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Hearts of Alaska #1
Heart on a Leash
Young pups teach frozen hearts new tricks when a pack of rescue huskies inspire love and romance in a coastal Alaskan town fractured by feuding families.
Taylor Lipin has made it her life's mission to leave her hometown and its ridiculous, century-old feud with the Porters behind. But when her sister needs help running the family inn, Taylor agrees to return to Helen, Alaska on a temporary, definitely not longer than two weeks, basis. Or so she thinks—until she's quite literally swept off her feet and into enemy territory by three happy huskies and their drool-worthy owner, Dr. Josh Krane.
Though Josh didn't grow up in Helen with the rest of his Porter cousins, he's heard the stories: Porters rescue huskies. The Lipins are cat people. Keep to your pack. But Taylor is too tempting to give up—plus, his dogs love her.
As Taylor and Josh grow closer, tensions in the town escalate and the need for secrecy starts taking a toll. Soon they'll need to decide whether their newfound love is just a summer fling or if they've found their forever home.
Taylor Lipin has made it her life's mission to leave her hometown and its ridiculous, century-old feud with the Porters behind. But when her sister needs help running the family inn, Taylor agrees to return to Helen, Alaska on a temporary, definitely not longer than two weeks, basis. Or so she thinks—until she's quite literally swept off her feet and into enemy territory by three happy huskies and their drool-worthy owner, Dr. Josh Krane.
Though Josh didn't grow up in Helen with the rest of his Porter cousins, he's heard the stories: Porters rescue huskies. The Lipins are cat people. Keep to your pack. But Taylor is too tempting to give up—plus, his dogs love her.
As Taylor and Josh grow closer, tensions in the town escalate and the need for secrecy starts taking a toll. Soon they'll need to decide whether their newfound love is just a summer fling or if they've found their forever home.
346 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 27, 2021
27 people are currently reading
1123 people want to read
About the author
Alanna Martin
3 books54 followersGrowing up, Alanna Martin wanted to be an astronaut, a doctor, and an actor – possibly all at once. After nine years of studying psychology, she somehow became a writer instead. This turned out to be the best career choice of all because she can work in her pajamas while drinking wine. She firmly believes in the power of fluffy books, long walks in the woods, and that there’s no such thing as too much coffee.
If she's wasting time online, it's most likely on twitter where you can find her at @ta_martin or on instagram at @tamartinauthor. You can also check out her website for updates at alannamartin.com.
If she's wasting time online, it's most likely on twitter where you can find her at @ta_martin or on instagram at @tamartinauthor. You can also check out her website for updates at alannamartin.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
May 12, 2021
Heart On A Leash stole my heart from page one. I was completely enamored with Taylor and Josh's love story and how they fought for each other in the midst of their families' decades-long feud. And the fact that they both were animal lovers was the cherry on top of this adorable romcom. Whether you're a dog lover, cat lover, or romance lover, you're sure to fall hard for this book.
December 28, 2021
Set in Helen, Alaska, HEART ON A LEASH is a delightful romance.
Amidst a generations-old Hatfields and McCoys-esque feud, Taylor reluctantly puts her life in L.A. on temporary hold to return home to Alaska to help her family and finds herself drawn back into the fray. Luckily, she finds fleeting distraction with Josh, a new doctor in town. It's hard to decide who's more charming - the steamy love interest or his three rescue huskies. Unlike Taylor, Josh isn't a Helen native but he's a close relation of her family's mortal enemies, which causes the feud to flare.
Taylor is torn between responsibility, family loyalty, independence, and a growing attachment to Josh (or possibly just his fantastic dogs!) With a solid plot, captivating writing, and a spicy romance, HEART ON A LEASH is sure to satisfy.
Amidst a generations-old Hatfields and McCoys-esque feud, Taylor reluctantly puts her life in L.A. on temporary hold to return home to Alaska to help her family and finds herself drawn back into the fray. Luckily, she finds fleeting distraction with Josh, a new doctor in town. It's hard to decide who's more charming - the steamy love interest or his three rescue huskies. Unlike Taylor, Josh isn't a Helen native but he's a close relation of her family's mortal enemies, which causes the feud to flare.
Taylor is torn between responsibility, family loyalty, independence, and a growing attachment to Josh (or possibly just his fantastic dogs!) With a solid plot, captivating writing, and a spicy romance, HEART ON A LEASH is sure to satisfy.
August 31, 2020
Such a delight! I loved this one.
August 10, 2020
A small town romance that defies cliche. Complex family rivalries, swoon-worthy romance, and (of course!) adorable dogs make this a heart-melting love story.
It was the Alaska setting and rescue huskies that first drew my eye to this story, but what really set it apart was the depth and realism of the romance. I like that the main characters genuinely enjoyed each other's company and respected each other's minds, beyond just insta-lust. I also really liked how the family rivalries were drawn without making the family members evil caricatures. The cousins especially were characterized with nuance and understandable motivations, and I enjoyed the well-paced escalating stakes of the family rivalry. This is an author to watch!
It was the Alaska setting and rescue huskies that first drew my eye to this story, but what really set it apart was the depth and realism of the romance. I like that the main characters genuinely enjoyed each other's company and respected each other's minds, beyond just insta-lust. I also really liked how the family rivalries were drawn without making the family members evil caricatures. The cousins especially were characterized with nuance and understandable motivations, and I enjoyed the well-paced escalating stakes of the family rivalry. This is an author to watch!
December 17, 2020
Not only did I fall in love with Taylor and Josh and their love story (and their determination not to let their families interfere with their relationship), but I loved Josh's three Huskies, Jay, Pepper and Bella. How can you not love a book with three lovable Huskies frolicking and giving kisses in a hurricane of furry bodies? I wanted to be in Helen, Alaska with all of them. This book really transported me to Alaska, and despite the feud between the two main families, made me want to live there too. It was such a well written book, with characters I wanted to know (especially Kelsey! I hope she gets her own story!) and dogs I wanted to hug. Curl up with this wonderful book and be prepared to read it all in one sitting.
February 10, 2021
A small-town romance without the cliches that often accompany this genre, the story features a heroine who has the self-awareness to know you can come home again and still be yourself and a hero who is up for the challenge of making a home for himself after a childhood of moving from place to place. The two lovers meet-cute before they find out they are on opposite sides of a century-old family feud. I loved how they were both mature and kind, with no deep hidden traumas or hangups, just two people wanting to be together but divided by the treacherous waters of family dynamics. Also, there are adopted huskies. Huskies, Alaska, love - what more could you want!!??
April 8, 2021
This romance would have been perfectly charming even without the huskies, but I'm a firm believer that dogs make almost any story better.
Taylor Lipin is disenchanted with her life in LA, but she doesn't know it until she loses her job and returns home to Helen, Alaska to help her family run their resort hotel. While there she meets Josh, a physician. Their chemistry is smoking hot and their banter is everything I could ask for. Straight to the HEA, right? Well, no, because Josh is a Porter. And here's where things get complicated, because the Lipins and the Porters have been locked in a Hatfields/McCoys style feud for literally over a century. They’ll stop at nothing to get ahead of each other, whether it's jockeying for economic and political power or a little light vandalism. Once Josh and Taylor’s relatives find out they’re dating, their actions escalate to the point where actual violence becomes a possibility.
I loved Taylor's slightly sardonic voice, and how she is just done with this whole feud mess. Josh and Taylor's relationship was really well done, as were their conflicted feelings about their families and the feud trying to tear them apart. Each is understandably concerned about the other getting hurt by some overzealous relative (even aside from the inevitable awkwardness at family events). Indirectly the book was also a nice comment on the dangers of dehumanizing your opponents. The wrap-up was heartwarming, even more so because the dogs were directly involved in moving the plot forward (the Porters are obsessed with huskies and every member of the family has a bunch of them). I very much enjoyed HEART ON A LEASH, and PAWS AND PREJUDICE, the next book in the series (though not a P&P retelling) is at the top of my TBR!
Taylor Lipin is disenchanted with her life in LA, but she doesn't know it until she loses her job and returns home to Helen, Alaska to help her family run their resort hotel. While there she meets Josh, a physician. Their chemistry is smoking hot and their banter is everything I could ask for. Straight to the HEA, right? Well, no, because Josh is a Porter. And here's where things get complicated, because the Lipins and the Porters have been locked in a Hatfields/McCoys style feud for literally over a century. They’ll stop at nothing to get ahead of each other, whether it's jockeying for economic and political power or a little light vandalism. Once Josh and Taylor’s relatives find out they’re dating, their actions escalate to the point where actual violence becomes a possibility.
I loved Taylor's slightly sardonic voice, and how she is just done with this whole feud mess. Josh and Taylor's relationship was really well done, as were their conflicted feelings about their families and the feud trying to tear them apart. Each is understandably concerned about the other getting hurt by some overzealous relative (even aside from the inevitable awkwardness at family events). Indirectly the book was also a nice comment on the dangers of dehumanizing your opponents. The wrap-up was heartwarming, even more so because the dogs were directly involved in moving the plot forward (the Porters are obsessed with huskies and every member of the family has a bunch of them). I very much enjoyed HEART ON A LEASH, and PAWS AND PREJUDICE, the next book in the series (though not a P&P retelling) is at the top of my TBR!
March 9, 2021
Ok let me start by saying if you are anything like me don't let the cover make you think otherwise. This is a romance with full heart and steam. And yes the dogs are there are very important part of story too.but it's not in their POV as I had been misled prior to picking it up.
CW: none that I think of.
Syeam: open door
Taylor and Josh start a sweet bumping into each other meet cute (won't add the spoiler) but soon grow into a hot couple. That coupled with the beautiful imagery of summertime Helen Alaska was a much needed getaway for this frozen quarantined reader.
But the best part for me was the whole family drama 😬 it was too much reminiscent of my fav feud romances but with just enough tension without making my heart sink violently. The cousins are the best. Love Taylor sister and Josh cousin Kelsey's tough act. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
So take a walk, a trip , there's even a hike! And get to the other world with this book! Can't wait to pick up the next one!
CW: none that I think of.
Syeam: open door
Taylor and Josh start a sweet bumping into each other meet cute (won't add the spoiler) but soon grow into a hot couple. That coupled with the beautiful imagery of summertime Helen Alaska was a much needed getaway for this frozen quarantined reader.
But the best part for me was the whole family drama 😬 it was too much reminiscent of my fav feud romances but with just enough tension without making my heart sink violently. The cousins are the best. Love Taylor sister and Josh cousin Kelsey's tough act. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
So take a walk, a trip , there's even a hike! And get to the other world with this book! Can't wait to pick up the next one!
April 18, 2021
Heart On A Leash
Hearts Of Alaska, Book #1
Alanna Martin
5 Stars
Synopsis:
A pack of rescue huskies inspires love and romance in a coastal Alaskan town fractured by feuding families—but can young pups really teach frozen hearts new tricks?
Taylor Lipin has made it her life's mission to leave her hometown and its ridiculous, century-old feud with the Porters behind. But when her sister needs help running the family inn, Taylor agrees to return to Helen, Alaska on a temporary, definitely not longer than two weeks, basis. Or so she thinks, until she's quite literally swept off her feet and into enemy territory by three happy huskies and their drool-worthy owner, Dr. Josh Krane.
Though Josh didn't grow up in Helen with the rest of his Porter cousins, he's heard the stories: Porters rescue huskies. The Lipins are cat people. Keep to your pack. But Taylor is too tempting to give up—plus, his dogs love her.
As Taylor and Josh grow closer, tensions in the town escalate and the need for secrecy starts taking a toll. Soon they'll need to decide whether their newfound love is just a summer fling or if they've found their forever home. (Goodreads)
Review:
Taylor has returned to Helen, Alaska, to help her sister run the family inn, but only temporarily. She left Helen because of the family feud with the Porter’s, and nothing has changed. But as often happens with life, things do not workout the way she planned. Shortly after she gets back, she meets Josh and his three huskies and she cannot stop thinking about them. They start hanging out with each other and eventually they start having feelings for each other. And in a nasty twist of fate, they learn that they are supposed to be mortal enemies because they are part of the feud. What are they going to do now?
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I could feel the frustrations of both Taylor and Josh, they did not ask for this feud and they want nothing to do with it. But they cannot change who they are and who their families are, so they are stuck. They are both torn between family loyalty and realizing how silly the feud is. They will have to use all of their smarts to figure out a way that they can have their happily-ever-after.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written contemporary romance. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series when it is released.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkeley Publishing Group, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Hearts Of Alaska, Book #1
Alanna Martin
5 Stars
Synopsis:
A pack of rescue huskies inspires love and romance in a coastal Alaskan town fractured by feuding families—but can young pups really teach frozen hearts new tricks?
Taylor Lipin has made it her life's mission to leave her hometown and its ridiculous, century-old feud with the Porters behind. But when her sister needs help running the family inn, Taylor agrees to return to Helen, Alaska on a temporary, definitely not longer than two weeks, basis. Or so she thinks, until she's quite literally swept off her feet and into enemy territory by three happy huskies and their drool-worthy owner, Dr. Josh Krane.
Though Josh didn't grow up in Helen with the rest of his Porter cousins, he's heard the stories: Porters rescue huskies. The Lipins are cat people. Keep to your pack. But Taylor is too tempting to give up—plus, his dogs love her.
As Taylor and Josh grow closer, tensions in the town escalate and the need for secrecy starts taking a toll. Soon they'll need to decide whether their newfound love is just a summer fling or if they've found their forever home. (Goodreads)
Review:
Taylor has returned to Helen, Alaska, to help her sister run the family inn, but only temporarily. She left Helen because of the family feud with the Porter’s, and nothing has changed. But as often happens with life, things do not workout the way she planned. Shortly after she gets back, she meets Josh and his three huskies and she cannot stop thinking about them. They start hanging out with each other and eventually they start having feelings for each other. And in a nasty twist of fate, they learn that they are supposed to be mortal enemies because they are part of the feud. What are they going to do now?
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I could feel the frustrations of both Taylor and Josh, they did not ask for this feud and they want nothing to do with it. But they cannot change who they are and who their families are, so they are stuck. They are both torn between family loyalty and realizing how silly the feud is. They will have to use all of their smarts to figure out a way that they can have their happily-ever-after.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written contemporary romance. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series when it is released.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkeley Publishing Group, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
May 23, 2021
Huskies, Alaska, a feud worthy of the Hatfields and McCoys...I loved everything about this book!
My review is live on the Fresh Fiction website:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
My review is live on the Fresh Fiction website:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
March 15, 2021
Heart on a Leash was the perfect balance of sweet and sexy. Imagine having an instant connection with someone only to find out that your respective families might as well be the Montagues and Capulets? This is what happened to Josh and Taylor, both somewhat new in Helen, Alaska (although Taylor had grown up there) but engulfed in a long two-family feud as a result of genetics.
I enjoyed Josh and Taylor's chemistry, ADORED the huskies, and was completely vested in the fate of their forbidden love (Josh and Taylor's not the huskies :)). The family antics were so over-the-top but I could almost see it happening in real life, especially in a small town with so much history. Although there was obviously a HEA (it was a romance, people), I appreciated that it wasn't all wrapped up on a bow and look forward to seeing how the Porters and Lippen's are getting along in book 2 in the series even though the rivalry won't be at the forefront of the new couple's romance.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed Josh and Taylor's chemistry, ADORED the huskies, and was completely vested in the fate of their forbidden love (Josh and Taylor's not the huskies :)). The family antics were so over-the-top but I could almost see it happening in real life, especially in a small town with so much history. Although there was obviously a HEA (it was a romance, people), I appreciated that it wasn't all wrapped up on a bow and look forward to seeing how the Porters and Lippen's are getting along in book 2 in the series even though the rivalry won't be at the forefront of the new couple's romance.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2021
I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Capulets and the Montagues have nothing on the families in this small Alaskan town...
Taylor Lipin goes back to her hometown of Helen, Alaska strictly for holidays only. Not only is it expensive and time-consuming to leave LA and the marketing job she has there, but she hates that she is Helen "royalty" for the worst reason possible: the feud between the Lipins and the Porters. But when Taylor's sister begs her to come and help her run the family inn in the wake of family drama, Taylor can't refuse.
Dr. Josh Krane is settling in nicely in Helen; he likes the small town, and being around his mother's family is... interesting. An Air Force brat, Josh only rarely got to visit his Porter relatives, and thought his mother was exaggerating when she told him stories about the war between the Porters and the Lipins. But the intensity of hatred--and the lengths they're willing to go in that hatred--aren't the only surprise. Josh's cousin gifted him three huskies, and his life quickly revolves around them. So when his dogs lead him to a gorgeous woman, he takes it as a sign to ask her out.
It's pretty much love at first sight; they share similar tastes, they get along great, they adore Josh's huskies, and all is well...
Until they figure out that they are, literally, sleeping with the enemy. And quickly agree on one thing: they don't care. Unfortunately, everyone else does. Are Taylor and Josh doomed lovers? Or can they defy the odds, the expectations, the pressure, and the increasing amount of sabotage?
A wonderful start of a series, set in a vibrant, picturesque Alaskan town, full of drama, beautiful huskies, more drama, and an unforgettable story!
The Capulets and the Montagues have nothing on the families in this small Alaskan town...
Taylor Lipin goes back to her hometown of Helen, Alaska strictly for holidays only. Not only is it expensive and time-consuming to leave LA and the marketing job she has there, but she hates that she is Helen "royalty" for the worst reason possible: the feud between the Lipins and the Porters. But when Taylor's sister begs her to come and help her run the family inn in the wake of family drama, Taylor can't refuse.
Dr. Josh Krane is settling in nicely in Helen; he likes the small town, and being around his mother's family is... interesting. An Air Force brat, Josh only rarely got to visit his Porter relatives, and thought his mother was exaggerating when she told him stories about the war between the Porters and the Lipins. But the intensity of hatred--and the lengths they're willing to go in that hatred--aren't the only surprise. Josh's cousin gifted him three huskies, and his life quickly revolves around them. So when his dogs lead him to a gorgeous woman, he takes it as a sign to ask her out.
It's pretty much love at first sight; they share similar tastes, they get along great, they adore Josh's huskies, and all is well...
Until they figure out that they are, literally, sleeping with the enemy. And quickly agree on one thing: they don't care. Unfortunately, everyone else does. Are Taylor and Josh doomed lovers? Or can they defy the odds, the expectations, the pressure, and the increasing amount of sabotage?
A wonderful start of a series, set in a vibrant, picturesque Alaskan town, full of drama, beautiful huskies, more drama, and an unforgettable story!
April 27, 2021
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Heart on a Leash was a really fun read and one that I found to be very enjoyable. It was easy to get right into this small-town feeling and the writing was captivating enough that it had me up late at night reading and ignoring the fact that real life would be starting again in the morning.
Honestly the family-feud part of this book is what had me nervous because typically it's not something I would find enjoyable. But in this book I actually liked how it was handled. There was some drama that had me rolling my eyes but it also had me reading faster and dying to get Josh and Taylor's HEA.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Heart on a Leash was a really fun read and one that I found to be very enjoyable. It was easy to get right into this small-town feeling and the writing was captivating enough that it had me up late at night reading and ignoring the fact that real life would be starting again in the morning.
Honestly the family-feud part of this book is what had me nervous because typically it's not something I would find enjoyable. But in this book I actually liked how it was handled. There was some drama that had me rolling my eyes but it also had me reading faster and dying to get Josh and Taylor's HEA.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2021
A delightful contemporary romance with a likeable pair of protagonists! Josh and Taylor both know their families’ century old feud is ridiculous and are determined to pursue a relationship in spite of it. But their journey to a happily-ever-after requires them to navigate the long-simmering animosities of the Porter-Lipin feud, and that’s no easy task.
Martin does a wonderful job of making the small-town of Helen, Alaska so appealing you’ll want to book a vacation stay at the fictional Bay Song Inn owned by the Lipins. And then there’s the adorable trio of huskies owned by the hero, Josh, who will win over the reader’s heart just as they did Taylor’s. (Even though the Lipins are “cat people.”) Cute huskies FTW!
I can’t wait for the next book in the series, Paws and Prejudice!
Martin does a wonderful job of making the small-town of Helen, Alaska so appealing you’ll want to book a vacation stay at the fictional Bay Song Inn owned by the Lipins. And then there’s the adorable trio of huskies owned by the hero, Josh, who will win over the reader’s heart just as they did Taylor’s. (Even though the Lipins are “cat people.”) Cute huskies FTW!
I can’t wait for the next book in the series, Paws and Prejudice!
June 4, 2021
3.5 Nothing On Romeo And Juliet Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I have to share, I use to have Siberian Huskies. They are the best. My huskies were a handful, loving, and loyal as the day was long. I had two, had a surprise litter, and lost my heart happily. Raising them, loving them, and having my children loving them was everything.
So when I saw this book, I had to jump right in. As my title references, this is a story of two people who come from families that have held onto a feud from years ago. Dogs bring them together, they have no idea when they meet, they are part of dreaded enemies and with these factors...let the fun begin.
The romance was there, the dogs steal the show and a woof woof win.
Heart on a Leash (Hearts of Alaska #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Paws and Prejudice (Hearts of Alaska #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Love and Let Bark (Hearts of Alaska #3)
A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I have to share, I use to have Siberian Huskies. They are the best. My huskies were a handful, loving, and loyal as the day was long. I had two, had a surprise litter, and lost my heart happily. Raising them, loving them, and having my children loving them was everything.
So when I saw this book, I had to jump right in. As my title references, this is a story of two people who come from families that have held onto a feud from years ago. Dogs bring them together, they have no idea when they meet, they are part of dreaded enemies and with these factors...let the fun begin.
The romance was there, the dogs steal the show and a woof woof win.
Heart on a Leash (Hearts of Alaska #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Paws and Prejudice (Hearts of Alaska #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Love and Let Bark (Hearts of Alaska #3)A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 18, 2020
ROMEO AND JULIET (BUT WITH DOGS) (AND THE HAPPIEST OF ENDINGS)
I think I want to move to Helen, Alaska. I mean, I hate the cold and I’m more of a city person and I am unable to deal with temperatures below 80F but I don’t even care because this book made me fall for Helen sooo thoroughly that I am ready to buy snow boots and spend my life popsicling. It’ll be worth it.
In short, HEART ON A LEASH is the story of a girl who moves back to her hometown to help with the family business when things are not going great. In long, this is what I loved: 1) Dogs. So many amazing doggos to love. Huskies for the win and they all have personalities and they totally OWN this book. Jay is my fave but if anyone asks I don’t have favorites. 2) The story: this book has a Romeo and Juliet flavor but it plays with the forbidden love/supposed-enemies trope in such an interesting and unexpected way! Every time I thought the characters were going to do something, they did the opposite, and it was great! 3) The main couple. They had such chemistry I just *FIRE EMOJI* And at the ending the were so many delicious feels aaah I teared up! 4) The small town atmosphere and the feeling of getting to know the place 5) The humor!! I laughed out loud so many times! 6) I don’t even know what to list anymore but I should mention that I stayed up until 2 am to finish this and I really need my sleep or I get really crabby!
What I hated: I actually have to wait months for the next book in the series even though HEART ON A LEASH made me fall in love with the couple it’s going to be about, especially Kelsey and her dogs, and then I’m going to have to wait even more months to read about Taylor’s sister (and by Taylor’s sister I mean Merlot, her cat, whose life and wellbeing I am very invested in).
Perfect book with a perfect story from a perfect author <3
I think I want to move to Helen, Alaska. I mean, I hate the cold and I’m more of a city person and I am unable to deal with temperatures below 80F but I don’t even care because this book made me fall for Helen sooo thoroughly that I am ready to buy snow boots and spend my life popsicling. It’ll be worth it.
In short, HEART ON A LEASH is the story of a girl who moves back to her hometown to help with the family business when things are not going great. In long, this is what I loved: 1) Dogs. So many amazing doggos to love. Huskies for the win and they all have personalities and they totally OWN this book. Jay is my fave but if anyone asks I don’t have favorites. 2) The story: this book has a Romeo and Juliet flavor but it plays with the forbidden love/supposed-enemies trope in such an interesting and unexpected way! Every time I thought the characters were going to do something, they did the opposite, and it was great! 3) The main couple. They had such chemistry I just *FIRE EMOJI* And at the ending the were so many delicious feels aaah I teared up! 4) The small town atmosphere and the feeling of getting to know the place 5) The humor!! I laughed out loud so many times! 6) I don’t even know what to list anymore but I should mention that I stayed up until 2 am to finish this and I really need my sleep or I get really crabby!
What I hated: I actually have to wait months for the next book in the series even though HEART ON A LEASH made me fall in love with the couple it’s going to be about, especially Kelsey and her dogs, and then I’m going to have to wait even more months to read about Taylor’s sister (and by Taylor’s sister I mean Merlot, her cat, whose life and wellbeing I am very invested in).
Perfect book with a perfect story from a perfect author <3
February 28, 2021
Heart on a Leash is a fresh and steamy small-town romance with incredible world-building and characters you love and characters you love to hate. You are swiftly pulled in by the town of Helen and the abundance of cute huskies and one grumpy cat, but you stay for the people and root for this couple despite all the odds being stacked against them.
July 28, 2020
Review to come!!!
May 3, 2021
A pack of rescue huskies brings together two people from feuding families? Sign me up! From the first time I saw the cover of Heart on a Leash, I knew it was for me! As a mom to a very sweet rescue husky, I can personally vouch for their potential for bringing people together.
Heart on a Leash follows the story of two warring families in Helen, Alaska: The Lipins and the Porters. Taylor Lipin has made it her mission to leave her hometown of Helen, Alaska, and never return. But when she gets a desperate call from her sister asking her to come help with their family’s inn when their mother walks out, Taylor reluctantly agrees. Her plans for a quick trip are thrown off course when she meets Josh Krane and his adorable trio of rescue huskies. There’s only one problem: Josh is a Porter.
Heart on a Leash is an adorable romance story. It’s the perfect book if you’re looking for something light, and happen to love fluffy pups. Josh and Taylor are both great characters, desperately trying to balance their affection for each other with the demands of their family.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series, Paws, and Prejudice!
Thank you to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
Heart on a Leash follows the story of two warring families in Helen, Alaska: The Lipins and the Porters. Taylor Lipin has made it her mission to leave her hometown of Helen, Alaska, and never return. But when she gets a desperate call from her sister asking her to come help with their family’s inn when their mother walks out, Taylor reluctantly agrees. Her plans for a quick trip are thrown off course when she meets Josh Krane and his adorable trio of rescue huskies. There’s only one problem: Josh is a Porter.
Heart on a Leash is an adorable romance story. It’s the perfect book if you’re looking for something light, and happen to love fluffy pups. Josh and Taylor are both great characters, desperately trying to balance their affection for each other with the demands of their family.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series, Paws, and Prejudice!
Thank you to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
December 19, 2020
This charming book was such a delight to read. Masterfully written, it captured my heart with its swoonworthy romance which just kept getting better and better as it went along. The hero and heroine were endearing, and I not only enjoyed but really believed in their sweet (and steamy!) connection. The romance was well-balanced with tension from the small-town feud, and I found myself so engaged, there were moments I literally held my breath, worrying what might befall the characters. I loved the dogs, of course, who all had personalities of their own and weren't at all cutesy. I also loved watching how the characters developed - and not just the hero and heroine, but the supporting cast too. I'm very much looking forward to the other books in this series.
April 23, 2021
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
Oooooh puppers! Alanna Martin had me at the cover lol
And the puppers inside the book are just as amazing and adorable as I wanted them to be.
I liked Josh and Taylor - a lot - but sheesh did I hate just about every one else in this book.
The Hatfield and McCoy/Capulet and Montague BS that the two families carry on with just made me so mad, so sad for our lovelies. These people should all be ashamed at themselves for acting like two year olds throwing a tantrum, over something that none of them was even around for *rant over* This drew me out of the love story, as all I wanted to to was smack people over the head with my kindle hahah
I hated how much the immaturity affected our lovelies who did nothing wrong but to fall in love.
Ms Martin uses such beautiful imagery, that I could imagine myself in Alaska, walking these dogs.
so whilst I didn't love Heart On A Leash for the above reasons, I did enjoy it for the most part, and I am looking forward to more in this series in the future.
Oooooh puppers! Alanna Martin had me at the cover lol
And the puppers inside the book are just as amazing and adorable as I wanted them to be.
I liked Josh and Taylor - a lot - but sheesh did I hate just about every one else in this book.
The Hatfield and McCoy/Capulet and Montague BS that the two families carry on with just made me so mad, so sad for our lovelies. These people should all be ashamed at themselves for acting like two year olds throwing a tantrum, over something that none of them was even around for *rant over* This drew me out of the love story, as all I wanted to to was smack people over the head with my kindle hahah
I hated how much the immaturity affected our lovelies who did nothing wrong but to fall in love.
Ms Martin uses such beautiful imagery, that I could imagine myself in Alaska, walking these dogs.
so whilst I didn't love Heart On A Leash for the above reasons, I did enjoy it for the most part, and I am looking forward to more in this series in the future.
April 24, 2021
Taylor and Josh’s romance story in Hearts on a Leash by Alanna Martin, book one in her Hearts of Alaska series, was an emotional, enjoyable and heartwarming tale. Growing up in small town Alaska where your family had a crazy century-old feud with another family was the reason Taylor Lipin gave for her goals to leave her hometown for sunny California. When her sister needs help running the family inn, Taylor agrees to return to Helen, Alaska for a couple weeks; a temporary solution. At least that’s her plan until she is knocked off her feet, literally, and enters enemy territory by three happy huskies and their gorgeous, hot owner, Dr. Josh Krane. Josh didn’t grow up in Helen alongside his Porter cousins, but he’s heard the stories of their feud with the Lipins. Porters recue huskies, Lipins are cat people; keep to your “pack” or family. At least that’s the plan until Josh meets the too tempting Taylor; I mean, his dogs love her, even if she is allergic. Upon learning about their familial ties, Josh and Taylor are drawn to each other, naively believing it won’t affect them or their relationship. Spending time together they find their magnetic attraction pulls them together, and electricity sparks between them. Meanwhile, tensions in the town intensify, especially between the families, and seeing each other secretly is taking a toll on Josh and Taylor. These two will need to decide if their newfound love is just a summer fling or if they have found their forever person. It’s going to take strength, trust, and determination for them to pull this off.
Ms. Martin wrote an emotional, romantic and heartwarming romance that should not be missed. This story abounds with emotions, magnetic attraction, wonderful dialogue, and charming but strong characters giving Taylor and Josh a chance at a forever love. I highly recommend Hearts on a Leash to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Martin wrote an emotional, romantic and heartwarming romance that should not be missed. This story abounds with emotions, magnetic attraction, wonderful dialogue, and charming but strong characters giving Taylor and Josh a chance at a forever love. I highly recommend Hearts on a Leash to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 19, 2021
Heart on a Leash by Alanna Martin is the first book in her Hearts of Alaska series.
Taylor Lipin escaped Helen, Alaska for the sophistication of Los Angeles, but she’s back in her hometown to help her sister with the family business. She meets Jay, Pepper, and Bella, three adorable huskies, and their human, Josh Krane, a new doctor in town. Taylor is instantly attracted to… the huskies and just possibly Josh, who, unfortunately, turns out to be a member of the rival family that has troubled the Lipins for decades.
Heart on a Leash is a perfect portrait of a small town with a twist. The writing is immediately engaging, and the plot and characters hold the reader’s attention throughout. The dogs are an extra treat. This is an excellent romance with a touch of mystery that smartly enhances the plot. I thoroughly enjoyed this 5 out of 5 star read and recommend it to all readers who enjoy romance with a real plot.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Taylor Lipin escaped Helen, Alaska for the sophistication of Los Angeles, but she’s back in her hometown to help her sister with the family business. She meets Jay, Pepper, and Bella, three adorable huskies, and their human, Josh Krane, a new doctor in town. Taylor is instantly attracted to… the huskies and just possibly Josh, who, unfortunately, turns out to be a member of the rival family that has troubled the Lipins for decades.
Heart on a Leash is a perfect portrait of a small town with a twist. The writing is immediately engaging, and the plot and characters hold the reader’s attention throughout. The dogs are an extra treat. This is an excellent romance with a touch of mystery that smartly enhances the plot. I thoroughly enjoyed this 5 out of 5 star read and recommend it to all readers who enjoy romance with a real plot.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
September 11, 2021
Sigh. Here’s the thing. I almost quit this book about 5 times but the cover made me keep coming back. Those DOGS 😍 I liked the romance itself here, and I’m always up for Alaska love, but the whole family feud part of the story is absolutely ridiculous and frustrating and unnecessary. It made me furious at times because it was so unrealistic and contrived. If it weren’t for the dogs and the sweetness of love I’d have rated this one star.
December 20, 2020
A story guaranteed to put you in a good mood, Heart on a Leash ticks all the boxes! It was heartwarming without being cheesy, didn’t subscribe to any of the small town cliches, and the main characters were incredibly likable— I found myself rooting for the both of them from the very beginning. The story was both wholesome and swoony, and the author's effortless writing style makes this an all-round winner. Beware, you might find yourself wanting to adopt a husky (or three) after reading this book!
July 25, 2021
This was cute, but it just feels kinda flat. I didn’t get a sense of either characters’ interest or personalities, and the feud felt stupid and like it didn’t have a real source. The huskies were cute and the romance was steamy, but it didn’t feel like much beneath the surface.
January 27, 2021
Loved this book!!! Sexy, funny and adorable, with a modern take on the small-town romance theme. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!!!!!
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April 29, 2021Total Hatfields/McCoy's vibe that I adored! Plus, pets! Adorable Huskies, enemies to lovers, and a beautiful Alaskan setting made this book delightfully charming!
June 27, 2021
The Lipins and the Porters have been feuding over 100 years. Taylor Lipin had left the town of Helen, Alaska years previously and has returned home temporarily to help her sister with their family's inn. It should only be for a couple of weeks, but Dr. Josh Krane, part of the Porter family, just might change things for Taylor.
Whether it is Josh, or his gorgeous huskies, Taylor begins to wonder if her stay in Helen just might be extended. However, considering the long feud that most people would rather keep going, it hardly seems likely that Taylor and Josh have any chance at a future, no mater how powerful their attraction is made apparent right from the moment they meet.
Josh is a Porter cousin, so he feels he is removed from the feud. Unfortunately, that is not the case so he and Taylor are forced to keep their newfound romance secret. While the gorgeous dogs on this book's cover drew me to the story, it is watching Taylor and Josh grow closer together despite the troubles they know will be facing them at every turn.
What an enjoyable story and a great start to a trilogy I have had the pleasure of reading. The next book, Paws and Prejudice, is available now and Love and Let Bark will be released in November.
June 28, 2021
Heart On A Leash is a story that turns pup inspired cute and small town quirk into an uber-readable story. With an "awe factor of ten". Long before the Romeo and Juliet meets the Hatfields and the McCoys styled romance that Josh and Taylor find themselves victims to even becomes a thing.
Cuteness factor aside.
Be forewarned when reading this that it is choc-a-bloc full of supposed adults. Repeatedly engaging in clearly childish and asinine behavior.
So much so...
That one is often tempted to skip pages of character interaction. Just to reacha point where sanity even dares peek through. If only for the briefest of moments.
Not to worry though...
The romance between Josh and Taylor is more than cute enough to make up for the long held feud nonsense.
And the well placed sex scenes are just plain yummy.
Though the sentiment of "love conquering all" does fit here.
At least as far as Taylor and Josh are concerned.
The state of the feud is left as a bit of an unresolved stalemate.
Oh well.
On to book two.
*Thank you to Berkley Books and NetGalley. For providing the review copy on which this honest literary critique is based.*
Cuteness factor aside.
Be forewarned when reading this that it is choc-a-bloc full of supposed adults. Repeatedly engaging in clearly childish and asinine behavior.
So much so...
That one is often tempted to skip pages of character interaction. Just to reacha point where sanity even dares peek through. If only for the briefest of moments.
Not to worry though...
The romance between Josh and Taylor is more than cute enough to make up for the long held feud nonsense.
And the well placed sex scenes are just plain yummy.
Though the sentiment of "love conquering all" does fit here.
At least as far as Taylor and Josh are concerned.
The state of the feud is left as a bit of an unresolved stalemate.
Oh well.
On to book two.
*Thank you to Berkley Books and NetGalley. For providing the review copy on which this honest literary critique is based.*
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