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Lucky Dog #2
It Started with a Dog
Thanks to an accidental phone swap, two adorable rescue pups, and a coffeehouse clash, a holiday flirtation goes to the dogs and hilarity ensues, from New York Times bestselling author Julia London.
All Harper Thompson wants for Christmas is the huge promotion she's worked so hard for--which she should get, as long as her launch of the hip new coffeehouse, Deja Brew, goes according to plan. Jonah Rogers is trying to save his family's coffee shop, Lucky Star, from going out of business, which will be tough with the brand-new Deja Brew opening across the street.
When Jonah and Harper meet for the first time after accidentally swapping phones, their chemistry is as electric as a strand of Christmas lights. He's a tall, handsome, compassionate hunk of engineer, and she's an entrepreneur whose zest for life is very sexy. They love all the same things, like scary movies, greasy food--and most of all, dogs. It's a match made in heaven...until Jonah finds out that Harper's the one about to put him out of business.
Only one coffee shop likely can survive, and a competition of one-upmanship ensues in a battle of the brews. The paws really come out when the local rescue shelter has a fundraiser where local businesses foster dogs, and patrons vote with their dollars for their favorite pup. Harper takes in an adorable old bulldog on behalf of Deja Brew, while Jonah fosters a perky three-legged dachshund for Lucky Star. As the excitement builds for who will be crowned King Mutt and king of the coffee hill, Harper and Jonah must decide if their connection was all steam or if they are the perfect blend.
All Harper Thompson wants for Christmas is the huge promotion she's worked so hard for--which she should get, as long as her launch of the hip new coffeehouse, Deja Brew, goes according to plan. Jonah Rogers is trying to save his family's coffee shop, Lucky Star, from going out of business, which will be tough with the brand-new Deja Brew opening across the street.
When Jonah and Harper meet for the first time after accidentally swapping phones, their chemistry is as electric as a strand of Christmas lights. He's a tall, handsome, compassionate hunk of engineer, and she's an entrepreneur whose zest for life is very sexy. They love all the same things, like scary movies, greasy food--and most of all, dogs. It's a match made in heaven...until Jonah finds out that Harper's the one about to put him out of business.
Only one coffee shop likely can survive, and a competition of one-upmanship ensues in a battle of the brews. The paws really come out when the local rescue shelter has a fundraiser where local businesses foster dogs, and patrons vote with their dollars for their favorite pup. Harper takes in an adorable old bulldog on behalf of Deja Brew, while Jonah fosters a perky three-legged dachshund for Lucky Star. As the excitement builds for who will be crowned King Mutt and king of the coffee hill, Harper and Jonah must decide if their connection was all steam or if they are the perfect blend.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2021
121 people are currently reading
6960 people want to read
About the author
Julia London
183 books3,093 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 388 reviews
October 5, 2021
It Started with a Dog by Julia London
In the midst of a Lyft share that resembles a roller coaster ride, Harper Thompson and Jonah Rodgers end up with the phones of the other person. Both are on Christmas vacations trips, away from home and work, so the next week is filled with funny text messages and pictures, as they pass on the messages that the other should have gotten. The two get to know each other as they go through the other's camera rolls and tease about the things they see and the messages they get from parents, coworkers, and family. It's no surprise when they meet a week later, to exchange phones, that they hit it off in person.
What convinced Harper she'd like Jonah, right off the bat, was that his phone screen was of his huge Great Pyrenees mix. Harper regularly walks an old bulldog named Bob so their love of dogs just cements their friendship. But, Harper is obsessed with climbing the ladder at work and she is in the process of opening a flagship coffee shop right across the street from the coffee shop of Jonah's family, a shop that was opened by his grandparents, decades ago.
That's a big blockade to the budding relationship between Harper and Jonah but both are good natured and willing to make things work. Jonah has his own non coffee shop career that could tear them apart while Harper might be sent in another direction. Still, I saw that things might work out, well before these two did, and I'm glad that the story played out as it did. There are lots of cute rescue dogs filling out the cast. This is a mostly feel good story, for me, because I love to hang out with dog lovers.
There is no need to read book #1 first because these are stand alone stories.
Publication: October 5, 2021
Thank you to Elisha, Berkley, and NetGalley for this ARC.
In the midst of a Lyft share that resembles a roller coaster ride, Harper Thompson and Jonah Rodgers end up with the phones of the other person. Both are on Christmas vacations trips, away from home and work, so the next week is filled with funny text messages and pictures, as they pass on the messages that the other should have gotten. The two get to know each other as they go through the other's camera rolls and tease about the things they see and the messages they get from parents, coworkers, and family. It's no surprise when they meet a week later, to exchange phones, that they hit it off in person.
What convinced Harper she'd like Jonah, right off the bat, was that his phone screen was of his huge Great Pyrenees mix. Harper regularly walks an old bulldog named Bob so their love of dogs just cements their friendship. But, Harper is obsessed with climbing the ladder at work and she is in the process of opening a flagship coffee shop right across the street from the coffee shop of Jonah's family, a shop that was opened by his grandparents, decades ago.
That's a big blockade to the budding relationship between Harper and Jonah but both are good natured and willing to make things work. Jonah has his own non coffee shop career that could tear them apart while Harper might be sent in another direction. Still, I saw that things might work out, well before these two did, and I'm glad that the story played out as it did. There are lots of cute rescue dogs filling out the cast. This is a mostly feel good story, for me, because I love to hang out with dog lovers.
There is no need to read book #1 first because these are stand alone stories.
Publication: October 5, 2021
Thank you to Elisha, Berkley, and NetGalley for this ARC.
October 8, 2021
Sometimes, authors expect too much from me.
My brain can only do so much. I only have so many tracks, as it were. And the thing is, when I'm reading a romance novel.....I'm reading it with one thing on my mind.
ROMANCE, baby.
But sometimes, authors overestimate me. They're like, "she wants a romance, but she also wants family stories for each character, and friendship drama, and let's give each member of this couple a career struggle, just for kicks."
And I try to play along. I'm nothing if not easygoing and delightful. (Don't respond to that.)
But sometimes....sometimes, it feels pointless.
This, I regret to tell you, is one of those times.
I don't understand these people's problems. Not only do I not know why they have SO. GODDAMN. MANY, since this is escapist reading, but the problems themselves...I simply don't understand why they're problems.
"Problems" doesn't look like a word anymore.
Tell me if this is a me...issue. Here are the...snags and hitches in the lives of our main characters:
Our protagonist is spending all of her time working at a job she doesn’t really like and using her limited free time to walk a dog at a shelter she refuses to adopt, and to ignore her best friend for the criminal offense(s) of being too hot and too fun. She says she doesn’t really spend time with her parents and that’s fine, but in every scene they appear to fully hate her ass. (And I might too, so that’s relatable.)
Her love interest quit the job he loves to help out at his family business full time, and he is absolutely terrible at it, and the job he loves (which he quit to do this) could pay two marketing experts’ salaries easily. His family loves him too much (?) I think? I think that's his difficulty?
Anyway, I'm sure my problems don't always clock as problems either. (Thought I could go back to "problems" but I cannot. There's no way that's how that's spelled.) I would probably have more empathy if I liked these characters, or if I liked anything else in the book even a little bit even at all, but...I do not.
Our protagonist has two of the worst attributes I could possibly dream up: one, doesn’t feel bad about putting mom and pop stores out of business because we “live in a capitalist society!,” which I think we can all agree is taking that whole no ethical consumption under capitalism thing a bit too far.
Two, she constantly worries about her waistline and says she needs to lose weight and watches what she eats...snooze. What year is it.
But the real kicker, for myself personally, is this line from when our characters go on their much awaited (except not really because it happens very, very early on) first date:
“They talked about sports, and the new smoothie place by campus, the homeless camping ban the city had just passed [...] Everything they discussed was easy and fun.”
Nothing says easy and fun like evicting unhoused people from what they have made into a home!!
I think I'm done complaining now.
Bottom line: This may seem like a lot of petty qualms, but when everything else is dull and/or meh and/or unimportant, they're the only thing to write home about!
--------------------
pre-review
me to dogs in real life: 🥰😍😁
me to dogs in books: 🙂😶🥱
update: unfortunately the way i react to dogs in books is also how i react to this book in and of itself.
review to come / 2.5ish
(thanks to the publisher slash netgalley slash what have you for the e-ARC)
My brain can only do so much. I only have so many tracks, as it were. And the thing is, when I'm reading a romance novel.....I'm reading it with one thing on my mind.
ROMANCE, baby.
But sometimes, authors overestimate me. They're like, "she wants a romance, but she also wants family stories for each character, and friendship drama, and let's give each member of this couple a career struggle, just for kicks."
And I try to play along. I'm nothing if not easygoing and delightful. (Don't respond to that.)
But sometimes....sometimes, it feels pointless.
This, I regret to tell you, is one of those times.
I don't understand these people's problems. Not only do I not know why they have SO. GODDAMN. MANY, since this is escapist reading, but the problems themselves...I simply don't understand why they're problems.
"Problems" doesn't look like a word anymore.
Tell me if this is a me...issue. Here are the...snags and hitches in the lives of our main characters:
Our protagonist is spending all of her time working at a job she doesn’t really like and using her limited free time to walk a dog at a shelter she refuses to adopt, and to ignore her best friend for the criminal offense(s) of being too hot and too fun. She says she doesn’t really spend time with her parents and that’s fine, but in every scene they appear to fully hate her ass. (And I might too, so that’s relatable.)
Her love interest quit the job he loves to help out at his family business full time, and he is absolutely terrible at it, and the job he loves (which he quit to do this) could pay two marketing experts’ salaries easily. His family loves him too much (?) I think? I think that's his difficulty?
Anyway, I'm sure my problems don't always clock as problems either. (Thought I could go back to "problems" but I cannot. There's no way that's how that's spelled.) I would probably have more empathy if I liked these characters, or if I liked anything else in the book even a little bit even at all, but...I do not.
Our protagonist has two of the worst attributes I could possibly dream up: one, doesn’t feel bad about putting mom and pop stores out of business because we “live in a capitalist society!,” which I think we can all agree is taking that whole no ethical consumption under capitalism thing a bit too far.
Two, she constantly worries about her waistline and says she needs to lose weight and watches what she eats...snooze. What year is it.
But the real kicker, for myself personally, is this line from when our characters go on their much awaited (except not really because it happens very, very early on) first date:
“They talked about sports, and the new smoothie place by campus, the homeless camping ban the city had just passed [...] Everything they discussed was easy and fun.”
Nothing says easy and fun like evicting unhoused people from what they have made into a home!!
I think I'm done complaining now.
Bottom line: This may seem like a lot of petty qualms, but when everything else is dull and/or meh and/or unimportant, they're the only thing to write home about!
--------------------
pre-review
me to dogs in real life: 🥰😍😁
me to dogs in books: 🙂😶🥱
update: unfortunately the way i react to dogs in books is also how i react to this book in and of itself.
review to come / 2.5ish
(thanks to the publisher slash netgalley slash what have you for the e-ARC)
September 30, 2021
3.5*
For all dog lovers!🐶
A sweet, warm, and fuzzy rom-com sure to put a big smile on your face. And very possibly, have you seriously considering adopting a rescue.😉
Harper and Jonah are two strangers, desperate to get out of town as the Christmas travel rush is in full swing.
Now the two fatefully share a ride to the airport. When their five-star rated driver unexpectedly hits the brakes, everyone’s phones are sent flying. In all the confusion, Jonah and Harper accidentally end up with each other’s phones. What ensues is hilarious!
Can you even imagine a total stranger going through your phone? Reading all your texts… Ogling at all your pictures. Yes, all of them.🙈. Eeks! Umm, Just a thought…Lock your phone everyone!!
When they finally re-connect to return the phones to their rightful owners, it’s a deep crush at first sight. And well, of course, they feel like they’ve known each other for years. No doubt, due in no small part from all that snooping into the other’s phones?🤔. And it certainly didn’t hurt that Jonah’s screen-saver was of his dog Truck. He’s got to be a good guy…right?💁🏻♀️
This was an extremely heart-warming and cute rom-com. And though almost every rom-com follows a formula, I must admit this one was highly predictable. But it was still entertaining and time well spent!
A weekend rom-com buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Elisha at Berkley Publishing
For all dog lovers!🐶
A sweet, warm, and fuzzy rom-com sure to put a big smile on your face. And very possibly, have you seriously considering adopting a rescue.😉
Harper and Jonah are two strangers, desperate to get out of town as the Christmas travel rush is in full swing.
Now the two fatefully share a ride to the airport. When their five-star rated driver unexpectedly hits the brakes, everyone’s phones are sent flying. In all the confusion, Jonah and Harper accidentally end up with each other’s phones. What ensues is hilarious!
Can you even imagine a total stranger going through your phone? Reading all your texts… Ogling at all your pictures. Yes, all of them.🙈. Eeks! Umm, Just a thought…Lock your phone everyone!!
When they finally re-connect to return the phones to their rightful owners, it’s a deep crush at first sight. And well, of course, they feel like they’ve known each other for years. No doubt, due in no small part from all that snooping into the other’s phones?🤔. And it certainly didn’t hurt that Jonah’s screen-saver was of his dog Truck. He’s got to be a good guy…right?💁🏻♀️
This was an extremely heart-warming and cute rom-com. And though almost every rom-com follows a formula, I must admit this one was highly predictable. But it was still entertaining and time well spent!
A weekend rom-com buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Elisha at Berkley Publishing
October 24, 2021
"It Started with a Dog" by Julia London is Book #2 in her 'Lucky Dog' series and once again, the dogs are adorable!
Harper Thompson is VP of Development with StreetSweets, Inc. and currently in charge of opening a Deja Brew Coffeehouse on South Congress Avenue, an up & coming neighborhood in Austin, TX. The plan to expand Deja Brew nationwide depends on the successful opening of this 'flagship' store. No pressure, right?
Jonah Rogers is on personal leave from his aerospace engineering job to lend support to his family's business. Lucky Star Coffee Shop is a South Congress Avenue business that has been in his family since the 1950's. Jonah's also discovered the business is failing. No stress here either!
Harper's and Jonah's paths keep crossing and connecting. First it's by accident when their phones are switched during a shared Lyft ride. Now it's completely purposeful! He's handsome, she's beautiful, with love of horror movies, fried food and dogs in common. The attraction is real!
Can an upscale coffeehouse coexist in the same neighborhood as a 1950's vintage coffee shop? Will Harper and Jonah's relationship survive their conflicting career paths? Will their rescue dogs Truck and Bob ever realize a HEA ending?
I read book #1 "You Lucky Dog" and liked it but didn't love it. I did want to give book #2 a try and I'm glad I did. This one has more depth of story and characters, a focused romance with main characters who care deeply about each other, tons of supportive family, no unnecessary drama and a lot more dogs! Oh, those dogs!
Both books in this series are standalone and this story has brief appearances of both main characters from Book #1. I enjoyed this story more than the first book and if there were to be a third book, I would read that one, too!
Warning: Beware of the very cute and adorable rescue dogs within this story! If you weren't a rescue dog owner or lover before reading this book, you will be afterwards!
3.5 stars rounded up for the doggies!
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley for a widget of this ARC through NetGalley. It has been my pleasure to give my honest and voluntary review.
Harper Thompson is VP of Development with StreetSweets, Inc. and currently in charge of opening a Deja Brew Coffeehouse on South Congress Avenue, an up & coming neighborhood in Austin, TX. The plan to expand Deja Brew nationwide depends on the successful opening of this 'flagship' store. No pressure, right?
Jonah Rogers is on personal leave from his aerospace engineering job to lend support to his family's business. Lucky Star Coffee Shop is a South Congress Avenue business that has been in his family since the 1950's. Jonah's also discovered the business is failing. No stress here either!
Harper's and Jonah's paths keep crossing and connecting. First it's by accident when their phones are switched during a shared Lyft ride. Now it's completely purposeful! He's handsome, she's beautiful, with love of horror movies, fried food and dogs in common. The attraction is real!
Can an upscale coffeehouse coexist in the same neighborhood as a 1950's vintage coffee shop? Will Harper and Jonah's relationship survive their conflicting career paths? Will their rescue dogs Truck and Bob ever realize a HEA ending?
I read book #1 "You Lucky Dog" and liked it but didn't love it. I did want to give book #2 a try and I'm glad I did. This one has more depth of story and characters, a focused romance with main characters who care deeply about each other, tons of supportive family, no unnecessary drama and a lot more dogs! Oh, those dogs!
Both books in this series are standalone and this story has brief appearances of both main characters from Book #1. I enjoyed this story more than the first book and if there were to be a third book, I would read that one, too!
Warning: Beware of the very cute and adorable rescue dogs within this story! If you weren't a rescue dog owner or lover before reading this book, you will be afterwards!
3.5 stars rounded up for the doggies!
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley for a widget of this ARC through NetGalley. It has been my pleasure to give my honest and voluntary review.
October 14, 2021
It Started with a Dog by Julia London
Book 2 of the Lucky Dog series. Contemporary romantic comedy.
On the way out of town for the holidays, Harper and Jonah accidentally switch phones. They end up forwarding messages back and forth and learning about each other’s lives. A little bit of flirting and the exchange leads to dating and lots of commonalities.
More personable dogs make this story a romping good time. From a dog that does not like anyone, to a puppy that’s simply adorable and a charity event benefiting a shelter, it’s a dog gone good time.
Family problems, job issues, and competition add in a lot of depth and confusion for the people in the story so there is a lot more going on than just the cute pups.
I really liked the resolution of the issues and problems. Plus the epilogue was romantic and wonderful.
4.5
Book 2 of the Lucky Dog series. Contemporary romantic comedy.
On the way out of town for the holidays, Harper and Jonah accidentally switch phones. They end up forwarding messages back and forth and learning about each other’s lives. A little bit of flirting and the exchange leads to dating and lots of commonalities.
More personable dogs make this story a romping good time. From a dog that does not like anyone, to a puppy that’s simply adorable and a charity event benefiting a shelter, it’s a dog gone good time.
Family problems, job issues, and competition add in a lot of depth and confusion for the people in the story so there is a lot more going on than just the cute pups.
I really liked the resolution of the issues and problems. Plus the epilogue was romantic and wonderful.
4.5
September 27, 2021
Review posted to blog: books-are-a-girls-best-friend.com
Seriously Cute, though a Tad Predictable.
A Ridiculous Lyft Share Ends with an Inadvertent Phone Swap and a Meet Cute.
If only life worked out this way, for real! Ha.
When Harper Thompson and Jonah Rodgers inadvertently swap phones during a wild Lyft share, they of course start swapping text messages. The fact that they are both cute, single, and live in the same city is a bonus!
Nothing could tear these two apart, except, of course, their career aspirations.
Love, of course, prevails!
If you’re a dog lover, this book is definitely for you! If you don’t have an animal in your life, watch out as this book is going to make you want to rescue one asap!
A cute weekend buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley for the arc.
Seriously Cute, though a Tad Predictable.
A Ridiculous Lyft Share Ends with an Inadvertent Phone Swap and a Meet Cute.
If only life worked out this way, for real! Ha.
When Harper Thompson and Jonah Rodgers inadvertently swap phones during a wild Lyft share, they of course start swapping text messages. The fact that they are both cute, single, and live in the same city is a bonus!
Nothing could tear these two apart, except, of course, their career aspirations.
Love, of course, prevails!
If you’re a dog lover, this book is definitely for you! If you don’t have an animal in your life, watch out as this book is going to make you want to rescue one asap!
A cute weekend buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley for the arc.
November 13, 2022
the setup…
It’s Christmas Eve and Harper Thompson is desperately trying to get to the megabus that will take her to her parents home in Houston for the holidays. It’s pouring down rain in Austin and she’s smushed into a crowded Lyft van driven by Amal who is direction challenged. The man next to her, Jonah Rogers, is equally uncomfortable and trying to make his flight to Chicago for the holidays. As they both take out their phones to help the hapless driver with directions, his sudden stop causes them to drop them and accidentally mix them up. Unfortunately, they don’t figure this out until they reach their destinations but luckily neither has a security code and they are able to communicate with each other. What ensues is kismet.
the heart of the story…
I loved how the relationship between Harper and Jonah grew, almost organically by phone initially. They shared a similar sense of quirky humor and what had her be open to a phone dialogue was the lock screen photo of Jonah’s dog Truck. Their texting was highly entertaining and you could just feel the growing attraction. Of course, they had to eventually meet up to exchange phones back in Austin and the magic just continued as Harper regularly visited an animal shelter to walk a curmudgeon bulldog named Bob, just another thing she could share with Jonah as he brought Truck along. Everything about them was fun, interesting and fresh. What could go wrong? Well, she’s a business entrepreneur working for an odd duck and her project is Deja Brew, the new coffeehouse being built across the street from Jonah’s family’s coffee shop. He’s taken a sabbatical from his job as an aerospace engineer to try to help save the family business. By the time they figure this out, though, they’re strongly entwined emotionally.
the narration…
It’s not often you come across a narrator who is equally skilled at creating voices for both genders and Patterson has that gift. She’s also a great storyteller and paced this one perfectly. I was highly impressed!
the bottom line…
I was hoping the pooches would have prominent roles here and they absolutely do! Between a delightful romance, adorable dogs (Truck, Bob, Lulu…great names!) and an assortment of unusual secondary characters, this turned out to be one of the best listening experiences. I enjoyed the conflicts as well since Harper and Jonah didn’t bring a lot of angst and silly responses to them. It’s a mature relationship between two talented people who were determined not to lose each other. Hated for this one to end.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Tantor Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
It’s Christmas Eve and Harper Thompson is desperately trying to get to the megabus that will take her to her parents home in Houston for the holidays. It’s pouring down rain in Austin and she’s smushed into a crowded Lyft van driven by Amal who is direction challenged. The man next to her, Jonah Rogers, is equally uncomfortable and trying to make his flight to Chicago for the holidays. As they both take out their phones to help the hapless driver with directions, his sudden stop causes them to drop them and accidentally mix them up. Unfortunately, they don’t figure this out until they reach their destinations but luckily neither has a security code and they are able to communicate with each other. What ensues is kismet.
the heart of the story…
I loved how the relationship between Harper and Jonah grew, almost organically by phone initially. They shared a similar sense of quirky humor and what had her be open to a phone dialogue was the lock screen photo of Jonah’s dog Truck. Their texting was highly entertaining and you could just feel the growing attraction. Of course, they had to eventually meet up to exchange phones back in Austin and the magic just continued as Harper regularly visited an animal shelter to walk a curmudgeon bulldog named Bob, just another thing she could share with Jonah as he brought Truck along. Everything about them was fun, interesting and fresh. What could go wrong? Well, she’s a business entrepreneur working for an odd duck and her project is Deja Brew, the new coffeehouse being built across the street from Jonah’s family’s coffee shop. He’s taken a sabbatical from his job as an aerospace engineer to try to help save the family business. By the time they figure this out, though, they’re strongly entwined emotionally.
the narration…
It’s not often you come across a narrator who is equally skilled at creating voices for both genders and Patterson has that gift. She’s also a great storyteller and paced this one perfectly. I was highly impressed!
the bottom line…
I was hoping the pooches would have prominent roles here and they absolutely do! Between a delightful romance, adorable dogs (Truck, Bob, Lulu…great names!) and an assortment of unusual secondary characters, this turned out to be one of the best listening experiences. I enjoyed the conflicts as well since Harper and Jonah didn’t bring a lot of angst and silly responses to them. It’s a mature relationship between two talented people who were determined not to lose each other. Hated for this one to end.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Tantor Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
August 11, 2022
In this sequel to YOU LUCKY DOG where two Bassett hounds were swapped and their owners had to get their rightful dogs back (and fall in love in the process), Harper is at the top of her game in the business world, promoting and launching restaurants in Austin, Texas. She’s about to open Deja Brew, a hip new coffee house. She accidentally swaps phones with Jonah, an aerospace engineer whose parents own a struggling coffee shop across the street from Deja Brew. Neither of them know this. As the chemistry sizzles and they have a few dates with two grumpy but adorable dogs, it’s hard not to like this pair. And wonder how things can work out given the competing coffee shops. This had a fun Austin vibe and lots of doggie cuteness.
August 25, 2025
Three and a half stars.
Harper Thompson has worked hard to secure a promotion from her boss Soren. It depends on the launch of the ultra-modern Deja Brew coffee house opening all going well and according to plan Harper is sure she has everything covered. Then she meets up with Jonah Rogers and in a comedy of errors they mix up their hones, There is no way to remedy the situation as they are both off to other places for Christmas. This results in some amusing texts as they get to know each other through the messages that come in.
When they meet up after Christmas to reclaim their own phones, there is an instant attraction that results in them spending a lot of time together, some of it walking dogs. Jonah’s screen saver is of his dog Truck, a large rambunctious but adorable canine. Harper volunteers each week to walk Bob. Bob is a cantankerous bulldog who doesn't like to be petted. He seems to barely tolerate even Harper. Yet Harper is always drawn back to him.
Harper and Jonah form an intimate relationship, they have so much in common and like the same things. Unfortunately, things hit a major snag. Jonah who is an
engineer is currently on leave from his job to help his family as his dad is battling cancer. Jonah steps up to try and save his family's hold ff shop from going out of business. When Jonah finds out Harper is behind the opening of the Deja Brew coffee house that could easily put his parents shop out of business, it affects their relationship as they seek to compete with each other. Is there room for both businesses in the neighbourhood? Can Harper and Jonahs relationship survive? Or will it be torn apart?
Harper and Jonah are good characters. Jonah in particular, as he puts his family’s needs before his own. There are also a couple more canine characters introduced and a King Mutt competition which adds to the fun and competition.
Soren, Harper’s boss is a pretentious twit who talks in linguistic riddles. Not going to quote him you have to read it to get an idea of the nonsense he spouts. Why she would even want to work for him was beyond me.
This was an enjoyable read as Harper and Jonah deal with family and other issues. How cute is the cover? This book would be a prime candidate to be made into a Hallmark movie. Light fun and entertaining. A little bit of the f word and blasphemy but not overdone.
This is book 2 in a Lucky Dog series. It is not necessary to have read book 1 as stands alone fine
Harper Thompson has worked hard to secure a promotion from her boss Soren. It depends on the launch of the ultra-modern Deja Brew coffee house opening all going well and according to plan Harper is sure she has everything covered. Then she meets up with Jonah Rogers and in a comedy of errors they mix up their hones, There is no way to remedy the situation as they are both off to other places for Christmas. This results in some amusing texts as they get to know each other through the messages that come in.
When they meet up after Christmas to reclaim their own phones, there is an instant attraction that results in them spending a lot of time together, some of it walking dogs. Jonah’s screen saver is of his dog Truck, a large rambunctious but adorable canine. Harper volunteers each week to walk Bob. Bob is a cantankerous bulldog who doesn't like to be petted. He seems to barely tolerate even Harper. Yet Harper is always drawn back to him.
Harper and Jonah form an intimate relationship, they have so much in common and like the same things. Unfortunately, things hit a major snag. Jonah who is an
engineer is currently on leave from his job to help his family as his dad is battling cancer. Jonah steps up to try and save his family's hold ff shop from going out of business. When Jonah finds out Harper is behind the opening of the Deja Brew coffee house that could easily put his parents shop out of business, it affects their relationship as they seek to compete with each other. Is there room for both businesses in the neighbourhood? Can Harper and Jonahs relationship survive? Or will it be torn apart?
Harper and Jonah are good characters. Jonah in particular, as he puts his family’s needs before his own. There are also a couple more canine characters introduced and a King Mutt competition which adds to the fun and competition.
Soren, Harper’s boss is a pretentious twit who talks in linguistic riddles. Not going to quote him you have to read it to get an idea of the nonsense he spouts. Why she would even want to work for him was beyond me.
This was an enjoyable read as Harper and Jonah deal with family and other issues. How cute is the cover? This book would be a prime candidate to be made into a Hallmark movie. Light fun and entertaining. A little bit of the f word and blasphemy but not overdone.
This is book 2 in a Lucky Dog series. It is not necessary to have read book 1 as stands alone fine
Want to read
May 6, 2021I've only recently started to dip my toes in the rom-com waters and I've enjoyed what I've read so far.
This one features rescue dogs so how is a lady like myself to resist? 🤷♀️🐶
I simply can not. More rescue dogs, please!
This one features rescue dogs so how is a lady like myself to resist? 🤷♀️🐶
I simply can not. More rescue dogs, please!
December 20, 2021
Oh I am loving this book. This is my second read by Miss London. I am not a fan of dog as a pet. I am not a pet person. But the dogs in this book is just super cute. It Started with a Dog is a heart warming romance holiday story.
I love Miss London writing style connecting 2 lonely people together. With their funny friends, family and dogs. Jonah is my type of a guy. He is kind, patient, wise and so vulnerable. His love for Harper and his dad is really touching. I also love his supporting crazy family. I guess everyone has to have a crazy supporting family. Even though they do not see eye to eye sometimes.
I am loving this book. A wonderful read. A perfect book for holiday.
5 stars
I love Miss London writing style connecting 2 lonely people together. With their funny friends, family and dogs. Jonah is my type of a guy. He is kind, patient, wise and so vulnerable. His love for Harper and his dad is really touching. I also love his supporting crazy family. I guess everyone has to have a crazy supporting family. Even though they do not see eye to eye sometimes.
I am loving this book. A wonderful read. A perfect book for holiday.
5 stars
January 9, 2023
Kinda cute but also meh. And I don't get the title. I mean I get it, but I don't get it. It's not really ... I dunno.
December 22, 2021
I didn't love the first book, but this one sounded more promising, so I figured why not...
I liked Harper and Jonah well enough. They are both good people with decent chemistry, yet their personal and professional choices left a lot to be desired. I couldn't get over Harper's constant comments about her weight and I didn't understand how if money was an issue for Jonah's family coffee shop, why didn't he go back to his job because that's a serious salary. The dogs are fun (of course) and Jonah's family is a lot, but they're delightful.
Plot wise, it was weird. I'm sorry, but no matter how rushed/late/dead I am, there's no way I wouldn't recognize that I had someone else's phone. Maybe that's why I couldn't get into this one all the way. Also, I would have a real problem with someone using my phone for a week, but I digress. The story moved, but it constantly felt like nothing was happening and I just couldn't muster any excitement for details on lighting fixtures or the ingredients of a keto cupcake (of which there are many passages explaining both).
Overall, I honestly can't say why I kept reading this one after I skipped to the ending, but something had me...I did like how the ending and epilogue played out; however, this is another one I could have set down and left unfinished.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing a copy free of charge**
I liked Harper and Jonah well enough. They are both good people with decent chemistry, yet their personal and professional choices left a lot to be desired. I couldn't get over Harper's constant comments about her weight and I didn't understand how if money was an issue for Jonah's family coffee shop, why didn't he go back to his job because that's a serious salary. The dogs are fun (of course) and Jonah's family is a lot, but they're delightful.
Plot wise, it was weird. I'm sorry, but no matter how rushed/late/dead I am, there's no way I wouldn't recognize that I had someone else's phone. Maybe that's why I couldn't get into this one all the way. Also, I would have a real problem with someone using my phone for a week, but I digress. The story moved, but it constantly felt like nothing was happening and I just couldn't muster any excitement for details on lighting fixtures or the ingredients of a keto cupcake (of which there are many passages explaining both).
Overall, I honestly can't say why I kept reading this one after I skipped to the ending, but something had me...I did like how the ending and epilogue played out; however, this is another one I could have set down and left unfinished.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing a copy free of charge**
December 16, 2021
The second book in the Lucky Dog series was a hit.
This romantic comedy was a funny and romantic read.
Who can't use a light,feel good book right about now to curl up with and get lost in?
It all starts with a Lyft ride that's equivalent to being on a roller coaster from your worst nightmares that entails an accidental cellphone mixup. This cellphone mix up just may be a good thing though as it connects Harper and Jonah in their real life whirlwind of a romance. Now what romcom would be complete with out a coffee shop or two,a few adorable rescue dogs and some wonderful adoptions of them? Hilarious,fun read!
#ItStartedwithaDog #NetGalley
Pub Date 05 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This romantic comedy was a funny and romantic read.
Who can't use a light,feel good book right about now to curl up with and get lost in?
It all starts with a Lyft ride that's equivalent to being on a roller coaster from your worst nightmares that entails an accidental cellphone mixup. This cellphone mix up just may be a good thing though as it connects Harper and Jonah in their real life whirlwind of a romance. Now what romcom would be complete with out a coffee shop or two,a few adorable rescue dogs and some wonderful adoptions of them? Hilarious,fun read!
#ItStartedwithaDog #NetGalley
Pub Date 05 Oct 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 3, 2021
It Started With a dog
By Julia London
I loved YOU LUCKY DOG, the first installment of the series, so when I found out that book 2 IT STARTED WITH A DOG is available, I jumped on a chance to read another Julia London book.
In this installment, it's all about the battle of the brews. Harper is trying hard to launch a brand new and hip coffeehouse called Deja Brew with its success tied to a great promotion, while across the street is a family owned coffee shop, Lucky Star that Jonah Rogers is trying very hard to keep the doors open.
I love Jonah and Harper's chemistry - they were such a great match until they find out that they are each others' competition. I love the pups and the how the local businesses were fostering dogs from the local rescue shelter.
The writing is amazing and I love every bit of it. It is charming, heartfelt, super sweet and oh so fun! I love the texts, their incessant banter, and how they just fit together. This was a charming read i really enjoyed!
Lucky Dog 2 is a winner. I hope to read more in the series.
By Julia London
I loved YOU LUCKY DOG, the first installment of the series, so when I found out that book 2 IT STARTED WITH A DOG is available, I jumped on a chance to read another Julia London book.
In this installment, it's all about the battle of the brews. Harper is trying hard to launch a brand new and hip coffeehouse called Deja Brew with its success tied to a great promotion, while across the street is a family owned coffee shop, Lucky Star that Jonah Rogers is trying very hard to keep the doors open.
I love Jonah and Harper's chemistry - they were such a great match until they find out that they are each others' competition. I love the pups and the how the local businesses were fostering dogs from the local rescue shelter.
The writing is amazing and I love every bit of it. It is charming, heartfelt, super sweet and oh so fun! I love the texts, their incessant banter, and how they just fit together. This was a charming read i really enjoyed!
Lucky Dog 2 is a winner. I hope to read more in the series.
July 14, 2021
(free review copy) “There are never enough dogs, baby.” Hot damn, that is my LOVE LANGUAGE. This is the second book in the loosely connected Lucky Dog series and I loved this one even more than the first. Rival coffee shops, Austin TX, an adorable couple, an original meet cute and dogs dogs dogs! There was only one plot point that annoyed me but it resolved the way I wanted it to, so all is well. I can’t wait to see what canine-adjacent love stories London writes next!
October 27, 2021
Sorry but this book was so disappointing. There was nothing wrong with it aside for the fact that it was super boring. Our couple got together fairly early on and bamn that was it. They had a couple of conflicts but... Hea basically.
October 4, 2021
This was a straight up love story, with likable characters, some fun animals, several rounds of hot sex but not much plot. The premise was intriguing, but the story got bogged down a bit in details.
Jonah and Harper meet when they accidently switch phones during a hair-raising Lyft ride. They don’t discover the mistake until they are at their destinations-half a country away. They start texting on each other’s phones and Harper is intrigued by Jonah-and his dog, Truck. Jonah, in turn, feels a connection with Harper he can’t explain.
It’s not they return to Austin and meet in person that they discover that Harper is opening an upscale coffee boutique across the street from the family coffee house Jonah is trying to save. But Jonah isn’t cut out for the marketing needed to turn the shop around-he’s an aerospace engineer and has been offered a huge promotion that will take him to Paris for six months. But his father’s cancer means Jonah is needed at home.
Can Jonah and Harper Actually have a relationship when circumstances seem destined to keep them apart? Both Jonah and Harper were sympathetic characters. The reader feels the pull between them, and roots for their happily ever after. But whether or not they can overcome their circumstances is the only mystery in the book.
It was great that the book was set in Austin-I knew the street names and areas mentioned. Overall, a good read but not a great one.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Jonah and Harper meet when they accidently switch phones during a hair-raising Lyft ride. They don’t discover the mistake until they are at their destinations-half a country away. They start texting on each other’s phones and Harper is intrigued by Jonah-and his dog, Truck. Jonah, in turn, feels a connection with Harper he can’t explain.
It’s not they return to Austin and meet in person that they discover that Harper is opening an upscale coffee boutique across the street from the family coffee house Jonah is trying to save. But Jonah isn’t cut out for the marketing needed to turn the shop around-he’s an aerospace engineer and has been offered a huge promotion that will take him to Paris for six months. But his father’s cancer means Jonah is needed at home.
Can Jonah and Harper Actually have a relationship when circumstances seem destined to keep them apart? Both Jonah and Harper were sympathetic characters. The reader feels the pull between them, and roots for their happily ever after. But whether or not they can overcome their circumstances is the only mystery in the book.
It was great that the book was set in Austin-I knew the street names and areas mentioned. Overall, a good read but not a great one.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
November 17, 2021
I pick this up because dogs and look like easy-going rom-com. However execution was flat for me.
October 5, 2021
3.5
This was a fun romance set in Austin Texas around the holidays between two rival coffee house managers who are also competing in a King Mutt competition with two adorable rescue dogs.
Read this if you enjoy:
- friendly rivalries
- family businesses
- cute canine sidekicks
-Hallmark holiday love stories with a little bit of steam
This was a fun romance set in Austin Texas around the holidays between two rival coffee house managers who are also competing in a King Mutt competition with two adorable rescue dogs.
Read this if you enjoy:
- friendly rivalries
- family businesses
- cute canine sidekicks
-Hallmark holiday love stories with a little bit of steam
July 22, 2022
3.75 Rescue dogs and coffee…need I say more? Rated for what it is - a cute, easy read.
October 27, 2021
Dogs and coffee! Two of my very favorite things! Great character descriptions and dialogue. I felt like I was in this story and knew all of the people. I even enjoyed the business talk and marketing strategies discussed and implemented. Laughed at the flirtations and fun involved in the phone exchanges and the developing relationship with its own sets of issues. Loved the King Mutt competition! I really like how the author highlighted misfit dogs bringing such joy to people's lives. The dog components of the book make it worth reading because if you have ever loved and lived with a dog, you'll connect to this story.
And no worries to those who are sensitive and very cautious about books with dogs (as am I!) ~ no dogs die in this book. Read with carefree abandon and enjoy this very dog friendly book!
And no worries to those who are sensitive and very cautious about books with dogs (as am I!) ~ no dogs die in this book. Read with carefree abandon and enjoy this very dog friendly book!
October 18, 2021
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
It has been a long time since I’ve read a book written by Julia London, so it’s actually my first time reading a Contemporary novel from her. I was intrigued about this book because of the dog aspect of it, but I found that this book also had a light Christmas vibe to it as well.
This book very much felt like a chick flick to me with the accidental phone swap and the banter. It’s a light read for me, so I enjoyed it. But didn’t feel like the characters stayed with me for long. But since this is my first book from London in a while, I am still very curious about the next book in the series. I know that I’ll be eagerly anticipating the book when it comes out!
It has been a long time since I’ve read a book written by Julia London, so it’s actually my first time reading a Contemporary novel from her. I was intrigued about this book because of the dog aspect of it, but I found that this book also had a light Christmas vibe to it as well.
This book very much felt like a chick flick to me with the accidental phone swap and the banter. It’s a light read for me, so I enjoyed it. But didn’t feel like the characters stayed with me for long. But since this is my first book from London in a while, I am still very curious about the next book in the series. I know that I’ll be eagerly anticipating the book when it comes out!
September 23, 2024
I DNF this book. I was so hopeful since it started out so cute with a Christmas setting, but I just couldn’t keep going after I was about 50 percent through. There’s no specific reason, just wasn’t for me.
September 27, 2021
It Started with a Dog by Julia London is the 2nd book in her fun and charming Lucky Dog series. We meet our heroine, Harper Thompson, and our hero, Jonah Rogers as they shared a cab together, with each traveling during the holidays. Jonah notices when he is on a plane for business close to Christmas that he has a different phone. He then realizes that when in the cab, things fell, and the other women (Harper) picked up the wrong phone. They begin to text each other, but Jonah will not be back until after the holidays, and they each have to deal with using the others phone. This leads to them sending hilarious texts received from others, and it was a laugh a minute watching them begin to bond. Both are determined to meet each other after the holiday, but most important, Harper loved the dog on Jonah’s phone screensaver.
Harper is in Austin, TX, launching a new coffeehouse, Deja Brew, and determined to make it the best one yet, as she is hoping for a promotion, but her boss and his new assistant make things difficult for her, which causes her to worry about the promotion.
Jonas is an engineer, who has taken a leave of absence to help his sick father run the Lucky Star coffee shop. When Harper and Jonas finally meet, neither knows that the new Deja Brew (which Harper is handling) is competition for the old fashion Lucky Star, which could put Jonas’s family out of business.
In a short time, their relationship heats up, as they have amazing chemistry together, not to mention that Harper loves Jonas’s big dog, Truck, who is wild and adorable. Even when they learn about their competitive coffee shops, both Harper and Jonas continue their relationship, as they are falling hard for each other. Harper gives Jonas tips about fixing up the old coffee house with some of her contacts, she also gets to meet his family, who are a fun group, and she has a homey feeling when around them. But she is still determined to make Deja Brew a great place, with high class and amazing features. The competition between coffee houses will include a dog contest ‘King Mutt’.
What follows is a heartwarming fun romantic romp, with a great couple, wonderful characters, and I absolutely loved the dogs. London has a way to bring wonderful romances and add fantastic dogs. I loved Jonah and Harper, as they were very steamy together. Jonah’s family and Harper’s friend Olive were lots of fun. Most of all I loved the dogs, who were adorable; Truck (Jonas dog), Bob, a grumpy bulldog (that Harper will adopt), and three legged Lulu (part of Lucky star).
It Started with a Dog was so very well written by Julia London. This was a fun cute story, with a fantastic group of characters and adorable dogs. What happens in the competition? You need to read the book to find out. I really enjoyed reading It Started With a Dog, and suggest you read this book.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Harper is in Austin, TX, launching a new coffeehouse, Deja Brew, and determined to make it the best one yet, as she is hoping for a promotion, but her boss and his new assistant make things difficult for her, which causes her to worry about the promotion.
Jonas is an engineer, who has taken a leave of absence to help his sick father run the Lucky Star coffee shop. When Harper and Jonas finally meet, neither knows that the new Deja Brew (which Harper is handling) is competition for the old fashion Lucky Star, which could put Jonas’s family out of business.
In a short time, their relationship heats up, as they have amazing chemistry together, not to mention that Harper loves Jonas’s big dog, Truck, who is wild and adorable. Even when they learn about their competitive coffee shops, both Harper and Jonas continue their relationship, as they are falling hard for each other. Harper gives Jonas tips about fixing up the old coffee house with some of her contacts, she also gets to meet his family, who are a fun group, and she has a homey feeling when around them. But she is still determined to make Deja Brew a great place, with high class and amazing features. The competition between coffee houses will include a dog contest ‘King Mutt’.
What follows is a heartwarming fun romantic romp, with a great couple, wonderful characters, and I absolutely loved the dogs. London has a way to bring wonderful romances and add fantastic dogs. I loved Jonah and Harper, as they were very steamy together. Jonah’s family and Harper’s friend Olive were lots of fun. Most of all I loved the dogs, who were adorable; Truck (Jonas dog), Bob, a grumpy bulldog (that Harper will adopt), and three legged Lulu (part of Lucky star).
It Started with a Dog was so very well written by Julia London. This was a fun cute story, with a fantastic group of characters and adorable dogs. What happens in the competition? You need to read the book to find out. I really enjoyed reading It Started With a Dog, and suggest you read this book.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
October 11, 2021
It Started with a Dog is the second book in Julia London’s charming Lucky Dog series. It follows Harper Thompson, a young woman trying to work her way up the corporate ladder at her job. She is currently vying for a promotion and her boss has given her the major task of opening a flagship coffee shop for their Déjà Brew brand, including promoting it and making all the arrangements for the shop’s grand opening. While she has no time at all for romance, an accidental swapping of cell phones during a Lyft ride from hell leads her to meet Jonah Rogers, a scientist at NASA who is on sabbatical to help his family with their struggling business while his dad recovers from cancer. As they make arrangements to meet up and swap phones back once Jonah is back in town, Harper and Jonah really hit it off and engage in a series of flirty texts all week. Harper is already obsessed with Truck, the enormous dog Jonah has as his phone’s wallpaper, and can’t wait to meet Truck and his owner.
Once Hannah and Jonah finally meet in person, the sparks really fly as it becomes clear they have major chemistry and a shared love of dogs. They start dating, including a date where they go to a shelter and walk dogs. It’s all sweet and they’re so happy getting to know one another, until a major obstacle appears before them – the Déjà Brew shop that Harper is helping to launch is directly across the street from Jonah’s family business, a mom and pop coffee shop called The Lucky Star. Can their fledging new relationship survive the strain of being rivals?
I adored both Harper and Jonah. Harper is so fierce and determined to land that promotion. I really loved her attitude and her spunk. I loved Jonah too, especially because of the sacrifices he’s willing to make to try to help his family, including passing up an opportunity of a lifetime at his job. My heart broke for both Harper and Jonah when they realized they were rivals and that Harper could actually be the one to cause The Lucky Star to go under and devastate Jonah’s family. I was so invested in them and just really wanted them to find a solution that worked for everyone. The wondering what would happen added a nice layer of suspense to keep me turning the pages. If you like a little drama to balance out your romance, this element of the story should do the trick for you.
I’m enjoying Julia London’s Lucky Dog series so much. I’m a sucker for a book that features dogs anyway, and with this series, I think I have a new favorite romantic trope – dogs serving as the catalyst to bring couples together.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Once Hannah and Jonah finally meet in person, the sparks really fly as it becomes clear they have major chemistry and a shared love of dogs. They start dating, including a date where they go to a shelter and walk dogs. It’s all sweet and they’re so happy getting to know one another, until a major obstacle appears before them – the Déjà Brew shop that Harper is helping to launch is directly across the street from Jonah’s family business, a mom and pop coffee shop called The Lucky Star. Can their fledging new relationship survive the strain of being rivals?
I adored both Harper and Jonah. Harper is so fierce and determined to land that promotion. I really loved her attitude and her spunk. I loved Jonah too, especially because of the sacrifices he’s willing to make to try to help his family, including passing up an opportunity of a lifetime at his job. My heart broke for both Harper and Jonah when they realized they were rivals and that Harper could actually be the one to cause The Lucky Star to go under and devastate Jonah’s family. I was so invested in them and just really wanted them to find a solution that worked for everyone. The wondering what would happen added a nice layer of suspense to keep me turning the pages. If you like a little drama to balance out your romance, this element of the story should do the trick for you.
I’m enjoying Julia London’s Lucky Dog series so much. I’m a sucker for a book that features dogs anyway, and with this series, I think I have a new favorite romantic trope – dogs serving as the catalyst to bring couples together.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2021
Ok you know what? I need more books that feature dogs. Wild and happy dogs, grumpy dogs, scared dogs with three legs, all of the dogs!
Outside of the doggy aspect of the story, I really enjoyed this book! Harper is intense and focused and driven to the exclusion of almost everything else. Her parents have never really been there for her, so she learned to be task oriented at a young age and that is almost her entire personality now.
Jonah is a lovely and thoughtful man who has taken a leave of absence from work to help take care of his parents coffee shop while his dad is recuperating from leukemia and the treatments associated with it. Unfortunately, the shop is not doing well and it makes more sense to sell than to continue losing money.
When Harper and Jonah accidentally switch phones, the chemistry is fabulous. But when he learns that she is in charge of opening the fancy coffeehouse across the way that could put the family shop out of business permanently, can those sparks stay strong?
I loved watching the growth of these two characters and also the love of Jonah’s family. Harpers family made me mad, but at least she has a best friend who cares for her and ensures she’s not going to be murdered by a serial killer!
Outside of the doggy aspect of the story, I really enjoyed this book! Harper is intense and focused and driven to the exclusion of almost everything else. Her parents have never really been there for her, so she learned to be task oriented at a young age and that is almost her entire personality now.
Jonah is a lovely and thoughtful man who has taken a leave of absence from work to help take care of his parents coffee shop while his dad is recuperating from leukemia and the treatments associated with it. Unfortunately, the shop is not doing well and it makes more sense to sell than to continue losing money.
When Harper and Jonah accidentally switch phones, the chemistry is fabulous. But when he learns that she is in charge of opening the fancy coffeehouse across the way that could put the family shop out of business permanently, can those sparks stay strong?
I loved watching the growth of these two characters and also the love of Jonah’s family. Harpers family made me mad, but at least she has a best friend who cares for her and ensures she’s not going to be murdered by a serial killer!
January 14, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! I admit that I had a few false
starts with it, but started over fresh this morning and just didn’t want to stop! This made me a bit homesick for Austin and the coffee biz, too :) 4.5!
starts with it, but started over fresh this morning and just didn’t want to stop! This made me a bit homesick for Austin and the coffee biz, too :) 4.5!
October 14, 2021
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
If you mixed the movies 'You've Got Mail' with 'Must Love Dogs', It started With A Dog would be its baby.
This was a cute at times, but man oh man were the characters (besides the dogs) frustrating. I was fine as i was reading it, but the more I thought about it after the fact, the more I was scratching my head at them
One who doesn't mind throwing a mum and dad business under the bus to get what she wants in the world. One who leaves a job he loves to help his family who a) take advantage of his good heart and b) don't listen to a thing he says to help them. Walk away dude, walk away.
And then there is our leading lady's boss who I just wanted to throw my reader at his head. A horrible man who treats his staff so direspectfully ugh
Gah, I could go on. I am sure most people won't have these problems, but even now, days later as I write the review, they are bugging me.
I did like some somethings, but overall it was all a big meh to me.
But don't let this stop you from reading, these are my issues only
If you mixed the movies 'You've Got Mail' with 'Must Love Dogs', It started With A Dog would be its baby.
This was a cute at times, but man oh man were the characters (besides the dogs) frustrating. I was fine as i was reading it, but the more I thought about it after the fact, the more I was scratching my head at them
One who doesn't mind throwing a mum and dad business under the bus to get what she wants in the world. One who leaves a job he loves to help his family who a) take advantage of his good heart and b) don't listen to a thing he says to help them. Walk away dude, walk away.
And then there is our leading lady's boss who I just wanted to throw my reader at his head. A horrible man who treats his staff so direspectfully ugh
Gah, I could go on. I am sure most people won't have these problems, but even now, days later as I write the review, they are bugging me.
I did like some somethings, but overall it was all a big meh to me.
But don't let this stop you from reading, these are my issues only
November 6, 2022
i usually don’t dnf and rate books after but this one deserves the rating. the plot to this book sounded so cute and i love dogs and holidays so i gave it a try. for some reason i don’t know why the author and everyone else who would’ve read this book before it was published thought it was ok to leave this very unnecessary and insensitive joke in it. also im going to clarify that i am not sensitive to jokes usually but ones like this really irk me especially when the joke relates to peoples health and very negative misconceptions.
anyways here’s the scene from the book:
«When did the vegan, no-dairy, no-sugar craze become a thing
Amy asked, scowling at the brownie with the bright green top.
"Around the time diabetes became a thing.
She snorted, then took a bite of the brownie. She chewed a
ment, and her eyes opened wide inside her large-framed red gl
dotted with turquoise-colored crystals
"It's good."
im sorry, when did diabetes become a thing?????? do you know what diabetes is???? did you do any research julia london????? what the hell. it was so out of place and unnecessary i cant even begin to describe how much this boils my blood when people make these stupid out of place jokes about diabetes. you probably wouldn’t do the same to other chronic illnesses but since it’s diabetes it’s ok????
also this book wasn’t even entertaining or good before this joke so i’ll be thankful that it did have this poorly timed joke in here so i could save my time and not finish the rest of it.
rant over xoxo
anyways here’s the scene from the book:
«When did the vegan, no-dairy, no-sugar craze become a thing
Amy asked, scowling at the brownie with the bright green top.
"Around the time diabetes became a thing.
She snorted, then took a bite of the brownie. She chewed a
ment, and her eyes opened wide inside her large-framed red gl
dotted with turquoise-colored crystals
"It's good."
im sorry, when did diabetes become a thing?????? do you know what diabetes is???? did you do any research julia london????? what the hell. it was so out of place and unnecessary i cant even begin to describe how much this boils my blood when people make these stupid out of place jokes about diabetes. you probably wouldn’t do the same to other chronic illnesses but since it’s diabetes it’s ok????
also this book wasn’t even entertaining or good before this joke so i’ll be thankful that it did have this poorly timed joke in here so i could save my time and not finish the rest of it.
rant over xoxo
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