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The Dogmothers #6
Faux Paws
Book Eight (all stand-alone titles) of a Series for Dog Loving Romance Readers!
At a personal and career crossroads he never expected, Navy nuclear engineer Theo Santorini faces the fact that his once charmed existence isn’t so charmed anymore. Then, on a cross country trip, he saves a desperate and abused dog, hoping he can turn around both their lives. When he arrives at Waterford Farm in North Carolina with his rescue, Clementine, Theo’s matchmaking grandmother and her best friend immediately launch a plan to help both man and dog. Theo doesn’t hate their idea of getting an assist from a beautiful, enigmatic “pet psychic” while he figures out his next move. But the woman’s preposterous claims that she can read an animal’s mind seriously test an engineer who lives for logic and flees from feelings.
After bolting from the church when she learned the groom waiting at the altar had cheated on her, Ayla Hollis can now add “runaway bride” to her short resume. But this perennial people-pleaser has broken free from her stifling upbringing and is finally ready to begin a new life. She’ll start by openly admitting to the world that she has a gift that might seem bizarre to some, but she can help animals, and in a town that loves dogs, that makes her a local hero. Her first “patient” is an emotionally damaged stray dog held in the strong arms of a handsome, but skeptical, owner. Ayla soon finds it can be much easier to understand an animal’s feelings than those of a man who refuses to believe her abilities are real.
As Theo and Ayla work together to help Clementine heal, they can’t deny one thing is real: their sizzling chemistry that quickly grows to feelings of forever. But before the Dogmothers can claim another successful match, Ayla’s psychic skills thrust her into a perilous spotlight that threatens everything. With their love on the line and a dog’s life in the balance, Ayla’s gift could save them all…but only if Theo will finally risk his heart and believe.
Many of the covers of The Dogmothers were all photographed at Alaqua Animal Refuge in Florida using rescue dogs from the shelter, and "local heroes" as models. A portion of book sales is donated to that amazing organization!
The Dogmothers - a spinoff series from the popular "Dogfather" books
At a personal and career crossroads he never expected, Navy nuclear engineer Theo Santorini faces the fact that his once charmed existence isn’t so charmed anymore. Then, on a cross country trip, he saves a desperate and abused dog, hoping he can turn around both their lives. When he arrives at Waterford Farm in North Carolina with his rescue, Clementine, Theo’s matchmaking grandmother and her best friend immediately launch a plan to help both man and dog. Theo doesn’t hate their idea of getting an assist from a beautiful, enigmatic “pet psychic” while he figures out his next move. But the woman’s preposterous claims that she can read an animal’s mind seriously test an engineer who lives for logic and flees from feelings.
After bolting from the church when she learned the groom waiting at the altar had cheated on her, Ayla Hollis can now add “runaway bride” to her short resume. But this perennial people-pleaser has broken free from her stifling upbringing and is finally ready to begin a new life. She’ll start by openly admitting to the world that she has a gift that might seem bizarre to some, but she can help animals, and in a town that loves dogs, that makes her a local hero. Her first “patient” is an emotionally damaged stray dog held in the strong arms of a handsome, but skeptical, owner. Ayla soon finds it can be much easier to understand an animal’s feelings than those of a man who refuses to believe her abilities are real.
As Theo and Ayla work together to help Clementine heal, they can’t deny one thing is real: their sizzling chemistry that quickly grows to feelings of forever. But before the Dogmothers can claim another successful match, Ayla’s psychic skills thrust her into a perilous spotlight that threatens everything. With their love on the line and a dog’s life in the balance, Ayla’s gift could save them all…but only if Theo will finally risk his heart and believe.
Many of the covers of The Dogmothers were all photographed at Alaqua Animal Refuge in Florida using rescue dogs from the shelter, and "local heroes" as models. A portion of book sales is donated to that amazing organization!
The Dogmothers - a spinoff series from the popular "Dogfather" books
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2021
183 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Roxanne St. Claire
265 books1,832 followersI don’t know about you, but when I check out an author's bio, it’s usually because I’ve read a book I liked and wondered about the person behind it. Let's skip the formal bio and I'll give you the inside scoop on who Roxanne St. Claire really is.
First of all, call me Rocki. Everyone does. Evidently, when my mother brought me home from the hospital I seemed too scrawny and small to pull off “Roxanne” (she’d read Cyrano de Bergerac while pregnant or I would have been Judy) so they called me Rocki.
I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA, the youngest of five (overachievers, every one), and fell in love with words and stories the summer I read Gone With The Wind. That year, for my twelfth birthday, my parents gave me a typewriter (with italic font – it was the coolest thing) and from that day on, I’ve had my fingers on a keyboard, pounding out love stories for fun. My AP English teacher taught me the two most important lessons an aspiring author ever needs: 1) verbs are the key to life and 2) a writer should get a real job. After attending UCLA and graduating with a degree in communications, I tried acting and television broadcasting. Oh, they aren’t real jobs? I learned that the hard way. I changed my last name from Zink to St. Claire because a news producer told me Roxanne Zink had too many harsh consonants for a TV personality – apparently Katie Couric didn’t get the memo. I got some fun gigs, and even met Tom Hanks when I did a guest appearance on Bosom Buddies. I liked on camera work, but wasn’t too crazy about starvation, so I moved to Boston and got that “real” job. In fact, I placed my foot on the bottom rung of the corporate ladder and didn’t look down until I’d climbed all the way up to the level of Senior Vice President at the world’s largest public relations firm. On the way up, I met the man of my dreams in an elevator. Two years later – in the same elevator! – he asked me to marry him and I wisely said yes.
I stayed in PR, moved to Miami, had a few babies, lost my home in a hurricane, built another one a few hours north and all along, I kept writing my “stories” for fun. One night, I read a particularly fabulous romance novel that changed my life for good. That night, I decided I wanted to make someone else feel as whole and happy as that author made me feel. (Everyone asks! It was Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips.) With two small children and one big “real” job, writing my first novel wasn’t easy, but I did finish a manuscript that managed to get the attention of a literary agent. She told me to do one thing and one thing fast: write another book. (The first one is usually a “learner” book, honestly.) That second manuscript sold to Simon & Schuster’s Pocket Books and was released in 2003 as Tropical Getaway. Since then, I’ve written almost thirty more, in multiple genres, and long ago replaced the corporate ladder with the rollercoaster of publishing as a full-time novelist. Finally, writing is my real job.
Today, I live in a small beach community in Florida with my husband and two dogs. Our kids are off to college and law school, which means my nest is empty! I spend my time writing, working with the kids at my church, enjoying my husband's gourmet cooking, and hanging with my many writer friends. Of course, I love to read. I’m still crazy about words and stories and hope to write at least a hundred books in my lifetime. And, yes, verbs are the key to life. My favorites? Love. Work. Believe.
xoxo
Rocki
First of all, call me Rocki. Everyone does. Evidently, when my mother brought me home from the hospital I seemed too scrawny and small to pull off “Roxanne” (she’d read Cyrano de Bergerac while pregnant or I would have been Judy) so they called me Rocki.
I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA, the youngest of five (overachievers, every one), and fell in love with words and stories the summer I read Gone With The Wind. That year, for my twelfth birthday, my parents gave me a typewriter (with italic font – it was the coolest thing) and from that day on, I’ve had my fingers on a keyboard, pounding out love stories for fun. My AP English teacher taught me the two most important lessons an aspiring author ever needs: 1) verbs are the key to life and 2) a writer should get a real job. After attending UCLA and graduating with a degree in communications, I tried acting and television broadcasting. Oh, they aren’t real jobs? I learned that the hard way. I changed my last name from Zink to St. Claire because a news producer told me Roxanne Zink had too many harsh consonants for a TV personality – apparently Katie Couric didn’t get the memo. I got some fun gigs, and even met Tom Hanks when I did a guest appearance on Bosom Buddies. I liked on camera work, but wasn’t too crazy about starvation, so I moved to Boston and got that “real” job. In fact, I placed my foot on the bottom rung of the corporate ladder and didn’t look down until I’d climbed all the way up to the level of Senior Vice President at the world’s largest public relations firm. On the way up, I met the man of my dreams in an elevator. Two years later – in the same elevator! – he asked me to marry him and I wisely said yes.
I stayed in PR, moved to Miami, had a few babies, lost my home in a hurricane, built another one a few hours north and all along, I kept writing my “stories” for fun. One night, I read a particularly fabulous romance novel that changed my life for good. That night, I decided I wanted to make someone else feel as whole and happy as that author made me feel. (Everyone asks! It was Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips.) With two small children and one big “real” job, writing my first novel wasn’t easy, but I did finish a manuscript that managed to get the attention of a literary agent. She told me to do one thing and one thing fast: write another book. (The first one is usually a “learner” book, honestly.) That second manuscript sold to Simon & Schuster’s Pocket Books and was released in 2003 as Tropical Getaway. Since then, I’ve written almost thirty more, in multiple genres, and long ago replaced the corporate ladder with the rollercoaster of publishing as a full-time novelist. Finally, writing is my real job.
Today, I live in a small beach community in Florida with my husband and two dogs. Our kids are off to college and law school, which means my nest is empty! I spend my time writing, working with the kids at my church, enjoying my husband's gourmet cooking, and hanging with my many writer friends. Of course, I love to read. I’m still crazy about words and stories and hope to write at least a hundred books in my lifetime. And, yes, verbs are the key to life. My favorites? Love. Work. Believe.
xoxo
Rocki
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
April 24, 2021
Faux Paws by Roxanne St Claire
Book 6 of the Dogmothers series, a spin off of the Dogfather series. Contemporary romance with grandmother matchmakers and lots of family and many dogs. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series.
Ayla walked away from her wedding because of a cheating fiancé. She’s recouping in Bitter Bark and working in pet communications, aka, a pet psychic.
Theo Santorini rescued a dog on the way to Bitter Bark to stay while he looks for an engineering job now that’s he out of the Navy.
Both single and having just gotten out of a relationship. What better match for the Dogmothers?
All the feels. This author knows how to pack an emotional punch. Over and over.
Clementine is a scene stealer. She’s a former abused dog fallen in total love with her rescuer. It’s adorable.
Theo falls for Ayla at about the same pace.
“She smiled. “I’ll meet you in the square in an hour.” She looked over his shoulder at the park area behind him. “Be careful out there.”
“In the hotbed of danger that is Bushrod Square?”
“I see picnic tables.” She turned to the dog snout that was inches from hers. “Be a good girl, Clementine. No crying.”
She tapped the dog’s nose, blew Theo a kiss, and climbed out of the car, leaving both of them panting a little.”
Excerpt From Faux Paws By Roxanne St. Claire
Book 6 of the Dogmothers series, a spin off of the Dogfather series. Contemporary romance with grandmother matchmakers and lots of family and many dogs. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series.
Ayla walked away from her wedding because of a cheating fiancé. She’s recouping in Bitter Bark and working in pet communications, aka, a pet psychic.
Theo Santorini rescued a dog on the way to Bitter Bark to stay while he looks for an engineering job now that’s he out of the Navy.
Both single and having just gotten out of a relationship. What better match for the Dogmothers?
All the feels. This author knows how to pack an emotional punch. Over and over.
Clementine is a scene stealer. She’s a former abused dog fallen in total love with her rescuer. It’s adorable.
Theo falls for Ayla at about the same pace.
“She smiled. “I’ll meet you in the square in an hour.” She looked over his shoulder at the park area behind him. “Be careful out there.”
“In the hotbed of danger that is Bushrod Square?”
“I see picnic tables.” She turned to the dog snout that was inches from hers. “Be a good girl, Clementine. No crying.”
She tapped the dog’s nose, blew Theo a kiss, and climbed out of the car, leaving both of them panting a little.”
Excerpt From Faux Paws By Roxanne St. Claire
May 9, 2021
Oh my goodness...this one started out crazy! We had a runaway bride and then a dog that was stolen from a bad place and thrown at someone to take care of. Funny how then both ended up in the same place and how the Dogmothers went right to work.
I liked that Ayla ran when she learned what she did, was glad that she had a great friend in Marie and that she gave Ayla a place to think what her next step would be. Of course being in Bitter Bark with her secret skill was perfect! You knew the whole Killcannon clan would believe in her skill, it just sucked that Theo was so skeptical. I think what made Theo's skepticism so bad was their attraction and how Ayla told him she needed someone who believed in her. Ayla showed him with Clementine, yet still Theo couldn't believe. Finally when things came down to the wire Theo finally got it and just in time too because Ayla's skills were needed.
I liked how this one ended, liked that Theo realized what was really important in his life and how he went about to make sure that he and Ayla could live a happy life together.
I liked that Ayla ran when she learned what she did, was glad that she had a great friend in Marie and that she gave Ayla a place to think what her next step would be. Of course being in Bitter Bark with her secret skill was perfect! You knew the whole Killcannon clan would believe in her skill, it just sucked that Theo was so skeptical. I think what made Theo's skepticism so bad was their attraction and how Ayla told him she needed someone who believed in her. Ayla showed him with Clementine, yet still Theo couldn't believe. Finally when things came down to the wire Theo finally got it and just in time too because Ayla's skills were needed.
I liked how this one ended, liked that Theo realized what was really important in his life and how he went about to make sure that he and Ayla could live a happy life together.
April 22, 2021
Roxanne St. Claire has given her readers an absolutely amazing and emotionally satisfying story with Faux Paws, the next installment in her wonderful Dogmothers series. Just when I think the last book in a series will be my favorite, I read the newest release, and it becomes my new favorite Roxanne St. Claire book. I'm going to be honest right now and say have tissues ready as you read this story, and be ready to savor each and every moment of this story.
Faux Paws centers around Theo Santorini, Ayla Hollis, and the most precious rescue dog Clementine, with a healthy dose of Gramma Finnie and Yiayia using the matchmaking skills they seem to improve upon with each new installment. I loved that both Theo and Ayla ended up in Bitter Bark, NC when they were each at a crossroads in their life and of course Clementine is just the rescue dog to bring them together.
I adored both Theo and Ayla from the moment they each appeared on the page. While my heart broke a little for each of them coming out of relationships where their respective exes has cheated on them, I also felt like it made them each more receptive to the instant attraction they felt for one another. Ayla is absolutely one of my favorite characters ever written by Ms. St. Claire. She has had enough of trying to be what others want her to be and is ready to spread her wings and be completely true to herself. I loved that coming to Bitter Bark seemed to give her the courage to stand up for herself and her talent for being about to communicate with animals. Seriously, could there be a cooler talent than knowing what you pet is feeling at any given moment?!?!
Theo is a nuclear engineer, so he is an extremely analytical thinker. The fact that he is insanely attracted to Ayla, yet doesn't believe in her talent even after seeing her work over and over again with pet owners and their pets, hurt me so much for Ayla. Even when she has all the right answers about Clementine and her fears, Theo keeps looking for a logical answer for how Ayla knows so much about not only Clementine, but the other animals as well. Honestly as much as I adored Theo, I kind of wanted to smack him in the back of the head to help him see the truth right in front of his eyes.
Theo's and Ayla's path to happily ever after had many twists and turns along the way, but it only made me love their story more. I loved every moment of the roller coaster ride Roxanne St. Claire took her readers on in Faux Paws. I love with each new installment, I get to spend time with new characters and dogs to love, as well as all the family I've fallen in love with over the course of the Dogfather/Dogmothers books. While I myself have read all the books in the series in order, I feel like readers who love funny, sweet, and sexy contemporary romances, can pick up any book in the series and become hooked. Faux Paws was the perfect story that gave me all the feels as I read it the first time, and I know it is a story I will read over and over again.
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
Print copy purchased personally
Faux Paws centers around Theo Santorini, Ayla Hollis, and the most precious rescue dog Clementine, with a healthy dose of Gramma Finnie and Yiayia using the matchmaking skills they seem to improve upon with each new installment. I loved that both Theo and Ayla ended up in Bitter Bark, NC when they were each at a crossroads in their life and of course Clementine is just the rescue dog to bring them together.
I adored both Theo and Ayla from the moment they each appeared on the page. While my heart broke a little for each of them coming out of relationships where their respective exes has cheated on them, I also felt like it made them each more receptive to the instant attraction they felt for one another. Ayla is absolutely one of my favorite characters ever written by Ms. St. Claire. She has had enough of trying to be what others want her to be and is ready to spread her wings and be completely true to herself. I loved that coming to Bitter Bark seemed to give her the courage to stand up for herself and her talent for being about to communicate with animals. Seriously, could there be a cooler talent than knowing what you pet is feeling at any given moment?!?!
Theo is a nuclear engineer, so he is an extremely analytical thinker. The fact that he is insanely attracted to Ayla, yet doesn't believe in her talent even after seeing her work over and over again with pet owners and their pets, hurt me so much for Ayla. Even when she has all the right answers about Clementine and her fears, Theo keeps looking for a logical answer for how Ayla knows so much about not only Clementine, but the other animals as well. Honestly as much as I adored Theo, I kind of wanted to smack him in the back of the head to help him see the truth right in front of his eyes.
Theo's and Ayla's path to happily ever after had many twists and turns along the way, but it only made me love their story more. I loved every moment of the roller coaster ride Roxanne St. Claire took her readers on in Faux Paws. I love with each new installment, I get to spend time with new characters and dogs to love, as well as all the family I've fallen in love with over the course of the Dogfather/Dogmothers books. While I myself have read all the books in the series in order, I feel like readers who love funny, sweet, and sexy contemporary romances, can pick up any book in the series and become hooked. Faux Paws was the perfect story that gave me all the feels as I read it the first time, and I know it is a story I will read over and over again.
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
Print copy purchased personally
April 22, 2021
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies
Théodoros “Theo” Santorini is a former Navy Lieutenant Commander. When a job possibility flops, he finds himself unemployed, homeless, and girlfriend-less. On his trek to Bitter Bark, North Carolina, Theo rescues an abused dog. He entrusts the canine to his stepfather’s friend and her companion. Theo cannot ignore his attraction to Ayla; however, he remains skeptical about her special ability. Will Theo allow his skepticism to sabotage his relationship with Ayla? Can he find a reason to stay in Bitter Bark?
Ayla Hollis is the youngest daughter of a business mogul and a socialite. When she learns of her fiancé’s unfaithfulness, she leaves him at the altar and flees with her mentor. Bitter Bark offers Ayla a brand-new start. She decides to embrace her natural ability to communicate with animals and go public with it. Her first patient/case involves an emotionally abused dog and her sexy yet doubtful savior. Can Ayla convince Theo that her ability is real? Or will his doubt stand between them?
Theo is such a love! It is a shame he never appeared in the previous books, just mentioned. I hope that changes in the future books and novellas. I adore Theo’s natural inclination to rescue a neglected dog from her abuser. Most people would have turned a blind eye to the dog’s plight, especially if it would interfere with their plans. What I love the most about Theo is how he bolstered Ayla’s start as an animal communicator. He may have doubted her ability, but that did not stop him from pitching her to a television celebrity. Theo knew it was the only way she could help her mentor gain notice for her ranch’s services.
I admire Ayla’s resolve to turn her life around. She no longer wants to be a pushover or people pleaser, especially her hoity toity family. I love Ayla’s stance on money. She may have grown up wealthy, but she does not behave snobbish like her parents and older sister. What I adore the most about Ayla is her decision to embrace her natural psychic ability to communicate with animals. She understands by doing so, she opens herself up to people’s skepticism and disdain. Ayla just wants to help animals-in-need, so she does not care what people think of her.
FAUX PAWS is book six in Roxanne St.Claire’s canine-themed, contemporary romance series, THE DOGMOTHERS, a spinoff from her popular THE DOGFATHER series. The story can be read alone; however, I do not recommend doing so. It is important to read the previous series and the prior books and novellas to understand the Kilcannon, Mahoney, and Santorini families’ dynamics and their affinity with dogs. I love how we get to see Declan and Evie’s twins, along with Summer and John’s wedding.
FAUX PAWS is a sweet and uplifting story of two people overcoming their heartbreak to find true love. I cannot wait to see who is next! I do hope it is Ella. I want her with Jace!
Théodoros “Theo” Santorini is a former Navy Lieutenant Commander. When a job possibility flops, he finds himself unemployed, homeless, and girlfriend-less. On his trek to Bitter Bark, North Carolina, Theo rescues an abused dog. He entrusts the canine to his stepfather’s friend and her companion. Theo cannot ignore his attraction to Ayla; however, he remains skeptical about her special ability. Will Theo allow his skepticism to sabotage his relationship with Ayla? Can he find a reason to stay in Bitter Bark?
Ayla Hollis is the youngest daughter of a business mogul and a socialite. When she learns of her fiancé’s unfaithfulness, she leaves him at the altar and flees with her mentor. Bitter Bark offers Ayla a brand-new start. She decides to embrace her natural ability to communicate with animals and go public with it. Her first patient/case involves an emotionally abused dog and her sexy yet doubtful savior. Can Ayla convince Theo that her ability is real? Or will his doubt stand between them?
Theo is such a love! It is a shame he never appeared in the previous books, just mentioned. I hope that changes in the future books and novellas. I adore Theo’s natural inclination to rescue a neglected dog from her abuser. Most people would have turned a blind eye to the dog’s plight, especially if it would interfere with their plans. What I love the most about Theo is how he bolstered Ayla’s start as an animal communicator. He may have doubted her ability, but that did not stop him from pitching her to a television celebrity. Theo knew it was the only way she could help her mentor gain notice for her ranch’s services.
I admire Ayla’s resolve to turn her life around. She no longer wants to be a pushover or people pleaser, especially her hoity toity family. I love Ayla’s stance on money. She may have grown up wealthy, but she does not behave snobbish like her parents and older sister. What I adore the most about Ayla is her decision to embrace her natural psychic ability to communicate with animals. She understands by doing so, she opens herself up to people’s skepticism and disdain. Ayla just wants to help animals-in-need, so she does not care what people think of her.
FAUX PAWS is book six in Roxanne St.Claire’s canine-themed, contemporary romance series, THE DOGMOTHERS, a spinoff from her popular THE DOGFATHER series. The story can be read alone; however, I do not recommend doing so. It is important to read the previous series and the prior books and novellas to understand the Kilcannon, Mahoney, and Santorini families’ dynamics and their affinity with dogs. I love how we get to see Declan and Evie’s twins, along with Summer and John’s wedding.
FAUX PAWS is a sweet and uplifting story of two people overcoming their heartbreak to find true love. I cannot wait to see who is next! I do hope it is Ella. I want her with Jace!
April 23, 2021
Ayla Hollis, a woman with a unique gift, ends up in Bitter Bark, NC after the worst day of her life. After leaving the Navy, Theo Santorini heads home to NC from California. Passing through Arkansas, Theo rescues a dog, Clementine, that has been living under unsavory circumstances and brings her home with him. Ayla is an animal communicator who reads Clementine’s mind and the horrors she went through. Theo is a nuclear scientist who has a difficult time wrapping his brain around something that is not scientific. Can she fall in love with someone who does not believe in her abilities? Will he give up his priority of a nuclear engineering job for someone with an unscientific skill? This story, full of love and trust found with the help of a large family, two matchmaking grandmothers known as the Dogmothers, add in some suspense, and of course dogs and you have a heartwarming story worth reading.
July 6, 2021
I love this series, Dogmothers, & Roxanne St. Claire’s writing. This story is full of Hope & Love of Family, two Wacky grandmothers, Laughter, Romance & plenty of happy Dogs all rolled into one. Not going to tell the story because you really need to read it yourself or check out some of the other reviews. I highly recommend this wonderful HEA, easy read with amazing characters that continue from book to book but can be read as a stand-alone. I will continue to read Ms. St. Claire’s books with pleasure.
These are my own words for this review.
These are my own words for this review.
April 10, 2021
St Claire has a way with words. With each and every character she breathes life into amazing stories. Never has that been more evident than the Dogfather/Dogmothers series. Through the eyes of love we see the heartwarming beauty of family. Cuddle up with some adorable matchmakers and their shrewdly determined accomplices and you can't help but fall in love. With imagination, heart and hope, Faux Paws is a reminder that more often than not a little kindness goes a long way to making a lasting impression.
April 11, 2021
Roxanne St. Claire has a way of pulling out all the emotions, and this book certainly has all the feels! Laughter, tears, joy, tension, fear. I was hooked from the beginning and loved Ayla, Theo, and Clementine’s story. Ayla, with her gift of being an animal communicator, and Theo, nuclear engineer and full-on scientist, seem like total opposites. It’s amazing what the addition of a good dog, the love of family, and a bit of meddling by the Dogmothers can do to make a person reassess his/her priorities and reach for the HEA. My heart is full!
May 2, 2021
Faux Paws is the 6th book in the St. Claire’s Dogmothers series. I truly can’t believe there have been six books already. Each book can be read as a standalone, but why would you want to do that? If you like romance stories centered in a small town with a lot of heart, the happy feels of a big loving Irish-Greek family, irresistibly cute children and dogs and some R-rated sexy and some suspense and hints of possible danger you’ll love both this series and the Dogfather series it was spun off of.
Not unlike many contemporary romance runaway brides Ayla Hollis runs out of the church in her Valentino wedding gown leaving her cheating groom at the altar when she discovers he slept with one of her bridesmaids after the rehearsal dinner. And just like so many runaway brides she comes from a wealthy family with a controlling father she was trying to please by marrying the man he’d chosen for her but she never really loved. But unlike most contemporary romance brides Ayla has a special gift she has kept hidden since her family discouraged her from using and revealing. She can read animals minds. Ayla who volunteers at an animal shelter has become close friends with Miz, Marie an older woman who rescues animals nobody else wants. After Ayla flees the church Miz. Marie finds her curled up in a dog pen wrapped around a dog, crying her eyes out. She takes Ayla home with her to her ranch in Bitterbark N.C. where all the stories in this series are based. For those of you new to this series, Bitterbark is the most dog friendly town in America.
Theo Santorini is the youngest son of the Santorini family that blended with the Kilcannon and Mahoney families when his widowed mother Katie married the Dogfather widower Daniel Kilcannon who had briefly dated and unknowingly impregnated Katie in college before he met his late wife and married her, in the last book in the Dogfather series, Old Dog New Tricks. After discovering her first born son Nicholas’s DNA doesn’t contain any Greek, Katie with the help of her youngest daughter Cassie, (now Cassie Mahoney) went looking for Daniel to tell him that he could be the father of her oldest child Nick, now a doctor working with Doctors without Borders in Africa. But that’s another story. Theo’s world seems to have fallen apart on him in a matter of days. He’d given up his commission as a Lieutenant Commander Nuclear Engineer in the Navy for a lucrative offer from a atomic energy company located in London. But that job fell through and Heather his longtime girlfriend who was supposed to travel to London with him informs him she’s fallen in love with her next door neighbor. Something about Theo’s inability to share his feelings. Theo hops in his Honda and starts the long drive from San Diego to Bitterbark N.C. where he plans to spend a few weeks with his family leading up to his brother John’s wedding while he tries to get his life back on track. Along the way he ends up rescuing an abused dog who he renames Clementine, knowing his extended family at Waterford Farms, (the states largest dog rescue and training facility) will be able to care for the dog. After he arrives Daniel Kilcannon patriarch of the Kilcannon-Mahoney clan contacts Miz Marie to shelter Clementine at her newly established animal rescue facility Last Chance Ranch because Waterford Farms kennels are filled to capacity. Miz Marie brings along Ayla to meet Clementine and in the process they meet Theo.
One Dogmother Grandma Finnie, Finola Kilcannon, Daniel's octogenarian mother and revered matriarch of the Kilcannon-Mahoney clan immediately sees a potential match between the nuclear engineer and Ayla. But the other Dogmother Agnes Santorini or Yiayia, matriarch of the Santini family of whom Theo is her unabashedly favorite grandchild isn’t so sure. Mostly because she doesn’t believe any woman is good enough for her favorite gandchild Theo. Especially any woman not of Greek descent. Making the match even less likely is the fact that Theo the pragmatic engineer is openly skeptical and dismissive of Ayla gift of being an animal psychic despite seeing proof of her abilities multiple times. There is a powerful attraction between Theo and Ayla that they both come to acknowledge. But Theo’s continued refusal to believe Ayla can actually see into the minds of animals is a constant source of contention keeping them from being truly together. As much as Ayla is attracted to Theo she refuses to be in a relationship with a man who would refuse to accept what is such a big part of who she is. Well that and the fact that Theo is still hoping to find a high paying job as a nuclear engineer someplace and that someplace won’t be Bitterbark N.C. where Ayla is settling in and making a name for herself in the dog crazy town as a pet psychic. Between his refusal to accept Ayla’s gifts and his belief that finding a high paying job is his top priority there’s little hope for a romance between the two. If that’s not enough there’s Ayla’s strained relationship with her wealthy, status conscience, materialistic family and concerns about the guy who had originally owned and mistreated Clementine. If this weren’t contemporary romance I’d be worried that Theo and Ayla would never find their happily ever after.
This is just another outstanding book by St. Claire that I had a hard time putting down until I finished it and then was a little bit sad when I did. Fortunately there’s still Nick Santorini and Ella Mahoney for the Dogmothers to pair up before the series ends. And while Roxanne hints at who Nick will find love with, (we knew it wasn’t going to be his long time French anesthesiologist girlfriend) she throws us a curve with who Ella will end up with after letting us believe it would be a handsome Greek dog food executive for several books, or whose story we will get next.
Not unlike many contemporary romance runaway brides Ayla Hollis runs out of the church in her Valentino wedding gown leaving her cheating groom at the altar when she discovers he slept with one of her bridesmaids after the rehearsal dinner. And just like so many runaway brides she comes from a wealthy family with a controlling father she was trying to please by marrying the man he’d chosen for her but she never really loved. But unlike most contemporary romance brides Ayla has a special gift she has kept hidden since her family discouraged her from using and revealing. She can read animals minds. Ayla who volunteers at an animal shelter has become close friends with Miz, Marie an older woman who rescues animals nobody else wants. After Ayla flees the church Miz. Marie finds her curled up in a dog pen wrapped around a dog, crying her eyes out. She takes Ayla home with her to her ranch in Bitterbark N.C. where all the stories in this series are based. For those of you new to this series, Bitterbark is the most dog friendly town in America.
Theo Santorini is the youngest son of the Santorini family that blended with the Kilcannon and Mahoney families when his widowed mother Katie married the Dogfather widower Daniel Kilcannon who had briefly dated and unknowingly impregnated Katie in college before he met his late wife and married her, in the last book in the Dogfather series, Old Dog New Tricks. After discovering her first born son Nicholas’s DNA doesn’t contain any Greek, Katie with the help of her youngest daughter Cassie, (now Cassie Mahoney) went looking for Daniel to tell him that he could be the father of her oldest child Nick, now a doctor working with Doctors without Borders in Africa. But that’s another story. Theo’s world seems to have fallen apart on him in a matter of days. He’d given up his commission as a Lieutenant Commander Nuclear Engineer in the Navy for a lucrative offer from a atomic energy company located in London. But that job fell through and Heather his longtime girlfriend who was supposed to travel to London with him informs him she’s fallen in love with her next door neighbor. Something about Theo’s inability to share his feelings. Theo hops in his Honda and starts the long drive from San Diego to Bitterbark N.C. where he plans to spend a few weeks with his family leading up to his brother John’s wedding while he tries to get his life back on track. Along the way he ends up rescuing an abused dog who he renames Clementine, knowing his extended family at Waterford Farms, (the states largest dog rescue and training facility) will be able to care for the dog. After he arrives Daniel Kilcannon patriarch of the Kilcannon-Mahoney clan contacts Miz Marie to shelter Clementine at her newly established animal rescue facility Last Chance Ranch because Waterford Farms kennels are filled to capacity. Miz Marie brings along Ayla to meet Clementine and in the process they meet Theo.
One Dogmother Grandma Finnie, Finola Kilcannon, Daniel's octogenarian mother and revered matriarch of the Kilcannon-Mahoney clan immediately sees a potential match between the nuclear engineer and Ayla. But the other Dogmother Agnes Santorini or Yiayia, matriarch of the Santini family of whom Theo is her unabashedly favorite grandchild isn’t so sure. Mostly because she doesn’t believe any woman is good enough for her favorite gandchild Theo. Especially any woman not of Greek descent. Making the match even less likely is the fact that Theo the pragmatic engineer is openly skeptical and dismissive of Ayla gift of being an animal psychic despite seeing proof of her abilities multiple times. There is a powerful attraction between Theo and Ayla that they both come to acknowledge. But Theo’s continued refusal to believe Ayla can actually see into the minds of animals is a constant source of contention keeping them from being truly together. As much as Ayla is attracted to Theo she refuses to be in a relationship with a man who would refuse to accept what is such a big part of who she is. Well that and the fact that Theo is still hoping to find a high paying job as a nuclear engineer someplace and that someplace won’t be Bitterbark N.C. where Ayla is settling in and making a name for herself in the dog crazy town as a pet psychic. Between his refusal to accept Ayla’s gifts and his belief that finding a high paying job is his top priority there’s little hope for a romance between the two. If that’s not enough there’s Ayla’s strained relationship with her wealthy, status conscience, materialistic family and concerns about the guy who had originally owned and mistreated Clementine. If this weren’t contemporary romance I’d be worried that Theo and Ayla would never find their happily ever after.
This is just another outstanding book by St. Claire that I had a hard time putting down until I finished it and then was a little bit sad when I did. Fortunately there’s still Nick Santorini and Ella Mahoney for the Dogmothers to pair up before the series ends. And while Roxanne hints at who Nick will find love with, (we knew it wasn’t going to be his long time French anesthesiologist girlfriend) she throws us a curve with who Ella will end up with after letting us believe it would be a handsome Greek dog food executive for several books, or whose story we will get next.
April 13, 2021
I absolutely LOVED Faux Paws by Roxanne St. Claire. Roxanne St. Claire has done it again and delivered another smash hit Dogmother matchmaking romance with Faux Paws, the eighth book in The Dogmothers series. I can truly say that Faux Paws was an incredible romance. I am not sure how Roxanne St. Claire does it, but I absolutely loved every moment on every page and could not put it down. All I know is that each book in this series keeps getting better and better, and once again I think that Faux Paws is my favorite, but I feel that same way after I have read each of the books in the series. Who doesn't love big families, romance, sexy men, strong women and dogs? Lots of dogs! I always enjoy that Roxanne St. Claire incorporates the pictures on the book cover into the story. I love that Faux Paws is told from the viewpoint of the main characters. I really enjoy getting the perspective from those characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. Faux Paws is a love at first sight story and is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud. My favorite moments are the ones that cause me to sigh, say aww to myself with tears filling my eyes and rolling down my face. Faux Paws is filled with such moments, and with so much emotion, make sure you have Kleenex nearby for the bittersweet moments. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a Roxanne St. Claire tale. Especially the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner, and the many surprise plot-twists. Once again Rocki proves that she is a master storyteller who always delivers truly page turning romances. I love the big, loving, Irish, Greek, Kilcannon-Mahoney-Santorini family! I feel like each book feels like a family reunion and gives readers a chance to catch up with all the Kilcannons, Mahoneys and Santorinis, especially at John and Summer’s wedding. I enjoy how Roxanne St. Claire gives background information into the different couples; in case a reader is new to the series. Faux Paws, is the story of Theodoros “Theo” Santorini, Navy nuclear engineer and Ayla Hollis, a runaway bride and animal communicator. Theo is traveling cross country from San Diego to Bitter Bark to spend time with his family and to be home for John and Summer’s wedding, while waiting for a career opportunity in London to develop. Theo and Ayla meet at Marie Boswell’s Last Chance Ranch, a new animal rescue that Miz Marie has founded, where he is dropping off an abused dog rescue that he got in Arkansas and named Clementine. Both Theo and Ayla are recovering from being cheated on in their last relationships, and are looking for a short-term romance since neither knows what the future holds for them. Theo has agreed to help Marie with some of the repairs on her Last Chance Ranch. Theo and Ayla grow closer as they spend time together at the ranch and she uses her animal communicator (pet psychic) skills to communicate with Clementine and other dogs. As a scientist, Theo has a hard time believing in Ayla’s skills and thinks that she is faking it. This is a deal breaker for Ayla, she needs someone to believe in her. Theo and Ayla share secrets with one another about life and their last relationship. I love when both Theo and Ayla get real with their true feelings for one another and open up to each other during an emotionally charged conversation. I love that Ayla transformed into being stronger woman and that Theo changed because of his feelings for Ayla. Ayla discovers what real family love is all about after being surrounded by the Kilcannons, Mahoneys and Santorinis. My favorite parts are the surprise plot twists, that I did not see happening, that keeps me guessing how everything will get resolved so that Theo and Ayla can get their happily ever after. I love how Marie chooses the names of her rescues, and the names for the new dogs! My other favorite part of the book was the epilogue, I absolutely loved the epilogue and all the surprises that were revealed in it, and that it contained both bittersweet and heartwarming moments like the rest of the story. My favorite part of the epilogue was Theo's proposal. As always, I love Gramma Finnie and YiaYia, and their matchmaking abilities, and that initially they both did not agree on this match, since Theo is YiaYia’s favorite. Once again, this book is filled with Gramma Finnie’s heartwarming sayings, that I have come to love, that even come out of the mouth of YiaYia. Faux Paws was the much deserved, beautifully written story for Theo. It was a wonderful story filled with everything that I love in a book. Cannot wait to be reunited with my favorite Irish and Greek family members when the Dogmothers work their magic with one of the remaining grandchildren. I loved the suggestions that were made for Ella. I highly recommend this wonderfully written love at first sight story!
April 22, 2021
This is the story of Theo Santorini and Ayla Hollis but I have to say that Clementine stole the show. From the moment we meet Clementine as she is thrust into Theo's arms in the restroom of a convenience store, we fall in love with this pup. Nobody is more surprised than Theo, who only stopped at a convenience store for food on his drive from San Diego to his family home in Bitter Bark NC, when a woman bursts into the bathroom holding a very frightened dog. She hastily explains she rescued the dog from his abusive owner who kept her chained to a picnic table and begs Theo to protect her. A dog lover himself, Theo knows he will do just that and successfully scares off her owner when he comes looking for her. He renames her Clementine after the little oranges she loves to eat. Theo then buys food for her, puts her in his car and drives the rest of the way home to Waterford Farm.
Meanwhile, Ayla Hollis is also on her way to Bitter Bark after finding out just as she is about to walk down the aisle that her fiancee slept with her best friend after the rehearsal dinner. She runs out of the church and goes to the only place she feels safe, the local animal shelter where she volunteers. Her only friend is Miz Marie who goes around the state rescuing animals and finding them forever homes. Despite the difference in their ages, they have become close friends through their mutual love of animals. Marie takes Ayla to her ranch in Bitter Bark so she can heal and reassess her life. She has recently purchased the property from her friend, Daniel Kilcannon, and calls it The Last Chance Ranch. Marie hopes to turn the ranch into a sanctuary for animals who are considered unadoptable so they can be loved and cared for the rest of their lives. Ayla vows to help her fulfill her dream and confesses to Marie that she has a rare gift. She can read animal's thoughts and communicate with them. Marie is thrilled with the news and knows what an asset Ayla will be. She takes Ayla to Waterford Farm to meet the Kilcannons and they also meet Theo and Clementine. Ayla immediately reads the pup's thoughts, knows what trauma she has been through, and how she loves Theo for for rescuing her. Marie excitedly announces to everyone that Ayla is a pet psychic and how much she can help with all their rescues. Theo's logical engineer's mind can't accept that is possible and dismisses Ayla as a fraud. Determined not to hide her gift any longer, Ayla says she intends to help any way she can. The Irish Kilcannons believe her without a doubt but there is some scepticism from the Greek Santorini family, especially YiaYia. Gramma Finnie feels that Ayla would be perfect for Theo and that should be the next match for the Dogmothers.
While he is waiting to hear about a new job offer, Theo helps Marie on the ranch building kennels, putting up fences and anything else he can do to upgrade the old buildings. Clementine is now living on the ranch with Marie and Ayla but spends every minute following Theo as he works. Theo and Ayla are very attracted to each other and grow closer as the days pass. It is soon obvious to everyone that they are great together as a couple but his inability to believe Ayla's gift is real is a deal breaker for her. Ayla now has a following in Bitter Bark and has held many successful dog readings. Theo always manages to find a logical reason for her readings and still does not believe she can actually read a dog's thoughts. An opportunity to be on a national live broadcast of a well known dog show brings Ayla's talent to a whole new audience including her estranged family who have always been her biggest critics. Now she is faced with wanting to help her family, her growing love for Theo, and her mission to make Miz Marie's Last Chance Ranch a reality. Clementine's former owner has also seen the TV show and now knows where she is, placing everyone in danger.
We watch as both Theo and Ayla change their lives and realize nothing is just black or white but a whole range of colors in between. Roxanne St. Claire always brings us to the point of tears with her perfect character development. We feel what they feel. Having the heroine be a pet psychic was so perfect. What could be better in a series revolving around dogs? I loved this book and wish I could give it 10 stars.
Meanwhile, Ayla Hollis is also on her way to Bitter Bark after finding out just as she is about to walk down the aisle that her fiancee slept with her best friend after the rehearsal dinner. She runs out of the church and goes to the only place she feels safe, the local animal shelter where she volunteers. Her only friend is Miz Marie who goes around the state rescuing animals and finding them forever homes. Despite the difference in their ages, they have become close friends through their mutual love of animals. Marie takes Ayla to her ranch in Bitter Bark so she can heal and reassess her life. She has recently purchased the property from her friend, Daniel Kilcannon, and calls it The Last Chance Ranch. Marie hopes to turn the ranch into a sanctuary for animals who are considered unadoptable so they can be loved and cared for the rest of their lives. Ayla vows to help her fulfill her dream and confesses to Marie that she has a rare gift. She can read animal's thoughts and communicate with them. Marie is thrilled with the news and knows what an asset Ayla will be. She takes Ayla to Waterford Farm to meet the Kilcannons and they also meet Theo and Clementine. Ayla immediately reads the pup's thoughts, knows what trauma she has been through, and how she loves Theo for for rescuing her. Marie excitedly announces to everyone that Ayla is a pet psychic and how much she can help with all their rescues. Theo's logical engineer's mind can't accept that is possible and dismisses Ayla as a fraud. Determined not to hide her gift any longer, Ayla says she intends to help any way she can. The Irish Kilcannons believe her without a doubt but there is some scepticism from the Greek Santorini family, especially YiaYia. Gramma Finnie feels that Ayla would be perfect for Theo and that should be the next match for the Dogmothers.
While he is waiting to hear about a new job offer, Theo helps Marie on the ranch building kennels, putting up fences and anything else he can do to upgrade the old buildings. Clementine is now living on the ranch with Marie and Ayla but spends every minute following Theo as he works. Theo and Ayla are very attracted to each other and grow closer as the days pass. It is soon obvious to everyone that they are great together as a couple but his inability to believe Ayla's gift is real is a deal breaker for her. Ayla now has a following in Bitter Bark and has held many successful dog readings. Theo always manages to find a logical reason for her readings and still does not believe she can actually read a dog's thoughts. An opportunity to be on a national live broadcast of a well known dog show brings Ayla's talent to a whole new audience including her estranged family who have always been her biggest critics. Now she is faced with wanting to help her family, her growing love for Theo, and her mission to make Miz Marie's Last Chance Ranch a reality. Clementine's former owner has also seen the TV show and now knows where she is, placing everyone in danger.
We watch as both Theo and Ayla change their lives and realize nothing is just black or white but a whole range of colors in between. Roxanne St. Claire always brings us to the point of tears with her perfect character development. We feel what they feel. Having the heroine be a pet psychic was so perfect. What could be better in a series revolving around dogs? I loved this book and wish I could give it 10 stars.
April 22, 2021
Theodoros "Theo" Santorini may be the youngest Santorini male and Yiayia's favorite grandson, but he was in a position he never thought he would be in. Recently out of the Navy and just dumped by his girlfriend, Theo thought he'd at least have his new engineering job in London.....but surprise, surprise.....even that has been revoked! So what does Theo do but drive from California to Bitter Bark, NC where the rest of his family lives.
While stopping in Arkansas at a mini-mart, a woman hands Theo a mangy, malnourished dog and tells him to hide the animal from his cruel owner who has been abusing the dog. Not knowing what to do, Theo feeds the dog he's named Clementine, and brings him to his mother's new husband, Daniel Kilcannon, who owns Waterford Farms. Daniel says Clem will be fine and that Miz Marie is coming to get her to take her back to the Last Chance Ranch to take care of her. Miz Marie showed up with the beautiful Ayla Hollis tagging along and Theo finds himself completely captivated. The chemistry between these two is just off the charts. Theo wants to have a little fun with Ayla for the short while he is in town, but Ayla is not interested. It seems she just got out of a relationship too....except she left the cheating jerk at the alter! Her ex never accepted her ability to be able to understand what an animal is feeling and she will never allow that to happen again. Too bad for Theo that he is skeptical of Ayla's abilities because his logical engineering mind just doesn't work that way.
Now it's the Dogmother's to the rescue! Favorite grannies, Finnie and Agnes of course do what they can to bring Theo and Ayla together. Of course the more time these two spend together, the stronger their chemistry is getting until the two finally give in. Now Theo just needs to truly believe in Ayla's gift.
When a dangerous situation arises, Ayla is able to use her gift to help matters but Theo really has to dig deep into his soul to actually believe what is happening. He has given Ayla his heart, now all he has left is to give her his belief so they can have their perfect, happy ending.
I just adored Ayla. She was raised in a wealthy family and has always done whatever was expected of her. Finally, when she is dealt the last straw, she stands up for herself in a spectacular way. I love how she has had everything that anyone could ever want, but all she has ever really wanted was to be loved. I also loved Theo. I think I may be married to Theo's twin if he had one! Theo only believes in the things he can see and quantify....just like the man I married! I also loved how protective Theo was of Ayla and Clementine. He may be smart and nerdy on the outside, but soft and squishy on the inside! Overall another great story added to this fun series!
While stopping in Arkansas at a mini-mart, a woman hands Theo a mangy, malnourished dog and tells him to hide the animal from his cruel owner who has been abusing the dog. Not knowing what to do, Theo feeds the dog he's named Clementine, and brings him to his mother's new husband, Daniel Kilcannon, who owns Waterford Farms. Daniel says Clem will be fine and that Miz Marie is coming to get her to take her back to the Last Chance Ranch to take care of her. Miz Marie showed up with the beautiful Ayla Hollis tagging along and Theo finds himself completely captivated. The chemistry between these two is just off the charts. Theo wants to have a little fun with Ayla for the short while he is in town, but Ayla is not interested. It seems she just got out of a relationship too....except she left the cheating jerk at the alter! Her ex never accepted her ability to be able to understand what an animal is feeling and she will never allow that to happen again. Too bad for Theo that he is skeptical of Ayla's abilities because his logical engineering mind just doesn't work that way.
Now it's the Dogmother's to the rescue! Favorite grannies, Finnie and Agnes of course do what they can to bring Theo and Ayla together. Of course the more time these two spend together, the stronger their chemistry is getting until the two finally give in. Now Theo just needs to truly believe in Ayla's gift.
When a dangerous situation arises, Ayla is able to use her gift to help matters but Theo really has to dig deep into his soul to actually believe what is happening. He has given Ayla his heart, now all he has left is to give her his belief so they can have their perfect, happy ending.
I just adored Ayla. She was raised in a wealthy family and has always done whatever was expected of her. Finally, when she is dealt the last straw, she stands up for herself in a spectacular way. I love how she has had everything that anyone could ever want, but all she has ever really wanted was to be loved. I also loved Theo. I think I may be married to Theo's twin if he had one! Theo only believes in the things he can see and quantify....just like the man I married! I also loved how protective Theo was of Ayla and Clementine. He may be smart and nerdy on the outside, but soft and squishy on the inside! Overall another great story added to this fun series!
April 22, 2021
Roxanne St. Claire aims straight for the heart and never misses. I adored this book. I know it may seem like I say that with each newly-published book in this series but sometimes there's an extra-special something that pushes a book to the top of the heap and Faux Paws has it. As soon as I finished my first read-through, all I wanted to do was go back to the beginning and read it all over again. With more tissues. As I said, straight for the heart.
In Faux Paws, St. Claire brings us three main characters (two and four-legged), newly arrived in Bitter Bark, North Carolina, who are all at a crossroads in their lives. I love the way she explores the challenges, possibilities, and decisions facing each of them. Yes, even Clementine, who is definitely in the running for my favorite rescue pooch in this series. Her journey is a hard one that had me reaching for tissues more than once. Don't worry, she definitely gets her happily ever after.
I love the chemistry between Ayla and Theo but I also enjoy the fact that St. Claire takes her time with them, gradually building a friendship before introducing deeper feelings. They have some fundamental differences to work through before those deeper feelings can take root. I always enjoy the emotional layering that occurs in these stories, along with the slow burn. The relationships that form are very realistic, with humor and conflict along the way, while the main characters are complex people I'd enjoy knowing in real life. In fact, they're so realistic that I'm still halfway convinced they're all living happy lives in a lovely little North Carolina town only a couple hours away from me.
The extended families - including the matchmaking Dogmothers a/k/a one Irish Gramma and one Greek Yiayia - all add an emotional richness to the story along with more than a few laugh-out-loud moments. If you're a fan of The Dogmother series, as well as The Dogfather series, you'll enjoy catching up with some of your favorite characters in this book, while also welcoming new babies and pups to the clan. For readers who are new to these books, you should know that you can jump in with any of them and feel right at home.
If you enjoy family-centric contemporary romance with humor, sweet (but deeply emotional) romance, characters you'll want to be friends with, and rescue dogs who will flat-out steal your heart, this book is for you.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
*I also bought a print copy for my keeper shelf!
In Faux Paws, St. Claire brings us three main characters (two and four-legged), newly arrived in Bitter Bark, North Carolina, who are all at a crossroads in their lives. I love the way she explores the challenges, possibilities, and decisions facing each of them. Yes, even Clementine, who is definitely in the running for my favorite rescue pooch in this series. Her journey is a hard one that had me reaching for tissues more than once. Don't worry, she definitely gets her happily ever after.
I love the chemistry between Ayla and Theo but I also enjoy the fact that St. Claire takes her time with them, gradually building a friendship before introducing deeper feelings. They have some fundamental differences to work through before those deeper feelings can take root. I always enjoy the emotional layering that occurs in these stories, along with the slow burn. The relationships that form are very realistic, with humor and conflict along the way, while the main characters are complex people I'd enjoy knowing in real life. In fact, they're so realistic that I'm still halfway convinced they're all living happy lives in a lovely little North Carolina town only a couple hours away from me.
The extended families - including the matchmaking Dogmothers a/k/a one Irish Gramma and one Greek Yiayia - all add an emotional richness to the story along with more than a few laugh-out-loud moments. If you're a fan of The Dogmother series, as well as The Dogfather series, you'll enjoy catching up with some of your favorite characters in this book, while also welcoming new babies and pups to the clan. For readers who are new to these books, you should know that you can jump in with any of them and feel right at home.
If you enjoy family-centric contemporary romance with humor, sweet (but deeply emotional) romance, characters you'll want to be friends with, and rescue dogs who will flat-out steal your heart, this book is for you.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
*I also bought a print copy for my keeper shelf!
May 1, 2021
The Dogmothers are at it again! On their eighth book, the fearsome and wise ladies join forces with new friends who want in the fun of matchmaking “unsuspected”, single Santorini, Mahoney or Kilcannon. This time Navy Lieutenant Commander (retired) Theodoros Santorini, is heading back home to his brother wedding and wait until his dream job which has been delayed come back on line. Considered almost a genius, he is Yiayia’s pride and joy, her well known favorite grandson and no woman will ever be good enough to her beloved Theo. But logical, empirical Theo is newly single and that is something that can’t be happening under Dogmother’s watch.
Enter sensitive, assertive Ayla Josephine Hollis, daughter of the owner of a Pharmaceutical Company who becomes a runaway bride after she learns her groom cheated with one of her friends. In her shock, Ayla runs toward her safe place: the animal shelter where she spends most of her days as a volunteer and it is here where Miz Marie Boswell rescued her and takes her to her ranch Last Chance in Bitter Bark. But this would not be a proper Dogmother’s book without a precious pupper. While Theo was driving back home he came to be to a battered, abused dog which he brings to the Waterford facility. In a serendipitous way these two characters are thrown together to heal a dog, find their true calling and maybe find love.
I truly enjoyed Theo and Ayla journey. Faux Paws is an opposite attract story full of heart, (tons of) family, suspense and action. We have rich family drama, deception, drug trafficking/ police action, Wednesday and Sunday’s dinner, a live TV show… yes, it has it all!!! Sign me up for more of that because in true Dogmothers form, the job is not done since there are more Santorinis and Mahoneys who will need a little encouragement, a gentle nod from these fab ladies. Roxanne St.Claire, you score another Five shinning stars!!!
I collect the Dogfather and Dogmothers series, also received ARC for this book but these are my most sincere thoughts and personal opinion.
Enter sensitive, assertive Ayla Josephine Hollis, daughter of the owner of a Pharmaceutical Company who becomes a runaway bride after she learns her groom cheated with one of her friends. In her shock, Ayla runs toward her safe place: the animal shelter where she spends most of her days as a volunteer and it is here where Miz Marie Boswell rescued her and takes her to her ranch Last Chance in Bitter Bark. But this would not be a proper Dogmother’s book without a precious pupper. While Theo was driving back home he came to be to a battered, abused dog which he brings to the Waterford facility. In a serendipitous way these two characters are thrown together to heal a dog, find their true calling and maybe find love.
I truly enjoyed Theo and Ayla journey. Faux Paws is an opposite attract story full of heart, (tons of) family, suspense and action. We have rich family drama, deception, drug trafficking/ police action, Wednesday and Sunday’s dinner, a live TV show… yes, it has it all!!! Sign me up for more of that because in true Dogmothers form, the job is not done since there are more Santorinis and Mahoneys who will need a little encouragement, a gentle nod from these fab ladies. Roxanne St.Claire, you score another Five shinning stars!!!
I collect the Dogfather and Dogmothers series, also received ARC for this book but these are my most sincere thoughts and personal opinion.
April 25, 2021
Faux Paws is a standalone read with a happy ending. No sexy scenes or colorful language so any age can read and enjoy. If you love dogs, you will love this series. You can read Book 1 in the Dogfather series (free) to get a complete picture of the background of these series. You will love each book. They are all great and all different. Their big connection is dogs. You will also love each dog and wish they were yours.
Theo has finished his tour in the Navy and is heading home. He is a nuclear engineer with a job offer in London making 3 times what he did in the Navy. At a rest stop he winds up picking up a stray dog in serious need of help. Since his mom lives on a big rescue farm he knows just where to get help for this poor dog. Since she likes oranges (not good for dogs) he names her Clementine and he becomes her savior and love. On the cover you will see her favorite spot!
Tyla is getting ready to walk down the aisle when one of her friends/bridesmaids tell her she slept with the groom right after the rehearsal dinner. Tyla grabs up her skirt and runs to the only person she knows will help her. They get out of town and head for Miz Marie's ranch next to the huge dog rescue center. This is the perfect place for this animal lover with a big secret of her own.
This is a great story. Loads of characters in this big loving family. The grannies are up to their usual mischief as they find their next project. The whole family as well as their dogs adopt Ayla and the new dog Clem. WARNING: I went to bed at 10 with the idea I would read until I got tired. At 5a.m. I closed my iPad. You will not be able to stop and if you did you would not be able to sleep for wanting to know what happens next. It is a great read and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I was not paid for this review. I am not a writer nor do I know one. I am not kin to his author. I am a reader and this is my opinion, nothing more, nothing less. 4/25/21
Theo has finished his tour in the Navy and is heading home. He is a nuclear engineer with a job offer in London making 3 times what he did in the Navy. At a rest stop he winds up picking up a stray dog in serious need of help. Since his mom lives on a big rescue farm he knows just where to get help for this poor dog. Since she likes oranges (not good for dogs) he names her Clementine and he becomes her savior and love. On the cover you will see her favorite spot!
Tyla is getting ready to walk down the aisle when one of her friends/bridesmaids tell her she slept with the groom right after the rehearsal dinner. Tyla grabs up her skirt and runs to the only person she knows will help her. They get out of town and head for Miz Marie's ranch next to the huge dog rescue center. This is the perfect place for this animal lover with a big secret of her own.
This is a great story. Loads of characters in this big loving family. The grannies are up to their usual mischief as they find their next project. The whole family as well as their dogs adopt Ayla and the new dog Clem. WARNING: I went to bed at 10 with the idea I would read until I got tired. At 5a.m. I closed my iPad. You will not be able to stop and if you did you would not be able to sleep for wanting to know what happens next. It is a great read and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I was not paid for this review. I am not a writer nor do I know one. I am not kin to his author. I am a reader and this is my opinion, nothing more, nothing less. 4/25/21
April 23, 2021
A definite W for the Dogmothers again in Faux Paws by Roxanne St Claire! Gramma Finnie is all over matching Theo Santorini with Ayla Hollis while Yiayia is pretty skeptical of the beautiful newcomer to Bitter Bark. Coming off a pretty awful breakup Ayla meets Navy Commander Theo Santorini while practicing her “pet communicator” skills. Theo has pretty much had the rug pulled out from under him both professionally and personally. While home in Bitter Bark for his brother’s wedding Theo begins to reassess his priorities. I loved this story so much. Just so many feelings to experience in this one. Theo and Ayla made me cry, laugh, and fall in love all over again with Bitter Bark. Clementine, the beautifully sweet dog overcomes so much thanks to all the love she receives from not only Theo and Ayla but from all the Kilcannons, Mahoneys, and Santorini’s. We also get to attend the wedding of John and Summer. Little Destiny stole the whole show. She manages to soften not only my heart a bit more but also her new uncles Nick and Theo. I found Theo and Ayla’s story to be a bit more suspenseful than usual from Ms. St. Claire. The suspense is what seals the deal in making this love story just so amazing. I love this huge blended family so much. Whether you LOVE animals or just like them a bit anyone can appreciate the love bestowed on all these beautiful animals who deserve nothing less than the best. This is a beautiful love story where our hero and heroine overcome some difficult personal and professional hurdles along with some suspense that just adds to the story to make the story awesome. Clementine, the beautiful, sweet, and loving dog in our story overcomes just about as much if not more than Theo and Ayla. Thank you Roxanne St. Claire for knocking another one out of the park! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. *****
April 23, 2021
Faux Paws is the newest installment in Roxanne St. Claire’s Dogmother Series and like all the rest, a thoroughly enjoyable read. I loved the idea of the “animal communicator” versus the scientific brain. A great combination as it turns out and I enjoyed each time in the story when Theo couldn’t explain away Ayla’s precise knowledge of what the dogs were experiencing. While the serious issue of animal abuse and its long-term damage was a significant part of the storyline, the way it was written and addressed made for a wonderful read. I found myself wishing for the possibility that such a concept could exist for all those who rescue animals. Imagine knowing what they endured so you could help their recovery in relevant ways, smoothing the path to a happy forever life. I’m sure that our wonderful author would be onboard with that since she is such a great advocate for rescuing these special animals.
As for the story, of course the Irish side of the family would be the believers and the Greeks the skeptics. One of my favorite lines in the book was Ayla’s comeback to Theo when he said Greeks were rational and she said “The culture that gave us mythology and the evil eye?” It gave me a good laugh, especially when I thought of YiaYia.
The family support and love we have come to expect is present full force. The HEA that we all cheer for was perfect. The acceptance that Ayla needed and deserved was given by all and considering her history with her family, a much-needed boost for her confidence. I loved the book and look forward to the next installment in this series. Buy it, read it, enjoy it. I certainly did.
As for the story, of course the Irish side of the family would be the believers and the Greeks the skeptics. One of my favorite lines in the book was Ayla’s comeback to Theo when he said Greeks were rational and she said “The culture that gave us mythology and the evil eye?” It gave me a good laugh, especially when I thought of YiaYia.
The family support and love we have come to expect is present full force. The HEA that we all cheer for was perfect. The acceptance that Ayla needed and deserved was given by all and considering her history with her family, a much-needed boost for her confidence. I loved the book and look forward to the next installment in this series. Buy it, read it, enjoy it. I certainly did.
May 13, 2021
I knew this author was not clean when I got this book. After reading the first 7 books, I could not expect that or allow that alone to count against this book. But I love the impossible town of Bitter Bark and the big family and all the dogs, so I was going to just skip over what I'd rather get left out in order to enjoy the rest.
Unfortunately, I was still a bit dismayed/disappointed when the love interests went for what they both believed was going to be a one-night stand. Ayla knew that Theo didn't believe in her talent and she also knew he was planning to leave town permanently soon. Theo had every intention of leaving the country to take a job. Both were on the rebound. Neither even thought they were in love. But they still went for the hot sex. And this was right after Ayla made a big deal about not letting people take advantage of her and bemoaning how important it was to her that Theo believe her. He says, sorry, but he doesn't, but it doesn't stop them from the steamy sex scene. If there has to be sex on screen, why didn't it get saved until right after Theo declares he believes her, or after the perfect marriage proposal? Why do it when they're not even in love yet? Ugh.
It is a testament to the strength of the other plot elements that this book still got three stars. The puppers. The meth lab "human vermin" antagonist. The way the family rallies. The stark contrast with Ayla's family, who have money, but nothing else. I will probably still read the next Dogmothers book, but as far as I'm concerned, they're on probation now.
Unfortunately, I was still a bit dismayed/disappointed when the love interests went for what they both believed was going to be a one-night stand. Ayla knew that Theo didn't believe in her talent and she also knew he was planning to leave town permanently soon. Theo had every intention of leaving the country to take a job. Both were on the rebound. Neither even thought they were in love. But they still went for the hot sex. And this was right after Ayla made a big deal about not letting people take advantage of her and bemoaning how important it was to her that Theo believe her. He says, sorry, but he doesn't, but it doesn't stop them from the steamy sex scene. If there has to be sex on screen, why didn't it get saved until right after Theo declares he believes her, or after the perfect marriage proposal? Why do it when they're not even in love yet? Ugh.
It is a testament to the strength of the other plot elements that this book still got three stars. The puppers. The meth lab "human vermin" antagonist. The way the family rallies. The stark contrast with Ayla's family, who have money, but nothing else. I will probably still read the next Dogmothers book, but as far as I'm concerned, they're on probation now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2021
This story of the small pains and hurts you can cause a person, even without meaning to (which I guess is the true meaning of the name Faux Paws) is a wonderful reminder that words truly can hurt when they come from a person that means something to us. Theo is determined to make no attachments while he awaits his next big offer and then he’ll be gone from Bitter Bark, but the sweet and sexy animal communicator has grabbed his attention even as he continues to doubt her with every neuron in his brain. Ayla has finally found her freedom and place in the world and would love for Theo to be a part of that, but his doubt and the small slices to her heart he unintentionally causes are almost more than she can bear as they get to know one another. But once they both get to know one another more and come to terms with the power of her gifts, Ayla and Theo both learn that they both needed the love of the Bitter Bark crew in order to truly find their place in the world and the freedom to express their love so they can be together. Once he accepted that, even if he couldn’t explain it rationally, he believed in Ayla, Theo became the man she needed him to be all along and they realized they were the puzzle pieces always missing from one another’s lives. The chemistry and pull between these two was there from the very beginning, but with so many obstacles it took them a good long time to be able to give into their passions, but once it did the warmth of their love and heat of their passion was undeniable. I loved every second of this book and would have loved it to be even longer just to be able to continue enjoying time with Theo, Ayla and Clementine. Of course the story of their pup, Clementine was beyond heart-wrenching and made me angry enough to spit nails, but hopefully stories like these spreading the greatness that is the canine, there will be fewer and fewer of those stories in the future. I cannot wait for the next story, whether it is Nick’s or Ella’s, but I fear that once those are done the series will end and I’ll be in dire need of another great series to read. Another canine masterpiece, Rocki.
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For full review see the blog at:
https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
May 26, 2021
A moving book. Well done Ms. St.Claire. As a rescue mom myself this series and the DogFather they have my heart. When Theo takes in Clementine from a bad situation he doesn’t hesitate, and knows who will be a big help. He’s on his way to the Waterford Farm for his brothers wedding, and he knows his step father Daniel Kilcannon with the rest of his family will be able to help this sweet dog.
Ayla Hollis finds out the truth about the man she’s supposed to marry seconds before she walks down the aisle. No way is she going through with it. So she goes with Marie Boswell to her ranch in North Carolina to get away from everything. Miz Marie is well known for rescuing dogs and placing them with people.
When Theo and Ayla met she picked up on things with Clementine which Theo was dumbfounded and truly didn’t believe one bit. A pet communicator/psychic she was. She saw pictures in the dogs and could understand them.
A growing attraction between Theo and Ayla develops if only for the Dogmothers evolvement which both are aware of. Ayla wishes Theo would believe in her.
There are a lot of misconceptions of her gift. Well that’s until something happens, and her gift just might save the day in more ways then one. Then Theo rethinks things.
Highly recommend for any dog lovers and anyone in general. It will melt your heart.
Ayla Hollis finds out the truth about the man she’s supposed to marry seconds before she walks down the aisle. No way is she going through with it. So she goes with Marie Boswell to her ranch in North Carolina to get away from everything. Miz Marie is well known for rescuing dogs and placing them with people.
When Theo and Ayla met she picked up on things with Clementine which Theo was dumbfounded and truly didn’t believe one bit. A pet communicator/psychic she was. She saw pictures in the dogs and could understand them.
A growing attraction between Theo and Ayla develops if only for the Dogmothers evolvement which both are aware of. Ayla wishes Theo would believe in her.
There are a lot of misconceptions of her gift. Well that’s until something happens, and her gift just might save the day in more ways then one. Then Theo rethinks things.
Highly recommend for any dog lovers and anyone in general. It will melt your heart.
April 25, 2021
Another outstanding installment in the Dogmothers series. Every time I think Ms. St. Claire can't outdo herself, she does it again. Every. Single. Time. Her books are filled with all the feels, running the gammet of emotions. Love, laughter, heartbreak, reconciliation, it's all in there. Theo, Yiayia's favorite grandchild comes home to Bitter Bark after he leaves the Navy. Hoping his luck will hold and the job of his dreams in London will come through in a few weeks, he shows up with poor abused little Clementine in tow. Ayla arrives in town with Marie at the same time, having run from her manipulate family and cheating fiance. Ayla has the ability to communicate with animals and see what they have seen. Clementine has seen far more than she should have of some really bad people. We are taken on a roller-coaster ride with Theo, Ayla and Clemmie. Will Theo believe in Ayla's abilities before it is too late and can he save her and Clemmie in time. It is always great to catch up with the ever growing Kilcannon-Mahonet-Santorini clan and see what the grannies are planning next. More than a few tears shed in reading this one.
*ARC received for the purpose of an unbiased and honest review.
*ARC received for the purpose of an unbiased and honest review.
May 1, 2021
Theo, Ayla & Clementine
Faux Paws is the eighth book in The Dogmothers series by Roxanne St Claire. Theo is a Santorini, the Greek side that married into the Irish Kilcannon clan. Theo has been away a long time from his family, working as a Naval Nuclear Engineer on Aircraft Carriers. Having left the Navy, Theo is on his way to Waterford Farm. Along the way he is asked to rescue a very timid, scared dog named, Muttsy, but Theo renames her, Clementine. The match the Dogmothers has for Theo is a new arrival in Bitter Bark.
Ayla Hollis arrived in her wedding dress having found out her groom-to-be had been unfaithful. Marie Boswell who had been at the Church, offers Ayla to come home with her to Bitter Bark, where she is in the beginning stages of setting up an animal shelter. From here is woven a most wonderful story of transformation. Clementine has to unlearn her responses to incidents that triggers the dog’s emotional outbursts. Ayla needs to learn to be able to trust her heart again for a special relationship. Theo needs to learn to discuss his emotions. None of this is easy. The Kilcannons, the Mahoneys and the Santorinis gather around and meddle, umm, help them. There is so much that is in this book that I can only say you must read this story. Roxanne has plotted a very special book you won’t want to miss. Highly recommended.
Faux Paws is the eighth book in The Dogmothers series by Roxanne St Claire. Theo is a Santorini, the Greek side that married into the Irish Kilcannon clan. Theo has been away a long time from his family, working as a Naval Nuclear Engineer on Aircraft Carriers. Having left the Navy, Theo is on his way to Waterford Farm. Along the way he is asked to rescue a very timid, scared dog named, Muttsy, but Theo renames her, Clementine. The match the Dogmothers has for Theo is a new arrival in Bitter Bark.
Ayla Hollis arrived in her wedding dress having found out her groom-to-be had been unfaithful. Marie Boswell who had been at the Church, offers Ayla to come home with her to Bitter Bark, where she is in the beginning stages of setting up an animal shelter. From here is woven a most wonderful story of transformation. Clementine has to unlearn her responses to incidents that triggers the dog’s emotional outbursts. Ayla needs to learn to be able to trust her heart again for a special relationship. Theo needs to learn to discuss his emotions. None of this is easy. The Kilcannons, the Mahoneys and the Santorinis gather around and meddle, umm, help them. There is so much that is in this book that I can only say you must read this story. Roxanne has plotted a very special book you won’t want to miss. Highly recommended.
April 22, 2021
I absolutely love the characters Roxanne St. Claire introduces us to in her stories. The way she writes makes me love and believe in all of them...even when they have almost unbelievable talents. I had mixed feelings about this story-line because I found the situation the adorable Clementine came from heartbreaking and Ayla's vocation as a dog communicator a bit hard to believe. The author, though handled both beautifully and her story about trust and faith in those we love shined through making this a page turner that I couldn't put down. The dogmothers took two people who couldn't be more different from one another and through the talented skills of St. Claire they fell in love. This story was so heartwarming. It has meddling grandmothers, a runaway bride, what was basically an arranged marriage, dogs galore – with an especially bright one named Clementine. The story did what all great stories do – makes you fall in love with the characters, makes you laugh, makes you cry and ultimately makes you wish the story would never end as it leaves you feeling joyful and a little bit in love yourself! Faux Paws is a definite read – another excellent book by a phenomenal author.
April 26, 2021
Three lost souls that found each other. The runaway bride, the ex navy man, and the poor abused dog. Ayla runs away from what would have been a disastrous wedding. She escapes with her friend, Marie, to recover in Bitter Bark. Theo, the favorite of grandma Yiayia, is returning to Bitter Bark to attend his brother’s wedding. He’s also there to get over the heartbreak of his girlfriend leaving him for the next door neighbor and to try to see if he can get his dream Job as a nuclear engineer since his departure from the navy. En route home he ends up rescuing a poor abused dog. With Ayla feeling free for the first time to explore her gift as a animal communicator, she helps Clementine to recover from her abuse, but even though she has strong feelings for Theo, will she be willing to give her heart away to someone who wants to leave Bitter Bark and who cannot respect who she is with her ability to communicate with the animals. Love how they form an incredible bond and discover they are right where they belong. Roxanne St. Claire is an amazing author who has you feeling so many emotions. Must read!
June 22, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although a quick read it has lots of humor, compassion especially for animal lovers, & cheating partners.
Ayla,a pet communicator, learns just prior to walking down the aisle, her fiancée slept with her bridesmaid.The runaway bride ends up in Bitter Bark helping her friend who’s the owner of Last Chance Rescue.
Theo, navy guy, didn’t get the job he wanted and lost his fiancée to a neighbor.
Theo decides to visit his relatives at Waterford Farms. On the way he stops and while in the washroom has a woman hand him a rescue dog asking him to hide the dog from the abusive, meth dealer/orig dog owner.
Theo ends up with the dog, Clementine, and the excitement begins with Ayla’s wealthy family wanting her to marry the cheating fiancée to save their bank accounts, wedding & twins birth at Waterford Farm, Meth dealer stealing the dog back, & hidden drug money.
I love the picture on the cover of this book. All through the story of Clementine, I thought of the dog on this cover I highly recommend this book
I look forward to future stories from this author
Ayla,a pet communicator, learns just prior to walking down the aisle, her fiancée slept with her bridesmaid.The runaway bride ends up in Bitter Bark helping her friend who’s the owner of Last Chance Rescue.
Theo, navy guy, didn’t get the job he wanted and lost his fiancée to a neighbor.
Theo decides to visit his relatives at Waterford Farms. On the way he stops and while in the washroom has a woman hand him a rescue dog asking him to hide the dog from the abusive, meth dealer/orig dog owner.
Theo ends up with the dog, Clementine, and the excitement begins with Ayla’s wealthy family wanting her to marry the cheating fiancée to save their bank accounts, wedding & twins birth at Waterford Farm, Meth dealer stealing the dog back, & hidden drug money.
I love the picture on the cover of this book. All through the story of Clementine, I thought of the dog on this cover I highly recommend this book
I look forward to future stories from this author
April 22, 2021
TOTAL surprise! That's what Faux Paws was for me! Cheating exes, last chances, human vermin and fabulous family moments will keep you moving from shock to laughter to tears in this enchanting Dogmother delight.
Gramma Finnie and Yiayia with a little help from Miz Marie manage to put, somewhat reluctantly, their next two targets together. One practically unbelievable. One solid scientist. ( Plus one pathetic doggo.) Theo and Ayla are on to the sweet sneaky matchmakers and try to beat them at their own game. But can they?
Treasures aren't necessarily measured in monetary value. Finding your inner strength. Learning to let yourself experience deep feelings for this first time. Precious momentos. Pure no-strings family love. These are the treasures.
Take your time reading this, friends. You don't want to miss a morsel. We see all of the family, more of Aldo, PLUS enjoy the most precious and full-on Greek wedding!
When you reach the end you will reach for your own furbaby, resting your forehead on theirs and wait for the magic. At least, that's what I did.
Gramma Finnie and Yiayia with a little help from Miz Marie manage to put, somewhat reluctantly, their next two targets together. One practically unbelievable. One solid scientist. ( Plus one pathetic doggo.) Theo and Ayla are on to the sweet sneaky matchmakers and try to beat them at their own game. But can they?
Treasures aren't necessarily measured in monetary value. Finding your inner strength. Learning to let yourself experience deep feelings for this first time. Precious momentos. Pure no-strings family love. These are the treasures.
Take your time reading this, friends. You don't want to miss a morsel. We see all of the family, more of Aldo, PLUS enjoy the most precious and full-on Greek wedding!
When you reach the end you will reach for your own furbaby, resting your forehead on theirs and wait for the magic. At least, that's what I did.
April 26, 2021
Love this series. Theo Santorini is fresh out of the service. He was expecting to get a job overseas in London but when it falls through he comes to Bitter Bark to get his bearings for a bit. Alya Hollis finds out at the alter that her soon to be husband cheated on her with her best friend. Exit out the side door and she's out of there. Her friend Marie takes her into her care and you guessed it heads to Bitter Bark where she's trying to set up a home for animals in need.
Alya has a talent with animals. She can understand what they are feeling in a way. Theo is a science guy so to him he just can't believe. This becomes a barrier to any relationship they're building. I really enjoyed this story. Theo is a great guy Alya comes from a seemingly rich family but is one of the most down to earth people out there. She fits right in with Theo and his extended family. This is one of those feel good stories that leaves you feeling content and relaxed in the end. It's not a easy road to the end but well worth the journey to get there.
Alya has a talent with animals. She can understand what they are feeling in a way. Theo is a science guy so to him he just can't believe. This becomes a barrier to any relationship they're building. I really enjoyed this story. Theo is a great guy Alya comes from a seemingly rich family but is one of the most down to earth people out there. She fits right in with Theo and his extended family. This is one of those feel good stories that leaves you feeling content and relaxed in the end. It's not a easy road to the end but well worth the journey to get there.
May 9, 2021
The Dogmothers strike again!
This time it's Theo's turn. He has mustered out of the Navy and then lost his next job and his girlfriend. So he drives from California to Bitter Bark. While he is in the way he is given a dog rescued from an abusive situation. Once in Bitter Bark he meets Gayle who left her cheating fiancee at the altar. She is also able to see what dogs think, which is very hard for Theo the engineer to believe. He is still hoping to get that dream job in London. Can the Dogmothers really overcome all these obstacles? Read this and see!
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has a little action and some steamy scenes but not a lot of details. The characters are vibrant and engaging, including all the dogs. Read these in order starting with the Dogfather series and then these Dogmothers books. If you like to read about people who love animals and rescue all they can, and how they can overcome obstacles and fall in love, then these 2 series are for you. Enjoy!
This time it's Theo's turn. He has mustered out of the Navy and then lost his next job and his girlfriend. So he drives from California to Bitter Bark. While he is in the way he is given a dog rescued from an abusive situation. Once in Bitter Bark he meets Gayle who left her cheating fiancee at the altar. She is also able to see what dogs think, which is very hard for Theo the engineer to believe. He is still hoping to get that dream job in London. Can the Dogmothers really overcome all these obstacles? Read this and see!
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has a little action and some steamy scenes but not a lot of details. The characters are vibrant and engaging, including all the dogs. Read these in order starting with the Dogfather series and then these Dogmothers books. If you like to read about people who love animals and rescue all they can, and how they can overcome obstacles and fall in love, then these 2 series are for you. Enjoy!
April 17, 2021
I love this series by Roxanne St. Claire so much. Each one is my favorite until I read the next. The extended family featured in these books is so much fun to revisit. The Dogmother matchmakers may never change, but there's always another wedding and another baby on the horizon.
In Faux Paws, Ayla walks out of the church instead of down the aisle she was supposed to walk down and is taken to Bitter Bark to recover by a friend. There her talent of being able to know what animals are thinking comes to light. When she meets Theo and the dog he has rescued from a horrible existence, the nuclear engineer is attracted to her but definitely a non-believer in her talent. That could cost him not only a chance at a life with Ayla, but also the dog he has come to love.
St. Claire's love of family and animals shine through in books that are a delight. Her character development, humor and romances are superb!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
In Faux Paws, Ayla walks out of the church instead of down the aisle she was supposed to walk down and is taken to Bitter Bark to recover by a friend. There her talent of being able to know what animals are thinking comes to light. When she meets Theo and the dog he has rescued from a horrible existence, the nuclear engineer is attracted to her but definitely a non-believer in her talent. That could cost him not only a chance at a life with Ayla, but also the dog he has come to love.
St. Claire's love of family and animals shine through in books that are a delight. Her character development, humor and romances are superb!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
April 22, 2021
This series just keeps getting better. I just love Clem. Theo is going to Bitter Bark to see his family before he starts a new job. He is out of the Navy now and no longer has a girlfriend, so he is ready for a new life. What he doesn't expect is to find a new companion at a truck stop in Arkansas. A woman thrusts an abused dog at him and hurries away. The poor thing is so scared and he knows he has to save her. When he gets to Bitter Bark, she is give lots of love and a new life. Just like him. He didn't expect to find an animal communicator or to be so attracted to her, even when he doesn't believe her. Ayla just got out of a bad relationship and she doesn't have a family who will support her, so Theo not believing her is a real deal breaker. He has shown her what a family can be and just that taste of it makes her want more. She wants Theo, but she won't be dismissed ever again. Will they make it? Can they come to an understanding?
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