How to Catch a Vet (Chester Falls #6) by Ana Ashley

 

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link

The first thing I learned at Vet school was to always expect the unexpected.
Well, I sure never saw Santiago Torres or his adorable Great Dane coming.

Santi is everything I’m not. Tall, confident, overbearing, and if I’m to believe his advances, he’s also very experienced in...well, you know what.

I always play safe, but it’s time to ditch the v-card. We couldn’t be more different, but that doesn’t matter because this is just a one time thing.

I’m not going to want more, right?
I’m not going to fall for him, right?

How to Catch a Vet is the sixth book in the Chester Falls series and features an opposites attract story between a virgin and a player, a Great Dane with a tendency to rescue- read kidnap- other people’s pets, and a small town like no other.

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

How to Catch a Vet is the sixth book in Ana Ashley's Chester Falls series. It's a great addition to this small town world. 

This story is one of a vet and a veteran. And there's a lot going on.

Santi is home after leaving the service. And unfortunately, he's losing his eyesight. Oh man, this element had me wanting to hug him tight. My heart breaks for him throughout, despite his ability to handle it well. 

Micah's a veterinarian who's struggling to keep his business going. Course he has a former bully who's set on making his life difficult, which doesn't help. 

Their story is one with a lot of self doubts. Santi doesn't feel worthy of love as he's losing his sight, while Micah feels unworthy of love as he struggles with his weight. 

Their story includes first times and plenty of heat. 

And then there are the animals. Omg, I absolutely love these animals and the constant new additions to the crew. Honestly, this aspect alone makes this worth the read. 

With an overall theme exploring that the past doesn't define us, I am impressed with the way the author illustrates this. This story is compelling and emotional throughout.

How to Catch a Vet is a sweet romance. Ana Ashley kept me entertained and delighted throughout this heartwarming tale.

RELEASE BLITZ, EXCERPT & REVIEW - Unguarded (Vino & Veritas #10) by Jay Hogan

 

UNGUARDED BY JAY HOGAN

Release Date: May 6, 2021

Amazon Link   - Available in KU  

Goodreads Link

Series Page

All the link in one spot

I fled Boston and my cheating jerk of an ex with three hundred dollars and a lip gloss in my pocket. Waking up the next day in Burlington, Vermont, with a crick in my back and a frozen ass wasn’t exactly in the plan. If there was one. Which there wasn’t. Story of my life.

Three hours later and I’ve been hired as temporary help in the local veterinary and grooming clinic, which is kind of impressive since I know zip about animals and even less about grooming. But one thing I do know—I’m crushing hard on the sexy, absent-minded vet I work for. 

My life is a hot mess. The last thing I need is another relationship. Emmett pushes all my buttons, but he isn’t out. He's overwhelmed with a business to run and a son to look after and the kind of domestic life I never thought I wanted.

I should walk away.

But Emmett believes in me, and I might just be starting to believe in myself. As different as we are, is it possible we're exactly what the other needs?  

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Unguarded is Jay Hogan's contribution to the multi-author Vino & Veritas series. It's a wonderful addition to this small town world.

Tai and Emmett make a for a great couple, and I enjoy the way everything unfolds for these two. They're both a little bit broken and in need of healing. Their backgrounds are well developed, helping to fully establish this. 

Their story is one with an instant attraction, intense feelings, and a lot of personal conflict. Everything happens over a short time period, but is still relatively slow in the development. They are simply amazing together and I enjoy every moment of their journey towards love, acceptance, and healing. 

Emmett's raising his son solo since his wife passed away. He's a closeted bisexual man who's struggles with coming out are a leading factor in his journey. 

Tai, Oh sweet Tai. Still reeling from his abusive ex, he's struggling to be independent and not fall into a dependent relationship again. He's an intriguing character who shines despite all he's gone through.

Their story includes plenty of doubts and fears, as well as sass and banter. The slow burn build up is fabulous, with plenty of built up sexual tension.

Their story also includes some heartwarming animal scenes, as Emmett is a vet. I adore the way his patients are included in this tale.

Unguarded is a wonderful story. This Jay Hogan romance had me turning the pages quickly, as I enjoy every moment with these men. It's a great mix of light hearted fun and just the right amount of light angst. 

The final client of the morning was a grumbling, overweight Pekingese cross named Charles, with an attitude to rival Genghis Khan and an owner who refused to come in with her dog because she didn’t want the nippy little demon to associate her with any discomfort.

Under instruction from Ivy, Tai had the growling, muzzled dog wrapped in a towel and pinioned against his stomach, his expression caught somewhere between are-you-fucking-kidding-me and abject terror.

I told him what we were about to do and he stared at me in wide-eyed disbelief. “You did not just say you were going to milk this little guy’s anal glands?”

I swallowed a laugh. “I believe those were my exact words.”

His gaze flicked down to the squirming dog, then back up. “Do I even want to ask why?”

I shrugged and pulled on some gloves. “The anal glands are two little sacs on either side of the rectum. Normally they get expressed every time the dog poops. Helps mark his territory.”

“Oh. My. God.” Tai rolled his eyes dramatically. “I think I dated a guy like that once.”

Ivy snorted while I grappled with an influx of images involving Tai with another guy and that whole territorial marking thing. I snapped the second glove on my wrist like an elastic band, hoping the pain might shock some sense into me.

It didn’t.

Tai got his freak under control and tucked Charles firmly back against his stomach. It was the first time I’d ever been jealous of the mutt.

“I know I’m going to regret asking this,” he said, wrinkling his nose. “But what happens when things don’t get expressed, on the whole anal-gland front? And I can’t believe I just said that.”

“Welcome to my world.” Ivy appeared from the supply room.

I caught Tai’s eye and waggled my eyebrows. He was hella fun to tease. “I’m so glad you asked that question. If they don’t get expressed naturally, not helped by poor diet and excess weight, then the glands can block and get smelly and painful. They can even form an abscess that can burst onto the skin.”

Tai’s mouth dropped open in horror. “Holy crap. And also—another date of mine.”

I gave a strangled laugh and realized I hadn’t had so much fun at work since . . . well yeah, it had been a while.

“Damn, that’s disgusting. The poor thing.” Tai lifted Charles to smooch him safely around the back of his ears. “We need to talk about your diet young man,” he cooed to the dog who, miracle of miracles, appeared to calm. “Fiber is the key, plus plenty of water and attention to timing. Clean, screened, and fit for a queen.” He glanced up with a wicked grin. “Right, Mr. Vet?”

Ivy coughed loudly, while every semi-functioning neuron in my body focused on only one thing that shall not be mentioned.

“I, yeah . . . I guess,” I managed to croak. “Although maybe not the screening thing, not for dogs.”

Tai lifted Charles to eyeball him. “Safety first.”

Ivy joined us at the table. “Okay, you two. Let’s get this done so I can spritz the room. Keep a firm grip,” she told Tai.

His eyes widened. “This is going to smell worse than I thought, isn’t it?”

She wrinkled her nose. “Think fishy.”

Tai got a tight hold on the wriggling dog. “Huh? Not my first guess. Okay, I’m ready. I have to say, it feels a little like an initiation.”

I flashed him an encouraging smile. “You’ll be fine. Now hold that tail up.” As soon as the words left my mouth, I knew, and sure enough—

He snorted. “Not the first time I’ve been told that.”

I shook my head, gently squeezed, and . . .

“Whoa.” He gave a long blink and jerked his head around and out of the way. “Ewww, Charles. That’s some nasty shit right there.”

I grinned from ear to ear, pretty much as I had from the minute Tai had walked into my clinic. I was so fucked.

FF - Mending Fences by Angie Williams

Amazon Link 
Goodreads Link

When rancher Bobbie Del Rey walks into the veterinarian’s office with an injured pup, the last person she expects to see is the one woman she’s never allowed herself to love. The only thing more dangerous than the storm raging outside is the tempest in her heart.

Veterinarian Grace Hammond is looking for a fresh start. Haunted by her past, she hopes moving back to her hometown will help her find the strength to stand up for what she needs in matters of the heart. The moment her first love, Bobbie Del Rey, walks into her clinic—tall, dark, and soaking wet—the boundaries Grace desperately needs become paper thin.

Can the heartbreaks of the past ever truly be mended?

Cover Artist: Ty Justice
Genres: Contemporary / Romance

My Rating - 3.5 Stars!

Mending Fences is a great lesbian romance by Angie Williams. 

First, let's talk about the cover. The cover truly doesn't tell the reader what to expect from the book. Nothing about the cover even indicates a lesbian story, let alone a hot one. So, look past the cover. Please.

That said, this is a wonderful second chance romance. Grace and Bobbie are two women who are reunited after many years. After being caught together as teenagers, they were separated and lost touch. 

What follows is a nice story of reunions, and some panty melting sex. The chemistry is still there, the connection is easily rebuilt, and these two definitely belong together. 

These are two women who live in different parts of the country, whose jobs don't easily allow them to be together. Their story is one of life changes, and serious decisions. They have to deal with a soon to be ex husband, some unapproving family members, and more. 

Mending Fences will melt your heart. This Angie Williams book is sure to please the next time you're in the mood for a simple sweet lesbian romance. It's a simple story for sure, with the butch/femme stereotypical pairing, but it's enjoyable. It's nothing spectacular, but it's just sweet. 

Then the Stars Fall by Brandon Witt

Amazon Link - Available in KU
Goodreads Link  (old version)

Blurb

The death of his wife four years earlier left Travis Bennett a shell of the man he used to be. With his dog by his side, Travis raises his three children, manages his business, and works as a ranch hand. But every day, every minute, is an aching emptiness.

Wesley Ryan has fond memories of the small Ozark town of El Dorado. Seeing it as a safe place to put his failed relationships behind him, Wesley moves into his grandparents’ old home and takes over the local veterinary clinic. An early morning visit from Travis and his dog stirs feelings that Wesley seeks to push away—the last thing he needs is to fall for a man with baggage and three kids as part of the package.

Life, it seems, has other plans.

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Then the Stars Fall is a beautiful slow burn novel by Brandon Witt. I loved it the first time I read it, and I love it again upon re-reading it.

It's the story of Travis, a bisexual man who's grieving the death of his wife. His pain is real and all-consuming; not an easy read at times. The reader is fully immersed in Travis's life, pain and all, by the time he meets the out and proud Wesley. What follows is an even more emotional journey as he's forced to deal with his bisexual feelings. 

This story is full of rage, fear, and a whole lot of painful barbs. Travis is not an easy man to deal with at the beginning, and he definitely takes out his anger on the cute vet. Of course, there are doubts on both sides, making for a great rollercoaster of emotions. There is also some great sexual tension, that ultimately is lyrically described. 

They live in a small town, with a history a homophobia. Luckily, they have some support with a slew of wonderful secondary characters, including Wendy and Travis' kids, who add immensely to the story.

Brandon's writing style is accomplished as usual. He tends to create deep and meaningful story lines and this one is just that. The plot and the characters are amazing. His almost lyrical writing style is not for everyone, but I definitely enjoy it. The author does a marvelous job switching things up by adding in some extra povs, which greatly adds to the strength of this story. 

Then the Stars Fall is truly a remarkable story of second love. This character driven story is a wonderful choice when you're in the mood for some angst. This is a lovely story of family that includes loss, grief, as well as happiness and healing. 

Roxy's Recovery by Kim Breyon

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

Blurb

As the newest veterinarian in the small town of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Vaughn Winters doesn't have time for relationships. He is too busy healing injuries and establishing his reputation as a trustworthy vet. But when a strange man waves him down on a stormy night seeking help for his injured dog, Vaughn simply can't refuse.

Obviously homeless and with no means to pay for Roxy's medical care, Vaughn throws caution to the wind and strikes a deal with the hesitant stranger that would allow Roxy the time to heal and provide some much needed TLC to his property as well. As the days pass, Vaughn's curiosity grows. Alex's dedication to the job is as surprising as the sexy tats hidden beneath his rugged clothes. What could have pushed this kind, hardworking man to the streets, or cast such dark shadows in his otherwise bright blue eyes?

Will six weeks be enough time to earn Alex's trust? Or will asking questions cause him to tuck tail and run as soon as Roxy is able?

Review 

My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Roxy's Recovery is a sweet romance by Kim Breyon. 

Alex and Vaughn meet when Roxy is injured. Alex has been on the run with his dog Roxy and is floundering after suffering from abuse and pain. And damn, I fell hard for Vaughn when he took in the obviously homeless Alex. 

What follows is a story of instant attraction, followed by the development of a natural friendship that I loved. 

Theirs is a story of one man who has a habit of falling in love too fast, and another who's lost, confused, and without any hope. These are two men who beautifully bring one another back to life. 

And, damn, Alex is a strong character whose struggles are well developed. I found his storyline to be so heart-breaking, yet also inspirational. He's a victim of abuse so be warned if this is a trigger for you.

Kim Breyon brings out all the emotions in this story of healing and finding love. Add in some adorable dogs and Roxy's Recovery is a totally sweet read. 

Cherish the Land (Lang Downs #5) by Ariel Tachna

Dreamspinner Press Link

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

Blurb

Sequel to Conquer the Flames
Lang Downs: Book Five

Seth Simms never wanted to be a cowboy, although to listen to his best friend, Jason Thompson, tell it, he isn’t one. He just happens to have lucked out in coming to live on Lang Downs with his brother ten years ago. He found enough stability to finish high school and go off to university, but he never really believed Lang Downs would be the same haven for him that it had become for so many others. He’s too messed up in the head. No one would accept someone with his issues.

All his life, Jason has had one goal: to come home to Lang Downs as resident veterinarian when they need his skills and jackaroo when they don’t. And it means he gets to spend time with Seth during his occasional visits, even though his dream of going from friends to lovers is hopeless since Seth is straight.

When Seth unexpectedly comes home to stay, Jason takes it as the boon it is. But juggling a relationship with another jackaroo and his friendship with Seth isn’t easy, and that’s before Jason realizes how deep Seth’s issues run and how dangerously Seth chooses to cope with them.

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Ariel Tachna's Cherish the Land is a fantastic read. The fifth book in the Lang Downs Series, it is easily read as a standalone.

Seth's a mechanic who works at Lang Downs. When his best friend Jason shows up after being away for years, everything starts to change.

Jason is back home as the new veterinarian. He's just trying to be one of the guys. Seth has long been in love with Jason, leaving him unable to be with another man. These are two best friends who are in love, but won't tell one another.

This story is one that explores the fear of running a friendship by dating. They experience frustration, homophobia, and a tragic death. 

This story involves cutting, so beware if that's a trigger. This part was a tough read, and had me tearing up. I found it to be written with compassion and care. 

Overall, Seth's lack of self worth is gut wrenching. I just wanted to wrap him up in my arms and hug him forever. Seth's broken, full of insecurities and doubts, shame and fear. Seth doesn't know permanence and doesn't trust in it

"Everybody leaves."

This tale is definitely not an easy read. It's a story of proving your devotion and not letting the one you love run scared. It's about finding a home; a safe place where one can feel secure.

Cherish the Land is a sweet and tender friends to lovers romance between best friends. This Ariel Tachna book is well written and absolutely riveting. I couldn't put it down. I love this series and all the guys of Lang Down.

Four (Love by Numbers #2) by Tia Fielding

* Updated 2-11-2020 with new edition *

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

Blurb

A Love by Numbers Story When unlikely attraction blossoms between a twentysomething genderqueer tattoo artist and an older, small-town veterinarian, both are forced to face their pasts for a chance at a loving future. Four years ago Padraig Donovan lost his husband, the only man he’d ever been with. Now his life consists of the work he loves, a big empty house, and the possibility of a lonely future. Kaos’s experiments with makeup landed him in the hospital at the hands of his disapproving ex. With nowhere else to turn, he flees to Acker, Wisconsin… and runs into a sexy widower and the kindest man he’s ever met. Padraig and Kaos know there’s something worth exploring between them, and as they raise a puppy and deal with the ups and downs of their respective jobs, they fit into each other’s lives in ways they never expected. Being with Kaos—who is so different than the guys he’s always been attracted to—opens up an exciting new world for Padraig. But can he convince Kaos to trust another man with his body… let alone his heart?

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Tia Fielding's Four is an stunning book. Despite taking me a while to really get into this story, it's amazing.

Tia Fielding excels at warming my heart with these two unlikely lovers. The pace is slow, but for this story it works. With a thoughtful and sensitive tone, it's slow without being too descriptive.

Padraig's reaction to the beautiful, non-binary Kaos is immediate and strong. Having never been attracted to a feminine person, I love his acceptance of Kaos' clothes, makeup, and lace. Their age difference is also wonderful and a very entertaining. In different stages of life, these two men coming together just warms my heart.

Pad and Kaos, both victims of hatred, come together to free one another. Pad's been lonely and feeling old while missing his ex husband. He's lost and doesn't know how to move forward. With Kaos' help, he's a man learning to move on from his grief. Kaos has struggled with acceptance and with Pad's help, Kaos is a man learning to free himself of his past. It's fantastic, entertaining, and heart-warming.

The sexual tension is high throughout, and once they get together, you won't be disappointed.

There's so much depth to this novel. Not just a romance, it focuses on non-binary issues, repressed homophobia, sexual confusion, and abuse. It focuses on cheating and grief, pain and hurt, racism and bigotry. 

One of my favorite aspects of this tale is the slow burn development. Their friendship and connection grows quickly, but they are each treating their attraction with caution. I respect the hell out of this. Both men have been hurt in the past, and I appreciate their ability to take things slow. These two broken men need to slowly heal, and recover from their scars, before truly moving forward.

And, wow, if you like puppies, you will love their little pup. There's some serious cuteness involved.

Overall, I highly recommend Four. Tia Fielding excels in creating a meaningful story full of pain, hurt, healing, and love. It's a beautiful story, but definitely one to be read when you're looking for a serious, slow read.