Beauty and the Bulldog

Maple Cove Dog Lovers' Society #2

by Nala Henkel-Aislinn

Vi and Noah both have scars—the kind that make them think love is a fantasy not worth chasing.

Vi has one goal in life—win the Patisserie Grand Prix and land a position under her mentor, Gita Roca, in Barcelona. When her boss derails her plans, she changes gears and moves to Maple Cove. She’ll get to that competition, and this time she won’t let a man get in the way.

Noah is about to buy a renovator's dream. The long-abandoned Thorne Manor on Diablo Hill is falling apart, but he knows he can restore the eccentric estate to its Art Deco heritage. When newcomer Vi tries to convince him to sell the commercial kitchen to her, he sees a chance to make some extra money.

What he didn't see was her feistiness stirring his dormant heart. He thinks he's ready to show his scars and his true self, but when tragedy strikes, he won't have time to think. Will he lose Vi just as he's ready to trust love again?

Beauty and the Bulldog is the second book in the sweet romance series, Maple Cove Dog Lovers' Society.

Genres: Romance

309 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 31, 2021

Reviews

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this romance where the two main characters are ambition-driven, leaving them with no room for love. Vi has had a dream to participate in the Patisserie Grand Prix ever since she was a young girl, whilst Noah has dreamed of owning the Thorne Manor, despite its condition. Although they had a rocky start, both Vi and Noah come to the realization that they need each other if they are to achieve their goals. A three-legged bulldog, the scent of lavender, and the unexpected slamming doors add to the mix, resulting in a recipe for success. I enjoyed the build-up of the relationship between Noah and Vi and the friendship that developed out of their shared experiences. Despite being polar opposites, they are in fact good for each other and the end result points to success. I received a copy of this novel through BookSprout as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about Vi and Noah and their troubled pasts. An excellent romance about two ambitious people who are absolute opposites who manage to overcome everything to become friends then more. I love the characters interactions and the banter and even the bickering, the mystery and intrigue that comes with the old mansion Noah wants to buy and the storyline that just draws you in. A fab read!

[Cassi Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captures the warmth of Maple Cove beautifully. It has that cozy, close-knit community feel where everyone knows each other’s business (for better or worse), which makes it perfect if you love stories with a strong sense of place. The dog lovers’ society element adds an extra layer of charm without feeling forced—it genuinely feels like part of the characters’ daily lives rather than a gimmick.

⸻

💕 Grumpy-Meets-Sunshine with Real Growth

The “Beauty and the Bulldog” pairing is adorable. He’s a bit gruff and guarded, she’s got this bright, determined energy that chips away at his walls. Their chemistry builds gradually, with a nice balance between light banter and deeper emotional moments. I appreciated that both characters have arcs—they don’t just fall into love, they grow through their connection.

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📝 Pacing & Tone

The pacing is steady rather than high-drama. If you’re expecting intense angst or plot twists, this might feel a little slow. But if you enjoy soft romance with genuine character development, it works well. There’s a wholesome, Hallmark-but-with-more-depth feel to it.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vi and Noah both made bad choices although hers was sleeping with her boss and his scarred him for life and almost seriously injured someone else. Her actions caused her to lose her job, but Noah eventually found another way to live his life owning a contracting business even if he is a grump who pushes women away. Noah and Vi rub each other wrong way, but he needs her to run a working bakery on the abandoned rundown allegedly haunted mansion he wants to buy to wave some of the tax bill. I loved the creative cakes Vi designed and the detail work she put into her other deserts. Three legged Mr. Puddles is grumpy in his own way, but also affectionate with some people and adorable. I thought it was funny that he didn't like Sam even though she saved him.

[Virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second book in the Maple Cove Dog Lovers' Society
This is Vi(Samantha's sister) and Noah(Maple Cove's construction guy) book.
Their first meeting is filled with snarky remarks from Vi, while Quinn local baker tries to smooth the conversation. Quinn needs Noah's expertise to enlarge and upgrade her bakery, Vi needs to partner with Quinn because she was suspended from her job in an Olympia bakery.
We get to spend time with Mr. Puddles(Vi's tripod French bulldog).
Noah's dream is to buy and refurbish Thorne mansion. But he and Vi will need to work together to accomplish both their dreams.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.

[Judy Gittleson Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vi wants a bakery and Noah wants to renovate Thorne Manor. They irritate each other when they first meet, but finding out they can help each other out changes things. Learning more can open a heart or two.
The characters are strong and determined, with walls around their hearts. The romance tugged at my heart as the walls came down. The storyline was well done with plenty of challenges and interesting situations. Nothing is ever easy for these two. Loved the ending and hope to read more from this author soon.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Beast - and Mr. Puddles!

Noah is a perfect grumpy "beast" hero and Vi is a pretty sassy and amibitious "Belle." They might be reluctant business partners at first, but oh, my, do sparks fly between these two! :)
Plus, Thorne Mansion is a perfect stand-in for an enchanted fairy-tale castle.

Although the story can be read as a standalone, it was lovely to reconnect with Sam, Brody, and Aramis, and other Maple Cove folks. Looking forward to reading more books in the series!

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a witty romantic comedy that is centered around dog lovers.

This romp of a romantic comedy for dog lovers covers a lot of ground in developing characters, Noah and Vi, their interactions and reactions, and finally the changes of gut reactions in the characters as they get to know each other. Add a little drama with a haunted house situation that puts the main characters on center stage as they are drawn together due to restrictions imposed on the sale of said house to Noah, and you have a winner of a read. I received a free ARC copy of the book for an honest review.

Sis

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This pair are another perfect example of “how do porcupines mate?” Vi and Noah have all their defenses in place and armed, and they approach nearly every interpersonal exchange with a ‘shoot first, ask questions later’ attitude. They’re not opposites, in fact they’re almost too much alike, which leaves them bristling at each other around every turn. But when they started to venture out from behind those walls, it was a beautiful thing to witness; seeing them connect through their vulnerabilities. Sometimes dreams can evolve and become something even more magical than you expected.

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even when you are not looking for love, it will find you

Wonderful characters that aren't afraid to take risks and follow their dreams. And if those dreams take them out of their comfort zone, they're not afraid to find a way to work it out. Both Vi and Noah are determined to step away from their attraction to each other. Fortunately they have a little mystical lavender scented help. I loved reading about the restoration of a derelict property and drool worthy bakery goods. An unlikely combination that made a terrific story!

[Rhonda Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story. The story evolves around two lost souls searching for their dream. Neither expected to cross paths, however ro achieve their dreams they must learn to work together. Great chemistry between these two poler opposites. You will go through all emotions reading this book and fall in love with them both. Add I. A three legged bulldog puddles and you have the best of all worlds.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vic · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sassy and funny baker meets the town grumpy hermit and the sparks fly. I loved how Vi and Noah had to learn from each other how to trust and have feelings for each other. This is a sweet and emotional story that finishes with a happily ever after. Good series so far.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Maple Cove Dog Lovers’ Society series a well written story with a very good storyline. I enjoyed seeing Noah and Vi's story come together with all its ups and downs. That wedding cake Vi designed was something, I could picture it in my minds eye. I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christina Burrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Nala Henkel-Aislinn and I really enjoyed it!!! Such a sweet and fun romantic comedy!!! This book will definitely keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next between Vi and Noah!!! I will definitely be reading more books from this author!!! Read and enjoy!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the storyline it was entertaining and entertaining throughout the storyline. The characters have great chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Peugh · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring

Hardly any plot. Took forever to get to the end with scarcely anything happening. I kept waiting, thinking the story would get better with more action. Nope. Just more of the same snail pace.

[Cecelia Crews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful story

Well the author does a great job writing this story as she adds just the right amount of twists and turns that keep me guess how the story would end. The end was a total surprise and ended better than I was guessing.

[Janice Gard · Rating 4 out of 5]

#2 in the series, this story follows the same formula. The dog involved this time is a 3 legged bulldog. The characters, including dogs, are well drawn and likeable even if the stories are rather predictable.

[Nate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noah & Vi had an entertaining read. Plus, this was a new author for me. I got a copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

LOVED THIS BOOK. VI AND NOAH WERE MEANTTO BE TOGETHER. I ALSO LOVED SAM AND BRODY'S STORY. I LOVE STORIES WITH DOGS OR CATS AND CHILDREN. ON TO BOOK 3.

[Lynn Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a volunteer ARC for this book for a honest review. Loved this book! This is the second book in a series but is a stand alone with a HEA. Vi and Noah are great characters in the story. There is an air of mystery with the mansion that brings them together. I liked seeing characters from the first book. There was enough suspense with the characters that you just want to keep reading to see where the story will go. Can’t wait for the next book in the series. You won’t be disappointed reading this book!

[Sunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really like that the book continues on with new characters. It was a cute small town romance.