Animal Attraction (Animal, #2)

Oct 05, 2011

Saly rated it

Every-time I pick up a Jill Shalvis contemporary, I don't think she can do any better, after all how high can I keep my expectations but I am proved wrong and man am I so glad for it.

Animal Attraction is the second book based in Sunshine, Idaho and this time our yummy hero is Dell, animal and woman whisperer and part owner of the vet clinic Bell Haven. And we get Jade, the one who runs their life and office ever since she showed up eighteen month ago, without any references and a loo...moreEvery-time I pick up a Jill Shalvis contemporary, I don't think she can do any better, after all how high can I keep my expectations but I am proved wrong and man am I so glad for it.

Animal Attraction is the second book based in Sunshine, Idaho and this time our yummy hero is Dell, animal and woman whisperer and part owner of the vet clinic Bell Haven. And we get Jade, the one who runs their life and office ever since she showed up eighteen month ago, without any references and a look in the eye, Adam and Dell see in animals who have been hurt.

I enjoyed the whole pacing of the book, not even one word felt un-intentional for and the sexual tension as usual was off the charts, so much so that I wanted these two to just jump each other, before they do we do get some toe-melting kisses.

Dell doesn't let people close atleast not that many and who can blame him, mother walked off, dad died, went from foster homes to foster home and got beaten up for being small, until Sol, where Brady, Adam and Dell found something worthwhile, then Sol died as well. Dell has found a niche for himself now, animals, he loves them but as far his relationship record goes, that's not so great, he loves women and they him in turn but he doesn't give them a chance to hurt him.

Dell and Jade have been circling around each other ever since she came to work and now she's about to leave and go back to her life in Chicago. Like Dell, Jade is good at building boundaries, none of them know about her life or what happened but despite all her efforts all of them have managed to become a part of her life.

I loved the whole book and the entire cast, Adam was a hoot, constantly walking in on Dell and Jade at the worst times, like after that sweaty self-defense lesson, I wanted to scream like Dell there with frustration. I do sense something brewing between Adam and Holly and can't wait for those fire-works. We get Lilah and Brady time as well, which I loved.

I enjoyed the big brother role Adam played, he talked to Jade and even Dell as well and made them think through his snarky humor. Dell was good at protecting himself but when it came to Jade he didn't have any defenses and he helped her overcome her fears and then feared she won't need him anymore. He had such a big heart and even when his mother hurt him so much, he was still there for her. I wanted to hug him so bad and tell him hey stop Jade from leaving and also tell Jade to open up, that guy is great and you need to TALK. See, how invested I was in the book?

The book wasn't just about the relationship but about all of them, about Jade finally finding herself, after a robbery in Chicago made her question her place in life, about finally confronting her fears and learning to tackle them through Dell. The beauty was that both of them helped each other while thinking they didn't. Jade and Dell were totally wonderful for each other and I have got to admit Jill writes the best heroes and I too want a Dell for myself.

A wonderfully written book that you'll wish never ended. I love the people of Sunshine and can't wait to go back there.

ARC received through the author.(less)

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Oct 13, 2011

Jess rated it

Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads

It’s no secret that I love a strong alpha man. Who doesn’t? Take that alpha, make him a vet who will do anything to take care of any animal that comes his way, be it puppies, horses, kittens – he helps them all and puts them at ease. Jade, his receptionist, stands no chance against Dell, the man she’s worked the past 18 months for and who she describes as a “…dog whisperer, cat whisperer, horse whisperer, and known woman whisperer.”

...moreReview posted: Happily Ever After - Reads

It’s no secret that I love a strong alpha man. Who doesn’t? Take that alpha, make him a vet who will do anything to take care of any animal that comes his way, be it puppies, horses, kittens – he helps them all and puts them at ease. Jade, his receptionist, stands no chance against Dell, the man she’s worked the past 18 months for and who she describes as a “…dog whisperer, cat whisperer, horse whisperer, and known woman whisperer.”

Jade’s incredibly private, which is hard to be in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business. But she’s kept to herself, letting only a few people get close enough to call her a friend, and she’s struggling to put her life back together and start living again. She ran away from home after an attack at her old job and has been trying to deal with it on her own for months. It takes the smallest thing to trigger the bad memories for her and Dell realizes that she’s hurting and putting on a brave face through living a very OCD-like life; spreadsheets are her lifeline, order and neatness, Jade is Ms. Organized. Dell starts teaching her to defend herself by using self-defense moves and slowly Jade starts gaining her confidence back and starts to see Dell in a different light. They’d always had a little zing of attraction between them, but once they both stop fighting it, it explodes and their story was full of fun, back and forth banter, animals that add to the book’s personality and a sweet love story.

Jade’s cell phone rang, and shock, it was Dell

Since he wasn’t going to give up, she answered with, “Jade’s unavailable at this time. Go away.”

“Jade – “

“Leave a message at the beep,” she whispered, trying for sarcastic wit, which is where she felt the most comfortable while completely coming undone.

“I want to talk to you.”

“Sorry, you’ve been rerouted to the Office of Too Freaking Bad.”

He hung up on her and she breathed a sigh of relief. Which turned out to be too soon because his voice came through the door. “Open up.”

His voice was low. Calm, assertive. And she actually turned to face the door before she stopped herself. Don’t be the horse that needs taming! “Stop woman-whispering me.”

Dell lives for taking care of people. He doesn’t lean on anyone, and this fits perfectly with his career as a vet. If an animal is in need, he helps it. If he sees people struggling, he does what he can to help. He’s a rock, he’s playful and he’s hard to resist. I love reading about heroes like this. He’s a tough guy on the outside, but Jade finally, finally, gets him to reveal, little by little, pieces of his past that show he’s just as vulnerable as Jade feels and she wants to be needed by him.

Without being consciously aware of moving, she scooted closer, setting her head on his shoulder.

For a moment he didn’t move, then slowly he shifted and leaned into her. She slipped her arm around his waist and he shifted even more, turning into her, pressing his face to the crook of her neck.

She went still as her heart squeezed. Always it’d been him offering her comfort, safety, whatever she needed, but now for the first time he was taking those things from her.

Jade is a woman after my own heart…my own spreadsheet/Excel loving heart. There is nothing wrong with making lists of your lists. Nothing! She loves order, and the control that comes with having everything just so, but she’s not obnoxious about it. Even as she starts to gain more confidence and opens up to her friends, she still keeps that order and neatness in her life, that’s just the kind of person she is, and I was glad to see her maintain that, even with Dell helping her to learn to let go a little bit.

Dell and Jade were so hot together, but there was a little too much of the back and forth. They wanted to be with each other, but they were making it hard on themselves. There was nothing outside of the two of them that was keeping them apart or making them doubt the other person, it was just these two stubborn people who wouldn’t stop and see what was right in front of them. But I had so much fun reading this book, I didn’t care that they couldn’t get their acts together until the last few pages.

We get to see Dell’s brothers throughout the story, especially Adam and Lilah plays the part of Jade’s best friend and her eccentricities just make me want to reread Animal Magnetism again, her and Brady’s story, pet duck and all. You don’t have to be animal lover to enjoy the supporting role all the critters play throughout. From the orphaned kitten Beans that Jade takes in, to Dell’s dog Gertie, they add to the fun and even heartbreak for Dell (tissues, please) and I’m just a sucker for puppies, period.

I really enjoyed reading this book and getting lost in the small town of Sunshine. Dell and Jade are both so likable, they made me smile throughout, from start to finish.(less)

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Jan 23, 2012

BamaGal rated it

Shelves: cont-romance

Shalvis is one of my 'go to' authors when I'm looking for something fun, light, and breezy to read. I have a couple of new releases coming out tomorrow, and wanted a quick entertaining read to tide me over in the meantime. I can always count on Jill Shalvis for a good read. She's one of the best authors of the small-town romance currently writing, imo.

Animal Attraction is the 2nd book in the 'Animal' series. I didn't read the 1st book, but I was able to quickly pick up on the bac...more

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Oct 18, 2011

Kelly22 rated it

Recommends it for: Ppl 2 witnes irre’ible sml-twn suprhunky vetH hv hs way wid a willful citygrl in usual Shalvis style

Shelves: oct-release, alpha-hero, bad-boy-rake-rogue-casanova, beloved-favorites, contemporary-romance, favorite-couple, favorite-hero, favorite-heroine, favorite-story, friends-to-lover, good-girl-bad-boy, gorgeous-handsome-attractive-hero, hero-accomplished-lover, heroine-beautiful-pretty-covetted, hottest-love-scenes-ever, jill-shalvis, notorious-playboy-commitment-phobic, opposites-attract, silver-tongued-sweet-talker-hero, tortured-hero, traumatized-abused-heroine, witty-humerous-funny-comedy, office-romance, family-moments, hero-i-am-crazy-abt, hero-god-s-gift-to-woman, hero-flirt-playful-skilled-charmer

4.50 Stars - Contemporary Romance

This was another of Jill Shalvis’s beautiful lettering. With the first scene we forecast exactly what was going to happen. I feel that here begins yet another story portraying yet another Shalvis’s irresistible hero who knows how to get the girl and steal the show like nobody’s business. You get to predict how might the story press on and what will happen in the end. The guy gets the girl. No surprise there. But the way Shalvis tells the story? Big su...more4.50 Stars - Contemporary Romance

This was another of Jill Shalvis’s beautiful lettering. With the first scene we forecast exactly what was going to happen. I feel that here begins yet another story portraying yet another Shalvis’s irresistible hero who knows how to get the girl and steal the show like nobody’s business. You get to predict how might the story press on and what will happen in the end. The guy gets the girl. No surprise there. But the way Shalvis tells the story? Big surprise and yet no surprise at all given her writing histories. It was undeniably and incontestably one of the good contemporary small town romance novels of these times.

The scenes, the characters, the depictions, the emotions, all were created masterfully and will not let you put down the book unless and until you finish it. At every turn you will feel you know where this is going, what will happen next, but you stick to it like one of those guilty pleasures, refusing to let go a single syllable of it, even if you know the story, even if you know the ending, and even if you have lots of pending books piled up your shelves, waiting to be read.

The way the characters were written it will make you heave a sigh loudly throughout the book at various places that why you don’t have anyone in your life that exactly fits the depiction. The hero Dell was sigh-worthy, drool-worthy, mouth-watering, lip smacking, gorgeous, you name it. He was everything. He was too good to be true. The love-making scenes were outstandingly beautiful and did set the pages on fumes. The plot didn’t move much, but the settings depicted, were shouting authenticity. Loveable characters, adorable animals, a dazzling small-town super hottie hero and a beautiful head-strong city-girl heroine, the book has it all.

You start reading it, you get involved, you decide to finish it on a whim, you get blown by it in the process, and in the end you are left with nothing but satisfaction as a residue. That what this book does to you.
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Jan 17, 2012

Kitt rated it

Shelves: books-i-own, contemporary-romance, ebooks-i-own, read-2012, smexy

I saw this on H&H, downloaded it and than proceeded to read it in one sitting. It's not even close to my normal fare, but it surprised me and I ended up liking it so much that I'm off in search of #1 in the series, Animal Magnetism.

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Jan 13, 2012

Kelly rated it

This is the second book in a series. I like how the heroine from the first series was involved with the characters in this story too. In this story we learn about Jade, the secretary who runs the vet shop and the vet, Dell. The other supporting characters are Adam, who gets his story in book 3, some other employees, a parrot, a kitten, and a Saint Bernard, Gert. Oh, and a horse.

Jade ran from her home in Chicago after having been attacked. She hasn't told anyone in town about it. ...more

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Dec 18, 2011

Dianne Owens rated it

To start with, I didn't realize this novel was the second installment in a series based around the characters at Sunshine, a small (perhaps imaginary) town in Idaho. It didn't matter though, because it was a fantastic read that left me giggling from ear to ear like some sort of crazy person. Yep, that's the way I roll. :-D
Jade left her job at the Medical Center owned by her family 18 months ago after being held at gunpoint during a burgling. She ran to Sunshine in the hopes of regaining so...moreTo start with, I didn't realize this novel was the second installment in a series based around the characters at Sunshine, a small (perhaps imaginary) town in Idaho. It didn't matter though, because it was a fantastic read that left me giggling from ear to ear like some sort of crazy person. Yep, that's the way I roll. :-D
Jade left her job at the Medical Center owned by her family 18 months ago after being held at gunpoint during a burgling. She ran to Sunshine in the hopes of regaining some semblance of self. The problem is, she didn't count on being attracted to her boss, vet Dell Connelly, and vice versa, a man that has become a close friend since she walked through the door of the surgery with the "Position Vacant" flyer in her hand.
Dell has a knack for charming both animals and females of the human species. He is the younger brother of two boys, both abandoned by their mother when she was a teenager, leaving them at the mercy of the child welfare system. Both brothers are heavily scarred, but have a strong bond with foster brother Brady. Brady is engaged to Lilah, the woman from the animal refuge. [N.B. Brady and Lilah were the focus of the first novel.]
In spite of the happiness Jade has found in Sunshine, she promised to return to her life in Chicago by the first of the following month, one that she believes she must keep out of a sense of duty to her family. However, after she hears that there has been a bunch of burglaries in the region, she begins to get nervous, then freaks out in the carpark after a deaf child in a Halloween mask brings back memories of her traumatic experience. Seeing it from a window, Dell goes into guardian mode and begins to help her regain some confidence by teaching her some self-defense training. They become closer and closer as the deadline draws ever closer. However, it is the unwillingness of each to face their own demons and emotions head-on, from both past and present, that will be the greatest hurdle for the pair.
Even though Animal Attraction is technically a romance novel, it had more depth than most books in the genre. The characters were inviting from page one, and I wanted to know who they were and what made them tick. Sure, it started with a goofy little scene where Jade is checking out Dell's ass as he's trying to coax an abandoned kitten from under a bench, but even that made the story endearing. The language and the descriptive made me chuckle. I found that I really liked the various members of the cast, as the dialogue and inner monologue made them feel like living, breathing entities. Heck, even the animals had their own unique habits and personalities. (Score!)
There is an underlying humor to Shalvis' that adds a natural quality to the novel, which made scenes that would otherwise be dull, highly entertaining. A lot of the humor came from scenes featuring Adam Connelly, a fellow that takes special pleasure in pissing with his younger brother. Lilah also added to the silliness, asking leading questions of Jade and Dell periodically through the novel. Hilarious! (Score!)
Jill Shalvis does a great job in the pacing department, giving consideration for how much can happen within the span of a month. Having pre-existing relationships also helps make the interactions between the various characters make logical sense. This meant there was no catch-up. There was no need for info-dumps either. (Score!)
Jill Shalvis also knows how to make the sex scenes meaningful. Sure, they tend to be steamy, but the author adds an emotional quality often absent in other books in the romance genre. There is variation in these scenes as well, not the same shit regurgitated time and time again. I even laughed during some of the scenes. Why? Because sex doesn't have to be serious.(Score!)
And lastly, we come to attention to detail. Jill Shalvis must have made an extensive list of patients and medical histories based on how many times Jade and Dell interacted with their owners. It was a curious thing, but gave me the feeling that the Belle Haven vet center was a business with a real customer base rather than some cheap knock together. Score!)
In conclusion, if you enjoy a romance novel with living, breathing characters, then you should give Animal Attraction a read. Sure, you'll find some silly moments, but these do well to cut through the drama. There is sex and regular coarse language, so not for the kiddies. Based on this title, I will certainly look into reading other books by Jill Shalvis in the not-so-distant future.(less)

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Dec 16, 2011

Jessi rated it

Shelves: contemporary, appealing-characteristic-setting, appealing-characteristic-character, part-of-a-series, romance

Jade Bennett is hiding from something... She sticks out in Sunshine, Idaho like a sore thumb. Her heels are high and her clothes aren't Carhartts. But Dell Connelly is appreciative of the fact that she has taken his disorganized vet clinic and ruthlessly put everything into spread sheets and to-do lists.
Jade showed up in town eighteen months ago and has gotten friendly with Dell and his brother as well as their friend Lilah. Dell hasn't been pushing to learn her secrets because he understa...more

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Oct 24, 2011

Ing rated it

My Thought:

We first meet Dell and Jade in Animal Magnetism. The readers right away can tell there are some serious chemistry between the sexy Doc and his receptionist/office manager, Jade. Dell (deep dreamy sigh here ladies..seriously big SIGH) is a commitment phobe big time. He makes himself available to those around but basically keeps those relationships pretty shallow. He only has a select few that he lets in his inner sanctum which he is very protective of. Dell is a charmer and...moreMy Thought:

We first meet Dell and Jade in Animal Magnetism. The readers right away can tell there are some serious chemistry between the sexy Doc and his receptionist/office manager, Jade. Dell (deep dreamy sigh here ladies..seriously big SIGH) is a commitment phobe big time. He makes himself available to those around but basically keeps those relationships pretty shallow. He only has a select few that he lets in his inner sanctum which he is very protective of. Dell is a charmer and loves animals. He is really good at what he does and has no problem getting dirty or traveling long distances to take care of an animal in need. The man is sexy, sweet, fun loving and did I mention sexy? Dell is by no means perfect...remember commitment phobe? Dell and his brother Adam grew up in foster homes and everyone that was suppose to have loved them was always leaving them. They finally found some stability when they were taken in by Sol Anders.

Dell is irresistibly drawn to Jade. Ever since she showed up in his life eighteen months ago Dell has had the hots for her. He wants to know what makes her tick and he especially wants to know what made her leave her home in Chicago. He's been trying to get to know her but Jade is closed mouth about her life prior to coming to Sunshine. At first this works out for Dell since he really doesn't mix work and pleasure but he still can't help watching and caring for her. Once he realizes what happened to Jade that made her run, the man offers defensive training and does all he can to make Jade feel safe. How can you not love a guy like that. Even as he protest the entire time that he doesn't do relationships with Jade his actions spoke louder than words.

Jade had a traumatic experience that made her question herself and since she's been in Sunshine she's found solace in this small town. She is happiest behind the desk organizing and running the lives of those in the clinic especially the sexy Dell. Jade is stand-offish, efficient and loves her spreadsheets. Boy does she ever love her spreadsheet. LOL. Jade is just as strongly attracted to Dell as he is to her. She's held off jumping into anything since she will be leaving soon and also Dell's playboy rep doesn't help. She comes off very strong to those around her but inside she is as soft as they come.

It was a beautiful and sometimes frustrating experience watching these two find their way around each other. There were some miscommunications and some obvious signs that both missed and at times I just wanted to smack their heads together...lol. But it was all worth it in the end to see them open their hearts and let down the guards they've both put up. There are some serious sizzling moments that will leave you ummmm...panting. These two are a deadly combo in the sexy/foreplay department. The banter between them and the other secondary characters were witty and full of humor. I laughed so much.

Let me go ahead and say this...I'm seriously addicted to Jill Shalvis's contemporaries. I can always count on Jill to deliver the laughs, quirky characters, sexy as hell heroes and lovable heroines. Animal Attraction is the second book in this series and it continues to entertain and keep me turning the pages. I finished the book in one night. This book reads well by itself so if you don't read the first book (Animal Magnetism) first...I promise you that you will not be lost. Everything from the silliness at the clinic to the animals to the banter between Dell and his brother and friends worked perfectly. I don't know how Jill does it but she knows how to create some damn irresistible heroes. Every time I'm done with one of her books I end up falling madly in love with them big time. It takes a couple of days to get over the crush...seriously! :) Now I can't wait for Adam's book.

It's another winner for me. I recommend this to anyone who loves a sexy, funny and well written contemporary romance.
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Oct 15, 2011

Christi Bryant-Snow rated it

My Review:
Dell + Jade = PERFECT combination.
OMG, I love these two characters together. Jade is the perfect OCD office manager for Dell's animal clinic. She walked in randomly off the street 18 months before without any references or any experience (as far as he knew,) but he hired her anyway and NEVER regretted it. When life gets crazy (as it OFTEN does in a vet clinic) Jade never wavers, is never anything less than calm, never gets ruffled or flustered, and she always stays on top of...moreMy Review:
Dell + Jade = PERFECT combination.
OMG, I love these two characters together. Jade is the perfect OCD office manager for Dell's animal clinic. She walked in randomly off the street 18 months before without any references or any experience (as far as he knew,) but he hired her anyway and NEVER regretted it. When life gets crazy (as it OFTEN does in a vet clinic) Jade never wavers, is never anything less than calm, never gets ruffled or flustered, and she always stays on top of every detail. She manages every part of his clinic with a highly organized hand including Dell.

Dell is the opposite....no, he doesn't get ruffled or flustered, but he's a little scatter-brained at times, and a LOT messy. He's an easy-going, happy guy, and is really laid back. He is a "no-commitment" kind of guy, but lately his receptionist has been more and more intriguing especially as now he is having to face the fact that she is leaving. She has always claimed that this is a temporary arrangement and has put in her month's notice. She is headed home to Chicago and Dell isn't quite sure how any of them, most importantly him, are going to live without her.

This pair were so fun to read about as they fell in love. They are so completely opposite, but both truly amazing, wonderful characters. Jade is dealing with some leftover trauma from an attack that happened to cause her to leave Chicago. She came to Idaho to find peace, but instead she found a home and her true calling. After holding everyone at bay for 18 months, she comes to a stark realization throughout this book and it's fun to watch her character arc.

This book is written with Jill Shalvis' trademark style of fun and wit. The characters have tons of depth...all of them. I absolutely adored the first book in this series and this one did not disappoint...At. All. I love this group of three brothers. They love each other and give each other a hard time on a constant basis. It's bromance at its finest. The addition of the animals and the craziness that they add makes for some fun humor too.

One more book to go. This time, Adam's story. I think that we saw glimpses of his romance to come in this book and it looks to be REALLY GOOD, but honestly, I expect no less. Just an amazing series!!(less)

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Oct 11, 2011

Bookaholics rated it

· review of another edition

Animal Attraction - Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance -Oct. 4th, 2011
4 1/2 stars

Jade Bennett is glad to be away from Chicago and her well intentioned by over-protective family. After a traumatic incident in her past, she is slowly finding herself again in Sunshine, Idaho where she works as a receptionist for Dell Connelly’s veterinarian practice. Dell is intensely attracted to his organized, efficient receptionist who somehow brought order to his chaotic work place. He wants t...more

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Sep 11, 2011

Leilani Lopez rated it

I love Dell. First of all, what animal lover doesn't has a certain type of love for veterinarians, and second, if Dell was my veterinarian, I'd have some love for him too! From the first line in the book, I knew it was going to be a good ride. What's that? You want the first line? Okay, okay.

"'Come on, baby,' he murmured. 'Give it up to me. You know you want to.'"

Yes, that was Dell. And if you want to hear, or read, more of him you'l have to wait till the relea...moreI love Dell. First of all, what animal lover doesn't has a certain type of love for veterinarians, and second, if Dell was my veterinarian, I'd have some love for him too! From the first line in the book, I knew it was going to be a good ride. What's that? You want the first line? Okay, okay.

"'Come on, baby,' he murmured. 'Give it up to me. You know you want to.'"

Yes, that was Dell. And if you want to hear, or read, more of him you'l have to wait till the release date! Trust me folks, it'll be worth it.

Animal Attraction was the perfect mix of cute fuzzy animals and hot animal attraction. Seriously. Dell and Jade, Jade and Dell, they make a purrfect pair. And that cute little kitten on the cover, yup, that cute little kitten is definitely like icing on their cake. And Dell, oh Dell, he is the sweetest thing ever! I adored him as a Vet. he was fantastic with the animals, always knowing what to do... and with Jade.

Jade has a lot going on in her, life, battling demons as Adam says, and Dell is great with her. Dell deals with hurt animals for a living so he knows exactly when to stop and push when it comes with Jade. And despite what she says, Jade wants it. I mean, who wouldn't with a boss like Dell? But like with any hurt animal, or person, it takes a lot of time before Jade feels comfortable with Dell and her feelings, and let me be the one to tell you, they're ride is enjoyable!

I'm more of a city girl myself but I found myself wanting to visit a place like Sunshine! It always seems like all of the hot, marry-type men are in little cities. I might just have to change my ways if it means finding one, especially one like Dell! And, if he's a Vet. that's definitely a plus in my book!

Sunshine and all of the people/animals in it had me fall in love. I love Dell and Jade and even Lilah and Brady. If you love fuzzy animals, hot Vets, and heroines who are fighting demons (not literally) and find comfort in the hero, Animal Attraction is definitely the book for you. It was definitely one for me!(less)

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Aug 22, 2011

Amy Jacobs rated it

Shelves: books-i-own

Why have I not read this series before? What rock have I been under to have missed such a great story and author? Since this is the second book in the Animal series, I wasn't sure if I was going to understand what is going on. Yet as I started reading it, the book definitely can be read as a stand alone novel. With that being said though, now I want to pick up the first book in the series to read about the other characters!

Jade ran away from her life in the big city after a ...moreWhy have I not read this series before? What rock have I been under to have missed such a great story and author? Since this is the second book in the Animal series, I wasn't sure if I was going to understand what is going on. Yet as I started reading it, the book definitely can be read as a stand alone novel. With that being said though, now I want to pick up the first book in the series to read about the other characters!

Jade ran away from her life in the big city after a tragic event at her previously place of employment. She ran to Sunshine, Idaho to rediscover and reinvent herself. She always knew it would be temporary and even told her boss Dell Connelly that the job he gives her would only be temporary. They have both found each other attractive, but never made any attempt at a relationship since Jade would be leaving. Of course, now that Jade is getting ready to leave, the two find themselves fighting the attraction even more. While Dell tries to get Jade to open up about what happened in the past and work through it, the two start to express their feelings towards each other and give up the fight. Everyone can see that they like each other, but is love enough to keep Jade from leaving?

I loved this story! Dell was a great vet, friend, brother and romantic lead. He was charming and loved his work without letting it get to him. Jade was okay in my opinion. I wanted her to just explain the situation sooner to Dell than keeping it a secret. I think if she would have opened up sooner to him, they could have had a better chance at a relationship. Of course then there would be no drama for the romance novel if it went the way a reader wants it to. So I trusted the author and went with it. I also loved the witty banter between the two and had a smile on my face for most of the book. The writing flowed easily and kept you not only interested in the main characters, but in the side characters as well.

I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series and have already read a few more by this author! (less)

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Oct 11, 2011

Lisa rated it

Shelves: kindle

Jill Shalvis has been a must buy for me from the first couple books of hers that i ever read. Animal Attraction is the 2nd book in her Animal series. I read this in two evenings but had i strarted earlier in the day it easily would be a one sitting book. I read Animal Magnetism (book 1) when it came out and was ready for book 2 immediately I enjoyed it so much. It was well worth the wait. Dell Connelly and Jade Bennett both have issues. Even though they grew up with very different backgrounds ...more

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Oct 08, 2011

Norma rated it

Shelves: contemporary-romance, kindle-ebook, read-2011

Had a super-stressful week and then was without a car for my two days off , so the hubby said I should buy myself a book so I would feel better. :)

This was a really cute and fun book. I just love Jill Shalvis's voice. She has such wonderful sense of humor (totally read her blog and facebook posts) and it really comes across in her books and in her characters.

We met Dell and Jade in book one. They are both terrific characters. I loved seeing Lilah and Brady and gettin...more

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Dec 02, 2011

Kathy Martin rated it

This was another great romance by Shalvis. I liked the attraction between the two main characters and understood why they were conflicted. Jade had made a promise that she would return home. She has put it off a number of times because she still isn't over the trauma that sent her running to Sunshine, Idaho in the first place. She was attacked at her family's medical center and felt that she didn't do anything to save herself. Her family had always told her that she was strong but this incident ...moreThis was another great romance by Shalvis. I liked the attraction between the two main characters and understood why they were conflicted. Jade had made a promise that she would return home. She has put it off a number of times because she still isn't over the trauma that sent her running to Sunshine, Idaho in the first place. She was attacked at her family's medical center and felt that she didn't do anything to save herself. Her family had always told her that she was strong but this incident destroyed her confidence in herself. She has been rebuilding her confidence in Sunshine with the help of Dell and the other characters.

Dell was great with animals and had an intuitive feel for what they needed but he was very careful with his heart. As many of the characters said, Dell has abandonment issues. First his mother walked out, then his father died, then a beloved foster parent dies. That is enough to make anyone careful! But he sees that Jade needs her confidence boosted and can't help but care for her. He doesn't want to risk his heart because she has said again and again that her stay in Sunshine is a temporary one.

But the romance can't be denied. When Dell offers Jade self-defense lessons, they begin to get closer. They go into the relationship thinking it will be short term. In fact, they are both deluding themselves that they can be together for a while and then part. This self-delusion is really apparent to the other characters in the story and to us as readers.

I really liked the cute animal characters in this story too. Jade adopts a wary stray kitten that she names Beans. The vet office has a parrot named Peanut who won't say "Peanut wants a cracker" even though Jade tries to convince it to do so. However it quickly picks up "boner" and a few other embarrassing phrases. Dell also has a large lovable dog named Gertie who spends time at the office too.

This was a fun, sweet and sexy romance filled with likable characters. It is a great story if you are looking for a feel-good romance.(less)

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Dec 09, 2011

Susan rated it

Shelves: romance

Excellent book. I liked Jade a lot. I loved the way she ran the office, and Dell, with amazing efficiency. She used that efficiency to keep control of her life and surroundings, to compensate for the one time she wasn't in control. I loved Dell and the way he was so good with the animals. I also loved the way he treated Jade, taking care of her. It was great that he was so interested in her and what made her tick. He also did a great job of teaching her self-defense, so that she would be ...more

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Dec 12, 2011

Mel rated it

Shelves: delectable-brothers, chick-lit, contemporary-romance, romantic-comedy, series-about-siblings, series, series-i-love, favorite-author

What is not to love? The hot sexy hero of the story is a vet who loves his animals. Oh, wait, there is a catch. He has major commitment issues caused by a traumatic past. While Dell is loving life, his women, and building a strong client base for his vet clinic, he is creating chaos with the business end. Enter Jade. She is in need of a temporary job. Instant sparks fly, but Dell is her boss and must maintain a professional relationship. Jade is a whirlwind and organizes the vet clini...more

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Oct 12, 2011

Jodie rated it

Shelves: on-blog

The first book in this series was my first Jill Shalvis read - and I was blow away.
It was refreshing and so romantic I wanted to go to bed early in the hopes that I would have sweet dreams.

Animal Attraction was very similar - not quite as romantic as the first in my opinion as it took a little longer to get down to the good stuff- but very similar in the storyline. In Animal Magnetism the hero is the one leaving in a certain amount of days so the casual fling that turns into love ...more

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Jan 06, 2012

Penney rated it

Shelves: audio, contemporary-romance

I did this book on audio and I was about to rate it 3 stars, until I realized I was basing that on the narrator's performance and that's just not fair. So I guess this is more of an audio review than a book review. I enjoyed both Dell and Jade. You could see the attraction in book one and it was nice to watch it develop and grow during their own story. The audio narrator however, said every sentence on sigh, s-l-o-w-l-y, making the characters (especially Jade) sound whiney and annoying. At ...more

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Jan 15, 2012

Darcy rated it

Shelves: 2012, romance

This is another cute sweet read. I found it interesting how both Jade and Dell hold themselves back, yet were right at the center of their friend bunch, I also found it interesting that these friends knew that of them. For Jade it seemed like her expiration date in Sunshine was just what she needed to make herself act on what she wanted to. I found myself getting frustrated with the way that both Jade and Dell acted with each other and how their friends were much more aware of what was going ...more

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Sep 10, 2011

Jane Litte rated it

This is a cute read but I got very tired of Jade's insistence that Dell didn't want anything deeper, particularly when he practically made a love confession. It was obvious that she was treated differently by him but Jade refused to see it. I also thought that Dell's insistence that he never made attachments was clearly disproven by the text. He was devoted to his brothers. He took in Lilah, a woman in town and treated her like his sister. He had a solid vet practice and had his own pets. Ever...more

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Nov 07, 2011

Ellie rated it

Animal Attraction, Animal #2, by Jill Shalvis
Grade: B

“You give everything you have to us, to this place, to the animals that come to you in it. So why can’t you give everything you have to the one woman who’s ever made you happy?”

Eighteen months ago Jade Bennett was held at gun point during a robbery at her parents’ health clinic in Chicago. After the traumatic experience Jade packed up her car and drove west, finally stopping in Sunshine, Idaho. Sunshine is the first pl...moreAnimal Attraction, Animal #2, by Jill Shalvis
Grade: B

“You give everything you have to us, to this place, to the animals that come to you in it. So why can’t you give everything you have to the one woman who’s ever made you happy?”

Eighteen months ago Jade Bennett was held at gun point during a robbery at her parents’ health clinic in Chicago. After the traumatic experience Jade packed up her car and drove west, finally stopping in Sunshine, Idaho. Sunshine is the first place Jade has felt safe since the robbery and she is determined to find the strong woman she once was. Slowly Jade begins to rebuild her life starting with her great job as veterinarian Dell Connelly’s receptionist where she thrives. Not only does Jade love her job working with animals but also working with Dell who seems determined to break through all of Jade’s carefully erected walls one by one.
Dell Connelly likes to keep his life easy, especially when it comes to women and relationships. Never one to settle down Dell is surprised to find himself so drawn to Jade and the fact that she’s hiding secrets from him just makes him that much more determined to figure her out. As the two grow closer Dell realizes that somewhere along the way Jade has slipped into his life and he finds himself wanting to keep her there. When Jade’s family calls her back to Chicago Dell must convince not only Jade but himself to take a chance on their relationship and finally let all of their walls down.
Animal Attraction is the second book in Jill Shalvis’ Animal series but it can be read as a stand alone with no problem. I loved the whole animal aspect of this book. As a huge animal lover and owner the interactions with all the different animals was very cute and helped show a different, softer side of both Jade and Dell. I have never read a book with so many of the side characters being animals and I loved how they helped move the story along and got Jade and Dell to heal and open up.
Jade is a very complex, very frightened woman but at the same time she is sassy and can have a very funny, dry sense of humor. I loved her and really found myself rooting for her through out the book. I loved her relationship with Beans and loved seeing how all it took was a scared kitten to get this woman to slowly start to heal by giving it a home and keeping it safe. There were a few times when Jade acted like a crazy, jealous woman and got on my nerves but it was quickly resolved and she returned to being a normal human being.
Dell comes off as a very easy going playboy but you soon discover there is so much else going on. I feel that a lot of Dell’s back story was told in the first book in the series and this was the only time I felt lost. After a while you get caught up and learn why Dell never lets anyone but animals close to him and I found it to be quite heartbreaking. The sexual tension between Jade and Dell is amazing and when they finally get together it’s well worth the wait. The banter between the two is very funny and keeps the story from getting too heavy at times.
I found Animal Attraction to be a very cute, fun read. I found both of the main characters to be entertaining and I loved seeing them change and grow together. I really loved the animals and the fact that they play such a fun role in the story. I think this is a great series and I can’t wait to go back and read the first book to catch up. I hope that the series will continue because I love the world of Sunshine, Idaho that Mrs. Shalvis has made and i can’t wait to see what happens to all these great characters.
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Feb 16, 2012

Lea rated it

3.5 stars

This is the second book in the series. A cute, fun, fast read. Had some great laugh out loud moments and lots of smiling into the book moments - Shalvis writes not only amazingly hot male leads but also some heart melting animal encounters. I liked Dell a lot and enjoyed the interactions between him and his brothers as well as him and every animal he tends to. The first chapter in this book - heck the first two pages - had me hooked on him! He is another one of those "...more

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Oct 09, 2011

Rva Booklover rated it

Dell owns an veterinary clinic in Idaho, and Jade is his office manager. When Dell hired her 18 months prior, he knew she was running from something and needed time to heal. Well, Jade is on the brink of returning to her "real life" in Chicago, and Dell is finding it hard to let her go.

Jade puts up a tough as nails front, but inside, she is still recovering from a traumatic event that led to her running away from her old life to Idaho. We learn that the event has shaken he...moreDell owns an veterinary clinic in Idaho, and Jade is his office manager. When Dell hired her 18 months prior, he knew she was running from something and needed time to heal. Well, Jade is on the brink of returning to her "real life" in Chicago, and Dell is finding it hard to let her go.

Jade puts up a tough as nails front, but inside, she is still recovering from a traumatic event that led to her running away from her old life to Idaho. We learn that the event has shaken her to the core, causing her to question who she always believed she was. While she has acquaintances, she never really lets anyone get too close. We learn that in the 18 months she has lived here, not even her closest friend, Lilah from Animal Magnetism, has been allowed inside of her apartment. When she finally allows Lilah access to her inner sanctum, we can see her barriers are beginning to crumble, and that Jade is finally learning to let people in. Great analogy.

There is a string of break ins at vet clinics in the area, and as Jade is walking to her car after work, she sees a person in a mask coming toward her. She is paralyzed with fear, unable to react as she flashes back to her traumatic event. Turns out to be a false alarm, but the result is the same. Jade feels like she has not made any progress toward recovery. Dell sees her freak-out moment, and rather than saying, "I'll protect you...blah, blah", he offers to teach her self defense moves. I love this. He empowers her, helping her to help herself, thus building her confidence to defend herself.

Dell is the easy going guy, the one who breezes in and out of encounters without hard feelings, and no looking back. He is a firm believer in always being the one to leave, not being the one left behind. Deeper, though, we learn how being shuttled through the foster home system has affected his ability to maintain connections. Very few folks have a permanent place in his life. He has his brothers, Adam and Brady, and he has Lilah, his surrogate sister. I love the interaction between Dell and Adam..."Good talk"... Oh, they cracked me up.

Dell and Jade have been attracted to each other since forever, but neither acted on it. When they finally do, WOW! Fireworks, supernova level explosions of passion...I felt their connection to my toes. Jade hides her feelings behind endless snark, while Dell hides his behind a smile and flirty words, but when they drop the facade and get real with each other, I cried for both of them. Especially when we see Dell's inner monologue of wanting so badly to ask Jade to stay in Sunshine, but so desperately afraid of being rejected, he just can't do it.

Jill Shalvis has done it again. She has given us a tale of two people who are trying to find their way, and realize they are better together than separately. With her trademark humor and effortless storytelling style, she gives us a glimpse into the lives of Dell and Jade. I absolutely loved Animal Attraction and I am eagerly awaiting Adam's story.

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Nov 29, 2011

Michelle rated it

Great continuation in the Animal series by Jill Shalvis. Jade was such a strong, independent character but behind closed doors her insecurities and fears come to light. Dell is the hunky vet in town as well as Jade's boss which means she really shouldn't be having these lusty thoughts. With only one month left before Jade returns home to Chicago, these two embark on a steamy affair that leaves both scared and unsure. Neither of them expected their affair to lead to strong feelings but can either...more

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Feb 10, 2012

Jennifer Clements rated it

Shelves: read-in-2012, romance, series

While not as good Animal #1.... still an amazing book. Jade has been working as Dell and Adam's receptionist for a year and a half but only now are they acting on the obvious chemistry between them. Only problem is.... Jade is leaving to return home to Chicago. I loved both Jade and Dell in the first book and was excited to read their love story. My heart broke over and over again for the two of them. I loved getting involved in their story. I would highly recommend this book to all fans o...more

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Oct 27, 2011

Lizz Wodrich rated it

Not THAT kind of attraction. Sheesh! Dell is a VET people. We met Jade and Dell (Delll.... swoon.....) in the first book in the series, and now they get their own HEA. I loved the characters, and I loved the book, BUT I did get to the point where I just wanted to shake both of them until their teeth rattled! TALK to each other people!!! I tend towards frustration when people are unhappy simply because they don't talk... Still it all ends up just right in the end and I'm looking forward to...more

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Jan 29, 2012

Tina rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: jill-shalvis, contemporary-romance

The second installment in this series which centers around three brothers who bonded in foster care environment is a beautiful story about two people with pasts that have impacted their ability to love and have a meaningful relationship.

Dell is the town's sexy veterinarian who has all the women trying to find something wrong with their pets just to spend a little time with him. He has hidden feelings for his overqualified receptionist, Jade, who has slight OCD tendencies.

...more

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Oct 28, 2011

Becs G rated it

· review of another edition

Jill Shalvis is one of the hottest contemporary romance writers around at this moment and it seems she can do no wrong and Animal Attraction is no exception.

I've been looking forward to this having enjoyed Animal Magnetism so much and wasn't disappointed with Dell and Jade's story.

Jade has suffered a traumatic experience back in the city which is revealed to us slowly during the story and is in Sunshine, Idaho working a job way below her paygrade in an attempt to escape h...more

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Animal Attraction (Animal #2)

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