take on a familiar tropey quality, but then Ms. Gilmore just yanked the rug out and made her human and delightful. Not to mention quirky and fallible. But she was so genuine. I was soooo happy with that. And with the other secondary characters we saw bits of, even *gasp* Patrick.
Can I get any more effusive? It’s ridiculous. I even like answering my hubby when he asks what I’m reading with “Puppy Christmas”. I mean, doesn’t the title just make you goofy happy? In the end it wasn’t strong in the holiday vein, the season was just a coincidence. But the puppy part was strong, and now I’m just babbling for the sake of babbling…
4.5 stars — Oh ho! No sophomore slump for this series, I loved it just as much as the first book! And Lila and Ford were NOTHING like Sophie and Harrison, but they were equally delightful, loveable, and hilarious. And that’s not even factoring in Emily and Jeeves! Yup, this is definitely going up into my favourite series pile, and I still have one left!
I loved how unique Lila was, and that we got to see how she came to be the way she was, and how the way people perceive her can be hurtful. And how easily it is for us as humans to absorb those cruel things and start to believe them of ourselves. I loved her transformation. I loved that she didn’t actually change a lot, she just embraced who she was and learned that there is nothing wrong with the way she sees and approaches the world. I especially loved that she could see a parallel with Emily, and understand some of what she was going through.
Ford Ford was unbelievable. He was absolutely incorrigible, hilarious, and if it were a historical romance, he would have been a bit of a rake. But there were so many layers hiding beneath all that. I mean, yeah, he did have a wicked sense of humour. But he has sooooo much vulnerability, sensitivity, and such a low sense of self worth. It was hard watching him almost sabotage himself in some ways. His story really goes to show that you can’t know what’s going on with someone, and even those who look to be carefree can be struggling with things.
I adored Lila and Ford together. I mean, don’t get me wrong, they frustrated the s-h-i-t out of me as well, with their evasions and pride and misunderstandings (though not so bad that it bothered me a LOT). But the connection between them — the heat, the banter, the ease…I just fell in love with them together. Their romance gave me all sorts of happy tummy tingles and goofy smiles.
And this story wouldn’t be the story it is without Emily and Jeeves. Yet again, I adored learning about training a service puppy, and some of what is involved. It’s fascinating to learn all the different ways they can help humans, and it makes me immensely happy that their role is becoming more accepted. And Emily both broke my heart and mended it. I loved how sweet, serious, and genuine she was for a little girl. I also appreciated that she wasn’t perfect and pushed boundaries as any 6 year old would.
One of the strange surprises for me in this book was Helen Griswold. I was totally anticipating her role to take on a familiar tropey quality, but then Ms. Gilmore just yanked the rug out and made her human and delightful. Not to mention quirky and fallible. But she was so genuine. I was soooo happy with that. And with the other secondary characters we saw bits of, even *gasp* Patrick.
Can I get any more effusive? It’s ridiculous. I even like answering my hubby when he asks what I’m reading with “Puppy Christmas”. I mean, doesn’t the title just make you goofy happy? In the end it wasn’t strong in the holiday vein, the season was just a coincidence. But the puppy part was strong, and now I’m just babbling for the sake of babbling…
November 26, 2019
Lila Vasquez met a delightful little girl that changed her life forever. Running a service puppy training school with her sisters is rewarding work for certain. However, working with children is definitely not one of her strengths. Ford Ford (yes, that is his name) has the most amazing daughter, six-year-old Emily. Due to her hearing loss, Emily is about to get a service dog, and that comes with one-on-one training. This blessing is due to a fundraiser and the dog and training lessons were offered as a prize.
Lila will be working with Emily and the dog - who Emily promptly names Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third - all the while fighting an incredible attraction to Ford. Meanwhile, Ford not only has to fight his own attraction, but also his very torn emotional feelings. These feelings include the fact that as a single father, he is very protective as his daughter. Also, his past was rather rocky, and he often wonders whether or not he is good enough for someone as classy as Lila. Lila herself has someone in her past that is rather making a nuisance of himself.
Emily is as sharp as a tack. Lila is her "new friend". Already a special person in her life, and somehow, she is going to make her daddy happy by making Lila much more than a dog trainer. It is also the holidays, so preparations are in order.
What a wonderful story! It is the second in the Forever Home series. The Vasquez sisters, as readers have already met them in Puppy Love, particularly Sophie, have proven that they will go over and above to make their clients happy. Placing just the perfect dog with each family is something they excel at. In this book, Puppy Christmas, Lila measures up to the task marvelously.
Not only is the book based on puppies, an adorable little girl and a very warm romance, but it is filled with humor, family and a touching happily ever after. The next book in the series, Puppy Kisses, is due for release in June.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and to Edelweiss for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Lila will be working with Emily and the dog - who Emily promptly names Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third - all the while fighting an incredible attraction to Ford. Meanwhile, Ford not only has to fight his own attraction, but also his very torn emotional feelings. These feelings include the fact that as a single father, he is very protective as his daughter. Also, his past was rather rocky, and he often wonders whether or not he is good enough for someone as classy as Lila. Lila herself has someone in her past that is rather making a nuisance of himself.
Emily is as sharp as a tack. Lila is her "new friend". Already a special person in her life, and somehow, she is going to make her daddy happy by making Lila much more than a dog trainer. It is also the holidays, so preparations are in order.
What a wonderful story! It is the second in the Forever Home series. The Vasquez sisters, as readers have already met them in Puppy Love, particularly Sophie, have proven that they will go over and above to make their clients happy. Placing just the perfect dog with each family is something they excel at. In this book, Puppy Christmas, Lila measures up to the task marvelously.
Not only is the book based on puppies, an adorable little girl and a very warm romance, but it is filled with humor, family and a touching happily ever after. The next book in the series, Puppy Kisses, is due for release in June.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and to Edelweiss for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 22, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series - I have not read book 1, however I intend to do so, as this is a really well written book, and I need to get Sophie's story too. The series is based on the Service dog training school run by three sisters.
Lila is the serious older sister, who had to help hold the family together as baby sister Sophie went through cancer treatment. She has never really dropped the responsibility habit, and her last boyfriend said some incredibly hurtful things to her, about being cold-hearted. It was really sad to see how much this had affected her - but meeting Ford and Emily seems destined to revise her opinion.
Six year old Emily has been awarded a service dog to help her with her hearing loss. Lila is going to train them both for six weeks, and so more or less joins the household. She finds herself attracted to Emily's single Dad, Ford, and also unexpectedly enjoying herself with Emily's obsession with princesses. It is fun and sweet, with a fabulous undercurrent of chemistry between the adults which simmers very nicely. Lila can't really believe that he has any interest in her, but Ford is definitely determined to win her heart and hand.
Any book with a lot of gorgeous puppies in it would be fabulous, but this one also tells a lovely romance, with a very happy ending.
This is the second book in the series - I have not read book 1, however I intend to do so, as this is a really well written book, and I need to get Sophie's story too. The series is based on the Service dog training school run by three sisters.
Lila is the serious older sister, who had to help hold the family together as baby sister Sophie went through cancer treatment. She has never really dropped the responsibility habit, and her last boyfriend said some incredibly hurtful things to her, about being cold-hearted. It was really sad to see how much this had affected her - but meeting Ford and Emily seems destined to revise her opinion.
Six year old Emily has been awarded a service dog to help her with her hearing loss. Lila is going to train them both for six weeks, and so more or less joins the household. She finds herself attracted to Emily's single Dad, Ford, and also unexpectedly enjoying herself with Emily's obsession with princesses. It is fun and sweet, with a fabulous undercurrent of chemistry between the adults which simmers very nicely. Lila can't really believe that he has any interest in her, but Ford is definitely determined to win her heart and hand.
Any book with a lot of gorgeous puppies in it would be fabulous, but this one also tells a lovely romance, with a very happy ending.
September 24, 2019
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*
Book 2 in the Forever Home series can be read as a stand alone, but so far this entire series has been great.
Meet the Vasquez sisters, the women who run Puppy Promise, a service dog training school. Lila Vasquez is the eldest sister, she's serious, driven, and in her own words "no fun". She may be the serious sister, but if allowed, she knows how to enjoy herself.
Ford Ford provides some welcome comedy. His name alone is worth a laugh, but beyond that he is a funny guy. A single father, who dotes on his daughter, Ford is doing everything in his power to afford his hearing disabled child the best care possible. When Ford and Emily win a scholarship for a service dog, Lila is introduced to the goofy dad and provides some seriousness to the fray.
This book has it all: comedy, drama, romance, and covers all the emotions. I truly fell for all these characters and want to follow them through out their lives. Emily, especially, grabbed my heart - I loved seeing her grow in confidence with her puppy pal. Mostly my heart fell in love with Ford and Lila. Watching these two adults overcome their own insecurities, find comfort in one another, and truly learn to give in was beautiful.
I can not wait for Dawn's story!!
Book 2 in the Forever Home series can be read as a stand alone, but so far this entire series has been great.
Meet the Vasquez sisters, the women who run Puppy Promise, a service dog training school. Lila Vasquez is the eldest sister, she's serious, driven, and in her own words "no fun". She may be the serious sister, but if allowed, she knows how to enjoy herself.
Ford Ford provides some welcome comedy. His name alone is worth a laugh, but beyond that he is a funny guy. A single father, who dotes on his daughter, Ford is doing everything in his power to afford his hearing disabled child the best care possible. When Ford and Emily win a scholarship for a service dog, Lila is introduced to the goofy dad and provides some seriousness to the fray.
This book has it all: comedy, drama, romance, and covers all the emotions. I truly fell for all these characters and want to follow them through out their lives. Emily, especially, grabbed my heart - I loved seeing her grow in confidence with her puppy pal. Mostly my heart fell in love with Ford and Lila. Watching these two adults overcome their own insecurities, find comfort in one another, and truly learn to give in was beautiful.
I can not wait for Dawn's story!!
October 19, 2019
Puppy Christmas (Forever Home Book 2) by Lucy Gilmore
416 pages
Publication date: September 24, 2019
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise—the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters—but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted—but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
🎄🐶MY REVIEW 🎄🐶
PUPPY CHRISTMAS is a sweet, fun, realistic Christmas love story . Emily and her service pup Jeeves stole my heart ! Emily is hearing-impaired and has two cochlear implants. This cute story is so hilarious. I laughed so much reading it. ( Which got me some strange looks in the dr. Office. ) Puppy Christmas by Lucy Gilmore is the second book in her Forever Home series and is as good as her first.Thank you to the publisher,Author &Net Galley for my arc for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Puppy Christmas (Forever Home Book 2)
416 pages
Publication date: September 24, 2019
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise—the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters—but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted—but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
🎄🐶MY REVIEW 🎄🐶
PUPPY CHRISTMAS is a sweet, fun, realistic Christmas love story . Emily and her service pup Jeeves stole my heart ! Emily is hearing-impaired and has two cochlear implants. This cute story is so hilarious. I laughed so much reading it. ( Which got me some strange looks in the dr. Office. ) Puppy Christmas by Lucy Gilmore is the second book in her Forever Home series and is as good as her first.Thank you to the publisher,Author &Net Galley for my arc for a honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Puppy Christmas (Forever Home Book 2)
December 4, 2019
This was fun and cute, but also very touching. Lila was the serious sister, and known as the lizard queen. Her last boyfriend brutally wrote her off, and she believed she was not likable. Enter Ford Ford, yes, that's his name, and his silly name sort of matched the persona he projected to the outside world. Deep down, though, there was a lot more to this single guy. When his daughter brings "Princess Lila" into their lives, Ford is ready for something he hadn't wanted for years - a romantic relationship. The assumptions keeping these two apart made me a bit batty, but I loved them together. Ford brought out the lighter, warmer side of Lila, while Lila pushed Ford, and his daughter, a bit out of their comfort zones, which was a very positive thing. I still love all the puppy training and seeing how these service animals learn their job, and I really enjoyed getting to know another of the Vasquez sisters.
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December 5, 2019
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Delight
I didn't really know what I was getting into when I started this story, but when I came out of it, my heart was so much happier. Seeing a guy so into the care of his daughter and not one for greatness. A woman who thinks she is cold and unlovable. I just was a story to melt my heart for Christmas
Review
Lila Vasquez runs Puppy Promise, a service puppy training, with her two sisters, but she isn't considered the "fun" one of the group. She's is organized and gets things done, but at the end of the day, she lays down and lets the puppies crawl over her and that makes her not as cold as people may think. When she is given the opportunity to help a non-profit auditory foundation with a free puppy and training services, she see this as a way for her company to move forward. What she didn't plan was for her sisters to put her in a glittery, pink princess dress that would steal a young girls heart or even that of her father. When they turn out to be the clients, Lila learns that she isn't as cold as her ex-boyfriend says she is and she owes some of that revelation to Ford. That's Ford Ford.
Yep, Ford Ford is his first and last name. Ford's life revolves around his six-year old, Emily. With a cochlear implant, Emily often isn't very social or confident. When Lila enters all dressed up as a princess, both Emily and Ford truly believe they have royalty in their mists. With Lila's gentle but firm guidance, Emily starts to flourish with her trusty puppy, Jeeves. Ford though is harder to crack as he keeps everyone at an arms distance with his flirting. These at times were very laugh out loud moments, but they also show you that he has forsaken any happiness in the quest to provide everything he can for his daughter.
Ford teaches Lila she isn't cold and that she can have fun. Just be who she is. Lila teaches Ford he doesn't have to give up everything for his daughter, but still provide everything he wants to provide for her. This was a beautifully written story about ordinary people finding that person that makes their inner beauty and personality shine.
This could be a sweet romance, a RomCom romance but it also plays well as a Contemporary Romance that happens at Christmas time. It falls into so many categories, but it also falls into one of my favorite books of 2019.
Challenges Met
Review Writing Challenge #70
Literary Pickers #54 - Pet Toys
New Release #29
Try Something New #33 - Author
September 22, 2019
I could use a long list of adjective to define this book: engrossing, entertaining, emotionally charged, wickedly funny, page turner, heartwarming.
Any of these adjectives applies to this novel which is one the best and most entertaining romance I read this year.
You cannot help rooting for the fleshed out characters and you cannot help laughing or being moved.
I read it in one setting and I was sad when it was over.
Now I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment.
Ms Gilmore can surely write a book that keep your attention and will make you laugh e move nearly to tears.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Any of these adjectives applies to this novel which is one the best and most entertaining romance I read this year.
You cannot help rooting for the fleshed out characters and you cannot help laughing or being moved.
I read it in one setting and I was sad when it was over.
Now I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment.
Ms Gilmore can surely write a book that keep your attention and will make you laugh e move nearly to tears.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
June 27, 2020
Another great read from Lucy Gilmore's Forever Home series.
I really enjoyed this charming story. Lila and Ford were perfect for each other and Ford's daughter Emily stole the show more than once.
I like the author's writing style, too. The plot doesn't feel rushed or too stretched out, and the characters are interesting, entertaining, and realistic.
I am really looking forward to seeing what the author writes next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this charming story. Lila and Ford were perfect for each other and Ford's daughter Emily stole the show more than once.
I like the author's writing style, too. The plot doesn't feel rushed or too stretched out, and the characters are interesting, entertaining, and realistic.
I am really looking forward to seeing what the author writes next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
November 5, 2019
Pleasant and sweet. Sort of a Hallmark Christmas movie + sex.
Unfortunately I didn't really connect with any of it. The H/h were nice enough but nothing was particularly compelling. The romance/sex felt like it was added gratuitously - it somehow didn't feel like it was naturally a part of the story line. But the puppy was cute!
And at almost 12 hours, it was too long for something so sweet and fluffy.
Cover: Yeah, I was sucked in by the adorable/hot cover!
Narration: Okay. But I didn't love the narrator's 'male' voices. I suspect that had a little bit to do with why I didn't think the two really connected.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: He is a Ravenclaw and she is a Slytherin.
Themes: hearing impaired, service dog, Christmas
Unfortunately I didn't really connect with any of it. The H/h were nice enough but nothing was particularly compelling. The romance/sex felt like it was added gratuitously - it somehow didn't feel like it was naturally a part of the story line. But the puppy was cute!
And at almost 12 hours, it was too long for something so sweet and fluffy.
Cover: Yeah, I was sucked in by the adorable/hot cover!
Narration: Okay. But I didn't love the narrator's 'male' voices. I suspect that had a little bit to do with why I didn't think the two really connected.
Hogwarts Sorting Hat: He is a Ravenclaw and she is a Slytherin.
Themes: hearing impaired, service dog, Christmas
August 2, 2019
I received an advance copy for reviewing purposes from Sourcebooks via Netgalley. This in no way influences my review; all words, thoughts, and opinions are my own.
Content notes:
Gosh this book, this series is so stinkin’ cute!
Lila Vasquez is the oldest of three sisters and together they run a personalized service puppy program. Lila is used to taking care of others, but tends to keep herself rigid in control, which led to her most recent ex turning the word “perfect” into a weapon against her. When she has to go to an event where she and her sisters are giving away a service puppy for someone with hearing loss as part of the Auditory Guild, she ends up dressing in a pink, poofy, glittery princess dress at the behest of her sisters. While hiding, though, she runs into a six-year-old girl also wearing a pink princess dress who’s lost her dad. Lila promises to help her find him, but Ford Ford, Emily’s father, finds them first. Emily believes Lila truly is a princess so when she ends up getting a service dog and personalized training, Lila dedicates herself to acting the part of princess.
If Lila’s interactions with Emily aren’t sweet enough, Ford is a single dad living in a neighborhood of single moms who all adore him for the way he’s able to joke and flirt outrageously without meaning anything by it. He’s used to protecting himself with an armor of humor and when he realizes he truly cares for Lila, and not just for the ways she interacts and care for Emily and Jeeves, he has to learn to be serious once in a while.
This book was honestly so sweet and cute and fun. I love the little ways Lila and Ford bond, as well as the way they make each other laugh and give each other a place to drop their shields. The development of their trust is very organic though not always easy when there’s some instances of miscommunication and internal stuff coloring what the other person is saying.
Scenes with Emily are some of my favorites because she’s such a sweet young girl. She has Pendred syndrome which involves degenerative hearing loss and also affects her thyroid function. She has cochleae implants but I liked that the book talks about how she still has to use lip reading and sign language at times in order to fully comprehend what’s being said to her. I also loved her companionship with Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third, the cockapoo she ends up choosing as her service dog. He is her first friend and watching their bond deepen was absolutely on of my favorite elements.
But my actual favorite part of the book? Family! Lila is very close with her two younger sisters and the ways they take care of each other and work together for the business they built together just makes me so happy! I also love how it feels like the moms in Ford’s neighborhood have become a family of sorts for him and Emily. He talks several times about how lost he’d have been if he didn’t have their support and the tips they had for him when it comes to raising his daughter. Their community is definitely strong and always willing to help one another out with their children and anything else they may need.
Overall, Puppy Christmas is a light, fluffy read that focuses on strong sibling bonds as well as the chosen family that supports us. The romance between Lila and Ford was so fun and made me laugh and smile so much, though there are definitely points that brought tears to my eyes. And the ending was so sweet, it practically makes me swoon! Definitely recommend if you enjoy light, fun romances~
Content notes:
Gosh this book, this series is so stinkin’ cute!
Lila Vasquez is the oldest of three sisters and together they run a personalized service puppy program. Lila is used to taking care of others, but tends to keep herself rigid in control, which led to her most recent ex turning the word “perfect” into a weapon against her. When she has to go to an event where she and her sisters are giving away a service puppy for someone with hearing loss as part of the Auditory Guild, she ends up dressing in a pink, poofy, glittery princess dress at the behest of her sisters. While hiding, though, she runs into a six-year-old girl also wearing a pink princess dress who’s lost her dad. Lila promises to help her find him, but Ford Ford, Emily’s father, finds them first. Emily believes Lila truly is a princess so when she ends up getting a service dog and personalized training, Lila dedicates herself to acting the part of princess.
If Lila’s interactions with Emily aren’t sweet enough, Ford is a single dad living in a neighborhood of single moms who all adore him for the way he’s able to joke and flirt outrageously without meaning anything by it. He’s used to protecting himself with an armor of humor and when he realizes he truly cares for Lila, and not just for the ways she interacts and care for Emily and Jeeves, he has to learn to be serious once in a while.
This book was honestly so sweet and cute and fun. I love the little ways Lila and Ford bond, as well as the way they make each other laugh and give each other a place to drop their shields. The development of their trust is very organic though not always easy when there’s some instances of miscommunication and internal stuff coloring what the other person is saying.
Scenes with Emily are some of my favorites because she’s such a sweet young girl. She has Pendred syndrome which involves degenerative hearing loss and also affects her thyroid function. She has cochleae implants but I liked that the book talks about how she still has to use lip reading and sign language at times in order to fully comprehend what’s being said to her. I also loved her companionship with Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third, the cockapoo she ends up choosing as her service dog. He is her first friend and watching their bond deepen was absolutely on of my favorite elements.
But my actual favorite part of the book? Family! Lila is very close with her two younger sisters and the ways they take care of each other and work together for the business they built together just makes me so happy! I also love how it feels like the moms in Ford’s neighborhood have become a family of sorts for him and Emily. He talks several times about how lost he’d have been if he didn’t have their support and the tips they had for him when it comes to raising his daughter. Their community is definitely strong and always willing to help one another out with their children and anything else they may need.
Overall, Puppy Christmas is a light, fluffy read that focuses on strong sibling bonds as well as the chosen family that supports us. The romance between Lila and Ford was so fun and made me laugh and smile so much, though there are definitely points that brought tears to my eyes. And the ending was so sweet, it practically makes me swoon! Definitely recommend if you enjoy light, fun romances~
October 5, 2019
Check out our
Puppy Christmas
post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shelby – ☆☆☆☆☆
Book two in the Forever Home series can be read as a standalone, but so far, this entire series has been great.
Meet the Vasquez sisters, the women who run Puppy Promise, a service dog training school. Lila Vasquez is the eldest sister, she's serious, driven, and in her own words "no fun." She may be the serious sister, but if allowed, she knows how to enjoy herself.
Ford Ford provides some welcome comedy. His name alone is worth a laugh, but beyond that he is a funny guy. A single father who dotes on his daughter, Ford is doing everything in his power to afford his hearing disabled child the best care possible. When Ford and Emily win a scholarship for a service dog, Lila is introduced to the goofy dad and provides some seriousness to the fray.
This book has it all: comedy, drama, romance, and covers all the emotions. I truly fell for all these characters and want to follow them throughout their lives. Emily, especially, grabbed my heart – I loved seeing her grow in confidence with her puppy pal. Mostly my heart fell in love with Ford and Lila. Watching these two adults overcome their own insecurities, find comfort in one another, and truly learn to give in was beautiful.
I cannot wait for Dawn's story!!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series – I have not read book one, however I intend to do so, as this is a really well written book, and I need to get Sophie's story too. The series is based on the service dog training school run by three sisters.
Lila is the serious, older sister, who had to help hold the family together as baby sister Sophie went through cancer treatment. She has never really dropped the responsibility habit, and her last boyfriend said some incredibly hurtful things to her about being cold-hearted. It was really sad to see how much this had affected her – but meeting Ford and Emily seems destined to revise her opinion.
Six-year-old Emily has been awarded a service dog to help her with her hearing loss. Lila is going to train them both for six weeks, and so more or less joins the household. She finds herself attracted to Emily's single dad, Ford, and also unexpectedly enjoying herself with Emily's obsession with princesses. It is fun and sweet, with a fabulous undercurrent of chemistry between the adults which simmers very nicely. Lila can't really believe that he has any interest in her, but Ford is definitely determined to win her heart and hand.
Any book with a lot of gorgeous puppies in it would be fabulous, but this one also tells a lovely romance, with a very happy ending.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shelby – ☆☆☆☆☆
Book two in the Forever Home series can be read as a standalone, but so far, this entire series has been great.
Meet the Vasquez sisters, the women who run Puppy Promise, a service dog training school. Lila Vasquez is the eldest sister, she's serious, driven, and in her own words "no fun." She may be the serious sister, but if allowed, she knows how to enjoy herself.
Ford Ford provides some welcome comedy. His name alone is worth a laugh, but beyond that he is a funny guy. A single father who dotes on his daughter, Ford is doing everything in his power to afford his hearing disabled child the best care possible. When Ford and Emily win a scholarship for a service dog, Lila is introduced to the goofy dad and provides some seriousness to the fray.
This book has it all: comedy, drama, romance, and covers all the emotions. I truly fell for all these characters and want to follow them throughout their lives. Emily, especially, grabbed my heart – I loved seeing her grow in confidence with her puppy pal. Mostly my heart fell in love with Ford and Lila. Watching these two adults overcome their own insecurities, find comfort in one another, and truly learn to give in was beautiful.
I cannot wait for Dawn's story!!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series – I have not read book one, however I intend to do so, as this is a really well written book, and I need to get Sophie's story too. The series is based on the service dog training school run by three sisters.
Lila is the serious, older sister, who had to help hold the family together as baby sister Sophie went through cancer treatment. She has never really dropped the responsibility habit, and her last boyfriend said some incredibly hurtful things to her about being cold-hearted. It was really sad to see how much this had affected her – but meeting Ford and Emily seems destined to revise her opinion.
Six-year-old Emily has been awarded a service dog to help her with her hearing loss. Lila is going to train them both for six weeks, and so more or less joins the household. She finds herself attracted to Emily's single dad, Ford, and also unexpectedly enjoying herself with Emily's obsession with princesses. It is fun and sweet, with a fabulous undercurrent of chemistry between the adults which simmers very nicely. Lila can't really believe that he has any interest in her, but Ford is definitely determined to win her heart and hand.
Any book with a lot of gorgeous puppies in it would be fabulous, but this one also tells a lovely romance, with a very happy ending.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
August 21, 2019
Get ready to laugh your way through this super fun story! There's the sweetest little girl and her adorable service puppy, her funny and sexy single dad and the puppy trainer who falls for all three of them.
Lila Vasquez, who co-owns Puppy Promise with her two sisters, feels like a real loser. It's all her two sisters' fault. They thought the nonprofit event with the Once Upon a Time theme meant it was a costume party. They couldn't have been more wrong. No, it's an upscale elegant event complete with a string quartet for entertainment. Lila is so embarrassed. Here she is in her "costume," a full-skirted bubble gum pink gown complete with glitter. Lots and lots of glitter. She can't leave this event either. She and her sisters have donated a service puppy and their personal training and the lucky winner will be announced here tonight. Then, as luck would have it, her ex-boyfriend (Yes the one who broke up with her because she was too "perfect" said in a voice of distain.) enters the ballroom. Oh no! Escape! She finds an Energency Exit stairway and heads down to a first floor landing. She just has to regroup and try to avoid the guy until she has to return to the ballroom for the big announcement. Alone and safe! Not quite. She hears a sniffling sound and discovers a little girl in a bubble gum pink dress similar to her own. Seems six-year-old Emily is lost. She calms down when she decides that Lila is a true princess. As Princess Lila is about to take Emily to find her dad he finds them. Our hero has arrived! So even though our hero has the ridiculous name Ford Ford that doesn't take away from his sexy good looks, humorous wit and loving heart. Plus when Lila meets him she finds he smells so good. Like aftershave and peanut butter(?). So begins the fun and laughter.
Puppy Christmas by Lucy Gilmore is the second book in her Forever Home series. This series is centered around three sisters who run Puppy Promise, a service puppy training school. All three sisters are fun, loveable characters. This story highlights the oldest sister, Lila, the staid, responsible "too perfect" one. At the nonprofit event Lila discovered that Emily Ford was the recipient of the donated service puppy and training. Emily is hearing-impaired and has two cochlear implants. Both Emily and her single dad Ford are such personable characters that I fell in love with them and I fell in love with the Lila (Princess Lila) who fell in love with Ford and Emily. The dialogue in this story is the best part. The lines Ford comes up with are "laugh out loud" fun. I loved this story and readers of Romantic Comedy will love it too. And yes, even those readers who prefer more traditional contemporary romance books will love this book too!
Lila Vasquez, who co-owns Puppy Promise with her two sisters, feels like a real loser. It's all her two sisters' fault. They thought the nonprofit event with the Once Upon a Time theme meant it was a costume party. They couldn't have been more wrong. No, it's an upscale elegant event complete with a string quartet for entertainment. Lila is so embarrassed. Here she is in her "costume," a full-skirted bubble gum pink gown complete with glitter. Lots and lots of glitter. She can't leave this event either. She and her sisters have donated a service puppy and their personal training and the lucky winner will be announced here tonight. Then, as luck would have it, her ex-boyfriend (Yes the one who broke up with her because she was too "perfect" said in a voice of distain.) enters the ballroom. Oh no! Escape! She finds an Energency Exit stairway and heads down to a first floor landing. She just has to regroup and try to avoid the guy until she has to return to the ballroom for the big announcement. Alone and safe! Not quite. She hears a sniffling sound and discovers a little girl in a bubble gum pink dress similar to her own. Seems six-year-old Emily is lost. She calms down when she decides that Lila is a true princess. As Princess Lila is about to take Emily to find her dad he finds them. Our hero has arrived! So even though our hero has the ridiculous name Ford Ford that doesn't take away from his sexy good looks, humorous wit and loving heart. Plus when Lila meets him she finds he smells so good. Like aftershave and peanut butter(?). So begins the fun and laughter.
Puppy Christmas by Lucy Gilmore is the second book in her Forever Home series. This series is centered around three sisters who run Puppy Promise, a service puppy training school. All three sisters are fun, loveable characters. This story highlights the oldest sister, Lila, the staid, responsible "too perfect" one. At the nonprofit event Lila discovered that Emily Ford was the recipient of the donated service puppy and training. Emily is hearing-impaired and has two cochlear implants. Both Emily and her single dad Ford are such personable characters that I fell in love with them and I fell in love with the Lila (Princess Lila) who fell in love with Ford and Emily. The dialogue in this story is the best part. The lines Ford comes up with are "laugh out loud" fun. I loved this story and readers of Romantic Comedy will love it too. And yes, even those readers who prefer more traditional contemporary romance books will love this book too!
September 27, 2019
Puppy Christmas by Lucy Gilmore is the second book in her new Forever Home series. Puppy Christmas was a sweet, cute and funny story line that revolves around Puppy Promise, a service (special needs) puppy training school run by three sisters. In Puppy Christmas, the oldest sister, Lila Vazquez is our heroine and she was a wonderful heroine. Lila, as the oldest, always considered herself strait-laced, workaholic and follows rules; as well as not sure she can handle very young children. Lila decides to take the case of a young girl with a hearing impairment, and is determined to do it right, as she hopes to gain the approval of the Auditory Guild, as it would mean more business for them.
Ford Ford (yes that is his name) is our hero and the father of Emily, the young girl who is hearing impaired. Despite that name, Ford is a gorgeous hunk, whom all the girls fall over, but Ford does not want any romantic entanglements, since he is focused only on helping his daughter. Ford meets Lila, the woman who will help them pick the service dog that is right for Emily, as well as train both dog and girl. Ford finds himself very attracted to the beautiful Lila, and his conversation between her or any woman are usually joking, which eventually turns into sexual banter between them.
Lila was dressed up to the event in a pink gown, and Emily began to call her Princess Lila, which kind of continues throughout the story; as Emily doesn’t have friends, and Lila steps in to help her gain confidence, as well as learn to work with her cockapoo dog, Jeeves. What follows is a humorous adventure, as Lila spends a lot of time with Ford, Emily and Jeeves; especially the banter between Ford and Lila, which was zany from the start, and frankly at times it was hilarious. In a short time, they both feel the strong attraction for each other, with their fun romance escalating; however, Ford doesn’t feel he deserves Lila, as his financial situation wasn’t very good.
Puppy Christmas was a fun lighthearted story, with a sweet couple, a darling young girl and a wonderful puppy. I loved the characters, such as Lila, Ford, Emily, Jeeves, as well as Sophie and Dawn. Lucy Gilmore kept us entertained from start to finish, as well as giving us an informative glimpse at a service dog working with a hearing-impaired child. I look forward to Dawn’s story next.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Ford Ford (yes that is his name) is our hero and the father of Emily, the young girl who is hearing impaired. Despite that name, Ford is a gorgeous hunk, whom all the girls fall over, but Ford does not want any romantic entanglements, since he is focused only on helping his daughter. Ford meets Lila, the woman who will help them pick the service dog that is right for Emily, as well as train both dog and girl. Ford finds himself very attracted to the beautiful Lila, and his conversation between her or any woman are usually joking, which eventually turns into sexual banter between them.
Lila was dressed up to the event in a pink gown, and Emily began to call her Princess Lila, which kind of continues throughout the story; as Emily doesn’t have friends, and Lila steps in to help her gain confidence, as well as learn to work with her cockapoo dog, Jeeves. What follows is a humorous adventure, as Lila spends a lot of time with Ford, Emily and Jeeves; especially the banter between Ford and Lila, which was zany from the start, and frankly at times it was hilarious. In a short time, they both feel the strong attraction for each other, with their fun romance escalating; however, Ford doesn’t feel he deserves Lila, as his financial situation wasn’t very good.
Puppy Christmas was a fun lighthearted story, with a sweet couple, a darling young girl and a wonderful puppy. I loved the characters, such as Lila, Ford, Emily, Jeeves, as well as Sophie and Dawn. Lucy Gilmore kept us entertained from start to finish, as well as giving us an informative glimpse at a service dog working with a hearing-impaired child. I look forward to Dawn’s story next.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
July 19, 2021
Lila is considered the stern, too perfect older Vasquez sister who runs and operates Puppy Promise. They are working with an organization that recommends and supports service dogs for children who have issues with their hearing. She is going to be the trainer for their newest client, a young girl who is receiving a service dog due to her degenerative hearing loss. They are at a fundraiser, and Lila, who doesn't get out much, is dressed in a pink bridesmaid gown. Mistaken by a lost girl as a princess, they strike up a friendship. It just so happens, this is the child, Emily, she will be working with and when she meets her father, handsome, flirty, always-ready-with-a-smile Ford she knows she is in trouble. Ford is happy taking care of Emily and does not have time for relationships, even though he has lots of opportunity, but something clicks when he meets Princess Lila and sees how she treats his daughter.
This story is a sweet and fun romance that is set during the Christmas holidays. It is not what I would consider a Christmas story, but it was enjoyable. I had such a fun time reading this book and getting to know Lila and Ford and cute as a button Emily. Emily picks out her puppy to work with and names him Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third, too cute, just like the puppy. There were so many heartwarming moments in this book. The meeting of Lila, Ford and Emma is so amazing. Imagine going to a fundraiser in a bubblegum pink dress and being mistaken for a real princess, as well as meeting a swoon worthy dad who is a big flirt, but loves his daughter to pieces. That sets the tone for this story. Lila works hard to train Jeeves and set up her business, but along the way, becomes friends with Emily and falls in love with her as well as her dad. A sweet story, but with one scene that took me by surprise. There is an episode of graphic phone sex, that I did fast forward through. I don't think it was necessary in this story, but it knocked it down a star for me. If you enjoy a story about cute puppies, cute kids, sweet romance and building up self-confidence, then pick this one up. Lauren Sweet narrated the audiobook and does a good job with her emotion, expression and tone. I enjoyed her performance.
This story is a sweet and fun romance that is set during the Christmas holidays. It is not what I would consider a Christmas story, but it was enjoyable. I had such a fun time reading this book and getting to know Lila and Ford and cute as a button Emily. Emily picks out her puppy to work with and names him Jeeves von Hinklebottom the Third, too cute, just like the puppy. There were so many heartwarming moments in this book. The meeting of Lila, Ford and Emma is so amazing. Imagine going to a fundraiser in a bubblegum pink dress and being mistaken for a real princess, as well as meeting a swoon worthy dad who is a big flirt, but loves his daughter to pieces. That sets the tone for this story. Lila works hard to train Jeeves and set up her business, but along the way, becomes friends with Emily and falls in love with her as well as her dad. A sweet story, but with one scene that took me by surprise. There is an episode of graphic phone sex, that I did fast forward through. I don't think it was necessary in this story, but it knocked it down a star for me. If you enjoy a story about cute puppies, cute kids, sweet romance and building up self-confidence, then pick this one up. Lauren Sweet narrated the audiobook and does a good job with her emotion, expression and tone. I enjoyed her performance.
July 12, 2019
Title : Puppy Christmas
Series:Forever Home #2
Author: Lucy Gilmore
Pub Date September 24th 2019
Genre:Romance
Pages:416
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise―the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters―but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.
If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted―but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
My thoughts
Rating: 5
Would I recommend it: yes
Would I read more of this series : yes
Would I read more by this author: yes
Another cute and adorable story from this author ,its Filled with humor and heart,even if it has some touches of some serious themes mixed in with it but it doesn't take anything away from the story in fact it seems to bring the story more to life , and the attraction between Lila and Ford ,was hot and funny at the same time as was Ford little girl Emily , no matter how much I read of this story I just couldn't stop smiling , or laughing at the chaos that happens when you mix one little girl and a cute puppy and a poor father who can do nothing but shake his head at them and full even more in love with Lila . There was some characters I didn't like but then there was some that just made me smile even more so as they became friends with Lila , and I can't forget her sisters they was just as fun and charming in this one as they was in Puppy Love , with that said I can't wait for the third book to come out so I can read that one as well and see what happenings next . With that said I want say thanks to Netgalley for letting me read and review it .
Series:Forever Home #2
Author: Lucy Gilmore
Pub Date September 24th 2019
Genre:Romance
Pages:416
Lila Vasquez might not be the "fun one" at Puppy Promise―the service puppy training school she runs with her sisters―but she can always be counted on to gets things done. So when her latest client shows an interest in princess gowns over power suits, Lila puts aside her scruples, straps on the glittery heels, and gets to work.
If only the adorable six-year-old's father wasn't such an appealing Prince Charming.
Ford's whole life revolves around his daughter...until he meets Lila. Smart, capable, and amazing at helping Emily gain confidence with her new service puppy at her side, Lila is everything he ever wanted―but she's way out of his league. Good thing Emily and her new pup are up to the matchmaking task. This Christmas, it's all hands (and paws) on deck!
My thoughts
Rating: 5
Would I recommend it: yes
Would I read more of this series : yes
Would I read more by this author: yes
Another cute and adorable story from this author ,its Filled with humor and heart,even if it has some touches of some serious themes mixed in with it but it doesn't take anything away from the story in fact it seems to bring the story more to life , and the attraction between Lila and Ford ,was hot and funny at the same time as was Ford little girl Emily , no matter how much I read of this story I just couldn't stop smiling , or laughing at the chaos that happens when you mix one little girl and a cute puppy and a poor father who can do nothing but shake his head at them and full even more in love with Lila . There was some characters I didn't like but then there was some that just made me smile even more so as they became friends with Lila , and I can't forget her sisters they was just as fun and charming in this one as they was in Puppy Love , with that said I can't wait for the third book to come out so I can read that one as well and see what happenings next . With that said I want say thanks to Netgalley for letting me read and review it .
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