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Head Over Paws
One crazy moment will change his life...
After being brutally dumped, freelance designer Ollie Rookwood has shut himself off to being hurt again. After all, he's happy with just his sweet greyhound Bella for company. But when a stray dog attacks his faithful companion, all Ollie can think about is getting her help when he rushes to Lane Estates Animal Clinic. The last thing on his mind is the thought of meeting the man who can save his dog and his heart.
A warm heart and an open door...
After a series of failed relationships, veterinarian Harry Knowles has nearly given up on finding his soulmate. When Ollie runs into his clinic with a severely injured greyhound, Harry can't resist the aloof, tattooed man. After hiring Ollie to redo his clinic's logo, he discovers that he's falling for the lonely designer.
Helping each other blossom...
The only problem is that, despite their sizzling chemistry, Ollie doesn't seem to know that he's gay. Can Harry help him figure it out before he walks out of the clinic—and his life—for good? And will Bella and Harry's Shih Tzu mix, Betsy, ever get along?
Head Over Paws is a steamy gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
After being brutally dumped, freelance designer Ollie Rookwood has shut himself off to being hurt again. After all, he's happy with just his sweet greyhound Bella for company. But when a stray dog attacks his faithful companion, all Ollie can think about is getting her help when he rushes to Lane Estates Animal Clinic. The last thing on his mind is the thought of meeting the man who can save his dog and his heart.
A warm heart and an open door...
After a series of failed relationships, veterinarian Harry Knowles has nearly given up on finding his soulmate. When Ollie runs into his clinic with a severely injured greyhound, Harry can't resist the aloof, tattooed man. After hiring Ollie to redo his clinic's logo, he discovers that he's falling for the lonely designer.
Helping each other blossom...
The only problem is that, despite their sizzling chemistry, Ollie doesn't seem to know that he's gay. Can Harry help him figure it out before he walks out of the clinic—and his life—for good? And will Bella and Harry's Shih Tzu mix, Betsy, ever get along?
Head Over Paws is a steamy gay romance novel with a HEA and no cliffhangers.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2016
39 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 28, 2016
This was a struggle to get through at times.
It has some good moments, but I found myself getting mildly upset at the caricatures of womanhood that were protrayed by Ollie's ex Anna, and Harry's mother, Minhal.
Particularly them being such problems at first but having their miraculous turnarounds suddenly at the end.
In all it was okay, and I really liked Ollie's growth in learning about his sexuality, but in the end it wasn't spectacular and it didn't pace very well for me.
It has some good moments, but I found myself getting mildly upset at the caricatures of womanhood that were protrayed by Ollie's ex Anna, and Harry's mother, Minhal.
Particularly them being such problems at first but having their miraculous turnarounds suddenly at the end.
In all it was okay, and I really liked Ollie's growth in learning about his sexuality, but in the end it wasn't spectacular and it didn't pace very well for me.
Want to read
June 29, 2018**Update: Changing my review, removing rating, because I am annoyed... This Author has the same exact books under the pseudonyms, Savannah Swan & Cora Jay and changed the character Genders From F/F to M/F to M/M. To me personally, it just seems really dishonest to take the exact same books with the exact same wording (basically plagiarizing your own work) and then republishing them all with different gender pronouns, I personally do not feel comfortable reading this authors books and will no longer be purchasing or reviewing them either.***
June 25, 2016
1.5 rounded up.
I seem to be in the overwhelming minority when compared to the ARC reviews, but honestly this one was a miss for me.
I'll be the first to say that GFY is one of my favorite tropes, but the progression has to happen organically. Two things that derail that progression for me are:
1. The "confirmed" gay MC is too pushy. I want the questioning MC to get there on his own and in his own time.
2. There is a bitchy ex-girlfriend in the mix. It's not realistic that a bad experience with a woman will push a man into another man's arms. I want the attraction between the MCs to be enough to stand on its own. The female ex involvement cheapens things.
I did not feel a connection with either character. Harry was too much and Ollie wasn't enough. I struggled to finish this one. My attention kept straying.
I seem to be in the overwhelming minority when compared to the ARC reviews, but honestly this one was a miss for me.
I'll be the first to say that GFY is one of my favorite tropes, but the progression has to happen organically. Two things that derail that progression for me are:
1. The "confirmed" gay MC is too pushy. I want the questioning MC to get there on his own and in his own time.
2. There is a bitchy ex-girlfriend in the mix. It's not realistic that a bad experience with a woman will push a man into another man's arms. I want the attraction between the MCs to be enough to stand on its own. The female ex involvement cheapens things.
I did not feel a connection with either character. Harry was too much and Ollie wasn't enough. I struggled to finish this one. My attention kept straying.
July 6, 2016
I wish there were more good interracial love stories like this one. The chemistry between Harry and Ollie was great. I'm a sucker for stories with pets. Wilde is one of my favorite m/m authors now.
July 24, 2016
** This is my first Rory Wilde book, and it's a sweet easy read about an introvert, his dog, and the Veterinarian. ** Since he broke up with his girlfriend, blonde, tattooed, shy Ollie, has become secluded. The graphic designer gets out to walk his beautiful greyhound, Bella.
That alone is healing comfort.
A menacing dog takes exception to Ollie and Bella, and attacks. Ollie carries his wounded dog all the way to the nearest vet office., Vet, tall, lithe, Harry, sees the bloody pair and helps them. Harry is gay, of Puerto Rican/Pakistani descent and likes Harry right away,
his dog is Betsy... * Ollie is coming face to face with an old longing when he looks at Harry. Does that label Ollie bisexual or gay ? Doesn't matter what label it gets, he likes Harry. They begin a personal AND professional relationship as Ollie barters for the surgery fees. Starting as friends, these characters are lovable and sexy.
This story is super low key as it travels along showing us inner conflict, good talks, terrific sexiness and hot first times for Ollie, and we have hope for their future.
" There was nothing quite like sharing an orgasm with someone you loved. It was one of the best sensations in the world."
Their glide into love is smooth, with low angst, low drama, and is heartwarming. ENJOY !!
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==========================
That alone is healing comfort.
A menacing dog takes exception to Ollie and Bella, and attacks. Ollie carries his wounded dog all the way to the nearest vet office., Vet, tall, lithe, Harry, sees the bloody pair and helps them. Harry is gay, of Puerto Rican/Pakistani descent and likes Harry right away,
his dog is Betsy... * Ollie is coming face to face with an old longing when he looks at Harry. Does that label Ollie bisexual or gay ? Doesn't matter what label it gets, he likes Harry. They begin a personal AND professional relationship as Ollie barters for the surgery fees. Starting as friends, these characters are lovable and sexy.
This story is super low key as it travels along showing us inner conflict, good talks, terrific sexiness and hot first times for Ollie, and we have hope for their future.
" There was nothing quite like sharing an orgasm with someone you loved. It was one of the best sensations in the world."
Their glide into love is smooth, with low angst, low drama, and is heartwarming. ENJOY !!
========================
==========================
friends-say-no
June 6, 2017Trusted GR friends didn't enjoy it. I'm going to pass.
June 25, 2016
A gay veterinarian encounters an artist with an injured dog. The vet's pursuit brings out conflicted feelings in the artist.
There's a lot of internal dialog in this novel. Sometimes I was confused by the writing, and sometimes by the bizarre behavior of the characters.
There's a lot of internal dialog in this novel. Sometimes I was confused by the writing, and sometimes by the bizarre behavior of the characters.
January 20, 2020
After his girlfriend dumped him and moved to New York, Ollie has become a bit of a recluse. If it weren't for taking his greyhound, Bella, out for exercise, he might never leave his apartment. On one such walk, Bella is attacked by another dog, and he rushes her to the nearest vet clinic.
Harry Knowles is a vet who's all heart. After several failed relationships, he's in a dry spell. When Ollie bursts through his door and into his life, Harry is more than ready to try again.
Ollie is in a financial bind, but Harry needs his logo and office brochures updated, as well as establishing a website. He and Ollie barter their services. It enables him to keep in contact with the intriguing, tattooed artist. For his part, Ollie hadn't given much thought to his sexuality, but spending time with Harry has him questioning himself.
Of course, not everything is sunshine and romance. Harry's dog, Betsy, seems to dislike Bella. Harry's mother keeps trying to set him up with "nice girls", and Ollie's ex-girlfriend, Anna, comes back. She makes it clear she'd like Ollie back, too, but when he finally stands up to her, she tries to get Bella instead. Their fledgling relationship has given each man new resolve, and together, they can face anything.
This was a fun, fluffy romance, but I found the conflict resolution(s) to be almost trite and too easy. Anna went from being a manipulative (Ollie's word) vile bitch (my words) to contrite, accepting, and supportive. Harry's mother saw reason after one (more!) heart-to-heart, the dogs settled their differences, and Ollie gleefully dove into a gay relationship without any angsting or doubts. I shouldn't complain; I do love me some fluff.
Cute, lite story for the most part. Four stars.
Harry Knowles is a vet who's all heart. After several failed relationships, he's in a dry spell. When Ollie bursts through his door and into his life, Harry is more than ready to try again.
Ollie is in a financial bind, but Harry needs his logo and office brochures updated, as well as establishing a website. He and Ollie barter their services. It enables him to keep in contact with the intriguing, tattooed artist. For his part, Ollie hadn't given much thought to his sexuality, but spending time with Harry has him questioning himself.
Of course, not everything is sunshine and romance. Harry's dog, Betsy, seems to dislike Bella. Harry's mother keeps trying to set him up with "nice girls", and Ollie's ex-girlfriend, Anna, comes back. She makes it clear she'd like Ollie back, too, but when he finally stands up to her, she tries to get Bella instead. Their fledgling relationship has given each man new resolve, and together, they can face anything.
This was a fun, fluffy romance, but I found the conflict resolution(s) to be almost trite and too easy. Anna went from being a manipulative (Ollie's word) vile bitch (my words) to contrite, accepting, and supportive. Harry's mother saw reason after one (more!) heart-to-heart, the dogs settled their differences, and Ollie gleefully dove into a gay relationship without any angsting or doubts. I shouldn't complain; I do love me some fluff.
Cute, lite story for the most part. Four stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2019
Dog Lovers Rule
What luck to find a vet in an emergency. Ellie came out of her shell just in time, and did everything she could to help her fur baby heal. Life was looking up, before her past returned. He was to controlling and tried to put things back like he never left. Harick’s quick thinking put the story back on track.
Thanks for such a wonderful book. Off to my next adventure.
What luck to find a vet in an emergency. Ellie came out of her shell just in time, and did everything she could to help her fur baby heal. Life was looking up, before her past returned. He was to controlling and tried to put things back like he never left. Harick’s quick thinking put the story back on track.
Thanks for such a wonderful book. Off to my next adventure.
June 6, 2017
I love how the characters are realistic with quirks and issues that genuinely effect people. This one is my favorite of this seies. I'll be reading them all again when it's done. I have to say Ollie is my favorite mc.
November 2, 2018
DIAMOND IN THE RUFF
I did enjoy the story and loved the dogs. There were a few errors that the editing should have caught. Would probably read another by this author. Read using prime lending.
I did enjoy the story and loved the dogs. There were a few errors that the editing should have caught. Would probably read another by this author. Read using prime lending.
not-interested
January 27, 2024You can see under "editions" above that this same book has also been marketed as a lesbian novel and I heard that it's also a het romance under a pseudonym. Men and women act differently and gay issues are not het issues. I find this really offensive.
May 8, 2017
Good story
This was a very enjoyable read and I liked watching both characters mature and change. Definitely worth downloading to read.
This was a very enjoyable read and I liked watching both characters mature and change. Definitely worth downloading to read.
March 7, 2020
I love stories that involve dogs as well as M/M! This story was full of fun.
October 12, 2016
I wanted I like this book so badly... There's just something about the way it's written I guess that makes me just not as into it as I wanted to be. I did like the story just not so much the way things played out I guess. Anyway, I'm sure it would be a good book for other people.
October 24, 2016
This second story by Rory Wilde also takes place in Redwood County and is equally as enjoyable though for different reasons. She is an author with increasing depth and range. As a dog lover I really like to read books and involving male characters falling in love with a bit of help from their four-legged kids. In this story a veterinarian of Pakistani descent has a feisty Shih Tzu mix, Betsy who runs the clinic and attempts to do the same with Harry Knowles life. She loves the attention from the owners of the clients as well as the office staff. Harry doesn't have much of a social life. Betsy is his best friend and Shalini a young Indian woman and his vet tech sometimes hang out together. But over the past two years he has put so much time into building up his practice in Redwood Crossing, he hasn't had the opportunity to meet someone special. He wanted a life mate, but had no time to find him at least not recently. And no success when he had the chance to date.
Ollie Rockwood is a freelance graphic designer who owns an ex-racing Greyhound named, Bella. She's a big sweet girl who reminds Ollie when to quit working and get out to exercise the both of them. Ollie was worried about how he could drum up more business. Financial worries weren't enough to make him stop being self-employed. A leisurely walk turned into a terror-filled attack on his Greyhound by a larger very aggressive dog running loose. Ollie was understandably distraught after seeing his beloved girl crying and bleeding. He gently lifted her and carried her to his car then programmed in the nearest veterinarian in his GPS. Fortunately it turned out to be the vet clinic of Dr. Harry Knowles.
After helping the injured dog and reassuring the stricken owner, Dr. Knowles presented Ollie with a bill he couldn't pay. He and Harry decided on a barter exchange. Ollie would revamp and rebrand the Vet's brochures, business cards, and logo in exchange for the cost of Bella's over $1,000 vet services bill.
Harry was attracted to Ollie immediately. The glimpses that Harry got of Ollie's tattoos made him want to see the rest of them. The first chance Harry got he suggested they meet for lunch to review what Ollie had done with his re-branding, but to also feel him out. To see if there was any sparkle of interest in a relationship with him.
Initially Ollie didn't realize he was being hit on. When he finally did, he kept dropping hints about just being in straight relationships and only just recently breaking up with a steady girlfriend. He did not count on Harry being so persistent and patient. Ollie had all the qualities Harry desired in a partner except he was straight.
Ollie made it clear he just wanted to be friends with Harry. He enjoyed the time they spent together. He really had no friends besides Bella. His Ex took them when she broke up with him. This is a slow-moving romance of a straight man who is wooed by his gay veterinarian. There is some conflict between the two men's dogs, that make Harry very anxious, because he knows if his little Betsy keeps growling aggressively at Bella, the Greyhound, he really stands no chance with Ollie.
Just when Harry feels he's making some headway with Ollie,Ollie's Ex returns home and back into Ollie's life with a vengeance. As a friend Ollie confided in Harry about what was going on with his Ex. The distress he felt when his Ex threatened his prized possession. The author allows the reader to hear the thoughts and feelings of the two main characters. The reader gets to see the progression of their relationship from clients to friends to lovers.
Harry loves his mother, but he is getting tired of her delusional thinking that his being gay is just a phase. A serious talk made him realize her true motives. This is a sweet gentle tale of Gay for Him. The dogs are a definite bonus. I receive this book as an ARC for a honest review, though I've subsequently purchased a copy. I am truly enjoying the stories of an obvious fellow dog lover.
Ollie Rockwood is a freelance graphic designer who owns an ex-racing Greyhound named, Bella. She's a big sweet girl who reminds Ollie when to quit working and get out to exercise the both of them. Ollie was worried about how he could drum up more business. Financial worries weren't enough to make him stop being self-employed. A leisurely walk turned into a terror-filled attack on his Greyhound by a larger very aggressive dog running loose. Ollie was understandably distraught after seeing his beloved girl crying and bleeding. He gently lifted her and carried her to his car then programmed in the nearest veterinarian in his GPS. Fortunately it turned out to be the vet clinic of Dr. Harry Knowles.
After helping the injured dog and reassuring the stricken owner, Dr. Knowles presented Ollie with a bill he couldn't pay. He and Harry decided on a barter exchange. Ollie would revamp and rebrand the Vet's brochures, business cards, and logo in exchange for the cost of Bella's over $1,000 vet services bill.
Harry was attracted to Ollie immediately. The glimpses that Harry got of Ollie's tattoos made him want to see the rest of them. The first chance Harry got he suggested they meet for lunch to review what Ollie had done with his re-branding, but to also feel him out. To see if there was any sparkle of interest in a relationship with him.
Initially Ollie didn't realize he was being hit on. When he finally did, he kept dropping hints about just being in straight relationships and only just recently breaking up with a steady girlfriend. He did not count on Harry being so persistent and patient. Ollie had all the qualities Harry desired in a partner except he was straight.
Ollie made it clear he just wanted to be friends with Harry. He enjoyed the time they spent together. He really had no friends besides Bella. His Ex took them when she broke up with him. This is a slow-moving romance of a straight man who is wooed by his gay veterinarian. There is some conflict between the two men's dogs, that make Harry very anxious, because he knows if his little Betsy keeps growling aggressively at Bella, the Greyhound, he really stands no chance with Ollie.
Just when Harry feels he's making some headway with Ollie,Ollie's Ex returns home and back into Ollie's life with a vengeance. As a friend Ollie confided in Harry about what was going on with his Ex. The distress he felt when his Ex threatened his prized possession. The author allows the reader to hear the thoughts and feelings of the two main characters. The reader gets to see the progression of their relationship from clients to friends to lovers.
Harry loves his mother, but he is getting tired of her delusional thinking that his being gay is just a phase. A serious talk made him realize her true motives. This is a sweet gentle tale of Gay for Him. The dogs are a definite bonus. I receive this book as an ARC for a honest review, though I've subsequently purchased a copy. I am truly enjoying the stories of an obvious fellow dog lover.
June 24, 2016
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third of Rory's books that I've read. All of them are set in Redwood County, in northern California, and all of them deal with the love lives of the veterinarians and pet owners of the area. Although they are all related in the series, the books are all stand-alones.
"Head Over Paws" is the story of Ollie and Harry. Told from alternating viewpoints, it is the story of Ollie and his dog Bella, who gets attacked by another dog. Ollie rushes Bella to the nearest vet clinic, which just happens to manned by veterinarian, Harry Knowles. In exchange for treating Bella, Ollie offers to help Harry out with some graphic design work for the clinic. Thus begins the relationship between the two men.
The major "angst" (and its a pretty low angst story!) comes from two areas. One, is Ollie's questioning of his orientation. Not sure if he is really gay, or just GFH- gay for Harry- Ollie must work through his feeling for another man. The second area is Ollies ex, Anna, who shows up and tries to throw a wrench into the mix. My only complaint with this story is the character of Anna. I didn't get her. She seems like an afterthought to the story. She shows up, causes a huge problem, then, literally overnight(!), see a therapist and all is well! It just didn't seem to fit. She could have easily been left out.
I liked this story. Its a quick, easy read. Not a lot of sex, but what there is is pretty hot. Again, low angst. And HEA!
Another winner from Rory! (I still want her to expand her first short story, From the Heart, into a full blown novel!)
And I think the character of the vet tech, Bowen, from this story needs to be her next novel. I want to read HIS story!!!
This is the third of Rory's books that I've read. All of them are set in Redwood County, in northern California, and all of them deal with the love lives of the veterinarians and pet owners of the area. Although they are all related in the series, the books are all stand-alones.
"Head Over Paws" is the story of Ollie and Harry. Told from alternating viewpoints, it is the story of Ollie and his dog Bella, who gets attacked by another dog. Ollie rushes Bella to the nearest vet clinic, which just happens to manned by veterinarian, Harry Knowles. In exchange for treating Bella, Ollie offers to help Harry out with some graphic design work for the clinic. Thus begins the relationship between the two men.
The major "angst" (and its a pretty low angst story!) comes from two areas. One, is Ollie's questioning of his orientation. Not sure if he is really gay, or just GFH- gay for Harry- Ollie must work through his feeling for another man. The second area is Ollies ex, Anna, who shows up and tries to throw a wrench into the mix. My only complaint with this story is the character of Anna. I didn't get her. She seems like an afterthought to the story. She shows up, causes a huge problem, then, literally overnight(!), see a therapist and all is well! It just didn't seem to fit. She could have easily been left out.
I liked this story. Its a quick, easy read. Not a lot of sex, but what there is is pretty hot. Again, low angst. And HEA!
Another winner from Rory! (I still want her to expand her first short story, From the Heart, into a full blown novel!)
And I think the character of the vet tech, Bowen, from this story needs to be her next novel. I want to read HIS story!!!
June 21, 2016
Head Over Paws is a very sweet, heartwarming story about Ollie and Harry finding real love together. I really enjoyed this story and the characters and even the dogs – great personalities all around!
Ollie is a quiet freelance graphic designer who works from home and has very little interaction with others. He’s getting over his breakup with his ex-girlfriend Anna but he does have his rescue greyhound, Bella. He’d like to make some new friends, but it’s not easy for him. One day while out on a walk with Bella an unknown dog approaches and attacks Bella, it’s all Ollie can do to get her to a vet for help.
Harry loves his job as a vet, and he’s good at it too! He has a great way with animals and people too. He’s a sweet guy who wants to find that special someone but hasn’t. When Ollie shows up one evening with an injured Bella, he comes to Bella’s rescue and Ollie’s too.
These two were so freaking cute together! They have a natural chemistry together that fit just right. Even when there are questions about their status, friends, more…they still fit perfectly together. I loved the way they developed, starting out in a professional capacity and then realizing that neither man wants to let the other go. I really enjoyed watching Ollie’s journey, figuring out exactly who he really is and embracing it. Overall this was a very enjoyable book I will no doubt go back to for that feel-good love story. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to see what sweet story is next from Rory!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ollie is a quiet freelance graphic designer who works from home and has very little interaction with others. He’s getting over his breakup with his ex-girlfriend Anna but he does have his rescue greyhound, Bella. He’d like to make some new friends, but it’s not easy for him. One day while out on a walk with Bella an unknown dog approaches and attacks Bella, it’s all Ollie can do to get her to a vet for help.
Harry loves his job as a vet, and he’s good at it too! He has a great way with animals and people too. He’s a sweet guy who wants to find that special someone but hasn’t. When Ollie shows up one evening with an injured Bella, he comes to Bella’s rescue and Ollie’s too.
These two were so freaking cute together! They have a natural chemistry together that fit just right. Even when there are questions about their status, friends, more…they still fit perfectly together. I loved the way they developed, starting out in a professional capacity and then realizing that neither man wants to let the other go. I really enjoyed watching Ollie’s journey, figuring out exactly who he really is and embracing it. Overall this was a very enjoyable book I will no doubt go back to for that feel-good love story. I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to see what sweet story is next from Rory!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
Maybe he was falling faster for this guy.
When Ollie met Harry, he was a recent dumpee, with an injured adopted retired race dog. Ollie was just trying to get his life and career back in the black so he could breathe easily. The veterinarian sparked something in Ollie who never thought about anything except being with a woman. Now Ollie was awakened and the flames were not about to be doused.
He was in, hook, line and sinker.
At first, Harry thought Ollie was cute, until feelings got in the way. Hiring the graphic artist to revamp his business in lieu of payment for his dog's bill placed Ollie within Harry's grasp. Harry was subtle with his interest and soon the seed had been planted. There was no way he was letting Ollie go. He was going to get it all. He was going to get Ollie in his bed, into his heart and with any luck, they'd live happily ever after. There was only one problem. Harry was gay and Ollie was straight.
Knowing what you want and going after it.
Ollie took to being with Harry like a duck to water. Even with the reemergence of his former girlfriend and her threats to take his dog away, Ollie was willing to fight. For his freedom, for his new relationship and for his animal. And he blazed out of the closet while doing so.
A novel with heart and meaning.
Review copy provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
When Ollie met Harry, he was a recent dumpee, with an injured adopted retired race dog. Ollie was just trying to get his life and career back in the black so he could breathe easily. The veterinarian sparked something in Ollie who never thought about anything except being with a woman. Now Ollie was awakened and the flames were not about to be doused.
He was in, hook, line and sinker.
At first, Harry thought Ollie was cute, until feelings got in the way. Hiring the graphic artist to revamp his business in lieu of payment for his dog's bill placed Ollie within Harry's grasp. Harry was subtle with his interest and soon the seed had been planted. There was no way he was letting Ollie go. He was going to get it all. He was going to get Ollie in his bed, into his heart and with any luck, they'd live happily ever after. There was only one problem. Harry was gay and Ollie was straight.
Knowing what you want and going after it.
Ollie took to being with Harry like a duck to water. Even with the reemergence of his former girlfriend and her threats to take his dog away, Ollie was willing to fight. For his freedom, for his new relationship and for his animal. And he blazed out of the closet while doing so.
A novel with heart and meaning.
Review copy provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
December 19, 2016
I don't remember how I got this book. It may have been a freebie or on sale. I doubt I knew at the time I got it that it was a Gay for You book. Other reviewers said that Harry was too pushy, but I didn't think so. Ollie was questioning, and not averse to Harry's advances.
I don't like the notion that penetrative sex is the only "real" sex. This also made Ollie say, "I guess I really am gay." Harry had an "intuition" that Ollie would be a bottom. I'm not aware that's an intuitive thing when it's a judgment about someone who's never had anal sex before. But on the first try, Ollie ended up loving it. There were some m/m romance tropes in here that are popular with many m/m readers, but that I'm not thrilled by.
Ollie's ex-girlfriend showed up, and first she was fake-nice, and then she was evil, and then she was fake-nice again, and then she was evil, and then she was relatively nice. I was very confused as to what was going on in her head. Ollie was wondering what was up, but glad he wasn't in a relationship with her and her manipulative behavior anymore. Harry did seem much more like someone Ollie could have a healthy relationship with. Harry and Ollie had both learned to process their emotions, and there was some internal discussion of that from both of them.
This was mixed for me. I liked Bella the greyhound, and liked the protagonists well enough, but didn't care for several of the tropes. Recommended to readers who like Gay for You, though.
I don't like the notion that penetrative sex is the only "real" sex. This also made Ollie say, "I guess I really am gay." Harry had an "intuition" that Ollie would be a bottom. I'm not aware that's an intuitive thing when it's a judgment about someone who's never had anal sex before. But on the first try, Ollie ended up loving it. There were some m/m romance tropes in here that are popular with many m/m readers, but that I'm not thrilled by.
Ollie's ex-girlfriend showed up, and first she was fake-nice, and then she was evil, and then she was fake-nice again, and then she was evil, and then she was relatively nice. I was very confused as to what was going on in her head. Ollie was wondering what was up, but glad he wasn't in a relationship with her and her manipulative behavior anymore. Harry did seem much more like someone Ollie could have a healthy relationship with. Harry and Ollie had both learned to process their emotions, and there was some internal discussion of that from both of them.
This was mixed for me. I liked Bella the greyhound, and liked the protagonists well enough, but didn't care for several of the tropes. Recommended to readers who like Gay for You, though.
September 12, 2016
Rory Wilde has written another beautiful story. Ollie and Harry are such wonderful characters, you can't help but fall in love with them. They doggies in this book are perfect. I was thrilled to learn that Bella was a greyhound. I adore greyhounds, and whole heartedly support adopting retired racers.
Harry is a veterinarian, and is in need of a graphic designer to revamp his clinics image and logo. Harry meets Ollie when Bella is attacked by another dog. As fate would have it, Ollie is a graphic designer. He is recovering from a breakup and struggling to make ends meet. When Bella is attacked he is unsure of how he will pay for her vet bills, but fate takes control and Harry agrees to exchange Bella's vet bills for Ollie designing the clinic new brochures, cards, and website.
This is a story of discovery; discovering who you are, who you want to be, and who you want to be with for the rest of your life. Harry is the last thing Ollie expects. He is definitely not who Ollie expected to fall for. I read this book from start to finish without putting it down. It was a wonderfully touching book.
Harry is a veterinarian, and is in need of a graphic designer to revamp his clinics image and logo. Harry meets Ollie when Bella is attacked by another dog. As fate would have it, Ollie is a graphic designer. He is recovering from a breakup and struggling to make ends meet. When Bella is attacked he is unsure of how he will pay for her vet bills, but fate takes control and Harry agrees to exchange Bella's vet bills for Ollie designing the clinic new brochures, cards, and website.
This is a story of discovery; discovering who you are, who you want to be, and who you want to be with for the rest of your life. Harry is the last thing Ollie expects. He is definitely not who Ollie expected to fall for. I read this book from start to finish without putting it down. It was a wonderfully touching book.
June 22, 2016
I absolutely love that this author has incorporated her love of animals into her writing. This is a very sweet story about growing, expanding and getting on with lives. There's always an excuse why one can't. This book explores why one should learn to take a chance, try a different route or way of looking at something. It shows the trials and tribulations as well as the rewards of putting one's self out there.
The characters were easy to like and developed as needed. The story moved well but took a little longer to get to the point of the book than I would like. I wish we could have seen the relationship grow more, a a realistic pace. Overall, I really liked this story and the telling of it. Wonderfully written by someone that obviously loves the Art of Words. Thank you.
I received this book as a gift, in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were easy to like and developed as needed. The story moved well but took a little longer to get to the point of the book than I would like. I wish we could have seen the relationship grow more, a a realistic pace. Overall, I really liked this story and the telling of it. Wonderfully written by someone that obviously loves the Art of Words. Thank you.
I received this book as a gift, in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2016
This was an ARC given to me in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
This story was the epitome of a feel good, no angst love story. Oscar and Harry, both dog owners, one a veterinarian, the other a freelance graphics designer, meet over Oscar's greyhound, Bella, who was attacked and severly injured by a stray dog while out on a walk. The two men, one gay and the other straight (or so he thinks) immediately hit it off and professional services are exchanged since the Dr's office needs a new brand, complete with a new website, something Oscar is more than capable of doing.
Thus begins a road to friendship between the two men that slowly turns to something more as they get to know one another. I truly enjoyed reading this light hearted book and know that other readers will as well.
This story was the epitome of a feel good, no angst love story. Oscar and Harry, both dog owners, one a veterinarian, the other a freelance graphics designer, meet over Oscar's greyhound, Bella, who was attacked and severly injured by a stray dog while out on a walk. The two men, one gay and the other straight (or so he thinks) immediately hit it off and professional services are exchanged since the Dr's office needs a new brand, complete with a new website, something Oscar is more than capable of doing.
Thus begins a road to friendship between the two men that slowly turns to something more as they get to know one another. I truly enjoyed reading this light hearted book and know that other readers will as well.
June 22, 2016
I really enjoyed this light read by Rory Wilde. It was sweet and adorable.It is very sweet story about Ollie and Harry. Ollie is a graphic designer and Harry a vet. They cross paths when Ollie's dog is attacked by another dog. Harry is the vet that takes care of Bella. Ollie doesn't have the money up front to pay Harry, but its Ollie's luck that Harry is in need of a graphic designer to spruce up Harry's brochures and website. A barter is made, however they both quickly realize that there is an attraction between them and the more time they spend together the more the sparks fly between them.
I highly recommend this story if your in the mood for a light sweet love story that will make you swoon. A great story!
I received an author's copy in exchange for my honest review.
I highly recommend this story if your in the mood for a light sweet love story that will make you swoon. A great story!
I received an author's copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 20, 2016
Harry, Ollie, and their four-legged best friends made for an interesting story. It's a journey of loneliness and self-discovery that leads to love and resolving the UST that builds up from Harry and Ollie's attraction to one another. Ollie's ex, Anna, was all over the place, couldn't make up her mind and I could never tell what she was about to do. The only thing that could have made it better to me is if Ollie's 'first' time had been more drawn out with foreplay and more prepping. Would have felt more natural to me. I love how Rory writes kind-hearted men that treasure their pets as family, and then leads them to discover another like-minded beautiful man for love and life. I have been given an ARC of Head Over Paws for my honest opinion.
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June 23, 2016I received this book free for an honest review.
Harry and Ollie are the sweetest couple. They come together as friends with hopes on Harry's part for more.
There is discovery and development on both sides. There is also Besty and Bella they seem like such a cute pair of dogs. And there is how they react to each other and their development. I love how this author uses her love of dogs and writing together.
This is a book with zero to low angst depending on how you see the ex girlfriend. It's well written with just a couple of name swap instances with the dogs. It's worth a read for a comforting feel good book.
Harry and Ollie are the sweetest couple. They come together as friends with hopes on Harry's part for more.
There is discovery and development on both sides. There is also Besty and Bella they seem like such a cute pair of dogs. And there is how they react to each other and their development. I love how this author uses her love of dogs and writing together.
This is a book with zero to low angst depending on how you see the ex girlfriend. It's well written with just a couple of name swap instances with the dogs. It's worth a read for a comforting feel good book.
October 6, 2016
Reads like a draft
I was so disappointed I paid for this book. There was zero character development, the character that was supposed to be an antagonist just falls flat and feels very trite and the writing is almost chidish. The whole thing reads like it was supposed to be a first draft instead of the finished product. The story has so much potential if it had only been properly fleshed out. It felt rushed and had too much "filler" instead of scenes that carried the story. Definitely turned me off reading anything else by this author. I think the writer has potential but maybe should think about working with a good beta reader
I was so disappointed I paid for this book. There was zero character development, the character that was supposed to be an antagonist just falls flat and feels very trite and the writing is almost chidish. The whole thing reads like it was supposed to be a first draft instead of the finished product. The story has so much potential if it had only been properly fleshed out. It felt rushed and had too much "filler" instead of scenes that carried the story. Definitely turned me off reading anything else by this author. I think the writer has potential but maybe should think about working with a good beta reader
July 6, 2016
This is my second Rory Wilde read but her writing continually feels flat to me. There are great ideas like racial differences, rude/neurotic ex-girlfriends, worried parents, and one persnickety dog but Wilde tends to gloss over the challenges solving them way, way too easily. I wanted to know way, way more about Ollie's tattoos and they reason for them. My pet peeve was front and center here: If sex was that easy the first time, everyone would do it! Again, a challenge easily solved. I don't mind fluff, brain bleach or lite-romps but if a writer's going to go that way they need to commit.
September 21, 2016
I enjoyed the story of Ollie & Harry. Ollie is a 20 something graphic designer who doesn’t think he’s gay until he meets handsome vet Harry & starts to wonder. After getting to know each other through mutual business dealings they begin a friendship which blossoms to more. They survive their dogs not getting along, an ex girlfriend returning under dubious circumstances & Ollie coming to terms with the new turn his life is taking.
Overall an enjoyable story.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Overall an enjoyable story.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2016
After all a good book with a nice story but sometimes - without being really boring - it felt a bit slow motion... The "problem" was widen all over the book, the reappearance of Anna was a thing which could create trouble but was surprisingly fast evaporated... o.O
Partly a few things felt rushed while other were okay...
4,5 out of 5 stars because I liked the chemistry between the MC and it contains cute dogs :3
Partly a few things felt rushed while other were okay...
4,5 out of 5 stars because I liked the chemistry between the MC and it contains cute dogs :3
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