Puppy Love by L.T. Smith is a rivalry to romance novel where two women find themselves falling for one another as they compete for the affections of another.
Ellie Anderson has given up on love. She’s certain that no one stays forever, so why bother? Even if she was looking, she’s sure that no woman she’d be interested in would look her way. Even if the right woman did look her way, Ellie is sure she’d make a fool of herself and ruin any chance she might have. It’s just not worth the risk. No, she’s content with her life as it is and there isn’t room for anyone else right now…
Until she meets a brown-eyed Border Terrier at the local shelter who steals her heart at first glance. The only problem? Another woman has already claimed interest in him with the shelter.
Emily Carson has her heart set on adopting a darling pup named Charlie from the shelter. She’s filled out the paperwork and even started visitation as the program requires. Everything is smooth sailing until Emily runs into a little hiccup – literally running into Ellie Anderson. The two women quickly discover that they’re vying for the same pup’s adoption. Since the shelter is willing to allow them to each visit Charlie before a decision is made, Emily and Ellie have to figure out between them who will become his mum.
Over the next couple of weeks Ellie and Emily spend increasing time together. Emily hires Ellie for a side job at her home and the two decide that they’ll only see Charlie together to keep things fair, leading to daily meet ups for the two. Through the weeks together, and in spite of several hilarious misunderstandings, not-so-subtle attempts at matchmaking from Ellie’s sister, and a couple of awkward outings, they find themselves falling for one another as much as for Charlie.
In the end, a decision has to be made. But when the time comes to determine who will adopt Charlie, can the two women come to a compromise and maintain their budding relationship, or will the choice be their breaking point?
Pros And My Favourite Parts
I couldn’t get enough of this sweet puppy! I’m a dog lover at heart and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the world of these characters circling around a fluffy, upbeat, happy pup.
While the puppy is what drew me in, the story is what held my attention. Ellie’s social awkwardness was relatable, and it was refreshing to see a romance centered around someone who isn’t suave and charming all the time. It also made for some laugh-out-loud hilarious moments!
Cons And Heads Up
Heads up, there’s mention of animal cruelty a few times through the book as well as some homophobia.
Also, it’s written as a diary of sorts. Although I enjoyed tumbling through the story with Ellie and her quirks, if you’re looking for exploration of all characters’ perspectives or don’t enjoy a journal-style read, this may not be for you.
The Conclusion
If you’re an animal lover, a socially awkward human, or just enjoy a good romantic comedy, give this a try!
TLDR (too long didn’t read)
Ellie Anderson and Emily Carson are vying for the affections of the same brown-eyed darling, but soon find themselves falling for each other as well. When a decision has to be made between them, will it be the end of their newfound relationship, or will they be able to find a solution that suits all three of them?
Excerpt from Puppy Love by L.T. Smith
During the time I had been conjuring memories of my little lad, I had forgotten about the woman who for a brief time had absorbed my focus. It wasn’t until I walked to the far side of the kennels that the goal resurfaced. She was kneeling on the floor with her back to me. I could hear her talking to someone, her voice cooing and gentle.
I stepped to the side so I could see the object of her attention. A Border Terrier was bouncing in front of her, his tail wagging wildly, a ball stuck in his mouth. Something clicked inside my chest as I saw the life and joy in the little mass of black and tan, but it was nothing compared to how I felt when he turned his focus to me. Sparkling dark brown eyes absorbed me in one look, the tail stiffening before going crazy.
I didn’t even realize I was kneeling until I felt the dog leap into my arms, the ball forgotten and a frantic tongue wiping away the remnants of my tears. I laughed, and the dog became even more intent on kissing me hello.
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Bits and Bobs
- ISBN number: 9783955331467
- Publisher: Ylva Publishing
- L.T. Smith Online
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