Walk the Dog

West Side #3

by Isabel Jolie

A steamy, fun single dad stand-alone romance set in New York City and New Orleans.

Delilah Daniels

Temporary. That’s my life in New York. Eventually, I’ll have to move back home to New Orleans. In the meantime, I’m all about enjoying these years.

Against my better judgment, I agree to dogsit for my friend. As I feared, it does not go well. As a matter of fact, it goes so poorly we end up at the vet- the dog’s fault, not mine.

On the bright side, Dr. Herriot could star in his own veterinary reality TV show, if there is such a thing. The man is sex in scrubs.

Mason Herriot might just become the highlight of my year. As it turns out, not only is he single, but he also needs some fun in his overworked life. And fun? That I can do.

Mason Herriot

My daughter is my world. The fledgling veterinary practice is my career and my passion. As a single dad, I couldn’t balance both without help from others. Some days, it doesn’t feel like I’m balancing anything at all.

Delilah Daniels walks into the clinic on one of those days. My partners are out with the flu, and I, once again, am stuck at work.

I can’t even explain why I ask her out. It’s spontaneous. There’s an energy to her. A zest for life. And there’s something about how she cares for her friend’s dog.

We aim for casual. I may be a single dad, but I’m not blind. Delilah packs some curves and it proves hard to keep those dates family-friendly.

In a nanosecond, casual loses all appeal. We can make this work. If I can convince Delilah her home’s no longer in the Big Easy…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Adult

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 8, 2020

About the author

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Isabel Jolie, or Izzy to her friends, is an Amazon bestselling indie author with an unquenchable thirst for a good, sexy love story. Izzy’s heart pumps faster for stories with strong heroines, down-to-earth realism, and an unexpected twist.

When she’s not writing or reading, she can often be found with a glass of wine in hand relaxing with her husband, daughters, and good friends lakeside.

Izzy fills her Instagram feed with funnies, inspirational “brain candy”, and anything that meshes with her mood of the day. #mood.

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Reviews

[Leo (Queen of the Rants and Spoilers) · Rating 3 out of 5]

“We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.”
~quote by Immanuel Kant.

I liked the hero very much. I won’t deny that I like my H and h to love animals and pair it with his kid whom he loves dearly. He was a good, responsible man. Poor guy, his proposals were rejected.
If you hate insta/lust/love this book probably won’t be for you. I enjoy this trope sometimes.
I liked the heroine, she was carefree, a bit self centered and rich girl. I liked her relationship with the hero’s daughter. She was easily manipulated by her mother but I get where she was coming from when she decided to leave everything behind to take care of her father. I’d have done the same if my mama was sick.
Overall this was cute.. a bit steamy you’d think by looking at the cover without reading the blurb that this was going to be a clean romance.

Safety: hero has been celibate for 4 years since the birth of his daughter. There isn’t really a mention of the heroine’s celibacy. She dated a lot and was sexually experienced in fact she’s the one that was forward with the hero. Not a shy woman here. She knew what she wanted and went for it. There’s a bit of other woman drama (his ex) the heroine thinks they’re rekindling their relationship which was not true. The other woman posted pictures of them and their daughter on IG , they looked like a happy family which caused the heroine to avoid the hero.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/11/2022)! 🎁

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

cute, some humor, moved at a quick pace. amusing first chapter that reels you in.
delilah & mason had good chemistry. kara was adorable.

a light romance read. some steamy sex scenes.
good story & characters.

I thought that Delilah's fathers situation & also Mason & Amber's situation added relatable details to those characters story arc.

as someone who does cuss like a sailor, i liked the substitution phrases such as
"Oh, Mylanta" or "Jesus, Mother, Mary, and Angels" I too try to sub in various phrases in an effort to tone it down.

Bet's signs in front of the vet's office were also clever.
"Dinosaurs never went to the vet. Look What Happened."



and the author's note at the end was touching. (her tidbit @ an aunt who encouraged her writing w/the promise of one day being a character in a book. i think Ms. Jolie's aunt would be proud.)

I didn’t realize that it’s actually the third in a series. It reads fine on its own, but there’s some context and joke references that would make a lot more sense if I’d read the books before this.

this was a first time read by this writer for me. thank you to hidden gems for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I'm going to go back & read previous books. The epilogue chapter foreshadows characters & possible future books in the series which i would also read.

[Judith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging, charming story. I enjoyed this easy to read page-turner, dealing with two very sympathetic characters, Delilah a graphic designer and Mason the tall, gentle, hunky single dad veterinarian. The language and the writing style fits the storyline and characters in this book with near-perfect editing, greatly enhancing the reader's enjoyment. The developing bond between Deela and Kara, Mason's 4 years old little girl was described in a charming way, warming the cockles of one's heart. The attraction between the protagonists was steamy and hot, yet managed to maintain modesty in the language. Delilah's mother proves to be a manipulative influence on her, yet she allows the strings of her life to be pulled because of an age-old promise and love for her family. She moves back home to be with her ailing father, leaving New York behind, giving up her career, her dreams, her independence and Mason, the only man that ever managed to make her feel a sense of belonging. Mason's heartbreak had been given the right tone and although Delilah escapes into drink and some medicinal marijuana, her loss has not been handled with ambivalence. She convinces herself that their relationship was too new to have led to a more serious commitment which is why she refuses Mason’s offer of marriage. The storyline takes the reader through several emotional ups-and-downs, feelings that try to surface then forced back down, making this quite a realistic struggle as most emotions need time to mature and be properly understood. We get an HEA due to Delilah’s unexpected realization with the help of her aunt that children should not have to give up their lives to give meaning to that of their parents’. The book has many ‘Ahhh’ moments supplied by a loving 4 years old, desperately needing a mother-figure in her life. I have no hesitation in recommending this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason has been a single father with no time for dating for years. Delilah has always been told that she would have to run the family business. Will Delilah break free of her cage? Will Mason get the family he has dreamed of?

Absolutely loved these two characters. I definitely think that Delilah played into the blonde, princess facade, BUT her heart was huge and I loved when she finally stood up for herself and went after what she wanted. I have to say that I think Mason is going in there for a favorite character of mine now. I love the fact that he was the way he was with the people he cared about in his life, and while I did think he jumped the gun a couple of times, I could understand where it was coming from. Great read and definitely will be going back to read the others in this series!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delilah’s future has planned for some time but she is trying to put it off as long as possible which is how she finds herself in NY looking after her friend’s dog. When she took the dog to the vet she wasn’t prepared for the sexy vet and how he would make her feel.

Mason is focused on his career and his daughter which leaves little room for anything else. When Delilah comes breezing into the clinic all he knows is that he wants to spend more time with her but with their very different plans for the future things are about to get complicated.

I enjoyed these two together as Delilah is exactly what Mason and his daughter need in their lives while Mason shows Delilah that finding her own path is what is truly important.

[Debra Johnson]

Amz Purch. June 11, 2022

[Sarah Houck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. I loved how involved the story was with his daughter. I also loved the depth of character emotions. You got a good sense of why they acted the way they did and it made you root for them all the more.

[Sandie · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun enjoyable book

[KL Cassanello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delilah is a serial dater, which works out well because she's promised her parents that she'll move back to New Orleans. While dog-sitting, she meets her friend's vet, and he's a total hottie. With an adorable little girl. All the complications she never knew she wanted. Mason is raising his daughter alone while her mother is out running around with a band. He's been so focused on Kara and his career that he's blindsided when Delilah comes rushing into his life. She hasn't told him about her family commitment. But when her father gets sick, she's forced to deal with it. I loved this book! There's a unique story, not just the same old single dad theme. Delilah is just a doll, but she's a frustrating character, mainly because of the commitment to her father's company, a promise made a long time ago. Mason is just incredible, kind and caring, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Kara - she is just so adorable, and immediately forms a bond with Deelah. Cindy, Mason's mother, could not be more loving and supportive, but she gives him a swift kick when he needs it most. Anna and Olivia from the first two books are back but not as main characters; they are still very supportive friends. Melinda, Delilah's mother, is a real piece of work, so self-centered and concerned with image and status. Hoffman, Delilah's father, is so different, still driven to succeed, but a little more laid back, and much more concerned with Delilah's happiness than anything else going on in New Orleans. I read the first book in the series, but missed the second, which gives me one more for my TBR.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up this book, I didn’t realize that it’s actually the third in a series. I can safely say that it reads just fine on its own, but there’s some context and a couple inside jokes that would make a lot more sense if I’d read the books before this. Holy family drama Batman! This book has it coming out the seams in spades. Both Delilah and Mason have a bunch of baggage that’s never been unpacked, and their budding relationship bring a lot of it back into play. Delilah is a larger-than-life character but her heart’s just as big. So, while she had a lot of growing up to do over the course of this story, I never got the sense that any of her actions were intentionally hurtful. In fact, she seemed to do everything in her power to make everyone around her happy – usually at the expense of her own happiness. Mason could be the dictionary definition of “controlled”. But as a single father and practicing veterinarian, that doesn’t surprise me. There’s definitely an ‘opposites attract’ vibe between this pair that made for some sizzling chemistry. And it made me desperately hope for the right solution to getting them their happily ever after. Now that I’ve started to get to know some of the others in this group, I’m interested to read more in this series.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.

[Suzaan Jansen van Rensburg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delilah and Mason met and there was an instant attraction. But he was a single dad and she was someone who always shied away from commitment. Can they take a chance on each other? Can he take the risk of getting her involved in his daughter's life only form her to leave? This is a story of two people who has to learn how to take risks to get what they want and to let themselves believe that there may be a forever for them.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terri Zumbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has all the feels starting with Delilah being a breath of fresh air. Mason is the loving, sensitive single dad. While their attraction is instant, they cross paths with each other at a time in their lives when there is too much unsettled. But, they can’t resist one another. A rocky road is inevitable especially with Mason’s daughter’s feelings to consider, too.

The author really pulled me in from the beginning by giving the female character the energy the story and Mason needed. The mood is almost entirely driven by Delilah’s energy since Mason decide early on what he wants and just has to convince Delilah that’s what she wants,

It was so easy to want this little family to be together and I did tear up several times when it seemed things were plotting to prevent that from happening.

This is the first book I have read by Isabel Jolie and I will be reading the book about Sam next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amazeballs Book Addicts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this one. Delilah is a little crazy. She's sweet and down to earth too. She has a big heart and loves her family. She's in New York but she plan to move back to New Orleans at some point. While dog sitting for her friend she ends up at the vets. Mason is the vet. She sexy and sweet. He's also a single dad. He has been raising his daughter and working so he hasn't had time to date until Delilah. I loved these two together. They fit well together and made a happy family. But Delilah's mother meddles and causes issues. I was kind of mad at Delilah's mother for what she did but I could so see her side too. I kind of wanted to shake some sense into Delilah at some points too.

[Vinessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mason an over worked single dad with a heart filled with compassion.
Delilah is living on borrowed time. She is in New York to live her life before she has to return home to New Orleans and become a robot in the family business.
So one particular Saturday changes the course of these two for life
Mason brings with him chaos yes but also, comfort, passion, respect and commitment.
Delilah brings excitement, life, temptation and a chance at his dreams.
These two have a long road to happily ever after but the journey is adventurous.
Read this book and learn how three people become each others rock and salvation

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Floraljoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside:
This book had all the feels from incredibly hot and sexy to sad and emotional.
Delilah is a bouncy, free spirit and quite opposite from responsible, single dad Mason. Furthermore Delilah is being pressured to return to New Orleans and this places intense pressure on their relationship. There are some delightful, tender moments and I just loved seeing what a caring and committed father Mason was.
This is the 3rd book in the series yet it can definitely be read as a standalone as I was able to follow along without having read the prior books. I thoroughly enjoyed this and hope to read more by this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Kathy Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chewy

Thank you for all three books! Once I started I couldn't put them down. I love the characters, friendships and how it is a story that can happen to everybody. Can't wait to read more of your books! Keep up the great stories!

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely hilarious story. The ingenious curse words that Delilah uses are indescribable. From the very start you can’t help but fall in love with her character. She is del and bubbly. She wants to make everyone around her happy. Mason is a single dad and focused on his daughter and his job. They are from two different worlds but are extremely attracted to each other. They steam up the pages together. Kara is absolutely delightful. I can’t find enough words to describe how great this book is. I know for sure I will read it again and encourage everyone to get a copy and read it at least once and maybe twice.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author for me and I have enjoyed her story very much. I loved that the characters felt real and that Delilah and Mason were the sort of people I'd like to be friends with. I loved the examples of beautiful relationships and found myself tearing up in a few places as the story unfolded. I think what I enjoyed most is that I didn't notice time passing me by, I was immersed in Delilah and Mason's story and keeping my fingers crossed that things would work out for them.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amii · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I’ve read ‘Trust Me’ and really liked Delilah’s character in that book so I was ecstatic when I realised she was the main in her own book! She’s such a beautiful soul, you can’t help but love her character, especially how she is with Kara! Delilah and Mason are a hot couple... This is a great lighter hearted romance, with a HEA and some steamy scenes to spice it up! This author definitely deserves a follow. I read this book as an ARC

[Peggy Hogan]

This is the 2nd book I've read by Isabel Jolie. I really like her writing style/storytelling. Mason and Delilah were good, strong characters. At first, I thought Delilah was shallow, or that was how she came across, but she totally redeemed herself. Mason came across as a sexy veterinarian, and I really liked their chemistry. If you could give half stars, I would've given it 4.5.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[BusyM3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun single dad romance story. Mason is a father to his little daughter and a vet. Delilah is pet sitting and ends up bringing the dog into see Mason. When he sees her, he is pulled towards her. Will he be able to make Delilah stay and become the family that they all need. Their chemistry is amazing and the story flows well. A great read.

I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading this author, I was drawn to the book due to the blurb which I loved. The story is fun and entertaining, easily holding my attention throughout. I liked the characters and thought they had good chemistry. Reading this book is a great way to spend a few hours.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet romance with Mason,single dad and vet meeting Delilah when she takes her friend's dog for care. They have a strong connection and chemistry but face many obstacles along the way. It's well written,moves fluidly and I enjoyed reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Ashleigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great characters that will keep your interest extremely well.
I'm not going to go into detail, no spoilers, just read the book if you are even mildly intrigued by the blurb. You'll thank me later!

The chemistry, sweetness, and twists in plot kept things interesting. Add in drama and passion and you have a good read.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[SEng · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Delilah and Mason. While dog sitting for her friend she ends up needing to take the dog to the vet. There she meets sexy single dad Mason. They hit it off and I loved how they are both avoiding the attraction they feel for each other. I enjoyed this fun, flirty, entertaining romance. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet single dad romance that will leave your heart touched. The whole story was very well written and I loved Delilah's character. When you add in Mason's cute daughter, and this whole book was a joy to read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book I've read written by Isabel Jolie; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new Author to me. I will warn if you are anything like me do not start this book at bedtime, as once I started I was not putting the book down. I enjoyed seeing Delilah Daniels, veterinarian Mason Herriot and his daughter Kara's story come together. I will be reading more by this Author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melinda Swaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story that leaves me wanting to read the next one. This story will have you laughing out loud at times and smile others. Great characters and the supporting cast are brilliant too. Really loving this authors books and really looking forward to reading more of her stories. Go one click this one today. Happy reading everyone!!