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House Trained
Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow. While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too. With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?
From bestselling author Jackie Bouchard comes a humorous and heartwarming look at how life creates opportunities to love in surprising ways.
From bestselling author Jackie Bouchard comes a humorous and heartwarming look at how life creates opportunities to love in surprising ways.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
468 people are currently reading
910 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Bouchard
5 books132 followersJackie Bouchard used to be trapped in the hamster wheel of corporate America, but she was lucky enough to escape and now fully understands the term "struggling writer." Jackie loves: reading, writing, and, yes, even 'rithmetic (seriously, algebra rocks); professional cycling; margaritas; blogging (she never thought she'd say that, but she does); dogs in general, and her crazy rescue pup specifically; and her hubby. (Not in that order.) Jackie dislikes: rude people and writing about herself in the third person. After living in Southern California, then Bermuda, then Canada, then the East coast, Jackie and her husband settled in San Diego. American Jackie, her Canadian hubby, and her Mexican rescue mutt form their own happy little United Nations. Jackie's novels include "What The Dog Ate" and "Rescue Me, Maybe."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
July 17, 2020
2.4 stars
The first line had me, it was laugh out loud hilarious. I expected a humorous light romantic tale after that. The story was about life’s lessons, dreams found, the damage of secrets, and ultimately trust. It was more serious than that first line hinted at. I think that threw me off balance. I spent the first part of the book searching for the few funny bits and disappointed when it dragged me into the “preach it” zone instead. (more on that later) I wasn’t completely disappointed the last 30% of the story was somewhat interesting, many issues came up and were handled well, a long relationship was the semi-solid base that held up to the storm. Sweet HEA ending.
The preaching: They are a childless couple by choice. She has a sister with children a mother who wants her to have children, and a lot of really rude women around her who can’t deal with the fact that she doesn’t want any. Great, I love to see a character that steps out of the love=children box. They have a dog instead, a rescue dog yippee another great addition. The problem for me was that the first 50% of the story she (Alex) spent talking about her choice, feeling put aside by it, rehashing it with her family, dealing with strangers regards. It was too much, it felt preachy to me and I just wanted to move on enough already but no, it ended up being a major issue through most of the book. I was so thankful when she finally had something more to deal with, and still she went back to justifying her choice many times. I really didn’t care if she had kids or not. This was obviously not the book for me.
The relationship between her and her husband was to be beautiful and strong. I think that was what the author planned it to read like. I saw it as weak, filled with lies, mistrust and didn’t find enough love to cheer them on. She hid her truth, her feelings he was distant and distracted. Alex seemed to take on the doormat quality too easily, letting people cross the line when it felt wrong because she wanted to be nice. One massive wake up call would have had me sliced and diced, while this character just went mellow and controlled. If she had held her ground, kicked and fussed a bit, been stronger in her beliefs, not consider herself a consolation prize (UGG) I could have cheered for this woman.
The end was sweet but not worth the time I put into reading the book. The title was so misleading I thought it was the dog being house trained but no it was something else and didn’t justify being the title. It did not work for my taste and I will pass on any future books.
The first line had me, it was laugh out loud hilarious. I expected a humorous light romantic tale after that. The story was about life’s lessons, dreams found, the damage of secrets, and ultimately trust. It was more serious than that first line hinted at. I think that threw me off balance. I spent the first part of the book searching for the few funny bits and disappointed when it dragged me into the “preach it” zone instead. (more on that later) I wasn’t completely disappointed the last 30% of the story was somewhat interesting, many issues came up and were handled well, a long relationship was the semi-solid base that held up to the storm. Sweet HEA ending.
The preaching: They are a childless couple by choice. She has a sister with children a mother who wants her to have children, and a lot of really rude women around her who can’t deal with the fact that she doesn’t want any. Great, I love to see a character that steps out of the love=children box. They have a dog instead, a rescue dog yippee another great addition. The problem for me was that the first 50% of the story she (Alex) spent talking about her choice, feeling put aside by it, rehashing it with her family, dealing with strangers regards. It was too much, it felt preachy to me and I just wanted to move on enough already but no, it ended up being a major issue through most of the book. I was so thankful when she finally had something more to deal with, and still she went back to justifying her choice many times. I really didn’t care if she had kids or not. This was obviously not the book for me.
The relationship between her and her husband was to be beautiful and strong. I think that was what the author planned it to read like. I saw it as weak, filled with lies, mistrust and didn’t find enough love to cheer them on. She hid her truth, her feelings he was distant and distracted. Alex seemed to take on the doormat quality too easily, letting people cross the line when it felt wrong because she wanted to be nice. One massive wake up call would have had me sliced and diced, while this character just went mellow and controlled. If she had held her ground, kicked and fussed a bit, been stronger in her beliefs, not consider herself a consolation prize (UGG) I could have cheered for this woman.
The end was sweet but not worth the time I put into reading the book. The title was so misleading I thought it was the dog being house trained but no it was something else and didn’t justify being the title. It did not work for my taste and I will pass on any future books.
April 11, 2017
This is my second read from this author and She has moved firmly into my favorite author category. She incorporates her love of dogs into her stories that at their core are about family. And most readers will find a character or two that they recognize.
Alex Halstad has the perfect life. An interior designer with a wonderful husband and a fur child by the name of Marie. Of course all is not as it seems. Just below the surface there are secrets, insecurity and long standing family tensions.
Alex watches her "perfect" life change and unravel when a new family member makes an appearance.As she tries desperately to maintain control of a fast changing situation, it becomes a clear there is a major collision coming.
This is a family drama with humor mixed in with the pathos. And as is usual with this author, the dog is the real tie that helps bind the humans together.
Alex Halstad has the perfect life. An interior designer with a wonderful husband and a fur child by the name of Marie. Of course all is not as it seems. Just below the surface there are secrets, insecurity and long standing family tensions.
Alex watches her "perfect" life change and unravel when a new family member makes an appearance.As she tries desperately to maintain control of a fast changing situation, it becomes a clear there is a major collision coming.
This is a family drama with humor mixed in with the pathos. And as is usual with this author, the dog is the real tie that helps bind the humans together.
November 14, 2015
I have to admit that about 15% into this book I almost said "no thank you" and was ready to move on. Then I looked at the number of stars (I don't read reviews before I read a book) and thought I should give it a little more time. I'm so glad I did. It was laugh out loud funny in places and so sad I could cry in others. This author did an amazing job with the story, characters. Of course, being a dog lover, my favorite character was Marie! Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a great read.
October 6, 2015
After loving Rescue Me, Maybe, I couldn't wait to read this new release. All I can say is it did not disappoint. I quickly felt a connection to Alex. She is in love with husband and has never felt the need to have children in her life. A lot of the book focuses on Alex having to justify to friends, family and even herself why this decision is perfectly acceptable. I saw another review which felt that perhaps this was harped on too much throughout the book, but coming from someone who has never really had a maternal instinct and a desire to procreate, it is something you do have to explain a lot and to a lot of people who really have no business in the decision. So Alex chooses to have 4-legged children - YEA FOR PETS!
Alex has to deal with a lot in this book - a struggling business, a household crisis, a new step-daughter neither she nor her husband knew about, and even further, a step-grand-daughter. While Alex struggles, she manages this with her own flair. Alex would not be able to manage any of this without her beloved rescue dog, Marie. Marie openly accepts all the changes in the family and teaches Alex a few things along the way. So many books try to incorporate how important humans are when it comes to saving dogs, but this one also stresses how dogs can save humans and bring families together. Also, Bouchard works some humor into her story which is a welcome thing with such heavy subject matter.
I have always loved Lucy Dillon's books and how she weaves animals into her engrossing tales. I finally have another author who does this extremely well and who has shot straight up to my auto-buy list right beside Dillon. Go get this book....NOW!
Alex has to deal with a lot in this book - a struggling business, a household crisis, a new step-daughter neither she nor her husband knew about, and even further, a step-grand-daughter. While Alex struggles, she manages this with her own flair. Alex would not be able to manage any of this without her beloved rescue dog, Marie. Marie openly accepts all the changes in the family and teaches Alex a few things along the way. So many books try to incorporate how important humans are when it comes to saving dogs, but this one also stresses how dogs can save humans and bring families together. Also, Bouchard works some humor into her story which is a welcome thing with such heavy subject matter.
I have always loved Lucy Dillon's books and how she weaves animals into her engrossing tales. I finally have another author who does this extremely well and who has shot straight up to my auto-buy list right beside Dillon. Go get this book....NOW!
November 6, 2015
(I almost DNFed this at 3% because Alex caught her husband talking to his penis in the shower - which he named Skipper, by the way - and spent the entire first chapter ranting how he should rename it something like Copernicus.)
Anyway.
Alex, for the most part, is happily married. They have no children and she is a self-proclaimed "dog mom" to her puppy, Marie, who is appropriately named after Marie Curie. When money starts getting tight - and her interior design business hasn't exactly taken off as she expected it to - she secretly dips into their savings account, hoping to replace the money before her husband, Barry, notices.
When Barry is unexpectedly solemn one day, Alex is particularly worried. After a little prying, he comes at her with a bombshell. He has a secret daughter, one that not even he knew about. She was conceived with his ex-lover about eighteen years ago and is named Marie. Like their dog.
Alex is understandably shocked. But she takes the news well. The next day, Alex agrees to meet his daughter and Human Marie drives to their house in a giant SUV, stunning them further by arriving with a baby on her hip.
Marie explains her story. She has just run away from home and her mother, Jade, has led her to believe her father was dead all her life. After searching her father's name online, she saw he worked in a library, sought him out, took her baby, Ruthie, along for the ride, and the rest is history.
The whole interaction is mostly awkward. When they ask Marie where she's staying, she tells them a motel with a friend, then asks immediately to stay with them. At first, they're flabbergasted, especially since she has a toddler and their house isn't prepared for one, but Marie insists she has everything. Bing bang boom. She baby-proofs the place, then is moved in for the summer.
And it's absolutely hell.
Bless Alex. Seriously: BLESS ALEX. She had the patience of Mother Teresa. Marie, who later takes the nickname Wren, ruled the house. Her baby woke her up with her banshee screams. She pulled all this PETA-bullshit on her all the time. She was consistently ungrateful, rude, and threw fake smiles around like confetti. Alex tolerated her for the sake of her husband.
This was a cute, quick read. The concept reminded me partly of Baby Proof, which is one of my favorite chick-lits. Alex and Barry are content in their childless marriage. Before the whole love-child scandal, they had fifteen years on their belt, so their relationship has worked out for the better.
I'm guessing the moral of the story is...
Anyway.
Alex, for the most part, is happily married. They have no children and she is a self-proclaimed "dog mom" to her puppy, Marie, who is appropriately named after Marie Curie. When money starts getting tight - and her interior design business hasn't exactly taken off as she expected it to - she secretly dips into their savings account, hoping to replace the money before her husband, Barry, notices.
When Barry is unexpectedly solemn one day, Alex is particularly worried. After a little prying, he comes at her with a bombshell. He has a secret daughter, one that not even he knew about. She was conceived with his ex-lover about eighteen years ago and is named Marie. Like their dog.
Alex is understandably shocked. But she takes the news well. The next day, Alex agrees to meet his daughter and Human Marie drives to their house in a giant SUV, stunning them further by arriving with a baby on her hip.
Marie explains her story. She has just run away from home and her mother, Jade, has led her to believe her father was dead all her life. After searching her father's name online, she saw he worked in a library, sought him out, took her baby, Ruthie, along for the ride, and the rest is history.
The whole interaction is mostly awkward. When they ask Marie where she's staying, she tells them a motel with a friend, then asks immediately to stay with them. At first, they're flabbergasted, especially since she has a toddler and their house isn't prepared for one, but Marie insists she has everything. Bing bang boom. She baby-proofs the place, then is moved in for the summer.
And it's absolutely hell.
Bless Alex. Seriously: BLESS ALEX. She had the patience of Mother Teresa. Marie, who later takes the nickname Wren, ruled the house. Her baby woke her up with her banshee screams. She pulled all this PETA-bullshit on her all the time. She was consistently ungrateful, rude, and threw fake smiles around like confetti. Alex tolerated her for the sake of her husband.
This was a cute, quick read. The concept reminded me partly of Baby Proof, which is one of my favorite chick-lits. Alex and Barry are content in their childless marriage. Before the whole love-child scandal, they had fifteen years on their belt, so their relationship has worked out for the better.
I'm guessing the moral of the story is...
August 19, 2015
* I received this ebook at no charge from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review *
Opening line … “This morning I overheard my husband talking to his penis.”
Alex and Barry – to all appearances a happily married couple; childless by choice, they own a lovely home (decorated – several times – by Alex, the interior designer) and dote lavishly on their much loved and very well trained dog, Marie (named by Alex – after Marie Curie). Although they are happily married each has their own secrets. Alex is trying to get her fledgling business off the ground, which is not going as well as she has led Barry to believe and Barry was talking to his penis because he had something he desperately has to tell Alex.
Soon enough, Barry’s secret comes walking through the front door of their home in the form of a daughter Barry did not know he had, carrying a granddaughter that is even more of a surprise. She’s in a bit of a bind and needs help.
Enjoying and spoiling their nieces and nephews is one thing, but having agreed not to have children of their own, can Alex cope with this stranger who now calls her husband “dad”?
Having always felt like a second choice after “the love of his life” left him, can Alex embrace this daughter Jade gave birth to?
Can Alex keep her business afloat with the chaos going on at home?
It is certainly a bumpy road and the only one seemingly able to roll with the changes is Marie … she embraces everyone with a wagging tail and sloppy licks. Maybe the people around her should take a lesson from that? And when things take a (admittedly heavily foreshadowed) turn for the worse, Marie shows that love, a big heart and some bravery can save the day.
This is the first book I have read by Jackie Bouchard. She herself refers to her books as “Fido-friendly fiction; humorous and heartwarming stories about women and the dogs that profoundly impact their lives.” This book certainly lives up to that description and although I found it a light, easy to read book there are a lot of life-themes buried in the pages as well. I often paused for a bit wondering about the choices Alex made and that left me asking myself what would I do?
I think this book would make a perfect summer read. It was a well written, entertaining story that I enjoyed enough that I have another book by Ms. Bouchard waiting on my virtual shelf.
This book is being released October 20, 2015.
Opening line … “This morning I overheard my husband talking to his penis.”
Alex and Barry – to all appearances a happily married couple; childless by choice, they own a lovely home (decorated – several times – by Alex, the interior designer) and dote lavishly on their much loved and very well trained dog, Marie (named by Alex – after Marie Curie). Although they are happily married each has their own secrets. Alex is trying to get her fledgling business off the ground, which is not going as well as she has led Barry to believe and Barry was talking to his penis because he had something he desperately has to tell Alex.
Soon enough, Barry’s secret comes walking through the front door of their home in the form of a daughter Barry did not know he had, carrying a granddaughter that is even more of a surprise. She’s in a bit of a bind and needs help.
Enjoying and spoiling their nieces and nephews is one thing, but having agreed not to have children of their own, can Alex cope with this stranger who now calls her husband “dad”?
Having always felt like a second choice after “the love of his life” left him, can Alex embrace this daughter Jade gave birth to?
Can Alex keep her business afloat with the chaos going on at home?
It is certainly a bumpy road and the only one seemingly able to roll with the changes is Marie … she embraces everyone with a wagging tail and sloppy licks. Maybe the people around her should take a lesson from that? And when things take a (admittedly heavily foreshadowed) turn for the worse, Marie shows that love, a big heart and some bravery can save the day.
This is the first book I have read by Jackie Bouchard. She herself refers to her books as “Fido-friendly fiction; humorous and heartwarming stories about women and the dogs that profoundly impact their lives.” This book certainly lives up to that description and although I found it a light, easy to read book there are a lot of life-themes buried in the pages as well. I often paused for a bit wondering about the choices Alex made and that left me asking myself what would I do?
I think this book would make a perfect summer read. It was a well written, entertaining story that I enjoyed enough that I have another book by Ms. Bouchard waiting on my virtual shelf.
This book is being released October 20, 2015.
August 25, 2015
I loved the first line in "House Trained." It was a laugh-out-loud moment, which then led to curiosity. Good hook right off the bat!
This book really resonated with me on many levels. I especially appreciated the story line in that Alex, one of the main characters never had children, nor really wants them.
For years I carried a shame around not wanting children. In a world where it is so much about women having babies, to not have felt that same maternal extinct left me feeling weird and different, and even at times, feeling judged. I'm happy to say I've since overcome this with much work on myself. But still, at times, I sure can feel alienated.
I say Bravo to Jackie for tackling this topic in her new book - even when it may not be the popular view - and doing so in a humorous way at times.
But also the fact she showed the other side of it when her husband's love child, Wren, of which he didn't know about, shows up at their front door needing a place to live, with a child of her own in tow.
Having mentored and taken into my home a young friend who needed somewhere to live a few years ago I could again relate to all the mixed emotions Alex went through with Wren. And what I appreciated was what she learned about herself in the process - and her marriage.
While this book was a bit more serious than Jackie's others books, I feel like it was written just for me having recently gone through something that was difficult. And helped me feel not so alone in some of the challenging feelings I had.
But don't get me wrong - there is still plenty of humor in this book - Jackie style - and why I enjoyed it.
*I was given an arc copy of "House Trained" and only provide reviews if I find a book a good read, which I did.*
This book really resonated with me on many levels. I especially appreciated the story line in that Alex, one of the main characters never had children, nor really wants them.
For years I carried a shame around not wanting children. In a world where it is so much about women having babies, to not have felt that same maternal extinct left me feeling weird and different, and even at times, feeling judged. I'm happy to say I've since overcome this with much work on myself. But still, at times, I sure can feel alienated.
I say Bravo to Jackie for tackling this topic in her new book - even when it may not be the popular view - and doing so in a humorous way at times.
But also the fact she showed the other side of it when her husband's love child, Wren, of which he didn't know about, shows up at their front door needing a place to live, with a child of her own in tow.
Having mentored and taken into my home a young friend who needed somewhere to live a few years ago I could again relate to all the mixed emotions Alex went through with Wren. And what I appreciated was what she learned about herself in the process - and her marriage.
While this book was a bit more serious than Jackie's others books, I feel like it was written just for me having recently gone through something that was difficult. And helped me feel not so alone in some of the challenging feelings I had.
But don't get me wrong - there is still plenty of humor in this book - Jackie style - and why I enjoyed it.
*I was given an arc copy of "House Trained" and only provide reviews if I find a book a good read, which I did.*
October 26, 2015
It is wonderful to watch Jackie grow as a writer. I almost could not put this one down but had to, since one of my errands for the day was buying dog food. Marie would not have appreciated that, nor would my too real dogs.
My favorite bits were when Alex kisses Marie between the eyes. I love that part of a dog. It is always soft.
I felt the same connection to Alex as many others have noted. Thank you Jackie.
My favorite bits were when Alex kisses Marie between the eyes. I love that part of a dog. It is always soft.
I felt the same connection to Alex as many others have noted. Thank you Jackie.
October 28, 2015
This book was so good! I loved how there were parts that were funny, serious, and sad. Our main character Alex is just lovable and constantly feels the need to tell people she doesnt want kids. For her and Barry, her husband, it was not a debate, both felt the same. A lot of the book has smart quips making Alex even more humorous. So the big issues between Alex and Barry are basically secrets and sort of secrets. When Marie comes knocking with the claims that she is his kid, it is shocking.
The author takes you through the drama of a wife with a secret and a husband that has one too. Now I will say that each secret is probably as damaging to the relationship. The story of Marie is like WOW. Then Marie tells Barry and Alex about her choice when the decision to have Ruthie comes into her life. I was in tears. She is amazing.
The light moments are all about Barry and Alex debating Marie's "greeness" I had to laugh so many times. Marie is a vegetarian and has some ideas about their composting. OMG too cute.
Also I have to give honorable mention to Marie- the Labrador poodle mix. Her character takes center stage as this couple tries to navigate a new era in their family. I am a dog lover myself, so their debates over how choices will influence and effect Marie are too funny!
The author takes you through the drama of a wife with a secret and a husband that has one too. Now I will say that each secret is probably as damaging to the relationship. The story of Marie is like WOW. Then Marie tells Barry and Alex about her choice when the decision to have Ruthie comes into her life. I was in tears. She is amazing.
The light moments are all about Barry and Alex debating Marie's "greeness" I had to laugh so many times. Marie is a vegetarian and has some ideas about their composting. OMG too cute.
Also I have to give honorable mention to Marie- the Labrador poodle mix. Her character takes center stage as this couple tries to navigate a new era in their family. I am a dog lover myself, so their debates over how choices will influence and effect Marie are too funny!
July 23, 2018
Second time around
I read this story before, and I remember enjoying it.
This book is quite lovely, witty, and honest.
I really appreciate the topics pertaining to motherhood in it's many forms (even to our puppies). Having children is such a personal choice, and I don't think it should be our only value to the world.. The whole working mom versus stay at home mom is unfortunately very real as well. Instead of bullying women for their choices, maybe support would be a great alternative. Not all women are like that, but some most definitely are.
House Trained is definitely a fun read for dog lovers. I consider my Baxter my last baby and very much part of my family.
Jackie Bouchard is quite good with getting inside the mind and heart of her characters, as well as delivery in her writing. I liked her take on perception versus reality. Communication is key in all our relationships.
Well Done.
I read this story before, and I remember enjoying it.
This book is quite lovely, witty, and honest.
I really appreciate the topics pertaining to motherhood in it's many forms (even to our puppies). Having children is such a personal choice, and I don't think it should be our only value to the world.. The whole working mom versus stay at home mom is unfortunately very real as well. Instead of bullying women for their choices, maybe support would be a great alternative. Not all women are like that, but some most definitely are.
House Trained is definitely a fun read for dog lovers. I consider my Baxter my last baby and very much part of my family.
Jackie Bouchard is quite good with getting inside the mind and heart of her characters, as well as delivery in her writing. I liked her take on perception versus reality. Communication is key in all our relationships.
Well Done.
October 1, 2015
I'd been looking forward to reading Jackie Bouchard's third novel House Trained for quite awhile. In fact, I pre-ordered it on Amazon as soon as I could. So when Jackie offered me an advanced reader's copy, I quickly said yes! I thoroughly enjoyed her first two books, What the Dog Ate and Rescue Me, Maybe. I was pretty sure I would enjoy this one, too. And I did!
House Trained is a story about trust, love and being judgemental - with a labradoodle dog named Marie playing an essential role:
"Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow.
While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too.
With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?"
House Trained is not a light, fluffy chick-lit read. It's what I call women's fiction with complex characters and an unpredictable plot.
When I first began reading I was wearing my judgey pants. Without talking to her husband, Alex has spent most of their life savings?! In spite of that influx of cash, Alex's business is failing, yet she isn't honest with her friend who works for her?! Um, I was not particularly sympathetic to our heroine.
However, as she is confronted by life's complications I realized she is a good example of "the mirror rule": life acts a a mirror to what is going on inside you. If you're feeling loved and valued, that's what you project to the world and other people. In the case of Alex, she's felt undervalued and judged for most of her life.
Alex is childless by choice, yet feels judged as lacking for that life decision. She then spends a lot of head time justifying herself and judging those women who do have children. She also feels like a runner-up and second best with her husband whose first serious relationship produced a love child (and grandbaby.) Alex feels judged as lacking with her mother and sister, too, and her judgey pants were pretty tight when she relates to her sister in the book.
Honestly, I can't tell you more because I'll give away the plot twists and turns. Suffice to say, about 30% in, I took off my own judgey pants and really began to appreciate our heroine.
Throughout the book, Alex thoughtfully wishes she could be more like her dog, Marie. More accepting and more loving. Actually, I think Alex had already learned those lessons pretty well, however, she really needed to love and accept herself.
I highly recommend House Trained. The characters were well drawn, worth rooting for and engaged me emotionally. When I wasn't reading I found myself thinking about the book and eager to return to it. There's a believable happy ending with no cliffhanger. I enjoyed it enough that I'm sure I'll re-read it. Last, but far from least, the writing was lovely.
As author Bouchard says: "If you love books and dogs and laughter, you'll love my Fido-friendly fiction novels." That's definitely true of House Trained.
House Trained is a story about trust, love and being judgemental - with a labradoodle dog named Marie playing an essential role:
"Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow.
While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too.
With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?"
House Trained is not a light, fluffy chick-lit read. It's what I call women's fiction with complex characters and an unpredictable plot.
When I first began reading I was wearing my judgey pants. Without talking to her husband, Alex has spent most of their life savings?! In spite of that influx of cash, Alex's business is failing, yet she isn't honest with her friend who works for her?! Um, I was not particularly sympathetic to our heroine.
However, as she is confronted by life's complications I realized she is a good example of "the mirror rule": life acts a a mirror to what is going on inside you. If you're feeling loved and valued, that's what you project to the world and other people. In the case of Alex, she's felt undervalued and judged for most of her life.
Alex is childless by choice, yet feels judged as lacking for that life decision. She then spends a lot of head time justifying herself and judging those women who do have children. She also feels like a runner-up and second best with her husband whose first serious relationship produced a love child (and grandbaby.) Alex feels judged as lacking with her mother and sister, too, and her judgey pants were pretty tight when she relates to her sister in the book.
Honestly, I can't tell you more because I'll give away the plot twists and turns. Suffice to say, about 30% in, I took off my own judgey pants and really began to appreciate our heroine.
Throughout the book, Alex thoughtfully wishes she could be more like her dog, Marie. More accepting and more loving. Actually, I think Alex had already learned those lessons pretty well, however, she really needed to love and accept herself.
I highly recommend House Trained. The characters were well drawn, worth rooting for and engaged me emotionally. When I wasn't reading I found myself thinking about the book and eager to return to it. There's a believable happy ending with no cliffhanger. I enjoyed it enough that I'm sure I'll re-read it. Last, but far from least, the writing was lovely.
As author Bouchard says: "If you love books and dogs and laughter, you'll love my Fido-friendly fiction novels." That's definitely true of House Trained.
March 19, 2016
Synopsis:
Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow. While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too. With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?
From bestselling author Jackie Bouchard comes a humorous and heartwarming look at how life creates opportunities to love in surprising ways.
Review:
I have to say, the first sentence in this book is a real attention grabber. I really was not sure what to expect, I thought this should be an interesting read. And I was right, it was interesting and heartwarming and funny and sad. It was a very good book and held my attention from the first sentence until the end.
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Alex appears to be a very put-together interior designer who has her life under control. But reality is that she is a struggling business owner who has made some financial mistakes along the way. She also knows that she does not want children (and her husband, Barry, agrees) but feels like a freak because of this decision. Even her own mother and sister do not understand how she could feel this way. Although she is happy with her life with her husband and dog, with her fancy house and with her life as a family of three, others make her feel different and wrong. Her husband feels the same way about being childless but he does not have the added pressure of others lecturing about being childless. But all of this changes when a daughter that Barry did not know he had shows up on their doorstep, grandchild in hand. Boy, do they change.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in storytelling and eliciting emotions in the readers. At times I was laughing out loud (so many of Alex’s thoughts are hysterical and very realistic), at other times I had tears in my eyes, and a few times my jaw dropped open at what I was reading. I think it takes a special author to be able to create a book that allows a reader to go through all of these emotions while reading.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an emotional humorous women’s book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely read more by this author. Check out House Trained and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Alex Halstad, a childless-by-choice interior designer and dog mom, is a true perfectionist. But her orderly life turns chaotic when the teenage daughter her husband, Barry, never knew he had shows up on their doorstep...with a baby girl of her own in tow. While Alex’s dog enthusiastically welcomes the new arrivals, Alex struggles with the loss of her steady routine. She desperately needs peace and quiet to get her business back on track before Barry finds out she’s spent most of their savings. Meanwhile, the arrival of the girls stirs up old insecurities, and Alex can’t help but worry that Barry’s ex will make an entrance too. With her tidy life a distant memory, will Alex be able to learn from her dog the true meaning of love and acceptance?
From bestselling author Jackie Bouchard comes a humorous and heartwarming look at how life creates opportunities to love in surprising ways.
Review:
I have to say, the first sentence in this book is a real attention grabber. I really was not sure what to expect, I thought this should be an interesting read. And I was right, it was interesting and heartwarming and funny and sad. It was a very good book and held my attention from the first sentence until the end.
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Alex appears to be a very put-together interior designer who has her life under control. But reality is that she is a struggling business owner who has made some financial mistakes along the way. She also knows that she does not want children (and her husband, Barry, agrees) but feels like a freak because of this decision. Even her own mother and sister do not understand how she could feel this way. Although she is happy with her life with her husband and dog, with her fancy house and with her life as a family of three, others make her feel different and wrong. Her husband feels the same way about being childless but he does not have the added pressure of others lecturing about being childless. But all of this changes when a daughter that Barry did not know he had shows up on their doorstep, grandchild in hand. Boy, do they change.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in storytelling and eliciting emotions in the readers. At times I was laughing out loud (so many of Alex’s thoughts are hysterical and very realistic), at other times I had tears in my eyes, and a few times my jaw dropped open at what I was reading. I think it takes a special author to be able to create a book that allows a reader to go through all of these emotions while reading.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an emotional humorous women’s book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely read more by this author. Check out House Trained and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 2, 2015
Alex, and interior designer, and Barry, a senior member of the university research library staff at the nearby university, are childless by choice and living the life they want with their labradoodle, Marie (named after Marie Curie, Barry’s favorite scientist). In comes Barry’s college age daughter, whom her never knew he had, from a relationship years ago and her 15-month old daughter. The daughter, Wren, and her daughter, Ruthie, manage to convince Alex and Barry to let her and Ruthie live with them for the summer until her friend arrives for college and they can move into their apartment. Once that happens, everything goes quickly into a tailspin, as everything--the house, their jobs, etc.--must be adjusted to this new living arrangement. In the first place, both Barry and Alex need to adjust to the fact that Wren and Ruthie exist and have arrived, no small feat. After they move in, things become a little bit difficult for Alex and Barry, who are not used to having a long-term guest with a baby in tow. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fantastic read. Of course, I love dogs, so that helped. The characters are all well developed and realistic. However, there are two real stars among them: Ruthie, the baby, and Marie, the dog. I loved cute-as-a-button Ruthie, but, for me, Marie, the labradoodle, stole the show. This book is equally as fabulous as the other one I have read by the same author, Rescue Me, Maybe. In fact, I have difficulty deciding which I prefer. The antics of the dogs in both books are endearing. The plots, storyline and endings are both fantastic. This author has quickly become one of my favorites. Her style, her writing, her plots, her characters, but mostly her dogs, pulled me in from the start. This is a must-read for any dog lover or for anyone looking for a real feel-good story to sit back with your favorite beverage, to enjoy over a lazy afternoon or weekend. I am sure you will love it as much as I did. I only hope there will be more books like this one or the other to come. After reading this one, I think it can easily become a series starring the labradoodle Marie. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
October 18, 2015
I received an arc from Netgalley in return for a honest review.
Loved it! This was one of those books that was hard to put down. I was reading it anytime I could. I really did not read too many previous reviews or previous descriptions of the plot. I had previously read Jackie Bouchard and loved it. I saw this was once again focusing around a dog, so I dove right in.
Alex is the main character. She is a business oriented woman that has a husband, Barry, who works at a college, and a wonderful labradoodle named Marie. They have a quiet, child free life- just how they wanted it. Well their quiet life gets turned upside down when Wren, Barry's unknown daughter, comes to meet her dad and introduce him to his granddaughter. Alex and Barry are thrown for a loop as they now have two girls in their lives to care for and learn about. Marie loves the new additions. She ends up teaching Alex what truly matters, and is truly a life saving dog, as we see as the plot unfolds.
Alex was such a relatable character for me. I felt the way she did about kids and career for a good part of my life. I ended up taking a drastic 180, but I understand. Alex struggles with her business and feels like an educated failure, which is also relatable. The part that brought me to tears and hit home is Alex's relationship with her mother. It has always been strained. She felt her mother favored her younger sister, and felt Alex should have children. They have a coming to heart finally after a major life threatening event occurs to Alex. Alex learns her mom truly loves her, and that her mom paid more attention to her younger sister because Alex always had it together. She felt Alex's sister needed her help. Wow! Of course Alex's love for dogs also makes her relatable too.
This is the second book I have read by Jackie Bouchard. I can honestly say I will read any future books written by her, and will happily go and read her first book, which I have not had the opportunity to read yet. I love the focus on dogs throughout her novels. I believe I have found a new favorite author!!
Loved it! This was one of those books that was hard to put down. I was reading it anytime I could. I really did not read too many previous reviews or previous descriptions of the plot. I had previously read Jackie Bouchard and loved it. I saw this was once again focusing around a dog, so I dove right in.
Alex is the main character. She is a business oriented woman that has a husband, Barry, who works at a college, and a wonderful labradoodle named Marie. They have a quiet, child free life- just how they wanted it. Well their quiet life gets turned upside down when Wren, Barry's unknown daughter, comes to meet her dad and introduce him to his granddaughter. Alex and Barry are thrown for a loop as they now have two girls in their lives to care for and learn about. Marie loves the new additions. She ends up teaching Alex what truly matters, and is truly a life saving dog, as we see as the plot unfolds.
Alex was such a relatable character for me. I felt the way she did about kids and career for a good part of my life. I ended up taking a drastic 180, but I understand. Alex struggles with her business and feels like an educated failure, which is also relatable. The part that brought me to tears and hit home is Alex's relationship with her mother. It has always been strained. She felt her mother favored her younger sister, and felt Alex should have children. They have a coming to heart finally after a major life threatening event occurs to Alex. Alex learns her mom truly loves her, and that her mom paid more attention to her younger sister because Alex always had it together. She felt Alex's sister needed her help. Wow! Of course Alex's love for dogs also makes her relatable too.
This is the second book I have read by Jackie Bouchard. I can honestly say I will read any future books written by her, and will happily go and read her first book, which I have not had the opportunity to read yet. I love the focus on dogs throughout her novels. I believe I have found a new favorite author!!
September 27, 2015
4.5 stars!
This book started out hilarious with Alex overhearing her husband of over 18 years in the shower talking to his penis. He thinks she's left the house for work. Then it got down to the serious business the next day she gets the real shocking news. Barry has an 18 year old daughter with his ex girlfriend, Jade, which he never knew about until three days ago. Alex and Barry had decided a long time ago that they did not like kids and would be okay without having any. This definitely puts a damper on their life plans. They invite Maria to dinner the next night and she shows up on the door step with a 15 month old daughter, Ruthie, which surprise, neither Alex nor Barry knew about.
It's interesting how quickly Ruthie starts tugging on Barry and Alex's heartstrings and the challenges they now face having a small child in their home. There are lots of antics involved in the decision of what will happen with Wren and her daughter and then there's the ex girlfriend trying to mooch back into the new family nest. There's also the little matter that Alex's business is about to bankrupt them and oh yeah, their house burns down and they loose everything. And a little surprise comes out of that in which both Alex and Barry handle very well.
This is a very good story, while there are a lot of troubles, it does actually leave you in a feel good mood. I actually want to see more of this family and see just what does happen to Barry, Alex, Wren, Ruthie and Maria. And I think the evil side of me wants to see a little more comeuppance for Jade. She wasn't public stoned in the center of town or live on TV yet, so there's that. HA!!
Actually I truly enjoyed this book and was very entertained. I seriously do want a sequel. I just can't go with "and they lived happily every after" in my mind. There's got to be some more dirt dished out to several people and I NEED to read about it!!!
Thanks Lake Union Publishing and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book!!
This book started out hilarious with Alex overhearing her husband of over 18 years in the shower talking to his penis. He thinks she's left the house for work. Then it got down to the serious business the next day she gets the real shocking news. Barry has an 18 year old daughter with his ex girlfriend, Jade, which he never knew about until three days ago. Alex and Barry had decided a long time ago that they did not like kids and would be okay without having any. This definitely puts a damper on their life plans. They invite Maria to dinner the next night and she shows up on the door step with a 15 month old daughter, Ruthie, which surprise, neither Alex nor Barry knew about.
It's interesting how quickly Ruthie starts tugging on Barry and Alex's heartstrings and the challenges they now face having a small child in their home. There are lots of antics involved in the decision of what will happen with Wren and her daughter and then there's the ex girlfriend trying to mooch back into the new family nest. There's also the little matter that Alex's business is about to bankrupt them and oh yeah, their house burns down and they loose everything. And a little surprise comes out of that in which both Alex and Barry handle very well.
This is a very good story, while there are a lot of troubles, it does actually leave you in a feel good mood. I actually want to see more of this family and see just what does happen to Barry, Alex, Wren, Ruthie and Maria. And I think the evil side of me wants to see a little more comeuppance for Jade. She wasn't public stoned in the center of town or live on TV yet, so there's that. HA!!
Actually I truly enjoyed this book and was very entertained. I seriously do want a sequel. I just can't go with "and they lived happily every after" in my mind. There's got to be some more dirt dished out to several people and I NEED to read about it!!!
Thanks Lake Union Publishing and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book!!
October 21, 2015
From the book’s hilarious opening line to its poignant, satisfying conclusion, House Trained is Women’s Fiction at its finest. Jackie Bouchard writes dog-centric stories with mature heroines, and Alex Halstad was a protagonist I could really relate to. Focused on her career as an interior designer and feeling content and secure in her decade-plus marriage to Barry and their decision to have a dog (adorable labradoodle Marie) instead of a child, Alex’s life is on a nice, even keel until the day an unexpected blast from her husband’s past arrives.
Suddenly, Alex finds herself playing the dual roles of step-mother and, even more horrifying for a woman who’s not a big fan of kids, step-grandmother to teenager Wren and her baby daughter. To say that this is a huge adjustment for Alex is an understatement! The inclusion of these girls in her life affects everything from her job to her marriage to her relationships with her sister and mother. I have to give kudos to the author for doing such a deft job in bringing such a wide range of characters of varying ages, genders, and species to life in this book. They were all unique and memorable in their own ways. I especially loved Wren who was so much more than your typical rebellious teen. (Her creative way of not-cursing in front of little Ruthie cracked me up every time!)
I’m putting House Trained at the very top of my favorites list for the year and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written story with lots of humor and heart.
I received a copy of House Trained in exchange for an honest review.
Suddenly, Alex finds herself playing the dual roles of step-mother and, even more horrifying for a woman who’s not a big fan of kids, step-grandmother to teenager Wren and her baby daughter. To say that this is a huge adjustment for Alex is an understatement! The inclusion of these girls in her life affects everything from her job to her marriage to her relationships with her sister and mother. I have to give kudos to the author for doing such a deft job in bringing such a wide range of characters of varying ages, genders, and species to life in this book. They were all unique and memorable in their own ways. I especially loved Wren who was so much more than your typical rebellious teen. (Her creative way of not-cursing in front of little Ruthie cracked me up every time!)
I’m putting House Trained at the very top of my favorites list for the year and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written story with lots of humor and heart.
I received a copy of House Trained in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2017
What happens when a couple who actively chose not to have children (other than the canine variety) find themselves with a long-lost daughter and infant granddaughter on their doorstep?
This is the second novel I've read by Jackie Bouchard and I loved both of them. There was never a dull moment in this novel, and I even had to stop myself from sneaking ahead to make sure everything would be okay with Alex, the main character, and her husband Barry. I found Alex's reactions to the situation very believable and appreciated that she tried to support her husband while still acknowledging how difficult it was for her. I sympathized as her home life and professional life spiraled out of control at the same time.
I find myself easily relating to the protagonists in this author's books, probably because they are around my age and don't have children. But what I love the most is that the women's age (40ish) doesn't really come into play. It's never a "woe is me. I'm passed my prime" whining thing. These characters are just relatable, likeable, flawed, passionate, vivacious females who happen to be 40, but could have easily been 35. Of course, my favorite characters in the book were Marie, the dog and Ruthie, the baby. The book touched on serious issues while still maintaining humor. I finished the story with a smile on my face.
This is the second novel I've read by Jackie Bouchard and I loved both of them. There was never a dull moment in this novel, and I even had to stop myself from sneaking ahead to make sure everything would be okay with Alex, the main character, and her husband Barry. I found Alex's reactions to the situation very believable and appreciated that she tried to support her husband while still acknowledging how difficult it was for her. I sympathized as her home life and professional life spiraled out of control at the same time.
I find myself easily relating to the protagonists in this author's books, probably because they are around my age and don't have children. But what I love the most is that the women's age (40ish) doesn't really come into play. It's never a "woe is me. I'm passed my prime" whining thing. These characters are just relatable, likeable, flawed, passionate, vivacious females who happen to be 40, but could have easily been 35. Of course, my favorite characters in the book were Marie, the dog and Ruthie, the baby. The book touched on serious issues while still maintaining humor. I finished the story with a smile on my face.
October 29, 2015
Thanks to NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION PUBLISHING for allowing to read and give an honest review.
This is the 2nd book of Jackie Bouchard's that I have read, and so far I am loving her writing.
This is a perfect woman's fiction novel, it has all the elements, humor, family drama, relationships between mothers, daughters, sisters, children, friends, and husbands. This is about Alex and Barry and their doggie child, Marie, they both decided to not have children and have careers. However, someone comes knocking on the door and surprise, they are about to have the adventure of a lifetime.
I loved Alex, and I loved how much she loves her doggie children, I love that she finds out that she is full of love and much more open to change than she thinks. I enjoyed all of the characters and getting to know them all. Wren, Ruthie, Barry and Cyn and Marie make this story.
This is full of surprises, secrets, joy, pain, trust, healing,growing up and forgiveness, but most of all love and realizing that life is full of secrets and surprises and the fact that we have to embrace them, even if we think we can't. Can't wait to read more by this author.
Thank you NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION..YOU ROCK!
This is the 2nd book of Jackie Bouchard's that I have read, and so far I am loving her writing.
This is a perfect woman's fiction novel, it has all the elements, humor, family drama, relationships between mothers, daughters, sisters, children, friends, and husbands. This is about Alex and Barry and their doggie child, Marie, they both decided to not have children and have careers. However, someone comes knocking on the door and surprise, they are about to have the adventure of a lifetime.
I loved Alex, and I loved how much she loves her doggie children, I love that she finds out that she is full of love and much more open to change than she thinks. I enjoyed all of the characters and getting to know them all. Wren, Ruthie, Barry and Cyn and Marie make this story.
This is full of surprises, secrets, joy, pain, trust, healing,growing up and forgiveness, but most of all love and realizing that life is full of secrets and surprises and the fact that we have to embrace them, even if we think we can't. Can't wait to read more by this author.
Thank you NETGALLEY and LAKE UNION..YOU ROCK!
November 5, 2015
What a breath of fresh air to read characters who are truly nice ~ not conniving, not self-centered, and even though they are flawed, they are humble and admit their faults/mistakes. Bouchard is one of my favorite authors, and while, House Trained was not my favorite book by her, I still enjoyed it quite a bit. She is one of the best writers to capture the human-dog connection. She gets the LOVE and devotion of a dog and the family dynamics of owning a dog. I greatly appreciated how the dog wasn't harmed or even blamed for anything in this book; instead Marie is a hero. Many authors would have taken the teenage character of Wren, or even the main character and have them become snarky, nasty, and vengeful. Bouchard keeps everyone civil and pleasant, which allows for an enjoyable read that is not only humorous at times, but also very relatable...and if I am to be honest, we could all learn a thing or two from the character's acceptance and understanding of each other.
January 31, 2016
I got this from Amazon (for Kindle) while it was "free", not expecting much, but hey - free is free, right? "Nothing ventured" and all that.
My first thought? Oh - a dog book. Great. I mean, I love dogs and all that but after watching 22,852 "cute" dog videos on Facebook, I'm a little "dogged" out.
What I found was a really good story, some humor, believable (and "real") characters, lots of humanness (I'm sure that's a word) and some terrific writing!! (I'm looking forward to my next book from the same author.
I even found my inner dog lover! What's not to love about Marie! When you read the book you'll love Marie, too! (Both of them. * wink wink*)
A really good read!
My first thought? Oh - a dog book. Great. I mean, I love dogs and all that but after watching 22,852 "cute" dog videos on Facebook, I'm a little "dogged" out.
What I found was a really good story, some humor, believable (and "real") characters, lots of humanness (I'm sure that's a word) and some terrific writing!! (I'm looking forward to my next book from the same author.
I even found my inner dog lover! What's not to love about Marie! When you read the book you'll love Marie, too! (Both of them. * wink wink*)
A really good read!
September 16, 2015
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book and really enjoyed it. Alex is an interior designer and mom of a scene-stealing fur kid named Marie. Within a matter of weeks, her orderly life is turned upside down when a teenage girl with a baby shows up on her doorstep. The teen is the daughter of Alex's husband, a child he never knew he had. Bouchard does an excellent job of introducing characters who will stay with readers long after they turn the last page, and of delving into what it means to be a family.
September 3, 2015
I loved this book! It's much more complex than the cover suggests. An excellent story about family- the ones we know and the ones we make. These were complex characters who were very real. Alex, Wren, and even baby Ruth were well drawn. It was totally not a predictable story, which I really appreciated. Thanks NETGALLEY for the opportunity to read this one.
November 12, 2015
House Trained is a funny, honest look at family--the good, the bad, the messy, and the misunderstood. Childless-by-choice Alex struggles with relationship challenges, but it's lovable labradoodle Marie who reminds her of the qualities we all aspire to, but only a dog perfects. This sweet and funny book is a Fido-friendly must-read. Jackie's humor is doggone delightful!
October 12, 2015
Absolutely marvelous book. You could so relate to her problems and the story flowed effortlessly.. Hated for the book to end
February 11, 2016
After a slow start I really enjoyed this book, and will certainly check for future works by the author. She made the characters real and I enjoyed seeing the growth in her characters.
February 28, 2018
This novel is what I call an interesting beach read, or maybe food for thought and for walk with some of my more opinionated friend. Not a great psychological novel, but also not an airheady read, this one offers both the readable story and the flicks of deep vulnerability which I like.
The Halstads are a childless couple by choice. Nice, if a bit superficial couple. But the old 'sins' have long hands and one day a young girl enters their lives. Barry's daughter-the one he never knew he has had. And the girl holds another girl on her hands-her own daughter.
And Alex and Barry find themselves entering a new reality-living with family. And while family makes everything harder, it also makes everything richer.
Well, I am not of opinion that being the 'dog mother' is of the same meaning as being the mother of a child. This novels gently aims toward this viewpoint, but the authoress is not pushing that opinion on you. But I like the message of family, honesty and making the best of the relationships. This not a novel I would put in my 'top ten, but being a leisure read has also its qualities.
Would make good discussion material about the questions regarding family, childlessness, motherhood and love in general.
The Halstads are a childless couple by choice. Nice, if a bit superficial couple. But the old 'sins' have long hands and one day a young girl enters their lives. Barry's daughter-the one he never knew he has had. And the girl holds another girl on her hands-her own daughter.
And Alex and Barry find themselves entering a new reality-living with family. And while family makes everything harder, it also makes everything richer.
Well, I am not of opinion that being the 'dog mother' is of the same meaning as being the mother of a child. This novels gently aims toward this viewpoint, but the authoress is not pushing that opinion on you. But I like the message of family, honesty and making the best of the relationships. This not a novel I would put in my 'top ten, but being a leisure read has also its qualities.
Would make good discussion material about the questions regarding family, childlessness, motherhood and love in general.
April 1, 2018
HOUSE TRAINED is the perfect beach read. What’s not to like? An amusing narrator, a sweet dog, and a cute baby. From page one, I knew I was going to enjoy this lovely bit of fluff fiction.
The story concerns Alex, a woman who keeps the perfect house, is career driven, and who has never wanted children, despite the pressure she gets from family and the pitying looks from young mothers who feel her childlessness is abnormal. Alex is happily married to Barry, who shares her desire to remain childless. They own a sweet labradoodle, Marie, a rescue who is pretty much ‘the baby.’
Enter Wren, a 19 year old girl, who is Barry’s daughter from a relationship before meeting and marrying Alex. Never made aware of Wren’s existence by Barry’s old girlfriend, he and Alex are stunned when the girl asks to stay with them for a few months before starting college. Adding to their shock is the active 15 month old baby that Wren brings with her. Barry and Alex must deal with the new found knowledge that they are also grandparents, and their orderly life is over.
I greatly enjoyed this book. The only thing missing was the smell of sun tan lotion and the sound of the ocean. Take it along the next time you head for the beach.
The story concerns Alex, a woman who keeps the perfect house, is career driven, and who has never wanted children, despite the pressure she gets from family and the pitying looks from young mothers who feel her childlessness is abnormal. Alex is happily married to Barry, who shares her desire to remain childless. They own a sweet labradoodle, Marie, a rescue who is pretty much ‘the baby.’
Enter Wren, a 19 year old girl, who is Barry’s daughter from a relationship before meeting and marrying Alex. Never made aware of Wren’s existence by Barry’s old girlfriend, he and Alex are stunned when the girl asks to stay with them for a few months before starting college. Adding to their shock is the active 15 month old baby that Wren brings with her. Barry and Alex must deal with the new found knowledge that they are also grandparents, and their orderly life is over.
I greatly enjoyed this book. The only thing missing was the smell of sun tan lotion and the sound of the ocean. Take it along the next time you head for the beach.
September 21, 2017
Such A Heart-Warming Novel
I chose this book because I needed a laugh after reading too many psycho-killer thrillers lately!
Also,I happen to be in a similar situation with a niece and her small child, temporarily living in our home,terrorizing our cats(who,I admit,cannot hold a candle to Marie the wonder -dog,in this book).
Anyway,the story takes interesting turns...as our interior designer heroine,Alex(I, too,was an interior designer about 35 years ago) adjusts to her husband's unexpected family;they have been childless by choice,and Marie is their rescue Labradoodle baby.
Unexpectedly,I found myself crying in parts....no spoilers,but I,too, survived the same kind of tragedy that strikes Alex and her husband Barry's home.
So not quite all humor,but definitely heart-warming and many feel goods.I would recommend this to any animal lover!
I chose this book because I needed a laugh after reading too many psycho-killer thrillers lately!
Also,I happen to be in a similar situation with a niece and her small child, temporarily living in our home,terrorizing our cats(who,I admit,cannot hold a candle to Marie the wonder -dog,in this book).
Anyway,the story takes interesting turns...as our interior designer heroine,Alex(I, too,was an interior designer about 35 years ago) adjusts to her husband's unexpected family;they have been childless by choice,and Marie is their rescue Labradoodle baby.
Unexpectedly,I found myself crying in parts....no spoilers,but I,too, survived the same kind of tragedy that strikes Alex and her husband Barry's home.
So not quite all humor,but definitely heart-warming and many feel goods.I would recommend this to any animal lover!
August 25, 2018
This was a very enjoyable book. I enjoyed the characters and the plot . I just didn’t expect the fire. It was a good story on how accepting dogs are in their own space. Marie is a smart dog. How many dogs will help put away their toys? Not mine! The story also showed how one can find similarities if just given a chance. I was surprised that both Alex and Barry were not atuned to “kids”. Most people who are attentive pet parents can easily transfer those parenting skills to babies. Alex did learn over time how taking care of a baby is much like taking care of a pup. I’m glad there was a happy ending.
October 25, 2020
I truly thought this book was a Memoir. I read a lot of that genre and when I started this one, thought that's what I was reading. It had been on my Kindle for a long time. The storyline: a husband finds out that he has a child he never knew about until she shows up with a toddler in tow. This actually happened to a relative (without the toddler) so I could relate to some extent. However, the key character (wife) is so self-absorbed with her business (or lack thereof), her perfectly furnished, decorated home and their dog, that it is hard to relate to her. It's an ok read, but certainly not the best I've read.
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