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Puppy Dog Tales
An animal hater and an animal lover’s paths collide the week leading up to Valentine’s Day.
Melvin Lai inherited the last thing he ever wanted from his favorite uncle: a cocker spaniel. Now he’s on the verge of losing his home to the unruly puppy and, much to his surprise, his heart when he meets Dr. Chu, Sparkle’s vet.
Vivian Chu loves caring for her furry friends, so she can’t fathom how anyone could think poorly of her new patient, especially his owner. To her, first impressions are everything, and the one Melvin left has her feeling disheartened and bruised—literally.
With a pair of matchmaking mothers and unexpected animal escapades, they encounter more trouble than they can handle. He longs to make her his valentine; she can’t wait to escape him. Can Melvin and Vivian pull together to find common ground?
Melvin Lai inherited the last thing he ever wanted from his favorite uncle: a cocker spaniel. Now he’s on the verge of losing his home to the unruly puppy and, much to his surprise, his heart when he meets Dr. Chu, Sparkle’s vet.
Vivian Chu loves caring for her furry friends, so she can’t fathom how anyone could think poorly of her new patient, especially his owner. To her, first impressions are everything, and the one Melvin left has her feeling disheartened and bruised—literally.
With a pair of matchmaking mothers and unexpected animal escapades, they encounter more trouble than they can handle. He longs to make her his valentine; she can’t wait to escape him. Can Melvin and Vivian pull together to find common ground?
Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
35 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Liwen Y. Ho
96 books335 followersUSA Today bestselling author Liwen Y. Ho works as a chauffeur and chef by day (AKA a stay at home mom) and a writer by night. Her strength is in creating character-driven, deep POV romance infused with faith, humor, and happy ever afters.
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 28, 2021
Short and zippy and incredibly funny. I wasn't sure if I could warm to a dog hating hero -- critter indifferent really -- but Melvin won me over by slow degrees. I think I felt sorry for him before I started liking him because he was so out of his element and there were so many unfortunate incidents that had me wincing and cracking up at the same time. A fun escape read -- er listen -- and I enjoyed Satauna Howery's narration very much.
December 16, 2016
Sometimes, the puppy knows best.
Heartwarming story.
Heartwarming story.
July 12, 2017
Melvin Lai doesn't like animals at all and isn't shy about sticking his foot in his mouth when he is giving his opinions about them, so when he inherits his uncles dog, he finds himself in need of a vet pronto!
Vivian Chu loves animals so much that she became a vet and so when Melvin arrives at her office calling his dog degrading names she has declared him the enemy.
Can opposites overcome such grievous differences? With the help of friends, moms and pets they might have a chance!
Vivian Chu loves animals so much that she became a vet and so when Melvin arrives at her office calling his dog degrading names she has declared him the enemy.
Can opposites overcome such grievous differences? With the help of friends, moms and pets they might have a chance!
August 3, 2020
If you're looking for a story that contains animals, laughter, & love, look no further. Liwen's Puppy Dog Tales, will check off all the boxes. I really liked the humor sprinkled throughout the story. Liwen has great comedic timing ! I enjoyed how she made the characters so relatable.
July 15, 2017
A wonderful little romantic comedy
I loved this book. It is a wonderful little romantic comedy. It is great for all animal lovers. I highly recommend it. I think that it you love animals like I do, you will love this short, but sweet little book.
I loved this book. It is a wonderful little romantic comedy. It is great for all animal lovers. I highly recommend it. I think that it you love animals like I do, you will love this short, but sweet little book.
July 25, 2017
Such a cute story with much to giggle over. A really quick and fun read. I enjoyed the perspective of the traditional Chinese family traditions.
July 19, 2017
Loved it!
This is the first book that I read by this author. I am not a dog person so I totally understood where the H was coming from! It had me cracking up laughing! It was so sweet to see the chemistry between H and h. For being such a short book the characters are all well developed and the storyline doesn't move too fast either. The length of the book is perfect, just long enough to get a good story but short enough to read before bed or during lunch. After I read this book I went on a total binge to read all her books which are located on Kindle Unlimited! This book, like all her other books are sweet and clean romances.
This is the first book that I read by this author. I am not a dog person so I totally understood where the H was coming from! It had me cracking up laughing! It was so sweet to see the chemistry between H and h. For being such a short book the characters are all well developed and the storyline doesn't move too fast either. The length of the book is perfect, just long enough to get a good story but short enough to read before bed or during lunch. After I read this book I went on a total binge to read all her books which are located on Kindle Unlimited! This book, like all her other books are sweet and clean romances.
July 2, 2017
A modern - and humorous - take on the "opposites attract" theme. This was such a fun and entertaining read, I sped through it in no time. The alternating viewpoints of Melvin and Vivian drew me into the story, showing how, despite their clear and deep-rooted differences, the attraction between them was a powerful force - made even more so by a cute puppy who played a huge part in bringing them together. The pop references were both timely and witty. It's very cleverly written and makes for a quick read filled with lots of laughter and delivers that lovely, warm and fuzzy feeling at the end.
June 23, 2017
What a delightful story! Its unusual premise grabs my attention from the beginning and the funny details make me laugh. I enjoy the Asian aspects of the story, but what keeps me engaged is the impossible mission of bringing an animal lover and an animal “hater” together. Will love overcome hate? Of course, but how? Liwen Ho’s skillful writing makes the difficult transition smooth and easy. I like Sparkle and Risotto too. I’m not an animal person either, but these fluffy creatures really warm my heart! My only complaint is the story is too short but I’ll definitely look into other books by the same author.
The author provided me with an advance review copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
The author provided me with an advance review copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
December 15, 2016
Just knowing Uncle Bruce had thought of him was enough. "I'll take whatever I get."
Melvin would live to regret those words.
Anesthesiologist Melvin Lai has anything but a soft spot for animals—including the cocker spaniel he just inherited and doesn't want. But, surely that wouldn't ruin all of his chances with the dog's beautiful veterinarian, Vivian Chu, would it?
I'll admit I needed a light, pick-me-up kind of read when I picked up Puppy Dog Tales by author Liwen Y. Ho, and this romantic comedy was just the ticket. I think I took a bit longer than I should have to stop and realize, "Oooooh, that Melvin," since I ran into this guy before when I read another romance by this author, True to You. I was then thrilled to see "that" Melvin starring in his own story.
And a light, pick-me-up, humorous kind of story it is. Animal lovers should appreciate it that much more. The change in some of Melvin's feelings seemed to be a little too much so quickly, but I found the read to be quite pleasant, and I laughed aloud along the way. Fellow fans of sweet romantic comedies should enjoy this as I did.
___________________
The author provided me with an advance review copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
Melvin would live to regret those words.
Anesthesiologist Melvin Lai has anything but a soft spot for animals—including the cocker spaniel he just inherited and doesn't want. But, surely that wouldn't ruin all of his chances with the dog's beautiful veterinarian, Vivian Chu, would it?
I'll admit I needed a light, pick-me-up kind of read when I picked up Puppy Dog Tales by author Liwen Y. Ho, and this romantic comedy was just the ticket. I think I took a bit longer than I should have to stop and realize, "Oooooh, that Melvin," since I ran into this guy before when I read another romance by this author, True to You. I was then thrilled to see "that" Melvin starring in his own story.
And a light, pick-me-up, humorous kind of story it is. Animal lovers should appreciate it that much more. The change in some of Melvin's feelings seemed to be a little too much so quickly, but I found the read to be quite pleasant, and I laughed aloud along the way. Fellow fans of sweet romantic comedies should enjoy this as I did.
___________________
The author provided me with an advance review copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
March 1, 2019
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
An animal hater's and an animal lover’s paths collide the week leading up to Valentine’s Day.
Melvin Lai inherited the last thing he ever wanted from his favorite uncle: a cocker spaniel. Now he’s on the verge of losing his home to the unruly puppy and, much to his surprise, his heart when he meets Dr. Chu, Sparkle’s vet.
Vivian Chu loves caring for her furry friends, so she can’t fathom how anyone could think poorly of her new patient, especially his owner. To her, first impressions are everything, and the one Melvin left has her feeling disheartened and bruised—literally.
With a pair of matchmaking mothers and unexpected animal escapades, they encounter more trouble than they can handle. He longs to make her his valentine; she can’t wait to escape him. Can Melvin and Vivian pull together to find common ground?
MY TAKE
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a good job with the story.
Puppy Dog Tales is a short tale. Melvin is a typical fastidious guy who hasn't had exposure to animals. As a result, he's not comfortable around them and thinks he doesn't like them. When he inherits a dog from his beloved uncle--and is guilted into keeping the thing--it doesn't appear to be a match made in heaven. But things begin to look up when he meets Dr. Vivian. In this opposites attract story, Melvin is the one who has to come around and make all the changes. Vivian is only will to consider him as a potential suitor if he comes around to her way of thinking. Fortunately, he's attracted to her enough to be willing to try and is pleasantly surprised to discover that he has the capacity to love animals too. And is then able to win her love too.
4 1/2 stars
An animal hater's and an animal lover’s paths collide the week leading up to Valentine’s Day.
Melvin Lai inherited the last thing he ever wanted from his favorite uncle: a cocker spaniel. Now he’s on the verge of losing his home to the unruly puppy and, much to his surprise, his heart when he meets Dr. Chu, Sparkle’s vet.
Vivian Chu loves caring for her furry friends, so she can’t fathom how anyone could think poorly of her new patient, especially his owner. To her, first impressions are everything, and the one Melvin left has her feeling disheartened and bruised—literally.
With a pair of matchmaking mothers and unexpected animal escapades, they encounter more trouble than they can handle. He longs to make her his valentine; she can’t wait to escape him. Can Melvin and Vivian pull together to find common ground?
MY TAKE
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a good job with the story.
Puppy Dog Tales is a short tale. Melvin is a typical fastidious guy who hasn't had exposure to animals. As a result, he's not comfortable around them and thinks he doesn't like them. When he inherits a dog from his beloved uncle--and is guilted into keeping the thing--it doesn't appear to be a match made in heaven. But things begin to look up when he meets Dr. Vivian. In this opposites attract story, Melvin is the one who has to come around and make all the changes. Vivian is only will to consider him as a potential suitor if he comes around to her way of thinking. Fortunately, he's attracted to her enough to be willing to try and is pleasantly surprised to discover that he has the capacity to love animals too. And is then able to win her love too.
4 1/2 stars
March 3, 2025
What a fun book to read!
I needed a light, fun book to read, and this one fit the bill!
I had so much fun reading about all the crazy issues with the human and non-human characters in this story. Melvin really isn’t an animal guy, and Vivan is definitely a lover of animals. Can these two overlook those issues to finally get to know each other?
I have come to really enjoy reading books written by Liwen Y. Ho. Her writing is smooth, and the story flows with wonderful characters and dialogue. I had a problem not wanting to put this book down. It truly was enjoyable! I was so caught up in the story that I didn’t want it to end.
Liwen Y. Ho, the author of this book, masters blending romance with life lessons. Her books are not just entertaining but also offer valuable insights that readers can apply to their own lives. Her writing style is smooth and enjoyable, making her one of my go-to authors when I want to read a light, fun, clean, romantic book.
I highly recommend picking up this book for a delightful, romantic read. It's a perfect choice for a fun, light-hearted escape, and you'll find yourself immersed in the characters' journey. So, why wait? Grab a copy and start your own adventure!
I needed a light, fun book to read, and this one fit the bill!
I had so much fun reading about all the crazy issues with the human and non-human characters in this story. Melvin really isn’t an animal guy, and Vivan is definitely a lover of animals. Can these two overlook those issues to finally get to know each other?
I have come to really enjoy reading books written by Liwen Y. Ho. Her writing is smooth, and the story flows with wonderful characters and dialogue. I had a problem not wanting to put this book down. It truly was enjoyable! I was so caught up in the story that I didn’t want it to end.
Liwen Y. Ho, the author of this book, masters blending romance with life lessons. Her books are not just entertaining but also offer valuable insights that readers can apply to their own lives. Her writing style is smooth and enjoyable, making her one of my go-to authors when I want to read a light, fun, clean, romantic book.
I highly recommend picking up this book for a delightful, romantic read. It's a perfect choice for a fun, light-hearted escape, and you'll find yourself immersed in the characters' journey. So, why wait? Grab a copy and start your own adventure!
March 4, 2020
Puppy Dog Tales
By: Liwen Ho
Narrated by: Satauna Howery
What do you do when you don't like animals and are left a dog? Melvin is about to find out as he now is the proud owner of his uncle's cocker spaniel. When he takes the puppy to the vet, his life is about to change, as he sees the one he would love to have as his valentine. Vivian is an animal lover, the reason for becoming a vet, and now her first impression of Melvin is far from perfect. I loved this odd couple. It's so fun to watch Melvin as he adjusts and falls not only the vet, but for his new companion. He is awkward and uncomfortable, and it's so easy to picture him tripping over himself. Vivian is confident and loving. Put them together, and the clash is evident, but the chemistry strong! If you enjoy fun, humor and pets, this is the perfect listen. Narrated by the talented Satauna Howery, it was the spontaneous and entertaining!
By: Liwen Ho
Narrated by: Satauna Howery
What do you do when you don't like animals and are left a dog? Melvin is about to find out as he now is the proud owner of his uncle's cocker spaniel. When he takes the puppy to the vet, his life is about to change, as he sees the one he would love to have as his valentine. Vivian is an animal lover, the reason for becoming a vet, and now her first impression of Melvin is far from perfect. I loved this odd couple. It's so fun to watch Melvin as he adjusts and falls not only the vet, but for his new companion. He is awkward and uncomfortable, and it's so easy to picture him tripping over himself. Vivian is confident and loving. Put them together, and the clash is evident, but the chemistry strong! If you enjoy fun, humor and pets, this is the perfect listen. Narrated by the talented Satauna Howery, it was the spontaneous and entertaining!
May 28, 2020
Puppy Dog Tales is a romantic comedy short-story by author Liwen Y. Ho.
This is such a cute, clean story. I was drawn to the book by the cover and so glad I read it. The puppy was left to Melvin Lai after his favorite uncle passed. He couldn’t figure out why because he hates animals. What he needed, and wanted, was a wife.
Vivian Chu enjoyed her job as a veterinarian. But her ma wanted grandchildren.
I loved both characters in this sweet story and I hope to read more by this author. I highly recommend this novella to fans of sweet, clean romance stories.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
This is such a cute, clean story. I was drawn to the book by the cover and so glad I read it. The puppy was left to Melvin Lai after his favorite uncle passed. He couldn’t figure out why because he hates animals. What he needed, and wanted, was a wife.
Vivian Chu enjoyed her job as a veterinarian. But her ma wanted grandchildren.
I loved both characters in this sweet story and I hope to read more by this author. I highly recommend this novella to fans of sweet, clean romance stories.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
September 11, 2021
Melvin + Vivian
This was a short (but not too short!) and cute romance.
Melvin just inherited a puppy from his recently passed favorite uncle who used to give people just the gifts they needed in the past. However Melvin thinks that his uncle must have been out of his mind when he made his will to give him the dog, because he pretty much hates animals, let alone know how to care for one. But he decides to honor his uncle and see where it takes him.
In comes Vivian, vet extraordinaire. Or rather, they came to her when the puppy does something to upset Melvin’s ordinary life more than usual. Unfortunately for Melvin, he does not give Vivian a good first impression when she realizes he doesn’t like animals which is her whole life.
Will she give him a second chance? Will he change his mind about pets? Pick up this sweet read to find out!
This was a short (but not too short!) and cute romance.
Melvin just inherited a puppy from his recently passed favorite uncle who used to give people just the gifts they needed in the past. However Melvin thinks that his uncle must have been out of his mind when he made his will to give him the dog, because he pretty much hates animals, let alone know how to care for one. But he decides to honor his uncle and see where it takes him.
In comes Vivian, vet extraordinaire. Or rather, they came to her when the puppy does something to upset Melvin’s ordinary life more than usual. Unfortunately for Melvin, he does not give Vivian a good first impression when she realizes he doesn’t like animals which is her whole life.
Will she give him a second chance? Will he change his mind about pets? Pick up this sweet read to find out!
August 23, 2018
Surprise Inheritance
This charming novella begins with Melvin,a single anesthesiologist, at the reading of his late uncle’s will. Not an animal lover, Melvin finds himself left with his uncle’s cocker spaniel, Sparkle. Things between Sparkle & Melvin get off to a rocky start, leading them to a female vet, Vivian, for solutions.
Melvin makes a horrible first impression, coming across as an animal hater. They are both secretly attracted to each other - in spite of their differences. The magic that pets bring to our lives slowly works on Melvin & Vivian. This was an easy read for one evening & I enjoyed it! I received this ebook as a gift.
This charming novella begins with Melvin,a single anesthesiologist, at the reading of his late uncle’s will. Not an animal lover, Melvin finds himself left with his uncle’s cocker spaniel, Sparkle. Things between Sparkle & Melvin get off to a rocky start, leading them to a female vet, Vivian, for solutions.
Melvin makes a horrible first impression, coming across as an animal hater. They are both secretly attracted to each other - in spite of their differences. The magic that pets bring to our lives slowly works on Melvin & Vivian. This was an easy read for one evening & I enjoyed it! I received this ebook as a gift.
February 2, 2026
Incredible fun.
If you're an animal lover and enjoy sweet romances where opposites attract have I got a book for you.
Although short this packs satisfaction into every page. Melvin and Vivian are children with marriage and baby minded mothers. Through a series of humorous and not so funny mishaps they get to know one another. Add in some heavenly interference and the story takes off.
Well drawn characters and terrific writing. I'm looking for more by Liwen right away. Thanks, Liwen.
If you're an animal lover and enjoy sweet romances where opposites attract have I got a book for you.
Although short this packs satisfaction into every page. Melvin and Vivian are children with marriage and baby minded mothers. Through a series of humorous and not so funny mishaps they get to know one another. Add in some heavenly interference and the story takes off.
Well drawn characters and terrific writing. I'm looking for more by Liwen right away. Thanks, Liwen.
January 28, 2017
I found this a very enjoyable read! I thought it was very well written, clever, and funny. It's a light, short, and easy read for anyone who needs some entertainment or a distraction from heavier things in life. It very easily can be read in one or two settings. Grammatically it was very well written and engaging. I also enjoyed the little pieces of Asian culture that were weaved into it. It's also clean and decent.
September 11, 2018
I didn't really care for Vivian - she was very judgey and quick to push Melvin aside. I really liked him and thought he handled inheriting Sparkles really well considering he isn't really a dog person. Sparkles was adorable and grew on Melvin. I am glad that Melvin kept pursuing Vivian because I believe he made me like her. Love the puppies.
March 8, 2020
This was a fun book. A sweet and fun story. Who ever thought that two people who's lives are so different could find some common ground?
I thought the scene when they first met was quite funny. To start off on such a bad note, I think I would have hoped the world would swallow me whole.
I thought the scene when they first met was quite funny. To start off on such a bad note, I think I would have hoped the world would swallow me whole.
October 30, 2017
Totally cute!
Animal lovers will find this story adoring. Opposites don’t attract so much in this story. Melvin and Vivian don’t quite hit it off, making some great tension.
Clean read for all ages.
Animal lovers will find this story adoring. Opposites don’t attract so much in this story. Melvin and Vivian don’t quite hit it off, making some great tension.
Clean read for all ages.
February 28, 2020
I am reviewing the audible copy I received from the author. I so loved this story. So fun, funny & all-around enjoyable. The epilogue was such a surprise & added to the story. Ms. Howery does a great reading of the story. You should get this book for lots of laughs.
March 23, 2020
This story made me want to cuddle my dog. I also loved the give and take between the main characters. It was a novella that did an awesome job of making you feel like you know the character and still had a well developed plot. Great craft, despite being a short work of fiction!
July 18, 2020
Perfect relaxing read
I absolutely adored reading every moment in this book. Both Melvin and Vivian are well developed characters, wholeheartedly realistic and the addition of the animals made it even better! The perfect story to read for a relaxing night in bed!
I absolutely adored reading every moment in this book. Both Melvin and Vivian are well developed characters, wholeheartedly realistic and the addition of the animals made it even better! The perfect story to read for a relaxing night in bed!
February 16, 2024
Quick Sweet Read
This was a funny quick read! Perfect for Valentine’s Day! Such a cute story!! It was very lighthearted.
Perfect for a short break if you need a quick pick me up read!
This was a funny quick read! Perfect for Valentine’s Day! Such a cute story!! It was very lighthearted.
Perfect for a short break if you need a quick pick me up read!
January 24, 2026
Melvin thought his uncle Bruce loved him until all he inherited was Uncle bruce's cocker spaniel, Sparkles.
This short story was sweet and funny. The characters were great, even the matchmakers.
This short story was sweet and funny. The characters were great, even the matchmakers.
December 18, 2017
Cute short story
I enjoyed this book and laughed out loud at some of the situations Melvin got himself into. Very nice ending!
I enjoyed this book and laughed out loud at some of the situations Melvin got himself into. Very nice ending!
January 15, 2018
This is a short but fun read - lots of good humor, and romance, with dogs and cats thrown in. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
August 19, 2018
Delightful romance about opposites attract. Two Asian American Docs and a dog create a twist and turn plot. Believable characters with a satisfying resolution.
October 4, 2018
A cute, short and sweet read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews