AUTHOR: Jenn McKinlay
PUBLISHER: Berkley Books
PUBLISHING DATE: May 30, 2017
FROM GOODREADS: Mackenzie "Mac" Harris fled her hometown of Bluff Point, Maine, after being left at the altar--and seeking solace in the arms of her best friend's off-limits brother. Now, seven years later, she's back to attend her best friend's wedding--safe, or so she thinks, from the mistakes of her youth.
But Gavin Tolliver has never forgotten the woman who has always held his heart. And when Mac rescues a stray puppy named Tulip, only Gavin, the town's veterinarian, can help. With a little assistance from Tulip, Gavin vows to make Mac realize that their feelings are more than just puppy love...
MY THOUGHTS:
I'm really not a big reader of romance novels however, I love Jenn McKinlay's cozy mysteries and I'm mad about dogs so I couldn't pass up reading her first foray into a new genre. "About a Dog" tells the story of Mac, a hard working, independent woman who returns to Bluff Point for her best pal Emma's wedding. Mac hasn't been back to visit Bluff Point since she was stood up at the alter seven years ago and ended up sleeping with Emma's baby brother, Gavin. The wedding has reunited a group of four gal pals along with the groom and his groomsmen and it's great to see the bond and camaraderie between all of these individuals.
Mac, who is trying like mad to avoid Gavin, has been paired up with him for almost all the activities planned for the two weeks leading up to the wedding. Gavin makes no secret that he still has deep feelings for Mac but Mac is afraid of ruining her friendship with Emma. Plus, she recently took a break from her past boyfriend-of-convenience and is unsure about jumping into something with Gavin.
I really enjoyed the characters and story line in "About a Dog." In fact, Mac is probably actually my fourth favorite person in the book and she is actually the MC. About 1/4 into the book, Mac finds a lost pit/boxer puppy. She is instantly smitten and immediately names her Tulip. Of course, Gavin is also the town vet so Tulip's presence finally forces some interaction between Mac and Gavin. Also, while in Bluff Point, Mac stays with her two elderly aunts who are positively mad and tons of fun. They love to watch Matthew McConaughey movies because of his "pec," trade in their sensible vehicle for a jacked up roadster, and have started listening and dancing to rap music. They love both Mac and Tulip and try to do some matchmaking of their own.
"About a Dog" is a really fun read and I'm anxious to get to the next book in the series when it is released. I really adored seeing a new side of the author and she should be applauded for stepping outside of her comfort zone and writing something new. This is a must read for anyone who loves dogs because Tulip clearly steals the show. It's a quick, light romantic read which I believe everyone needs from time to time.
I received "About a Dog" from Penguin First to Read in exchange for an honest review.
RATING: 4 Paws
BOOKER T's THOUGHTS: Some things happen to Tulip in this book that just makes me want to take a bite out of some people. But since that is below me, I will have Cass do it - I know for a fact he knows how to bite! This is such a cute read and something in it really touched Mom because we got extra snuggles while she was reading it (and we get plenty as it is). Please read this book and see how dogs really can bring people together (notice I said dogs, not cats).
