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Forever Comes in Threes
Efficiency expert Perry Chandler lives what she preaches on her internationally popular podcast. She wakes at exactly the same time to begin her precisely scheduled day with no wasted minutes. Perry’s entire life is planned in advance, which is exactly how she likes it. How else do you get anything done?
Holistic, naturopathic physician Ming Lee greets every sunrise with arms outstretched as she opens herself to the earth’s slow, steady rhythm. Millions follow her podcast on how to live a healthier life by refusing to get caught up in the idea you must hustle to be successful. After all, what’s the point of life if you don’t enjoy it?
Perry and Ming are both sure they hold the key to success until the attraction sizzling between them, and the three rambunctious mutts they’re unexpectedly responsible for, teach them lessons in life and love that they never imagined.
Holistic, naturopathic physician Ming Lee greets every sunrise with arms outstretched as she opens herself to the earth’s slow, steady rhythm. Millions follow her podcast on how to live a healthier life by refusing to get caught up in the idea you must hustle to be successful. After all, what’s the point of life if you don’t enjoy it?
Perry and Ming are both sure they hold the key to success until the attraction sizzling between them, and the three rambunctious mutts they’re unexpectedly responsible for, teach them lessons in life and love that they never imagined.
240 pages, Paperback
First published June 14, 2022
About the author
D. Jackson Leigh
26 books210 followersD. Jackson Leigh grew up barefoot and happy, swimming in farm ponds and riding rude ponies in rural south Georgia. Her love of reading was nurtured early on by her grandmother, an English teacher who patiently taught her to work New York Times crossword puzzles in the daily paper, and by her mother who stretched the slim family budget to bring home grocery store copies of Trixie Belden mysteries and Bobbsey Twins adventures that Jackson would sit up all night reading.
It was her passion for writing led her quite accidentally to a career in journalism and, ultimately, North Carolina where she lives with her small pack of three terror, uh, terriers.
It was her passion for writing led her quite accidentally to a career in journalism and, ultimately, North Carolina where she lives with her small pack of three terror, uh, terriers.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 7, 2022
Forever Comes in Threes by D. Jackson Leigh is a romance that will tug at your heartstrings for several reasons. Three of them have four paws, waggely (it’s a word at our house!) tails, eyes that will melt your heart and furry bodies full of love. The human characters in the story, especially the main characters, Perry Chandler and Dr. Ming Lee, are pretty spectacular as well.
Perry is an efficiency expert with not only a thriving corporate business, she is also internationally known for a podcast she does on making every moment in life more efficient. She lives what she preaches as well, with every second of her day planned out. That is, until she suddenly finds herself fostering three rescue dogs. Molly, JT, and Tucker are adorable, but they’re all energetic, have special needs and their ages make it hard to find forever homes for them. When Perry calls a number she is given for help with the dogs, she meets Ming. Ming not only helps with rescue animals, she is also a medical doctor as well as a holistic naturopathic physician. Ming also runs a popular podcast on how to have a healthier life that is in direct competition with Perry’s podcast.
This is obviously a character driven tale which is my favorite kind and the characters in this story, both human and animal grabbed me by the heart the moment I met them. The story captivated me from the first page to the last. This book had me laughing out loud at the antics of these furry babies and shedding tears for the angst that happens in the story. Perry and Ming’s love story is equally emotional and heart-melting.
I almost didn’t ask for this book because just a month or so ago we lost our furry rescue son Harley who crossed the Rainbow Bridge unexpectedly, and I wondered how I would handle reading a book that had three rescue dogs as fairly main characters. I’m happy to say this book actually helped, especially reading the HEA they all have in the tale. I recommend this novel to all lovers of animals as well as those who love romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Perry is an efficiency expert with not only a thriving corporate business, she is also internationally known for a podcast she does on making every moment in life more efficient. She lives what she preaches as well, with every second of her day planned out. That is, until she suddenly finds herself fostering three rescue dogs. Molly, JT, and Tucker are adorable, but they’re all energetic, have special needs and their ages make it hard to find forever homes for them. When Perry calls a number she is given for help with the dogs, she meets Ming. Ming not only helps with rescue animals, she is also a medical doctor as well as a holistic naturopathic physician. Ming also runs a popular podcast on how to have a healthier life that is in direct competition with Perry’s podcast.
This is obviously a character driven tale which is my favorite kind and the characters in this story, both human and animal grabbed me by the heart the moment I met them. The story captivated me from the first page to the last. This book had me laughing out loud at the antics of these furry babies and shedding tears for the angst that happens in the story. Perry and Ming’s love story is equally emotional and heart-melting.
I almost didn’t ask for this book because just a month or so ago we lost our furry rescue son Harley who crossed the Rainbow Bridge unexpectedly, and I wondered how I would handle reading a book that had three rescue dogs as fairly main characters. I’m happy to say this book actually helped, especially reading the HEA they all have in the tale. I recommend this novel to all lovers of animals as well as those who love romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
May 20, 2022
Leigh has written a cute romance between two string willed characters. Perry Chandler is an efficiency expert and advises corporations on how to improve productivity. She has every minute of her own life on a schedule. She is very successful and also runs a podcast. One day her mother drops off three middle age mixed bred dogs on her doorstep for Perry to take care of. She has no idea what to do with them and contacts Dr. Ming Lee for help.
Ming is a medical doctor and naturopathic healer. Ming also has a podcast on holistic healing and life styles. Ming works as a pet rescue volunteer and helps Perry get set up to care for her inherited dogs. Ming is also trying to find foster homes for the dogs.
Best part about this book were the dogs and their bonding with the two MCs. Worst part was the very long sections of podcast dialogue.
This was a nice easy romance read with low angst. Enjoyable.
ARC received for a voluntary and honest review.
Ming is a medical doctor and naturopathic healer. Ming also has a podcast on holistic healing and life styles. Ming works as a pet rescue volunteer and helps Perry get set up to care for her inherited dogs. Ming is also trying to find foster homes for the dogs.
Best part about this book were the dogs and their bonding with the two MCs. Worst part was the very long sections of podcast dialogue.
This was a nice easy romance read with low angst. Enjoyable.
ARC received for a voluntary and honest review.
June 1, 2022
Forever comes in threes by D.Jackson Leigh is a very easy, laid back read. Very little angst and the new storyline which I've never come across before made me very eager to read this novel..
The characters are complete opposites which makes the storyline (for me) more appealing, to read how two very strong-willed individuals get to know each other and gain trust, which turns into romance.
Oh, oh... There are dogs too, which are (of course) the stars of the book!
I've given D. Jackson Leigh's Forever comes in threes a 3.4/5
The characters are complete opposites which makes the storyline (for me) more appealing, to read how two very strong-willed individuals get to know each other and gain trust, which turns into romance.
Oh, oh... There are dogs too, which are (of course) the stars of the book!
I've given D. Jackson Leigh's Forever comes in threes a 3.4/5
June 9, 2022
Perry meets Ming after her mother unexpectedly drops off three dogs for her to re-home. Ming volunteers at an animal rescue and is helping to find them a new home. The dogs ruin the strict order of Perry's life but after a while they grow on her as does Ming. Perry and Ming are also both hosts of popular podcasts that threaten their relationship.
This book was ok, but not great. I didn't feel like the two main characters spent any significant time together and the dog's characters felt more developed than Perry and Ming. The podcast rivalry was also a major plot line and with the opinions they tout there any friendship between them felt unlikely. I did like the plot, it was unique and the writing was good and I always love having dogs be part of a good book. This one just felt like it focuses too much on the dogs and the human relationship felt unlikely. Ming and Perry only seem to meet up three times before the events towards the end and have very short interactions in a couple of those. Perry's personality changes significantly after just a short time with the dogs and the changes feel unrealistic given her behavior in the first chapters and what she continues to say on her podcasts. Ming also makes some drastic changes herself that seem to be on a whim, there was an event that pushes some changes but it just felt like a complete 180 for her. I liked the idea behind the plot but the book just wasn't for me.
This book was ok, but not great. I didn't feel like the two main characters spent any significant time together and the dog's characters felt more developed than Perry and Ming. The podcast rivalry was also a major plot line and with the opinions they tout there any friendship between them felt unlikely. I did like the plot, it was unique and the writing was good and I always love having dogs be part of a good book. This one just felt like it focuses too much on the dogs and the human relationship felt unlikely. Ming and Perry only seem to meet up three times before the events towards the end and have very short interactions in a couple of those. Perry's personality changes significantly after just a short time with the dogs and the changes feel unrealistic given her behavior in the first chapters and what she continues to say on her podcasts. Ming also makes some drastic changes herself that seem to be on a whim, there was an event that pushes some changes but it just felt like a complete 180 for her. I liked the idea behind the plot but the book just wasn't for me.
May 22, 2022
Finding Balance
Perry is an efficiency expert who thrives on schedules and is a bit lost without them. She has a very successful podcast dedicated to streamlining your life and business. She is a very matter of fact person with some limitations on social skills… Ming is a holistic, naturopathic physician with a popular podcast of her own. She believes that there is so much more to life than work and finding peace in your world is very important. When Perry’s mom drops 3 dogs on her doorstep with instructions to call Ming for help, the two are drawn to each other but unlike Ming, Perry doesn’t know shes the one with the podcast that is calling her out...Her life is getting more and more out of control and when it gets back to normal, she realizes there might be more to life than work and time tables….
I hated this book…at first. It started slowly and Perry was really stiff and dull. However, this part was necessary to show who Perry is. You just have to keep in mind this is a romance and love will change her, you just have to be patient. I was SO glad I kept reading because this was such a sweet and cute story. It doesn’t take long before you warm up to Perry and come to like her a lot. She is so cute when she is thrown off her game!! Ming is much warmer, outgoing and laid back. She is also very shrewd. She isn’t mean however and when someone else’s lie ruins everything she has built with Perry and her pups, it broke my heart. I love how Ms Leigh writes and this book is just wonderful. It was sweet, tender, funny, heart breaking, beautiful and left me with a huge case of the warm fuzzies!!! I can’t wait to read it again!
Perry is an efficiency expert who thrives on schedules and is a bit lost without them. She has a very successful podcast dedicated to streamlining your life and business. She is a very matter of fact person with some limitations on social skills… Ming is a holistic, naturopathic physician with a popular podcast of her own. She believes that there is so much more to life than work and finding peace in your world is very important. When Perry’s mom drops 3 dogs on her doorstep with instructions to call Ming for help, the two are drawn to each other but unlike Ming, Perry doesn’t know shes the one with the podcast that is calling her out...Her life is getting more and more out of control and when it gets back to normal, she realizes there might be more to life than work and time tables….
I hated this book…at first. It started slowly and Perry was really stiff and dull. However, this part was necessary to show who Perry is. You just have to keep in mind this is a romance and love will change her, you just have to be patient. I was SO glad I kept reading because this was such a sweet and cute story. It doesn’t take long before you warm up to Perry and come to like her a lot. She is so cute when she is thrown off her game!! Ming is much warmer, outgoing and laid back. She is also very shrewd. She isn’t mean however and when someone else’s lie ruins everything she has built with Perry and her pups, it broke my heart. I love how Ms Leigh writes and this book is just wonderful. It was sweet, tender, funny, heart breaking, beautiful and left me with a huge case of the warm fuzzies!!! I can’t wait to read it again!
June 8, 2022
3.5 rounded up to 4.0
Perry Chandler runs her life on a minute-to-minute schedule and seldom deviates from the schedule. She’s even published books on how the rest of us can be as time efficient as she is, and she has a podcast on the subject as well. When her schedule is blown to smithereens and her life turned upside down by her mother delivering three senior dogs to her doorstep. Perry is beside herself. She immediately calls the number the previous owner provided for a rescue group. When Ming Lee, a physician, shows up at Perry’s front door, there is an immediate attraction (but romance is not on Perry’s schedule) to help get the dogs adopted. Ming too has a podcast that is in direct conflict with Perry’s podcast. What follows is unthinkable, Perry bonds with the dogs even when they throw a monkey wrench into her tightly wound schedule.
Leigh has given readers a fun well-written romance with a few twists and turns and three lovable mixed-breed mutts. The characters are interesting, and Perry will make many readers shudder at her insistence that everyone’s life should be like hers. Both women are strong-minded and likable especially when Perry begins bonding with the dogs.
Leigh would have been better off with an editor who insisted she cut out, or at least cut down on the details of Perry’s podcasts. Leigh has turned those podcasts into a preachy oversharing of information by giving her readers the details of several callers’ reactions to the day’s topic and interactions with other listeners. It won’t take some readers long to skip over those pages since they add absolutely nothing to the story. If Leigh had spent time developing her characters and ensuring that readers understood them better, this would have been a much better book.
If you’re a fan of Leigh’s books, you’ll undoubtedly love this book. If you’re new to her books, remember that you’re allowed to skip over those pages when nothing happens except for the author preaching at her readers.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
Perry Chandler runs her life on a minute-to-minute schedule and seldom deviates from the schedule. She’s even published books on how the rest of us can be as time efficient as she is, and she has a podcast on the subject as well. When her schedule is blown to smithereens and her life turned upside down by her mother delivering three senior dogs to her doorstep. Perry is beside herself. She immediately calls the number the previous owner provided for a rescue group. When Ming Lee, a physician, shows up at Perry’s front door, there is an immediate attraction (but romance is not on Perry’s schedule) to help get the dogs adopted. Ming too has a podcast that is in direct conflict with Perry’s podcast. What follows is unthinkable, Perry bonds with the dogs even when they throw a monkey wrench into her tightly wound schedule.
Leigh has given readers a fun well-written romance with a few twists and turns and three lovable mixed-breed mutts. The characters are interesting, and Perry will make many readers shudder at her insistence that everyone’s life should be like hers. Both women are strong-minded and likable especially when Perry begins bonding with the dogs.
Leigh would have been better off with an editor who insisted she cut out, or at least cut down on the details of Perry’s podcasts. Leigh has turned those podcasts into a preachy oversharing of information by giving her readers the details of several callers’ reactions to the day’s topic and interactions with other listeners. It won’t take some readers long to skip over those pages since they add absolutely nothing to the story. If Leigh had spent time developing her characters and ensuring that readers understood them better, this would have been a much better book.
If you’re a fan of Leigh’s books, you’ll undoubtedly love this book. If you’re new to her books, remember that you’re allowed to skip over those pages when nothing happens except for the author preaching at her readers.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
May 21, 2022
I’ve become a person who reads the acknowledgments and dedications and in this book it sets the tone for the story. Perry Chandler has two PhDs and is an efficiency expert and oversees teams that evaluate and streamline workflow for businesses. She has two successful books and runs a prominent podcast. Her mother drops off three dogs saying that they belonged to a friend of her has died and she is entrusting them to Perry to find them new homes. Perry calls a number for a person that helps locate foster homes and she meets Dr. Ming Lee. Ming is a medical doctor who also uses holistic and naturopathic methods. She also has a successful podcast. As Ming helps Perry adjust to dog attraction and friendship flair.
The dogs are adorable and I love their bonding journey. For me the podcasts were the least interesting part of the story. They are full of comments from the listeners but aren’t interacting with the main characters or helping us know more about Perry or Ming. It is filler. I would have much rather had more of Ming’s grandmother or the ranch characters. The podcasts do eventually play into a weak and predictable break-up moment. This is a book that includes the pandemic in the storyline which is interesting as part of the new normal.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
The dogs are adorable and I love their bonding journey. For me the podcasts were the least interesting part of the story. They are full of comments from the listeners but aren’t interacting with the main characters or helping us know more about Perry or Ming. It is filler. I would have much rather had more of Ming’s grandmother or the ranch characters. The podcasts do eventually play into a weak and predictable break-up moment. This is a book that includes the pandemic in the storyline which is interesting as part of the new normal.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
June 9, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Perry is beside herself when her mother leaves her with three dogs Molly, JT, and Tucker that’s are interrupting her orderly life. Ming volunteers at an animal rescue when she meets Perry who is not all that happy about the dogs even though they are started to grow on her, Perry and Ming both grow closer the both get successful and despite knowing that they both are in competition with their popular podcast that’s are helping listeners. I enjoy this read it had me laughing out loud with antics of the dogs. Perry and Ming chemistry was there love the conversation between them.
Perry is beside herself when her mother leaves her with three dogs Molly, JT, and Tucker that’s are interrupting her orderly life. Ming volunteers at an animal rescue when she meets Perry who is not all that happy about the dogs even though they are started to grow on her, Perry and Ming both grow closer the both get successful and despite knowing that they both are in competition with their popular podcast that’s are helping listeners. I enjoy this read it had me laughing out loud with antics of the dogs. Perry and Ming chemistry was there love the conversation between them.
July 11, 2022
First book I’ve read that actually talks about the pandemic and some of the changes we have all had to endure. The story doesn’t get bogged down in that, but does filter it in here and there.
December 19, 2022
I haven't conected fully with this story, perhapst the blogs battle issue has been too convoluted and has made me lose the focus of the story.
The two protagonists have also not been very helpful for my positive appreciation of the whole. Perry is a very meticulous and rational woman in all aspects of life, that's why her blog is about how to organize all activities to optimize time. All very analyzed and designed for maximum efficiency. So you don't have much time for spontaneity. And suddenly an unexpected responsibility hits her in the form of three suddenly orphaned dogs.
Ming is the other protagonist and she is a doctor who, in addition to traditional medicine, is dedicated to homeopathy and other alternative medicines that she develops on her blog, more spiritual than rational. Coincidentally, she is a volunteer at an animal shelter that will try to help Perry find a new home for the three dogs she is temporarily taking care of.
The approach is correct, insinuating that a good romance will develop with their misunderstandings and others, but the topic of the war between blogs has been too extensive compared to getting to know each other, maybe.
So I'll leave it as just an ok read and I'll wait for a better one from this author, which she will surely give us.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
The two protagonists have also not been very helpful for my positive appreciation of the whole. Perry is a very meticulous and rational woman in all aspects of life, that's why her blog is about how to organize all activities to optimize time. All very analyzed and designed for maximum efficiency. So you don't have much time for spontaneity. And suddenly an unexpected responsibility hits her in the form of three suddenly orphaned dogs.
Ming is the other protagonist and she is a doctor who, in addition to traditional medicine, is dedicated to homeopathy and other alternative medicines that she develops on her blog, more spiritual than rational. Coincidentally, she is a volunteer at an animal shelter that will try to help Perry find a new home for the three dogs she is temporarily taking care of.
The approach is correct, insinuating that a good romance will develop with their misunderstandings and others, but the topic of the war between blogs has been too extensive compared to getting to know each other, maybe.
So I'll leave it as just an ok read and I'll wait for a better one from this author, which she will surely give us.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
June 16, 2022
This was a really good book, with such a cute story. I loved all the characters, especially the supporting characters of Molly, JT, and Tucker three little dogs with such big personality I can honestly say that Tucker was my favorite, but all three stole my heart. The relationship between Ming and Perry was really entertaining and hilarious at times. I liked that they took their time to get to know each other before becoming intimate, and that when they were in a disagreement that it didn't take up most of the book to resolve. Was there drama in their relationship? Of course there was was their relationship perfect? No it wasn't. I can honestly say that this was one of the best books I have read this year, and believe me I have read quite a few. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family, and I look forward to what comes next from this author.
June 16, 2022
This is a sweet romance. I loved the main characters and thought they were wonderful. Ming is a real doctor as well.as a doctor of natural remedies. Perry is a businesswoman who is strict about her schedule and daily routine. The two met after Perrys mom dropped off three dogs for her to take care of and eventually find a home for. Did I mention both women have a podcast and are rivals? The chemistry between them was good and quite believable.4 stars.
I received an ARC copy from the publisher Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
I received an ARC copy from the publisher Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley.
June 15, 2022
This is a sweet romance story with a good message. Perry is a business woman and efficiency expert. Ming is a doctor of natural remedies. The plot revolves around d Perry getting three dogs from her mother to take care of and foster. JT, Tucker and Molly are a pack and they adopt Perry as their leader. Ming helps take care of the dogs. Both women become attracted to one another and sparks fly. They each have a podcast and friction develops. The characters are wonderful and the story engaging. I recommend this book for romance readers.
July 11, 2022
Excellent.
I loved Forever Comes in Threes. The theme of the book is you can schedule and plan as much as you want. But owning dogs makes the schedule go out the window.
I loved Forever Comes in Threes. The theme of the book is you can schedule and plan as much as you want. But owning dogs makes the schedule go out the window.
June 7, 2022
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Forever Comes in Threes presents us with a romance where opposites attract or do they? Two strong, independent women with two completely different looks on life meet and are thrown in together by fate, or by three dogs looking for a permanent home, Incredibly, Ming's go with the flow attitude is what's been missing in Perry's schedule life in order to make a relationship work. That is until a misunderstanding brings everything into question. Do opposites attract or is balance a key point for a good relationship?
Another great book by D. Jackson Leigh, with strong female characters that can be funny and sensitive, at the same time that they show their humanity by being flawed. For my personal taste, it spends a little too much time debating issues that are not relevant to the story between the main characters and those parts can be a bit boring. Overall, a great book that will have you lost in Perry's and Ming's lives, while smiling with their quirks.
Forever Comes in Threes presents us with a romance where opposites attract or do they? Two strong, independent women with two completely different looks on life meet and are thrown in together by fate, or by three dogs looking for a permanent home, Incredibly, Ming's go with the flow attitude is what's been missing in Perry's schedule life in order to make a relationship work. That is until a misunderstanding brings everything into question. Do opposites attract or is balance a key point for a good relationship?
Another great book by D. Jackson Leigh, with strong female characters that can be funny and sensitive, at the same time that they show their humanity by being flawed. For my personal taste, it spends a little too much time debating issues that are not relevant to the story between the main characters and those parts can be a bit boring. Overall, a great book that will have you lost in Perry's and Ming's lives, while smiling with their quirks.
June 15, 2022
Sweet slow burn romance between Perry and Ming. The three dogs that brought them together. Sweet romance and a perfect book for animal lovers. Some parts are really funny. Thanks for a really fun read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2022
I absolutely adored this book. Dogs, queer woman, fighting podcasts, and doesn’t sugarcoat the pandemic. It made me happier than I expected to read a book that mentions the pandemic were all living through and doesn’t pretend that it’s over or never existed. I loved the character growth, the romance, and the dog characters a lot.
May 17, 2022
Perry is can function if every minute of the day is not planned out. Her mom is about to upend her life when she drops off three dogs who desperately need a foster home. Perry is in way over her head and calls Ming, someone her mother told her to contact if she needed help.
Ming happens to know these dogs from the neighborhood dog park and explains that they are bonded and how they need each other as much as Perry needs her schedule.
Ming and Perry don't realize if but professionally they are at odds with their podcasts about helping others manage their time.
They're going to have to find a way to make this pack of dogs and humans work because their feelings for each other are growing.
D. Jackson Leigh writes wonderfully bubbly romances and this one is no exception.
Thank you #NetGalley #BoldStrokesBooks #ForeverComesInThrees for this ARC
Ming happens to know these dogs from the neighborhood dog park and explains that they are bonded and how they need each other as much as Perry needs her schedule.
Ming and Perry don't realize if but professionally they are at odds with their podcasts about helping others manage their time.
They're going to have to find a way to make this pack of dogs and humans work because their feelings for each other are growing.
D. Jackson Leigh writes wonderfully bubbly romances and this one is no exception.
Thank you #NetGalley #BoldStrokesBooks #ForeverComesInThrees for this ARC
June 9, 2022
D. Jackson Leigh is great at writing chemistry. I loved every moment the two leads were in the same room interacting with each other, because it just made sense! They liked each other a lot and that was very well written and was enjoyable. They’re a faux odd couple, in that they’re only opposites on paper, and actually get along really well irl.
The book would have been much more enjoyable for me if the author leaned into the chemistry between the leads and actually had the majority of their interactions “on-screen” because the time allocation in the book leaves little time for readers to buy into the romance. At 30% of the story, they’ve had one interaction, and then things move really fast (a sloooow-fast burn), and all of a sudden they’re together. A reference is made to them spending weeks together but that’s all we really get??? 3 dates tops before they have their big misunderstanding showdown, (at 80%), and quite honestly I just didn’t care all that much because there was too weak of a case made for their relationship. It felt very shallow, because what did they know about each other, really? Why so upset, lmao.
A few things also went wrong with the characterisation of Ming. She’s a doctor all about work-life balance and friends, family, etc but she has no friends? The only real friend interaction for most of the book is with her lawyer-friend. At a business meeting. That just made no sense to me because why set her up as a hypocrite for most of the book? For all the focus she gets, her character doesn’t develop much depth at all. Not to mention, despite the “we have conflicting views” thing, her and Perry are essentially living the same life but with different philosophies and that’s why there were no clashes when they talked irl.
Also, some parts of Ming’s POV were problematic (imo) but I don’t think I can really satisfactorily address them without that being this entire review. I mean, feel free to @ me if you’re desperately curious about it or whatever.
All in all, it was okay, I loved the couple together. Wish there’d been more of that.
Disclaimer: I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book would have been much more enjoyable for me if the author leaned into the chemistry between the leads and actually had the majority of their interactions “on-screen” because the time allocation in the book leaves little time for readers to buy into the romance. At 30% of the story, they’ve had one interaction, and then things move really fast (a sloooow-fast burn), and all of a sudden they’re together. A reference is made to them spending weeks together but that’s all we really get??? 3 dates tops before they have their big misunderstanding showdown, (at 80%), and quite honestly I just didn’t care all that much because there was too weak of a case made for their relationship. It felt very shallow, because what did they know about each other, really? Why so upset, lmao.
A few things also went wrong with the characterisation of Ming. She’s a doctor all about work-life balance and friends, family, etc but she has no friends? The only real friend interaction for most of the book is with her lawyer-friend. At a business meeting. That just made no sense to me because why set her up as a hypocrite for most of the book? For all the focus she gets, her character doesn’t develop much depth at all. Not to mention, despite the “we have conflicting views” thing, her and Perry are essentially living the same life but with different philosophies and that’s why there were no clashes when they talked irl.
Also, some parts of Ming’s POV were problematic (imo) but I don’t think I can really satisfactorily address them without that being this entire review. I mean, feel free to @ me if you’re desperately curious about it or whatever.
All in all, it was okay, I loved the couple together. Wish there’d been more of that.
Disclaimer: I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2022
Dr. Ming Lee along with some colleagues has built herself a growing practice where she specialist as a naturopathic, holistic doctor. In her free time she volunteers matching dogs that need a home are placed with the right family. On the side she also has her own podcast ‘Finding Natural Balance’. A show pertaining to everyday life and how to make improvements in your daily life. Life was good but finding time for any kind of relationship just hasn’t happened.
Perry Chandler works as a ‘Efficiency Expert’ helping companies make the most by making some simple changes. She also has a podcast ‘Time for Success’ where she tries to help everyday people make time in their busy schedules for more down time. Her family, if you could call it that, has been an experience that most of her friends couldn't imagine. Both mother and father are researchers whose work has taken them around the world but never Perry was never a part of their plans. Her closest friend is her associate, Julie, who she has known for years.
When her mother takes off on another trip she leaves behind three dogs that she had been taking care of but their original owner has died. The only thing Perry can think of is finding some help placing the dogs with new forever homes. Keep in mind these dogs have been together for many years and the idea of separating them isn’t what Perry would like to do if possible. When she contacts the group asking for help it’s none other but Ming Lee.
Ms Leigh has done it again. Funny, smart MC’s along with some interesting castmates, makes this a book that you might have a hard time putting down. Now you might find yourselves flipping a few pages but that is only when the author goes deep explaining what we as the readers might not have picked up on by ourselves. A wonderful, funny romance.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Perry Chandler works as a ‘Efficiency Expert’ helping companies make the most by making some simple changes. She also has a podcast ‘Time for Success’ where she tries to help everyday people make time in their busy schedules for more down time. Her family, if you could call it that, has been an experience that most of her friends couldn't imagine. Both mother and father are researchers whose work has taken them around the world but never Perry was never a part of their plans. Her closest friend is her associate, Julie, who she has known for years.
When her mother takes off on another trip she leaves behind three dogs that she had been taking care of but their original owner has died. The only thing Perry can think of is finding some help placing the dogs with new forever homes. Keep in mind these dogs have been together for many years and the idea of separating them isn’t what Perry would like to do if possible. When she contacts the group asking for help it’s none other but Ming Lee.
Ms Leigh has done it again. Funny, smart MC’s along with some interesting castmates, makes this a book that you might have a hard time putting down. Now you might find yourselves flipping a few pages but that is only when the author goes deep explaining what we as the readers might not have picked up on by ourselves. A wonderful, funny romance.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
June 3, 2022
3.5
Three cute dogs and a romance
The glue holding this book and the story together are three little dogs who due to the death of their owner need a new home. Enter Perry, the efficiency expert, well organized (duh!) and a bit on the grumpy side. The three dogs land on her doorstep: welcome to chaos, say good-bye to organization by the minute. Rescue needed: Enter Dr. Ming Lee - knowledgeable about rescue dogs, expert in natural healing and a bit zen. Their worlds collide in the best way until they collide in the virtual world.
Because on a virtual level the listeners to their podcasts clash. I liked that D. Jackson Leigh puts a spotlight on personal and work issues post-Covid. A would have liked if the virtual happenings and posts were more tied into the main story. The conflict had more potential.
To sum it up: A light romance by an accomplished story teller with cute dogs who tugged at the heartstrings. This book is evidently a monument to D. Jackson Leigh‘s own dogs and esp. Tucker, the shy and loyal rescue. If you love cute dogs, this book is for you.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
Three cute dogs and a romance
The glue holding this book and the story together are three little dogs who due to the death of their owner need a new home. Enter Perry, the efficiency expert, well organized (duh!) and a bit on the grumpy side. The three dogs land on her doorstep: welcome to chaos, say good-bye to organization by the minute. Rescue needed: Enter Dr. Ming Lee - knowledgeable about rescue dogs, expert in natural healing and a bit zen. Their worlds collide in the best way until they collide in the virtual world.
Because on a virtual level the listeners to their podcasts clash. I liked that D. Jackson Leigh puts a spotlight on personal and work issues post-Covid. A would have liked if the virtual happenings and posts were more tied into the main story. The conflict had more potential.
To sum it up: A light romance by an accomplished story teller with cute dogs who tugged at the heartstrings. This book is evidently a monument to D. Jackson Leigh‘s own dogs and esp. Tucker, the shy and loyal rescue. If you love cute dogs, this book is for you.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
July 1, 2022
I wanted to love this book so much. I mean, THREE DOGS?! And three RESCUE dogs?! I have two rescue dogs and a rescue cat - how could I not fall in love with this? The chemistry between Perry and Ming was pretty good, and there could have been lots of great interactions dealing with their differing views on dealing with the challenges of life, but that's not what happened.
One of my biggest pet peeves in wlw books - or any book, really - is angst or drama completely based on non-communication. And the way it was handled in this book was just too much for me to get over. It became unbelievable to me that the big secret had never been discussed and that ruined it for me. There were other aspects that bugged me but the not talking to each other was the biggest thing.
I've enjoyed other offerings from D. Jackson Leigh and I'll absolutely dive into the next book she writes but this one wasn't my cup of tea. I bounced back and forth between 2 and 3 stars but settled on 2 due to the level of frustration I felt while reading.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
One of my biggest pet peeves in wlw books - or any book, really - is angst or drama completely based on non-communication. And the way it was handled in this book was just too much for me to get over. It became unbelievable to me that the big secret had never been discussed and that ruined it for me. There were other aspects that bugged me but the not talking to each other was the biggest thing.
I've enjoyed other offerings from D. Jackson Leigh and I'll absolutely dive into the next book she writes but this one wasn't my cup of tea. I bounced back and forth between 2 and 3 stars but settled on 2 due to the level of frustration I felt while reading.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 20, 2022
I loved this book! But I love dogs and maybe if you don't really have a thing for dogs this book my not be as good for you as it was for me. It did feel like the balance between the romance - plot surrounding the dogs was a bit too heavily on the dog part. It was a slowburn romance and I enjoyed the initial contact between Ming and Perry, they slowly made a connection and started spending time together yet all of a sudden things move really fast, we're in the epilogue part of the part and I'm disappointed cause I was loving the read yet now I felt like a lot of the romance was stolen from me.
So in short: I really liked it, but should have been a little bit longer with more scenes surrounding Ming and Perry together.
***Thank you Netgalley and Bold Stroke Books for giving me the chance to read and review this book***
So in short: I really liked it, but should have been a little bit longer with more scenes surrounding Ming and Perry together.
***Thank you Netgalley and Bold Stroke Books for giving me the chance to read and review this book***
June 7, 2022
I loved the concept of dueling podcast hosts in the post-covid world. I can see myself in both Perry and Ming, in that I'm a chronic scheduler and listmaker but also would love to be able to find a better balance in my life.
The trio of terrors, of course, stole the show here and I admittedly shed a tear or two at the end. I wasn't crazy about the 80% breakup plot that could've been solved with honest dialogue, but the payoff at the end makes it worth it.
D Jackson Leigh is one of my favorite authors and this is a nice low-angst read with plenty of cute dogs.
The trio of terrors, of course, stole the show here and I admittedly shed a tear or two at the end. I wasn't crazy about the 80% breakup plot that could've been solved with honest dialogue, but the payoff at the end makes it worth it.
D Jackson Leigh is one of my favorite authors and this is a nice low-angst read with plenty of cute dogs.
May 5, 2024
3.75 Stars! Sweet romance and even sweeter pups, set in and towards the end of the pandemic so quite a few references.
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