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Bluff Point #2
Barking Up the Wrong Tree
New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay returns to Bluff Point, Maine, where one woman finds love with the help of an adorable golden retriever.
LOVE IS A FOUR-LEGGED WORD.
Carly DeCusati returned home to Bluff Point, Maine, with her tail between her legs. But she’s determined to get her life back on track—and that means finding new homes for the elderly golden retriever and overly talkative parrot she inherited before her old life fell apart.
Enter physical therapist and hot one-night stand James Sinclair. James doesn’t care that Carly doesn’t do relationships. He is determined to win her heart, promising to help her with the pets if she’ll just give him the time of day.
Carly agrees to date the irresistible James, and, for the first time in years, she’s dreaming of a happily ever after. But James has secrets, and if he can’t open up to Carly, their future could go to the dogs...
LOVE IS A FOUR-LEGGED WORD.
Carly DeCusati returned home to Bluff Point, Maine, with her tail between her legs. But she’s determined to get her life back on track—and that means finding new homes for the elderly golden retriever and overly talkative parrot she inherited before her old life fell apart.
Enter physical therapist and hot one-night stand James Sinclair. James doesn’t care that Carly doesn’t do relationships. He is determined to win her heart, promising to help her with the pets if she’ll just give him the time of day.
Carly agrees to date the irresistible James, and, for the first time in years, she’s dreaming of a happily ever after. But James has secrets, and if he can’t open up to Carly, their future could go to the dogs...
315 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 26, 2017
198 people are currently reading
1714 people want to read
About the author
Jenn McKinlay
74 books5,193 followersJenn is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of several mystery and romance series. She is also the winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award for romantic comedy and the Fresh Fiction award for best cozy mystery. A TEDx speaker, she is always happy to talk books, writing, reading, and the creative process to anyone who cares to listen. She lives in sunny Arizona in a house that is overrun with books, pets, and her husband’s guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
September 24, 2017
Release Date: September 26, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance. Humor.
Jenn McKinlay is going to the top of my list of must have romance authors! This is truly a big feat too as is this only her SECOND romance novel (she is well known for her cozy mystery series). This book is funny, romantic, sweet, and a pure pleasure to read. I can't wait for the series to develop more because I know it's going to be a forever top favorite of mine.
In this installment, readers will be rooting for Carly and James as they slowly navigate building a relationship with one another. Carly doesn't do relationships. Period. She is more of a "smash and dash" kind of chick because she has been burned in the past. James, on the other hand, is the total opposite. Once he get's a taste of Carly he wants her in his future bad. But it takes a lot of wooing and persuasion to make her see this. Can these two make it work even though both have different plans for their future? Or will Carly's fear of commitment stop it before it gets too serious? You'll have to read to find out!
The characters in this book are FANTASTIC. I love how the author has essentially switched roles with Carly and James- usually, it's the guys who are afraid of commitment and not the other way around like it is in this story. If you have read the first book in the series, About a Dog, you may recognize Carly as being one of the best friends of of the heroine in that book. If you haven't that's okay too because this can be read as a standalone. But anyway, I really liked how this circle of friends is still prominent in this book. It's so nice to be able to catch up and see them all interact with one another.
Another characters in this novel that had my heart from the second I met him is Ike. Ike is a parrot. A filthy parrot who has no problem swearing and singing a tune. He had me rolling around laughing so hard that there were times I could hardly catch my breath! You guys are going to LOVE him. He mad this story so funny!
Other than the great characters and fantastic romance, the setting in this book is great too. I love how the story takes place in Maine (I used to vacation in Maine every single year when I was a kid), so it's nice to "go back and visit". I think many readers will fall in love with Bluff Point as well. It's a fantastic small town that really sums up the beauty of Maine.
With that, I recommend this book (HIGHLY). I adore this series. Every time I pick up a book from it I get really excited because I know it's going to be so much fun to read. I can't wait to dive into the next one!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Genre: Contemporary Romance. Humor.
Jenn McKinlay is going to the top of my list of must have romance authors! This is truly a big feat too as is this only her SECOND romance novel (she is well known for her cozy mystery series). This book is funny, romantic, sweet, and a pure pleasure to read. I can't wait for the series to develop more because I know it's going to be a forever top favorite of mine.
In this installment, readers will be rooting for Carly and James as they slowly navigate building a relationship with one another. Carly doesn't do relationships. Period. She is more of a "smash and dash" kind of chick because she has been burned in the past. James, on the other hand, is the total opposite. Once he get's a taste of Carly he wants her in his future bad. But it takes a lot of wooing and persuasion to make her see this. Can these two make it work even though both have different plans for their future? Or will Carly's fear of commitment stop it before it gets too serious? You'll have to read to find out!
The characters in this book are FANTASTIC. I love how the author has essentially switched roles with Carly and James- usually, it's the guys who are afraid of commitment and not the other way around like it is in this story. If you have read the first book in the series, About a Dog, you may recognize Carly as being one of the best friends of of the heroine in that book. If you haven't that's okay too because this can be read as a standalone. But anyway, I really liked how this circle of friends is still prominent in this book. It's so nice to be able to catch up and see them all interact with one another.
Another characters in this novel that had my heart from the second I met him is Ike. Ike is a parrot. A filthy parrot who has no problem swearing and singing a tune. He had me rolling around laughing so hard that there were times I could hardly catch my breath! You guys are going to LOVE him. He mad this story so funny!
Other than the great characters and fantastic romance, the setting in this book is great too. I love how the story takes place in Maine (I used to vacation in Maine every single year when I was a kid), so it's nice to "go back and visit". I think many readers will fall in love with Bluff Point as well. It's a fantastic small town that really sums up the beauty of Maine.
With that, I recommend this book (HIGHLY). I adore this series. Every time I pick up a book from it I get really excited because I know it's going to be so much fun to read. I can't wait to dive into the next one!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
December 22, 2017
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I really enjoyed this romance. I had such a good time with the first book in this series, About a Dog, when I read it earlier this year so it was a given that I would want to read more of the series. I will admit that I was a little surprised when I saw this book was about Carly and an unknown character named James. I had kind of thought that we would see Carly and Zach end up together but it looks like they are truly just friends. I was quickly won over by James and ended up really enjoying watching him win Carly over.
The characters in this book are great. Carly is just full of life. She had to come back home to her parents' home after losing her job. She doesn't come alone. She has just inherited a senior dog and a bird with a colorful vocabulary. Carly doesn't do relationships. One night stands are fine but that is where she wants things to end. I liked Carly from the start and loved watching her try to figure out where she wants her life to go.
James was nearly perfect. He was kind, funny, and easy on the eyes. He wants more than the one night stand Carly is offering. He quickly shows that he will do what is needed in order to keep Carly near him so he can convince her to give a relationship a try. I loved James from the start of the book and fell a little bit more in love with him with each page.
Carly and James made a great couple. They had some amazing chemistry and I really enjoyed their banter. There really were just as many comical moments in this book as tender ones. There was a point in the book that Carly seriously overreacted which kind of annoyed me. James made a rather boneheaded statement which annoyed me fairly equally. I did really enjoy the book so I guess all is forgiven.
I would recommend this book to others. This is the second book in the Bluff Point series but could easily be read as a stand alone. I thought that this was a great romance filled with wonderful characters including 2 awesome dogs and a talkative bird. I am really excited to start reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
I liked Carly and James a lot. Carly was great even though she was afraid to let herself be in a relationship. James melted my heart a few times during the book. He does make a pretty boneheaded move towards the end of the book but I guess I can forgive that. All in all a nice romance with a couple of cute dogs and a talking bird to round out the cast.
I really enjoyed this romance. I had such a good time with the first book in this series, About a Dog, when I read it earlier this year so it was a given that I would want to read more of the series. I will admit that I was a little surprised when I saw this book was about Carly and an unknown character named James. I had kind of thought that we would see Carly and Zach end up together but it looks like they are truly just friends. I was quickly won over by James and ended up really enjoying watching him win Carly over.
The characters in this book are great. Carly is just full of life. She had to come back home to her parents' home after losing her job. She doesn't come alone. She has just inherited a senior dog and a bird with a colorful vocabulary. Carly doesn't do relationships. One night stands are fine but that is where she wants things to end. I liked Carly from the start and loved watching her try to figure out where she wants her life to go.
James was nearly perfect. He was kind, funny, and easy on the eyes. He wants more than the one night stand Carly is offering. He quickly shows that he will do what is needed in order to keep Carly near him so he can convince her to give a relationship a try. I loved James from the start of the book and fell a little bit more in love with him with each page.
Carly and James made a great couple. They had some amazing chemistry and I really enjoyed their banter. There really were just as many comical moments in this book as tender ones. There was a point in the book that Carly seriously overreacted which kind of annoyed me. James made a rather boneheaded statement which annoyed me fairly equally. I did really enjoy the book so I guess all is forgiven.
I would recommend this book to others. This is the second book in the Bluff Point series but could easily be read as a stand alone. I thought that this was a great romance filled with wonderful characters including 2 awesome dogs and a talkative bird. I am really excited to start reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
I liked Carly and James a lot. Carly was great even though she was afraid to let herself be in a relationship. James melted my heart a few times during the book. He does make a pretty boneheaded move towards the end of the book but I guess I can forgive that. All in all a nice romance with a couple of cute dogs and a talking bird to round out the cast.
September 28, 2017
Jenn McKinlay returns to Bluff Point with BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE. This is the second in the series and you don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy this one. If you’re new to Jenn and her books, this is her very first Contemporary Romance series. She’s a Cozy Mystery writer at heart, but I like that she’s expanding her genres and trying something new.
Jenn’s style is very fun and light in this series. There’s quite a lot of humor and banter in this series, which kind of reminds me of books like Jill Shalvis. However, I will say that the humor can take the place of plot in these books. Since the entire book is quite light, there’s not too much focus on conflict, which is my only real complaint about this series. I do like the romance and I do like all the characters but I don’t necessarily get that urge to continue reading to find out what happens next like some of her Cozy Mysteries do. So if you plan on starting this series, I do think you need to be in a certain mindset to enjoy it. Be prepared for something much lighter in tone and fun because that’s really where book shines.
If you’re an animal lover, well, you’re in luck because this book has lots of great animal appearances. Once again, they offer some great comic relief and some of the reactions from these characters were hilarious.
September 18, 2017
I love this author's mystery series, so I was a little apprehensive about her starting a romance series. Well she definitely delivers! I loved the first book and the second one did not disappoint. There was one little part at the end that seemed a little unrealistic, but overall, I found this story to be very believable. And I'm not sure if I was disappointed in the end, or if I just didn't want the book to end. I love that each book in this series is about a different character, but the original characters are still in it (just the focus is on someone new). I love getting to know a new character and routing for her. Very well done! And I can't wait for more!
September 28, 2017
Coffee Dates with Barking Up the Wrong Tree
First Date: Our date begins in New York as Carly DeCusati learns her next-door neighbor bequeathed her a menagerie of pets that include a saucy parrot named Ike and an older golden retriever named Saul. After losing her job and with no prospects on the horizon she is heading home to Bluffs Point. To say, Carly has reached a low point would be an understatement. When she gets home, her parents jump in their car destined for sunny Florida, shouting take care of your sister and the house. The sisters are like oil and vinegar. Between the pets and Carly's snark, I am quickly pulled in. McKinlay had me laughing aloud during scenes where the bird gets loose. At the local pub, she meets James Sinclair, the sexy personal trainer she encountered early that day. Their chemistry is off the charts, and it looks like Carly will get lucky.
Second Date: Carly doesn't do relationships, and never sleeps with the same man twice. An arrangement she is quite happy with. It was fun seeing this reversal of roles, as typically it is the hero who has hang-ups. The morning after scene choking as I snorted coffee through my nose laughing. There is a story behind James, and it was interesting seeing this thread develop. To her the night was lovely, and they are over, but James wants more, and this bright, smexy man is making Carly feel all kinds of things. I loved the banter, snarky comments, and sizzling hot chemistry as Carly tries to deny it even as she wishes he'd kiss her. Time spent with friends, trying to get the pets adopted into good homes and securing a new job are all weaved into the tale. The animals are all adorable and at times stole the show. I want to adopt them all. Ike made me laugh until I had tears. I enjoyed all the secondary characters and seeing the developments between Carly and her little sister. A scene at the veterinarian's office has me dying to get my hands on book three.
Third Date: I am in love with James and if Carly doesn't jump him I will! I was sold before I saw his home and then I melted into goo. The Sinclair family, whoopie pies, and folks from the past cause some hiccups. The drama was minimal and the big issue didn't seem like much to me, but I had to look at it through Carly's eyes. I am confident and know my worth, but Carly has had some serious hits lately to her psyche. That along with her relationship history is enough to make someone skittish. Thankfully, communication, swoon-worthy romantic gestures and following one's heart ruled the day.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date: Our date begins in New York as Carly DeCusati learns her next-door neighbor bequeathed her a menagerie of pets that include a saucy parrot named Ike and an older golden retriever named Saul. After losing her job and with no prospects on the horizon she is heading home to Bluffs Point. To say, Carly has reached a low point would be an understatement. When she gets home, her parents jump in their car destined for sunny Florida, shouting take care of your sister and the house. The sisters are like oil and vinegar. Between the pets and Carly's snark, I am quickly pulled in. McKinlay had me laughing aloud during scenes where the bird gets loose. At the local pub, she meets James Sinclair, the sexy personal trainer she encountered early that day. Their chemistry is off the charts, and it looks like Carly will get lucky.
Second Date: Carly doesn't do relationships, and never sleeps with the same man twice. An arrangement she is quite happy with. It was fun seeing this reversal of roles, as typically it is the hero who has hang-ups. The morning after scene choking as I snorted coffee through my nose laughing. There is a story behind James, and it was interesting seeing this thread develop. To her the night was lovely, and they are over, but James wants more, and this bright, smexy man is making Carly feel all kinds of things. I loved the banter, snarky comments, and sizzling hot chemistry as Carly tries to deny it even as she wishes he'd kiss her. Time spent with friends, trying to get the pets adopted into good homes and securing a new job are all weaved into the tale. The animals are all adorable and at times stole the show. I want to adopt them all. Ike made me laugh until I had tears. I enjoyed all the secondary characters and seeing the developments between Carly and her little sister. A scene at the veterinarian's office has me dying to get my hands on book three.
Third Date: I am in love with James and if Carly doesn't jump him I will! I was sold before I saw his home and then I melted into goo. The Sinclair family, whoopie pies, and folks from the past cause some hiccups. The drama was minimal and the big issue didn't seem like much to me, but I had to look at it through Carly's eyes. I am confident and know my worth, but Carly has had some serious hits lately to her psyche. That along with her relationship history is enough to make someone skittish. Thankfully, communication, swoon-worthy romantic gestures and following one's heart ruled the day.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
January 5, 2018
3.5 Stars. RTC.
October 21, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
All the characters I loved in the first book are back. This time the focus is on Carly. Carly DeCusati does NOT do relationships. One night, the guy never sleeps over, and she never sees them again. That all could change when she has moved back to Bluff Point and meets James Sinclair. A physical therapist who doesn’t know about Carly’s rules. She has enough to do trying to find a new job and finding homes for a couple a pets left to her in an old neighbor’s will. She doesn’t have time to deal with a guy wanting to date her, even if the sex was absolutely amazing. James has some secrets too, he just doesn’t feel ready to share with Carly.
I loved this story as much as the first book in this series.
Jenn McKinlay creates such strong characters of all types whether she is writing a romance or a mystery. I always am very engaged with them and want to know more. The human characters in this story are terrific but their pets are fabulous too. James has adopted Hot Wheels, a Basset Hound, he has a little mobility problem. Carly inherited Saul, a lovable elderly Golden Retriever and Ike, a foul mouthed parrot that had me in stitches.
I was laughing from the beginning when Carly arrived home and her parents just jumped in their car and took off for Florida. Leaving Carly to deal with her sister who is still living with their parents. The sisters do not get along at all so I knew this going to be very interesting. I was thrilled that Mac’s aunts were also part of this story and really living life to the fullest.
Carly and James romance was steamy and sweet from the start. Their dialogues are fun, kinda snarky, but very believable, and their kisses were toe curling. The morning after their first night together was hilarious. I was laughing out loud and couldn’t stop. How could she think she could walk away from the hunk of burning love? 🙂 I love the way James just didn’t give up though. He was a man with a mission and he was going to make Carly see she could have a real, adult, relationship. I liked James’ story, his secrets, his family. This not only gave his character depth but it gave the entire story more strength as well.
I love a story with a happy ending. I love that there is another book coming soon in this series so I will get to visit these characters again. Every Dog Has His Day comes out January 2, 2018.
Fun, lighthearted, friendship and family with just enough drama to get you invested from the beginning to the end. A positively delightful read!!
All the characters I loved in the first book are back. This time the focus is on Carly. Carly DeCusati does NOT do relationships. One night, the guy never sleeps over, and she never sees them again. That all could change when she has moved back to Bluff Point and meets James Sinclair. A physical therapist who doesn’t know about Carly’s rules. She has enough to do trying to find a new job and finding homes for a couple a pets left to her in an old neighbor’s will. She doesn’t have time to deal with a guy wanting to date her, even if the sex was absolutely amazing. James has some secrets too, he just doesn’t feel ready to share with Carly.
I loved this story as much as the first book in this series.
Jenn McKinlay creates such strong characters of all types whether she is writing a romance or a mystery. I always am very engaged with them and want to know more. The human characters in this story are terrific but their pets are fabulous too. James has adopted Hot Wheels, a Basset Hound, he has a little mobility problem. Carly inherited Saul, a lovable elderly Golden Retriever and Ike, a foul mouthed parrot that had me in stitches.
I was laughing from the beginning when Carly arrived home and her parents just jumped in their car and took off for Florida. Leaving Carly to deal with her sister who is still living with their parents. The sisters do not get along at all so I knew this going to be very interesting. I was thrilled that Mac’s aunts were also part of this story and really living life to the fullest.
Carly and James romance was steamy and sweet from the start. Their dialogues are fun, kinda snarky, but very believable, and their kisses were toe curling. The morning after their first night together was hilarious. I was laughing out loud and couldn’t stop. How could she think she could walk away from the hunk of burning love? 🙂 I love the way James just didn’t give up though. He was a man with a mission and he was going to make Carly see she could have a real, adult, relationship. I liked James’ story, his secrets, his family. This not only gave his character depth but it gave the entire story more strength as well.
I love a story with a happy ending. I love that there is another book coming soon in this series so I will get to visit these characters again. Every Dog Has His Day comes out January 2, 2018.
Fun, lighthearted, friendship and family with just enough drama to get you invested from the beginning to the end. A positively delightful read!!
March 25, 2018
Loved it!!
November 23, 2017
Carly, Mac, Emma and Jillian are best friends who grew up in Bluff Point. Emma is now married, and Mac is very happy with Gavin. This book it is Carly's turn to find romance. Jenn McKinlay has turned the tables on the typical story of the man wanting the one night stand and being commitment phobic, as it is Carly that is afraid to see a man after the first encounter. Carly doesn't do relationships. She was been burned in the past and does not ever want to feel that way again. James, on the other hand, is the total opposite. He fell in love with Carly eleven years ago when he briefly met her and never forgot her. When she picks him up at the local bar, he can't believe his luck. He wants her, not for a one night stand but for good. Unfortunately, it is going to take a lot of wooing and persuasion to get her to change her mind. Can these two make it work even though both have different plans for their future? Will Carly's fear of commitment ruin their chance for a future together?
The characters in this book are wonderful. I love how the friends are there for each other, through thick and thin. They spend a lot of time together and when they think Carly and James are a good match, you know they are going to do what they need to, in order to help James get through to Carly. The humour in the story is from the pets, specifically Ike, the filthy mouthed parrot that Carly inherited from her neighbour in New York. He was hilarious and often came out with one liners at just the right moment. He could actually imitate Carly's voice when she was in the throes of passion with James.
This book is funny, romantic, sweet, humorous making it fun to read. I can't wait for the series to continue so I can see what is in store for Jillian and Zach. I recommend this series to romance lovers and pet lovers. Although there are some sex scenes, they are not too heavy or erotic. You do not have to have read Bluff Point #1, About a Dog, to enjoy this series, but I recommend you read it because it is also a good story.
The characters in this book are wonderful. I love how the friends are there for each other, through thick and thin. They spend a lot of time together and when they think Carly and James are a good match, you know they are going to do what they need to, in order to help James get through to Carly. The humour in the story is from the pets, specifically Ike, the filthy mouthed parrot that Carly inherited from her neighbour in New York. He was hilarious and often came out with one liners at just the right moment. He could actually imitate Carly's voice when she was in the throes of passion with James.
This book is funny, romantic, sweet, humorous making it fun to read. I can't wait for the series to continue so I can see what is in store for Jillian and Zach. I recommend this series to romance lovers and pet lovers. Although there are some sex scenes, they are not too heavy or erotic. You do not have to have read Bluff Point #1, About a Dog, to enjoy this series, but I recommend you read it because it is also a good story.
March 19, 2021
4 Stars for Barking up the Wrong Tree: Bluff Point Series, Book 2 (audiobook) by Jennifer McKinlay read by Allyson Ryan. I thought this was a fun romance. Lots of interesting characters. Good narration.
November 6, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (review live 11/21)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2y7QGzO
Ahhh the cute cover! I was loving Barking Up the Wrong Tree. The couple, the set up, the town, the pets! Oh the pets are adorable and hilarious. And I was having so much fun...until I wasn't. Yeah, sadly, there was a struggle before it ended.
The Gist: James and Carly have an instant connection when they spot each other across a bar and hook up. But Carly? She's a hit it and quit it kind of girl and she's not interested in a second night. James though? Oh, James is ready for something serious. He just has to convince his girl to give him another shot.
I liked these two quite a bit. James is just a good guy all the way down. He's solid, caring, loves his handicapped dog. Loves his family fiercely. Hands out killer orgasms. I mean. Good guy! And Carly. She's a bit broken. Lost her job, her apartment, moving home again. New pet mom to a troubled herd. She's in a bit of a tailspin but she's a trooper and keeps her head up which I can appreciate.
They were hot together! Yeah, they steamed things up real nice. *fans self* They were fun outside the bedroom, too. Watching them spend time together and him breaking down those commitment-phobe walls of hers. Plus they both had pets that were adorably! A foul mouthed bird, a senior pup and one in a wheelchair. I adored the pets and that James and Carly did, too. Pet people are good people.
So, yes. I was loving this one. Solid 4 stars.
And then the ending just kinda fizzled for me. Hit all my bleck buttons and by the last 5 pages I had to force myself to read them. And I skimmed. I really didn't care anymore about their HEA. It was such a bummer. But I hate heroines who overreact. I hate when violence towards men is normalized (aka her wishing she'd kneed the hero in the junk because he hurt her feelings on accident), hate when the hero has to do a huge gesture and apologize when what he did really wasn't all that big of a deal and wasn't meant to hurt his heroine. It just left me feeling meh and wishing he'd move on and find someone else. So, yeah. I had a hard bit there.
So this is a hard one to review because the first 290 pages were a make-me-laugh-until-I-cry blast that had me giddy for more from McKinlay and wanting to go you neeeeeed this book! But man those last 30ish pages really rough and left me growly. So I'm splitting the difference and handing out a 3.
September 6, 2017
Wow! Sure glad I am not involved in the dating scene. Jenn McKinlay made me laugh; she made me cry. James can fix my life any time. Parrot mimicry is why I made my spouse move his office back upstairs away from our parrot. I did not want those words he was yelling at the computer to be repeated. Ike, Hot Wheels and Saul had my heart from the beginning. Pops wormed his way in there, too. Fun group of friends. I want to spend more time in Bluff Point. I won the ARC in a contest.
August 12, 2018
My 1st book by JM and it was very good! Romance, steamy sex, and hilariously funny. The parrot, and dogs made me laugh all through the book. The lizard is introduced but nothing else is said about him. I enjoyed all the characters as well. Will definitely read the others!
January 20, 2018
3.5 stars
September 29, 2017
BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE is an ultra light romance involving an initially unlikable Carly and the almost too good to be true James. I chose to read it just because I love all of Jenn McKinlay's cozy mystery series. I enjoyed James' pursuit of Carley, but the pets are the best part of the story. Saul and Hot Wheels the dogs are adorable, and foul mouthed Ike the parrot steals the show. I am not the biggest fan of contemporary romance, but Jenn McKinlay has penned a fun tale full of heart and humor about overcoming the past with the hope of a bright future. Recommended.
I received a copy of this title from the publisher and voluntarily shared my opinions here.
I received a copy of this title from the publisher and voluntarily shared my opinions here.
August 27, 2017
This book is a fun addition to the Bluff Point series. James and Carly are enjoyable and easy to relate to in this book. The author does a wonderful job of adding humor, along with romance. I enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to her next Bluff Point book.
I won this ARC copy by entering a contest.
I won this ARC copy by entering a contest.
October 18, 2017
This book. I stayed up so late reading it and was such a mess today. But it couldn't be helped. James has officially moved up to my top book boyfriend, and I could not get enough. The tension in this one. Just, damn. And Carly! She was so much fun. I was laughing and cringing throughout this book at her antics. And, of course, all the animals. This book just got me.
October 4, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
October 18, 2017
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is the second book in Jenn McKinlay’s Bluff Point Romance series. The story is a standalone, with characters from the first book, About a Dog, making appearances.
I’m going to make this review short and sweet. I LOVED Barking Up the Wrong Tree. From the beginning, the story had me laughing and that laughter continued throughout. I loved the characters of Carly DeCusati and James Sinclair immensely. I loved the way they interacted and talked to each other. I loved that they’re so passionate. The secondary characters of Ike the parrot, Saul the elderly golden retriever, and Hot Wheels the Basset Hound, round out this romantic comedy and definitely helped with the laughter.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is the perfect pick me up with a couple of surprises thrown in. It is one of my favorite reads of the year and one that I will remember for years to come.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
I’m going to make this review short and sweet. I LOVED Barking Up the Wrong Tree. From the beginning, the story had me laughing and that laughter continued throughout. I loved the characters of Carly DeCusati and James Sinclair immensely. I loved the way they interacted and talked to each other. I loved that they’re so passionate. The secondary characters of Ike the parrot, Saul the elderly golden retriever, and Hot Wheels the Basset Hound, round out this romantic comedy and definitely helped with the laughter.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is the perfect pick me up with a couple of surprises thrown in. It is one of my favorite reads of the year and one that I will remember for years to come.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
February 14, 2022
Our heroine has lost her job and must move back home. But first, her neighbor left her a little something in her will. That would be a dog, a cat, a parrot and a lizard. Luckily, she is able to find homes for the cat and lizard, but she has to bring the dog and parrot home with her. She's hoping she can find homes for them since she doesn't like to be tied down.
Meanwhile she meets a handsome stranger for a one-night stand, only to discover he lives nearby.
Fun story with some misunderstandings and good characters.
Meanwhile she meets a handsome stranger for a one-night stand, only to discover he lives nearby.
Fun story with some misunderstandings and good characters.
October 8, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ba...
Barking of the Wrong Tree
Bluff Point Romance #2
By Jenn McKinlay
ISBN# 9780399584749
http://www.jennmckinlay.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Carly DeCusati returned home to Bluff Point, Maine, with her tail between her legs. But she’s determined to get her life back on track—and that means finding new homes for the elderly golden retriever and overly talkative parrot she inherited before her old life fell apart.
Enter physical therapist and hot one-night stand James Sinclair. James doesn’t care that Carly doesn’t do relationships. He is determined to win her heart, promising to help her with the pets if she’ll just give him the time of day.
Carly agrees to date the irresistible James, and, for the first time in years, she’s dreaming of a happily ever after. But James has secrets, and if he can’t open up to Carly, their future could go to the dogs…. (Goodreads)
Review:
I am just going to come out with it – I read Barking Up the Wrong Tree simply because Jenn McKinlay wrote it, and I am a big fan of all of her cozy mystery series. I am not much of a contemporary romance reader, but the humor, and the inclusion of the pets, won me over. I genuinely enjoyed my time spent in Bluff Point, Maine.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is the second book in the Bluff Point Romance series, but it can be easily read as a standalone novel. The series focuses on a group of friends, and this story is all about Carly, a thirty-ish woman with some serious commitment issues. One night stands are her standard MO, and she thinks she has found the perfect evening’s entertainment in James. She knows she is in trouble when she breaks her number one rule – do not wake up beside your date the morning after. Plus, unlike her recent home of New York City, Bluff Point is a small town, and she is sure to run into James. And she does…a lot. She fights her every instinct in an effort tto avoid James, but James is set on making Carly his own.
I did not like Carly at all in the beginning of this book. She comes across as shallow and a bit uncaring. Of course, we soon learn that she was badly burned by someone and has closed herself off to any kind of relationship. This includes the geriatric dog and salty mouthed parrot she inherited from her NYC neighbor. As the story progresses, she does indeed thaw and is much more likable and relatable. James, of course, is almost too good to be true, but I enjoyed everything about him. A nice guy, he is kind of the opposite of Carly. Once he falls for someone, it is serious, and here he makes it his mission to woo Carly. The inclusion of Carly’s group of friends adds variety, and their interactions are fun. James’ family is a hoot, and I would like to hang out with them over dinner.
As I mentioned above, the pets are the highlight of the story. Saul the dog is a steadfast presence, and James’ disabled basset hound Hot Wheels adds a lot of warmth to the story. But it is Ike the parrot that steals the show with his foul mouth and imitation of Carly in the throes of passion.
The romance is uber-light and sweet. I wish there had been a little more conflict before they rode off into the sunset, but that is just me. Their past that links them is far-fetched, but McKinlay has changed my mind about contemporary romance – I will at least continue to seek out her works. I highly recommend Barking Up the Wrong Tree to any romance fan.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Barking of the Wrong Tree
Bluff Point Romance #2
By Jenn McKinlay
ISBN# 9780399584749
http://www.jennmckinlay.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Carly DeCusati returned home to Bluff Point, Maine, with her tail between her legs. But she’s determined to get her life back on track—and that means finding new homes for the elderly golden retriever and overly talkative parrot she inherited before her old life fell apart.
Enter physical therapist and hot one-night stand James Sinclair. James doesn’t care that Carly doesn’t do relationships. He is determined to win her heart, promising to help her with the pets if she’ll just give him the time of day.
Carly agrees to date the irresistible James, and, for the first time in years, she’s dreaming of a happily ever after. But James has secrets, and if he can’t open up to Carly, their future could go to the dogs…. (Goodreads)
Review:
I am just going to come out with it – I read Barking Up the Wrong Tree simply because Jenn McKinlay wrote it, and I am a big fan of all of her cozy mystery series. I am not much of a contemporary romance reader, but the humor, and the inclusion of the pets, won me over. I genuinely enjoyed my time spent in Bluff Point, Maine.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is the second book in the Bluff Point Romance series, but it can be easily read as a standalone novel. The series focuses on a group of friends, and this story is all about Carly, a thirty-ish woman with some serious commitment issues. One night stands are her standard MO, and she thinks she has found the perfect evening’s entertainment in James. She knows she is in trouble when she breaks her number one rule – do not wake up beside your date the morning after. Plus, unlike her recent home of New York City, Bluff Point is a small town, and she is sure to run into James. And she does…a lot. She fights her every instinct in an effort tto avoid James, but James is set on making Carly his own.
I did not like Carly at all in the beginning of this book. She comes across as shallow and a bit uncaring. Of course, we soon learn that she was badly burned by someone and has closed herself off to any kind of relationship. This includes the geriatric dog and salty mouthed parrot she inherited from her NYC neighbor. As the story progresses, she does indeed thaw and is much more likable and relatable. James, of course, is almost too good to be true, but I enjoyed everything about him. A nice guy, he is kind of the opposite of Carly. Once he falls for someone, it is serious, and here he makes it his mission to woo Carly. The inclusion of Carly’s group of friends adds variety, and their interactions are fun. James’ family is a hoot, and I would like to hang out with them over dinner.
As I mentioned above, the pets are the highlight of the story. Saul the dog is a steadfast presence, and James’ disabled basset hound Hot Wheels adds a lot of warmth to the story. But it is Ike the parrot that steals the show with his foul mouth and imitation of Carly in the throes of passion.
The romance is uber-light and sweet. I wish there had been a little more conflict before they rode off into the sunset, but that is just me. Their past that links them is far-fetched, but McKinlay has changed my mind about contemporary romance – I will at least continue to seek out her works. I highly recommend Barking Up the Wrong Tree to any romance fan.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
September 29, 2017
Barking Up the Wrong Tree by Jenn McKinlay is the 2nd book in her Bluff Point Romance series. Barking up the Wrong Tree continues the trend of a sweet cute romance that McKinlay gave us in the first book. This series not only has cute animals, but a fantastic group of friends. Carly Decusati, our heroine, has returned home to Bluff Point, Maine, with the help of her friends, to stay temporarily, until she finds a new job. Carly, much to her displeasure was left to care for a senior dog (Saul) and a parrot (Ike), who loves to curse. Carly does not do relationships, whether its men or animals. But sometimes things don’t go as planned.
James Sinclair has recently moved to Bluff Point, and when he sees the gorgeous and outgoing Carly, he is determined to get to know her better. They end up having a one night stand, which James wants more of, but Carly is afraid to become attached…”no relationships” I actually loved the hot hot James, who was a lot of fun. He will do everything to win Carly over, even if he has to play just being a friend. Early on, I kind of was annoyed by Carly, with her stubborn insistence to find homes for the pets and ignore her growing feelings for James.
Other then Carly’s stubbornness, this was such fun enjoyable book. James was fantastic in the many ways he would entice Carly, and by the half way point, she was succumbing to her feelings. When James’s family comes out for a birthday party for his Dad, Carly is forced to help plan the party, which brings her into James life and great family. That was a lot of fun, especially when Carly knows she is falling in love with James. They both had bad experiences with love that defined the story, and together they will both face their nemesis to get past those issues.
It was great to see Mac & Gavin again, as well as Carly’s other girlfriends & the guys. The camaraderie between them all was terrific. As for the animals, they played a major part of this story. Saul, the senior dog was quiet, but loving, which slowly wore Carly down. James’s dog was very sweet, especially with him being handicapped and Ike was a riot throughout. LOL
What follows is a sweet romance that was slow build, for Carly only, as James knew what he wanted; the two dogs and parrot added a nice element to the story, with much humor; and a fabulous group of friends that were so much fun.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree was such an enjoyable read, fun, with likeable characters and very well written by Jenn McKinlay. If you enjoy pure simple small town romances, fantastic secondary characters, humorous and fun camaraderie and two adorable dogs, and a rascal parrot, then should be reading this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
James Sinclair has recently moved to Bluff Point, and when he sees the gorgeous and outgoing Carly, he is determined to get to know her better. They end up having a one night stand, which James wants more of, but Carly is afraid to become attached…”no relationships” I actually loved the hot hot James, who was a lot of fun. He will do everything to win Carly over, even if he has to play just being a friend. Early on, I kind of was annoyed by Carly, with her stubborn insistence to find homes for the pets and ignore her growing feelings for James.
Other then Carly’s stubbornness, this was such fun enjoyable book. James was fantastic in the many ways he would entice Carly, and by the half way point, she was succumbing to her feelings. When James’s family comes out for a birthday party for his Dad, Carly is forced to help plan the party, which brings her into James life and great family. That was a lot of fun, especially when Carly knows she is falling in love with James. They both had bad experiences with love that defined the story, and together they will both face their nemesis to get past those issues.
It was great to see Mac & Gavin again, as well as Carly’s other girlfriends & the guys. The camaraderie between them all was terrific. As for the animals, they played a major part of this story. Saul, the senior dog was quiet, but loving, which slowly wore Carly down. James’s dog was very sweet, especially with him being handicapped and Ike was a riot throughout. LOL
What follows is a sweet romance that was slow build, for Carly only, as James knew what he wanted; the two dogs and parrot added a nice element to the story, with much humor; and a fabulous group of friends that were so much fun.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree was such an enjoyable read, fun, with likeable characters and very well written by Jenn McKinlay. If you enjoy pure simple small town romances, fantastic secondary characters, humorous and fun camaraderie and two adorable dogs, and a rascal parrot, then should be reading this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
September 27, 2017
This was a really enjoyable read. While the premise is not anything knew, I loved the characters themselves. Carly was not afraid to be who she was and do what she wanted. She did not want a relationship with anyone and never fell under the pressure to fit the "norm". Plus, when you hear about what went down with her one and only "boyfriend", it's no wonder the girl swore off relationships. I would too if I were here. That is a horrible situation she found herself in and I don't blame her for reacting the way she did. However, James was a stand up guy and I really wish she would have realized that sooner. Not only did that have amazing chemistry, but they were so cute together. You could just tell that James was head over heels in love with her from the moment they met. And that may have something to do with him meeting her in college when she was with her then boyfriend but her not remember him. Poor James.
I loved the added bonus of Hot Wheels, James' wheelchair bound dog and Ike the ill-mouthed parrot becoming best friends. The image I conjured up of Ike riding Hot Wheels' back was just too precious. I really wish that they had been added into the cover because in all honesty, Saul (the Golden Retriever) did not get as much book time as these two did.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree was a fun read. It was adorable, had me laughing, and was easy to relate to. Not only did I have a connection with the main characters, but I loved all the secondary characters as well. While I know it's impossible to transport yourself into a book, I REALLY want to go to Bluff Point and meet all these amazing people. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I loved the added bonus of Hot Wheels, James' wheelchair bound dog and Ike the ill-mouthed parrot becoming best friends. The image I conjured up of Ike riding Hot Wheels' back was just too precious. I really wish that they had been added into the cover because in all honesty, Saul (the Golden Retriever) did not get as much book time as these two did.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree was a fun read. It was adorable, had me laughing, and was easy to relate to. Not only did I have a connection with the main characters, but I loved all the secondary characters as well. While I know it's impossible to transport yourself into a book, I REALLY want to go to Bluff Point and meet all these amazing people. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 18, 2018
"I bet it's a stash of yarn or maybe a collection of troll dolls and bingo daubers, " Carly DeCusati said.
Carly's life is in flux as she is giving up her apartment in Brooklyn to move back home with her parents and younger sister in Bluff Point. Her elderly neighbor has included Carly in her will. Hoping that the inheritance is money is quickly disproved when Carly ends up with a fish, a lizard, an older dog and a foul mouth bird. Finding homes for the fish and lizard leaves Carly with Saul and Ike to accompany her home.
James is a physical therapist who has moved to Bluff Point to open his business. His initial meeting with Carly is an I Love Lucy moment with childhood friend, Mac's kooky aunts, runaway dogs and the crazed parrot.
Carly is attracted to James but has a hard core personal rule of not having a committed relationship. James on the other hand fell for Carly years ago when he saw her at a party. The dance that begins is intriguing to watch as James tries to convince Carly that they are meant for each other.
The animals have a huge part in this book. James is rehabbing Hot Wheels, an injured dog who adores Carly's golden retriever, Saul. Poor Ike! He is such a misunderstood parrot. His filthy mouth and spot on imitations of people is quite interesting. I could relate to Ike as I had a friend with an African Gray that often repeated things she shouldn't.
The ladies of Bluff Point are represented well again. Emma is now happily married, Mac is in a relationship with Gavin and Jillian rounds out the foursome with Carly. Carly's sister is a bit of a brat when Carly returns home and living in the same house creates friction.
James' family is very accepting of Carly and only want James to be happy. The twists and turns of their relationship makes for a good read.
A note to Ms. McKinlay's cozy readers: this is a contemporary romance with sexual content and adult language. It certainly does not distract from the story at all. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Carly's life is in flux as she is giving up her apartment in Brooklyn to move back home with her parents and younger sister in Bluff Point. Her elderly neighbor has included Carly in her will. Hoping that the inheritance is money is quickly disproved when Carly ends up with a fish, a lizard, an older dog and a foul mouth bird. Finding homes for the fish and lizard leaves Carly with Saul and Ike to accompany her home.
James is a physical therapist who has moved to Bluff Point to open his business. His initial meeting with Carly is an I Love Lucy moment with childhood friend, Mac's kooky aunts, runaway dogs and the crazed parrot.
Carly is attracted to James but has a hard core personal rule of not having a committed relationship. James on the other hand fell for Carly years ago when he saw her at a party. The dance that begins is intriguing to watch as James tries to convince Carly that they are meant for each other.
The animals have a huge part in this book. James is rehabbing Hot Wheels, an injured dog who adores Carly's golden retriever, Saul. Poor Ike! He is such a misunderstood parrot. His filthy mouth and spot on imitations of people is quite interesting. I could relate to Ike as I had a friend with an African Gray that often repeated things she shouldn't.
The ladies of Bluff Point are represented well again. Emma is now happily married, Mac is in a relationship with Gavin and Jillian rounds out the foursome with Carly. Carly's sister is a bit of a brat when Carly returns home and living in the same house creates friction.
James' family is very accepting of Carly and only want James to be happy. The twists and turns of their relationship makes for a good read.
A note to Ms. McKinlay's cozy readers: this is a contemporary romance with sexual content and adult language. It certainly does not distract from the story at all. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
August 16, 2017
This book has a lot of great characters, especially 2 dogs and a parrot who says the funniest things at the best of times.
It is as story of people afraid to take chances after being burned, and their journey to trust.
The humor and the crazyh occurences make for a fun rread.
It is as story of people afraid to take chances after being burned, and their journey to trust.
The humor and the crazyh occurences make for a fun rread.
September 22, 2017
When life doesn’t turn out like you planned, a feeling of unease and uncertainty plagues your thoughts. For Carly DeCusati - part of the plan to get back on her feet includes moving back home to Bluff Point, Maine. Dread fills Carly as she gives up the feeling of independence by headed home. There is a ‘bright’ spot that Carly might not see yet. She is gaining two new family members. An elderly golden retriever and a not-so-polite parrot.
With her ‘inheritance’ in tow, Carly moves back into her old home as her parents head out the door to warmer weather. A shock in itself when returning to your childhood home. Carly is surrounded by the friends that she left behind. A source of strength when she needs it the most. In her quest to get life on track once more, Carly knows the last thing she needs is the long arms of a relationship pulling her down. Quite the feat when you are currently in a ‘dry spell’.
They always say that you find someone that interest you when you least expect it. Carly seems to be no exception to the rule. Upon meeting the hunky physical therapist in town, Carly begins to rethink what a little dip into water might mean. With a ‘no relationships’ rule set in place, Carly is determined to keep James Sinclair at arm length…if that is even possible.
Now that Carly has indulged in a one night stand with James, she finds herself struggling to keep him at bay. James is determined to show Carly what she is missing out on by excluding herself from dating. With both stepping out from the shadows, love seems to be inevitable. The only question remains…..what happens when secrets from the past rear their head in a huge way?
Barking Up The Wrong Tree is a funny, sexy, and engaging addition to the Bluff Point Romance series!! Carly is down on her luck, and finds herself headed to her childhood home to regroup. James is the sexy physical therapist that is everything that Carly tries to avoid. Adding to the mayhem are a golden retriever, a dog on ‘wheels’ and a parrot that has a colorful and extensive vocabulary. All of it combines to leave you following this trail of chaos while laughing hysterically!!
This series has captivated me with such realistic characters, Bluff Point town life, and daily happenings that are so real you can just imagine it! As a new fan of Jenn McKinley - all I can say is you NEED to read this series!! Looking for a laugh, sexy hunks, and really hot sex?? This series has it all!! Make sure it’s on your reading carousel!!
With her ‘inheritance’ in tow, Carly moves back into her old home as her parents head out the door to warmer weather. A shock in itself when returning to your childhood home. Carly is surrounded by the friends that she left behind. A source of strength when she needs it the most. In her quest to get life on track once more, Carly knows the last thing she needs is the long arms of a relationship pulling her down. Quite the feat when you are currently in a ‘dry spell’.
They always say that you find someone that interest you when you least expect it. Carly seems to be no exception to the rule. Upon meeting the hunky physical therapist in town, Carly begins to rethink what a little dip into water might mean. With a ‘no relationships’ rule set in place, Carly is determined to keep James Sinclair at arm length…if that is even possible.
Now that Carly has indulged in a one night stand with James, she finds herself struggling to keep him at bay. James is determined to show Carly what she is missing out on by excluding herself from dating. With both stepping out from the shadows, love seems to be inevitable. The only question remains…..what happens when secrets from the past rear their head in a huge way?
Barking Up The Wrong Tree is a funny, sexy, and engaging addition to the Bluff Point Romance series!! Carly is down on her luck, and finds herself headed to her childhood home to regroup. James is the sexy physical therapist that is everything that Carly tries to avoid. Adding to the mayhem are a golden retriever, a dog on ‘wheels’ and a parrot that has a colorful and extensive vocabulary. All of it combines to leave you following this trail of chaos while laughing hysterically!!
This series has captivated me with such realistic characters, Bluff Point town life, and daily happenings that are so real you can just imagine it! As a new fan of Jenn McKinley - all I can say is you NEED to read this series!! Looking for a laugh, sexy hunks, and really hot sex?? This series has it all!! Make sure it’s on your reading carousel!!
September 28, 2017
Jenn McKinlay returns to Bluff Point with BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE. This is the second in the series and you don’t need to read the other books in the series to enjoy this one. If you’re new to Jenn and her books, this is her very first Contemporary Romance series. She’s a Cozy Mystery writer at heart, but I like that she’s expanding her genres and trying something new.Jenn’s style is very fun and light in this series. There’s quite a lot of humor and banter in this series, which kind of reminds me of books like Jill Shalvis. However, I will say that the humor can take the place of plot in these books. Since the entire book is quite light, there’s not too much focus on conflict, which is my only real complaint about this series. I do like the romance and I do like all the characters but I don’t necessarily get that urge to continue reading to find out what happens next like some of her Cozy Mysteries do. So if you plan on starting this series, I do think you need to be in a certain mindset to enjoy it. Be prepared for something much lighter in tone and fun because that’s really where book shines.
If you’re an animal lover, well, you’re in luck because this book has lots of great animal appearances. Once again, they offer some great comic relief and some of the reactions from these characters were hilarious.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Annie❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
August 29, 2020
Barking Up the Wrong Tree
(Bluff Point #2)
Jenn McKinlay
What can I say? I went to the library and they handed me this book as one o f my reservations. I do not remember reserving; I do not remember wanting to reserve; I do not even remember having heard of the book beforehand. But it is summer and this seemed like a summer read.
It was a very good way to escape to a Maine fall – which we will soon be experiencing in Montreal, while still at the tail end of our summer season.
How can someone not like a story with a pie shop called: Making Whoopie. Discovered a new part of American cuisine. Who knew, but somehow it is not surprising from the land of Twinkies and Oreo – take a good thing and make it bigger, more and hopefully it will be better. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. In the book, the good news is that it works – if you smile while reading it!
“You know there’s probably a warrant out for your arrest right now….” What does that have to do with a summer romance? You will have to read to find out.
Happy reading!
Lino Matteo
(Bluff Point #2)
Jenn McKinlay
What can I say? I went to the library and they handed me this book as one o f my reservations. I do not remember reserving; I do not remember wanting to reserve; I do not even remember having heard of the book beforehand. But it is summer and this seemed like a summer read.
It was a very good way to escape to a Maine fall – which we will soon be experiencing in Montreal, while still at the tail end of our summer season.
How can someone not like a story with a pie shop called: Making Whoopie. Discovered a new part of American cuisine. Who knew, but somehow it is not surprising from the land of Twinkies and Oreo – take a good thing and make it bigger, more and hopefully it will be better. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. In the book, the good news is that it works – if you smile while reading it!
“You know there’s probably a warrant out for your arrest right now….” What does that have to do with a summer romance? You will have to read to find out.
Happy reading!
Lino Matteo
September 27, 2017
McKinlay writes people and settings so vividly you wish it were real so you could move there and be surrounded by them. The addition of the animals makes for some great humor, how can you go wrong with a talking parrot?
This is the second in the Bluff Point Series and I’d recommend reading the first. Each book focuses on a different set of characters but the original characters are carried over so having familiarity from the beginning helps.
I liked that she wrote her characters with heart and you could feel for them as they started this new journey to learn how to trust again. Who hasn’t been there when you have been burned and want to avoid it happening again?
You’ll laugh, cry and enjoy getting to watch their lives unfold. I even wanted to get a parrot just to have another being get scolded by my mom for questionable language, lol. One of the more interesting aspects was how McKinlay changed gender personalities from the stereotypical; here Carly is the love ‘em and leave ‘em kind while James is the one who is more of the monogamous commitment kind. Getting to see how romance was going to blossom with these two under these conditions was fun.
McKinlay is well known for her mystery series which she is quite good at so it was nice to see her being able to carry that talent over to the Romance genre. I liked it and now want to read the third, Every Dog has his Day, which comes out this upcoming January.
This is the second in the Bluff Point Series and I’d recommend reading the first. Each book focuses on a different set of characters but the original characters are carried over so having familiarity from the beginning helps.
I liked that she wrote her characters with heart and you could feel for them as they started this new journey to learn how to trust again. Who hasn’t been there when you have been burned and want to avoid it happening again?
You’ll laugh, cry and enjoy getting to watch their lives unfold. I even wanted to get a parrot just to have another being get scolded by my mom for questionable language, lol. One of the more interesting aspects was how McKinlay changed gender personalities from the stereotypical; here Carly is the love ‘em and leave ‘em kind while James is the one who is more of the monogamous commitment kind. Getting to see how romance was going to blossom with these two under these conditions was fun.
McKinlay is well known for her mystery series which she is quite good at so it was nice to see her being able to carry that talent over to the Romance genre. I liked it and now want to read the third, Every Dog has his Day, which comes out this upcoming January.
March 7, 2018
This is such an adorable series. I am fully enjoying the storyline, characters and especially the animals.
This is the story of Carly who moves back home and James and how they meet 11 years later, only Carly doesn't remember meeting James.
James tries everything to get Carly to go out with him, but after being spurned by Preston, she does not want anything to do with him.
The chase is on.
4 stars
This is the story of Carly who moves back home and James and how they meet 11 years later, only Carly doesn't remember meeting James.
James tries everything to get Carly to go out with him, but after being spurned by Preston, she does not want anything to do with him.
The chase is on.
4 stars
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