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Fur Haven Dog Park #2
A Tail for Two
Second in a delightful romantic comedy series set around a bustling Miami Beach dog park
Lance Donovan agreed to dog sit only to help out his younger brother. Little does he know that an encounter with his ex-wife at the local dog park is going to turn his life upside down...
Carrie Burns has a successful business, a young son, and an energetic pup. She doesn't have time for much more in her busy schedule, but her friends say she needs to get back into the dating scene or she'll never find a new Mr. Right. Between her demanding job and 3-year-old Oliver, dating is starting to be another chore.
Carrie especially doesn't have time for her ex-husband, Lance Donovan. But when Lance meets Oliver, he's determined to connect with the son he didn't know he had, and the love he thought he'd lost.
Fur Haven Dog Park Series:
Cold Nose, Warm Heart (Book 1)
Tail for Two (Book 2)
Lance Donovan agreed to dog sit only to help out his younger brother. Little does he know that an encounter with his ex-wife at the local dog park is going to turn his life upside down...
Carrie Burns has a successful business, a young son, and an energetic pup. She doesn't have time for much more in her busy schedule, but her friends say she needs to get back into the dating scene or she'll never find a new Mr. Right. Between her demanding job and 3-year-old Oliver, dating is starting to be another chore.
Carrie especially doesn't have time for her ex-husband, Lance Donovan. But when Lance meets Oliver, he's determined to connect with the son he didn't know he had, and the love he thought he'd lost.
Fur Haven Dog Park Series:
Cold Nose, Warm Heart (Book 1)
Tail for Two (Book 2)
384 pages, Paperback
First published September 29, 2020
40 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
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September 22, 2020
A Tail for Two
Fur Haven Dog Park Book 2
Mara Wells
https://www.facebook.com/marawellsaut...
Release date 09/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
All paws on deck!
Carrie Burns has a successful business, a young son, Oliver, and an energetic Jack Russell terrier. She doesn't have time in her busy schedule for her ex-husband and his talk of working together again. But when she runs into Lance in the dog park, their lives are turned upside down.
Lance Donovan wants to promote his fledgling construction company by helping his brother Caleb with a big condo conversion. Lance even knows the perfect interior designer to make this project a success—his ex-wife, Carrie. But after a fateful meeting at the dog park, Lance finds himself not only petsitting both his brother's dog and the beloved Jack Russell terrier he had to leave behind in the divorce, but babysitting a young son he never knew he had while his ex-wife tries to get back into dating. How did life get this crazy?
Lance is determined to win back the love he thought he'd lost—but he's going to need a lot of help from his furry friends.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she let her fears doom her second chance at love ...
In my reads, I do like my heroes to not be coward and alas it is what Carrie became along the page of this read, she is the one impeding their chance at a second shot.
I tried to think about the whys behind her change of character, but not once did Lance threatened her. She is insecure of his reaction because of her own guilt.
I understand that in the heat of the moment at a time, she was unable to face him. But for three long years! Sure their circumstances were far from perfect when she learned of her pregnancy. Lance is no monster, their marriage had for certain fallen apart, but by choosing to hide their son’s existence, she deprived him from his choice to be or not a father for their kid.
Lance is in his right to be angry, and he is but he can’t turn back the clock, so he tries to make do with his new state as an instant-parent. It is not an easy task as there is no crash course as how to become a father in one day.
But this new knowledge make him reflect on their late marriage. Both were at fault. And their lack of communication by fear of confrontation doomed their union to an early grave.
I liked Lance, he is forthright, he made mistakes but he is willing to be the father his son might need. When Carrie plays hot and cold unable to decide what she wants but also afraid to live with her choice.
And while I was upset at Carrie, she is also a mother scared to loose her kid, Lance and his family were great and the fur friends full of fun.
4.5 stars
I was granted a copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Fur Haven Dog Park Book 2
Mara Wells
https://www.facebook.com/marawellsaut...
Release date 09/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
All paws on deck!
Carrie Burns has a successful business, a young son, Oliver, and an energetic Jack Russell terrier. She doesn't have time in her busy schedule for her ex-husband and his talk of working together again. But when she runs into Lance in the dog park, their lives are turned upside down.
Lance Donovan wants to promote his fledgling construction company by helping his brother Caleb with a big condo conversion. Lance even knows the perfect interior designer to make this project a success—his ex-wife, Carrie. But after a fateful meeting at the dog park, Lance finds himself not only petsitting both his brother's dog and the beloved Jack Russell terrier he had to leave behind in the divorce, but babysitting a young son he never knew he had while his ex-wife tries to get back into dating. How did life get this crazy?
Lance is determined to win back the love he thought he'd lost—but he's going to need a lot of help from his furry friends.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she let her fears doom her second chance at love ...
In my reads, I do like my heroes to not be coward and alas it is what Carrie became along the page of this read, she is the one impeding their chance at a second shot.
I tried to think about the whys behind her change of character, but not once did Lance threatened her. She is insecure of his reaction because of her own guilt.
I understand that in the heat of the moment at a time, she was unable to face him. But for three long years! Sure their circumstances were far from perfect when she learned of her pregnancy. Lance is no monster, their marriage had for certain fallen apart, but by choosing to hide their son’s existence, she deprived him from his choice to be or not a father for their kid.
Lance is in his right to be angry, and he is but he can’t turn back the clock, so he tries to make do with his new state as an instant-parent. It is not an easy task as there is no crash course as how to become a father in one day.
But this new knowledge make him reflect on their late marriage. Both were at fault. And their lack of communication by fear of confrontation doomed their union to an early grave.
I liked Lance, he is forthright, he made mistakes but he is willing to be the father his son might need. When Carrie plays hot and cold unable to decide what she wants but also afraid to live with her choice.
And while I was upset at Carrie, she is also a mother scared to loose her kid, Lance and his family were great and the fur friends full of fun.
4.5 stars
I was granted a copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
September 17, 2020
Carrie Burns is a single mom and a successful business owner but when it comes to relationship, she can't seem to find a man worth a second date. And now she have to work with her ex-husband on a new project? Well, might be the right time to tell him that they have an almost three years old son together🙊.
If Carrie and Lance had to put a status on Facebook, it would certainly be It's Complicated 😉.
I just finished A Tail for Two and still amazed by how the author was able to take things that normally wouldn't work for me and makes it work. I read the first book in the Fur Haven Dog Park series a few months ago and I think one of the thing that stand out in Mara Wells writing style is that she doesn't do romance novels in a convential way. What I mean is it feels like she's really telling the story of two people we could know and not fictional characters. They're humans, so they have flaws and the romance is full of up and down, just like in real life. Normally, I like the escapism that romance novels bring me but there's also something about how some of them would help me understand people better and I do think that lessons you learn from it can be a great help for your own life and relationships too. There's certainly great lines of thoughts with this one!
Tail for Two is set to be released September, 29 and can be read as a standalone. There's plenty of adorable and/or rambunctious furry characters but you don't even need to love dogs to appreciate this book😛. I was one of the lucky winners from the author's Instagram giveaway for this ARC copy.
If Carrie and Lance had to put a status on Facebook, it would certainly be It's Complicated 😉.
I just finished A Tail for Two and still amazed by how the author was able to take things that normally wouldn't work for me and makes it work. I read the first book in the Fur Haven Dog Park series a few months ago and I think one of the thing that stand out in Mara Wells writing style is that she doesn't do romance novels in a convential way. What I mean is it feels like she's really telling the story of two people we could know and not fictional characters. They're humans, so they have flaws and the romance is full of up and down, just like in real life. Normally, I like the escapism that romance novels bring me but there's also something about how some of them would help me understand people better and I do think that lessons you learn from it can be a great help for your own life and relationships too. There's certainly great lines of thoughts with this one!
Tail for Two is set to be released September, 29 and can be read as a standalone. There's plenty of adorable and/or rambunctious furry characters but you don't even need to love dogs to appreciate this book😛. I was one of the lucky winners from the author's Instagram giveaway for this ARC copy.
October 13, 2020
This is a delightful second-chance romance and the instigator who gets the couple back together is a delightful Jack Russel terrier who wants his humans to stop focusing on what keeps them apart and instead see how much they have in common. Add to that fun dialog, warm characters, and a secret baby--and you'll understand why this book is something you'll need to read right now. It's a fun and engaging novel that will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart.
January 18, 2024
A second chance for a marriage that ended almost 4 years ago. Lance runs into Carrie at a local dog park with her young boy who just happens to look like Lance. A sweet story about renewed love.
October 6, 2020
3.5 stars
After Lance and Carrie divorced, they had one last time in bed together-and neither suspected that Carrie was pregnant with their son. Due to series of circumstances beyond their control, Carrie never told Lance about Oliver.
When Lance accidently discovers he is a father, he falls in love with his son instantly. And it isn’t long before he wants a family. But in spite of the fact that they work well together, Carrie isn’t ready to remarry her ex-there was a reason they were divorce.
Can Lance convince Carrie he has grown up in the three years since he last saw her and that he really does want her and her son in his life?
The best part of this book was the dogs and the accommodation made for a new dog park. The love story was well written, but the suspense and action were missing. Not a bad book, but not one that really stood out from the crowd.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
After Lance and Carrie divorced, they had one last time in bed together-and neither suspected that Carrie was pregnant with their son. Due to series of circumstances beyond their control, Carrie never told Lance about Oliver.
When Lance accidently discovers he is a father, he falls in love with his son instantly. And it isn’t long before he wants a family. But in spite of the fact that they work well together, Carrie isn’t ready to remarry her ex-there was a reason they were divorce.
Can Lance convince Carrie he has grown up in the three years since he last saw her and that he really does want her and her son in his life?
The best part of this book was the dogs and the accommodation made for a new dog park. The love story was well written, but the suspense and action were missing. Not a bad book, but not one that really stood out from the crowd.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
September 9, 2020
Tail for Two is the 2nd book in the Fur Haven Dog Park series by Mara Wells. It is the story of second chances and hidden secrets. It is the story of forgiveness and understanding. It also involves dogs, which always puts a smile on my face. I enjoyed reading this book because Mara Wells develops well-rounded characters. She understands the emotions that people who have been hurt experience and how that shapes our choices.
Lance Donovan is has worked hard to get where he is – owning his own construction company, even though he has had to sacrifice his marriage. He is committed to helping his brother with the renovation of a condo building. What he doesn’t expect is his ex-wife re-entering his life along with the son she has hidden from him.
Carrie Burns is focused on building her interior design company and raising her young son. She decides to visit a new dog park, and encounters her ex-husband, Lance. The man who she never got over. The man who is the father of her son.
Lance and Carrie decide that the other has something they need. Lance needs her design skills, while Carrie needs Lance’s help with a renovation. They both have to rely on the other, while trying to find their new future with their son, Oliver.
Although I liked Lance, he still made some questionable choices when it came to the dog park. I was frustrated with the choices he made, but I understand why the author wrote the decisions in the story.
Lance Donovan is has worked hard to get where he is – owning his own construction company, even though he has had to sacrifice his marriage. He is committed to helping his brother with the renovation of a condo building. What he doesn’t expect is his ex-wife re-entering his life along with the son she has hidden from him.
Carrie Burns is focused on building her interior design company and raising her young son. She decides to visit a new dog park, and encounters her ex-husband, Lance. The man who she never got over. The man who is the father of her son.
Lance and Carrie decide that the other has something they need. Lance needs her design skills, while Carrie needs Lance’s help with a renovation. They both have to rely on the other, while trying to find their new future with their son, Oliver.
Although I liked Lance, he still made some questionable choices when it came to the dog park. I was frustrated with the choices he made, but I understand why the author wrote the decisions in the story.
July 30, 2022
Return to the Dorothy for Book 2 in the Fur Haven Dog Park series! Beckham and LouLou tag team in this lovely second chance romance where the Fur Haven Dog Park brings Lance face to face with his ex-wife… and his son?
The Dorothy residents and the Donovan siblings shine throughout. The dog park continues to evoke a little drama. Lance learns he is a father and navigates coming to terms with Carrie’s decision 3 years ago and watching her try to find love while he gets acclimated to being Lance-daddy.
Oliver is cute and sweet, but the dogs manage to give him a run for the money in who is the sweetest and cutest…. Hint, for Riley, it is hands down Lulu!
Definitely on-board for Knox’s story!!!
The Dorothy residents and the Donovan siblings shine throughout. The dog park continues to evoke a little drama. Lance learns he is a father and navigates coming to terms with Carrie’s decision 3 years ago and watching her try to find love while he gets acclimated to being Lance-daddy.
Oliver is cute and sweet, but the dogs manage to give him a run for the money in who is the sweetest and cutest…. Hint, for Riley, it is hands down Lulu!
Definitely on-board for Knox’s story!!!
September 15, 2020
A sweet second chance romance about a couple who meet again by chance in a dog park! Carrie and Lance were married until everything fell apart, He owns a construction company, she's a designer. She never told him she was pregnant (bad decision btw) so he's shocked when he discovers that Oliver is his son. These two have a lot to get over in order to built a family- and they do it more smoothly than would probably happen in real life, Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A happy read.
September 16, 2020
I love the idea of a book about ex spouses and what happens when you reconnect from a chance meeting. This was a sweet second chance romance and love how they both recognize the need to change internally. I adore all the supporting characters and now want to read book 1.
Thank you #netgalley and #harlequinbooks for a copy of the book.
Thank you #netgalley and #harlequinbooks for a copy of the book.
September 25, 2020
I was not expecting this to be a secret baby book on top of a "reconnecting romance" book. Overall, this is different from the usual romance that I read, but I was pleasantly surprised by it.
I received an ecopy of this through Netgalley; however, all opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this through Netgalley; however, all opinions are my own.
October 25, 2020
This is one delightful comedy story with just enough romance to set the scene for a fantastic book.
Read
October 13, 2020Redemption, personal evolution, breaking unhealthy cycles of behavior, and recovery are a few of the most prominent themes in this substantial and charming second-chance love story for grown-ups.
June 27, 2022
In book two you get to hang out with Lance Donovan. You meet him a little bit in the first book. You don't need to read the series in order, but I'm glad that I did. Lance is starting to work on the building while his brother, Caleb, takes all of the residents on a cruise. While taking care of his future sister-in-law's dog, he runs into his ex-wife, Carrie. It's a little awkward and then he finds out that he has a son.
It's a fun read. You start feeling like a part of the community.
It's a fun read. You start feeling like a part of the community.
September 14, 2020
Both the author and the series were new to me, so I was very interested in reading the book.
The story of Lance Donovan and Carrie Burns is one of second chances in love.
They had divorced a few years ago without further communication.
That is , until Lance is dog sitting his brother’s dog and while walking it to the local park, imagine his surprise when he encounters not only his ex Carrie, and a puppy, but also a three year old son he knew nothing about.
Needless to say, Lance is determined to know his son.
This second chance romance was not a smooth ride for the characters nor the reader. Both characters still had a way to go to mature. Also , for me, Lance was a more likable character than Carrie. I never felt a “connection” to her.
I also felt that by not having read book 1 in the series, I was missing some key background and information.
That said, if a new series is written by this author, I would give her another try.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story of Lance Donovan and Carrie Burns is one of second chances in love.
They had divorced a few years ago without further communication.
That is , until Lance is dog sitting his brother’s dog and while walking it to the local park, imagine his surprise when he encounters not only his ex Carrie, and a puppy, but also a three year old son he knew nothing about.
Needless to say, Lance is determined to know his son.
This second chance romance was not a smooth ride for the characters nor the reader. Both characters still had a way to go to mature. Also , for me, Lance was a more likable character than Carrie. I never felt a “connection” to her.
I also felt that by not having read book 1 in the series, I was missing some key background and information.
That said, if a new series is written by this author, I would give her another try.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 9, 2021
This novel was not as good as the first Fur Haven Dog Park. That novel was of the romance genre. No denying it! This possessed more of a women's fiction with romantic elements feel, probably because there were so many secondary characters. I do not think Lance and Carrie's story ever took priority over those characters. In a romance novel, I expect the love story to come first. In addition, several scenes -- especially Thanksgiving at the Dorothy -- made Oliver seem years older than he was, which confused me to the point that whenever I would read his name, I would recite his age: almost three. Having to do that repeatedly took me out of the story. Another scene that took me out of the story was when Lance and Carrie had breakfast at the restaurant. Who wears a little black dress and high heels to breakfast? Her attire made it feel like a dinner date. Who talks for two hours over breakfast and then goes into work? That made it seem unrealistic. The plus side to this novel was that it was a quick read. I like novels like that, and one characteristic of a contemporary romance novel is that it be a quick read.
August 25, 2023
This book is perfect if you are a dog lover or want to read a highly entertaining and sweet story.
I rooted for the characters, wished I had a dog and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Excellent character and plot development, a sweet romance.
It's highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I rooted for the characters, wished I had a dog and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Excellent character and plot development, a sweet romance.
It's highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
September 26, 2020
A Tail for Two by Mara Wells is the 2nd book in her Fur Haven Dog Park series. This series is a lighthearted second chance romance story line with a great couple, and cute adorable dogs.
Lance Donovan, our hero, is Caleb’s brother (last book hero), and with his other brother Knox, they have been helping renovate the Dorothy apartment complex for seniors, which Caleb is in charge of. But Caleb and Riley are going away on vacation for two weeks, and Lance takes an active role. He is also stuck with taking care of their dog, Lou Lou. While at the dog park, Lance notices another dog that reminds him of the dog he loved that his ex wife kept in a divorce settlement; he quickly realizes that the dog is Beckingham.
Carrie Burns, our heroine, is Lance’s ex wife, whom neither have seen each other for three years. In a short time, Lance will meet her young son, Oliver, and quickly realizes he is his son. He was surprised, as both of them never wanted children. She never told him about Oliver, and at first Lance is angry, but slowly he indoctrinates himself into their lives, as a friendship. Carrie has her hands full, with Oliver and Beckingham, and her business, designing homes. Lance offers to cover for her when she needs to go on jobs, as this gives him more time with Oliver.
Lance and Carrie begin to feel a connection again, but Carrie is determined to date others to find the right man for her. After a bit, Lance finds himself becoming jealous, and knows he wants Carrie back, and he wants to be a family with Oliver. Will she give Lance another chance? Will Lance change his mind and try to win Oliver in a custody battle?
What follows is a cute, fun enjoyable adventure, as their romance heats up, but the issues were still there, if it was possible to begin again. It was nice to see many of the regulars at The Dorothy, as well as at the Dog park. It was also wonderful to see Riley, Caleb and Grams again. I thought that Oliver was the best part of the story, as I adored him. I also loved both Lou Lou and Beckingham.
A Tail of Two was a heartwarming story about family, second chances, senior citizens, dogs, dog parks, and finding love again. Mara Wells did an excellent job in writing this story. I suggest you read.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Lance Donovan, our hero, is Caleb’s brother (last book hero), and with his other brother Knox, they have been helping renovate the Dorothy apartment complex for seniors, which Caleb is in charge of. But Caleb and Riley are going away on vacation for two weeks, and Lance takes an active role. He is also stuck with taking care of their dog, Lou Lou. While at the dog park, Lance notices another dog that reminds him of the dog he loved that his ex wife kept in a divorce settlement; he quickly realizes that the dog is Beckingham.
Carrie Burns, our heroine, is Lance’s ex wife, whom neither have seen each other for three years. In a short time, Lance will meet her young son, Oliver, and quickly realizes he is his son. He was surprised, as both of them never wanted children. She never told him about Oliver, and at first Lance is angry, but slowly he indoctrinates himself into their lives, as a friendship. Carrie has her hands full, with Oliver and Beckingham, and her business, designing homes. Lance offers to cover for her when she needs to go on jobs, as this gives him more time with Oliver.
Lance and Carrie begin to feel a connection again, but Carrie is determined to date others to find the right man for her. After a bit, Lance finds himself becoming jealous, and knows he wants Carrie back, and he wants to be a family with Oliver. Will she give Lance another chance? Will Lance change his mind and try to win Oliver in a custody battle?
What follows is a cute, fun enjoyable adventure, as their romance heats up, but the issues were still there, if it was possible to begin again. It was nice to see many of the regulars at The Dorothy, as well as at the Dog park. It was also wonderful to see Riley, Caleb and Grams again. I thought that Oliver was the best part of the story, as I adored him. I also loved both Lou Lou and Beckingham.
A Tail of Two was a heartwarming story about family, second chances, senior citizens, dogs, dog parks, and finding love again. Mara Wells did an excellent job in writing this story. I suggest you read.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
December 3, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
A Tail for Two is the second title in the Fur Haven Dog Park series and quite a second chance romance as well as an instant (hidden baby) fatherhood moment for Lance.
Once Carrie and Lance were married but issues developed, neither wanted to confront the other about what was now missing from their marriage and they separated to go their own ways – but not before one last night, and a pregnancy that neither expected.
Years later both have moved on in their chosen careers but neither has found that special someone to spend their lives with. A chance encounter at a dog park will bring them back into each other’s lives… and expose a secret that Carrie kept for far too long from her former husband and Oliver’s father.
I enjoyed A Tail for Two, adored little Oliver and the pups, liked even understood Lance, but I couldn’t wrap my mind around Carrie’s inability to commit to Lance again. Their marriage suffered from neglect, yes, but neither were abusive, neither cheated, they simply let other things become more important and didn’t do anything about it. So, Carrie was (and continues to be) the puzzle piece in this story for me. Being afraid of losing her son should Lance make that play might have been a reason I could understand. But they’ve both grown up in the years in between and Lance has shown his true colors and his devotion to their son… so I guess I’ll simply have to accept that Carrie will always be a puzzle for me but that I adored and liked the men in her life.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
A Tail for Two is the second title in the Fur Haven Dog Park series and quite a second chance romance as well as an instant (hidden baby) fatherhood moment for Lance.
Once Carrie and Lance were married but issues developed, neither wanted to confront the other about what was now missing from their marriage and they separated to go their own ways – but not before one last night, and a pregnancy that neither expected.
Years later both have moved on in their chosen careers but neither has found that special someone to spend their lives with. A chance encounter at a dog park will bring them back into each other’s lives… and expose a secret that Carrie kept for far too long from her former husband and Oliver’s father.
I enjoyed A Tail for Two, adored little Oliver and the pups, liked even understood Lance, but I couldn’t wrap my mind around Carrie’s inability to commit to Lance again. Their marriage suffered from neglect, yes, but neither were abusive, neither cheated, they simply let other things become more important and didn’t do anything about it. So, Carrie was (and continues to be) the puzzle piece in this story for me. Being afraid of losing her son should Lance make that play might have been a reason I could understand. But they’ve both grown up in the years in between and Lance has shown his true colors and his devotion to their son… so I guess I’ll simply have to accept that Carrie will always be a puzzle for me but that I adored and liked the men in her life.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 20, 2021
Definitely a romance novel. Follows along nicely after the first story, leading into the 3rd book about brother Knox. Have read all 3 and enjoyed them.
This story covers Lance Donovan and Carrie Burns. Previously married, now divorced. She called it quits, he was hurt and moved on quickly while she grew her design business as did he his construction business. A surprise chance meeting at a local dog park brings up many revelations….including a small boy named Oli that has his blue eyes and once he realizes the timeframe of his birth, he’s not only shocked. He’s angry.
Carrie has always taken care of Oli on her own. She has a busy business and no time for Lance to interfere in her life. But seeing him again, old feelings arise that turn her world upside down. Same goes for Lance.
Lance has been helping out his brother Caleb with a condo project, and he brings in Carrie as the interior designer. While he’s trying to get closer to her, she’s trying to go the other way. By using dating apps to find “the one” and even dates Adam who is helping re-design the Dorothy-the condo their all working on.
Lots of dogs again in this story that help with moving things along! Lots of Donovan’s to put their 2 cents in also! A story about 2nd chances-is it possible..? Can past hurts be forgotten or even forgiven..? Can love prevail stronger than before?
It’s a romance story, so…..
This story covers Lance Donovan and Carrie Burns. Previously married, now divorced. She called it quits, he was hurt and moved on quickly while she grew her design business as did he his construction business. A surprise chance meeting at a local dog park brings up many revelations….including a small boy named Oli that has his blue eyes and once he realizes the timeframe of his birth, he’s not only shocked. He’s angry.
Carrie has always taken care of Oli on her own. She has a busy business and no time for Lance to interfere in her life. But seeing him again, old feelings arise that turn her world upside down. Same goes for Lance.
Lance has been helping out his brother Caleb with a condo project, and he brings in Carrie as the interior designer. While he’s trying to get closer to her, she’s trying to go the other way. By using dating apps to find “the one” and even dates Adam who is helping re-design the Dorothy-the condo their all working on.
Lots of dogs again in this story that help with moving things along! Lots of Donovan’s to put their 2 cents in also! A story about 2nd chances-is it possible..? Can past hurts be forgotten or even forgiven..? Can love prevail stronger than before?
It’s a romance story, so…..
August 12, 2020
This is the first book I've read by Mara Wells (thanks to NetGalley for the early copy) and it was good. It was different than I thought it would be- oddly, the picture on the book made me think that this book would be more comedic than it turned out to be (Because dogs are always a little bit funny!) And there were moments of levity, especially with the dogs (see?) and the young son, Oliver. However, I did find it difficult to get into the characters, especially Carrie, who didn't tell Lance about their son (that is awful) and really didn't seem to be that sorry about keeping the secret. What I did appreciate is that this is a second chance romance that did adequately reflect how difficult it is to get back together with someone who you broke up with. The issues that were there before were still there and while the characters matured from when they initially broke up, they had to grow even more in order to be right for each other. However, the background aspect of her trying to date was jarring to me and it made the story drag a bit for me. Overall, though, I loved the incorporation of the animals and I enjoyed seeing the characters get their HEA. Or is it a happily for now? I hope it's the former! I give the book a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
September 19, 2020
Tail for Two is the second book in the Fur Haven Dog Park series by Mara Wells. I read the first book and enjoyed it, so I was interested in continuing on with the series.
This is a second chance romance between Lance (Caleb's brother from book one) and Carrie who divorced about 3 years before. Neither has really gotten over the other and have been busy with their careers. Imagine Lance's surprise when he sees Carrie, his former dog, AND a three year old little boy at the dog park. Yes, Carrie has been keeping a secret from him.
I enjoyed this book although not quite as much as the first one in the series. I thought Lance was pretty adorable, but I didn't warm up to Carrie as much. It was interesting to see how they overcame their past ideas and look at their new chance at a life together with a different perspective than they had their earlier life together. Neither was the same person they had been, but neither was perfect either. I was satisfied with the ending.
I will recommend this book and series and look forward to reading Knox's book when it comes out. My thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book and give my unbiased opinion of it.
This is a second chance romance between Lance (Caleb's brother from book one) and Carrie who divorced about 3 years before. Neither has really gotten over the other and have been busy with their careers. Imagine Lance's surprise when he sees Carrie, his former dog, AND a three year old little boy at the dog park. Yes, Carrie has been keeping a secret from him.
I enjoyed this book although not quite as much as the first one in the series. I thought Lance was pretty adorable, but I didn't warm up to Carrie as much. It was interesting to see how they overcame their past ideas and look at their new chance at a life together with a different perspective than they had their earlier life together. Neither was the same person they had been, but neither was perfect either. I was satisfied with the ending.
I will recommend this book and series and look forward to reading Knox's book when it comes out. My thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book and give my unbiased opinion of it.
September 30, 2020
I have to give Tail for Two by Mara Wells five stars. The simple reason is that the author took my least favorite trope – secret baby, then wrote a story that I didn’t want to put down. This divorce couple has some serious communication problems which lead to all their marital struggles. All of that comes out in this story with neither one being perfect nor being terrible either.
Carrie Burns has a full life now with work, a young son and a rumbustious dog. The surprise meeting between Cassie and ex-husband read as if it could happen just that way. The reasons for it all worked for me. I did want to shake the two of them a time or two. Wow, that sounds just like real life when I hear stories from people whose relationship could have survived. See what a compelling story this author wrote. Then, let’s not forget the endearing three year old Oliver or his companion, Beckham. Thank goodness for Fur Haven Dog Park a great place for dogs and their owners.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Carrie Burns has a full life now with work, a young son and a rumbustious dog. The surprise meeting between Cassie and ex-husband read as if it could happen just that way. The reasons for it all worked for me. I did want to shake the two of them a time or two. Wow, that sounds just like real life when I hear stories from people whose relationship could have survived. See what a compelling story this author wrote. Then, let’s not forget the endearing three year old Oliver or his companion, Beckham. Thank goodness for Fur Haven Dog Park a great place for dogs and their owners.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2023
"A Tail for Two" didn't live up to my hopes for this series after reading book one. I found this book difficult to get through because I did not like the female main character, which is difficult for a romance where you're meant to be rooting for the pair. Carrie didn't show any remorse for hiding a child from Lance, and she was angry at him for being angry she held that secret. Of course he's going to still be angry. Any time he showed negative emotions or frustrations she shut him out while accusing him of being wishy-washy, but that was actually her. If you find yourself yelling, "it's called therapy, bitch!" on your commute, there's a problem. All of their problems easily could have been solved in couple's counseling, and it's weird to me that second-chance romances never bring up this possibility.
I really enjoyed the dog park and the characters from the first book coming back. I think this one would be confusing to read as a standalone because the backstory and characters are rich in these stories, which is why I chose to continue this book. I'll also happily read the third book. This sequel was a miss for me, but I'm not done with this author.
I really enjoyed the dog park and the characters from the first book coming back. I think this one would be confusing to read as a standalone because the backstory and characters are rich in these stories, which is why I chose to continue this book. I'll also happily read the third book. This sequel was a miss for me, but I'm not done with this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2020
Loved the story. Oliver has never met his father before until a chance meeting at a dog park near his dad's work site. Lance never knew about his son, until a chance meeting at a dog park, where his exwife, his dog, and his son were pkaying. Carrie had kept Oliver's birth a secret from her ex husband for over three years, afraid that he would demand full custody. The Donovans have always been go getters, taking control of everything/everyone in their life. Carrie and Lance both believed that they should never have children...due to their own experiences with their selfish parents.
Lance is hurt and betrayed by Carrie's secret. He chooses to forgive her, to learn more about his son. Carrie is afraid of getting hurt again, she had been the one to end the marriage before...she never wanted Lance to hate her. As the story progresses the reader learns that Carrie and lance never stopped living eachother.
In the end they each have to swallow their pride, and learn to trust their heart.
Lance is hurt and betrayed by Carrie's secret. He chooses to forgive her, to learn more about his son. Carrie is afraid of getting hurt again, she had been the one to end the marriage before...she never wanted Lance to hate her. As the story progresses the reader learns that Carrie and lance never stopped living eachother.
In the end they each have to swallow their pride, and learn to trust their heart.
October 12, 2020
This was more a story of a serious tone than the cozy I thought it would be. I think the name and the series title, “A Fur Haven Dog Park Novel” gave me the impression it would be lighter. My mistaken notion did not affect the enjoyment of this read. It turned out that the story had a lot more depth than I thought it would. It had its moments of humor. Having dogs involved can always put a smile on your face. While romance is not my favorite genre, this light romance had some realistic moments. Some things we must unfortunately deal with in everyday life.
While the characters and the dogs were well defined, I did get a little frustrated with Carrie’s on again off again dithering. Wanted to scream at her, “fall back in love or don’t”. Then again, maybe that’s the whole point of the story. Move the reader to feel, to emote.
A Tail for Two is Book 2 in the series of three books to date. While it can be read as a stand-alone, it was enjoyable and worth my time enough to hope Book 4 is in the making.
While the characters and the dogs were well defined, I did get a little frustrated with Carrie’s on again off again dithering. Wanted to scream at her, “fall back in love or don’t”. Then again, maybe that’s the whole point of the story. Move the reader to feel, to emote.
A Tail for Two is Book 2 in the series of three books to date. While it can be read as a stand-alone, it was enjoyable and worth my time enough to hope Book 4 is in the making.
September 3, 2020
Carrie Burns and Lance Donovan are divorced. Carrie has a secret. When she runs into Lance again a few years after their divorce she was surprised to see him. She took her almost three-year-old son Oliver and the Jack Russel Terrier Beckham that she and Lance once shared to Fur Haven Dog Park. That was the beginning of some back and forth encounters that changed their lives...for the better.
A Tail for Two by Mara Wells is the second book in her Fur Haven Dog Park series. This is a second chance romance. That second chance sure followed a very bumpy road. The conflict was well spelled out here but the resolution was a little long in coming. It was a little frustrating at times. The two main characters in this story are hard to like at times, especially Carrie. They are so very confused about what they want. I'm glad they finally got together. I did enjoy getting to see a lot of the characters from the first book in the series, Cold Nose, Warm Heart.
A Tail for Two by Mara Wells is the second book in her Fur Haven Dog Park series. This is a second chance romance. That second chance sure followed a very bumpy road. The conflict was well spelled out here but the resolution was a little long in coming. It was a little frustrating at times. The two main characters in this story are hard to like at times, especially Carrie. They are so very confused about what they want. I'm glad they finally got together. I did enjoy getting to see a lot of the characters from the first book in the series, Cold Nose, Warm Heart.
September 15, 2020
This is a secret baby/second chance romance about Carrie Burns and Lance Donovan. Lance runs into Carrie with her son, Oliver and his ex-dog Beckham and he’s surprised and angry that Carrie kept his son from him. You can’t really blame the guy, since Oliver is almost three. This isn’t a smooth road to a happily ever after for these two and I didn’t like how wishy-washy, for want of a better word, Carrie was. She wants Lance, she doesn’t want Lance. Then, don’t get me started on Lance babysitting, while Carrie goes on dates. I won’t leave any spoilers, so grab your copy and see if you agree with Carrie’s actions. I still need to go back and read how Caleb and Riley got together (and I will when time permits), but I’m looking forward to reading Knox’s story in the future.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 25, 2021
I actually genuinely enjoyed this book. It had some serious relationship drama - the kind you would expect when someone finds out their ex has been keeping their child from them.
The road to a renewed relationship wasn't as easy as it usually is in other books, where the parents put aside their differences for the sake of their child. Mara Wells did a pretty good job of factoring in the human element of it and the story was much better for it.
I honestly don't have any interest in reading the first book. Caleb and Riley seem like a couple of characters that would just get on my nerves. But I am interested in Knox's story. That one seems like it would also be an emotional rollercoaster.
The road to a renewed relationship wasn't as easy as it usually is in other books, where the parents put aside their differences for the sake of their child. Mara Wells did a pretty good job of factoring in the human element of it and the story was much better for it.
I honestly don't have any interest in reading the first book. Caleb and Riley seem like a couple of characters that would just get on my nerves. But I am interested in Knox's story. That one seems like it would also be an emotional rollercoaster.
September 16, 2020
A charming second chance at love male/female romance between an interior decorator and her building contractor ex-husband.
Circumstances conspire to bring Lance and Carrie together after three years apart, even though both live and work in Miami in the same field. Why has Carrie kept her distance? Well, that would be because she doesn't want Lance to know about his son Oliver, the product of a last post-divorce fling.
Neither wanted children when they were together, which is why Carrie has kept this secret. But will Lance forgive her for the sake of the boy? Can they find their way back to a happy ever after?
Well, it's a romance, so, sure they will. The fun is in seeing how they get there, against a modern Miami skyline.
Circumstances conspire to bring Lance and Carrie together after three years apart, even though both live and work in Miami in the same field. Why has Carrie kept her distance? Well, that would be because she doesn't want Lance to know about his son Oliver, the product of a last post-divorce fling.
Neither wanted children when they were together, which is why Carrie has kept this secret. But will Lance forgive her for the sake of the boy? Can they find their way back to a happy ever after?
Well, it's a romance, so, sure they will. The fun is in seeing how they get there, against a modern Miami skyline.
September 24, 2020
Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my review.
Tail for Two by Mara Wells was a cute rom com and is the second book in The Fur Haven Dog Park Series. I haven't read the first book yet, but this was standalone enough that I didn't need to.
I enjoy a good second chance love story. When Lance takes his brother's dog to the dog park a pup who looks just like his old dog who he hadn't seen since his divorce 3 years ago come up to him. He is surprised to see his ex-wife and a little boy come over to get the dog... Surprise!
At times I didn't like Carrie's excuses as to why she didn't tell Lance he had a son, but thought these were cute characters and loved the dog themed book! I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
Tail for Two by Mara Wells was a cute rom com and is the second book in The Fur Haven Dog Park Series. I haven't read the first book yet, but this was standalone enough that I didn't need to.
I enjoy a good second chance love story. When Lance takes his brother's dog to the dog park a pup who looks just like his old dog who he hadn't seen since his divorce 3 years ago come up to him. He is surprised to see his ex-wife and a little boy come over to get the dog... Surprise!
At times I didn't like Carrie's excuses as to why she didn't tell Lance he had a son, but thought these were cute characters and loved the dog themed book! I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
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