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Dogwood County #2
Forever Home
If home is where the heart is, Dogwood County may have just what Delaney Monroe needs
Newly retired from the Marine Corps, Delaney is looking for somewhere to start over. It’s not going to be easy, but when she finds the perfect place to open her dream motorcycle shop, she goes for it. What she doesn’t expect is an abandoned pit bull to come with the building. The shy pup is slow to trust, but Delaney is determined to win it over.
Detective Sean Callahan is smitten from the moment he sees Delaney, but her cool demeanor throws him off his game. When her late father's vintage motorcycle is stolen from Delaney's shop, Sean gets to turn up in his element: chasing the bad guy and showing his best self to a woman who’s gotten under his skin in a bad way.
Delaney isn't used to lasting relationships, but letting love in—both human and canine—helps her see that she may have found a place she belongs, forever.
"Complex, quietly compelling characters… A poignant reminder that ‘home’ is often more than a place." —Maggie Wells, author of Love Game
Dogwood County
Book 1: Rescue You
Book 2: Forever Home
Newly retired from the Marine Corps, Delaney is looking for somewhere to start over. It’s not going to be easy, but when she finds the perfect place to open her dream motorcycle shop, she goes for it. What she doesn’t expect is an abandoned pit bull to come with the building. The shy pup is slow to trust, but Delaney is determined to win it over.
Detective Sean Callahan is smitten from the moment he sees Delaney, but her cool demeanor throws him off his game. When her late father's vintage motorcycle is stolen from Delaney's shop, Sean gets to turn up in his element: chasing the bad guy and showing his best self to a woman who’s gotten under his skin in a bad way.
Delaney isn't used to lasting relationships, but letting love in—both human and canine—helps her see that she may have found a place she belongs, forever.
"Complex, quietly compelling characters… A poignant reminder that ‘home’ is often more than a place." —Maggie Wells, author of Love Game
Dogwood County
Book 1: Rescue You
Book 2: Forever Home
400 pages, ebook
First published November 30, 2021
About the author
Elysia Whisler
3 books97 followersElysia Whisler was raised in Texas, Italy, Alaska, Mississippi, Nebraska, Hawai'i and Virginia, in true military fashion. If she's not writing she's probably working out, coaching, or massaging at her CrossFit gym. She lives in Virginia with her family, including her large brood of cat and dog rescues, who vastly outnumber the humans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 13, 2021
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
FOREVER HOME (Dogwood County Book #2) by Elysia Whisler is a wonderful addition to The Dogwood County series featuring memorable characters in a Women’s fiction with romantic elements/small town fiction mash-up. This book can be read as a standalone, but many characters and locations carryover from the first book, Rescue You and I feel they are better read in order.
Delaney has served 20 years in the Marines and right before she got out her father who raised her died. She plans to carry on his and her dream of owning a vintage motorcycle repair shop. She finds the perfect place, but she finds not everyone is happy with her choice.
Detective Sean Callahan and his partner are assigned the case of a stolen motorcycle. He is surprised to find the woman who shot him down at Semper Fit is the owner of the shop and vintage bike. As he works to discover who stole the motorcycle, he finds himself wanting to solve the case to impress the woman who he finds he cannot stop thinking about.
Delaney is not used to lasting relationships, but this might be the man and place that changes her mind.
Ms. Whisler’s writing makes you believe every character is just waiting for you in Dogwood County. Semper Fit is the perfect place for all the Marine veterans to come together in a place where they are understood even as they sometimes struggle with civilian life. Delaney and Sean are perfect for each other with their similar childhoods, but it is never an easy road for an H/h. Ms. Whisler writes veterans with PTSD and/or physical impairments with empathy and never forces an easy or quick solution. I also love the inclusion of the dog rescue and the training of dogs for veterans with disabilities. I live with and love all pittie breeds and this author has represented them wonderfully in her stories.
The theft of Delaney’s family vintage motorcycle and the problems with the previous occupants of her motorcycle shop are the crime/mystery plots that brings the H/h together and moves the story along. With Delaney’s lack of permanence and trust and Sean’s once bitten attitude, the romance proceeds at a slow pace, but it also moves at a realistic pace which is why I feel this story is more a Women’s fiction story with romantic elements than a straight romantic suspense, but that does not distract from my love of the story at all.
I loved this second book as much as the first! These are memorable characters that I hope I will be able to visit over and over again.
FOREVER HOME (Dogwood County Book #2) by Elysia Whisler is a wonderful addition to The Dogwood County series featuring memorable characters in a Women’s fiction with romantic elements/small town fiction mash-up. This book can be read as a standalone, but many characters and locations carryover from the first book, Rescue You and I feel they are better read in order.
Delaney has served 20 years in the Marines and right before she got out her father who raised her died. She plans to carry on his and her dream of owning a vintage motorcycle repair shop. She finds the perfect place, but she finds not everyone is happy with her choice.
Detective Sean Callahan and his partner are assigned the case of a stolen motorcycle. He is surprised to find the woman who shot him down at Semper Fit is the owner of the shop and vintage bike. As he works to discover who stole the motorcycle, he finds himself wanting to solve the case to impress the woman who he finds he cannot stop thinking about.
Delaney is not used to lasting relationships, but this might be the man and place that changes her mind.
Ms. Whisler’s writing makes you believe every character is just waiting for you in Dogwood County. Semper Fit is the perfect place for all the Marine veterans to come together in a place where they are understood even as they sometimes struggle with civilian life. Delaney and Sean are perfect for each other with their similar childhoods, but it is never an easy road for an H/h. Ms. Whisler writes veterans with PTSD and/or physical impairments with empathy and never forces an easy or quick solution. I also love the inclusion of the dog rescue and the training of dogs for veterans with disabilities. I live with and love all pittie breeds and this author has represented them wonderfully in her stories.
The theft of Delaney’s family vintage motorcycle and the problems with the previous occupants of her motorcycle shop are the crime/mystery plots that brings the H/h together and moves the story along. With Delaney’s lack of permanence and trust and Sean’s once bitten attitude, the romance proceeds at a slow pace, but it also moves at a realistic pace which is why I feel this story is more a Women’s fiction story with romantic elements than a straight romantic suspense, but that does not distract from my love of the story at all.
I loved this second book as much as the first! These are memorable characters that I hope I will be able to visit over and over again.
November 3, 2021
Great story, great characters!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
One of the things that struck me about the story was definitely the synopsis. It’s very rare that we get a book with a female veteran, but oh, what a refreshing character and story this turned out to be.
There’s so many issues that the author calls out that are important to women. Women business owners, struggling with PTSD, finding your niche in a male-dominated world/business, finding comfort with who you are, trusting again, forgiveness, and so many more. Whisler blends these hot topics into the story in such a beautiful manner and with true compassion.
The author also has done a great job with the character development and allowing her characters to be real people with great relationships and beautiful friendships. Plus, the dog lovers in the world are really going to fall in love with the paw patrol characters. I need Wyatt in my life!
Forever Home winds you up with a mixture of so many feelings. Whisler takes us from raw to sweet, emotional to stoic, heartbroken to happy. This is a book that will leave you with dreams of Sean while cheering them on for days! I so need an epilogue!
* copy received for Review Consideration
* full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/forever-home...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
One of the things that struck me about the story was definitely the synopsis. It’s very rare that we get a book with a female veteran, but oh, what a refreshing character and story this turned out to be.
There’s so many issues that the author calls out that are important to women. Women business owners, struggling with PTSD, finding your niche in a male-dominated world/business, finding comfort with who you are, trusting again, forgiveness, and so many more. Whisler blends these hot topics into the story in such a beautiful manner and with true compassion.
The author also has done a great job with the character development and allowing her characters to be real people with great relationships and beautiful friendships. Plus, the dog lovers in the world are really going to fall in love with the paw patrol characters. I need Wyatt in my life!
Forever Home winds you up with a mixture of so many feelings. Whisler takes us from raw to sweet, emotional to stoic, heartbroken to happy. This is a book that will leave you with dreams of Sean while cheering them on for days! I so need an epilogue!
* copy received for Review Consideration
* full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/forever-home...
September 10, 2021
Delaney has been a Marine for 20 years. She just lost her dad, who was her best friend, and now, at 37, she's decided to open a motorcycle shop. The previous owners are a pair of obnoxious brothers who want her to fail, as they did. Delaney is a loner, but finds herself making friends in the new town--with Tabitha, a veteran with a PTSD service dog,and people involved in dog rescue and service dog training for veterans. When her dad's classic bike is stolen, she gets to know Sean, a local cop she's seen at the gym. She starts to learn that maybe it isn't so bad to let others help, and her new pit bull pal, Wyatt, is there for her. I really liked the characters and the story line in this novel-- and of course the dogs. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the opportunity to review this advance copy.
November 23, 2021
FOREVER HOME is the second book in the Dogwood County series. Even though it is the second book, it can easily be read as a stand-alone. I do not like jumping into a series in the middle, but I did not feel lost at all. I love all the characters especially Delaney. She is a veteran with a broken spirit. She just lost her dad, who totally was her best friend, and now, at 37, she’s decides to open a motorcycle shop after being a marine for twenty years. She is trying to find a place to start her business and call home. Im sure it is really hard to write about veteran’s struggles, especially mental health, and it is accurately but mildly portrayed in FOREVER HOME.
I’ve never read any Elysia Whisler’s books before FOREVER HOME, but I know for sure, this won’t be my last one! She hooked me from the very first page and never let me go! Elysia sure knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat while reading and I love when an author does that to me. All of the characters will have you feeling sad and then smiling on the same page. Once you finish devouring this story, you are going to want to tell everyone you know about this awesome book.
The twists and turns just keep coming. So much so, that you won’t be able to put FOREVER HOME down until the very end. My emotions were all over the place while reading and as soon as I was finished, I immediately checked on Goodreads for more of Elysia’s books! All of the people in FOREVER HOME are dealing with problems in their lives while trying to do good, going forward. I enjoyed this story and the empathy the main characters show for cruelty to animals. If you have compassion, love, and respect for animals, FOREVER HOME is for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Mira through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
I’ve never read any Elysia Whisler’s books before FOREVER HOME, but I know for sure, this won’t be my last one! She hooked me from the very first page and never let me go! Elysia sure knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat while reading and I love when an author does that to me. All of the characters will have you feeling sad and then smiling on the same page. Once you finish devouring this story, you are going to want to tell everyone you know about this awesome book.
The twists and turns just keep coming. So much so, that you won’t be able to put FOREVER HOME down until the very end. My emotions were all over the place while reading and as soon as I was finished, I immediately checked on Goodreads for more of Elysia’s books! All of the people in FOREVER HOME are dealing with problems in their lives while trying to do good, going forward. I enjoyed this story and the empathy the main characters show for cruelty to animals. If you have compassion, love, and respect for animals, FOREVER HOME is for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Mira through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
March 14, 2021
After reading and truly enjoying Rescue You by Ms. Whisler, I didn’t know how this series could possibly get better. Well, I read Forever Home and can honestly say, she did it again! The focus is on a retired Marine, Delaney Monroe, and her chance to start over and open her dream motorcycle shop. The pit bull in this story is delightful. He is very shy and has trust issues, like many people do. I couldn’t put this one down. Watch out! There is always a slight twist in Elysia’s stories, and you never see them coming. Enjoy.
November 23, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up: Forever Home is the second book in the Dogwood County series, but it can be read as a standalone. Having said that, I really enjoyed Rescue You, the first in the series and definitely recommend it as well. In Forever Home, we meet several vets living in Dogwood County, see their struggles as well as how they support one another as they heal. The MC in this story is Delaney, a recently discharged marine. Delaney was raised by her father, a motorcycle head, and his buddies as her mother left when she was young. She loves riding and working on bikes and has dreamed of opening her own repair shop. Just before she musters out, her father dies and she inherits his vintage motorcycle that has been passed down by previous generations. She finds the perfect spot for her business, a store with apartment attached, buys it, and begins to set up her business. When she finds an abandoned pitbull pup in the shop, she turns to a pitbull rescue for help. It appears he used to belong to the previous owners of the shop and he keeps escaping the rescue to return to the only home he knows. Slow to trust, Delaney is determined to work with him and becomes his foster. She meets other vets at the local gym, Semper Fit, including a young woman she met while on active duty. Throw in a local police detective, also a vet, who is attracted to Delaney and you know there will be some sexual tension. When Delaney becomes a victim of some illegal acts (theft of her vintage motorcycle, theft of her dog, threats) the story heats up even more.
I really enjoyed this story. Delaney is a great character. She has not had an easy life, but a good one. After the death of her father, his friends (honorary uncles) step up to support her. She is smart, strong, caring yet vulnerable as well. She has no intention of getting involved with someone, but sometimes our emotions overrule our brains. Detective Sean Callahan is immediately attracted to Delaney and when he and his partner are assigned to the case of the motorcycle theft, he spends a lot more time and energy on the case than normal. He has some hidden talents that come to light and make him more attractive to Delaney. The romance moves at a good pace, dealing with both Delaney's and Sean's insecurities and doubts. Tabitha is a vet who is suffering from PTSD. She is also struggling with other issues and Delaney becomes a great support to her as well. The secondary characters are all wonderful and I hope they will continue to appear in other books. Of course, the bad guys, two seedy brothers, are also well written and boy did I dislike them, just as the author intended, I'm sure.
This is a well written and plotted story. There is some suspense and romance, but there is so much more to the story than it sounds. Ms. Whisler writes veterans with PTSD and/or physical impairments with empathy making them very realistic and relatable. She doesn't give snap or easy solutions, but shows that support is needed for transitions to life after the military. I absolutely love the addition of The Canine Warriors, a local charity that trains service dogs for vets. There were several dogs in the book and they all play important roles. There are so many themes in this book, such as female business owners trying to survive in a male-dominated business, struggling with PTSD, support animals and people not understanding their roles, finding comfort with who you are, trusting again, forgiveness, abuse by superiors, bullying and more. I did a real/listen with this story and enjoyed both formats. Lisa Larsen is a new narrator to me, and I will not hesitate to listen to books she narrated in the future. Her tone, expression, pauses and emotions made it an enjoyable book to listen to. She did a good job with most of the voices, especially with Delaney's making her character fit the story well. I definitely recommend this book, in either format. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book on request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I really enjoyed this story. Delaney is a great character. She has not had an easy life, but a good one. After the death of her father, his friends (honorary uncles) step up to support her. She is smart, strong, caring yet vulnerable as well. She has no intention of getting involved with someone, but sometimes our emotions overrule our brains. Detective Sean Callahan is immediately attracted to Delaney and when he and his partner are assigned to the case of the motorcycle theft, he spends a lot more time and energy on the case than normal. He has some hidden talents that come to light and make him more attractive to Delaney. The romance moves at a good pace, dealing with both Delaney's and Sean's insecurities and doubts. Tabitha is a vet who is suffering from PTSD. She is also struggling with other issues and Delaney becomes a great support to her as well. The secondary characters are all wonderful and I hope they will continue to appear in other books. Of course, the bad guys, two seedy brothers, are also well written and boy did I dislike them, just as the author intended, I'm sure.
This is a well written and plotted story. There is some suspense and romance, but there is so much more to the story than it sounds. Ms. Whisler writes veterans with PTSD and/or physical impairments with empathy making them very realistic and relatable. She doesn't give snap or easy solutions, but shows that support is needed for transitions to life after the military. I absolutely love the addition of The Canine Warriors, a local charity that trains service dogs for vets. There were several dogs in the book and they all play important roles. There are so many themes in this book, such as female business owners trying to survive in a male-dominated business, struggling with PTSD, support animals and people not understanding their roles, finding comfort with who you are, trusting again, forgiveness, abuse by superiors, bullying and more. I did a real/listen with this story and enjoyed both formats. Lisa Larsen is a new narrator to me, and I will not hesitate to listen to books she narrated in the future. Her tone, expression, pauses and emotions made it an enjoyable book to listen to. She did a good job with most of the voices, especially with Delaney's making her character fit the story well. I definitely recommend this book, in either format. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book on request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
December 9, 2021
Ex-Marines, motorcycles, hard-core workouts, and adorable dogs make this one unique romance.
When retired Marine Delaney Monroe opens a motorcycle shop in Dogwood County, it would almost seem like she’s putting down roots, but that’s not like her.
She wasn’t expecting to meet a lovable, abandoned Pitbull that was left at the building of her new shop, though. Not one to let herself get attached, she sends the timid dog to the Pittie rescue nearby.
When her father’s beloved cycle is stolen from her shop, the handsome Detective Sean Callahan is more than willing to help on the case. Since he first saw her working out at the local gym, Sean has been captivated by Delaney.
For a strong, independent woman trying to keep others at a distance, both Sean Callahan and a certain Pitbull seem to keep showing up at her door and maybe walking into her heart.
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 is a slow-burn romance with the added mystery to fuel the fire. This story has a lot of tough military and motorcycle riding characters. But as I’m a huge animal lover, Sinbad, aka Wyatt, stole the show, along with the other rescue dogs.
When retired Marine Delaney Monroe opens a motorcycle shop in Dogwood County, it would almost seem like she’s putting down roots, but that’s not like her.
She wasn’t expecting to meet a lovable, abandoned Pitbull that was left at the building of her new shop, though. Not one to let herself get attached, she sends the timid dog to the Pittie rescue nearby.
When her father’s beloved cycle is stolen from her shop, the handsome Detective Sean Callahan is more than willing to help on the case. Since he first saw her working out at the local gym, Sean has been captivated by Delaney.
For a strong, independent woman trying to keep others at a distance, both Sean Callahan and a certain Pitbull seem to keep showing up at her door and maybe walking into her heart.
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 is a slow-burn romance with the added mystery to fuel the fire. This story has a lot of tough military and motorcycle riding characters. But as I’m a huge animal lover, Sinbad, aka Wyatt, stole the show, along with the other rescue dogs.
November 23, 2021
So this is the second book in a series. Usually, I do not like jumping into a series in the middle but will say this one was really good. Yes, we have mention of other characters that if I read the first book I would know more about but I was okay not knowing and felt this book was a great one even without reading the first.
I loved the characters and I especially loved we had a female heroine that was slightly broken. Usually, in books, it's the man who has a troubled past or is the veteran with a broken spirit so it was refreshing to see a female in this part.
I also felt it was nice seeing the man in the role of the nurturer. the one who steps up to help heal our heroine. Plus a rescue dog was just the rising o the cake for me.
Overall a great story, wonderful character, a lovely town, and a book so refreshing I want to go back and read the beginning so I can reread this one with new eyes.
I loved the characters and I especially loved we had a female heroine that was slightly broken. Usually, in books, it's the man who has a troubled past or is the veteran with a broken spirit so it was refreshing to see a female in this part.
I also felt it was nice seeing the man in the role of the nurturer. the one who steps up to help heal our heroine. Plus a rescue dog was just the rising o the cake for me.
Overall a great story, wonderful character, a lovely town, and a book so refreshing I want to go back and read the beginning so I can reread this one with new eyes.
November 5, 2021
Lots Of Moving Parts And Yet It All Works. This book has a *lot* of moving parts with a primary romance, a secondary romance setup, two different tragic female backstories to encounter and mostly resolve, and a primary mystery and a secondary one to boot. And yet Whisler somehow manages to make all of that work, though the fact that she has 400 or so pages to play with here probably plays into this working as well as it does. The story is well paced - if you don't mind a very slow burn primary romance. As in, not so slow that there is zero "piano playing" at all, but slow burn enough that this doesn't actually happen until the last 15% or so of the book. So for the clean/ sweet crowd... eh, *all* of these characters have enough rough edges you're likely not going to like this one. For those that *like* a bit more edginess... yep, this one is for you, particularly if you're closer to the clean/ sweet side but like to get brave occasionally. :) Overall a great tale that never overly feels like a "Book 2", even though it is explicitly noted that this tale is, in fact, a "Book 2". Very much recommended.
October 3, 2021
I am a huge fan of Elysia Whisler’s first novel in the Dogwood County series, Rescue You, so I’ve been anxiously waiting for Forever Home, to be released.
We still see Rhett, Constance, Sunny and Pete but the focus of the story is on police detective, Sean Callahan and newcomer, Delaney Monroe, retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant. It wouldn’t be a Dogwood County novel if we didn’t have a rescue dog in it would it?! In this story we spend a lot of time with Sinbad, the pitbull, who’s name truly doesn’t fit him.
I found myself pulling really hard for Sean, he’s such a great guy and all you want is for him to find happiness and love. He is attracted to the new woman at Semper Fit but she isn’t having it. Delaney is aloof and hardcore but we aren’t sure if it is all due to her childhood or to her time in the military.
The big difference between this book and the first one is there is more of an action feel to this one, more mystery, a who-dun-it that needs to be solved. When it gets solved, it solves more than just one mystery. I don’t feel like it was as emotionally charged as the first book but I still enjoyed it very much.
The supporting cast of characters was excellent and well written. I loved the gruffness of Delaneys adopted biker “uncles”, the other gym members and of course I have to bring up Tabitha and Hobbs. I’ve got to have a Tabitha and Hobbs story! I feel like there is something there, especially with Chris Hobbs, we need to get to know the man who hides behind the big, goofy, clown act.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
We still see Rhett, Constance, Sunny and Pete but the focus of the story is on police detective, Sean Callahan and newcomer, Delaney Monroe, retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant. It wouldn’t be a Dogwood County novel if we didn’t have a rescue dog in it would it?! In this story we spend a lot of time with Sinbad, the pitbull, who’s name truly doesn’t fit him.
I found myself pulling really hard for Sean, he’s such a great guy and all you want is for him to find happiness and love. He is attracted to the new woman at Semper Fit but she isn’t having it. Delaney is aloof and hardcore but we aren’t sure if it is all due to her childhood or to her time in the military.
The big difference between this book and the first one is there is more of an action feel to this one, more mystery, a who-dun-it that needs to be solved. When it gets solved, it solves more than just one mystery. I don’t feel like it was as emotionally charged as the first book but I still enjoyed it very much.
The supporting cast of characters was excellent and well written. I loved the gruffness of Delaneys adopted biker “uncles”, the other gym members and of course I have to bring up Tabitha and Hobbs. I’ve got to have a Tabitha and Hobbs story! I feel like there is something there, especially with Chris Hobbs, we need to get to know the man who hides behind the big, goofy, clown act.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 3, 2021
Originally published at Reading Reality
As the sayings go, “home is where the heart is” and “a dream is a wish your heart makes.” Delaney Monroe’s home was working on motorcycles with her father in Omaha, and their shared dream was to open their own motorcycle repair shop.
But Delaney’s beloved father is dead. Killed in an accident between his motorcycle and an SUV whose driver wasn’t paying nearly enough attention to the other vehicles on the road. She’s just retired from the Marine Corps after putting in her 20. She can’t face living in Omaha without her dad, no matter how much her adopted uncles love her and want to help her.
They want to take care of her just a bit too much, and Delaney can’t stop seeing the hole in their formation where her dad used to be.
There’s a part of that dream that is still alive. She has just enough money saved up to buy what used to be a motorcycle shop in Dogwood County. It comes with a tiny apartment, a screaming need to be cleaned up and fixed up, and a dog who can’t figure out whether he wants his home to be in the shop he used to live in or the dog rescue park on the other side of the creek.
Wyatt the dog is afraid to trust that his heart has led him home. Making him not all that different from Delaney. Maybe they can figure it out together.
Or maybe Delaney will give up and run away, again, in the face of the dastardly and determined opposition of the men who used to own both the shop and the dog.
Along with a suspected slice of the local drug trade.
Escape Rating A-: At the end of the story, the dog is fine. I’m saying that first because my reading circle gets very upset if the starring animals don’t make it. No worries on that score, Wyatt has a few adventures but he’s fine, actually better than fine, at the end.
Which doesn’t stop Delaney and Wyatt from being equally heartbroken at the beginning – and some of the middle – of the story. They both need to feel that it’s OK to trust, safe to open their hearts, and the right time and place to put down roots so they can flourish. Neither of them is anywhere near there at the beginning.
And neither, in an entirely different way, is Detective Sean Callahan. He’s been going through the motions for a long time, having little holding him together except his job and his duty. He’s a good cop but a sad human being.
The situation in Dogwood County, between Delaney, Sean, Wyatt, the Dudebros – literally, they’re the Dude Brothers – and each and every one of their pasts is on a collision course.
It’s not just that the Dudebros are trying to wreck her business and take her dog – although they are.
Someone has stolen Delaney’s prize bike, the classic Indian Motorcycle that has been passed down in Delaney’s family for four generations. It’s that they tinkered with it and then put it back. It was heartbreaking while it was gone, and it’s baffling now that it’s back. But as much as Delaney wants to pin it all on the Dudebros, Sean knows that’s not the right answer no matter how tempting it is.
Also how tempting it must have been for the author. That would have been such an easy solution – but the real answer added so much to the story that I was surprised and pleased at the way things turned out.
Although the Dudebros do get theirs in the end.
Forever Home turned out to be one of those books where the whole was much greater than the sum of the parts. It sits right on the border between contemporary romance and relationship fiction, and it’s a surprisingly comfortable border in this case.
A romance occurs between Delaney and Sean, with an HEA that definitely feels earned. But that romance doesn’t completely hold the center of the story. The HEA is the icing on the cake and not the cake.
The suspense element was suspenseful in a surprising way, in that the obvious perpetrators were both obvious and not obvious at the same time.
The heart of the story was in Delaney – and Wyatt – finding their way to a home in Dogwood County. The way that Delaney establishes her shop, makes friends and allies, and makes a home and a life for herself in this new place and with these (mostly) terrific people.
I very much enjoyed my visit to this place, and I’m looking forward to seeing these people again. The next book in this series, Becoming Family, won’t be available until next August, but the first book, Rescue You, is available and I’m looking forward to reading it the next time I need a bit of a reading pick-me-up.
As the sayings go, “home is where the heart is” and “a dream is a wish your heart makes.” Delaney Monroe’s home was working on motorcycles with her father in Omaha, and their shared dream was to open their own motorcycle repair shop.
But Delaney’s beloved father is dead. Killed in an accident between his motorcycle and an SUV whose driver wasn’t paying nearly enough attention to the other vehicles on the road. She’s just retired from the Marine Corps after putting in her 20. She can’t face living in Omaha without her dad, no matter how much her adopted uncles love her and want to help her.
They want to take care of her just a bit too much, and Delaney can’t stop seeing the hole in their formation where her dad used to be.
There’s a part of that dream that is still alive. She has just enough money saved up to buy what used to be a motorcycle shop in Dogwood County. It comes with a tiny apartment, a screaming need to be cleaned up and fixed up, and a dog who can’t figure out whether he wants his home to be in the shop he used to live in or the dog rescue park on the other side of the creek.
Wyatt the dog is afraid to trust that his heart has led him home. Making him not all that different from Delaney. Maybe they can figure it out together.
Or maybe Delaney will give up and run away, again, in the face of the dastardly and determined opposition of the men who used to own both the shop and the dog.
Along with a suspected slice of the local drug trade.
Escape Rating A-: At the end of the story, the dog is fine. I’m saying that first because my reading circle gets very upset if the starring animals don’t make it. No worries on that score, Wyatt has a few adventures but he’s fine, actually better than fine, at the end.
Which doesn’t stop Delaney and Wyatt from being equally heartbroken at the beginning – and some of the middle – of the story. They both need to feel that it’s OK to trust, safe to open their hearts, and the right time and place to put down roots so they can flourish. Neither of them is anywhere near there at the beginning.
And neither, in an entirely different way, is Detective Sean Callahan. He’s been going through the motions for a long time, having little holding him together except his job and his duty. He’s a good cop but a sad human being.
The situation in Dogwood County, between Delaney, Sean, Wyatt, the Dudebros – literally, they’re the Dude Brothers – and each and every one of their pasts is on a collision course.
It’s not just that the Dudebros are trying to wreck her business and take her dog – although they are.
Someone has stolen Delaney’s prize bike, the classic Indian Motorcycle that has been passed down in Delaney’s family for four generations. It’s that they tinkered with it and then put it back. It was heartbreaking while it was gone, and it’s baffling now that it’s back. But as much as Delaney wants to pin it all on the Dudebros, Sean knows that’s not the right answer no matter how tempting it is.
Also how tempting it must have been for the author. That would have been such an easy solution – but the real answer added so much to the story that I was surprised and pleased at the way things turned out.
Although the Dudebros do get theirs in the end.
Forever Home turned out to be one of those books where the whole was much greater than the sum of the parts. It sits right on the border between contemporary romance and relationship fiction, and it’s a surprisingly comfortable border in this case.
A romance occurs between Delaney and Sean, with an HEA that definitely feels earned. But that romance doesn’t completely hold the center of the story. The HEA is the icing on the cake and not the cake.
The suspense element was suspenseful in a surprising way, in that the obvious perpetrators were both obvious and not obvious at the same time.
The heart of the story was in Delaney – and Wyatt – finding their way to a home in Dogwood County. The way that Delaney establishes her shop, makes friends and allies, and makes a home and a life for herself in this new place and with these (mostly) terrific people.
I very much enjoyed my visit to this place, and I’m looking forward to seeing these people again. The next book in this series, Becoming Family, won’t be available until next August, but the first book, Rescue You, is available and I’m looking forward to reading it the next time I need a bit of a reading pick-me-up.
December 6, 2021
I'm a sucker for a good dog story, especially one that has some romance and a bit of mystery to it, so after reading the blurb I decided to give this one a look. I'm so glad I did. I really enjoyed this story and these characters.
Delaney is a woman who grew up around men where she learned to take care of motorcycles before entering the service. She has some cracks, but she works hard not to let anyone see too deeply into her. I loved her caring nature and just really everything about this character. This is the type of female heroine I love -- strong, motivated, caring and confident with some vulnerability. I was immediately engaged in this story because of this character.
Detective Sean Callahan is also an interesting character. He's not complicated but he does carry around some baggage from the past which made for a more realistic character. I adored his interactions with Delaney -- they had a special sort of flirting going on there, and they fit together like chocolate and peanut butter.
There's a bit of an intriguing criminal investigation going on and just enough clues and red herrings that had this reader speculating on who might have done the crime. It isn't too hard to figure out what happened, and it was a fun part of the story for sure.
And best of all, there was Wyatt the dog bringing people together in different ways. The rescue and therapy dog scenes were terrific in this.
This is my first book from this author. I didn't read the first book in this series, and Forever Home worked really well as a standalone and I'm itching to read the first book now.
Forever Home has interesting characters, a story that moves along at a very nice pace, a bit of mystery and a romance that made me go "ah" . A very entertaining and fun read.
Delaney is a woman who grew up around men where she learned to take care of motorcycles before entering the service. She has some cracks, but she works hard not to let anyone see too deeply into her. I loved her caring nature and just really everything about this character. This is the type of female heroine I love -- strong, motivated, caring and confident with some vulnerability. I was immediately engaged in this story because of this character.
Detective Sean Callahan is also an interesting character. He's not complicated but he does carry around some baggage from the past which made for a more realistic character. I adored his interactions with Delaney -- they had a special sort of flirting going on there, and they fit together like chocolate and peanut butter.
There's a bit of an intriguing criminal investigation going on and just enough clues and red herrings that had this reader speculating on who might have done the crime. It isn't too hard to figure out what happened, and it was a fun part of the story for sure.
And best of all, there was Wyatt the dog bringing people together in different ways. The rescue and therapy dog scenes were terrific in this.
This is my first book from this author. I didn't read the first book in this series, and Forever Home worked really well as a standalone and I'm itching to read the first book now.
Forever Home has interesting characters, a story that moves along at a very nice pace, a bit of mystery and a romance that made me go "ah" . A very entertaining and fun read.
December 22, 2021
Tough on the outside, that is for certain. She proved herself while she was in the Marines. She is about to the same yet again when she purchases a rundown motorcycle shop. This has always been her dream and Delaney plans on making it a reality.
She is not alone from the very beginning, however. There is a resident pit bull along for the ride. Well, mostly. He is a free spirit and comes and goes at will. Not sure why she is even trying, Delaney is determined to win the chocolate pittie over. She starts out by learning his name from a tag on his collar, Sinbad.
There is a mystery from the outset, however. Delaney's most treasured possession, her father's classic motorcycle, has been stolen and Sean Callahan is the detective on the case. More than that for Sean, as he is immediately drawn to Delaney.
I loved this story. Whether it was Sean trying to win over Delaney, or Delaney trying to win over Sinbad. Whether Delaney planned it or not, she is now a dog owner.
This story was just so touching. I loved how Delaney took slow and gentle steps towards Sinbad. I also enjoyed the intrigue in the story when it came to the goings on at the motorcycle shop. Also, as this is the second book in the series, with the equally touching first book, Rescue You, it was a delight to see Constance and Sunny again in this book, Forever Home.
Many thanks to MIRA and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
She is not alone from the very beginning, however. There is a resident pit bull along for the ride. Well, mostly. He is a free spirit and comes and goes at will. Not sure why she is even trying, Delaney is determined to win the chocolate pittie over. She starts out by learning his name from a tag on his collar, Sinbad.
There is a mystery from the outset, however. Delaney's most treasured possession, her father's classic motorcycle, has been stolen and Sean Callahan is the detective on the case. More than that for Sean, as he is immediately drawn to Delaney.
I loved this story. Whether it was Sean trying to win over Delaney, or Delaney trying to win over Sinbad. Whether Delaney planned it or not, she is now a dog owner.
This story was just so touching. I loved how Delaney took slow and gentle steps towards Sinbad. I also enjoyed the intrigue in the story when it came to the goings on at the motorcycle shop. Also, as this is the second book in the series, with the equally touching first book, Rescue You, it was a delight to see Constance and Sunny again in this book, Forever Home.
Many thanks to MIRA and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 6, 2021
The Review
This is such a well-balanced and engaging story. The way the author is able to weave themes of PTSD, how military service impacts those who come home, loss and opening ourselves up to the possibility of love into this narrative set against the backdrop of a crime mystery and a slow-burn romance was truly entertaining. The vibrant yet muted imagery of the story’s setting really felt cinematic in its delivery, making this such an incredible read.
What was so mesmerizing was the character’s arcs in this narrative. The heavy exploration of romance between the two protagonists felt so realistic to real life. I’ve always felt there is a time and place for both magical-inspired fairytale romances and real-world, gritty romances that take time to build, and that’s what makes this novel shine so brightly. The strength and courage these two find in one another, both in challenging each other and then in working together, was inspired to see, and how each helped the other overcome past pains were so fun to watch come together in this novel.
The Verdict
A memorable, emotional, and gripping romance, author Elysia Whisler’s “Forever Home” is such a unique and entertaining women’s fiction and contemporary romance read. A true one-of-a-kind read that shows romance in an entirely new setting and creates a love that feels very real and relatable all at once, this is one novel you will not want to miss.
This is such a well-balanced and engaging story. The way the author is able to weave themes of PTSD, how military service impacts those who come home, loss and opening ourselves up to the possibility of love into this narrative set against the backdrop of a crime mystery and a slow-burn romance was truly entertaining. The vibrant yet muted imagery of the story’s setting really felt cinematic in its delivery, making this such an incredible read.
What was so mesmerizing was the character’s arcs in this narrative. The heavy exploration of romance between the two protagonists felt so realistic to real life. I’ve always felt there is a time and place for both magical-inspired fairytale romances and real-world, gritty romances that take time to build, and that’s what makes this novel shine so brightly. The strength and courage these two find in one another, both in challenging each other and then in working together, was inspired to see, and how each helped the other overcome past pains were so fun to watch come together in this novel.
The Verdict
A memorable, emotional, and gripping romance, author Elysia Whisler’s “Forever Home” is such a unique and entertaining women’s fiction and contemporary romance read. A true one-of-a-kind read that shows romance in an entirely new setting and creates a love that feels very real and relatable all at once, this is one novel you will not want to miss.
November 30, 2021
Retired marine, Delaney Monroe has just arrived in Dogwood County looking for a fresh start after losing her father. All she has ever known was motorcycles being raised by her father, so she opens a motorcycle shop in the small town and is ready for a new beginning. She is slowly making friends and has one particular friend who keeps coming back to visit, a sweet shy pup. Everything is going as planned until one stormy night when her father’s prize motorcycle is stolen. Now she must rely on her new friends and one handsome police officer to help her get her life back on track.
This story is so beautifully written by Elysia Whisler. She gives us a view into serious topics of PTSD and animal rescue, but also into friendship, family, and unconditional love. The pitbull in the story is so loving, I was waiting longingly for his happily ever after. The characters were well written with depth and dimension that you could feel their pain right along with them, but it is also a story of hope and new beginnings. I also liked that previous characters were also in the story and am waiting to see who is in the next book and to get an update on Delaney and Sean. In thanks, I was gifted an advanced readers copy from Harlequin Publishing in exchange for my unbiased opinions.
This story is so beautifully written by Elysia Whisler. She gives us a view into serious topics of PTSD and animal rescue, but also into friendship, family, and unconditional love. The pitbull in the story is so loving, I was waiting longingly for his happily ever after. The characters were well written with depth and dimension that you could feel their pain right along with them, but it is also a story of hope and new beginnings. I also liked that previous characters were also in the story and am waiting to see who is in the next book and to get an update on Delaney and Sean. In thanks, I was gifted an advanced readers copy from Harlequin Publishing in exchange for my unbiased opinions.
November 28, 2021
Forever Home by Elysia Whisler is the second book in her Dogwood County series, which centers on rescue dogs and former marines. We meet Delaney Monroe, our heroine, who has just moved to Dogwood, and is a former Marine. Delaney opens up her dream motorcycle shop, with an apartment above; she is a motorcycle expert, having learned everything from her deceased father. Delaney is surprised to see a pit bull sneaking in her shop, and learns that the dog formerly lived in the back room. She learns from Sunny (one of previous book heroines), who runs the dog rescue, that the people who owned the shop before were not nice to the dog (formerly called Sinbad), but Delaney renames him Wyatt.
Detective Sean Callahan meets Delaney at the gym and is immediately attracted to her, even though Delaney isn’t interested. Things do change when Delaney’s father’s vintage motorcycle is stolen, she and Sean work together to find the culprit, and a friendship builds. They suspect the two former owners of the shop, who are nasty young men, but there is no proof.
I loved seeing the wonderful characters from the previous book, Sunny, Constance, Rhett, Pete to name a few. The relationship between Delaney and Sean heats up in the second half of the book, as the chemistry between them was hot. There is a second possible romance between newcomer Tabitha, who suffers from PDST from her time in the marine corps, where she originally met Delaney. She meets Hobbs at the gym, and we can see a slow build possible romance between them. I loved the dog Trinity, who was Tabitha’s trained rescue dog.
What follows is a sweet romance, wonderful couples, heartwarming and emotional story, that also has a mystery as to who stole the motorcycle, which will be a surprise. Forever Home is a story that pulls on so many emotions, as well as finding love and happiness. If you enjoy stories with great couples and dogs, you need to read this book. Very well written by Elysia Whisler.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Detective Sean Callahan meets Delaney at the gym and is immediately attracted to her, even though Delaney isn’t interested. Things do change when Delaney’s father’s vintage motorcycle is stolen, she and Sean work together to find the culprit, and a friendship builds. They suspect the two former owners of the shop, who are nasty young men, but there is no proof.
I loved seeing the wonderful characters from the previous book, Sunny, Constance, Rhett, Pete to name a few. The relationship between Delaney and Sean heats up in the second half of the book, as the chemistry between them was hot. There is a second possible romance between newcomer Tabitha, who suffers from PDST from her time in the marine corps, where she originally met Delaney. She meets Hobbs at the gym, and we can see a slow build possible romance between them. I loved the dog Trinity, who was Tabitha’s trained rescue dog.
What follows is a sweet romance, wonderful couples, heartwarming and emotional story, that also has a mystery as to who stole the motorcycle, which will be a surprise. Forever Home is a story that pulls on so many emotions, as well as finding love and happiness. If you enjoy stories with great couples and dogs, you need to read this book. Very well written by Elysia Whisler.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
November 28, 2021
A new author (to me) and I am so glad I discovered her books. I read the first book “Rescue You” and I was hooked. Strong female and male main character with secondary characters who added so much depth to the story. A story of complex human emotions with a positive theme of recovery…a lovely read from beginning to end. Delaney Monroe has retired from the Marines after twenty years. Her father, who raised her, passed away just prior to her retirement. Her desire to open her own motorcycle shop has led her to Dogwood County. She meets Detective Sean Callahan, who is entranced with her from the first moment, at Semper Fit gym. Other than her father and “uncles” she has never had anyone to count on except herself. Used to being on the move, will she stay in Dogwood County? Secondary character Tabitha Steele, a former Navy Assistant Chaplain with her service dog Trinity, stole my heart as she struggles to deal with PTSD. I can’t wait for the third book in this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
December 8, 2021
I was really looking forward to reading Forever Home. I loved the first book Rescue You, so this was a most anticipated sequel. I really enjoyed this book. This one features Delaney and Sean. Delaney has always wandered and had never had a permanent, lasting home. Opening a motorcycle shop in her father’s memory is the first step toward permanency...maybe.
As I said, I really enjoyed this one. I loved watching the relationship grow between Delaney and Sean. He was too sweet in his courting of Delaney. They had great chemistry. I also loved watching the relationship that grew between Delaney and the dog. What a perfect metaphor for finding a “forever home”. The last scene of the book was perfect.
There is a side plot with Tabitha and her dealing with PTSD from war. I thought it was done very well and realistically. I hope her story continues in the next book. I would love to see her get a HEA. I highly recommend this one as well as the first book.
As I said, I really enjoyed this one. I loved watching the relationship grow between Delaney and Sean. He was too sweet in his courting of Delaney. They had great chemistry. I also loved watching the relationship that grew between Delaney and the dog. What a perfect metaphor for finding a “forever home”. The last scene of the book was perfect.
There is a side plot with Tabitha and her dealing with PTSD from war. I thought it was done very well and realistically. I hope her story continues in the next book. I would love to see her get a HEA. I highly recommend this one as well as the first book.
November 27, 2021
Forever Home is the second book in Elysia Whisler's Dogwood County series, and while I haven't had the pleasure of reading the first book, I plan to remedy that soon. That said, I didn't feel like I was missing anything I needed to follow this story. It's just that I thoroughly enjoyed the setting and the characters, and I want more of both. Of course, this one also has a scene-stealer of a dog that I just wanted to hug every time he showed up on the page. The story is a good mix of romance and mystery, and I enjoyed both elements. It's also a story of finding your place as well as your family even if it is a chosen family rather than the one we're born to. It's a story of moving forward and healing, and the author touches on so many important issues. The whole thing is wonderfully written and it's one of those books that worms its way into your heart, one that I won't soon forget.
November 27, 2021
I read the first book in the series and loved it. Forever Home is just as good!
What a wonderful community to live in.
Rescue dogs and retired military members….both carrying invisible scars.
Forever Home will have you feeling all kinds of emotions.
Overall a great story I highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
What a wonderful community to live in.
Rescue dogs and retired military members….both carrying invisible scars.
Forever Home will have you feeling all kinds of emotions.
Overall a great story I highly recommend.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 7, 2021
I wish to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Romance, MIRA Publishers for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book. I have voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a delightful book. It has it all. If you enjoy a romance story, dog story, mystery, biker books and strong female characters then you will not want to miss this book.
I felt engaged from the very start until the end and liked all of the characters. This is storytelling at its best. I look forward to reading more of her books. I did not realize that she had written another book prior to this one but feel this is a standalone book. I love the connections with the animals in this story and Wyatt frequently put a smile on my face. I wish I could share the Uncles with Delaney. This is a book you will want your friends to read.
This is a delightful book. It has it all. If you enjoy a romance story, dog story, mystery, biker books and strong female characters then you will not want to miss this book.
I felt engaged from the very start until the end and liked all of the characters. This is storytelling at its best. I look forward to reading more of her books. I did not realize that she had written another book prior to this one but feel this is a standalone book. I love the connections with the animals in this story and Wyatt frequently put a smile on my face. I wish I could share the Uncles with Delaney. This is a book you will want your friends to read.
November 9, 2021
A sweet romance that will have you feeling all of the emotions from happy to sad and will make you feel like you want to cry but happy tears.As well as been will writing and characters that will make you smile and will make you laugh, as well as like the title says finding your forever home wither your human or a loveable puppy .
October 3, 2021
I am a huge fan of Elysia Whisler’s first novel in the Dogwood County series, Rescue You, so I’ve been anxiously waiting for Forever Home, to be released.
We still see Rhett, Constance, Sunny and Pete but the focus of the story is on police detective, Sean Callahan and newcomer, Delaney Monroe, retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant. It wouldn’t be a Dogwood County novel if we didn’t have a rescue dog in it would it?! In this story we spend a lot of time with Sinbad, the pitbull, who’s name truly doesn’t fit him.
I found myself pulling really hard for Sean, he’s such a great guy and all you want is for him to find happiness and love. He is attracted to the new woman at Semper Fit but she isn’t having it. Delaney is aloof and hardcore but we aren’t sure if it is all due to her childhood or to her time in the military.
The big difference between this book and the first one is there is more of an action feel to this one, more mystery, a who-dun-it that needs to be solved. When it gets solved, it solves more than just one mystery. I don’t feel like it was as emotionally charged as the first book but I still enjoyed it very much.
The supporting cast of characters was excellent and well written. I loved the gruffness of Delaneys adopted biker “uncles”, the other gym members and of course I have to bring up Tabitha and Hobbs. I’ve got to have a Tabitha and Hobbs story! I feel like there is something there, especially with Chris Hobbs, we need to get to know the man who hides behind the big, goofy, clown act.
~Heidi💜
We still see Rhett, Constance, Sunny and Pete but the focus of the story is on police detective, Sean Callahan and newcomer, Delaney Monroe, retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant. It wouldn’t be a Dogwood County novel if we didn’t have a rescue dog in it would it?! In this story we spend a lot of time with Sinbad, the pitbull, who’s name truly doesn’t fit him.
I found myself pulling really hard for Sean, he’s such a great guy and all you want is for him to find happiness and love. He is attracted to the new woman at Semper Fit but she isn’t having it. Delaney is aloof and hardcore but we aren’t sure if it is all due to her childhood or to her time in the military.
The big difference between this book and the first one is there is more of an action feel to this one, more mystery, a who-dun-it that needs to be solved. When it gets solved, it solves more than just one mystery. I don’t feel like it was as emotionally charged as the first book but I still enjoyed it very much.
The supporting cast of characters was excellent and well written. I loved the gruffness of Delaneys adopted biker “uncles”, the other gym members and of course I have to bring up Tabitha and Hobbs. I’ve got to have a Tabitha and Hobbs story! I feel like there is something there, especially with Chris Hobbs, we need to get to know the man who hides behind the big, goofy, clown act.
~Heidi💜
September 28, 2021
After the excellent first book in this Dogwood County series (Rescue You), my expectations for this second were high. Forever Home was also great, and most readers will probably have to decide which is better.
The books can stand alone, but the second book is richer if one has read the first. For me, books engage me to the degree that the characters are sympathetic. While Delaney and Sean are excellent main characters, something just doesn't jive as cohesively as they did for Constance and Rhett in book one.
Whichever book you prefer, both will offer a good and solid read, with many characters and sub-plots to catch and hold to the book's completion. Great stuff.
The books can stand alone, but the second book is richer if one has read the first. For me, books engage me to the degree that the characters are sympathetic. While Delaney and Sean are excellent main characters, something just doesn't jive as cohesively as they did for Constance and Rhett in book one.
Whichever book you prefer, both will offer a good and solid read, with many characters and sub-plots to catch and hold to the book's completion. Great stuff.
August 27, 2021
Another success! Just a wonderful story of life, love, challenge and triumph.
August 28, 2021
Fantastic book, looking forward to the next one!
November 1, 2021
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Forever Home by Elysia Whisler is the second book in her Dogwood County series. I haven't read the series, but I feel like I would have enjoyed this more having read the previous book. I also feel like I would have none maybe the male character a bit more, I am assuming you meet him in the first because in this book we get to be more than a bit acquainted with the couple I'm assuming book 3 is about.
Still healing from the death of her father, Delaney moves to Dogwood County after she retires from the Marine Corps to open up a motorcycle shop. A shop that happens to come with a lovable Pitbull who is just as much of a free spirit as she is. While she works hard to get her shop off the ground someone steals her late father vintage motorcycle and the previous shop owners are doing their best to halt her growth. Cue Sean, the detective assigned to her case who also happens to be a former marine who caught her eye at the local veterans' gym. Sean is determined to find her missing bike and wouldn't mind getting to know Delaney more along the way.
Like I stated in the first paragraph I might have enjoyed this more if I had read book 1 but it was still a pleasant read. I genuinely enjoyed all the character,s from the main ones to the supporting cast. The Pitbull Wyatt was a star of the story and constantly put a smile on my face. The romance itself is the slowest of slow burns. Delaney and Sean barely interacted for the first 30 percent of the book, then we get a few kisses and the sexual tension slowly builds. Thankfully it pays off with an opened door intimate scene towards the end. I really loved that Delaney was the one who took the reins in the physical department since Sean turned into an awkward teenager around her lol
My biggest problem was with the pacing of the book. We really only needed Delaney and Sean's point of view yet for some reason the author made the decision to have the side character Tabitha's point of view and pretty much start her romance arc in this book. It would have been better if it was something that was just observed by the main characters as a "oo I wonder what's going on between these two " type situation in order to get you excited for the next book. When all it did was take me out of Delaney and Sean's story unnecessarily.
All in All I think readers you have read book 1 would really love this, and even I would be interested in reading future books in the series. I need to know what happens to Tabitha, even if I didn't like the way her story overshadowed our main characters in this one at times.
Forever Home by Elysia Whisler is the second book in her Dogwood County series. I haven't read the series, but I feel like I would have enjoyed this more having read the previous book. I also feel like I would have none maybe the male character a bit more, I am assuming you meet him in the first because in this book we get to be more than a bit acquainted with the couple I'm assuming book 3 is about.
Still healing from the death of her father, Delaney moves to Dogwood County after she retires from the Marine Corps to open up a motorcycle shop. A shop that happens to come with a lovable Pitbull who is just as much of a free spirit as she is. While she works hard to get her shop off the ground someone steals her late father vintage motorcycle and the previous shop owners are doing their best to halt her growth. Cue Sean, the detective assigned to her case who also happens to be a former marine who caught her eye at the local veterans' gym. Sean is determined to find her missing bike and wouldn't mind getting to know Delaney more along the way.
Like I stated in the first paragraph I might have enjoyed this more if I had read book 1 but it was still a pleasant read. I genuinely enjoyed all the character,s from the main ones to the supporting cast. The Pitbull Wyatt was a star of the story and constantly put a smile on my face. The romance itself is the slowest of slow burns. Delaney and Sean barely interacted for the first 30 percent of the book, then we get a few kisses and the sexual tension slowly builds. Thankfully it pays off with an opened door intimate scene towards the end. I really loved that Delaney was the one who took the reins in the physical department since Sean turned into an awkward teenager around her lol
My biggest problem was with the pacing of the book. We really only needed Delaney and Sean's point of view yet for some reason the author made the decision to have the side character Tabitha's point of view and pretty much start her romance arc in this book. It would have been better if it was something that was just observed by the main characters as a "oo I wonder what's going on between these two " type situation in order to get you excited for the next book. When all it did was take me out of Delaney and Sean's story unnecessarily.
All in All I think readers you have read book 1 would really love this, and even I would be interested in reading future books in the series. I need to know what happens to Tabitha, even if I didn't like the way her story overshadowed our main characters in this one at times.
December 2, 2021
Delaney has retired from the Marine Corps. She has decided to open up her own motorcycle shop. It has been her dream for quite a while. She found the perfect place to rent and she is ready to roll. However, an abandoned dog keeps showing up. Delaney is smitten! But, not long after she has opens her shop, her antique motorcycle is stolen. Enter detective Sean Callahan! Can Delaney let him in too?!?
Now, I am not a fan of motorcycles. So, I really didn’t think this would appeal to me. And there is a good bit of motorcycle talk. But, I found it fascinating, especially about the antique bikes. Something I didn’t know…I enjoy learning something new. Add in the chemistry between these characters and you have a good tale!
I discovered this author last year when I was asked to review Rescue You . I enjoyed that book so much, I could not wait to read this one. And this one did not disappoint. I love how she incorporates animals and the armed services into her stories. Always makes for really good, heartwarming reads!
Need a good book to curl up with…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
Now, I am not a fan of motorcycles. So, I really didn’t think this would appeal to me. And there is a good bit of motorcycle talk. But, I found it fascinating, especially about the antique bikes. Something I didn’t know…I enjoy learning something new. Add in the chemistry between these characters and you have a good tale!
I discovered this author last year when I was asked to review Rescue You . I enjoyed that book so much, I could not wait to read this one. And this one did not disappoint. I love how she incorporates animals and the armed services into her stories. Always makes for really good, heartwarming reads!
Need a good book to curl up with…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
December 10, 2021
TW//CW abuse, animal abuse, PTSD
It's a heartwarming read with a mystery in it. It's a small-town romance story with wonderful dogs in it. It's a story where people trying to just belong, to find home after everything they've been through. There's also mystery and rescue action that got me on the edge of my seat. It brings all the feelings. So yeah, it's pretty complex story.
As for the characters. Delaney is an ex-Marine and Sean is a detective. What a powerful couple this one and Delaney is a really stubborn person and she builds walls around her to protect herself and Sean is determined to break them. It's just sweet reading about these two and I just can't not root for their happy ending.
Complex sweet romance read with wonderful characters, yup I totally recommend this one.
It's a heartwarming read with a mystery in it. It's a small-town romance story with wonderful dogs in it. It's a story where people trying to just belong, to find home after everything they've been through. There's also mystery and rescue action that got me on the edge of my seat. It brings all the feelings. So yeah, it's pretty complex story.
As for the characters. Delaney is an ex-Marine and Sean is a detective. What a powerful couple this one and Delaney is a really stubborn person and she builds walls around her to protect herself and Sean is determined to break them. It's just sweet reading about these two and I just can't not root for their happy ending.
Complex sweet romance read with wonderful characters, yup I totally recommend this one.
November 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book...it’s the second in a series but I did not realize when I started reading and it was ok to read as a stand alone. After finishing it I will be looking at reading the first book of the series Rescue you. I am secretly hoping there will be a 3rd in the series based on Tabitha and more of her story and happy ending. I loved how in-depth we got to see the characters , the scars they carry and how they managed to Peal back layers to allow others into their lives. It’s about a wonderful community and two of the issues they tackle are rescue dogs and life after the military when not all scars are visible. These two storylines are very close to my heart . And if you’re into motorcycles and take charge women this book also has that.
I received a free copy from NetGalley. All opinions Ive written about this book are my own. I would definitely recommend this book to friends and my book club.
I received a free copy from NetGalley. All opinions Ive written about this book are my own. I would definitely recommend this book to friends and my book club.
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