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Forever Home #3
Puppy Kisses
These adorable service puppies
are matchmakers in the making...
Dawn Vasquez never takes life too seriously. But when she rescues a golden retriever named Gigi, Dawn begins to imagine what it'd be like to settle down and let someone rely on her for a change. Unfortunately, Adam Dearborn--a handsome, hopelessly buttoned-up cattle rancher in need of a guide dog--has also fallen in love with the little ball of fluff and stubbornly insists that no other animal will do.
Adam isn't sure what drives him to fight to keep Gigi for himself, but he suspects it has something to do with his growing--and unfortunate--attachment to Dawn. Her whirlwind spirit and sunny disposition might make her a delight to be around, but they also make her unsuited for the difficult life of a rancher. He should be able to put her out of his head. But what's a love-struck cowboy to do when what he wants and what he needs have never seemed so far apart? And can he allow himself to take a chance on everything Dawn has to offer: puppy kisses, puppy love...and her.
Service Puppies Series:
Puppy Love (Book 1)
Puppy Christmas (Book 2)
Puppy Kisses (Book 3)
are matchmakers in the making...
Dawn Vasquez never takes life too seriously. But when she rescues a golden retriever named Gigi, Dawn begins to imagine what it'd be like to settle down and let someone rely on her for a change. Unfortunately, Adam Dearborn--a handsome, hopelessly buttoned-up cattle rancher in need of a guide dog--has also fallen in love with the little ball of fluff and stubbornly insists that no other animal will do.
Adam isn't sure what drives him to fight to keep Gigi for himself, but he suspects it has something to do with his growing--and unfortunate--attachment to Dawn. Her whirlwind spirit and sunny disposition might make her a delight to be around, but they also make her unsuited for the difficult life of a rancher. He should be able to put her out of his head. But what's a love-struck cowboy to do when what he wants and what he needs have never seemed so far apart? And can he allow himself to take a chance on everything Dawn has to offer: puppy kisses, puppy love...and her.
Service Puppies Series:
Puppy Love (Book 1)
Puppy Christmas (Book 2)
Puppy Kisses (Book 3)
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 30, 2020
73 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Gilmore
13 books934 followersLucy Gilmore is a celebrated novelist in a wide range of genres, including literary fiction, contemporary romance, and cozy mystery. She began her reading (and writing) career as an English literature major and ended as a book lover without all those pesky academic papers attached.
She lives in Spokane, WA with her family.
She lives in Spokane, WA with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
February 9, 2023
I think this was the best book in the series. Adam and Dawn were so amazing and they really relied on each other to live and love - so heartwarming and enjoyable to read!
July 12, 2020
3.5 ⭐️'s
"I swear, talking to you is like talking to a troll who lives under a bridge. Everything is a riddle."
Characters
Adam (owns and operates one of the largest cattle ranches in the state):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Adam: intimidating, kind, determined, confident, adept, stubborn, sexy, handsome, solid, stalwart, honest, real, hardworking, cares about his animals
Something to know about Adam:
- Adam is blind, but the book doesn’t make a big deal about it. In fact, it wasn’t obvious and I had to pay attention to little comments in the beginning to even clue into that fact.
Some quotes about Adam:
"A bout with meningitis in early childhood had left him without much in the way of sight, but he had plenty of common sense."
"Adam Deerborn was the man who got things done – even if it hurt sometimes."
"He was confident without being cocky, adept without being arrogant. He knew his value, and he didn't need anyone else to confirm or deny it."
Dawn (trains service dogs):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Dawn: gorgeous, unpredictable, chaotic, free spirit, not a quitter, impulsive, tempestuous, forthright, honest, generous, energetic, enthusiastic, light hearted, fun, adventurous, softhearted
Something to know about Dawn:
- Dawn makes people feel at ease and she can diffuse a tense situation easily. She has an extremely positive attitude.
Some quotes about Dawn:
"Adam had never known anyone with a better-or a bigger-heart than Dawn. She was the sort of person who had something nice to find in everyone, who gave her time and herself freely for no reason except that the spirit of generosity was ingrained into her soul."
"Dawn didn't shy away from difficult conversations. Dawn put herself out there, wholly and wholeheartedly, and damn the consequences."
The Story:
Dawn (service dog trainer) rescues an abused puppy and in an effort to thwart a speeding ticket she says the puppy is for Adam (who is blind). So, now that Dawn needs to train this puppy to be Adam's service dog, they need to spend a lot of time together.
My Thoughts:
The following are my thoughts about this book:
- pleasantly surprised at the amount of humor in the book
- I thought it was funny he named the most cantankerous cow in the herd Dawn. "It's not an insult, I promise. She's always been Adams favorite cow. I don't have favorite cows, and Dawn can only be described as a plague. He didn't enlighten the two as to which Dawn he referred to this time." 😂
- Dawn “scolding” the cow made me chuckle.
- I really loved Dawn. No matter what anyone said to her she had a positive response. She was really easy to like
- No-Pants Shotgun 🤣🤣
- There was some chemistry between the H/h but it wasn’t hot and steamy. Most of their interactions were day to day events rather than sexy bedroom scenes. That’s ok as I thought they were good together. But, because they were hiding their relationship from everyone else, there wasn’t a lot of touching/kissing, etc. And, although they fooled around, there was no actual bedroom scene.
- I liked the secondary characters and I felt they added to the story. I really hope Phoebe and Zeke get a story.
- I didn’t fully understand why Adam didn’t feel he was enough. He was a nice, sexy, successful man who owned a ranch and had a lot to offer someone. He was extremely confident and his disability didn’t slow him down in the least. Unfortunately this attitude didn’t feel authentic to the story and I was disappointed the plot fell into the overused “I’m not good enough” /“I’m letting you go because it’s best for you” trope.
- I felt there was missing information on how they began to hook up in the first place. How did they sneak around and sleep together for 6 months without anyone knowing? Adam was blind so it’s not like he could drive to meet her somewhere. And, Adam lived with his siblings so it’s not like they were sneaking around his house. That whole aspect of the story was confusing to me.
- Good banter
- The writing was good. There weren’t any obvious grammatical or spelling errors that detracted from the story.
- I liked the service dog aspect of the story.
Overall, there were a few things that didn’t fully make sense to me and there wasn’t a bedroom scene (which I like), but on the whole I chuckled a lot and I liked the main characters and the supporting cast. It was an entertaining story that kept me engaged.
Quotes
“Zeke knew this area better than if Google and Apple Maps had a baby."
"Don't be so dramatic. I'm not scared of your brother."
"Yes, you are. You're terrified of him. That and bees – the only two things in the world capable of bringing you down. And at least you have an EpiPen to fight the bees."
"i'll have you know that my cows don't go rogue, he said by way of answer. They're exceptionally well behaved. Well, there is one that's been causing us a lot of problems near the west field lately. She keeps breaking down the neighbors fence and forcing herself into places she's not wanted. We named her Dawn."
"I should know better than to let her get under my skin, but it's harder than it looks. She slides in there and then latches on like some kind of parasite."
"That's the ticket, Adam yelled from the other side of the fence. Talk to her like a rational human being. That always works. Cows understand every word you're saying."
"I love prime shipping as much as the next guy, but I draw the line at buying specialty castration tools from Amazon."
"I swear, talking to you is like talking to a troll who lives under a bridge. Everything is a riddle."
Characters
Adam (owns and operates one of the largest cattle ranches in the state):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Adam: intimidating, kind, determined, confident, adept, stubborn, sexy, handsome, solid, stalwart, honest, real, hardworking, cares about his animals
Something to know about Adam:
- Adam is blind, but the book doesn’t make a big deal about it. In fact, it wasn’t obvious and I had to pay attention to little comments in the beginning to even clue into that fact.
Some quotes about Adam:
"A bout with meningitis in early childhood had left him without much in the way of sight, but he had plenty of common sense."
"Adam Deerborn was the man who got things done – even if it hurt sometimes."
"He was confident without being cocky, adept without being arrogant. He knew his value, and he didn't need anyone else to confirm or deny it."
Dawn (trains service dogs):
The following words/phrases were used to describe Dawn: gorgeous, unpredictable, chaotic, free spirit, not a quitter, impulsive, tempestuous, forthright, honest, generous, energetic, enthusiastic, light hearted, fun, adventurous, softhearted
Something to know about Dawn:
- Dawn makes people feel at ease and she can diffuse a tense situation easily. She has an extremely positive attitude.
Some quotes about Dawn:
"Adam had never known anyone with a better-or a bigger-heart than Dawn. She was the sort of person who had something nice to find in everyone, who gave her time and herself freely for no reason except that the spirit of generosity was ingrained into her soul."
"Dawn didn't shy away from difficult conversations. Dawn put herself out there, wholly and wholeheartedly, and damn the consequences."
The Story:
Dawn (service dog trainer) rescues an abused puppy and in an effort to thwart a speeding ticket she says the puppy is for Adam (who is blind). So, now that Dawn needs to train this puppy to be Adam's service dog, they need to spend a lot of time together.
My Thoughts:
The following are my thoughts about this book:
- pleasantly surprised at the amount of humor in the book
- I thought it was funny he named the most cantankerous cow in the herd Dawn. "It's not an insult, I promise. She's always been Adams favorite cow. I don't have favorite cows, and Dawn can only be described as a plague. He didn't enlighten the two as to which Dawn he referred to this time." 😂
- Dawn “scolding” the cow made me chuckle.
- I really loved Dawn. No matter what anyone said to her she had a positive response. She was really easy to like
- No-Pants Shotgun 🤣🤣
- There was some chemistry between the H/h but it wasn’t hot and steamy. Most of their interactions were day to day events rather than sexy bedroom scenes. That’s ok as I thought they were good together. But, because they were hiding their relationship from everyone else, there wasn’t a lot of touching/kissing, etc. And, although they fooled around, there was no actual bedroom scene.
- I liked the secondary characters and I felt they added to the story. I really hope Phoebe and Zeke get a story.
- I didn’t fully understand why Adam didn’t feel he was enough. He was a nice, sexy, successful man who owned a ranch and had a lot to offer someone. He was extremely confident and his disability didn’t slow him down in the least. Unfortunately this attitude didn’t feel authentic to the story and I was disappointed the plot fell into the overused “I’m not good enough” /“I’m letting you go because it’s best for you” trope.
- I felt there was missing information on how they began to hook up in the first place. How did they sneak around and sleep together for 6 months without anyone knowing? Adam was blind so it’s not like he could drive to meet her somewhere. And, Adam lived with his siblings so it’s not like they were sneaking around his house. That whole aspect of the story was confusing to me.
- Good banter
- The writing was good. There weren’t any obvious grammatical or spelling errors that detracted from the story.
- I liked the service dog aspect of the story.
Overall, there were a few things that didn’t fully make sense to me and there wasn’t a bedroom scene (which I like), but on the whole I chuckled a lot and I liked the main characters and the supporting cast. It was an entertaining story that kept me engaged.
Quotes
“Zeke knew this area better than if Google and Apple Maps had a baby."
"Don't be so dramatic. I'm not scared of your brother."
"Yes, you are. You're terrified of him. That and bees – the only two things in the world capable of bringing you down. And at least you have an EpiPen to fight the bees."
"i'll have you know that my cows don't go rogue, he said by way of answer. They're exceptionally well behaved. Well, there is one that's been causing us a lot of problems near the west field lately. She keeps breaking down the neighbors fence and forcing herself into places she's not wanted. We named her Dawn."
"I should know better than to let her get under my skin, but it's harder than it looks. She slides in there and then latches on like some kind of parasite."
"That's the ticket, Adam yelled from the other side of the fence. Talk to her like a rational human being. That always works. Cows understand every word you're saying."
"I love prime shipping as much as the next guy, but I draw the line at buying specialty castration tools from Amazon."
June 18, 2021
This was exactly the type of contemporary that I needed to read when I picked it up, and I liked it, but also found it a smidge frustrating at points. The heroine's sisters, who clearly loved her and wanted the best for her, so clearly also did not understand her and while I found the eventual expression of this cathartic, I did not enjoy what it took to get to it. I'm not sure if I had ever read a novel with a blind hero before, and I am not really qualified to comment on the rep, but it seemed respectful to me.
January 21, 2021
https://celebrityreaders.com/2021/01/...
4.5 stars — Who has avoided this review for no reason whatsoever? This girl!! I finished it last night, and I just can’t get my thoughts in order. I have no idea why. I’m just in a bad mood.
Dawn and Adam’s story was NOTHING like what I was expecting. I mean, I’m not sure I was expecting anything, but I was completely caught off guard with them having an established sexual relationship when the book starts! Nothing in the blurb indicates that at all…in fact, the blurb is misleading in other ways as well. Oh gosh — I just finished ranting about a different book I basically all but DNF’d, and I feel like that rantiness is going to come into play, which is ridiculous, b/c I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I should have written this review this morning, now it’s going to be all tainted. Think Lenore, think!
I LOVED how with Dawn we get a very sex positive heroine. You know how playboys don’t get the same shaming as manwhores, but they are very free with the loving? Dawn is like a female equivalent, and it’s super refreshing. She seriously enjoys sex, and she doesn’t feel shame for it. I LOVE that. I LOVE her. In most everything in her life she’s very strong, forthright, she knows what she wants and she doesn’t apologize for it. She’s hiding a very vulnerable heart, and she had a LOT to work through, but it was satisfying to see her get over her own insecurities and get what she deserved in life. I honestly really felt for how she saw her role in life — how she was resigned almost with the way people saw her…which was always partially correctly, but not some important parts. All 3 Vasquez girls had their own set of insecurities about their role and who they were. It was a really interesting series in that way.
Adam was kind of fascinating, but I also wanted to shake him over and over and over! Man, that boy just made some boneheaded moves in the “assume I know what’s best” category. I was worried he wasn’t going to get there, but he did eventually. It might have taken just a titch longer than I wanted though.
Obviously Gigi/Methuselah and Uncle were absolute gems. I adored seeing yet another way these incredible dogs can be trained to be such a life changing resource for humans. I mean, Gigi was just Gigi, though I ached for her start in life. I appreciated how her story played out, but I don’t want to spoil it. But yeah, Uncle was da bomb. And I loved them together, so adorable!
As always there was an interesting supporting cast. It was great to see Sophie and Lila coming together for Dawn this time. And Phoebe and Zeke added their own colour (though I was pretty unhappy with Zeke during a certain scene). And then there’s Bea…Bea and Dawn the cow. Man, what characters.
I’m not sure if it was my mood, but this was probably not my favourite of the three books — but I still loved it. I can definitely see seeking out more from Ms. Gilmore. I wish I could read more in this universe, but we’re kinda out of sisters.
4.5 stars — Who has avoided this review for no reason whatsoever? This girl!! I finished it last night, and I just can’t get my thoughts in order. I have no idea why. I’m just in a bad mood.
Dawn and Adam’s story was NOTHING like what I was expecting. I mean, I’m not sure I was expecting anything, but I was completely caught off guard with them having an established sexual relationship when the book starts! Nothing in the blurb indicates that at all…in fact, the blurb is misleading in other ways as well. Oh gosh — I just finished ranting about a different book I basically all but DNF’d, and I feel like that rantiness is going to come into play, which is ridiculous, b/c I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I should have written this review this morning, now it’s going to be all tainted. Think Lenore, think!
I LOVED how with Dawn we get a very sex positive heroine. You know how playboys don’t get the same shaming as manwhores, but they are very free with the loving? Dawn is like a female equivalent, and it’s super refreshing. She seriously enjoys sex, and she doesn’t feel shame for it. I LOVE that. I LOVE her. In most everything in her life she’s very strong, forthright, she knows what she wants and she doesn’t apologize for it. She’s hiding a very vulnerable heart, and she had a LOT to work through, but it was satisfying to see her get over her own insecurities and get what she deserved in life. I honestly really felt for how she saw her role in life — how she was resigned almost with the way people saw her…which was always partially correctly, but not some important parts. All 3 Vasquez girls had their own set of insecurities about their role and who they were. It was a really interesting series in that way.
Adam was kind of fascinating, but I also wanted to shake him over and over and over! Man, that boy just made some boneheaded moves in the “assume I know what’s best” category. I was worried he wasn’t going to get there, but he did eventually. It might have taken just a titch longer than I wanted though.
Obviously Gigi/Methuselah and Uncle were absolute gems. I adored seeing yet another way these incredible dogs can be trained to be such a life changing resource for humans. I mean, Gigi was just Gigi, though I ached for her start in life. I appreciated how her story played out, but I don’t want to spoil it. But yeah, Uncle was da bomb. And I loved them together, so adorable!
As always there was an interesting supporting cast. It was great to see Sophie and Lila coming together for Dawn this time. And Phoebe and Zeke added their own colour (though I was pretty unhappy with Zeke during a certain scene). And then there’s Bea…Bea and Dawn the cow. Man, what characters.
I’m not sure if it was my mood, but this was probably not my favourite of the three books — but I still loved it. I can definitely see seeking out more from Ms. Gilmore. I wish I could read more in this universe, but we’re kinda out of sisters.
June 29, 2020
I liked Dawn and Adam’s weird relationship vibes- the hot and cold did drive me bonkers after a while- but they took a back seat to Gigi, the disobedient, too cute for her own good, absolutely lovable rescue (okay so Dawn stole her from the cruddy, mean owner, but that’s semantics) golden retriever! Sorry guys, but when a dog dominates every page she pops up on...
Uncle, a sweet Great Dane and Adam’s actual guide dog, was just as cute, dealing with Gigi’s antics and crazy personality.
Final thoughts: I enjoyed the first two books of the series, but Dawn’s story fell shy of the mark. The book was still a good read, but the delivery took a good while to come about, leaving me perturbed with the end result.
Puppy Kisses is the third book in the Forever Hope series and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley/Sourcebooks and this is my honest review.
Uncle, a sweet Great Dane and Adam’s actual guide dog, was just as cute, dealing with Gigi’s antics and crazy personality.
Final thoughts: I enjoyed the first two books of the series, but Dawn’s story fell shy of the mark. The book was still a good read, but the delivery took a good while to come about, leaving me perturbed with the end result.
Puppy Kisses is the third book in the Forever Hope series and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley/Sourcebooks and this is my honest review.
June 12, 2020
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
“Puppy Kisses”, by Lucy Gilmore (Sourcebooks Casablanca), was a delightful read, with a stoic wounded hero who breezes through life like his disability doesn’t hinder him.
Adam and Dawn are great characters and I liked them both for different reasons; their relationship is steamy and tender and their interactions are fabulous. There’s a strong, deep connection between them, emotionally and sexually.
Adam is a singular wounded hero, with almost no angst about his condition. He’s so well adapted that we sometimes forget it, although Lucy Gilmore took great care with this dimension, regularly narrating the story from his perspective.
Perhaps I was expecting more moments of Adam being encumbered by his condition.
Dawn’s boldness, “joie de vivre”, generosity and sensitivity are fascinating.
I thought this was way better than the first book, and I liked the secondary characters, too, and, of course, the adorable puppies.
“Puppy Kisses”, by Lucy Gilmore (Sourcebooks Casablanca), was a delightful read, with a stoic wounded hero who breezes through life like his disability doesn’t hinder him.
Adam and Dawn are great characters and I liked them both for different reasons; their relationship is steamy and tender and their interactions are fabulous. There’s a strong, deep connection between them, emotionally and sexually.
Adam is a singular wounded hero, with almost no angst about his condition. He’s so well adapted that we sometimes forget it, although Lucy Gilmore took great care with this dimension, regularly narrating the story from his perspective.
Perhaps I was expecting more moments of Adam being encumbered by his condition.
Dawn’s boldness, “joie de vivre”, generosity and sensitivity are fascinating.
I thought this was way better than the first book, and I liked the secondary characters, too, and, of course, the adorable puppies.
May 29, 2020
Thank you Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. My review is my own and not influenced by others.
Puppy kisses is book 3 of the Vasquez series including Dawn and Adam, you don’t have to read the first two books in this series, you can read it as a standalone. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I sure want to read the other books of her.
Dawn is full of humor, charming, playful, stubborn and everytime putting the interest of others first. It’s a character I liked very much. Adam is moody, stubborn but also sweet. He’s blind but it doesn’t makes him bitter or angry, he accepts it and moves on in life.
The writing style is nice, you get drawn to the characters, the humor and romance and it makes it hard to put the book aside.
Puppy kisses is book 3 of the Vasquez series including Dawn and Adam, you don’t have to read the first two books in this series, you can read it as a standalone. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I sure want to read the other books of her.
Dawn is full of humor, charming, playful, stubborn and everytime putting the interest of others first. It’s a character I liked very much. Adam is moody, stubborn but also sweet. He’s blind but it doesn’t makes him bitter or angry, he accepts it and moves on in life.
The writing style is nice, you get drawn to the characters, the humor and romance and it makes it hard to put the book aside.
July 18, 2020
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Puppy Kisses was another solid addition to this series. I really liked Adam and Dawn, and I found their interactions quite fun, but I think the push-and-pull probably went on a bit too long for me. Nevertheless, I was very invested in these two getting together, and as always, I loved spending time with the pups.
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Puppy Kisses was another solid addition to this series. I really liked Adam and Dawn, and I found their interactions quite fun, but I think the push-and-pull probably went on a bit too long for me. Nevertheless, I was very invested in these two getting together, and as always, I loved spending time with the pups.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
April 23, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this arc.
This was a sweet and satisfying read for me. This is the last of the Vasquez sister's series and Dawn's story. The Vasquez sisters are the owner/operators of Puppy Promises, a service dog puppy training school. Dawn is the middle sister, the "fun and flighty" one. Restless and impulsive... The book begins with Dawn roping her friend Zeke into helping her steal an abused Golden Retriever puppy from her present owner, being pulled over for speeding by the local Sheriff, and some lies told..... Sounds like fun!
It was fun! There was even a high stakes poker game. Dawn's irreverent commentary throughout kept the fun going. This gal is bound and determined to live life on her terms and by gum she's going to enjoy herself. And she manages to teach those around her to enjoy it as well. A sweet story of family and friends with some good sex thrown in for spice.
This was a sweet and satisfying read for me. This is the last of the Vasquez sister's series and Dawn's story. The Vasquez sisters are the owner/operators of Puppy Promises, a service dog puppy training school. Dawn is the middle sister, the "fun and flighty" one. Restless and impulsive... The book begins with Dawn roping her friend Zeke into helping her steal an abused Golden Retriever puppy from her present owner, being pulled over for speeding by the local Sheriff, and some lies told..... Sounds like fun!
It was fun! There was even a high stakes poker game. Dawn's irreverent commentary throughout kept the fun going. This gal is bound and determined to live life on her terms and by gum she's going to enjoy herself. And she manages to teach those around her to enjoy it as well. A sweet story of family and friends with some good sex thrown in for spice.
March 17, 2024
Puppy Kisses is the final book in the Forever Home trilogy. This is Dawn's story. Dawn was the easy going sister, the party girl, the fun time sister, but when she meets Adam Dearborn she realizes that maybe she could settle down. Dawn is good friends with Zeke, Adam's brother. The book opens with Dawn and Zeke, rescuing a dog from a home where he was abused and neglected, but when they are speeding away, they get stopped by the Sheriff. To keep Zeke from losing his license, Dawn lies and tells him that the puppy is injured and he is Adam's service dog. Adam is a well liked local rancher, who is also almost blind. The sheriff escorts them to the ranch and Adam plays along with Zeke and Dawn. Dawn was supposed to train a service dog for Adam and had another one, a great dane in mind, but Adam decides he wants Gigi, the rescued golden retriever. It is up to Dawn to train Gigi and work with Adam. Will Gigi be able to work with Adam and be his service dog? Will Dawn find true love?
I enjoyed this story of romance, family, dogs and happy endings. Adam is a stubborn man, determined to run the family ranch with his brother and sister, and remain single. He is infatuated by Dawn, but he's sure she just wants a good time. The first thing they have to do is get Gigi healthy and keep her safe from the man they stole, I mean rescued her from. There is a scene where they come face to face with him that had me in stitches. Again, the banter was great in this book. Adam's family had several issues to deal with throughout this story and I enjoyed seeing how they worked things out, with Dawn's help of course. I also liked the relationship between Dawn and her sisters. They support each other, but sometimes think they know what is best and it takes time to let each other follow their own path. The dogs often steal the show and I love when they do. They have their own personalities and they shine through in these books. This story also tackles animal abuse/neglect which is an issue that is near and dear to my heart as there have been several rescued dogs in my life. This is another great addition to this series with humor, family, friendship, romance and wonderful animals. This one actually has a great cow in it, that provides even more humor. There are a couple of steamy scenes, but they didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story. Once again the audiobook was narrated by Lauren Sweet, and she does a great job. I recommend this one to animal lovers and those who enjoy romance in either format.
I enjoyed this story of romance, family, dogs and happy endings. Adam is a stubborn man, determined to run the family ranch with his brother and sister, and remain single. He is infatuated by Dawn, but he's sure she just wants a good time. The first thing they have to do is get Gigi healthy and keep her safe from the man they stole, I mean rescued her from. There is a scene where they come face to face with him that had me in stitches. Again, the banter was great in this book. Adam's family had several issues to deal with throughout this story and I enjoyed seeing how they worked things out, with Dawn's help of course. I also liked the relationship between Dawn and her sisters. They support each other, but sometimes think they know what is best and it takes time to let each other follow their own path. The dogs often steal the show and I love when they do. They have their own personalities and they shine through in these books. This story also tackles animal abuse/neglect which is an issue that is near and dear to my heart as there have been several rescued dogs in my life. This is another great addition to this series with humor, family, friendship, romance and wonderful animals. This one actually has a great cow in it, that provides even more humor. There are a couple of steamy scenes, but they didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story. Once again the audiobook was narrated by Lauren Sweet, and she does a great job. I recommend this one to animal lovers and those who enjoy romance in either format.
June 23, 2020
This story is as sweet as it's title hints to! I really enjoyed it! The characters are lovable and deep and I was rooting for Dawn and Adam from the get-go. Really fun story with great dialogue that kept me interested and hopeful throughout! Add in some steamy times and you've got yourself a nicely well rounded story. I'm liking what this author brings to the table very much!
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.
May 5, 2020
I want to thank Netgalley for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so humorous and heartwarming.
I loved dawn as our main character. She was bunny free spirited and pushy as hell with a heart of gold. Seeing her embrace her insecurities made this a heartwarming read.
Adam was also an amazing character and I enjoyed reading his story. He may be blind but he never let it get him down which I admired.
He was the polar opposite of dawn in the way he was very organised and dawn was more of a chaotic character.
I adored them together and was pulling for them from page one.
The plot was amazing. The various characters were all memorable and added different depths to the story overall.
This is the third book in this series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first two.
Overall I loved it and read it all in one sitting.
5 stars.
This book was so humorous and heartwarming.
I loved dawn as our main character. She was bunny free spirited and pushy as hell with a heart of gold. Seeing her embrace her insecurities made this a heartwarming read.
Adam was also an amazing character and I enjoyed reading his story. He may be blind but he never let it get him down which I admired.
He was the polar opposite of dawn in the way he was very organised and dawn was more of a chaotic character.
I adored them together and was pulling for them from page one.
The plot was amazing. The various characters were all memorable and added different depths to the story overall.
This is the third book in this series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first two.
Overall I loved it and read it all in one sitting.
5 stars.
June 29, 2020
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*
I have been patiently waiting for Dawn's book! Book 3 in the Forever Home series is about the middle sister, the firecracker, Dawn. One of three sisters that run Puppy Promise, a training program for service dogs, the first 2 books feature the other sisters and I recommend reading them if you haven't already.
As I said, I've been waiting for Dawn's book and couldn't wait to meet the dog in here.
The story starts out quickly, with Dawn swooping in to steal a mistreated puppy. This was the highlight of the story for me. This is the Dawn that I was expecting to see.
As per usual, the dogs were fantastic. I would go as far to say they stole all the scenes they were in.
The romantic storyline between Dawn and Adam was OK. I didn't feel the passion or lust.
I will say that I loved Bea and she may have been my favorite character in the book.
Overall this story was cute, but I was expecting a lot more from it.
I have been patiently waiting for Dawn's book! Book 3 in the Forever Home series is about the middle sister, the firecracker, Dawn. One of three sisters that run Puppy Promise, a training program for service dogs, the first 2 books feature the other sisters and I recommend reading them if you haven't already.
As I said, I've been waiting for Dawn's book and couldn't wait to meet the dog in here.
The story starts out quickly, with Dawn swooping in to steal a mistreated puppy. This was the highlight of the story for me. This is the Dawn that I was expecting to see.
As per usual, the dogs were fantastic. I would go as far to say they stole all the scenes they were in.
The romantic storyline between Dawn and Adam was OK. I didn't feel the passion or lust.
I will say that I loved Bea and she may have been my favorite character in the book.
Overall this story was cute, but I was expecting a lot more from it.
March 17, 2021
I have really enjoyed this series (or maybe trilogy since it was about three sisters) and this latest one was no exception! It was a lot of fun.
Dawn is the carefree middle child and she has taken on that role very well. Her older sister is very straight-laced and her younger sister was sick a lot as a child and always babied. So Dawn sort of fell into the middle and lives with carefree abandonment and never sticks with one man for long. She has done this for so long that its what everyone expects of her especially her sisters.
Her and her sisters run a service dog place that sets dogs with those who need a bit of help. Dawn in one of her reckless moments cons her friend Zeke into helping her rescue a dog that is being mistreated by a horrible man. The guy also known as "No pants Shotgun" take after them and the only thing they can think of to do after the police give chase is to go to Adam's house and pretend that they were getting the dog for him.
Adam is Zeke's brother and he is a handsome, and somewhat grouchy rancher who has a bit of a vision impairment and is in need of a service dog but he refuses all the time. When Dawn and Zeke come with this little mistreated puppy and pawns it off on him to get out of trouble he decides he is going to keep it. Maybe it's mostly because it keeps bringing Dawn back to his house even though he knows she would never want to be with someone like him.
I really liked Dawn as she can take about anything and give it a positive spin and she is very good at hiding her emotions. She tries to hide a lot of how she is really feeling with sex, even with Adam. She really likes him but doesn't really know how to come out and say so and Adam doesn't help because he pushes her away in his own way because he doesn't think she would really want to be with him. Sometimes that was very frustrating!
There was a lot of funny moments in this that made me laugh so much. Dawn really is my favorite sister! Adam has a very stubborn cow that he named Dawn! So it was funny when Dawn the woman was scolding Dawn the cow. :)
If you want a really fluffy fun contemporary romance read then I suggest you read this whole series and it was just pure fun!
Dawn is the carefree middle child and she has taken on that role very well. Her older sister is very straight-laced and her younger sister was sick a lot as a child and always babied. So Dawn sort of fell into the middle and lives with carefree abandonment and never sticks with one man for long. She has done this for so long that its what everyone expects of her especially her sisters.
Her and her sisters run a service dog place that sets dogs with those who need a bit of help. Dawn in one of her reckless moments cons her friend Zeke into helping her rescue a dog that is being mistreated by a horrible man. The guy also known as "No pants Shotgun" take after them and the only thing they can think of to do after the police give chase is to go to Adam's house and pretend that they were getting the dog for him.
Adam is Zeke's brother and he is a handsome, and somewhat grouchy rancher who has a bit of a vision impairment and is in need of a service dog but he refuses all the time. When Dawn and Zeke come with this little mistreated puppy and pawns it off on him to get out of trouble he decides he is going to keep it. Maybe it's mostly because it keeps bringing Dawn back to his house even though he knows she would never want to be with someone like him.
I really liked Dawn as she can take about anything and give it a positive spin and she is very good at hiding her emotions. She tries to hide a lot of how she is really feeling with sex, even with Adam. She really likes him but doesn't really know how to come out and say so and Adam doesn't help because he pushes her away in his own way because he doesn't think she would really want to be with him. Sometimes that was very frustrating!
There was a lot of funny moments in this that made me laugh so much. Dawn really is my favorite sister! Adam has a very stubborn cow that he named Dawn! So it was funny when Dawn the woman was scolding Dawn the cow. :)
If you want a really fluffy fun contemporary romance read then I suggest you read this whole series and it was just pure fun!
July 19, 2020
I've read two of this (currently) three book series and LOVED EVERY MOMENT! This time around, we've Adam and Dawn. Both are decidedly headstrong, wanting to do things their own way, and always seeing black and white versus gray. They have hopes, dreams, and desires...and that last one actually involves each other, if they'd ever get around to admitting it! Once upon a time, they had a bit of a thing, but nothing solid ever came of it. Was it for lack of chemistry? No...that was off the charts THEN and NOW! Was it a lack of trying? Sort of...but not in the way you might think. They were almost too careful of each other's feelings to actually make that connection they shared be unbreakable...and until one or the other ante ups, they'll be in a circle forever, and ever, and ever, and...well, you get the picture.
Watching them try to get it right THE WHOLE TIME was good, sometimes fan worthy, a time or two blush worthy, mega frustrating, but ultimately happy ending making. I can't tell you how (it'll spoil it), and I can't tell you why (same reason), and I can't even reveal if they end up together (ditto), but I can tell you that these two (well, technically four considering the puppers!) AMAZING leads will steal into your heart and make you feel all the feels for better or worse. Get to know Dawn as she doesn't even know herself. Get to know the other Dawn that likes to crash fences and play in mud puddles (not as risqué as it sounds!). Understand the enigma that is Adam, our fearless (sightless!) leader that knows more through his other senses than can meet the eyes. Giggle at Gigi's antics and grow fond of the horse size dog that might win the role of service dog to our slightly grumpy rancher. Whatever you do, get involved in this series and this story! You won't regret a page of it.
***ebook received for review; opinions are my own
Watching them try to get it right THE WHOLE TIME was good, sometimes fan worthy, a time or two blush worthy, mega frustrating, but ultimately happy ending making. I can't tell you how (it'll spoil it), and I can't tell you why (same reason), and I can't even reveal if they end up together (ditto), but I can tell you that these two (well, technically four considering the puppers!) AMAZING leads will steal into your heart and make you feel all the feels for better or worse. Get to know Dawn as she doesn't even know herself. Get to know the other Dawn that likes to crash fences and play in mud puddles (not as risqué as it sounds!). Understand the enigma that is Adam, our fearless (sightless!) leader that knows more through his other senses than can meet the eyes. Giggle at Gigi's antics and grow fond of the horse size dog that might win the role of service dog to our slightly grumpy rancher. Whatever you do, get involved in this series and this story! You won't regret a page of it.
***ebook received for review; opinions are my own
June 29, 2020
This is the second book I have read in this series, and I'm so glad I did. Adam and Dawn's story combined with, not one, but two adorable puppies was so enjoyable! Dawn and her two sisters (their stories are the first two books in the series) run a business where they train therapy dogs for people with disabilities.
Adam, who is blind, hadn't actually signed up for a therapy dog. However, in a series of events, Dawn ended up on his doorstep with a sad, hurt Golden Retriever puppy and a sheriff. She explained to the sheriff that the puppy was going to be Adam's therapy dog. Adam backed up the story and ended up with Dawn practically living on his ranch for the six weeks it takes to train a therapy dog. According to Dawn, Gigi (or Methsulah depending on whose puppy name you are using) wasn't cut out to be a therapy dog, so she brought Uncle, a Great Dane who was in training and, according to Dawn, would be a great match for Adam.
A romance with two cute dogs is double the love in my opinion! Adam and Dawn's relationship struggles circled around Dawn being a free spirit and Adam's need to stay on the ranch (full time commitment and all that) and whether this was a casual relationship or had the potential to be something bigger. This is an opposites attract romance. I enjoyed watching their story unfold and evolve. I will keep reading Lucy Gilmore!
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Adam, who is blind, hadn't actually signed up for a therapy dog. However, in a series of events, Dawn ended up on his doorstep with a sad, hurt Golden Retriever puppy and a sheriff. She explained to the sheriff that the puppy was going to be Adam's therapy dog. Adam backed up the story and ended up with Dawn practically living on his ranch for the six weeks it takes to train a therapy dog. According to Dawn, Gigi (or Methsulah depending on whose puppy name you are using) wasn't cut out to be a therapy dog, so she brought Uncle, a Great Dane who was in training and, according to Dawn, would be a great match for Adam.
A romance with two cute dogs is double the love in my opinion! Adam and Dawn's relationship struggles circled around Dawn being a free spirit and Adam's need to stay on the ranch (full time commitment and all that) and whether this was a casual relationship or had the potential to be something bigger. This is an opposites attract romance. I enjoyed watching their story unfold and evolve. I will keep reading Lucy Gilmore!
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series, and I would definitely recommend that you start at the beginning as this is an ongoing story of three sisters and their journey towards an HEA and its impact on them all as a family and joint business owners. Dawn is the one left at home now and she has had a lot of the care of the trainee service dogs left to her.
I absolutely love how we discover the reality of the state of play (shall we call it that?!) between Dawn and Adam. It is really a fun twist and really fitted them - both very nervous of not being enough, when in fact they were exactly right together. I enjoyed how Adam recognised the amazing talent Dawn had to brighten everyone's day - her way of seeing things and giving those around her a positive outlook is really impressive. Even when he discovers how the golden retriever puppy (let's not argue about her name!) came to be in his care, he recognises her actions were for the right reasons.
So much goodness, so much humour and such a perfect outcome in the end. Very enjoyable read, thank you Lucy Gilmore.
This is the third book in the series, and I would definitely recommend that you start at the beginning as this is an ongoing story of three sisters and their journey towards an HEA and its impact on them all as a family and joint business owners. Dawn is the one left at home now and she has had a lot of the care of the trainee service dogs left to her.
I absolutely love how we discover the reality of the state of play (shall we call it that?!) between Dawn and Adam. It is really a fun twist and really fitted them - both very nervous of not being enough, when in fact they were exactly right together. I enjoyed how Adam recognised the amazing talent Dawn had to brighten everyone's day - her way of seeing things and giving those around her a positive outlook is really impressive. Even when he discovers how the golden retriever puppy (let's not argue about her name!) came to be in his care, he recognises her actions were for the right reasons.
So much goodness, so much humour and such a perfect outcome in the end. Very enjoyable read, thank you Lucy Gilmore.
Read
July 9, 2020This book is about a woman named Dawn who trains service animals with her sisters. She's determined to raise a guide dog for Adam a man she's in love with but Adam is intent on fighting her in all things, can they get through their challenges and find true love?
I loved Dawn she was awesome! Fierce and knew what she wanted and tried really hard to get Adam on her side but Adam was stubborn. I loved the story about Gigi and the land fight with the neighbor Bea. And of course Dawn and Adam are hot together! The whole story was great and a lot of fun!
I would recommend this book if you like a great story, some fun characters, a cool and original plot, a love story and puppies!
I loved Dawn she was awesome! Fierce and knew what she wanted and tried really hard to get Adam on her side but Adam was stubborn. I loved the story about Gigi and the land fight with the neighbor Bea. And of course Dawn and Adam are hot together! The whole story was great and a lot of fun!
I would recommend this book if you like a great story, some fun characters, a cool and original plot, a love story and puppies!
June 24, 2020
I received an e-arc via Netgalley. This is no way influenced my review.
Dit boek was lief en de hoofdpersonen waren tof. Wel jammer dat ze zo slecht waren in communiceren. Dat maakt relaties toch wel makkelijker.
Ik hou van alle honden die in dit verhaal voorbij komen. Gigi en Uncle, wat een cuties!
Ik miste wel iets van een inleiding op de personages en achtergrondverhaal. Nu viel ik echt middenin het verhaal. Langzaamaan werd alles wel duidelijker, maar dat ging wel langzaam.
Dit boek was lief en de hoofdpersonen waren tof. Wel jammer dat ze zo slecht waren in communiceren. Dat maakt relaties toch wel makkelijker.
Ik hou van alle honden die in dit verhaal voorbij komen. Gigi en Uncle, wat een cuties!
Ik miste wel iets van een inleiding op de personages en achtergrondverhaal. Nu viel ik echt middenin het verhaal. Langzaamaan werd alles wel duidelijker, maar dat ging wel langzaam.
June 29, 2020
I can't say for certain, as I have only read 2 of Lucy Gilmore's 3 books, but I believe she has a thing for hard ass romantic leads that are really all squish. That's cool. So do I.
What little I saw of Dawn in the first book was very much developed out in this one in. I love her no bs attitude and the vulnerability she hides behind jokes. Adam, like previously mentioned, thinks he is a super tough alpha but he is easily won over by adorable animals and people.
Total nonsense nitpick I have: I did vaguely the same thing as Dawn when she acquired Gigi and did not get a hot cowboy out of it. Oh well, maybe I can convince my S.O. to wear a Stetson.
What little I saw of Dawn in the first book was very much developed out in this one in. I love her no bs attitude and the vulnerability she hides behind jokes. Adam, like previously mentioned, thinks he is a super tough alpha but he is easily won over by adorable animals and people.
Total nonsense nitpick I have: I did vaguely the same thing as Dawn when she acquired Gigi and did not get a hot cowboy out of it. Oh well, maybe I can convince my S.O. to wear a Stetson.
May 3, 2020
Dang Dawn doesn't hold anything back, “and I’m offering sexual escapades in inappropriate places because I like it. I thought you did, too, but if I’m wrong, I’ll respect your wishes and back off.” I really liked this book, I loved that Adam was moody.
May 1, 2020
Puppy Kisses is flat out wonderful. Readers’s introduction to dog trainer Dawn is during a puppy-napping. It’s to save the baby’s life so in her mind totally justified. She is open, honest, and never hesitates to speak her mind. Rancher Adam, blinded by meningitis as a child is uptight and industrious...but Dawn gets under his skin. This book is a funny, sexy, steamy, flirty, emotionally complex read from the first until the last page. Adam never stands a chance against the force of nature known as Dawn...the human one and the bovine one. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
July 13, 2020
Readers of this delightful Forever Home series by Lucy Gilmore no doubt have enjoyed meeting the Vasquez sisters and the wonderful service dogs they train and match with ideal owners. In this book we have Dawn's story as she is in the process of rescuing a golden retriever, even though the only way she can do this is by stealing her, whom she immediately names Gigi.
Dawn has her next client, Adam Dearborn, due to a near comedy of errors when she rescued Gigi. What Adam hadn't realized at first, is that Dawn has gotten herself in a bit of a pickle, and Gigi has become a pawn in order for Dawn to be kept out of trouble. Having asked Adam's brother Zeke for help to grab the dog, once they get her, they are stopped for speeding. Things began to become clearer when Zeke informs the sheriff who stopped them that the dog was for Adam as he needed a service dog to help him on his ranch. This certainly comes to a surprise to Adam and now his life will never be the same again.
So Adam now has a dog, one in need of care as the neglectful situation she was in has left her injured and malnourished. There is a hitch, however. Gigi is in no way trained to be a service dog. What is more is that Dawn has already fallen for the puppy. Adam was just a way for Dawn not to get into trouble. That is hardly enough for Adam to consider. Nope. He already loves the pup and now decides she might be just what he needs for the ranch.
Dawn reluctantly agrees to train Gigi to work with Adam on his ranch. This itself will be problematic. The trio will have to spend quite a bit of time together. Considering the fact that Dawn and Adam are more than drawn to one another just might get in the way of them working together in behalf of the dog. Dawn ponders her future from time to time? The fact that her sisters have found love. Is Adam the one for Dawn? Will she find that chance at happiness?
This was an enjoyable story. One filled with give and take as the relationship between Dawn and Adam grew. Sensuality and sexuality, along with the growing friendship that develops, the fact that the stories in this series revolve around dogs, all work together when it comes to Puppy Kisses being a wonderful addition to the series. The previous two books in the series are Puppy Love and Puppy Christmas.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This is my honest opinion.
Dawn has her next client, Adam Dearborn, due to a near comedy of errors when she rescued Gigi. What Adam hadn't realized at first, is that Dawn has gotten herself in a bit of a pickle, and Gigi has become a pawn in order for Dawn to be kept out of trouble. Having asked Adam's brother Zeke for help to grab the dog, once they get her, they are stopped for speeding. Things began to become clearer when Zeke informs the sheriff who stopped them that the dog was for Adam as he needed a service dog to help him on his ranch. This certainly comes to a surprise to Adam and now his life will never be the same again.
So Adam now has a dog, one in need of care as the neglectful situation she was in has left her injured and malnourished. There is a hitch, however. Gigi is in no way trained to be a service dog. What is more is that Dawn has already fallen for the puppy. Adam was just a way for Dawn not to get into trouble. That is hardly enough for Adam to consider. Nope. He already loves the pup and now decides she might be just what he needs for the ranch.
Dawn reluctantly agrees to train Gigi to work with Adam on his ranch. This itself will be problematic. The trio will have to spend quite a bit of time together. Considering the fact that Dawn and Adam are more than drawn to one another just might get in the way of them working together in behalf of the dog. Dawn ponders her future from time to time? The fact that her sisters have found love. Is Adam the one for Dawn? Will she find that chance at happiness?
This was an enjoyable story. One filled with give and take as the relationship between Dawn and Adam grew. Sensuality and sexuality, along with the growing friendship that develops, the fact that the stories in this series revolve around dogs, all work together when it comes to Puppy Kisses being a wonderful addition to the series. The previous two books in the series are Puppy Love and Puppy Christmas.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and to NetGalley for this ARC to review. This is my honest opinion.
July 31, 2024
Early on I knew I wouldn't like the story -- tons of foul language, cheap dialog, dirty threats, alcohol, and fornication. Dawn is a promiscuous flirt and, although Adam claims to have morals, he loses all his convictions and backbone when she comes on to him; Adam lets Dawn have her way with him almost every time.
I listened to an audio version read by Lauren Sweet, whose nasally voice was irritating.
I listened to an audio version read by Lauren Sweet, whose nasally voice was irritating.
December 27, 2023
Fun, great characters, believable relationships that are not all sexual, which is rewarding.
One huge issue is the irony of the story opening with one sister literally stealing an abused puppy (the reason that was the choice made is delayed for most of the story, for no good reason.) The irony is that the tale unfolds with at most one person at a time caring for their entire stable of puppies; this goes on for weeks. Any animal care worker can attest this would amount to effectively borderline neglect at best. Puppies need intense socialization and early training, and three sisters full time would be the bare minimum to manage rotating puppies. But here two have moved out. And that workload is before addressing any contracts promising six weeks of onsite training for each service puppy placed.
So as each book in the series 'peels' a sister out of the daily life, there should be at _least_ a part-timer or some students coming in to help with the workload. Its distracting that the author does not address this self-evident reality. Its also a bit distressing that anyone who is not experienced might read this and be mislead believing how little work and time can be devoted to raising good animals - not to mention great service dogs!
Similarly, the author trades on the concept of training service dogs, but offers not a single passage on the actual work involved. The most is "don't pull the service puppy on your lap if it whines." What? That's not actually a critical rule in training a service dog (e.g. diabetic or PTSD-support dogs); and in fact is appropriate for reassuring a severely abused puppy! So misinformation substitutes for useful tips or insights into training steps, and that's a real shame.
Imo the sex scenes are excessive. Extensive, specific, detailed, and not enlightening. Skimming or skipping them works; sure, its nice they're having fun, but the inside scoop on their particular quirks don't add to the tale.
Overall, fun, more clever than many romcoms, and does a decent job with the complexities of family relationships, both the Vasquez and Dearborn sets.
This is one of those books where the end of several chapters feels like the end of the story, but it continues on in reasonably interesting ways each time. Its also nice to read a story where EVERYONE in the family is NOT actually oblivious to what happens right in front of them.
One huge issue is the irony of the story opening with one sister literally stealing an abused puppy (the reason that was the choice made is delayed for most of the story, for no good reason.) The irony is that the tale unfolds with at most one person at a time caring for their entire stable of puppies; this goes on for weeks. Any animal care worker can attest this would amount to effectively borderline neglect at best. Puppies need intense socialization and early training, and three sisters full time would be the bare minimum to manage rotating puppies. But here two have moved out. And that workload is before addressing any contracts promising six weeks of onsite training for each service puppy placed.
So as each book in the series 'peels' a sister out of the daily life, there should be at _least_ a part-timer or some students coming in to help with the workload. Its distracting that the author does not address this self-evident reality. Its also a bit distressing that anyone who is not experienced might read this and be mislead believing how little work and time can be devoted to raising good animals - not to mention great service dogs!
Similarly, the author trades on the concept of training service dogs, but offers not a single passage on the actual work involved. The most is "don't pull the service puppy on your lap if it whines." What? That's not actually a critical rule in training a service dog (e.g. diabetic or PTSD-support dogs); and in fact is appropriate for reassuring a severely abused puppy! So misinformation substitutes for useful tips or insights into training steps, and that's a real shame.
Imo the sex scenes are excessive. Extensive, specific, detailed, and not enlightening. Skimming or skipping them works; sure, its nice they're having fun, but the inside scoop on their particular quirks don't add to the tale.
Overall, fun, more clever than many romcoms, and does a decent job with the complexities of family relationships, both the Vasquez and Dearborn sets.
This is one of those books where the end of several chapters feels like the end of the story, but it continues on in reasonably interesting ways each time. Its also nice to read a story where EVERYONE in the family is NOT actually oblivious to what happens right in front of them.
November 7, 2022
Fun and sexy. I love how each sister's book is so tonally different from each other's -- true to Dawn's personality, here we get the wildest schemes and most candid sex scenes. I also love Dawn's story arc, how she's usually the wild and funny one, but she's actually feeling really lonely now that her sisters are paired up. And I love how each of the three sister's books has a big resolution moment amongst the sisters, where they learn how their sisters truly see them and value who they are.
I like that we get a blind hero in Adam. It's not super common in romance, and I like how deliberate Gilmore is in how she handles the scenes from Adam's POV. Descriptions are always sound/scent based, and Adam doesn't immediately notice some details like sighted folks may, e.g. during a party scene, he notices Dawn's "non-scent" immediately, but it takes a while for him to pick up on some of the other characters in the room, whereas a sighted character may see all those details at a glance upon entry.
I also really like how Gilmore treated the character of Gigi the dog. Adorable, sweet, and loving, Gigi simply isn't a good fit for service dog life, and I love how the story treats that as absolutely okay, and that it's actually Adam's fault for trying to insist otherwise.
It's not quite my favourite of the three books...I think it's the only one in the trilogy I didn't 5-star. I think that while I appreciate how true this book was, tonally, to Dawn's personality, some of the schemes didn't work for me.
For example,
Beyond that, while Adam was a great hero in so many ways (so broody!), I hated that he
I like that we get a blind hero in Adam. It's not super common in romance, and I like how deliberate Gilmore is in how she handles the scenes from Adam's POV. Descriptions are always sound/scent based, and Adam doesn't immediately notice some details like sighted folks may, e.g. during a party scene, he notices Dawn's "non-scent" immediately, but it takes a while for him to pick up on some of the other characters in the room, whereas a sighted character may see all those details at a glance upon entry.
I also really like how Gilmore treated the character of Gigi the dog. Adorable, sweet, and loving, Gigi simply isn't a good fit for service dog life, and I love how the story treats that as absolutely okay, and that it's actually Adam's fault for trying to insist otherwise.
It's not quite my favourite of the three books...I think it's the only one in the trilogy I didn't 5-star. I think that while I appreciate how true this book was, tonally, to Dawn's personality, some of the schemes didn't work for me.
For example,
Beyond that, while Adam was a great hero in so many ways (so broody!), I hated that he
June 8, 2020
A heist, a chase, sweet puppies and lots of fun and sexy times will have readers laughing out loud and loving this story.
Dawn Vasquez had the heist planned out. She had her partner-in-crime Zeke Dearborn as her able accomplice. The loot was gold, a Golden Retriever puppy that is. Dawn had passed by this poor puppy chained up with a big heavy chain that looked to weigh more than the poor puppy, who had no access to shade in the 100 degree temperatures or shelter from the rain, several times. She knew she had to rescue the poor baby or she wasn't worthy of being part of the Puppy Promise training facility. They got in, got the chain off and were about to escape when a dirty old man who lived in the house on the property where the poor, abused puppy prisoner was chained came to the front door of the house trying to pull his pants on and site his shotgun at them at the same time. Oops! Time to rush their escape. They got in Dawn's car and took off with No Pants Shotgun in hot pursuit. Just as they lost him the the sheriff's car, lights flashing, pulled up behind them. The only excuse for speeding they could come up with was the puppy's precarious condition making the pup's need to get a vet's care stat. Saying the puppy was to be a service dog for Adam Dearborn kinda got them off the hook except the sheriff insisted on escorting them to the Dearborn Ranch and that meant facing Adam Dearborn. Yes, that Adam Dearborn, the one Dawn shared a dirty little secret with. This was not going to be pretty.
Adam Dearborn lost his sight as a youngster but had adapted quite well. As the oldest Dearborn sibling he raised his younger twin brother Zeke and sister Phobe since the death of their father when the twins were fifteen. He has run their cattle ranch with their help since then. Ranch life is not easy and certainly not a nine-to-five job, but working this ranch is Adam's life. He wouldn't have it any other way. When he first met his brother Zeke's friend Dawn Vasquez he was floored. No woman had ever made such an instant impression on him and the sexual attraction was over the top. Stolen moments of carnal knowledge was the highlight of his life but he's sure someone like Dawn would never want to be a rancher's wife. This was no life for her. But he sure did love the Golden Retriever puppy she brought into his life.
I loved the first two books in Lucy Gilmore's Forever Home series, Puppy Love and Puppy Christmas but this one, Puppy Kisses, is my favorite. Dawn was always known as the party girl of the three sisters but she is so much more. Her charm lights up the lives of the people around her and she has the biggest heart in the world. Adam is the epitome of the sexy hunk of a man who hasn't let the loss of his sight hold him back and is strong, dedicated and caring. He sings to his cows to calm them down. What a guy!
The dialogue in this book is what makes it so outstanding. The quips back and forth between Dawn and Adam are filled with provocative sexual innuendo while they flirt with each other and this made me smile all throughout the story. Ms. Gilmore's voice is so attractive to me in this type of story. Her writing style is the perfect blend of serious and fun. This seems to be the end of the series as all three sisters have found a HEA. I can't wait to see what Lucy Gilmore has in store for her readers next.
Dawn Vasquez had the heist planned out. She had her partner-in-crime Zeke Dearborn as her able accomplice. The loot was gold, a Golden Retriever puppy that is. Dawn had passed by this poor puppy chained up with a big heavy chain that looked to weigh more than the poor puppy, who had no access to shade in the 100 degree temperatures or shelter from the rain, several times. She knew she had to rescue the poor baby or she wasn't worthy of being part of the Puppy Promise training facility. They got in, got the chain off and were about to escape when a dirty old man who lived in the house on the property where the poor, abused puppy prisoner was chained came to the front door of the house trying to pull his pants on and site his shotgun at them at the same time. Oops! Time to rush their escape. They got in Dawn's car and took off with No Pants Shotgun in hot pursuit. Just as they lost him the the sheriff's car, lights flashing, pulled up behind them. The only excuse for speeding they could come up with was the puppy's precarious condition making the pup's need to get a vet's care stat. Saying the puppy was to be a service dog for Adam Dearborn kinda got them off the hook except the sheriff insisted on escorting them to the Dearborn Ranch and that meant facing Adam Dearborn. Yes, that Adam Dearborn, the one Dawn shared a dirty little secret with. This was not going to be pretty.
Adam Dearborn lost his sight as a youngster but had adapted quite well. As the oldest Dearborn sibling he raised his younger twin brother Zeke and sister Phobe since the death of their father when the twins were fifteen. He has run their cattle ranch with their help since then. Ranch life is not easy and certainly not a nine-to-five job, but working this ranch is Adam's life. He wouldn't have it any other way. When he first met his brother Zeke's friend Dawn Vasquez he was floored. No woman had ever made such an instant impression on him and the sexual attraction was over the top. Stolen moments of carnal knowledge was the highlight of his life but he's sure someone like Dawn would never want to be a rancher's wife. This was no life for her. But he sure did love the Golden Retriever puppy she brought into his life.
I loved the first two books in Lucy Gilmore's Forever Home series, Puppy Love and Puppy Christmas but this one, Puppy Kisses, is my favorite. Dawn was always known as the party girl of the three sisters but she is so much more. Her charm lights up the lives of the people around her and she has the biggest heart in the world. Adam is the epitome of the sexy hunk of a man who hasn't let the loss of his sight hold him back and is strong, dedicated and caring. He sings to his cows to calm them down. What a guy!
The dialogue in this book is what makes it so outstanding. The quips back and forth between Dawn and Adam are filled with provocative sexual innuendo while they flirt with each other and this made me smile all throughout the story. Ms. Gilmore's voice is so attractive to me in this type of story. Her writing style is the perfect blend of serious and fun. This seems to be the end of the series as all three sisters have found a HEA. I can't wait to see what Lucy Gilmore has in store for her readers next.
August 6, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
‘Puppy Kisses‘ is the third title in the ‘Service Puppies / Forever Home‘ series – and really all you need to know to fall in love is…Puppy! Okay, maybe there’s also a stubborn rancher smitten with a woman he’s convinced is not able to be serious about ranching. Perhaps that woman might agree on principle but she’s ready to try – especially if that keeps her around one small bundle of mischief, fur, and puppy kisses galore… and maybe the rancher, too.
I had such a fun time back in this world again. Come on, adorable puppy, stubborn man, sunny woman – what is not to love about that outline? I know, right? Well, I was hooked on this series once again – little Gigi drew me in but Adam and Dawn kept me in their world just to see who could outlast who – the stubborn or the sunny disposition. I adored them all, and I’m not ashamed to admit that. (And really, Adam, since when does upbeat, seeing the bright side of life, or just being happy say a person cannot handle the hard work of ranching? Hmmm?) Stubborn man.
There were times in ‘Puppy Kisses‘ that I had to remind myself that Adam is blind. He knows his ranch, he knows his cattle right down to the mischievous one he’s named Dawn. As the parent of a physically disabled son, I think we (general we) don’t give enough credit to people who figure out how to live a full life on their terms without a fuss made about that fact. Adam is a perfect example of that to me.
I adored Dawn. She knows what she wants, she lives her life in a way that brings her joy – and there is nothing at all wrong with that. And she wants Adam in her life, convincing the stubborn rancher is going to take some work but she’s in this for the long haul – no matter how often Adam tries to push her away ‘for her own good’.
And Gigi – just a cute, wiggly, ball of fur and puppy kisses. And devoted to her humans, both of them.
The secondary characters made this world so very real, the emotions between Adam and Dawn could be felt (even if we couldn’t always see them), and the bond between man, woman, and a dog just grows stronger throughout ‘Puppy Kisses‘. It is perfect? No, it’s a rare book that is – but it felt real, like neighbors down the road, and that matters more to me in the long run than anything else. I enjoyed myself with these characters, and I believe you would as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
‘Puppy Kisses‘ is the third title in the ‘Service Puppies / Forever Home‘ series – and really all you need to know to fall in love is…Puppy! Okay, maybe there’s also a stubborn rancher smitten with a woman he’s convinced is not able to be serious about ranching. Perhaps that woman might agree on principle but she’s ready to try – especially if that keeps her around one small bundle of mischief, fur, and puppy kisses galore… and maybe the rancher, too.
I had such a fun time back in this world again. Come on, adorable puppy, stubborn man, sunny woman – what is not to love about that outline? I know, right? Well, I was hooked on this series once again – little Gigi drew me in but Adam and Dawn kept me in their world just to see who could outlast who – the stubborn or the sunny disposition. I adored them all, and I’m not ashamed to admit that. (And really, Adam, since when does upbeat, seeing the bright side of life, or just being happy say a person cannot handle the hard work of ranching? Hmmm?) Stubborn man.
There were times in ‘Puppy Kisses‘ that I had to remind myself that Adam is blind. He knows his ranch, he knows his cattle right down to the mischievous one he’s named Dawn. As the parent of a physically disabled son, I think we (general we) don’t give enough credit to people who figure out how to live a full life on their terms without a fuss made about that fact. Adam is a perfect example of that to me.
I adored Dawn. She knows what she wants, she lives her life in a way that brings her joy – and there is nothing at all wrong with that. And she wants Adam in her life, convincing the stubborn rancher is going to take some work but she’s in this for the long haul – no matter how often Adam tries to push her away ‘for her own good’.
And Gigi – just a cute, wiggly, ball of fur and puppy kisses. And devoted to her humans, both of them.
The secondary characters made this world so very real, the emotions between Adam and Dawn could be felt (even if we couldn’t always see them), and the bond between man, woman, and a dog just grows stronger throughout ‘Puppy Kisses‘. It is perfect? No, it’s a rare book that is – but it felt real, like neighbors down the road, and that matters more to me in the long run than anything else. I enjoyed myself with these characters, and I believe you would as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
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June 29, 2020Puppy Kisses by Lucy Gilmore is the 3rd book in her fun enjoyable Forever Home series. Dawn Vasquez, our heroine, is the middle sister, of the three sisters who run Puppy Promise, a service puppy training school. The story begins with Dawn, and her friend, Zeke, rescuing an abused, chained, sickly, starving puppy golden retriever, and escaping from the terrible dog owner. The local sheriff stops them for speeding, and they falsely explain they are bringing the puppy to Zeke’s brother, Adam.
Adam Dearborn, our hero, runs the Dearborn ranch with Zeke and his sister, Phoebe. When the sheriff follows through about the puppy, Adam does go along with the ruse, and has the local veterinarian visit to check on the poor puppy. But Adam decides to keep the puppy, much to Dawn’s chagrin (she was planning to nurse the puppy back to health and be her pet), but Adam loves to push Dawn’s buttons and keeps Gigi, even if the puppy is not meant to be a service dog.
Adam and Dawn have been attracted to one another, but neither looks at this being a permanent relationship, especially as they are night and day opposites. Adam is serious, organized and totally dedicated to his ranch and his family. Dawn is the wildly fun-loving free spirit opposite, always bubbly and pushing herself into everyone’s lives. Dawn will bring ‘Uncle’ a great Dane to the ranch to prove to Adam that this is the dog that is trained to help him, but Adam, realizing that the great dane was perfect for him, he still refused to give up Gigi. I really did enjoy the antics between Dawn and Adam, though early on it was a bit frustrating; as Adam felt that Dawn was not meant to a dull life on a ranch, and did his best to try and stay clear from Dawn, even if he was beginning to fall hard for her.
Puppy Kisses was another sweet, fun heartwarming story, with a great couple, fantastic secondary characters, such as Lila, Sophie, Zeke, Phoebe, Bea, Marcia. But most of all, I absolutely adored Gigi, who as she recovered from her ordeal, fell in love with both Adam and Dawn, not to mention Uncle. Those moments with the dogs was so much fun, and smiles.
Puppy Kisses was so very well written by Lucy Gilmore. The three sisters were wonderful heroines, and I loved how close they were to each other. If you love puppies, and a sweet romance, you need to be reading this series. I for one enjoyed all three of the books in this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Adam Dearborn, our hero, runs the Dearborn ranch with Zeke and his sister, Phoebe. When the sheriff follows through about the puppy, Adam does go along with the ruse, and has the local veterinarian visit to check on the poor puppy. But Adam decides to keep the puppy, much to Dawn’s chagrin (she was planning to nurse the puppy back to health and be her pet), but Adam loves to push Dawn’s buttons and keeps Gigi, even if the puppy is not meant to be a service dog.
Adam and Dawn have been attracted to one another, but neither looks at this being a permanent relationship, especially as they are night and day opposites. Adam is serious, organized and totally dedicated to his ranch and his family. Dawn is the wildly fun-loving free spirit opposite, always bubbly and pushing herself into everyone’s lives. Dawn will bring ‘Uncle’ a great Dane to the ranch to prove to Adam that this is the dog that is trained to help him, but Adam, realizing that the great dane was perfect for him, he still refused to give up Gigi. I really did enjoy the antics between Dawn and Adam, though early on it was a bit frustrating; as Adam felt that Dawn was not meant to a dull life on a ranch, and did his best to try and stay clear from Dawn, even if he was beginning to fall hard for her.
Puppy Kisses was another sweet, fun heartwarming story, with a great couple, fantastic secondary characters, such as Lila, Sophie, Zeke, Phoebe, Bea, Marcia. But most of all, I absolutely adored Gigi, who as she recovered from her ordeal, fell in love with both Adam and Dawn, not to mention Uncle. Those moments with the dogs was so much fun, and smiles.
Puppy Kisses was so very well written by Lucy Gilmore. The three sisters were wonderful heroines, and I loved how close they were to each other. If you love puppies, and a sweet romance, you need to be reading this series. I for one enjoyed all three of the books in this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
August 7, 2020
Can a blind rancher and a free spirit find happiness together? Full disclosure, I did not read the previous books in the series, so am still mystified how the two main characters got together for their carnal "relationship", 6 months before the book begins. Where the Dearborns in the previous book about Sophie Vasquez? If so there should have either been a Prologue at the beginning to establish their relationship or some context in the narrative. There wasn't and that is the only negative that I have about the book.
Dawn Vasquez is the middle sister of the three sisters that own the service puppy training business. She lacks impulse control and has wanderlust and seems to be a free spirit, bring love wherever she goes, but she hides from everyone her desire to be wanted, needed and accepted for herself, because most people find her exhausting. Rancher Adam Dearborn has had a lot of loss in his life. He became blind from a bout of childhood meningitis and by the time he was 19, he and his younger twin siblings had lost both their parents, leaving the raising of the twins and running of the ranch on his young but broad shoulders. He is so attracted to Dawn, but he isn't willing to offer his heart to someone who will most likely leave him or tie her down to the ranch.
The story starts with Dawn and Zeke, one of the twins, rescuing a puppy who is being abused, but when the owner chases after them and they get caught speeding, instead of telling the Sheriff about the abuse, Dawn makes up a story about the puppy being a service dog that she is bringing to Adam. And Adam perversely not only goes along with the story but then insist that he is going to keep her. Dawn is then obligated to train her, but knowing that the pup would not be a good service dog, she brings another more appropriate pup, Uncle, a Great Dane to Adam. The story not only explores how a ranch can be run by a blind man, how service dogs are trained but also the different ways that people hide themselves from others to avoid the pain of heartache, while causing themselves just as much pain by holding it all in. The story is well written with inspiring characters and cute puppies.
I read an ARC provided by NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Dawn Vasquez is the middle sister of the three sisters that own the service puppy training business. She lacks impulse control and has wanderlust and seems to be a free spirit, bring love wherever she goes, but she hides from everyone her desire to be wanted, needed and accepted for herself, because most people find her exhausting. Rancher Adam Dearborn has had a lot of loss in his life. He became blind from a bout of childhood meningitis and by the time he was 19, he and his younger twin siblings had lost both their parents, leaving the raising of the twins and running of the ranch on his young but broad shoulders. He is so attracted to Dawn, but he isn't willing to offer his heart to someone who will most likely leave him or tie her down to the ranch.
The story starts with Dawn and Zeke, one of the twins, rescuing a puppy who is being abused, but when the owner chases after them and they get caught speeding, instead of telling the Sheriff about the abuse, Dawn makes up a story about the puppy being a service dog that she is bringing to Adam. And Adam perversely not only goes along with the story but then insist that he is going to keep her. Dawn is then obligated to train her, but knowing that the pup would not be a good service dog, she brings another more appropriate pup, Uncle, a Great Dane to Adam. The story not only explores how a ranch can be run by a blind man, how service dogs are trained but also the different ways that people hide themselves from others to avoid the pain of heartache, while causing themselves just as much pain by holding it all in. The story is well written with inspiring characters and cute puppies.
I read an ARC provided by NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
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