What do you do when you discover your four-legged best friend might belong to someone else? From the acclaimed author of Who Rescued Who comes the charming story of a custody battle between two pet parents who would do anything for the dog they both adore.
Justine Becker could not be more in love with her rescue dog, Spencer. He’s her best friend and “colleague” at her dog supply store, Tricks & Biscuits, in upstate New York. When she discovers a heartbreaking social media post trying to locate a dog that looks suspiciously like Spencer, Justine realizes that her beloved pup might actually belong to someone else.
Her worst fears are realized when she and Spencer meet up with Brooklyn-based Griffin McCabe, and he wants Spencer back. He claims he is the dog’s rightful owner, and has the paperwork to prove it. But Justine refuses to roll over and let him take Spencer without a fight.
It’s not easy juggling Spencer’s burgeoning new career as a dog actor, along with the demands of her life upstate, all while constantly trying to prove she’s a better pet parent than Griffin. Their not-so-friendly competition teeters on the edge of flat-out hate, so when romantic feelings for Griffin catch Justine off guard, she needs to determine if it’s all part of his plot to win the pup back, or if the guy who was good enough for Spencer might also be good enough for her.
Victoria Schade has been a dog trainer and writer for over seventeen years. During that time her dog duties have included working behind the scenes on Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl as the lead animal wrangler, appearing on two seasons of the Animal Planet show Faithful Friends, writing dog training content and appearing in educational videos for NBC/Universal, Pet360, PawCulture and petMD, and writing two dog training books, Bonding With Your Dog and Secrets of a Dog Trainer.
Victoria shares her 1850’s always-in- need-of- renovations home with Millie the Smooth Brussels Griffon (who wants you to know that she is not a skinny pug), Olive the mixed breed dog, the occasional foster pup, and her incredibly tolerant husband, Tom.
✔️ 🐶 Looking for your next rom com? ✔️ 🐶 Seeking a happy ending? ✔️ 🐶 Love dogs and animals? ✔️ 🐶 Need an uplifting read?
Lost, Found, and Forever is all of that and then some! Justine owns Tricks and Biscuits, a dog supply store. Her best friend is her beloved rescue dog, Spencer.
One day Justine views a post on social media about a missing dog who looks a lot like Spencer. She suddenly realizes her best friend may belong to someone else. How heartbreaking!
Justine meets up with Griffin, the author of the post, and he wants Spencer back. Justine doesn’t want to hand him over, though.
Lost, Found, and Forever is such a sweet story. Justine and Griffin love the same dog, and it’s through Spencer that they, too, fall in love, while always making Spencer number one.
I absolutely adored this uplifting, heartfelt, and hopeful read, that I loved just as much as Victoria Schade’s other books. Also, make sure to check out her instagram feed. Her pups are as adorable as this book cover, and as cute and funny as Spencer’s antics in this story!
Four paws up for this adorable tail! What do you do when the dog you found and fell in love with previous owner shows up? That is the situation Justine finds herself in in this delightful romcom. Justine found Spencer took him in and fell in love with him, and now Griffin, spencer/Leo’s previous owner has shown up. Justine agrees to meet up with Griffin but only so he can see that Spencer is OK. To complicate things even further Griffin is gorgeous and seems to have a crazy bond with Spencer. What follows is a sweet and realistic story about to likable characters and a lovable dog.
This was just such a fun feel good story. Both Justine and Griffin were likable characters who found themselves in an impossible situation. But of course Spencer stole the show! I thought all the dog training tidbits during the book were very interesting. The secondary characters were wonderful and the town where Justine lived was lovely. Something else I really appreciate about this book is that Justine and Griffin had real problems, they weren’t just all based on a ridiculous miscommunication that could’ve been solved in about three words. A lovable story guaranteed to make you smile!
This book in emojis 🐶 🚗 🎥 📁
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Heartwarming, adorable, engaging, and really everything you could want from a feel-good contemporary romance. This book will leave you with a smile on your face and your heart singing!
This is a book written for the modern woman! A mistake leads to a meet cute which leads to potential catastrophe which leads to melt-your-heart love (and a cute pup!). Leading lady Justine Becker loves her rescue pooch Spencer. She owns a dog supplies store in upstate New York and Spencer is a hit at work—the cutest colleague you could imagine!
Meanwhile Spencer is cast in an acting role thanks to the bond between Justine and Spencer that have led to a dog who can do a whole bunch of tricks. Justine is so proud of Spencer for getting the part, and she is working to figure out a way to be a full time stage mom and full-time shop owner.
When she comes across a social media post from a man trying to locate his lost dog, she realizes the dog is a dead-ringer for her sweet Spencer. Could it be that Spencer belongs to someone else? Being the responsible and kind woman she is, Justine meets Griffin, the man who claims (and has paperwork to prove) that Spencer is his lost pip. But Justine isn’t ready to part with Spencer. Who is the rightful owner?
As Justine and Griffin compete to prove who is the better dog parent to Spencer, it turns out that they may be falling for one another. But is Griffin manipulating her so he can get his pup back? Or is this a love story that will have a happy ending for the humans and the dog?
This is a complicated and stressful situation! Both have a rightful claim to Spencer, but Griffin did own Spencer first. With Griffin’s travel schedule, Spencer never got quite the amount of investment from him as from Justine. Still, it is clear immediately that both love this dog so much.
I loved that this was a happy love story, and neither character treats the other poorly. It was refreshing! As much as I love a romance where the leads deny their attraction, or there is a misunderstanding leading to an angsty start, this one was two adults with good hearts in a tough situation trying to separate their feelings from one another from their desire to keep their dog.
I really enjoyed the storyline about Spencer and his acting career too. It was so fun to imagine being on set with your dog, seeing them shine in the spotlight! Justine was also a really great dog parent and I liked having the book told just from her perspective, rather than switching between Griffin and Justine. It made me root for Justine and be happy when it seemed like it might end up working out for all involved.
An adorable story with a heartwarming conclusion—you won’t want to miss this if you need a pick-me-up or even just want to lose yourself in a cute story for an afternoon!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing for my copy. Opinions are my own.
What an adorable cover (who can resist?) and charming tail (oops ... tale)! Justine, owner of a dog supply store, and her movie star rescue dog Spencer, are best buddies. She could NEVER EVER imagine giving him up. Then comes Griffin, who claims Spencer is his and has proof. Oh my how sparks fly!
The dynamics between Justine and Griffin are a hoot to watch, as is the growing romance between them. Will they become a couple? Who ends up with Spencer? You MUST read this pawlicious rom-com to find out! Out March 30, 2021.
5 of 5 Stars #LostFoundandForever #NetGalley
Thanks to Victoria, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The adorable cover makes way for a cute story about a woman and her dog, who she has trained to do tricks. She runs a pet store, but wants to do more with her life. Then one day she sees a lost dog ad and realizes it’s her dog! She had adopted him a year ago and someone was still looking for him. She contacts him and the sparks fly! They arrange to co-parent the dog and end up with a happily ever after for all of them. There was also a lot of behind the scenes of filmmaking after Spencer the dog gets cast in a Tv series Cute little Hallmark type story with a little bit of steam. Thanks to Berkeley publishing and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
Lost, Found, and Forever is a rom-com about two people who discover that they are both the owners of the same dog, Spencer. Justine adopted Spencer a year ago from the pet shelter. She and Spenser have been inseparable ever since. But when she discovers a social media post about a lost dog that looks exactly like Spencer, she realizes that her dog maybe belongs to someone else. Griffin has been looking for his dog all this time and of course, he wants Spencer back. Justine and Griffin's relationship starts on the wrong foot because neither of them wants to give up on the ownership of their beloved dog.
This was a sweet and heartwarming story. I love pets in books, and Spencer was adorable. He was the star of the book. I also liked how Justine and Griffin's relationship progressed. They both wanted what was best for Spencer, and always put his needs first. Even though it started badly, their relationship blossomed from their love for the dog. I highly recommend Lost, Found, and Forever to all rom-com readers and dog lovers.
This was such a cute story about two people coming together because of their shared love for a dog.
I've never read a book about a dog trainer and found that aspect of it rather interesting. Seeing Spencer on sets was a behind the scene look at what happens.
Some things were incredibly obvious (pretty typical of a romcom).
Imagine adopting a dog from the shelter, loving him for a year, boned. Then you find out that his pervious owner has been looking for him the last year and wants him back. I know I’ve felt this anxiety when I adopted my dog. What horror right ? Well it is for the MC Justine, for a while at least. Griffin the dog’s previous owner is angry, sad, and gorgeous. The fight for the dog get complicated. Justine is recovering from a past relationship and a failing business. She is taking a break from dating/love. Spencer, her dog is well trained and catches the eye of a director and called to try out for a part. Griffin is a man on a mission. He has a plan, his career is mapped to get maximum results. He has no time for relationships, but still wants his dog Leo back. He lost Leo while a dog sitter was watching him when he worked out of town. The relationship starts all wrong. Hate would cover it. Circumstances bring them together slowly and they find a way to bot spend time with Spencer/Leo. Super cute, romantic, heartbreaking and heartwarming. I loved this quick HEA read. Adopt don’t shop <3 I received a copy for the publisher for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
|Book Review| Thank you @berkleypub and @netgalley for my gifted copy.
What do you do when you discover your four-legged best friend might belong to someone else? From the acclaimed author of Who Rescued Who comes the charming story of a custody battle between two pet parents who would do anything for the dog they both adore.
Lost, Found, & Forever was everything I didn't know I needed to read and it was impossible to put down. While this book did cover a few serious topics (PTSD and the treatment of pets on TV), I found this enemies to lovers romcom to be such an enjoyable lighthearted read.
What I loved about this book:
1. Honestly the first thing that comes to mind when I think of this book is how happy I was once I finished. I picked this one up thinking I would read a chapter or two before bed, but the next thing I know it's past midnight and I've finished leaving me with a big smile on my face.
2. I loved that this book had great characters that knew how to communicate without all the unnecessary drama. Is there conflict in this one? Yep, but it wasn't due to lack of communication between Justine and Griffin. Their chemistry was undeniable and I really enjoyed their banter.
3. While the adorable dog on the cover grabbed my attention, it was the unique plot that truly drew me in. In this book you'll get a custody battle over Spencer, a behind the scenes look into the pets on TV, and a well written enemies to lovers romance.
If you're looking for a feel good read to brighten your day, definitely pick this one up. It's a perfect book for romance readers, especially those with a soft spot for furry four legged friends.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 Pub date: March 30th, 2021
If you've read this one, who do you think is the rightful owner of Spencer/Leo?
Thank you @berittalksbooks, @thephdivabooks, and @dg_reads for including me on the buddy read.
Lost, Found, and Forever is my favorite Victoria Schade novel yet! I enjoyed the friendships, the drama, the behind the scene looks at a filming, the very likable characters, the wit and banter, the happily-ever-after, and of course the dude who steals the show, Spencer the dog. Brava, my friend!
This is a bow-wow of a great tale! Fun read and laugh out loud moments propelled me to quickly read this tale. Justine Becker runs a pet supply store Tricks & Biscuits,in upstate New York. She also is a dog Mommy to rescue dog Spencer. He makes her so happy and they are best friends. One day scrolling online she sees a social media lost ad for a dog who looks just like Spencer. This is when all the chaos and commotion starts. When she meets up with Brooklyn-based Griffin McCabe her worst fears are realized when he says the dog is his and he has the papers to prove it. What follows is a comedy of errors, as each tries to prove the dog is solely theirs. She's not going to let Spencer go without a fight. If only she could stay mad at Griffin and didn't seem to be distracted by falling for him. Delightful and fun to read! #LostFoundandForever #NetGalley
Pub Date 30 Mar 2021 I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you, #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkleyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads @BeritTalksBooks @ThePHDivaBooks for a commplimentary e arc of #LostFoundAndForever upon my request. All opinions are my own. Pub Date: 3.30.2021.
Finders, Keepers?
In addition to romance, we have a custody battle over a beloved rescue dog, Spencer. Justine is Spencer’s current owner, and she loves to train him and he’s also her loyal companion at her dog supply store in upstate New York. Spencer loves performing tricks and has landed a role as a dog actor. On day, Justine comes across a social media post that pleads for the return of a dog that sounds suspiciously like her beloved Spencer. Justine contacts the guy, Griffin, and agrees to meet up with him at a park in Brooklyn. Griffin has the paperwork to prove he’s the original owner but Justine refuses to let Spencer go without a fight. What would you do?
If you have adopted a rescue dog, have you ever considered that the original owners might reclaim the dog with whom you have bonded?
Victoria Schade writes an engaging and mostly light-hearted enemies-to-lovers story with an interesting “co-owners” premise. In fact, Schade has experience in real life as a dog trainer (see bio) so this lends authenticity and expertise to the details about dog training and a dog’s acting career. Although the story is a bit predictable (expected in the romance genre), it’s also page turning and thoughtful.
Justine and Griffin are both likable characters. Justine is compassionate, determined, and thoughtful while Griffin is generous, kind, and on a mission to follow his self-determined life trajectory. Of course, things become complicated as they are both attracted to each other and quite committed to Spencer!
Who can resist this adorable cover?! Overall, Lost, Found, and Forever is a lovely and easy reading romance with thoughtful themes such as the ethics of animal ownership, PTSD from a past trauma, taking a second chance on love, friendship, and an enemies to lovers trope. I’m recommending it for fans of romance, for those looking for a lighter read, and for animal lovers.
Content Consideration: trauma from a past attack, some steam
Having recently finished “Lost, Found, and Forever” by Victoria Schade, I am happy to have had the chance for the preview; thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group!
This was a light predictable read and just the quick story I needed this week. I was drawn in by the adorable cover, and then as an owner of rescued furry friends over the years, the synopsis grabbed me. Rescued animals are often a mystery and this story actually solved the mystery of this cute guy in an entertaining way. From 4-legged furry cuteness, to tall and hunky cuteness was not a surprise, but it was a nice diversion to follow Spencer/Leo... and his humans.
This is my second novel by Victoria Schade and I have absolutely fallen in love with her novels! They are light hearted reading with romance and tons and tons of sweet dogs! The adorable doggies on the cover just get me every time and this one is no different. I jumped at this one because it sounded too cute and that dog on the cover was screaming ‘read me!’.
By Schade’s books are more than just adorable dogs on the cover, I have really loved the romances that are woven into the story. This one was especially tender and adorable. I fell in love with Griffin about as fast as Justine! He was so charming and thoughtful.
If you love romances in the vein of movies like Must Love Dog, this is an author that you absolutely need on your radar! I am 100% a dog person, but anyone who loves animals will enjoy how predominant they are featured in the story. The animals take on roles of their own and I loved learning about dog handling and training throughout the story. Fetch this one on your TBR immediately!
I loved that this romance was written for the modern woman—-even if you don’t love dogs or animals (I am secretly judging you if you don’t love animals thought!) the romance between Griffin and Justine is nuanced and features real life issues that any new couple might encounter. Justine and Griffin have many common goals and values, but yet they are very different people with their own lives before they met each other. They had to work to address their issues and decide if they were better together or not. It wasn’t a romance that was angsty but rather real and there was never a question if they loved each other, simply that they needed to figure out how to make room in their lives for on another and I really appreciate that.
So many of the romances I have been reading lately have been fraught with angst, usually there is a character that’s trying to fight the attraction/love but in this one, it was clear that Griffin liked Justine and had feelings for her (and vice versa) but they needed to sort out what that might look like. I really appreciated that and it made me love Griffin all the more for the fact that he never questioned his feelings for Justine, simply the logistics.
My only issue was I would have liked to have seen was things from Griffin’s perspective. It wasn’t a huge deal but I would have loved to have seen what was going on in his mind when he was with Justine. Obviously this is more of a style preference, I still loved the book even if we only got Justine’s side of things.
Besides the wonderful romance, I really loved all the behind the scenes things for the tv series with Spencer! I never really stopped to think about all the behind the scenes things that go on with pets in a tv show or movie! It sounded so intense and equally fascinating, I loved that aspect of this story. I know that in her other novels Schade includes a lot of dog training bits in her story and honestly it never gets old. It’s interesting especially because I have dogs. Some people might find it tedious, but I think it’s interesting and I think the author does a good job making it interesting and not overwhelming. I was also really captivated by the whole how to prove the dog is yours situation. I never considered the steps one would have to go through to prove that their dog was their dog! Insane and so interesting!
Spencer and Griffin stole the show in this book and I cannot wait for more doggie romances from Schade! I adored this one!
Justine owns a pet store and an adopted dog. She loves teaching Spencer tricks. An opportunity comes up for him to be in a TV series, when she sees a post on Facebook about a missing dog. She contacts the owner of the lost dog after much consideration. This starts a complex interaction with Spencer’s old owner. It is a cute story that I would have enjoyed more without the occasional bad word and semi graphic sexual scenes. It seemed very random with the language that almost felt like the author just threw it in once in awhile to keep it from being a too clean book. Just my feelings about it. I did like the book overall despite my personal convictions that I like to have a heads up on these things. Thanks to NetGalley and PenguinRandom house for the uncorrected proof. I am providing my review as requested
I received a gifted galley of LOST, FOUND, AND FOREVER by Victoria Schade for an honest review. Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review!
LOST, FOUND, AND FOREVER follows Justine Becker, a pet shop owner and pet trick trainer who is a bit down on her luck. Her business is struggling to stay afloat and she’s not sure what her next move is. One of the highlights in her life is her rescue dog Spencer. When she found him through PetFinder, it was love at first sight and he has rarely left her side ever since. Unfortunately she wasn’t Spencer’s first love. Justine finds out that Spencer’s old owner has been looking for him for the past year and he has pretty legitimate grounds for claiming that he is the pup’s rightful owner.
Spencer lands an acting gig which might give Justine a brighter future, but it also gives her more reason to interact with Griffin. As Justine and Griffin try to negotiate their conflicting feelings for a pup who clearly loves them both, they begin to wonder if what is between them could turn into something more.
While romance is not my go to genre, I couldn’t resist the sweet pup on the cover for this one. Reading about how Justine meet Spencer through PetFinder was exactly how I found my own rescue Kylee. Thankfully I know she was surrendered intentionally by her prior owners so I wouldn’t be faced with the decisions that Justine was. Talk about an impossible and heartbreaking situation for both Justine and Griffin, facing the possibility of losing the dog they love!
This book had a lot of humorous moments and I loved reading about Spencer’s relationship with both Justine and Griffin. You can tell that the author has a background working with dogs in the way she describes their different styles and the way Spencer reacted differently with each of them. The relationship between Justine and Griffin was sweet as well.
This was a fun read and a fun buddy read! I would recommend this to those who enjoy a good dog story and a good romance all rolled up into one! LOST, FOUND, AND FOREVER is out on Tuesday!
Lost Found and Forever by Victoria Schade is a cute fun standalone novel. We meet our heroine, Justine Becker, as she opens her Tricks & Biscuits dog supply store; with her dog, Spencer, whom she loves with all her heart. Justine is an excellent trainer, and works with people to train their dogs, but Spencer is so smart, he can do so many tricks. Despite this, she is financially struggling to keep the store open, despite the ideas her friend and helper suggests. While at a private local restaurant, she shows off to friends the many tricks Spencer can do, and at another table a producer sees her. Justine is approached to try out Spencer for a series they are doing, and Spencer could be the perfect dog for them. Excitedly, Justine accepts this chance to change her life, especially with her training abilities.
While waiting to start, her friend notices on social media a picture of a dog that looks like Spencer, who has been missing for over a year. Griffin McCabe, our hero, is ecstatic that his dog has been found, but quickly realizes that Justine will not give up ‘her’ dog, whom she loves. In the beginning, though Griffin tries to not antagonize Justine, they are both suspicious of each other; especially when Justine tries to keep her personal information secret, but Griffin manages to find her. As much as Justine loves Spencer, she can see how much Griffin does too. Who will get custody of Spencer?
When Justine has to begin working with the studio with Spencer, they are both exhausted from the car drive; and when Griffin offers his place (near the studio) for her and Spencer to stay overnight on the days they travel, she accepts. Justine finds Griffin very charming and sweet, and a friendship begins with the two of them. Griffin travels a lot on his job, and slowly he realizes how Justine is always there for Spencer; a slow burn romance, both Justine and Griffin find themselves attracted to each other, though they know there is no future, since Griffin does not do relationships.
I did enjoy the scenes at the studio, with Justine working with Spencer to do the scenes expected of him. It was fun to see what goes behind the scene of a shoot, as well as meeting the actors/crew of the studio. Griffin occasionally came to watch, and offered help to Justine. I did love both Justine and Griffin together, not to mention how great Spencer was. Did they have any future together?
Lost Found and Forever was a cute, fun, fast paced story of a dog that brought two people together. I really enjoyed this book, which was very well written by Victoria Schade. If you love a pure romance and a fantastic dog, I suggest you read this book.
“Their magical time together in Connecticut during her elementary school years had left an imprint on Justine’s heart, and she knew she needed the change of seasons to feel at home.”
Same girl, same. Connecticut born and bred right here 🙋🏼♀️.
What do you do when you accidentally discover that your heart dog may have been previously loved by another? Lost, Found, and Forever is an absolutely adorable book about the love and loyalty of a rescued dog 🐾 . Spencer/Leo finds himself adored by two separate owners. Currently owned by Justine, a new to the game dog trainer, she is steadfast in asserting that Spence is HERS now. But when she sees Leo’s love towards his initial owner Griffin, a sexy and smart business type, can she, in good conscience, keep these two souls separated?
I have adopted 5 retired racing greyhounds over the years and there is nothing like the love of a dog that knows you’re giving him/her their best life. The thought of Spencer recognizing and remembering Griffin years after being lost warms my heart. BUT, you would have to pry Parker’s leash from my cold dead hands if you came at me with prior ownership paperwork. Dogs are just the best aren’t they? If I’m honest, I prefer them to people most days 😜.
If you have ever loved or been loved by a rescue, you will enjoy this endearing tale of an amazing dog that finds himself acting on a Hollywood set and facilitating romantic sparks between the two people he loves most. ✨💘
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Berkley Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lost, Found and Forever by Victoria Schade is such a cute rom-com that is perfect for dog lovers.
Justine and her dog Spencer are living their best life until she finds out that Spencer’s previous owner, Griffin wants him back. To prevent a custody battle may ensue, Justine does her best to convince Griffin that she is the best owner for Spencer by playing nice. But Griffin is even kinder, not just to Spencer, but to Justine as well. From the on, the story takes a will they won’t they vibe that takes enemies to lovers.
I really liked Justine. Her love for Spencer and all animals really showed throughout the book. She seemed to be a really great dog mom. I was also really happy that she was able to find something that she was passionate about. She also had some really great friends in Sienna and Ruth who pushed her get where she needed to be in her career and romance.
However, I did feel that I personally connected to Griffin more. He was very career driven and romance was less of a priority to him and I can definitely relate.
Overall, this was a delightful story. It was quick, easy and light-hearted read that was the perfect escape from reality.
Thank you to the publisher for the e-arc through NetGalley.
This was cute! Based on how it began, I could tell it wouldn't be a story that was full of substance throughout it but it was nonetheless enjoyable. I really liked that Spencer played a key role throughout the entirety of it. Also getting to see what it takes for a pup to be an actor was so neat and definitely something I had never read about before! The romance, in my opinion, was a bit lackluster. It kind of just seemed obvious that that was the way it was going but I wish there had been maybe more conversation between Justine and Griffin. I don't think I can properly word what I wanted to see but it definitely left me wanting more. But overall, it was a cute story. Totally recommend it if you love pups and love to see them be heroes!
I liked this book...mostly. Loved the dog. The people, not as much. Justine adopted Spencer and they were soul mates. He is the love of her life especially as she is on a self imposed dating hiatus. Then she discovers that Spencer is really Leo and his former owner, Griffin wants him back. Ironically, the most mature one if them all is Spencer. Justine doesn't speak up for herself and Griffin is well, not honest about his intentions nor his feelings. Then when he gets too close he runs from his feelings and from Justine & Spencer. They of course eventually figure it out for a HEA. Wrapped up nicely.
This was such a cute book! I’ve loved several of the authors’s other books and I was excited to pick up this one. I loved the premise - a woman who has adopted a dog finds out after a year that he is actually someone else’s dog who got lost. Of course there is some attraction between the old and new owners! It was fun to follow the story but there was still some depth to the characters/story. This is a great romance if you’re looking for a quick read!
This adorable romcom had me feeling all the warm fuzzies, and while I loved main characters Justine and Griffin, Spencer absolutely stole the show!
Lost, Found, and Forever by Victoria Schade offers a cute storyline that readers can't help but fall in love with. Justine Becker doesn't know how she's going to make ends meet with her pet store, Tricks & Biscuits. Though she has a loyal customer base and is passionate about her work and the animals she serves, the shop just isn't pulling in the revenue she needs to afford the lease, pay her one employee, Sienna, and cover living expenses. At least she has one thing she can count on: her incredible, heart-melting dog, Spencer.
Or, so she thinks. ...
When Sienna shows Justine a social media post about a lost dog that bears an uncanny resemblance to Spencer, Justine realizes her sweet and perfect rescue dog may actually belong to Griffin, a handsome, ambitious New Yorker whose heart has been broken since Spencer (aka Leo) got out of his petsitter's yard over a year ago. Griffin is still carrying a torch for Leo (Spencer), but there is no way Justine is simply handing over her dog, especially when an opportunity arises that may help her keep Tricks & Biscuits afloat! Can these two find a way to co-parent Spencer and maybe discover all they've ever wanted in the process?
I'm giving this one an enthusiastic four biscuits! I loved this dog-centered plotline (which gave me some Happy Ever After Playlist vibes!), the dynamic between Justine and Griffin, the cool behind-the-scenes look at what exactly is involved when a pet is onscreen, and of course, the wonderfulness that is Spencer! The conflicts in this novel were realistic, there was good communication, and who doesn't love it when an animal takes center stage in a book?!?
Alright Victoria, you've done it; you've hooked me, and now I'm ready to dive into Who Rescued Who!
Lost, Found, and Forever came out Tuesday, so what are you waiting for? Pick up a copy of this book or check it out of your local library today!
A huge thank-you to @letstalkbookspromo @berittalksbooks @whimsicalyme and @berkley for my gifted eARC, and to Berit and Erica for leading such a sweet buddy read!
Am I biased because I love dogs and dog training? Yes. Am I biased because of the local references? Yes? Is this also a delightful rom-com with edge-of your-seat tension and a unique adventure? YES!
Chance, my rescue beagle, is my shadow. I love him more than I ever thought possible. I am a dog person, and if you own a dog you will understand when I say I would choose him over a person any day of the week and twice on Sundays. This dog is my coworker, my copilot, and my snuggle buddy. He’s the best, paws down, and I would do anything for him.
I’ve followed Victoria Schade’s Instagram for a while and she, too, is a dog person. I really like her media persona, and her dogs Millie and Olive are absolute stars. So, after seeing the arc on netgalley (and also feeling like a fraud because I hadn’t read anything else by VS) I requested to review “Lost, Found, and Forever”. I don’t really know what I was expecting - something like a hallmark-movie-in-a-book novel where the characters are pure and sweet, with the smallest amount of drama. This story seems so simple on the surface, but there is real depth and levels of tension that had me hooked from page one. I laughed at both dog and people antics, I was drawn to the chemistry, and the cracked-door romance.
Justine adopted Spencer from a small shelter and they’ve been best buds for a year. She and Spence get the job of a lifetime working as a dog actor on a new tv show, but suddenly she’s thrown for a loop when someone claims that Spencer is their lost dog, Leo. This novel follows Justine and Griffin, who must navigate the custodial battle of their best friend, and Spencer’s break out role as a dog actor. I want to dive into this story and be friends with everyone. Please do yourselves a favor and pick this up on pub day.