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Love & Pets #1
The Problem with Pugs
New love? Or her pug?
Amelia’s boyfriend Tim broke up with her three months, thirteen days, and eleven hours ago, but at least he left her their baby, Doug the pug. Doug eats her underwear, mutilates furniture, and always poops in the middle of the sidewalk — but he only has eyes for her.
When Amelia reluctantly wades back into the dating pool, meets a new guy, and has to pay his medical bill after Doug launches a sneak attack on him, she realizes she has a problem. She’s determined to do everything she can to help her dog adjust to life without Tim, even recruiting handsome Travis, Doug’s new veterinarian, who’s willing to assist her at risk of life and limb.
But it won’t be so easy. Doug’s the only man in Amelia’s life now... and he isn’t about to share.
Buy now and fall in love with this "quirky, hilarious, endearing" sweet romantic comedy series!
The Love & Pets Series:
1. The Problem with Pugs
2. The Trouble with Tabbies
3. The Downside of Dachshunds
4. The Lessons of Labradors
5. The Predicament of Persians
6. The Conundrum of Collies
Amelia’s boyfriend Tim broke up with her three months, thirteen days, and eleven hours ago, but at least he left her their baby, Doug the pug. Doug eats her underwear, mutilates furniture, and always poops in the middle of the sidewalk — but he only has eyes for her.
When Amelia reluctantly wades back into the dating pool, meets a new guy, and has to pay his medical bill after Doug launches a sneak attack on him, she realizes she has a problem. She’s determined to do everything she can to help her dog adjust to life without Tim, even recruiting handsome Travis, Doug’s new veterinarian, who’s willing to assist her at risk of life and limb.
But it won’t be so easy. Doug’s the only man in Amelia’s life now... and he isn’t about to share.
Buy now and fall in love with this "quirky, hilarious, endearing" sweet romantic comedy series!
The Love & Pets Series:
1. The Problem with Pugs
2. The Trouble with Tabbies
3. The Downside of Dachshunds
4. The Lessons of Labradors
5. The Predicament of Persians
6. The Conundrum of Collies
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2018
580 people are currently reading
739 people want to read
About the author
A.G. Henley
21 books440 followersA.G. Henley is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and fantasy books and stories, including the Love & Pets adult romantic comedy series. The first book in her young adult Brilliant Darkness series, THE SCOURGE, was a Library Journal Self-e Selection and a Next Generation Indie Book Award finalist. She’s also a clinical psychologist, but she promises not to analyze you... much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
maybe-but-wary
April 14, 2023There are no problems with pugs except they are maybe too perfect.
May 20, 2018
Without Spoilers:
A cute fluffy read about a woman getting over a relationship with a god awful person. Through her sisters shove back into the dating world she stumbles upon a lawyer and a veterinarian. Both attractive men who are doing well for themselves and have an interest in her.
Drama -- emotional and physical ensue as she tries to figure out what path is right for her. It's adorable, well-written and does contain two sex jokes. There's no sex in this book, however, a few descriptive make out scenes.
We meet quirky people through the Veterinarian -- a rich young cat lady and Brenda who runs a home for pugs while wearing a pug suit.
Now, I do say that this is cute fluffy read there is one sad piece in this story. So, it's 95.5% light and fluffy romance that ends in a happily ever after
rest at blog
March 14, 2020
אני אוטומטית נוטה לחבב ספרים שיש בהם דמות נוכחת של בעל חיים, ולשמחתי לא התאכזבתי הפעם.
החבר של אמיליה עוזב לבאלי לכמה חודשים כדי לגייס כספים למיזם שלו, נפרד ממנה ומשאיר אצלה את כלב הפאג שלו, דאג, שסובל מאגרסיות וחרדה בעקבות הפרידה הכפויה. ד"ר טראוויס, הוטרינר, עוזר לדאג להתגבר על הקשיים, וגם לאמיליה... זה היה רומן רומנטי חמוד ומקסים ממש. היה כיף ומרגש לקרוא.
החבר של אמיליה עוזב לבאלי לכמה חודשים כדי לגייס כספים למיזם שלו, נפרד ממנה ומשאיר אצלה את כלב הפאג שלו, דאג, שסובל מאגרסיות וחרדה בעקבות הפרידה הכפויה. ד"ר טראוויס, הוטרינר, עוזר לדאג להתגבר על הקשיים, וגם לאמיליה... זה היה רומן רומנטי חמוד ומקסים ממש. היה כיף ומרגש לקרוא.
March 25, 2018
Such a cute refreshing fun romance ! If your looking for a quick light enjoyable read well look no further this Is it! Amelia and Dr Travis may be our romantic couple but Doug the pug and his separation anxiety along with his new found aggression brings these two together all wrapped up in a comedic, romantic and sometimes just a little sad story, but so wort the read!
Short synopsis: Amelia's boyfriend Tim broke up with her and left the country in search of funds for his start up, but in so doing leaves his dog Doug behind with Amelia and even though he suggested that they go their separate ways how does a heartbroken women with his dog endure weekly Skype session with the very man who broke her heart for the benefit of the four legged child.
Tim's Skype sessions though become less and less and only ramp Dougs separation anxiety and Amelia's up. Once Doug god after the apartment super ; Amelia is forced to find a solution before they both wind up on the streets; enter Dr?Travis and his grandma Lynn. With Travis's help Tim will soon become an afterthought for both Amelia and Doug,
I received a copy of this book via a contest for a chance to win advanced readers copy.
Short synopsis: Amelia's boyfriend Tim broke up with her and left the country in search of funds for his start up, but in so doing leaves his dog Doug behind with Amelia and even though he suggested that they go their separate ways how does a heartbroken women with his dog endure weekly Skype session with the very man who broke her heart for the benefit of the four legged child.
Tim's Skype sessions though become less and less and only ramp Dougs separation anxiety and Amelia's up. Once Doug god after the apartment super ; Amelia is forced to find a solution before they both wind up on the streets; enter Dr?Travis and his grandma Lynn. With Travis's help Tim will soon become an afterthought for both Amelia and Doug,
I received a copy of this book via a contest for a chance to win advanced readers copy.
May 26, 2018
This was the first book I read by A.G. Henley, and it certainly won't be the last! I'm a huge dog lover, so the premise of the story immediately appealed to me. Heroine Amelia is stuck in limbo after her boyfriend dumps her to pursue a new career in another country. The break isn't a clean one because he leaves his dog, a pug named Doug, in Amelia's care and stays in touch with her to see how the pooch is doing, which keeps her hanging on to the hope that they might reconcile. Doug is even more heartbroken over Tim's desertion than Amelia is and he acts out in a variety of aggressive ways, culminating in him taking a bite out of the guy/co-worker who shows interest in Amelia (oops!). Worried about Doug's increasingly hostile behavior, Amelia takes him to see a mobile vet who turns out to be not only handsome and charming, but a really nice guy who wants to help Amelia retrain Doug so that he's not a menace to society. As the three of them spend time together and get to know each other better, Amelia starts to think there might be life for her (and Doug!) post-Tim.
Travis really is a godsend for Amelia and Doug in this book, and I was glad to see the three of them bonding and enjoying each other's company. I don't want to say anything too spoilery about the story, but Amelia and Travis do encounter some serious challenges as their relationship intensifies and I was holding my breath toward the end of the book when the stakes are very high and it's not clear how things are going to end up for the characters. It was nice to see Amelia grow as a person and take charge of her own happiness, both personally and professionally, and I rooted for her the whole way.
The book has a good blend of humorous and poignant moments, and I really loved all the doggy bits with Doug and getting to learn more about Denver, which is a city I've never visited. I look forward to reading more books in this series and will be interested to see what other types of pets the author includes.
Travis really is a godsend for Amelia and Doug in this book, and I was glad to see the three of them bonding and enjoying each other's company. I don't want to say anything too spoilery about the story, but Amelia and Travis do encounter some serious challenges as their relationship intensifies and I was holding my breath toward the end of the book when the stakes are very high and it's not clear how things are going to end up for the characters. It was nice to see Amelia grow as a person and take charge of her own happiness, both personally and professionally, and I rooted for her the whole way.
The book has a good blend of humorous and poignant moments, and I really loved all the doggy bits with Doug and getting to learn more about Denver, which is a city I've never visited. I look forward to reading more books in this series and will be interested to see what other types of pets the author includes.
June 20, 2023
I craved something light and fluffy. Something that doesn't need a lot of brain power to get through and is a part of a series so I could really get lost in a story.
I am all for women at any age finding their voice and their backbone, looking for love, recovering from trauma, moving, changing jobs, saying goodbye to toxic friends... Those books can be great but as well very stereotipical, superficial, unintentional part of the problem on a bigger scale.
The Problem with pugs is somewhere in the middle. I hated first part of the book and did not like our main heroine at all. She seemed to have a personality like a slice of white bread. Store bought.
But as the story progressed I started to enjoy it. Some of the side characters were interesting, the main love story was good and to be honest, I loved the dogs.
I am all for women at any age finding their voice and their backbone, looking for love, recovering from trauma, moving, changing jobs, saying goodbye to toxic friends... Those books can be great but as well very stereotipical, superficial, unintentional part of the problem on a bigger scale.
The Problem with pugs is somewhere in the middle. I hated first part of the book and did not like our main heroine at all. She seemed to have a personality like a slice of white bread. Store bought.
But as the story progressed I started to enjoy it. Some of the side characters were interesting, the main love story was good and to be honest, I loved the dogs.
November 28, 2019
The Problem With Pugs...what can I say about it...well I can say this... It's the best darn romance comedy I have read in a long time!!! It's a cute story with a slow.going romance with vet. It's a cute for anyone who is down in the dumps about relationships. This story has tiny twists and turns that were unexpected. I absolutely LOVED this story and everyone should read this series, especially if you love animals. Animals sure do a lot of good for relationships.
This was an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This was an ARC in exchange for an honest review
February 24, 2020
Not laugh of loud funny, but cute and had charming moments. The heroine is in the middle of a quarter-life crisis, on a break with her fuckboy boyfriend and looking after his codependent pug. Said pug is having separation anxiety, and lets be honest pugs are kinda needy, so she takes him to the super cute local vet. No bonus points for what happens next. I didn’t love the heroine, but the hero was such a well needed break from the all too common super-rich contemporary romance alphahole hero. It’s worth reading for the hero and dog.
March 8, 2018
I loved this sweet book! I read it in two days. Amelia is a wonderful character going through a breakup, dealing with a precocious pug and also exploring a career change. It's hard not to love her and Dr. Travis!
October 22, 2021
The writing style of this series might not be my favorite (too dry and super fast moving), but what really threw me off was the freaking doormat that's the main character, Amelia. She's needy, spineless and annoying. Not to mention, she lacks personality. Travis was the sweetest, but even he couldn't carry on his back the weight of all the sense this plot didn't make.
March 23, 2018
Cute and clean romance. There is some comedy, but most of it is with the animals and their shenanigans. The romance part of the story started out slow. The beginning chapters were mostly about the Protagonists dog, who recently started having some behavioral problems. Then slowly we get introduced to the romantic prospects.
Amelia is housing her ex-boyfriends pug while he is over seas for work. Even though he broke up with her before he left, she's holding onto the hope that when he returns they'll get back together. Meanwhile her sister keeps encouraging her to get out more and to move on. Meanwhile, it seems that everyone she runs into has a career that helps others. Working for a cause. She's basically a receptionist as a law firm and she hates it. She doesn't know what she wants to do, but she wants to do something that means something. To make the world a better place. She finds that while working on her Pugs issues. She not only finds her place in the world, but also someone to claim her heart.
It reads quickly and easily. The characters are fun. There's the supportive sister, the douche-bag ex, a couple of hot love interests, plus several zany pet owners. :) The story does have a miss communication that causes a rift between Amelia and her new beau.. almost cutting them off before they really begin their relationship. And of course the grand gesture that brings them back together. It is totally safe for teens and up. The only sexual content is some kissing.
*I volunteered to review an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
Amelia is housing her ex-boyfriends pug while he is over seas for work. Even though he broke up with her before he left, she's holding onto the hope that when he returns they'll get back together. Meanwhile her sister keeps encouraging her to get out more and to move on. Meanwhile, it seems that everyone she runs into has a career that helps others. Working for a cause. She's basically a receptionist as a law firm and she hates it. She doesn't know what she wants to do, but she wants to do something that means something. To make the world a better place. She finds that while working on her Pugs issues. She not only finds her place in the world, but also someone to claim her heart.
It reads quickly and easily. The characters are fun. There's the supportive sister, the douche-bag ex, a couple of hot love interests, plus several zany pet owners. :) The story does have a miss communication that causes a rift between Amelia and her new beau.. almost cutting them off before they really begin their relationship. And of course the grand gesture that brings them back together. It is totally safe for teens and up. The only sexual content is some kissing.
*I volunteered to review an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
February 29, 2020
This is my first time reading a book by A.G. Henley and I enjoyed it. Quirky Doug and his separation anxiety and Amelia who is pining for her ex-boyfriend, who was a jerk. Through the vet, Travis, Amelia not only finds help for Doug but she also finds the chance to move on...after some prodding from her sister.
Overall, a cute, romantic comedy and lighthearted book with a happy ending. I enjoyed it.
Overall, a cute, romantic comedy and lighthearted book with a happy ending. I enjoyed it.
October 14, 2019
A simple and sweet story with the normal twist
December 12, 2020
This was a super cute, low-steam, but good read!
Read
September 8, 2019A wonderful and fun romance. The characters are absolutely delightful especially little Doug, the pug. He's really the star of the show, lol.
The author does a great job of keeping you wondering from page one. What will she do, how's he going to respond to that, will that make a difference, is she going to understand that, and just so many more questions. I couldn't wait to see how it all worked out.
I had read The Trouble With Tabbies first and was delighted to find a few of the same characters in this book! Both books are a complete stand alone but having that little connection made for a nice touch.
My only upset was when I reached the end. I didn't want it to end! I can't wait until the next book in the series comes out. I'm totally hooked.
I received a free ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
The author does a great job of keeping you wondering from page one. What will she do, how's he going to respond to that, will that make a difference, is she going to understand that, and just so many more questions. I couldn't wait to see how it all worked out.
I had read The Trouble With Tabbies first and was delighted to find a few of the same characters in this book! Both books are a complete stand alone but having that little connection made for a nice touch.
My only upset was when I reached the end. I didn't want it to end! I can't wait until the next book in the series comes out. I'm totally hooked.
I received a free ARC copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
August 27, 2019
This is a great book and bares well for the new series. Wonderful characters, funny situation, laugh-out-loud moments and a sweet romance. Can you ask for anything more? This is a well written book full of creativity and character. The characters put the reader on an emotional rollercoaster as they come to terms with what they desire by overcoming their fears and insecurities. I became so involved in the book I could not put it down. If you like cosy romances with furry friends involved then you can’t go wrong with this one.
March 22, 2018
💕Amelia's life is going to the 🐕dogs; can a handsome vet get Doug the pug on the right track?
March 22, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
This was a breezy, quick and quirky, good and fun read. It was well-written and included a sizeable but not too big cast of secondary characters including two male heels, an office lech, some supportive family and friends and adorable pets, though Doug the pug is the hands down anxiety-ridden star on the animal side. The MCs are likable and relatable. The author did a great job of drawing me into the story and making me care about its outcome.
Amelia the heroine had to grow on me and she did, though by the story's end I still felt she was a bit too accommodating of others, especially her pet pug, and ready to sublimate or ignore her own needs. Travis, Doug's vet, is lovely; he is handsome, dedicated to work he loves, sensitive, and devoted to his frail grandmother. Just the sort of man who would be good for Amelia. If only she could make a clean break from her self-centered ex! Her desire to hang on to Tim and her old relationship was aggravating because I was invested in this young woman and rooting for her to transform Doug's attitude and make the best of her own life. I wasn't so much aggravated AT Amelia as FOR her.
In sum, a quick, sweet, enjoyable romance with the special bond between a pet and his human at the core of the plot. It worked for me!:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 22, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
This was a breezy, quick and quirky, good and fun read. It was well-written and included a sizeable but not too big cast of secondary characters including two male heels, an office lech, some supportive family and friends and adorable pets, though Doug the pug is the hands down anxiety-ridden star on the animal side. The MCs are likable and relatable. The author did a great job of drawing me into the story and making me care about its outcome.
Amelia the heroine had to grow on me and she did, though by the story's end I still felt she was a bit too accommodating of others, especially her pet pug, and ready to sublimate or ignore her own needs. Travis, Doug's vet, is lovely; he is handsome, dedicated to work he loves, sensitive, and devoted to his frail grandmother. Just the sort of man who would be good for Amelia. If only she could make a clean break from her self-centered ex! Her desire to hang on to Tim and her old relationship was aggravating because I was invested in this young woman and rooting for her to transform Doug's attitude and make the best of her own life. I wasn't so much aggravated AT Amelia as FOR her.
In sum, a quick, sweet, enjoyable romance with the special bond between a pet and his human at the core of the plot. It worked for me!:-)
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 20, 2018
A sweet girl with not much direction in life who just got dumped by her boyfriend, a sexy veterinarian with a huge heart, and an adorable pug with separation anxiety and behavioral problems are the stars in this quirky, hilarious, endearing, sweet story in a new romantic comedy series. Henley is a new author for me, and I had read the prequel to this Love and Pets series and was eager to get my hands on the Problem With Pugs. I preordered the book but couldn’t wait, so I read an advance copy.
This author definitely hooked me with this book. I’m kind of a sucker for animals as book characters, at least when done well, and Doug was outstanding. Not only Doug the pug, but a whole cast of quirky, memorable, endearing characters really sets this work apart. Although it takes place largely in the city, this book has that small-town, close-knit feel that draws the reader in and makes her part of the background. If you’re looking for hot and steamy, you won’t find that here, but what you will find is loveable characters, a simmering romance with a happily ever after, a heartwarming story with plenty of humor and emotion, and a fantastic reading experience. A little bit poignant, a lot charming and supremely satisfying, I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series!
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
This author definitely hooked me with this book. I’m kind of a sucker for animals as book characters, at least when done well, and Doug was outstanding. Not only Doug the pug, but a whole cast of quirky, memorable, endearing characters really sets this work apart. Although it takes place largely in the city, this book has that small-town, close-knit feel that draws the reader in and makes her part of the background. If you’re looking for hot and steamy, you won’t find that here, but what you will find is loveable characters, a simmering romance with a happily ever after, a heartwarming story with plenty of humor and emotion, and a fantastic reading experience. A little bit poignant, a lot charming and supremely satisfying, I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one in the series!
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
March 19, 2018
I received The Problems with Pugs as an ARC for an honest and voluntary review. I can say this book was a surprisingly fun read. I fell in love with Doug, he's a little pudgy and short, but he totally knocks you for a loop when you're not looking. He had a real good life until Tim took off at a moment's notice leaving him and Amelia to find a new life and new love. By the way Doug is a pug and he is loyal to a fault. Amelia cares for Doug and tries her best to help him(with the help of the handsome vet Travis) with anxiety and depression from being abandoned. Doug eats coffee, destroys pillows, chews on things he definitely shouldn't and worst of all he starts attacking men. Together Amelia and Doug find a new way to live. With new friends Travis, Jo, Brenda and especially Daisy life doesn't look so bad. And Amelia starts to find love again and to find out what makes her truly happy. But when Tim realizes what he so willingly gave up, he comes to get Doug and Amelia back. But is it too late? You'll have to read this fun romance to find out if Doug and Amelia choose their old life or the new?
March 23, 2018
So much fun! A rare gem hidden in plain sight :)
Amelia agreed to take care of Doug, her ex-boyfriend Tim’s pug, while he goes off to Bali for at least six months. And although Doug is cute, and Amelia loves him to bits, he is also very much pissed off - at men. He attacks every man that is not Tim; he is still very much hung up on Tim, and actually, Amelia is as well. She can’t let go.
I loved it! Amelia is very likeable. And I also really liked Travis, the vet Amelia recruits to help Doug. The writing feels effortless, which I’m sure it was not, but it definitely makes for a pleasant read. It was just the right mix of lightheartedness, funny (or not-so-funny-for-the-victim) dog accidents, and romance. A feel-good story that’ll make you swoon and sigh with happiness. I recommend reading the prequel first (sign up for the newsletter and you will get it).
Hidden Gems provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily posted an honest review.
Amelia agreed to take care of Doug, her ex-boyfriend Tim’s pug, while he goes off to Bali for at least six months. And although Doug is cute, and Amelia loves him to bits, he is also very much pissed off - at men. He attacks every man that is not Tim; he is still very much hung up on Tim, and actually, Amelia is as well. She can’t let go.
I loved it! Amelia is very likeable. And I also really liked Travis, the vet Amelia recruits to help Doug. The writing feels effortless, which I’m sure it was not, but it definitely makes for a pleasant read. It was just the right mix of lightheartedness, funny (or not-so-funny-for-the-victim) dog accidents, and romance. A feel-good story that’ll make you swoon and sigh with happiness. I recommend reading the prequel first (sign up for the newsletter and you will get it).
Hidden Gems provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily posted an honest review.
March 27, 2018
This was such a sweet book.
Amelia's boyfriend Tim broke up with her to go to Bali to try and woo investors into his Global Ballers ides. He got rid of their apartment and then asked her to take care of his or their dog Doug Oh and she has to sit at home alone on Friday night and wait for his video call to see Doug. Amelia moved in with her sister. Doug has behavioral issues. Most likely separation anxiety from Tim. After he bites Amelia's co-worker she finds a vet to help her. Dr. Travis. While helping her help Doug, Amelia and Travis begin to have feelings; but when his grandmother ends up in the ICU and Tim makes a surprise visit home things go south. Can Amelia make things right with Travis or is she going to go back to Tim?
I really enjoyed this book. I cried and laughed. It was a quick read
Amelia's boyfriend Tim broke up with her to go to Bali to try and woo investors into his Global Ballers ides. He got rid of their apartment and then asked her to take care of his or their dog Doug Oh and she has to sit at home alone on Friday night and wait for his video call to see Doug. Amelia moved in with her sister. Doug has behavioral issues. Most likely separation anxiety from Tim. After he bites Amelia's co-worker she finds a vet to help her. Dr. Travis. While helping her help Doug, Amelia and Travis begin to have feelings; but when his grandmother ends up in the ICU and Tim makes a surprise visit home things go south. Can Amelia make things right with Travis or is she going to go back to Tim?
I really enjoyed this book. I cried and laughed. It was a quick read
November 24, 2021
I've been looking at getting this series for awhile now and when I saw that the first book was free on Kindle for a short period of time I jumped at the chance. Boy am I glad I did. It was a very sweet book with no violence and no steamy scenes. Which is perfect for me.
Having read this one I plan on getting the the whole series in physical form.
Having read this one I plan on getting the the whole series in physical form.
January 2, 2020
This book was an interesting experience for me in the sense that, while I did enjoy it, I also felt like it was capable of bringing so much more to the table.
Henley’s is the kind of voice I have been searching for in adult romance—simple and expressive, but not over-the-top or corny. I blazed through this easily because it felt comfortable and realistic to read, unlike plenty of its other contemporaries, which can easily lose themselves in the physical embellishments of a romance. The plot and progression were straight to the point, and the humor that Henley brought to the table was just the right dose. I never felt like this book was a bore.
Instead, my issues came up more so in terms of the characters and timeline. I didn’t find any of the problems that Amelia or Travis were facing unrealistic, and I understood the chemistry between them, but I also felt like they—along with the rest of the cast—were only surface-level characters at best. The newly single, heartbroken girl who doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life, and the kind, handsome male who waltzes into the picture like an unseen hero. Although it’s a fairly repetitive trope, it can be done well, and I think the potential for it to be existed here, but timing rendered it less so. I think contemporaries require just as much their own world building, just as much depth and detail to soak in the characters, their daily lives, and their motivations as a fantasy or sci-fi novel would require. This novel seems to exist on the tip of an iceberg; we get a general taste of what Amelia and Travis’s lives are like, but we don’t spend enough time with them for it to really sink in and enrapture us as to themselves and their romance. It’s definitely a more plot-driven than character-driven book, and that’s not bad, but it does leave me wanting more than I got, especially since I enjoyed the writing style so much.
Nonetheless, this was a very sweet read, and I’m glad it’s how I started off my year! The plot focus on Amelia’s adventures with helping her pug, Doug, were adorable, and they’re where I found the most depth and enjoyment in the book. It’s a solid three stars, and I look forward to reading more of Henley’s work!
Henley’s is the kind of voice I have been searching for in adult romance—simple and expressive, but not over-the-top or corny. I blazed through this easily because it felt comfortable and realistic to read, unlike plenty of its other contemporaries, which can easily lose themselves in the physical embellishments of a romance. The plot and progression were straight to the point, and the humor that Henley brought to the table was just the right dose. I never felt like this book was a bore.
Instead, my issues came up more so in terms of the characters and timeline. I didn’t find any of the problems that Amelia or Travis were facing unrealistic, and I understood the chemistry between them, but I also felt like they—along with the rest of the cast—were only surface-level characters at best. The newly single, heartbroken girl who doesn’t know what she wants to do with her life, and the kind, handsome male who waltzes into the picture like an unseen hero. Although it’s a fairly repetitive trope, it can be done well, and I think the potential for it to be existed here, but timing rendered it less so. I think contemporaries require just as much their own world building, just as much depth and detail to soak in the characters, their daily lives, and their motivations as a fantasy or sci-fi novel would require. This novel seems to exist on the tip of an iceberg; we get a general taste of what Amelia and Travis’s lives are like, but we don’t spend enough time with them for it to really sink in and enrapture us as to themselves and their romance. It’s definitely a more plot-driven than character-driven book, and that’s not bad, but it does leave me wanting more than I got, especially since I enjoyed the writing style so much.
Nonetheless, this was a very sweet read, and I’m glad it’s how I started off my year! The plot focus on Amelia’s adventures with helping her pug, Doug, were adorable, and they’re where I found the most depth and enjoyment in the book. It’s a solid three stars, and I look forward to reading more of Henley’s work!
September 29, 2020
Es un libro muy cuqui y dulce.
Para empezar, cualquier libro en el que salgan animales, sobre todo si son perros o gatos, de forma asidua ya tiene muchos puntos ganados. En este caso es un pug malhumorado y me ha encantado ver sus reacciones, como al principio tenía el corazón roto por abandono, cómo manifiesta esos sentimientos y cómo poco a poco va mejorando. También me ha parecido que la relación de Amelia con su perro es muy bonita. Y me veo reflejada porque yo también tengo un perro que suele portarse muy mal en determinadas situaciones.
Por otra parte, el romance. No voy a decir que no me haya gustado, porque no es así, pero tampoco me ha encantado. Está bien, aunque tengo que decir que Travis es demasiado perfecto para mi gusto, no le he visto ni un solo defecto y eso hace que me crea menos al personaje. Y por eso quizás no me ha emocionado la relación. No ha estado mal, aunque la protagonista ha comentado varias veces que todo iba mal hasta que conoció a Travis y que todo se arregló gracias a él. Permitidme comentar lo poco que me ha gustado esto. Porque una persona no necesita que alguien venga a salvarle y a solucionarle nada. Te pueden ayudar y pueden apoyarte mientras tú rehaces tu vida y la recompones lo suficiente para luego poder ofrecer tu amor y compañía a los demás. Pero es mérito de esa persona que decide salir adelante, los demás están para apoyar, no para salvar a nadie. Y es un cliché que hacía mucho que no leía y no me había dado cuenta de lo poco que me gusta.
Aunque bueno, a favor tengo que decir que cuando Amelia se encuentra con que Travis puede que ya no quiera nada, decide que si no se puede salvar la relación buscará un piso para su perro y para ella y superará su fracaso amoroso. Me ha sorprendido leer esto y me ha parecido muy positivo.
En resumen, el perro es lo mejor de la novela y su relación con Amelia es muy especial. Y lo que menos me ha gustado es Travis, que es demasiado perfecto para ser verdad y eso hace que no pueda conectar con él ni con su relación con Amelia.
Tengo ganas de seguir con la serie y ver si los demás libros son tan tiernos.
Para empezar, cualquier libro en el que salgan animales, sobre todo si son perros o gatos, de forma asidua ya tiene muchos puntos ganados. En este caso es un pug malhumorado y me ha encantado ver sus reacciones, como al principio tenía el corazón roto por abandono, cómo manifiesta esos sentimientos y cómo poco a poco va mejorando. También me ha parecido que la relación de Amelia con su perro es muy bonita. Y me veo reflejada porque yo también tengo un perro que suele portarse muy mal en determinadas situaciones.
Por otra parte, el romance. No voy a decir que no me haya gustado, porque no es así, pero tampoco me ha encantado. Está bien, aunque tengo que decir que Travis es demasiado perfecto para mi gusto, no le he visto ni un solo defecto y eso hace que me crea menos al personaje. Y por eso quizás no me ha emocionado la relación. No ha estado mal, aunque la protagonista ha comentado varias veces que todo iba mal hasta que conoció a Travis y que todo se arregló gracias a él. Permitidme comentar lo poco que me ha gustado esto. Porque una persona no necesita que alguien venga a salvarle y a solucionarle nada. Te pueden ayudar y pueden apoyarte mientras tú rehaces tu vida y la recompones lo suficiente para luego poder ofrecer tu amor y compañía a los demás. Pero es mérito de esa persona que decide salir adelante, los demás están para apoyar, no para salvar a nadie. Y es un cliché que hacía mucho que no leía y no me había dado cuenta de lo poco que me gusta.
Aunque bueno, a favor tengo que decir que cuando Amelia se encuentra con que Travis puede que ya no quiera nada, decide que si no se puede salvar la relación buscará un piso para su perro y para ella y superará su fracaso amoroso. Me ha sorprendido leer esto y me ha parecido muy positivo.
En resumen, el perro es lo mejor de la novela y su relación con Amelia es muy especial. Y lo que menos me ha gustado es Travis, que es demasiado perfecto para ser verdad y eso hace que no pueda conectar con él ni con su relación con Amelia.
Tengo ganas de seguir con la serie y ver si los demás libros son tan tiernos.
March 9, 2020
The Problem With Pugs (The Love & Pets Romantic Comedy Series Book 1) — A.G. Henley (27 chapters + Epilogue) February 20 - March 5, 2020
I started reading this book and found out there was a prequel (must sign up to author’s newsletter to get it—a bit of a drag,) so I read that and then got distracted before I picked this book back up in March. I didn’t know how I was going to like this book.
There are some editorial issues I have with this. (Wrong words, Joe for Jo, etc.)
However, this is a pretty nice story with a decent plot. It’s not a cozy, it’s a romance, for short attention spans like me. I can’t say I got distracted, but I did lag a bit on it. It read kinda a slow, but I hung around because Dougie won my heart. And his shenanigans were so human-like; in fact, several dialog scenes felt very natural and not forced. It was a refreshing read in that way.
I probably won’t continue with this series, but I did enjoy this story.
Three stars.
I started reading this book and found out there was a prequel (must sign up to author’s newsletter to get it—a bit of a drag,) so I read that and then got distracted before I picked this book back up in March. I didn’t know how I was going to like this book.
There are some editorial issues I have with this. (Wrong words, Joe for Jo, etc.)
However, this is a pretty nice story with a decent plot. It’s not a cozy, it’s a romance, for short attention spans like me. I can’t say I got distracted, but I did lag a bit on it. It read kinda a slow, but I hung around because Dougie won my heart. And his shenanigans were so human-like; in fact, several dialog scenes felt very natural and not forced. It was a refreshing read in that way.
I probably won’t continue with this series, but I did enjoy this story.
Three stars.
June 4, 2020
Love the pugs!
This is, amazingly, a book without a murder or mystery, my usual genre! Oh, but how I loved the pugs and other animals. I am definitely not reading this series in the right order, as this is the 3rd or 4th one I’ve read - but it absolutely doesn’t matter! Henley has a special talent writing for about animals (pugs, dachshunds, tabbies or Persians) and her characters are so realistic you can picture her tales easily.
This was actually the first in the series, where Tim has left on a 3+month business trip to line up financing for his start-up company, leaving his ex-girlfriend, Amelia, behind to find a new place to live AND care for his pug, Doug! Amelia is getting tired of waiting to hear when Tim might come home, Doug is having major separation anxieties, and work is no fun. Then, Amelia meets Dr. Travis with his traveling vet clinic, and sparks start to fly! Yes, romance, but with a few twists thrown in. A thoroughly delightful book!!
This is, amazingly, a book without a murder or mystery, my usual genre! Oh, but how I loved the pugs and other animals. I am definitely not reading this series in the right order, as this is the 3rd or 4th one I’ve read - but it absolutely doesn’t matter! Henley has a special talent writing for about animals (pugs, dachshunds, tabbies or Persians) and her characters are so realistic you can picture her tales easily.
This was actually the first in the series, where Tim has left on a 3+month business trip to line up financing for his start-up company, leaving his ex-girlfriend, Amelia, behind to find a new place to live AND care for his pug, Doug! Amelia is getting tired of waiting to hear when Tim might come home, Doug is having major separation anxieties, and work is no fun. Then, Amelia meets Dr. Travis with his traveling vet clinic, and sparks start to fly! Yes, romance, but with a few twists thrown in. A thoroughly delightful book!!
May 20, 2021
DNF.
So there's this idiot named Amelia. She lives with her sister because reasons, and has her boyfriend's dog. Doug the Pug. Tim - the boyfriend - moved to Bali and isn't coming back. He doesn't want the dog, and doesn't want her, and it's OBVIOUS. But Amelia is an idiot.
As for Doug, he's Satan embodied in a canine. He destroys Amelia's sister's apartment, shits directly in the middle of the sidewalk every time, tears after anyone with three legs, and gets into E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G.
The dog needs to be put down. Amelia needs to be put down. Neither of them are worth the pages written about them. And I'm disgusted with Dr. Vet-on-wheels in his RV, being all hot over a girl stupidly hung up on someone who a) doesn't want her, and b) saddled her with DemonDoggie.
I wasn't up for that much stupidity. Books are supposed to be entertaining, not IQ draining disasters. Choose something - ANYTHING - else.
So there's this idiot named Amelia. She lives with her sister because reasons, and has her boyfriend's dog. Doug the Pug. Tim - the boyfriend - moved to Bali and isn't coming back. He doesn't want the dog, and doesn't want her, and it's OBVIOUS. But Amelia is an idiot.
As for Doug, he's Satan embodied in a canine. He destroys Amelia's sister's apartment, shits directly in the middle of the sidewalk every time, tears after anyone with three legs, and gets into E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G.
The dog needs to be put down. Amelia needs to be put down. Neither of them are worth the pages written about them. And I'm disgusted with Dr. Vet-on-wheels in his RV, being all hot over a girl stupidly hung up on someone who a) doesn't want her, and b) saddled her with DemonDoggie.
I wasn't up for that much stupidity. Books are supposed to be entertaining, not IQ draining disasters. Choose something - ANYTHING - else.
March 25, 2018
Cute read. There was a couple parts that threw me off at the beginning that I marked stars down for and didn’t really care for the female lead for a while. There was a part where the sister’s name was mixed up that drew me out of the story and I had trouble getting back in. Personally during the first part of the book I wanted to smack the Amelia and just didn’t connect with her at all. It did get better before the end of the book. I also unluckly for this book, had read another book before this one that I was laughing out loud during most of it, so don’t know if that colored my view of the humor in this one. Just didn’t find it as funny as the blurbs and such kept stating. Overall a good beach read that will pass part of an afternoon in a pleasant manner. I did receive an ARC for an honest review from Hidden Gems.
February 21, 2020
Doug the Pug
Contains a spoiler. Poor Doug! Even with the not so flattering nod to him in the title, though he truly does exhibit some unfortunate, unpleasant characteristics as the story unfolds, is the best supporting actor. The main role goes to Amelia, a law firm receptionist and fiance of Tim, Doug's actual owner. When Tim gets the chance to go to a tropical island in search of a benefactor to sponsor his dream charity, he leaves Doug, Amelia, and his sublet apartment. In two weeks, Amelia's life changes completely, since she is forced to move because of the sublet. And that, folks, is just the tip of the iceberg in Tim's selfish parting shots.
Crazy, fast, and endearing, you will want to read both this book and the prequel (and probably so the rest of the series because this book is so much fun!).
Contains a spoiler. Poor Doug! Even with the not so flattering nod to him in the title, though he truly does exhibit some unfortunate, unpleasant characteristics as the story unfolds, is the best supporting actor. The main role goes to Amelia, a law firm receptionist and fiance of Tim, Doug's actual owner. When Tim gets the chance to go to a tropical island in search of a benefactor to sponsor his dream charity, he leaves Doug, Amelia, and his sublet apartment. In two weeks, Amelia's life changes completely, since she is forced to move because of the sublet. And that, folks, is just the tip of the iceberg in Tim's selfish parting shots.
Crazy, fast, and endearing, you will want to read both this book and the prequel (and probably so the rest of the series because this book is so much fun!).
April 3, 2018
Amelia’s pug Doug is a terror since her boyfriend now ex, left her to pursue his business in Malaysia. He is menace around any male. Just like her pug, Amelia is a mess herself. She can’t move on and keeps waiting for Tim, her ex-boyfriend to come back to both of them.
When her sister insisted she goes out with her and then she gets drunk in front of her coworker. Amelia’s sister invites him to the dinner 🥘 and when she gets back to find out what’s wrong with her beloved Doug, from then everything goes south quick. Doug bitten her dinner guest/her sort of boss.
Now he is threatening to report to Animal control and she decides she needs to intervene and find solution for her beloved Doug.
Traveling Vet Travis comes up with several solutions for Doug. Travis introduces Amelia to pug sanctuary where Doug meets his love.
Amelia is slowly realizing she needs to cut ties with Tim, not just for her, for her Doug too. Now she needs to find what she really wants in her life.
Amelia was a bit annoying in the beginning but she did warmed up. if you enjoy 😉 reading 📖 about dogs or pets this book is perfect. It describes more about habits of her dogs than Amelia’s life.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
i would give ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
When her sister insisted she goes out with her and then she gets drunk in front of her coworker. Amelia’s sister invites him to the dinner 🥘 and when she gets back to find out what’s wrong with her beloved Doug, from then everything goes south quick. Doug bitten her dinner guest/her sort of boss.
Now he is threatening to report to Animal control and she decides she needs to intervene and find solution for her beloved Doug.
Traveling Vet Travis comes up with several solutions for Doug. Travis introduces Amelia to pug sanctuary where Doug meets his love.
Amelia is slowly realizing she needs to cut ties with Tim, not just for her, for her Doug too. Now she needs to find what she really wants in her life.
Amelia was a bit annoying in the beginning but she did warmed up. if you enjoy 😉 reading 📖 about dogs or pets this book is perfect. It describes more about habits of her dogs than Amelia’s life.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
i would give ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
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