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Turtle Beach #1
A Spot of Trouble
Get ready to laugh out loud with this hilarious romantic comedy featuring:
• A grumpy firefighter who thinks his way is the only way
• A bubbly yoga teacher who prefers to go with the flow
• Adorable Dalmatians who swap places—and the chaos that ensues
• An opposites-attract romance that’ll warm your heart
Violet March and Sam Nash are as different as night and day and have been enemies ever since Violet accused Sam of dognapping her beloved Dalmatian. Sam knows that’s impossible—for one thing, his dog Cinder is a well-trained fire safety dog who never steps out of line. Violet’s dog Sprinkles, on the other hand, has never met a command that she didn’t ignore completely, much like her bubbly owner. So when Sprinkles and Cinder accidentally switch places during the annual police vs. fire department softball tournament, Violet is thrilled by her dog’s sudden perfect behavior, while stubborn-yet-charming Sam is horrified to find that his dog no longer listens.
But when the dogs are eventually switched back, Sam and Violet are shocked to find that not everything is as simple as it seems. And a little puppy love might be just the thing they’ve been missing...
• A grumpy firefighter who thinks his way is the only way
• A bubbly yoga teacher who prefers to go with the flow
• Adorable Dalmatians who swap places—and the chaos that ensues
• An opposites-attract romance that’ll warm your heart
Violet March and Sam Nash are as different as night and day and have been enemies ever since Violet accused Sam of dognapping her beloved Dalmatian. Sam knows that’s impossible—for one thing, his dog Cinder is a well-trained fire safety dog who never steps out of line. Violet’s dog Sprinkles, on the other hand, has never met a command that she didn’t ignore completely, much like her bubbly owner. So when Sprinkles and Cinder accidentally switch places during the annual police vs. fire department softball tournament, Violet is thrilled by her dog’s sudden perfect behavior, while stubborn-yet-charming Sam is horrified to find that his dog no longer listens.
But when the dogs are eventually switched back, Sam and Violet are shocked to find that not everything is as simple as it seems. And a little puppy love might be just the thing they’ve been missing...
Audio CD
First published September 7, 2021
90 people are currently reading
6634 people want to read
About the author
Teri Wilson
195 books1,623 followersNew York Times bestselling author Teri Wilson writes heartwarming contemporary romance with a touch of whimsy. Four of Teri's books have been adapted into Hallmark Channel Original Movies, including UNLEASHING MR. DARCY (plus its sequel MARRYING MR. DARCY), ROYAL-ISH, based on her book ONCE UPON A ROYAL SUMMER, THE ART OF US and NORTHERN LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS, based on her book SLEIGH BELL SWEETHEARTS. She is also a recipient of the prestigious RITA Award for excellence in romantic fiction and a 2022 inductee into the San Antonio Women's Hall of Fame.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys visiting schools and health care facilities with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog and reading education assistance dog. Teri also loves pretty dresses, cupcakes, going to the ballet and following the British royal family. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
When she’s not writing, Teri enjoys visiting schools and health care facilities with her Cavalier King Charles spaniel Charm, a registered therapy dog and reading education assistance dog. Teri also loves pretty dresses, cupcakes, going to the ballet and following the British royal family. Visit her at www.teriwilson.net or on Instagram @teriwilsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 557 reviews
December 24, 2021
A Spot of Trouble by Teri Wilson
Contemporary romantic comedy.
Sam Nash moves to Turtle Beach, NC with his Dalmatian Cinder. Up until he moved there, the town had only one Dalmatian owned by Violet March. When she mistakenly accuses Sam of kidnapping her dog Sparkles, their relationship starts down a bumpy path.
The dogs are identical from their size to their spots. But their behavior and training is very different.
Humorous and adorable, both the couples interactions and the dogs antics.
I loved that Sam has taught Cinder to make Sam’s bed in the morning and then go turn on the coffee machine. And when Violet says something about slave labor, Sam feels bad and tries to untrain the bed making. Funny. Plus a hilarious situation created by the interfering seniors.
Hearing Sam’s feelings made him swoon worthy.
Entertaining with a terrific romance.
Contemporary romantic comedy.
Sam Nash moves to Turtle Beach, NC with his Dalmatian Cinder. Up until he moved there, the town had only one Dalmatian owned by Violet March. When she mistakenly accuses Sam of kidnapping her dog Sparkles, their relationship starts down a bumpy path.
The dogs are identical from their size to their spots. But their behavior and training is very different.
Humorous and adorable, both the couples interactions and the dogs antics.
I loved that Sam has taught Cinder to make Sam’s bed in the morning and then go turn on the coffee machine. And when Violet says something about slave labor, Sam feels bad and tries to untrain the bed making. Funny. Plus a hilarious situation created by the interfering seniors.
Hearing Sam’s feelings made him swoon worthy.
Entertaining with a terrific romance.
June 2, 2022
This seems to be the year for adorable rom coms where cute identical dogs accidentally do a switchery-do and their owners have a meet cute. And I just can’t get enough. In Teri Wilson’s oh so cute A SPOT OF TROUBLE, Violet is the owner of Sprinkles, an adorably misbehaved dalmatian who can proudly claim she is the only black and white spotted pooch in their small town. When Violet and Sprinkles are walking on the beach, Sprinkles runs off and Violet mistakenly believes she witnesses her being dog-napped by the hot new firefighter in town—Sam Nash. This introduces one of my other favorite tropes (well, hot firefighters with a dark past), but also daughter of a first responder and hot firefighter, as Violet is the daughter of the police chief and there is a SERIOUS baseball rivalry in this town between the firemen and the police. And maybe some pranking. And also, Violet may have possibly had her heart broken by another firefighter. But back to the dogs. It turns out Sam has a perfectly behaved dog (because, of course), Cinder, who he has not dog napped. And the romance takes off from there. This was a cute, fluffy read that I ate up. Highly recommended for dog lovers!
September 26, 2023
A spot of Trouble is sweet. It is fun, light read. I am not dog lover myself but I smiled while I am reading this book. Miss Wilson surely know how to write a vanilla, fun and light story.
Sadly, the book is lacking on the twist. The chemistry between the characters is not develop further.
The dogs become a background accessories.
I am looking forward for Miss Wilson next book in the future. I hope I can pick up a better book from her.
3 stars
Sadly, the book is lacking on the twist. The chemistry between the characters is not develop further.
The dogs become a background accessories.
I am looking forward for Miss Wilson next book in the future. I hope I can pick up a better book from her.
3 stars
February 9, 2023
I love enemies to lovers (even reluctant enemies and explosive chemistry) and this was no exception! A light and fluffy rom-com based on an adorable classic movie, and with enough cuteness to last a lifetime.
I only wish there was more emphasis on the softball tournament because I think there was a lot of potential for fun there. Either way, I enjoyed this one!
I only wish there was more emphasis on the softball tournament because I think there was a lot of potential for fun there. Either way, I enjoyed this one!
September 17, 2021
Honestly, the further this went on the more I hated it. I hated Violet sooo much. She is one the of the most offensive characters I've encountered. She's so self-centered and privileged I can't stand it. Starting with the original "meet cute," which sounded cute in theory, but it was executed so terribly. She couldn't even fathom that there is more than one Dalmatian in the world and that one could possibly come to her town with a new resident. He must automatically be a dog thief that just stood there trying to explain while she called the police who are her brothers by the way to arrest him. Just that whole scene alone had me fuming. I can't even with the rest of this bullshit book.
Also, she's so dumb that she thought getting ticketed for fire code violations were just a flirty joke the MC was doing that she threw them out and never paid the fines. Then can't believe she got punished because she she so privileged that she thought ignoring them would just make it go away even though other character tried to warn her.
Also, she's so dumb that she thought getting ticketed for fire code violations were just a flirty joke the MC was doing that she threw them out and never paid the fines. Then can't believe she got punished because she she so privileged that she thought ignoring them would just make it go away even though other character tried to warn her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2021
Four Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Spot of Trouble by Teri Wilson is a cute, fun, rom-com that will put a smile on your face. With not one, but two adorable dalmatians, this book will not fail to give the reader a smile and a chuckle.
Violet Marsh runs a cupcake food truck and is the daughter of the local police chief and sister to two of the police department officers. She has the only dalmatian in the seaside town of Turtle Beach, North Carolina, whose name is Sprinkles and is a bit unruly. When Sam Nash comes to town to take the job of Fire Marshall, nobody believes his dog Cinder, wasn’t stolen from Violet, as Cinder looks exactly like Violet’s dog Sprinkles.
The local softball tournament between the Police Department and the Fire Department is more of a blood feud than a friendly game, and when Sam and his dog Cinders get involved, Violet must decide which side her loyalties and Sprinkles loyalties preside.
This is such a sweet, albeit predictable story, with the dogs involving themselves in the romance between their masters. The book was fast-paced, and the writing good. The characters were fun, and I related to them both easily. The town of Turtle Beach is full of quirky characters, especially in the Senior Living Home, and they made for a well-rounded story. I recommend this book to lovers of sweet romcoms with adorable dogs. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A Spot of Trouble by Teri Wilson is a cute, fun, rom-com that will put a smile on your face. With not one, but two adorable dalmatians, this book will not fail to give the reader a smile and a chuckle.
Violet Marsh runs a cupcake food truck and is the daughter of the local police chief and sister to two of the police department officers. She has the only dalmatian in the seaside town of Turtle Beach, North Carolina, whose name is Sprinkles and is a bit unruly. When Sam Nash comes to town to take the job of Fire Marshall, nobody believes his dog Cinder, wasn’t stolen from Violet, as Cinder looks exactly like Violet’s dog Sprinkles.
The local softball tournament between the Police Department and the Fire Department is more of a blood feud than a friendly game, and when Sam and his dog Cinders get involved, Violet must decide which side her loyalties and Sprinkles loyalties preside.
This is such a sweet, albeit predictable story, with the dogs involving themselves in the romance between their masters. The book was fast-paced, and the writing good. The characters were fun, and I related to them both easily. The town of Turtle Beach is full of quirky characters, especially in the Senior Living Home, and they made for a well-rounded story. I recommend this book to lovers of sweet romcoms with adorable dogs. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 17, 2022
This is a well-written, entertaining, contemporary, opposites attract, romance novel. It has a likable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, adorable dogs, and a happily ever after ending. I listened to the audio version of this novel, and the narrators, Ms. Angie Hickman and Mr. Chris Andrew Ciulla, do an excellent job depicting the characters and their personalities.
September 11, 2021
Very cute
What's not to love about two dogs and two hearts that need some love to mend their past? Very cute, clean romance.
What's not to love about two dogs and two hearts that need some love to mend their past? Very cute, clean romance.
August 11, 2021
unfortunately I did not enjoy this as much as I thought I would. I thought the whole premise was interesting however the execution was not.
violet is ridiculous, if her age wasnt stated in the first chapter I would think she was a child, and it doesn’t help that her dad and brothers treat her like one. sam on the other hand I don’t have strong opinions on because I didn’t really care for him.
all the obstacles that keep violet & sam apart are made into a bigger deal than they actually are. violet was way too hostile towards sam who is someone she’d just met and one of the reasons for her hostility towards him is because he’d been doing his job. the internal monologue gets annoying and repetitive, every time one character has romantic thoughts about the other the next line is a question about where the thought came from or denying that they’d thought it.
however I will say I did like cinder (sams dalmation) and enjoyed reading about her. in fact my favorite parts of the book were sam & cinders interactions.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review**
violet is ridiculous, if her age wasnt stated in the first chapter I would think she was a child, and it doesn’t help that her dad and brothers treat her like one. sam on the other hand I don’t have strong opinions on because I didn’t really care for him.
all the obstacles that keep violet & sam apart are made into a bigger deal than they actually are. violet was way too hostile towards sam who is someone she’d just met and one of the reasons for her hostility towards him is because he’d been doing his job. the internal monologue gets annoying and repetitive, every time one character has romantic thoughts about the other the next line is a question about where the thought came from or denying that they’d thought it.
however I will say I did like cinder (sams dalmation) and enjoyed reading about her. in fact my favorite parts of the book were sam & cinders interactions.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review**
September 14, 2021
This was the dose of happiness I needed. While their dogs may look identical, Violet and Sam couldn't be more different. After leaving Chicago behind, Sam is hoping for a fresh start on the small island of Turtle Beach as the new fire marshal. But after immediately being accused of stealing the town sweetheart's Dalmatian, he realizes this new home is unlike anything he expected.
With a softball rivalry between the police department and fire department (Guns & Hoses—I love it!), mischievous Dalmatians, and a meddling crew at the local senior centre, the plot was theatrical in the best way. It was a very lighthearted, low-angst story that delivered on the sweetness, much like Violet's cupcake business.
While Sam led with his head, Violet led with her heart—it was adorable to see these two bicker as their attraction grew. I had such a fun time reading this one!
With a softball rivalry between the police department and fire department (Guns & Hoses—I love it!), mischievous Dalmatians, and a meddling crew at the local senior centre, the plot was theatrical in the best way. It was a very lighthearted, low-angst story that delivered on the sweetness, much like Violet's cupcake business.
While Sam led with his head, Violet led with her heart—it was adorable to see these two bicker as their attraction grew. I had such a fun time reading this one!
Read
May 15, 2021DNF at 29%. Eh. This didn't seem to have a lot going for it. The female MC was an idiot.
September 23, 2021
Sam & Violet meet in an instance of mistaken identity. Violet accuses Sam of stealing her beloved Dalmatian, Sprinkles, but as it turns out, the dog was Sam’s working dog, Cinder. Sam is new to town and is the newest Fire Marshall, which instantly makes Sam an enemy of Violet’s. The police force & fire station have a yearly softball tournament and since Violet’s family is on the police force, firemen are not to be trusted. But the more time Violet & Sam spend together, the more Violet questions if she should reevaluate her initial judgment of the sexy newcomer.
A Spot of Trouble by Teri Wilson is a quirky, fun & cute romance that is sure to win animal lovers’ hearts. I enjoyed this closed-door (kissing only) romance, although it was too quirky at times. The town is full of a robust cast of characters so if you like nosy townspeople—especially a group of sassy old ladies—this one might be right up your alley. Although this romance isn’t a new favorite, the cover is one of my favorite illustrated covers this year! 3/5 stars.
A Spot of Trouble by Teri Wilson is a quirky, fun & cute romance that is sure to win animal lovers’ hearts. I enjoyed this closed-door (kissing only) romance, although it was too quirky at times. The town is full of a robust cast of characters so if you like nosy townspeople—especially a group of sassy old ladies—this one might be right up your alley. Although this romance isn’t a new favorite, the cover is one of my favorite illustrated covers this year! 3/5 stars.
September 7, 2021
Imagine my concern when the opening scene for this romance involves a woman who can't differentiate her own dalmatian from another. Now, envision my eyebrow-raising judgment compounding when she calls 911 to get her cop father and brothers to come and arrest the supposed perpetrator. The whole town is more willing to assume that Sam stole Violet's dog than to acknowledge there might now be two dalmatians living on the island. Violet also starts a campaign to free Sam's dog from "unfair treatment" because she's a working-dog... People, I just can't. Airheads can be endearing characters, but this one drove me up the wall.
Turtle Beach is an island small town, built on traditions like the softball feud between the police and fire departments, begun thirty years ago when the two chiefs were fighting over a woman (no, really... this is the plot). I'm not sure if I'm happy on their behalf that they have nothing better to do or wishing they would be of more service to their community. What it boils down to is this: romance always asks you to accept some unreality to enjoy the tropes and the happily ever after. This small town pushed my buttons so much that I couldn't take leave of my skepticism and sink into the love story. If I had to see the word "wholesome" used to describe Turtle Beach one more time, I might have screamed. No place with people in it can be truly wholesome. Even cozy mysteries understand that, what with the murdering going on.
Romance-wise, we have enemies-to-lovers based on the dog mixup, the softball feud, and a personality clash. It's got a "one step forward, two steps back vibe" due to all the mishaps that pop up to fuel their animosity whenever either character starts to consider putting the feud to rest. The squabbling became a bit frustrating since the inciting incidents were so minor and unintentional. Then, they decide they are falling for each other after a single non-snarky conversation. It's low-to-no steam, much more focused on the rivalry.
This book just wasn't a good fit for me. If you like a romance that is light and carefree with the angst more silly than soul-searching/rending, this may be more up your alley. Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, out 9/7.
Turtle Beach is an island small town, built on traditions like the softball feud between the police and fire departments, begun thirty years ago when the two chiefs were fighting over a woman (no, really... this is the plot). I'm not sure if I'm happy on their behalf that they have nothing better to do or wishing they would be of more service to their community. What it boils down to is this: romance always asks you to accept some unreality to enjoy the tropes and the happily ever after. This small town pushed my buttons so much that I couldn't take leave of my skepticism and sink into the love story. If I had to see the word "wholesome" used to describe Turtle Beach one more time, I might have screamed. No place with people in it can be truly wholesome. Even cozy mysteries understand that, what with the murdering going on.
Romance-wise, we have enemies-to-lovers based on the dog mixup, the softball feud, and a personality clash. It's got a "one step forward, two steps back vibe" due to all the mishaps that pop up to fuel their animosity whenever either character starts to consider putting the feud to rest. The squabbling became a bit frustrating since the inciting incidents were so minor and unintentional. Then, they decide they are falling for each other after a single non-snarky conversation. It's low-to-no steam, much more focused on the rivalry.
This book just wasn't a good fit for me. If you like a romance that is light and carefree with the angst more silly than soul-searching/rending, this may be more up your alley. Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, out 9/7.
August 11, 2021
Such a cute rom-com!
Violet is the only person in town with a Dalmatian until Sam arrives with his own. He's the new fire marshal and she's the daughter of the police chief. For some reason that's not clear to him at first, the fire department and the police department have a feud going on for some time, which makes it hard for Sam and Violet to explore their attraction.
I really liked this story and the relationship between Sam and Violet. The dogs were a great addition, as were the little old ladies.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
Violet is the only person in town with a Dalmatian until Sam arrives with his own. He's the new fire marshal and she's the daughter of the police chief. For some reason that's not clear to him at first, the fire department and the police department have a feud going on for some time, which makes it hard for Sam and Violet to explore their attraction.
I really liked this story and the relationship between Sam and Violet. The dogs were a great addition, as were the little old ladies.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
September 6, 2021
This was a fun little romp read. It was cutsy and the epitome of an escapism read (light and happy). The two dogs were adorable and I loved all the 101 Dalmatian nods.
September 20, 2021
A cutesy opposites attract small town romance that feels like a Hallmark movie in the making! When a chaotic cupcake food truck owner and a straight laced firefighter battle it out on and off the field it makes for a bumpy and banter filled ride. This one is pure wholesomeness wrapped up in a hate to love relationship. Whip-smart and full of vibrant characters, a romance that brings joy and a smile to the face!
Violet March has lived in the small town of Turtle Beach her entire life and owns the only Dalmatian in town. So when Sam Nash shows up as the new fire martial, also toting another Dalmatian, Violet is thrown for a loop. She vows to stay away from the infuriating and sexy firefighter, because she’s already gone down that path once before. No matter what Violet does Sam seems to turn up, getting under her skin at every opportunity. Will Sam find away to get past all of Violet’s defenses?
This is such a sweet romance with lots of animal shenanigans. I loved the three little old ladies who were best friends with Violet and the town baseball rivalry between the police enforcement and firefighters. I wish Wilson had developed the relationship between Violet and Sam sooner within the book, but all in all, it was an upbeat and cheerful romance with lots of tender moments!
Violet March has lived in the small town of Turtle Beach her entire life and owns the only Dalmatian in town. So when Sam Nash shows up as the new fire martial, also toting another Dalmatian, Violet is thrown for a loop. She vows to stay away from the infuriating and sexy firefighter, because she’s already gone down that path once before. No matter what Violet does Sam seems to turn up, getting under her skin at every opportunity. Will Sam find away to get past all of Violet’s defenses?
This is such a sweet romance with lots of animal shenanigans. I loved the three little old ladies who were best friends with Violet and the town baseball rivalry between the police enforcement and firefighters. I wish Wilson had developed the relationship between Violet and Sam sooner within the book, but all in all, it was an upbeat and cheerful romance with lots of tender moments!
September 2, 2021
Sam came to Turtle Beach for a fresh start. His mission was to keep people safe, but also at arm’s length. He had a plan to accomplish that until Violet and her unruly dog come barreling into his life. Could this town, and his life, be big enough for two Dalmatians?
I was looking for a book that was cute and sweet and would make me smile, and BOOM! Teri Wilson did it again. I have come to rely on Wilson to satisfy my Hallmarkie heart, and she never fails to do so.
This book was a combination of elements that delighted me. It started off with quite a comedic incident at the dog beach, and it seemed that whenever Sam, Violet, and their dogs were in proximity of each other, something was bound to happen. There was a plethora of shenanigans that kept this story moving, as well as adorable doggie moments. I mean, the dogs were plotting to get their masters together. Need I say more?
There was also a colorful cast of characters who added to the fun as I got to know my way around Turtle Beach. I found the OG Charlie’s Angels to be among my favorites. Yes, they were hilarious and ever plotting something, but they also loved Violet fiercely. They stepped in and were surrogate mothers for Violet after she lost her own, and they worked hard to help preserve her mother’s memory too. How could I not adore them!
A quick list of things that delighted me:
• Grump + Sunshine 😠 +🌞
• Cupcakes 🧁
• Wiley octogenarians 👵🏻
• Small town dynamics 🏡
• Precious pets 😺
• Dog shenanigans 🐕🦺
• Family and friendship ❤️
• Sweet romance 👩❤️👨
Overall: A fun and adorable romance that was as sweet and delicious as Violet’s cupcakes.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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I was looking for a book that was cute and sweet and would make me smile, and BOOM! Teri Wilson did it again. I have come to rely on Wilson to satisfy my Hallmarkie heart, and she never fails to do so.
This book was a combination of elements that delighted me. It started off with quite a comedic incident at the dog beach, and it seemed that whenever Sam, Violet, and their dogs were in proximity of each other, something was bound to happen. There was a plethora of shenanigans that kept this story moving, as well as adorable doggie moments. I mean, the dogs were plotting to get their masters together. Need I say more?
There was also a colorful cast of characters who added to the fun as I got to know my way around Turtle Beach. I found the OG Charlie’s Angels to be among my favorites. Yes, they were hilarious and ever plotting something, but they also loved Violet fiercely. They stepped in and were surrogate mothers for Violet after she lost her own, and they worked hard to help preserve her mother’s memory too. How could I not adore them!
A quick list of things that delighted me:
• Grump + Sunshine 😠 +🌞
• Cupcakes 🧁
• Wiley octogenarians 👵🏻
• Small town dynamics 🏡
• Precious pets 😺
• Dog shenanigans 🐕🦺
• Family and friendship ❤️
• Sweet romance 👩❤️👨
Overall: A fun and adorable romance that was as sweet and delicious as Violet’s cupcakes.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
January 1, 2022
“Love is a rare and precious thing. And when it’s real, it’s more than just black and white.”
There’s only one Dalmatian in the small seaside town of Turtle Beach and that’s Sprinkles who belongs to Violet March. But when Sam Nash moves to town for a new job, things don’t go well especially since he has a Dalmatian of his own– Cinder.
Violet accuses Sam for dognapping her dog, not knowing that it’s his dog and almost gets arrested for it. Everyone in town keeps mistaking Cinder for Sprinkles which aggravates Sam. Not only does he have a Dalmatian, but he’s the new fire marshal. After a bad break up with a former firefighter, Violet despises the fire department.
Violet tries her best to stay away from Sam, but it’s hard to do when living in a small town. They’re always fighting with each other, but then the attraction begins to grow between them. Even their dogs start to get along. Will Violet be able to stay away from Sam or will she have another heartbreak from a firefighter again?
🐾READ IF YOU LIKE🐾:
- enemies to lovers
- dual POV
- grumpy x sunshine
- forbidden romance
- cupcakes & bingo night
- opposites attract
- not one, but TWO dalmatians
- softball
- little beach town
- close knit community
- rivals (police x firefighter)
- three meddling old ladies playing matchmakers
- cw: death of parent
Thank you to Netgalley x Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advanced copy! A Spot of Trouble will be available on September 7, 2021!
There’s only one Dalmatian in the small seaside town of Turtle Beach and that’s Sprinkles who belongs to Violet March. But when Sam Nash moves to town for a new job, things don’t go well especially since he has a Dalmatian of his own– Cinder.
Violet accuses Sam for dognapping her dog, not knowing that it’s his dog and almost gets arrested for it. Everyone in town keeps mistaking Cinder for Sprinkles which aggravates Sam. Not only does he have a Dalmatian, but he’s the new fire marshal. After a bad break up with a former firefighter, Violet despises the fire department.
Violet tries her best to stay away from Sam, but it’s hard to do when living in a small town. They’re always fighting with each other, but then the attraction begins to grow between them. Even their dogs start to get along. Will Violet be able to stay away from Sam or will she have another heartbreak from a firefighter again?
🐾READ IF YOU LIKE🐾:
- enemies to lovers
- dual POV
- grumpy x sunshine
- forbidden romance
- cupcakes & bingo night
- opposites attract
- not one, but TWO dalmatians
- softball
- little beach town
- close knit community
- rivals (police x firefighter)
- three meddling old ladies playing matchmakers
- cw: death of parent
Thank you to Netgalley x Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advanced copy! A Spot of Trouble will be available on September 7, 2021!
February 6, 2025
This was such a cute romance read. I absolutely loved the quirky beach town setting and all of the chaos the Dalmatians brought to it.
The characters were enjoyable to follow. I liked how we got both Violet and Sam’s points of view. There was a grumpy sunshine dynamic going on which I loved and I really liked the senior citizen side characters as well. The situations they created with their meddling was quite amusing.
The romance itself was sweet and believable. It didn’t feel overly rushed and the elements that kept Violet and Sam apart were ones I could see actually being plausible as well.
Read this if you like:
→ Beach town setting
→ Sweet romance (no spice)
→ Enemies to lovers
→ Grumpy firefighter
→ Bubbly cake baker
→ Forbidden love
→ Dual POV
This would make the perfect summer read or would be perfect to pick up if you’re looking for something quick and fun.
The characters were enjoyable to follow. I liked how we got both Violet and Sam’s points of view. There was a grumpy sunshine dynamic going on which I loved and I really liked the senior citizen side characters as well. The situations they created with their meddling was quite amusing.
The romance itself was sweet and believable. It didn’t feel overly rushed and the elements that kept Violet and Sam apart were ones I could see actually being plausible as well.
Read this if you like:
→ Beach town setting
→ Sweet romance (no spice)
→ Enemies to lovers
→ Grumpy firefighter
→ Bubbly cake baker
→ Forbidden love
→ Dual POV
This would make the perfect summer read or would be perfect to pick up if you’re looking for something quick and fun.
August 22, 2022
“I tell you that I want to kiss you, and you want to talk about my dog?”
Um … yes. I don’t see a problem.
Okay, so we got a cute cover, Dalmatians, parent trap with said Dalmatians, and a hot fireman? What more do we need? Like, not to be dramatic, but I would die for Cinder and Sprinkles.
This was cute. This was very fun.
I wasn’t fond of Angie Hickman as a narrator at first but I grew to listening to her.
I like how the book focused on both Violet and Sam as individuals and beckoning friends before heading into any sexual tension or romance. I was very fond on how opposite they were, as in a very typical feminine woman and typical manly man, and a sort of grumpy/sunshine realist/dreamer dynamic.
Um … yes. I don’t see a problem.
Okay, so we got a cute cover, Dalmatians, parent trap with said Dalmatians, and a hot fireman? What more do we need? Like, not to be dramatic, but I would die for Cinder and Sprinkles.
This was cute. This was very fun.
I wasn’t fond of Angie Hickman as a narrator at first but I grew to listening to her.
I like how the book focused on both Violet and Sam as individuals and beckoning friends before heading into any sexual tension or romance. I was very fond on how opposite they were, as in a very typical feminine woman and typical manly man, and a sort of grumpy/sunshine realist/dreamer dynamic.
August 8, 2021
Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for making this book available to me via #Netgalley.
I cannot wait for this book to be finally out in the world. I need everyone and their dogs to read this book. I will try not to spoil it.
Violet March and her Dalmatian, Sprinkles are known by all the residents of the Island. Her father the police chief and her family police officers. Since the death of her mother, she has been raised by the islanders and they all see her as their daughter. She volunteers at the residential home and all play bingo with them during the week. She runs a cupcake business that is mostly patronized by her friends and family on the island. After her heart was broken by a fireman the last thing she wants is another firefighter making her heart race.
But, then steamy sexy Sam Nash arrives on the island as a Fire Marshal. He is not alone, he arrives with his Dalmatian, Cinder who is a fire safety dog. Since the two Dalmatians look-alike, Violet and Sam's first meeting involves her calling the police on him for stealing her dog! [It was so freaking cute and embarrassing].
Soon he finds that he has more reasons to stay on the island than the softball tournament that causes trifle.
This book is everything!
I cannot wait for this book to be finally out in the world. I need everyone and their dogs to read this book. I will try not to spoil it.
Violet March and her Dalmatian, Sprinkles are known by all the residents of the Island. Her father the police chief and her family police officers. Since the death of her mother, she has been raised by the islanders and they all see her as their daughter. She volunteers at the residential home and all play bingo with them during the week. She runs a cupcake business that is mostly patronized by her friends and family on the island. After her heart was broken by a fireman the last thing she wants is another firefighter making her heart race.
But, then steamy sexy Sam Nash arrives on the island as a Fire Marshal. He is not alone, he arrives with his Dalmatian, Cinder who is a fire safety dog. Since the two Dalmatians look-alike, Violet and Sam's first meeting involves her calling the police on him for stealing her dog! [It was so freaking cute and embarrassing].
Soon he finds that he has more reasons to stay on the island than the softball tournament that causes trifle.
This book is everything!
April 9, 2022
4 stars
A sugary light sweet read. This one has verrryyyyy little angst, if you want to include dogs drama angst that is. The h, Violet, was a sweet 29 year old woman that was wronged by an ex that was a fireman. So she kinda hate the fireman in general. Then came the H, Sam, with his dalmatian and she thought he dognapped her dog, Sprinkles, but in actuality it was his dog, Cinder. Apparently they looked alike. To the point where The original Charlie’s Angels of Turtle Beach swapped their dog, they didn’t realize it, despite their personalities ‘suddenly’ changed. The H was a bit scared of his intense feelings towards h at first so there was a push and pull happening. Then when he admitted his feelings, it was the h’s turn to chicken out. Then the ending told us that they finally accepting their feelings towards each other.
If you want something light and stress free, I recommend this book for you to try. If you want something angsty, this is definitely not for you.
A sugary light sweet read. This one has verrryyyyy little angst, if you want to include dogs drama angst that is. The h, Violet, was a sweet 29 year old woman that was wronged by an ex that was a fireman. So she kinda hate the fireman in general. Then came the H, Sam, with his dalmatian and she thought he dognapped her dog, Sprinkles, but in actuality it was his dog, Cinder. Apparently they looked alike. To the point where The original Charlie’s Angels of Turtle Beach swapped their dog, they didn’t realize it, despite their personalities ‘suddenly’ changed. The H was a bit scared of his intense feelings towards h at first so there was a push and pull happening. Then when he admitted his feelings, it was the h’s turn to chicken out. Then the ending told us that they finally accepting their feelings towards each other.
If you want something light and stress free, I recommend this book for you to try. If you want something angsty, this is definitely not for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2022
Violet is the most annoying main character I've encountered in a while. After reading so much fantasy, I wanted mental break, but this just gave me a headache.
Violet is privileged and narcissistic, but they try to make her relatable by making her a quirky disaster. She's unhealthily offended by the fact that there is more than one Dalmatian on earth, she ignores LEGAL ISSUES thinking they're jokes, and when trouble hits she's calls her law enforcement family to take care of things for her instead of listening and having a conversation like an adult.
From the first chapter, I hated her but I wanted to give her the benefit of a doubt, but she really didn't deserve it. No amount of quirky can make up for her selfish personality.
Also, this towns obsession with the police/firefighter softball game felt like something out of Brooklyn Nine Nine, except it was funny in the show, it just felt forced in this book.
I can't give it zero stars, so I give it 1.
Violet is privileged and narcissistic, but they try to make her relatable by making her a quirky disaster. She's unhealthily offended by the fact that there is more than one Dalmatian on earth, she ignores LEGAL ISSUES thinking they're jokes, and when trouble hits she's calls her law enforcement family to take care of things for her instead of listening and having a conversation like an adult.
From the first chapter, I hated her but I wanted to give her the benefit of a doubt, but she really didn't deserve it. No amount of quirky can make up for her selfish personality.
Also, this towns obsession with the police/firefighter softball game felt like something out of Brooklyn Nine Nine, except it was funny in the show, it just felt forced in this book.
I can't give it zero stars, so I give it 1.
August 11, 2021
This is completely and utterly adorable. It's like if the first ten minutes(ish) of 101 Dalmatians was expanded and given focus to Roger and Anita. With every subsequent read, I'm more and more on Teri's reader bandwagon.
This small southern beach town isn't big enough for a pair of Dalmatian owner arch nemesis. It's a little grump/sunshine and enemies-to-more a la Romeo and Juliet. Sam and Violet have an instant hate/love relationship the instant their meet-cute commences.
I think all of the quirky and fun in this book perfectly suited my mood. I love meddling matchmakers, quirky pets, cupcakes, and firefighters (who can say "no" to a first responder??). Every "Dalmatian ***tion" made me smirk and smile.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
This small southern beach town isn't big enough for a pair of Dalmatian owner arch nemesis. It's a little grump/sunshine and enemies-to-more a la Romeo and Juliet. Sam and Violet have an instant hate/love relationship the instant their meet-cute commences.
I think all of the quirky and fun in this book perfectly suited my mood. I love meddling matchmakers, quirky pets, cupcakes, and firefighters (who can say "no" to a first responder??). Every "Dalmatian ***tion" made me smirk and smile.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
September 2, 2021
I loved this book! It is the rom com of my dreams. This adorable, fun, sweet wholesome story had my cheeks hurting from smiling the whole way through. It is the perfect romcom for dog lovers.
This book has everything that makes my heart soar…
🎥 It is inspired by my all time fave, 101 Dalmatians.
🐶 Doggos, more specifically Dalmatians
🥰 A Meet Cute or a meet disaster depending on how you look at it — girl accuses new guy in town of dognapping her dalmation
🏖 Quaint seaside town where everyone knows everyone and their business
🥎 A town rivalry, this one involves a softball tournament
☀️ Sunshine & grump trope
👨🏻🚒 Hot Firefighter hero
🧁 Baked goods
👵🏻 Three meddling old ladies playing matchmakers
My heart you guys 🥰 I am in love. This is the romcom of my dreams.
This book has everything that makes my heart soar…
🎥 It is inspired by my all time fave, 101 Dalmatians.
🐶 Doggos, more specifically Dalmatians
🥰 A Meet Cute or a meet disaster depending on how you look at it — girl accuses new guy in town of dognapping her dalmation
🏖 Quaint seaside town where everyone knows everyone and their business
🥎 A town rivalry, this one involves a softball tournament
☀️ Sunshine & grump trope
👨🏻🚒 Hot Firefighter hero
🧁 Baked goods
👵🏻 Three meddling old ladies playing matchmakers
My heart you guys 🥰 I am in love. This is the romcom of my dreams.
September 14, 2021
As a service dog handler, it really frustrates me to read books where the author write characters who bring their pets into non-pet friendly locations. And this book was rife with it. She also mentions that the firefighter, Sam, was allowed to bring his Dalmatian into places because she’s “a working dog”, but that isn’t true either. Unless the dog is working in an official capacity, it’s not allowed in. You eating dinner isn’t an official capacity. Also, ACAB.
This was a terrible book for other reasons as well. Violet was a ditz who had no friends or supports her own age, and the fact that she couldn’t get over someone else having the same breed as her is just obnoxious.
This was a terrible book for other reasons as well. Violet was a ditz who had no friends or supports her own age, and the fact that she couldn’t get over someone else having the same breed as her is just obnoxious.
January 21, 2023
Cute and funny, sometimes slapstick. Read very much like a Hallmark movie. Love the two Dalmatians -- Sprinkles (heroine's - she is a cupcake baker) and Cinder (hero's -- he is a firefighter.) A great small town setting with a rather lively feud between the firefighters and the police officers. Of course, the heroine is the police chief's daughter with brothers who are officers. Lots of situational chaos and mayhem combined with some toe-curling romance. Violet's over-the-top hostility toward Sam at times is what kept this from being a five star read for me. Well written but there is a bit of minor language.
September 19, 2021
I would have given this a 3 but it felt hollow and by the end I still couldn’t stand the heroine.
June 30, 2021
✨3/5 Rating✨
Spoilers & Thoughts Below!!
•A romantic comedy book filled with adorable Dalmatians, a small town rivalry between cops and firefighters, and some meddling elderly women.
•There were some really great tropes used including, opposite attracts, grumpy-sunshine, and enemies to lovers.
•While the overall plot and storyline was nice it was still super predictable but nonetheless enjoyable.
•The main character, Violet March unfortunately was not my favorite. Her behavior and actions just wasn’t the best and came off as annoying.
•On the other hand, Sam Nash who was the love interest was absolutely amazing. Definitely liked his attitude and character more.
•The relationship between Violet and Sam wasn’t as developed as I would have liked. It did seem more of an insta-love situation.
•I did really enjoy all the side characters, especially the Charlie’s Angels. Thought they were hilarious and all their meddling was perfect.
•The ending did wrap up pretty quickly and felt somewhat rushed. However, it was still a cute conclusion.
•Overall, just a light fun read with a cute romance between rivals and some puppy love.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.**
Spoilers & Thoughts Below!!
•A romantic comedy book filled with adorable Dalmatians, a small town rivalry between cops and firefighters, and some meddling elderly women.
•There were some really great tropes used including, opposite attracts, grumpy-sunshine, and enemies to lovers.
•While the overall plot and storyline was nice it was still super predictable but nonetheless enjoyable.
•The main character, Violet March unfortunately was not my favorite. Her behavior and actions just wasn’t the best and came off as annoying.
•On the other hand, Sam Nash who was the love interest was absolutely amazing. Definitely liked his attitude and character more.
•The relationship between Violet and Sam wasn’t as developed as I would have liked. It did seem more of an insta-love situation.
•I did really enjoy all the side characters, especially the Charlie’s Angels. Thought they were hilarious and all their meddling was perfect.
•The ending did wrap up pretty quickly and felt somewhat rushed. However, it was still a cute conclusion.
•Overall, just a light fun read with a cute romance between rivals and some puppy love.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.**
November 7, 2021
This sweet RomCom is a must read for dog lovers as it stars two of the cutest Dalmatians (Sprinkles and Cinder!) you'll ever see on the page. These pups help bring together their owners, cupcake baker, Violet, and Sam, the new fire marshal in the small, oceanfront town of Turtle Beach. Their relationship kicks off with Violet accusing Sam of dognapping her Dalmatian and siccing her cop brothers on him and things just get more complicated and entertaining from there.
Both Violet and Sam have some serious emotional baggage to unpack and put away before either of them can even think about romance, but their attraction, which they try to conceal beneath animosity, is plain for everyone to see and soon the townspeople, as well as their dogs, are getting involved. I don’t want to spoil any of the shenanigans in the book, but suffice it to say this story made me laugh a lot especially when Violet’s geriatric friends, whom she lovingly calls “Charlie’s Angels,” enact their various matchmaking schemes.
A Spot of Trouble is a fun, breezy, incredibly charming read I highly recommend! I look forward to seeing what Teri has planned next for this series.
Both Violet and Sam have some serious emotional baggage to unpack and put away before either of them can even think about romance, but their attraction, which they try to conceal beneath animosity, is plain for everyone to see and soon the townspeople, as well as their dogs, are getting involved. I don’t want to spoil any of the shenanigans in the book, but suffice it to say this story made me laugh a lot especially when Violet’s geriatric friends, whom she lovingly calls “Charlie’s Angels,” enact their various matchmaking schemes.
A Spot of Trouble is a fun, breezy, incredibly charming read I highly recommend! I look forward to seeing what Teri has planned next for this series.
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